200MW Goldfinch Solar Project in Iowa Faces Delays Two Years After Announcement

Despite initial plans, construction on the Goldfinch Solar Project has not yet begun. The Iowa Utilities Commission (IUC) recently approved a request to extend the project’s original two-year completion deadline, citing legislative challenges, market conditions, and delays in pre-construction studies as reasons for the setback. The announcment regardingthe delay comes at a time when the 150MW Rock Creek Solar Project has just broken ground in Iowa

The 3,200-acre site, located near Haskins and north of Ainsworth, was initially scheduled for completion by November 16, 2025. It remains unclear how the delay will impact existing land leases.

Project Overview

Bechtel is is a partner in the development of the Goldfinch Solar Project, a planned 200-megawatt (MW) facility in Washington County. Once operational, the project is expected to generate enough renewable energy to power approximately 33,000 homes annually, with a projected commercial operation date of 2025 — pending the completion of the interconnection study process.

The facility will be situated on private land near existing transmission lines, minimizing the need for new infrastructure. Its low-profile solar panels are designed to maintain visibility for neighboring properties and roadways.

Iowa Utilities Commission Decision

On Monday, the IUC removed the fixed two-year completion requirement but introduced a new rule requiring status reports every six months until the project is finalized. The commission stated that while the original deadline was not legally mandated, it served as a tool to encourage progress and prevent abandonment of large-scale energy projects.

Local Opposition and Support

The Goldfinch Solar Project has faced mixed reactions since it was first proposed in 2022.

• Opposition: Some Washington County residents have expressed concerns about losing farmland to solar development, potential reductions in property values, and skepticism about solar’s reliability.

• Support: Proponents highlight the project’s economic and environmental benefits, including $10.1 million in projected tax revenue over 30 years, rental income for landowners, job creation during construction, and increased renewable energy capacity for the region.

Developer’s Perspective

According to Tom Swierczewski, Vice President for Development at Conifer Power, the Goldfinch Solar Project represents a significant investment in the local economy. In a 2022 interview, he emphasized that the project would generate millions of dollars in land lease payments and create hundreds of construction jobs while supporting Iowa’s clean energy transition.

Goldfinch Solar Project Factsheet