Q2 2025 Ameren Corp Earnings Call
Andrew Kirk: Greetings and welcome to Ameren Corporation's second quarter 2025 earnings conference call. At this time, all participants are on a listen-only mode. A question and answer session will follow the formal presentation. If anyone requires operator assistance during the conference, please press star zero on your telephone keypad. As a reminder, this conference is being recorded. It is now my pleasure to introduce your host, Andrew Kirk, Senior Director of Investor Relations and Corporate Modeling for Ameren Corporation. Thank you, Mr. Kirk. You may begin.
Greetings and welcome to amaran Corporation second quarter 2025 earnings conference call. At this time, all participants are on a listen-only mode. A question and answer session will follow the formal presentation.
If anyone requires operator assistance during the conference, please press star zero on your telephone keypad. As a reminder, this conference is being recorded.
It is now my pleasure to introduce your host, Andrew Kirk, senior director of investor relations and corporate modeling for Amar incorporation. Thank you, Mr. Kirk, you may begin
Michael Moehn: Thank you and good morning. On the call with me today are Martin Lyons, our Chairman, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Michael Moehn, our Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, as well as other members of the Ameren Management Team. This call contains time-sensitive data that is accurate only as of the date of today's live broadcast, and redistribution of this broadcast is prohibited. We have posted a presentation on the amereninvestors.com homepage that will be referenced by our speakers. As noted on page two of the presentation, comments made during this conference call may contain statements about future expectations, plans, projections, financial performance, and similar matters, which are commonly referred to as forward-looking statements.
Thank you and good morning. On the call with me today are Marty Lyons, our Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, and Michael Moehn, our Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, as well as other members of the Ameren management team. This call contains time-sensitive data that is accurate only as of the date of today's live broadcast, and redistribution of this broadcast is prohibited.
Michael Moehn: Please refer to the forward-looking statements section in the news release we issued yesterday, as well as our SEC filings for more information about the various factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Now here's Marty, who will start on page four.
We have posted a presentation on the Amber investors.com homepage. That will be referenced by our speakers. As noted on page 2 of the presentation comments made. During this conference, call may contain statements about future expectations plans, projections financial performance and similar matters which are commonly referred to as forward-looking statements. Please refer to the forward-looking statements section in the news release. We issued yesterday as well as our SEC filings for more information about the various factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Now, here's Marty who will start on page 4
Martin Lyons: Thanks, Andrew. Good morning, everyone. At Ameren, we power the quality of life for millions across Missouri and Illinois. Our strategic approach is built on three fundamental pillars: making prudent investments in rate-regulated energy infrastructure, advocating for responsible energy policies, and continuously optimizing our operations to create long-term sustainable value for our customers, communities, and shareholders. This strategy is not just about keeping the lights on. It is about paving the way for a cost-effective, more reliable, and resilient energy grid that meets our customers' growing needs and drives regional growth for decades to come. As highlighted on page five, we made solid progress on our key strategic objectives in the first half of the year, which will help us deliver on these commitments to our customers and shareholders.
Thanks, Andrew. Good morning, everyone. At Ameren, we power the quality of life for millions across Missouri and Illinois.
Our strategic approach is built on 3, fundamental pillars,
Making prudent investments in rate regulated energy infrastructure, advocating for responsible energy policies and continuously optimizing our operations to create long-term sustainable value for our customers communities and shareholders.
This strategy is not just about keeping the lights on; it is about paving the way for a cost-effective, more reliable, and resilient energy grid that meets our customers' growing needs and drives regional growth for decades to come.
Martin Lyons: During the first half of the year, we invested over $2 billion in critical infrastructure, advanced key regulatory proceedings, and delivered strong operational performance, all while keeping our average electric rates below the national and Midwest averages. In the second quarter, we experienced a high number of severe weather events, including an EF3 tornado on May 16th that spanned a mile wide and traveled 23 miles through central St. Louis County and northern parts of St. Louis City and into Illinois. This tornado caused extensive damage and widespread outages across Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois. We deployed more than 2,700 field personnel in the days following the tornado, including Ameren crews, contractors, and supporting resources from across the Midwest, who responded swiftly and safely, rebuilding damaged infrastructure, replacing nearly 1,000 poles, and restoring service to more than 290,000 customers.
As highlighted on page 5, we made Solid progress on our key strategic objectives in the first half of the year which will help us deliver on these commitments to our customers and shareholders.
Advanced key regulatory proceedings and delivered strong operational performance, all while keeping our average electric rates below the national and Midwest averages.
In the second quarter we experienced a high number of severe weather events including an ef3 tornado on May 16th that spanned a mile wide and traveled 23 me through Central St. Louis County and Northern parts of St. Louis city and into Illinois.
This Tornado caused extensive damage in widespread outages across Amar Missouri and Ameren Illinois.
Martin Lyons: Weather events like those experienced earlier this year underscore the importance of our ongoing investments in a more resilient energy grid. Enhancements like upgraded substations, composite poles designed to withstand high winds, and smart technologies that enable faster outage detection and automated grid self-healing are helping us restore power safely and more quickly when these serious storms strike. We remain focused on making these investments responsibly, balancing reliability and resilience with affordability. Now let's cover the financial results for the quarter, as shown on page six. Yesterday, we announced second quarter 2025 earnings of $1.01 per share, compared to earnings of $0.97 per share in the second quarter of 2024. The key drivers of these results are outlined on this slide. We continue to expect 2025 diluted earnings per share to be in the range of $4.85 per share and $5.05 per share.
We deployed more than 2700 field Personnel in the days. Following the tornado, including amaran Crews contractors and supporting resources from across the Midwest who responded? Swiftly, and safely, rebuilding damaged infrastructure replacing nearly 1,000 poles and restoring service to more than 290,000 customers.
weather events like those experienced earlier this year underscore the importance of our ongoing investments in a more resilient energy grid
Enhancements like upgraded substations composite polls. Designed to withstand high winds and Smart Technologies that enable faster outage detection and automated grid. Self-healing are helping us, restore power safely and more quickly. When these serious storms strike,
We remain focused on making these Investments responsible balancing reliability and resilience with affordability.
Now, let's cover the financial results for the quarter as shown on Page 6.
Yesterday, we announced second quarter 2025 earnings of $1.01 per share compared to earnings of 97 cents per share. In the second quarter of 2024,
the key drivers of these results are outlined on this slide.
Martin Lyons: Turning to page seven, I will provide an update on economic development activities in our region and associated sales growth opportunities. We continue to expect approximately 5.5% compound annual sales growth from 2025 through 2029 in Missouri, primarily driven by increased data center demand. We remain engaged with potential data center customers and are building a robust pipeline of large load opportunities that extend well into the next decade. As discussed on our first quarter call in May, we have executed construction agreements with data center developers representing approximately 2.3 gigawatts of future demand, with this load expected to begin ramp-up in late 2026 and beyond. These developers have demonstrated their confidence in and commitment to their potential projects by submitting non-refundable payments totaling $28 million towards the cost of necessary transmission upgrades.
We can continue to expect 2025 diluted earnings per share to be in the range of $4.85 per share and 5 dollars per share.
Turning to page 7, I'll provide an update on economic development activities in our region and associated sales growth opportunities.
We continue to expect approximately 5.5% compound, annual sales growth from 25 through 2029 in in Missouri. Primarily driven by increased data center demand.
We remain engaged with potential data center, customers and are building a robust pipeline of large load opportunities that extend well into the next decade.
