Evergy announces plans to cut carbon emissions by 80 percent, add 660 megawatts of wind energy
Evergy, Inc. announced Jan. 30 with Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly that it plans to add 660 megawatts (MW) of additional wind energy to its portfolio and reduce its carbon output by 80 percent below 2005 levels by 2050.
As part of its plan to reduce emissions, Evergy expects to retire all of its coal plants at the end of their useful lives, continue to invest in renewable energy and energy efficiency, operate the Wolf Creek Nuclear Station until its license expires in 2045, and add a small amount of natural gas generation if additional carbon-free generation does not become available.
“Reducing carbon emissions and increasing the amount of wind energy on our system benefits our customers by reducing operating costs and by making our operations more environmentally sustainable,” Evergy President and CEO Terry Bassham said. “This represents a significant investment in the state of Kansas, helping to create clean energy jobs, and bring additional income for rural communities and school districts. It will also make Kansas more competitive for future economic development and job creation.”
Evergy also said that it plans to add 660 megawatts of wind to its generation portfolio through four projects in Kansas. The additions will increase the total amount of wind serving Evergy customers to 4,535 MW.
The energy from the projects will support Evergy’s Direct Renewables Program, which enables Kansas companies to access clean wind energy.
“With the abundant wind energy in Kansas, Evergy is a natural partner for businesses that want to use affordable renewable energy,” Bassham said. “Our innovative wind energy programs attract businesses and boost the local economy. Our ongoing transformation to cleaner energy sources reduces carbon emissions and provides our customers sustainable, affordable, reliable electricity.”
