Missouri PSC approves lease of Ameren fiber for broadband services

Missouri’s Public Service Commission (PSC) is allowing Ameren Missouri to lease a section of unused fiber to another company seeking to expand broadband coverage. Ameren sought a 20-year “dark fiber” lease agreement with MCC Network Services to provide internet service along a 1.6 mile stretch between where the Mississippi River crosses from Missouri to Illinois. PSC Staff recommended the approval of the lease in September 2021, finding MCC’s use of the cable would not interfere with Ameren’s service. The PSC approved the lease during this week’s agenda meeting on the condition that Ameren provides regular updates and notifies the PSC if it intended to cancel or alter the lease.