Missouri pushes nuclear to reduce reliance on out-of-state electricity
Missouri's new state energy plan calls for expanding nuclear power, transmission capacity and redevelopment of former power plants to reduce the state's reliance on imported electricity. State officials say rising demand from AI data centers is increasing the need for reliable, around-the-clock generation, while data center projects are expanding in the Kansas City corridor and along Interstates 70 and 44.
Missouri's new State Energy Plan prioritizes new nuclear power plants, expanded transmission capacity and redevelopment of brownfields, retired power plants and other industrial sites into designated priority energy zones. Gov. Mike Kehoe said the plan is intended to reduce Missouri's dependence on electricity imported from other states and improve grid reliability.
Missouri Department of Natural Resources Director Jake Buxton said projected demand from AI data centers makes nuclear power attractive because it can provide continuous dispatchable electricity. The plan estimates that Missouri may need to produce 2.6 times more energy than it currently generates to replace retiring plants and meet future demand, though lawmakers and residents have raised concerns about the cost of new nuclear facilities and potential impacts on energy bills.
Ameren Missouri operates the state's only commercial nuclear plant in Callaway County and is evaluating large and small modular nuclear technologies, with additional nuclear facilities potentially being added around 2040. The report also notes that Missouri's data center market is expanding, with major projects under development in Montgomery County and additional construction planned along major transportation corridors, prompting varying levels of community concern.