Ben Dickerson of Energy Max displays one of the solar hot water systems available from the new firm in Queensbury.
By Lisa Balschunat
Hydrogeologist Ben Dickerson worked for eight years analyzing the Hudson River — its water, its chemical issues, its future. Testing water samples, analyzing data and offering recommendations was his 9 to 5.
With the diverse number of opinions as to how to handle the dredging of the Hudson River and the numerous federal and state requirements on the books, people will be talking, for years to come, about the right solution. Dickerson was a dedicated quantitative environmental analyst, but, at one point, decided it was time to move on.
He began work for an oil company and for 12 months assessed the environmental impact of oil tanks located under hundreds of gas stations in the region. Those efforts, however, still did not speak to his scientific philosophy. Green energy, however, aligned superbly well with his mindset.
“I came to a point in my career where decided I want to leave a good footprint and a legacy for my three children,” Mr. Dickerson said in his new showroom, 845 State Route 9, Queensbury. Walk under the chalet architecture, cross the threshold of his new showroom and step into a clean renewable energy solution at Energy Max Solar & Geothermal.
Solar energy, often talked about nationwide over the past decade, is becoming a more viable option for both commercial and residential users. Products are becoming more affordable and significant incentives through government initiatives are available.
Energy Max offers customers options to fit their needs and budget. “I offer and install SunMaxx Solar energy collectors in the form of solar panels, double wall vacuum tubes, hot water kits, storage tanks, pump stations, lines, combination systems and windmills,” Mr. Dickerson said. “If a builder, business, school, or property owner is looking to go green with solar energy, I’ve got what they need right here in Queensbury.”
A licensed installer for two years, Mr. Dickerson knows the time is ripe for the solar energy business — for both the consumer and seller. Why? “Rebates, rebates, rebates!” he stated emphatically.
Solar energy is becoming more affordable for customers and is developing as a viable business in the region. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is offering rebates on renewable energy products including solar thermal and geothermal,” Mr. Dickerson said. “Currently, New York will pay for the first $4,000 of a qualified solar thermal installation; in addition, a consumer can receive a 55 percent tax credit on the remaining cost. With qualified geothermal projects, consumers can receive a 30 percent credit on every dollar spent as a federal tax credit.”
Energy Max provides free whole house energy audits and provides solar thermal installations for domestic hot water, solar heat, solar pool heating and geothermal heat for forced hot air and radiant heating applications, air conditioning and hybrid systems. Dickerson presently employs two full time installers and collaborates with DeMarse Electronics, and with Simons Heating and Cooling experts on installations.
Residential and commercial builders are starting to see the value of going green when it comes to heating and energizing new structures with solar thermal, geothermal and wind power.
The process of harnessing solar electric, or photo voltaic (PV), energy includes installing solar panels on the roof or on the ground. A mixture of water and non-toxic glycol is pumped through the panels and is heated by the sun. The solar fluid is pumped into a coil inside a hot water tank. The water around the coil heats up and is ready for use. Solar panel installation with Energy Max is designed to offset 50 to 80 percent of a home owner’s hot water energy costs.
The geothermal process can virtually eliminate heating and air conditioning cost, preserve the environment and increase the value of a home or building all at once. Mr. Dickerson said, “The core temperature of the earth is approximately 50 degrees at a depth of six feet. We dig a trench, install high density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe into the ground and create a loop. A mixture of water and antifreeze are pumped into the loop. As the mixture passes through the loop the earth’s temperature warms the water mixture back into the warmer temperature to match the surrounding earth.” The heated mixture then passes through a heat pump numerous times, then the extracted heat is compressed. It becomes “super heat.” In the summer, the pump is reversed for cooling and air conditioning.
“Our country can’t produce enough electricity for society’s demands,” he said. “I’m offering an alternative that preserves the environment and can help property and business owners significantly reduce their heating, air conditioning and electricity costs.” Wind energy is another option offered by Energy Max. Mr. Dickerson indicated there are wind zones in our region that can be very effective in capturing energy.
“There are some common misconceptions about using renewable energy here in our region,” said the Queensbury native. “People think there isn’t enough sunlight here, or they think the ground is too cold or there isn’t enough wind for wind power.” Mr. Dickerson said yes, there is, in fact, enough daylight in our region to harness enough renewable energy to heat and cool a home, heat hot water or operate a business by using the sun’s energy, the earth’s core temperature or the wind. “The ground temperature is a constant 50 to 55 degrees and wind, if you’re in a zone, it is effective.” Is investing in renewable energy really worth it? Mr. Dickerson said, “Absolutely. It is good for the earth and there’s a significant cost savings. You can have up to 76 percent in your total project cost paid for by state and federal rebate programs and tax incentives. Green energy financing is also an option,” he added. “Instead of paying an electric or gas bill, you make a monthly loan payment for your renewable energy.” The average return on an investment for a solar thermal system is nine years; with geothermal it’s three years.
Thrilled about his new business, investment and commitment to green energy, Mr. Dickenson encourages people to consider solar and geothermal energy. His motto: “Let the earth heat and cool your home.”
To reach Energy Max Solar, call 633-1889, or visit www.energymaxsolar.com.