I sent an email to AmerenUE asking for more information about net metering, because I couldn’t find anything on their web site. I also asked about the procedure for installing a residential alternative energy source. I was pleased to receive a prompt response from a Lisa Cosgrove who said:

Thank you for your inquiry regarding setting up a solar system. Attached is the current Net Metering Tariff with buyback rates and interconnection requirements. Based on this tariff, you would receive approximately the retail rate for energy that you supply back to the Ameren system. Please note there is a $121 or $148 (depending on your service type) charge to change out your meter to a bi-directional meter and there may be additional charges related to any Ameren system upgrades required to accommodate the addition of your generation. (Although, typically we’ve found that other upgrades are not normally necessary.)

I’ve also included a website below that might help in locating a few solar developers to get you started in your research process. Please note that Ameren can not advise or recommend any particular solar developer.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any additional questions.

I think 2008 is finally the year to pull the trigger on a grid-tied photovoltaic system. Since Missouri’s net metering law went into effect January 1, and the IRS’s tax credit for solar energy systems expires December 31. Stay tuned for updates…