The City of Gardner Council has taken a significant step towards sustainable energy by considering a renewable energy power purchase agreement (PPA) with NextEra Energy. During the meeting on December 16, 2024, city officials discussed the pressing need for reliable energy sources in light of increasing demand and changing energy landscapes.

The council reviewed several options for renewable energy, with NextEra's proposal standing out as the most cost-effective. The agreement would involve a 15-megawatt solar project with a competitive energy cost of $50 per megawatt hour. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the city’s energy reliability, especially following the lessons learned from past energy crises, such as the winter storm in 2021.

City staff highlighted that the current capacity agreements will expire in 2026, necessitating a proactive approach to secure new energy sources. The council examined multiple proposals, including options from Evergy and plans for a city-owned solar facility, but ultimately, NextEra's offer was deemed the most favorable.

The urgency of the decision was underscored by a request from the Kansas Municipal Energy Agency (KMEA) for cities to finalize their agreements by the end of 2024. Council members expressed concerns about the risks associated with the NextEra option, particularly regarding the project's viability if not enough cities commit to participate. However, the consensus leaned towards moving forward with NextEra, given its lower costs and the pressing need for reliable energy solutions.

As Gardner looks to the future, the potential PPA with NextEra represents a crucial step in transitioning to renewable energy, ensuring that the city can meet its growing energy demands while also committing to sustainability. The council's decision will not only impact energy costs but also set a precedent for future energy initiatives in the community.