Articles tagged with "Technology"

Rodatherm Energy Corporation, a geothermal company from Alberta, secured a USD 38 million Series A investment from TDK Ventures to develop its closed-loop geothermal system (AGS) in the United States. This innovative system does not require drilling into hot rocks, using water, or emitting emissions, positioning it as a clean and efficient energy source. The AGS system uses a pressurized, isolated fluid to transfer heat, thereby offering an alternative to traditional geothermal energy methods. With this funding, Rodatherm plans to build its first pilot system in Utah, aiming to prove the system's cost-efficiency and performance.

The SunRise Building in Edmonton, formerly known as Capital Tower, has undergone a deep energy retrofit that earned it a Guinness World Record for the largest Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) mural. The project, led by Chandos Construction and partners, transformed the 1970-built structure into a modern, mixed-use space focused on affordable rental housing and reduced environmental impact. The mural, designed by Indigenous artist Lance Cardinal, integrates Indigenous and Chinese symbolism and covers the building’s facade, contributing significantly to its sustainable energy output. The retrofit led to significant GHG emission reductions and improved amenities, showcasing the potential of smart retrofits in urban revitalization.

First Hydrogen Corp., in collaboration with the University of Alberta, plans to design small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) to produce low-carbon hydrogen. These SMRs aim to provide sustainable energy solutions for the increasing power demands of AI-friendly data centers. Canada, with its strong nuclear safety track record and government support, is positioned as a promising location for this initiative. The project faces regulatory and financial challenges but holds potential for carbon-free energy production.

Health experts in Alberta suggest that wastewater testing, which was effective for early detection of Covid-19, could be similarly used to identify measles outbreaks early. This method may allow for prompt public health responses to prevent widespread transmission. The application of this technology to other diseases showcases its potential to enhance disease management efforts.

Alberta plans to hold public consultations in the fall regarding the introduction of nuclear energy to its energy mix, primarily through small modular reactors (SMRs). This initiative, announced by Premier Danielle Smith, aims to explore the potential of nuclear energy to support oil sands operations. The province looks to Ontario as an example, where nuclear energy plays a significant role. Ontario Power Generation already advances with SMRs, and similar projects are planned in Alberta to strengthen its energy infrastructure.

Chandos Construction, in collaboration with Avenue Living, M.O. George Architect, and Claroscuro Architecture, is revitalizing Edmonton’s SunRise Building with a deep-energy retrofit. This 12-storey building will transform into mixed-use space with affordable rental housing and feature Canada's largest building-integrated photovoltaic cladding. The project, including mechanical and electrical upgrades, is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 64%. The work involves various teams for structural, mechanical, and energy modelling aspects.

Deep Sky has completed the construction of its Alpha carbon-removal facility in Innisfail, Alberta, marking the world’s first carbon-removal and commercialization centre. Completed in under a year, it demonstrates the accelerated pace with which critical climate infrastructure can be developed. The facility includes direct-air-capture units and aims to generate carbon-removal credits by the end of 2025, supported by partnerships with major firms like Microsoft and financial backing from Breakthrough Energy Catalyst.

Indigenous leaders from several First Nations have urged Alberta's government to develop a strategy for gigawatt-scale data centres, citing concerns over a new power connection limit by the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO). This limit, set at 1,200 MW, may hinder Alberta's ability to attract large hyperscale data centre projects crucial for the province's digital economy ambitions. The leaders argue that the current policy framework does not align with Alberta's goals and could present challenges in competing for significant global investments. They advocate for collaboration with Indigenous communities to foster sustainable development and economic growth.

Beacon AI Centers has enlisted Stantec, an Edmonton-based consulting engineering firm, to design and engineer six AI data center campuses in Alberta to meet growing demand. Stantec will provide a range of services, including architectural and sustainability, across five municipalities. The projects will span hundreds of acres, with design and permitting starting in 2024 and construction commencing this year. Stantec aims to position Alberta as a key player in data-driven AI innovation.

Mercator.ai, founded by Chloe Smith in Calgary, is revolutionizing the construction industry by using AI to streamline project tracking and enhance decision-making. The platform aggregates data from various sources to identify opportunities, reducing the industry's dependence on informal networks and personal relationships. Currently tested in Texas, Mercator aims to improve productivity by automating low-value tasks and fostering focused human interaction. The platform is seen as a 'Spotify for construction,' consolidating real-time project information much like Spotify does with music.

Canadian-based ProAll, a manufacturer of volumetric concrete mixers, is embarking on an international expansion led by newly appointed General Manager Derrick Murias. Following its acquisition by Terex Corporation, ProAll has already established distributors across several countries and aims to further its reach into North America, Europe, and Asia. The expansion strategy emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and distribution development, with a particular focus on fulfilling the growing demand for high-quality, on-demand concrete solutions across various industries.

NewCold, a Dutch logistics firm, is finalizing a $222-million fully automated cold-storage warehouse in Coaldale, Alberta. The facility, designed for energy efficiency and automation, will store 56,000 pallets of frozen food and create 50-60 local jobs. A 2.6-kilometre rail spur will connect the facility to the Canadian Pacific Kansas City network, enhancing export capabilities. Alberta invested $2.1 million, and the project is expected to boost the local economy and agri-logistics sector.