Consumers Energy donates electric vehicle to historic Grand Rapids church

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) – Messiah Baptist Church in Grand Rapids is now proud owner to an electric powered transit van.

The new electric vehicle (EV) was gifted to the church by Consumers Energy, while dozens of church and community members gathered to celebrate the donation.

Consumers Energy has helped fund seven electric vehicles for organizations throughout the state. Messiah Baptist Church is the first religious organization in Michigan to own an electric powered van, with the help of the new partnership.

Reverend Daniel Smith says the new van will help hundreds of children, elderly, and people with a handicap have reliable transportation throughout the Grand Rapids area. He also hopes its electric powered capabilities can get young parishioners talking about topics surrounding technology and sustainability.

Consumers Energy is powering over 30,000 EVs statewide with a goal to power up to one million EVs by the end of the decade.

Energy officials say access to reliable, clean transportation is crucial for cause.

Consumers Energy is dedicated to educating families, organizations, and businesses about electric powered vehicles and programs.