Westar Energy, established in 1924, is one of the largest consolidated electric utilities in Kansas, providing electric service to more than 660,000 customers in the state. The company has more than 6,000 megawatts of electric generation capacity, and operates and coordinates over 33,000 miles of electric distribution and transmission lines. Formerly known as Western Resources, it offers electricity to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the cities of Topeka, Lawrence, Manhattan, Salina, Hutchinson, and Wichita located in northeastern Kansas. The firm through its nonprofit organization, Westar Energy Foundation, provides funds to various civic and charitable organizations. Westar Energy is based in Topeka, Kan.