Kent County’s waste-to-energy facility incinerates the area’s non-hazardous solid waste. The Kent County Department of Public Works says it prevents 190,000 tons of waste from entering landfill. The energy it generates can power 11,000 homes.
The county has entered a partnership with Boston, Massachusetts-based Vicinity Energy to operate the Grand Rapids facility. Vicinity says it will provide reliable and sustainable services meeting and exceeding Environmental Protection Agency standards.
As the nation’s leader in decarbonization, it can implement innovative solutions. Vicinity currently serves 11 U.S. cities including Grand Rapids’ district energy system providing clean steam heat to downtown users. Kent County says those customers enjoy a 38% lower annual carbon footprint compared with other heating sources.
