utilities

A group marched to Ameren Missouri's headquarters Saturday to call for lower bills and cleaner sources of energy. The utility released a new long-range plan that would significantly increase the amount of power plants to meet growing demand for electricity, mostly driven by data centers.

Midwestern ratepayers have seen utility bills rise in recent years, as growing demand puts pressure on an aging electric grid. Also, as large data centers pop up around the country, a Missouri scientist is raising concerns about an often-overlooked form of pollution: noise.

Data center demand, severe weather and the aging grid are forcing utilities to drive up electricity rates. While the Midwest has historically had the cheapest energy in the nation, forces are undermining that trend.

Numerous landowners testified against the proposed line, arguing it would destroy prairie grasslands and interfere with ranching, farming and oil and gas operations.

Missouri lawmakers express interest in job and tax revenue that the data centers could bring. However, consumer advocates expressed concerns that residents would be charged for new power plants due to the increased energy needs.

Residents of Gardner, Kansas, are confronting a new data center proposal from Beale Infrastructure just weeks after a similar proposal was withdrawn. Members of the community are concerned about the impact on their environment, utilities, and noise levels.

Even in the Midwest, the cost of life’s essentials is going up. Rising everyday expenses, including food, energy and transportation, are straining household budgets. We invite you to share how you are affording life in 2026 in a short survey.

The bill would allow utility companies in Missouri to include the cost of building nuclear plants in their rates for customers. Despite opposition from Democrats who say nuclear power is dangerous and the cost too burdensome, it now heads to the Senate.

Missouri lawmakers considered a bill Tuesday that would create competitive market for energy, so customers can choose from multiple providers. Evergy pushed back against the legislation, arguing that it could cause confusion.

Some Missouri lawmakers say a free market for energy could curb prices by allowing customers to shop around for better rates. But the state's largest electric companies, Ameren and Evergy, both oppose the plan.

Electricity prices are increasing and are now the fastest driver of inflation. Plus: Some lawmakers want to break up Missouri’s electric monopolies, but it's unclear if that could lower monthly bills.

Since 2021, electricity prices have increased nearly 40%, with the average household spending more than $1,800 on their bills in 2024.