Iowa's solar power promoted at 10 events statewide

Supporters of Iowa's solar energy industry are holding events at 10 locations throughout the state on Friday and Saturday to showcase the benefits of solar power.

In Des Moines, state Sen. Robert Hogg, D-Cedar Rapids, will kick off "Solar Works For Iowa" at 10 a.m. Friday at Des Moines Onstage, 2124 Grand Ave. Des MoinesOnstage recently added a 22.6 kilowatt solar generating facility installed by Green Light Renewable Service and EcoWise Power.

The event is open to the public. Speakers will include Hogg, Maria Filippone of Des Moines Onstage, installer Randy Skeie of EcoWise Power, solar vendors Karmen Wilhelm of Van Meter Inc. and Todd Miller of CB Solar, and Steve Falck of the Environmental Law and Policy Center.

Hogg said recently expanded state solar tax credits will help Iowa homeowners, farmers, and businesses invest in solar power. As of mid-June, solar energy tax credits passed in 2012 had helped a total of 739 solar projects worth $28.8 million in investment, he said. The amount of state tax credits awarded was $3,430,502.

Here is the schedule for other events being held around the state:

> Friday, June 20, 12:30 p.m. - University of Iowa, Madison Street Services Building, 640 South Madison Street, Iowa City.

> Friday, June 20, 1:00 p.m. - Eagle Point Solar, 900 Jackson Street Suite 108, Dubuque.

> Friday, June 20, 2:30 p.m. - John T. Blong Tech Center, Eastern Iowa Community College, 8500 Hillandale Road, in Davenport.

> Saturday, June 21, 10:00 a.m. - Residence, 1902 West 12th Street, Cedar Falls.

> Saturday, June 21, 11:00 a.m. - IBEW Local 405, 1211 Wiley Blvd SW, Cedar Rapids.

> Saturday, June 21, 11:00 a.m. - Guided tour of solar installations and the wind turbine at Luther College departs from Decorah Farmers' Market.

> Saturday, June 21, 11:00 a.m. - Home of Joe Olsen, 2003 206th Street, just northeast of Independence.

> Saturday, June 21, 11:00 a.m. - Sustainable Living Center, MUM, Fairfield.

> Saturday, June 21, 2:00 p.m. - Marshalltown Public Library, 105 W. Boone Street, Marshalltown.