As discussed on our first quarter. Call in May, we've executed construction agreements with data center developers representing 2.3 gigawatts of future Demand. With this load expected to begin ramp up in late 2026 and Beyond.
Martin Lyons: We are actively engaged with potential customers to execute electric service agreements, or ESAs, that are aligned with our proposed Missouri large load rate structure and, among other things, would establish anticipated minimum ramp schedules. Like our proposed rate structure, which I will talk about in a moment, these ESAs will be subject to Missouri PSC approval. In addition, data center developers with existing construction agreements have requested that we study expanding their data center projects, given our competitive power rates and access to desirable construction sites with available transmission interconnection. Of course, in order to support economic opportunities, as we outlined in our preferred resource plan in February, we must quickly accelerate generation portfolio additions to provide the energy and capacity needed to serve these customers.
These developers have demonstrated their confidence in and commitment to their potential projects, by submitting non-refundable payments, totaling 28 million towards the cost of necessary transmission upgrades.
And we are actively engaged with potential customers to execute electric service agreements or esas that are aligned with our proposed. Missouri, large load rate structure and among other things would establish anticipated, minimum ramp schedules.
Like, our proposed rate structure, which I'll talk about in a moment, these esas will be subject to Missouri. PSC, approval.
In addition data center, developers with existing construction agreements, have requested that we study expanding their data center projects, given our competitive power rates and access to the desirable construction sites with available transmission interconnection.
Martin Lyons: On page eight, we provide an update on generation resources currently under development at Ameren Missouri, and new certificates of convenience and necessity, or CCNs, requested from the Missouri PSC. In June, we requested a CCN for the Big Hollow Energy Center, which, as proposed, will consist of an 800-megawatt simple cycle natural gas energy center and a 400-megawatt battery energy storage facility. Both of these facilities will be located at the site of Ameren's retired Rush Island Energy Center, which will reduce construction time and costs for our customers and keep jobs and tax base in the community. Subject to commission approval, we expect the Big Hollow Energy Center will begin serving customers in 2028. Our generation development efforts remain on schedule as we work toward achieving targeted in-service dates.
Of course, in order to support economic opportunities as we outlined in our preferred resource plan in February, we must quickly accelerate generation portfolio additions to provide the energy and capacity needed to serve these customers.
On page 8, we provide an update on generation resources currently under development at Amaren, Missouri, and new Certificates of Convenience and Necessity, or CCNs, requested from the Missouri PSC.
In June, we requested a CCN for the Big Hollow Energy Center, which as proposed will consist of an 800 megawatt. Simple cycle, Natural, Gas, Energy, Center and a 400 megawatt, battery, energy storage facility.
Both of these facilities will be located at the site of amrans retired. Rush Island Energy Center, which will reduce construction, time and costs for our customers and keep jobs and tax base in the community.
Subject to commission approval. We expect the Big Hollow Energy Center will begin serving, customers in 2028.
Martin Lyons: To proactively manage supply chain risks, we have already secured key components with long lead times, such as turbines and transformers for our energy centers, with expected in-service dates through 2029. We have begun equipment procurement activities for our first natural gas combined cycle energy center. We expect to have purchase commitments in place for turbines and related equipment by the end of this year and for the combined cycle energy center to be serving customers by 2031. It is important to note that the significant investment needed to construct data centers, as well as the energy infrastructure needed to support them, will create meaningful job growth and tax revenues to support our local economy. In addition to the energy and capacity to serve these large load customers, to realize this opportunity, we must also offer attractive rates.
on schedule, as we work toward achieving targeted in service dates,
To proactively manage supply chain risks. We've already secured key components with large long lead times such as turbines and Transformers for our energy centers with expected inservice, dates through 2029.
And we've begun equipment. Procurement activities for our first natural gas combined cycle Energy Center.
We expect to have purchased commitments in place for turbines and related equipment by the end of this year. For the combined cycle Energy Center to be serving customers by 2031, it's important to note that the significant investment needed to construct data centers, as well as the energy infrastructure needed to support them, will create meaningful job growth and tax revenues to support our local economy.
Martin Lyons: On slide nine, we outline Ameren, Missouri's proposed large load rate structure, which we filed with the Missouri PSC in May. Under the proposed large load rate structure, we would deliver service under our existing large primary service base rate, which is currently approximately $0.06 per kilowatt hour, and customers would agree to additional terms and conditions as part of an ESA. The additional terms would include a minimum service term of 15 years, a minimum demand charge of 70% of contracted capacity, customer exit provisions, and customer credit and collateral requirements. In addition, new customer programs would be available, allowing customers to advance their clean energy goals by supporting the carbon-free energy resource of their choice through incremental payments.
In addition to the energy and capacity to serve these large load customers to realize this opportunity. We must also offer attractive rates
On slide 9, we outline Amron, Missouri's proposed, large load rate structure which we filed with the Missouri PSC in May.
Under the proposed large load rate structure, we would deliver service under our existing large primary service base rate, which is currently approximately 6 cents per kilowatt-hour, and customers would agree to additional terms and conditions as part of an ESA.
The additional terms would include a minimum service term of 15 years.
A minimum demand charge of 70% of contracted capacity, customer exit, provisions and customer credit and collateral requirements.
Martin Lyons: In summary, this rate structure would offer a competitive rate designed to ensure large customers pay their fair share of the cost of service. We are actively engaging with key stakeholders as we seek Missouri PSC approval for our proposed large load rate structure and related customer programs. While no deadline exists for Missouri PSC approval, based on the existing procedural schedule, we would expect a decision by February 2026. Moving now to page 10 for an update on the long-range transmission planning process at MISO. Our focus remains on building the Tranche 1 and Tranche 2.1 long-range transmission planning projects assigned to us and developing strong proposals for Tranche 2.1 long-range transmission planning competitive projects. The bidding and selection process for the $6.5 billion portfolio of competitive projects will take place over this year and next.
In addition, new customer programs would be available allowing customers to advance their clean energy goals, by supporting the carbon-free energy resource of their choice, through incremental payments.
In summary this rate structure would offer a competitive rate designed to ensure large customers pay their fair share of the cost of service.
We're actively engaging with key stakeholders as we seek Missouri PSC approval for our proposed large load rate structure and related customer programs.
While no deadline exists for Missouri, PSC approval, based on the existing procedural schedule, we would expect the decision by February 2026.
Moving. Now to page 10 for an update on the long-range transmission planning process at miso.
Our Focus remains on building the tranche 1 and tranche, 2.1 long-range transmission, planning projects, assigned to us and developing strong proposals for tranche 2.1. Long-range transmission planning competitive projects
Martin Lyons: We are carefully evaluating each bidding opportunity and will submit bids for projects where we believe we offer a clear advantage on project design, cost, and execution to deliver value for customers in the MISO region. As we have successfully done in the past, when it enhances the strength and competitiveness of our proposals, we expect to partner with other entities. Further, MISO continues its future scenario redesign efforts, which will incorporate significantly increasing energy demand and updated resource mix assumptions across the region. We expect this analysis to show the need for significant transmission investment in the region, which is expected to be incorporated into later project portfolios in MISO's long-range transmission planning. MISO is now expected to issue its final report outlining four scenarios of possible future energy grid conditions in early 2026.
The bidding and selection process for the $6.5 billion portfolio of competitive projects will take place over this year and next.
We are carefully evaluating each bidding opportunity and will submit bids for projects where we believe we offer a clear advantage on project design, cost, and execution to deliver value for customers in the MSO region.
