UP wind may power Holland and GR

Wind speeds in the UP have Holland exploring new energy options.

Goetzville is in Chippewa country in the UP. The City of Holland is looking at a 1500 acre parcel of land and is considering building wind turbines there to generate power.

The city council gave the green light in September to conduct research on the land parcel, and are assessing the environmental impact to birds and a sound study.

The power generated wouldn't directly go to Holland, but would go into a grid that would be shared by everyone.

The study cost $1.3 million, and if given the go-ahead, the total cost of the project is approximately $140 million.

Holland Mayor Al McGeehan said he hopes to fund the potential project by finding a partner -- and Grand Rapids may be an option.

"I've had several conversations with Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell, and I know that he talked with our BPW (Bureau of Public Works)," he said. "I'm making no commitments from Grand Rapids or Holland right now, but I'm very pleased Grand Rapids and Holland are at least talking this through."

The administrative analyst for Grand Rapids said the city is waiting to learn more about the costs and benefits from this project before they make a move.