MADISON, Wis. — An innovative energy project is expected to break ground in Columbia County.

The Columbia Energy Storage Project, a new battery system, would be the first of its kind in the United States. Officials said it signals a more sustainable and cost-effective future for Wisconsin energy.

What You Need To Know

  • The energy project would be the first of its kind in the United States

  • Alliant Energy received a grant worth up to $30 million from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations to complete the project

  • It would power about 20,000 homes and have zero-emissions

  • If approved, project construction could begin as soon as 2025, with completion slated for 2026

It’s being led by Alliant Energy. The company received a grant worth up to $30 million from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations to complete the project.

Once it’s finished, it will power about 20,000 homes through a design by Energy Dome. That design will provide “10 hours of energy storage capacity by compressing carbon dioxide gas into a liquid,” according to Alliant Energy.

The company said when the energy is needed, they’ll convert the liquid back into a gas. This will power the turbine and create electricity.

Officials said this new system is “highly efficient” and is zero-emissions.

“The Columbia Energy Storage Project is just one way we are investing in the communities we serve while building a stronger, smarter and more sustainable energy future,” said board chair and CEO of Alliant Energy John Larsen.

The proposed facility will be built in Pacific, Wis.

Alliant Energy said it expects to submit project plans to the Wisconsin Public Service Commission in the first half of 2024. If approved, project construction could begin as soon as 2025, with completion slated for 2026. 

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