0001002910 aee:AmerenIllinoisCompanyMember aee:MethaneGasMember 2019-09-30
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
 
ýQuarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 2018
for the Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 2019

OR
 
¨Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the transition period from             to
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Commission
File Number
Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter;
State of Incorporation;
Address and Telephone Number
IRS Employer
Identification No.
1-14756Ameren Corporation43-1723446
(Missouri Corporation)
1901 Chouteau Avenue
St. Louis, Missouri63103
(314)621-3222
43-1723446
(Missouri Corporation)
1901 Chouteau Avenue
St. Louis, Missouri 63103
(314) 621-3222
1-2967Union Electric Company43-0559760
(Missouri Corporation)
1901 Chouteau Avenue
St. Louis, Missouri63103
(314)621-3222
43-0559760
(Missouri Corporation)
1901 Chouteau Avenue
St. Louis, Missouri 63103
(314) 621-3222
1-3672Ameren Illinois Company37-0211380
(Illinois Corporation)
10 Executive Drive
Collinsville, Illinois62234
(618)343-8150
Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
37-0211380
(Illinois Corporation)
Title of each classTrading Symbol(s)6 Executive DriveName of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.01 par value per shareAEECollinsville, Illinois 62234
(618) 343-8150New York Stock Exchange



Indicate by check mark whether the registrants: (1) have filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
 
Ameren Corporation Yes ý No ¨
Union Electric Company Yes ý No ¨
Ameren Illinois Company Yes ý No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether each registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).


Ameren Corporation Yes ý No ¨
Union Electric Company Yes ý No ¨
Ameren Illinois Company Yes ý No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether each registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Ameren CorporationLarge accelerated filerAccelerated filerNon-accelerated filer
  
Large Accelerated
Filer
Smaller reporting company
Accelerated
Filer
Emerging growth company
Non-Accelerated
Filer
Smaller Reporting
Company
Emerging Growth
Company
Ameren Corporationý¨¨¨¨
Union Electric CompanyLarge accelerated filer¨Accelerated filerNon-accelerated filer
 ¨Smaller reporting companyýEmerging growth company¨¨
Ameren Illinois CompanyLarge accelerated filer¨Accelerated filerNon-accelerated filer
 ¨Smaller reporting companyýEmerging growth company¨¨
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.
Ameren Corporation¨
Union Electric Company¨
Ameren Illinois Company¨
Indicate by check mark whether each registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Ameren Corporation Yes ¨ No ý
Union Electric Company Yes ¨ No ý
Ameren Illinois Company Yes ¨ No ý
The number of shares outstanding of each registrant’s classes of common stock as of October 31, 2018,2019, was as follows:
 
Ameren Corporation 
Common stock, $0.01 par value per share  244,295,792
246,029,792
Union Electric Company 
Common stock, $5 par value per share, held by Ameren
Corporation
102,123,834
Ameren Illinois Company 
Common stock, no par value, held by Ameren
Corporation
25,452,373
______________________________________________________________________________________________________ 
This combined Form 10-Q is separately filed by Ameren Corporation, Union Electric Company, and Ameren Illinois Company. Each registrant hereto is filing on its own behalf all of the information contained in this quarterly report that relates to such registrant. Each registrant hereto is not filing any information that does not relate to such registrant, and therefore makes no representation as to any such information.




TABLE OF CONTENTS
  Page
  
  
 
   
Item 1.
 
 
 
 
 
Union Electric Company (d/b/a Ameren Missouri)
 
Balance SheetUnion Electric Company (d/b/a Ameren Missouri)
 
 
Ameren Illinois Company (d/b/a Ameren Illinois)
 
 
Ameren Illinois Company (d/b/a Ameren Illinois)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
  
 
   
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 2.
Item 6.
  








GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
We use the words “our,” “we” or “us” with respect to certain information that relates to Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, collectively. When appropriate, subsidiaries of Ameren Corporation are named specifically as their various business activities are discussed. Refer to the Form 10-K for a complete listing of glossary terms and abbreviations. Only new or significantly changed terms and abbreviations are included below.
2017 IRP – Integrated Resource Plan, a 20-year nonbinding plan Ameren Missouri filed with the MoPSC in September 2017, that includes Ameren Missouri’s preferred approach for meeting customers’ projected long-term energy needs in a cost-effective manner while maintaining system reliability.
CCR Rule– Coal Combustion Residuals Rule, a rule promulgated by the EPA that established regulations for the disposal of CCR in landfills and surface impoundments.
Form 10-K – The combined Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017,2018, filed by the Ameren Companies with the SEC.
Missouri Senate Bill 564 – A Missouri law that resulted in certain changes to the regulation of Ameren Missouri’s electric service business. These changes include a reduction of customer rates to pass through the effect of the reduction in the federal statutory corporate income tax rate enacted under the TCJA and, at each electric utility's election, the use of PISA, among other things.
PISA – Plant-in-service accounting, an election under Missouri Senate Bill 564 that permits electric utilities to defer and recover 85% of the depreciation expense and a weighted-average cost of capital return on rate base on certain property, plant, and equipment placed in-service after the PISA election date. The rate base on which the return is calculated incorporates qualifying capital expenditures since the PISA election date as well as changes in total accumulated depreciation excluding retirements and plant-related deferred income taxes. Accumulated PISA deferrals earn carrying costs at the weighted-average cost of capital.
RESRAM – Renewable energy standard rate-adjustment mechanism, a cost recovery mechanism allowed under state law that, upon approval by the MoPSC, would enable Ameren Missouri to recover costs relating to compliance with Missouri's renewable energy standard, including recovery of investments in wind generation and other renewables, and earn a return on those investments not already provided for in customer rates or any other recovery mechanism by adjusting customer rates on an annual basis without a traditional regulatory rate review. RESRAM regulatory assets will earn carrying costs at short-term interest rates.
 
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Statements in this report not based on historical facts are considered “forward-looking” and, accordingly, involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed. Although such forward-looking statements have been made in good faith and are based on reasonable assumptions, there is no assurance that the expected results will be achieved. These statements include (without limitation) statements as to future expectations, beliefs, plans, strategies, objectives, events, conditions, and financial performance. In connection with the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, we are providing this cautionary statement to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. The following factors, in addition to those discussed under Risk Factors in the Form 10-K and elsewhere in this report and in our other filings with the SEC, could cause actual results to differ materially from management expectations suggested in such forward-looking statements:
regulatory, judicial, or legislative actions, including the effects of the TCJA, and any changes in regulatory policies and ratemaking determinations, such as those that may result from the complaint case filed in February 2015 with the FERC, seeking a reduction innew methodology to determine the allowed base return on common equity under the MISO tariff proposed by the FERC in November 2018, the Notices of Inquiry issued by the FERC in March 2019, Ameren Missouri’s proposed RESRAMelectric regulatory rate review filed with the MoPSC in May 2018,July 2019, a request for appeal filed with the Missouri Supreme Court by the MoOPC in November 2019 related to Ameren Missouri’s requested certificateRESRAM, Ameren Missouri’s request for deferral accounting treatment of conveniencemaintenance expenses related to scheduled Callaway refueling and necessity for a wind generation facilitymaintenance outages filed with the MoPSC in October 2018,2019, Ameren Missouri’s proposed customerIllinois’ April 2019 annual electric distribution formula rate update filing, Ameren Illinois’ May 2019 annual electric energy-efficiency plan under the MEEIA filed with the MoPSC in June 2018 and revised in October 2018,formula rate update, and future regulatory, judicial, or legislative actions that change regulatory recovery mechanisms;
the effect of Ameren Illinois’ participation in performance-based formula ratemaking frameworks under the IEIMA and the FEJA, including the direct relationship between Ameren Illinois' return on common equity and the 30-year United States Treasury bond yields, and the related financial commitments;
the effect of the implementation of Missouri Senate Bill 564 on Ameren Missouri, including customer rate caps pursuant to Ameren Missouri’s election to use PISA and the resulting customer rates caps;PISA;
the effects of changes in federal, state, or local laws and other governmental actions, including monetary, fiscal, and energy policies;
the effects of changes in federal, state, or local tax laws, regulations, interpretations, or rates, amendments or technical corrections to the TCJA, and any challenges to the tax positions taken by the Ameren Companies;Companies, if any;
the effects on demand for our services resulting from technological advances, including advances in customer energy efficiency, energy storage, and private generation sources, which generate electricity at the site of consumption and are becoming more cost-competitive;
the effectiveness of Ameren Missouri’s customer energy-efficiency programs and the related revenues and performance incentives earned under its MEEIA programs, including Ameren Missouri’s proposed customer energy-efficiency plan filed with the MoPSC in June 2018 and revised in October 2018;


programs;
Ameren Illinois’ ability to achieve the performance standards applicable to its electric distribution business and the FEJA electric customer energy-efficiency goals and the resulting impact on its allowed return on program investments;equity;
our ability to align overall spending, both operating and capital, with frameworks established by our regulators and to recover these costs in a timely manner in our attempt to earn our allowed returns on equity;
the cost and availability of fuel, such as ultra-low-sulfur coal, natural gas, and enriched uranium used to produce electricity; the cost and availability of purchased power, zero emission credits, renewable energy credits, and natural gas for distribution; and the level and volatility of future market prices for such commodities and credits, including our ability to recover the costs for such commodities and credits and our customers’ tolerance for any related price increases;
disruptions in the delivery of fuel, failure of our fuel suppliers to provide adequate quantities or quality of fuel, or lack of adequate inventories of fuel, including nuclear fuel assemblies from the one NRC-licensed supplier of Ameren Missouri’s Callaway energy center’s assemblies;
the cost and availability of transmission capacity for the energy generated by Ameren Missouri's energy centers or required to satisfy Ameren Missouri’s energy sales;
the effectiveness of our risk management strategies and our use of financial and derivative instruments;
the ability to obtain sufficient insurance, including insurance for Ameren Missouri’s Callaway energy center, or, in the absence of insurance, the ability to recover uninsured losses from our customers;


the impact of cyberattacks on us or our suppliers, which could, among other things, result in the loss of operational control of energy centers and electric and natural gas transmission and distribution systems and/or the loss of data, such as customer, employee, financial, and operating system information;
business and economic conditions, including their impact on interest rates, collection of our receivable balances, and demand for our products;
disruptions of the capital markets, deterioration in credit metrics of the Ameren Companies, including as a result of the implementation of the TCJA, or other events that may have an adverse effect on the cost or availability of capital, including short-term credit and liquidity;
the actions of credit rating agencies and the effects of such actions;
the inability of our counterparties to meet their obligations with respect to contracts, credit agreements, and financial instruments;
the impact of weather conditions and other natural phenomena on us and our customers, including the impact of system outages;
the construction, installation, performance, and cost recovery of generation, transmission, and distribution assets;
the effects of breakdowns or failures of equipment in the operation of natural gas transmission and distribution systems and storage facilities, such as leaks, explosions, and mechanical problems, and compliance with natural gas safety regulations;
the effects of failures of electric generation, transmission, or distribution equipment or facilities, which could result in unanticipated liabilities or unplanned outages;
the operation of Ameren Missouri’s Callaway energy center, including planned and unplanned outages, and decommissioning costs;
the impact of current environmental regulationslaws and new, more stringent, or changing requirements, including those related to the effect of NSR and Clean Air Act litigation, CO2 and the proposed repeal and replacement of the Clean Power Plan and potential adoption and implementation of the Affordable Clean Energy Rule, other emissions and discharges, cooling water intake structures, CCR, and energy efficiency, that could limit or terminate the operation of certain of Ameren Missouri’s energy centers, increase our operating costs or investment requirements, result in an impairment of our assets, cause us to sell our assets, reduce our customers’ demand for electricity or natural gas, or otherwise have a negative financial effect;
the impact of complying with renewable energy portfolio requirements in Missouri and Illinois and with the zero emission standard in Illinois;
Ameren Missouri’s ability to acquire wind and other renewable energy generation facilities and recover its cost of investment and related return in a timely manner, which is affected by the ability to obtain all necessary project approvals; the availability of federal production and investment tax credits related to renewable energy and Ameren Missouri’s ability to use such credits; the cost of wind and solar generation technologies; and Ameren Missouri’s ability to obtain timely interconnection agreements with MISO or other RTOs including the costs of such interconnections; and the implementation of a RESRAM;at an acceptable cost for each facility;
labor disputes, work force reductions, changes in future wage and employee benefits costs, including those resulting from changes in discount rates, mortality tables, returns on benefit plan assets, and other assumptions;
the impact of negative opinions of us or our utility services that our customers, legislators, or regulators may have or develop, which could result from a variety of factors, including failures in system reliability, failure to implement our investment plans or to protect sensitive customer information, increases in rates, or negative media coverage;
the impact of adopting new accounting guidance;
the effects of strategic initiatives, including mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures;
legal and administrative proceedings;
the impact of cyberattacks, which could, among other things, result in the loss of operational control of energy centers and electric and natural gas transmission and distribution systems and/or the loss of data, such as customer, employee, financial, and operating system information; and
acts of sabotage, war, terrorism, or other intentionally disruptive acts.
New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for management to predict all of such factors, nor can it assess the impact of each such factor on the business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained or implied in any forward-looking statement. Given these uncertainties, undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements. Except to the extent required by the federal securities laws, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect new information or future events.




PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.

AMEREN CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Unaudited) (In millions, except per share amounts)
Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
2018 2017 2018 20172019 2018 2019 2018
Operating Revenues:              
Electric$1,590
 $1,594
 $4,209
 $4,183
$1,528
 $1,590
 $3,928
 $4,209
Natural gas134
 129
 663
 592
131
 134
 666
 663
Total operating revenues1,724
 1,723
 4,872
 4,775
1,659
 1,724
 4,594
 4,872
Operating Expenses:              
Fuel216
 199
 590
 594
147
 216
 409
 590
Purchased power148
 163
 453
 493
148
 148
 440
 453
Natural gas purchased for resale30
 25
 252
 196
31
 30
 236
 252
Other operations and maintenance429
 413
 1,299
 1,262
434
 429
 1,301
 1,299
Depreciation and amortization241
 225
 713
 668
248
 241
 745
 713
Taxes other than income taxes127
 129
 374
 364
131
 127
 375
 374
Total operating expenses1,191
 1,154
 3,681
 3,577
1,139
 1,191
 3,506
 3,681
Operating Income533
 569
 1,191
 1,198
520
 533
 1,088
 1,191
Other Income, Net32
 23
 84
 61
34
 32
 99
 84
Interest Charges101
 97
 302
 295
96
 101
 290
 302
Income Before Income Taxes464
 495
 973
 964
458
 464
 897
 973
Income Taxes105
 205
 221
 376
92
 105
 158
 221
Net Income359
 290
 752
 588
366
 359
 739
 752
Less: Net Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests2
 2
 5
 5
2
 2
 5
 5
Net Income Attributable to Ameren Common Shareholders$357
 $288
 $747
 $583
$364
 $357
 $734
 $747
              
              
Net Income$359
 $290
 $752
 $588
$366
 $359
 $739
 $752
Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Taxes              
Pension and other postretirement benefit plan activity, net of income taxes of $-, $-, $-, and $1, respectively2
 
 1
 2
Pension and other postretirement benefit plan activity, net of income taxes of $-, $-, $-, and $-, respectively
 2
 1
 1
Comprehensive Income361
 290
 753
 590
366
 361
 740
 753
Less: Comprehensive Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests2
 2
 5
 5
2
 2
 5
 5
Comprehensive Income Attributable to Ameren Common Shareholders$359
 $288
 $748
 $585
$364
 $359
 $735
 $748
              
              
Earnings per Common Share – Basic$1.46
 $1.19
 $3.06
 $2.40
$1.48
 $1.46
 $2.99
 $3.06
              
Earnings per Common Share – Diluted$1.45
 $1.18
 $3.04
 $2.39
$1.47
 $1.45
 $2.97
 $3.04
              
Dividends per Common Share$0.4575
 $0.4400
 $1.3725
 $1.3200
Weighted-average Common Shares Outstanding – Basic244.1
 242.6
 243.6
 242.6
245.9
 244.1
 245.5
 243.6
Weighted-average Common Shares Outstanding – Diluted246.3
 244.7
 245.5
 244.0
247.5
 246.3
 247.0
 245.5
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.




AMEREN CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
(Unaudited) (In millions, except per share amounts)
September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017September 30, 2019 December 31, 2018
ASSETS      
Current Assets:      
Cash and cash equivalents$11
 $10
$20
 $16
Accounts receivable – trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $22 and $19, respectively)605
 445
Accounts receivable – trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $19 and $18, respectively)478
 463
Unbilled revenue260
 323
273
 295
Miscellaneous accounts receivable84
 70
56
 79
Inventories525
 522
488
 483
Current regulatory assets72
 144
74
 134
Other current assets83
 98
106
 63
Total current assets1,640
 1,612
1,495
 1,533
Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net22,379
 21,466
23,894
 22,810
Investments and Other Assets:      
Nuclear decommissioning trust fund752
 704
798
 684
Goodwill411
 411
411
 411
Regulatory assets1,130
 1,230
1,168
 1,127
Other assets647
 522
780
 650
Total investments and other assets2,940
 2,867
3,157
 2,872
TOTAL ASSETS$26,959
 $25,945
$28,546
 $27,215
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY      
Current Liabilities:      
Current maturities of long-term debt$649
 $841
$336
 $580
Short-term debt521
 484
544
 597
Accounts and wages payable591
 902
598
 817
Taxes accrued154
 52
164
 53
Interest accrued108
 99
Customer deposits126
 108
Current regulatory liabilities114
 128
121
 149
Other current liabilities317
 326
522
 491
Total current liabilities2,580
 2,940
2,285
 2,687
Long-term Debt, Net7,614
 7,094
8,651
 7,859
Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities:      
Accumulated deferred income taxes, net2,692
 2,506
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits45
 49
Accumulated deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net2,902
 2,666
Regulatory liabilities4,652
 4,387
4,845
 4,637
Asset retirement obligations640
 638
671
 627
Pension and other postretirement benefits529
 545
522
 558
Other deferred credits and liabilities409
 460
466
 408
Total deferred credits and other liabilities8,967
 8,585
9,406
 8,896
Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 2, 9, and 10)

 



 


Ameren Corporation Shareholders’ Equity:      
Common stock, $.01 par value, 400.0 shares authorized – shares outstanding of 244.2 and 242.6, respectively2
 2
Common stock, $.01 par value, 400.0 shares authorized – shares outstanding of 246.0 and 244.5, respectively2
 2
Other paid-in capital, principally premium on common stock5,598
 5,540
5,673
 5,627
Retained earnings2,073
 1,660
2,408
 2,024
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(17) (18)(21) (22)
Total Ameren Corporation shareholders’ equity7,656
 7,184
8,062
 7,631
Noncontrolling Interests142
 142
142
 142
Total equity7,798
 7,326
8,204
 7,773
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY$26,959
 $25,945
$28,546
 $27,215
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.




AMEREN CORPORATIONCONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS(Unaudited) (In millions)
Nine Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
2018 20172019 2018
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:      
Net income$752
 $588
$739
 $752
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Depreciation and amortization699
 653
745
 699
Amortization of nuclear fuel71
 71
56
 71
Amortization of debt issuance costs and premium/discounts16
 16
14
 16
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net212
 366
144
 212
Allowance for equity funds used during construction(25) (16)(20) (25)
Stock-based compensation costs15
 12
15
 15
Other21
 (7)(11) 21
Changes in assets and liabilities:      
Receivables(129) (59)10
 (129)
Inventories(4) (20)(4) (4)
Accounts and wages payable(198) (183)(205) (198)
Taxes accrued92
 138
118
 92
Regulatory assets and liabilities213
 89
147
 213
Assets, other(2) 18
(56) (2)
Liabilities, other(45) 12
11
 (45)
Pension and other postretirement benefits(2) (31)(35) (2)
Net cash provided by operating activities1,686
 1,647
1,668
 1,686
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:      
Capital expenditures(1,689) (1,523)(1,761) (1,689)
Nuclear fuel expenditures(30) (52)(26) (30)
Purchases of securities – nuclear decommissioning trust fund(172) (187)(192) (172)
Sales and maturities of securities – nuclear decommissioning trust fund159
 175
184
 159
Purchase of bonds(207) 
Proceeds from sale of remarketed bonds207
 
Other13
 3
(3) 13
Net cash used in investing activities(1,719) (1,584)(1,798) (1,719)
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:      
Dividends on common stock(334) (320)(350) (334)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest holders(5) (5)(5) (5)
Short-term debt, net36
 (112)(53) 36
Maturities of long-term debt(522) (425)(329) (522)
Issuances of long-term debt853
 849
900
 853
Issuances of common stock56
 
54
 56
Repurchases of common stock for stock-based compensation
 (24)
Employee payroll taxes related to stock-based compensation(19) (15)(29) (19)
Debt issuance costs(9) (5)(10) (9)
Other1
 (1)
 1
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities57
 (58)
Net cash provided by financing activities178
 57
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash24
 5
48
 24
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of year68
 52
107
 68
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period$92
 $57
$155
 $92
   
Noncash financing activity – Issuance of common stock for stock-based compensation$35
 $
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.




AMEREN CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(Unaudited) (In millions, except per share amounts)
 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
 2019 2018 2019 2018
Common Stock$2
 $2
 $2
 $2
        
Other Paid-in Capital:       
Beginning of period5,649
 5,576
 5,627
 5,540
Shares issued under the DRPlus and 401(k) plan17
 16
 54
 56
Stock-based compensation activity7
 6
 (8) 2
Other paid-in capital, end of period5,673
 5,598
 5,673
 5,598
        
Retained Earnings:       
Beginning of period2,161
 1,827
 2,024
 1,660
Net income attributable to Ameren common shareholders364
 357
 734
 747
Dividends(117) (111) (350) (334)
Retained earnings, end of period2,408
 2,073
 2,408
 2,073
        
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss):       
Deferred retirement benefit costs, beginning of period(21) (19) (22) (18)
Change in deferred retirement benefit costs
 2
 1
 1
Deferred retirement benefit costs, end of period(21) (17) (21) (17)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss, end of period(21) (17) (21) (17)
Total Ameren Corporation Shareholders’ Equity$8,062
 $7,656
 $8,062
 $7,656
        
Noncontrolling Interests:       
Beginning of period142
 142
 142
 142
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest holders2
 2
 5
 5
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest holders(2) (2) (5) (5)
Noncontrolling interests, end of period142
 142
 142
 142
Total Equity$8,204
 $7,798
 $8,204
 $7,798
        
        
Common stock shares outstanding at beginning of period245.8
 244.0
 244.5
 242.6
Shares issued under the DRPlus and 401(k) plan0.2
 0.2
 0.7
 0.9
Shares issued for stock-based compensation
 
 0.8
 0.7
Common stock shares outstanding at end of period246.0
 244.2
 246.0
 244.2
        
Dividends per common share$0.4750
 $0.4575
 $1.4250
 $1.3725

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.



 
UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN MISSOURI)
STATEMENT OF INCOME
(Unaudited) (In millions)
Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
2018 2017 2018 20172019 2018 2019 2018
Operating Revenues:              
Electric$1,111
 $1,099
 $2,782
 $2,758
$1,040
 $1,111
 $2,517
 $2,782
Natural gas18
 17
 94
 83
19
 18
 98
 94
Total operating revenues1,129
 1,116
 2,876
 2,841
1,059
 1,129
 2,615
 2,876
Operating Expenses:              
Fuel216
 199
 590
 594
147
 216
 409
 590
Purchased power49
 43
 131
 203
49
 49
 160
 131
Natural gas purchased for resale5
 4
 37
 29
6
 5
 41
 37
Other operations and maintenance234
 229
 707
 672
242
 234
 720
 707
Depreciation and amortization137
 134
 411
 399
138
 137
 417
 411
Taxes other than income taxes94
 95
 258
 255
96
 94
 256
 258
Total operating expenses735
 704
 2,134
 2,152
678
 735
 2,003
 2,134
Operating Income394
 412
 742
 689
381
 394
 612
 742
Other Income, Net16
 16
 45
 48
15
 16
 43
 45
Interest Charges50
 50
 152
 157
44
 50
 136
 152
Income Before Income Taxes360
 378
 635
 580
352
 360
 519
 635
Income Taxes65
 143
 132
 218
51
 65
 70
 132
Net Income295
 235
 503
 362
301
 295
 449
 503
Preferred Stock Dividends1
 1
 3
 3
1
 1
 3
 3
Net Income Available to Common Shareholder$294
 $234
 $500
 $359
$300
 $294
 $446
 $500
The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Missouri are an integral part of these financial statements.




UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN MISSOURI)
BALANCE SHEET
(Unaudited) (In millions, except per share amounts)
September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017September 30, 2019 December 31, 2018
ASSETS      
Current Assets:      
Cash and cash equivalents$
 $
$
 $
Advances to money pool28
 
Accounts receivable – trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $8 and $7, respectively)331
 200
243
 223
Accounts receivable – affiliates16
 11
20
 14
Unbilled revenue153
 165
156
 155
Miscellaneous accounts receivable61
 35
41
 42
Inventories385
 388
356
 358
Current regulatory assets28
 56
Other current assets40
 50
66
 40
Total current assets1,042
 905
882
 832
Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net11,933
 11,751
12,452
 12,103
Investments and Other Assets:      
Nuclear decommissioning trust fund752
 704
798
 684
Regulatory assets351
 395
358
 366
Other assets305
 288
370
 306
Total investments and other assets1,408
 1,387
1,526
 1,356
TOTAL ASSETS$14,383
 $14,043
$14,860
 $14,291
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY      
Current Liabilities:      
Current maturities of long-term debt$336
 $384
$336
 $580
Short-term debt
 39
144
 55
Accounts and wages payable246
 475
261
 428
Accounts payable – affiliates90
 60
126
 69
Taxes accrued138
 30
148
 27
Interest accrued62
 54
Current regulatory liabilities48
 19
Other current liabilities115
 103
240
 243
Total current liabilities1,035
 1,164
1,255
 1,402
Long-term Debt, Net3,668
 3,577
3,779
 3,418
Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities:      
Accumulated deferred income taxes, net1,636
 1,650
Accumulated deferred investment tax credits44
 48
Accumulated deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net1,619
 1,576
Regulatory liabilities2,799
 2,664
2,860
 2,799
Asset retirement obligations636
 634
667
 623
Pension and other postretirement benefits204
 213
211
 228
Other deferred credits and liabilities5
 12
44
 16
Total deferred credits and other liabilities5,324
 5,221
5,401
 5,242
Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 2, 8, 9, and 10)

 



 


Shareholders’ Equity:      
Common stock, $5 par value, 150.0 shares authorized – 102.1 shares outstanding511
 511
511
 511
Other paid-in capital, principally premium on common stock1,858
 1,858
1,903
 1,903
Preferred stock80
 80
80
 80
Retained earnings1,907
 1,632
1,931
 1,735
Total shareholders’ equity4,356
 4,081
4,425
 4,229
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY$14,383
 $14,043
$14,860
 $14,291
The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Missouri are an integral part of these financial statements.




UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN MISSOURI)
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited) (In millions)
Nine Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
2018 20172019 2018
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:      
Net income$503
 $362
$449
 $503
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Depreciation and amortization398
 384
419
 398
Amortization of nuclear fuel71
 71
56
 71
Amortization of debt issuance costs and premium/discounts4
 5
4
 4
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net4
 55
(9) 4
Allowance for equity funds used during construction(19) (15)(14) (19)
Other14
 4
10
 14
Changes in assets and liabilities:      
Receivables(156) (117)(32) (156)
Inventories3
 (3)3
 3
Accounts and wages payable(168) (151)(153) (168)
Taxes accrued148
 160
148
 148
Regulatory assets and liabilities149
 48
5
 149
Assets, other
 19
(37) 
Liabilities, other7
 4
(4) 7
Pension and other postretirement benefits3
 (7)(5) 3
Net cash provided by operating activities961
 819
840
 961
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:      
Capital expenditures(664) (533)(751) (664)
Nuclear fuel expenditures(30) (52)(26) (30)
Purchases of securities – nuclear decommissioning trust fund(172) (187)(192) (172)
Sales and maturities of securities – nuclear decommissioning trust fund159
 175
184
 159
Purchase of bonds(207) 
Proceeds from sale of remarketed bonds207
 
Money pool advances, net(28) 143

 (28)
Net cash used in investing activities(735) (454)(785) (735)
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:      
Dividends on common stock(225) (332)(250) (225)
Dividends on preferred stock(3) (3)(3) (3)
Short-term debt, net(39) 
89
 (39)
Maturities of long-term debt(378) (425)(329) (378)
Issuances of long-term debt423
 399
450
 423
Debt issuance costs(4) (3)(6) (4)
Net cash used in financing activities(226) (364)(49) (226)
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
 1
6
 
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of year7
 5
8
 7
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period$7
 $6
$14
 $7
The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Missouri are an integral part of these financial statements.






UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN MISSOURI)
STATEMENT OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(Unaudited) (In millions)
 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
 2019 2018 2019 2018
Common Stock$511
 $511
 $511
 $511
        
Other Paid-in Capital1,903
 1,858
 1,903
 1,858
        
Preferred Stock80
 80
 80
 80
        
Retained Earnings:       
Beginning of period1,781
 1,788
 1,735
 1,632
Net income301
 295
 449
 503
Common stock dividends(150) (175) (250) (225)
Preferred stock dividends(1) (1) (3) (3)
Retained earnings, end of period1,931
 1,907
 1,931
 1,907
        
Total Shareholders’ Equity$4,425
 $4,356
 $4,425
 $4,356

The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Missouri are an integral part of these financial statements.



 
AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN ILLINOIS)
STATEMENT OF INCOME
(Unaudited) (In millions)
Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
2018 2017 2018 20172019 2018 2019 2018
Operating Revenues:              
Electric$448
 $462
 $1,333
 $1,343
$452
 $448
 $1,305
 $1,333
Natural gas116
 112
 569
 510
112
 116
 568
 569
Total operating revenues564
 574
 1,902
 1,853
564
 564
 1,873
 1,902
Operating Expenses:              
Purchased power105
 124
 334
 312
101
 105
 284
 334
Natural gas purchased for resale25
 21
 215
 167
25
 25
 195
 215
Other operations and maintenance195
 186
 590
 598
193
 195
 580
 590
Depreciation and amortization94
 86
 278
 254
102
 94
 304
 278
Taxes other than income taxes32
 33
 108
 101
33
 32
 110
 108
Total operating expenses451
 450
 1,525
 1,432
454
 451
 1,473
 1,525
Operating Income113
 124
 377
 421
110
 113
 400
 377
Other Income, Net11
 5
 30
 8
13
 11
 39
 30
Interest Charges38
 36
 112
 109
38
 38
 111
 112
Income Before Income Taxes86
 93
 295
 320
85
 86
 328
 295
Income Taxes23
 38
 73
 127
20
 23
 79
 73
Net Income63
 55
 222
 193
65
 63
 249
 222
Preferred Stock Dividends
 
 2
 2

 
 2
 2
Net Income Available to Common Shareholder$63
 $55
 $220
 $191
$65
 $63
 $247
 $220
The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Illinois are an integral part of these financial statements.






AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN ILLINOIS)
BALANCE SHEET
(Unaudited) (In millions)
September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017September 30, 2019 December 31, 2018
ASSETS      
Current Assets:      
Cash and cash equivalents$
 $
$
 $
Accounts receivable – trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $14 and $12, respectively)251
 234
Accounts receivable – trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $11 and $11, respectively)222
 224
Accounts receivable – affiliates36
 9
38
 21
Unbilled revenue107
 158
117
 140
Miscellaneous accounts receivable33
 35
16
 40
Inventories140
 134
132
 125
Current regulatory assets44
 87
58
 110
Other current assets18
 15
26
 16
Total current assets629
 672
609
 676
Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net8,969
 8,293
Property and Plant, Net9,819
 9,198
Investments and Other Assets:      
Goodwill411
 411
411
 411
Regulatory assets743
 822
796
 759
Other assets258
 147
311
 275
Total investments and other assets1,412
 1,380
1,518
 1,445
TOTAL ASSETS$11,010
 $10,345
$11,946
 $11,319
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY   
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY   
Current Liabilities:      
Current maturities of long-term debt$313
 $457
Short-term debt108
 62
$310
 $72
Borrowings from money pool45
 
Accounts and wages payable275
 337
247
 302
Accounts payable – affiliates44
 70
67
 58
Taxes accrued15
 19
Interest accrued39
 33
Customer deposits84
 69
71
 76
Current environmental remediation50
 42
56
 42
Current regulatory liabilities48
 92
49
 62
Other current liabilities161
 177
176
 184
Total current liabilities1,182
 1,358
976
 796
Long-term Debt, Net2,801
 2,373
3,279
 3,296
Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities:      
Accumulated deferred income taxes, net1,081
 1,021
Accumulated deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net1,180
 1,119
Regulatory liabilities1,732
 1,629
1,884
 1,741
Pension and other postretirement benefits284
 285
261
 280
Environmental remediation113
 134
85
 109
Other deferred credits and liabilities207
 235
260
 204
Total deferred credits and other liabilities3,417
 3,304
3,670
 3,453
Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 2, 8, and 9)

 

Shareholders’ Equity:   
Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 2, 8 and 9)


 


Shareholders' Equity:   
Common stock, no par value, 45.0 shares authorized – 25.5 shares outstanding
 

 
Other paid-in capital2,093
 2,013
2,173
 2,173
Preferred stock62
 62
62
 62
Retained earnings1,455
 1,235
1,786
 1,539
Total shareholders’ equity3,610
 3,310
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY$11,010
 $10,345
Total shareholders' equity4,021
 3,774
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY$11,946
 $11,319


The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Illinois are an integral part of these financial statements.




AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN ILLINOIS)
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited) (In millions)
Nine Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
2018 20172019 2018
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:      
Net income$222
 $193
$249
 $222
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Depreciation and amortization278
 254
303
 278
Amortization of debt issuance costs and premium/discounts10
 10
9
 10
Deferred income taxes and investment tax credits, net56
 161
42
 56
Other5
 (1)8
 5
Changes in assets and liabilities:      
Receivables21
 59
18
 21
Inventories(7) (17)(7) (7)
Accounts and wages payable(44) (24)(48) (44)
Taxes accrued(40) (22)14
 (40)
Regulatory assets and liabilities63
 45
147
 63
Assets, other
 (5)(15) 
Liabilities, other(40) (2)13
 (40)
Pension and other postretirement benefits(8) (19)(27) (8)
Net cash provided by operating activities516
 632
706
 516
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:      
Capital expenditures(947) (760)(900) (947)
Other10
 6
(3) 10
Net cash used in investing activities(937) (754)(903) (937)
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:      
Dividends on preferred stock(2) (2)(2) (2)
Short-term debt, net46
 118
237
 46
Money pool borrowings, net45
 11

 45
Maturities of long-term debt(144) 

 (144)
Issuances of long-term debt430
 

 430
Debt issuance costs(5) 

 (5)
Capital contribution from parent80
 

 80
Other1
 (1)(1) 1
Net cash provided by financing activities451
 126
234
 451
Net change in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash30
 4
37
 30
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of year41
 28
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year80
 41
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period$71
 $32
$117
 $71
The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Illinois are an integral part of these financial statements.






AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (d/b/a AMEREN ILLINOIS)
STATEMENT OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(Unaudited) (In millions)
 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
 2019 2018 2019 2018
Common Stock$
 $
 $
 $
        
Other Paid-in Capital:       
Beginning of period2,173
 2,093
 2,173
 2,013
Capital contribution from parent
 
 
 80
Other paid-in capital, end of period2,173
 2,093
 2,173
 2,093
        
Preferred Stock:62
 62
 62
 62
        
Retained Earnings:       
Beginning of period1,721
 1,392
 1,539
 1,235
Net income65
 63
 249
 222
Preferred stock dividends
 
 (2) (2)
Retained earnings, end of period1,786
 1,455
 1,786
 1,455
        
Total Shareholders’ Equity$4,021
 $3,610
 $4,021
 $3,610

The accompanying notes as they relate to Ameren Illinois are an integral part of these financial statements.



AMEREN CORPORATION (Consolidated)
UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY (d/b/a Ameren Missouri)
AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY (d/b/a Ameren Illinois)
COMBINED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
September 30, 20182019
NOTE 1 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
General
Ameren, headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is a public utility holding company whose primary assets are its equity interests in its subsidiaries. Ameren’s subsidiaries are separate, independent legal entities with separate businesses, assets, and liabilities. Dividends on Ameren’s common stock and the payment of expenses by Ameren depend on distributions made to it by its subsidiaries. Ameren’s principal subsidiaries are listed below. Ameren has other subsidiaries that conduct other activities, such as providing shared services. Ameren evaluates competitive electric transmission investment opportunities as they arise.
Union Electric Company, doing business as Ameren Missouri, operates a rate-regulated electric generation, transmission, and distribution business and a rate-regulated natural gas distribution business in Missouri.
Ameren Illinois Company, doing business as Ameren Illinois, operates rate-regulated electric transmission, electric distribution, and natural gas distribution businesses in Illinois.
ATXI operates a FERC rate-regulated electric transmission business. ATXI is developing the MISO-approved electric transmission projects, including the Illinois Rivers and Mark Twain projects, and placed the Spoon River project in service in February 2018.electric transmission projects.
Ameren’s financial statements are prepared on a consolidated basis and therefore include the accounts of its majority-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated. eliminated, except as disclosed in Note 8 – Related-party Transactions. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois have no subsidiaries. All tabular dollar amounts are in millions, unless otherwise indicated.
As of September 30, 2018, and December 31, 2017, Ameren had unconsolidated variable interests as a limited partner in various equity method investments, totaling $20 million and $17 million, respectively, included in “Other assets” on Ameren’s consolidated balance sheet. Ameren is not the primary beneficiary of these investments because it does not have the power to direct matters that most significantly affect the activities of these variable interest entities. As of September 30, 2018, the maximum exposure to loss related to these variable interests is limited to the investment in these partnerships of $20 million plus associated outstanding funding commitments of $17 million.
Our accounting policies conform to GAAP. Our financial statements reflect all adjustments (which include normal, recurring adjustments) that are necessary, in our opinion, for a fair presentationstatement of our results. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions. Such estimates and assumptions affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The results of operations of an interim period may not give a true indication of results that may be expected for a full year. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and accompanying notes included in the Form 10-K.
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Restricted CashVariable Interest Entities
Cash and cash equivalents include short-term, highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less. Cash and cash equivalents subject to legal or contractual restrictions and not readily available for use for general corporate purposes are classified as restricted cash.
In November 2016, the FASB issued authoritative guidance that requires, including on a retrospective basis, restricted cash to be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. Our adoption of this guidance, effective January 2018, did not result in material changes to previously reported cash flows from operating, investing, or financing activities.


The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash reported within the balance sheets and the statements of cash flows asAs of September 30, 20182019, Ameren and 2017,Ameren Missouri had interests in unconsolidated variable interest entities that were established to construct wind generation facilities and, ultimately, sell those constructed facilities to Ameren Missouri. Neither Ameren nor Ameren Missouri are the primary beneficiary of these variable interest entities because neither has the power to direct matters that most significantly affect the entities' activities, which include designing, financing, and constructing the wind generation facilities. As a result, these variable interest entities have not been consolidated. As of September 30, 2019, the maximum exposure to loss related to these variable interest entities was approximately $12 million, which primarily represents legal costs incurred. The risk of a loss was assessed to be remote and, accordingly, Ameren and Ameren Missouri have not recognized a liability associated with any portion of the maximum exposure to loss. See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters for additional information on the agreements to acquire these wind generation facilities.
As of September 30, 2019, and December 31, 20172018, Ameren had unconsolidated variable interests as a limited partner in various equity method investments, totaling $27 million and 2016:
 September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 September 30, 2017 December 31, 2016
AmerenAmeren
Missouri
Ameren
Illinois
AmerenAmeren
Missouri
Ameren
Illinois
Ameren
Ameren
Missouri
Ameren
Illinois
Ameren
Ameren
Missouri
Ameren
Illinois
Cash and cash equivalents(a)
$11
$
$
 $10
$
$
 $9
$
$
 $9
$
$
Restricted cash included in “Other current assets”15
4
8
 21
5
6
 19
4
5
 20
4
6
Restricted cash included in “Other assets”63

63
 35

35
 27

27
 22

22
Restricted cash included in “Nuclear decommissioning trust fund”3
3
(b)
 2
2
(b)
 2
2
(b)
 1
1
(b)
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash(c)
$92
$7
$71
 $68
$7
$41
 $57
$6
$32
 $52
$5
$28
(a)As presented on the balance sheets.
(b)Not applicable.
(c)As presented on the statements of cash flows.
Restricted cash$22 million, respectively, included in “Other assets” on Ameren’s other current assets primarily represents participant funds fromconsolidated balance sheet. Ameren (parent)’s DRPlus and funds held by an irrevocable Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA) trust, which provides health care benefits for active employees. Restricted cash included in Ameren Missouri’s and Ameren Illinois’ other current assets primarily represents funds held byis not the VEBA trust.
Restricted cash included in Ameren’s and Ameren Illinois’ other assets primarily represents amounts in a trust fund restricted forprimary beneficiary of these investments because it does not have the usepower to direct matters that most significantly affect the activities of funding certain asbestos-related claims and amounts collected under a cost recovery rider that are restricted for use in the procurementthese variable interest entities. As of renewable energy credits.
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
The following table provides noncash investing activity excluded from the statements of cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017:
 September 30, 2018 September 30, 2017
Ameren(a)
Ameren
Missouri
Ameren
Illinois
Ameren(a)
Ameren
Missouri
Ameren
Illinois
Accrued capital expenditures$240
$94
$133
 $202
$70
$100
Net realized and unrealized gain  nuclear decommissioning trust fund
33
33
(b)
 53
53
(b)
(a)Includes amounts for Ameren registrant and nonregistrant subsidiaries.
(b)Not applicable.
Accounts Receivable
“Accounts receivable – trade” on Ameren’s and Ameren Illinois’ balance sheets include certain receivables purchased at a discount from alternative retail electric suppliers that elect2019, the maximum exposure to participateloss related to these variable interests is limited to the investment in the utility consolidated billing program. At September 30, 2018, and December 31, 2017, “Other current liabilities” on Ameren’s and Ameren Illinois’ balance sheets included payables for purchased receivablesthese partnerships of $40$27 million and $31 million, respectively.
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017, the Ameren Companies recorded immaterial bad debt expense.


Asset Retirement Obligations
The following table provides a reconciliationplus associated outstanding funding commitments of the beginning and ending carrying amount of AROs for the nine months ended September 30, 2018:$37 million.
 
