Dairyland Power Cooperative has informed Decorah businessman Larry Grimstad that his proposal for a new major solar energy installation that would produced 500 kilowatts has not been approved by the utility.
Earlier this month, Grimstad learned the U.S. Department of Agriculture had approved a $375,000 grant for the project.
However, Dairyland Power Business Development Manager Craig Harmes has informed Grimstad the utility is looking for a project that "would be located where it would receive maximum visibility and assist us in responding to current and/or future state renewable (energy) requirements."
Grimstad says he will continue to work on potential solar energy projects in Decorah, despite the news from Dairyland Power. The USDA grant is still good for two years and there's a chance Dairyland would give a go-ahead at a later date.