Ameren Shares Tree-Planting Tips to Boost Energy Savings and Reliability This Arbor Day

St. Louis, Mo. (KFMO) - Ameren is sharing important tree-planting advice this Arbor Day, encouraging customers to think strategically when adding trees to their property...

The St. Louis-based utility says proper tree placement can not only improve energy efficiency but also help reduce the risk of power outages caused by tree interference with electrical equipment.

“Trees add beauty, shade and comfort to any home, and when they're planted in the right place, they can also help support the reliability of the energy system our customers depend on every day,” said Josh Mahon, manager of vegetation management for Ameren Transmission. “We know customers count on us to deliver safe and reliable power and sharing suggested tree placement tips is one important way we can work together to reduce outages and keep communities powered.”

Tree-related damage remains a common cause of service interruptions, particularly during storms and severe weather. Ameren recommends homeowners consider how large a tree will grow at maturity and avoid planting too close to power lines, sidewalks, or solar panels.

In addition to reliability, proper tree placement can also reduce energy costs. Ameren highlights three key strategies:

Shade: Plant deciduous trees to provide cooling shade during the summer months, helping reduce air conditioning use.
Windbreaks: Use evergreen trees to block cold winter winds and lower heating costs.
Winter Sunlight: Avoid placing large evergreens on the south side of a home, where they may block beneficial sunlight during colder months.

For properties with existing trees near utility infrastructure, Ameren says it conducts year-round trimming and vegetation management to maintain safe clearance around power lines.

The company also notes its environmental efforts, stating that excess branches are often recycled into mulch or donated to zoos and animal care facilities. In 2025 alone, Ameren recycled and donated 18 million pounds of wood and vegetation.

Ameren’s approach to balancing reliable energy service with environmental stewardship has earned national recognition. The Arbor Day Foundation has named Ameren a 2026 Tree Line USA recipient.

“Trees strengthen our communities and make our neighborhoods healthier in so many ways,” said Michelle Saulnier, vice president of programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. “Ameren demonstrates that safe and reliable electricity doesn't need to come at the expense of tree canopies.”

Ameren serves approximately 2.5 million electric customers and more than 900,000 natural gas customers across Missouri and Illinois.

For more information about proper tree planting and maintenance, visit Ameren.com/Planting.