Ameren Missouri unveils plans to build new hybrid energy center
New site will include natural gas generation and energy storage to supply reliable power when Missourians need it most
Ameren Missouri announces it is taking the next step in its generation investment plan by filing an application with the Missouri Public Service Commission to build a new energy center in Jefferson County. The application involves the construction of an 800-megawatt (MW) simple-cycle natural gas generation plant, in addition to Ameren Missouri's first large-scale battery storage facility at one location. Known as the Big Hollow Energy Center, the new facility is designed to efficiently meet increased energy demands while ensuring grid resiliency.
Pending regulatory approval, Ameren Missouri plans to break ground on the new energy center in 2026.
"This is the next step to deliver on our strategy to invest in energy infrastructure for our customers' benefit and provide a balanced generation portfolio," said Mark Birk, chairman and president of Ameren Missouri. "As we transition our generation for the future, we'll continue to serve our customers with the reliable energy they expect while also preparing for anticipated increases in demand."
The Big Hollow Energy Center will provide significant investment and jobs to the surrounding community. Similar in design to the upcoming Castle Bluff Energy Center in St. Louis County, the natural gas portion of Big Hollow will deliver energy on the coldest winter nights and hottest summer days and back up the electric grid when needed.
Co-located on the site will be Ameren Missouri's first large-scale lithium-ion battery installation. The batteries can be charged at times when excess energy is on the grid and then utilized in any weather. The planned 400-MW battery storage is a fast-acting asset, ready in moments to support customers' energy needs. Fully charged, the entire array could power thousands of homes for hours and help overall grid reliability, especially during times of peak energy needs.
"It is crucial to have a balanced mix of generation technologies and equally important to strategically locate them across the region," said Ajay Arora, senior vice president and chief development officer at Ameren Missouri. "This approach maximizes the energy output from these resources."
The natural gas generation and battery storage facilities will operate independently while taking advantage of existing energy infrastructure on land Ameren Missouri already owns, reducing construction time and cost to customers.
"The Big Hollow Energy Center represents more than just an energy project; it's a commitment to the future of Jefferson County," said Dennis Gannon, Jefferson County Executive. "We've worked closely with Ameren Missouri over the past several years, and this forward-thinking investment will strengthen our local economy for generations to come. We're proud to partner with Ameren Missouri to help power progress in our community."
With timely regulatory approval, the Big Hollow Energy Center is expected to be ready to serve customers in 2028. For more information on Ameren Missouri's plans to reliably meet its customers' needs, please visit AmerenMissouri.com/Reliable.