Marshalltown workshop helps local officials understand renewable energy siting and permitting

AMES -- City and county staff, elected officials and economic development professionals can learn about local planning and permitting considerations associated with utility-scale renewable energy projects during a Sept. 24 workshop in Marshalltown. The workshop also is open to the public.

The Iowa Reliable Energy Siting through Technical Engagement and Planning collaborative, known as Iowa R-STEP, will offer the workshop from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Sept. 24, in Meeting Room B at the Marshalltown Public Library, 105 W. Boone St. The event is co-hosted by Region 6 Resource Partners.

The workshop will introduce participants to the fundamentals of siting, permitting and planning utility-scale renewable energy facilities, with an emphasis on battery energy storage systems and wind energy systems.

“Local officials may be approached about renewable energy projects before they have had an opportunity to learn how those projects move through the development and application review process,” said Luke Seaberg, a community development specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. "This workshop will provide a foundation for understanding that process and the responsibilities local officials may have along the way."

Participants will learn how renewable energy projects move from initial development through local review. The workshop also will address the powers and duties local officials have to regulate projects before an application is submitted and while an application is under review.

A substantial portion of the session will be reserved for participant questions.

“Battery energy storage and wind energy projects can present different planning and permitting considerations for communities,” Seaberg said. "The question-and-answer portion will give participants time to discuss the issues they are encountering and better understand how local authority applies at different stages of project development."

Advance registration is required. For more information, contact Seaberg, community development specialist, at seaberg@iastate.edu.