As we have successfully done in the past.
when it enhances the strength and competitiveness of our proposals, we expect to partner with other entities,
Further, MySO continues its future scenario redesign efforts, which will incorporate significantly increasing energy demand and updated resource mix assumptions across the region.
We expect this analysis to show the need for significant transmission investment in the region, which is expected to be incorporated into later project portfolios in MISO's Long Range Transmission Planning.
Martin Lyons: We expect this will lead to the identification of specific transmission infrastructure investment needs in our region late in 2026. Moving to page 11, looking ahead over the next decade, we have a robust pipeline of investment opportunities, which stands today at more than $63 billion that will deliver significant value to all of our stakeholders by making our energy grid stronger, smarter, and cleaner, and powering economic growth in our communities. Turning to page 12, in February, we updated our five-year growth plan, which included our expectation of a 6% to 8% compound annual earnings growth rate from 2025 through 2029, and we expect to be near the upper end of our guidance range in the mid to latter part of our five-year plan.
MSO is now expected to issue. Its final report, outlining 4 scenarios with possible future energy grid conditions in early 2026.
We expect this will lead to the identification of specific transmission infrastructure investment needs in our region late in 2026.
Moving to page 11.
Looking ahead over the next decade, we have a robust pipeline of investment opportunities, which stands today at more than $63 billion. These investments will deliver significant value to all of our stakeholders by making our energy grid stronger, smarter, and cleaner, and by powering economic growth in our communities.
Turning to page 12.
In February, we updated our 5-year growth plan, which include our expectation of a 6. To 8% compound annual earnings growth rate from 2025 through 2029.
Martin Lyons: This earnings growth expectation is primarily driven by our sales growth assumptions and strong anticipated compound annual rate-based growth of 9.2%, reflecting strategic allocation of infrastructure investment to meet these demands and strengthen the grid in each of our business segments based on their regulatory frameworks. We expect to deliver strong long-term earnings and dividend growth, resulting in an attractive total return. I am confident in our ability to execute our investment plan and strategy across all four of our business segments, as we have an experienced and dedicated team to achieve our growth objectives. Again, thank you all for joining us today and for your continued interest in Ameren. I will now turn the call over to Michael Moehn.
And we expect to be near the upper end of our guidance range in the mid to latter part of our 5-year plan.
This earnings growth expectation is, primarily driven by our sales growth assumptions and strong anticipated, compound annual rate based growth of 9.2% reflecting strategic allocation of infrastructure investment to meet these demands and strengthen the Grid. In each of our business segments, based on their regulatory Frameworks,
Long-term earnings and dividend growth, resulting in an attractive Total return.
Michael Moehn: Thanks, Marty, and good morning, everyone. Turning now to page 14 of our presentation, yesterday we reported Q2 2025 earnings of $1.01 per share, compared to earnings of $0.97 per share for Q2 2024. The key factors that drove the increase are highlighted by segment on this page. Our investments to strengthen the energy grid and provide more energy resources to serve our customers continue to be the primary driver of earnings growth across the company. In addition, we continue to experience solid customer growth in Ameren Missouri, where total normalized retail sales over the trailing 12 months through June increased across all customer classes, with an overall increase of approximately 1%. Moving to page 15, due to strong year-to-date performance, we are well positioned to deliver earnings per share in the top half of our 2025 guidance range.
I'm confident in our ability to execute our investment plan and strategy across all four of our business segments, as we have an experienced and dedicated team to achieve our growth objectives. Again, thank you all for joining us today and for your continued interest in Ameren. I will now turn the call over to Michael.
Thanks, Marty and good morning everyone.
Turning now to page 14 of our presentation yesterday, we reported second quarter 2025 earnings of $1.11 per share.
Compared to earnings of $0.97 per share for the second quarter of 2024.
The key factors that drove the increase are highlighted by segment on this page.
Our investments is strengthening the energy grid and provide more energy resources to serve our customers. Continue to be the primary driver of earnings growth across the company.
In addition, we continue experience solid customer growth in Missouri, where total normalized retail sales over the trailing 12 months through June increase across all customer classes with an overall increase of approximately 1%.
Moving to page 15.
Due to strong year-to-date performance. We are well, positioned to deliver earnings per share in the top half of our 2025 guidance range.
Michael Moehn: Here we have outlined select earnings considerations for the remainder of the year, including the expected quarterly earnings impacts from the constructive resolution of Ameren Missouri's 2024 electric rate review. Further, I would like to also highlight that the Commission approved a unanimous settlement in our Ameren Missouri 2024 gas rate review last month. New rates for our natural gas customers will take effect on September 1st. As mentioned, normalized sales in Missouri have remained strong. The strength is particularly evident in the industrial class, with sales up more than 2.5% on a trailing 12-month basis through June. Growth in the sector has been supported primarily by ongoing manufacturing expansions and the continued growth of new digital and communication services firms. Looking ahead to the second half of the year, we expect sales growth from a few new small-scale data centers, along with continued strength in the manufacturing sector.
Here we have outlined select earnings considerations for the remainder of the year, including the expected quarterly earnings impacts from the constructive resolution of the hammer, Missouri's 2024 electric rate review.
Further. I'd like to also highlight the commission approved, a unanimous settlement in our am. Missouri, 2024 gas rate review last month.
New rates for our natural gas customers will take effect on September 1st.
As mentioned normalized sales in Missouri. Have remained strong.
The strength is particularly evident in the industrial class, with sales up, more than 2 and a half percent on a trailing 12-month basis through June.
Growth in the sector has been supported primarily by ongoing manufacturing expansions and that continued growth of new digital and communication Services firms.
Looking ahead to the second half of the year, we expect sales growth from a few new small-scale data centers along with continued strength in the manufacturing sector.
Michael Moehn: We continue to maintain disciplined cost management throughout the company. In the second half of the year, we plan to increase vegetation management spend in targeted operating regions to support system reliability and grid resiliency. This is in response to more robust vegetation growth driven by wet weather conditions experienced this spring and early summer. I encourage you to take these supplemental earnings drivers into consideration as you develop your expectations for quarterly earnings results for the balance of the year. Now turning to our financing plan on page 16, to support our credit ratings and maintain a strong balance sheet while we fund our investment plan. In February, we outlined a plan to issue approximately $600 million of common equity each year through 2029. We have effectively fulfilled our equity needs for 2025 and 2026 through forward sales agreements.
We continue to maintain discipline cost management throughout the company.
In the second half of the year, we plan to increase vegetation management and targeted operating reasons to support system reliability and grid resiliency.
This is in response to more robust vegetation growth driven by what weather conditions. Experienced this spring and early summer
I encourage you to take these supplementary earnings drivers into consideration as you develop your expectations for quarterly, earnings results, for the balance of the year.
Now, turning to our financing plan on page 16.
To support our credit ratings and maintain a strong balance sheet while we fund our investment plan, we outlined a plan in February to issue approximately $600 million of common equity each year through 2029.
Michael Moehn: We feel very good about our financial position and the progress we have made in our equity financing plan. Having utilized most of the capacity available under our existing equity sales distribution program, we expect to increase the program capacity to enable additional sales to support equity needs in 2027 and beyond. On the balance sheet front, Moody's and S&P affirmed our BAA1 and BBB+ issuer credit ratings, respectively, in their annual credit opinions issued in the second quarter, a signal of our ongoing financial strength and stability. On page 17, we provide an update on federal tax and energy policy enacted in July. Significant advocacy from across the industry helped ensure that federal policies continue to support investment in energy resources nationwide to meet rising energy needs.
