May 2023 Update
Greetings MBEF Members,
The 2023 Missouri legislative session has ended and we are now entering the summer months, which can take a toll on our energy bills. Fortunately, there is a little relief in sight. Below is a quick look at some legislative highlights and what many Missourians will see on their electric bills.
As always, the Missouri Public Service Commission has these tips to help save you money and keep your homes and businesses energy efficient.
Transmission Bill Hearing
Members of the Missouri Senate Commerce, Consumer Protection, Energy and Environment Committee heard an updated version of the Missouri First Transmission Act. What originally began as a bill giving existing owners of in-state transmission assets the right-of-first refusal on all regional transmission operator-approved transmission projects that connect to their systems, was revamped into a measure extending additional property rights to Missourians throughout the state.
The updated version of Senate Bill 568 includes several reforms to the state’s eminent domain law. Under the legislation, for the next several years, only rate-regulated utilities and their affiliates can use eminent domain to build transmission projects approved by a regional transmission operator. The measure also bans the use of eminent domain to build solar or wind electric generation facilities.
“Senate Bill 568 includes several measures designed to protect Missourians’ property rights,” said Sen. Rusty Black, R-Chillicothe. In addition, the bill encourages utility companies to co-locate these new transmission lines on existing infrastructure, minimizing the impact of these projects on private property.”
EV Bill stalls
Another piece of legislation got off to an early start this year, but did not make it across the finish line was HB184. This bill would significantly curb municipalities’ ability to enact ordinances that support basic guidelines for building electric vehicle infrastructure. As the use of EV’s continue to grow, many municipalities want their own rules, so that new construction, at a minimum, has conduit in place should residences or commercial entities desire charging stations on their property and/or in their cities. These ordinances provide minimum standards in an effort to avoid having issues like extension cords running to the street or parking lot just to charge your vehicle.
This recent article shows the struggle between landlords and tenants, both seeking to find a solution for EV charging. A perfect example as to why local ordinances are part of the solution, not the problem.
Electric Rates Going Down
For many Missouri electric consumers, you will see a reduction in your electric bill as the Missouri Public Service Commission just approved a reduction in the fuel adjustment charge for all Ameren Missouri customers. Approximately 1.29 million customers will see a reduction of over one dollar on their bills beginning next month. That’s good news!
Congratulations to all the Missouri graduates out there, high school, college, and otherwise. Stay cool this summer and have a safe holiday weekend!
