Entries by KMEA

More than just a Utility

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The City’s electric department is proud to highlight the heroic efforts of three outstanding employees: Superintendent Billy Villanueva, Line Foreman Jr. Salinas, and Journeyman Lineman Alex Rodriguez. These individuals exemplify the core value of community, by going beyond their regular duties to assist others in times of need.

On Thursday, June 13, Billy and Jr. were returning from inspecting recent improvements to the airport’s electric system when they witnessed a semi-truck overturn on US 50 and Raceway Road, east of Garden City. Without hesitation, they rushed to the scene, joining other first responders to assist in removing the trapped truck driver. Their quick thinking and selflessness helped an individual they did not know, and potentially saving his life.

Data Centers, EV Expansion Create Around 300 TWh Increase in U.S. Electricity Demand by 2030

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Total U.S. electricity demand has remained relatively stable at around 4,000 terawatt-hours since 2010, but as electrification accelerates, that’s about to change, consulting group Rystad Energy said on June 24.

The build-out of data centers and more widespread adoption of electric vehicles is expected to ramp up electricity demand in the U.S. in the coming years, with Rystad Energy’s research predicting these two sectors alone will add 290 TWh of new demand by 2030.

Leading up to that point, the growth in electricity demand for data centers will be heavily driven by those focused on artificial intelligence, which consumes more electricity compared to traditional computing, Rystad Energy said.

Overall, the combined expansion of traditional and AI data centers, along with chip foundries, will increase demand cumulatively by 177 TWh from 2023 to 2030, reaching a total of 307 TWh, it said.

2024 Joint EMP Meeting

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On July 28th, EMP participant cities gathered at the Marriott Hotel in Overland Park for the annual Joint EMP meeting. The event provided valuable insights into various aspects of energy management, funding opportunities, and market updates. Below you can see the topics discussed.
Targeting Funding Opportunities: How to Prepare Your Utility for a Grant Application

Speaker: Brett Waggoner, Governmental Assistance Services
Brett Waggoner, an expert in securing grants for utilities, emphasized the importance of strategic planning and preparation when applying for funding. He discussed best practices for identifying suitable grant opportunities, crafting compelling proposals, and maximizing the chances of success.

Russell faces Challenges after Severe Storm

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The city of Russell experienced another severe storm the afternoon of May 19.  With winds sweeping through the region at over 80 mph the city and the region received extensive damage to the distribution system. 

The city immediately began to determine the extent of the damage and developed a plan of action to repair the system and restore power to the city’s customers.

A coordinated effort of multiple communities was initiated by Kansas Municipal Utilities.  The cities of Garden City, Ellinwood, Hoisington, Colby, and Pratt responded to a community in need with manpower, equipment, and materials to expedite the rebuilding process.

The City of Oberlin Commissions New Power Plant

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The city of Oberlin officially made electricity May 21st with the two new C175 Cat Generators.  The city staff along with KMEA/Mid-States and Foley Equipment made final adjustments to “light up” the new generation this May.   

This project was first approved by the Oberlin governing body on December 15, 2022.   This is the first generation project utilizing the KMEA financing structure.  This structure allows the city to utilize KMEA to bond the capital for the construction cost.  The city will see that debt obligation as a capacity charge on the monthly bill from KMEA.  

The City of Garden City is hiring a Full-Time Journeyman Lineman

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The City of Garden City is accepting applications for a Journeyman Lineman with the Electric Department. This position is responsible for installing and maintaining electrical power systems, street lighting systems, airport electrical systems, and devices unique to municipal systems. The wage range for this position is $38.03 – $45.41 per hour.

Ottawa Replaces Catalyst on Two Generators

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The city of Ottawa recently completed the replacement of the catalyst on the Cooper units 6 & 7 at the power plant.   

The city made the decision to replace the catalyst for a couple reasons.  First, the old catalyst was creating back pressure and causing increased heat on the turbo exhaust.  Secondly, because of the location of the old catalyst the emissions reduction was narrowly meeting the 70% reduction standard. 

The new DCL catalyst/mufflers were purchased through and installed by Wheeler World in Ohio for under $375,000. 

Applications open for $1.3 Billion in Funding to Continue Expanding National Electric Vehicle Charging Network

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The Biden-Harris Administration opened applications today for a historic $1.3 billion funding opportunity for electric vehicle (EV) charging and alternative-fueling infrastructure in urban and rural communities and along designated highways, interstates, and major roadways. This is the largest single grant funding opportunity for EV charging in the nation’s history and it will accelerate public and private investment in clean transportation in the places where people live, work, and play.

KMEA announces APPA Public Power Manager Program

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KMEA is excited to announce the APPA/KMEA Public Power Manager Certificate Program.  KMEA will sponsor up to three individuals to attend and participate in the APPA public power manager certificate program.  This program is intended to develop individual leaders’ skills, skills development, coaching practice, and team building within the utility industry.