About The Energy Center

The Duane Arnold Energy Center is Iowa’s only nuclear power plant and is located near Palo, Iowa, approximately nine miles northwest of Cedar Rapids. Currently, NextEra Energy Resources, the majority owner of the idled Duane Arnold Energy Center, is conducting a comprehensive engineering evaluation of the entire site, which is necessary before any restart decision can be made.

NextEra Energy Duane Arnold, LLC is an indirect subsidiary of NextEra Energy. 

Resuming operations at an idled nuclear plant requires a comprehensive evaluation and many factors must be considered, including, but not limited to:

• Conducting a comprehensive engineering evaluation
• Finding an appropriate customer for the electric output
• Restoration of plant systems to ensure the facility’s safety, security and reliability
• Hiring and training licensed nuclear operators 
• Nuclear Regulatory Commission licensing 
• Procurement of updated equipment
• Build new cooling towers and training and maintenance buildings

An Economic Engine For The Region

Duane Arnold Energy Center ceased producing power in August 2020 after safely and reliably serving eastern Iowa for decades, including during the 2008 historic flooding event that affected the Cedar Rapids area. 

During its operation, the Duane Arnold Energy Center supported the economy and produced reliable, clean energy for eastern Iowa:

• Provided nearly 1,500 high-quality jobs during plant operations and outages 
• Supported $255 million of economic activity in Iowa annually 
• Engaged local emergency responders in rigorous emergency preparedness drills, helping them respond to natural disasters  
• Supported the local community with more than $1 million in employee and company donations to area non-profits. 

Ongoing Investments in Iowa 

Since 1999, NextEra Energy Resources' subsidiaries have been helping fuel Iowa’s economic growth, contributing to local communities, and moving our country toward energy independence. Our subsidiaries own and operate 13 wind energy facilities, a training center and a wind turbine repair facility in the state. To date, more than $3 billion has been invested in the state of Iowa, representing our commitment to bringing clean energy, investment opportunities, and jobs to the state. 

Benefits of our energy investments in Iowa include: 

• Approximately $68 million annual payroll
• More than $12 million in annual land payments
• About $12 million in property taxes paid in 2023