Category: Sustainability

Key Takeaways:

• Province signs $200M agreement with Haisla Nation to support electrification of Cedar LNG.
• Project will include construction of new transmission and distribution infrastructure.
• Cedar LNG is the world’s first Indigenous majority-owned LNG facility, slated to open in 2028.

The Whole Story:

The B.C. government has signed a $200-million agreement with Haisla Nation to support the electrification of the Cedar LNG project, a floating natural gas terminal set to be the first Indigenous majority-owned facility of its kind in the world.

The provincial funding will help build key infrastructure needed to power the project with clean electricity, including a 287-kilovolt transmission line, a new substation, distribution lines and nearshore electrification. The goal is to make Cedar LNG one of the lowest-emitting liquefied natural gas facilities globally.

Premier David Eby said the investment will help bolster B.C.’s economy while reducing exposure to foreign political instability and climate risk.

“By supporting Haisla Nation to power Cedar LNG with clean B.C. electricity, we’re taking another step in building a stronger economy that’s less exposed to reckless decisions made in the White House,” Eby said in a statement.

The federal government previously announced its own $200-million contribution to the project, bringing total public support for electrification to $400 million.

Haisla Nation Elected Chief Maureen Nyce said the support enables the Nation to advance development in its territory in line with its environmental values.

“Our vision for Cedar LNG was always predicated on being able to source the cleanest power option,” she said. “When Indigenous communities lead projects as owners, we are able to ensure that these projects are developed in the most environmentally responsible manner.”

Cedar LNG, a partnership between Haisla Nation and Pembina Pipeline Corporation, will be located near Kitimat and is expected to create up to 500 jobs during peak construction and employ about 100 people once operational. The facility is slated to begin operations in late 2028.

Energy Minister Adrian Dix said the project serves as a model for how economic reconciliation and climate action can go hand-in-hand.

“This agreement supports economic reconciliation, while creating a more energy-independent province, which is urgently needed during the current global and political climates,” he said.

Key Takeaways:

• Loblaw Companies Limited plans to install Canada’s largest rooftop solar system at its East Gwillimbury distribution centre, north of Toronto.
• The 7.5-megawatt system will span 435,000 square feet — more than seven football fields — and generate 8.5 million kWh of clean power annually, meeting up to 25% of the facility’s electricity needs.
• The project, set to be operational in 2026, is a partnership with Great Circle Solar and supports Loblaw’s goal of net-zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2040.

The Whole Story:

Loblaw Companies Limited says it is installing Canada’s largest rooftop solar power system at its East Gwillimbury distribution centre, a move the grocer calls a major step in its renewable energy strategy.

The 7.5-megawatt system will cover roughly 435,000 square feet of rooftop space — about the size of seven football fields — and is expected to generate more than 8.5 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. The power will supply up to a quarter of the facility’s total electricity consumption.

“From the moment we began construction on our East Gwillimbury distribution centre, we knew we needed to take full advantage of the rooftop space to generate clean, renewable energy for the facility,” said Tom Marson, Loblaw’s vice-president of building technology and energy. “This solar installation will work alongside several other sustainable features at the DC, including fully electric shunt trucks and advanced building energy management systems.”

The system is slated to begin operations in 2026. Loblaw will partner with Great Circle Solar, which will develop, own and operate the installation. The two companies have collaborated on more than 90 energy projects across Canada since 2012.

“This marque project will be operational in 2026. It is by far the largest of its kind ever contracted in Canada and one of the largest on a single rooftop in North America,” said Clarke Herring, president of Great Circle Solar. “For over a decade, we’ve worked side by side to bring renewable energy solutions to communities across Canada. Loblaw’s continued leadership and long-term commitment to clean renewable energy is consistent and evident.”

The company says the solar array is part of a wider effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In 2024, Loblaw reported a 16% cut in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions from its 2020 baseline and invested more than $40 million in 500 carbon reduction projects. Loblaw is targeting net-zero emissions for its enterprise operating footprint by 2040.

