Northeast Power Recognized with Economic Development Impact Award
Iowa’s rural electric cooperatives commitment goes far beyond ensuring safe, reliable, affordable, and environmentally responsible energy. They actively create strategic partnerships and provide technical and financial assistance to support business growth and community vitality. Annually, the Iowa Area Development Group (IADG) presents Impact Awards to utility partners who have been involved in significant economic development initiatives. During the recent board meeting, Northeast Power was recognized for its economic development accomplishments and commitment to the communities it serves.
Northeast Power was presented with an IADG Impact Award for community development. As a transmission electric utility, Northeast Power provides electric power, leadership, financial, and technical support to eight member-owned cooperatives, three of which are located in Iowa. Recent examples of project support include securing funds through the USDA Rural Economic Development Loan & Grant program to support hospital renovation projects in Henry and Monroe counties in Iowa. The $20 million expansion project of Monroe County Hospital & Clinic included improvements to the pharmacy and specialty services area and enhanced the accessibility of the waiting room, parking area, covered entrance, and consultation space. The Henry County Health Center project expanded its reach and services by purchasing a new ambulance and installing new X-ray equipment. The loans will be paid back into the Northeast Power Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) and will be available to support future projects for years to come. Northeast Power also provides important leadership to the communities they serve. Supporting economic development in Iowa, Northeast Power CEO and General Manager Douglas Aeilts serves as the Chair of the Iowa Area Development Group Board of Directors.
“We commend Northeast Power for being an active supporter of business and community development in the territory they serve,” said IADG President Rand Fisher. “They provide essential leadership, financial, and technical assistance that many times is a critical component in successfully securing projects that create jobs and support community vitality.”
About IADG
The Iowa Area Development Group is the marketing and business development office for Iowa’s member-owned rural electric cooperatives, select municipal electric utilities, and independent telecommunication companies. IADG has assisted with over 2,100 successful business expansions and start-up projects. This growth represents capital investment of more than $12 billion and 53,000 jobs for Iowa. The Iowa Area Development Group was established in 1985 to promote and strengthen rural Iowa development opportunities. Stay connected with IADG news at www.facebook.com/IADG.IA and www.twitter.com/IADGIOWA.