David Campbell, Evergy Chairman and CEO, announced Monday during a press conference that they will be constructing two new 705 megawatt (MW) high-efficiency natural gas plants, one in Reno County and one in Sumner County. The new plant in Reno County will be located on the northeast corner of South McNew Road and East Morgan Avenue, with an expected operating date in 2030. The new plant in Sumner County is expected to provide electricity in 2029. 

The natural gas plants will represent a major investment in the state’s energy infrastructure that will serve customers for 40 years. During construction, more than 500 jobs are anticipated for each plant. After a 10-year exemption, each plant will provide more than $500 million in property tax revenues over its service life and will bring to the communities 20-40 skilled craft jobs that pay more than $90,000 annually. 

The new natural gas plant in Reno County will have a plant footprint of approximately 150 acres with construction beginning the summer of 2027 and in service in 2030. 

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly spoke to the group of local leaders, community members, state officials and federal dignitaries in the new 1861 Club event center at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Gov. Kelly said, "My driving force is to make Kansas the best place to raise a family. To achieve that mission, we must invest in the stability, sustainability and economic growth of our state. The opening of these combined-cycle natural gas power plants represents more than just energy, its a multi-billion dollar investment into achieving that reality. As Kansas continues to transition to more sustainable energy, we are doing it responsibly. These plants are much cleaner than traditional coal plants. Combined-cycle natural gas technology reduces carbon emissions by 50-60% compared to coal. Thus this investment into the future of Kansas energy, balances sustainability with the need for reliable, affordable energy."

Debra Teufel, President and CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce, said, "and with this announcement, I believe that this is the single, largest investment ever in the history of Reno County."

Reno County Commission Chairman Randy Parks said, "Reno County values the partnership with the City of Hutchinson and the City of South Hutchinson during this collaborative project, working with the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce and Evergy to bring this economic development success to Reno County."

Speakers at the press conference also included U.S. congressman Tracey Mann, Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson, Leo Delperdang, Chair of House Energy, Utilities and Telecommunications, Michael Fagg, Chair of Senate Utilities, and City of Hutchinson Mayor Greg Fast.