Missouri Publishes First-Ever Freight Electrification Strategy, Marking Major Milestone for Cleaner, More Efficient Goods Movement

Missouri has published its first Freight Electrification Strategy, establishing a statewide framework to support the transition to cleaner, more efficient freight transportation and to prepare the state's infrastructure, industries, and communities for the future of goods movement.

Developed in partnership with the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO), the strategy reflects extensive collaboration with stakeholders from across Missouri's freight and energy landscape. The plan was informed by input from dozens of participants who took part in a statewide stakeholder workshop held in November 2024, bringing together representatives from government, utilities, freight and logistics companies, vehicle manufacturers, infrastructure providers, and other key partners. The November 2024 workshop served as a key milestone in the strategy development process, helping surface stakeholder perspectives, highlight Missouri-specific opportunities and barriers, and inform the recommendations included in the final document.

The strategy outlines opportunities, challenges, and priority actions for Missouri to bolster freight electrification in ways that support economic development, improve system efficiency, and improve air quality. It is intended to guide future planning and coordination as the state works to strengthen its freight network and position itself for emerging transportation technologies.

Missouri's freight system plays a critical role in the state's economy and in regional and national supply chains. As freight technologies evolve, the strategy provides a roadmap for identifying infrastructure needs, supporting fleet readiness, engaging public and private sector partners, and aligning planning efforts across agencies and industries.

NASEO supported the strategy's development as part of its work with states to advance transportation electrification and foster cross-sector collaboration. NASEO supported a similar planning effort in Tennessee, the final product of which - a Freight Electrification Framework - was released earlier this year.

With the release of the Freight Electrification Strategy, Missouri joins a growing number of states taking proactive steps to plan for the future of medium- and heavy-duty transportation. The strategy is expected to serve as a foundation for continued coordination and implementation in the years ahead. In future years, the state plans to update this strategy to include recommendations for other emerging vehicle technologies and alternative fuels, including hydrogen, renewable drop-in fuels, and biofuels.

For more information, or to view the strategy, visit here.