

Our Power Supply Strategic Planning process is complete. Explore the results, review the community engagement process, and learn what comes next for Zeeland's energy future.
What This IRP Means for Zeeland
After extensive analysis, community engagement, and planning, Zeeland BPW has completed its Power Supply Strategic Plan. This is our first fully updated Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) since 2012. This plan charts a course for how our community will be powered reliably, affordably, and sustainably for years to come. Explore the full plan, read an overview of our findings, and see what comes next.
How We Got Here: The Planning Process
Zeeland BPW completed this plan through a structured, community-centered process. We engaged residents, businesses, and community stakeholders at every stage to ensure the plan reflects Zeeland’s values and priorities.
Phase
What Happened
1.
Project
Launch
Summer 2025
Kicked off the IRP update; hired consulting team; established planning framework
2.
Community
Introduction
October 2025
Hosted public Community Discussion Session; introduced the process and goals, sent out community-wide digital survey
3.
Stakeholder
Working Group
Nov 2025 – Mar 2026
Convened three working group sessions with diverse community stakeholders to review data and options
4.
Plan
Development
April – May 2026
Analyzed resource options; developed and reviewed scenarios; finalized recommended plan
5.
Plan
Release
June 2026
Published final Power Supply Strategic Plan and executive summary and presented to BPW Board and Zeeland City CouncilÂ
What Comes Next
Completing the plan does not mean we're finished, now it's time to implement. Here's what Zeeland BPW will be doing in the months and years ahead to implement our Power Supply Strategic Plan.
Step 1:
Coming Soon
Timeframe: TBD
Coming soon!
Step 2:
Coming Soon
Timeframe: TBD
Coming soon!
Step 3:
Coming Soon
Timeframe: TBD
Coming soon!
Public Meeting Materials & Resources
General & Stakeholder Meetings
Engagement Project Meeting Updates (Ongoing) >
Community Discussion Session – October 16, 2025 – Meeting Recording
Community Discussion Session – October 16, 2025 – Slide Presentation
Stakeholder Working Group Session #1 - November 18, 2025 - Slide Presentation
Stakeholder Working Group Session #1 - November 18, 2025 - Meeting Recording
Stakeholder Working Group Session #2 -January 8, 2025 - Slide Presentation
Stakeholder Working Group Session #2 - January 8, 2026 - Meeting Recording
Stakeholder Working Group Session #3 - March 19, 2026 - Slide Presentation
Stakeholder Working Group Session #3 - March 19, 2026 - Meeting Recording
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a IRP?
IRP stands for an Integrated Resource Plan. This plan is a long-term strategy used by electric utilities as a roadmap to meet energy demands and capacity in a reliable, affordable, and strategic way. The plans typically span 10-20 years and are flexible within that timeframe.
Why is Zeeland BPW updating its power supply plan?
We review our Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) regularly to ensure our energy mix remains reliable, affordable, and sustainable. This update reflects changes in technology, regulations, and our community’s long-term needs.
Why is Zeeland BPW looking at renewable energy sources?
Renewable energy helps us diversify supply, stabilize long-term costs, reduce emissions, and align with state and federal policy.
Will renewables make energy less reliable?
No. Our plan will prioritize reliability. We’ll be factoring in renewable options alongside traditional sources, storage solutions, and regional grid partnerships to ensure a stable supply even when the sun isn’t shining or wind isn’t blowing.
Is renewable energy more expensive?
Renewable projects often have higher upfront costs but lower long-term operating costs. Investments like the solar and wind plants help lock in stable pricing and protect customers from volatile fuel markets. Over time, renewables can actually reduce costs for customers.
Will this change my energy bill?
Our goal is to keep energy affordable. This is one of the benefits of being a public power utility. While costs may fluctuate or increase, our team is planning ahead to ensure affordability for Zeeland in the future.
What about Zeeland’s existing energy sources?
We will continue using a balanced portfolio of energy sources. Any updates will be added gradually to ensure we maintain reliability while building toward a cleaner future.
How can the community get involved or learn more?
We are committed to transparency and community engagement. Zeeland BPW will continue to host public meetings, share updates on our website, and provide opportunities for residents and businesses to give feedback as the plan develops.
Is Zeeland BPW required to move toward sustainable energy?
Yes, our energy planning is guided by state and federal policies, environmental standards, and industry best practices. Updating our Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) ensures Zeeland remains compliant, forward-looking, and aligned with long-term community and regulatory expectations.