As demand for digital services grows, data centers are becoming an important part of the energy conversation. For NIPCO and our member cooperatives, these large-load projects can support grid investments, improve reliability, and bring long-term value to western Iowa communities. With thoughtful planning and policies in place, we can meet emerging energy needs while protecting member-consumers.

In November 2025, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) released its 2025/2026 Winter Reliability Assessment. In that report, Southwest Power Pool (SPP)—our regional transmission operator (RTO)—projects to have sufficient generation capacity to meet expected demand under normal winter conditions.

Discover the projected winter electric reliability forecast report from NIPCO and Southwest Power Pool.