Ameren : Missouri's Smart Energy Plan Helps Secure Quaker Manufacturing Expansion in Central Missouri

Ameren Missouri's Smart Energy Plan Helps Secure Quaker Manufacturing Expansion in Central Missouri

ST. LOUIS (Oct. 11, 2018) - Ameren Missouri today applauded the announcement of Quaker Window Products Co. constructing a new manufacturing facility in Eldon, Missouri, adding 300 new jobs to the region. According to the company, the economic development program included in a new state energy law passed this year was a key factor in helping Quaker select the Eldon location. Ameren Missouri will design the energy-delivery systems to allow for construction to begin this winter.

'Ameren has been a trusted power supplier and growth partner supporting Quaker's needs for years,' said Quaker Window Products CEO, Kevin Blansett. 'Their commitment to work with Quaker, the Missouri Department of Economic Development, the City of Eldon and others involved in this new project is another great example of Ameren's ongoing commitment to support business growth and success in Missouri. We look forward to our continued partnership in the future.'

'This is just the beginning of businesses - and jobs - coming here, thanks in part to a new state energy law that makes Missouri an even better place to do business,' said Michael Moehn, president of Ameren Missouri. 'New and expanding businesses can now get one of the most favorable economic development rate incentives in the country, keeping energy costs low for the business and all of our customers. It's part of Ameren Missouri's Smart Energy Plan and a competitive advantage for our state.'

The economic development incentive program is just one of the benefits to Ameren Missouri customers included in the Smart Energy Plan, which was enabled by passage of Missouri Senate Bill 564, legislation that was widely supported by customers, business organizations, unions and a bipartisan majority of more than 85 percent of the Missouri General Assembly.

The economic development incentives enabled by the legislation were specifically designed to not only attract new business to Missouri, but also encourage existing businesses to expand, adding jobs and spurring economic growth in local communities.

'The new economic development incentives are a win and helpful for all of our business and residential customers,' said Matt Forck, assistant vice president for economic development and energy solutions for Ameren Missouri. 'The additional demand from these business customers ultimately helps to keep rates lower for everyone by spreading out the fixed costs of generating and delivering electricity. We are committed to strong community partnerships and look forward to working with Quaker and other businesses to grow jobs in the state of Missouri.'

Ameren Missouri has been providing electric and gas service for more than 100 years, and the company's electric rates are among the lowest in the nation. Ameren Missouri's mission is to power the quality of life for its 1.2 million electric and 127,000 natural gas customers in central and eastern Missouri. The company's service area covers 64 counties and more than 500 communities, including the greater St. Louis area. For more information, visit Ameren.com/Missouri or follow us on Twitter at @AmerenMissouri or Facebook.com/AmerenMissouri.

For further information: Ameren Missouri Communications, 314.554.2182, [e-mail]