Have you noticed your electric bill creeping up year after year? Unfortunately, it’s about to get worse. Evergy, the largest electric utility in Kansas, has officially requested another rate hike, which could mean significantly higher bills for households and businesses across the state. If approved, this would mark the second major increase in just two years — following a trend that has already hit Missouri customers hard.
So, why is this happening? And more importantly, what can you do to protect yourself from the relentless rise in electricity costs? Let’s break it down.
Evergy’s Latest Rate Hike: What to Expect
Evergy has submitted a request to the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) for a 10.36% rate increase, amounting to a total of $196 million in additional revenue for the utility. If this proposal is approved, residential customers could see their monthly bills rise by an average of $14.24.
This follows a familiar pattern: Evergy recently implemented a 13.4% rate increase for its Missouri customers, citing the need for infrastructure upgrades and higher operational costs. Now, Kansas residents are next in line. The utility justifies these rate hikes as “necessary to maintain reliability and invest in clean energy projects.”
However, for the average homeowner, these explanations don’t ease the frustration of seeing yet another spike in their electricity bill.
A Growing Burden on Kansas Households
The timing of this increase couldn’t be worse. Many families are already struggling with rising costs on everything from groceries to housing. Another jump in utility bills only adds to the financial strain.
Historically, electricity rates tend to rise gradually — typically around 6% per year — but Evergy’s latest increases far exceed that norm. If approved, Kansas customers will have faced nearly 20% in rate hikes over just two years.
And it’s not just residential customers feeling the pinch. Businesses, schools, and local governments will also see their energy costs increase, which could lead to higher prices for consumers in other areas of daily life.
How to Protect Yourself from Rising Energy Costs
Kansas residents don’t have to be at the mercy of unpredictable rate increases. By taking control of your energy consumption and investing in sustainable solutions, you can reduce your dependence on the utility grid and shield yourself from future price hikes. Here’s how:
1. Switch to Solar Power
One of the best ways to lower your electricity bill — and keep it low — is by installing solar panels. Unlike traditional electricity, which is subject to rate increases, solar energy allows you to lock in a lower cost of power for decades.
- Immediate Savings: As soon as your solar panels are up and running, you’ll see a reduction in your monthly energy bill.
- Long-Term Stability: With a system that lasts 25+ years, you won’t be impacted by future utility rate hikes.
- Net Metering: Kansas homeowners can take advantage of net metering, allowing them to sell excess energy back to the grid for bill credits.
2. Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency
Beyond solar, reducing overall energy consumption can help keep your bills in check. Simple changes like upgrading insulation, sealing air leaks, and switching to energy-efficient appliances can make a significant difference.
3. Explore Battery Storage Options
Solar panels generate power during the day, but with battery storage, you can store excess energy and use it when electricity rates are highest — or even during power outages. This makes your home even less reliant on the grid.
Get Ahead of the Next Increase With KC Solar
Evergy’s latest rate hike proposal is another reminder that utility prices are only going in one direction — up. With Missouri customers already facing higher bills and Kansas expected to follow suit, now is the time to take control of your energy costs.
Solar power is the solution that puts the power back in your hands. By making the switch, you can avoid unpredictable utility rate increases, lower your energy bills, and gain energy independence.
If you’re ready to stop paying more for electricity year after year, now is the time to explore your options. Don’t wait for the next rate hike — start planning for a more affordable energy future today. Discover why we’re the best solar company in Kansas City and how we can help you make the switch to clean, renewable energy with confidence.
We are a local company made up of KC natives with KC pride — in our city, and in our work. Which means we’ll always give you the best of ourselves.
And be sure to download our Free Solar Panel Buying Guide for more information.
We look forward to serving you!
