Sebelius pushes a green initiative but draws criticism over plans in Kansas

Sep 14 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - David Klepper The Kansas City Star, Mo.

Gov. Kathleen Sebelius polished her green credentials in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, unveiling a new, states-based effort to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy.

But back in Kansas, Sebelius continues to be dogged by criticism from environmental groups who say she hasn't done enough to stop plans for a large coal plant.

The new initiative, by the National Governors Association, aims to encourage renewable energy and discourage fossil fuels at the state level. The effort includes a new task force of governors, of which Sebelius is co-chairman, that will study clean energy policies.

"This initiative broadens that commitment already under way at the state level and will further meaningful clean energy policies across the country," Sebelius said in a statement.

The Kansas Sierra Club, however, argues that Sebelius is ignoring a chance to cut greenhouse emissions in Kansas.

Sunflower Electric has proposed building two new 700-megawatt coal-fired generators near an existing plant near Holcomb in southwest Kansas. Much of the energy will go to out-of-state customers.

Although Sebelius has encouraged the use of wind and ethanol in Kansas, her administration has allowed plans for the coal plant to move forward. A state permit for the plant is expected to be granted soon.

Environmental groups say that smells of hypocrisy.

"The problem is the obvious contradiction that she represents," said Joe Spease, legislative chairman for the Kansas Sierra Club. "We're absolutely thrilled that she's championing green, renewable energy and conservation. But she could be imposing a moratorium on new coal plants."

In an interview with The Wichita Eagle's editorial board last month, Sebelius said that she is personally against the plant but that stopping it wouldn't be easy.

"I'm not neutral," she told the newspaper. "I think it's not acceptable or appropriate that we would build these merchant plants to sell energy to other folks and impose those health risks on Kansans."

It's up to the state's Department of Health and Environment -- led by a Sebelius Cabinet member -- to grant or deny the permit for the plant. Sebelius spokeswoman Nicole Corcoran said there are legal reasons why Sebelius can't step in: Permits are granted based on a plant's compliance with state and federal environmental rules, not the personal wishes of the governor.

Spease doesn't buy that.

"She's the governor," he said. "She has the authority."

There's no timetable or deadline for the department to issue or deny the permit, according to department spokesman Joe Blubaugh.

Still, most observers expect a decision soon, possibly by the end of the month.

Sunflower's Steve Miller said the proposed plant would meet all state and federal regulations. Because of that, he said he doubts Sebelius has the authority to block the plant.

"You can't not issue this permit," he said.

To reach David Klepper, call 1-785-354-1388 or send e-mail to dklepper@kcstar.com.