Archive for category: General Information

The Electric Power Research Institute has launched the Open Power AI Consortium, which includes public power utilities, to develop and deploy an open AI model for the power sector. The consortium, guided by an Executive Advisory Group and general membership of top executives from various entities, will focus on creating open-source AI models, a sandbox environment for AI application development, and deploying AI models globally. Key technology companies like Articul8, AWS, and NVIDIA are also members. The consortium’s first set of domain-specific GenAI models for electric and power systems was unveiled at a recent NVIDIA event, marking a significant step in advancing energy transformation.

Click HERE for the full story

Chris Weiner, the Executive Director of Electric Services for the City of Coffeyville, was interviewed by Paul Ciampoli for the latest episode of the APPA Public Power Now podcast.

In this episode, Chris talks about the unique challenges and opportunities faced by public power utilities, sharing his insights and experiences.

You can listen to the full episode here.

The City of Osawatomie is hiring a Water Plant Operator to manage the production and treatment of the city’s drinking water. This full-time role involves monitoring equipment, performing maintenance, and ensuring efficient operation under the supervision of the Water Plant Superintendent.

For more information or to apply, click the link below or contact the Human Resources Department at cityclerk@osawatomieks.org or 913-755-2146 if you  have questions.

Click HERE for more information and to apply.

As the forecasted cold weather loomed on February 6th, pipelines began posting Winter Weather notices effective from the 11th until further notice. This proactive measure was crucial in preparing for the severe conditions brought by Winter Storm Kingston. Throughout the storm, the situation intensified, leading two pipelines to elevate their notices to Operational Flow Orders (OFO), ensuring the stability and reliability of gas supply during this critical period.

The storm’s impact was particularly notable on February 20th, a day marked by several significant events. Many LMPs/pricing nodes in the SPP Marketplace surpassed $500/MWh between 5:30 am and 7:00 am, reflecting the extreme demand for electricity. The SPP set a new record winter peak of approximately 47,533 MW during the morning peak, surpassing the previous winter peak by nearly 400 MW. Additionally, 14 of KMEA’s registered units ran during the storm, generating a total of approximately 295 MW during the morning and early afternoon.

The extreme cold also shattered long-standing temperature records across Kansas on the morning of February 20th, breaking records that had stood for over 100 years. This unprecedented cold contributed to the Southern Star pipeline setting a new record, reaching 3.09 billion cubic feet of gas demand on their system. The same day also saw the highest gas usage for KMGA LDC cities during the storm, with consumption peaking at 23,534 MMBtu.

The energy sector’s response to Winter Storm Kingston underscores the importance of preparedness and adaptability in the face of extreme weather events.

We are excited to introduce Ken Carney as the newest member of the KMEA Mid-States family. Ken joined us on January 21, 2025, as a Field Services Foreman, bringing with him a lot of experience.

Ken’s journey began in Abilene, Kansas, where he was born and raised. At the age of 16, he moved to Ropesville, Texas, where he completed his high school education. It was in Ropesville that Ken and his brother embarked on an entrepreneurial adventure, starting a business building grain elevator parts.

Ken’s professional journey took him to Great Plains, where he dedicated 10 years of service, followed by a remarkable 25-year tenure at Solomon Corporation.

Ken currently resides in Solomon, Kansas, with his wife, Marianna. They have three daughters and are proud grandparents to nine grandchildren. Family is at the heart of Ken’s life, and he cherishes the time he spends with his loved ones. Ken and his daughters used to show horses.

In his free time, Ken loves to go fishing and enjoys the company of his grandchildren. His hobbies reflect his love for the outdoors and his commitment to family.

We are confident that Ken’s expertise, dedication, and passion will be invaluable to our team. Please join us in welcoming Ken Carney to KMEA Mid-States!