Making energy, jobs and economic growth a priority in 2013
Affordable and reliable energy is a critical component of our state’s economy. It powers our homes and businesses, attracts industry to our state and creates jobs for our citizens. But while Missouri is home to some of the most affordable electric rates in the nation, we face dramatic problems.
Right now, many of our coal plants – which provide 80% of Missouri’s electric power – are more than 45 years old. The average life of a coal plant is 60 years. Likewise, the substations key to getting power from those plants to our homes also are aging – and in need of more than $1 billion in upgrades. Making these investments creates jobs and helps make opportunities like smart grid, increased energy efficiency and SMR technology a reality.
Right now, our state’s century-old electricity regulations are slowing the state’s progress and investment in our infrastructure. Our neighboring states are pulling ahead, reaping key benefits of more efficient and updated infrastructure, while our state becomes less competitive with an outdated and uncertain system in place. With your support, MBEF seeks to change that and make energy, jobs and economic growth a state priority for 2013. Please keep checking back to learn more and find out about how you can get involved.