Otis Singleton
Missouri's electric cooperatives are supplied by Associated Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (AECI), which generates power through various transmission cooperatives in Missouri, Iowa, and Oklahoma. Missouri residents spend about $172 per month on electricity, which is 25% lower than the national average. If you don't agree with a utility bill, you must dispute the charge with the utility provider either in writing, in person, or by telephone. Service cannot be shut off for charges legitimately disputed 24 hours prior to shut-off. If you believe your utility provider is violating your rights, you can call the Missouri Public Service Commission (1-800-392-4211) or the Missouri Attorney General (1-800-392-8222).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How to dispute a bill | You must dispute the charge with the utility provider either in writing, in person, or by telephone. |
| Service shut-off during a dispute | Service cannot be shut off for charges legitimately disputed 24 hours prior to shut-off, but frivolous disputes will not stop a service shut-off. |
| Who to call if your rights are being violated | Call the Missouri Public Service Commission (1-800-392-4211) or the Missouri Attorney General (1-800-392-8222). |
| Relay Missouri users | Dial "711" and ask the communications assistant to dial 1.800.392.4211 |
| Power source | Wind energy, hydroelectric power, gas-based power plants, coal-based power plants, and oil-based power plants |
| Electricity rates | The average residential electricity rate in Missouri is 13 ¢/kWh, which is 37% lower than the national average rate of 20 ¢/kWh. |
| Average monthly electric bill | $172/month |
| Electricity providers | Associated Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (AECI), KAMO Power, Sho-Me Power Electric, M&A Electric, and more |
| Right-of-way for power lines | A minimum 15-foot right-of-way on either side of a line for primary, overhead electric lines, and an 8-foot right-of-way on either side of service overhead lines. |
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What You'll Learn
How to dispute a bill
If you receive an electric bill that seems unusually high, you can dispute the amount. Before you contact the utility company, read the bill carefully to make sure you understand it. Mistakes can happen, such as an incorrect meter reading, a clerical error, or an inaccurate meter.
You must dispute the charge with the utility provider either in writing, in person, or by telephone. Have your account number, current bill, and previous bills to hand. If the bill was based on an estimate, request that the company takes a proper reading. For an incorrect bill based on a reading, ask them to come and test the meter. If the meter turns out to be inaccurate, you can negotiate a fair price for the bill. In the meantime, pay a reasonable amount of the bill so they won't cut off your utilities.
While the company is reviewing your claim, you typically aren't expected to pay the disputed amount. However, you must pay the undisputed part of the bill and cooperate in resolving the dispute. If you don't pay bills that are undisputed, the company can still cut off your electricity, even while you have a pending dispute. If you believe the utility provider is violating your rights, you can call the Missouri Public Service Commission (1-800-392-4211) or the Missouri Attorney General (1-800-392-8222).
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Who to call if your rights are being violated
If you believe your rights are being violated by your electric company in Missouri, there are a few options you can consider and entities you can reach out to. Firstly, it is important to understand your rights regarding utility services in Missouri. For instance, utility providers are required to make reasonable efforts to contact customers at least 24 hours before shutting off their services. This can be done through a written notice, a "door hanger" notice, or two telephone calls. On the day of the shut-off, the provider must also provide identification, state the purpose of their visit, and give you a notice with the necessary information to restore your service. Additionally, your service cannot be shut off due to someone else's unpaid bill unless you received a substantial benefit from that service.
Now, if you believe your utility provider is violating your rights, you can take the following steps:
- Contact your utility provider: Before taking any other action, it is recommended to first reach out to your utility provider to discuss the issue. This can be done in writing, in person, or by telephone. Try to cooperate and work together to resolve the dispute.
- Call the Missouri Public Service Commission: If the issue persists and you still believe your rights are being violated, you can contact the Missouri Public Service Commission at 1-800-392-4211. Relay Missouri users can also dial 711 and ask the communications assistant to connect them to the above number.
- Reach out to the Missouri Attorney General: Another option is to contact the Missouri Attorney General's office at 1-800-392-8222. They may be able to provide further guidance or assistance in addressing the violation of your rights.
- Seek legal advice: While the previously mentioned resources can provide guidance, they may not constitute legal advice. For specific legal counsel pertaining to your situation, consider contacting a lawyer or legal aid organization in your area.
Remember, the laws and procedures may change over time, so it is always a good idea to stay informed and seek up-to-date information from official sources.
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Missouri's three-tiered electricity system
The top tier, or first tier, of the system is made up of 51 distribution cooperatives in Missouri, southern Iowa, and northeast Oklahoma. These cooperatives provide electric service directly to member-consumers, including businesses, farms, and households. They are responsible for installing and maintaining power lines from substations to consumers, planning for future service needs, working with communities to encourage economic development, helping members use electricity efficiently, incorporating consumer technology, and educating members about safety.