Ameren
Missouri
 
Ameren
Illinois(a)
 Ameren 
Balance at December 31, 2017$640
(b) 
$4
 $644
(b) 
Liabilities settled(4) (c)
 (4) 
Accretion(d)
20
 (c)
 20
 
Change in estimates(e)
(14) 
 (14) 
Balance at September 30, 2018$642
(b) 
$4
 $646
(b) 
(a)Included in “Other deferred credits and liabilities” on the balance sheet.
(b)Balance included $6 million in “Other current liabilities” on the balance sheet as of both December 31, 2017, and September 30, 2018.
(c)Less than $1 million.
(d)Accretion expense attributable to Ameren Missouri was recorded as a decrease to regulatory liabilities.
(e)Ameren Missouri changed its fair value estimate primarily due to a reduction in the cost estimate for closure of certain CCR storage facilities.
Company-owned Life Insurance
Ameren and Ameren Illinois have company-owned life insurance, which is recorded at the net cash surrender value. The net cash surrender value is the amount that can be realized under the insurance policies at the balance sheet date. As of September 30, 2018,2019, the cash surrender value of company-owned life insurance at Ameren and Ameren Illinois was $256$258 million (December 31, 20172018 – $265$244 million) and $120$121 million (December 31, 20172018 – $129$122 million), respectively, while total borrowings against the policies were $113$114 million (December 31, 20172018 – $120$113 million) at both Ameren and Ameren Illinois. Ameren and Ameren Illinois have the right to offset the borrowings


against the cash surrender value of the policies and, consequently, present the net asset in “Other assets” on their respective balance sheets.
Stock-based CompensationAccounting and Reporting Developments
The following table summarizes Ameren's nonvested performance share unit and restricted stock unit activitySee Note 13 – Supplemental Information for the nine months ended September 30, 2018:
 Performance Share Units Restricted Stock Units
 Share Units Weighted-average Fair Value per Share Unit Stock Units Weighted-average Fair Value per Stock Unit
Nonvested at January 1, 2018(a)
895,489
 $52.28
 
 $
Granted313,984
 62.88
 186,728
 57.65
Forfeitures(62,865) 50.78
 (4,964) 58.99
Undistributed vested units(b)
(217,350) 53.57
 (19,742) 59.01
Vested and distributed(176,043) 52.88
 
 
Nonvested at September 30, 2018(c)
753,215
 $56.31
 162,022
 $57.44
(a)Does not include 712,572 undistributed vested performance share units.
(b)Undistributed vested units are awards that vested due to attainmentadditional information on our adoption of retirement eligibility by certain employees, but have not yet been distributed. For undistributed vested performance share units, the number of shares issued for retirement-eligible employees will vary depending on actual performance over the three-year performance period.
(c)Does not include 548,542 undistributed vested performance share units and 19,742 undistributed vested restricted stock units.
Performance Share Units
A performance share unit vests and entitles an employee to receive shares of Ameren common stock (plus accumulated dividends) if, at the end of the three-year performance period, certain specified market conditions have been met and if the individual remains employed by Ameren through the required vesting period. The vesting period for share units awarded extends beyond the three-year performance period to the payout date, which is approximately 38 months after the grant date. In the event of a participant’s death or retirement at age 55 or older with five or more years of service, awards vest on a pro rata basis over the three-year performance period. The exact number of shares issued pursuant to a share unit varies from 0% to 200% of the target award, depending on actual company performance relative to the performance goals.
The fair value of each performance share unit granted in 2018 was determined to be $62.88, which was based on Ameren’s closing common share price of $58.99 at December 31, 2017, and lattice simulations. Lattice simulations are used to estimate expected share payout based on Ameren’s total shareholder return for a three-year performance period beginning January 1, 2018, relative to the designated


peer group. The significant assumptions used to calculate fair value included a three-year risk-free rate of 1.98% and volatility of 15% to 23% for the peer group.
Restricted Stock Units
Restricted stock units vest and entitle an employee to receive shares of Ameren common stock (plus accumulated dividends) if the individual remains employed with Ameren through the payment date of the awards. Generally, in the event of a participant’s death or retirement at age 55 or older with five or more years of service, awards vest on a pro rata basis. The payout date of the awards is approximately 38 months after the grant date. The fair value of each restricted stock unit is determined by Ameren’s closing common share price on the grant date.
Deferred Compensation
As of both September 30, 2018, and December 31, 2017, “Other deferred credits and liabilities” on Ameren’s balance sheet included deferred compensation obligations of $86 million recorded at the present value of future benefits to be paid.
Operating Revenues
In the first quarter of 2018, we adopted authoritative accounting guidance related to revenue from contracts with customers using the full retrospective method, with no material changes to the amount or timing of revenue recognition. We record revenues from contracts with customers for various electric and natural gas services, which primarily consist of retail distribution, electric transmission, and off-system arrangements. When more than one performance obligation exists in a contract, the consideration under the contract is allocated to the performance obligations based on the relative standalone selling price.
Electric and natural gas retail distribution revenues are earned when the commodity is delivered to our customers. We accrue an estimate of electric and natural gas retail distribution revenues for service provided but unbilled at the end of each accounting period.
Electric transmission revenues are earned as electric transmission services are provided.
Off-system revenues are primarily comprised of MISO revenues and wholesale bilateral revenues. MISO revenues include the sale of electricity, capacity, and ancillary services. Wholesale bilateral revenues include the sale of electricity and capacity. MISO-related electricity and wholesale bilateral electricity revenues are earned as electricity is delivered. MISO-related capacity and ancillary service revenues and wholesale bilateral capacity revenues are earned as services are provided.
Retail distribution, electric transmission, and off-system revenues, including the underlying components described above, represent a series of goods or services that are substantially the same and have the same pattern of transfer over time to our customers. Revenues from contracts with customers is equal to the amounts billed and our estimate of electric and natural gas retail distribution services provided but unbilled at the end of each accounting period. Revenues are billed at least monthly, and payments are due less than one month after goods and/or services are provided. See Note 13 – Segment Information for disaggregated revenue information.
For certain regulatory recovery mechanisms that are alternative revenue programs, rather than revenues from contracts with customers, we recognize revenues that have been authorized for rate recovery, are objectively determinable and probable of recovery, and are expected to be collected from customers within two years from the end of the year. Our alternative revenue programs include revenue requirement reconciliations, MEEIA, and VBA. These revenues are subsequently recognized as revenues from contracts with customers when billed, with an offset to alternative revenue program revenues.
The Ameren Companies elected not to include disclosure related to the aggregate amount of the transaction price allocated to the performance obligations that are unsatisfied as of the end of the reporting period for contracts with an initial expected term of one year or less. As of September 30, 2018 and 2017, our remaining performance obligations were immaterial.


Excise Taxes
Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois collect from their customers excise taxes, including municipal and state excise taxes and gross receipts taxes, that are levied on the sale or distribution of natural gas and electricity. The following table presents the excise taxes recorded on a gross basis in “Operating Revenues – Electric,” “Operating Revenues – Natural gas” and “Operating Expenses – Taxes other than income taxes” on the statements of income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017:
 Three Months  Nine Months 
 2018 2017  2018 2017 
Ameren Missouri$52
 $51
  $133
 $122
 
Ameren Illinois26
 26
(a) 
 89
 82
(a) 
Ameren$78
 $77
(a) 
 $222
 $204
(a) 
(a)Amounts have been adjusted from those previously reported to reflect additional excise taxes for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017.
Earnings per Share
Earnings per basic and diluted share are computed by dividing “Net Income Attributable to Ameren Common Shareholders” by the weighted-average number of basic and diluted common shares outstanding, respectively, during the period. Earnings per diluted share is computed by dividing “Net Income Attributable to Ameren Common Shareholders” by the weighted-average number of diluted common shares outstanding during the period. Earnings per diluted share reflects the dilution that would occur if certain stock-based performance share units and restricted stock units were assumed to be settled. The number of potential common shares assumed to have been issued was 2.2 million and 1.9 million in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, respectively, and 2.1 million and 1.4 million, respectively, in the year-ago periods. There were no potentially dilutive securities excluded from the earnings per diluted share calculations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017.
Accounting and Reporting Developments
In the first quarter of 2018, the Ameren Companies adopted authoritative accounting guidance on various topics. See the Operating Revenues section above for more information on our adoption of the guidance on revenue from contracts with customers. See Note 11 – Retirement Benefits for more information on our adoption of the guidance on the presentation of net periodic pension and postretirement benefit cost. See the Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Restricted Cash section above for more information on our adoption of the guidance on restricted cash. Our adoption of the guidance on the recognition and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities did not have a material impact on our results of operations or financial position.
leases. See Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K for additional information about recently issued authoritative accounting standards relating to the measurement of credit losses on financial instruments, and the reclassification of certain tax effects from accumulated OCI.
Leases
In February 2016, the FASB issued authoritative guidance that requires an entity to recognize assets and liabilities arising from all leases with a term greater than one year. Consistent with current GAAP, the recognition, measurement, and presentation of expenses and cash flows arising from a lease will depend on its classification as a finance lease or operating lease. The guidance also requires additional disclosures to enable users of financial statements to understand the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. This guidance will affect the Ameren Companies’ financial position by increasing the assets and liabilities recorded relating to their operating leases. We are also assessing the impacts of this guidance on our results of operations, cash flows, and disclosures. We have selected a software vendor and are in the process of implementing system changes required for the implementation of this guidance. We are currently assessing our agreements to determine those that are within the scope of this guidance. This guidance will be effective for the Ameren Companies in the first quarter of 2019.
In July 2018, the FASB issued authoritative guidance that provides entities with an optional transition method for adopting the new leases standard. Under this optional transition method, the Ameren Companies may adopt the new leases standard by recognizing a cumulative-effect adjustment to our January 1, 2019, retained earnings balances. Periods prior to 2019 would continue to be presented and disclosed in the financial statements in accordance with current GAAP. We are currently assessing whether we will elect this optional transition method.


Fair Value Measurement Disclosures
In August 2018, the FASB issued authoritative guidance that affects disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The guidance will be effective for the Ameren Companies in the first quarter of 2020, with early adoption permitted. We are currently assessing the impacts of this guidance on our disclosures.
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosures
In August 2018, the FASB issued authoritative guidance that affects disclosure requirements formeasurement disclosures, and defined benefit plans. The guidance will be effective for the Ameren Companies in the fourth quarter of 2020, and will require changes to be applied retrospectively to each period presented. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently assessing the impacts of this guidance on our disclosures.
Implementation Costs Incurred in Certain Cloud Computing Arrangements
In August 2018, the FASB issued authoritative guidance that aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in certain hosting arrangements with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software. The guidance requires capitalized implementation costs to be expensed over the term of the hosting arrangement and presented in the same line item in the statement of income as the fees of the associated hosting arrangement. Capitalized implementation costs must be presented in the balance sheet in the same line item that a prepayment for the fees of the associated hosting arrangement would be presented, and payments for capitalized implementation costs must be classified in the statement of cash flows in the same manner as payments for hosting arrangement fees. The Ameren Companies early adopted this guidance in the third quarter of 2018 and applied the guidance prospectively to all implementation costs incurred after the date of adoption. The amount of implementation costs that were capitalized in the third quarter of 2018 was immaterial.
SEC Disclosure Update and Simplification
In August 2018, the SEC adopted a final rule that requires, among other things, inclusion of a statement of changes in shareholders’ equity, or disclosure of such changes, and disclosure of the amount of dividends per share for each class of shares with respect to interim periods. The guidance will be effective for the Ameren Companies in the fourth quarter of 2018. We are currently assessing the impact of this guidance on ourplan disclosures.
NOTE 2 – RATE AND REGULATORY MATTERS
Below is a summary of updates to significant regulatory proceedings and related lawsuits. See also Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K. We are unable to predict the ultimate outcome of these matters, the timing of the final decisions of the various agencies and courts, or the impact on our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
Missouri
2019 Electric Service Regulatory Rate Review
In July 2019, Ameren Missouri Senate Bill 564filed a request with the MoPSC seeking approval to decrease its annual revenues for electric service by $1 million. The electric rate decrease request is based on a9.95%return on common equity, a capital structure composed of51.9% common equity, a rate base of $8.0 billion, and a test year ended December 31, 2018, with certain pro-forma adjustments expected through an anticipated true-up date of December 31, 2019. Pro-forma adjustments are also expected for fuel costs, transportation costs, MISO multi-value transmission project expenses, and payroll costs effective as of January 1, 2020. The electric rate decrease request reflects the following:
On Junedecreased net energy costs of approximately $100 million otherwise subject to FAC recovery;
higher weather-normalized customer sales volumes, which reduced the rate request by approximately $55 million;
decreased expenses, other than net energy costs, of approximately $20 million, which includes a decrease to those expenses subject to regulatory recovery mechanisms and changes in amortization of regulatory assets and liabilities of approximately $80 million;
increased depreciation and amortization expense of approximately $115 million for new electric infrastructure investments, of which approximately $35 million reflects higher depreciation rates and another $35 million would otherwise be deferred under PISA; and
an increase of approximately $60 million of pre-tax return on rate base, which includes both the debt and equity components, of which approximately $30 million would otherwise be deferred under PISA.
Ameren Missouri’s base rates for electric service, which were last reset on April 1, 2017, and adjusted by a July 2018 Missouri Senate Bill 564 was enacted. The sectionMoPSC order, are required to be reset at least every four years to allow for continued use of the law applicable to the TCJA was effective immediately; the remaining sections, including the ability to elect PISA, became effective August 28, 2018. The law resulted in certain changes to the regulation of Ameren Missouri’s electric service business. These changes include the reduction of customer rates to pass through the effectFAC. This filing, which includes a request for continued use of the reduction in the federal statutory corporate income tax rate enacted under the TCJA and, at each electric utility’s election, the use of PISA. The law required the MoPSC to authorize a reduction in Ameren Missouri’s rates to pass through the effect of the TCJA within 90 days of the law’s effective date. In July 2018, the MoPSC authorizedFAC, allows Ameren Missouri to reducemeet that requirement while providing flexibility to time its annual revenue requirementnext regulatory rate review to include wind generation investments expected to be made by $167 million and reflect that reduction in rates beginning August 1, 2018. The reduction included $74 million for the amortizationend of excess accumulated deferred income taxes. In addition, 2020.
Ameren Missouri recorded a reduction to revenuealso requested continued use of the regulatory recovery mechanisms for pension and a corresponding regulatory liability of $60 million forpostretirement benefits, uncertain income tax positions and certain excess deferred taxes that the excess amounts collectedMoPSC previously authorized in rates relatedearlier electric rate orders.
The MoPSC proceeding relating to the TCJA from January 1, 2018, through July 31, 2018. The regulatory liabilityproposed electric service rate changes will be reflected in customer ratestake place over a period of timeup to be determined 11 months, with a decision by the MoPSC in the next regulatory rate review.
expected by late April 2020 and new rates effective by late May 2020.Ameren Missouri filed a notification withcannot predict the level of any electric service rate change the MoPSC on September 1, 2018, to elect PISA. Under PISA,may approve, when any rate change may go into effect, whether the requested regulatory recovery mechanisms will be approved, or whether any rate change that may eventually be approved will be sufficient for Ameren Missouri is permitted to deferrecover its costs and recover 85% of the depreciation expense andearn a weighted-average cost of capitalreasonable return on rate base on certain property, plant, and equipment placed in-service after September 1, 2018, and not included in base rates. The rate base on which the return is calculated incorporates qualifying capital expenditures since the PISA election date as well as changes in total accumulated depreciation excluding retirements and plant-related deferred income taxes. The debt return on rate base is recognized in earnings as a reduction of “Interest Charges” until PISA deferrals are reflected in customer rates, while the equity return is recognized in earnings as “Operating Revenues – Electric”its investments when billed to customers. Accumulated PISA deferrals earn carrying costs at the weighted-average cost of capital, and all approved PISA deferrals will be added to rate base prospectively and recovered over a period of 20 years following a regulatory rate review. Costs not included in the PISA deferral, including the remaining 15% of the depreciation expense and return on rate base, remain subject to regulatory


lag. Qualifying PISA capital expenditures exclude amounts related to new coal-fired, nuclear, and natural gas generating units and service to new customer premises. Amounts deferred under PISA were immaterial as of September 30, 2018.
As a result of Ameren Missouri’s PISA election, additional provisions of Missouri Senate Bill 564 apply, including limiting customer rate increases to a 2.85% compound annual growth rate in the average overall customer rate per kilowatthour, based on the electric rates that became effective in April 2017, less half of the 2018 savings from the TCJA that was passed on to customers. Additionally, Ameren Missouri’s electric base rates, as determined in the July 2018 MoPSC rate order, are frozen until April 1, 2020. Recoveries under the MEEIA, the FAC, and the RESRAM riders have not been frozen; however, except for costs recoverable under the MEEIA rider, Ameren Missouri will be unable to recover any amounts above the 2.85% cap from customers. If rate changes from the FAC or the RESRAM riders would cause rates to temporarily exceed the 2.85% cap, the overage will be deferred for future recovery in the next regulatory rate review; however, rates established in such regulatory rate review will be subject to the rate cap. Any deferred overages approved for recovery will be recovered in a manner consistent with costs recovered under PISA. Both the rate cap and PISA election will be effective through December 2023, unless Ameren Missouri requests and receives MoPSC approval of an extension through December 2028. Ameren Missouri’s PISA election supports Ameren Missouri’s ability to invest approximately $1 billion of incremental capital over the 2019 to 2023 period to strengthen and modernize Missouri’s electric grid.change goes into effect.
Wind Generation Facilities and RESRAM
In the second quarter ofMay 2019, Ameren Missouri entered into a build-transfer agreement to acquire, after construction, an up-to 300-megawatt wind generation facility. In 2018, Ameren Missouri entered into ana build-transfer agreement with a subsidiary of Terra-Gen, LLC to acquire, after construction, a 400-megawattan up-to400-megawatt wind generation facility,facility.The two build-transfer agreements, which isare subject to customary contract terms and conditions, collectively represent approximately $1.2 billion of capital expenditures, are expected to be located in northeastern Missouri. In May 2018,completed by the end of 2020, and would support Ameren Missouri filed for a certificate of convenience and necessityMissouri’s compliance with the MoPSCMissouri renewable energy standard.Both acquisitions have received all regulatory approvals, and both projects have received all applicable zoning approvals, have entered into RTO interconnection agreements, and have begun construction activities.The county zoning approval process for the Schuyler County portion of the 400-megawatt facility.project is subject to litigation filed in August 2019, which is not expected to affect the completion of the project by the end of 2020. The MoPSC issued an order approving a unanimous stipulation and agreement regarding that requested certificate in October 2018. Also infollowing table provides information with respect to each build-transfer agreement:    


Up-to 400-Megawatt FacilityUp-to 300-Megawatt Facility
Build-transfer agreement dateMay 2018May 2019
Wind facility developerTerra-Gen, LLC
Invenergy Renewables, LLC(a)
LocationNortheastern MissouriNorthwestern Missouri
Status of certificate of convenience and necessity from the MoPSCApproved October 2018Approved August 2019
Status of final interconnection costsReceived July 2019Received July 2019
Status of RTO transmission interconnection agreementExecuted August 2019Executed October 2019
Status of FERC approvalReceived December 2018Received October 2019
Expected completion dateBy the end of 2020By the end of 2020
(a)In October 2019, Invenergy Renewables, LLC acquired the project from Enel North America, Inc.
In 2018, Ameren Missouri entered into ana build-transfer agreement with a subsidiary of EDF Renewables, Inc. to acquire, after construction, a 157-megawatt wind generation facilityfacility. In July 2019, Ameren Missouri and the developer mutually agreed to terminate the project due to unacceptable interconnection costs, which made the project uneconomic and not in the best interest of upAmeren Missouri’s customers. Abandonment costs incurred as a result of terminating the project were immaterial to 157 megawatts, andAmeren Missouri.
In January 2019, the MoOPC filed for a certificate of convenience and necessityan appeal with the MoPSC. The MoPSC is expected to issue anMissouri Court of Appeals, Western District, challenging the MoPSC’s December 2018 order regarding that certificate by May 2019. The up to 157-megawatt facility is expected to be located in northwestern Missouri. Both facilities are expected to be completed in 2020 and would help Ameren Missouri comply with the state renewable energy standard. Each acquisition is subject to certain conditions, including the issuance of a certificate of convenience and necessity by the MoPSC, obtaining a MISO transmission interconnection agreement, approval by the FERC, and other customary contract terms and conditions.
As a part of its May 2018 filing, Ameren Missouri requested the MoPSC to authorize a proposed RESRAM that would allowallowing Ameren Missouri to adjust customer rates on an annual basis without a traditional regulatory rate review. The October 2018 MoPSC order included approval of the RESRAM, without addressing recoveryrecover, through the RESRAM, the 15% of the 15%depreciation expense and weighted average cost of capital investmentreturn not recovered under PISA, which was an objection raised byPISA. In October 2019, the MoOPC. Ameren Missouri anticipatesCourt of Appeals, Western District upheld the MoPSC’s order. In November 2019, the MoOPC filed a MoPSC decision resolving this remaining issue and approvingrequest for appeal of the RESRAM tariff by December 2018.MoPSC’s order to the Missouri Supreme Court. The RESRAM is designed to mitigate the impacts of regulatory lag for the cost of compliance with renewable energy requirements,standards, including recovery of investments in wind generation and other renewables,renewable energy generation, by providing more timely recovery of costs and a return on investments not already provided for in customer rates or any other recovery mechanism. RESRAM regulatory assets will earn carrying costs at short-term interest rates.recovered under PISA.
Renewable Choice ProgramMEEIA
In JuneAs a result of MoPSC orders issued in September 2017, October 2018, January 2019, and September 2019 related to performance incentives for the MoPSC approved Ameren Missouri’s Renewable Choice Program, which allows large commercialMEEIA 2013 and industrial customers and municipalities to elect to receive up to 100 percent of their energy from renewable resources. The tariff-based program is designed to recover the costs of the election, net of changes in the market price of such energy. Based on customer contracts, the program enablesMEEIA 2016 programs, Ameren Missouri to supply up to 400 megawattsrecognized revenues of renewable wind energy generation, up to 200 megawatts$20 million and $5 million during the first quarter of which it could own. As applicable, the addition of generation by Ameren Missouri would be subject to the issuance of a certificate of convenience2019 and necessity by the MoPSC, obtaining transmission interconnection agreements with MISO or other RTOs,2018, respectively, and approval by the FERC. This generation would be incremental to the expected renewable generation included in the 2017 IRP. Without extension, the option to elect into the program will terminate$18 million in the third quarter of 2023.2019.
MEEIARequest for Deferral of Maintenance Expenses Related to Scheduled Callaway Refueling and Maintenance Outages
In JuneOctober 2019, Ameren Missouri filed a request with the MoPSC for deferral accounting treatment that would allow Ameren Missouri to defer and amortize maintenance expenses related to scheduled refueling and maintenance outages at its Callaway nuclear energy center. These expenses would be amortized over the period between refueling and maintenance outages, which is approximately 18 months. Ameren Missouri cannot predict the ultimate outcome of this regulatory proceeding. If the request is approved prior to the fall 2020 refueling and maintenance outage, Ameren Missouri would defer the maintenance expenses incurred related to the outage as a regulatory asset and begin to amortize those expenses after completion of the outage.
2018 Natural Gas Delivery Service Regulatory Rate Review
In December 2018, Ameren Missouri filed a proposed customer energy-efficiency planrequest with the MoPSC under the MEEIA. to increase its annual revenues for natural gas delivery service.In October 2018, Ameren Missouri,August 2019, the MoPSC staff, the MoOPC, and certain other intervenors filedissued an order approving a stipulation and agreement with the MoPSC with respect to that proposed plan. decrease Ameren Missouri’s annual revenues for natural gas delivery service by$1 million. The proposed plan includesdecrease in annual rates is based on a three-year plan for a portfolioreturn on common equity range of customer energy-efficiency programs 9.4% to 9.95% and a six-year plan for low-income energy-efficiency programs, along with a cost recovery mechanism. If the proposal is approved,capital structure composed of 52.0% common equity, which was Ameren Missouri intends to invest $226 million over the lifeMissouri’s capital structure as of the plan, including $65 million per program yearMay 31, 2019. This order allows for the three-year period beginning March 2019. The proposed plan includes the continued use of the MEEIA rider,ISRS, which allowswill be calculated using an ROE of 9.725%. The order represents a $1 million increase to Ameren Missouri to collectMissouri’s annual revenues for natural gas delivery service from or refund to customers any difference in actual MEEIA program costs and related lost revenues and the amounts collected from customers. In addition, similar to the MEEIA 2016 plan ending in February 2019, the proposed plan includes a performance incentive that would provide Ameren Missouri an opportunity to earn additional revenues by achieving certain customer energy-efficiency goals, including $30 million if 100% of the goals are


achieved during the three-year period beginning March 2019. Additional revenues may be earned if Ameren Missouri exceeds 100% of its energy savings goals. A decisioninterim rates, which were approved by the MoPSC in this proceeding is anticipated in NovemberDecember 2018.
The MEEIA 2016 program provided Ameren Missouri with a performance incentive to earn additional revenues by achieving certain customer energy-efficiency goals, including $27 million if 100% of the goals were achieved during the three-year period beginning March 2016, with the potential to earn more if Ameren Missouri’s energy savings exceeded those goals. Innew rates became effective September 2017, Ameren Missouri received an order from the MoPSC approving Ameren Missouri’s energy savings results for the first year of the MEEIA 2016 programs. As a result of this order and in accordance with revenue recognition guidance, Ameren Missouri recognized $5 million of revenues in the first quarter of 2018 relating to the MEEIA 2016 performance incentive. In October 2018, Ameren Missouri received an order from the MoPSC approving Ameren Missouri’s energy savings results for the second year of the MEEIA 2016 programs. As a result of this order, Ameren Missouri will recognize $6 million of additional revenues in the fourth quarter of 2018 relating to the MEEIA 2016 performance incentive.
In July 2018, the Missouri Supreme Court overturned a 2016 decision by the Missouri Court of Appeals, Western District, which had upheld a 2015 MoPSC order regarding the determination of a certain input used to calculate the MEEIA 2013 performance incentive, and remanded the matter to the MoPSC. Upon issuance of a MoPSC order, Ameren Missouri expects to recognize an additional $9 million MEEIA 2013 performance incentive.1, 2019.
Illinois
Electric Distribution Service Rates
In April 2018,2019, Ameren Illinois filed its annual electric distribution service formula rate update to establish the revenue requirement to be used for 20192020 rates with the ICC. In November 2018, thePending ICC issued an order in Ameren Illinois’ annualapproval, this update filing that approvedwill result in a $72 $7 million increasedecrease in Ameren Illinois’ electric distribution service rates, beginning in January 2019. 2020.This order reflected an increase to the annual formula rate based on 2017 actual costs and expected net plant additions for 2018, and an increase to include the 2017 revenue requirement reconciliation adjustment. It also includedupdate reflects a decrease for the conclusion of the 20162017 revenue requirement reconciliation adjustment, which will be fully collected from customers in 2018,2019, consistent with the ICC’s December 2017November 2018 annual update filing order. As of September 30,It also reflects an increase to the annual formula rate based on 2018 Ameren Illinois had recorded a regulatory liability of $25 millionactual costs and expected net plant additions for 2019, and an increase to reflectinclude the difference between Ameren Illinois’ estimate of its 2018 revenue requirement andreconciliation adjustment. In August 2019, the ICC staff submitted an updated calculation


of the revenue requirement reflectedincluded in customer rates, including interest.Ameren Illinois’ filing, recommending an amount comparable to that included in Ameren Illinois’ filing. In October 2019, the administrative law judges issued a proposed order consistent with Ameren Illinois’ filing. An ICC decision in this proceeding is expected by December 2019.
Electric Customer Energy-Efficiency Investments
In June 2018,May 2019, Ameren Illinois filed its annual electric customer energy-efficiency formula rate update to establish the revenue requirement to be used for 20192020 rates with the ICC. In November 2018, the ICC issued an order that approved 2019 rates of $35 million for electric customer energy-efficiency investments, which represents an increase of $20 million from 2018 rates.
Income Tax Regulatory Mechanisms
In February 2018, the ICC granted Ameren Illinois’ request, filed in January 2018, to establish a rider to reduce Ameren Illinois’ electric distribution customer rates for the effect of the reduction in the federal statutory corporate income taxThis rate enacted under the TCJA and the return of excess deferred taxes, net of the increase in state income taxes enacted in July 2017. Ameren Illinois' electric distribution customer rates were reduced as a result of the rider beginning in the first quarter of 2018. The estimated reduction of $50 million per year will continue through 2019, as base rates will be adjusted to reflect the current income tax rates starting in 2020.
In April 2018, the ICC approved a rider for the difference between revenues billed under natural gas rates established pursuant to Ameren Illinois’ most recent natural gas rate order and the revenues that would have been billed had the state and federal tax rate changes discussed above been in effect. The rider required Ameren Illinois to record this difference as a regulatory liability beginning January 25, 2018. Ameren Illinois’ natural gas customer rates were reduced as a result of the rider beginning in May 2018, with an estimated reduction of up to $17 million to be reflected substantially over a one-year period.
2018 Natural Gas Delivery Service Regulatory Rate Review
In January 2018, Ameren Illinois filed a request with the ICC seeking approval to increase its annual rates for natural gas delivery service. In November 2018, the ICC issued an order approving a stipulation and agreement that will result in an annual natural gas rate increase of $32 million,update is based on a 9.87%an 8.9% return on common equity, a capital structure composed of 50% common equity, and a rate base$205 million of $1.6 billion. The newnet electric customer energy-efficiency investments. Pending ICC approval, this update filing will result in 2020 electric customer energy-efficiency rates will be effective starting in November 2018. Thisof $44 million, which represents an increase reflectsof $10 million from 2019 rates. In September 2019, the reduction in the federal corporate income tax rate as a resultICC staff submitted an updated calculation of the TCJA, as well as the increaserevenue requirement included in the Illinois corporate income tax rateAmeren Illinois’ filing, recommending an amount comparable to that became effectiveincluded in July 2017, which collectively decreased annual rates by approximately $17 million. As a result of this order, rate base under the QIP rider has been reset to zero. Ameren Illinois used a 2019 future test yearIllinois’ filing. An ICC decision in this proceeding.


proceeding is expected by December 2019.
ATXI’s Illinois Rivers Project
In August 2017, the Illinois Circuit Court for Edgar County dismissed several of ATXI’s condemnation cases related to the one remaining line segment to be completed in the Illinois Rivers project. These cases had been filed to obtain easements and rights of way necessary to complete the line segment. The court found that required notice was not given to the relevant landowners during the underlying ICC proceeding. In November 2017, ATXI appealed this decision to the Illinois Supreme Court. InUpon appeal, in October 2018, the Illinois Supreme Court reversed the Illinois Circuit Court for Edgar County’s decision and remanded the case for further proceedings. AbsentIn February 2019, the landowners pursuing rehearing, or a voluntary settlement, ATXI intends to file a motion to reinstatefiled an appeal with the condemnation casesUnited States Supreme Court, which was denied in April 2019. In the second quarter of 2019, at ATXI’s request, the Illinois Circuit Court for Edgar County inreinstated the fourth quarter of 2018.condemnation cases that were previously dismissed. ATXI plansexpects to complete the project by the end of 2019; however, delays associated with the condemnation proceedings or a rehearing arising from the Illinois Supreme Court’s ruling could delay the completion date.line segment in 2020. The estimated line segment capital expenditure investment is approximately $81 million, of which $38$39 million was invested as of September 30, 2018. The other eight line segments of the Illinois Rivers project are not affected by these proceedings.2019.
Federal
FERC Complaint Cases
In November 2013, a customer group filed a complaint case with the FERC seeking a reduction in the allowed base return on common equity for FERC-regulated transmission rate base under the MISO tariff from 12.38% to 9.15%. In September 2016, the FERC issued a finalan order in the November 2013 complaint case, which lowered the allowed base return on common equity to 10.32%, or a 10.82% total allowed return on common equity with the inclusion of a 50 basis point incentive adder for participation in an RTO, effective since September 2016. The 10.82% allowed return on common equity may be replaced prospectively after the FERC issues a final order in the February 2015 complaint case, discussed below.
Since the maximum FERC-allowed refund period for the November 2013 complaint case ended in February 2015, another customer complaint case was filed in February 2015. MISO transmission owners subsequently filed a motion to dismiss the February 2015 complaint, as discussed below. The February 2015 complaint case seeks a further reduction in the allowed base return on common equity for FERC-regulated transmission rate base under the MISO tariff. In June 2016, an administrative law judge issued an initial decision in the February 2015 complaint case. If approved by the FERC, it would lower the allowed base return on common equity for the 15-month period of February 2015 to May 2016 to 9.70%, or a 10.20% total allowed return on equity with the inclusion of a 50 basis point incentive adder for participation in an RTO. It would also require customer refunds, with interest, for that 15-month period. A final FERC order would also establish the allowed return on common equity that will apply prospectively from the effective date of such order, replacing the current 10.82% total return on common equity. In the second quarter ofApril 2017, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit vacated and remanded to the FERC an order in an unrelated case in which the FERC established the allowed base return on common equity methodology subsequently used in the two MISO complaint cases described above. In October 2018, the FERC issued an order addressingin the remanded issues, whichunrelated case that proposed a new methodology for determining the base return on equity, andwhich required further briefs from the participants. A final order is not expected until 2019. While this order provides insight on howIn November 2018, the FERC may determineissued an order related to the February 2015 complaint case and the September 2016 order, which required participants to file briefs in February 2019 regarding the FERC’s proposed methodology for determining the base return on common equity, including whether and how to apply the proposed methodology to the two MISO complaint cases. In March 2019, the FERC issued separate Notices of Inquiry regarding its allowed base return on common equity policy and its transmission incentives policy. Initial comments were due by June 2019, and reply comments were due by late August 2019. The Notice of Inquiry addressing the FERC’s return on common equity policy, among other things, broadened the ability to comment on the new methodology beyond electric utilities that are participants in the complaint cases. The transmission incentives Notice of Inquiry was open for comment on the FERC’s transmission incentive policy, including incentive adders to the return on equity in the MISO complaint cases,common equity. Ameren is unable to predict the ultimate impact of the outcomeproposed methodology on the MISO FERCthese complaint cases or the Notices of Inquiry at this time.As the FERC is under no deadline to issue a final order, the timing of the issuance of the final order in the February 2015 complaint case orand any potential impact to the amounts refunded as a result of the November 2013 complaint case,September 2016 order is uncertain.
In September 2017, MISO transmission owners, including Ameren Missouri, Ameren Illinois, and ATXI, filed a motion to dismiss the February 2015 complaint case with the FERC. The MISO transmission owners maintain that the February 2015 complaint was predicated on


the now superseded 12.38% allowed base return on common equity and is therefore inapplicable given the current 10.32% allowed base return on common equity. The MISO transmission owners further maintain that the current 10.32% allowed base return on common equity has not been proven to be unjust and unreasonable based on information provided, including the base return on common equity methodology ranges set forth in the February 2015 complaint case and in the initial decision issued by an administrative law judge in June 2016. Additionally, the MISO transmission owners maintain that the February 2015 complaint should be dismissed because the approach utilized in the case to assert that a return on common equity was unjust and unreasonable was insufficient. That same approach was rejected by the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in an unrelated case, as discussed above. The FERC is under no deadline to issue an order on this motion.
As of September 30, 2018,2019, Ameren and Ameren Illinois had recorded current regulatory liabilities of $43$46 million and $25$27 million, respectively, to reflect the expected refunds, including interest, associated with the reduced allowed returnsreturn on common equity in the initial decision in the February 2015 complaint case. Ameren Missouri does not expect that a reduction in the FERC-allowed base return on common equity would be material to its results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
FERC Federal Income Tax Proceeding and Formula Rate Change
In March 2018, the FERC granted a request filed in February 2018 by MISO transmission owners with forward-looking rate formulas,


including Ameren Illinois and ATXI, to allow revisions to their 2018 electric transmission rates to reflect the effect of the reduction in federal income taxes enacted under the TCJA. Ameren Illinois and ATXI’s 2018 electric transmission rates have been reduced by $27 million and $23 million, respectively.
In May 2018, the FERC accepted Ameren Illinois and ATXI tariff filings to change the formula rate calculation. The change allows for the recovery or refund of both excess deferred income taxes resulting from tax law or rate changes and effect of permanent income tax differences and will be reflected in Ameren Illinois and ATXI’s electric transmission rates starting in January 2019.
NOTE 3 – SHORT-TERM DEBT AND LIQUIDITY
The liquidity needs of the Ameren Companies are typically supported through the use of available cash, drawings under committed credit agreements, commercial paper issuances, or,and, in the case of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois, short-term affiliate borrowings. See Note 4 – Short-term Debt and Liquidity under Part II, Item 8, in the Form 10-K for a description of our indebtedness provisions and other covenants as well as a description of money pool arrangements.
The Missouri Credit Agreement and the Illinois Credit Agreement were not utilized for direct borrowings during the nine months ended September 30, 20182019, but were used to support commercial paper issuances and to issue letters of credit. Based on commercial paper outstanding and letters of credit issued under the Credit Agreements, the aggregate credit capacity available under the Credit Agreements to Ameren (parent), Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, collectively, at September 30, 20182019, was $1.6 billion. The Ameren Companies were in compliance with the covenants in their Credit Agreements as of September 30, 2018.2019. As of September 30, 2018,2019, the ratios of consolidated indebtedness to consolidated total capitalization, calculated in accordance with the provisions of the Credit Agreements, were 52%53%, 46%48%, and 48%47% for Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively.
Commercial Paper
The following table presents commercial paper outstanding, net of issuance discounts, as of September 30, 2018,2019, and December 31, 2017:2018:
September 30, 2018 December 31, 2017September 30, 2019 December 31, 2018
Ameren (parent)$413
 $383
$90
 $470
Ameren Missouri
 39
144
 55
Ameren Illinois108
 62
310
 72
Ameren Consolidated$521
 $484
Ameren consolidated$544
 $597
The following table summarizes the borrowing activity and relevant interest rates under Ameren (parent)’s, Ameren Missouri’s, and Ameren Illinois’ commercial paper programs for the nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017:2018:
 
Ameren
(parent)
Ameren
Missouri
Ameren
Illinois
Ameren
Consolidated
 
Ameren
(parent)
 
Ameren
Missouri
 
Ameren
Illinois
 
Ameren
Consolidated
 
2019         
Average daily commercial paper outstanding at par value $532
 $141
 $147
 $821
 
Weighted-average interest rate 2.70% 2.73% 2.58% 2.68% 
Peak commercial paper during period at par value(a)
 $651
 $549
 $310
 $1,113
 
Peak interest rate 3.80% 2.97% 5.00%
(b) 
5.00%
(b) 
2018             
Average daily commercial paper outstanding at par value $431
 $81
$117
$629
 $431
 $81
 $117
 $629
 
Weighted-average interest rate 2.23% 1.94%2.21%2.18% 2.23% 1.94% 2.21% 2.18% 
Peak commercial paper during period at par value(a)
 $543
 $481
$442
$1,295
 $543
 $481
 $442
 $1,295
 
Peak interest rate 2.45% 2.42%2.55%2.55% 2.45% 2.42% 2.55% 2.55% 
2017    
Average daily commercial paper outstanding at par value $669
 $7
$78
$754
Weighted-average interest rate 1.27% 1.20%1.28%1.27%
Peak commercial paper during period at par value(a)
 $841
 $64
$193
$948
Peak interest rate 1.50% 1.41%1.50%1.50%
(a)The timing of peak outstanding commercial paper issuances varies by company. Therefore, the sum of individual company peak amounts may not equal the Ameren Consolidatedconsolidated peak commercial paper issuances for the period.
(b)In the third quarter of 2019, Ameren’s and Ameren Illinois’ peak interest rate was affected by temporary disruptions in the commercial paper market.


Money Pools
Ameren has money pool agreements with and among its subsidiaries to coordinate and provide for certain short-term cash and working capital requirements. The average interest rate for borrowings under the money pool for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, was 2.40% and 2.67%, respectively (2018 – 2.00% and 2.02%, respectively (2017 – 1.24% and 1.18%, respectively). See Note 8 – Related-party Transactions for the amount of interest income and expense from the money pool arrangements recorded by the Ameren Companies for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 20172018.


