Board hears lower-cost transformer bid, backup-generation RFP awarded to Black & Veatch

An IPL staff presenter told the Public Utility Advisory Board that, following an emergency procurement, the city selected K P Electric (based in South Korea) to supply a needed transformer at an estimated price of $400,000 and a delivery window of about 18–20 weeks — roughly half the cost quoted by a prior Topeka-based option.

“We were looking at around $400,000, and it’ll be here in 18 to 20 weeks,” the presenter said, and added the vendor was vetted through Evergy usage and described as a proven supplier. The presenter acknowledged unfamiliarity with the firm locally but said Evergy’s use of the vendor gave confidence.

The presenter also announced the backup-generation RFP was awarded to Black & Veatch, which will work to design an arrangement tying the new transformer and backup generation together; staff said the Black & Veatch contract work will feed into a cost-of-service study and recommended rates discussion planned for a June board presentation and a July council meeting for any rate recommendations.

Board members asked questions about vendor vetting, schedule and how the procurement will interface with the broader backup-generation work. No formal vote was recorded; staff said they would return with findings and next steps in upcoming meetings.