CFU Advances Plan to Build New Energy Center

CFU is advancing plans to build a new energy center in Cedar Falls. The new Viking Energy Center will enable CFU to deliver the next generation of energy — sustainable, reliable and affordable — positioning us for a strong future.

The Viking Energy Center will be located south of Viking Road and east of Union Road in the Industrial Park and will take several years to construct.

Due to careful planning by the CFU Board of Trustees, we are in a sound financial position to build the next generation of energy to support our community. 

Work has begun to procure the reciprocating engines that will generate electricity using natural gas. The engine’s design also enables future modifications to accommodate other alternative fuel sources. 

By utilizing this specialized technology, the energy center will be equipped to ramp up or down quickly to meet demand and adjust to the renewable energy supply.

Provides Affordable, Reliable Energy and Supports Renewables 

Our community is fortunate to benefit from abundant wind energy in our region which is renewable and affordable. In 2024, 65% of the energy produced in the regional power market and distributed in Cedar Falls was generated from renewable resources. 

Yet, it remains important to provide reliable, affordable energy even when the sun isn’t shining or the wind isn’t blowing.

We maintain our traditional power plants and gas turbines to supplement the renewable energy on the market. Maintaining local generation helps keep rates low and the lights on. However, these assets are aging. 

As we look to the future, CFU will continue to need traditional generation to provide reliable, affordable energy when renewables are not available.

Look for more about the next generation of energy at CFU in the coming months. Learn more at cfu.net/generation.