The second tier of the system is comprised of regional cooperatives that transmit power from the Associated Electric Cooperative (AECI) to the 51 distribution cooperatives. AECI generates power at six different transmission cooperatives in Missouri, Iowa, and Oklahoma, and relies on a diverse array of power sources, including coal-based power plants, combined-cycle gas-based power plants, peaking oil and gas-based power plants, hydroelectric power plants, and wind energy from six different wind farms.
The third tier of the system is made up of the six generation and transmission (G&T) cooperatives that formed AECI in 1961. These G&Ts operate, build, and maintain the high-voltage transmission system and are responsible for power generation and procurement. Central Electric Power Cooperative, located in Jefferson City, is one example of a G&T.
Missouri's three-tiered system allows for efficiency and specialization at each tier, ensuring that cooperative members receive reliable and affordable electricity. The system also promotes energy efficiency and cost savings for members. In addition to traditional power sources, Missouri is home to several solar farms that contribute to the state's transmission grid.
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Electricity rates and charges
Missouri's residential electricity rates vary depending on the source of information. According to one source, the average residential electricity rate in Missouri is 13 ¢/kWh, while another source puts it at 10.17 ¢/kWh. This is lower than the national average, which ranges from 11.88 ¢/kWh to 20 ¢/kWh. The average monthly residential electricity bill in Missouri is around $108, which is slightly higher than the national average of $107. However, Missouri residents spend about $172 per month on electricity on average, which amounts to $2,064 per year. This is 25% lower than the national average electric bill of $2,747.
Commercial electricity rates in Missouri are also lower than the national average. The average rate is 8.2 ¢/kWh, compared to the national average of 10.09 ¢/kWh. The average monthly commercial electricity bill in Missouri is 11.29% less than the national average, at $629.
Industrial electricity consumption in Missouri averages 164,723 kWh/month, which is significantly higher than the national average of 112,158 kWh/month. However, the approximate range of industrial electricity rates in the U.S. is 4.13 ¢/kWh to 30.82 ¢/kWh, so the specific rates in Missouri are not provided.
It is worth noting that Missouri's electric cooperatives, which provide power to the state, generate electricity from diverse sources, including wind energy, hydroelectric power, and gas-based power plants. Additionally, solar panel systems can help reduce monthly electric bills by allowing customers to use stored energy during high-rate periods and protect against surge rates.
In terms of your rights regarding electricity rates and charges, you have the right to dispute any errors on your bill. If you disagree with a utility bill, you must dispute the charge with the utility provider either in writing, in person, or by telephone. Service cannot be disconnected for disputed charges 24 hours before the scheduled shut-off, but you must pay the undisputed portion of the bill and cooperate in resolving the dispute. If you believe your utility provider is violating your rights, you can contact the Missouri Public Service Commission or the Missouri Attorney General for assistance.
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Tree trimming and maintenance near power lines
Tree maintenance near power lines is a serious issue that can impact power supply and cause outages. If you are planning to plant a tree, it is important to check whether there are power lines above or nearby. If there are, it is recommended that you choose another location, particularly if the tree is a broadly spreading or tall-growing variety.
Tree-planting guidelines should be followed to ensure the tree and nearby power lines remain safe. For example, only certain types of trees are acceptable to be planted underneath power lines. It is also important to maintain a safe distance from power lines when working with trees. Keep yourself and any equipment at least 10 feet away from power lines, and be sure to use a dry fiberglass or wooden ladder, never a metal one.
In the event of a major thunderstorm or ice storm, power companies will work to restore power as quickly as possible. They also conduct regular maintenance and trimming of trees along distribution power lines. In these cases, the debris is usually removed from the property unless other arrangements are made with the property owner. However, in cases of storm damage or natural weaknesses, emergency crews will not clean up the debris, leaving it for disposal by the property owner.
If you are contracting a private tree service to trim or remove a tree near power lines, the power company can assist in making the tree safe for a qualified tree service to do its work. Only tree-trimming companies that have met OSHA qualifications may trim trees away from high-voltage power lines.
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Frequently asked questions
You must dispute the charge with your utility provider either in writing, in person, or by telephone. Service cannot be shut off for charges legitimately disputed 24 hours prior to shut-off, but you must pay the undisputed part of the bill and cooperate in resolving the dispute.
You can call the Missouri Public Service Commission (1-800-392-4211) or the Missouri Attorney General (1-800-392-8222). Relay Missouri users may also dial 711 and ask the communications assistant to dial 1-800-392-4211.
The average monthly electric bill for residential customers in Missouri is $172, calculated by multiplying the average monthly consumption by the average electric rate: 1,350.00 kWh * 13 ¢/kWh.
The average residential electricity rate in Missouri is 13 ¢/kWh, which is 37% lower than the national average rate of 20 ¢/kWh.
All 40 of Missouri's Electric Cooperatives use the same three-tiered system to get electricity to homes, farms, or businesses. The three tiers are electricity generation, electricity transmission, and electricity distribution.
