Ameren Missouri's New Renewable Energy Venture
Ameren Missouri, a pivotal subsidiary of Ameren Corporation, has taken a significant step forward in expanding its energy portfolio. On September 3, 2025, the company unveiled plans to establish a new renewable energy source aimed at not only enhancing service reliability but also promoting economic growth in the region. With the ambitious goal of powering approximately 44,000 homes, this project is poised to also create around 300 construction jobs, significantly benefiting the local workforce.
The heart of this initiative is the proposed Reform Renewable Energy Center, a 250-megawatt (MW) solar facility designed to complement the existing Callaway Energy Center in central Missouri. This solar installation will play a crucial role in Ameren Missouri's broader strategy to ensure a balanced energy mix that prioritizes affordability and reliability, with targeted goals of sourcing about 70% of energy from on-demand sources and 30% from intermittent resources.
Mark Birk, chairman and president of Ameren Missouri, stated, "For over 40 years, Callaway Energy Center has been a reliable energy source for Missouri, and the Reform project aims to produce more locally generated power. Our commitment is to provide energy solutions that our customers consider valuable: reliability and affordability."
Boasting ownership of the land for this facility alongside a nearby transmission interconnection, Ameren is well-positioned to expedite construction timelines while minimizing costs. The project also stands to deliver exceptional value, thanks to available tax incentives tied to its strategic location within an energy community.
Ajay Arora, the senior vice president and chief development officer at Ameren Missouri, emphasized the broader implications of this project, stating, "The Reform initiative will not only assist our customers but will also have a positive impact on the communities we serve and Missouri as a whole."
In tandem with the Reform Renewable Energy Center, Ameren Missouri is also advancing multiple projects to further ensure long-term reliability in energy supply. Notably, the Castle Bluff Energy Center is expected to go online in 2027, providing backup power during peak demands. Additionally, the Big Hollow Energy Center, which combines natural gas and battery storage, is awaiting approval for its completion in 2028.
The company is also actively constructing four solar projects that will yield over 400 MW of energy for customers by the end of the upcoming year. These installations join three other solar sites initiated in late 2024, collectively capable of providing sufficient electricity for around 92,000 homes each year.
As Ameren Missouri navigates the shift towards clean energy generation, it remains dedicated to maintaining system reliability while achieving its sustainability goals. The company is also contemplating the installation of energy storage capabilities up to 250 MW at the Reform site, which could revolutionize energy consumption by allowing the storage of excess energy produced during lower demand periods.
Whether through battery installations to manage load demand or the construction of new energy facilities, Ameren Missouri is committed to a future where clean, reliable, and affordable energy is accessible to all its customers. This forward-thinking approach is critical not only for bolstering service reliability but also for empowering local economies by creating jobs and supporting community initiatives.
About Ameren Missouri:
Founded over a century ago, Ameren Missouri has been instrumental in providing electric and gas services to the residents of central and eastern Missouri. With a mission to enhance the quality of life for approximately 1.3 million electric and 135,000 natural gas customers, Ameren is focused on fostering a sustainable energy future. The company encompasses an extensive service area, covering about 60 counties and over 500 communities, including the greater St. Louis area.
For more information, interested parties can visit
Ameren.com/Missouri or engage with the company on social media platforms such as Twitter or Facebook.
Forest Preservation in Energy Production
As legislation evolves around carbon emission standards, Ameren Missouri is determined to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring that its renewable energy strategies align with state and federal requirements. While addressing environmental concerns, they are actively exploring innovations in energy efficiency and storage technologies to contribute positively to the community's environmental footprint. This integrative approach reinforces Ameren Missouri's role as a leader in the shift towards renewable energy solutions, underscoring its commitment not just to energy production, but to responsible environmental stewardship.