While renewable energy development in Oklahoma remains a constant issue in some communities where solar and wind farms are proposed, it remains as well in the state legislature.
A similar story is being played out in Missouri where the legislative session is about to end while there is continued debate on a proposal to suspend solar energy development across the state. The bill before the legislature, SB849, would create a moratorium on all solar projects until the end of 2027.
KTTN radio reported environmentalists claim major utility providers, including Liberty Empire, a utility with nearly 40,000 customers in northeast Oklahoma. Formerly known as Empire District Electric Company, Liberty supplies electric, natural gas and water to 218,000 customers in Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas and Arkansas.
James Owens, Executive Director with Renew Missouri, an organization advocating for renewable energy growth, complained the moratorium would prevent future solar construction and also stop projects already underway. Owens claims it would lead to increase costs to Liberty Empire customers as well as customers of major utility providers Ameren and Evergy.
The bill in the Missouri legislative includes an emergency clause and if adopted, it would allow the bill to take immediate effect. The bill authors and other supporters claim the temporary pause is needed in order to provide time for issues of land use, safety considerations and regulatory oversight.
Opponents, including Owens, claim that solar installations and their lease agreements help farmers as well as local institutions such as school districts, firefighting services and ambulance districts.