Evergy outlines Kansas City power generation strategy amid rising electric vehicle demands

The Riley County Commission meeting on April 14, 2025, focused on the future of energy production and electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in the region. Key discussions centered around Evergy's power generation plans and the implications of increasing EV demand on local energy resources.

Commissioners reviewed Evergy's projections for energy production, which indicate a shift from 52% coal to a more diversified mix of 30% wind and 26% natural gas by 2035. This transition is part of a broader strategy to enhance energy generation capacity, with Evergy planning to add 360 megawatts of power generation across its network. The discussions highlighted concerns about the adequacy of current infrastructure to meet future energy demands, particularly as EV usage grows.

A significant point raised was the modest impact of EV charging on overall power consumption, which accounted for only 0.5% of total power in the U.S. in 2023. In contrast, data centers represented a much larger share at 4.4%. The commissioners emphasized the need for investment in transmission and distribution systems to accommodate future energy needs, particularly as EV adoption increases.

The meeting also included recommendations for updating local zoning codes to facilitate the integration of EV charging infrastructure. Suggestions included requiring new parking lots to be designed with EV readiness in mind and allowing developers to invest in charging stations instead of expanding parking spaces. The goal is to streamline the permitting process for EV infrastructure and ensure that future developments consider the growing demand for electric vehicles.

In conclusion, the Riley County Commission is actively addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by the transition to electric vehicles and renewable energy sources. The discussions underscored the importance of proactive planning and investment to ensure that the region can meet future energy demands while supporting the shift towards sustainable transportation. The commission plans to hold regular updates to monitor progress and adapt strategies as needed.