KDHE Moves Forward in Sunflower Permitting Process

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) began the process of reviewing and assessing comments received during the public comment period of the proposed expansion of Sunflower Electric Corporation’s power generating station near Holcomb. The public comment period ended December 15, 2006.

“We have begun a thorough review of all of the comments and public statements that we’ve received, and will address each issue presented,” stated Roderick L. Bremby, Secretary of KDHE. “I want to thank everyone who has shared their thoughts on this important issue. The large response shows that Kansans care deeply about issues affecting our state.”

Bremby said the department would produce a written summary of its responses to issues raised by the comments and public statements received. Because of the complexity of the issues and the volume of comments filed, KDHE is unable to specify at this time when the permit decision will be made. However, the department plans to give a 72-hour notice prior to a decision being announced.

“Our main interest is how thoroughly we will address the issues raised, not how fast. We want to be sure that we give each statement the thorough review it deserves, and that all issues raised in them are investigated and addressed,” said Bremby.

As of today, the department has received approximately 400 written comments in addition to statements provided during three public hearings held around the state. In order to be considered by KDHE, written comments had to be postmarked by December 15, 2006 or presented at an earlier public hearing on the proposed permit.

Sunflower has applied for a permit to construct three new 700-megawatt coal-fired steam-generating units at its Holcomb facility. From late October through mid-November, KDHE hosted three public hearings on the draft permit in Garden City, Topeka and Lawrence.

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