ThinkEnergy

As the energy landscape evolves, major shifts are on the horizon for Canada by 2026. Expect quicker project approvals and a big push for east-west grid connections. Ontario is ramping up investments in hydro and small modular reactors, aiming for enhanced nuclear capacity. AI is transforming utilities, leading to smarter and more integrated energy solutions. Meanwhile, industrial decarbonization is gaining traction, ensuring broad support across key sectors. Innovations like AI-powered DER programs and battery storage are paving the way for a greener future.

Justin Ranguni, a key figure at Electricity Storage Canada, dives into the transformative power of battery storage in this engaging discussion. He highlights how energy storage enhances the grid's flexibility and optimizes generation, ensuring intermittent renewables become reliable. Ranguni also emphasizes the role of storage in deferring infrastructure costs for consumers and enabling decentralized energy systems where homeowners can act as prosumers. The conversation ultimately underscores a future where community-level energy solutions thrive.

Guillaume Paradis, leader at Hydro Ottawa, discusses the utility's investment strategy for 2026-2030, addressing reliability and safety impacts for customers. Andrea Neuser from Capgemini Canada and Brian Flanagan from the Building Decarbonization Alliance dive into grid modernization and the importance of engaging customers in decarbonization efforts. They highlight the rising significance of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and the critical role buildings play in emissions. The conversation underscores the urgency of modernizing systems to adapt to electrification.

Elisa Obermann, Executive Director of Marine Renewables Canada, dives deep into the future of blue energy. With her extensive background in marine renewable energy, she discusses how tidal turbines, wave devices, and river currents can bolster Canada’s clean energy infrastructure. They highlight the benefits of these technologies for coastal and Indigenous communities, emphasize their predictability compared to solar and wind, and explore regulatory challenges facing the sector. Elisa also shares insights on local economic benefits and the need for updated legislation.

Explore the power of hydropower in Ontario's north, highlighting its historical significance since 1881. Discover how new partnerships with First Nations are reshaping energy ownership and reducing diesel reliance in remote communities. Learn about major hydro projects like Nine Mile Rapids, which promise substantial clean energy capacity. Dive into the $4.7 billion investment for refurbishing facilities and the anticipated surge in electricity demand by 2050. Unpack the intertwining of energy infrastructure with economic development and Indigenous self-determination.

Dr. Rupp Carriveau, Director of the Environmental Energy Institute, shares his expertise on the intersection of energy and agriculture in Southern Ontario. He discusses the innovative applications of AI and new technologies in powering greenhouses and modernizing wind farms. The conversation dives into decarbonization challenges, the potential of small modular reactors, and the role of virtual power opportunities. Rupp also introduces Jailbreak Labs, a creative solution to match energy generators with local demands, highlighting a transformative vision for Canada’s energy future.

Discover how distributed energy resources (DERs) like rooftop solar and backup batteries are transforming Ontario's energy landscape. Learn how they can cut your carbon footprint and save you money through net metering and load displacement. Explore the benefits of having backup power during outages, and see how partnerships with utilities like Hydro Ottawa are shaping the future of energy management. If you're curious about switching to DERs, find out what resources and incentives are available to make the transition smoother!

Andrea Nuesser, Grid Modernization Leader at Capgemini Canada, shares insights on the evolving landscape of energy consumption. She highlights how grid modernization transcends smart meters, focusing on real-time data and customer engagement. Discussing the shift from traditional utility views to valuing customer demographics, Andrea explains how active participation, like adopting EVs, can reshape energy usage. With examples of successful programs like IESO’s Peak Perks, she emphasizes building trust and mutual value between utilities and consumers in the journey toward a smarter grid.

Extreme weather is wreaking havoc on Canada's electrical grid, with rising demands pushing utilities to the brink. The discussion highlights essential infrastructure upgrades and the call for a national east-west grid. Customer demand response strategies are explored to prevent blackouts. Learn how climate change is reshaping energy systems and what steps are being taken to ensure power reliability even during heat waves and fire bans.

Guillaume Paradis, Chief Operating Officer at Hydro Ottawa, shares insights on the utility's largest investment plan ever. He discusses the modernization of the electricity grid, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to meet increasing energy demands. Topics include balancing affordability with decarbonization, enhancing grid resilience in extreme weather, and the critical role of customer partnerships in evolving energy landscapes. Their conversation dives into the future of energy and the importance of adapting to community needs.