Ameren Missouri Seeks Approval for New Gas Plant, Proposes Customer Financing During Construction
Ameren Missouri is seeking approval from state regulators to construct a new 2,100-megawatt natural gas plant in West Alton, Missouri, on the site of the current Sioux coal plant. For the first time, the utility wants to utilize a "Construction…
St. Louis, MO, July 27, 2026 —
Ameren Missouri has filed a request with state regulators to build a new 2,100-megawatt natural gas power plant in West Alton, Missouri. The proposed facility would be located on the site of the utility’s existing Sioux coal plant.
A key aspect of the proposal is Ameren Missouri’s request to use a “Construction Work In Progress” (CWIP) financing mechanism. This method would allow the utility to collect costs from customers for the plant’s construction while it is still being built, rather than solely after the plant is operational.
The utility states that the new natural gas plant is needed to meet growing energy demands, citing in particular the power requirements for new, large data centers being developed in the region. The decommissioning of the current coal plant is also a factor in the long-term energy planning.
However, the proposal is encountering opposition from consumer advocates and environmental organizations. These groups have raised concerns regarding the potential for increased utility rates for customers, particularly if they are asked to finance the plant during its construction phase. Additionally, critics express worry about Ameren Missouri’s continued investment in fossil fuel infrastructure, arguing for a greater focus on renewable energy sources.
The plan to build a new natural gas plant and the specific financing method are now under review by state regulators. The outcome of this review will determine whether Ameren Missouri can proceed with the construction and implement the CWIP financing.
Story summarized from the original created by Kate Grumke on www.stlpr.org, see more information here.
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