Metropolitan Energy Center

Energy Benchmarking Training
2023-09-13 12:30 - 13:30 (America/Chicago) | Kansas
Are you a building owner or property manager of a building larger than 50,000 sq. ft. who wants to learn how to benchmark your building’s energy and water use?
Join MEC for our upcoming webinar to receive free training and support to submit your building’s 2022 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO’s annual benchmarking requirements.
During the webinar, our Building Performance team will give a tutorial on the basics of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, Evergy’s “BEAT” program, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process. The event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. Roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc.
Wednesday, September 13; 12:30-1:30pm

Electric Fleets 101
2023-09-26 12:00 - 13:30 | Webinar
Electric cars are on the move. In 2022, battery-electric and plug-in hybrids totaled more than 7% of light-duty cars and trucks on America’s roads. Half a million more EV cars and trucks were registered in the first half of 2023 alone.
It’s not just light-duty passenger cars, either. Manufacturers are offering more medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission options. And as this EV market grows, so does interest from all kinds of fleets – municipal, freight, school district and delivery. That’s why KC Regional Clean Cities is hosting “Electric Fleets 101” on Tuesday, September 26th from 12:00 – 1:30 CDT.
We’ll provide real-world insights from two professionals working to shift their fleets to electric, focusing on best practices, lessons learned and how to plan for changing technologies. Robert Aaron with the City of Lawrence and Matthew Betz with DTE (formerly Detroit Edison) will discuss their experiences, challenges and goals.
And, as always for Clean Cities events, your questions are welcome!
Register at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5516319539454179936
Feel free to contact david.albrecht@metroenergy.org with any questions.

DRIVE Electric ICT 2023
2023-09-30 13:00 - 16:00 | Kansas
Join us for SOAR’s 6th annual National Drive Electric Week!
We will be at Towne East Square this year north of the chargers off Rock Rd. MEC will have a table set up for anyone interested in learning more about EVs, how to help pay for the vehicle and infrastructure, and the work we do at MEC.

Cloud County CC’s Renewable Energy trailer will be joining this year, along with the City of Wichita’s Mike Tann will be bringing an electric bus to answer any questions you might have. Be sure to ask him about the new solar powered Transit Center! There will be lots of information available and some EV and SOAR swag to pick up, too!

If you would like to show off your EVs and talk to those interested in buying one for themselves:
Plan to bring your EV between 12 and 12:30 to get a good spot. EVs and plugin hybrids are all welcome.
If you have an EV you are thinking of selling, be sure to bring it and let us know so we can advertise it for you on this event page!
We have only 30 spaces so please register your EV below so you are sure to have a spot!
https://driveelectricweek.org/event?eventid=3830

National Clean Energy Action Month - October
2023-10-04 08:00 - 2023-11-01 17:00 | Kansas
Wondering what’s all the fuss about electric vehicles (EVs)?
Overwhelmed by the EV and energy efficiency tax credits you keep hearing about?
Want to improve the comfort of your home or business, but don’t know where to begin?

Throughout October MEC will be at events across the Kansas City metro talking all things efficiency. In honor of National Clean Energy Action Month, we will highlight some of staff’s favorite EV features and hold raffles for a few lucky participates to win home energy efficiency kits.
EVENTS
Can’t make an event? Follow us on social media and sign-up for our newsletter to learn about tips, resources, and actions you can take in your own community.

Kansas City Jewish Culture Fest (Overland Park, KS): Sunday, Oct. 15; 11am-6:30pm

Medium– and Heavy-duty EV Truck Showcase (Olathe, KS): Tuesday, Oct. 17; 12-3pm

University of Kansas Medical Center Sustainability Fair (KCK): Monday, Oct. 23; 12-1pm

What is an energy code anyway? Policymakers hold the keys to better buildings (Virtual): Wednesday, Oct. 25; 12-1pm

Green Drinks at Project Living Proof, MEC’s energy demo home (KCMO): Thursday, Oct. 26; 6-8pm

Haunt on the Vine (KCMO): Tuesday, October 31; 4-7pm

Ivanhoe Trunk or Treat and Halloween Fest (KCMO): Tuesday, October 31; 5:30-8pm
Indicates EVs will be present.
Indicates energy efficiency kits will be available.

