Ameren Missouri's Smart Energy Plan supports job and economic growth

Not only are Smart Energy Plan (SEP) projects creating jobs for Ameren Missouri lineworkers around the state, but contractor companies are also gaining work in support of the SEP. Many companies that make and install transformers and switchgear for substations, set utility poles, run overhead power lines, and install underground electric cables are seeing job growth, which is helping them expand their businesses and hire additional workers.

"Ameren Missouri has a great relationship with our suppliers and many of them are supporting our Smart Energy Plan projects with Missouri-based products," said Tina Shannon, director, government relations for Ameren Missouri. "We like to say these are products being made by Missourians, in Missouri, to benefit Ameren Missouri customers."

The importance of Missouri-based suppliers to Ameren Missouri and to the state's economic growth should not be underestimated. Fifty-seven percent of SEP suppliers are Missouri-based; with 32% of spend (approximately $225 million) being made with diverse suppliers.

"A great number of our suppliers are growing their companies right here in the state and hiring more employees as a result of the Smart Energy Plan, which was enabled by the passage of SB 564 in 2018 by the Missouri legislature," said Shannon. "Many suppliers are members of our POWERforward Community Action Network and helped support passage of the landmark legislation."

One such supplier is AZZ Switchgear Systems, located in Fulton, MO. AZZ equipment was recently installed in the Cross Keys project to improve reliability and resiliency for 8,000 North St. Louis County customers.

View the AZZ video at this link to learn more about the great work they are doing in Fulton

The Smart Energy Plan is making Ameren Missouri's system even more reliable for customers, while providing a great economic benefit to the state at the same time.

Companies can pre-qualify to bid on Ameren Missouri Smart Energy Plan projects by signing up at Ameren.com/Suppliers. More than 140 supplier applications have been received through Ameren's online portal, which was launched in 2018.

Also, to learn more and to join the POWERforward team, click the link to sign up.