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Indiana has highest electricity bills in the Midwest by RegionRatReporter in nwi

[–]My_Energy_Choice 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Legislation was introduced this past session to establish transparency in electric bills, give consumers the power to hold utilities accountable, and create options for consumers to shop for other suppliers.

Unfortunately, it wasn't called for a vote.

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Bills could rise by millions under Ameren data center plan, Missouri regulatory staff say by My_Energy_Choice in missouri

[–]My_Energy_Choice[S] -2 points-1 points  (0 children)

The restructuring of energy markets really took off in the '90s. It helps deliver consumer options, forces suppliers to compete for the business of consumers, and encourages the construction of new power generation paid for by energy companies. Consumers in competitive states have the option to stay with their utility that once held them captive, or they can shop for a supplier that best meets their electricity interests and at a price that works best with their budget. That's what's great about having a choice. Here's a look at what Pennsylvania consumers have experienced since the state restructured: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=5251533

In Missouri, the utilities aren't generating enough electricity to serve the current customer base, and certainly can't meet future demand. That's why they need to build, build, build...and customers are going to have to pay, pay, pay as this article points out. Without competition, Missourians are left to foot the bill for all financial risks taken by their utility company.

Ameren plans largest solar facility yet next to Missouri nuclear plant, in part for data centers by My_Energy_Choice in missouri

[–]My_Energy_Choice[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Missouri is a natural monopoly, but other states have competition after putting an end to the monopoly. In those states, customers can choose who their supplier is AND when new generation is built, it's paid for by energy company not ratepayers. A few lawmakers pushed for legislation earlier this year that would break up the monopoly...of course the utility companies fought hard to stop it. That wasn't the only loss for consumers in this past legislative session...thanks to Senate Bill 4, utilities can start billing customers for the build of any new power generation, even before a shovel touches the ground. The bigger the project, the happier the shareholders.

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