July 18, 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.”
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.