NOTE 4 – LONG-TERM DEBT AND EQUITY FINANCINGS
Ameren
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, Ameren issued a total of 0.2 million and 0.90.7 million shares respectively, of common stock under its DRPlus and 401(k) plan, and received proceeds of $16$17 million and $56$54 million, respectively. In addition, in the first quarter of 2018,2019, Ameren issued 0.70.8 million shares of common stock valued at $35$54 million upon the vesting of stock-based compensation.
In August 2019, Ameren did notentered into a forward sale agreement with a counterparty relating to 7.5 million shares of common stock. The forward sale agreement can be settled at Ameren’s discretion on or prior to March 31, 2021. On a settlement date or dates, if Ameren elects to physically settle the forward sale agreement, Ameren will issue anyshares of common stock to the counterparty at the then-applicable forward sale price.The forward sale price was initially $74.18 per share. The initial forward sale price is subject to adjustment based on a floating interest rate factor equal to the overnight bank funding rate less a spread of 75 basis points, and will be subject to decrease on certain dates specified in the forward sale agreement by specified amounts related to expected dividends on shares of the common stock during the first nine monthsterm of 2017.the forward sale agreement. If the overnight bank funding rate is less than the spread on any day, the interest rate factor will result in a reduction of the forward sale price.
In October 2018,The forward sale agreement will be physically settled unless Ameren filed a Form S-8 registration statementelects to settle in cash or to net share settle. At September 30, 2019, Ameren could have settled the forward sale agreement with the SEC, authorizing the offeringphysical delivery of four7.5 million additional shares of its common stock under its 401(k) plan. Shares of common stock issuable underto the 401(k) plan are,counterparty in exchange for cash of $557 million. The forward sale agreement could also have been settled at September 30, 2019, with delivery of approximately $47 million of cash or approximately 0.6 million shares of common stock to the counterparty, if Ameren had elected to net cash or net share settle, respectively.
The forward sale agreement has been classified as an equity transaction because it is indexed to Ameren’s option, newly issued shares, treasury shares,common stock, physical settlement is within Ameren’s control, and the other requirements necessary for equity classification were met. As a result of the equity classification, no gain or shares purchasedloss will be recognized within earnings due to subsequent changes in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions.
Ameren Missourifair value of the forward sale agreement. If the average price of Ameren’s common stock exceeds the adjusted forward sale price during a quarterly period, the forward sale agreement could have a dilutive effect on earnings per share.
In April 2018,September 2019, Ameren Missouri issued $425$450 million of 4.00% first mortgage bonds2.50% senior unsecured notes due April 2048,September 2024, with interest payable semiannually on April 1March 15 and October 1September 15, beginning March 15, 2020. Ameren received net proceeds of $447 million, which were used to repay outstanding short-term debt.
Ameren Missouri
In March 2019, Ameren Missouri issued $450 million of 3.50% first mortgage bonds due March 2029, with interest payable semiannually on March 15 and September 15 of each year, beginning October 1, 2018.September 15, 2019. Ameren Missouri received net proceeds of $419$447 million, which were used to repay outstanding short-term debt, including short-term debt that Ameren Missouri incurred in connection with the repayment of $179$329 million of its 6.00%6.70% senior secured notes that matured AprilFebruary 1, 2018.2019.
In August 2018, $199 million principal amountJune and July 2019, all of the 1992 Series bonds, 1998 Series A bonds, 1998 Series B bonds, and 1998 Series C bonds issued by the Missouri Environmental Improvement and Energy Resources Authority on behalf of Ameren Missouri were subject to purchase in lieu of redemption or a mandatory tender as a result of a change in the method of determining the interest rates on the bonds. The interest rate method of each of the series of bonds, as well as Ameren Missouri’s 5.10% senior secured notes matured andfirst mortgage bonds that collaterally secure each of the series of bonds, was changed from a variable rate to a fixed rate. Upon the change in the method of determining the interest rate, the bonds, totaling $207 million, were repaid with cashremarketed to new investors. The following table provides additional information on hand.the bonds:
Ameren Illinois

 1992 Series1998 Series A1998 Series B1998 Series C
Transaction monthJune 2019July 2019July 2019June 2019
Principal amount$47$60$50$50
Fixed interest rate1.60%2.90%2.90%2.75%
Variable interest rate (a)
2.36%3.35%3.34%3.83%
MaturityDecember 2022September 2033September 2033September 2033
Interest payment datesJune 1 and December 1March 1 and September 1March 1 and September 1March 1 and September 1
Initial interest payment dateDecember 2019September 2019September 2019September 2019
(a)Represents the variable interest rate of the bonds effective prior to the change in method of determining the interest rate.
In May 2018,October 2019, Ameren IllinoisMissouri issued $430$330 million of 3.80%3.25% first mortgage bonds due May 2028,October 2049, with interest payable semiannually on May 15April 1 and November 15October 1 of each year, beginning November 15, 2018.April 1, 2020. Ameren IllinoisMissouri received net proceeds of $427$326 million, which were used to repay outstanding short-term debt, including short-term debt that Ameren Illinois incurred in connection with the repayment of $144$244 million of its 6.25%5.10% senior unsecured notes due October 1, 2019, with the remaining proceeds used to repay a portion of its short-term debt.
In October 2019, Ameren Missouri redeemed the remaining amount outstanding of its 5.45% first mortgage bonds due 2028 for less than $1 million.
Ameren Illinois
In 2006, Ameren Illinois purchased all $17 million of the 1993 Series B-1 bonds due 2028 issued by the Illinois Finance Authority on behalf of Ameren Illinois pursuant to a mandatory tender. Ameren Illinois’ 1993 Series B-1 senior unsecured notes due 2028 were not extinguished and remained as “Long-term debt, net” on Ameren’s and Ameren Illinois’ balance sheets. In September 2019, Ameren Illinois exchanged its bond investments for the extinguishment of its senior unsecured notes.
In September 2019, Ameren Illinois redeemed the remaining amount outstanding of its 5.70% first mortgage bonds due 2024 for less than $1 million. Additionally, in October 2019, Ameren Illinois redeemed the remaining amount outstanding of its 5.90% first mortgage bonds due 2023 for less than $1 million. Following the redemption of the 5.90% first mortgage bonds, Ameren Illinois collaterally secured its 6.70% senior secured notes that matured April 1, 2018.due 2036 with first mortgage bonds issued under its 1992 mortgage indenture.
Indenture Provisions and Other Covenants
See Note 5 – Long-Term Debt and Equity Financings under Part II, Item 8, in the Form 10-K for a description of our indenture provisions and other covenants, as well as restrictions on the payment of dividends. At September 30, 2018,2019, the Ameren Companies were in compliance with the provisions and covenants contained in their indentures and articles of incorporation, as applicable, and ATXI was in compliance with the provisions and covenants contained in its note purchase agreement.
Off-balance-sheet Arrangements
At September 30, 2018,2019, none of the Ameren Companies had any significant off-balance-sheet financing arrangements, other than operating leases entered into in the ordinary course of business,variable interest entities, letters of credit, and Ameren (parent) guarantee arrangements on behalf of its subsidiaries. See Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for further detail concerning variable interest entities.


NOTE 5 – OTHER INCOME, NET

The following table presents the components of “Other Income, Net” in the Ameren Companies’ statements of income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017:
2018:
 Three Months Nine Months 
 2018 2017 2018 2017 
Ameren:(a)
        
Other Income, Net        
Allowance for equity funds used during construction$11
 $6
 $25
 $16
 
Interest income on industrial development revenue bonds6
 7
 19
 20
 
Other interest income2
 
 6
 5
 
Non-service cost components of net periodic benefit income17
(b) 
11
 52
(b) 
33
 
Other income2
 1
 5
 3
 
Donations(4) 
 (15) (7) 
Other expense(2) (2) (8) (9) 
Total Other Income, Net$32
 $23
 $84
 $61
 
Ameren Missouri:        
Other Income, Net        
Allowance for equity funds used during construction$8
 $6
 $19
 $15
 
Interest income on industrial development revenue bonds6
 7
 19
 20
 
Other interest income1
 
 2
 1
 
Non-service cost components of net periodic benefit income4
(b) 
5
 13
(b) 
17
 
Other income2
 
 3
 1
 
Donations(3) 
 (6) (2) 
Other expense(2) (2) (5) (4) 
Total Other Income, Net$16
 $16
 $45
 $48
 
Ameren Illinois:        
Other Income, Net        
Allowance for equity funds used during construction$3
 $
 $6
 $1
 
Interest income1
 1
 4
 5
 
Non-service cost components of net periodic benefit income8
 4
 25
 8
 
Other income1
 
 3
 2
 
Donations
 
 (5) (5) 
Other expense(2) 
 (3) (3) 
Total Other Income, Net$11
 $5
 $30
 $8
 
 Three Months Nine Months 
 2019 2018 2019 2018 
Ameren:        
Allowance for equity funds used during construction$7
 $11
 $20
 $25
 
Interest income on industrial development revenue bonds6
 6
 19
 19
 
Other interest income2
 2
 6
 6
 
Non-service cost components of net periodic benefit income(a)
23
 17
 67
 52
 
Miscellaneous income2
 2
 6
 5
 
Donations(1) (4) (8) (15) 
Miscellaneous expense(5) (2) (11) (8) 
Total Other Income, Net$34
 $32
 $99
 $84
 



 Three Months Nine Months 
 2019 2018 2019 2018 
Ameren Missouri:        
Allowance for equity funds used during construction$6
 $8
 $14
 $19
 
Interest income on industrial development revenue bonds6
 6
 19
 19
 
Other interest income
 1
 
 2
 
Non-service cost components of net periodic benefit income(a)
4
 4
 13
 13
 
Miscellaneous income2
 2
 4
 3
 
Donations(1) (3) (3) (6) 
Miscellaneous expense(2) (2) (4) (5) 
Total Other Income, Net$15
 $16
 $43
 $45
 
Ameren Illinois:        
Allowance for equity funds used during construction$1
 $3
 $6
 $6
 
Interest income1
 1
 5
 4
 
Non-service cost components of net periodic benefit income12
 8
 36
 25
 
Miscellaneous income1
 1
 3
 3
 
Donations
 
 (5) (5) 
Miscellaneous expense(2) (2) (6) (3) 
Total Other Income, Net$13
 $11
 $39
 $30
 

(a)Includes amounts for Ameren registrant and nonregistrant subsidiaries and intercompany eliminations.
(b)For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, the non-service cost components of net periodic benefit income were partially offset by a $5$7 million and $13$22 million deferral, respectively, due to a regulatory tracking mechanism for the difference between the level of such costs incurred by Ameren Missouri under GAAP and the level of such costs included in rates.rates (2018 – $5 million and $13 million, respectively).
NOTE 6 – DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
We use derivatives to manage the risk of changes in market prices for natural gas and power, as well as the risk of changes in rail transportation surcharges through fuel oil hedges. Such price fluctuations may cause the following:
an unrealized appreciation or depreciation of our contracted commitments to purchase or sell when purchase or sale prices under the commitments are compared with current commodity prices;
market values of natural gas inventories that differ from the cost of those commodities in inventory; and
actual cash outlays for the purchase of these commodities that differ from anticipated cash outlays.
The derivatives that we use to hedge these risks are governed by our risk management policies for forward contracts, futures, options, and swaps. Our net positions are continually assessed within our structured hedging programs to determine whether new or offsetting transactions are required. The goal of the hedging program is generally to mitigate financial risks while ensuring that sufficient volumes are available to meet our requirements. Contracts we enter into as part of our risk management program may be settled financially, settled by physical delivery, or net settled with the counterparty.


The following table presents open gross commodity contract volumes by commodity type for derivative assets and liabilities as of September 30, 2018, and December 31, 2017. As of September 30, 2018, these contracts extended through October 2021, March 2023, and May 2032 for fuel oils, natural gas, and power, respectively.
 Quantity (in millions)
 20182017
CommodityAmeren MissouriAmeren IllinoisAmerenAmeren MissouriAmeren IllinoisAmeren
Fuel oils (in gallons)(a)
42
(b)
42
28
(b)
28
Natural gas (in mmbtu)20
160
180
24
139
163
Power (in megawatthours)2
8
10
3
9
12
(a)Consists of ultra-low-sulfur diesel products.
(b)Not applicable.
All contracts considered to be derivative instruments are required to be recorded on the balance sheet at their fair values, unless the NPNS exception applies. See Note 7 – Fair Value Measurements for a discussion of our methods of assessing the fair value of derivative instruments. Many of our physical contracts, such as our purchased power contracts, qualify for the NPNS exception to derivative accounting rules. The revenue or expense on NPNS contracts is recognized at the contract price upon physical delivery. The following disclosures exclude NPNS contracts and other non-derivative commodity contracts that are accounted for under the accrual method of accounting.
If we determine that a contract meets the definition of a derivative and is not eligible for the NPNS exception, we review the contract to determine whether the resulting gains or losses qualify for regulatory deferral. Derivative contracts that qualify for regulatory deferral are recorded at fair value, with changes in fair value recorded as regulatory assets or liabilities in the period in which the change occurs. We believe derivative losses and gains deferred as regulatory assets and liabilities are probable of recovery, or refund, through future rates charged to customers. Regulatory assets and liabilities are amortized to operating income as related losses and gains are reflected in rates charged to customers. Therefore, gains and losses on these derivatives have no effect on operating income. As of September 30, 2018,2019, and December 31, 2017,2018, all contracts that met the definition of a derivative and were not eligible for the NPNS exception received regulatory deferral.


The following table presents open gross commodity contract volumes by commodity type for derivative assets and liabilities as of September 30, 2019, and December 31, 2018. As of September 30, 2019, these contracts extended through October 2022, March 2024, and May 2032 for fuel oils, natural gas, and power, respectively.
 Quantity (in millions)
 20192018
CommodityAmeren MissouriAmeren IllinoisAmerenAmeren MissouriAmeren IllinoisAmeren
Fuel oils (in gallons)(a)
63

63
66

66
Natural gas (in mmbtu)20
142
162
19
154
173
Power (in megawatthours)4
8
12
1
8
9
(a)Consists of ultra-low-sulfur diesel products.
The following table presents the carrying value and balance sheet location of all derivative commodity contracts, none of which were designated as hedging instruments, as of September 30, 2018,2019, and December 31, 2017:
2018:
Balance Sheet Location 
Ameren
Missouri
 
Ameren
Illinois
 Ameren  September 30, 2019December 31, 2018
2018       
Balance Sheet Location 
Ameren
Missouri
 
Ameren
Illinois
 Ameren   
Ameren
Missouri
 
Ameren
Illinois
 Ameren
Fuel oilsOther current assets $10
 $
 $10
 Other current assets$4
 $
 $4
  $3
 $
 $3
Other assets 6
 
 6
 Other assets 2
 
 2
   5
 
 5
Natural gasOther current assets 
 1
 1
 Other current assets 
 2
 2
  
 1
 1
Other assets 
 1
 1
 Other assets 
 1
 1
   
 2
 2
PowerOther current assets 3
 
 3
 Other current assets 8
 
 8
   4
 
 4
Total assets (a)
 $19
 $2
 $21
 Other assets 4
 
 4
   
 
 
Total assets$18
 $3
 $21
  $12
 $3
 $15
Fuel oilsOther deferred credits and liabilities $1
 $
 $1
 Other current liabilities$7
 $
 $7
  $4
 $
 $4
Natural gasOther current liabilities 4
 12
 16
 
Other deferred credits and liabilities 2
 9
 11
 
PowerOther current liabilities 3
 13
 16
 
Other deferred credits and liabilities 
 174
 174
 
Total liabilities (b)
 $10
 $208
 $218
 
2017       
Fuel oilsOther current assets $5
 $
 $5
 
Other assets 2
 
 2
 
Natural gasOther assets 1
 
 1
 
PowerOther current assets 9
 
 9
 
Total assets (a)
 $17
 $
 $17
 Other deferred credits and liabilities 5
 
 5
  9
 
 9
Natural gasOther current liabilities $5
 $12
 $17
 Other current liabilities 3
 12
 15
   4
 8
 12
Other deferred credits and liabilities 3
 10
 13
 Other deferred credits and liabilities 1
 7
 8
  1
 6
 7
PowerOther current liabilities 1
 13
 14
 Other current liabilities 3
 15
 18
   4
 14
 18
Other deferred credits and liabilities 
 182
 182
 Other deferred credits and liabilities 1
 189
 190
   
 169
 169
Total liabilities (b)
 $9
 $217
 $226
 Total liabilities$20
 $223
 $243
  $22
 $197
 $219
(a)The cumulative amount of pretax net gains on all derivative instruments is deferred as a regulatory liability.
(b)The cumulative amount of pretax net losses on all derivative instruments is deferred as a regulatory asset.


Derivative instruments are subject to various credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to the transaction. Exchange-traded contracts are supported by the financial and credit quality of the clearing members of the respective exchanges; these contracts have nominal credit risk. In all other transactions, we are exposed to credit risk. Our credit risk management program involves establishing credit limits and collateral requirements for counterparties, using master netting arrangements or similar agreements, and reporting daily exposure to senior management.
We believe that entering into master netting arrangements or similar agreements mitigates the level of financial loss that could result from default by allowing net settlement of derivative assets and liabilities. These master netting arrangements allow the counterparties to net settle sale and purchase transactions. Further, collateral requirements are calculated at the master netting arrangement or similar agreement level by counterparty.
The Ameren Companies elect to present the fair value amounts of derivative assets and derivative liabilities subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement at the gross amounts on the balance sheet. However, if the gross amounts recognized on the balance sheet were netted with derivative instruments and cash collateral received or posted, the net amounts would not be materially different from the gross amounts at September 30, 2018,2019, and December 31, 2017.2018.
Concentrations of Credit Risk
In determining our concentrations of credit risk related to derivative instruments, we review our individual counterparties and categorize each counterparty into groupings according to the primary business in which each engages. We calculate maximum exposures based on the gross fair value of financial instruments, including NPNS and other accrual contracts. These exposures are calculated on a gross basis, which include affiliate exposure not eliminated at the consolidated Ameren level. As of September 30, 2018,2019, if counterparty groups were to fail completely to perform on contracts, the Ameren Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois’Companies’ maximum exposures were $37 million, $34 million and $3 million, respectively. The potential loss on counterparty exposures may be reducedexposure related to derivative assets would have been immaterial with or eliminated by the application of master netting arrangements or similar agreements and collateral held. As of September 30, 2018, the potential loss afterwithout consideration of the application of master netting arrangements or similar agreements and collateral held for Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois was $32 million, $31 million, and $1 million, respectively.held.
Derivative Instruments with Credit Risk-related Contingent Features

Our commodity contractsCertain of our derivative instruments contain collateral provisions tied to the Ameren Companies’ credit ratings. If our credit ratings were downgraded below investment grade, or if a counterparty with reasonable grounds for uncertainty regarding our ability to satisfy an obligation requested adequate assurance of performance, additional collateral postings might be required. The following table presents, asadditional collateral required is the net liability position allowed under master netting arrangements or similar agreements, assuming (1) the credit risk-related contingent features underlying these arrangements were triggered and, (2) those counterparties with rights to do so requested collateral. As of September 30, 2018,2019, the aggregate fair value of all derivative instruments with credit risk-related contingent features in a gross liability position, the cash collateral posted, and the aggregate amount of additional collateral that counterparties could require. The additional collateral required is the net liability position allowed under the master netting arrangements or similar agreements, assuming (1) the credit risk-related contingent features underlying these arrangementsrequire were triggered on September 30, 2018,each immaterial to Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and (2) those counterparties with rights to do so requested collateral.
Ameren Illinois.
 
Aggregate Fair Value of
Derivative Liabilities(a)
 
Cash
Collateral Posted
 
Potential Aggregate Amount of
Additional Collateral Required(b)
Ameren Missouri$71
 $4
 $51
Ameren Illinois49
 
 43
Ameren$120
 $4
 $94

(a)Before consideration of master netting arrangements or similar agreements and including NPNS and other accrual contract exposures.
(b)As collateral requirements with certain counterparties are based on master netting arrangements or similar agreements, the aggregate amount of additional collateral required to be posted is determined after consideration of the effects of such arrangements.
NOTE 7 – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. We use various methods to determine fairFair value including market, income, and cost approaches. With these approaches, we adopt certain assumptions that market participants would usemeasurements are classified in pricingthree levels based on the asset or liability, including assumptions about market risk or the risks inherent in the inputs to the valuation. Inputs to valuations can be readily observable, market-corroborated, or unobservable. We use valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs.
Authoritative accounting guidance provides a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. On a quarterly basis, all financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value are classified and disclosed in one of three hierarchy levels. Financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety according to the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.as defined by GAAP. See Note 8 – Fair Value Measurements


under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K for information related to hierarchy levels.


levels and valuation techniques.
We consider nonperformance risk in our valuation of derivative instruments by analyzing our own credit standing and the credit standing of our counterparties, and by considering any counterparty credit enhancements (e.g., collateral). We have also factored the impact of our credit standing, as well as any potential credit enhancements, into the fair value measurement of both derivative assets and derivative liabilities. Included in our valuation, and based on current market conditions, is a valuation adjustment for counterparty default derived from market data such as the price of credit default swaps, bond yields, and credit ratings. No material gains or losses related to valuation adjustments for counterparty default risk were recorded at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, or Ameren Illinois in the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 or 2017.2018. At September 30, 2018,2019, and December 31, 2017,2018, the counterparty default risk valuation adjustment related to derivative contracts was immaterial for Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois.


The following table sets forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, our assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2018:2019, and December 31, 2018:
 September 30, 2019  December 31, 2018 
 
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
or Liabilities
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable 
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant Other
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Total  Level 1Level 2Level 3Total  Level 1Level 2Level 3Total 
Assets:         Assets:     
Ameren
Derivative assets – commodity contracts(a):
         Ameren     
Derivative assets – commodity contracts(a):
     
Fuel oils $8
 $
 $8
 $16
 Fuel oils$
$
$6
$6
  $1
$
$7
$8
 
Natural gas 
 1
 1
 2
 Natural gas

3
3
  
2
1
3
 
Power 
 
 3
 3
 Power1

11
12
  
1
3
4
 
Total derivative assets – commodity contracts $8
 $1
 $12
 $21
 Total derivative assets – commodity contracts$1
$
$20
$21
  $1
$3
$11
$15
 
Nuclear decommissioning trust fund:         Nuclear decommissioning trust fund:     
Equity securities:         Equity securities:     
U.S. large capitalization $497
 $
 $
 $497
 U.S. large capitalization$518
$
$
$518
  $427
$
$
$427
 
Debt securities:         Debt securities:     
U.S. Treasury and agency securities 
 139
 
 139
 U.S. Treasury and agency securities
136

136
  
148

148
 
Corporate bonds 
 77
 
 77
 Corporate bonds
86

86
  
72

72
 
Other 
 33
 
 33
 Other
50

50
  
32

32
 
Total nuclear decommissioning trust fund $497
 $249
 $
 $746
(b) 
Total nuclear decommissioning trust fund$518
$272
$
$790
(b) 
 $427
$252
$
$679
(b) 
Total Ameren $505
 $250
 $12
 $767
 Total Ameren$519
$272
$20
$811
  $428
$255
$11
$694
 
Ameren Missouri
Derivative assets – commodity contracts(a):
         Ameren Missouri     
Fuel oils $8
 $
 $8
 $16
 
Derivative assets – commodity contracts(a):
     
Power 
 
 3
 3
 Fuel oils$
$
$6
$6
  $1
$
$7
$8
 
Total derivative assets – commodity contracts $8
 $
 $11
 $19
 Power1

11
12
  
1
3
4
 
Nuclear decommissioning trust fund:         Total derivative assets – commodity contracts$1
$
$17
$18
  $1
$1
$10
$12
 
Equity securities:         Nuclear decommissioning trust fund:     
U.S. large capitalization $497
 $
 $
 $497
 Equity securities:     
Debt securities:         U.S. large capitalization$518
$
$
$518
  $427
$
$
$427
 
U.S. Treasury and agency securities 
 139
 
 139
 Debt securities:     
Corporate bonds 
 77
 
 77
 U.S. Treasury and agency securities
136

136
  
148

148
 
Other 
 33
 
 33
 Corporate bonds
86

86
  
72

72
 
Total nuclear decommissioning trust fund $497
 $249
 $
 $746
(b) 
Other
50

50
  
32

32
 
Total Ameren Missouri $505
 $249
 $11
 $765
 Total nuclear decommissioning trust fund$518
$272
$
$790
(b) 
 $427
$252
$
$679
(b) 
Total Ameren Missouri$519
$272
$17
$808
  $428
$253
$10
$691
 
Ameren Illinois
Derivative assets – commodity contracts(a):
         Ameren Illinois     
Derivative assets – commodity contracts(a):
     
Natural gas $
 $1
 $1
 $2
 Natural gas$
$
$3
$3
  $
$2
$1
$3
 
Liabilities:         Liabilities:     
Ameren
Derivative liabilities – commodity contracts(a):
         Ameren     
Fuel oils $
 $
 $1
 $1
 
Derivative liabilities – commodity contracts(a):
     
Natural gas 1
 21
 5
 27
 Fuel oils$4
$
$8
$12
  $2
$
$11
$13
 
Power 
 
 190
 190
 Natural gas2
17
4
23
  
15
4
19
 
Total Ameren $1
 $21
 $196
 $218
 Power
1
207
208
  
1
186
187
 
Ameren Missouri
Derivative liabilities – commodity contracts(a):
         
Fuel oils $
 $
 $1
 $1
 Total Ameren$6
$18
$219
$243
  $2
$16
$201
$219
 
Natural gas 
 6
 
 6
 
Power 
 
 3
 3
 
Total Ameren Missouri $
 $6
 $4
 $10
 
Ameren Illinois
Derivative liabilities – commodity contracts(a):
         
Natural gas $1
 $15
 $5
 $21
 
Power 
 
 187
 187
 
Total Ameren Illinois $1
 $15
 $192
 $208
 


  September 30, 2019  December 31, 2018 
  Level 1Level 2Level 3Total  Level 1Level 2Level 3Total 
Ameren Missouri           
 
Derivative liabilities – commodity contracts(a):
           
 Fuel oils$4
$
$8
$12
  $2
$
$11
$13
 
 Natural gas
3
1
4
  
5

5
 
 Power
1
3
4
  
1
3
4
 
 Total Ameren Missouri$4
$4
$12
$20
  $2
$6
$14
$22
 
Ameren Illinois           
 
Derivative liabilities – commodity contracts(a):
           
 Natural gas$2
$14
$3
$19
  $
$10
$4
$14
 
 Power

204
204
  

183
183
 
 Total Ameren Illinois$2
$14
$207
$223
  $
$10
$187
$197
 
(a)The derivative asset and liability balances are presented net of registrant and counterparty credit considerations.
(b)Balance excludes $6$8 million and $5 million of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, payables, and accrued income, net.net, for September 30, 2019, and December 31, 2018, respectively.


The following table sets forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, ourLevel 3 fuel oils and natural gas derivative contract assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis aswere immaterial for all periods presented. The following table presents the fair value reconciliation of December 31, 2017:
   
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets for
Identical Assets
or Liabilities
(Level 1)
 
Significant Other
Observable 
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant Other
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 Total 
Assets:          
Ameren
Derivative assets  commodity contracts(a):
         
 Fuel oils $4
 $
 $3
 $7
 
 Natural gas 
 
 1
 1
 
 Power 
 1
 8
 9
 
 
Total derivative assets  commodity contracts
 $4
 $1
 $12
 $17
 
 Nuclear decommissioning trust fund:         
 Equity securities:         
 U.S. large capitalization $468
 $
 $
 $468
 
 Debt securities:         
 U.S. Treasury and agency securities 
 125
 
 125
 
 Corporate bonds 
 82
 
 82
 
 Other 
 25
 
 25
 
 Total nuclear decommissioning trust fund $468
 $232
 $
 $700
(b) 
 Total Ameren $472
 $233
 $12
 $717
 
Ameren Missouri
Derivative assets  commodity contracts(a):
         
 Fuel oils $4
 $
 $3
 $7
 
 Natural gas 
 
 1
 1
 
 Power 
 1
 8
 9
 
 
Total derivative assets  commodity contracts
 $4
 $1
 $12
 $17
 
 Nuclear decommissioning trust fund:         
 Equity securities:         
 U.S. large capitalization $468
 $
 $
 $468
 
 Debt securities:         
 U.S. Treasury and agency securities 
 125
 
 125
 
 Corporate bonds 
 82
 
 82
 
 Other 
 25
 
 25
 
 Total nuclear decommissioning trust fund $468
 $232
 $
 $700
(b) 
 Total Ameren Missouri $472
 $233
 $12
 $717
 
Liabilities:          
Ameren
Derivative liabilities  commodity contracts(a):
         
 Natural gas $1
 $25
 $4
 $30
 
 Power 
 
 196
 196
 
 Total Ameren $1
 $25
 $200
 $226
 
Ameren Missouri
Derivative liabilities  commodity contracts(a):
         
 Natural gas $
 $7
 $1
 $8
 
 Power 
 
 1
 1
 
 Total Ameren Missouri $
 $7
 $2
 $9
 
Ameren Illinois
Derivative liabilities  commodity contracts(a):
         
 Natural gas $1
 $18
 $3
 $22
 
 Power 
 
 195
 195
 
 Total Ameren Illinois $1
 $18
 $198
 $217
 
(a)The derivative asset and liability balances are presented net of counterparty credit considerations.
(b)Balance excludes $4 million of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, payables, and accrued income, net.
All costs related to financialLevel 3 power derivative contract assets and liabilities classified asmeasured at fair value on a recurring basis for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018:
 2019  2018
 
Ameren
Missouri
Ameren
Illinois
Ameren  Ameren MissouriAmeren IllinoisAmeren
For the three months ended September 30:        
Beginning balance at July 1$15
$(191)$(176)  $5
$(190)$(185)
Realized and unrealized gains/(losses) included in regulatory assets/liabilities(4)(17)(21)  (4)
(4)
Purchases


  1

1
Settlements(1)4
3
  (1)3
2
Transfers out of Level 3(2)
(2)  (1)
(1)
Ending balance at September 30$8
$(204)$(196)  $
$(187)$(187)
Change in unrealized gains/(losses) related to assets/liabilities held at September 30$(4)$(17)$(21)  $
$
$
For the nine months ended September 30:        
Beginning balance at January 1$
$(183)$(183)  $7
$(195)$(188)
Realized and unrealized gains/(losses) included in regulatory assets/liabilities12
(32)(20)  (7)(1)(8)
Purchases


  5

5
Settlements(2)11
9
  (4)9
5
Transfers out of Level 3(2)
(2)  (1)
(1)
Ending balance at September 308
(204)(196)  
(187)(187)
Change in unrealized gains/(losses) related to assets/liabilities held at September 30$8
$(31)$(23)  $(1)$(2)$(3)

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, there were no material transfers between fair value hierarchy levels.
All gains or losses related to our Level 3 in the fair value hierarchyderivative commodity contracts are expected to be recoverablerecovered or returned through customer rates; therefore, there is no impact to net income resulting from changes in the fair value of these instruments. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017, the balances and changes in the fair value of Level 3 financial assets and liabilities associated with fuel oils and natural gas were immaterial.


The following table summarizes the changes in the fair value of power financial assets and liabilities classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy:
   Net derivative commodity contracts
  
Ameren
Missouri
 
Ameren
Illinois
 Ameren
For the three months ended September 30, 2018      
Beginning balance at July 1, 2018$5
$(190)$(185)
Realized and unrealized losses included in regulatory assets/liabilities (4) 
 (4)
Purchases 1
 
 1
Settlements (1) 3
 2
Transfers out of Level 3 (1) 
 (1)
Ending balance at September 30, 2018$
$(187)$(187)
Change in unrealized losses related to assets/liabilities held at September 30, 2018$
$
$
For the three months ended September 30, 2017      
Beginning balance at July 1, 2017$14
$(192)$(178)
Realized and unrealized losses included in regulatory assets/liabilities (2) (3) (5)
Sales 1
 
 1
Settlements (3) 3
 
Ending balance at September 30, 2017$10
$(192)$(182)
Change in unrealized losses related to assets/liabilities held at September 30, 2017$
$(2)$(2)
For the nine months ended September 30, 2018      
Beginning balance at January 1, 2018$7
$(195)$(188)
Realized and unrealized losses included in regulatory assets/liabilities (7) (1) (8)
Purchases 5
 
 5
Settlements (4) 9
 5
Transfers out of Level 3 (1) 
 (1)
Ending balance at September 30, 2018$
$(187)$(187)
Change in unrealized losses related to assets/liabilities held at September 30, 2018$(1)$(2)$(3)
For the nine months ended September 30, 2017      
Beginning balance at January 1, 2017$7
$(185)$(178)
Realized and unrealized losses included in regulatory assets/liabilities (3) (14) (17)
Purchases 15
 
 15
Sales 1
 
 1
Settlements (10) 7
 (3)
Ending balance at September 30, 2017$10
$(192)$(182)
Change in unrealized losses related to assets/liabilities held at September 30, 2017$
$(15)$(15)
Transfers into or out of Level 3 represent either (1) existing assets and liabilities that were previously categorized as a higher level, but were recategorized to Level 3 because the inputs to the model became unobservable during the period or (2) existing assets and liabilities that were previously classified as Level 3, but were recategorized to a higher level because the lowest significant input became observable during the period. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017, there were no material transfers between Level 1 and Level 2, Level 1 and Level 3, or Level 2 and Level 3 related to derivative commodity contracts.



The following table describes the valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs utilized by the Ameren Companies for the fair value of financialour Level 3 power derivative contract assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis and classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy as of September 30, 2018,2019, and December 31, 2017:2018:
  Fair Value   Weighted Average
  AssetsLiabilities
Valuation Technique(s)Unobservable InputRange
Level 3 Derivative asset and liability  commodity contracts(a):
   
2018       
 Fuel oils$8
$(1)Option model
Volatilities(%)(b)
20 – 3423
    Discounted cash flow
Counterparty credit risk(%)(c)(d)
0.21 – 0.790.55
     
Ameren Missouri credit risk(%)(c)(d)
0.350.35
 Natural gas1
(5)Discounted cash flow
Nodal basis ($/mmbtu)(b)
(1.30) – 0.70(0.80)
     
Counterparty credit risk (%)(c)(d)
0.32 – 0.950.77
     
Ameren Illinois credit risk (%)(c)(d)
0.350.35
 
Power(e)
3
(190)Discounted cash flow
Average forward peak and off-peak pricing  forwards/swaps ($/MWh)(f)
23 – 4028
     
Estimated auction price for FTRs ($/MW)(b)
(911) – 1,50419
     
Nodal basis ($/MWh)(f)
(10) – 0(2)
     
Counterparty credit risk (%)(c)(d)
0.950.95
     
Ameren Illinois credit risk (%)(c)(d)
0.350.35
    Fundamental energy production model
Estimated future natural gas prices ($/mmbtu)(b)
2 - 33
     
Escalation rate (%)(b)(g)
44
    Contract price allocation
Estimated renewable energy credit costs ($/credit)(b)
5 – 76
2017       
 Fuel oils$3
$
Option model
Volatilities (%)(b)
20 – 2622
    Discounted cash flow
Counterparty credit risk (%)(c)(d)
0.12 – 0.720.41
     
Ameren Missouri credit risk (%)(c)(d)
0.370.37
 Natural gas1
(4)Option model
Volatilities (%)(b)
26 – 4637
     
Nodal basis ($/mmbtu)(c)
(0.50) – (0.30)(0.40)
    Discounted cash flow
Nodal basis ($/mmbtu)(b)
(1.20) – 0.10(1)
     
Counterparty credit risk (%)(c)(d)
0.37 – 0.920.53
     
Ameren credit risk (%)(c)(d)
0.370.37
 
Power(e)
8
(196)Discounted cash flow
Average forward peak and off-peak pricing – forwards/swaps ($/MWh)(f)
24 – 4628
     
Estimated auction price for FTRs ($/MW)(b)
(65) – 1,823251
     
Nodal basis ($/MWh)(f)
(10) – 0(2)
     
Counterparty credit risk (%)(c)(d)
0.280.28
     
Ameren Illinois credit risk (%)(c)(d)
0.370.37
    Fundamental energy production model
Estimated future natural gas prices ($/mmbtu)(b)
3 – 43
     
Escalation rate (%)(b)(g)
55
    Contract price allocation
Estimated renewable energy credit costs ($/credit)(b)
5 – 76
   
Fair Value(a)
   Weighted Average
 Commodity Assets LiabilitiesValuation Technique(s)Unobservable InputRange
2019
Power(b)
$11$(207)Discounted cash flow
Average forward peak and off-peak pricing  forwards/swaps ($/MWh)(c)
22 – 3725
       
Nodal basis ($/MWh)(c)
(7) – 0(3)
      Fundamental energy production model
Estimated future natural gas prices ($/mmbtu)(c)
3 – 33
2018
Power(d)
$3$(186)Discounted cash flow
Average forward peak and off-peak pricing – forwards/swaps ($/MWh)(c)
23 – 3928
       
Nodal basis ($/MWh)(c)
(9) – 0(2)
      Fundamental energy production model
Estimated future natural gas prices ($/mmbtu)(c)
3 – 43
(a)The derivative asset and liability balances are presented net of registrant and counterparty credit considerations.
(b)Power valuations use visible third-party pricing evaluated by month for peak and off-peak demand through 2024. Valuations beyond 2024 use fundamentally modeled pricing by month for peak and off-peak demand.
(c)Generally, significant increases (decreases) in this input in isolation would result in a significantly higher (lower) fair value measurement.
(c)Generally, significant increases (decreases) in this input in isolation would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.
(d)Counterparty credit risk is applied only to counterparties with derivative asset balances. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois credit risk is applied only to counterparties with derivative liability balances.
(e)Power valuations use visible third-party pricing evaluated by month for peak and off-peak demand through 2022 for September 30, 2018, and through 2021 for December 31, 2017.2022. Valuations beyond 2022 for September 30, 2018, and 2021 for December 31, 2017, use fundamentally modeled pricing by month for peak and off-peak demand.
(f)The balance at Ameren is comprised of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois power contracts, which respond differently to unobservable input changes due to their opposing positions.
(g)Escalation rate applies to power prices in 2031 and beyond.


The following table sets forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, the carrying amount and fair value of financial assets and liabilities disclosed, but not carried, at fair value as of September 30, 2018,2019, and December 31, 2017:2018:
September 30, 2018September 30, 2019
Carrying
Amount
 Fair Value  
Carrying
Amount
 Fair Value  
 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total
Ameren:                  
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash$92
 $92
 $
 $
 $92
$155
 $155
 $
 $
 $155
Investments in held-to-maturity debt securities(a)
276
 
 276
 
 276
Investments in industrial development revenue bonds(a)
270
 
 270
 
 270
Short-term debt521
 
 521
 
 521
544
 
 544
 
 544
Long-term debt (including current portion)(a)
8,263
(b) 

 7,981
 412
(c) 
8,393
8,987
(b) 

 9,727
 491
(c) 
10,218
Preferred stock(d)
142
 
 139
 
 139
Ameren Missouri:                  
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash$7
 $7
 $
 $
 $7
$14
 $14
 $
 $
 $14
Advances to money pool28
 
 28
 
 28
Investments in held-to-maturity debt securities(a)
276
 
 276
 
 276
Long-term debt (including current portion)(a)
4,004
(b) 

 4,173
 
 4,173
Preferred stock80
 
 78
 
 78
Ameren Illinois:         
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash$71
 $71
 $
 $
 $71
Short-term debt108
 
 108
 
 108
Borrowings from money pool45
 
 45
 
 45
Long-term debt (including current portion)3,114
(b) 

 3,134
 
 3,134
Preferred stock62
 
 61
 
 61
December 31, 2017
Ameren:        

Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash$68
 $68
 $
 $
 $68
Investments in held-to-maturity debt securities(a)
276
 
 276
 
 276
Investments in industrial development revenue bonds(a)
270
 
 270
 
 270
Short-term debt484
 
 484
 
 484
144
 
 144
 
 144
Long-term debt (including current portion)(a)
7,935
(b) 

 8,531
 
 8,531
4,115
(b) 

 4,766
 
 4,766
Preferred stock(d)
142
 
 131
 
 131
Ameren Missouri:        

Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash$7
 $7
 $
 $
 $7
Investments in held-to-maturity debt securities(a)
276
 
 276
 
 276
Short-term debt39
 
 39
 
 39
Long-term debt (including current portion)(a)
3,961
(b) 

 4,348
 
 4,348
Preferred stock80
 
 80
 
 80
Ameren Illinois:        

         
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash$41
 $41
 $
 $
 $41
$117
 $117
 $
 $
 $117
Short-term debt62
 
 62
 
 62
310
 
 310
 
 310
Long-term debt (including current portion)2,830
(b) 

 3,028
 
 3,028
3,279
(b) 

 3,788
 
 3,788
Preferred stock62
 
 51
 
 51
December 31, 2018
Ameren:        

Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash$107
 $107
 $
 $
 $107
Investments in industrial development revenue bonds(a)
270
 
 270
 
 270
Short-term debt597
 
 597
 
 597
Long-term debt (including current portion)(a)
8,439
(b) 

 8,240
 429
(c) 
8,669
Ameren Missouri:        

Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash$8
 $8
 $
 $
 $8
Investments in industrial development revenue bonds(a)
270
 
 270
 
 270
Short-term debt55
 
 55
 
 55
Long-term debt (including current portion)(a)
3,998
(b) 

 4,156
 
 4,156
Ameren Illinois:        

Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash$80
 $80
 $
 $
 $80
Short-term debt72
 
 72
 
 72
Long-term debt (including current portion)3,296
(b) 

 3,391
 
 3,391
(a)Ameren and Ameren Missouri have investments in industrial development revenue bonds, classified as held-to-maturity and recorded in “Other Assets,” that are equal to the debt obligationfinance obligations for CTs leased from the city of Bowling GreenPeno Creek and Audrain County.CT energy centers. As of September 30, 2018,2019, and December 31, 2017,2018, the carrying amount of both the investments in industrial development revenue bonds and the debtfinance obligations approximated fair value.


(b)IncludedIncludes unamortized debt issuance costs, which were excluded from the fair value measurement, of $56$65 million, $23$27 million, and $27$31 million for Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively, as of September 30, 2018. Included2019. Includes unamortized debt issuance costs, which were excluded from the fair value measurement, of $50$58 million, $20$22 million, and $24$31 million for Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively, as of December 31, 2017.2018.
(c)The Level 3 fair value amount consists of ATXI’s senior unsecured notes. In the first quarter of 2018, the amount was transferred to Level 3 because inputs to the valuation model became unobservable during the period.
(d)Preferred stock is recorded in “Noncontrolling Interests” on the consolidated balance sheet.
NOTE 8 – RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS
In the normal course of business, Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois have engaged in, and may in the Ameren Companiesfuture engage in, affiliate transactions. These transactions primarily consist of natural gas and power purchases and sales, services received or rendered, and borrowings and lendings. Transactions between Ameren’s subsidiaries are reported as affiliate transactions on their individual financial statements, but those transactions are eliminated in consolidation for Ameren’s consolidated financial statements. For a discussion of our material related-party agreements and money pool arrangements, see Note 13 – Related-party Transactions and Note 4 – Short-term Debt and Liquidity under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K.


