Renew Missouri was formed in 2006 to advance efficiency and renewable energy in Missouri. At the time, Missouri ranked 49th in the country on renewable energy with less than .01% of its energy coming from renewable energy.
In 2007, Renew Missouri advocated for true net metering and simple interconnection practices for small solar and wind systems. The result was the adoption of the “Easy Connection Act” by the Missouri legislature in a single session, allowing all Missourians to interconnect solar panels and small wind turbines to their utility grid free of charge, and receiving full retail credit for any energy put back on the grid.
In 2008, Renew Missouri helped Missouri become the 27th state enact a Renewable Electricity Standard (the 3rd state to pass the law through the ballot initiative process). The RES requires 15% of Missouri's energy to come from renewables by 2021, with a 2% solar requirement and $2 per watt solar rebate program.
To address Missouri ranking 41st of of the 50 states on energy efficiency, Renew Missouri is also advocating for proven state efficiency policies that will create in-state jobs, lower electric bills, and reduce carbon emissions.