Ameren Missouri to roll out programs to provide $200M in rebates, incentives

Ameren Missouri plans to roll out 25 programs over the next three years that provide $200 million in total rebates and incentives for residential and business customers.

The proposal, filed with the Missouri Public Service Commission, focuses on helping customers use energy more efficiently and save money, educating them on controlling their energy use. In addition, it includes $67 million in expanded programs for income-eligible customers and social service agencies.

“Helping customers use less energy not only saves them money, but it also benefits the environment,” Mark Birk, chairman and president of Ameren Missouri, a subsidiary of Ameren Corp., said. “With just a 15% reduction in energy use through energy efficiency programs, customers can save the equivalent of about two monthly bills. Ameren’s robust energy efficiency programs also keep overall emissions lower by reducing the demand for energy.”

The plan would invest $122 million annually in energy efficiency and demand response over the next three years. The goal is to save over 800,000 megawatt-hours of electricity, which is equal to the annual energy consumption of 66,500 average-sized Missouri homes.

“This proposed three-year investment is a testament to the commitment Ameren Missouri has made to help our customers use energy more efficiently to save money and meet future needs,” Tara Oglesby, vice president of economic, community, and business development at Ameren Missouri, said. “We also want to make certain these cost-saving programs are accessible for everyone, so the programs are expanded to ensure funds for income-eligible customers.”

The proposal also includes a demand response program, which would incentivize participants with smart thermostats to reduce energy usage during times of peak consumption. The goal is to enroll more than 80,000 customers in the program by the end of 2026.

In addition, it includes income-eligible initiatives such as a multifamily program, a single-family program, and a business social services program.

If approved by the PSC, the programs will run from 2024 to 2026. Ameren Missouri has requested a decision from the PSC by the end of the third quarter.