Burns & McDonnell Completes Construction On Two Solar Energy Projects In Iowa

Burns & McDonnell has completed construction of two solar energy projects for Alliant Energy in Iowa. The 150-MW Wever solar project and the 50-MW Creston solar project utilize Canadian Solar 660-watt modules and will collectively provide enough power for approximately 40,000 homes annually.

“These projects stand as a testament to Alliant Energy’s commitment to sustainability and our dedication to safety and resilience,” said Jami Stone, construction project manager at Burns & McDonnell. “With more than 326,000 hours worked and over 420 craft workers at peak construction, we’ve demonstrated that sustainability is about protecting both people and the planet.”

A significant portion of the craftspeople came from local unions, underscoring the commitment of Burns & McDonnell to supporting the communities where it works. Through apprenticeships and other on-the-job training, the projects narrowed the gap in skilled tradespeople that had been identified in Iowa in recent years.

“We are incredibly grateful to Alliant Energy and the skilled laborers, carpenters and electricians whose dedication, skills and experience made these projects successful,” said Stone.

Wever Solar Project

Spanning approximately 900 acres (364 ha) in Lee County, the 150-MW Wever solar project is one of Iowa’s largest solar installations. Located in a flood plain between the Skunk and Mississippi rivers, the project required meticulous planning and innovative solutions, including:

• Flood mitigation: A 500-year flood preparedness system with advanced drain tiles was installed to safeguard the environmentally sensitive site.
• Split-site coordination: The project was divided into two arrays — 90 MW and 60 MW — 4 miles (6.4 km) apart, which required complex electrical integration.
• Future-ready design: The substation was designed with the flexibility to add battery energy storage in the future.

Creston Solar Project

The 50-MW Creston solar project in Union County overcame challenges posed by uneven terrain and erosion risks near the Platte River. The Burns & McDonnell team used advanced erosion control methods and precise grading techniques to stabilize the site.

Economic And Environmental Benefits

The two projects are expected to generate long-term economic and environmental advantages, including:

• Environmental stewardship: Native grasses and pollinator-friendly plants were seeded across the sites, enriching the soil, reducing erosion and supporting water quality improvement of local watersheds.
• Community engagement: Both projects supported local businesses, food banks and toy drives throughout the duration of the projects. Burns & McDonnell raised US$30,000 for Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa and organized food and toy drives to support nearby communities.

“As we continue to diversify our generation resources, the completion of these projects means more clean, fuel-free energy for our customers,” said Matt Cole, assistant vice president of operations solutions and services at Alliant Energy. “This is just another way we deliver on our purpose to serve customers and build stronger communities.”

Both sites are being submitted for third-party verification through the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure’s Envision framework, with responses expected in early 2025. The previous nine solar sites Burns & McDonnell built for Alliant Energy, in Wisconsin, all were designated Envision Platinum.

A Fully Integrated EPC Approach

 Burns & McDonnell served as the engineer-procure-construct (EPC) contractor for both projects. By leveraging an integrated EPC approach, the team streamlined project schedules, optimized costs, and upheld an unwavering commitment to safety. The company’s dedicated environmental specialists certified compliance with local, state and federal regulations throughout the design, construction and final restoration phases. Additionally, the firm’s Transmission & Distribution Group spearheaded development of the collector substation and gen-tie that deliver megawatts to the grid.

“From innovative engineering to self-perform construction, these projects highlight the value of an integrated EPC approach,” said Chad Cotter, vice president of solar at Burns & McDonnell. “We’re proud to have partnered with Alliant Energy to set a new benchmark for clean energy projects in Iowa.”