We've effectively fulfilled, our Equity needs for 2025 and 2026 through Ford Sales agreements.
We feel very good about our financial position and the progress we've made in our equity financing plan.
Adding utilized most of the capacity available under our existing Equity sales distribution program. We expect to increase the program capacity to enable additional sales to support Equity needs in 2027 and Beyond.
On the balance sheet, front Moody's and S&P affirmed are ba1 and Triple B Plus issuer credit ratings respectively in their annual credit opinions, issued in the second quarter, a signal of our ongoing Financial strength and stability.
On page 17, we provide an update on federal tax and energy policy enacted in July.
Significant advocacy from across the industry, helped ensure that Federal policies continue to support investment. In energy resources Nationwide to meet Rising energy needs
Michael Moehn: As we work to provide the substantial generation required to serve growing demand, energy-related tax credits help to reduce the cost of these resources for our customers. We expect these credits to provide approximately $1.5 billion of cost savings for our customers from 2025 through 2029. Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, we are well positioned to realize all the energy tax credits reflected in our current five-year plan. Approximately $750 million of the credits are expected to be generated by wind and solar projects, either already in service or planned to be in service by 2027. We also expect to begin construction before the end of the year on battery projects, which we anticipate will generate $250 million of credits. Finally, we expect to begin construction on additional solar projects this year and meet in-service dates for Safe Harbor to generate the remaining $500 million of credits.
As we work to provide the substantial generation required to serve growing demand, tax credits helped to reduce the cost of these resources for our customers.
We expect these credits to provide approximately 1.5 billion dollars of cost savings for our customers from 2025 through 2029.
Under the 1, big beautiful, bill act, we are well, positioned to realize all the energy tax credits reflected in our current 5-year plan.
Approximately 750 million dollars worth of credits are expected to be generated by wind and solar projects. Either already in service or plan to be in service by 2027.
End of the year on battery projects which we anticipate will generate 250 million of credits. And finally we expect to begin construction on an additional solar projects this year and meet in-service dates for Safe Harbor. To generate the remaining 5 0 0.
Michael Moehn: On page 18, we provide a brief update on ongoing regulatory proceedings in Illinois. Our 2024 annual reconciliation proceeding under the electric multi-year rate plan continues to progress. In July, the Illinois Commerce Commission, or ICC staff, recommended a reconciliation adjustment of $49 million compared to our updated request of $60 million, with the variance primarily driven by treatment of other post-employment benefits. An ICC decision is expected by mid-December, and rates reflecting the approved reconciliation adjustment will be affected by January 2026. Turning to page 19, in July, the ICC staff recommended a $103 million annual base rate increase in Ameren Illinois natural gas distribution rate review. The variance from our request for a $135 million increase is primarily driven by staff's recommendation of a 9.93% return on equity and a 50% common equity ratio.
Page 18. We provide a brief update ongoing regulatory proceedings in Illinois.
Our 2024 annual reconciliation proceeding Under the Electric multi-year rate plan continues to progress.
In July the Illinois, Commerce Commission, or ICC staff, recommended recommended a Reconciliation adjustment of 49 million.
Compared to our updated requests of 60 million with the variance, primarily driven by treatment of other post-employment benefits.
And ICC decision is expected by mid mid. December and rates reflecting the approved reconciliation adjustment will be affected by January 2026.
In July, the ICC staff recommended a $103 million annual base rate increase in Ameren Illinois’ natural gas distribution rate review.
The variance from our request for 135 million increases, primarily driven by staff's, recommendation of a 9.93% return on equity and a 50%, common equity ratio.
Michael Moehn: An ICC decision is expected by early December, with new rates effective later that month. We also saw regulatory progress on transmission development in July for both Missouri and Illinois, as the Missouri PSC and the Illinois Commerce Commission approved CCNs for Tranche 1 long-range transmission projects. These approvals will allow the construction to begin on schedule in 2026. In summary, turning to page 20, our strong performance in the first half of the year has positioned us well to continue executing our strategic plan, which will drive superior value for all of our stakeholders. We continue to expect strong earnings per share growth to be driven by robust rate-based growth, disciplined cost management, and a strong customer growth pipeline. Our strategy and team are well aligned to capitalize on these opportunities for our customers and shareholders.
In ICC decision is expected by early, December with new rates effective later that month.
We also saw regulatory progress and transmission development in July for both Missouri and now and Illinois as the Missouri PSC and the Illinois Commerce Commission. Approved ccns for tranche 1, long-range transition projects.
These approvals will allow the trans the construction begin on schedule in 2026.
In summary, turning to page 20, our strong performance in the first half of the year is positioned well to continue. Executing our strategic plan will drive superior value for all of our stakeholders. We continue to expect strong earnings per share growth to be driven by robust rate-based growth discipline, cost management, and a strong customer growth pipeline.
Michael Moehn: We believe our growth will compare favorably with the growth of our peers, further Ameren shares continuing to offer investors an attractive dividend. In total, we have an attractive total shareholder return story. That concludes our prepared remarks. We now invite your questions.
Our strategy and team are well aligned to capitalize on these opportunities for our customers and shareholders.
We believe our growth will compare fairly with the growth of our peers further. Amateurs continue to offer investors an attractive dividend.
In total, we had an attractive total share on the return story. That concludes our prepared remarks. We now invite your questions.
Andrew Kirk: Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. The floor is now open for questions. If you would like to ask a question, please press star one on your telephone keypad at this time. A confirmation tone will indicate your line is in the question queue. You may press star two if you would like to remove your question from the queue. For participants using speaker equipment, it may be necessary to pick up the handset before pressing the star keys. Again, that is star one to register a question at this time. Our first question is coming from Jeremy Tonet of JPMorgan. Please go ahead.
Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. The floor is now open for questions. If you would like to ask a question, please press *1 on your telephone keypad at this time; a confirmation tone will indicate your line is in the question queue. You may press *2 if you would like to remove your question from the queue. For participants using speaker equipment, it may be necessary to pick up the handset before pressing the star keys again. That is *1 to register a question at this time.
Our first question is coming from Jeremy Tonette of JP Morgan. Please go ahead.
Jeremy Tonet: Hi, good morning.
Hi, good morning.
Martin Lyons: Morning, Jeremy.
Morning. Jeremy.
Jeremy Tonet: Just wanted to touch base on data center load, if I could here. We've seen a number of peers lift their pipeline this quarter. I was just wondering if you could talk a bit more about what AMEREN sees here with regards to economic development coming to the service territory and an outlook for future growth here.
Uh, just wanted to uh, touch base on data center load. If I could here, uh, we've seen a number of peers lift their pipeline, this quarter. I was just wondering, if you could talk a bit more about what Amron cheese here, uh, with regards to Economic Development, coming to the service terrorist service territory in, uh, you know,
Outlook for future growth here.
Martin Lyons: Yeah, you bet, Jeremy Tonet. I will tell you, we remain really excited about the opportunities we have ahead of us. We continue to see really robust interest and really strong momentum in Q2 and here into Q3 with the data center developers and the hyperscalers. Earlier this year, we bumped up the data centers in our pipeline with signed construction agreements, as you know, to 2.3 gigawatts of signed construction agreements. I would say in Q2 and in Q3, as we have gotten through July, we are right where we expected to be. We filed our tariff, our proposed rate structure, if you will, in Q2. Now we are actively engaged with hyperscalers negotiating ESAs aligned with that tariff that we proposed to the Missouri Public Service Commission. You know, we feel good about the tariff that we filed, and we are working through that.
