Drive Electric KCK
2024-10-04 11:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | 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
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
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!

March Energy Benchmarking Training #2
2025-03-12 11:30 - 12:30
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 March 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

Building U Job Training Informational Session
2025-03-13 18:30 - 19:30 | Harvesters, 3801 Topping Ave., Kansas City, Missouri, 64129, United States
Join Metropolitan Energy Center for an informational session on our FREE Building U HERS® Rater Certification Training and discover how you can break into the growing field of energy efficiency.

🔹 Get details on the training program and certification process🔹 Learn about other career opportunities in energy efficiency and building performance🔹 Ask questions before the March 31 registration deadline

Don’t miss this opportunity—Join us at 6:30 p.m. March 13 at Harvesters (3801 Topping Ave.) to take the first step toward a rewarding career!

Can’t make it in person? Register to attend online!

Arrival Info:

🔑 Parking is available in the front lot and across the street in the overflow parking lot.🔑 When entering the building, please head to the red awning that says “Welcome.”🔑 Guests must check in at the front desk and let them know they are here for the Building U informational session.🔑 You’ll be directed to the Hunger Awareness Center, where either Jacob or Sami will greet you.

Building U: HERS® Rater Certification Training
2025-03-31 00:00 - 23:59
Launch your career in energy efficiency! Become a certified HERS® Rater and gain expertise in building science, HVAC, clean energy, ventilation and more. Our FREE Building U HERS® Rater job training is open for registration until March 31 – don’t miss out!

Alternative Fuels 101 Webinar
2025-03-31 12:00 - 13:30
Curious about alternative fuels and electric vehicles? Join MEC and Evergy for a virtual deep dive into the pros and cons of alternative fuels, emerging industry trends, EV technology, public transit innovations and ongoing sustainability efforts. Don’t miss this chance to learn, ask questions and explore the future of clean transportation!

April Energy Benchmarking Training #3
2025-04-09 11:30 - 12:30
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 Building Staff for an energy benchmarking training webinar April 9. 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

Earth Fest '25 Climate Fair
2025-04-19 08:00 - 15:00 | City Market, 400 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri, 64106, United States
Visit Metropolitan Energy Center at the Earth Fest ’25 Climate Fair from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 19 at City Market.

Visit climategkc.org/EF25 for more information about the event.

Earth Fest '25
2025-04-27 11:00 - 14:00 | Unity Temple on the Plaza, 707 W 47th St., Kansas City, Missouri, 64112, United States
Visit Metropolitan Energy Center at Earth Fest ’25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 27 at Unity Temple on the Plaza. The event will include Kansas City environmental group tabling, giveaways, presentations and activities. MEC Executive Director Kelly Gilbert will be presenting at 11:30 a.m.

Visit climategkc.org/EF25 for more information about the event.

Bringing Purpose to Power: Werk Your Power at Hambingo!
2025-08-07 18:30 - 20:30 | Hamburger Mary’s KC, 3700 Broadway Rd, #110, Kansas City, Missouri, 64111, United States
Purpose, power and platform shoes.

Join Metropolitan Energy Center at Hamburger Mary’s Kansas City for a night of bingo, big hair and bold energy! Your coins will slay the carbon emissions away as we turn the power all the way up to raise funds for clean energy programs that spark change.

Hosted by your favorite fierce queens, Hambingo is loud, proud and fabulously fun. Play to win fun prizes, bragging rights and maybe even a little karmic sparkle knowing your dollars support energy justice and healthier communities.

So come on out, grab your glitter gang and WERK your power!

$10 suggested donation per bingo card Food, drinks and fierce queens served all night Proceeds benefit Metropolitan Energy Center

Because when we say bringing purpose to power, we mean it, honey.

Reserve your spot now at exploretock.com/hamburger-marys-kansas-city for 6:30 p.m. Aug. 7 – seats fill fast!

Panera Fundraising Night
2025-09-18 08:00 - 20:00
We’re Raising Dough! Stop by Panera Bread at 8300 Mission Road in Prairie Village, Kansas on Thursday, Sept. 18, between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. to enjoy your favorite meals while supporting Metropolitan Energy Center.

Show the fundraiser flyer below (printed or on your phone) when you order in person, or use code FUND4U at online checkout, and a portion of your purchase will go toward programs that advance energy-efficient buildings and clean transportation in our community.

Grab a bite, support a great cause, and help make a difference!