Electric Power Supply Agreement
In April 2018,and September 2019, Ameren Illinois conducted a procurement event,events, administered by the IPA, to purchase energy products. Ameren Missouri was among the winning suppliers in this event.these events. As a result, in April 2018,2019, Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois entered into an energy product agreement by which Ameren Missouri agreed to sell, and Ameren Illinois agreed to purchase, 110,000288,000 megawatthours at an average price of $32$35 per megawatthour during the period of JuneJanuary 2020 through December 2021. In September 2019, Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois entered into an energy product agreement by which Ameren Missouri agreed to sell, and Ameren Illinois agreed to purchase, 170,800 megawatthours at an average price of $29 per megawatthour during the period of April 2020 through November 2021.
Software Licensing Agreement
In September 2020.2019, Ameren Missouri purchased a license for advanced metering infrastructure software from Ameren Illinois. The amount of the $24 million cost-based transaction price over the $5 million remaining carrying value of the software was recorded as revenue by Ameren Illinois, with $14 million of revenue recorded at Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution and $5 million recorded at Ameren Illinois Natural Gas. The revenue recorded at Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution was reflected in formula ratemaking, which resulted in no impact to net income. Per authoritative accounting guidance for sales to rate-regulated entities, the revenue recognized by Ameren Illinois was not eliminated upon consolidation by Ameren. Ameren Missouri's $24 million software investment is included in "Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net.” Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois included $24 million in "Accounts payable – affiliates" and "Accounts receivable – affiliates," respectively, as of September 30, 2019, as a result of this transaction.
Tax Allocation Agreement
See Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K for a discussion of the tax allocation agreement. The following table presents the impactaffiliate balances related to income taxes for Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois as of September 30, 2019, and December 31, 2018:
 September 30, 2019  December 31, 2018
 Ameren MissouriAmeren Illinois  Ameren MissouriAmeren Illinois
Income taxes payable to parent(a)
$58
$24
  $16
$7
Income taxes receivable from parent(b)


  
6
(a)Included in “Accounts payable – affiliates” on the balance sheet.
(b)Included in “Accounts receivable – affiliates” on the balance sheet.
Effects of Related-party Transactions on the Statement of Income
The following table presents the effect on Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois of related-party transactions for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017:2018:
    Three Months Nine Months
Agreement
Income Statement
Line Item
  
Ameren
Missouri
 
Ameren
Illinois
 
Ameren
Missouri
 
Ameren
Illinois
Ameren Missouri power supplyOperating Revenues2018$5
$(a)
$11
$(a)
agreements with Ameren Illinois 2017 4
 (a)
 21
 (a)
Ameren Missouri and Ameren IllinoisOperating Revenues2018 6
 (b)
 17
 2
rent and facility services 2017 7
 1
 20
 3
Ameren Missouri and Ameren IllinoisOperating Revenues2018 (b)
 (b)
 (b)
 (b)
miscellaneous support services 2017 (b)
 (b)
 (b)
 1
Total Operating Revenues 2018$11
$(b)
$28
$2
  2017 11
 1
 41
 4
Ameren Illinois power supplyPurchased Power2018$(a)
$5
$(a)
$11
agreements with Ameren Missouri 2017 (a)
 4
 (a)
 21
Ameren Illinois transmissionPurchased Power2018 (a)
 (b)
 (a)
 1
services with ATXI 2017 (a)
 (b)
 (a)
 1
Total Purchased Power 2018$(a)
$5
$(a)
$12
  2017 (a)
 4
 (a)
 22
Ameren Services support servicesOther Operations and Maintenance2018$36
$33
$101
$93
agreement 2017 34
 33
 103
 99
Money pool borrowings (advances)Interest Charges/ Other Income, Net2018$(b)
$(b)
$(b)
$(b)
  2017 (b)
 (b)
 (b)
 (b)
    Three Months Nine Months
Agreement
Income Statement
Line Item
  Ameren
Missouri

Ameren
Illinois

Ameren
Missouri

Ameren
Illinois
Ameren Missouri power supplyOperating Revenues2019$1
$(a)
$3
$(a)
agreements with Ameren Illinois 2018 5
 (a)
 11
 (a)
Ameren Missouri and Ameren IllinoisOperating Revenues2019$7
$1
$20
$2
rent and facility services 2018 6
 (b)
 17
 2
Ameren Missouri and Ameren IllinoisOperating Revenues2019$1
$(b)
$1
$1
miscellaneous support services 2018 (b)
 (b)
 (b)
 (b)


    Three Months Nine Months
Agreement
Income Statement
Line Item
  Ameren
Missouri

Ameren
Illinois

Ameren
Missouri

Ameren
Illinois
Ameren Missouri software licensingOperating Revenues2019$(a)
$19
$(a)
$19
with Ameren Illinois 2018 (a)
 (a)
 (a)
 (a)
Total Operating Revenues 2019$9
$20
$24
$22
  2018 11
 (b)
 28
 2
Ameren Illinois power supplyPurchased Power2019$(a)
$1
$(a)
$3
agreements with Ameren Missouri 2018 (a)
 5
 (a)
 11
Ameren Illinois transmissionPurchased Power2019$(a)
$1
$(a)
$1
services with ATXI 2018 (a)
 (b)
 (a)
 1
Total Purchased Power 2019$(a)
$2
$(a)
$4
  2018 (a)
 5
 (a)
 12
Ameren Missouri and Ameren IllinoisOther Operations and Maintenance2019$(b)
$1
$1
$4
rent and facility services 2018 1
 1
 2
 4
Ameren Services support servicesOther Operations and Maintenance2019$34
$30
$98
$91
agreement 2018 36
 33
 101
 93
Total Other Operations and 2019$34
$31
$99
$95
Maintenance 2018 37
 34
 103
 97
Money pool borrowings (advances)Interest Charges/Other Income, Net2019$(b)
$(b)
$(b)
$(b)
  2018 (b)
 (b)
 (b)
 (b)
(a)Not applicable.
(b)Amount less than $1 million.
NOTE 9 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
We are involved in legal, tax, and regulatory proceedings before various courts, regulatory commissions, authorities, and governmental agencies with respect to matters that arise in the ordinary course of business, some of which involve substantial amounts of money. We believe that the final disposition of these proceedings, except as otherwise disclosed in the notes to our financial statements in this report and in the Form 10-K, will not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
Reference is made to Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters, Note 13 – Related-party Transactions, and Note 14 – Commitments and Contingencies under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K. See also Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters, Note 8 – Related-party Transactions, and Note 10 – Callaway Energy Center of this report.
Other Obligations
To supply a portion of the fuel requirements of Ameren Missouri’s energy centers, Ameren Missouri has entered into various long-term commitments for the procurement of coal, natural gas, nuclear fuel, and methane gas. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois also have entered into various long-term commitments for purchased power and natural gas for distribution. The table below presents our estimated minimum fuel, purchased power, and other commitments for fuel at September 30, 2018.2019. Ameren’s and Ameren Illinois’ purchased power commitments include the Ameren Illinois agreements entered into as part of the IPA-administered power procurement process. Included in the Other column are minimum purchase commitments under contracts for equipment, design and construction, and meter reading services, among other agreements, at September 30, 2018.2019.



Coal 
Natural
Gas(a)
 
Nuclear
Fuel
 
Purchased
Power(b)(c)
 
Methane
Gas
 Other TotalCoal 
Natural
Gas(a)
 
Nuclear
Fuel
 
Purchased
Power(b)(c)
 
Methane
Gas
 Other Total
Ameren:(d)
                          
2018$86
 $55
 $36
 $60
 $1
 $38
 $276
2019319
 189
 26
 157
 4
 51
 746
$142
 $51
 $21
 $56
(d) 
$1
 $20
 $291
2020159
 131
 38
 53
 4
 41
 426
226
 172
 43
 146
(d) 
3
 40
 630
2021121
 70
 56
 10
 5
 30
 292
195
 105
 59
 50
 3
 26
 438
202273
 19
 13
 
 5
 25
 135
137
 49
 12
 12
 3
 22
 235
202346
 25
 42
 2
 3
 22
 140
Thereafter
 39
 72
 
 58
 92
 261

 48
 29
 
 26
 85
 188
Total$758

$503

$241

$280

$77

$277

$2,136
$746

$450

$206

$266

$39

$215

$1,922
Ameren Missouri:                          
2018$86
 $11
 $36
 $
 $1
 $31
 $165
2019319
 39
 26
 
 4
 35
 423
$142
 $10
 $21
 $
 $1
 $16
 $190
2020159
 30
 38
 
 4
 25
 256
226
 39
 43
 
 3
 29
 340
2021121
 14
 56
 
 5
 25
 221
195
 23
 59
 
 3
 22
 302
202273
 5
 13
 
 5
 25
 121
137
 11
 12
 
 3
 22
 185
202346
 10
 42
 
 3
 22
 123
Thereafter
 17
 72
 
 58
 75
 222

 17
 29
 
 26
 48
 120
Total$758

$116

$241

$

$77

$216

$1,408
$746

$110

$206

$

$39

$159

$1,260
Ameren Illinois:                          
2018$
 $44
 $
 $60
 $
 $4
 $108
2019
 150
 
 157
 
 7
 314
$
 $41
 $
 $56
(d) 
$
 $2
 $99
2020
 100
 
 53
 
 7
 160

 133
 
 146
(d) 

 1
 280
2021
 56
 
 10
 
 
 66

 82
 
 50
 
 
 132
2022
 14
 
 
 
 
 14

 38
 
 12
 
 
 50
2023
 15
 
 2
 
 
 17
Thereafter
 22
 
 
 
 
 22

 31
 
 
 
 
 31
Total$

$386

$

$280

$

$18

$684
$

$340

$

$266

$

$3

$609
(a)Includes amounts for generation and for distribution.
(b)The purchased power amounts for Ameren and Ameren Illinois exclude agreements for renewable energy credits through 20342035 with various renewable energy suppliers due to the contingent nature of the payment amounts.amounts, with the exception of expected payments of $11 million through 2023.
(c)The purchased power amounts for Ameren and Ameren Missouri exclude a 102-megawatt power purchase agreement with a wind farm operator, which expires in 2024, due to the contingent nature of the payment amounts.
(d)IncludesIn January 2018, as required by the FEJA, Ameren Illinois entered into 10-year agreements to acquire zero emission credits. Annual zero emission credit commitment amounts forwill be published by the IPA each May prior to the start of the subsequent planning year. The amounts above reflect Ameren registrant and nonregistrant subsidiaries.Illinois’ commitment to acquire approximately $44 million of zero emission credits through May 2020.
In January 2018, as required by the FEJA, Ameren Illinois entered into 10-year agreements to acquire zero emission credits. Annual zero emission credit commitment amounts will be published by the IPA each May prior to the start of the subsequent planning year. The amounts above reflect Ameren Illinois’ commitment to acquire approximately $42 million of zero emission credits through May 2019.
In April and September 2018, Ameren Illinois conducted procurement events, administered by the IPA, to purchase energy products and capacity through May 2021. In the April 2018 procurement event, Ameren Illinois contracted to purchase 3,956,200 megawatthours of energy products for $112 million from June 2018 through May 2021. In the September 2018 procurement event, Ameren Illinois contracted to purchase approximately 2,221,400 megawatthours of energy products for $63 million from October 2018 through May 2021. In addition, in the September procurement event, Ameren Illinois contracted to purchase 653 megawatts of capacity for $7 million from June 1, 2019, through May 31, 2020. The results of both procurement events are reflected in the amounts above. See Note 8 – Related-party Transactions for additional information regarding energy product agreements between Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois as a result of the April procurement event.
Environmental Matters
We are subject to various environmental laws, including statutes and regulations, enforced by federal, state, and local authorities. The development and operation of electric generation, transmission, and distribution facilities and natural gas storage, transmission, and distribution facilities can trigger compliance obligations with respect to environmental laws and regulations.laws. These laws and regulations address emissions, discharges to water, water usage,intake, impacts to air, land, and water, and chemical and waste handling. Complex and lengthy processes are required to obtain and renew approvals, permits, and licenses for new, existing or modified facilities. Additionally, the use and handling of various chemicals or hazardous materials require release prevention plans and emergency response procedures.
The EPA has promulgated environmental regulations that have a significant impact on the electric utility industry. Over time, compliance with these regulations could be costly for Ameren Missouri, which operates coal-fired power plants.As of December 31, 2017,2018, Ameren Missouri’s fossil fuel-fired energy centers represented 17%16% and 33%32% of Ameren’s and Ameren Missouri’s rate base, respectively. Regulations that apply to air emissions from the electric utility industry include the NSPS, the CSAPR, the MATS, and the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, which are subject to periodic review for certain pollutants. Collectively, these regulations cover a variety of pollutants, such as


SO2, particulate matter, NOx,mercury, toxic metals, and acid gases, and CO2 emissions from new power plants. Water intake and discharges from power plants are regulated under the Clean Water Act. Such regulation could require modifications to water intake structures or more stringent limitations on wastewater discharges at Ameren Missouri’s energy centers, either of which could result in significant capital expenditures. The management and disposal of coal ash is regulated under the CCR Rule,rule, which will require the closure of surface impoundments and the installations of dry ash handling systems at several of Ameren Missouri’s energy centers. The individual or combined effects of existing environmental regulations could result in significant capital expenditures, increased operating costs, or the closure or alteration of operations at some of Ameren Missouri’s energy centers. Ameren and Ameren Missouri expect that such compliance costs would be recoverable through rates, subject to MoPSC prudence review, but the timing of costs and their recovery could be subject to regulatory lag.
Ameren Missouri’s current plan for compliance with existing air emission regulations includes burning ultra-low-sulfur coal and installing new or optimizing existing pollution control equipment.

Ameren and Ameren Missouri estimate that they will need to make capital expenditures of $325$300 million to $425$400 million from 20182019 through 20222023 in order to comply with existing environmental regulations. Additional environmental controls beyond 20222023 could be required. This estimate of capital expenditures includes expenditures required by the CCR regulations, by the Clean Water Act rule applicable to cooling water intake structures at existing power plants, and by effluent limitation guidelines applicable to steam electric generating units, all of which are discussed below. This estimate does not include capital expenditures that may be required as a result of the NSR and Clean Air litigation discussed below. Ameren Missouri’s current plan for compliance with existing air emission regulations includes burning ultra-low-sulfur coal and installing new or optimizing existing pollution control equipment. The actual amount of capital expenditures required to comply with existing environmental regulations may vary substantially from the above estimate because of uncertainty as to whether the EPA will substantially revise regulatory obligations, exactly which compliance strategies will be used and their ultimate cost, among other things.
The following sections describe the more significant environmental laws and rules and environmental enforcement and remediation matters that affect or could affect our operations. The EPA has initiated an administrative review of several regulations and proposed amendments to regulations and guidelines, including to the effluent limitation guidelines and the CCR Rule, which could ultimately result in the revision of all or part of such rules.
Clean Air Act
Federal and state laws, including CSAPR, regulate emissions of SO2and NOx through emissionthe reduction of emissions at their source reductions and the use and retirement of emission allowances. The first phase of the CSAPR emission reduction requirements became effective in 2015. The second phase of emission reduction requirements, which were revised by the EPA in 2016, became effective in 2017; additional emission reduction requirements may apply in subsequent years. To achieve compliance with the CSAPR, Ameren Missouri burns ultra-low-sulfur coal, operates two2 scrubbers at its Sioux energy center, and optimizes other existing pollution control equipment. Ameren Missouri expects to incur additional costs to lower its emissions at one or more of its energy centers to comply with the CSAPR in future years. These higher costs are expected to be recovered from customers through the FAC or higher base rates.
CO2 Emissions Standards
In 2015, the EPA issued the Clean Power Plan, which would have established CO2 emissions standards applicable to existing power plants. The United States Supreme Court stayed the rule in February 2016, pending various legal challenges. The2016. In July 2019, the EPA has proposed to repeal and replacefinalized regulations that repealed the Clean Power Plan and is currently taking public comments on a new rule known asreplaced it with the Affordable Clean Energy Rule, which establishes emission guidelines for states to follow in developing plans to limit CO2 emissions from power plants.coal-fired electric generating units. The EPA proposes to usehas identified certain efficiency measures as the best system of emission reduction for coal-fired power plants.electric generating units. The Affordable Clean Energy Rule went into effect on September 6, 2019. The rule requires the state of Missouri to develop a compliance plan and submit it to the EPA for approval by September 2022. The plan is expected to finalizeinclude a standard of performance for each affected generating unit. We are evaluating the impact of the adoption and implementation of the Affordable Clean Energy Rule inand, along with other stakeholders, will be working with the first quarterstate of 2019. WeMissouri to develop the compliance plan submitted to the EPA. At this time, we cannot predict the outcome of EPA’s rulemaking orMissouri’s compliance plan development process. As such, the impact on the results of operations, financial position, and liquidity of Ameren and Ameren Missouri is uncertain. We also cannot predict the outcome of any potential legal challenges related to such rulemaking.the rule.
NSR and Clean Air Litigation
In January 2011, the Department of Justice, on behalf of the EPA, filed a complaint against Ameren Missouri in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri. The complaint, as amended in October 2013, allegedMissouri alleging that in performing projects at its Rush Island coal-fired energy center in 2007 and 2010, Ameren Missouri violated provisions of the Clean Air Act and Missouri law. The litigation has been divided into two phases: liability and remedy. In January 2017, the district court issued a liability ruling and in September 2019 entered a final judgment that ordered Ameren Missouri to install a flue gas desulfurization system at the projects violated provisions ofRush Island energy center and a dry sorbent injection system at the Clean Air Act and Missouri law. The case then proceeded to the second phase to determine the actions required to remedy the violations foundLabadie energy center. There were no fines in the liability phase. The EPA previously withdrew all claims for penalties and fines. No date has been set byorder. In October 2019, Ameren Missouri appealed the district court for a trial on the remedy phase of the litigation. At the conclusion of both phases of the litigation, Ameren Missouri intends to appeal the liabilitycourt’s ruling to the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. Additionally, in October 2019, following a request by Ameren Missouri, the district court stayed the majority of its order while the case is appealed. Ameren Missouri believes that the district court both misinterpreted and misapplied the law in its ruling. We are unable to predict the ultimate resolution of this matter. Based on the initial procedural schedule, the Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit is expected to hear oral arguments in 2020; however, it is under no deadline to issue a ruling in this case.
The ultimate resolution of this matter could have a material adverse effect on the results of operations, financial position, and liquidity of Ameren and Ameren Missouri. Among other things and subject to economic and regulatory considerations, resolution of this matter could result in increased capital expenditures for the installation of pollution control equipment, as well as increased operations and maintenance expenses. WeCapital expenditures to comply with the district court’s order for installation of a flue gas desulfurization system at the Rush Island energy center are unableestimated at approximately $1 billion. Further, the flue gas desulfurization system would result in additional operation and maintenance expenses of $30 million to predict$50 million annually for the ultimate resolutionlife of this matter or the costs that might be incurred.energy center. Estimates for the additional capital expenditures and operation and maintenance expenses for the Labadie energy center to comply with the district court’s order are under development. As a



result of the district court’s stay, Ameren Missouri does not expect to make significant capital expenditures or incur operations and maintenance expenses related to the district court’s order while the case is under appeal.
Clean Water Act
In July 2018, the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit upheld the EPA’s Section 316(b) Rule applicable to cooling water intake structures at existing power plants. The rule requires a case-by-case evaluation and plan for reducing the number of aquatic organisms impinged on the facility’sa power plant’s cooling water intake screens or entrained through the plant’s cooling water system. All of Ameren Missouri’s coal-fired and nuclear energy centers are subject to the cooling water intake structures rule. TheRequirements of the rule will beare being implemented between 2018 and 2023,by Ameren Missouri during the permit renewal process of each energy center’s water discharge permit.permit, which is expected to be completed by 2023.
Additionally, inIn 2015, the EPA issued a rule to revise the effluent limitation guidelines applicable to steam electric generating units. These guidelines established national standards for water discharges that are based on the effectiveness of available control technology. The EPA’s 2015 rule prohibits effluent discharges of certain waste streams and imposes more stringent limitations on certain water discharges from power plants. In September 2017, the EPA published a rule that postponed the compliance dates by two years for the limitations applicable to two2 specific waste streams so that it could potentially revise those standards. To meet the requirements of the guidelines, Ameren Missouri is in the process of constructing wastewater treatment facilities and dry ash handling systems at three3 of its energy centers.centers and is scheduled to complete the projects in 2020. Estimated capital expenditures to complete these projects are included in the CCR management compliance plan, discussed below.
CCR Management
In 2015, the EPA issued the CCR Rule,rule, which established regulations regardingrequirements for the management and disposal of CCR from coal-fired energy centers.power plants. These regulations affect CCR disposal and handling costs at Ameren Missouri’s energy centers. They require closureAmeren Missouri is in the process of closing its surface impoundments, if performance criteria relating to groundwater impacts and location restrictions are not achieved.with the last of such closures scheduled for 2023. In July 2018, the EPA issued revisions to the CCR Rule that extended certain compliance deadlinesrule, proposed additional revisions, and indicated that additional revisions to the CCR Rulerule are likely. Ameren and Ameren Missouri have AROs of $135$160 million recorded on their respective balance sheets as of September 30, 2018,2019, associated with CCR storage facilities that reflect the regulations issued in 2015. Ameren plans to close these CCR storage facilities between 2018 and 2023. The recent EPA revisions do not affect Ameren Missouri’s plan.facilities. Ameren Missouri estimates it will need to make capital expenditures of $300$150 million to $350$200 million from 20182019 through 20222023 to implement its CCR management compliance plan, which includes installation of dry ash handling systems, waste waterwastewater treatment facilities, and groundwater monitoring equipment.
Remediation
The Ameren Companies are involved in a number of remediation actions to clean up sites impacted by the use or disposal of materials containing hazardous substances. Federal and state laws can require responsible parties to fund remediation regardless of their degree of fault, the legality of original disposal, or the ownership of a disposal site. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois have each been identified by federal or state governments as a potentially responsible party at several contaminated sites.
As of September 30, 2018,2019, Ameren Illinois owned or was otherwise responsible forhas remediated the majority of the 44 former MGP sites in Illinois the majority ofit owned or for which have been investigated, remediated, and closed.it was otherwise responsible. Ameren Illinois estimates it could substantially conclude remediation efforts at the remaining sites by 2023. The ICC allows Ameren Illinois to recover such remediation and related litigation costs from its electric and natural gas utility customers through environmental cost riders. Costs are subject to annual prudence review by the ICC. As of September 30, 2018,2019, Ameren Illinois estimated the remaining obligation related to these former MGP sites at $162$139 million to $226$209 million. Ameren and Ameren Illinois recorded a liability of $162$139 million to represent the estimated minimum obligation for these sites, as no other amount within the range was a better estimate.
The scope of the remediation activities at these former MGP sites may increase as remediation efforts continue. Considerable uncertainty remains in these estimates because many site-specific factors can influence the ultimate actual costs, including unanticipated underground structures, technical feasibility of certain remediation measures,the degree to which groundwater is encountered, regulatory changes, disposal costs,local ordinances, and site accessibility. The actual costs and timing of completion may vary substantially from these estimates.
Ameren Missouri participated in the investigation of various sites known as Sauget Area 2, located in Sauget, Illinois. In 2000, the EPA notified Ameren Missouri and numerous other companies that former landfills and lagoons at those sites may contain soil and groundwater contamination. In 2013, the EPA issued its record of decision for Sauget Area 2 approving the investigation and the remediation actions recommended by the potentially responsible parties. Ameren Missouri is the owner of one of the sites and in July 2018 reached an agreement with the EPA and Solutia, Inc., the primary potentially responsible party for Sauget Area 2, which limits Ameren Missouri’s cleanup obligation to the site it owns. Remediation efforts at the site are expected to occur in 2019. As of September 30, 2018, Ameren Missouri recorded a liability of $1 million to represent its estimated minimum obligation for this site.
Our operations or those of our predecessor companies involve the use of, disposal of, and, in appropriate circumstances, the cleanup of substances regulated under environmental laws. We are unable to determine whether such practices will result in future environmental commitments or will affect our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.


NOTE 10 – CALLAWAY ENERGY CENTER
Spent Nuclear Fuel
UnderSee Note 9 – Callaway Energy Center under Part II, Item 8, of the NWPA, the DOE is responsibleForm 10-K for disposing ofinformation regarding spent nuclear fuel from the Callaway energy center and other commercial nuclear energy centers. The NWPA established the fee paid by Ameren Missouri and other utilities that own and operate those energy centers to the federal government for disposing of the spent nuclear fuel at one mill, or one-tenth of one cent, for each kilowatthour generated and sold by those plants. The NWPA also requires the DOE to review the nuclear waste fee annually against the cost of the nuclear waste disposal program and to propose to the United States Congress any fee adjustment necessary to offset the costs of the program. As required by the NWPA, Ameren Missouri and other utilities have entered into standard contracts with the DOE. Consistent with the NWPA and its standard contract, which stated that the DOE would begin to dispose of spent nuclear fuel by 1998, Ameren Missouri had historically collected one mill from its electric customers for each kilowatthour of electricity that it generated and sold from its Callaway energy center. Because the federal government is not meeting its disposal obligation, the collection of this fee was suspended in 2014.
As a result of the DOE’s failure to fulfill its contractual obligations, Ameren Missouri and other nuclear energy center owners sued the DOE to recover costs incurred for ongoing storage of their spent fuel. Ameren Missouri’s lawsuit against the DOE resulted in a settlement agreement that provides for annual reimbursement of additional spent fuel storage and related costs. Ameren Missouri received reimbursements from the DOE of $11 million and $3 million in September 2018 and October 2017, respectively. Ameren Missouri will continue to apply for reimbursement from the DOE for allowable costs associated with the ongoing storage of spent fuel. The DOE’s delay in carrying out its obligation to dispose of spent nuclear fuel from the Callaway energy center is not expected to adversely affect the continued operations of the energy center.
Supplier of Fuel Assemblies
The Callaway energy center uses nuclear fuel assemblies fabricated by Westinghouse, which is the only NRC-licensed supplier authorized to provide fuel assemblies to the Callaway energy center. During the first quarter of 2017, Westinghouse filed voluntary petitions for a court-supervised restructuring process under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. As part of its bankruptcy plan, Westinghouse filed a schedule of assumed contracts, which includes all current contracts between Westinghouse and Ameren Missouri, including the contract for fabrication of fuel assemblies for the Callaway energy center. In April 2018, the bankruptcy court approved Westinghouse’s bankruptcy plan, which included the assumption of its contracts with Ameren Missouri. In August 2018, the plan became effective and Westinghouse emerged from bankruptcy. This restructuring did not affect Westinghouse’s performance under the terms of its existing contracts with Ameren Missouri.
Decommissioning
Electric rates charged to customers provide for therecovery, recovery of the Callaway energy center’s decommissioning costs, which include decontamination, dismantling, and site restoration costs, over the expected life of the nuclear energy center. Amounts collected from customers are deposited into the external nuclear decommissioning trust fund to provide for the Callaway energy center’s decommissioning. It is assumed that the Callaway energy center site will be decommissioned through the immediate dismantlement method and removed from service. Ameren and Ameren Missouri have recorded an ARO for the Callaway energy center decommissioning costs at fair value, which represents the present value of estimated future cash outflows. Annual decommissioning costs of $7 million are included in the costs used to establish electric rates for Ameren Missouri’s customers. Every three years, the MoPSC requires Ameren Missouri to file an updated cost study and funding analysis for decommissioning its Callaway energy center. An updated cost study and funding analysis was filed with the MoPSC in September 2017 and reflected within the ARO. In January 2018, the MoPSC approved no change in electric rates for decommissioning costs based on Ameren Missouri’s updated cost study and funding analysis.
fund. The fair value of the trust fund for Ameren Missouri’s Callaway energy center is reported as “Nuclear decommissioning trust fund” in Ameren’s and Ameren Missouri’s balance sheets. This amount is legally restricted and may be used only to fund the costs of nuclear decommissioning. Changes in the fair value of the trust fund are


recorded as an increase or decrease to the nuclear decommissioning trust fund, with an offsetting adjustment to the related regulatory liability. If the assumed return on trust assets is not earned, Ameren Missouri believes that it is probable that any such earnings deficiency will be recovered in rates.


Insurance
The following table presents insurance coverage at Ameren Missouri’s Callaway energy center as of November 1, 2018.September 30, 2019. The property coverage and the nuclear liability coverage renewal dates are April 1 and January 1, respectively, of each year. Both coverages were renewed in 2018.2019.
Type and Source of CoverageMaximum Coverages 
Maximum Assessments
for Single Incidents
 Maximum Coverages 
Maximum Assessments
for Single Incidents
 
Public liability and nuclear worker liability:        
American Nuclear Insurers$450
 $
 $450
 $
 
Pool participation13,623
(a) 
138
(b) 
13,486
(a) 
138
(b) 
$14,073
(c) 
$138
 $13,936
(c) 
$138
 
Property damage:        
NEIL and EMANI$3,200
(d) 
$27
(e) 
$3,200
(d) 
$28
(e) 
Replacement power:        
NEIL$490
(f) 
$7
(e) 
$490
(f) 
$7
(e) 
(a)Provided through mandatory participation in an industrywide retrospective premium assessment program. The maximum coverage available is dependent on the number of United States commercial reactors participating in the program.
(b)Retrospective premium under the Price-Anderson Act. This is subject to retrospective assessment with respect to a covered loss in excess of $450 million in the event of an incident at any licensed United States commercial reactor, payable at $21 million per year.
(c)Limit of liability for each incident under the Price-Anderson liability provisions of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended. This limit is subject to change to account for the effects of inflation and changes in the number of licensed reactors.
(d)NEIL provides $2.7 billion in property damage, stabilization, decontamination, and premature decommissioning insurance for radiation events and $2.3 billion in property damage insurance for nonradiation events. EMANI provides $490 million in property damage insurance for both radiation and nonradiation events.
(e)All NEIL insured plants could be subject to assessments should losses exceed the accumulated funds from NEIL.
(f)Provides replacement power cost insurance in the event of a prolonged accidental outage. Weekly indemnity up to $4.5 million for 52 weeks, which commences after the first twelve weeks of an outage, plus up to $3.6 million per week for a minimum of 71 weeks thereafter for a total not exceeding the policy limit of $490 million. Nonradiation events are limited to $328 million.
The Price-Anderson Act is a federal law that limits the liability for claims from an incident involving any licensed United States commercial nuclear energy center. The limit is based on the number of licensed reactors. The limit of liability and the maximum potential annual payments are adjusted at least every five years for inflation to reflect changes in the Consumer Price Index. The most recent five-year inflationary adjustment became effective in November 2018. Owners of a nuclear reactorreactors cover this exposure through a combination of private insurance and mandatory participation in a financial protection pool, as established by the Price-Anderson Act.
Losses resulting from terrorist attacks on nuclear facilities insured by NEIL are subject to industrywide aggregates, such that terrorist acts against one or more commercial nuclear power plants within a stated time period would be treated as a single event, and the owners of the nuclear power plants would share the limit of liability. NEIL policies have an aggregate limit of $3.2 billion within a 12-month period for radiation events, or $1.8 billion for events not involving radiation contamination. The EMANI policies are not subject to industrywide aggregates in the event of terrorist attacks on nuclear facilities.
If losses from a nuclear incident at the Callaway energy center exceed the limits of, or are not covered by insurance, or if coverage is unavailable, Ameren Missouri is at risk for any uninsured losses. If a serious nuclear incident were to occur, it could have a material adverse effect on Ameren’s and Ameren Missouri’s results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.


NOTE 11 – RETIREMENT BENEFITS
In March 2017, the FASB issued authoritative guidance that requires an entity to report, including on a retrospective basis, the non-service cost or income components of net periodic benefit cost separately from the service cost component and outside of operating income. The Ameren Companies adopted this guidance, effective January 1, 2018, and as a result, $33 million, $17 million, and $8 million of net benefit income has been retrospectively reclassified from “Operating Expenses – Other operations and maintenance” to “Other Income, Net” on Ameren's, Ameren Missouri’s, and Ameren Illinois’ respective statements of income for the nine months ended September 30, 2017. Net benefit income of $11 million, $5 million, and $4 million has been similarly retrospectively reclassified on Ameren’s, Ameren Missouri’s, and Ameren Illinois’ respective statements of income for the three months ended September 30, 2017.
The guidance also requires an entity to capitalize only the service cost component as part of an asset, such as inventory or property, plant, and equipment, on a prospective basis. Previously all of the net benefit cost components were eligible for capitalization. This change in the capitalization of net benefit costs is not expected to affect our ability to recover total net benefit cost through customer rates.


The following table presents the components of the net periodic benefit cost (income), prior to capitalization, incurred for Ameren’s pension and postretirement benefit plans for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017:2018:
Pension Benefits Postretirement BenefitsPension Benefits Postretirement Benefits
Three Months Nine Months Three Months Nine MonthsThree Months Nine Months Three Months Nine Months
2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 20172019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018
Service cost(a)
$25
 $24
 $75
 $70
 $6
 $6
 $16
 $16
$22
 $25
 $66
 $75
 $4
 $6
 $13
 $16
Non-service cost components:                              
Interest cost42
 44
 126
 134
 10
 12
 30
 35
46
 42
 139
 126
 11
 10
 32
 30
Expected return on plan assets(68) (65) (206) (196) (20) (19) (58) (56)(69) (68) (207) (206) (19) (20) (57) (58)
Amortization of:                              
Prior service benefit
 (1) 
 (1) (1) (2) (3) (4)
 
 
 
 (1) (1) (4) (3)
Actuarial loss (gain)17
 14
 51
 41
 (2) (2) (5) (5)6
 17
 19
 51
 (4) (2) (11) (5)
Total non-service cost components(b)
(9) (8) (29) (22) (13) (11) (36) (30)$(17) $(9) $(49) $(29) $(13) $(13) $(40) $(36)
Net periodic benefit cost (income)$16
 $16
 $46
 $48
 $(7) $(5) $(20) $(14)$5
 $16
 $17
 $46
 $(9) $(7) $(27) $(20)
(a)Service cost, net of capitalization, is reflected in “Operating Expenses – Other operations and maintenance” on Ameren’s statement of income.
(b)2018 amounts and the non-capitalized portion of 2017’s non-serviceNon-service cost components as discussed above, are reflected in “Other Income, Net” on Ameren’s statement of income. See Note 5 – Other Income, Net for additional information.
Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois are responsible for their respective shares of Ameren’s pension and postretirement costs. The following table presents the respective share of net periodic pension and other postretirement benefit costs (income) incurred for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017:2018:
 Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits
 Three Months Nine Months Three Months Nine Months
 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018
Ameren Missouri(a)
$1
 $6
 $3
 $17
 $(1) $(1) $(4) $(1)
Ameren Illinois5
 11
 15
 30
 (8) (6) (23) (19)
Other(1) (1) (1) (1) 
 
 
 
Ameren(a)
$5
 $16
 $17
 $46
 $(9) $(7) $(27) $(20)
 Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits
 Three Months Nine Months Three Months Nine Months
 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017
Ameren Missouri(a)
$6
 $6
 $17
 $18
 $(1) $(1) $(1) $(3)
Ameren Illinois11
 10
 30
 30
 (6) (3) (19) (10)
Other(1) 
 (1) 
 
 (1) 
 (1)
Ameren(a)
$16
 $16
 $46
 $48
 $(7) $(5) $(20) $(14)

(a)Does not include the impact of the regulatory tracking mechanism for the difference between the level of pension and postretirement benefit costs incurred by Ameren Missouri under GAAP and the level of such costs included in rates.
NOTE 12 – INCOME TAXES
The following table presents a reconciliation of the federal statutory corporate income tax rate to the effective income tax rate for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017:2018:
 Ameren Ameren Missouri Ameren Illinois 
 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 
Three Months            
Federal statutory corporate income tax rate:21% 21% 21% 21% 21% 21% 
Increases (decreases) from:            
Amortization of excess deferred taxes(7) (6)
(a) 
(11) (7)
(a) 
(3) (3) 
Depreciation differences     (1) 
Amortization of deferred investment tax credit(1) (1) (1)    
State tax6 6 5 4 6 5 
Stock-based compensation1




 
TCJA 3
(b) 
   4
(b) 
Effective income tax rate20% 23% 14% 18% 24% 26% 
 Ameren Ameren Missouri Ameren Illinois
Three Months2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017
Federal statutory corporate income tax rate:21% 35% 21% 35% 21% 35%
Increases (decreases) from:           
Amortization of excess deferred taxes(6)  (7)
(a) 
 (3) 
Other depreciation differences 1  1 (1) (2)
Amortization of deferred investment tax credit(1) (1)  (1)  
State tax6 7 4 3 5 7
TCJA3
(b) 
   4
(b) 
Other permanent items (1)    
Effective income tax rate23% 41% 18% 38% 26% 40%




 Ameren Ameren Missouri Ameren Illinois 
 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 
Nine Months 
Federal statutory corporate income tax rate:21% 21% 21% 21% 21% 21% 
Increases (decreases) from:            
Amortization of excess deferred taxes(7) (3)
(a) 
(12) (4)
(a) 
(4) (4) 
Amortization of deferred investment tax credit(1) (1) (1)    
State tax6 6 5 4 7 7 
Stock-based compensation(1)      
TCJA
1
(b) 



1
(b) 
Other (1)     
Effective income tax rate18% 23% 13% 21% 24% 25% 
Nine Months
Federal statutory corporate income tax rate:21% 35% 21% 35% 21% 35%
Increases (decreases) from:           
Amortization of excess deferred taxes(3)  (4)
(a) 
 (4) 
Other depreciation differences   1  
Amortization of deferred investment tax credit(1) (1)  (1)  
State tax6 6 4 3 7 5
TCJA1
(b) 
   1
(b) 
Other permanent items(1) (1)    
Effective income tax rate23% 39% 21% 38% 25% 40%

(a)Based on an order issued by the MoPSC in July 2018, Ameren Missouri began amortizing excess deferred taxes in August 2018. See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters for additional information.
(b)The Ameren Companies updated their respective provisional estimates recorded related to TCJA, as discussed below.
Federal Tax Reform

As of December 31, 2017, the Ameren Companies made provisional estimates for the measurement and accounting of certain effects of the TCJA in accordance with SEC guidance, which provides for a one-year period in which to complete the required analysis and update provisional estimates. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois updated their respective provisional estimates and recorded $13 million, $4 million, and $4 million, respectively, of income tax expense, primarily due to the application of proposed IRS regulations on depreciation transition rules. As of December 31, 2018, Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois completed their accounting for certain effects of the TCJA.
NOTE 13 – SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Restricted Cash
The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash reported within the balance sheets and the statements of cash flows as of September 30, 2019, and December 31, 2018:
 September 30, 2019  December 31, 2018
Ameren Ameren
Missouri
 Ameren
Illinois
  Ameren Ameren
Missouri
 Ameren
Illinois
Cash and cash equivalents$20
 $
 $
  $16
 $
 $
Restricted cash included in “Other current assets”14
 4
 6
  13
 4
 6
Restricted cash included in “Other assets”111
 
 111
  74
 
 74
Restricted cash included in “Nuclear decommissioning trust fund”10
 10
 
  4
 4
 
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash$155
 $14
 $117
  $107
 $8
 $80

Restricted cash included in “Other current assets” primarily represents funds held by an irrevocable Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA) trust, which provides health care benefits for active employees. Restricted cash included in “Other assets” on Ameren’s and Ameren Illinois’ balance sheets primarily represents amounts collected under a cost recovery rider restricted for use in the procurement of renewable energy credits and amounts in a trust fund restricted for the use of funding certain asbestos-related claims.
Accounts Receivable
“Accounts receivable – trade” on Ameren’s and Ameren Illinois’ balance sheets include certain receivables purchased at a discount from alternative retail electric suppliers that elect to participate in the utility consolidated billing program. At September 30, 2019, and December 31, 2018, our provisional estimates also include amounts“Other current liabilities” on Ameren’s and Ameren Illinois’ balance sheets included payables for purchased receivables of $37 million and $33 million, respectively.
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, the Ameren Companies recorded immaterial bad debt expense.
Leases
In the first quarter of 2019, we adopted authoritative accounting guidance related to compensation-related deductions,leases, which remain subject to adjustment based on any additional guidance that may be issued.
affected our financial position, but did not materially affect our results of operations or liquidity. The most significant impact for us was the recognition of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for operating leases, while the accounting for our finance leases remained substantially unchanged. Ameren and Ameren Missouri Income Tax Rate
In June 2018, legislation modifying Missouri tax law was enacted to decrease the state's corporate income tax rate from 6.25% to 4%, effectiverecognized right-of-use assets and offsetting lease liabilities of $38 million and $36 million at January 1, 2020. As2019, respectively, primarily


related to rail car leases. The effect of the adoption was immaterial at Ameren Illinois. No adjustment to comparative periods was made. We elected the available practical expedients upon adoption.
Ameren Missouri primarily leases rail cars under operating lease arrangements for the transportation of coal inventory to its energy centers. Although Ameren Missouri has options to renew a result,portion of these arrangements for up to five years on similar terms, the exercise of these options was not assumed in the second quarterrecognition of 2018,right-of-use assets and lease obligations. For rail car leases, we account for the lease and non-lease components as a single lease component.
The operating lease expense and the cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of operating lease liabilities at Ameren and Ameren Missouri were immaterial for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018.
The following table provides supplemental balance sheet information related to operating leases as of September 30, 2019:
 Ameren Ameren Missouri
Other assets$38
 $36
Other current liabilities8
 7
Other deferred credits and liabilities30
 29
Weighted average remaining operating lease term6 years
 6 years
Weighted average discount rate(a)
3.5% 3.4%
(a)As an implicit rate is not readily determinable under most of our lease agreements, we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. We use an implicit rate when readily determinable.
The following table presents Ameren’s and Ameren Missouri’s accumulatedremaining maturities of operating lease liabilities as of September 30, 2019:
 Ameren Ameren Missouri
2019$2
 $2
20208
 8
20218
 7
20227
 6
20236
 6
Thereafter11
 10
Total lease payments42
 39
Less imputed interest4
 3
Total(a)
$38
 $36

(a)The amount of remaining maturities of operating lease liabilities under previous authoritative accounting guidance as of December 31, 2018, is materially consistent with the amount as of September 30, 2019. Maturities of certain financing arrangements, including the Peno Creek and Audrain energy centers' long-term agreements, are no longer required to be disclosed as lease-related maturities. See Note 5 – Long-Term Debt and Equity Financings under Part II, Item 8, in the Form 10-K for further information on financing arrangements.
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
The following table provides noncash financing and investing activity excluded from the statements of cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018:
 September 30, 2019 September 30, 2018
Ameren
Ameren
Missouri
Ameren
Illinois
Ameren
Ameren
Missouri
Ameren
Illinois
Investing       
Exchange of bond investments for the extinguishment of senior unsecured notes(a)
$17
$
$17
 $
$
$
Accrued capital expenditures273
138
128
 240
94
133
Net realized and unrealized gain  nuclear decommissioning trust fund
100
100

 33
33

Financing       
Exchange of bond investments for the extinguishment of senior unsecured notes(a)
$(17)$
$(17) $
$
$
Issuance of common stock for stock-based compensation54


 35



(a)See Note 4 – Long-term Debt and Equity Financings for additional information.


Asset Retirement Obligations
The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending carrying amount of AROs for the nine months ended September 30, 2019:
 
Ameren
Missouri
 
Ameren
Illinois
 Ameren 
Balance at December 31, 2018$646
(a) 
$4
(b) 
$650
(a) 
Liabilities settled(10) 
 (10) 
Accretion21
(c) 

 21
(c) 
Change in estimates33
(d) 

 33
(d) 
Balance at September 30, 2019$690
(a) 
$4
(b) 
$694
(a) 
(a)Balance included $23 million in “Other current liabilities” on the balance sheet as of both December 31, 2018, and September 30, 2019.
(b)Included in “Other deferred credits and liabilities” on the balance sheet.
(c)Accretion expense attributable to Ameren Missouri was recorded as a decrease to regulatory liabilities.
(d)Ameren Missouri changed its fair value estimate primarily due to an increase in the cost estimate for closure of certain CCR storage facilities.
Stock-based Compensation
The following table summarizes Ameren's nonvested performance share unit and restricted stock unit activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2019:
 Performance Share Units Restricted Stock Units
 Share Units Weighted-average Fair Value per Share Unit Stock Units Weighted-average Fair Value per Stock Unit
Nonvested at January 1, 2019(a)
682,811
 $56.58
 155,253
 $57.38
Granted297,728
 67.42
(b) 
128,883
 65.49
Forfeitures(33,195) 64.34
 (11,028) 62.74
Vested and undistributed(c)
(180,823) 62.24
 (40,616) 61.91
Vested and distributed(176,923) 44.13
 (2,403) 54.30
Nonvested at September 30, 2019(d)
589,598
 $63.62
 230,089
 $60.90
(a)Does not include 619,783 performance share units and 26,557 restricted stock units that were vested and undistributed.
(b)Significant inputs to the Monte Carlo simulation model used to calculate the fair value of performance share units granted include Ameren’s closing common share price of $65.23 at December 31, 2018, Ameren’s common stock volatility of 17%, a volatility range for the peer group of 15% to 25%, and a three-year risk-free rate of 2.46%.
(c)
Vested and undistributed units are awards that vest on a pro-rata basis due to attainment of retirement eligibility by certain employees, but have not yet been distributed. For vested and undistributed performance share units, the number of shares issued for retirement-eligible employees will vary depending on actual performance over the three year performance period.
(d)Does not include 448,831 performance share units and 67,173 restricted stock units that were vested and undistributed.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, excess tax balances were revalued, resulting in a net decreasebenefits associated with the settlement of $33 million to their accumulated deferred tax liability, which was offset by a regulatory liability. Additionally, Ameren recorded an immaterial amount tostock-based compensation awards reduced income tax expense. expense by $14 million and $6 million, respectively.
Deferred Compensation
As of September 30, 2019, and December 31, 2018, “Other deferred credits and liabilities” on Ameren’s balance sheet included deferred compensation obligations of $78 millionand$80 million, respectively, recorded at the present value of future benefits to be paid.
Operating Revenues
As of September 30, 2019 and 2018, our remaining performance obligations for contracts with a resultterm greater than one year were immaterial. The Ameren Companies elected not to disclose the aggregate amount of its PISA election under Missouri Senate Bill 564, which prohibits a change in electric base rates priorthe transaction price allocated to April 2020, the performance obligations that are unsatisfied as of the end of the reporting period for contracts with an initial expected term of one year or less.
See Note 14 – Segment Information for disaggregated revenue information.


