What’s At Stake?

Keys to a better future

Upgrade Energy Infrastructure/Regulatory Reform

In 2018, Missouri finally updated its more than 100 year old regulatory structure that discouraged investments in our aging infrastructure by passing Senate Bill 564. Missouri’s new energy policy will allow our state to build a smarter, more secure energy future. Moving forward, it will be easier to improve the energy grid with next generation technologies, strengthening reliability and reducing the frequency and length of power outages in our state. Provisions of SB 564 also secure the grid against emerging physical and cybersecurity threats.

These changes allow Missouri to join other states around the nation that have already acted to update their regulatory structure, and the benefits are apparent. Not only are jobs increasing as construction starts on projects to update infrastructure, but companies who are looking for locations to place their businesses are taking advantage of friendlier regulatory environments.

Investments in Smart Grid and Cybersecurity

Not only do our state’s electric polls, wires and substations need upgrading, but the controls that monitor our energy usage and efficiency need immediate attention to bring our grid up to 21st century standards. SmartGrid technology allows utilities and consumers greater control and transparency providing more reliable and efficient service at a greater cost savings.  Improvements in technology will also provide assurances that Missouri’s energy supply and consumer data are safe and secure from cyber attacks.

Renewables Energy

Missouri continues to harness energy from its own renewable sources.  The residential solar market has grown exponentially since the passage of 2008’s Proposition C, Missouri’s Renewable Energy Standard.  We are also seeing an influx of utility scale solar plants popping up across the state, which will further add to Missouri’s renewable goals.

MBEF is encouraged by Ameren Missouri’s 2017 Integrated Resource Plan, which would lead to significant investment in renewables and grid modernization while reducing carbon emissions 80% by 2050. The plan will significantly increase solar and wind power generation in Missouri.  Efforts like this could lead to fewer pollutants in our air and another revenue stream for Missouri farmers. MBEF supports these efforts to bring clean generated electricity online in Missouri as it leads to job creation and economic development.

Nuclear Energy

There is no debate that nuclear power plants provide clean and reliable energy. These plants also provide jobs and boost the economies in their local communities. For example, Ameren’s nuclear plant in Callaway County, Mo., which has been operating safely and efficiently since 1984, provides electricity for about 780,000 households. It also employs more than 1,000 workers and generates $9 million in annual tax revenue to the county.

MBEF continues to endorse and encourage legislative initiatives that might bring more affordable and clean power sources to our state.

EV Infrastructure

Advancing ordinances and incentives will allow for appropriate electrical infrastructure to support the current and future of electric vehicles (EV) in Missouri. Neighboring states and cities have already moved forward in their efforts to attract EV users as a means to encourage new residents, additional business, and updated technology which is an overall positive impact on the economy. In addition, there is a direct benefit that EV’s provide to our public health.