Key Takeaways:

• Biidaasige Park, Toronto’s largest new park in over a generation, officially opened on the newly created island Ookwemin Minising as part of a $1.4-billion flood protection and waterfront revitalization project funded by federal, provincial, and municipal governments.
• The park features Indigenous-inspired art, recreational amenities like ziplines and water access, and supports future mixed-use development expected to house over 15,000 residents and create nearly 3,000 jobs.
• The broader waterfront revitalization aims to create 100,000 new homes and stimulate economic growth, with an additional $975 million committed in 2025 to accelerate housing and destination development on Ookwemin Minising and Quayside.

The Whole Story:

Toronto’s newest island, Ookwemin Minising, officially welcomed visitors Friday with the opening of Biidaasige Park, the largest new park to open in the city in more than a generation.

The 50-acre greenspace, located at the mouth of the Don River, is part of a $1.4-billion tri-government investment in flood protection and waterfront renewal led by the federal, provincial and municipal governments. Another 10 acres of parkland, along with the Lassonde Art Trail, is scheduled to open in 2026.

Biidaasige — an Anishinaabemowin word meaning “sunlight shining toward us” — features picnic areas, playgrounds with ziplines, large animal sculptures inspired by Indigenous traditions, recreational trails, and water access for non-motorized boats. The park also includes two dog off-leash areas and spaces designed to support fishing, birdwatching, and cycling.

Officials say the park and the newly naturalized Don River represent an innovative approach to flood protection that unlocks land for future development, including mixed-use neighbourhoods planned to house more than 15,000 residents and create nearly 3,000 jobs.

The revitalization project, which began more than 20 years ago, is part of a broader plan that will see the eastern Toronto waterfront home to 100,000 people once complete. In January, the three governments agreed to contribute an additional $975 million to accelerate housing and destination development on the island and nearby Quayside.

Federal Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin said the park is a symbol of what governments can achieve when working together to build resilient and vibrant communities.

“Biidaasige Park is more than a park — it’s a transformation of Toronto’s waterfront that ensures critical flood protection and lays the foundation for future housing and public spaces,” Dabrusin said.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow highlighted the partnership with Indigenous communities in the project, noting the importance of placekeeping in the revitalized space.

“This is a historic day for Torontonians,” Chow said. “Thanks to collaboration with Indigenous partners, we have advanced $2.4 billion to support a new community that honours the land and builds a city within a city.”

The island, whose name means “place of the black cherry trees,” blends natural flood protection features with green spaces and urban development. It is designed to showcase sustainable development practices and provide new recreational and cultural opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Key Takeaways:

• Net Zero Now is building a 320-acre energy campus in Alberta to support data centres with 400MW of base load power, aiming to ease constraints in Canada’s fastest-growing data centre market.
• The project offers a workaround to Alberta’s grid limitations, allowing hyperscale operators to connect directly or virtually to on-site generation, bypassing AESO’s interim cap on large load connections.
• Alberta is being positioned as a rising data centre hub, with Net Zero citing low electricity costs, a favourable tax environment, and fully permitted, construction-ready sites as key advantages.

The Whole Story:

A Calgary-based infrastructure company says it has completed environmental studies for a new “energy campus” aimed at solving one of the biggest bottlenecks facing Canada’s growing data centre industry: access to reliable power.

Net Zero Now Ltd. plans to build the campus on a 320-acre site in Alberta, which it says was strategically chosen to align with the infrastructure needs of electricity generation and data centre operations. The development will include 400 megawatts of base load generation, power quality services, backup supply, and a co-located data centre campus.

“With the AESO’s large-load interconnection queue growing exponentially, we recognized the need for a fundamentally different approach to powering these large loads,” said Scott Martin, Head of Energy at Net Zero, in a statement. “We’re giving hyperscale operators the ability to directly connect through a co-located energy campus or contract virtually through the grid to bring their own generation online.”

The Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) has placed a temporary cap on large load connections at 1,200 megawatts, even as applications from data centre operators have ballooned to over 16,000 megawatts. Net Zero’s approach—providing pre-permitted, construction-ready sites with embedded power infrastructure—is designed to bypass those constraints.

“While Alberta is not currently ranked as a top-tier global data centre market, we expect that will change in the near future,” said Logan Downing, Head of Carbon Strategy at Net Zero. “We provide fully permitted, construction-ready campuses that enable speed-to-market, low-cost electricity, and best-in-class carbon intensity.”

The company said it will also deploy net zero building techniques, such as advanced insulation and sustainable materials, to reduce both embodied and operational carbon from the data centre structures.

