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Missouri News Service

Solar debate continues in Missouri

todayApril 27, 2026 112

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    Solar debate continues in Missouri
    Chrystal Blair, Missouri News Service

  • cover play_arrow

    Solar debate continues in Missouri
    Chrystal Blair, Missouri News Service

JEFFERSON CITY (Missouri News Service/Public News Service) — As the legislative session winds down, Missouri lawmakers are still debating a proposal to pause solar energy development.

The controversial move comes as electricity demand continues to climb and renewable energy remains one of the fastest-growing power sources in the U.S.

Policy experts discussed the proposal during a recent webinar hosted by Renew Missouri, focused on expanding renewable energy. Executive Director James Owens outlined their concerns about the legislation.

Owens said the proposal includes an emergency clause, meaning it could take effect immediately. Backers of the measure contend that a pause would allow time to address land use, safety, and oversight.

According to federal data, solar accounts for almost half of all new electricity generation added nationwide in recent years.

Clean energy advocates stress how critical this debate is for rural Missouri, where solar development has become an economic lifeline for some communities. Owens said it generates steady revenue as local tax bases continue to shrink.

The bill would put new and ongoing large-scale solar projects on hold until at least 2027, giving state regulators time to draft new rules for how they’re built and operated.

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Chrystal Blair is a veteran news broadcaster with more than 30 years of experience in radio and television reporting, producing, and writing.

She was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, and earned a degree in Communication/Radio, Television, Film from Eastern Michigan University. Before starting her career, Chrystal worked as a flight attendant for a major airline, indulging her passion for travel.

After a year of flying, she relocated to Los Angeles, California, where she began her career as a reporter at a community public access television station. While working at the station, Chrystal was selected “Reporter of the Year” for the community news awards. Since then, Chrystal has worked in television and radio for several mainstream media affiliates and has been honored with several prestigious awards, including CBS Radio’s “World Class Performer” award.

In addition to her professional pursuits, Chrystal has a passion for performing arts and has acted in several professional plays. She is also an animal lover and cares deeply for animal welfare. During her leisure time, she enjoys spending quality time with her rescued dog and cat.


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Written by: Chrystal Blair, Missouri News Service

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