Author Archive for: KMEA

Entries by KMEA

KMEA Members Support Grid Reliability During SPP Resource Advisory

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On Friday, July 24th, Southwest Power Pool (SPP) issued a Resource Advisory for the East Balancing Authority footprint from July 25th through July 30th due to high electricity demand, forecast uncertainty, and extreme heat. As system conditions tightened during the week, SPP called on available resources to help maintain grid reliability. On Tuesday, July 28th, KMEA responded by dispatching all available registered generating units during the afternoon and evening peak periods.

KMEA member units across Baldwin City, Ottawa, Garden City, Russell, Chapman, Girard, Holton, Jetmore, and Sterling were brought online to support the grid. On July 28 alone, 16 generating units produced approximately 372.7 MWh of energy. Additional generation continued on July 29, with units in Ottawa and Holton producing another 50.7 MWh.

NextEra and Brookfield Plan Massive Kentucky Data Center Project

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NextEra Energy and Brookfield have announced plans for a $100 billion data center campus and power facility at the former Paducah uranium enrichment site in Kentucky. The project is expected to provide more than 1.2 gigawatts of data center capacity and up to 1.8 gigawatts of electricity.

NextEra will develop up to 2 gigawatts of natural gas generation and 2.6 gigawatts of battery storage, while Brookfield will own and operate the data center campus. Operations are expected to begin in 2028.

The companies highlighted the site’s existing power transmission, water, and fiber infrastructure as key advantages for the development. The project is part of a broader push to expand AI and data center infrastructure across the United States.

KMGA Regional Meetings

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KMGA is excited to host a series of regional meetings this summer, providing member cities with an opportunity to connect in a small-group setting, discuss issues affecting their communities, and strengthen relationships with fellow municipal leaders.

The first regional meeting was held on July 28 in Eskridge, and the second on August 6 in Lyons. Topics discussed included Operator Qualification training, with members exploring ways to work together and support one another in meeting training requirements. Attendees also shared ideas and resources related to EIA and PHMSA reporting, recognizing the challenges that staffing changes can create for smaller communities.

KMGA also provided an update on natural gas market conditions and the latest winter outlook.

Celebrating Mike Muirhead’s Retirement and Years of Service

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Mike Muirhead officially retired from the City of Garden City on July 31, closing an extraordinary career of service, leadership, and dedication to public power.

As Director of Public Utilities, Mike played a vital role in shaping the city’s utility operations and long-term energy strategy. Throughout his career, he was a strong advocate for public power and an invaluable supporter of KMEA. His commitment to advancing reliable, affordable energy solutions benefited not only Garden City but communities across Kansas.

Mike’s impact on KMEA has been significant. He served on the KMEA Executive Committee for more than 14 years, including seven years as President, three years as Vice President, and two years as Secretary-Treasurer.

Mark your Calendars for the 2026 KMEA/KMGA Annual Conference

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We are excited to announce that the 2026 KMEA/KMGA Annual Conference will take place October 28-29, 2026, at the Marriott Hotel Wichita.

Join fellow members for two days of networking, education, industry updates, and recognition of our members. We’re also excited to welcome Caleb Campbell as this year’s keynote speaker.

More details and registration information will be available soon. Until then, be sure to save the date and plan to join us in Wichita this October!

Unity Becomes Third Advanced U.S. Reactor to Achieve Criticality

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Deployable Energy’s Unity demonstration reactor successfully completed a zero-power fueled criticality demonstration at Idaho National Laboratory on June 30. The achievement makes Unity the third DOE-authorized advanced reactor to reach criticality under the Department of Energy’s nuclear innovation initiatives.

Along with Antares Nuclear’s Mark-0 and Valar Atomics’ Ward 250 reactors, Unity’s success marks the first time three unique advanced microreactor designs have achieved criticality in the United States within a single month.

KMEA is Hiring Operations Analyst

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KMEA is seeking an Operations Analyst to support electric utility operations and monthly billing functions. This role focuses on data analysis, database management, process improvement, and billing support, helping member communities maintain reliable and affordable electric service. Ideal candidates will have experience with data analysis, SQL databases, Advanced Excel, and problem-solving, while knowledge of the utility industry, Power BI, and energy markets is a plus. Based in Overland Park, Kansas, the position offers competitive pay, strong benefits, and opportunities for growth.

Journeyman Lineman position open in Garden City

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The City of Garden City is accepting applications for Journeyman Lineman with the Electric Department. This position is responsible for the installation and maintenance of electrical power systems, street lighting systems, airport electrical systems and devices unique to a municipal system.

The City of Sabetha is hiring a Journeyman Electrician

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The City of Sabetha is hiring a Journeyman Electrician. This position is responsible for independently installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing electrical systems that support the City’s electric generation, distribution, and municipal infrastructure. The Journeyman Electrician performs skilled electrical work on power plant equipment, substations, distribution lines, and municipal buildings and facilities, ensuring safe and reliable electrical service while complying with all applicable codes and safety standards.

City of Wamego Expands Electric System with 12 MW Upgrade

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The City of Wamego is taking a major step forward in strengthening its electric utility system with the recent delivery of four CAT 3‑megawatt generators. Together, these units add 12 megawatts of additional generating capacity, significantly enhancing the city’s ability to meet peak demand, improve reliability, and better manage energy costs. This investment reflects Wamego’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a resilient and efficient electric system for its residents and businesses.

KMEA Mid-States crews are currently on-site working to install and connect the generators to the city’s existing infrastructure. This process includes completing electrical and mechanical connections, integrating control systems, and conducting thorough testing to ensure the new equipment operates safely and efficiently.