Net Zero’s campus model is pitched as a win for both the tech industry and the province. The company says the project will create jobs, add tax revenue, and contribute more supply to Alberta’s electricity system at a time of rising demand.

The province has recently seen increased interest from global data centre operators due to its low electricity prices, favourable tax climate, and relatively stable political environment. Net Zero says it is evaluating additional sites across Alberta to support future demand.

Key Takeaways:

• Jonathan Westeinde received a Lifetime Achievement Award for his work advancing sustainable development and green financing models
• The Fairmont Royal York retrofit was recognized as North America’s largest heritage hotel decarbonization project, cutting emissions by over 80%
• The City of Kingston earned dual honours for municipal leadership in sustainability and energy-efficient asset management

The Whole Story:

The Canada Green Building Council (CAGBC) announced the winners of its 2025 CAGBC Awards during its annual Building Lasting Change conference in Vancouver, highlighting leadership and innovation in sustainable building practices across the country.

The awards recognize achievements in two categories: Green Building Excellence, for standout projects, and Green Building Leadership, for individuals and organizations advancing sustainability in the built environment. A Lifetime Achievement Award was also presented, and CAGBC President and CEO Thomas Mueller was recognized for 20 years of leadership.

Lifetime Achievement: Jonathan Westeinde, Windmill Development Group

Jonathan Westeinde, founder and CEO of Windmill Development Group, was recognized for his long-standing contributions to sustainable real estate. His work has included over $5 billion in high-performance projects and the development of financing models that support low-carbon infrastructure, including geothermal contracts and zero-carbon district energy systems.

Zero Carbon Design: NS Native Women’s Association Resiliency Centre, Millbrook First Nation, NS

Designed by Solterre Design with input from Indigenous leaders and artists, this facility incorporates Mi’kmaq knowledge and high-efficiency building systems. It meets Zero Carbon Building – Design Standard certification with features like a super-insulated envelope, rooftop solar, and efficient ventilation. The building exceeds energy performance codes by 65%.

Deep Carbon Retrofit: Fairmont Royal York, Toronto

KingSett Capital led the transformation of this 1.2 million sq. ft., 96-year-old hotel. The retrofit replaced the steam system with electric heat pumps and connected to Toronto’s Deep Lake Water Cooling system, cutting emissions by over 80% and reducing utility costs by 35%. The project was completed while the hotel remained operational.

Honourable Mention – 240 Markland Drive, Toronto, Ont.

Carttera’s retrofit of a 1960s apartment building cut energy use by 50% and operational carbon to near-zero, using ground-source heat pumps and envelope upgrades.

New Construction: Ronald D. Schmeichel Building, Western University, London, Ont.

This campus facility, designed by Perkins&Will, is targeting LEED Gold certification. It includes geothermal heating and cooling, rooftop solar, and all-electric systems, with flexible and accessible interior spaces aimed at collaboration and sustainability.

Inspiring Home: L’Albédo & CPE La Petite Cour de Mistigri, Québec City, Que.

A 12-storey mixed-use development with 128 energy-efficient housing units and an integrated daycare. The project uses geothermal energy, recovers waste heat from a nearby ice rink, and features green infrastructure and inclusive design.

Green Building Champion: Russell Horne, City of Kingston

Horne has led sustainable upgrades across more than 100 city-owned buildings. His work includes energy audits, retrofits, and the development of a Facilities Net Zero Transition Plan, positioning Kingston as a leader in municipal climate action.

Green Building Visionary: UWCRC 2.0 Inc., Winnipeg, Man.

This non-profit developer has built more than 570 residential units—nearly half of them affordable—while achieving net-zero goals on projects like 308 Colony and Market Lands. The organization integrates climate and social equity priorities across its portfolio.

Emerging Green Leader: Della Wang, Fengate Asset Management

Wang has led the development of Fengate’s Responsible Investment strategy, including physical climate risk assessments and internal sustainability standards. She also contributes to national climate finance and disclosure initiatives.

Government Leadership: City of Kingston – Facilities Management & Construction Services

The city’s FMCS team manages over 160 buildings and has achieved a 21% reduction in GHG emissions per square foot since 2018. The team has implemented solar, EV, and energy-efficiency upgrades while supporting the city’s Net Zero Transition Plan.

