In the latest example of KPP Energy’s efforts to strengthen electric reliability for its member communities, the Board of Directors for the Kansas joint action agency in April approved Mulvane, Ellinwood and Greensburg as host communities for new generating units.
The Kansas joint action agency reported the news in the April 2026 edition of its Lightning Round newsletter.
The KPP Energy Board of Directors authorized the purchase of four high-efficiency diesel generator units from Caterpillar Inc. in October 2025.
Each unit will provide approximately 3 megawatts of capacity, adding a combined 12 megawatts to KPP’s generation portfolio.
These units are part of KPP’s long-term strategy to enhance system reliability and ensure member cities have access to dependable, on demand power -- especially during peak demand periods or times of regional transmission constraints or outages, KPP Energy noted.
Last month, the KPP Energy Board approved Mulvane, Ellinwood and Greensburg as host communities – all member communities of KPP Energy. Mulvane will host two of the four generating units.
The additional capacity in these locations will provide localized support to the electric grid.
Site selection followed a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process, with interested KPP member cities outlining ownership preferences, financing options and overall project readiness.
Proposals also addressed key factors such as land availability, distribution system capacity and projected load.
In addition to improving reliability, the generators will help KPP meet its capacity obligations within the Southwest Power Pool, which coordinates electricity across a 17-state region including Kansas.
Delivery of the generators anticipated in the third quarter of 2027.
KPP officials noted that the investment in the generators reflects a balanced approach to power supply -- pairing traditional thermal generation resources with growing renewable energy initiatives already underway in several member communities.
“For residents and businesses in Mulvane, Ellinwood and Greensburg, the project represents a behind-the-scenes— and increasingly behind-the-meter—investment with a clear purpose: keeping the lights on when it matters most,” KPP Energy said.
KPP Energy is a municipal energy agency providing electricity and innovative power solutions to 24 Kansas communities.
