Spring Cracks Open at Project Living Proof 

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Spring Cracks Open at Project Living Proof 

History, Sustainability, and the Slight Madness of Kansas City Weather

By Kasi Darnell

Spring doesn’t arrive in Kansas City so much as kick down the door. One day you’re in a parka; the next you’re sweating through your shirt in a garden you forgot existed. Over on the corner of Emanuel Cleaver III Boulevard and Harrison Street, tucked into the historic RockHill neighborhood, Project Living Proof (PLP) is waking up.

The native Prairie Fire blossoms are elbowing their way out of the soil. The bees are back. Someone’s already mowed their lawn twice and cursed about it. And inside this 100-year-old house, something else is stirring—an idea. A mission. A really weird, really cool mash-up of old bones and modern brains: sustainability inside a historic home.

PLP is a living science exhibit disguised as your grandma’s house—if your grandma was into solar panels, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and water retention strategies. It’s operated by Metropolitan Energy Center (MEC), an organization that’s been quietly fighting the good fight for cleaner air, smarter buildings and more resilient cities since before it was cool.

MEC Director of People and Operations Royce Martin admires the garden at Project Living Proof.

PLP isn’t a showroom. It’s not a museum. It’s a real house in a real neighborhood, showing real people what’s possible. Want to know how to retrofit a drafty old house without ripping out the soul? This is where you go. Want to see what a stormwater system looks like before your basement floods? Right here.

But here’s the thing: this place doesn’t run on good vibes and compost tea. It runs on people.

So here’s your call to action:

We need hands. We need minds. We need people who give a damn.

Volunteer with us. Help keep the gardens growing, the systems running, the message alive. Or—if you’re short on time but long on generosity—make a donation. Every dollar goes into keeping this place real, relevant and open to the community.

Because PLP isn’t just about green tech or old houses. It’s about showing Kansas City what’s possible when we stop throwing things away—houses,

neighborhoods, ideas—and start building smarter.

Spring is here. The city is waking up. And we’re just getting started.

Get involved. Show up. Make it matter.

Donate to support MEC and PLP’s mission at metroenergy.org/onefuture or sign up to volunteer at metroenergy.org/get-involved/volunteer-opportunities.

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Future Work Is Here: Can We Take the Offer? 

Future Work Is Here: Can We Take the Offer?

By Austin Taylor

The future of work is no longer a distant concept—it is unfolding right now. Yet, despite years of warnings and national campaigns urging Americans to prepare for careers in STEM, energy and technology, we still face a critical skills gap. Business and technology leaders like Elon Musk argue that many in the U.S. workforce are undertrained for the jobs of the future, and as a result, they increasingly lean on programs like H-1B to recruit talent from abroad. This claim is frustrating, but frustration alone is not a strategy. Instead of simply feeling insulted, we must take action. 

For decades, we’ve been told that investing in education, workforce development and technical training is the key to securing our place in the global economy. If we don’t step up now, we risk losing these high-paying, high-growth jobs to those better prepared, whether they are here or overseas. The question is: Will we finally take action? 

Energy Careers: A Barely-Tapped Opportunity 

At Metropolitan Energy Center (MEC), we see this challenge firsthand. Our mission is to accelerate energy innovation and workforce development, ensuring individuals and businesses can thrive in the evolving energy landscape. From alternative fuel vehicle training to building efficiency programs, we work to create opportunities that not only power our communities but also provide stable, well-paying careers for those ready to step into them. 

The energy sector is undergoing a massive transformation, and with it comes a surge in job openings—many of which don’t require a four year degree but demand specialized training. Fields like battery storage, hydrogen, biofuels, solar and wind energy, and grid modernization are growing quickly, but too few people are stepping into these roles. These jobs exist now. They are in high demand, they pay well, and they are important to the future of our economy and environment. 

Despite decades of government-backed workforce programs, too many Americans are either unaware of or unprepared for these careers. This is where organizations like us come in. We’ve worked with local and national partners to develop training programs, connect people with technical certifications, and provide businesses with the resources needed to build a skilled workforce. 

The Call to Action was 20 Years Ago  

Do you know the two best times to plant a tree? 20 years ago and today. This is not just a call for young students—it’s a call for parents, career changers and anyone looking for stable, well-paying work in a growing field. We need to move beyond simply talking about STEM and energy careers and start actively preparing for them. 