Ed Lim Technical Volunteer Award: Steve Kemp, RDH Building Science

A LEED Fellow and longtime technical contributor, Kemp has volunteered more than 1,000 hours with CAGBC and national codes committees. His work has influenced building performance standards and Canada’s net-zero transition.

Leadership Recognition: Thomas Mueller, CAGBC

CAGBC President and CEO Thomas Mueller was recognized for two decades of leadership. Under his direction, Canada became the third-largest LEED territory in the world and launched the first Zero Carbon Building Standards in 2017.

Submissions for the 2026 CAGBC Awards open in January.

Key Takeaways:

• Ontario’s new Advanced Wood Construction Action Plan aims to accelerate homebuilding and grow the forestry sector by promoting locally manufactured modular and prefabricated wood products.
• The plan includes $13 million in provincial investments to support advanced wood construction research, training, and manufacturing.
• Prefabricated wood construction can cut building timelines by up to 50% and reduce costs by up to 20%, helping address the province’s housing shortage.

The Whole Story:

The Ontario government has released a new action plan to promote the use of locally made wood products in modular and prefabricated construction, a move it says will help build more homes faster and strengthen the province’s forest sector.

The Advanced Wood Construction Action Plan sets out a roadmap to boost awareness, remove regulatory barriers, support innovation, and showcase real-world applications of advanced wood construction—including the use of mass timber and other engineered wood materials in mid- and high-rise buildings.

“As our government delivers on its plan to protect and build Ontario, this action plan will help promote and prioritize wood-based building with made-in-Ontario wood construction products,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “Advanced wood construction is a new opportunity that can help get more homes built faster and build a stronger, more competitive forest sector.”

Advanced wood construction refers to modern building systems that use cross-laminated timber and other prefabricated wood products. These systems can shorten construction timelines by up to 50 per cent and cut costs by as much as 20 per cent, according to the province. The method is seen as a key strategy in reaching Ontario’s ambitious housing goals while supporting sustainability and job growth.

To date, the province has committed more than $13 million to support the sector, including:

• Over $8 million to establish and expand production at Element5, Ontario’s first automated cross-laminated timber manufacturer;
• Nearly $3 million for education and research through organizations such as the Canadian Wood Council and the Canadian Wood Construction Research Network;
• Funding for mass timber buildings at George Brown College and the University of Toronto;
• Support for FPInnovations and the Mass Timber Institute to advance technical expertise and innovation.

“We’re harnessing forest sector innovation to enhance how we build our homes, businesses and communities,” said Kevin Holland, Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products. “Our government recognizes the potential of advanced wood construction—and our action plan is bringing its benefits to Ontario.”

Industry groups and municipal leaders welcomed the plan. Ian Dunn, president of the Ontario Forest Industries Association, called it a “blueprint for economic growth,” while Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic said the initiative supports housing targets and protects local jobs.

“Effectively meeting the challenge of housing affordability and supply requires investment in all forms of housing options, including cross-laminated timber,” said Richard Lyall, president of the Residential Construction Council of Ontario.

The action plan is part of the province’s broader Forest Sector Strategy, which aims to increase the use of Ontario wood, create new markets, and encourage sustainable resource development. The forest sector generated $21.6 billion in revenue in 2023 and supports over 128,000 jobs across the province.

A draft version of the action plan was posted for public comment in July 2024. The finalized strategy now moves ahead with implementation alongside ongoing changes to building codes, regulatory engagement, and funding support.

Key Takeaways:

• The Canada Infrastructure Bank is investing $50 million to help Creative Energy implement low-carbon district energy systems in B.C. and Ontario, beginning with a major project at Thompson Rivers University.
• The university will retrofit 12 buildings and add low-carbon heating to a new facility, replacing natural gas systems with electric heat pumps to move toward net-zero carbon by 2030.
• With buildings accounting for 18% of Canada’s emissions, the partnership aims to accelerate energy efficiency upgrades and reduce emissions across the country through long-term, flexible financing.

The Whole Story:

The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) has finalized a $50-million loan agreement with Creative Energy to support deep energy retrofits at buildings in British Columbia and Ontario, starting with a major decarbonization project at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in Kamloops.

