A previously approved battery-storage project in Labette County could be expanded under a new arrangement involving Evergy.

 

Labette County Zoning Administrator Mel Haas says Evergy has discussed adding 100 megawatts to the Plus Power project near the Wallace Road substation. The county approved a 20-year agreement with Plus Power about two years ago. Under the new arrangement discussed, Evergy would reportedly purchase two-thirds of the project’s capacity or output, while Plus Power would retain one-third. Haas says the discussions remain preliminary.

 

The original agreement includes language protecting the Plus Power project from future countywide zoning changes. Officials are now considering whether the additional capacity would be covered by that provision or be subject to the county’s newer battery-storage regulations. Haas says Evergy indicated the proposed arrangement could increase payments to the county.

 

The Commission says the plans will need to go before the Labette County Planning and Zoning Board.