News Release

For more information contact: Abbie Hodgson, 785-271-3269

December 4, 2009

Settlement Reached in Westar's Abbreviated Rate Case
Reduces requested rate increase by more than $2 million

Topeka, KS- A settlement has been reached between Westar Energy, Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) staff, Citizens' Utility Ratepayer Board (CURB), Kansas Industrial Consumers Group (KIC), Unified School District No. 259 (USD 259), Kroger, and the City of Wichita regarding Westar's application to increase charges to customers for electric service.

"The parties have been working diligently to resolve the issues in this docket and have reached agreement settling all disputed matters," the motion read.

In June, Westar Energy filed an abbreviated rate case with the KCC requesting a $19.7 million rate increase in order to recover costs associated with the construction of Emporia Energy Center (Phase II) and the Central Plains and Flat Ridge Wind Farms.

The filing was made pursuant to the Commission's regulations that allow Westar to make an abbreviated filing within 12 months of the Commission's order in a prior rate case. Estimates for the projects were included in the previous rate case, however this abbreviated rate case allowed for a true-up to actual costs.

Under the terms of the settlement agreement, parties agreed to a $17.1 million increase in revenue, a reduction of $2.6 million from the company's request. If the Commission approves the settlement, the average residential customer will see an increase of 1.3 percent or about $1.00 a month. This increase will vary depending on usage, time of year, location and weather.

A hearing will be held Tuesday, December 8th at which time the Commission will consider evidence and hear arguments presented by the parties in support of the stipulation and agreement.

The Commission has the authority to approve or deny the stipulation and agreement in whole or in part and must issue an order by January 28, 2010.

A copy Westar's application, supporting testimony, and the stipulation and agreement is available at: http://kcc.ks.gov/docket/cal.cgi?docket=09-WSEE-925-RTS.