Ameren Missouri, a subsidiary of Ameren Corporation, has secured approval to embark on a substantial solar energy venture, aiming to add approximately 400 megawatts (MW) of solar power to its portfolio. The initiative, sanctioned by the Missouri Public Service Commission, comprises three solar projects, with the first slated for operation in 2025 and the remaining two to follow in 2026.
Mark Birk, chairman and president of Ameren Missouri, emphasized the significance of integrating these renewable energy sources seamlessly with the existing generation infrastructure to ensure reliability, resilience, and affordability for customers.
The projects outlined in the commission’s order, listed in order of scheduled in-service dates, are as follows:
Vandalia Renewable Energy Center: This 50-MW project, located in Vandalia, Missouri, is slated for self-development by Ameren Missouri, with an anticipated commencement of operations in 2025.
Split Rail Solar: A 300-MW solar venture in Warren County, Missouri, scheduled for acquisition by Ameren Missouri from Invenergy, is set to come online in 2026.
Bowling Green Renewable Energy Center: Ameren Missouri plans to self-develop this 50-MW solar facility in Bowling Green, Missouri, with a target operational date of 2026.
Additionally, the order outlines terms for the potential approval of a fourth solar facility, the 150-MW Cass County project in Illinois, under Ameren Missouri’s Renewable Solutions Program, subject to full subscription.
While the specifics of the agreements remain undisclosed, Ajay Arora, senior vice president and chief renewable development officer at Ameren Missouri, highlighted the financial benefits of these renewable projects, leveraging significant tax credits to lower overall costs, with resulting savings passed on to customers to maintain affordability.
Ameren Missouri’s Renewable Solutions Program, offering businesses the opportunity to transition up to 100 percent of their energy consumption to renewable sources like wind and solar, presents a new avenue for organizations to fulfill sustainability objectives with price certainty and minimal administrative burden, as noted by Greg Lovett, manager of energy services at Ameren Missouri.
This initiative aligns with Ameren Missouri’s commitment to environmental responsibility, aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2045, with interim targets of reducing emissions by 60 percent by 2030 and 85 percent by 2040, based on 2005 levels. These endeavors support the broader goals of the Paris Agreement, reflecting Ameren’s dedication to cleaner energy solutions and sustainable practices.