The Missouri Public Service Commission has directed the PSC staff to investigate the effectiveness of Aquila, Inc.’s, Empire District Electric's and AmerenUE's storm preparations and power restoration efforts following a severe ice storm that struck Missouri.

“In December 2007, many electric utility customers in Missouri suffered extended electric power outages as the result severe ice storm. The Commission would like to learn more about preparations for such storms, as well as its response to this storm,” said the commission’s order.

An initial report regarding the results of the PSC staff investigation is to be filed with the commission no later than April 3, 2008.

Applications to intervene and participate in this case must be filed no later than Jan. 22, 2008, with the Secretary of the Missouri Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 360, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102 and the Office of the Public Counsel, P.O. Box 2230, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102.

Anyone from the public wishing to submit written comments to the commission may do so by mailing those comments to the Missouri Public Service Commission, P.O. Box 360, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102. Comments can also be submitted electronically at: pscinfo@psc.mo.gov or by calling the commission’s toll-free hotline number 1-800-392-4211.