Sponsored content
By Evergy

Evergy spearheaded, researched, and launched a new innovative initiative in partnership with the Independence Avenue Community Improvement District (CID), the Northeast Kansas City (NEKC) Chamber of Commerce, the Office of Public Council, Mid America Regional Council, the University of Kansas and UMKC. 

The purpose of this collaboration was to bring together subject matter experts in urban temperature methodology and local advocates and stakeholders with a shared interest in reducing Kansas City’s Urban Heat Island. Several urban neighborhoods were considered, with the Independence Avenue Corridor ultimately being selected. For Evergy, this initiative means that customers in this area will save energy by not having to run their air conditioning as much during the peak summer months. Additional benefits include lower overall ambient temperatures, improved air quality, increased property values, better stormwater management, and lesser heat related illnesses and deaths.

There are currently two activities taking place: tree planting and cool roofs installation. Tree planting activities began in 2024, and 1,700 trees are expected to be planted by the end of this year. Evergy will maintain and water the trees and continue planting new ones in the Northeast for at least the next two years. In addition to planting along the Independence Avenue, trees are also being planted in the surrounding neighborhoods. Residences in the Northeast are eligible.

The cool roofs are also underway. Cool roofs are a reflective coating that help buildings use less air conditioning during the summer. Dark and gray roofs were identified through aerial photographs, followed by on-site inspections. Evergy received great interest, with sixteen applications. To date, five projects have been completed, resulting in approximately 60,000 square feet of new, white roofs.

The plan is to reopen the cool roof upgrades and tree plantings next Spring. In the meantime, Evergy will be searching for more candidates. If you are interested in participating in the program, please reach out to UHI@evergy.com.