MBEF Fall Update 2026
Greetings MBEF Members,
September brought several developments that demonstrate how quickly Missouri’s energy landscape is evolving. Growing electricity and water demand, major economic development projects and new generation needs are increasingly moving from long-term planning discussions into regulatory proceedings and infrastructure decisions.
As utilities and regulators prepare for significant demand, Missouri’s focus remains on ensuring sufficient generation and transmission capacity while maintaining reliable and affordable utility service for existing customers.
Missouri American Water Supports Stronger Communities
Missouri American Water and the American Water Charitable Foundation continue supporting organizations that strengthen communities across the state. Among the organizations recognized through the foundation’s 2026 grant program are Lydia’s House, which supports survivors of domestic violence and their children, and Habitat for Humanity of St. Louis, which works to expand access to affordable homeownership.
Grid Stabilizing Battery Storage Generates Revenue for Schools and Community
There’s big news out of Lincoln County. A new battery storage facility could soon help power around 180,000 Missouri homes during peak demand. The Millcreek Energy Center is also expected to bring new tax dollars to local schools and county services. That’s a stronger grid and a stronger community, built together.
Governor Mike Kehoe, Missouri DNR release new State Energy Plan
The buildout of in-state nuclear power is central to the plan’s recommendations
On Sept. 30, Gov. Mike Kehoe and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources announced the release of the new State Energy Plan. The plan addresses the state’s evolving energy landscape and identifies Missouri First policy actions to help adapt to changing energy needs, including recommendations related to new nuclear generation.
“Economic development and growth rely on the availability of affordable, reliable electricity,” said Gov. Mike Kehoe. “Over the past decade, Missouri has become increasingly dependent on energy sources from outside of the state. This plan charts a path for Missouri to take better control of its energy future over the next two decades, working to improve reliability, lower consumer costs, drive economic growth and put Missouri First.”
The Missouri Department of Resources’ Division of Energy led the development of the plan to ensure local and state policymakers have access to timely, accurate energy usage and economic analysis. Under the updated plan, the buildout of in-state nuclear generation is central to its recommendations. The plan finds that nuclear generation can balance the state’s portfolio of energy resources with reliable, efficient power.
Last released in 2015, the new State Energy Plan is based on four pillars: energy independence, nuclear enablement, economic growth and reliability. To read the full plan and learn more about its policy recommendations, please visit dnr.mo.gov/energy/what-were-doing/state-plan.
Growing Demand Reinforces the Need for a Diverse Energy Portfolio
The potential scale of Missouri’s future electricity demand became clearer in September. New analysis reported by Axios identified approximately 50 additional data centers planned across Missouri, representing more than 7,400 megawatts of potential capacity compared with approximately 340 megawatts expected to be operating by the end of 2026.
Not every proposed project will ultimately be constructed, but the scale of planned development underscores the importance of preparing Missouri’s electric system for significant load growth.
Looking Ahead…
Several issues will continue shaping Missouri’s energy landscape over the coming months:
- Missouri Public Service Commission review of Ameren Missouri’s proposed West Alton Energy Center.
- PSC consideration of Liberty’s large-load tariff and continued implementation of Senate Bill 4’s consumer protections.
- Continued planning for generation and transmission infrastructure needed to accommodate significant new electricity demand.
- Ongoing discussions surrounding nuclear energy and other dependable generation resources as part of Missouri’s long-term energy strategy.
- Energy infrastructure, affordability and reliability discussions leading into the 2027 legislative session.
