SPRINGFIELD, Missouri — July 21, 2026 — The City of Springfield, Missouri has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking qualified private-sector partners to develop Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) production facilities at two City-owned locations: the Noble Hill Sanitary Landfill and the Southwest Wastewater Treatment Plant.
The initiative is part of the City’s long-term effort to capture and beneficially use biogas that is already produced through landfill and wastewater treatment operations. Instead of burning excess gas through flares, the proposed facilities would clean and upgrade the gas into pipeline-quality RNG that can be used as a renewable energy source.
Springfield Environmental Services has been evaluating RNG opportunities for several years. In 2023 and 2024, Springfield explored a design-build project delivery approach and completed feasibility studies and conceptual planning. However, no contract was awarded, and the facilities were not constructed. Following additional market analysis and evaluation, the City determined that a private developer-led model could better position the project for long-term success while reducing financial risk to the community.
Under the newly issued RFP, private developers will be responsible for financing, designing, constructing, operating and maintaining the RNG facilities. The selected developer or developers will also market the renewable natural gas and manage associated environmental credits and incentives.
“Renewable natural gas allows us to put an existing resource to productive use while supporting cleaner energy production,” said Erick Roberts, Assistant Director of Environmental Services. “By capturing and upgrading biogas generated at City facilities, we can reduce emissions, expand the use of renewable energy and create long-term benefits for the Springfield community.”
Developers may submit proposals for:
- The Noble Hill Sanitary Landfill project only;
- The Southwest Wastewater Treatment Plant project only; or
- A combined two-site proposal.
The Noble Hill Sanitary Landfill has been in operation since 1975 and is expected to continue operating and generating gas for many decades into the future. Recent investments have improved the City’s ability to collect and manage that gas.
The Southwest Wastewater Treatment Plant has also undergone upgrades to its biogas handling systems, creating a strong foundation for future renewable natural gas production.
If developed, the proposed facilities would convert landfill gas and wastewater biogas into pipeline-quality RNG that can be used in regional energy systems to help power homes, businesses and other users.
“Springfield is joining a growing number of forward-looking communities that are turning everyday municipal operations into clean energy opportunities,” says Roberts. “By leveraging both our landfill and wastewater treatment plant and inviting private-sector investment to finance and operate the facilities, the City is pursuing an innovative approach that reduces emissions, creates renewable energy and minimizes financial risk to taxpayers.”
The City’s goals for the initiative include reducing routine flaring of landfill and digester gas, expanding renewable energy production, advancing sustainability goals, creating long-term revenue opportunities and establishing strong public-private partnerships.
Proposals are due by 5 p.m. on December 1, 2026. Following evaluation and potential interviews, the City anticipates issuing a Notice of Intent to Award in January 2027.
Additional information regarding the RFP, project background and proposal requirements are available at springfieldmo.gov/rfp.
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Media Contact:
Senior Communications Coordinator Kristen Milam at 573-819-3713 or kmilam@springfieldmo.gov.