Residential Energy Code Standards & Trends
2023-10-10 13:00 - 2023-10-11 17:00 | Westport Plexpod, 300 E 39th St, Kansas City, Missouri, 64111, United States
This fall the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) will go into effect in Kansas City, MO. Join MEC for free, multi-day training to prepare for the new requirements.
This course will provide an overview of the history of the IECC in the International Residential Code (IRC) and its multiple compliance paths – including the role of a HERS® Rater.
Using 2021 IECC curriculum, the instructor will provide a common understanding of the thermal envelope (including the impact of windows, doors, and skylights), what is included in insulation installation grading, and advanced framing techniques. The instructor will also cover heating, cooling, and mechanical ventilation systems along with a discussion of the importance of duct tightness. Lighting, appliances, and clean energy contributions will also be discussed.
Tuesday, October 10; 1-5pm: Part 1-Residential Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)
Wednesday, October 11; 1-5pm: Part 2- Residential Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)

Medium- and Heavy-duty EV Showcase
2023-10-17 12:30 - 15:30 | City Of Olathe Public Works Department, 1385 South Robinson Street Dr., Olathe, Kansas, 66061, United States
Join us to ride (and possibly drive) the latest in medium- and heavy-duty zero emission trucks.
We are working with Olathe Public Works and multiple truck manufacturers to show what’s happening at the weighty end of things. From all-electric pickups to a Class 8 yard truck, it’s your chance to check out zero-emission units capable of some serious heavy lifting.
Along with our friends in Olathe, we are welcoming members of the Kansas City Metro Chapter of the American Public Works Association and the general public.
Our goal? To show how much today’s electric trucks can do.

Location and Parking:
Click on the + Google Map link on the left. You’ll see “City of Olathe Public Works Department” at the north end of the large rectangular building which is their fleet garage. We’ll meet there, on the east side, near the north end. There’s angle parking on the west side of Robinson. You can also use the east side of Robinson to parallel park.
Our sincere thanks to the following truck manufacturers and owners helping us host this event: Orange EV, ZEVX, XOS Trucks, Foley Rig 360, and WaterOne.

Just for Transportation Professionals – MEC's Monthly Business Networking Mixer
2023-12-07 17:30 - 19:00 | Gates Bar-B-Q, 1325 Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd, Kansas City, Missouri, 64110, United States
Monthly Business Networking Mixer

Join guest speaker and electric vehicle industry entrepreneur Hosea Haywood for our Monthly Business Networking Mixer for transportation professionals at Gates’ Barbecue on Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd in Kansas City. This invite-only, low-key networking event is the perfect opportunity to expand your professional circles while enjoying a delightful evening at one of our city’s finest establishments. Appetizers are on us.

Connect with like-minded transportation professionals, exchange ideas, and start valuable future funding partnerships. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a business owner, or simply looking to make new connections, this event is not to be missed. Don’t forget to bring your business cards and a smile!

Good Energy Happy Hour: 24 Advocacy Moves in 2024
2024-01-04 17:30 - 19:00 | Polsinelli, 900 W 48th Pl, Kansas City, Missouri, 64112, United States
Join us to discuss the upcoming year’s hottest energy topics at our monthly Happy Hour Mixer for professionals and enthusiasts. This invite-only, low-key networking event is the perfect opportunity to expand your circles while enjoying a delightful evening at the lovely Polsinelli headquarters building. Appetizers and drinks are on us.

Connect with like-minded advocates within the environmental and energy spaces. Exchange ideas, and start valuable future partnerships for effective action. Whether you’re a policymaker, a business owner, a nonprofit leader, or simply looking to make new connections, this event is not to be missed. Don’t forget to bring your business cards and a smile!

Can’t make it but still want to be involved in making a better energy reality for all?

Consider a year-end gift to propel advocacy for policy improvements in 2024.

January Energy Benchmarking Training (Virtual)
2024-01-24 12:30 - 13:30 | Kansas
Are you a building owner or property manager of a building larger than 50,000 sq. ft. who wants to understand how to benchmark your building’s energy and water use?
Join Metropolitan Energy Center for our upcoming webinar on the below dates to receive free training and support to submit your building’s 2023 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO’s annual benchmarking requirements. During the webinar, MEC’s Building Performance staff will give a tutorial on the basics of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, Evergy’s “BEAT” program, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process. The event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. Roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc.

Save this date! First Thursday Happy Hour
2024-02-01 17:30 - 19:00 | Venue TBD
Our dedicated staff who care about sustainable energy use through energy efficient buildings is working on a sweet location for building design and construction business leaders to chat about ways toward more funding for better buildings. Stay tuned for details!

