On Nature: David Voigts

As we start the new year, it is good to reflect on the environmental successes of the past year. During 2022, there was one special event to celebrate, the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act that addresses climate change in a significant way. Many of the act’s provisions apply directly to Iowans, according to information from the Iowa Environmental Council (IEC).

A major benefit is the extension of the wind and solar tax credits that pay for 30% of the costs for rooftop solar, heat pumps, and small wind energy systems, as well as credits for purchasing new and used electric vehicles. In addition, these tax credits can now be more easily used by cities and rural electric cooperatives, according to Kerri Johannsen, IEC’s Energy Program Director. Iowans should also see savings from reduced energy costs as a result of the bill’s energy efficiency and decarbonization programs, including electric rebate programs that will help pay for energy saving electric appliances like heat pumps, electric cooktops, and energy efficiency retrofits.

This is an exciting time as Iowans are given important tools to reduce greenhouse gases and make our state an even better place to live and work.

David Voigts is a retired ecologist and the current Conservation Chair for the Prairie Rapids Audubon Society. He is a Tama County native, graduating from Dinsdale High School, and lives in rural Jesup on his wife’s family farm.