Ameren Missouri begins installing smart technology-based grid throughout Jefferson City

Ameren Missouri has begun construction on the Jefferson County Smart Grid Project, which includes the installation of new underground equipment with smart technology throughout downtown.

The project goal is to reduce outages in the city, as well as power restoration speed efforts by Ameren. Ameren officials ultimately want to create a self-healing grid that could reduce outage times, in some cases, from hours to seconds.

“The Jefferson City Smart Grid Project will modernize and dramatically upgrade underground infrastructure to provide more reliable electric service to local and state agencies and businesses that serve millions of Missouri families on a daily basis,” Ralph Webb, division director of central Missouri for Ameren Missouri, said.

In all, Ameren will install eight smart technology switchgears throughout Jefferson City, complemented by fiber optic cables. They will be set up throughout the region’s downtown, in locations such as the Jefferson City Hall and Police Department, Cole County Court House, Cole County Sheriff’s Department and Jail, Missouri State Capitol, Missouri Department of Transportation and Missouri Department of Revenue.

Ameren Missouri will invest $1.2 million into the effort, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year.