Excise Taxes
Ameren Missouri anticipatesand Ameren Illinois collect from their customers excise taxes, including municipal and state excise taxes and gross receipts taxes, that are levied on the effectsale or distribution of this tax decrease willnatural gas and electricity. The following table presents the excise taxes recorded on a gross basis in “Operating Revenues – Electric,” “Operating Revenues – Natural gas” and “Operating Expenses – Taxes other than income taxes” on the statements of income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018:
 Three Months Nine Months 
 20192018 20192018 
Ameren Missouri$49
$52
 $118
$133
 
Ameren Illinois27
26
 91
89
 
Ameren$76
$78
 $209
$222
 

Earnings per Share
Earnings per basic and diluted share are computed by dividing “Net Income Attributable to Ameren Common Shareholders” by the weighted-average number of basic and diluted common shares outstanding, respectively, during the applicable period. The weighted-average shares outstanding for earnings per diluted share includes the incremental effects of stock-based performance share units, restricted stock units, and the forward sale agreement when the impact would be reflected in customer rates upon completiondilutive, as calculated using the treasury stock method.
The following table presents Ameren’s basic and diluted earnings per share calculations and reconciles the weighted-average number of its next regulatory rate review. Ameren (parent)common shares outstanding to the diluted weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the three and nonregistrant subsidiaries do not expect this income tax decrease to have a material impact on net income.nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018:
 Three Months Nine Months


2019 2018 2019 2018
Weighted-average Common Shares Outstanding – Basic245.9
 244.1
 245.5
 243.6
Assumed settlement of performance share units and restricted stock units1.4
 2.2
 1.4
 1.9
Dilutive effect of forward sale agreement0.2
 
 0.1
 
Weighted-average Common Shares Outstanding – Diluted(a)
247.5
 246.3
 247.0
 245.5

(a)There were 0 potentially dilutive securities excluded from the earnings per diluted share calculations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018.
NOTE 1314 – SEGMENT INFORMATION
Ameren has four4 segments: Ameren Missouri, Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution, Ameren Illinois Natural Gas, and Ameren Transmission. The Ameren Missouri segment includes all of the operations of Ameren Missouri. Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution consists of the electric distribution business of Ameren Illinois. Ameren Illinois Natural Gas consists of the natural gas business of Ameren Illinois. Ameren Transmission primarily comprisesconsists of the aggregated electric transmission businesses of Ameren Illinois and ATXI. The category called Other primarily includes Ameren (parent) activities and Ameren Services.
Ameren Missouri has one1 segment. Ameren Illinois has three3 segments: Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution, Ameren Illinois Natural Gas, and Ameren Illinois Transmission. See Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for additional information regarding the operations of Ameren Missouri, Ameren Illinois, and ATXI.
Segment operating revenues and a majority of operating expenses are directly recognized and incurred by Ameren Illinois at each Ameren Illinois segment. Common operating expenses, miscellaneous income and expenses, interest charges, and income tax expense are allocated by Ameren Illinois to each Ameren Illinois segment based on certain factors whichthat primarily relate to the nature of the cost. Additionally, Ameren Illinois Transmission earns revenue from transmission serviceservices provided to Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution, other retail electric suppliers, and wholesale customers. The transmission expense for Illinois customers who have elected to purchase their power from Ameren Illinois is recovered through a cost recovery mechanism with no net effect on Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution earnings, as costs are offset by corresponding revenues. Transmission revenues from these transactions are reflected in Ameren Transmission’s and Ameren Illinois Transmission’s operating revenues. An intersegment elimination at Ameren and Ameren Illinois occurs to eliminate these transmission revenues and expenses.
The following tables present revenues, net income attributable to common shareholders, and capital expenditures by segment at Ameren and Ameren Illinois for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017.2018. Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois management review segment capital expenditure information rather than any individual or total asset amount.



Ameren
 
Ameren
Missouri
 Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Transmission Other 
Intersegment
Eliminations
 Ameren 
Three Months 2019:              
External revenues$1,050
 $374
 $107
 $109
 $
 $
 $1,640
 
Intersegment revenues9
 15
 5
 19
 
 (29) 19
(b) 
Net income (loss) attributable to Ameren common shareholders300
 32
 (1) 53
(a) 
(20) 
 364
 
Capital expenditures256
 139
 113
 129
 (7) 6
 636
 
Three Months 2018:              
External revenues$1,118
 $392
 $116
 $98
 $
 $
 $1,724
 
Intersegment revenues11
 
 
 15
 
 (26) 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to Ameren common shareholders294
 35
 
 48
(a) 
(20) 
 357
 
Capital expenditures210
 135
 111
 124
 1
 (4) 577
 
Nine Months 2019:              
External revenues$2,591
 $1,118
 $563
 $303
 $
 $
 $4,575
 
Intersegment revenues24
 17
 5
 48
 
 (75) 19
(b) 
Net income (loss) attributable to Ameren common shareholders446
 105
 57
 139
(a) 
(13) 
 734
 
Capital expenditures751
 390
 241
 377
 3
 (1) 1,761
 
Nine Months 2018:              
External revenues$2,848
 $1,177
 $569
 $278
 $
 $
 $4,872
 
Intersegment revenues28
 2
 
 42
 
 (72) 
 
Net income (loss) attributable to Ameren common shareholders500
 101
 49
 121
(a) 
(24) 
 747
 
Capital expenditures664
 389
 237
 399
 6
 (6) 1,689
 
Three Months
Ameren
Missouri
 Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Transmission Other 
Intersegment
Eliminations
 Consolidated 
2018              
External revenues$1,118
 $392
 $116
 $98
 $
 $
 $1,724
 
Intersegment revenues11
 
 
 15
 
 (26) 
 
Net income attributable to Ameren common shareholders294
 35
 
 48
(a) 
(20) 
 357
 
Capital expenditures210
 135
 111
 124
 1
 (4) 577
 
2017              
External revenues$1,105
 $404
 $111
 $105
 $(2) $
 $1,723
 
Intersegment revenues11
 
 1
 14
 
 (26) 
 
Net income attributable to Ameren common shareholders234
 31
 2
 38
(a) 
(17) 
 288
 
Capital expenditures178
 112
 71
 173
 (2) (7) 525
 
Nine Months              
2018              
External revenues$2,848
 $1,177
 $569
 $278
 $
 $
 $4,872
 
Intersegment revenues28
 2
 
 42
 
 (72) 
 
Net income attributable to Ameren common shareholders500
 101
 49
 121
(a) 
(24) 
 747
 
Capital expenditures664
 389
 237
 399
 6
 (6) 1,689
 
2017              
External revenues$2,800
 $1,175
 $509
 $293
 $(2) $
 $4,775
 
Intersegment revenues41
 3
 1
 33
 
 (78) 
 
Net income attributable to Ameren common shareholders359
 94
 40
 106
(a) 
(16) 
 583
 
Capital expenditures533
 354
 180
 463
 3
 (10) 1,523
 

(a)Ameren Transmission earnings include an allocation of financing costs from Ameren (parent).
(b)Intersegment revenues at Ameren include $14 million and $5 million of revenue from Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution and Ameren Illinois Natural Gas, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, for a software licensing agreement with Ameren Missouri. Under authoritative accounting guidance for rate-regulated entities, the revenue recognized by Ameren Illinois was not eliminated upon consolidation. See Note 8 – Related-party Transactions under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information.



Ameren Illinois
 Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Illinois Transmission 
Intersegment
Eliminations
 Ameren Illinois
Three Months 2019:         
External revenues$389
 $112
 $63
 $
 $564
Intersegment revenues
 
 18
 (18) 
Net income (loss) available to common shareholder32
 (1) 34
 
 65
Capital expenditures139
 113
 92
 
 344
Three Months 2018:         
External revenues$392
 $116
 $56
 $
 $564
Intersegment revenues
 
 15
 (15) 
Net income available to common shareholder35
 
 28
 
 63
Capital expenditures135
 111
 99
 
 345
Nine Months 2019:         
External revenues$1,135
 $568
 $170
 $
 $1,873
Intersegment revenues
 
 47
 (47) 
Net income available to common shareholder105
 57
 85
 
 247
Capital expenditures390
 241
 269
 
 900
Nine Months 2018:         
External revenues$1,179
 $569
 $154
 $
 $1,902
Intersegment revenues
 
 41
 (41) 
Net income available to common shareholder101
 49
 70
 
 220
Capital expenditures389
 237
 321
 
 947
Three MonthsAmeren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Illinois Transmission 
Intersegment
Eliminations
 Total
Ameren Illinois
2018         
External revenues$392
 $116
 $56
 $
 $564
Intersegment revenues
 
 15
 (15) 
Net income available to common shareholder35
 
 28
 
 63
Capital expenditures135
 111
 99
 
 345
2017         
External revenues$404
 $112
 $58
 $
 $574
Intersegment revenues
 
 14
 (14) 
Net income available to common shareholder31
 2
 22
 
 55
Capital expenditures112
 71
 93
 
 276
Nine Months         
2018         
External revenues$1,179
 $569
 $154
 $
 $1,902
Intersegment revenues
 
 41
 (41) 
Net income available to common shareholder101
 49
 70
 
 220
Capital expenditures389
 237
 321
 
 947
2017         
External revenues$1,178
 $510
 $165
 $
 $1,853
Intersegment revenues
 
 32
 (32) 
Net income available to common shareholder94
 40
 57
 
 191
Capital expenditures354
 180
 226
 
 760

The following tables present disaggregated revenues by segment at Ameren and Ameren Illinois for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017.2018. Economic factors affect the nature, timing, amount, and uncertainty of revenues and cash flows in a similar manner across customer classes. Revenues from alternative revenue programs have a similar distribution among customer classes as revenues from contracts with customers. Other revenues not associated with contracts with customers are presented in the Other customer classification, along with electric transmission and off-system revenues.


Ameren
Three Months
Ameren
Missouri
 Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Transmission Other 
Intersegment
Eliminations
 Consolidated 
2018              
Ameren
Missouri
 Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Transmission 
Intersegment
Eliminations
 Ameren 
Three Months 2019:            
Residential$508
 $223
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $731
 $489
 $224
 $
 $
 $
 $713
 
Commercial417
 131
 
 
 
 
 548
 394
 123
 
 
 
 517
 
Industrial101
 28
 
 
 
 
 129
 94
 27
 
 
 
 121
 
Other85
(a) 
10
 
 113
 
 (26) 182
(a) 
63
 15
(a) 

 128
 (29) 177
 
Total electric revenues$1,111
 $392
 $
 $113
 $
 $(26) $1,590
 $1,040
 $389
 $
 $128
 $(29) $1,528
 
Residential$8
 $
 $68
 $
 $
 $
 $76
 $8
 $
 $65
 $
 $
 $73
 
Commercial3
 
 20
 
 
 
 23
 4
 
 17
 
 
 21
 
Industrial1
 
 1
 
 
 
 2
 1
 
 2
 
 
 3
 
Other6
 
 27
 
 
 
 33
 6
 
 28
(a) 

 
 34
 
Total gas revenues$18
 $
 $116
 $
 $
 $
 $134
 $19
 $
 $112
 $
 $
 $131
 
Total revenues(b)(c)
$1,129
 $392
 $116
 $113
 $
 $(26) $1,724
 $1,059
 $389
 $112
 $128
 $(29) $1,659
 
2017              
Residential$491
 $224
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $715
 
Commercial409
 133
 
 
 
 
 542
 
Industrial100
 27
 
 
 
 
 127
 
Other99
 20
 
 119
 (2) (26) 210
 
Total electric revenues$1,099
 $404
 $
 $119
 $(2) $(26) $1,594
 
Residential$9
 $
 $72
 $
 $
 $
 $81
 
Commercial4
 
 21
 
 
 
 25
 
Industrial1
 
 2
 
 
 
 3
 
Other3
 
 17
 
 
 
 20
 
Total gas revenues$17
 $
 $112
 $
 $
 $
 $129
 
Total revenues(b)
$1,116
 $404
 $112
 $119
 $(2) $(26) $1,723
 
Nine Months              
2018              
Residential$1,272
 $663
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $1,935
 
Commercial1,033
 381
 
 
 
 
 1,414
 
Industrial249
 96
 
 
 
 
 345
 
Other228
(a) 
39
 
 320
 
 (72) 515
(a) 
Total electric revenues$2,782
 $1,179
 $
 $320
 $
 $(72) $4,209
 
Residential$62
 $
 $408
 $
 $
 $
 $470
 
Commercial25
 
 113
 
 
 
 138
 
Industrial3
 
 12
 
 
 
 15
 
Other4
 
 36
 
 
 
 40
 
Total gas revenues$94
 $
 $569
 $
 $
 $
 $663
 
Total revenues(b)
$2,876
 $1,179
 $569
 $320
 $
 $(72) $4,872
 
2017              
Residential$1,135
 $651
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $1,786
 
Commercial971
 395
 
 
 
 
 1,366
 
Industrial242
 83
 
 
 
 
 325
 
Other410
 49
 
 326
 (2) (77) 706
 
Total electric revenues$2,758
 $1,178
 $
 $326
 $(2) $(77) $4,183
 
Residential$49
 $
 $359
 $
 $
 $
 $408
 
Commercial20
 
 100
 
 
 
 120
 
Industrial3
 
 7
 
 
 
 10
 
Other11
 
 44
 
 
 (1) 54
 
Total gas revenues$83
 $
 $510
 $
 $
 $(1) $592
 
Total revenues(b)
$2,841
 $1,178
 $510
 $326
 $(2) $(78) $4,775
 



 
Ameren
Missouri
 Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Transmission 
Intersegment
Eliminations
 Ameren 
Three Months 2018:            
Residential$508
 $223
 $
 $
 $
 $731
 
Commercial417
 131
 
 
 
 548
 
Industrial101
 28
 
 
 
 129
 
Other85
(b) 
10
 
 113
 (26) 182
(b) 
Total electric revenues$1,111
 $392
 $
 $113
 $(26) $1,590
 
Residential$8
 $
 $68
 $
 $
 $76
 
Commercial3
 
 20
 
 
 23
 
Industrial1
 
 1
 
 
 2
 
Other6
 
 27
 
 
 33
 
Total gas revenues$18
 $
 $116
 $
 $
 $134
 
Total revenues(c)
$1,129
 $392
 $116
 $113
 $(26) $1,724
 
Nine Months 2019:            
Residential$1,134
 $640
 $
 $
 $
 $1,774
 
Commercial943
 370
 
 
 
 1,313
 
Industrial226
 94
 
 
 
 320
 
Other214
 31
(a) 

 351
 (75) 521
 
Total electric revenues$2,517
 $1,135
 $
 $351
 $(75) $3,928
 
Residential$56
 $
 $399
 $
 $
 $455
 
Commercial24
 
 105
 
 
 129
 
Industrial3
 
 9
 
 
 12
 
Other15
 
 55
(a) 

 
 70
 
Total gas revenues$98
 $
 $568
 $
 $
 $666
 
Total revenues(c)
$2,615
 $1,135
 $568
 $351
 $(75) $4,594
 
Nine Months 2018:            
Residential$1,272
 $663
 $
 $
 $
 $1,935
 
Commercial1,033
 381
 
 
 
 1,414
 
Industrial249
 96
 
 
 
 345
 
Other228
(b) 
39
 
 320
 (72) 515
(b) 
Total electric revenues$2,782
 $1,179
 $
 $320
 $(72) $4,209
 
Residential$62
 $
 $408
 $
 $
 $470
 
Commercial25
 
 113
 
 
 138
 
Industrial3
 
 12
 
 
 15
 
Other4
 
 36
 
 
 40
 
Total gas revenues$94
 $
 $569
 $
 $
 $663
 
Total revenues(c)
$2,876
 $1,179
 $569
 $320
 $(72) $4,872
 
(a)Includes $14 million and $5 million for Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution and Ameren Illinois Natural Gas, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, for a software licensing agreement with Ameren Missouri. See Note 8 – Related-party Transactions for additional information.
(b)Includes $13 million and $60 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, respectively, for the reduction to revenue for the excess amounts collected in rates to be refunded related to the TCJA from January 1, 2018, through September 30,July 31, 2018. See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K for additional information.
(b)(c)The following table presents increases/(decreases) in revenues from alternative revenue programs and other revenues not from contracts with customers for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017:2018:
Three Months
Ameren
Missouri
 Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Transmission Consolidated
2018         
Ameren
Missouri
 Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Transmission Ameren
Three Months 2019:         
Revenues from alternative revenue programs$1
 $(98) $(2) $(12) $(111)$26
 $(145) $1
 $(12) $(130)
Other revenues not from contracts with customers3
 1
 1
 
 5
5
 1
 1
 
 7
2017         
Three Months 2018:         
Revenues from alternative revenue programs$(6) $(96) $(1) $(2) $(105)$1
 $(98) $(2) $(12) $(111)
Other revenues not from contracts with customers4
 2
 
 
 6
3
 1
 1
 
 5
Nine Months         
2018         
Revenues from alternative revenue programs$(8) $(52) $(10) $(21) $(91)
Other revenues not from contracts with customers22
 14
 2
 
 38
2017         
Revenues from alternative revenue programs$(20) $(47) $11
 $5
 $(51)
Other revenues not from contracts with customers11
 5
 2
 
 18


 
Ameren
Missouri
 Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Transmission Ameren
Nine Months 2019:         
Revenues from alternative revenue programs$41
 $(111) $2
 $(25) $(93)
Other revenues not from contracts with customers14
 5
 2
 
 21
Nine Months 2018:         
Revenues from alternative revenue programs$(8) $(52) $(10) $(21) $(91)
Other revenues not from contracts with customers22
 14
 2
 
 38
Ameren Illinois
Three MonthsAmeren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Illinois Transmission Intersegment Eliminations Total Ameren Illinois 
2018          
Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Illinois Transmission Intersegment Eliminations Ameren Illinois 
Three Months 2019:          
Residential$223
 $68
 $
 $
 $291
 $224
 $65
 $
 $
 $289
 
Commercial131
 20
 
 
 151
 123
 17
 
 
 140
 
Industrial28
 1
 
 
 29
 27
 2
 
 
 29
 
Other10
 27
 71
 (15) 93
 15
(a) 
28
(a) 
81
 (18) 106
 
Total revenues(a)
$392
 $116
 $71
 $(15) $564
 
2017          
Total revenues(b)
$389
 $112
 $81
 $(18) $564
 
Three Months 2018:          
Residential$224
 $72
 $
 $
 $296
 $223
 $68
 $
 $
 $291
 
Commercial133
 21
 
 
 154
 131
 20
 
 
 151
 
Industrial27
 2
 
 
 29
 28
 1
 
 
 29
 
Other20
 17
 72
 (14) 95
 10
 27
 71
 (15) 93
 
Total revenues(a)
$404
 $112
 $72
 $(14) $574
 
Nine Months          
2018          
Total revenues(b)
$392
 $116
 $71
 $(15) $564
 
Nine Months 2019:          
Residential$663
 $408
 $
 $
 $1,071
 $640
 $399
 $
 $
 $1,039
 
Commercial381
 113
 
 
 494
 370
 105
 
 
 475
 
Industrial96
 12
 
 
 108
 94
 9
 
 
 103
 
Other39
 36
 195
 (41) 229
 31
(a) 
55
(a) 
217
 (47) 256
 
Total revenues(a)
$1,179
 $569
 $195
 $(41) $1,902
 
2017          
Total revenues(b)
$1,135
 $568
 $217
 $(47) $1,873
 
Nine Months 2018:          
Residential$651
 $359
 $
 $
 $1,010
 $663
 $408
 $
 $
 $1,071
 
Commercial395
 100
 
 
 495
 381
 113
 
 
 494
 
Industrial83
 7
 
 
 90
 96
 12
 
 
 108
 
Other49
 44
 197
 (32) 258
 39
 36
 195
 (41) 229
 
Total revenues(a)
$1,178
 $510
 $197
 $(32) $1,853
 
Total revenues(b)
$1,179
 $569
 $195
 $(41) $1,902
 
(a)Includes $14 million and $5 million for Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution and Ameren Illinois Natural Gas, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, for a software licensing agreement with Ameren Missouri. See Note 8 – Related-party Transactions for additional information.
(b)The following table presents increases/(decreases) in revenues from alternative revenue programs and other revenues not from contracts with customers for the Ameren Illinois segments for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017:2018:
 Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Illinois Transmission Ameren Illinois
Three Months 2019:       
Revenues from alternative revenue programs$(145) $1
 $(12) $(156)
Other revenues not from contracts with customers1
 1
 
 2
Three Months 2018:       
Revenues from alternative revenue programs$(98) $(2) $(10) $(110)
Other revenues not from contracts with customers1
 1
 
 2

Three MonthsAmeren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Illinois Transmission Consolidated
2018       
Revenues from alternative revenue programs$(98) $(2) $(10) $(110)
Other revenues not from contracts with customers1
 1
 
 2
2017       
Revenues from alternative revenue programs$(96) $(1) $(2) $(99)
Other revenues not from contracts with customers2
 
 
 2
Nine Months       
2018       
Revenues from alternative revenue programs$(52) $(10) $(19) $(81)
Other revenues not from contracts with customers14
 2
 
 16
2017       
Revenues from alternative revenue programs$(47) $11
 $3
 $(33)
Other revenues not from contracts with customers5
 2
 
 7


 Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution Ameren Illinois Natural Gas Ameren Illinois Transmission Ameren Illinois
Nine Months 2019:       
Revenues from alternative revenue programs$(111) $2
 $(26) $(135)
Other revenues not from contracts with customers5
 2
 
 7
Nine Months 2018:       
Revenues from alternative revenue programs$(52) $(10) $(19) $(81)
Other revenues not from contracts with customers14
 2
 
 16

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the financial statements contained in this Form 10-Q, as well as Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Risk Factors contained in the Form 10-K. We intend for this discussion to provide the reader with information that will assist in understanding our financial statements, the changes in certain key items in those financial statements, and the primary factors that accounted for those changes, as well as how certain accounting principles affect our financial statements. The discussion also provides information about the financial results of our business segments to provide a better understanding of how those segments and their results affect the financial condition and results of operations of Ameren as a whole. Also see the Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations at the front of this report and in the Form 10-K.
Ameren, headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is a public utility holding company whose primary assets are its equity interests in its subsidiaries. Ameren’s subsidiaries are separate, independent legal entities with separate businesses, assets, and liabilities. Dividends on Ameren’s common stock and the payment of expenses by Ameren depend on distributions made to it by its subsidiaries. Ameren’s principal subsidiaries are listed below. Ameren has other subsidiaries that conduct other activities, such as providing shared services. Ameren evaluates competitive electric transmission investment opportunities as they arise.
Union Electric Company, doing business as Ameren Missouri, operates a rate-regulated electric generation, transmission, and distribution business and a rate-regulated natural gas distribution business in Missouri.
Ameren Illinois Company, doing business as Ameren Illinois, operates rate-regulated electric transmission, electric distribution, and natural gas distribution businesses in Illinois.
Union Electric Company, doing business as Ameren Missouri, operates a rate-regulated electric generation, transmission, and distribution business and a rate-regulated natural gas distribution business in Missouri.
Ameren Illinois Company, doing business as Ameren Illinois, operates rate-regulated electric transmission, electric distribution, and natural gas distribution businesses in Illinois.
ATXI operates a FERC rate-regulated electric transmission business. ATXI is developing the MISO-approved electric transmission projects, including the Illinois Rivers and Mark Twain projects, and placed the Spoon River project in service in February 2018.electric transmission projects.
Ameren’s financial statements are prepared on a consolidated basis and therefore include the accounts of its majority-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated. eliminated, except as disclosed in Note 8 – Related-party Transactions, under Part I, Item 1, of this report. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois have no subsidiaries. All tabular dollar amounts are in millions, unless otherwise indicated.
In addition to presenting results of operations and earnings amounts in total, we present certain information in cents per share. These amounts reflect factors that directly affect Ameren’s earnings. We believe this per share information helps readers to understand the impact of these factors on Ameren’s earnings per share.
OVERVIEW
Net income attributable to Ameren common shareholders was $357 million in the three months ended September 30, 2018,2019, was $364 million, or $1.47 per diluted share, compared with $288$357 million, or $1.45 per diluted share, in the year-ago period. Net income attributable to Ameren common shareholders was $747 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, was $734 million, or $2.97 per diluted share, compared with $583$747 million, or $3.04 per diluted share, in the year-ago period. Net income infor the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared to the year-ago periods, was unfavorably affected by milder summer temperatures experienced in 2019 and increased property taxes, both primarily at Ameren Missouri, and a lower recognized return on equity at Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution. Earnings in both periods were also unfavorably affected by increased depreciation and amortization expenses at Ameren Illinois Natural Gas and Ameren Missouri. Net income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, compared to the year-ago periods, was favorably affected by higher Ameren Missouri electric retail sales, primarily due to colder winterthe benefit of MEEIA performance incentives and warmer summer temperatures experienced in 2018, and timing differences between income tax expense and revenue reductions as a result of TCJA, primarilyincreased infrastructure investments at Ameren Missouri.Transmission and Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution, each of which benefits from formulaic ratemaking. Earnings in both periods were also favorably affected by increased infrastructure investmentsthe absence of a noncash charge to earnings for the revaluation of deferred taxes recorded in 2018 related to the Ameren Transmission and Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution segments. Additionally, Ameren Missouri’s netTCJA. Net income infor the nine months


ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared to the year-ago period, was favorablyunfavorably affected by higher base rates and a lower base level of expenses, which reduced operating expenses for net energy costs and other expenses subject to regulatory tracking mechanisms, pursuant to the MoPSC’s March 2017 electric rate order. Net income was unfavorably affected in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared to the year-ago periods, by increased other operationsoperation and maintenance expenses related to the Callaway energy center’s scheduled refueling and maintenance outage that was completed in May 2019, partially offset by increased depreciation and amortization expenses, all primarilyearnings at Ameren Missouri.Illinois Natural Gas as a result of higher delivery service rates.


Ameren’s strategic plan includes investing in, and operating its utilities in, a manner consistent with existing regulatory frameworks, enhancing those frameworks, and advocating for responsible energy and economic policies, as well as creating and capitalizing on opportunities for investment for the benefit of its customers and shareholders. Ameren remains focused on disciplined cost management and strategic capital allocation.
In June 2018, legislation was enacted that enhanced Ameren Missouri’s electricbelieves it has constructive regulatory framework. The enactmentframeworks for investment at all of Missouri Senate Bill 564 supports incremental investmentsits utility businesses and invested $1.8 billion in grid modernization of approximately $1 billion through 2023. Ameren Missouri filed a notification with the MoPSC on September 1, 2018, to elect PISA. Under PISA, Ameren Missouri is permitted to defer and recover 85% of the depreciation expense and a weighted-average cost of capital return on rate base on certain property, plant, and equipment placed in-service after September 1, 2018, and not included in base rates. PISA will mitigate the impacts of regulatory lag between regulatory rate reviews. Accumulated PISA deferrals earn carrying costs at the weighted-average cost of capital, and all approved PISA deferrals will be added to rate base prospectively and recovered over a period of 20 years following a regulatory rate review. Costs not includedthose businesses in the PISA deferral, including the remaining 15% of the depreciation expense and return on rate base, remain subject to regulatory lag. As a result of the PISA election, additional provisions under Missouri Senate Bill 564 apply tonine months ended September 30, 2019.
In August 2019, Ameren Missouri including limitations on electric customer rate increases and an electric base rate freeze until April 2020. Both the rate increase limitation and PISA are effective through December 2023, unless Ameren Missouri requests and receives MoPSC approval of an extension through December 2028. Missouri Senate Bill 564 maintains strong MoPSC oversight and consumer protections while supporting Ameren Missouri’s ability to strengthen and modernize Missouri’s electric grid.
In the second quarter of 2018, Ameren Missouri entered into ana forward sale agreement with a subsidiarycounterparty relating to 7.5 million shares of Terra-Gen, LLCcommon stock. The forward sale agreement can be settled at Ameren’s discretion on or prior to acquire, after construction,March 31, 2021. On a 400-megawattsettlement date or dates, if Ameren elects to physically settle the forward sale agreement, Ameren will issue shares of common stock to the counterparty at the then-applicable forward sale price.The forward sale agreement will be physically settled unless Ameren elects to settle in cash or to net share settle.If physically settled, Ameren expects to receive between $540 million and $550 million upon settlement. See Note 4 – Long-Term Debt and Equity Financings under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information.
In February 2019, Ameren Missouri announced its Smart Energy Plan, which includes a five-year capital investment overview with a detailed one-year plan for 2019. The plan is designed to upgrade Ameren Missouri's electric infrastructure and includes investments that will upgrade the grid and accommodate more renewable energy. Investments under the plan are expected to total approximately $6.3 billion over the five-year period from 2019 through 2023, with expenditures largely recoverable under PISA and the RESRAM. In March 2019, Ameren issued its Building a Cleaner Energy Future report, which sets forth Ameren's plan for reducing carbon emissions and addressing climate risk. The plan is largely reflected in the Ameren Missouri 2017 IRP, which includes expanding renewable sources by adding 700 megawatts of wind generation facility, which is expectedby the end of 2020 and adding 100 megawatts of solar generation by 2027. Ameren Missouri expects to be locatedfile its next IRP in northeastern Missouri.September 2020.
As a part of its Smart Energy Plan, Ameren Missouri expects to build solar generation facilities, including utility scale facilities and nonresidential customer site facilities. In May 2018,September 2019, Ameren Missouri filed for a certificatecertificates of convenience and necessity with the MoPSC for the 400-megawatt facility. The MoPSC issued an order approving a unanimous stipulation and agreement regarding that requested certificateto build three solar facilities in October 2018. Also in October 2018, Ameren Missouri entered into an agreement with a subsidiary of EDF Renewables, Inc. to acquire, after construction, a windits service territory. Each 10-megawatt solar energy generation facility of upwill connect to 157 megawatts, and filed for a certificate of convenience and necessity with the MoPSC. The MoPSC is expectedbattery storage in order to issue an order regarding that certificate by May 2019. The up to 157-megawatt facility is expected to be located in northwestern Missouri. Bothimprove system reliability. All three facilities are expected to be completed by the end of 2020.Also in 20202019, the MoPSC approved Ameren Missouri’s Charge Ahead program, which provides incentives for the development of over 1,000 electric vehicle charging stations along highways and would helpat various locations in communities throughout Ameren Missouri’s service territory. The purpose of the program is to promote the development of electric vehicle charging infrastructure that will enable long-distance electric vehicle travel and encourage electrification of the transportation sector.
In May 2019, Ameren Missouri comply with the state renewable energy standard. Each acquisition isentered into a build-transfer agreement to acquire, after construction, an up-to 300-megawatt wind generation facility. In 2018, Ameren Missouri entered into a build-transfer agreement to acquire, after construction, an up-to 400-megawatt wind generation facility.The two build-transfer agreements, which are subject to certain conditions, including the issuance of a certificate of convenience and necessity by the MoPSC, obtaining a MISO transmission interconnection agreement, approval by the FERC, and other customary contract terms and conditions. Asconditions, collectively represent approximately $1.2 billion of capital expenditures, are expected to be completed by the end of 2020, and would support Ameren Missouri’s compliance with the Missouri renewable energy standard.Both acquisitions have received all regulatory approvals, and both projects have received all applicable zoning approvals, have entered into RTO interconnection agreements, and have begun construction activities.The MoPSC has approved a partRESRAM, which is designed to mitigate the impacts of its May 2018,regulatory lag for the cost of compliance with Missouri’s renewable energy standard, including recovery of investments in wind and other renewable energy generation, by providing more timely recovery of costs and a return on investments not already provided for in customer rates or recovered under PISA. See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1, of this report for more information regarding Ameren Missouri requestedwind generation facilities.
In July 2019, Ameren Missouri filed a request with the MoPSC authorizeseeking approval to decrease its annual revenues for electric service by $1 million. The electric rate decrease request is based on a 9.95% return on common equity, a capital structure composed of51.9%common equity, a rate base of $8.0 billion, and a test year ended December 31, 2018, with certain pro-forma adjustments expected through an anticipated true-up date of December 31, 2019. Pro-forma adjustments are also expected for fuel costs, transportation costs, MISO multi-value transmission project expenses, and payroll costs effective as of January 1, 2020.The MoPSC proceeding relating to the proposed RESRAM. electric service rate changes will take place over a period of up to 11 months, with a decision by the MoPSC expected by late April 2020 and new rates effective by late May 2020. See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information.
In October 2018,August 2019, the MoPSC issued an order approving a unanimous stipulation and agreement regarding all provisionsto decrease Ameren Missouri’s annual revenues for natural gas delivery service by $1 million. The decrease in annual rates is based on a return on common equity range of 9.4% to 9.95% and a capital structure composed of 52.0% common equity, which was Ameren Missouri’s capital structure as of May 31, 2019. This order allows for the RESRAM, with the exceptionuse of ISRS, which will be calculated using an ROE of 9.725%. The order represents a legal question raised$1 million increase to Ameren Missouri’s annual revenues for natural gas delivery service from interim rates, which were approved by the MoOPC regarding the implications of PISA provisions on the RESRAM.MoPSC in December 2018.The new rates became effective September 1, 2019.
In April 2018,2019, Ameren Illinois filed its annual electric distribution service formula rate update to establish the revenue requirement to be used for 20192020 rates with the ICC. In November 2018, thePending ICC issued an orderapproval, this update filing will result in a $7 million decrease in Ameren Illinois’ annual update filing that approved a $72 million increase in Ameren Illinois’ electric


distribution service rates, beginning in January 2019.
In January 2018, Ameren Illinois filed2020.This update reflects a requestdecrease for the conclusion of the 2017 revenue requirement reconciliation adjustment, which will be fully collected from customers in 2019, consistent with the ICC seeking approval to increase its annual rates for natural gas delivery service. InICC’s November 2018 annual update filing order. It also reflects an increase to the annual formula rate based on 2018 actual costs and expected net plant additions for 2019, and an increase to include the 2018 revenue requirement reconciliation adjustment. In August 2019, the ICC staff submitted an updated calculation of the revenue requirement included in Ameren Illinois’ filing, recommending an amount comparable to that included in Ameren Illinois’ filing. In October 2019, the administrative law judges issued ana proposed order approving a stipulation and agreement that will resultconsistent with Ameren Illinois’ filing. An ICC decision in an annual natural gas rate increase of $32 million, based on a 9.87% return on common equity, a capital structure composed of 50% common equity, and a rate base of $1.6 billion. The new rates will be effective starting in November 2018.this proceeding is expected by December 2019.
ATXI’s Spoon River project, located in northwest Illinois, was placed in service in February 2018. ATXI’sATXI continues to make progress with construction activities for its two MISO-approved multi-value projects that are still under construction: the Illinois Rivers and Mark Twain projects. Construction of the Illinois Rivers project are continuing on schedule, andis substantially complete, with the last section expected to be completed in 2020.In June 2019, a section of thisthe Mark Twain project was completed from Kirksville, Missouri to the Iowa border, and the remaining section is expected to be completed by the end of 2019. Construction activities for ATXI’s Mark Twain project began in the second quarter of 2018, and the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2019.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Our results of operations and financial position are affected by many factors. Economic conditions, energy-efficiency investments by our customers and by us, and the actions of key customers can significantly affect the demand for our services. Ameren and Ameren Missouri results are also affected by seasonal fluctuations in winter heating and summer cooling demands, as well as by nuclear refueling and other energy center maintenance outages. Additionally, fluctuations in interest rates and conditions in the capital and credit markets affect our cost of borrowing and our pension and postretirement benefits costs. Almost all of Ameren’s revenues are subject to state or federal regulation.


This regulation has a material impact on the prices we charge for our services. Our results of operations, financial position, and liquidity are affected by our ability to align our overall spending, both operating and capital, within the frameworks established by our regulators. Our 2018 revenues include a reduction from 2017 revenues for the pass-through to customers of reduced income taxes resulting from TCJA, which is substantially offset by a reduction in income tax expense.
Ameren Missouri principally uses coal nuclear fuel, and natural gasenriched uranium for fuel in its electric operations and purchases natural gas for its customers. Ameren Illinois purchases power and natural gas for its customers. The prices for these commodities can fluctuate significantly because of the global economic and political environment, weather, supply, demand, and many other factors. As described below, we have natural gas cost recovery mechanisms for our Illinois and Missouri natural gas distribution businesses, a purchased power cost recovery mechanism for Ameren Illinois’ electric distribution business, and a FAC for Ameren Missouri’s electric business.
Ameren Missouri’s electric service and natural gas distribution service rates are established in a traditional regulatory rate review based on a historical test year and an allowed return on equity. To mitigate the effects of regulatory lag, Ameren Missouri has recovery mechanisms in place for certain costs that allow customer rates to be adjusted without a traditional regulatory rate review. Ameren Missouri’s FAC cost recovery mechanism allows it to recover or refund, through customer rates, 95% of the variance in net energy costs from the amount set in base rates without a traditional regulatory rate review, subject to MoPSC prudence reviews, with the remaining 5% of changes retained by Ameren Missouri. Net recovery of these costs through customer rates does not affect Ameren Missouri’s electric margins, as any change in revenue is offset by a corresponding change in fuel expense. In addition, Ameren Missouri’s MEEIA customer energy-efficiency program costs, the throughput disincentive,related lost electric margins, and any performance incentive are recoverable through the MEEIA cost recovery mechanism without a traditional regulatory rate review. Ameren Missouri also has a cost recovery mechanism for natural gas purchased on behalf of its customers. These pass-through purchased gas costs do not affect Ameren Missouri’s natural gas margins, as any change in costs is offset by a corresponding change in revenues. Ameren Missouri employs other cost recovery mechanisms, including a pension and postretirement benefit cost tracker, an uncertain tax position tracker, a tracker on certain excess deferred taxes, a renewable energy standardstandards cost tracker, and a solar rebate program tracker. Each of these trackers allows Ameren Missouri to defer the difference between actual costs incurred and costs included in customer rates as a regulatory asset or regulatory liability. The difference will be reflected in base rates in a subsequent MoPSC rate order.
Ameren Missouri filed a notification with the MoPSC on September 1, 2018,Pursuant to elect PISA. Underits PISA election, Ameren Missouri is permitted to defer and recover 85% of the depreciation expense and a weighted-averageweighted average cost of capital return on rate base on certain property, plant, and equipment placed in-servicein service after September 1, 2018, and not included in base rates. Accumulated PISA deferrals earn carrying costs at the weighted-average cost of capital, with all approved PISA deferrals added to rate base prospectively and recovered over a period of 20 years following a regulatory rate review. Additionally, under the RESRAM, Ameren Missouri is permitted to recover the 15% of depreciation expense and weighted-average cost of capital return for renewable generation plant placed in service and not recovered under PISA. Accumulated RESRAM deferrals earn carrying costs at short-term interest rates. PISA and the RESRAM mitigate the effects of regulatory lag between regulatory rate reviews. Those investments not eligible for recovery under PISA and the remaining 15% of certain property, plant, and equipment placed in service, unless eligible for recovery under the RESRAM, remain subject to regulatory lag. Ameren Missouri recognizes the cost of debt on PISA deferrals in revenue, instead of using the weighted average cost of capital, both debt and equity, which will ultimately be recognized in revenues when recovery of such deferrals are reflected in customer rates. See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information.regarding a MoOPC appeal related to the RESRAM.


