The Iowa Utilities Commission has unanimously approved Alliant Energy’s request to construct a 720-megawatt natural gas-fired combustion turbine facility adjacent to the company’s existing 650-megawatt Marshalltown Generating Station.
The commission approved Alliant Energy’s Certificate of Public Convenience, Use and Necessity request for the Bobcat Energy Center in its meeting Dec. 16.
“The development of the Bobcat Energy Center positions the region for growth and energy security for years to come. Unanimous siting approval reinforces our commitment to delivering reliable, cost-effective energy while strengthening the communities we serve,” said Mayuri Farlinger, president of Alliant Energy’s Iowa energy company and vice president of energy delivery, in a release.
The project received support from the Marshall County Board of Supervisors, the Marshalltown Chamber of Commerce, Central Iowa Building and Construction Trades, the Iowa Federation of Labor, LIUNA Local 177 and Operators Engineers Local 234 during the regulatory approval process.
“This milestone for the Bobcat Energy Center shows great momentum for the Marshalltown community in terms of economic development, from new construction jobs and tax revenue, to strengthening our capacity to attract new industrial and manufacturing opportunities,” said John Hall, president and CEO of the Marshalltown Chamber of Commerce. “Real growth begins with reliable, consistent access to energy.”
The facility will activate during periods of peak demand and is designed to start and reach full load in less than 15 minutes. The new facility will complement operations at the existing Marshalltown Generating Station.
Alliant Energy anticipates construction will begin in the third quarter of 2026, with plans for the facility to be operational in 2029.
