The Kansas Power Pool is considering a measure that would make it easier for member cities to take on community solar energy projects, a KPP representative told the Winfield City Commission on Thursday.
The measure, if approved, would allow the power pool to cover half the cost for member cities to install a small solar facility of 25 kilowatts or smaller, KPP director Mark Chesney said. This size facility would take up less than a half acre of land, maybe even only one-tenth of an acre, Chesney said.
Currently, KPP representatives are visiting member cities to gauge interest in the project.
Commissioner Phil Jarvis and Mayor Greg Thompson expressed interest in learning more about a solar facility.
Having a solar facility could provide educational opportunities for local students, utilities director Gus Collins said.
Chesney said it’s a good idea to get comfortable with solar power.
(Read more: The Arkansas City Traveler)