Yeah. You bet Jeremy, I'll tell you we we remain really excited about the opportunities. We uh, we have ahead of us and we continue to see really robust interest and and really strong momentum in the second quarter and here into the third with the data center developers and the hyperscalers
Um, you know, earlier this year, we bumped up the data centers with in our Pipeline with sign, construction agreements as you know, to 2.3 gigawatts of of sine construction agreements. And uh, I'd say in Q2 and in Q3, as we've, we've gotten through July, we're right where we expected to be, you know, we filed our tariff, uh, our proposed rate structure, if you will, in Q2, uh, and now, we're actively engaged with hyperscalers, negotiating, esas. Aligned with that tariff that we proposed to the Missouri. Public Service Commission,
Martin Lyons: In the meantime, I can tell you that developers and hyperscalers are asking us to study expansion relative to the existing sites where we have construction agreement. That simply adds to our excitement because I think it extends the pipeline of investments and jobs and economic development for our region. Of course, the sales growth opportunities we have beyond 2032, which we have outlined our expectations for that on slide seven. Conversations, the work we are doing continues to progress as expected, and we are real excited about the outlook.
Michael Moehn: Jeremy, it's Michael here. I agree with everything that Marty said there on the data center side. As I indicated in my talking points, I think just foundationally, the overall economy just remains very strong in our service territory here. In that trailing 12 months, we saw 1% growth overall. It was in every class: residential 1%, commercial 1%, industrial in particular about 2.5%. I know there's a lot of focus on the data center, so rightly so. There is some really good momentum just from a manufacturing perspective, which obviously has jobs associated with it. We talked about this air dominance contract that was awarded to Boeing. It's probably a $20-plus billion investment over time on the F-47. Unilever's had some nice expansions, GM, etc. There's smaller data centers that are going downtown.
Sales growth opportunities we have Beyond 2032 you know which we've outlined our expectations for that on on slide 7. So you know, conversations the work. We're doing continues to progress as expected and real excited about the Outlook. Hey hey Jeremy, it's Michael here and you know, beyond agree with everything, Marty said there on the data center side but you know as I indicated in my talking points, I mean I think just foundationally, you know, the overall economy just remains very strong in our service territory here.
Michael Moehn: I know they don't get quite the same attention, but these are kind of starting on a 5-megawatt ramping to 25 over the course of the next couple of years. So it does provide, I think, just a nice backdrop to the overall economic development opportunity.
You know, and that trailing 12 months, we said we saw 1% growth overall it, it was in every class residential 1 commercial 1, Industrial in particular about 2 and a half percent. And I know there's a lot of focus on the data center. So rightly so, but I mean, there is some really good momentum just from a manufacturing perspective, which obviously has jobs associated with it. We talked about this air dominance contract that was awarded to Boeing, you know, it's a, probably a 20 plus billion dollar investment over time on the f47. Uh, uni, levers had some nice expansions GM, Etc. They're smaller data centers that are going downtown. I know they don't get quite the same attention but these are, you know, kind of starting out of 5 megawatts ramping to 25 over the course of the next couple of years. So it does provide, I think in just a nice backdrop into the overall Economic Development opportunity.
Jeremy Tonet: Got it. Nothing to read into the unchanged pipeline here. These things are lumpy and happen when they happen.
Got it. So, nothing to read into the unchanged pipeline here. These things are lumpy and happen when they happen.
Michael Moehn: Yeah, I would say the pipeline is, this is Marty, by the way, Jeremy, the pipeline remains extremely strong both in Missouri and Illinois. You know, no change in the number of construction agreements signed, but the pipeline of opportunity is still very large. Folks looking at data center development in both Illinois and Missouri in the near term. As I want to highlight again, we are seeing some extension of that pipeline as well as some of these developers and hyperscalers are really asking about expansion opportunities beyond the current data centers that have been identified and looking at expansion opportunities, which we are studying along with them. Yeah, the pipeline remains really strong and feel really good about the data center construction agreements that we have.
Michael Moehn: As you know, that 2.3 gigawatts of signed construction agreements really marries up very well with the sales expectations that we have outlined previously. I mean, we have sort of a midpoint of expected growth in Missouri of about a gig and a half of sales out through 2032. It aligns with that 5.5% sales growth. As outlined in our integrated resource plan we filed earlier this year in Missouri, we are investing in generation that could serve up to two gigs by 2032 and even more beyond that. We think that marries up real well with that 2.3 gigawatts of signed construction agreements. Again, just very happy with the progress we are making with the end-use customers, with the hyperscalers in terms of negotiation of energy services agreements that would allow us to serve them as they move into these data centers and ramp up load.
Yeah, I I would say the pipeline. Is this is Marty by the way. Jeremy the pipeline remains extremely strong both in Missouri and Illinois. So, uh, you know, no change in the, uh, number of construction agreements signed. But the pipeline of opportunity, uh, is still very large folks looking at data center development and both Illinois and Missouri, uh, in the near term. But as I want to highlight again, uh, we're seeing some extension of that pipeline as well of some of these developers and hyperscalers are really asking about, you know, expansion opportunities Beyond, uh, the current data centers that that that have been identified uh and and looking at expansion opportunities which we're studying along with them. So yeah, the pipeline remains really strong uh and feel really good about the data center, uh, construction agreements that we have. And as you know, that 2.3 gigawatts of sine construction agreements, uh, really marries up very well with the sales expectations that we've outlined previously. I mean, we
We have sort of a midpoint of expected growth in Missouri of about a gig and a half of, of sales out through 2032. The lines with that 5 and a half percent sales growth. But as outlined in our integrated resource plan, we filed earlier this year in Missouri, you know, we were investing in generation that could serve up to 2 gigs by 2032.
And and even more beyond that, and we think that marries up real well with that 2.3 gigawatts of sine construction agreements. And again, just very happy with the progress, we're making with the end-use customers with the hyperscalers in terms of negotiation of Energy Services agreements, uh that would allow us to to serve them as they move into these data centers and ramp up load.
Jeremy Tonet: Got it. That's very helpful there. Thanks. Maybe continuing with the thought, we've seen a number of peers firming spots in the turbine slot queue. If higher growth does materialize, has Ameren looked to de-risk turbine slots needed here for any growth beyond the preferred resource plan?
Got it. That's a very helpful there. Thanks and maybe continuing with. We've seen a number of peers firming spots in the turbine slot queue. If higher growth, does materialize as Amar looked to de-risk? Uh, turbine slots needed here, uh, for any growth beyond the preferred resource plan.
Michael Moehn: Yeah, Jeremy, it's Michael here. Look, again, we feel good about the near-term prospects. We've talked about this with respect to the two simple cycles that we have coming online here in 2027, 2028. Teams, you know, actively got in front of the queue there, long lead time material, as Marty talked about, got shovels in the ground. A lot of work to be done there, but feeling good about meeting those in-service dates for 2027 and 2028. We have that combined cycle, which is out there in 2031, some active conversations going on at this point. I think I may have indicated at one point we were in the process of going through an RFP. I think over the course of the next, you know, 60, 90 days, we'll have locked that in. But I think the preliminary discussions are the teams feeling good about that timeline, that 2031.
Michael Moehn: That's obviously a big project. So beyond that, you know, we continue to stay flexible and agile, but that's what we got going on at the moment. Yeah.
