Ameren Missouri, a subsidiary of Ameren Corporation, announced July 25, 2019, that it has mutually agreed with EDF Renewables, Inc. to terminate the development of an up-to 157 megawatt (MW) wind facility in Atchison County, Missouri.
“Significant upgrades would have been required on the transmission system to accommodate this project, leading to unacceptably high costs. While we’re focused on incorporating more renewable energy, we also have to be good financial stewards for our customers, who trust us to provide safe, reliable energy while keeping rates stable and predictable,” said Michael Moehn, chairman and president of Ameren Missouri. “While it is disappointing we will not be moving forward with this project, we remain focused on seeing our other, larger projects through to the finish line.”
The Brickyard Hill Project was expected to create approximately 280 jobs, from construction to permanent employment.
Ameren Missouri remains strongly committed to meeting its goal of owning at least 700 MW of new wind generation by the end of 2020 with two Missouri-based projects under agreement to build:
An up-to 400 MW facility in Adair and Schuyler counties. A Certificate of Convenience and Necessity (CCN) has been approved by Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC).
An up-to 300 MW facility in Atchison County. CCN approval is pending from PSC.
Together, these wind facilities represent an investment of approximately $1.2 billion.
Moehn said Ameren Missouri is pleased to have received the third and final phase of the expected regional transmission organization interconnection costs for both projects, which were in-line with expectations. Final interconnection agreements are expected this fall.
Local communities in Adair, Schuyler and Atchison counties will also benefit through recently signed legislation that is designed to keep millions of dollars in property taxes associated with the planned facilities in the local communities.