Protecting the Environment thru Renewable Energy and Conservation Efforts
(KANSAS CITY, Ks.) — Conserving natural resources and preserving the environment is
essential for our community and the planet, ensuring current and future generations enjoy
all the Earth has to offer. As such, BPU is pleased to help recognize and promote Earth Day
(April 22) and Arbor Day (April 26), highlighting the importance of environmental
conversation and sustainability – and encouraging people to come together and take action
for a healthier community and planet
Toward these efforts, BPU is a recognized leader in renewable/sustainable energy and
water conservation – committed to protecting the environment and its role in maintaining
a healthy community. Today, more than 48% of BPU’s power generation comes from
renewable energy sources including wind, hydro, and landfill methane gas. By diversifying
away from coal, BPU reduces its overall carbon footprint and further protects the
environment. BPU also built and launched the state’s first municipal Community Solar
Farm, expanding residential and commercial customers’ access to this sustainable energy
source with almost 4,000 PV solar panels, making shared solar power accessible for all.
The publicly owned nonprofit utility works continually to minimize its impact on the
environment, which includes among other things; improving energy efficiency by upgrading
equipment and infrastructure; implementing water conservation measures to reduce usage
and waste; increasing recycling and waste reduction efforts; and implementing “green”
building practices for new construction and renovations.
With more than 44.5 million trees in Kansas, Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas
has one of the highest concentrations in the state with a nearly 40% tree canopy across a
dense, geographic area. To reduce the impact on utility services, BPU maintains a full-time
arborist on staff to provide direction and oversight of its vegetation management program,
minimizing the impact on and working to protect the tree canopy residents enjoy so much.
For additional information on BPU’s renewable and sustainable energy programs, as well as
its conservation efforts, go to www.BPU.com.