April 22, 2024 – Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator is providing up to $15 million for Indigenous energy planning, infrastructure development, and education. The application window is open now for IESO’s Indigenous Energy Support Program, which aims to promote Indigenous leadership in the sector while “moving the needle on energy projects that will support the growth and decarbonization of Ontario’s electricity system”. The 2024 intake window is open until August 30. Indigenous communities are eligible to apply for funding under one, or all, of the following streams: CAPACITY BU ..read more

April 23, 2024 – The federal government’s housing strategy is a long-awaited step forward to build more homes, says the Canadian Construction Association, “but significantly more investment is needed to address critical infrastructure needs and the housing crisis”. Citing estimates by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, which show that each new housing unit requires $107,000 in public infrastructure investment, CCA says an additional $128 billion is needed to build, support, and connect these homes to essential housing-enabling infrastructure. “Budget 2024 sets a bold objective to help ..read more

April 23, 2024 – Hundreds of public electric vehicle chargers will be installed throughout the Capital Regional District with combined funding of more than $8.7 million from the federal and provincial governments, the district, and the City of Victoria. “Transportation accounts for 40% of BC’s emissions, which is why it’s so important that we make it easier and affordable for people to drive zero-emission vehicles,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy (BC). “In addition to rebates, we continue to expand BC’s electric vehicle charging network, with a target o ..read more

April 23, 2024 – Ontario Power Generation (OPG) announced plans to refurbish up to five hydroelectric stations in Niagara Falls, including the Sir Adam Beck I and II stations. “Upgrading and optimizing OPG’s renewable generation workhorses like the Sir Adam Beck complex is crucial to support the growing demands of electrification and a thriving economy,” said Ken Hartwick, president & CEO, OPG. Sir Adam Beck I went into service in 1922 and was considered the largest hydro plant in the world at the time, says OPG. In 1954, the 16-unit Sir Adam Beck II went into service, and remains Ontario ..read more

April 23, 2024 – Procore.org—Procore’s social impact arm—has launched an educational offering for Canadian colleges and universities to help students learn how to use Procore solutions, thereby exposing them to the software they may encounter in their internships and jobs after graduation. The new Educators’ Training Centre contains educational resources such as presentations, student exercises, sample project data, and a video certification course for Canadian students. Procore.org reports it currently works with 15 colleges and universities in Canada, offering free accounts with unlimited us ..read more

April 22, 2024 – Month over month, the total value of building permits in Canada increased 9.3% to $11.8 billion in February, reports Statistics Canada. The non-residential sector grew 12.3% to $4.7 billion due to the issuance of several major construction permits, while the residential sector increased 7.4% to $7.1 billion. Ontario (+21.7% to $5.0 billion) led the growth, with gains occurring across all components. Growth in the non-residential space is mostly attributed to the industrial component, which increased 57.8% to $1.3 billion in February. Permits for large industrial construction ..read more

April 22, 2024 – Christopher Breslin has been named chief executive officer of OmniCable—a redistributor of wire, cable, fiber, electrical and communications products—effective May 13. He succeeds interim CEO Jeff Siegfried, the company’s co-founder, who will remain as vice-chair. “I’m proud to take the baton from Jeff, and thrilled to have the opportunity to work with OmniCable’s talented and committed team to help build on its strong operations and enviable reputation,” said Breslin. Breslin joins OmniCable with more than 28 years of global distribution experience in both the electronics and ..read more

April 22, 2024 – Rittal Canada shared news of the passing of Robert Dauphinee, who served the company as technical sales representative for the Maritimes. “Robert [was] was a cherished team member; a kind soul, and a unique person,” Rittal posted on LinkedIn. “His dedication and contributions to our company over 23 years were invaluable, but it was his kindness and distinctive personality that truly set him apart.” The post continues: “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Let us remember him fondly for the wonderful person he was, and the posi ..read more

April 16, 2024 – Encore Wire announced it has entered into a definitive merger agreement under which Prysmian will acquire Encore for $290.00 per share in cash. “Through this acquisition, Prysmian will grow its North American presence, enhancing its portfolio and geographic mix, while significantly increasing the exposure to secular growth drivers,” said Massimo Battaini, Prysmian designated Group CEO. “We look forward to welcoming the Encore Wire team to Prysmian and benefitting from the combined company’s enhanced product offerings and customer relationships.” This deal, says Encore, is high ..read more

April 16, 2024 – Southwire has relocated its Canadian corporate office, from Cancross Court to 5770 Hurontario Street, Suite 600, in Mississauga, Ont. “I’m proud of Southwire’s new office, as it embodies our commitment to being an employer of choice,” said Tim King, president, Southwire Canada. “The new office offers an innovative and flexible workspace that is designed to foster collaboration among our team members.” At roughly 7000 square feet, the new HQ is a smaller office space. Southwire says this transition to a smaller office space underscores its belief in the efficiency and effective ..read more