Hailey
The State Corporation Commission of Kansas has approved a request by Evergy, a leading energy provider in the U.S., to implement an 8.6% increase in utility rates.
This rate hike is intended to fund the development of 1.4 gigawatts (GW) of new natural gas-fired capacity and a large-scale solar energy project.
These strategic energy expansions are part of Evergy’s broader commitment to cleaner, more reliable power generation.
Planned Natural Gas Power Plants: Viola and McNew
Evergy has announced its plan to construct two advanced combined-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power stations, each with a capacity of 710 megawatts (MW):
- Viola Power Plant
- McNew Power Plant
Both facilities are expected to begin commercial operations by 2029 and 2030, respectively. The projects are designed to enhance the region’s baseload generation capabilities, especially during peak demand periods.
The ownership structure of these plants will be equally split between Evergy Kansas Central and Evergy Missouri West, both subsidiaries of Evergy. However, the construction phase still requires final regulatory approvals before breaking ground.
Kansas Sky Solar Project: A Clean Energy Addition
In parallel with its gas-fired developments, Evergy also plans to launch a new solar initiative—Kansas Sky, a 159 MWac (200 MWdc) solar park located in Douglas County, Kansas.
- The project is fully owned by Evergy Kansas Central
- The estimated cost of construction is approximately US$230 million
- The expected operational date is December 2026
This solar project is expected to diversify Kansas’s energy portfolio and help reduce reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with the state’s transition toward more sustainable energy solutions.
Evergy’s Long-Term Emissions Goals
As part of its climate strategy, Evergy has committed to reducing its carbon emissions by 70% by 2030, using 2005 as the baseline year.
Furthermore, the company has set an ambitious target to achieve net-zero carbon equivalent emissions—covering Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions—by the year 2045.
These goals underscore Evergy’s continued investment in clean energy infrastructure and its commitment to environmental responsibility across its operations.
Key Details Table
| Project Name | Type | Capacity | Completion Date | Ownership | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viola Power Plant | Natural Gas (CCGT) | 710 MW | Early 2029 | 50% Evergy Kansas Central, 50% Evergy Missouri West | Not disclosed |
| McNew Power Plant | Natural Gas (CCGT) | 710 MW | Early 2030 | 50% Evergy Kansas Central, 50% Evergy Missouri West | Not disclosed |
| Kansas Sky Solar Project | Solar PV (Utility) | 159 MWac / 200 MWdc | December 2026 | Evergy Kansas Central (100%) | ~$230 million |
Evergy’s approved rate increase is set to pave the way for significant energy infrastructure advancements in Kansas.
With a balanced focus on both reliable natural gas generation and clean solar energy, the company is preparing to meet future energy demands while working toward a more sustainable future.
As these projects progress, Evergy is positioning itself as a regional leader in carbon reduction and energy modernization.