Missouri regulators approve new transmission line project in southeast Missouri
Grand Tower Crossing Project designed to benefit southeast Missouri
Communities in southeast Missouri will soon experience improved energy reliability, expanded access to more sources of energy and other benefits due to upgrades to the region's energy grid. Ameren Transmission Company recently received regulatory approval from the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) to move forward with the Grand Tower Crossing Project. This new high-voltage transmission line and associated upgrades are designed to strengthen the grid and support the long-term energy needs of residents served by the project.
“We know customers are relying on us to keep costs as low as possible while completing this project. Our team is working every day to deliver the most value to customers for every dollar that's put into the energy grid,” said Shawn Schukar, chairman and president of Ameren Transmission Company. “The Grand Tower Crossing Project will help energy flow into this region and prepare the transmission system to continue supporting homes, businesses and critical services for decades to come. It's driving meaningful, long-term value."
The Grand Tower Crossing Project will connect Citizens Electric Corporation's Wittenberg substation in Perry County, Missouri, to a new Jenkins substation near Ameren Illinois’ existing Grand Tower substation in Jackson County, Illinois. The new 4-mile, 138 kilovolt transmission line will cross over the Mississippi River to connect these substations.
“Our collaboration with Ameren is rooted in a shared commitment to our members and the technical expertise required to deliver long-term regional value," said Kelli Behrle, communications specialist for Citizens Electric Corporation. “Projects like the Grand Tower Crossing demonstrate what can be accomplished when utilities work together to strengthen the grid and support the communities we serve.”
To shape the project, Ameren Transmission Company worked closely with landowners, local officials and Citizens Electric Corporation. The project team incorporated community input gathered through public open houses and ongoing outreach efforts to ensure the project is designed responsibly, respectfully and with local needs in mind.
Ameren Transmission Company plans to continue to engage with landowners and community members throughout the duration of the project, with the goal of having the new line in service by the end of 2028. To learn more about the new transmission line and its benefits to the region, please visit Ameren.com/GrandTowerCrossing.