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Ben Gordesky of DC Energy Innovations Honored by Peers with Distinguished Jim Grundy Award

by | Mar 22, 2019

Montpelier, VT – At a reception in the over-flowing Cedar Creek Room of the Vermont State House, Renewable Energy Vermont presented Ben Gordesky of DC Energy Innovations with the 2018 Jim Grundy Award for generosity of spirit and integrity in bringing renewable energy to his community.

Ben Gordesky leads DC Energy Innovation’s solar division.  DC Energy Innovations is a full-service electrical contracting firm based in North Hero in the beautiful Champlain Islands of Vermont.  A NABCEP certified solar installer, Ben’s high ethical standards, efforts to mentor newcomers to the solar trade, commitment to climate action and equity, and professional standards and improvement embody many of the traits recognized via the Jim Grundy Award.

“Ben is a hard worker who cares more than anyone else I know,” said Nick Lane, Ben’s co-worker who nominated him for this prestigious award.  “Ben’s commitment to clean energy is rivaled only by his dedication to help those around him.”

As a resident of Burlington’s Old North End, Ben sometimes bikes to meetings and really walks the talk in terms of his commitment to our environment and climate.  Ben serves on the Steering Committee of the Vermont Energy Access Coalition, a group facilitated by REV’s Education Fund and Burlington Electric Department to ensure that all Vermonters can equitably access renewable energy and energy transformation solutions.

“My journey to renewable energy has been a long one,” said Gordesky.  “I appreciate the physical work, design, materials, and all the things that go into making solar happen.  When state policy reduces the rates for solar net metering, it makes it too challenging for low-to-moderate income neighbors to access the benefits of solar.  It slows down solar construction and hurts all Vermonters.  We must do more to stop the ongoing costs and impacts of burning fossil fuels.”

“Ben participates in [REV’s] legislative and policy committee, and I always appreciate his voice,” said Jeff Forward, Chair of Renewable Energy Vermont’s Board, “speaking up for the little guy and sticking up for the community to give access to all.” Ben’s vision to make a difference and to provide clean energy solutions to every Vermonter is one that he shared with the award’s namesake.

Jim Grundy, a renewable designer, businessman, beloved husband, and community member, was known for his integrity of spirit, kindness of soul, and ingenuity and craftsmanship in renewable energy technologies. Jim believed strongly in the importance of maintaining high-quality design and installation of all renewable systems, to ensure the long-term, sustainable development of the local renewable energy industry.  After Jim’s passing, the Jim Grundy Award was established by REV and is given annually to a Vermonter who exhibits these qualities, beyond all others.

The award was delivered at REV’s Clean Energy Legislative Reception which was co-hosted by Efficiency Vermont, after a full day in Montpelier for many renewable energy workers including an Optimizing Performance training before REV’s annual membership meeting involving the election of new board members. Over 100 clean energy tradesmen and women spent the day away from turning wrenches and planning energy projects to make the trip to Montpelier.

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About Renewable Energy Vermont

Renewable Energy Vermont represents businesses, non-profits, utilities, and individuals committed to reducing our reliance on dirty fossil fuels by increasing clean, renewable energy and energy efficiency in Vermont. Vermont’s clean energy economy includes 3,751 businesses employing approximately 6% of Vermont’s workforce. Together, we will achieve 100% total renewable energy (electric, thermal, transportation) before 2050. Learn more at www.revermont.org.

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