Today Governor Kelly took a bold step for our state’s energy future by announcing an Executive Reorganization Order to move the Kansas Energy Office (SEO) out of the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) to the Office of the Governor. We applaud her vision!
For more than a year, the Climate + Energy Project has been advocating for an independent State Energy Office (SEO) and a State Energy Plan. According to the State Energy Program Operations Manual, the overarching goal of an SEO is to transform markets for energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies through policies, strategies, and public-private partnerships that facilitate their adoption and implementation. This goal directly conflicts with the KCC’s role as a regulator.
The recently released Electricity Rate Study from London Economics outlined the development of a State Energy Plan as a key strategy for lowering rates in Kansas.
In more than 40 states, State Energy Plans have been created to capitalize on energy as a key resource and area of strategic importance to the state’s economy and economic development efforts. These plans are increasingly seen as an excellent means to set state executive branch and legislative priorities and provide strategic direction and guidance for state utility regulators and other state and local agencies. In a majority of states, State Energy Offices lead or guide the planning process and plan development.
The London Economics study noted the first step for an energy plan is to have it initiated by a top-level state authority – which is accomplished by creating an independent energy office.
The development of a state energy plan also requires data collection and public input. After developing the goals and specific actions required to reach them, the energy plan should be publicized, implemented, and the progress should be monitored.
The constantly changing energy sector is and will continue to be a challenge for policymakers and our state. A State Energy Plan would address energy supply and demand challenges, ensure reliable and affordable energy, determine potential ways to minimize costs and maximize production benefits, while also supporting economic development. A State Energy Plan would identify and design a pathway for a prosperous energy future using Kansas resources, infrastructure and workforce talent to promote economic competitiveness and a healthy environment.
Congratulations Kansas, and thank you Governor Kelly!
