EDF Renewables North America has launched the 200MW Huck Finn Solar Project in Missouri. The project is now operational and providing clean energy to thousands of homes. This development strengthens Missouri’s growing solar energy sector and supports Ameren Missouri’s long-term renewable energy strategy.
Ameren Missouri’s Renewable Energy Expansion
Ameren Missouri acquired the Huck Finn Solar Project through a build-transfer agreement with EDF Renewables. The company has committed to expanding its renewable energy capacity and integrating solar power into the state’s grid.
Before Huck Finn became operational, Missouri had just 708MW of installed solar power, ranking 36th in the US for total installed capacity. The project’s launch represents a nearly 30% increase in Missouri’s solar power generation.
Ameren has set ambitious goals for clean energy. The company plans to add 2.8 GW of renewable capacity by 2030. Three additional solar projects in Bowling Green, Vandalia, and Warren County will add 400MW between late 2025 and 2026.
In 2024, Ameren acquired three major solar sites, including Huck Finn, bringing its total solar investment to approximately $900 million. The Boomtown and Cass County Renewable Energy Centers will soon begin operations. Combined, these facilities will provide enough energy for 92,000 homes annually.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
The Huck Finn Solar Project delivers multiple benefits to Missouri. At full capacity, it generates enough electricity to power more than 37,000 homes. It also enhances grid reliability and reduces dependence on fossil fuels. During construction, the project created over 500 jobs. It is expected to generate more than $14 million in revenue for the local communities of Audrain and Ralls Counties.
Jesse Laniak, Regional Project Development Manager at EDF Renewables, highlighted the community’s role in the project’s success. “We extend our sincere gratitude to the communities in Audrain and Ralls Counties whose support has been instrumental in transforming this project into a model of community-driven, sustainable development.”
Mark Birk, Chairman and President of Ameren Missouri, also emphasised the importance of the project. “We are transforming the energy grid to enhance reliability and resiliency for customers as well as provide cleaner energy to our communities.”
Missouri’s Solar Future
Missouri’s solar energy sector is shifting from being residential-focused to accommodating large-scale utility projects. This transition is attracting more investment in renewable energy.
Ameren Missouri’s long-term plan includes $6 billion in renewable and dispatchable generation by 2028. EDF Renewables is playing a key role in this transformation. The company has developed over 18GW of North American wind, solar and storage projects.
EDF Renewables launched the 229MW Morris Ridge solar project in New York in December. These developments support state and national goals for clean energy expansion.
The Huck Finn Solar Project marks a major step toward Missouri’s energy independence. As more solar facilities become operational, the state is on track to become a leader in the US renewable energy market.