KANSAS CITY, Kansas — Last night, the Unified Government of Wyandotte County voted 8-2 to approve Accelergen’s proposed East Side Energy Storage project, which at 300 MW when complete will be among the newest and largest utility-scale energy storage systems in Kansas. “Energy storage is the keystone of renewable power, bridging the gap between electricity produced by wind and solar, and delivering it to homes like yours when it’s needed most. As we all feel the squeeze of high energy prices, this project will ease that burden and ensure that we can rely on more clean, cheap energy produced right here in our backyard.” said Ty Gorman, Sr. Campaign Organizing Strategist for Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal Campaign. “The Climate + Energy Project applauds Wyandotte County local leaders for their support of energy storage. Last night’s vote provides lasting financial benefits for county residents while also providing important energy benefits for Kansas City Board of Public Utility customers,” says Dorothy Barnett of Climate + Energy Project. With nearly twice as many supporters as opponents at last night’s meeting, the Commission approved a 10 year conditional use permit with extension opportunities for Accelergen’s battery storage. Along with the Sierra Club, Climate + Energy Project, and Kansas Latino Community Network played an active role in engaging and educating the public and ensuring commissioners heard from their constituents before the vote. Labor groups like IBEW and AFL-CIO were also involved in support of the project. Accelergen took proactive steps to capture public support too, a move that advocates applauded throughout the process. After the Planning and Zoning Commission initially recommended against approval, this final result reflects the value of community engagement in public processes, responsive development practices, and thoughtful leadership. Long-term benefits of the project will include new local jobs, increased tax revenue to support essential services, increased control over future energy costs, community partnerships benefits, and enhanced energy reliability. About the Sierra Club The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person’s right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.
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