Ameren Illinois’ collaborative approach helps bring sustainable transportation to the region
COLLINSVILLE, Ill. (June 15, 2026) – East St. Louis is taking a major step toward a cleaner, more connected future with the installation of a public DC fast‑charging electric vehicle station at its municipal building at 301 River Park Dr.
A suite of Ameren Illinois' clean energy programs – Community Engagement and Consultation (CEC), ChargeReady, and the Market Development Initiative (MDI) – helped cover the cost of the EV station and electric infrastructure upgrades. The programs, funded through the state's Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), provide access to clean energy resources and ensure the benefits are available to communities facing resource barriers. Ameren Illinois worked closely with East St. Louis leaders and local stakeholders to align the programs with the City's aspirations, overcome the funding challenge, and provide technical assistance to move the project forward.
“This project is about more than new charging stations—it's an investment in our City's future,” said Robert Betts, City Manager East St. Louis. “By partnering with Ameren Illinois, we’re ensuring our residents will have a key resource available that will make the transition to cleaner, efficient transportation options more equitable." Betts noted the charging station will deliver direct current (DC) directly to the vehicle's battery and can reach an 80% charge in under one hour.
In addition to delivering the clean energy benefit, the charging station supports long‑term economic development goals by increasing traffic near municipal services and positioning East St. Louis as a participant in Illinois’ growing clean‑energy economy. The project demonstrates how targeted utility programs can foster local investment, social equity, and environmental stewardship.
“This partnership shows what’s possible when communities and energy partners work side by side toward a shared vision,” said Keyla Ward, manager Clean Energy Transition, Market Development Initiative for Ameren Illinois. “East St. Louis identified the need, and together we built a pathway to make it real.”
For more on Ameren Illinois' EV Charging programs, visit: Ameren.com/ElectricVehicles/Charging for more information.
About Ameren Illinois
Ameren Illinois delivers energy to 1.2 million electric and more than 800,000 natural gas customers throughout central and southern Illinois. Our service territory covers more than 1,200 communities and 43,700 square miles and our mission is to power the quality of life. For more information, visit AmerenIllinois.com. Follow us at @AmerenIllinois or Facebook.com/AmerenIllinois.