After the successful financial close of the utility service PPP project of University of Iowa, Iowa State University is also considering opportunities for a public-private partnership (PPP) for similar services. The objective of the project will be to benefit the university by enhancing the value of the utility system.

At the same time as the University is considering the PPP, it is also in the process to change the structure of its utility systems. The University presented the board of Regents the plans to upgrade its utility system. The plans involve reconfiguring two 32-year-old coal-fired boilers to natural gas boilers. The board has given the approval to proceed with the project planning for improvements to the university's utility system. The project estimated cost is USD 12-14 million and it will run parallel with the PPP project.

The project will allow the university to become coal-free and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.