Yeah, J is Michael here. Look, again, we feel good about, you know, the near-term um, prospects. And we've talked about this with respect to, you know, the 2 simple cycles that we have coming online here in 2728 teams, you know, actively got in front of the queue there. Uh, long lead time material as Marty talked about and got shovels in the ground. A lot of work to be done there, but feeling good about meeting those in-service days for 27 and 28. We have that combined cycle, uh, which is out there in 2031, some active conversations going on at this point. I think I may have indicated at 1 point we were in the process of, you know, going through an RFP I think over the course of the next, you know, 60 90 days. We'll have locked that in, but I think the preliminary discussions are the teams feeling good about that uh, timeline that 2031 and that's obviously a big project. So beyond that, you know,
Martin Lyons: Jeremy, as Marty just added to what Michael said, he is absolutely right. Our focus is on making sure we shore up the resources to be able to execute the preferred resource plan that we have got out there. It marries up very well, again, with the load growth opportunities we are seeing. As I said on one of our prior calls, to the extent that the load growth ultimately looks like it may exceed some of what we have outlined in our integrated resource plan and what we have got on slide seven, we are certainly exploring other opportunities to enhance our generation portfolio to be able to serve that incremental sales growth. As Michael said, our focus right now is really bringing this one and a half to two gigs of sales growth by 2032 to fruition and building the resources to serve it.
We continue to stay flexible and agile but that's what we got going on at the moment.
Martin Lyons: At the same time, to your point, exploring opportunities to expand beyond that.
You know, we're certainly exploring other opportunities to enhance Our Generation portfolio, to be able to serve that incremental sales growth. But as Michael said, our Focus right now, is really bringing this 1 and a half to 2 gigs of, of sales growth by 2032 to fruition and building the resources to serve it. Uh, but at the same time to your point, exploring opportunities, to expand beyond that.
Jeremy Tonet: Got it. That's helpful. If I could just round out the thought quickly here, just wondering, as far as access to gas needed for the plans as you outlined here, have you signed up for sufficient gas transmission today? Is there a need for any new pipeline, or can this all be satisfied with existing pipe?
Got it, that's helpful. And if I could just round out the thought quickly, here just wondering, uh, as far as access to gas needed for the plans of the outline here, have you, uh, signed up for sufficient, gas transmission. Uh, today, uh, and is there a need for any new pipeline, or, or can this all be satisfied with existing pipe?
Michael Moehn: Yeah, we feel pretty good about our position today there, Jeremy Tonet. Again, this is Michael Moehn. The Merrimac facility that we are repowering obviously had natural gas in it already. We had some peaking units there. Rush Island will have to do some work on repurposing that site, but feel good about what we need to get done there. Then, for the combined cycle, there is also a transmission line that is very, very close to that plant. We would be able to tap into that and feel good about the work that needs to get done between now and then as well.
Yeah, we we feel pretty good about our position. Today, there Jeremy again. This is Michael, you know, the the marimax facility that we're repowering at obviously had gas at it already. You know, we had some peaking units there. Uh, Rush Island will have to do some work, um, on repurposing the outside but feel good about what we need to get done there. And then, you know, for the combined cycle there's also a a, um, a transmission line that's very, very close to that plant. And so we'd have to we'll be at all the tap into that and feel good about the work that needs to get done between now and then as well.
Jeremy Tonet: Got it. I will leave it there. Thank you very much.
Michael Moehn: Thank you. Thanks, Jeremy.
Got it. I'll leave it there. Thank you very much.
Thank you. Thanks. Jeremy
Andrew Kirk: Thank you. Our next question is coming from Julien Dumoulin-Smith of Jefferies. Please go ahead.
Thank you. Our next question, is coming from Julian Duman, Smith of Jeffrey's, please go ahead.
Brian Russillon: Good morning. It's Brian Russillon for Julien Dumoulin-Smith.
Good morning. It's Brian Russo on for Julian.
Jeremy Tonet: Hey, Brian.
Hey, Brian.
Brian Russillon: Hey, just to follow up on some of your existing large load customers requesting studies for, I guess, expansions. How meaningful is that? Is there any sort of timeline? Maybe just put it in the context with the 2.3 gigawatts you are referencing.
Hey, just to follow up on some of your existing large load customers requesting studies.
Uh, for for, I guess expansions. I mean, how meaningful, uh, is that is, is there any sort of timeline? Maybe just put it in the context with the, you know, the 2.3 gigawatts, you're referencing.
Michael Moehn: We do think it's meaningful for the reasons I stated. I think that the opportunity for economic growth and development in the region, even beyond the 2.3 gigawatts that have been signed as construction agreements, I think is exciting for our communities because of the jobs it brings, long-lasting jobs, the tax base it brings, etc. I think that's all good. It's hard to say right now what the timing of that would be. Right now, we think about it as additive to the length of, say, the pipeline of growth that we've got. We will know more, Brian, as we sign some of these ESAs and we get deeper into the analysis of those growth opportunities. We really see the ESAs, these energy services agreements, as outlining the ramp rates for the load that we would expect associated with the 2.3 gigawatts of signed construction agreements.
Well, we, we do think it's meaningful for the reasons I stated. I, I think that, you know, the opportunity for economic growth and development in the region, even Beyond, uh, the 2.3 gigawatts that have been assigned as construction agreements, I think is exciting, uh, for our communities because of the jobs, it brings, uh, you know, long lasting jobs, the, the tax base. It brings Etc. So, I think that's all good. Um, you know, it's hard to say right now what the timing of that would be. Uh right now we think about it as additive to the length of say the pipeline of of growth that we've got and you know we'll know more uh Brian as we sign some of these esas and we get deeper into the analysis of of those uh those growth opportunities. We really see the esas, these Energy Services agreements as outlining. The
Michael Moehn: Again, we've outlined on slide seven what we anticipate that ramp rate to be based upon conversations we've had with the hyperscalers, the ultimate customers. Ultimately, the ESAs will outline sort of the minimum expected ramp rate over this period. I think that will even better firm up the load growth expectations that we've got. We see the conversations we're having again as very positive and would provide incremental growth. Right now, we're thinking beyond that 2032 timeframe, but we will see based on the discussions that we have.
The Ramp rates for the load uh, that we would expect associated with the 2.3 gigawatts of sine construction agreements again. We've outlined in uh, on slide 7 what we anticipate that ramp rate to be based upon, uh, conversations. We've had, uh, with the, uh, you know, with the hyperscalers, the ultimate customers. But ultimately, the DSA will outline sort of the minimum, uh, expected ramp rate over this period, and that, I think that'll even better. Uh, firm up the, uh, the load growth expectations that we've got, but we see the uh, conversations we're having again, is, is very positive, and would provide incremental growth right now. We're thinking beyond that 2032 time frame, but we'll see. Uh, based on the discussions that we have
Brian Russillon: Okay, great. Thank you very much.
Okay, great. Thank you very much.
Andrew Kirk: Thank you. Once again, ladies and gentlemen, if you do have a question, please press star one on your telephone keypad at this time. Our next question is coming from Paul Patterson of Glenrock Associates. Please go ahead.
Thank you, once.
Again, ladies and gentlemen, if you do have a question, please press *1 on your telephone keypad at this time.
Our next question is coming from Paul Patterson of Glenrock Associates. Please go ahead.
Paul Patterson: Hey, good morning.
Jeremy Tonet: Hey, good morning, Paul.
Hey, good morning.
Good morning, Paul.
