Iowa Clean Cities
Our Story
Iowa Clean Cities (ICC) serves as a critical nexus for energy security and clean transportation deployment across the state. Hosted within the Iowa Economic Development Authority’s State Energy Office, the coalition bridges the gap between state-level energy planning and local implementation. Under the leadership of Director Abbie Christophersen, ICC leverages deep-seated relationships with state government and academic institutions to advance a diverse fuel portfolio. The coalition is a national leader in the integration of high-blend biofuels—specifically B100 and E85—while simultaneously pioneering research into the cybersecurity and technical reliability of electric vehicle infrastructure.
Core Capabilities
Like all Clean Transportation Network members, Iowa Clean Cities offers a core set of capabilities to stakeholders.
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High-level proficiency in conducting fleet data analysis (AFLEET) and creating long-term transition roadmaps.
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Experts in organizing "Ride & Drives," webinars, and community listening sessions that demystify new technology for the public.
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Experienced in serving as a Principal Investigator and subrecipient on federal and state grants.
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Providing deep-dive support for charging/fueling infrastructure and first responder safety training.
Coalition Impacts in 2024
Energy Impact
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Over 36.5 million Gasoline Gallon Equivalents (GGE) displaced annually.
Greenhouse Gas Reductions
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Prevented more than 303,000 tons of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions.
Biofuel Leadership
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Successfully managed 19.4M GGE in Biodiesel and 11M GGE in E85 displacement.
Infrastructure Investment
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Facilitated over $43.5 million in non-DOE project funding.
Major Projects & Accomplishments
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The Atlas Project
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The Echo Project
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The Brightline Project
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The Northgrid Project
Energy Security and Fuel Action Planning
The coalition holds specialized expertise in integrating clean transportation into broader energy security frameworks. By aligning alternative fuel deployment with State Energy Security Plans and Fuel Action Plans, ICC ensures that regional transportation resilience is prioritized at the federal and national levels.
Biofuel Dominance and B100 Innovation
Iowa leads the nation in the adoption of high-blend biofuels. ICC facilitates groundbreaking initiatives, including the deployment of the first public B100 station and supporting heavy-duty fleets that utilize 100% biodiesel, grounding the energy transition in the state’s agricultural strengths.
Academic Research and Cybersecurity Testing
Through a close partnership with the Iowa State University Electric Power Research Center, the coalition supports cutting-edge technical development. This includes cybersecurity penetration testing for EV chargers, ensuring that new infrastructure is both technically robust and secure from emerging digital threats.
Strategic Government and DOT Integration
With professional roots in the State Energy Office, ICC maintains "bread and butter" ties with the Department of Transportation. This positioning allows the coalition to effectively streamline complex programs like NEVI and assist in the long-term planning of state energy corridors.