Community Comprehensive Plans can address energy conservation in a variety of ways.
Planning Goals can vary, but at a minimum should focus on attention to alternative energy uses, development patterns, resource conservation measures, re-use and recycling efforts.

Specific objectives should cover a variety of areas such as:

Land Use – Land use patterns should promote mixed uses, pedestrian uses, and alternative transportation for greater energy efficiency. Document preferred infill project locations to emphasize redevelopment or infill as an energy conservation measure.

Codes & Urban Design Criteria – Create Green buildings (LEED certified) standards, sustainable site criteria, energy efficient building design standards. Building codes can promote energy efficient appliances usage. Zoning codes can allow solar and wind energy as permitted uses, encourage solar access and incentives for green building standards.

Energy Usage – What energy efficiency programs are available? What is the electric utility infrastructure plans, maps, demand data/usage. Document recycling programs. Are there opportunities for decentralized energy sources (solar or wind) and what energy buy back programs or other conservation programs are available?

Public Sector Measures– The public sector can lead by example such as using alternative energy vehicles, sponsor forums & educational programs, design ordinances to reduce CO2, create street tree inventory, energy efficient municipal buildings and green teams

Transportation – What alternatives are available to auto only transportation systems? Energy efficient automobiles can be a part of future planning. Should your community promote transit oriented design projects? If not, discuss options and alternatives there are.

Housing – What are the employee housing opportunities close to work? Are live-work type of housing units allowed? Consider greater densities in mixed use projects than what currently exists. Projects and neighborhoods that provide housing close to essential services conserves energy.

Agriculture – Document the local food production potential including opportunities for green markets. Conservation of farmlands can help reduce urban sprawl.

Open Space – Greater open space reduces greenhouse heating. Allow for green roofs, more landscaping, water efficiency, reduction of heat island pavement areas in projects.

Water Efficiency – Consider allowing rain water and gray re-use water systems in projects, solar hot water tanks and more efficient drip irrigation systems.

These are a few areas to consider when designing an energy conservation plan. Land Planning Systems can help you define what is right for your community or project!