Westar Energy has dropped plans for three new energy efficiency programs.
The Kansas Corporation Commission issued an order Thursday allowing the utility to withdraw its request for the programs.
A current program, called WattSaver, which installs special thermostats in homes, will serve existing customers but will add no new customers.
The utility had proposed funding home energy audits, incentives for small businesses to install more efficient lighting and weatherization assistance for low-income customers.
The Topeka Capital-Journal reports that the Citizens Utility Ratepayer Board and KCC staff raised concerns about the programs' cost-effectiveness and suggested the programs might cause one group of customers to subsidize those who benefited from the programs.