Ameren Illinois’ electric distribution service rates are reconciled annually to its actual revenue requirement, year-end rate base and capital structure, and allowed return on equity, under a formula ratemaking process, effective through 2022. If a given year’s revenue requirement varies from the amount collected from customers, an adjustment is made to electric operating revenues with an offset to a regulatory asset or liability to reflect that year’s actual revenue requirement, independent of actual sales volumes. The regulatory balance is then collected from, or refunded to, customers within two years.years from the end of the year. In addition, Ameren Illinois’ electric customer energy-efficiency rider provides Ameren Illinois’ electric distribution service business with recovery of, and return on, energy-efficiency investments. Under the formula ratemaking frameworks for both its electric distribution service and its electric energy-efficiency investments, the revenue requirements are based on recoverable costs, year-end rate base, a capital structure of 50% common equity, and a return on equity. The return on equity component is equal to the calendar yearannual average of the monthly yields of the 30-year United States Treasury bonds plus 580 basis points. Therefore, Ameren Illinois’ annual return on equity for its electric distribution business is directly correlated to the yields on such bonds.
Ameren Illinois’ natural gas distribution service rates are established in a traditional regulatory rate review based on a future test year and allowed return on equity. Ameren Illinois employs a VBA to ensure recoverability of the natural gas distribution service revenue requirement for residential and small nonresidential customers that is dependent on sales volumes. For these rate classes, the VBA allows Ameren Illinois to adjust natural gas distribution service rates without a traditional regulatory rate review when changes occur in sales volumes including deviations from normal weather, occur.normalized sales volumes approved by the ICC in a previous regulatory rate review. In addition, the QIP rider provides Ameren Illinois’ natural gas business with recovery of, and a return on, qualifying infrastructure plant investments that are placed in service between regulatory rate reviews.
Ameren Illinois also has recovery mechanisms in place for certain costs that allow customer rates to be adjusted without a traditional regulatory rate review. Ameren Illinois’ electric distribution service business has cost recovery mechanisms for power purchased and transmission services incurred on behalf of its customers, renewable energy credit compliance, and zero emission credits. Ameren Illinois’ natural gas business has a cost recovery mechanism for natural gas purchased on behalf of its customers. These pass-through costs do not affect Ameren Illinois’ electric or natural gas margins, as any change in costs is offset by a corresponding change in revenues. Ameren Illinois employs other cost recovery mechanisms for natural gas customer energy-efficiency program costs and certain environmental costs, as well as bad debt expenses and costs of certain asbestos-related claims not recovered in base rates.
FERC’s electric transmission formula rate framework provides for an annual reconciliation of the electric transmission service revenue requirement, which reflects the actual recoverable costs incurred and the 13-month average rate base for a given year, with the revenue


requirement in customer rates, including an allowed return on equity. Ameren Illinois and ATXI use a company-specific, forward-looking formula ratemaking framework in setting their transmission rates. These rates are updated each January with forecasted information. If a given year’s revenue requirement varies from the amount collected from customers, an adjustment is made to electric operating revenues with an offset to a regulatory asset or liability to reflect that year’s actual revenue requirement. The regulatory balance is collected from, or refunded to, customers within two years.years from the end of the year. The total return on equity currently allowed for Ameren Illinois’ and ATXI’s electric transmission service businesses is 10.82% and is subject to a FERC complaint case. See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information.
We employ various risk management strategies to reduce our exposure to commodity risk and other risks inherent in our business. The reliability of Ameren Missouri's energy centers and our transmission and distribution systems and the level and timing of operations and maintenance costs and capital investment are key factors that we seek to manage in order to optimize our results of operations, financial position, and liquidity.
Earnings Summary

The following table presents a summary of Ameren’s earnings for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017:2018:
Three Months Nine Months Three Months Nine Months
2018 2017 2018 2017 2019 2018 2019 2018
Net income attributable to Ameren common shareholders$357
 $288
 $747
 $583
 $364
 $357
 $734
 $747
Earnings per common share diluted
1.45
 1.18
 3.04
 2.39
 1.47
 1.45
 2.97
 3.04
Net income attributable to Ameren common shareholders increased $69$7 million, or 272 cents per diluted share, in the three months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago period. The increase was primarily due to net income increases of $60$6 million and $10$5 million at Ameren Missouri and Ameren Transmission, respectively. The increase wasThese increases were partially offset by a net income decrease of $3 million increaseat Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution and a net loss of $1 million at Ameren Illinois Natural Gas, compared with no net income or loss in the year-ago period.
Net income attributable to Ameren common shareholders decreased $13 million, or 7 cents per diluted share, in the nine months ended September 30, 2019, compared with the year-ago period. The decrease was due to a net income decrease of $54 million at Ameren Missouri,


partially offset by net income increases of $18 million, $8 million, and $4 million at Ameren Transmission, Ameren Illinois Natural Gas, and Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution, respectively, and a reduction in the net loss for activity not reported as part of a segment, primarily at Ameren (parent).
Net income attributable to Ameren common shareholders increased $164 million, or 65 cents per diluted share, in the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period. The increase was primarily due to net income increases, of $141 million, $15 million, $9 million, and $7 million at Ameren Missouri, Ameren Transmission, Ameren Illinois Natural Gas, and Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution, respectively. The increase was partially offset by an $8 million increase in the net loss for activity not reported as part of a segment, primarily at Ameren (parent).
Earnings per diluted share were favorably affected in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared to the year-ago periods (except where a specific period is referenced), by:
increased demand in 2018 at Ameren Missouri, primarily due to colder winter and warmer summer temperatures experienced in 2018 (estimated at 7 cents per share and 39 cents per share, respectively);
increased earnings at Ameren Missouri due to timing differences between income tax expense and revenue reductions related to the TCJA, which impacts interim period earnings but is not expected to materially impact year-over-year earnings (16 cents per share and 12 cents per share, respectively);
increased base rates and a lower base level of expenses, which reduced operating expenses for net energy costs and other expenses subject to regulatory tracking mechanisms, at Ameren Missouri, pursuant to the MoPSC’s March 2017 electric rate order (9 cents per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2018);
increased Ameren Transmission earnings under formula ratemaking, primarily due to additional rate base investment (4 cents per share and 6 cents per share, respectively);
increased Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution earnings under formula ratemaking, primarily due to additional investment and a higher recognized return on equity (2 cents per share and 4 cents per share, respectively);
decreased property taxes at Ameren Missouri due to lower assessed property values (1 cent per share and 3 cents per share, respectively);
decreased financing costs at Ameren Missouri, primarily due to lower interest rates (2 cents per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2018);
increased Ameren Illinois Natural Gas earnings from investments in qualifying infrastructure recovered under the QIP rider (2 cents per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2018); and
the recognition of a MEEIA 2016 performance incentive (2 cents per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2018).


$11 million.
Earnings per diluted share were unfavorably affected in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared to the year-ago periods (except where a specific period is referenced), by:
decreased electric retail sales at Ameren Missouri, primarily due to milder summer temperatures experienced in 2019 (estimated at 4 cents and 23 cents per share, respectively);
increased other operation and maintenance expenses not subjectrelated to riders or regulatory tracking mechanisms,the Callaway energy center’s scheduled refueling and maintenance outage that was completed in May 2019 (9 cents per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2019);
increased taxes other than income taxes, primarily due to higher-than-normal energy center scheduled outage, coal handling, and electric distribution maintenance costs at Ameren Missouri, (4due to higher property taxes (2 cents per share and 125 cents per share, respectively);
increased depreciation and amortization expenses not subject to riders or regulatory tracking mechanisms primarily at Ameren Illinois Natural Gas and Ameren Missouri, resulting fromprimarily due to additional electric property, plant, and equipment (2(1 cent and 5 cents per share, respectively);
decreased margins at Ameren Illinois Natural Gas, due to a change in rate design pursuant to the ICC's November 2018 natural gas rate order, which concentrates more revenues in the winter heating season due to an increase in volumetric rates (3 cents per share for the three months ended September 30, 2019);
decreased Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution earnings under formula ratemaking due to a lower recognized return on equity (1 cent and 63 cents per share, respectively); and
increased weighted-average basic common shares outstanding and the effect of dilution (1 cent per share and 2 cents per share, respectively).
Earnings per diluted share were favorably affected in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, compared to the year-ago periods (except where a specific period is referenced), by:
the recognition of MEEIA 2013 and MEEIA 2016 performance incentives (5 cents and 10 cents per share, respectively);
increased Ameren Transmission and Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution earnings under formula ratemaking due to additional rate base investment and Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution energy-efficiency investments (3 cents and 9 cents per share, respectively);
the absence of a noncash charge to earnings for the revaluation of deferred taxes recorded in 2018 related to the TCJA (5 cents per share for both periods);
increased other income, net, primarily due to increased non-service cost components of net periodic benefit income and decreased donations (2 cents and 4 cents per share, respectively);
a decrease in the effective income tax rate primarily due to an increase in the income tax benefit recorded at Ameren (parent) related to stock-based compensation (3 cents per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2019);
an increase in base rates at Ameren Illinois Natural Gas pursuant to the ICC's November 2018 natural gas rate order (2 cents per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2019);
decreased financing costs at Ameren Missouri, primarily due to the regulatory deferral of interest expense pursuant to PISA and lower interest rates, partially offset by lower levels of the allowance for funds used during construction (2 cents per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2019);
increased Ameren Illinois Natural Gas earnings from investments in qualifying infrastructure recovered under the QIP rider (1 cent per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2019); and
decreased other operation and maintenance expenses not subject to riders or regulatory tracking mechanisms, excluding the Callaway energy center’s scheduled refueling and maintenance outage costs, primarily due to changes in the cash surrender value of company-owned life insurance (1 cent per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2019).
The cents per share information presented is based on the weighted-average basic common shares outstanding in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017,2018, and does not reflect any change in earnings per share resulting from dilution, unless otherwise noted. Amounts other than variances related to income taxes have been presented net of income taxes using Ameren’s 20182019 statutory tax rate of 27%. For additional details regarding the Ameren Companies’ results of operations, including explanations of Electric and Natural Gas Margins, Other Operations and Maintenance Expenses, Depreciation and Amortization, Taxes Other Than Income Taxes, Other Income, Net, Interest Charges, and Income Taxes, see the major headings below.




Below is Ameren’s table of income statement components by segment for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017:2018:
Ameren
Missouri
 
Ameren
Illinois
Electric
Distribution
 
Ameren
Illinois
Natural Gas
 Ameren Transmission 
Other /
Intersegment
Eliminations
 Total
Ameren
Missouri
 
Ameren
Illinois
Electric
Distribution
 
Ameren
Illinois
Natural Gas
 Ameren Transmission 
Other /
Intersegment
Eliminations
 Total
Three Months 2019:           
Electric margins$844
 $270
 $
 $128
 $(9) $1,233
Natural gas margins13
 
 87
 
 
 100
Other operations and maintenance(242) (128) (52) (15) 3
 (434)
Depreciation and amortization(138) (68) (20) (21) (1) (248)
Taxes other than income taxes(96) (22) (10) (1) (2) (131)
Other income, net15
 9
 3
 2
 5
 34
Interest charges(44) (19) (9) (20) (4) (96)
Income taxes(51) (10) 
 (19) (12) (92)
Net income (loss)301
 32
 (1) 54
 (20) 366
Noncontrolling interests preferred stock dividends
(1) 
 
 (1) 
 (2)
Net income (loss) attributable to Ameren common shareholders$300
 $32
 $(1) $53
 $(20) $364
Three Months 2018:                      
Electric margins$846
 $272
 $
 $113
 $(5) $1,226
$846
 $272
 $
 $113
 $(5) $1,226
Natural gas margins13
 
 91
 
 
 104
13
 
 91
 
 
 104
Other operations and maintenance(234) (126) (56) (16) 3
 (429)(234) (126) (56) (16) 3
 (429)
Depreciation and amortization(137) (65) (16) (20) (3) (241)(137) (65) (16) (20) (3) (241)
Taxes other than income taxes(94) (21) (11) 1
 (2) (127)(94) (21) (11) 1
 (2) (127)
Other income, net16
 7
 2
 2
 5
 32
16
 7
 2
 2
 5
 32
Interest charges(50) (19) (9) (19) (4) (101)(50) (19) (9) (19) (4) (101)
Income taxes(65) (13) (1) (13) (13) (105)(65) (13) (1) (13) (13) (105)
Net income (loss)295
 35
 
 48
 (19) 359
295
 35
 
 48
 (19) 359
Noncontrolling interests preferred stock dividends
(1) 
 
 
 (1) (2)(1) 
 
 
 (1) (2)
Net income (loss) attributable to Ameren common shareholders$294
 $35
 $
 $48
 $(20) $357
$294
 $35
 $
 $48
 $(20) $357
Three Months 2017:           
Nine Months 2019:           
Electric margins$857
 $266
 $
 $119
 $(10) $1,232
$1,948
 $804
 $
 $351
 $(24) $3,079
Natural gas margins13
 
 91
 
 
 104
57
 
 373
 
 
 430
Other operations and maintenance(229) (121) (52) (16) 5
 (413)(720) (373) (170) (44) 6
 (1,301)
Depreciation and amortization(134) (60) (15) (15) (1) (225)(417) (204) (59) (62) (3) (745)
Taxes other than income taxes(95) (20) (12) (1) (1) (129)(256) (61) (47) (3) (8) (375)
Other income, net16
 4
 1
 
 2
 23
43
 25
 9
 6
 16
 99
Interest charges(50) (18) (9) (18) (2) (97)(136) (54) (28) (58) (14) (290)
Income taxes(143) (20) (2) (31) (9) (205)
Income (taxes) benefit(70) (31) (20) (50) 13
 (158)
Net income (loss)235
 31
 2
 38
 (16) 290
449
 106
 58
 140
 (14) 739
Noncontrolling interests preferred stock dividends
(1) 
 
 
 (1) (2)(3) (1) (1) (1) 1
 (5)
Net income (loss) attributable to Ameren common shareholders$234
 $31
 $2
 $38
 $(17) $288
$446
 $105
 $57
 $139
 $(13) $734
Nine Months 2018:                      
Electric margins$2,061
 $804
 $
 $320
 $(19) $3,166
$2,061
 $804
 $
 $320
 $(19) $3,166
Natural gas margins57
 
 354
 
 
 411
57
 
 354
 
 
 411
Other operations and maintenance(707) (380) (170) (48) 6
 (1,299)(707) (380) (170) (48) 6
 (1,299)
Depreciation and amortization(411) (193) (48) (57) (4) (713)(411) (193) (48) (57) (4) (713)
Taxes other than income taxes(258) (59) (47) (3) (7) (374)(258) (59) (47) (3) (7) (374)
Other income, net45
 18
 7
 5
 9
 84
45
 18
 7
 5
 9
 84
Interest charges(152) (56) (28) (56) (10) (302)(152) (56) (28) (56) (10) (302)
Income (taxes) benefit(132) (32) (18) (40) 1
 (221)(132) (32) (18) (40) 1
 (221)
Net income (loss)503
 102
 50
 121
 (24) 752
503
 102
 50
 121
 (24) 752
Noncontrolling interests preferred stock dividends
(3) (1) (1) 
 
 (5)(3) (1) (1) 
 
 (5)
Net income (loss) attributable to Ameren common shareholders$500
 $101
 $49
 $121
 $(24) $747
$500
 $101
 $49
 $121
 $(24) $747
Nine Months 2017:           
Electric margins$1,961
 $834
 $
 $326
 $(25) $3,096
Natural gas margins54
 
 343
 
 (1) 396
Other operations and maintenance(672) (397) (161) (47) 15
 (1,262)
Depreciation and amortization(399) (178) (44) (44) (3) (668)
Taxes other than income taxes(255) (56) (43) (4) (6) (364)
Other income, net48
 8
 
 
 5
 61
Interest charges(157) (55) (27) (49) (7) (295)
Income (taxes) benefit(218) (61) (27) (76) 6
 (376)
Net income (loss)362
 95
 41
 106
 (16) 588
Noncontrolling interests preferred stock dividends
(3) (1) (1) 
 
 (5)
Net income (loss) attributable to Ameren common shareholders$359
 $94
 $40
 $106
 $(16) $583




Below is Ameren Illinois’ table of income statement components by segment for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017:2018:
Ameren
Illinois
Electric
Distribution
 
Ameren
Illinois
 Natural Gas
 
Ameren
Illinois Transmission
 Total
Ameren
Illinois
Electric
Distribution
 
Ameren
Illinois
 Natural Gas
 
Ameren
Illinois Transmission
 Total
Three Months 2019:       
Electric and natural gas margins$270
 $87
 $81
 $438
Other operations and maintenance(128) (52) (13) (193)
Depreciation and amortization(68) (20) (14) (102)
Taxes other than income taxes(22) (10) (1) (33)
Other income, net9
 3
 1
 13
Interest charges(19) (9) (10) (38)
Income taxes(10) 
 (10) (20)
Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholder$32
 $(1) $34
 $65
Three Months 2018:              
Electric and natural gas margins$272
 $91
 $71
 $434
$272
 $91
 $71
 $434
Other operations and maintenance(126) (56) (13) (195)(126) (56) (13) (195)
Depreciation and amortization(65) (16) (13) (94)(65) (16) (13) (94)
Taxes other than income taxes(21) (11) 
 (32)(21) (11) 
 (32)
Other income, net7
 2
 2
 11
7
 2
 2
 11
Interest charges(19) (9) (10) (38)(19) (9) (10) (38)
Income taxes(13) (1) (9) (23)(13) (1) (9) (23)
Net income35
 
 28
 63
Preferred stock dividends
 
 
 
Net income attributable to common shareholder$35
 $
 $28
 $63
$35
 $
 $28
 $63
Three Months 2017:       
Nine Months 2019:       
Electric and natural gas margins$266
 $91
 $72
 $429
$804
 $373
 $217
 $1,394
Other operations and maintenance(121) (52) (13) (186)(373) (170) (37) (580)
Depreciation and amortization(60) (15) (11) (86)(204) (59) (41) (304)
Taxes other than income taxes(20) (12) (1) (33)(61) (47) (2) (110)
Other income, net4
 1
 
 5
25
 9
 5
 39
Interest charges(18) (9) (9) (36)(54) (28) (29) (111)
Income taxes(20) (2) (16) (38)(31) (20) (28) (79)
Net income31
 2
 22
 55
106
 58
 85
 249
Preferred stock dividends
 
 
 
(1) (1) 
 (2)
Net income attributable to common shareholder$31
 $2
 $22
 $55
$105
 $57
 $85
 $247
Nine Months 2018:              
Electric and natural gas margins$804
 $354
 $195
 $1,353
$804
 $354
 $195
 $1,353
Other operations and maintenance(380) (170) (40) (590)(380) (170) (40) (590)
Depreciation and amortization(193) (48) (37) (278)(193) (48) (37) (278)
Taxes other than income taxes(59) (47) (2) (108)(59) (47) (2) (108)
Other income, net18
 7
 5
 30
18
 7
 5
 30
Interest charges(56) (28) (28) (112)(56) (28) (28) (112)
Income taxes(32) (18) (23) (73)(32) (18) (23) (73)
Net income102
 50
 70
 222
102
 50
 70
 222
Preferred stock dividends(1) (1) 
 (2)(1) (1) 
 (2)
Net income attributable to common shareholder$101
 $49
 $70
 $220
$101
 $49
 $70
 $220
Nine Months 2017:       
Electric and natural gas margins$834
 $343
 $197
 $1,374
Other operations and maintenance(397) (161) (40) (598)
Depreciation and amortization(178) (44) (32) (254)
Taxes other than income taxes(56) (43) (2) (101)
Other income, net8
 
 
 8
Interest charges(55) (27) (27) (109)
Income taxes(61) (27) (39) (127)
Net income95
 41
 57
 193
Preferred stock dividends(1) (1) 
 (2)
Net income attributable to common shareholder$94
 $40
 $57
 $191





Electric and Natural Gas Margins

The following table presents the favorable (unfavorable) variations by Ameren segment for electric and natural gas margins for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago periods. Electric margins are defined as electric revenues less fuel and purchased power costs. Natural gas margins are defined as natural gas revenues less natural gas purchased for resale. We consider electric and natural gas margins useful measures to analyze the change in profitability of our electric and natural gas operations between periods. We have included the analysis below as ato complement to the financial information we provide in accordance with GAAP. However, these margins may not be a presentation defined under GAAP, and they may not be comparable to other companies’ presentations or more useful than the GAAP information we provide elsewhere in this report.
Three MonthsAmeren
Missouri
 
Ameren Illinois
Electric Distribution
 
Ameren Illinois
Natural Gas
 
Ameren Transmission(a)
 Other /
Intersegment
Eliminations
 Ameren
Electric revenue change:           
Effect of weather (estimate)(b)
$21
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $21
Base rates (estimate)(c)
(42) 5
 
 (6) 
 (43)
Recovery of power restoration efforts provided to other utilities(6) (1) 
 
 
 (7)
Sales volume (excluding the effect of weather)9
 
 
 
 
 9
Off-system sales4
 
 
 
 
 4
Energy-efficiency program investments
 2
 
 
 
 2
Other4
 1
 
 
 2
 7
Cost recovery mechanisms – offset in fuel and purchased power(d)
16
 (20) 
 
 
 (4)
Other cost recovery mechanisms(e)
6
 1
 
 
 
 7
Total electric revenue change$12
 $(12) $
 $(6) $2
 $(4)
Fuel and purchased power change:           
Energy costs (excluding the effect of weather)$(4) $
 $
 $
 $
 $(4)
Effect of weather (estimate)(b)
(4) 
 
 
 
 (4)
Other1
 (2) 
 
 3
 2
Cost recovery mechanisms – offset in electric revenue(d)
(16) 20
 
 
 
 4
Total fuel and purchased power change$(23) $18
 $
 $
 $3
 $(2)
Net change in electric margins$(11) $6
 $
 $(6) $5
 $(6)
Natural gas revenue change:           
Base rates (estimate)
 
 (2) 
 
 (2)
QIP rider
 
 3
 
 
 3
Cost recovery mechanisms – offset in natural gas purchased for resale(d)
1
 
 4
 
 
 5
Other cost recovery mechanisms(e)

 
 (1) 
 
 (1)
Total natural gas revenue change$1
 $
 $4
 $
 $
 $5
Natural gas purchased for resale change:           
Cost recovery mechanisms – offset in natural gas revenue(d)
(1) 
 (4) 
 
 (5)
Total natural gas purchased for resale change$(1) $
 $(4) $
 $
 $(5)
Net change in natural gas margins$
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $


Nine MonthsAmeren
Missouri
 
Ameren Illinois
Electric Distribution
 
Ameren Illinois
Natural Gas
 
Ameren Transmission(a)
 Other /
Intersegment
Eliminations
 Ameren
Three MonthsAmeren
Missouri
 
Ameren Illinois
Electric Distribution
 
Ameren Illinois
Natural Gas
 
Ameren Transmission(a)
 Other /
Intersegment
Eliminations
 Ameren
Electric revenue change:                      
Effect of weather (estimate)(b)
$141
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $141
$(8) $
 $
 $
 $
 $(8)
Base rates (estimate)(c)
(74) (10) 
 (6) 
 (90)(4) (6) 
 15
 
 5
Recovery of power restoration efforts provided to other utilities6
 9
 
 
 
 15
Sales volume (excluding the effect of weather)22
 
 
 
 
 22
MEEIA 2016 performance incentive5
 
 
 
 
 5
Sales volumes and changes in customer usage patterns (excluding the estimated effects of weather and MEEIA)(6) 
 
 
 
 (6)
MEEIA 2013 and MEEIA 2016 performance incentives18
 
 
 
 
 18
Off-system sales(119) 
 
 
 
 (119)(50) 
 
 
 
 (50)
Energy-efficiency program investments
 7
 
 
 
 7

 4
 
 
 
 4
Other4
 3
 
 
 7
 14
1
 1
 
 
 (3) (1)
Cost recovery mechanisms – offset in fuel and purchased power(d)
18
 26
 
 
 
 44
(20) (1) 
 
 
 (21)
Other cost recovery mechanisms(e)
21
 (34) 
 
 
 (13)(2) (1) 
 
 
 (3)
Total electric revenue change$24
 $1
 $
 $(6) $7
 $26
$(71) $(3) $
 $15
 $(3) $(62)
Fuel and purchased power change:                      
Energy costs (excluding the effect of weather)$115
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $115
Energy costs (excluding the estimated effect of weather)$52
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $52
Effect of weather (estimate)(b)
(30) 
 
 
 
 (30)1
 
 
 
 
 1
Effect of lower net energy costs included in base rates9
 
 
 
 
 9
Other
 (5) 
 
 (1) (6)(4) 
 
 
 (1) (5)
Cost recovery mechanisms – offset in electric revenue(d)
(18) (26) 
 
 
 (44)20
 1
 
 
 
 21
Total fuel and purchased power change$76
 $(31) $
 $
 $(1) $44
$69
 $1
 $
 $
 $(1) $69
Net change in electric margins$100
 $(30) $
 $(6) $6
 $70
$(2) $(2) $
 $15
 $(4) $7
Natural gas revenue change:                      
Effect of weather (estimate)(b)
$17
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $17
Base rates (estimate)
 
 (12) 
 
 (12)
Change in rate design
 
 (8) 
 
 (8)
QIP rider
 
 13
 
 
 13

 
 2
 
 
 2
Software licensing agreement
 
 5
 
 
 5
Other
 
 2
 
 1
 3

 
 (2) 
 
 (2)
Cost recovery mechanisms – offset in natural gas purchased for resale(d)
(7) 
 48
 
 
 41
1
 
 
 
 
 1
Other cost recovery mechanisms(e)
1
 
 8
 
 
 9

 
 (1) 
 
 (1)
Total natural gas revenue change$11
 $
 $59
 $
 $1
 $71
$1
 $
 $(4) $
 $
 $(3)
Natural gas purchased for resale change:                      
Effect of weather (estimate)(b)
$(15) $
 $
 $
 $
 $(15)
Cost recovery mechanisms – offset in natural gas revenue(d)
7
 
 (48) 
 
 (41)(1) 
 
 
 
 (1)
Total natural gas purchased for resale change$(8) $
 $(48) $
 $
 $(56)$(1) $
 $
 $
 $
 $(1)
Net change in natural gas margins$3
 $
 $11
 $
 $1
 $15
$
 $
 $(4) $
 $
 $(4)


Nine MonthsAmeren
Missouri
 
Ameren Illinois
Electric Distribution
 
Ameren Illinois
Natural Gas
 
Ameren Transmission(a)
 Other /
Intersegment
Eliminations
 Ameren
Electric revenue change:           
Effect of weather (estimate)(b)
$(100) $
 $
 $
 $
 $(100)
Base rates (estimate)(c)
(39) (2) 
 31
 
 (10)
Recovery of power restoration efforts provided to other utilities(11) (9) 
 
 
 (20)
Sales volumes and changes in customer usage patterns (excluding the estimated effects of weather and MEEIA)7
 
 
 
 
 7
MEEIA 2013 and MEEIA 2016 performance incentives33
 
 
 
 
 33
Off-system sales(101) 
 
 
 
 (101)
Energy-efficiency program investments
 11
 
 
 
 11
Other
 3
 
 
 (3) 
Cost recovery mechanisms – offset in fuel and purchased power(d)
(37) (44) 
 
 
 (81)
Other cost recovery mechanisms(e)
(17) (3) 
 
 
 (20)
Total electric revenue change$(265) $(44) $
 $31
 $(3) $(281)
Fuel and purchased power change:           
Energy costs (excluding the estimated effect of weather)$104
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $104
Effect of weather (estimate)(b)
15
 
 
 
 
 15
Transmission services charges

(5) 
 
 
 
 (5)
Other1
 
 
 
 (2) (1)
Cost recovery mechanisms – offset in electric revenue(d)
37
 44
 
 
 
 81
Total fuel and purchased power change$152
 $44
 $
 $
 $(2) $194
Net change in electric margins$(113) $
 $
 $31
 $(5) $(87)
Natural gas revenue change:           
Effect of weather (estimate)(b)
$(4) $
 $
 $
 $
 $(4)
Base rates (estimate)
 
 8
 
 
 8
QIP rider
 
 4
 
 
 4
Software licensing agreement
 
 5
 
 
 5
Cost recovery mechanisms – offset in natural gas purchased for resale(d)
8
 
 (20) 
 
 (12)
Other cost recovery mechanisms(e)

 
 2
 
 
 2
Total natural gas revenue change$4
 $
 $(1) $
 $
 $3
Natural gas purchased for resale change:           
Effect of weather (estimate)(b)
$4
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $4
Cost recovery mechanisms – offset in natural gas revenue(d)
(8) 
 20
 
 
 12
Total natural gas purchased for resale change$(4) $
 $20
 $
 $
 $16
Net change in natural gas margins$
 $
 $19
 $
 $
 $19
(a)
Includes a decreasean increase in transmission margins of $1$10 millionand $2$22 million at Ameren Illinois for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, respectively,2019, compared with the year-ago periods.
(b)Represents the estimated variation resulting primarily from changes in cooling and heating degree-days on electric and natural gas demand compared with the year-ago periods; this variation is based on temperature readings from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather stations at local airports in our service territories.
(c)For Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution and Ameren Transmission, base rates include increases or decreases to operating revenues related to the revenue requirement reconciliation adjustment under formula rates.
(d)Electric and natural gas revenue changes are offset by corresponding changes in “Fuel”,“Fuel,” “Purchased power,” and “Natural gas purchased for resale” on the statement of income, resulting in no change to electric and natural gas margins.
(e)Offsetting increases or decreases to expenses are reflected in “Operating Expenses – Other operations and maintenance” or in “Operating Expenses – Taxes other than income taxes” on the statement of income. These items have no overall impact on earnings.



Ameren
Ameren’s electric margins decreased $6increased $7 million, or less than 1%, for the three months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago period, primarily because of increased margins at Ameren Transmission, as discussed below. Ameren’s electric margins decreased $87 million, or 3%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2019, compared with the year-ago period, primarily because of decreased margins at Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Transmission, partially offset by increased margins at Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution. Ameren’s electric margins increased $70 million, or 2%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period, primarily because of increased margins at Ameren Missouri, partially offset by decreased margins at Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution.Transmission, as discussed below.
Ameren’s natural gas margins were comparable for the three months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period. Ameren’s natural gas margins increased $15decreased $4 million, or 4%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period, primarily because ofand increased margins at Ameren Illinois Natural Gas.
Ameren Transmission
Ameren Transmission’s margins decreased $6$19 million, or 5%, and $6 million, or 2%, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, respectively, compared with the year-ago periods, because of margin changes at Ameren Illinois Natural Gas, as discussed below.
Ameren Transmission
Ameren Transmission’s margins increased $15 million, or 13%, and $31 million, or 10%, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, respectively, compared with the year-ago periods. The reductionMargins were favorably affected by increased capital investment, as evidenced by a 12% increase in the federal statutory corporate income tax rate decreased margins $18 million and $42 million, respectively, partially offset by additional revenues from increased other recoverable expenses and increased rate base under forward-looking formula ratemaking. See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1 of this report for information regardingused to calculate the reduction in the federal statutory corporate income tax rate.revenue requirement.
Ameren Missouri
Ameren Missouri’s electric margins decreased $11 million, or 1%, forwere comparable between the three months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period.2019 and 2018. Ameren Missouri’s electric margins increased $100decreased $113 million, or 5%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago period. Ameren Missouri’s natural gas margins were comparable for the three months ended September 30, 2018, and increased $3 million, or 6%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago periods, primarily due to colder winter temperatures, as discussed below.
The following items had a favorable effect on Ameren Missouri’s electric margins for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago periods (except where a specific period is referenced):
Summer temperatures were warmer as cooling degree days increased 4% and 10% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, respectively, compared with the year-ago periods, and winter temperatures were colder as heating degree days increased 51% for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period. The effect of weather increased margins an estimated $17 million and $111 million, respectively. The change in margins due to weather is the sum of the effect of weather (estimate) on electric revenues (+$21 million and +$141 million, respectively) and the effect of weather (estimate) on fuel and purchased power (-$4 million and -$30 million, respectively) in the table above.
Excluding the estimated effects of weather and the MEEIA 2016 customer energy-efficiency programs, total retail sales volumes increased 1% for both periods, which increased margins an estimated $9 million and $18 million, respectively, primarily due to growth. The change in margins due to sales volumes is the sum of the effect of sales volumes (excluding the effect of weather) on electric revenues (+$9 million and +$22 million, respectively), the effect of the revenue change in off-system sales (+$4 millionand-$119 million, respectively), and the effect of the change in energy costs (excluding the effect of weather) (-$4 million and +$115 million, respectively) in the table above.
An increase in power restoration assistance provided to other utilities and the associated recovery of labor and benefit costs for crews supporting those efforts, which increased revenues $6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period.
The MEEIA 2016 performance incentive, which increased revenues $5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period. See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1 of this report for information regarding the MEEIA 2016 performance incentive.
The following items had an unfavorable effect on Ameren Missouri’s electric margins for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago periods (except wherewhen a specificspecified period is referenced):

Cooling degree days were comparable between the three months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, but decreased 10% for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. Winter temperatures were warmer as heating degree days decreased 4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. The aggregate effect of weather decreased margins an estimated $7 million and $85 million, respectively. The change in margins due to weather is the sum of the effect of weather (estimate) on electric revenues (-$8 million and -$100 million, respectively) and the effect of weather (estimate) on fuel and purchased power (+$1 million and +$15 million, respectively) in the table above.
The reduction of customer rates in accordance with the TCJA section ofprovisions in Missouri Senate Bill 564 partially offset by higher electric base rates, as a result of the March 2017 electric rate order. These items collectively decreased marginsrevenues an estimated $42$4 million and $65$39 million, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, respectively, compared with the year-ago periods. The net change in electric base rates is the sum of the change in base rates (estimate) (-$42 million and -$74 million, respectively) and the effect of lower net energy costs included in base rates (+$9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2018) in the table above.


respectively.
A reduction in power restoration assistance provided to other utilities and the associated recovery of labor and benefit costs for crews supporting those efforts which decreased revenues $11 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019.
Excluding the estimated effects of weather and the MEEIA 2016 and 2019 customer energy-efficiency programs, electric revenues decreased an estimated $6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2018,2019, primarily due to a decrease in the average retail price per kilowatthour due to changes in customer usage patterns, partially offset by increased sales volumes from growth. While the MEEIA 2016 and 2019 customer energy-efficiency programs reduced retail sales volumes, the recovery of lost electric margins ensured that electric margins were not affected.
Increased transmission services charges resulting from cost-sharing by all MISO participants of additional MISO-approved electric transmission investments made by other entities, which decreased margins $5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019.
The following items had a favorable effect on Ameren Missouri’s electric margins for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, compared with the year-ago period.periods (except when a specified period is referenced):
The MEEIA 2013 and MEEIA 2016 performance incentives increased revenues $18 million and $33 million, respectively. See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1 of this report for information regarding the MEEIA 2013 and MEEIA 2016 performance incentives.
Excluding the estimated effects of weather and the MEEIA 2016 and 2019 customer energy-efficiency programs, electric revenues increased an estimated $7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019, primarily due to an increase in the average retail price per kilowatthour due to changes in customer usage patterns and increased sales volumes from growth. While the MEEIA 2016 and 2019 customer energy-efficiency programs reduced retail sales volumes, the recovery of lost electric margins ensured that electric margins were not affected.
Net energy costs increased margins $2 million and $3 million, respectively. The change in net energy costs is the sum of the effect of the change in off-system sales (-$50 million and -$101 million, respectively), and the effect of the change in energy costs (+$52 million and +$104 million, respectively) in the table above.
Ameren Missouri’s natural gas margins were comparable between the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018.


Ameren Illinois
Ameren Illinois’ electric margins increased $5$8 million, or 1%2%, and $22 million, or 2%, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, respectively, compared with the year-ago period,periods, driven by increased margins at Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution.Transmission. Ameren Illinois’ electricIllinois Natural Gas’ margins decreased $32$4 million, or 3%4%, and increased $19 million, or 5%, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period, driven by decreased margins at Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution. Ameren Illinois Natural Gas’ margins were comparable for the three months ended September 30, 2018, and increased $11 million, or 3%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, respectively, compared with the year-ago periods.
Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution
Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution’s margins increased $6 million, or 2%, forwere comparable between the three months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period. Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution’s margins decreased $30 million, or 4%, for theand nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019 and 2018. Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution’s revenues increased $4 million and $11 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, respectively, compared with the year-ago period.
periods, due to recovery of return on and amortization of increased energy-efficiency program investments pursuant to the FEJA. The following items had an unfavorable effect on Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution’s margins for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period:
Revenues decreased $34 million primarily due to a decrease in recoverable customer energy-efficiency costs prior to the FEJA. See Other Operations and Maintenance Expenses in this section for the related offsetting decrease in customer energy-efficiency costs prior to the FEJA.
Revenues decreased due to lower recoverable expenses under formula ratemaking pursuant to the IEIMA, partially offset by increased rate base and a higher recognized return on equity, which collectively decreased margins $10 million. The reduction in the federal statutory corporate income tax rate decreased recoverable expenses $42 million.
The following items had a favorable effect on Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution’s margins for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago periods (except wherewhen a specificspecified period is referenced):
An
Revenues decreased due to lower recognized return on equity (-$4 million and -$8 million, respectively, as evidenced by a decrease of nearly 60 basis points in the estimated annual average of the monthly yields of the 30-year United States Treasury bonds) and lower recoverable expenses (-$3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019), partially offset by an increase in return on rate base (+$1 million and +$6 million, respectively) under formula ratemaking pursuant to the IEIMA. The sum of these changes collectively decreased margins $6 million and $2 million, respectively.
A reduction in power restoration assistance provided to other utilities and the associated recovery of labor and benefit costs for crews supporting those efforts which increaseddecreased revenues $9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period.
Revenues increased due to increased rate base and a higher recognized return on equity under formula ratemaking pursuant to the IEIMA, which increased margins $5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period.
Revenues increased $2 million and $7 million, respectively, due to energy-efficiency program investments pursuant to the FEJA.
2019.
Ameren Illinois Natural Gas
Ameren Illinois Natural Gas’ margins were comparabledecreased $4 million, or 4%, and increased $19 million, or 5%, for the three months ended September 30, 2018, and increased $11 million, or 3%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, respectively, compared with the year-ago periods.
The following items had a favorable effect on Ameren Illinois Natural Gas’ margins for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago period:periods (except when a specified period is referenced):
Revenues from QIP recoveries, which increased margins $13$8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019, due to additional investment in qualifiedhigher natural gas infrastructure.base rates as a result of the November 2018 natural gas rate order.
Revenues from other cost recovery mechanisms, whichA software licensing agreement with Ameren Missouri increased margins $8 million.revenues $5 million for both periods. See Note 8 – Related-party Transactions under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information.
Revenues from QIP recoveries, which increased margins $2 millionand$4 million, respectively, due to additional investment in qualified natural gas infrastructure.
Ameren Illinois Natural Gas’ margins were unfavorably affected by the reductionimplementation of a change in the federal statutory corporate income tax rate design, which decreased base rate revenues $12margins $8 million for the ninethree months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago period. Pursuant to the ICC’s November 2018 natural gas order, this change in rate design concentrates more revenues in the winter heating season due to an increase in volumetric rates and a decrease in fixed customer rates. The VBA ensures recoverability of the natural gas distribution service revenue requirement for residential and small nonresidential customers that is dependent on sales volumes. As such, the change is not expected to materially affect year-over-year earnings.
Ameren Illinois Transmission
Ameren Illinois Transmission’s margins were comparableincreased $10 million, or 14%, and $22 million, or 11%, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, respectively, compared with the year-ago periods. The reduction in the federal statutory corporate income tax rate decreased margins $10 million and $24 million, respectively, offsetMargins were favorably affected by increased capital investment, as evidenced by a 17% increase in rate base under forward-looking formula ratemaking.used to calculate the revenue requirement.


Other Operations and Maintenance Expenses
Ameren
Other operations and maintenance expenses were $16$5 million and $37$2 million higher in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, respectively, compared with the year-ago periods. In additionperiods, due to changes by segment discussed below, other operations and maintenance expenses increased $9 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2018, for activity not reported as part of a segment, primarily because of a decrease in intersegment eliminations, largely offset in “Other Income, Net” on Ameren’s income statement.below.


Ameren Transmission
Other operations and maintenance expenses were comparable inbetween the three months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018. Other operations and maintenance expenses were $4 million lower in the nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago periods.period, primarily due to decreased transmission system maintenance expenditures at Ameren Illinois Transmission.
Ameren Missouri
Other operations and maintenance expenses were $5increased $8 million and $35 million higher in the three months ended September 30, 2019, compared with the year-ago period, primarily because of a decrease in the cash surrender value of company-owned life insurance and increased employee benefit costs. Other operations and maintenance expenses increased $13 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2018, respectively,2019, compared with the year-ago periods.period. The following items increased other operations and maintenance expenses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago periods (except where a specific period is referenced):period:
Energy center operations and maintenance costs increased $15$28 million, primarily due to the Callaway energy center refueling and maintenance outage that was completed in May 2019. The previous Callaway energy center refueling and maintenance outage took place in the fourth quarter of 2017.
Employee benefit costs increased $5 million due to higher medical costs.
The following items partially offset the above increases in other operations and maintenance expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, primarily due2019, compared with the year-ago period:
Power restoration assistance provided to higher-than-normal non-nuclear scheduled outage costs and higher coal handling charges.other utilities decreased $11 million.
The cash surrender value of company-owned life insurance increased $7 million.
MEEIA customer energy-efficiency program costs increased $5decreased $4 million and $11 million, respectively.
Electric distribution maintenance expenditures increased $6 million and $8 million, respectively, primarily due to increased system repair and vegetation management work.
Conversely, labor and benefit costs decreased $6 millionbecause of higher participation in the three months ended September 30,MEEIA 2016 programs in 2018, primarily due to a reductioncompared with participation in power restoration assistance provided to other utilities.the MEEIA 2019 programs.
Ameren Illinois
Other operations and maintenance expenses were $9 million higher incomparable between the three months ended September 30, 2018,2019 and $82018. Other operations and maintenance expenses were $10 million lower in the nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago periods at Ameren Illinois,period, as discussed below. Other operations and maintenance expenses were comparable in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, with the year-ago periods at Ameren Illinois Transmission.
Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution
Other operations and maintenance expenses were $5 million higher incomparable between the three months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period, primarily because of increased amortization of regulatory assets associated with the FEJA energy-efficiency program.2019 and 2018. Other operations and maintenance expenses were $17$7 million lower in the nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago period, primarily because of a decrease of $36 million in customer energy-efficiency costs prior to the FEJA. This decrease was partially offset by a $13 million increase in labor and benefit costs, primarily due to an increasea $9 million reduction in power restoration assistance provided to other utilities and a $3 million increase in the cash surrender value of company-owned life insurance. Additionally, expenses decreased due to a $4 million reduction in bad debt costs pursuant to regulatory recovery mechanisms. These decreases were partially offset by a $7 million increase in amortization of regulatory assets associated with the FEJA energy-efficiency program and a $2 million increase in bad debt and environmental remediation costs.investments.
Ameren Illinois Natural Gas
Other operations and maintenance expenses decreased $4 million in the three months ended September 30, 2019, compared with the year-ago period, primarily due to a reduction in energy efficiency rider costs. Other operations and maintenance expenses were comparable between the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018.
Ameren Illinois Transmission
Other operations and maintenance expenses increased $4 million and $9 million inwere comparable between the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, respectively, compared with the year-ago periods, primarily because of increased repairs2019 and compliance expenditures related to pipeline integrity.2018. Other operations and maintenance expenses also increasedwere $3 million lower in the nine months ended September 30, 2018, because of higher bad debt, customer energy-efficiency, and environmental remediation costs.2019, compared with the year-ago period, primarily due to decreased transmission system maintenance expenditures.
Depreciation and Amortization
Depreciation and amortization expenses increased $16 million, $3$7 million and $8 million in the three months ended September 30, 2018,2019, and $45 million, $12$32 million and $24$26 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago periods, at Ameren Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois, respectively, primarily because of additional property, plant, and equipment investments across their respective segments. Depreciation and amortization expenses were comparable at Ameren Missouri in the three months ended September 30, 2019, with the year-ago period. Depreciation and amortization expenses increased $6 million at Ameren Missouri in the nine months ended September 30, 2019, compared



with the year-ago period, primarily because of additional property, plant, and equipment investments. Ameren Missouri’s depreciation and amortization expenses include a reduction for the regulatory deferral of depreciation and amortization expenses pursuant to PISA of $7 million and $14 million in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, respectively.
Taxes Other Than Income Taxes
Taxes other than income taxes were comparable at Amerenincreased $4 million in the three months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period. Taxes other than income taxes increased $10 million at Ameren in the nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago period, primarily because of higher gross receipts taxes at Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois Natural Gas, and higher property taxes at Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution. The increase in gross receipts taxes at Ameren Missouri in the nine months ended September 30, 2018, was partially offset by a decrease in property taxes due to lower assessed property values.
Other Income, Net
Other income, net, increased $9 million and $23 million at Ameren in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, respectively, compared with the year-ago periods, primarily due to an increase in the non-service cost components of net periodic benefit income at Ameren Transmission and each of the Ameren Illinois segments, along with an increase in allowance for equity funds used during constructionproperty taxes at Ameren Missouri Ameren Transmission, and each of the Ameren Illinois segments, primarily because of increased capital projects.due to higher assessed values. The increase was partially offset by a decrease in excise taxes at Ameren Missouri’sMissouri as a result of reduced sales, primarily driven by mild summer temperatures. Taxes other than income taxes were comparable between the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018.
Other Income, Net
Other income, net, was comparable between the three months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018. Other income, net, increased $15 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2019, compared with the year-ago period. The non-service cost components of net periodic benefit income increased $7 million and an increase in its donations.
In addition to the changes discussed above, Other income, net, increased in the three$4 million for Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution and nine months ended September 30, 2018, due to activity not reported as part of a segment, primarilyrespectively. Additionally, donations decreased $4 million for activity not reported as part of a result of an increase in the non-service cost components of net periodic benefit income, partially offset in the nine-month period by increased donations at Ameren (parent).segment.
See Note 5 – Other Income, Net under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information. See Note 11 – Retirement Benefits under Part I, Item 1, of this report for the non-service cost components of net periodic benefit income.
Interest Charges
Ameren
Interest charges increased $4decreased $5 million and $7$12 million in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018,2019, respectively, compared with the year-ago periods. Along with changes discussed below,These decreases were primarily due to decreased interest charges at Ameren Missouri, which resulted from lower average interest rates on long-term debt and increased $2regulatory deferrals of interest expense pursuant to PISA of $4 million and $3$9 million in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, respectively,2019, respectively. The decrease at Ameren Missouri in the nine months ended September 30, 2019, compared with the year-ago period, was partially offset by a $4 million increase for activity not reported as part of a segment, primarily because of a decrease in intersegment eliminations associated with lower affiliatehigher interest rate on an increased level of short-term borrowings at Ameren Transmission.
Ameren Transmission
Interest charges increased $7 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period, primarily because of higher average outstanding debt at ATXI, partially offset by decreased affiliate borrowings.
Ameren Missouri
Interest charges decreased $5 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2018, primarily because of a decrease in the average interest rate of long-term debt.(parent).
Income Taxes
The following table presents effective income tax rates for the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017. See Note 12 – Income Taxes under Part I, Item 1 of this report for a reconciliation of the federal statutory corporate income tax rate to the effective income tax rate and information on the revaluation of certain deferred tax assets and liabilities for provisional amounts related to TCJA.2018:
 
Three Months(a)
 
Nine Months(a)
 
Three Months(a)
 
Nine Months(a)
 2018 2017 2018 2017 2019 2018 2019 2018
Ameren 23% 41% 23% 39% 20% 23% 18% 23%
Ameren Missouri 18% 38% 21% 38% 14% 18% 13% 21%
Ameren Illinois 26% 40% 25% 40% 24% 26% 24% 25%
Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution 27% 38% 24% 39% 23% 27% 23% 24%
Ameren Illinois Natural Gas 59% 51% 27% 40% (b)
 (b)
 26% 27%
Ameren Illinois Transmission 22% 42% 24% 40% 24% 22% 25% 24%
Ameren Transmission 22% 44% 25% 41% 25% 22% 26% 25%
(a)Estimate of the annual effective income tax rate adjusted to reflect the tax effect of items discrete to the three and nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017.2018.
(b)Not meaningful because of the insignificant amount of income before income taxes.