Paul Patterson: On the 2.1 MISO awards, there has been a complaint that was filed on Wednesday, which you guys are probably very familiar with, from a different bunch of state commissions, not your state commissions, but Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Dakota, Montana, I think. What do you, how do you, there is that, and there has also been this IMM case with the IMM potentially reviewing transmission plans and what have you. Could you comment on that and what you think about what is going on there, I guess?
so um, on the 2.1 myso,
um,
uh, Awards.
There has been a complaint that was filed on Wednesday, which you guys are probably very familiar with, um, from a different bunch of State commissions, not, uh, your state commissions. But
Um, you know, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi.
Um, North Dakota, Montana, I think. Um,
What are your, how do you?
Is that and there's also been this IMM case. Uh,
With the IMF potentially reviewing.
Transmission. Uh,
Um, transmission plans and what have you. Just could you comment on that? What do you think about it?
What's going on there? I guess.
Jeremy Tonet: Yeah, I guess, Paul commented on it briefly. You are right. For others on the call, two days ago on July 30th, the five state commissions that Paul referenced, alleged that MISO violated its tariff when it developed its benefit-to-cost ratios for the Tranche 2.1 portfolio. They asked for it to declassify the Tranche 2.1 projects as multi-value projects. Obviously, based on the recency, we are still assessing that filing and what our response might be. Paul, we all know that load is growing in the region. We just talked about that. The mix of generation resources has certainly been shifting over time. Capacity prices have been rising. All of that suggests to us that more transmission investment is needed. We look back. MISO went through a very lengthy and consistent process of scenario planning and modeling, which ultimately led to the identification of these projects.
Jeremy Tonet: We support the need for the projects and the value of the projects. We are disappointed to see the filing. We certainly hope that it does not delay the needed investments that we believe we need to make. Again, we are in the early stages of assessing it. It was just filed on July 30th. We will be thoughtful about our response.
And you're right, and for others. Uh, you know, on the call in 2 days ago, on July 30th the 5-state commissions that Paul referenced it referenced. You know, alleged that MSO violated its tariff when it developed its benefit to cost ratios for the tranche 2.1 portfolio. And they asked for it to declassify. The tranche 2.1 projects is a multi-value projects. Obviously, you know, based on the recency we're still assessing that filing and and what our response might be. But but look, you know, Paul, we all know that loads of growing in the region. Um, we just talked about that the mix of generation resources has certainly been shifting over time and capacity prices have been rising. And so you know all of that suggests to us that more transmission investment is needed. Uh, I think, you know, look, we look back, Melissa went through a very lengthy and consistent process of scenario planning and modeling which ultimately led to the identification of these projects and we support the need for the
Projects and the value of the project. So, you know, we're a disappointed to see the, um, uh, the filing. And we certainly hope that, uh, you know, it it, it doesn't delay, the needed Investments That We believe, uh, we need to make. So, again, we're in the early stages of the assessing it, it was just filed on July 30th and, and, uh, we'll be thoughtful about our response.
Paul Patterson: Okay, good. Great. The second thing is, as I am sure you guys are aware, the Trump administration does not seem to be as excited about renewables as perhaps the previous one. They put out their executive order. He put out an executive order regarding Treasury guidance and what have you. I know that you guys do not know what is going to, I mean, I assume you guys do not know what is going to be in it. I guess the question sort of is, you know, to your point, which we were making earlier, obviously, there is a need for new generation. The tax cuts basically accrue to ratepayers. If there was any disruption from this guidance in which the safe harbors or something would be, I know this is kind of hypothetical, but I am just sort of thinking ahead here.
Okay. Good, great. So the second thing is, as I'm sure you guys are aware, the Trump Administration doesn't seem to be as excited about.
Renewables. Um,
As perhaps the previous quarter, they put out their um,
Their executive or he put out an executive order regarding, um, a treasury guidance. And what have you? And I I know that you guys don't know what's going to. I mean I assume you guys don't know what's going to be in it but um
I guess the question sort of is, you know, to your point sort of which we're making earlier, obviously there's a need for New Generation, the tax cuts,
Basically, include to rate payers.
Um, if there was any disruption, um,
From this guidance.
Paul Patterson: If there was a potential issue in which sand was sort of thrown in the gears, so to speak, and some tax cuts were made ineligible, what would be sort of the process to deal with that? I mean, obviously, again, to what you were sort of saying, there is a need for this, there is a need for some generation, whatever it may be. The tax cuts are really not something that, it is really something that accrues to ratepayers, right? I am just sort of wondering, do you have any thoughts about what the process might be or what, you know, what the flexibility you guys might have in terms of how we would approach a situation like that if it were to develop?
Um in which the Safe Harbor is or something would be. I know this is kind of hypothetical but I'm just sort of thinking ahead here. If there was a potential issue in which sand was sort of thrown in the gear so to speak.
Um,
Yeah, and some taxpayers were made ineligible.
What would be sort of the process to deal with that? I mean, obviously again to what you were sort of saying there's a, there's a need for this Jenner, there's a need for some generation, whatever it may be. And the tax credits are really not something that it's really something that creates a rate pairs, right? So I'm just sort of wondering, what what do do you have any thoughts about what the process might be? Or, or what, you know, what the flexibility you guys might have in terms of how we would?
approach to situation like that, if it were to develop,
Jeremy Tonet: Yeah, you know, Paul, maybe Michael and I will kind of tag team this a little bit. I think, first of all, I am not sure I can comment on what the process might be on that hypothetical. Hopefully, the hypothetical does not come to pass. I think, you know, we and the industry, obviously, we were very active on the Hill as the OBBA was negotiated and finalized. One of the things that we really lobbied for was business certainty with respect to near-term planned projects. If the tax credits were going to be phased out, they were done, and that was done in a sort of a sensible way that gave us the ability to move forward with planned projects and with some certainty.
Yeah, you know uh Paul maybe Michael and I'll kind of tag team this a little bit I think first of all not not sure I can comment on what the process might be on that hypothetical. Um and hopefully the hypothetical doesn't come to pass. I think, you know, we and the industry obviously we were very active on the hill as the uh oh bbba was um
Jeremy Tonet: I think at the end of the day, historical Treasury guidance with respect to when does construction begin along with continuity, safe harbor, some of these provisions go back more than a decade. It is our belief that legislative intent was to rely on that decade's worth of precedent and codify it actually in the legislation in the OBBA. We feel good about what is in the law and that it should stick and is, again, consistent with past Treasury practice. We feel good about all of that. That is what we are going to continue to support. Michael can talk to you a little bit now about what we had in our slides with respect to the actual credits and why we feel good about the credits that we have in our five-year plan.
You know, was was negotiated and and finalized and you know, 1 of the things that we really lobbied for was, you know, business certainty, uh with respect to near-term planned projects, uh, and that if the tax credits were going to be phased out that they were done and that was done in a, a sort of a sensible way. Uh, they gave us the ability to move forward with, uh, planned projects and um, and, and with some certainty and I think, at the end of the day, uh, historical treasury Guidance with respect to, you know, when does construction began along with, you know, uh, continuity Safe Harbor? You know, some of these Provisions, go back more than a decade. And I, and it it's our belief, uh, that legislative intent was to rely on, uh, that decade's worth of, uh, precedent and, and codify it actually in the legislation in the obba. So, you know, we we feel good about, uh, what's uh, what's in the law.
