Topeka ? Kansas University wants approval of $25.6 million in bonds to finance projects aimed at reducing energy costs.

An energy audit at KU identified numerous energy savings projects in 44 buildings that will result in utility savings of $2.2 million annually, according to a Kansas Board of Regents staff memo.

Those projects include lighting and steam system improvements, water conservation, and lab improvements in Haworth and Malott halls and the Simons Biosciences Research Laboratories.

KU has asked the Kansas Board of Regents to allow it to issue bonds to hire Energy Solutions Professionals of Overland Park to complete the projects. The regents will take up the issue during their monthly meeting on Thursday.