Ceremony marks start of installation of eSteam electric boiler in Grand Rapids

Updated 2;35 p.m., 6/25/25

U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-Grand Rapids) joined business leaders and energy advocates Wednesday in celebrating the installation of a new thermal energy system in the city.

Vicinity Energy, based in Boston, Mass., marked the start of its electrification efforts in Grand Rapids by beginning installation on a 9 megawatt electric boiler, representing a milestone in the company’s efforts to achieve net zero carbon emissions across all operations by 2050 and to support Michigan’s Healthy Climate goals.

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The boiler is set to enter service in 2026 and will provide roughly 100 customers access to carbon-free thermal energy.

According to Vicinity’s website, their eSteam system uses electricity from renewable energy sources to power electric boilers and heat pumps, generating steam. Thermal storage systems are also used to provide steam on demand to customers through underground pipes.

“We are proud to see Vicinity, a long-standing energy partner in Grand Rapids, launch its innovative eSteam right here in the city,” Grand Rapids Mayor David LaGrand said in a statement. “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.”

Supported by a more than $2 million grant from the Michigan Public Service Commission, the electric boiler marks the first new boiler at the facility in 60 years.

An earlier version of the story stated that Grand Rapids Mayor David LaGrand joined business leaders at the new boiler’s commemoration. While LaGrand was scheduled to attend, a spokesperson later informed the Advance that LaGrand was not present at the event.