In 2008 Kansas led the nation in requiring that 20% of our electric power needs be generated with renewable energy (primarily wind and solar) by 2020. In the past six years our power companies have made the investments necessary to achieve this goal. As a result, wind farms now dot the state, bringing much needed money to Kansas farmers, and creating thousands of new, high paying, skilled jobs for Kansas workers.

Generally, the fossil fuel industry (coal and oil interests) oppose this standard. Once again this year these special interest groups sought to repeal the renewable energy standard. The Senate passed a repeal but the effort was blocked in the House by a substantial margin. While claims are made by some these requirements have resulted in a 40% increase in electric rates, the Kansas Corporation Commission estimates the cost of renewable energy accounts for a 4% increase in electric bills (Weststar was just granted a 67 cent per household rate increase to cover these costs).

While fossil fuels still provide an important part of Kansas energy needs, our state must remain on the forefront of the cutting edge technology for the 21st Century. Jobs, clean energy, and Kansas future all depend on following through on the course we set in 2008. I will continue to resist efforts to turn back the clock on technology and progress at the cost of clean air and responsible use of Kansas natural resources.