E.T. and EVs Night at the Drive-In
2025-09-18 18:30 - 21:30
Join Plug In KC for E.T. and EVs Night at the Drive-In!

Join Plug In KC on Thursday, Sept. 18, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Boulevard Drive-In, 1051 Merriam Ln, Kansas City, KS 66103 for a night that takes you back to the Summer of ’82 and into the future of transportation—all in one night! Metropolitan Energy Center (MEC) will be tabling at the event with educational resources, so stop by to learn more about clean transportation and energy solutions. Stroll through a showcase of electric vehicles, enjoy wood-fired pizza and Reese’s Pieces, then settle in for a nostalgic drive-in screening of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial under the stars.

EV Showcase | 6:30 PM to sunsetExplore a variety of electric vehicle models, chat with real EV owners, and learn why electric vehicles are no longer science fiction—they’re fun, affordable, and more accessible than ever. Organizations like MEC and Plug-In KC will be on hand with educational materials and answers to all your EV questions.

Movie NightAfter the showcase, grab your snacks and settle in for the classic film, complete with an intermission and a special EV-themed trailer on the big screen. Treat yourself to delicious, made-to-order pizza from 451 Pizza, plus a special themed dessert: Reese’s Pieces!

Whether you drive gas, hybrid, or fully electric, all cars and ages are welcome for this family-friendly evening. Tickets are just $10 per person—purchase yours here.

ENTER TO WIN a Fully Electrified 1969 Chevelle SS!See the world’s first student-built electric muscle car—a classic ’69 Chevrolet Chevelle SS converted to an EV by over 80 students from MINDDRIVE at Operation Breakthrough’s Ignition Lab. Purchase a raffle ticket at the event for your chance to take home this one-of-a-kind electric masterpiece!
Click here to purchase your tickets!

Drive Electric ICT: Wichita's 8th Annual Ride and Drive
2025-09-20 10:00 - 13:00 | Wichita State University Innovation Campus, 1960 Innovation Blvd., Wichita, Kansas, 67208
Get ready for an electrifying experience!

Join us at the Drive Electric ICT ride and drive on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wichita State University Innovation Campus.

This hands-on event gives you the chance to learn about clean transportation options, test drive electric vehicles and explore EVs up close.

MEC/Greater Kansas Clean Cities will have a table on site, and you can meet representatives from Cloud County Community College’s Wind Turbine Program and WSU Tech’s EV Repair Program. Plus, check out one of the City of Wichita’s electric buses—step inside, ask questions, and see electric transit in action!

Whether you’re curious about electric vehicles, renewable energy programs, or just want a fun, interactive experience, this event is perfect for you. Don’t miss out—come explore the future of transportation!
Click here to register to attend or volunteer to showcase your electric vehicle!

WEBINAR: Connecting Utilities & Communities on Electrification
2025-09-25 10:30 - 12:00
Join Metropolitan Energy Center for a webinar bringing together utilities, fleets, multi-family housing professionals and other community stakeholders to simplify and accelerate the path to electrification. In partnership with the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), this session will feature practical tools and strategies for streamlining utility service connections, empowering organizations to take the next step in adopting clean energy solutions.

Attendees will:

Learn from utility and industry experts driving electrification efforts

Explore EPRI’s latest tools to make electrification easier and more accessible

Connect with peers, share insights, and discuss solutions to common challenges

Hear real-world success stories from participating utilities

Whether you represent a utility, manage a fleet, work in multi-family housing, or are simply passionate about clean energy, this webinar offers actionable insights and valuable connections to help your organization move forward.

Power Up Your Pumpkin Contest
2025-10-01 08:00 - 2025-10-31 17:00
Show off your creativity and clean energy spirit! Decorate a pumpkin inspired by this year’s theme, “Bringing Purpose to Power.” Whether you carve, paint, or craft your design, we want to see your unique take.

📸 How to enter:Email a photo of your decorated pumpkin to layne.stracener@metroenergy.org by Oct. 24.

🗳️ Public voting:All entries will be shared on MEC’s social media during the last week of October for public voting.

🏆 Winners announced:Halloween, Oct. 31 — with exciting prizes for both staff and community participants!

Get creative, have fun, and help us celebrate Energy Awareness Month with some pumpkin-powered inspiration!

