Published Sept. 2, 2021
Read in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
By Doug Gudenburr, DMI Companies
As the chief operating officer for DMI Companies, a ducting manufacturing firm operating in Charleroi and Monongahela, I believe in innovative business models. Since 1978, we have led the market with HVAC solutions that help our customers access the many benefits of energy efficiency. That’s why we support the latest efficiency innovation in Pennsylvania — implementing the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI).
Before DMI’s founding, duct work connections tended to be leaky and difficult to install. We invented a new kind of easy-install duct flange system designed to deliver airtight connections that save energy and money. Since our humble beginnings, our company has grown to employ almost 500 employees, with over 300 living right here in Pennsylvania.
As society’s energy demands increase, our energy systems have become outdated. In the field, DMI employees have seen HVAC account for up to 60% of a building’s energy usage! Pennsylvania businesses need to update their technology to stay viable in their industries. That requires investing in the next generation of energy-efficiency products.
With help from RGGI funds, Pennsylvania businesses can make these essential investments. And as members of the energy-efficiency industry help businesses build more cost-effective environments, we can also hire more people. According to the U.S. Energy and Employment Report, the energy-efficiency industry employed over 71,000 Pennsylvanians in 2020 — more than any other energy sector in the state. RGGI could drive employment figures even higher.
We are glad to see Pennsylvania grow closer to becoming RGGI’s 12th member state. We urge our elected leaders to support this economic catalyst.
Doug Gudenburr
Chief Operating Officer
DMI Companies