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Frequently Asked Questions - Comprehensive Energy Plan



Elements of the Plan - Customer Programs

What kind of customer programs are offered?

KCP&L has introduced a series of programs to help customers - including residential customers on limited incomes - better manage their energy costs and use energy more efficiently.

    These programs include:
  • An Online Energy Information and Analysis Program, Energy Analyzer, which allows customers to analyze where their electricity dollar is spent and how to save on their electricity bill.
  • Rebates for commercial customers who implement qualifying electricity savings measurements to existing structures, or implement such programs on new construction projects.
  • Weatherization and efficiency programs that will allow customers, especially those families on limited incomes, to better understand the steps they can take to manage their utility bills.
  • Demand response technology that will keep prices affordable by controlling the need for more supply. As part of its demand response initiative, KCP&L provides incentives for commercial and industrial customers to manage their load to off-peak times through MPower. For residential and small business customers, Energy Optimizer offers a free programmable thermostat that these customers can control remotely via the Internet. Customers partner with us to control peak demand because on the hottest summer weekdays, when the electricity demand is greatest, KCP&L will adjust the thermostat setting up a few degrees for a short period to reduce air conditioning load.

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If energy efficiency is such a good thing, why haven't you done any before? Did you propose to do it just to get approval?

In the past, our energy efficiency efforts have been largely educational/informational through bill inserts, brochures and our energy consultants. We also have participated in weatherization programs for low-income customers and conducted energy audits upon request. The more proactive programs we are implementing now are the result of our strategy development process as we work to partner with customers and change the delivery of electricity into a two-way process. As our growth forecast indicated the need to build more capacity, we recognized a more comprehensive approach that includes renewables and energy efficiency is an important component of maintaining affordable and reliable energy.

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Why is KCP&L implementing energy efficiency programs when you're in the business of selling energy to make money?

While selling energy is a component of our business, we have evolved into a full-service energy provider and resource. Working with our customers to help them manage their energy benefits the individual customer, the local economy and the company.

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Why can't you do more energy efficiency and avoid this coal plant altogether?

We believe a balanced approach to meet future energy needs is the key to affordability and reliability. The programs now offered, and those in development, require customer participation and take time to implement. The incremental impact of implementing these programs will not change the need for new generation in this region. As the programs are evaluated and implemented, we will assess their effect on future energy needs..

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Isn't energy efficiency going to increase costs for all ratepayers?

It will reduce the electric bill for those who participate, as the energy savings should offset the additional cost. If you include the environmental benefits and look at energy efficiency from a societal perspective, the programs suggested by KCP&L are cost-effective.

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