Kansas set to lead nation in renewable energy
August 3, 2021
Boost Kansas, an initiative of the American Clean Power Association says in 2020, the renewable energy industry had an exciting year, and Kansas is a leader with success in wind and solar energy developments. It said the newly released Clean Power Annual from the American Clean Power Association notes the Sunflower State is a national leader in renewable energy, with over 43% of the state’s electricity coming from renewable sources, ranking second in the nation. It said the report shows Kansas’ ability to increase jobs and investment while maximizing energy efficiency throughout the state.
According to Boost Kansas, renewable energy is powering Kansas in more than one way. It said wind and solar power are economic drivers. It said clean power developments have brought $12.7 billion in capital investment and support nearly 3,100 jobs. In 2020 alone, it said renewable energy projects paid out $32.3 million in land lease payments to ranchers and farmers across the state, which provided much-needed sources of reliable income throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. It said the report shows that Kansas generates over 7,000 MW of electricity from renewable sources, which is equal to powering at least 2.8 million homes, accounting for more homes than Kansas has in the state. It said renewables serve as a cash crop for Kansas, allowing exportation and reinforcement of regional transmission organization.