Public Service Commission Chairman Jeff Davis could not comment on the possible rate case delay, but said the Commission is working with Ameren to reduce the frequency and duration of power outages.

Governor Blunt asked the Public Service Commission to hold public hearings on how the power outages can be prevented in the future because two storms in the past six months have caused widespread power losses across eastern Missouri.

Before other steps can be taken, Chairman Davis said the Commission and Ameren needed to determine what parts of the system need to be fixed.

Davis said these target areas could use several upgrades, which would provide more reliability in the future.

The Ameren rate case is scheduled for January.

From Jefferson City, I'm Robbie Fisher.