PR-11-121 -- PSC Adopts New Energy Efficiency Investment Rules

Contact: Kevin Kelly (573) 751-9300

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- FEBRUARY 10, 2011

JEFFERSON CITY---The Missouri Public Service Commission has adopted new rules which are designed to encourage the state’s four investor-owned electric utilities (Ameren Missouri, Kansas City Power & Light, KCPL-Greater Missouri Operations Company and The Empire District Electric Company) to implement more energy efficiency programs to help consumers control their energy use.  The Commission’s vote was 4-1.  The new rules promote the objectives of the Missouri Energy Efficiency Investment Act (SB 376).

“Through these rules, the Commission addresses a number of significant policy questions to provide both clarity and certainty for current and future energy efficiency programs,” said PSC Chairman Robert M. Clayton III.  “These rules were developed with an eye toward flexibility in program design and cost recovery.”

These rules provide incentives for electric companies to be innovative in their approach to developing new and more energy efficiency programs for their customers.

Under the rules, prudent program costs can be recovered by the electric companies between general rate cases.  If an electric company seeks cost recovery outside of a general rate case, current and future programs must be approved by the Commission.      

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Case No. EX-2010-0368