Ameren believes that climate change must be addressed; however, a number of legislative proposals have surfaced in Congress over the past few years that are too aggressive in mandating major reductions of greenhouse gases at our energy centers, before large-scale emission control technology is available.

While we cannot be certain that any of the proposed bills will become law, we expect some form of federal climate change legislation to pass in the next several years. We need a program that provides a fair transition period for all states and regions, including those that rely on coal.

If legislation or regulations are not structured correctly, the Midwest could face:
  

• Significantly Higher Energy and Other Costs
  Environmental improvements to generating facilities can be costly and could mean increases in your rates and power prices.
    
• Premature Closing of Coal-Fired Plants
  Rising company costs would likely affect investments in generating and delivering energy.
    
• Reduced Energy Reliability
  Due to cuts in investment and upkeep that power companies across the Midwest will likely have to make, energy reliability will be effected.
    
• Economic Impact to the Midwest
  A region more dependent on coal-fired power than other areas, the Midwest could face economic devastation; bringing additional pain to an area already hard hit by current economic conditions.