Ameren Corporation's electric and gas service arm in Missouri has received approval to build or acquire approximately 400 MW of solar energy, marking its largest investment in solar to date.
The Missouri Public Service Commission's approval allows Ameren Missouri to self-develop two 50-MW projects, the Vandalia Renewable Energy Center in Vandalia and the Bowling Green Renewable Energy Center in Bowling Green. Additionally, Ameren Missouri will acquire the 300-MW Split Rail Solar project in Warren County.
The Vandalia and Bowling Green projects are expected to be operational in 2025 and 2026, respectively, while the Split Rail Solar project, acquired from Invenergy, is slated for completion in 2026.
Ameren Missouri's Renewable Solutions subscription-based programme could also see the approval of a fourth project, a 150 MW installation in Cass County, Illinois, if fully subscribed.
Ajay Arora, senior vice president and chief renewable development officer at Ameren Missouri, highlighted the benefits of the renewable projects, stating, “We're able to take advantage of significant tax credits with these renewable projects, reducing overall costs with those savings going directly to our customers. That helps keep rates as affordable as possible.”