Michael Moehn: Yeah, you bet. I will start where you kind of left off, Paul, which is what we need every bit of this, though, right? We need the solar, the wind, the battery. We need to continue to get every single megawatt we can out of our fossil generation or nuclear plants as well. Again, all of these tax credits do go back to customers. That is why we advocated so hard for it. I think we all actually landed in a good spot. Marty is right. Look, we have a time-tested approach here. We have had IRS guidance here for the better part of a decade under the startup construction. We have done a lot of safe harboring. Typically, for us, it is under the physical work test.
Our nuclear plants as well. And and again, you know, all of these tax credits do go back to customers. That's why we advocated. So, uh, so so hard for it. And I think we actually landed in a good spot and
Michael Moehn: As I indicated in the talking points, under this $1.5 billion over the next five years, it is really broken down to $750 million under projects that are already in service or going to be in service by the end of 2027. If you recall, we had 700 megawatts of wind that we put in service a number of years ago. That is throwing off PTCs, other things. We have about 400 megawatts of batteries that we have CCNs on that we are going to be deploying here and safe harboring by the end of 2025. The remaining piece is associated with the solar build-out. Again, the team has worked really hard to make sure that we put ourselves in a position to have that physical work test. Again, that has been well established under IRS guidance. Completely safe harbored over the next, I would say, 30 to 60 days.
You know, Marty's, right? I mean, look. We have a, a, a Time tested approach here. I mean we've had IRS guidance here for the better part of a decade under the start of construction. We've done a lot of safe harboring, typically for us, is under the physical work tests. And so as I indicated in the talking points and this 1.5 billion dollars over the next 5 years, it's really broken down to 750 Millions under projects that are already in service or going to be in service by the end of 27. You know, we if you recall, we had 700 megawatts of wind that we put in service a number of years ago, that's throwing off ptc's. Other things we have about, 400 megawatts of batteries that we have ccns on that, we're going to be, you know, deploying here, uh, and safe harboring by the end of 25. And then the remaining piece is associated with the, the solar buildout.
Michael Moehn: So I feel really good about the visibility we have. It is difficult to speculate where this executive order is going to go, but we got our heads down and focused on getting this generation built.
And again, team has worked really hard to make sure that we put ourselves in a position to um, have that physical work test. Uh again that's been well established under IRS guidance. Um, you know, completely safe harbored over the next I'd say you know 30 to 60 days so feel really good about the the visibility we have difficult to speculate worth sort of this executive order is going to go but uh we got a heads down and focused on, you know, getting this generation built.
Paul Patterson: Great questions. Sorry, great answers, guys. Appreciate it.
Awesome. Great questions, great. Sorry. Great answers guys. Appreciate it.
Andrew Kirk: Thank you. Our next question is coming from Carly Davenport of Goldman Sachs. Please go ahead.
Thank you. Our next question is coming from Carly Davenport of Goldman Sachs. Please go ahead.
Carly Davenport: Hey, good morning. Thanks so much for taking my question. Maybe just to follow up on the previous one, as we think like post-OBBBA, I know you had mentioned earlier that everything in the current plan is safe harbored. But I guess to the extent that we do get a constructive outcome on these executive orders, is there any potential to pull forward incremental projects or accelerate plans to be able to take advantage of those credits for customers?
Hey, good morning. Thanks so much for taking my question. Um, maybe just to, to follow up on the previous 1. Um, as we think, like, post obba, I know you had mentioned earlier, that everything in the current plan is Safe Harbor, but I guess to the extent that we do, get a constructive, uh, outcome on these executive orders. Is there any potential to pull forward incremental projects or accelerate plans? To be able to take advantage of those credits for customers?
Michael Moehn: Yeah, the team has been actively looking at that, Carly. Good morning, by the way, this is Michael. Yeah, so they have been going through and looking at transformers and acquiring transformers to put us in a position not only to, I focused on kind of this five-year plan, but to see what else that we could potentially pull forward and make sure that we take care of these credits too. I guess, obviously, they are extremely helpful from an affordability perspective.
Yeah, I mean the team has been actively looking into that Carling, good morning, by the way, this is Michael. Yeah. And so you know, they've been going through and looking at uh, Transformers and acquiring Transformers to put us in a position. Not only to, you know, I focused on kind of this 5 year plan but to see what else that we could potentially pull forward. And make sure that we take care of these credits too. And I guess obviously they're extremely helpful from an affordability uh perspective.
Carly Davenport: Great. Thanks, Michael. Super helpful. Then maybe just a quick update on the data center services growth opportunities. I guess any shifts in your conversations with customers or incremental, potential customers in terms of what they are looking for, the priorities, or all sort of in line with previous discussions?
Great, thanks Michael. Um, super helpful. And then maybe just, um, just a quick update on uh, on the data center growth opportunities. I guess, any just shifts in um in your conversations with customers or incremental um, you know, potential customers in terms of what they're looking for. The
Priorities are all sort of in line with previous discussions.
Michael Moehn: Yeah, I think the priorities remain in line with previous discussions. I think, again, our sites here in Missouri are attractive for a number of reasons. But again, I think key is that we have good sites with good transmission access, where you have affordable power, we have available power. I think we have good state support for these economic development opportunities. The state, I think, is very aligned in wanting to bring these development opportunities to fruition. I think there's a good fit between what the hyperscalers, the data center developers, and the state are all looking for with respect to this development.
Yeah, I think the priorities remain in line with, uh, previous discussions. I think, you know, again, our our sites here in Missouri are are attractive, uh, you know, for, for a number of reasons. Uh, but again, I think he is that we have good sights. Uh, with good transmission assess where you have a portable power. We have available power. Um, you know, I think we have good States support uh, for these, uh, Economic Development opportunities. Uh, the the state I think is very aligned and wanting to bring these development opportunities to fruition. And, um, you know, I think there's a good fit between what the, uh, the hyperscalers, the data center developers, and the and the state are all looking for uh, with respect to this development.
Carly Davenport: Thank you so much for the color.
Thank you so much for the color.
Michael Moehn: Thank you for your question.
Paul Patterson: Thanks, Carly.
Thank you for your question. Thanks for calling.
Andrew Kirk: Thank you. At this time, I would like to turn the floor back over to Martin Lyons for closing comments.
Thank you at this time. I'd like to turn the
Over to Marty Lyons for closing comments.
Michael Moehn: Terrific. Thanks for your interest in Ameren Corporation. We really appreciate each of you being on the call today. As you can tell, we remain absolutely focused on strong execution of our plan. We've had a very strong start to the year. I feel really good about what we've accomplished strategically and financially. We are going to be very focused on executing our plans for the remainder of the year and work diligently to deliver safe, reliable, and affordable energy to our customers and communities. With that, thank you all for joining us today. I hope to see many of you in the coming weeks.
Oh terrific. Well, thanks for your interest in amaran uh we really appreciate each of you uh being on the call today. Uh, as you can tell, we remain absolutely focused on strong execution of our plan. Uh, we've had a very strong start to the year. I feel really good about what we've accomplished strategically and financially and um, you know, we're going to be very focused.
Focused on executing our plans for the remainder of the year, we worked diligently to deliver safe, reliable, and affordable energy to our customers and community. So with that, thank you all for joining us today. I hope to see many of you in the coming weeks.
Andrew Kirk: Thank you. Ladies and gentlemen, this concludes today's event. You may disconnect your lines or log off the webcast at this time and enjoy the rest of your day.
Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, this concludes today's event, you may disconnect your lines or log off the webcast at this time and enjoy the rest of your day.