Communities spanning from Perry County to the city of Cape Girardeau and beyond are now benefiting from more reliable energy thanks to a recently completed transmission infrastructure project. The Limestone Ridge Project includes the construction of a new, approximately 15 mile, 138-kV transmission line and two state-of-the-art substations.
Ameren Transmission collaborated with Wabash Valley Power Alliance (WVPA) to improve reliability, provide additional energy capacity for local manufacturing facilities and allow for future expansion of the energy grid.
Critical infrastructure project
“Our customers are at the center of everything we do, and this project will benefit them for decades to come,” said Shawn Schukar, chairman and president, Ameren Transmission. “The Limestone Ridge Project is a great example of local utilities working together to transform the energy grid for future generations while investing in the communities we serve.”
“We’re proud to partner with Ameren to create this new pathway of energy in southeast Missouri,” said Mike Zahner, president, Zahner and Associates. “This critical infrastructure project underscores the role local companies play in getting transmission projects completed efficiently, effectively and with the community in mind.”
Reliability and economic growth
More than half of the new transmission line is co-located along existing Wabash Valley Power Alliance right-of-way.
“As our energy needs continue to increase across the country, it is important we take critical steps now to ensure power gets where it needs to go,” said Jeff Conrad, president and chief executive officer, Wabash Valley Power Alliance. “This project puts our communities one step ahead to secure future reliability and economic growth.”
Major manufacturing companies
“Ameren completed this project on time, which successfully improves reliability and meets the capacity needs of the major manufacturing companies in our area,” said Mike Sauer, presiding commissioner, Perry County Commission.
“We appreciate Ameren’s commitment to working with community partners to not only deliver cost-effective, high-value projects but also make sure the final route was informed by robust input from local stakeholders.” Crews completed the project in December 2023. Land restoration efforts will continue into spring 2024.