Energy Catalyst: Getting off the Ground with Help from New York State

At Energy Catalyst, the mission is simple but ambitious: make geothermal heating and cooling accessible and affordable for everyone. Founded by Matt Desmarais in 2019, Energy Catalyst manufactures geothermal heat pumps, twister pipes for ground loops, and provides geothermal solutions for contractors across New York and New England.

For many homeowners, geothermal may not have been on the radar. Energy Catalyst is working to change that by showing just how practical and cost-effective these systems can be. In fact, their goal is bold: within the next two years, they aim to install complete geothermal systems—whether retrofits or new builds—for the same upfront cost (or less) than traditional furnaces or boilers.

From Apartment Startup to Industry Innovator

The journey began modestly in Matt’s apartment in 2019. Just a few years later, Energy Catalyst secured critical support from the U.S. Department of Energy in 2023, enabling them to expand into a larger facility and scale operations. With a major $10 million investment planned for renovations and expansion, the company continues to grow with confidence.

Support from Empire State Development (ESD) also played a pivotal role, providing grants and tax credits that made it possible to expand in upstate New York. Matt describes this assistance as “the difference between us being here today or not being here at all.”

Innovation Through Partnership

In 2021, Energy Catalyst joined the NYSERDA NextGen HVAC program, where they pioneered the double hybrid heat pump, a technology they now hold a patent for. With $50,000 in program support, they deployed five demonstration units into local homes. That early backing turned into big success: by 2023, they had sold their first $1 million in heat pumps.

Now fully Energy Star listed, AHRI certified, and safety certified, Energy Catalyst has proven the ability to turn small injections of support into transformational growth.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Vision

With demand for heat pumps rising and New York State pushing to make them the dominant home heating and cooling solution, Energy Catalyst is uniquely positioned for growth. Programs like Excelsior tax credits, on-the-job training, and internships will continue to fuel their expansion.

Their commitment remains steady:

• Deliver the highest quality geothermal products in the market
• Keep systems affordable and accessible for homeowners and contractors
• Support New York’s clean energy goals by reducing reliance on fossil fuels

Why New York?

For clean energy companies, Matt believes New York offers unique advantages:

• Attractive state incentives for renewable energy projects
• A skilled and highly trained workforce
• Relatively low real estate costs in upstate regions
• A government eager to promote sustainable solutions

As Matt puts it: “If you can align yourself with what New York State is trying to do, there will be incentives today and more coming down the line to support you.”