See Note 12 – Income Taxes under Part I, Item 1, of this report for a reconciliation of the federal statutory corporate income tax rate to the effective income tax rate for the Ameren Companies.
The effective income tax rate was lower in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago periods due to changes described below, partially offset by the revaluation of certain deferred tax assets and liabilities for provisional amounts related to TCJA. Additionally, the effective income tax rate was lower in the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period because of higher benefits related to stock-based compensation in the current year.
Ameren Transmission
The effective income tax rate was lower in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago periods, primarily because of the decrease in the federal statutory corporate income tax rate in the current year and the amortization of excess deferred taxes. The decrease in the effective income tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period, was partially offset by a higher statutory corporate income tax rate in Illinois effective July 1, 2017.
Ameren Missouri
The effective income tax rate was lower in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago periods, primarily because of the decrease in the federal statutory corporate income tax rate in the current year and amortization of excess deferred taxes, partially offset by the revaluation of certain deferred tax assets and liabilities for provisional amounts related to TCJA. Based on an order issued by the MoPSC in July 2018, Ameren Missouri began amortizing excess deferred taxes in August 2018.
Ameren Illinois
The effective income tax rate was lower in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago periods, at Ameren Illinois due to changes described below.
The effective income tax rate was lower in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago periods at Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution and Ameren Illinois Transmission, and in the nine months ended September 30, 2018, at Ameren Illinois Natural Gas, primarily because of the decrease in the federal statutory corporate income tax rate in the current year and the amortization of excess deferred taxes. The decrease in the effective income tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared with the year-ago period, was partially offset by a higher statutory corporate income tax rate in Illinois effective July 1, 2017.
The effective income tax rate was higher in the three months ended September 30, 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago period, at Ameren Illinois Natural Gas, primarily because of increased amortization of excess deferred taxes, higher tax benefits from certain depreciation differences on property-related items largely attributable to the allowance for equity funds used during construction, and the revaluation of certain deferred tax assets and liabilities for provisional amounts related to TCJA partially offset by the decrease in the federal statutory corporate2018. The effective income tax rate was higher at Ameren Illinois Transmission and Ameren Transmission in the three months ended September 30, 2019, compared with the year-ago period, primarily because of lower current year andtax benefits from certain depreciation differences on property-related items largely attributable to the amortization of excess deferred taxes.allowance for equity funds used during construction.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Collections from our tariff-based revenues are our principal source of cash provided by operating activities. A diversified retail customer mix, primarily consisting of rate-regulated residential, commercial, and industrial customers, provides us with a reasonably predictable source


of cash. In addition to using cash provided by operating activities, we use available cash, borrowings under the Credit Agreements, commercial paper issuances, and/or, in the case of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois, other short-term affiliate borrowings to support normal operations and temporary capital requirements. We may reduce our short-term borrowings with cash provided by operations or, at our discretion, with long-term borrowings or, in the case of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois, with capital contributions from Ameren (parent). The TCJA benefits customers through lower rates forIn the near term, our services, but is not expected to materially affect our earnings. However, we expect ouroperating cash flows and rate basewill decrease due to be materially affectedthe reduction in the near term. The TCJA eliminated 50% accelerated tax depreciation on nearly all capital investments, which had the effect of increasing Ameren’s near-term projected income tax liabilities. Based on currently expected capital expenditures through 2022, excluding potential incremental capital investments supported by Missouri Senate Bill 564 and those identified in Ameren Missouri’s 2017 IRP, Ameren expects to largely offset its income tax obligations until 2020 with existing net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Since we had been using existing net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards to largely offset income tax obligations before the enactment of the TCJA, the effect of the reduced federal statutory corporate income tax rate is to decrease operating cash flows inenacted under the near term. Near term operating cash flows are reduced further by lower customer rates, reflecting the return of excess deferred taxes previously collected from customers over periods of time determined by our regulators.TCJA. The decrease in operating cash flows results from reduced customer rates, reflecting the tax rate decrease, without a corresponding reduction in income tax payments until about 2020 because of our use of net operating losses and tax credit carryforwards. Additionally, operating cash flows will be further reduced by lower customer rates, resulting from the return of excess deferred taxes. Over time, the decrease in operating cash flows will be offset as a result of the TCJA is expected to be partially offset over timetemporary differences between book and taxable income reverse, and by increased customer rates due to higher rate base amounts once approved by our regulators. We expect rate base amounts to be higher as a result ofresulting from lower accumulated deferred income tax liabilities, due to the elimination of 50% accelerated tax depreciation, the reduced statutory income tax rate, and the return of excess deferred taxes to customers.liabilities. We also expect to make significant capital expenditures over the next five years as we invest in our electric and natural gas utility infrastructure to support overall system reliability, grid modernization, renewable energy requirements, environmental compliance, and other improvements. As part of its plan to fund these cash flow requirements, beginning in the first quarter of 2018, Ameren began to useis using newly issued shares


of common stock, rather than market-purchased shares, to satisfy requirements under itsthe DRPlus and employee benefit plans and expects to continue to do so over the next five years. Additionally, we may needthrough at least 2023. Ameren also plans to issue incremental debt and/orcommon equity to fund a portion of Ameren Missouri’s wind generation investments through the physical settlement of the forward sale agreement relating to 7.5 million shares of common stock. For additional information about the forward sale agreement, see Note 4 – Long-Term Debt and Equity Financings under Part I, Item 1, of this report. Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois expect their respective equity to total capitalization levels over the period ending December 2023 to remain in-line with the long-term intenttheir respective equity to maintain strong financial metrics and an equity ratio around 50%,total capitalization levels as calculated in accordance with ratemaking environments.of December 31, 2018.
The use of cash provided by operating activities and short-term borrowings to fund capital expenditures and other long-term investments may periodically resultat the Ameren Companies frequently results in a working capital deficit, defined as current liabilities exceeding current assets, as was the case at September 30, 2018, for Ameren and Ameren Illinois.2019. The working capital deficit as of September 30, 2018,2019, was primarily the result of current maturities of long-term debt as well asand our decision to finance our businesses with lower-cost commercial paper issuances at Ameren (parent).issuances. With the credit capacity available under the Credit Agreements, along with cash and cash equivalents, the Ameren Companies had access tonet available liquidity of $1.6 billion of liquidity atSeptember 30, 2018.2019. See Credit Facility Borrowings and Liquidity below for additional information.
The following table presents net cash provided by (used in) operating, investing, and financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017:2018:
Net Cash Provided By
Operating Activities
 
Net Cash Used In
Investing Activities
 
Net Cash Provided by (Used In)
Financing Activities
Net Cash Provided By
Operating Activities
 
Net Cash Used In
Investing Activities
 
Net Cash Provided by (Used in)
Financing Activities
2018 2017 Variance 2018 2017 Variance 2018 2017 Variance2019 2018 Variance 2019 2018 Variance 2019 2018 Variance
Ameren(a)
$1,686
 $1,647
 $39
 $(1,719) $(1,584) $(135) $57
 $(58) $115
$1,668
 $1,686
 $(18) $(1,798) $(1,719) $(79) $178
 $57
 $121
Ameren Missouri961
 819
 142
 (735) (454) (281) (226) (364) 138
840
 961
 (121) (785) (735) (50) (49) (226) 177
Ameren Illinois516
 632
 (116) (937) (754) (183) 451
 126
 325
706
 516
 190
 (903) (937) 34
 234
 451
 (217)
(a)Includes amounts for Ameren registrant and nonregistrant subsidiaries and intercompany eliminations.
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Our cash provided by operating activities is affected by fluctuations of trade accounts receivable, inventories, and accounts and wages payable, among other things, as well as the unique regulatory environment for each of our businesses. Substantially all expenditures related to fuel, purchased power, and natural gas purchased for resale are recovered from customers through rate-adjustmentrate adjustment mechanisms, which may be adjusted without a traditional regulatory rate review.proceeding. Similar regulatory mechanisms exist for certain operating expenses that can also affect the timing of cash provided by operating activities. The timing of cash paidpayments for costs recoverable under our regulatory mechanisms differs from the recovery period of those costs. Additionally, the seasonality of our electric and natural gas businesses, primarily caused by changes in customer demand due to weather, significantly impactaffect the amount and timing of our cash provided by operating activities. Non-cash items included as adjustments to our electric and natural gas margins primarily include alternative revenue program mechanisms and reserves related to future reductions in customer rates as a result of the TJCA.
Ameren
Ameren’s cash from operating activities increased $39decreased $18 million in the first nine months of 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago period. The following items contributed to the increase:decrease:
A $144$28 million increase in payments for nuclear refueling and maintenance outages at Ameren Missouri’s Callaway energy center. There was no refueling and maintenance outage in 2018.
A $16 million decrease resulting from electricdecreased customer collections, primarily due to a decrease in weather-related sales volumes at Ameren Missouri, and a net decrease attributable to regulatory recovery mechanisms, partially offset by decreased fuel costs and production volumes at Ameren Missouri and decreased purchase power costs and volumes and natural gas margins, as discussed in Results of Operations, excluding certain noncash items, as well as the change in customer receivable balances.
A $35 million decrease in pension and postretirement benefit contributions.
A net $24 million increase resulting from natural gas commodity costs and associated collections from customers under Ameren Missouri’s and Ameren Illinois’ PGA.
A net $23 million increase resulting from renewable energy credit compliance costs and associated collections from Ameren Illinois customers pursuant to the FEJA.
The absence of $21 million in refunds paid in 2017 associated with the November 2013 FERC complaint case, as discussed in Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K.
A net $19 million increase resulting from net energy costs and associated collections from Ameren Missouri customers under the FAC.
A $14 million decrease in the cost of natural gas held in storage at Ameren Illinois, caused primarily by increased withdrawals as a result of colder winter temperatures compared with the prior year.Illinois.
The following items partially offset the increasedecrease in Ameren’s cash from operating activities between periods:


A $50$14 million increase resulting from a decrease in coal inventory levels at Ameren Missouri due to delivery disruptions from flooding in 2019.
A net $14 million increase in collateral received from counterparties, primarily resulting from changes in the purchasemarket prices of zero emission creditspower and natural gas, changes in contracted commodity volumes, and increases resulting from Ameren Illinois’ renewable energy contracts entered into pursuant to a January 2018 IPA procurement event, primarilyFEJA.
Ameren Missouri
Ameren Missouri’s cash from operating activities decreased $121 million in the first nine months of 2019, compared with funds previously collected from Ameren Illinois customers.the year-ago period. The following items contributed to the decrease:
A $40$169 million decrease resulting from decreased customer collections, primarily due to a decrease in weather-related sales volumes, and a net decrease attributable to regulatory recovery mechanisms, partially offset by decreased fuel costs and production volumes.
A $28 million increase in payments for nuclear refueling and maintenance outages at the Callaway energy center. There was no refueling and maintenance outage in 2018.
The following items partially offset the decrease in Ameren Missouri’s cash from operating activities between periods:
A $33 million decrease in income tax payments of $18 million, compared with incometo Ameren (parent) pursuant to the tax refunds of $22 million in 2017,allocation agreement, primarily due to statelower taxable income tax refunds and the sale of state tax credits.in 2019.
A $36$14 million increase resulting from a decrease relatedin coal inventory levels due to Ameren Illinois’ IEIMA revenue requirement reconciliation adjustments. The 2016 revenue requirement reconciliation adjustment, which was recovereddelivery disruptions from customersflooding in 2018, was less than the 2015 revenue requirement reconciliation adjustment, which was recovered from customers in 2017.


2019.
A net $23 million decrease resulting from renewable energy credit compliance costs and associated collections from Ameren Illinois’ alternative retail electric supplier customers pursuant to the FEJA.
A $17$8 million increase in energy center maintenance costs at Ameren Missouri, primarily due to higher-than-normal, non-nuclear scheduled outage costs, in addition to higher coal handling charges.
A net $13 million decrease in returns of collateral posted withreceived from counterparties, primarily resulting from changes in the market prices of power and natural gas and in contracted commodity volumes.
A net $12 million decrease resulting from expenditures for customer energy-efficiency programs and associated collections from Ameren Illinois customers under a cost recovery mechanism.
A $9 million increase in interest payments, primarily due to an increase in the average outstanding debt balance at ATXI.
A net $8 million decrease resulting from transmission service costs and associated collections from Ameren Illinois customers under a cost recovery mechanism.
A $7 million decrease related to coal inventory at Ameren Missouri resulting from decreased consumption levels, compared with the year-ago period.
A $6 million increase in payments to contractors at Ameren Illinois for electric distribution maintenance costs, primarily due to increased vegetation management work.
Ameren Missouri
Ameren Missouri’sIllinois’ cash from operating activities increased $142$190 million in the first nine months of 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago period. The following items contributed to the increase:
A $112$145 million increase primarily resulting from electricdecreased purchased power costs and volumes, decreased natural gas margins, as discussed in Results of Operations, excluding certain noncash items, as well as the change in customer receivable balances.costs, and a net increase attributable to regulatory recovery mechanisms.
A $40 million decrease in income tax payments of $38 million to Ameren (parent) pursuant to the tax allocation agreement, primarily due to the lower federal income tax rate and lower property-related deductions.timing of payments.
A net $19 million increase resulting from net energy costs and associated collections from customers under the FAC.
A net $12 million increase resulting from natural gas commodity costs and associated collections from customers under the PGA.
An $8$6 million decrease in interest payments primarily due to a decrease in the average interest rate of long-term debt.
The following items partially offset the increase in Ameren Missouri’s cash from operating activities between periods:
A $17 million increase in energy centercontractors for electric distribution maintenance costs, primarily due to higher-than-normal non-nuclear scheduled outage costs, in addition to higher coal handling charges.decreased vegetation management costs.
A net $10$6 million decreaseincrease in returns of collateral posted withreceived from counterparties, primarily resulting from changes in the market prices of power and natural gas, andchanges in in contracted commodity volumes.
A $7 million decrease related to coal inventory resulting from decreased consumption levels, compared with the year-ago period.
Ameren Illinois
Ameren Illinois’ cash from operating activities decreased $116 million in the first nine months of 2018, compared with the year-ago period. The following items contributed to the decrease:
A $76 million decrease resulting from income tax payments of $54 million, compared with income tax refunds of $22 million in 2017, to Ameren (parent) pursuant to the tax allocation agreement resulting primarily due to the lower federal income tax ratevolumes, and lower property-related deductions.
A $50 million decrease due to the purchase of zero emission credits pursuant to a January 2018 IPA procurement event, primarily with funds previously collected from customers.
A $36 million decrease related to IEIMA revenue requirement reconciliation adjustments. The 2016 revenue requirement reconciliation adjustment, which was recovered from customers in 2018, was less than the 2015 revenue requirement reconciliation adjustment, which was recovered from customers in 2017.
A net $23 million decreaseincreases resulting from renewable energy credit compliance costs and associated collections from alternative retail electric supplier customerscontracts entered into pursuant to the FEJA.
A net $12 million decrease resulting from expenditures for customer energy-efficiency programs and associated collections from customers under a cost recovery mechanism.
A net $8 million decrease resulting from transmission service costs and associated collections from customers under a cost recovery mechanism.
A $6 million increase in payments to contractors for electric distribution maintenance costs, primarily due to increased vegetation management work.
The following items partially offset the decrease in Ameren Illinois’ cash from operating activities between periods:


A $30 million increase resulting from electric and natural gas margins, as discussed in Results of Operations, excluding certain noncash items, as well as the change in customer receivable balances.
A net $23 million increase resulting from renewable energy credit compliance costs and associated collections from Ameren Illinois customers pursuant to the FEJA.
A $20 million decrease in pension contributions.
The absence of $17 million in refunds paid in 2017 associated with the November 2013 FERC complaint case, as discussed in Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K.
A $14 million decrease in the cost of natural gas held in storage caused primarily by increased withdrawals as a result of colder winter temperatures compared with the prior year.
A net $12 million increase resulting from natural gas commodity costs and associated collections from customers under the PGA.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Ameren’s cash used in investing activities increased $135$79 million in the first nine months of 2018,2019, compared with the year-ago period, primarily as a result of increased capital expenditures of $166 million, partially offset by a $22 million decrease due$72 million. In addition to the timing of nuclear fuel expenditures. Increased capital expendituresexpenditure changes at Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois discussed below, were partially offset byAmeren’s capital expenditures increased due to a $159$30 million decreaseincrease in capital expenditures at ATXI. ATXI’s capital expenditures decreasedincreased as a result of decreasedincreased expenditures on the Mark Twain Transmission project offset by decreased capital expenditures on the Spoon River and Illinois Rivers and Spoon River projects. The Spoon River project was placed in service in February 2018.
Ameren Missouri’s cash used in investing activities increased $281$50 million between periods, primarily due to an increase in capital expenditures, partially offset by the absence of net money pool advances and increased capital expenditures.in 2019. In the first nine months of 2018, Ameren Missouri made $28 million in advances to the money pool, compared with $143 million in returns of net money pool advances received during the same period in 2017. Additionally, capitalof $28 million. Capital expenditures increased $131$87 million, between periods primarily related to energy center projects and electric distribution system reliability projects. The increase in capital expenditures was partially offset by a $22 million decrease due to the timing of nuclear fuel expenditures.substation upgrades and energy delivery infrastructure upgrades.
Ameren Illinois’ cash used in investing activities increased $183decreased $34 million between periods primarily due to decreased capital expenditures of $47 million related to electric transmission system reliability projects.
Capital Expenditures
See Liquidity and Capital Resources under Part II, Item 7, of the Form 10-K for Ameren's estimate of capital expenditures that will be incurred from 2019 through 2023, including construction expenditures, allowance for funds used during construction, and expenditures for compliance with existing environmental regulations. Ameren estimates its capital expenditures for 2019 will increase by approximately $150


million to $2,585 million, compared to the estimate included in the Form 10-K, primarily as a result of an increase in capital expenditures at Ameren Missouri of $187$70 million primarily related to substation upgrades, upgrades to natural gas main infrastructure, and Ameren Illinois’ electric transmission system reliability projects.business of $85 million.
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Cash provided by, or used in, financing activities is a result of our financing needs, which depend on the level of cash provided by operating activities, the level of cash used in investing activities, the level of dividends, and our long-term debt maturities, among other things.
Ameren’s cash provided by financing activities provided cash of $57increased $121 million during the first nine months of 2018,2019, compared with usingthe year-ago period. During the first nine months of 2019, Ameren issued $900 million of long-term indebtedness to repay then-outstanding commercial paper issuances, including short-term debt incurred in connection with the repayment at maturity of long-term indebtedness of $329 million. In 2019, Ameren repaid outstanding net commercial paper issuances totaling $53 million, and used cash of $58 millionprovided by financing activities to fund, in part, investing activities. In comparison, during the same period in 2017. During the first nine months of 2018, Ameren utilized net proceeds from the issuance of $889 million of long-term indebtedness and net commercial paper issuances to repay $522 million of higher-cost long-term indebtedness and to fund, in part, investing activities. In comparison, duringDuring the first nine months of 2017,2019, Ameren utilized net proceeds from the issuancepaid common stock dividends of $849$350 million, of long-term indebtedness to repay $425 million of higher-cost long-term indebtedness, to repay $112 million of net commercial paper issuances, and to fund, in part, investing activities. Additionally, Ameren issued $56compared with $334 million in common stock under its DRPlus and 401(k) plan in the first nine months of 2018. Ameren also issued common stock related to stock-based compensation resulting in noncash financing activity during the first nine months of 2018, compared with $24 million paid for the repurchase of common stock for stock-based compensationdividend payments in the year-ago period. Ameren did not issue common stock in the first nine months of 2017.
Ameren Missouri’s cash used in financing activities decreased $138$177 million during the first nine months of 2018,2019, compared towith the year-ago period. During the first nine months of 2019, Ameren Missouri utilized net proceeds from the issuance of $450 million of long-term indebtedness to repay then-outstanding commercial paper issuances, including short-term debt incurred in connection with the repayment at maturity of long-term indebtedness of $329 million. Additionally, Ameren Missouri utilized net commercial paper issuances of $89 million to fund, in part, investing activities. In comparison, during the first nine months of 2018, Ameren Missouri utilized net proceeds from the issuance of $423 million ofin long-term indebtedness and cash on hand to repay $378 million of higher-cost long-term indebtedness, to repay $39 million of net commercial paper issuances, and to fund, in part, investing activities. In comparison, during2018, Ameren Missouri also repaid outstanding net commercial paper issuances totaling $39 million. During the first nine months of 2017, Ameren Missouri utilized net proceeds from the issuance of $399 million of long-term indebtedness, along with cash on hand, to repay $425 million of higher-cost long-term indebtedness. Additionally, during the first nine months of 2018,2019, Ameren Missouri paid $225 million in common stock dividends of $250 million, compared with $332$225 million in dividend payments in the year-ago period.
Ameren Illinois’ cash provided by financing activities increased $325decreased $217 million during the first nine months of 2018,2019, compared towith the year-ago period. During the first nine months of 2019, Ameren Illinois utilized net proceeds from commercial paper issuances of $237 million to fund, in part, investing activities. In comparison, during the first nine months of 2018, Ameren Illinois utilized net proceeds from the issuance of $476 million of long-term indebtedness and net commercial paper issuances to repay $144 million of higher-cost long-term indebtedness and to fund, in part, investing activities. In comparison, during the first nine months of 2017, Ameren Illinois utilized net proceeds from commercial paper issuances of $118 million to fund, in part, investing activities. In the first nine months of 2018, Ameren Illinoisalso received an $80 million capital contribution from Ameren (parent), compared with no capital contribution received in the year-ago period. Additionally, Ameren Illinois and borrowed $45 million from the money pool in the first nine months of 2018,year-ago period, compared withto no capital contributions or money pool borrowings of $11 million in the year-agocurrent year period.


See Long-term Debt and Equity in this section for additional information on maturities and issuances of long-term debt.
Credit Facility Borrowings and Liquidity
The liquidity needs of Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois are typically supported through the use of available cash, or proceeds from borrowings under the Credit Agreements, commercial paper issuances, and/or, in the case of Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois, short-term affiliate borrowings. See Note 3 – Short-term Debt and Liquidity under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information on credit agreements, commercial paper issuances, borrowings under Ameren’s money pool arrangements, and relevant interest rates.
The following table presents Ameren’s consolidated liquidity as of September 30, 20182019:
Ameren (parent) and Ameren Missouri:
  
Missouri Credit Agreement borrowing capacity
$1,000
$1,000
Less: Ameren (parent) commercial paper outstanding241
53
Missouri Credit Agreement – credit available759
Less: Ameren Missouri commercial paper outstanding144
Missouri Credit Agreement – subtotal803
Ameren (parent) and Ameren Illinois:  
Illinois Credit Agreement borrowing capacity
1,100
1,100
Less: Ameren (parent) commercial paper outstanding172
37
Less: Ameren Illinois commercial paper outstanding108
310
Less: Letters of credit1
2
Illinois Credit Agreement credit available
819
Total Credit Available$1,578
Illinois Credit Agreement subtotal
751
Subtotal$1,554
Cash and cash equivalents11
20
Total Liquidity$1,589
Net Available Liquidity$1,574


The Credit Agreements are used to borrow cash, to issue letters of credit, and to support issuances under Ameren (parent)’s, Ameren Missouri’s, and Ameren Illinois’ commercial paper programs. Both of the Credit Agreements are available to Ameren (parent) to support issuances under Ameren (parent)’s commercial paper program, subject to available credit capacity under the agreements. The Missouri Credit Agreement is available to support issuances under Ameren Missouri’s commercial paper program. The Illinois Credit Agreement is available to support issuances under Ameren Illinois’ commercial paper program. Issuances under the Ameren (parent), Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois commercial paper programs were available at lower interest rates than the interest rates of borrowings under the Credit Agreements. Commercial paper issuances were thus preferred to credit facility borrowings as a source of third-party short-term debt.
In addition, Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois may borrow cash from the utility money pool when funds are available. The rate of interest depends on the composition of internal and external funds in the utility money pool. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois will access funds from the utility money pool, the Credit Agreements, or the commercial paper programs depending on which option has the lowest interest rates.
The issuance of short-term debt securities by Ameren’s utility subsidiaries is subject to FERC approval by the FERC under the Federal Power Act. In 2018, the FERC issued orders authorizing Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois to each issue up to $1.0$1 billion of short-term debt securities through March 2020 and September 2020, respectively. In July 2019, the FERC issued an order authorizing ATXI to issue up to $300 million of short-term debt securities through July 2021.
The Ameren Companies continually evaluate the adequacy and appropriateness of their liquidity arrangements for changing business conditions. When business conditions warrant, changes may be made to existing credit agreementsthe Credit Agreements or to other short-term borrowing arrangements.


Long-term Debt and Equity
The following table presents Ameren’s equity issuances, as well as issuances (net of any issuance premiums or discounts), redemptions, repurchases, and maturities of long-term debt for Ameren Missouri, Ameren Illinois, and ATXI for the nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 2017:2018:
Month Issued, Redeemed, or Matured 2018 2017Month Issued, Redeemed, or Matured 2019 2018 
Issuances of Long-term Debt         
Ameren:     
2.50% Senior unsecured notes due 2024September $450
 $
 
Ameren Missouri:         
3.50% First mortgage bonds due 2029March 450
 
 
4.00% First mortgage bonds due 2048April $423
 $
April 
 423
 
2.95% Senior secured notes due 2027June 
 399
Ameren Illinois:         
3.80% First mortgage bonds due 2028May 430
 
May 
 430
 
ATXI:    
3.43% Senior notes due 2050June 
 150
3.43% Senior notes due 2050August 
 300
Total Ameren long-term debt issuances $853
 $849
 $900
 $853
 
Issuances of Common Stock         
Ameren:         
DRPlus and 401(k)Various $56
(a) (b) 
$
Various $54
(a) (b) 
$56
(a) (b) 
Total common stock issuances $56
 $
 $54
 $56
 
Total Ameren long-term debt and common stock issuances $909
 $849
 $954
 $909
 
Redemptions and Maturities of Long-term Debt         
Ameren Missouri:         
6.70% Senior secured notes due 2019February $329
 $
 
6.00% Senior secured notes due 2018April $179
 $
April 
 179
 
5.10% Senior secured notes due 2018August 199
 
August 
 199
 
6.40% Senior secured notes due 2017June 
 425
Ameren Illinois:         
6.25% Senior secured notes due 2018April 144
 
April 
 144
 
5.70% First mortgage bonds due 2024September (c)
 
 
Total Ameren long-term debt redemptions and maturities $522
 $425
 $329
 $522
 
(a)Ameren issued a total of 0.7 million and 0.9 million shares of common stock under its DRPlus and 401(k) plan.plan in the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
(b)Excludes 0.8 million shares of common stock valued at $54 million and 0.7 million shares of common stock valued at $35 million issued in connection with stock-based compensation.compensation for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
(c)Less than $1 million


See Note 4 – Long-Term Debt and Equity Financings under Part 1,I, Item 1, of this report for additional information, including proceeds from issuances of long-term debt, andthe use of those proceeds.proceeds, Ameren’s forward equity sale agreement relating to 7.5 million shares of common stock, and Ameren Illinois’ extinguishment of senior unsecured notes.
Indebtedness Provisions and Other Covenants
See Note 3 – Short-term Debt and Liquidity under Part I, Item 1, of this report and Note 4 – Short-term Debt and Liquidity and Note 5 – Long-term Debt and Equity Financings under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K for a discussion of provisions (and applicable cross-default provisions) and covenants contained in our credit agreements, in ATXI’s note purchase agreement, and in certain of the Ameren Companies’ indentures and articles of incorporation.
At September 30, 2018,2019, the Ameren Companies were in compliance with the provisions and covenants contained in their credit agreements, indentures, and articles of incorporation, as applicable, and ATXI was in compliance with the provisions and covenants contained in its note purchase agreement.
We consider access to short-term and long-term capital markets to be a significant source of funding for capital requirements not satisfied by cash provided by our operating activities. Inability to raise capital on reasonable terms, particularly during times of uncertainty in the capital markets, could negatively affect our ability to maintain and expand our businesses. After assessing its current operating performance, liquidity, and credit ratings (see Credit Ratings below), Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois each believes that it will continue to have access to the capital markets. However, events beyond Ameren’s, Ameren Missouri’s, and Ameren Illinois’ control may create uncertainty in the capital markets or make access to the capital markets uncertain or limited. Such events could increase our cost of capital and adversely affect our ability to access the capital markets.


Dividends
The amount and timing of dividends payable on Ameren’s common stock are within the sole discretion of Ameren’s board of directors. Ameren’s board of directors has not set specific targets or payout parameters when declaring common stock dividends, but it considers various factors, including Ameren’s overall payout ratio, payout ratios of our peers, projected cash flow and potential future cash flow requirements, historical earnings and cash flow, projected earnings, impacts of regulatory orders or legislation, and other key business considerations. Ameren expects its dividend payout ratio to be between 55% and 70% of annual earnings over the next few years. On October 12, 2018,11, 2019, Ameren’s board of directors declared a quarterly common stock dividend of 47.549.5 cents per share payable on December 31, 2018,2019, to shareholders of record on December 12, 2018,11, 2019, resulting in an annualized equivalent dividend rate of $1.90$1.98 per share. The previous annualized equivalent dividend rate, based on the common stock dividend declared and paid in the third quarter of 2018,2019, was $1.83$1.90 per share.
See Note 4 – Short-term Debt and Liquidity and Note 5 – Long-term Debt and Equity Financings under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K for additional discussion of covenants and provisions contained in certain of the Ameren Companies’ financial agreements and articles of incorporation that would restrict the Ameren Companies’ payment of dividends in certain circumstances. At September 30, 20182019, none of these circumstances existed at Ameren, Ameren Missouri, or Ameren Illinois and, as a result, these companies were not restricted from paying dividends.
The following table presents common stock dividends declared and paid by Ameren Corporation to its common shareholders and by Ameren subsidiaries to their parent, Ameren Corporation, for the nine months ended September 30, 20182019 and 20172018:
Nine MonthsNine Months
2018 20172019 2018
Ameren$350
 $334
Ameren Missouri$225
 $332
250
 225
Ameren Illinois
 
ATXI55
 
15
 55
Ameren334
 320
Commitments
For a listing of our obligations and commitments, see Other Obligations in Note 9 – Commitments and Contingencies under Part I, Item 1, of this report. See Note 10 – Retirement Benefits under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K for information regarding expected minimum funding levels for our pension plan.


Off-balance-sheet Arrangements
At September 30, 20182019, none of the Ameren Companies had any significant off-balance-sheet financing arrangements, other than operating leases entered into in the ordinary course of business,variable interest entities, letters of credit, and Ameren (parent) guarantee arrangements on behalf of its subsidiaries. See Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies under Part I, Item 1, of this report for further detail concerning variable interest entities.
Credit Ratings
Our credit ratings affect our liquidity, our access to the capital markets and credit markets, our cost of borrowing under our credit facilities and our commercial paper programs, and our collateral posting requirements under commodity contracts.


The following table presents the principal credit ratings by Moody’s and S&P, as applicable, effective on the date of this report:
  Moody’s S&P
Ameren:    
Issuer/corporate credit rating Baa1 BBB+
Senior unsecured debt Baa1 BBB
Commercial paper P-2 A-2
Ameren Missouri:    
Issuer/corporate credit rating Baa1 BBB+
Secured debt A2 A
Senior unsecured debt Baa1 BBB+Not Rated
Commercial paper P-2 A-2
Ameren Illinois:    
Issuer/corporate credit rating A3 BBB+
Secured debt A1 A
Senior unsecured debt A3 BBB+
Commercial paper P-2 A-2
ATXI:    
Issuer credit rating A2 Not Rated
Senior unsecured debt A2 Not Rated
A credit rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold securities. It should be evaluated independently of any other rating. Ratings are subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the rating organization.
Collateral Postings
Any weakening of our credit ratings may reduce access to capital and trigger additional collateral postings and prepayments. Such changes may also increase the cost of borrowing, resulting in an adverse effect on earnings. Cash collateral postings and prepayments made with external parties, including postings related to exchange-traded contracts, and cash collateral posted by external parties were immaterial at September 30, 2018.2019. A sub-investment-grade issuer or senior unsecured debt rating (whether(below “Baa3” from Moody’s or below “BBB-” from S&P or below “Baa3” from Moody’s)&P) at September 30, 2018,2019, could have resulted in Ameren, Ameren Missouri, or Ameren Illinois being required to post additional collateral or other assurances for certain trade obligations amounting to $94$155 million, $51$119 million, and $43$36 million, respectively.
Changes in commodity prices could trigger additional collateral postings and prepayments. Based on credit ratings at September 30, 2018,2019, if market prices were 15% higher or lower than September 30, 20182019 levels in the next 12 months and 20% higher or lower thereafter through the end of the term of the commodity contracts, then Ameren, Ameren Missouri, or Ameren Illinois could be required to post an immaterial amount, compared to each company’s liquidity, of collateral or other assurances for certain trade obligations.
OUTLOOK
We seek to earn competitive returns on investments in our businesses. We seek to improve our regulatory frameworks and cost recovery mechanisms and are simultaneously pursuing constructive regulatory outcomes within existing frameworks, while also advocating for responsible energy policies. We align our overall spending, both operating and capital, with economic conditions and with the frameworks established by our regulators and to create and capitalize on investment opportunities for the benefit of our customers and shareholders. We focus on minimizing the gap between allowed and earned returns on equity and on allocating capital resources to business opportunities that we expect will offer the most attractive risk-adjusted return potential.
As part of Ameren’s strategic plan, we pursue projects to meet our customers’ energy needs and to improve electric and natural gas system reliability, safety, and security within our service territories. Ameren also evaluates competitive electric transmission investment


opportunities as they arise. Additionally, Ameren Missouri expects to make investments over time that will enable it to transition to a cleaner, more diverse energy generation portfolio includingover time by making investments in renewable energy resources.resources and retiring its coal-fired generation at the end of each energy center’s useful life, among other things.
Below are some key trends, events, and uncertainties that may reasonably affect our results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity, as well as our ability to achieve strategic and financial objectives, for 20182019 and beyond.
Operations
In 2018, Missouri Senate Bill 564 was enacted and Ameren Missouri elected PISA in accordance with the provisions of the law. Pursuant to its PISA election, Ameren Missouri is permitted to defer and recover 85% of the depreciation expense and a weighted average cost of capital return on rate base on certain property, plant, and equipment placed in service after September 1, 2018, and not included in base rates. Accumulated PISA deferrals earn carrying costs at the weighted-average cost of capital, with all approved PISA deferrals added to rate base prospectively and recovered over a period of 20 years following a regulatory rate review. Additionally, under the RESRAM, Ameren Missouri is permitted to recover the 15% of depreciation expense and weighted-average cost of capital return for renewable generation plant placed in service and not recovered under PISA. Accumulated RESRAM deferrals earn carrying costs at short-term interest rates. PISA and the RESRAM mitigate the effects of regulatory lag between regulatory rate reviews. Those investments not eligible for recovery under PISA and the remaining 15% of certain property, plant, and equipment placed in service, unless eligible for recovery under the RESRAM, remain subject to regulatory lag. Ameren Missouri recognizes the cost of debt on PISA deferrals in revenue, instead of using the weighted average cost of capital, both debt and equity, which will ultimately be recognized in revenues when recovery of such deferrals are reflected in customer rates. As a result of the PISA election, additional provisions of the law apply to Ameren Missouri, including limitations on electric customer rate increases and an electric base rate freeze until April 2020. Both the rate increase limitation and PISA are effective through December 2023, unless Ameren Missouri requests and receives MoPSC approval of an extension through December 2028. In January 2019, the MoOPC filed an appeal with the Missouri Court of Appeals, Western District, challenging the MoPSC’s December 2018 order allowing Ameren Missouri to recover, through the RESRAM, the 15% of depreciation expense and weighted average cost of capital return not recovered under PISA. In October 2019, the Missouri Court of Appeals, Western District upheld the MoPSC’s order. In November 2019, the MoOPC filed a request for appeal of the MoPSC’s order to the Missouri Supreme Court. The RESRAM is designed to mitigate the impacts of regulatory lag for the cost of compliance with renewable energy standards, including recovery of investments in wind and other renewable energy generation, by providing more timely recovery of costs and a return on investments not already provided for in customer rates or recovered under PISA.
In February 2019, Ameren Missouri announced its Smart Energy Plan, which includes a five-year capital investment overview with a detailed one-year plan for 2019. The plan is designed to upgrade Ameren Missouri's electric infrastructure and includes investments that will upgrade the grid and accommodate more renewable energy. Investments under the plan are expected to total approximately $6.3 billion over the five-year period from 2019 through 2023, with expenditures largely recoverable under PISA and the RESRAM.As a part of its Smart Energy Plan, Ameren Missouri expects to build solar generation facilities, including utility scale facilities and nonresidential customer site facilities. In September 2019, Ameren Missouri filed for certificates of convenience and necessity with the MoPSC to build three solar facilities in its service territory. Each 10-megawatt solar energy generation facility will connect to battery storage in order to improve system reliability. All three facilities are expected to be completed by the end of 2020.Also in 2019, the MoPSC approved Ameren Missouri’s Charge Ahead program, which provides incentives for the development of over 1,000 electric vehicle charging stations along highways and at various locations in communities throughout Ameren Missouri’s service territory. The purpose of the program is to promote the development of electric vehicle charging infrastructure that will enable long-distance electric vehicle travel and encourage electrification of the transportation sector.
On June 1,In 2018, the MoPSC issued an order approving Ameren Missouri’s MEEIA 2019 plan. The plan includes a portfolio of customer energy-efficiency programs through December 2021 and low-income customer energy-efficiency programs through December 2024, along with a regulatory recovery mechanism. Ameren Missouri Senate Bill 564 was enacted. The sectionintends to invest $226 million over the life of the law applicable toplan, including $65 million per year through 2021. The plan includes the TCJA was effective immediately; the remaining sections, including the ability to elect PISA, became effective August 28, 2018.The law required the MoPSC to authorize a reduction in Ameren Missouri’s rates to pass through the effectcontinued use of the TCJA within 90 days of the law’s effective date. In July 2018, the