  • Parents must encourage their children to explore science, technology and hands-on technical skills. 
  • Schools must expand apprenticeship and certification programs. 
  • Local governments must invest in workforce development that meets industry needs. 
  • Individuals must take initiative by seeking out training and education in energy and technology fields. 

Business leaders argue that the United States lacks qualified workers, but the solution is not to accept that as a fact—it’s to prove them wrong. We cannot allow industry leaders to justify bypassing American talent due to lack of preparedness when the tools for training and upskilling already exist. 

At Metropolitan Energy Center, we are committed to building a stronger, more resilient workforce. The future of energy and innovation is being written today. Will we be the ones shaping it, or will we continue to watch from the sidelines? The choice is ours. 

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Kansas City’s Future Depends on Smart Energy and Transportation Investments

Kansas City’s Future Depends on Smart Energy and Transportation Investments

By Austin Taylor

 

Kansas City is growing. Every year, we see new businesses open, new housing developments take shape and new infrastructure projects take center stage. But as we expand, are we making the right investments to ensure long-term success?

At Metropolitan Energy Center (MEC), we believe Kansas City can lead the nation in energy efficiency, modernized transportation and forward-thinking infrastructure. But to get there, we need to work together with residents, business owners, landlords, developers and city leaders to create solutions that are cost-effective, sustainable and beneficial for everyone. While we face critical challenges, the solutions are within reach.

The Challenges We Face

  • Rising Energy Costs for Homes and Businesses: Older buildings often lack modern energy efficiency upgrades, leading to high utility costs for tenants and business owners. Simple upgrades, such as better insulation, updated HVAC systems and LED lighting, could significantly reduce monthly expenses, but many property owners aren’t sure where to start or how to fund these improvements.

  • A Public Transit System That Needs More Support: Reliable public transportation is vital for Kansas City’s workforce and economy. While the streetcar expansion is progress, bus service, route expansion, and fleet electrification need greater investment to make transit more efficient and dependable.

  • Preparing for a More Resilient Future: Energy and infrastructure investments should be financially sound and built to last. As energy costs fluctuate and technology advances, Kansas City has the opportunity to modernize buildings, transit and public infrastructure to lower costs and increase long-term efficiency.

The Solutions Are Within Reach

Kansas City already has a plan: the Climate Protection and Resiliency Plan, which provides a roadmap for smarter energy use, modernized transportation and cost-saving infrastructure investments. MEC is working closely with local businesses, contractors and property owners to put this plan into action in ways that benefit both residents and the private sector. Here’s how we can work together:

  1. Partnering with Landlords and Developers on Energy Efficiency: Instead of mandates, Kansas City should focus on incentives and partnerships to make energy efficiency upgrades easier and more cost effective. With available funding and tax credits, property owners can upgrade insulation, HVAC systems and appliances—reducing long-term costs while increasing property value.

  2. Investing in Smarter, More Reliable Public Transit: Businesses thrive when workers have reliable transportation and customers have better access to commercial districts. Investing in modernized transit, expanded routes, and electric bus technology will improve efficiency, reduce fuel costs, and support economic growth.

  3. Maximizing State and Federal Funding for Infrastructure: With millions in state and federal grants available for energy, transportation and infrastructure projects, Kansas City has an opportunity to make cost-effective, forward-thinking investments without burdening taxpayers. We must use these funds wisely to improve roads, modernize buildings, and enhance public services.

  4. Building a Skilled Workforce for the Future: As Kansas City modernizes its infrastructure, energy and transit systems, demand will grow for skilled labor in construction, electrical work, HVAC and clean energy technology. Expanding workforce development programs and partnering with trade schools, unions and contractors can create stable, high-paying jobs for local workers.

A Stronger Kansas City Starts with Smart Investments

Kansas City’s future depends on strategic planning and collaboration. By prioritizing cost-saving energy solutions, well-designed transit, and modern infrastructure, we can lower expenses, attract businesses, and keep our city competitive for decades to come.

The solutions exist. The funding is available. The partnerships are ready to be formed. Now, it’s time to take action. By working together, we can build a Kansas City that is efficient, cost-effective and built to last. Let’s invest wisely today so we can all benefit tomorrow.

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Driving Rural Innovation: Orange EV’s Push for USDA Support

Driving Rural Innovation: Orange EV’s Push for USDA Support

By Austin Taylor

In the world of freight and agriculture, the work never stops. Whether on a farm, in a distribution yard, or at a processing facility, heavy equipment is constantly in motion, keeping supply chains running and businesses afloat. But while innovation has transformed nearly every aspect of agriculture, one critical piece of the puzzle has remained largely unchanged: the terminal truck. 

