Manhattan ? Kansas State University has received a $200,000 grant to help develop solar-powered charging stations for electric and hybrid vehicles.

The money comes from a foundation for Overland Park-based engineering and construction firm Black & Veatch. The university says in a news release that solar panels will power charging stations for plug-in vehicles.

Project leader and chemical engineering professor Larry Erickson says solar-powered charging stations and plug-in vehicles have the potential to significantly change greenhouse gas emissions. He also said it’s less expensive to operate vehicles with electrical energy and that advantage is expected to grow.

He and others overseeing the project are exploring a time line, design and site for the project. The station would be used for research, development, education and charging vehicles.