Battery Storage
Battery Storage supports reliable energy in Missouri.
Battery Storage Supports Reliable Energy
Battery storage helps keep electricity flowing reliably across the grid as customers’ energy needs rise and fall throughout the day.
By storing electricity for later use and responding quickly as conditions change, utility-scale batteries give Ameren Missouri more flexibility to deliver dependable service when it matters most. Batteries are one of several grid resources used to support a strong, reliable electric grid for all customers across Missouri.
How Utility-Scale Batteries Support the Electric Grid
Fast-acting response as energy needs change
Helps keep energy reliable during peak use and extreme weather
Supports a flexible, dependable grid
How Utility-Scale Batteries Help Keep Electricity Reliable for CustomersÂ
Utility-scale batteries help make sure customers have reliable energy as energy needs change throughout the day. They store electricity when it is available and release it quickly when customers need it most. That includes times during peak use, extreme weather or sudden changes in demand. Because batteries can adjust almost instantly, they give Ameren Missouri another flexible tool to help keep the electric grid balanced and responsive. As part of a broad mix of energy sources, battery storage strengthens the grid today and helps ensure dependable service for customers as energy needs continue to evolve.
Battery Storage Project Development Phases
Battery Storage Projects
Ameren Missouri is developing several utility-scale battery energy storage projects across the state. These are the current projects and their status.
Big Hollow Energy Center
Jefferson County, Mo.
- 400-megawatt lithium-ion system
- Under construction
- Anticipated in-service date: 2028
Castle Bluff Energy Center
St. Louis County, Mo.
- 95-megawatt lithium-ion system
- Pending regulatory approval
- Anticipated in-service date, pending timely regulatory approval: 2028
Huck Finn Energy Center
Audrain County, Mo.
- 200-megawatt lithium-ion system
- Pending regulatory approval
- Anticipated in-service date, pending timely regulatory approval: 2028
Millcreek Energy Center
Lincoln County, Mo.
- 250-megawatt lithium-ion system
- Pending regulatory approval
- Anticipated in-service date, pending timely regulatory approval: 2028
Frequently Asked Questions
Utility-scale battery storage systems are focused on making the electric grid more reliable overall. By supplying energy during peak periods or unexpected disruptions, they help reduce the likelihood of widespread outages. Batteries provide almost instantaneous power, stepping in when the grid needs immediate support.
The batteries used in utility-scale energy storage systems today are expected to last approximately 20 years, depending on the frequency in which they are charged and discharged. Individual battery modules can be replaced as needed and then disposed of properly.
We prioritize locations that can be developed alongside planned generation projects, as well as land we already own near current generation facilities or substations. Co-developing battery storage with other generation helps reduce costs, limit new land use and improve reliability by allowing these resources to work together.
We intend to continue using American-made systems and will have more specifics as each project is developed.
That will be determined on an individual project basis. Even the largest facilities, which can reliably power thousands of homes for hours, can be contained to a couple dozen acres or less.
Lithium-ion batteries are recyclable. Just like at Ameren Missouri’s other facilities, when materials reach the end of their useful life or are decommissioned, the company follows applicable laws and regulations to determine how they’ll be reused, recycled or disposed of properly.
Safety is built into every aspect of battery storage design and operation. We follow industry best practices, use advanced monitoring systems and work closely with local first responders to protect people and property.
Yes. Battery systems are designed and tested to operate reliably through extreme heat, cold, wind and severe weather common in the Midwest with protective enclosures and continuous monitoring. Ameren Missouri maintains and oversees these systems to ensure they perform safely and consistently in all seasons.
Battery systems operate safely near homes and businesses across the country every day, including in dense urban environments. Battery systems do not generate waste, odor, emissions or other byproducts and are similar to your cell phone's battery. Built-in safety features and emergency plans are designed to protect both the community and the environment.