Author Archive for: KMEA

Entries by KMEA

NRC Approves Construction Permit for TerraPower’s Advanced Reactor

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The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has authorized its staff to issue TerraPower’s subsidiary, US SFR Owner, a construction permit for the Kemmerer Power Station Unit 1 in Wyoming—a significant milestone as it marks the first commercial reactor approval in nearly a decade and the first non–light water reactor approval in more than 40 years. NRC Chairman Ho Nieh called it a historic step, highlighting the agency’s rigorous, independent safety review.

Qatar’s LNG Shutdown Shakes Global Energy Markets

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Qatar’s sudden halt of all LNG production on March 2 marks a seismic moment for global energy markets. Iranian drone strikes on the Ras Laffan and Mesaieed industrial complexes—core to Qatar’s LNG infrastructure—instantly removed roughly one‑fifth of the world’s LNG export capacity from the market. This unprecedented supply shock strikes at the foundation of global gas flows, as Qatar has long served as a stabilizing force for Asian and European buyers. The shutdown triggered immediate price spikes: European gas futures surged more than 50%, oil benchmarks jumped, and both regions now face intensified competition for scarce cargoes.

2026 APPA Legislative Rally

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Representatives from KMEA staff and several member cities recently attended the American Public Power Association (APPA) Legislative Rally, held February 23–25, 2026, in Washington, D.C. The Kansas Municipal Utilities (KMU) facilitated participation for Kansas communities, ensuring strong representation.  Stacie Eichem of Wamego, Dustin Bedore of Goodland, Jose Chan of Garden City, Jonathan Mitchell of Hoisington, and KMEA General Counsel, Terri Pemberton all attended.

Introducing Gunnar Smith and Leighton Ayers to the KMEA Family

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KMEA is excited to welcome two outstanding additions to our team: Gunnar Smith and Leighton Ayers. Gunnar joins the KMEA Mid‑States group as a Field Technician, bringing with him a grounded, hardworking mindset shaped by his roots in Eureka, Montana. Outside of work, he enjoys staying active through fitness and embraces one of the boldest hobbies out there—base jumping. We look forward to the contributions he will bring to the field.
We are also proud to welcome Leighton Ayers as the newest lineman to join the KMEA Dighton Line Crew.

Job Opportunity with the City of Gardner Utilities Department

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The City of Gardner currently has several openings within its Utilities Department. If you’re interested in careers in electrical operations, system maintenance, or gaining hands‑on experience in utility services, the following positions are now accepting applications.

Visit www.gardnerkansas.gov/jobs to apply or learn more.

Lineman Position open in Lindsborg

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The City of Lindsborg is accepting applications for an Apprentice Lineman or Journeyman. Daily duties include but are not limited to the construction, operation, and maintenance of the overhead and underground electric distribution system. Other duties include trimming trees, maintaining banners, and festival setup, as well as other duties deemed necessary.

Coal Generation Surges During Winter Storm Fern

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Coal-fired electricity generation in the lower 48 states rose sharply during the week ending January 25, 2026, increasing 31% as Winter Storm Fern drove up power demand, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. This jump contrasted with earlier in the month, when mild weather kept coal use below January 2025 levels. Natural gas generation also grew 14% during the storm week, while solar, wind, and hydropower output declined and nuclear generation remained steady.

Our Largest Power Grid Operator Is Reaching The Edge

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I know, you’ve heard and read all the stories. Well the chickens have some home to roost as they say. PJM, the largest power grid operator in our country has a problem. The problem is too many data centers. Their problem is not unique, it simply is currently the the largest data center problem. Here […]

Winter Storm Fern Recap

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As Winter Storm Fern swept across the region over the weekend, system operators closely tracked weather‑driven grid conditions, fuel pricing, and generation dispatch activity across the Southwest Power Pool (SPP). Despite the bitter cold and elevated electricity demand, the grid remained stable thanks to stronger‑than‑expected wind output and conservative operating measures that helped cushion the system during peak stress.

Complete the 2025 Annual Questionnaire

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As we begin another year together, it’s time to complete the  KMEA Annual Questionnaire. Each year, this survey helps us gather the information needed to calculate member dues.

The deadline to submit your questionnaire is February 23rd, though earlier submissions are always appreciated.

Thank you for your continued support, your responsiveness, and your commitment to KMEA.