That’s where Orange EV is stepping in. As a leader in electric terminal trucks, the company is working to change the way farmers and rural businesses move goods. Their efforts go beyond just building better trucks — they’re pushing for policy changes that could open new doors for rural communities. Orange EV is advocating for terminal trucks of all kinds to be officially recognized under U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs, which would make them eligible for funding and incentives designed to support rural industries.

For farmers and agricultural businesses, this kind of recognition would be a game changer. Terminal trucks play a critical role in moving heavy loads around processing centers, storage facilities and transport hubs. Traditionally, these trucks have relied on diesel engines, which come with high fuel costs, frequent maintenance needs and emissions that impact workers and the environment. Orange EV’s technology offers an alternative that can operate just as effectively while reducing long-term costs and improving air quality. 

The push for USDA support is about more than just one company’s success. It’s about ensuring rural businesses have access to the same advancements that are reshaping urban and industrial freight operations. Many federal programs exist to help farms and agricultural enterprises modernize their operations, but terminal trucks are not yet widely recognized as eligible equipment. Changing that would mean more farmers and agribusinesses could secure funding to adopt newer, cleaner and more cost-effective technology. 

Orange EV is no stranger to proving the value of their approach. In partnership with Metropolitan Energy Center (MEC), they’ve already deployed electric terminal trucks in multiple locations, demonstrating their reliability and efficiency. Their work has shown these vehicles are not just a niche solution, but a practical, scalable option for businesses of all sizes, including those in rural America.

Gaining USDA support isn’t just about expanding access to electric vehicles — it’s about leveling the playing field. Farmers and rural industries shouldn’t be left behind when it comes to technological progress. With the right policy changes, equipment that makes operations cleaner, cheaper and more efficient could soon be within reach for agricultural businesses across the country. Orange EV’s advocacy is paving the way for that future, one where America benefits from American innovation

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A Legacy of Progress: Celebrating Our Commitment to Sustainability in the New Year

As we mark a new year, Metropolitan Energy Center reaffirms our commitment to the vitality, health and efficiency  of our community through science, truth, and action. For 40 years, we have worked tirelessly to connect science with people, driving solutions that benefit our communities and our planet.

Science is a universal language that transcends boundaries. It empowers us to confront challenges and create a better tomorrow. Together with a community that deeply cares about the environment and human impact on the earth, we remain steadfast in our mission to advance sustainable energy and environmental solutions.

Today, we continue to support accurate information and champion evidence-based approaches for a healthier, more sustainable future. But we can’t do it alone. Your support is crucial in helping us meet the moment and carry this mission forward.

Join us as we continue a legacy of hope, progress, and care—for people, for the planet, for prosperity  and for the future.

Learn more and support our mission: metroenergy.org/togetherfortomorrow

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zTrip Brings High-Speed EV Charging to Kansas City – With A Fleet-Sized Twist

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By David Albrecht

You’re probably familiar with zTrip – if you’ve spent much time in Kansas City, you’ve likely seen their branded taxis and vans at some point.  zTrip has been described as “a ride-hailing/taxi hybrid company” – in the age of Uber and Lyft, a good description of this KC-based business.  Part of WHC Worldwide/zTrip, they serve customers in 28 other locations, operating in mid-sized cities like Indianapolis and Pensacola, and in major metros like Dallas and Denver.  Bonus fun fact – they’re also the largest taxi fleet operator in America. 

The company is on the move in other ways, as a recent event in downtown Kansas City showed – moving into the electric vehicle (EV) charging.   zTrip’s charging site – aka PowerUp Point Kansas City – is located at 1334 Virginia, and is set up for high-speed charging.  It’s not a garden-variety charger access.  Its goal, along with charging its own EVs, is to provide charging access to delivery and taxi fleets interested in using EVs, but uninterested in the costs of installing and maintaining their own chargers.

This project is a partnership.  From the get-go, Inspiration Mobility has been assisting zTrip with the process of assessment, design and installation of the charging lot, which is set up for light-duty and medium-duty cars, trucks and vans.  They’ll continue working with zTrip, with additional PowerUp Point locations set to open in Pittsburgh and other cities during 2025.  We’re looking forward to learning more about this innovative approach to making electrified transportation more efficient and more affordable.

zTrip CEO Bill George speaks at the recent rollout of the company’s high-speed charging lot. 

Part of the charging array at the Kansas City PowerUp Point 

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