February Energy Benchmarking Training (Virtual)
2024-02-21 12:30 - 13:30 | Kansas

Residential Energy Code Standards & Trends
2024-03-05 13:00 - 2024-03-06 17:00 | Westport Plexpod, 300 E 39th St, Kansas City, Missouri, 64111, United States
Last fall, the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) went into effect in Kansas City, MO. Join MEC for a free, multi-day training to prepare for the new requirements.
This course will provide an overview of the history of the IECC in the International Residential Code (IRC) and its multiple compliance paths – including the role of a HERS® Rater.
Using 2021 IECC curriculum, the instructor will provide a common understanding of the thermal envelope (including the impact of windows, doors, and skylights), what is included in insulation installation grading, and advanced framing techniques. The instructor will also cover heating, cooling, and mechanical ventilation systems along with a discussion of the importance of duct tightness. Lighting, appliances, and clean energy contributions will also be discussed.
Tuesday, March 5; 1-5pm: Part 1-Residential Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)
Wednesday, March 6; 1-5pm: Part 2- Residential Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)

Save this date! First Thursday Happy Hour
2024-03-07 17:30 - 19:00 | Venue TBD
Our dedicated staff who care about sustainable energy use through clean fuels in our transportation is working on a sweet location for transportation-reliant business leaders to chat about ways toward more funding for better roadways and vehicles. Stay tuned for details!

March Energy Benchmarking Training (Virtual)
2024-03-20 12:30 - 13:30 | Kansas

April Energy Benchmarking Training #1
2024-04-10 12:30 - 13:30 | Webinar
Are you a building owner or property manager of a building larger than 50,000 sq. ft. who wants to understand how to benchmark your building’s energy and water use?
Join Metropolitan Energy Center for our upcoming webinar on Wednesday, April 10, to receive free training and support to submit your building’s 2023 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO’s annual benchmarking requirements. During the webinar, MEC’s Building Performance staff will give a tutorial on the basics of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, Evergy’s “BEAT” program, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process. The event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. Roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc.

Volunteering for Earth Month at Project Living Proof
2024-04-19 00:00 - 23:59 | Project Living Proof, 917 Emanuel Cleaver Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 64109
Join Metropolitan Energy Center (MEC) staff and board for a hands-on Volunteer Day at Project Living Proof (PLP), a real-life example for sustainable urban living nestled in the heart of Kansas City. Want to make a difference during Earth Month? This is your perfect outlet. Let’s roll up our sleeves and build a better future together.
Reserve Your Spot Now
We encourage early registration as volunteer spots are limited.

RSVP for the Morning Session

8AM Session Signup

RSVP for the Afternoon Session

Noon Session Signup

See you at Project Living Proof!
Why Volunteer?
You can drive impactful environmental change. This volunteer event is a unique opportunity to apply your skills towards PLP’s demonstration of energy efficiency and green urban living. It’s a chance to be part of a community of like-minded professionals dedicated to leveraging their expertise for the greater good. Create a tangible impact on our environment by helping this project build awareness of sustainable practices in urban settings.
Volunteer Activities Include:

Enhancing PLP’s landscape and accessibility with gravel and sand adjustments around paver walkways.
Preserving wooden walkways and a backyard gravel terrace through water sealing and board replacements.
General maintenance and cleaning to ensure PLP continues to shine as a model of green urban living.
Power-washing steppingstones and walkways to restore their luster.

Project Background
Between 1904 and 1914, the William Rockhill Nelson estate developed the homes along today’s Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd. A century later, MEC transformed one of those homes into Project Living Proof, demonstrating the practicality and beauty of sustainable living. With modern energy-generating equipment and energy-saving features, raised vegetable beds, fruit trees, and native flora, PLP is more than a house—it’s a statement on achievable green living in urban environments.
Join Us
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiast in sustainable building and design, your contribution is invaluable. This is more than a volunteer day—it’s a collaborative effort between caring people that paves the way for a greener, more sustainable Kansas City.
Please Note: Clicking “Add to calendar” below will not reserve your volunteer spot. RSVP using the gray buttons above.

April Energy Benchmarking Training #2
2024-04-24 12:30 - 13:30 | Webinar
Are you a building owner or property manager of a building larger than 50,000 sq. ft. who wants to understand how to benchmark your building’s energy and water use?
Join Metropolitan Energy Center for our upcoming webinar on Wednesday, April 24, to receive free training and support to submit your building’s 2023 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO’s annual benchmarking requirements. During the webinar, MEC’s Building Performance staff will give a tutorial on the basics of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, Evergy’s “BEAT” program, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process. The event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. Roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc.

May Energy Benchmarking Training #1
2024-05-01 12:30 - 13:30 | Webinar
Are you a building owner or property manager of a building larger than 50,000 sq. ft. who wants to understand how to benchmark your building’s energy and water use?
Join Metropolitan Energy Center for our upcoming webinar on Wednesday, May 1, to receive free training and support to submit your building’s 2023 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO’s annual benchmarking requirements. During the webinar, MEC’s Building Performance staff will give a tutorial on the basics of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, Evergy’s “BEAT” program, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process. The event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. Roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc.

