County officials heard multiple energy-sector updates in February concerning transmission lines, solar interconnection and potential right-of-way constraints.
On Feb. 2 Ameren Transmission representatives Leah Dettmers and Nick Rudis told the commission that three lines will tie into Zachary Station: the Zachary-to-Denny line is scheduled to begin work in March 2027; the Zachary-to-Maywood line in spring 2027; and the Zachary-to-Thomas Hill portion within Adair County is slated for 2028. The minutes record projected start seasons but do not detail permitting status or specific county impacts beyond timing.
On Feb. 24 Nathan Geissmann of Ameren said new lines will be run on Pasture Lane to Foxtrot Lane for a substation. According to the minutes, local crews will construct the lines and the Ameren infrastructure will coexist with Tri-County lines so Citrine Solar can interconnect.
On Feb. 18 Ecoplexus representatives Kevin White, Ryan Diederichsen and Landon Edwards told the commission they may be unable to secure private right-of-way for two short segments — about a half-mile on Sunrise Lane and about a quarter-mile on Twin Oaks Lane. The minutes note the county has previously allowed transmission in county right-of-way only when no private option exists, and then required lines to be buried in conduit at least 3 feet deep. The commission said it would review locations before making any decision.
The minutes do not record formal approvals or denials of routing; the entries are updates and indicate further review and potential negotiations on right-of-way and cost responsibilities.