Riverhawk Energy Center (Cerro Gordo County, Iowa)

Meeting demand with reliable, cost-effective energy

The Riverhawk Energy Center is a 1,200-megawatt (MW) natural gas-fired combustion turbine facility proposed for Cerro Gordo County, Iowa. Planned as an expansion of the existing Emery Generating Station, the Riverhawk Energy Center would be located adjacent to the current site. It is designed to share infrastructure, helping reduce both costs and land impacts. Together, Riverhawk and Emery are needed to meet growing demand and load obligations. They will work in tandem to strengthen long‑term reliability and cost stability across the region. 

Pending regulatory approval, it is expected that Riverhawk Energy Center will be operational in 2031.

 

Gas generation

In gas combustion turbine generation, compressed air mixes with fuel and ignites to spin a turbine, which in turn spins a generator to produce electrical power.

New gas combustion turbines are more efficient than ever, with the ability to quickly ramp energy production up or down. Pending approval, the Riverhawk Energy Center will serve as a fast-acting, flexible resource we can dispatch on demand. This will complement other energy investments and strengthen the grid.

Note: Photo rendering is for illustrative purposes only. The final siting within the designated parcel will meet all regulatory requirements and is subject to approval.

Rendering of the Riverhawk Energy Center

Environmental impact

We take environmental stewardship and community safety seriously. We have a strong track record of meeting these obligations.

  • Before we receive permits and begin construction, we must complete detailed air‑quality modeling. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) requires we demonstrate that emission levels will meet strict air‑quality standards that are set by the EPA to protect public health.
  • Once operational, we’ll monitor emissions on an ongoing basis and regulators will regularly review the data to ensure the facility remains in compliance with all requirements.

We also intend for the facility’s design and operations to minimize noise and water use. Even on its highest‑use days, water consumption would be less than the existing Emery Generating Station. This reflects our commitment to operating responsibly in the communities we serve.

Proudly serving the North Iowa Corridor

Cost-effectiveness and long-term value for our customers are key factors in our site selection process. When siting new facilities, we consider characteristics such as transmission interconnection capabilities, natural gas supply, land availability and environmental requirements.

Siting Riverhawk Energy Center adjacent to Emery Generating Station (operational since 2004) allows our customers to benefit from reduced costs associated with established grid infrastructure and existing partnerships between Emery Generating Station and the community.

As with all major energy projects, local and state regulatory agencies will continue to review the location to ensure it's appropriate and in the public interest.

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Supporting local communities

Projects like the Riverhawk Energy Center represent long‑term investments in the communities we serve. During construction, the project will support local jobs and economic activity. Once operational, the facility will help ensure reliable energy access that supports homes, businesses and regional economic development.

We’re committed to working closely with local leaders, neighbors and stakeholders throughout development and operation of the Riverhawk Energy Center.

Future-ready energy

We’re a proven leader in safe, reliable and responsible energy solutions. If regulators approve, the Riverhawk Energy Center will be another resource in our balanced approach to energy generation. This will help us deliver the energy our customers and communities need as demand continues to grow.

In addition to investing in gas-fired generation, we’re also one of the top five largest utility owners and operators of regulated wind in the United States and have added 1,500 MW of solar since 2022 across Iowa and Wisconsin.

The Riverhawk Energy Center will provide dependable capacity during high‑demand periods, and work alongside renewable resources that already serve the region. Investments in efficient natural gas generation help strengthen the grid and make the most of our growing renewable portfolio.

Learn more about our Energy Blueprint
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