186 scientists and sustainability scholars from 31 colleges, universities, and related institutions across Iowa released a statement identifying a “fork in the road” to meet rising demand for electricity, and urging Iowans to stay on the renewable energy path. This statement was part of a series of annual communications from Iowa researchers and educators, describing impacts Iowans are experiencing from climate change and how Iowa can both address and adapt to the changes we are seeing.

“A generation ago, Iowans made a conscious choice to develop renewable energy sources including wind and solar. These sources, especially wind, now account for well over 60 percent of our electricity generation, the highest share of any state nationwide,” said Jacqueline Dowling, assistant professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Iowa.

“With future electricity demand projected to grow rapidly in Iowa, due in large part to the rapid proliferation of data centers for AI and cloud computing, now is a critical time to think carefully about how we want our energy future to look in Iowa,” said David Courard-Hauri, professor of Environmental Science and Sustainability at Drake University.

Media Coverage

Iowa researchers warn of rising coal use, urge renewable energy pivot (Cedar Rapids Gazette)

Scientists warn rising energy demand from data centers puts Iowa at a ‘fork in the road‘ (Iowa Public Radio)

Study: Iowa is at an energy crossroads due to fast-rising power demand (Radio Iowa)

Iowa scientists push for more renewable energy to meet growing demands (Iowa Capital Dispatch)

VIDEO: Watch Iowa researchers explain climate risks caused by data centers (Iowa City Press-Citizen)

Surging electricity demand from AI data centers puts Iowa at an energy crossroads (KCRG)

186 Iowa scholars urge state to choose renewable energy over coal (KWWL)

2026 Iowa Climate Statement urges expansion of renewable energy as electricity grid demand grows (WQAD)

Iowa scientists push for more renewable energy to meet growing demands (KWQC)

‘Unprecedented growth in electricity demand’ – Iowa Climate Statement (WHBF)