Iowa Lawmakers Eye Energy Independence and Alternative Currencies
Des Moines, Iowa – A flurry of activity in the Iowa House Commerce Committee this week signals a potential shift towards greater energy independence for Iowans and a re-evaluation of traditional currency. Six bills advanced Wednesday, addressing everything from small-scale solar energy projects to the potential acceptance of gold and silver as legal tender.
Boosting Community Solar Power
House Study Bill 629 aims to empower local communities by enabling small solar fields – built on warehouses or underutilized land – to connect to the power grid. This would allow residents to invest in these projects and receive credits on their utility bills proportional to their investment and the energy generated. Representative Shannon Lundgren, R-Peosta, emphasized the importance of providing this opportunity to Iowans facing rising costs. An amendment was added to clarify rate setting and ensure non-participating customers won’t bear the costs of these projects, addressing concerns raised by investor-owned utilities.
This move aligns with a growing national trend towards decentralized energy production. Community solar projects are gaining traction across the US, offering a way for individuals and businesses to access solar power without the need for rooftop installations.
Ratepayer Participation and Transparency
House File 2365 seeks to increase transparency in utility resource planning and allow ratepayers a voice in discussions about Iowa’s future energy needs. Representative Judd Lawler, R-Tiffin, highlighted that this bill would involve “the people who pay the bills” in shaping the state’s energy strategy. An amendment extended the integrated resource plan schedule for utilities from three to five years.
Data Center Accountability
Recognizing the increasing energy and water demands of data centers, House File 2447 would require these facilities to report their usage to state agencies. It also establishes a separate classification for data centers within the Iowa Utilities Commission, preventing electricity costs associated with them from being passed on to other Iowans.
Gold and Silver as Legal Tender?
Perhaps the most unconventional bill to advance, House File 2311 proposes making refined silver and gold bullions – termed “specie” – legal and tax-free tender in Iowa. The bill envisions a state-run “bullion depository” and electronic payment systems to facilitate transactions. Representative David Blom, R-Marshalltown, framed this as a supplementary system for preserving wealth. However, the proposal faced opposition, with Representative Adam Zabner, D-Iowa City, expressing concerns about the state competing with existing financial institutions and questioning the effectiveness of precious metals in combating inflation.
The idea of legalizing gold and silver is not new, with several states considering similar legislation in recent years. Proponents argue it provides a hedge against inflation and government monetary policy, while critics raise concerns about practicality and potential economic disruption.
Pipeline Land Restoration Rights
House Study Bill 691 aims to strengthen the rights of landowners affected by pipeline construction, allowing them to renegotiate damage claims and file complaints for yield losses. This builds on previous efforts to address landowner concerns regarding pipeline projects in Iowa.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is “specie”? According to the bill, “specie” refers to refined pieces of silver or gold that are more than 99% pure.
- Will I be able to pay my taxes with gold or silver if HF 2311 passes? Yes, the bill proposes making silver and gold legal and tax-free tender in Iowa.
- How will community solar projects affect my utility bill? If you invest in a community solar project, you would receive credits on your bill based on the energy generated and your investment size.
- Who will pay for the costs of building community solar projects? The amendment to HSB 629 specifies that non-participating customers will not bear any of the costs.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about these bills as they progress through the legislative process. You can track their status on the Iowa Legislature website.
What do you think about these proposed changes? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
