Missouri is reminding customers of several adjustments to its assistance programs for those needing help with their energy bill this summer. As of June 1, the following changes went into effect:
- Keeping Cool/Keeping Current – Funding increased to $6 million per year (an increase of 41%).
- Keeping Cool provides up to five bill credits of $50 from May through September.
- Keeping Current provides a monthly bill credit of $35 to $90 and past due balance forgiveness with on-time monthly payments.
- Weatherization – Funding increased to $2 million per year for electric customers (an increase of 50%). In 2024, Ameren Missouri provided an additional $1 million for energy-efficient improvements to help homeowners and renters reduce their energy bills.
- New Start Energy Relief – Eligibility has expanded to include individuals who have been in domestic violence shelters and seniors with past due balances who are at risk of eviction from public housing.
“Many customers don’t realize they’re eligible for energy assistance and may even qualify for more than one program,” said Joe Solari, vice president of customer experience for Ameren. “We encourage you to visit our website, watch for our in-person events on social media, and apply at your local community action agency as soon as you need assistance with your energy bill, regardless of the status of your service.”
In 2024, Ameren Missouri’s customers received more than $37 million in energy assistance from multiple sources, including the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The company partners with hundreds of community agencies and nonprofits across the state to host in-person events and successfully assist customers with paying their energy bills.
“These in-person events provide an opportunity to learn more about programs and receive help with applications,” said Page Selby, manager of customer advocacy for Ameren Missouri.
“Last year, our outreach efforts provided over 3,500 customers with more than $1.4 million in energy assistance. For those looking for a meaningful way to give back, we encourage participation in our Dollar More program as 100% of donations help customers in our communities in need.”
“We know costs are rising across the board for families, and utility expenses driven by periods of extreme heat could stretch budgets even further,” said Jake Bodi, director of customer operations at Ameren Illinois.
“If you’re worried about the upcoming heat, visit our website for options on managing your bill and energy costs before temperatures become unbearable.”
Keeping bills lower
Summer is nearing its midway point and high temperatures, and humidity will remain constant in Missouri and Illinois in the coming weeks.
“Extreme heat is a serious health and safety risk, and we want our customers to stay safe and comfortable over the next few days,” said Tony Lozano, director of energy efficiency and demand response at Ameren Missouri.
“This is why we are constantly investing in our energy grid across both states to ensure it remains reliable and resilient even during extreme weather conditions.”
In addition to measures Ameren has taken, there are simple ways customers can prepare or adjust their habits when heat waves hit:
- Create a breeze. Run ceiling or box fans with your air conditioner; you can raise the thermostat 3 to 4 degrees without sacrificing comfort.
- Change or clean filters. A clogged or dirty filter forces your system to work harder and wastes energy.
- Block the sun. Closing blinds or drapes with white backings can cut indoor heat gain by up to one-third.
- Cook smart. Grill outdoors or use small appliances like air fryers or slow cookers to reduce excess kitchen heat.
- Program your thermostat. Smart or programmable thermostats automatically adjust settings when you are away, saving the average household about $180 per year.
- Level out your bill. Enroll in Budget Billing in Missouri or Illinois to spread seasonal high-usage costs over equal monthly payments.
- Know where to cool off. If your home becomes too warm, visit an air-conditioned public space or local cooling center in Missouri or Illinois.
Outdoor safety matters, too. Drink plenty of water (8 ounces every 15 to 20 minutes), take frequent shade breaks, and wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
Visit Ameren.com/Assistance for details on the variety of programs available to help customers offset energy costs this summer. Rebates and savings opportunities on energy-saving products are available at AmerenMissouriMarketplace.com or AmerenIllinoisEEMarketplace.com.