May Energy Benchmarking Training #2
2024-05-15 12:30 - 13:30 | Webinar
Are you a building owner or property manager of a building larger than 50,000 sq. ft. who wants to understand how to benchmark your building’s energy and water use?
Join Metropolitan Energy Center for our upcoming webinar on Wednesday, May 15, to receive free training and support to submit your building’s 2023 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO’s annual benchmarking requirements. During the webinar, MEC’s Building Performance staff will give a tutorial on the basics of ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, Evergy’s “BEAT” program, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process. The event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. Roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc.

Remodeler's Residential Energy Code Standards & Trends
2024-06-24 13:00 - 17:00 | Remodeling Institute, 8015 Shawnee Mission Pkwy, Merriam, KS, 66202, United States
Join MEC for a free, half-day training to prepare for the new requirements of the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
This course will provide an overview of the history of the IECC in the International Residential Code (IRC) and its multiple compliance paths – including the role of a HERS® Rater. This course has been tailored to address the needs of remodeling contractors.
Using 2021 IECC curriculum, the instructor will provide a common understanding of the thermal envelope (including the impact of windows, doors, and skylights), what is included in insulation installation grading, and advanced framing techniques. The instructor will also cover heating, cooling, and mechanical ventilation systems along with a discussion of the importance of duct tightness. Lighting, appliances, and clean energy contributions will also be discussed.
Monday, June 24; 1-5pm: Remodeler’s Residential Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)

Residential Energy Code Standards & Trends Part 1 (August 2024)
2024-08-07 13:00 - 17:00 | Anita Gorman Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
Join MEC for a free, (2) half-day training to prepare for the new requirements of the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
This course will provide an overview of the history of the IECC in the International Residential Code (IRC) and its multiple compliance paths – including the role of a HERS® Rater.
Using 2021 IECC curriculum, the instructor will provide a common understanding of the thermal envelope (including the impact of windows, doors, and skylights), what is included in insulation installation grading, and advanced framing techniques. The instructor will also cover heating, cooling, and mechanical ventilation systems along with a discussion of the importance of duct tightness. Lighting, appliances, and clean energy contributions will also be discussed.
Wednesday, August 7; 1-5pm: Part 1-Residential Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)
Thursday, August 8; 1-5pm: Part 2- Residential Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)

Residential Energy Code Standards & Trends Part 2 (August 2024)
2024-08-08 13:00 - 17:00 | Anita Gorman Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States

Commercial Energy Code Standards & Trends
2024-08-14 13:00 - 17:00, 2024-08-15 13:00 - 17:00 | Anita Gorman Discovery Center, 4750 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO, 64108, United States
Join MEC for a free, (2) half-day training to prepare for the new requirements of the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
This course will provide an overview of the history of the commercial requirements in the IECC and the development of multiple compliance paths. Using 2021 curriculum, the instructor will provide a common understanding of the thermal envelope (including the impact of windows, doors, and skylights), what is included in insulation installation grading, and advanced framing techniques.
The instructor will also cover heating, cooling, and mechanical ventilation systems along with a discussion of the importance of duct tightness. Lighting, appliances, and clean energy contributions will also be discussed.
Wednesday, Aug. 14; 1-5pm: Part 1-Commercial Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)
Thursday, Aug. 15; 1-5pm: Part 2- Commercial Energy Code Training (CE hours eligible)

Powering the Future: All-Electric Terminal Trucks
2024-09-03 12:00 - 13:00 | Kansas
Boosting air quality in and around America’s busiest freight hubs
Terminal trucks, also known as spotters, yard dogs, or goats, are used to move trailers within cargo and intermodal facilities. Low-speed, high-power operations in terminal truck settings emit far more exhaust than diesel trucks running at highway speeds – which not only threatens surrounding communities, but is also a health risk for workers on site. The impact on driver satisfaction and lower fuel and maintenance costs make all-electric terminal trucks an attractive business proposition while improving the air quality for the entire region.
Join MEC on Tuesday, September 3 at 12pm CT for a webinar with our project partners who have led the charge in deploying all-electric terminal trucks in the Kansas City region and beyond. They will share their experiences and best practices for deployment, the benefits of ditching diesel, feedback from drivers, and what has surprised them in their journey going electric.

