There are many strategies for spurring regional economic development, but those plans stand little chance of making headway in the absence of reliable, affordable energy. Access to energy is a community’s lifeblood, ensuring that residents and businesses of all stripes can flourish, while helping to craft a stable environment for growth.
In Winnebago and Worth counties, IA, Alliant Energy is a major partner, serving the region’s energy needs and helping facilitate economic growth.
“Reliable energy is often the difference between a community that can compete for growth and one that cannot,” said Dennis Jordan, Director of Customer, Community and Economic Development for Alliant Energy. “It gives businesses confidence to invest, create jobs, and grow with the knowledge that infrastructure is ready to support whatever comes next.
“We take pride in being a trusted partner for communities that want to grow. By planning responsibly and ensuring new energy users pay their fair share, we help attract investment, support jobs and strengthen local economies, all while keeping reliability and affordability front and center for our existing customers.”
Providing Diverse Sources of Energy
While economic potential is unlocked by reliable energy, interruptions or a lack of access can be crippling.
With that in mind, Alliant Energy supplies north-central Iowa with an intentionally diverse blend of energy sources, including electricity, wind, solar, natural gas, hydropower, battery storage and coal, to maintain a flexible, dependable system.
North-central Iowa’s power grid is also routinely monitored and modernized, helping to keep energy costs as predictable and stable as possible while fostering long-term dependability.
Alliant Energy aims to be an attentive presence in the communities it serves, seeking on-the-ground investments such as new and expandable substations and underground distribution upgrades, while constantly coordinating with transmission partners.
“Reliable and cost-effective energy is a must-have for economic growth,” said Chad Hansen, Key Account Manager for Alliant Energy. “It’s part of how Alliant Energy shows up for Winnebago and Worth counties in Iowa.”
Staying Connected
Key Account Managers like Hansen serve as critical go-betweens between Alliant Energy and community leaders, such as Winn-Worth Betco.
Alliant Energy works closely with economic development organizations, business owners, manufacturers, agricultural producers and site selectors, communicating on infrastructure readiness, business attraction opportunities, and other projects.
That coordination comes in handy when new businesses have energy-related questions, enabling prompt assistance and the delivery of important, up-to-date information.
Before projects get underway in north-central Iowa, Alliant Energy’s economic development team gets in the field early, keeping energy needs at the forefront and helping to see things through from start to finish.
Maintaining direct contact with Winn-Worth Betco and stakeholders removes uncertainty, keeps things moving and ensures there are no energy-related holdups.
“From our perspective, Alliant Energy isn’t just a utility; we are a true partner in this community’s economic development efforts,” Hansen continued. “At the end of the day, the partnership helps position Winnebago and Worth counties as business-ready with strong, long-term infrastructure.”
Alliant Energy is committed to providing Winnebago and Worth counties with the energy required to continue thriving, while supporting that growth in a hands-on, distinct way. Contact Alliant Energy or Winn-Worth Betco to learn more.
