Articles from Electrical Business

Manitoba Hydro and Fisher River Cree Nation have signed a Collaboration Agreement to explore energy projects that could enhance energy consumption reduction, promote energy generation, and facilitate economic opportunities. The partnership aims for economic development through projects such as expanding solar farms, implementing ground source heating systems, and piloting new technologies like wind development. The agreement includes a process for feasibility studies over five years, with both parties responsible for their costs. Initiatives will be considered if they are economically viable and align with the community's energy and economic goals.

Toronto Hydro and the Toronto Parking Authority celebrated reaching 500 electrified EV charging stations in Toronto's largest municipally owned network. This milestone highlights the successful partnership between Toronto Hydro and TPA, contributing to the city's electrification goals. Originally installed and managed by Toronto Hydro, the network's ownership was transferred to TPA in 2023. This year, over 4,000 additional EV charging stations will be connected across Toronto.

Eaton and ChargePoint have introduced the ChargePoint Express Grid, a V2X solution offering ultrafast EV charging up to 600 kW for passenger vehicles and megawatt charging for heavy-duty commercial applications. This system integrates Eaton’s 'Everything as a grid' approach, synchronizing renewables, energy storage, and vehicle batteries to local energy markets, potentially reducing fleet charging costs. Each Express configuration will be custom-engineered by Eaton, with the option for skid-mounted solutions.

Rexel has expanded its presence into Canada by introducing Talley, a U.S.-based distributor of wireless infrastructure products. Talley, which initially focused on radio communications, now primarily offers wireless broadband solutions. This expansion seeks to capitalize on the growing demand for data services in Canada, leveraging Talley's established vendor relationships and Rexel's local partnerships. Talley Canada will operate from facilities in Mississauga and Edmonton, positioning itself strategically to meet customer needs across the country.

The article highlights a survey commissioned by the Electricity Distributors Association revealing high trust levels among Ontarians in their local utilities, with strong support for grid investments. EDA President Teresa Sarkesian discusses the significant role of contractors, engineers, and manufacturers in aiding utilities to maintain reliability amidst growing demand. The conversation also explores cost management strategies and the necessity for innovation through digital utilities and AI integration. Networking events like EDIST are emphasized as platforms for innovation-sharing and collaboration within the energy sector.

The Province of Ontario and Canada announced a joint commitment of $3 billion to support the construction of small modular reactors (SMRs) at the Darlington nuclear station. Ontario is contributing $1 billion, while the Canadian federal government provides $2 billion. The project aims to have the G7's first operational SMRs, creating thousands of jobs and generating significant electricity for the region. Construction is already underway, and completion is expected by 2030.

Nova Scotia will partner with Ontario to explore small modular reactors (SMR) as a future clean energy option. This collaboration includes sharing knowledge on SMR technology, regulatory frameworks, and public engagement to help inform Nova Scotia's energy planning. Additionally, Nova Scotia plans to join an interprovincial agreement on transmission interties to support offshore wind projects. Ontario's Darlington New Nuclear Project is noted as a key advancement in making SMRs operational in Canada.

Many contractors, especially in electrical construction, are turning to equipment rental as a way to manage costs, risks, and stay competitive. Renting equipment offers access to the latest technology and reduced obligations compared to ownership, particularly beneficial for compliance-heavy and costly machinery like aerial lifts. Choosing the right rental partner requires careful consideration of maintenance records, contractual clarity, and transparency in pricing. Utilizing modern technology such as telematics can further optimize the rental experience.

The 5th annual Retrofit Canada conference in Toronto highlighted the significance of energy efficiency retrofits in achieving Canada's climate goals. A panel discussion focused on the role of retrofit accelerator programs, detailing initiatives such as the Deep Retrofit Accelerator Initiative (DRAI) which aims to support deep retrofits in various building types. Concerns were raised about barriers like funding confusion and inconsistent language within the retrofit market. Participants stressed the need for better communication and collaboration to advance retrofit objectives.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has launched Canada's Major Projects Office (MPO) in Calgary to expedite nation-building projects. The MPO aims to implement a 'one project, one review' approach to streamline approvals for major projects across the country. The initiative is seen as a way to bolster Canada’s status as an energy superpower, though there is debate over what types of energy will be prioritized. The effectiveness of the MPO and its criteria for selecting projects remain in question.

In August 2025, the total value of investment in building construction in Canada slightly increased by 0.1% to $22.8 billion, led by a rise in residential investment by $10.5 million. Non-residential investment also saw growth, mainly in the commercial and institutional sectors despite a decline in the industrial component. Significant growth in single-family home construction was observed, particularly in Ontario, New Brunswick, and Saskatchewan, while investments in multi-unit construction decreased. The overall annual growth of investment in building construction was 8.7%.

The U.S. Department of Energy has terminated 321 financial awards totaling approximately $7.56 billion due to a lack of economic viability and poor return on taxpayer investment. Many of these awards were made during the final months of the Biden administration, and Democrats claim the terminations target Democratic-led states and districts. Energy Secretary Chris Wright indicates that the projects did not meet economic or national security standards. Affected parties have been given 30 days to appeal the decision.