In Missouri, a significant advancement has been made in the sustainable energy sector with Evergy, Inc. submitting its strategic Integrated Resource Plan to the Missouri Public Service Commission. This critical document sketches out the roadmap for satisfying electricity demands for the upcoming two decades, anchoring on both renewable energy sources and dispatchable generation as key elements to support the region’s heightened customer consumption and economic prosperity.
Evergy’s Forward-Looking Energy Projections
The power landscape is set for a transformation, with Evergy planning a substantial addition of 5,100 megawatts derived from wind and solar power, complemented by 5,200 MW of stable, dispatchable generation. This power boost is strategically timed to span 2029–2032, incorporating a revolutionary 2,500 MW of hydrogen-ready natural gas generation facilities. The need for this sizable increase arises from an unprecedented economic boom within Evergy’s territories.
The Road to Sustainable Power Generation
Evergy is dedicated to delivering cost-effective and low-risk energy solutions. Comprehensive evaluations led to the retirement decision of more than 4,500 MW of coal-based generation over the forthcoming years. Additionally, demand-side initiatives will significantly scale-up to match the evolving energy landscape.
Immediate Plans for Capacity Augmentation
As part of the overall 20-year outlook, Evergy has revealed near-term actions that will see the integration of 143 MW of natural gas generation in 2024, followed by an injection of 600 MW and 450 MW of solar power in 2027 and 2028, respectively. These incremental additions represent Evergy’s commitment to reliability and sustainability.
CEO Insights on Economic Growth and Energy Needs
David Campbell, Evergy President and CEO, expresses high optimism for the region’s dynamic economic development and its alignment with Evergy’s generation objectives. Investments in renewable and dispatchable sources are primed to support the ongoing growth while preserving competitive pricing and dependable service for Evergy’s diverse customer base.
Current Renewable Achievements and Future Goals
As a testament to Evergy’s balanced energy approach, the company boasts about 4,600 MW of renewable energy capacity. Substantial milestones are on the horizon, including surpassing 150 million megawatt-hours generated from wind energy. Evergy also prides itself on the retirement of 2,400 MW of fossil-fuel generation, marking a significant step towards a greener future.
Paving the Way Towards a Carbon-Free Future
Evergy showcases an impressive record with approximately half of its energy concoction being carbon-free, courtesy of the Wolf Creek nuclear plant alongside renewable sources. Halving carbon emissions since 2005, Evergy is on a defined path to slash emissions by 70% come 2030 and ultimately attain a net-zero carbon footprint by 2045, an ambition fueled by progressive policies and technological innovations.
Evergy’s Commitment to a Sustainable Transition
Campbell underscores the significance of a diversified energy mix as a cornerstone for a smooth transition towards greener energy generation. Substituting older, cost-heavy plants with cutting-edge technology, Evergy’s game plan includes ensuring dependable dispatchable resources while fostering its renewable investment to meet ambitious carbon emission reduction targets. Meeting the green energy demand of major commercial and industrial clients remains a top priority in Evergy’s service strategy.
Regulatory Filings and Next Steps
With the latest regulatory submission in Missouri, the Integrated Resource Plan solidifies Evergy’s Metro and Missouri West resource strategies. The dossier for Kansas is slated for May, rounding out the plan with details pertaining to Evergy’s Kansas Central operations.
