Vicinity Energy Kicks off Electrification Plans in Grand Rapids

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Vicinity Energy, a decarbonization leader with the nation’s largest portfolio of district energy systems, has officially kicked off its Grand Rapids electrification plans by commencing the installation of its newest electric boiler. Vicinity will install the 9MW electric boiler at its Grand Rapids facility, marking a key milestone in the company’s Clean Energy Future commitment to reaching net zero carbon emissions across all of its operations by 2050.

When the electric boiler enters service in 2026, over 100 of Vicinity’s customers in Grand Rapids will have access to carbon-free thermal energy instantly

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U.S. Representative Hillary Scholten (MI-3) commemorated the milestone at Vicinity's Grand Rapids facility, along with local business leaders and energy advocates.

“We are proud to see Vicinity, a long-standing energy partner in Grand Rapids, launch its innovative eSteam^TM right here in the city,” said Grand Rapids Mayor David LaGrand. “This project will bring locally generated, carbon-free steam to our downtown businesses, supporting Grand Rapids’ commitment to sustainability, clean energy, and a resilient future.”

Vicinity Energy received a grant exceeding $2 million from the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) as part of the Renewable Energy and Electrification Infrastructure Enhancement and Development (EIED) program. This funding supports the installation of the 9MW electric boiler at Vicinity's downtown Grand Rapids facility, marking the first new boiler addition in 60 years at the facility. The project aims to produce carbon-free eSteam^TM to support the decarbonization of Grand Rapids, aligning with the MI Healthy Climate Plan's goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition toward carbon neutrality.

“Our work towards carbon-free, clean energy is critically important to not only our own goals, but the goals of our state and local partners across the country. Here in Grand Rapids with the installation of this electric boiler, we will enable a seamless conversion to carbon-free eSteam^TM for our customers,” said Vicinity Energy CEO Kevin Hagerty.

When the electric boiler enters service in 2026, over 100 of Vicinity’s customers in Grand Rapids will have access to carbon-free thermal energy instantly.

Click here to read more about Vicinity’s district energy systems and its commitment to innovation and the environment.

About Vicinity Energy

Vicinity Energy is the largest owner and operator of district energy systems dedicated to decarbonizing its operations and investing in innovative renewable thermal energy technologies to offer carbon-free eSteam™ to its customers. Operating 19 district energy systems in 12 cities, Vicinity delivers reliable and sustainable steam, hot water, and chilled water to 250 million square feet of building space nationwide. As Vicinity advances its electrification efforts across its locations, the goal to achieve net zero by 2050 is more than a commitment—it’s a mission. Learn more about Vicinity’s vision for a clean energy future at www.vicinityenergy.us.