Kansas-based utility to receive 'smart grid' funds
LAWRENCE, KANSAS - Westar Energy Inc. says it will receive federal stimulus dollars for energy efficiency upgrades in Lawrence.
The Topeka-based utility said it received notice from the U.S. Department of Energy that it was selected to receive part of $3.4 billion in stimulus funds for so-called "smart grid" projects. Those projects are aimed at bringing energy systems into the digital age.
Westar says the department hasn't determined how much it will receive but said it was eligible for more than $19 million. Westar had sought $20 million of the project's almost $40 million price tag.
The project will provide electric customers in Lawrence with programmable thermostats that they can monitor and adjust online, helping reduce their power consumption and helping Westar deal with periods of peak energy demand.
Related News

B.C. Commercial electricity consumption plummets during COVID-19 pandemic
VANCOUVER - Businesses are taking advantage of a BC Hydro relief fund that allows electricity bills for commercial properties to be waived during the COVID-19 pandemic.
More than 3,000 applications have already been filed since the program launched on Wednesday, allowing commercial properties forced to shutter during the crisis to waive the expense for up to three months.
“To be eligible for the COVID-19 Relief Fund, business customers must be on BC Hydro’s small general service rate and have temporarily closed or ceased operation due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” BC Hydro said in a statement. “BC Hydro estimates that around 40,000 small…