Sunflower Electric files new application to build coal-fired power plant in SW Kansas

Kan. utility files new application for coal plant

TOPEKA, Kan. — A western Kansas utility has filed a new application with the state to build a new coal-fired power plant.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment says the application was filed Wednesday by Hays-based Sunflower Electric Power Corp.

Sunflower wants to build an 895-megawatt coal-fired plant in Finney County. It is seeking a permit from KDHE saying the plant would comply with state and federal air pollution rules.

The utility had previously sought to build two, 700-megawatt plants on the same site, but KDHE Secretary Rod Bremby rejected its permit.

Sunflower and Gov. Mark Parkinson brokered a deal last year to clear state regulatory hurdles to the project and win passage of legislation promoting renewable energy and conservation.