MoPSC authorizedMEEIA rider, which allows Ameren Missouri to reduce its annual revenue requirement by $167 million collect from, or refund to, customers any difference in actual MEEIA program costs and reflect that reduction in rates beginning August 1, 2018.related lost electric margins and the amounts collected from customers. In addition, the plan includes a performance incentive that provides Ameren Missouri recorded a reductionan opportunity to revenueearn additional revenues by achieving certain customer energy-efficiency goals. If the target goals are achieved for 2019, 2020, and a corresponding regulatory liability2021, additional revenues of $60$7 million, $10 million, and $13 million would be recognized in late 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively. Incremental additional revenues of $1 million, $3 million, and $3 million may be earned for the excess amounts collected2019, 2020, and 2021, respectively, if Ameren Missouri exceeds its targeted energy savings goals. Ameren Missouri recognized $28 million, $11 million, and $38 million in ratesrevenues related to the TCJA from January 1, 2018, through July 31, 2018. The regulatory liability will be reflectedMEEIA performance incentives in customer rates over a period of time to be determined by the MoPSC in the next regulatory rate review.Ameren Missouri filed a notification with the MoPSC on September 1, 2018, to elect PISA. Under PISA, Ameren Missouri is permitted to defer and recover 85% of the depreciation expense and a weighted-average cost of capital return on rate base on certain property, plant, and equipment placed in-service after September 1,2017, 2018, and not included in base rates, which will mitigateduring the impacts of regulatory lag between regulatory rate reviews. Accumulated PISA deferrals earn carrying costs at the weighted-average cost of capital, and all approved PISA deferrals will be added to rate base prospectively and recovered over a period of 20 years following a regulatory rate review. Costs not included in the PISA deferral, including the remaining 15% of the depreciation expense and return on rate base, remain subject to regulatory lag. As a result of Ameren Missouri’s PISA election, additional provisions apply, including limiting customer rate increases to a 2.85% compound annual growth rate in the average overall customer rate per kilowatthour, applied to electric rates that became effective April 2017, less half of the 2018 savings from the TCJA passed on to customers. Additionally, Ameren Missouri’s electric base rates, as determined in the July 2018 MoPSC rate order, are frozen until April 2020. Both the rate cap and PISA election will be effective through December 2023, unless Ameren Missouri requests and receives MoPSC approval of an extension through December 2028. Ameren Missouri’s PISA election supports Ameren Missouri’s ability to invest approximately $1 billion of incremental capital over thenine months ended September 30, 2019, to 2023 period to strengthen and modernize Missouri’s electric grid. See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information.respectively.
In June 2018, the MoPSC approved Ameren Missouri’s Renewable Choice Program, which allows large commercial and industrial customers and municipalities to elect to receive up to 100 percent100% of their energy from renewable resources. The tariff-based program is designed to recover the costs of the election, net of changes in the market price of such energy.which includes a return on any generation owned by Ameren Missouri. Based on customer


contracts, the program enables Ameren Missouri to supply up to 400 megawatts of renewable wind energy generation, up to 200 megawatts of which it could own. As applicable, the addition of generation by Ameren Missouri would be subject to the issuance of a certificate of convenience and necessity by the MoPSC, obtaining transmission interconnection agreements with MISO or other RTOs, and approval by the FERC. ThisFERC approval. Any owned generation under this program would be incremental to theestimated capital expenditures through 2023 discussed below. Ameren Missouri anticipates finalizing customer interest and pursuing renewable energy projects to fulfill requirements in 2020. Ameren Missouri-owned generation associated with this program, if any, is not expected renewable generation included in the 2017 IRP.to be placed into service before 2021. Without extension, the option to elect into the program will terminate in the third quarter of 2023.
Ameren continues to invest in FERC-regulated electric transmission. ATXI has three MISO-approved multi-value projects: the Spoon River, Illinois Rivers, and Mark Twain projects. The Spoon River project, located in northwest Illinois, was placed in service in February 2018. The Illinois Rivers project involves the construction of a transmission line from eastern Missouri across Illinois to western Indiana. Construction activities for the Illinois Rivers project are continuing on schedule, with the last section of this project expected to be completed by the end of 2019. The Mark Twain project involves the construction of a transmission line from northeast Missouri, connecting the Illinois Rivers project to Iowa. Construction activities for the Mark Twain project began in the second quarter of 2018, and the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2019. ATXI’s expected remaining investment in its multi-value projects is approximately $300 million from 2018 through 2019, with the total investment to be more than $1.6 billion. In addition, Ameren Illinois expects to invest $2.3 billion in electric transmission assets from 2018 through 2022, to replace aging infrastructure and improve reliability.
In July 2019, Ameren Missouri filed a request with the MoPSC seeking approval to decrease its annual revenues for electric service by $1 million. The electric rate decrease request is based on a9.95%return on common equity, a capital structure composed of51.9% common equity, a rate base of $8.0 billion, and a test year ended December 31, 2018, with certain pro-forma adjustments expected through an anticipated true-up date of December 31, 2019. Pro-forma adjustments are also expected for fuel costs, transportation costs, MISO multi-value transmission project expenses, and payroll costs effective as of January 1, 2020.The MoPSC proceeding relating to the proposed electric service rate changes will take place over a period of up to 11 months, with a decision by the MoPSC expected by late April 2020 and new rates effective by late May 2020. A 50 basis point change in Ameren Missouri’s return on common equity would result in an estimated $20 million change in Ameren’s and Ameren Missouri’s net income, based on Ameren Missouri’s current electric rate base.
In August 2019, the MoPSC issued an order approving a stipulation and agreement to decrease Ameren Missouri’s annual revenues for natural gas delivery service by $1 million. The decrease in annual rates is based on a return on common equity range of 9.4% to 9.95% and a capital structure composed of 52.0% common equity, which was Ameren Missouri’s capital structure as of May 31, 2019. This order allows for the use of ISRS, which will be calculated using an ROE of 9.725%. The order represents a $1 million increase to Ameren Missouri’s annual revenues for natural gas delivery service from interim rates, which were approved by the MoPSC in December 2018.The new rates became effective September 1, 2019.
Ameren continues to make significant investments in FERC-regulated electric transmission businesses. Ameren Illinois expects to invest $2.2 billion in electric transmission assets from 2019 through 2023, to replace aging infrastructure and improve reliability. ATXI is developing two MISO-approved multi-value projects: the Illinois Rivers and Mark Twain projects. The Illinois Rivers project involves the construction of a transmission line from eastern Missouri across Illinois to western Indiana. Construction of the Illinois Rivers project is substantially complete, with the last section expected to be completed in 2020. The Mark Twain project involves the construction of a transmission line from northeast Missouri, connecting the Illinois Rivers project to Iowa. Construction of the Mark Twain project began in the second quarter of 2018. In June 2019, the first section of the Mark Twain project was completed from Kirksville, Missouri to the Iowa border, and the remaining section is expected to be completed by the end of 2019. ATXI’s expected investment in 2019 and 2020 to complete its multi-value projects is approximately $200 million, with the total investment expected to be more than $1.6 billion.
Ameren Illinois and ATXI use a forward-looking rate calculation with an annual revenue requirement reconciliation for each company’s electric transmission business. Based on expected rate base growth and the currently allowed 10.82% return on common equity, the 2019 revenue requirements expected tothat will be included in 2020 rates for Ameren Illinois’ and ATXI’s electric transmission businesses are $298$317 million and $177$195 million, respectively. These revenue requirements represent an increase in Ameren Illinois' and ATXI’s revenue requirements of $25$20 million and $3$18 million, respectively, from the revenue requirements reflected in 2019 rates, primarily because ofdue to the expected rate base growth. These rates will affect Ameren Illinois’ and ATXI’s cash receipts during 2019,2020, but will not determine their respective electric transmission service operating revenues, which will instead be based on 20192020 actual recoverable costs, rate base, and return on common equity as calculated under the FERC formula ratemaking framework.
The return on common equity for MISO transmission owners, including Ameren Illinois and ATXI, is the subject of a FERC complaint case filed in February 2015 challenging the allowed base return on common equity. Ameren Illinois and ATXI currently use the FERC authorized total allowed return on common equity of 10.82% in customer rates. A final FERC order would establish the allowed return on common equity to be applied to the 15-month period from February 2015 to May 2016 and also establish the return on common equity to be included in customer rates prospectively from the effective date of such order, replacing the current 10.82% total return on common equity. In October 2018, the FERC issued an order in an unrelated case that proposed a new methodology for determining the base return on equity, which required further briefs from the participants. In November 2018, the FERC issued an order related to the February 2015 complaint case and the September 2016 order, which required participants to file briefs in February 2019 regarding the FERC’s proposed methodology for determining the base return on common equity, including whether and how to apply the proposed methodology to the two MISO complaint cases. In March 2019, the FERC issued separate Notices of Inquiry regarding its allowed base return on common equity policy and its transmission incentives policy. Initial comments were due by June 2019, and reply comments were due by late August 2019. The Notice of Inquiry addressing the FERC’s return on common equity policy, among other things, broadened the ability to comment on the new methodology beyond electric utilities that are participants in the complaint cases. The transmission incentives Notice of Inquiry was open for comment on the FERC’s transmission incentive policy, including incentive adders to the return on common equity. Ameren is unable to predict the ultimate impact of the proposed methodology on these complaint cases


or the Notices of Inquiry at this time.As the FERC authorized total allowed return on common equityis under no deadline to issue a final order, the timing of 10.82% in customer rates. Athe final FERC order would establish the allowed return on common equity to be applied to the 15-month period from February 2015 to May 2016 and also establish the return on common equity to be included in customer rates prospectively from the effective date of such order, replacing the current 10.82% total return on common equity. In October 2018, the FERC issued an order in an unrelated case, which proposed a new methodology for determining the base return on equity. While this order provides insight on how the FERC may determine the return on equity, Ameren is unable to predict the impact on the February 2015 complaint case or the complaint case filed against MISO transmission owners, including Ameren Illinois and ATXI, in November 2013. The timing and amount of any adjustmentpotential impact to the total allowed return on common equity that may be orderedamounts refunded as a result of the complaint caseSeptember 2016 order is uncertain. See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information.more information regarding FERC complaint cases. A 50 basis point reduction in the FERC-allowed base return on common equity would reduce


Ameren’s and Ameren Illinois’ annual earningsnet income by an estimated $8$9 million and $4$5 million, respectively, based on each company’s 20182019 projected rate base.
In 2018, the ICC issued an order in Ameren Illinois’ annual update filing that approved a $72 million increase in Ameren Illinois’ electric distribution service rates beginning in January 2019. Illinois law provides for an annual reconciliation of the electric distribution service revenue requirement as is necessary to reflect the actual costs incurred and investment return in a given year with the revenue requirement that was reflected in customer rates for that year. Unless extended, the formula ratemaking framework expires at the end of 2022, while the decoupling provisions extend beyond the end of the formula ratemaking by law. Consequently, Ameren Illinois' 2018Illinois’ 2019 electric distribution service revenues will be based on its 20182019 actual recoverable costs, rate base, and return on common equity as calculated under the Illinois performance-based formula ratemaking framework. The 2018 revenue requirement is expected to be comparable to the 2017 revenue requirement because of an expected increase in recoverable costs, expected rate base growth, and an expected increase in the monthly average yield of 30-year United States Treasury bonds, partially offset by a decrease due to the lower federal statutory corporate income tax rates enacted under the TCJA. The 20182019 revenue requirement reconciliation is expected to result in a regulatory asset that will be collected from customers in 2020.2021. A 50 basis point change in the annual average of the monthly yields of the 30-year United States Treasury bonds would result in an estimated $8 million change in Ameren’s and Ameren Illinois’ net income, based on Ameren Illinois’ 20182019 projected year-end rate base.
In April 2019, Ameren Illinois filed its annual electric distribution service formula rate update to establish the revenue requirement to be used for 2020 rates with the ICC. Pending ICC approval, this update filing will result in a $7 million decrease in Ameren Illinois’ electric distribution service rates, beginning in January 2020. These rates will affect Ameren Illinois' cash receipts during 2020, but will not affect electric distribution service revenues, which will be based on actual recoverable costs, rate base, and return on common equity as calculated under the Illinois performance-based formula ratemaking framework.
In April 2018, Ameren Illinois filed its annual electric distributionexpects to file for a natural gas delivery service formularegulatory rate update to establish the revenue requirement to be used for 2019 ratesreview in early 2020 with the ICC. In November 2018, the ICC issued an order ina future test year ended December 31, 2021. Ameren Illinois’ annual update filing that approvedcurrent allowed return on equity for natural gas delivery service is 9.87%, with a $72 millionincrease in Ameren Illinois’ electric distribution service rates beginning in January 2019. These rates will affect Ameren Illinois’ cash receipts during 2019, but will not determine its electric distribution service operating revenues, which will instead be based on its 2019 actual recoverable costs, capital structure composed of 50% common equity, a rate base of $1.6 billion, and return on common equity as calculated under the Illinois performance-based formula ratemaking framework.
a 2019 future test year.
Ameren Illinois is allowed to earn a return on its electric energy-efficiency program investments. Ameren Illinois’ electric energy-efficiency investments are deferred as a regulatory asset and earn a return at the company’sits weighted-average cost of capital, with the equity return based on the annual average of the monthly average yieldyields of the 30-year United States Treasury bonds plus 580 basis points. The equity portion of Ameren Illinois’ return on electric energy-efficiency investments can be increased or decreased by up to 200 basis points, depending on the achievement of annual energy savings goals. Pursuant to the FEJA, Ameren Illinois plans to invest up to $99approximately $100 million per year in electric energy-efficiency programs from 2018 through 2021 that2023, and will earn a return. Ameren Illinois plans to make similar yearly investments in electric energy-efficiency programs from 2022 through 2030.return on those investments. The ICC has the ability to reduce electric energy-efficiency savings goals if there are insufficient cost-effective programs available or if the savings goals would require investment levels that exceed amounts allowed by legislation. The electric energy-efficiency program investments and the return on those investments are being collected from customers through a rider; theyrider and are not included in the IEIMAelectric distribution formula ratemaking framework.
In January 2018, Ameren Illinois filed a request with the ICC seeking approval to increase its annual rates for natural gas delivery service. In November 2018, the ICC issued an order approving a stipulation and agreement that will result in an annual natural gas rate increase of $32 million, based on a 9.87% return on common equity, a capital structure composed of 50% common equity, and a rate base of $1.6 billion. The new rates will be effective starting in November 2018. This increase reflects the reduction in the federal corporate income tax rate as a result of the TCJA, as well as the increase in the Illinois corporate income tax rate that became effective in July 2017, which collectively decreased annual rates by approximately $17 million. As a result of this order, rate base under the QIP rider has been reset to zero. Ameren Illinois used a 2019 future test year in this proceeding.
Ameren Missouri’s next scheduled refueling and maintenance outage at its Callaway energy center is scheduled for the spring of 2019. During the 2017 refueling, Ameren Missouri incurred maintenance expenses of $35 million. During a refueling, which occurs every 18 months, maintenance expenses increase relative to non-outage years. Additionally, depending on the availability of its other generation sources and the market prices for power, Ameren Missouri’s purchased power costs may increase and the amount of excess power available for sale may decrease versus non-outage years. Changes in purchased power costs and excess power available for sale are included in the FAC, which results in limited impacts to earnings. In addition, Ameren Missouri may incur increased nonnuclear energy center maintenance costs in non-refueling years.
Ameren Missouri expects to realize lower costs of fuel for generation over the next few years, compared to 2017 levels. Substantially all the benefit of these lower costs would be passed through to customers through the FAC.
Ameren Missouri's next refueling and maintenance outage at its Callaway energy center is scheduled for the fall of 2020. During a scheduled outage, which occurs every 18 months, maintenance expenses increase relative to non-outage years. Additionally, depending on the availability of its other generation sources and the market prices for power, Ameren Missouri's purchased power costs may increase and the amount of excess power available for sale may decrease versus non-outage years. Changes in purchased power costs and excess power available for sale are included in the FAC, which results in limited impacts to earnings. In October 2019, Ameren Missouri filed a request with the MoPSC for deferral accounting treatment that would allow Ameren Missouri to defer and amortize maintenance expenses related to scheduled refueling and maintenance outages at its Callaway nuclear energy center. These expenses would be amortized over the period between refueling and maintenance outages, which is approximately 18 months. Ameren Missouri cannot predict the ultimate outcome of this regulatory proceeding. If the request is approved prior to the fall 2020 refueling and maintenance outage, Ameren Missouri would defer the maintenance expenses incurred related to the outage as a regulatory asset and begin to amortize those expenses after completion of the outage.
Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois continue to make infrastructure investments and expect to seek regular electric and natural gas rate increases to recover the cost of investments and earn an adequate return. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois will also seek legislative solutions, as necessary, such as Missouri Senate Bill 564, to address regulatory lag and to support investment in their utility infrastructure for the benefit of their customers. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois continue to face cost recovery pressures, including limited economic growth in their service territories, customer conservation efforts, the impacts of additional customer energy-efficiency programs, and increased customer use of increasingly cost-effective technological advances, including private generation and energy storage. However, over the long-term, we expect the decreased demand to be partially offset by increased demand resulting from increased electrification of the economy for efficiencies and as a means to address CO2 emission concerns. Increased investments, including expected future



expected future investments for environmental compliance, system reliability improvements, and potential new generation sources, result in rate base and revenue growth but also higher depreciation and financing costs.
For additional information regarding recent rate orders, lawsuits, and pending requests filed with state and federal regulatory commissions, see Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1, of this report.report and Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Ameren Missouri’s 2017 IRP targets cleaner and more diverse sources of energy generation, including solar, wind, natural gas, hydro, and nuclear power. It also includes expanding renewable sources by adding at least 700 megawatts of wind generation by 2020 in Missouri and neighboring states and adding 100 megawatts of solar generation over the next 10 years. These new renewable energy sources would support Ameren Missouri’s compliance with the state of Missouri’s requirement of achieving 15% of native load sales from renewable energy sources by 2021, subject to customer rate increase limitations. Based on current and projected market prices for energy and for wind and solar generation technologies, among other factors, Ameren Missouri expects its ownership of these renewable resources would represent the lowest-cost option for customers. The plan also provides for the expected implementation of continued customer energy-efficiency programs. Ameren Missouri’s plan for the addition of renewable resources could be affected by, among other factors: the availability of federal production and investment tax credits related to renewable energy and Ameren Missouri’s ability to use such credits; the cost of wind and solar generation technologies; energy prices; Ameren Missouri’s ability to obtain timely interconnection agreements with MISO or other RTOs, as well as the cost of such interconnections; and Ameren Missouri’s ability to obtain a certificate of convenience and necessity from the MoPSC for projects located in Missouri, and any other required project approvals.
Ameren Missouri’s 2017 IRP targets cleaner and more diverse sources of energy generation, including solar, wind, natural gas, hydro, and nuclear power. It also includes expanding renewable sources by adding at least 700 megawatts of wind generation by the end of 2020 in Missouri and neighboring states and adding 100 megawatts of solar generation by 2027. These new renewable energy sources would support Ameren Missouri’s compliance with the state of Missouri’s requirement of achieving 15% of native load sales from renewable energy sources by 2021, subject to customer rate increase limitations. Based on current and projected market prices for energy and for wind and solar generation technologies, among other factors, Ameren Missouri expects its ownership of these renewable resources would represent the lowest-cost option for customers. The plan also provides for the expected implementation of continued customer energy-efficiency programs. Ameren Missouri’s plan for the addition of renewable resources could be affected by, among other factors: the availability of federal production and investment tax credits related to renewable energy and Ameren Missouri’s ability to use such credits; the cost of wind and solar generation technologies; energy prices; Ameren Missouri’s ability to obtain timely interconnection agreements with MISO or other RTOs at an acceptable cost; and Ameren Missouri’s ability to obtain a certificate of convenience and necessity from the MoPSC, and any other required project approvals. Ameren Missouri expects to file its next IRP in September 2020.
In connection with the 2017 IRP filing, Ameren Missouri established a goal of reducing CO2 emissions 80% by 2050 from a 2005 base level. Ameren Missouri is also targeting a 35% CO2 emission reduction by 2030 and a 50% reduction by 2040 from the 2005 level. In order to meet these goals, among other things, Ameren Missouri expects to retire its coal-fired generation at the end of each energy center’s useful life. The Meramec, Sioux, Labadie, and Rush Island energy centers are expected to be retired in 2022, 2033, 2042, and 2045, respectively. As of December 31, 2018, rate base at Ameren Missouri’s coal-fired energy centers was approximately $0.8 billion, $0.6 billion, $0.4 billion, and $0.2 billion for the Labadie, Sioux, Rush Island, and Meramec energy centers, respectively.
In May 2019, Ameren Missouri entered into a build-transfer agreement to acquire, after construction, an up-to 300-megawatt wind generation facility. In 2018, Ameren Missouri entered into a build-transfer agreement to acquire, after construction, an up-to400-megawatt wind generation facility.The two build-transfer agreements, which are subject to customary contract terms and conditions, collectively represent approximately $1.2 billion of capital expenditures, are expected to be completed by the end of 2020, and would support Ameren Missouri’s compliance with the Missouri renewable energy standard.Both acquisitions have received all regulatory approvals, and both projects have received all applicable zoning approvals, have entered into RTO interconnection agreements, and have begun construction activities.The county zoning approval process for the Schuyler County portion of the 400-megawatt project is subject to litigation filed in August 2019, which is not expected to affect the completion of the project by the end of 2020.See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1, of this report for more information regarding Ameren Missouri wind generation facilities.
In the second quarter of 2018, Ameren Missouri entered into an agreement with a subsidiary of Terra-Gen, LLC to acquire, after construction, a 400-megawatt wind generation facility, which is expected to be located in northeastern Missouri. In May 2018, Ameren Missouri filed for a certificate of convenience and necessity with the MoPSC for the 400-megawatt facility. The MoPSC issued an order approving a unanimous stipulation and agreement regarding that requested certificate in October 2018. Also in October 2018, Ameren Missouri entered into an agreement with a subsidiary of EDF Renewables, Inc. to acquire, after construction, a wind generation facility of up to 157 megawatts, and filed for a certificate of convenience and necessity with the MoPSC. The MoPSC is expected to issue an order regarding that certificate by May 2019. The up to 157-megawatt facility is expected to be located in northwestern Missouri. Both facilities are expected to be completed in 2020 and would help Ameren Missouri comply with the state renewable energy standard. Each acquisition is subject to certain conditions, including the issuance of a certificate of convenience and necessity by the MoPSC, obtaining a MISO transmission interconnection agreement, approval by the FERC, and other customary contract terms and conditions.As a part of its May 2018 filing,Ameren Missouri requested the MoPSC to authorize a proposed RESRAM that would allow Ameren Missouri to adjust customer rates on an annual basis without a traditional regulatory rate review. The October 2018 MoPSC order included approval of the RESRAM, without addressing recovery through the RESRAM of the 15% of capital investment not recovered under PISA, which was an objection raised by the MoOPC. Ameren Missouri anticipates a MoPSC decision resolving this remaining issue and approving the RESRAM tariff by December 2018. The RESRAM is designed to mitigate the impacts of regulatory lag for the cost of compliance with renewable energy requirements, including recovery of investments in wind generation and other renewables, by providing more timely recovery of costs and a return on investments not already provided for in customer rates or any other recovery mechanism.
Through 2022,2023, we expect to make significant capital expenditures to improve our electric and natural gas utility infrastructure, with a major portion directed to our transmission and distribution systems. We estimate that we will invest up to $11.4$13.9 billion (Ameren Missouri - up to $4.5$7.1 billion; Ameren Illinois – up to $6.6 billion; ATXI – up to $0.3$0.2 billion) of capital expenditures during the period from 20182019 through 2022. These estimates do not reflect the potential additional investments identified in2023. Ameren’s and Ameren Missouri’s 2017 IRP, which could represent incremental investments ofestimates include approximately $1 billion throughin 2020 for capital investment in wind generation facilities and are subjectexclude any capital expenditures related to regulatory approval. They also do not reflect potential incremental capital investments supported by Senate Bill 564pollution control equipment that may be required as a result of approximately $1 billion over the 2019 to 2023 period, nor do they reflect potential investmentsNSR and Clean Air Act litigation discussed in new renewable sourcesNote 9 – Commitments and Contingencies under Part I, Item 1, of generation under Ameren Missouri’s Renewable Choice Program.this report.
Environmental regulations, including those related to CO2 emissions, or other actions taken by the EPA, could result in significant increases in capital expenditures and operating costs. Certain of these regulations are being challenged through litigation, are beingor reviewed or recommended for repeal by the EPA, or new replacement or alternative regulations are being contemplated, proposed, or adopted by the EPA and state regulators; therefore, theregulators. The ultimate implementation of any of these regulations, as well as the timing of any such implementation, is uncertain. However, the individual or combined effects of existing and new environmental regulations could result in significant capital expenditures, increased operating costs, or the closure or alteration of some of Ameren Missouri’s coal-fired energy centers. Ameren Missouri’s capital expenditures are subject to MoPSC prudence reviews, which could result in cost disallowances as well as regulatory lag. The cost of Ameren Illinois’ purchased power and natural gas purchased for resale could increase. However, Ameren Illinois expects that these costs would be recovered from customers with no material adverse effect on its results of operations, financial position, or liquidity. Ameren’s and Ameren Missouri’s earnings could benefit from increased investment to comply with environmental regulations if those investments are reflected and recovered on a timely basis in customer rates.



lag. The cost of Ameren Illinois’ purchased power and natural gas purchased for resale could increase. However, Ameren Illinois expects that these costs would be recovered from customers with no material adverse effect on its results of operations, financial position, or liquidity. Ameren’s and Ameren Missouri’s earnings could benefit from increased investment to comply with environmental regulations if those investments are reflected and recovered on a timely basis in customer rates.
In August 2019, Ameren entered into a forward sale agreement with a counterparty relating to 7.5 million shares of common stock. The forward sale agreement can be settled at Ameren’s discretion on or prior to March 31, 2021. On a settlement date or dates, if Ameren elects to physically settle the forward sale agreement, Ameren will issue shares of common stock to the counterparty at the then-applicable forward sale price.The forward sale agreement will be physically settled unless Ameren elects to settle in cash or to net share settle.If physically settled, Ameren expects to receive between $540 million and $550 million upon settlement. See Note 4 – Long-Term Debt and Equity Financings under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information.
The Ameren Companies have multiyear credit agreements that cumulatively provide $2.1 billion of credit through December 2021,2022, subject to a 364-day repayment term in the case offor Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois.Illinois, with the option to seek incremental commitments to increase the cumulative credit provided to $2.5 billion. The Ameren Companies are seeking the first of two one-year extensions available under theexpect to amend and extend these credit agreements beforein the endfourth quarter of 2018.2019. See Note 3 – Short-term Debt and Liquidity under Part I, Item 1, of this report for additional information regarding the Credit Agreements. By the end of 2019, $573 million and $313 million of senior secured notes are due to mature at Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois respectively. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois expectexpects to refinance these senior secured notes. In addition, the Ameren Companies may refinance a portion of their short-term debt withissue long-term debt in 2018 andthe fourth quarter of 2019. Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois believe that their liquidity is adequate given their expected operating cash flows, capital expenditures, and related financing plans. However, there can be no assurance that significant changes in economic conditions, disruptions in the capital and credit markets, or other unforeseen events will not materially affect their ability to execute their expected operating, capital, or financing plans.
Ameren expects its cash used for currently planned capital expenditures and dividends to exceed cash provided by operating activities over the next several years. To fund a portion of these cash requirements, beginning in 2018, Ameren began using newly issued shares of common stock, rather than market-purchased shares, to satisfy requirements under its DRPlus and employee benefit plans and expects to continue to do so over the next five years. Ameren also plans to issue incremental common equity to fund a portion of Ameren Missouri’s wind generation investments through the settlement of the forward sale agreement discussed above. Ameren, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois expect their respective equity to total capitalization levels over the period ending December 2023 to remain in-line with their respective equity to total capitalization levels as of December 31, 2018. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois expect to fund cash flow needs through debt issuances, adjustments of dividends to Ameren (parent), and/or capital contributions from Ameren (parent).
Federal income tax legislation enacted under the TCJA significantlywill continue to have significant impacts on our results of operations, financial position, liquidity, and financial metrics. The TCJA, benefits customers through lower rates for our services, but is not expected to materially affect our earnings. However, we expect our cash flows and rate base to be materially affected inamong other things, reduced the near term. Our rate-regulated businesses recover income taxes in customer rates based on the federal and state statutory corporate income tax rates in effect when the revenue requirements used to determine those rates were established. However, there is a timing difference between when we collect funds from our customers for income taxes and when we pay such taxes. The TCJA eliminated 50% accelerated tax depreciation on nearly all capital investments, which had the effect of increasing Ameren’s near-term projected income tax liabilities. Based on currently expected capital expenditures through 2022, excluding potential incremental capital investments supported by Missouri Senate Bill 564 and those identified in Ameren Missouri’s 2017 IRP, Ameren expects to largely offset its income tax obligations until 2020 with existing net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Since we had been using existing net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards to largely offset income tax obligations before the enactment of the TCJA, the effect of the reduced federal statutory corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%, effective January 1, 2018. Customer rates were reduced to reflect the lower income tax rate, without a corresponding reduction in income tax payments because of our use of net operating losses and tax credit carryforwards until about 2020. Customer rates were also reduced to reflect the return of excess deferred taxes. The result of these customer rate reductions is toa decrease in operating cash flows in the near term. Near term operating cash flows are reduced further by lower customer rates, reflectingOver time, the return of excess deferred taxes previously collected from customers over periods of time determined by our regulators. The decrease in operating cash flows will be offset as a result of the TCJA is expected to be partially offset over timetemporary differences between book and taxable income reverse, and by increased customer rates due to higher rate base amounts once approved by our regulators. We expect rate base amounts to be higher as a result ofresulting from lower accumulated deferred income tax liabilities, due to the elimination of 50% accelerated tax depreciation, the reduced statutory income tax rate, and the return of excess deferred taxes to customers. Ameren expects a decrease in operating cash flows of approximately $1 billion from 2018 through 2022 (Ameren Missouri – $0.3 billion; Ameren Illinois – $0.4 billion) as a result of the TCJA, and expects an increase in rate base of approximately $1 billion over the same time period (Ameren Missouri – $0.3 billion; Ameren Illinois – $0.5 billion). See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1, of this report for information regarding the income tax proceedings with our regulators.liabilities.
As a result of the reduced federal statutory corporate income tax rate enacted under TCJA, at December 31, 2017, we recorded a reduction in certain deferred income tax liabilities and a corresponding increase to net regulatory liabilities for funds previously collected from customers to pay for those deferred income tax liabilities. The TCJA includes provisions related to the IRS normalization rules that address the time period over which certain plant-related components of the excess deferred income taxes are to be reflected in customer rates. This time period for the Ameren Companies and ATXI is approximately 35 to 60 years. Other components of the excess deferred income taxes are being reflected in customer rates over 7 to 10 years, with amortization periods subject to regulatory review at Ameren Illinois and ATXI. The following table presents the net regulatory liabilities associated with excess deferred income taxes as of December 31, 2017, and the related amortization periods:
Amortization PeriodAmeren Missouri Ameren Illinois ATXI Total 
35 - 60 years$962
 $803
 $84
 $1,849
(a) 
7 - 10 years404
 (3) 2
 403
 
Total$1,366
 $800
 $86
 $2,252
 
(a)The amortization period related to $130 million and $21 million at Ameren Illinois and ATXI, respectively, remains subject to regulatory rate review.
In 2018, our rate-regulated businesses began to amortize excess deferred income taxes. Ameren IllinoisIllinois’ and ATXI's 2018 income tax expense willfor the year ended December 31, 2018, reflect a full year of amortization, while Ameren Missouri's 2018 income tax expense will reflectfor the year ended December 31, 2018, reflects five months of amortization related to its electric business, in accordance with a MoPSC order received in July 2018. The amortization of such balances related to Ameren Missouri’s gas business has not yet started. This amortization reducesstarted in January 2019, in accordance with a MoPSC order received in December 2018. These amortizations reduce our income tax expense and effective tax rates. Due to formula ratemaking, Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution and Ameren Transmission have an offsetting reduction in revenue from customers, with no overall impact on earnings. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois Natural Gas interim period earnings comparisons between 2019 and 2018 may be


affected by timing differences between income tax expense and revenue reductions. Basedreductions based on itstheir revenue pattern, Ameren Missouri anticipates the year-to-date third quarter increase in earnings to be largely offset in the fourth quarter of 2018, resulting inpatterns; however, no material impact to year-over-year earnings.earnings is expected.
As of September 30, 2018,2019, Ameren had $97$88 million in tax benefits from federal and state net operating loss carryforwards and $123 million inrelated to federal and state income tax credit carryforwards.  These carryforwards are expected to largely offset income tax obligations until 2020, at which time Ameren expects to make material income tax payments. This expectation does not take into account potential incomehas utilized all tax benefits from incrementalnet operating loss carryforwards. Future expected income tax payments and refunds are based on planned capital investments underexpenditures and any related income tax credits and, in the case of Ameren Missouri's 2017 IRP, Missouri Senate Bill 564, and potential investments in new renewable sources of generation under Ameren Missouri's Renewable Choice Program. ConsistentIllinois, consistent with the tax allocation agreement between Ameren (parent) and its subsidiaries,subsidiaries. Ameren expects to make income tax payments between $10 million and $50 million in each year from 2019 to 2023, totaling $135 million to $185 million for the five-year period. Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois are expectedexpects to make income tax payments to Ameren (parent) of approximately $110 million in 2018.
2019 and between $20 million and $30 million in 2020. Additionally, Ameren expects its cash used for currently planned capital expenditures and dividends to exceed cash provided by operating activities over the next several years. To fund a portion of these cash requirements, beginning in the first quarter of 2018, Ameren began using newly issued shares, rather than market-purchased shares, to satisfy requirements under its DRPlus and employee benefit plans andMissouri expects to continuereceive refunds from Ameren (parent) in each year from 2021 to do so over2023, totaling $30 million to $60 million for the next five years. Additionally, Ameren may need to issue incremental debt and/or equity, with the long-term intent to maintain strong financial metrics and an equity ratio around 50%, as calculated in accordance with ratemaking frameworks. Ameren Missouri andthree-year period. Ameren Illinois expectexpects to fund cash flow needs through debt issuances, adjustments of dividendsmake income tax payments to Ameren (parent), and/or capital contributions between $10 million and $40 million in 2019 and 2020 and between $50 million and $70 million in each year from Ameren (parent), with2021 to 2023, totaling $200 million to $250 million for the intent to maintain strong financial metrics and an equity ratio around 50%, as calculated in accordance with ratemaking frameworks.five-year period.
The above items could have a material impact on our results of operations, financial position, and liquidity. Additionally, in the ordinary course of business, we evaluate strategies to enhance our results of operations, financial position, and liquidity. These strategies may include


acquisitions, divestitures, opportunities to reduce costs or increase revenues, and other strategic initiatives to increase Ameren’s shareholder value. We are unable to predict which, if any, of these initiatives will be executed. The execution of these initiatives may have a material impact on our future results of operations, financial position, or liquidity.
REGULATORY MATTERS
See Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters under Part I, Item 1, of this report.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
Market risk is the risk of changes in value of a physical asset or a financial instrument, derivative or nonderivative, caused by fluctuations in market variables such as interest rates, commodity prices, and equity security prices. A derivative is a contract whose value is dependent on, or derived from, the value of some underlying asset or index. The following discussion of our risk management activities includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. We handle market risk in accordance with established policies, which may include entering into various derivative transactions. In the normal course of business, we also face risks that are either nonfinancial or nonquantifiable. Such risks, principally business, legal, and operational risks, are not part of the following discussion.
Our risk management objectives are to optimize our physical generating assets and to pursue market opportunities within prudent risk parameters. Our risk management policies are set by a risk management steering committee, which is composed of senior-level Ameren officers, with Ameren board of directors oversight.
There have been no material changes to the quantitative and qualitative disclosures about interest rate risk, credit risk, equityand investment price risk, commodity price risk, and commodity supplier risk, included in the Form 10-K. See Item 7A under Part II of the Form 10-K for a more detailed discussion of our market risk.
Fair ValueCommodity Supplier and Price Risk
In 2019, two of Contracts
We use derivatives principallyAmeren Missouri’s ultra-low-sulfur coal suppliers filed voluntary petitions for restructuring under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. Ameren Missouri expects to manage the riskreplace any resulting volume shortfall through its other coal supply contracts or through market purchases. As of changes inSeptember 30, 2019, forward market prices for natural gas and power,coal were comparable to Ameren Missouri’s contracted prices with these two suppliers. As such, Ameren Missouri does not expect any material impact to its operations as well as the risk of changes in rail transportation surcharges through fuel oil hedges. The following table presents the favorable (unfavorable) changes in the fair value of all derivative contracts marked-to-market during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018. We use various methods to determine the fair value of our contracts. In accordance with authoritative accounting guidance for fair value hierarchy levels, the sources we used to determine the fair valuea result of these contracts were active quotes (Level 1), inputs corroborated by market data (Level 2), and other modeling and valuation methods that are not corroborated by market data (Level 3). See Note 8 – Fair Value Measurements under Part II, Item 8, of the Form 10-K for additional information regarding the methods used to determine the fair value of these contracts.restructuring proceedings.


 Three Months  Nine Months
 
Ameren
Missouri
 
Ameren
Illinois
 Ameren  Ameren
Missouri
 Ameren
Illinois
 Ameren
Fair value of contracts at beginning of period, net$10
 $(213) $(203)  $8
 $(217) $(209)
Contracts realized or otherwise settled during the period(2) 5
 3
  (7) 19
 12
Fair value of new contracts entered into during the period3
 
 3
  6
 
 6
Other changes in fair value(2) 2
 
  2
 (8) (6)
Fair value of contracts outstanding at end of period, net$9
 $(206) $(197)  $9
 $(206) $(197)
The following table presents maturities of derivative contracts as of September 30, 2018, based on the hierarchy levels used to determine the fair value of the contracts:
Sources of Fair Value
Maturity
Less than
1 Year
 
Maturity
1-3 Years
 
Maturity
3-5 Years
 
Maturity in
Excess of
5 Years
 
Total
Fair Value
Ameren Missouri:
 
 
 
 
Level 1$7
 $1
 $
 $
 $8
Level 2(a)
(4) (2) 
 
 (6)
Level 3(b)
3
 4
 
 
 7
Total$6
 $3
 $
 $
 $9
Ameren Illinois:
 
 
 
 
Level 1$
 $(1) $
 $
 $(1)
Level 2(a)
(8) (6) 
 
 (14)
Level 3(b)
(16) (30) (30) (115) (191)
Total$(24) $(37) $(30) $(115) $(206)
Ameren:         
Level 1$7
 $
 $
 $
 $7
Level 2(a)
(12) (8) 
 
 (20)
Level 3(b)
(13) (26) (30) (115) (184)
Total$(18) $(34) $(30) $(115) $(197)
(a)Principally fixed-price vs. floating OTC power swaps, power forwards, and fixed-price vs. floating over-the-counter natural gas swaps.
(b)Principally power forward contract values based on information from external sources, historical results, and our estimates. Level 3 also includes option contract values based on an option valuation model.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.
(a)Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of September 30, 20182019, evaluations were performed under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the principal executive officer and the principal financial officer of each of the Ameren Companies, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of such registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act). Based on those evaluations, as of September 30, 20182019, the principal executive officer and the principal financial officer of each of the Ameren Companies concluded that such disclosure controls and procedures are effective to provide assurance that information required to be disclosed in such registrant’s reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and such information is accumulated and communicated to its management, including its principal executive officer and its principal financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
(b)Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
There has been no change in any of the Ameren Companies’ internal control over financial reporting during their most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, each of their internal control over financial reporting.
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
We are involved in legal and administrative proceedings before various courts and agencies with respect to matters that arise in the ordinary course of business, some of which involve substantial amounts of money. We believe that the final disposition of these proceedings, except as otherwise disclosed in this report, will not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position, or liquidity. Risk of loss is mitigated, in some cases, by insurance or contractual or statutory indemnification. Material legal and administrative


proceedings, which are discussed in Note 2 – Rate and Regulatory Matters, Note 9 – Commitments and Contingencies, and Note 10 – Callaway Energy Center, under Part I, Item 1, of this report include the following:

Ameren Missouri’s proposed RESRAMelectric service regulatory rate review filed with the MoPSC in May 2018;July 2019;
the November 2019 request filed by the MoOPC to appeal the MoPSC’s December 2018 order in the RESRAM case to the Missouri Supreme Court;
Ameren Missouri’s MEEIA filingrequest for deferral accounting treatment of maintenance expenses related to scheduled Callaway refueling and maintenance outages filed with the MoPSC in June 2018;October 2019;
Ameren Illinois’ annual electric distribution service formula rate update filed with the ICC in April 2019;
Ameren Illinois’ annual electric energy-efficiency formula rate update filed with the ICC in May 2019;
the February 2015 complaint case filed with the FERC seeking a reduction in the allowed base return on common equity under the MISO tariff;


the November 2018 FERC order requesting briefs regarding a new methodology for determining the base return on common equity under the MISO tariff and how to apply the new methodology to the February 2015 complaint case and the September 2016 order related to the November 2015 complaint case;
the March 2019 FERC separate Notices of Inquiry regarding its allowed base return on common equity policy and its transmission incentives policy;
litigation against Ameren Missouri with respect to NSR and the Clean Air Act; and
remediation matters associated with former MGP and waste disposal sites of the Ameren Companies.Illinois.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS.
There have been no material changes to the risk factors disclosed in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors in the Form 10-K.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS.
Ameren Corporation, Ameren Missouri, and Ameren Illinois did not purchase equity securities reportable under Item 703 of Regulation S-K during the period from July 1, 20182019, to September 30, 20182019.




ITEM 6. EXHIBITS.


The documents listed below are being filed or have previously been filed on behalf of the Ameren Companies and are incorporated herein by reference from the documents indicated and made a part hereof. Exhibits not identified as previously filed are filed herewith.
Exhibit
Designation
 Registrant(s) Nature of Exhibit Previously Filed as Exhibit to:
Instruments Defining Rights of Security Holders, Including Indentures
4.1AmerenSeptember 16, 2019 Form 8-K, Exhibits 4.3 and 4.4, File No. 1-14756
4.2
Ameren
Ameren Illinois
4.3
Ameren
Ameren Illinois
4.4
Ameren
Ameren Illinois
4.5
Ameren
Ameren Illinois
4.6
Ameren
Ameren Illinois
Material Contracts
10.1AmerenAugust 7, 2019 Form 8-K, Exhibit 10 File No. 1-14756
10.2Ameren Companies
Rule 13a-14(a) / 15d-14(a) Certifications
31.1 Ameren   
31.2 Ameren   
31.3 
Ameren
Missouri
   
31.4 
Ameren
Missouri
   
31.5 
Ameren
Illinois
   
31.6 
Ameren
Illinois
   
Section 1350 Certifications
32.1 Ameren   
32.2 
Ameren
Missouri
   
32.3 
Ameren
Illinois
   
Interactive Data Files
101.INS 
Ameren
Companies
 Inline XBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document  
101.SCH 
Ameren
Companies
 Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document  
101.CAL 
Ameren
Companies
 Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document  
101.LAB 
Ameren
Companies
 Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document  
101.PRE 
Ameren
Companies
 Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document  
101.DEF 
Ameren
Companies
 Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Document
104Ameren CompaniesCover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)  
The file number references for the Ameren Companies’ filings with the SEC are: Ameren, 1-14756; Ameren Missouri, 1-2967; and Ameren Illinois, 1-3672.
Each registrant hereby undertakes to furnish to the SEC upon request a copy of any long-term debt instrument not listed above that such registrant has not filed as an exhibit pursuant to the exemption provided by Item 601(b)(4)(iii)(A) of Regulation S-K.


SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Exchange Act, each registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized. The signature for each undersigned company shall be deemed to relate only to matters having reference to such company or its subsidiaries.
 
AMEREN CORPORATION
(Registrant)
 
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.
Martin J. Lyons, Jr.
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer)


 
 
UNION ELECTRIC COMPANY
(Registrant)
 
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.
Martin J. Lyons, Jr.
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer)
 
 
AMEREN ILLINOIS COMPANY
(Registrant)
 
/s/ Martin J. Lyons, Jr.
Martin J. Lyons, Jr.
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer)
Date: November 2, 20188, 2019


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