Missouri utility advances plan to build second wind facility

In the wake of the Missouri Public Service Commission recent action, Ameren Missouri’s plan for a second wind facility is progressing.

The Missouri Public Service Commission voted unanimously to grant the utility a certificate of convenience and necessity to acquire, after construction, an up to 157-megawatt (MW) wind facility to be located in Atchison County.

“Expanding renewable energy in Missouri is an important part of our strategy which, alongside our Smart Energy Plan, will modernize the energy grid and enhance how our customers receive and consume energy,” Michael Moehn, president of Ameren Missouri, said.

He said the announcement brings the utility closer to adding at least 700 MW of wind energy by 2020. Along with the previously-announced 400 MW facility under development in northeast Missouri, the projects represent an approximate $1 billion investment. The planned additions in renewable energy are expected to aid Ameren Missouri in achieving its goal of reducing carbon emissions 80 percent by 2050.

Ameren Missouri’s mission is to power the quality of life for its 1.2 million electric and 127,000 natural gas customers in central and eastern Missouri. The company’s service area covers 64 counties and more than 500 communities, including the greater St. Louis area.