Missouri’s Largest Clean Energy Project Advances Despite AG Objections

The Grain Belt Express, a planned 800-mile electricity transmission line dubbed the "largest in U.S. history," will begin construction in Missouri, despite opposition from Attorney General Andrew Bailey.

Backed by Invenergy and approved by the Missouri Public Service Commission in 2023, the project aims to transport wind-generated power from Kansas to Indiana, delivering clean energy to 29 states and reducing utility costs by an estimated $18 billion for Missouri consumers.

The project, part of a $1.7 billion investment and aligned with the federal "America First" energy infrastructure agenda, will route nearly half its energy through Missouri--equivalent to the output of two nuclear power plants.

Despite this, Bailey filed a legal notice urging the commission to reconsider its approval, citing "false promises" regarding economic and employment benefits and opposing the use of eminent domain against landowners. Invenergy responded by stating that 97% of landowners in Missouri and Kansas have already signed easement deals, totaling $86 million in compensation.

Critics, including James Owen, Executive Director of Renew Missouri, argue that Bailey lacks the authority to halt the project and called his actions politically motivated. The Missouri Farm Bureau and other agricultural groups previously failed in court to challenge the project.

Invenergy has denied all allegations of misleading the public and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency. The Missouri Public Service Commission says it is reviewing Bailey's request but has not issued any further comment.

Source: msn.com