Local project will provide economic and environmental benefits to Grand Rapids, including local jobs and a more efficient system with a reduced carbon footprint GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Veolia Energy North America, a leading provider of sustainable energy services and facility operations and management solutions, announced today that the company has awarded a design/build contract to Progressive AE to upgrade Veolia Energy's Grand Rapids district energy (heating and cooling) system. Based in Grand Rapids, Progressive AE will design and install a cutting-edge condensing heat exchanger, which is a sophisticated heat recovery technology that will reduce the volume of fuel consumed by at least 5 percent. This major upgrade will ensure competitive steam rates for customers served by the Grand Rapids district energy facility, while lowering the cost per pound of steam produced and reducing its overall carbon footprint. The reduction in carbon dioxide will be approximately equivalent to the emissions of 1,000 cars. Scheduled to be completed by November 2009, the project will be implemented using local subcontractors and will employ nearly 25 local workers during various periods of construction. Williams & Works, another local engineering firm, will serve as Owners' Representative for the project. "The City applauds Veolia Energy for its continued commitment to Grand Rapids," said Mayor George Heartwell. "In just six months since it purchased the County's steam system, Veolia Energy has made significant efficiency upgrades that have helped Grand Rapids become a more sustainable community while investing in local businesses and workers."