The project will see 12 existing campus buildings upgraded and a new Indigenous Education Centre connected to a centralized low-carbon heating system. The upgrades are expected to cut greenhouse gas emissions from campus heating by 95 per cent, bringing the university close to its target of achieving zero carbon by 2030.

Creative Energy, which operates one of North America’s largest district energy systems, will implement the retrofits using air-source and water-source heat pumps to replace traditional natural gas-based heating systems.

The partnership aims to help building owners across both provinces transition to electrified, high-efficiency district energy systems, with anticipated emissions reductions exceeding 90%.

“This investment is part of the CIB’s $1.2-billion Building Retrofits Initiative,” said Ehren Cory, CEO of the CIB. “It enables building owners to cut emissions, lower energy costs and modernize their assets through flexible, long-term financing.”

Federal Infrastructure and Housing Minister Gregor Robertson said the initiative will support cleaner, more affordable energy while creating jobs and making communities more resilient.

TRU President Brett Fairbairn said the project aligns with the university’s sustainability goals and will double as a learning tool, turning the campus into a “living lab” to showcase clean energy technologies.

Creative Energy President Kieran McConnell called the project a “landmark step” in accelerating large-scale building decarbonization across Canada.

The global solar lighting experts at Sol by Sunna Design have heard every excuse in the book for why their approach won’t work—solar lighting is expensive, it won’t work in cold climates, someone had a bad experience with another provider, the list goes on.

As they launch the EverGen 3 outdoor solar lighting system, the culmination of decades of research and experience, and expand into the Canadian market, their team is working to dispel long-held myths about the solar lighting industry. 

Solar lighting is great, but won’t work here

Solar projects are a no-brainer when it comes to the Golden State of California, the sun-soaked deserts of Saudi Arabia, or the cloudless skies of Australia. But do they work in the moody skies of the Pacific Northwest or during the frigid winters of the East Coast? 

“Every customer thinks they live in a special environment and it won’t work,” said Martin Saunier-Plumaz, Sol’s National Director, explaining that, unfortunately, cheap, poorly designed off-the-shelf products have reinforced this myth. “Commercial solar lights like ours are different.”

Sol’s team customizes solutions to fit a customer’s specific environment and needs by investigating decades of weather data. In Canada, where some locations see as little as 3 hours of sunshine in winter, panel size is critical. Many smaller or less efficient solar panels won’t be able to collect enough energy. Battery capacity also needs to take these realities into consideration–plus, some technologies won’t charge below 0 degrees.

“Solar will work provided you can put the right technology in place with the right size,” he said.

Solar light providers are the same

Sol has never been content doing things the same way as everyone else. With 35 years of experience, they have spent decades refining, innovating and pushing the technology forward in North America. 

“We were here before LEDs were even invented,” he said. “We have seen it all. We’ve had failures. We’ve learned from those failures. Now we know what works. We don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach. Sizing the proper solar light product is a science.” 

All these decades of global experience have led to the EverGen 3. It features high-density lithium batteries and advanced solar panels using N-Type TOPCon technology cells with greater energy collection capacity, enabling a more compact, efficient, and environmentally friendly design. 

By partnering with leading lighting fixture manufacturers like Acuity, Sol ensures the EverGen 3 delivers lighting performance on par with the best grid-tied systems, prioritizing quality and reliability so users experience seamless, maintenance-free illumination regardless of their power source. The EverGen 3 is positioned as the ultimate solar light, combining cutting-edge solar technology with top-tier lighting to meet the needs of modern outdoor and off-grid environments.

Solar lighting is not reliable

Starting out in Pompano Beach, FL, Sol had a vision to provide industrial-grade solar lighting. Early installs included many federal and military sites, but eventually, their approach spread around the globe. 

“To meet the needs of these clients, the product had to be tough enough for industrial applications, simple enough that it requires minimal maintenance and high-quality enough so it can last a long time,” he said. “That experience means we can build products that are going to work in every single environment.”

The new Evergen also has hybrid technology, giving users an extra layer of reliability. In the rare event that there isn’t enough solar power in the battery at the beginning of the night, the Evergen can switch to the grid. This guarantees light for high-risk applications and risk-averse clients. And if there’s ever an issue, you’re covered by a 10-year full-system warranty. 

