Iowa Lawmakers Advance Sales Tax Exemptions for Nuclear Energy Projects Including Duane Arnold Center

Iowa legislators are advancing two bills to grant sales tax exemptions for nuclear energy projects, including the Duane Arnold Energy Center, which NextEra Energy plans to reopen by 2029. The measures aim to provide economic benefits exceeding $9 billion and create over 400 jobs. Additionally, a tax exemption proposal for data centers is linked to investments in nuclear engineering programs at Iowa universities. Legislative discussions continue regarding revenue impacts and long-term benefits.

Published Mar 27, 2026

Iowa House and Senate lawmakers are progressing two bills related to sales tax exemptions for nuclear energy projects, especially the Duane Arnold Energy Center, which NextEra Energy aims to reactivate by 2029. House Study Bill 767 proposes exemptions to support this restart, potentially generating over $9 billion in economic benefits and 400 jobs.

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Senate Study Bill 3181 extends tax exemptions to data centers, requiring at least 5% of savings to fund nuclear engineering programs at Iowa universities. Concerns were raised about revenue loss and the attractiveness of Iowa for future investments. Both bills will undergo further consideration by the Ways and Means committees.