Construction is underway near City Utilities of Springfield, Mo.'s Blackman Water Treatment Plant. The site is home to one of City Utilities’ newest power supply initiatives -- a zinc battery energy storage project designed to meet the community’s growing need for electricity.
The battery energy storage system will add five megawatts (MW) of capacity, marking the first time City Utilities (CU) has brought this type of large-scale battery technology to Springfield. The system will store electricity during times of low demand, typically overnight when electricity is cheaper, and will provide power for up to six hours during the day or when needed.
CU is partnering with Eos Energy Enterprises to install zinc-based batteries that are non-flammable, fully recyclable and made in the United States. These batteries are designed to last longer than traditional lithium-ion technology and are considered among the safest forms of grid-scale energy storage available today.
The Blackman installation is one of two battery projects currently underway at City Utilities. A second, larger 31 MW system will be constructed at the James River Power Station later in 2026.
The Blackman project is expected to be completed in July 2026 and represents another step in CU’s efforts to address the growing need for electricity. In addition to the battery projects, CU is installing three new natural gas combustion turbines at the McCartney Generating Station in northeast Springfield. In total, these projects will contribute nearly 186 MW of new local power supply.
"These investments come at a critical time, as utilities nationwide adjust to increasing demand and new regulatory standards. These projects help meet that need, while ensuring CU can continue to offer reliable and affordable electricity that is below state and national averages," the public power utility said.