Speakers:

Lazer Logistics, a leading provider of yard management in North America, will discuss their experience deploying electric terminal trucks.
Evergy, one of Kansas City’s electric utilities, will share best practices for implementing charging infrastructure for off-road vehicles.
Orange EV, located in Kansas City, KS, was the first American company to commercially build, deploy and service 100% electric Class-8 electric vehicles. They will share the typical payback period for their trucks and information regarding their rental and lease programs.

Drive Electric KCK
2024-10-04 11:00 - 14:00 | Kansas City Kansas Community College Technical Education Center, 6565 State Avenue, Kansas City, KS, 66102, United States
With over 40 kinds of electric cars and trucks on the market, EVs aren’t the wave of the future – they are already here.
Join MEC on Friday, October 4 from 11am-2pm at Kansas City Kansas Community College to explore the world of plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids. This is NOT a sales event, but an opportunity to get a feel for what owning an EV might be like and receive unbiased feedback from actual owners. You can even take their cars out for a spin (with a current driver’s license and insurance of course). We’ll have information on tax breaks, how EV charging works, prize drawings, and more. Orange EV will be at the event showcasing one of their all-electric, heavy-duty yard trucks, proudly manufactured in KCK.
The benefits of EVs extend beyond environmental impact. They offer economic advantages and contribute to better air quality – which every community should have the opportunity to experience firsthand. Plus, EVs are simply fun to drive.

The followings vehicles and more will be at the event: Chevy Blazer EV, Chevy Bolt, Chevy EUV, Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid, Ford F-150 Lightning, Ford Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 6, Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid, Rivian R1S, and Tesla Model Y.
Event produced in cooperation with:

February Energy Benchmarking Training #1
2025-02-12 11:30 - 12:30 | Kansas
Are you a building owner or property manager who wants to understand how to benchmark your building that is larger than 50,000 sq. ft? Get free training and support to submit 2024 energy and water data in order to comply with the City of Kansas City, MO annual benchmarking requirements.

Join Metropolitan Energy Center for an energy benchmarking training webinar on Feb. 12. You’ll be given a tutorial on the basics of Energy Star Portfolio Manager, instructions on how to submit your report, and resources to navigate this process.

This event is for anyone who is familiar with their respective building’s utility bill and facility upkeep. These roles may include property managers, leasing management companies, facility managers, building owners, etc. On completion of this webinar, attendees will be able to:

1. Understand the Kansas City, MO Energy Empowerment Ordinance and how to comply with it

2. Learn how to set up an account on Energy Star Portfolio Manager

3. Learn how to access their utility data (electricity, gas, solar, and water)

4. Learn how to set up energy and water meters in Energy Star Portfolio Manager

5. Learn how to use spreadsheet upload templates in Energy Star Portfolio Manager

6. Learn how to submit their Energy Star Portfolio Report to the City of Kansas City, MO

Residential Energy Code Standards and Trends
2025-02-26 12:00 - 2025-02-27 17:00 | Johnson County Administration Building, 111 South Cherry Street, Olathe, Kansas, 66061, United States
Join MEC for a free, (2) half-day training to prepare for the new requirements of the 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).

This course will provide an overview of the history of the IECC in the International Residential Code (IRC) and its multiple compliance paths – including the role of a HERS® Rater.

Using 2024 IECC curriculum, the instructor will provide a common understanding of the thermal envelope (including the impact of windows, doors, and skylights), what is included in insulation installation grading, and advanced framing techniques. The instructor will also cover heating, cooling, and mechanical ventilation systems along with a discussion of the importance of duct tightness. Lighting, appliances, and clean energy contributions will also be discussed.

Commercial Energy Code Standards and Trends
2025-03-04 13:00 - 2025-03-05 17:00 | Johnson County Administration Building, 111 South Cherry Street, Olathe, Kansas, 66061, United States
Join MEC for a free training to prepare for the new International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) requirements.

This course will provide an overview of the history of the commercial requirements in the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and the development of multiple compliance paths. This course will provide an understanding of the thermal envelope (including the impact of windows, doors, and skylights), insulation installation grading, and advanced framing techniques. It will also cover heating, cooling, mechanical ventilation systems, lighting, appliances and more.

Listening Session - Libraries Inspiring Healthy Buildings
2025-03-05 18:00 - 19:00 | Kansas
Metropolitan Energy Center is partnering with the Kansas City Public Library to make our libraries healthier, more comfortable, and more energy-efficient, while also bringing interactive exhibits that teach about energy savings — and we want your input.

Join us at the Kansas City Public Library Trails West Branch for a listening session to learn more about the Libraries Inspiring Healthy Buildings program and give us feedback to help guide energy-efficient upgrades and educational exhibits. Your voice matters—let’s build a better library together!
