Articles from Electrical Business

A new 4.8-MW forest biomass cogeneration facility in Northern Quebec aims to reduce diesel reliance for the Atikamekw of Opitciwan by generating electricity from local wood waste. Supported by a $24-million loan from the Canada Infrastructure Bank, the facility will increase energy security and stimulate local economic growth. The project will also include a new substation and battery energy storage system to improve power stability, reducing diesel use by 4.6 million liters and CO2 emissions by 13,000 tonnes annually. The construction will support 40 jobs, with expectations to complete and commission by the end of next summer.

WorkSafeBC has announced that the preliminary average base premium rate for 2026 will remain unchanged at $1.55 per $100 of assessable payroll. This rate has been consistent for nine years, allowing the agency to return surplus funds to employers due to strong financial performance. Approximately $570 million will be returned in 2026 through reduced rates, and changes in industry rates will see 39% of employers experiencing decreases, while 47% will see increases. The final rates will be approved in November by the board.

Canada has designated four offshore wind energy areas off the coast of Nova Scotia, marking a step forward in developing the region’s offshore wind industry. The designated areas include French Bank, Middle Bank, Sable Island Bank, and Sydney Bight. The initiative aims to license 5 GW of offshore wind by 2030, enhancing Nova Scotia's potential as a clean energy exporter. The public's feedback influenced the designation of these areas, and a competitive licensing process for private companies will follow.

The Oneida Energy Storage Project in Ontario has commenced operations as the largest battery energy storage facility in Canada, achieved through a partnership between Northland Power Inc. and several other entities. The 250-MW/1000-MWh facility came online two months early and under budget, despite rising costs of lithium-ion batteries. This project serves as a model for future energy storage initiatives, providing increased grid reliability and reducing emissions significantly. Developments were supported by strong partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizational collaborations, illustrating the potential for large-scale sustainable energy solutions.

The article discusses the increasing power demands in data centers driven by AI and high-density computing as outlined in Eaton's white paper. Data centers are facing challenges in optimizing space, energy, power, and cooling, while also achieving sustainability goals. The white paper projects a significant rise in energy consumption by data centers due to AI workloads, highlighting the need for renewable energy, improved energy storage, and grid upgrades. Electrical engineers and contractors are essential in designing power infrastructure to help meet these goals.

Manitoba Hydro is enhancing its vegetation management efforts to improve grid reliability and safety for both workers and the public. Tree-related power outages have increased, prompting the company to intensify tree trimming and use machinery to clear brush around infrastructure. This initiative also aims to protect against fires by removing vegetation hazards and using herbicides. The strategy includes removing trees that pose a significant risk to power lines.

ABB Installation Products has introduced new Carlon Flex-Plus Blue electrical non-metallic tubing two-piece fittings to streamline conduit installations. These innovative polycarbonate fittings offer a cost-effective and efficient solution by eliminating the need for tape or PVC cement and ensuring tight installations. With their high pull-out force and easy installation, they are ideal for use in various construction scenarios including concrete walls and ceilings. Carlon ENT products are manufactured at ABB's T-CAN facility in Pointe-Claire, Quebec.

Legrand has introduced the Wattstopper i3 platform to integrate multiple building systems such as lighting, HVAC, and occupancy sensors under a single interface. By leveraging Kode Labs' OS, this platform enhances energy optimization and system control for both individual properties and large portfolios. It offers plug-and-play integration and provides predictive insights and occupancy-based automation for dynamic building management.

The Sade Solar Initiative in Watson Lake, Yukon, is set to become the largest Indigenous-led solar energy project in Canada's North. With over $28.6 million in funding from various government sources and partners, the project aims to reduce diesel power consumption by 24% in the community. It includes the construction of a solar power plant and a battery energy storage system and is expected to be fully operational by summer 2027. The initiative will generate significant revenue for the Liard First Nation, promoting clean energy and Indigenous leadership.

$16 million in federal funding has been allocated to projects in the Maritime provinces to modernize the electrical grid and enhance solar and wind energy production. The funding covers initiatives in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island aimed at improving grid reliability, expanding renewable energy capabilities, and involving Indigenous communities in clean energy projects. Notable projects include Nova Scotia Power's distribution network modernization, Saint John Energy's grid management system upgrade, and a solar project led by Millbrook First Nation. These initiatives are part of broader efforts to transition the region to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions.

The Anahim Lake Solar Project, supported by an additional $4.9 million from Ottawa, aims to reduce the Ulkatcho First Nation's diesel reliance by about 64%, displacing 1.1 million litres of diesel yearly. The project involves BC Hydro and multiple partners in constructing a major off-grid solar power plant, including battery storage and a microgrid system. Scheduled for completion by summer 2026, it is part of broader efforts under various federal and provincial clean energy programs. The project emphasizes Indigenous leadership in renewable energy, with Ulkatcho Energy Corp. owning the initiative entirely.

Ipex has opened a new high-efficiency distribution center in Woodstock, Ontario, representing an investment of over $27 million. The 150,000-square-foot facility will enhance Ipex's supply chain abilities in eastern Canada and the United States. It features advanced logistics functions such as cross-docking and a pedestrian-free design to improve safety and speed of goods movement. Local officials praised the center for its innovation and potential for local employment growth.