JOPLIN, MO – October 3, 2007 – The Empire District Electric Company (NYSE:EDE) announced today the sale of Fast Freedom, Inc., to Stouffer Communications, Inc., based in Granby, Missouri. Fast Freedom provides wireless broadband, DSL, and dial-up Internet service in addition to Web site hosting. The sale is not expected to have a material effect on Empire’s earnings, cash flows, or results of operations in the third quarter.

Based in Joplin, Missouri, The Empire District Electric Company (NYSE: EDE) is an investor-owned, regulated utility providing electricity, natural gas (through its wholly owned subsidiary The Empire District Gas Company), and water service, with approximately 215,000 customers in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. A subsidiary of the Company also provides fiber optic services.