Recent events make it abundantly clear that both Ameren and its customers must address how to prepare for and react to the impact of violent weather. Ameren must evaluate its current tree-trimming program, and upgrade it where needed, examine the feasibility of putting critical infrastructure underground, address the adequacy of its pole replacement programs and conductor (wire) strength, address the effectiveness of its communications with customers in emergencies and address its response to emergency situations.
Customers also need to contribute to this discussion. Mature trees are fundamental to the character of many St. Louis neighborhoods. Go out and look at your trees and those of your neighbors. What trees or branches would hit power lines if they broke in a storm? Do you want to give Ameren or local government the authority to cut down any branch or tree that could disrupt power? Who would pay for such a broad new power and duty? – you directly?; you as an Ameren customer?; or you as a taxpayer? Homeowners pay to have their sewer lines cleared when these same trees’ roots block sewer service lines.
After you have considered these things, you must talk about these issues with your neighbors, your councilman or mayor, your state representative or senator. Tell them what you expect from others and what you expect to do. Tell the Public Service Commission the same things.
Ameren does some things well. But it must do better to prepare for and respond to storms. It is the Commission’s job to see that Ameren does so, and the Commission is determined to see that it does.
Lin Appling
Public Service Commission