Oberlin's New Generators
The city of Oberlin officially made electricity May 21st with the two new C175 Cat Generators. The city staff along with KMEA/Mid-States and Foley Equipment made final adjustments to “light up” the new generation this May.
This project was first approved by the Oberlin governing body on December 15, 2022. This is the first generation project utilizing the KMEA financing structure. This structure allows the city to utilize KMEA to bond the capital for the construction cost. The city will see that debt obligation as a capacity charge on the monthly bill from KMEA.
“Oberlin is set for the future with new, user-friendly, and reliable power generation. With partnerships from KMEA, KMEA-Mid States, CAT, “The Bank” and many others, Oberlin will no longer be subjected to lengthy power outages and now has the opportunity to claim 6 MW of inhouse generation as well as retaining $60,000 per year in savings from utilities needed to keep the old plant “run ready”. This strategic move not only ensures uninterrupted power supply but also signifies a significant step towards financial efficiency and sustainability for Oberlin”. Says Oberlin Co-Administrator David Sporn. KMEA would like to congratulate the city of Oberlin on the investment into the electric utility that will benefit the community for generations to come.