Clean energy is the conservative path to an even stronger Kansas economy | Opinion

Kansas has long been a cornerstone of America’s energy landscape. With abundant natural resources, a robust agricultural sector and a dedicated workforce, the state is well-positioned to help lead the next chapter of energy innovation. Among the emerging technologies poised to fuel economic growth and strengthen our power-generation security, clean energy is a practical, market-driven solution that aligns with core conservative values.

Kansas is a leader on clean energy — including biofuels, wind and solar — but it also has great opportunities with hydrogen, hydropower and energy storage.

Kansas agriculture benefits most from the vital role hydrogen plays in producing ammonia, the key ingredient in nitrogen-based fertilizers that are essential to crop yields across the state’s vast wheat, corn and sorghum fields. Boosting the agricultural supply chain is vital for the manufacturing plants, farms and small businesses that form the backbone of the Kansas economy.

At the same time, solar has been providing important clean energy solutions for Kansas, whether through rooftop panels, ground mounts or battery storage. Kansas is well-positioned for solar expansion thanks to its flat terrain and abundant sunlight. The combination of steady solar energy output, strong economic incentives for farmers and community benefits from investment makes solar development a powerful catalyst for rural prosperity.

Promoting solar power directly supports community economic opportunities and job creation, especially in rural and economically challenged areas. It can diversify farm income, providing long-term, stable revenue even if crop decisions fluctuate; boost local skilled labor employment with jobs in construction, site prep and equipment installation, paving the way for local hiring; strengthen local tax base, funding schools, roads and essential public services in rural counties; and encourage infrastructure investment by improving rural grid reliability and access.

Tools such as the clean energy tax credits are essential to ensuring clean energy jobs and opportunities. They support entrepreneurship and innovation, enabling companies to decide where and how to invest based on economic viability rather than bureaucratic directives. Such policies stimulate growth while maintaining fiscal responsibility and limiting the role of government in the energy sector.

Kansas is also uniquely positioned to benefit from regional clean energy infrastructure development, drawing investments and expanding markets for Kansas businesses and workers. Participation in clean energy innovation attracts capital, supports manufacturing and boosts employment opportunities in the state.

Energy policy should prioritize practical solutions that foster economic growth and energy reliability, not ideological battles or burdensome regulations. Clean energy offers a path forward that strengthens Kansas’ energy infrastructure while adhering to the principles of free enterprise and national security.

Maintaining vital market-driving tax credits and investing in clean energy infrastructure position Kansas to take full advantage of the growing clean energy economy. By embracing clean energy, the state can build a resilient energy future, attract investment and support its communities with well-paying jobs. This approach ensures that Kansas remains a leader in energy innovation and economic development in the decades to come.

Clean energy opportunities power economic opportunity, energy independence, reliability and national security for Kansas — and for the nation. We need policies that support them.