Ameren

Amid a federal push to expand nuclear to combat climate change, Missouri and Illinois are weighing the possibilities of new technology and aging plants.

The Cass County Renewable Energy Center will double the size of a program that allows large businesses to pay for renewable energy.

While solar power increased, wind energy fell in 2023 in Missouri and Illinois, according to a new report from Climate Central, a nonprofit that analyzes and reports on climate science.

State regulators are once again considering massive electric utility spending plans that would affect the state’s climate goals – and 5.4 million electric customers’ monthly bills – after rejecting previous versions late last year.

The drop in gas rates and rise in electrical rates follow separate decisions from the Illinois Commerce Commission in late 2023. Ameren Illinois customers will notice the changes in the first billing cycle of the new year.

The company was given a choice by a federal court to either shut down the Rush Island Energy Center or add expensive pollution controls.

With company profits cut, low-income customers in Illinois are set to receive new discounts on the utilities.

Illinois Rep. Larry Walsh Jr., D-Elwood — the chair of the House Public Utilities Committee and sponsor of the vetoed bill — said he would propose broader policy in the spring legislative session.

It was Jason Novak's 22nd time competing in the International Lineman’s Rodeo.

The final decision on rate increases for Illinois customers is expected before the end of the year.