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Greater des moines utilities

The Greater Des Moines (DSM) region offers reliable and affordable utilities. From water to electricity, the region is served by reputable utility providers who work closely with businesses to meet the needs of the growing region. Whether you're relocating, expanding or launching a business, or you are looking to learn more about DSM, the Greater Des Moines Partnership is here to be a resource.

Gas and Electric

DSM offers competitive, stable and reliable electric energy provided by MidAmerican Energy Company, Alliant Energy, rural electric cooperatives and local municipal utilities. On average, area electric providers can offer electric rates to industrial customers at 6.91 cents per kilowatt hour. These low electric rates, coupled with our knowledgeable IT workforce, relative safety from natural disasters and large water supply make the area a prime location for data centers. 

Water

Water quality in Iowa is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, including public water systems. Central Iowa Water Works (CIWW) is a shared governance drinking water production authority representing local communities, utilities and rural providers. Each of the 12 member agencies have representation in all facets of treatment, facilities, planning and wholesale pricing. Together, the member agencies serve more than 600,000 people and distribute nearly 22 billion gallons of water a year through six water treatment plants.

The CIWW model, based on mutual investment from each founding member, provides shared ownership and transparency, as well as resiliency and redundancy in the metro area water supply now and into the future. Through this collaborative model, the region truly is Stronger Together. 

The founding members of CIWW are City of Ankeny, City of Clive, City of Grimes, Des Moines Water Works, City of Johnston, City of Norwalk, City of Polk City, Urbandale Water Utility, Warren Water District, City of Waukee, West Des Moines Water Works and Xenia Rural Water.

Communities not receiving water from CIWW are served by municipal wells. For more information on water management in the region, visit CIWW's  website. 

Wastewater Treatment

The Des Moines Metropolitan Wastewater Reclamation Facility (WRF) treats an average of 70 mgd of wastewater and can treat a peak flow of 200 mgd. More than a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment facility, it represents long-term commitment and cooperation by the citizens of DSM to protect the state’s natural resources.

In response to water quality standards, numerous cities in the region have joined together as the Wastewater Reclamation Authority (WRA). The WRA owns and operates interceptor wastewater treatment facilities, equalization basins and lift stations, linking the communities and the WRF. Outlying communities operate city-owned water pollution control facilities designed to service a growing population and industrial/commercial base.

To learn more about waste management services in DSM, visit WRA's website.

Broadband Access

The Partnership and its collaborators have made improving broadband access and creating solutions to the digital divide for its 12 counties a priority. Expanding broadband in DSM, especially in rural areas, improves health equity via telehealth services, provides students with the ability to connect for educational purposes and more.

In 2021, The Partnership released the results of the Central Iowa Broadband Internet Study. The Study covered 11 counties in central Iowa with a goal to create a framework under which governments, the public and providers can align in new and innovative ways to create solutions to the digital divide present in Central Iowa. The Study was produced by HR Green in partnership with Bâton Global, SmartSource Consulting and Kielkopf Advisory Services. To learn more, contact Stacie LoVan. 

Sustainability

Many DSM companies have adhered to sustainable operations in their business practices, and local utility companies are no different. MidAmerican's GreenAdvantage® mentioned above, is one such program and many other efforts are also underway. The City of Des Moines' Adapt DSM program has adopted goals to achieve reductions in harmful greenhouse gas emissions and 100% 24/7 carbon-free electricity citywide, while Landus supports 5,500 farmer-owners in their progress towards sustainability in agriculture. These are just a few examples of the proactive nature of sustainability programming in the region.