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Ameren Missouri doubles its subscription-based renewables program with 150-MW solar acquisition

Ameren Missouri doubles its subscription-based renewables program with 150-MW solar acquisition
Ameren Missouri is expanding its community solar program by building a third facility to meet increasing demand (courtesy: Ameren Missouri)

Ameren Missouri, a subsidiary of Ameren Corporation, received approval from the Missouri Public Service Commission to acquire a 150-MW solar facility that is currently under construction in Cass County, Illinois.

The Cass County Renewable Energy Center will double the size of Ameren Missouri’s Renewable Solutions subscription-based program, which allows eligible businesses and organizations to replace up to 100% of their total energy use with renewable sources.

“Demand remains very strong for programs that bring businesses ready-made solutions to help them reach their sustainability goals,” said Mark Birk, chairman and president of Ameren Missouri. “Working collaboratively with participating organizations, we’re able to innovate, support continued investment in the region, and help all our Missouri customers.”

Organizations from across Missouri signed up to take part in the program’s expansion, Ameren Missouri said, increasing their use of renewable energy. As part of the program, participating organizations will also receive renewable energy credits.

The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and is anticipated to begin generating energy by the end of this year. The 150-MW Boomtown Renewable Energy Center under construction in White County, Illinois, will also support the Renewable Solutions program. It is scheduled to be in service by the end of this year as well.

In its 2023 Integrated Resource plan, Ameren Missouri called for sizeable investments in natural gas, renewables, and battery storage.

Highlights of the 2023 IRP include:

  • Accelerating Ameren Missouri’s planned renewable energy additions by four years. The company plans to add 4,700 MW of new renewable energy by 2036. This represents a total potential investment of approximately $9.5 billion. The company maintains its goal of 2,800 MW by 2030.
  • Adding 800 MW of battery storage, including 400 MW by 2030 – five years earlier than previously planned – with an additional 400 MW of battery storage by 2035. This represents a total potential investment of $1.3 billion through 2035.
  • Planning 1,200 MW of clean, on-demand generation to be ready to serve customers in 2040 and an additional 1,200 MW by 2043.

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