In the rolling landscape of southeastern Michigan, where winter temperatures can plummet and summer humidity can soar, Michigan Energy Services (MES) has been revolutionizing how homes stay comfortable year-round. MES began nearly three decades ago by taking a different path than most heating and cooling companies—starting with geothermal technology and expanding from there.
While most companies start with conventional HVAC systems and later learn geothermal as an add-on, Michigan Energy Services did the opposite. Tim Mahoney, equipped with excavation equipment and an entrepreneurial spirit, and Rob Derksen, who brought industry experience and a shared passion for energy efficiency, saw an opportunity in the emerging field of geothermal energy and began installing the underground loop systems fundamental to geothermal heating and cooling.
A Partnership Built on Shared Values
For over two decades, Michigan Energy Services and Riemco Design + Build have forged a professional relationship centered on shared principles of energy efficiency, technical precision, and client satisfaction. Our collaboration began with a single contract regarding a client who requested geothermal heating and cooling, and has developed into a valued professional friendship spanning more than 23 years. Both companies are on similar trajectories, with a shared commitment to leading-edge technology: Riemco advancing energy efficient standards, and MES focusing on advanced energy systems.
Michigan Energy Services’ specialized knowledge has been a particularly valuable collaboration in our current project, Team Asthestics versus Team Efficiency, where they contributed detailed load calculations, thermal analysis, and system design integration to help design the energy efficient home our clients were seeking.
Engineering Comfort Through Precision
What sets MES apart from conventional HVAC providers is their meticulous approach to system design for every job. They collaborate closely with Riemco’s designers on technical specifications—load calculations and R-values in wall assemblies. This process involves creating a detailed digital model of each home, accounting for key variables—orientation, window specifications, square footage, insulation levels, etc. This data-driven approach allows designers to precisely match equipment and custom tailor a comfort system to the specific needs of each home and family, rather than relying on general guidelines. In addition, their in-house sheet metal shop enables MES to craft custom ductwork for optimal airflow and efficiency.
Evolution Under New Leadership
Today, MES continues to build on its foundation under the leadership of its current partners: Kristine Wohlfert, Matt Underwood, and Brandon Mahoney. This dedicated team guides the company’s evolution, maintaining their renowned expertise in geothermal systems while expanding their offerings to include high-efficiency gas systems, mini splits, boilers, and other conventional systems. Geothermal installations remain the core of their business, comprising over 70% of their projects. Riemco is thankful to have a multi-decade, multi-generational collaboration with MES as they continuously maintain high standards, while adapting to evolving technologies and energy solutions.
The effectiveness of their approach speaks for itself when homeowners with decades-old installations continue to express satisfaction with their systems’ performance.
Recently, Brandon encountered the owners of Riemco’s first geothermal installation, completed more than two decades ago. “They still love it, it still works well, and they’re so happy they made that decision,” he reports.
Building a Sustainable Future Together
Our collaboration thrives on our joint dedication to energy efficiency, environmental home design, and sustainable living. The pioneering approach of Michigan Energy Services offers a model of how specialized expertise, precision engineering, integrated design and implementation, and long-term relationships can create lasting value for homeowners and the environment alike.