“That’s longer than any lighting fixture, so you will have to replace the fixture long before the solar panel,” he said. “And if an experienced team like Sol selects and sizes the proper battery, it will last 10-15 years without needing replacement.”

Solar lighting is too expensive

Speaking of cost, how hard is solar lighting going to hit your wallet? The technology is constantly improving, costs are coming down, and governments are eager to incentivize green solutions. 

Sol has adopted high-efficiency solar panels and high-density batteries, which store more energy in a smaller space and reduce the amount of metal needed. These innovations, along with improved system design, have lowered product costs by 40–60% compared to earlier EverGen while increasing reliability and performance.

In remote or underserved locations where electrical infrastructure is lacking, outdated, or non-existent, the cost of digging trenches, laying conduits, and connecting to the grid can be so high that solar lighting is often cheaper than grid-tied alternatives. 

The Canadian government is also eager to switch industries to cleaner energy. Businesses can benefit from a refundable tax credit covering up to 30% of capital investment costs in clean technologies, including solar energy systems. Additionally, businesses can write off up to 100% of qualifying clean energy investments. Finally, it’s worth mentioning that once a solar solution is set up, the sunshine that gives it power is totally free. 

“I see the EverGen as the ultimate solar light,” said Saunier-Plumaz. “It’s everything a solar light should be.” He also believes it’s perfect for Canada, where many communities are remote or are trying to move away from fossil fuels. And many larger cities are eager to be more green as well. “I feel like Canadians are pretty open to new ideas,” he said. “They’re pretty progressive, so I think it’s a great fit.”

Learn more about Sol and their EverGen system at their website: evergen.solarlighting.com

Key Takeaways:

• Carbon Upcycling Technologies, a Calgary-based cleantech firm, has won the 2025 Keeling Curve Prize for its work turning CO₂ emissions and industrial waste into low-carbon building materials.
• The company’s technology mineralizes captured CO₂ into cement alternatives, helping decarbonize the concrete industry while promoting circular use of waste materials like steel slag and fly ash.
• The Keeling Curve Prize, awarded by the Global Warming Mitigation Project, recognizes impactful climate solutions that help lower global greenhouse gas levels; winners receive US$50,000 to support their work.

The Whole Story:

A Canadian carbon capture company that turns emissions into building materials has been named a winner of the 2025 Keeling Curve Prize, an international award recognizing high-impact efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Carbon Upcycling Technologies, based in Calgary, was selected for its work transforming CO₂ emissions and industrial waste—such as steel slag and fly ash—into low-carbon cement alternatives.

“This recognition reflects the dedication of our team to tackling climate change through bold, forward-thinking solutions,” the company said in a statement Tuesday.

The Keeling Curve Prize, awarded annually by the Global Warming Mitigation Project, is named after the iconic chart that has tracked rising atmospheric carbon dioxide levels since the late 1950s. The prize honours initiatives helping to “bend the curve” of CO₂ emissions downward through innovative, scalable approaches.

Carbon Upcycling’s technology captures CO₂ from industrial sources and mineralizes it into cementitious materials that can be used in concrete. The company says its process not only helps decarbonize one of the world’s most emissions-intensive industries but also promotes circularity by incorporating waste streams from heavy industry.

“Every tonne of carbon we capture and utilize in cement is a step toward reversing the arc of that curve—and reimagining what’s possible in the built environment,” the company said. “From steel slag to fly ash to CO₂ itself, we are enabling circular solutions for a climate-resilient future.”

The company joins a global cohort of 2025 Keeling Curve Prize winners working across sectors such as energy, finance, land use and transportation to mitigate global warming. Each recipient receives US$50,000 to further their efforts.

Founded in 2014, Carbon Upcycling has expanded its operations into multiple countries and has partnered with major cement producers and industrial players to integrate its technology into large-scale infrastructure projects. The company is among a growing number of Canadian climate tech firms attracting global attention for decarbonization strategies that blend innovation with real-world implementation.

