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The city of Holland is known as one of West Michigan’s more conservative areas, but it is weighing a downright progressive energy plan.

In early 2011, the city of Holland contracted environmental consulting firm Garforth International LLC to produce an environmental and strategic assessment of its energy capacity and to provide a road map for 21st century improvements.

Over the next 40 years, Holland expects significant population and industrial growth to result in 75 percent more energy usage. Through the report, Holland is looking for a way to reduce its environmental footprint, keep energy costs low and provide stable electricity coverage over the coming decades.

Garforth presented four different scenarios incorporating various levels of newer technologies and improvements. The most innovative plan, “Scenario B,” relies heavily on locally sourced, low-carbon energy using wind, solar, biogas and natural gas — as well as energy efficiency measures. A zoned district heating project is part of the recommendations.

Garforth, along with the work team involved with the study and the city council’s Sustainability Committee, recommended the adoption of Scenario B. The move would result in the Holland Board of Public Works shifting to be more of an energy manager than an energy producer.

The council is still reviewing its options, however, and is not expected to issue its decision until early 2012.

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