Future Forward 2025: The Kansas Energy Economy
2025-10-08 08:00 - 2025-10-09 17:00 | Hotel Topeka at City Center, 1717 SW Topeka Blvd, Topeka, KS
Future Forward: The Kansas Energy Economy will feature keynote speakers, robust panel discussions, and innovative micro sessions. Kansas – and its businesses – are paving the way for the next generation of energy technology. Whether you’re a leader in the clean energy industry or simply want to learn about the Kansas energy economy’s future, this conference should not be missed. This will be more than a networking opportunity; attendees will leave with new ideas about how they can embrace and play a role in the new energy future.

KU Medical Center 2025 Sustainability and Wellness Fair
2025-10-20 11:00 - 13:00 | KU Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Blvd., Kansas City, Kansas
Join us at the Sustainability and Wellness Fair at KU Medical Center! Discover innovative ways to live more sustainably while connecting with KU departments, local organizations and community leaders. Metropolitan Energy Center will be on site with resources to help you explore electric vehicles and make your home more energy efficient. Enjoy delicious food, fun trivia and exciting prizes while learning how small changes can make a big impact!

Bringing Purpose to Power: Community, Energy and Art
2025-10-23 16:00 - 19:00 | Bruce R. Watkins Cultural Heritage Center, 3700 Blue Pkwy, Kansas City, Missouri, 64130, United States
Metropolitan Energy Center (MEC) invites you to an evening of community, creativity and connection. Bringing Purpose to Power: Community, Energy and Art celebrates 40 years of MEC’s work by bringing neighbors, partners and supporters together for a night of learning and celebration.

What to Expect:

Community Voices – Hear from local leaders working at the intersection of energy efficiency, sustainability and equity.

Art and Music – Enjoy art and performances that highlight the theme Power in Community.

Practical Resources – Take home energy efficiency tips, tools and free efficiency kits to help save money and strengthen your home.

Food and Connection – Enjoy locally catered food, live music and the chance to meet neighbors, community advocates and like-minded people interested in sustainability and environmental equity.

Connecting sustainability with community creativity, attendees will walk away with new knowledge, new connections and inspiration to take action in their neighborhoods.

REGISTER NOW!

Marlbrough Homeowners Resource Fair
2025-11-08 11:00 - 15:00 | Marlbrough Community Center, 8200 The Paseo Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri, 64131
Discover tools, programs, and local resources to help you maintain and improve your home at the Marlborough Homeowners Resource Fair. This free community event will feature a variety of organizations offering information for homeowners.

Metropolitan Energy Center (MEC) will be there sharing tips and resources on how to make your home healthier and more comfortable — including ways to improve indoor air quality, reduce allergens and create a safer living environment.

Fleet Hot Topics: NAFA and MEC Lunch & Learn
2025-11-12 10:30 - 13:00 | Evergy’s Cedar Point Office, 10056 Raytown Rd., Kansas City, Missouri, 64134, United States
Join Metropolitan Energy Center (MEC) and the NAFA Kansas City chapter for an exciting Lunch and Learn event designed for fleet managers from municipal and private sectors. Network with peers, learn about alternative fuels and sustainable fleet solutions, and cap the afternoon with a Fleet Hot Topics Discussion covering all things fleet management.

Panelists include:

Dan Williams, Fleet Manager, City of Kansas City

Julie Dietrich, Evergy, Fleet Electrification Manager

Steven Rice, ChargePoint, Fleet Account Executive

Tentative Agenda:

10:30 a.m. – Check-in

10:45 a.m. – Welcome Remarks

11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. – Session 1: Navigating Alternative Fuels

12:00–12:30 p.m. – Lunch

12:30–1:00 p.m. – Fleet Hot Topics Discussion

1:00 p.m. – Closing Remarks

Whether you manage municipal or private fleets, this event will give you practical knowledge and valuable connections to advance your sustainability goals.

Register today to secure your spot and join MEC and NAFA in driving the future of fleet management.

Contact: Drew Arends for questions.

Clean Fuels Conference
2026-01-19 08:00 - 2026-01-22 17:00
The Clean Fuels Conference in Orlando, Florida connects key players of the biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel industry for one can’t-miss event. Clean fuels for land, sea and sky come together for a week of expert sessions, exhibits and showcases. Attendees include clean fuels producers and marketers, distributors, feedstock providers, fleet managers, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), ESG officers and members of the media. Our Metropolitan Energy Center team will be there in partnership with Kansas Soybean Commission.