Key Takeaways:

• Kalesnikoff has opened a new $30-million, 100,000 sq. ft. modular mass timber facility in Castlegar, B.C., aimed at accelerating the production of sustainable materials for housing, schools, and other infrastructure.
• The project received nearly $10 million in funding from the federal and provincial governments, highlighting its alignment with national priorities around job creation, sustainability, and rapid housing construction.
• As one of North America’s leading mass timber manufacturers, Kalesnikoff is leveraging its legacy and advanced technology to deliver prefabricated, low-carbon building solutions — positioning itself at the forefront of the green building movement.

The Whole Story:

Kalesnikoff Mass Timber officially opened its new 100,000-square-foot modular facility in Castlegar on Thursday, expanding its capacity to manufacture mass timber products for use in housing, schools, childcare centres, and commercial infrastructure across North America.

Located near the West Kootenay Regional Airport, the new site adds a range of offerings — including prefabricated wall and floor systems, light-frame trusses, and volumetric modular units — to Kalesnikoff’s existing operations in nearby South Slocan. Company officials say the $30-million investment will help address Canada’s pressing need for more affordable and sustainable buildings.

“We are expanding our mass timber products and expertise to meet the evolving needs of our customers and industry,” said Chris Kalesnikoff, the company’s chief operating officer. “We are excited to contribute to addressing key challenges like affordable, sustainable and high-quality housing at scale, as well as classroom spaces.”

The federal and provincial governments contributed nearly $10 million in funding to support the project. Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) provided $3 million through its Investments in Forest Industry Transformation (IFIT) program, while the Province of British Columbia’s Manufacturing Jobs Fund committed $6.725 million to support the creation of approximately 100 new jobs.

“This new facility represents a significant $30 million investment for Kalesnikoff,” said chief financial officer Krystle Seed.

Federal and provincial officials lauded the project as a key step in supporting Canada’s forestry sector while advancing national housing goals.

“Canada’s innovative, sustainable forest sector creates good jobs, supports communities in British Columbia and across the country, and provides the material that we can use to build our country,” said Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson, calling the Castlegar facility the first of its kind in North America.

“British Columbia is blessed with incredible natural resources,” added Gregor Robertson, federal minister of housing and infrastructure. “Canada’s forest sector is central to our housing and building ambitions, and will be key to our plan, through Build Canada Homes, to double the pace of housing construction.”

B.C. Jobs Minister Diana Gibson said partnerships with mass timber manufacturers like Kalesnikoff are key to growing advanced wood manufacturing in the province, adding, “We’re supporting local economies and creating long-term, sustainable jobs.”

Kalesnikoff, a fourth-generation, family-owned business with an 86-year legacy in the West Kootenay region, entered the mass timber sector in 2019. The company has since become one of North America’s leading vertically integrated producers of cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulam beams.

Key Takeaways:

• The Canada Infrastructure Bank is investing over $108 million in a new Mi’gmaq-led wind energy project in eastern Quebec, marking its first Indigenous equity loan in the province.
• The Mesgi’g Ugju’s’n 2 Wind Farm is a partnership between Mi’gmaq communities and Innergex Renewable Energy, and will create local jobs while generating enough electricity to power 20,000 homes under a long-term agreement with Hydro-Québec.
• The project is being highlighted by government and industry leaders as a model for Indigenous economic development and clean energy collaboration, with operations expected to begin in late 2026.

The Whole Story:

The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) is investing $108.3 million to support the development of a new wind energy project in eastern Quebec, including its first Indigenous equity loan in the province.

The funding will support the 102.2-megawatt Mesgi’g Ugju’s’n 2 Wind Farm (MU2), located near Rivière-Nouvelle on Mi’gmaq traditional territory in the Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine region. The project is a partnership between the Mi’gmawei Mawiomi Business Corporation (MMBC), which represents the Gesgapegiag, Gespeg, and Listuguj Mi’gmaq communities, and Innergex Renewable Energy Inc.

Of the total investment, $15.8 million will be issued as an equity loan to support MMBC’s ownership stake. The remaining $92.5 million will go toward construction costs. The MU2 project was the only successful bidder from two recent provincial renewable energy tenders to include an Indigenous community partner.

“This project is about building—building clean energy, good jobs and stronger communities,” said Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson. “Through this investment, the Mi’gmaq will advance clean energy, help power homes and secure long-term benefits through community ownership.”

Additional financing for the project includes a $163.9 million green loan, a $41 million construction bridge loan, and a letter of credit facility from CIBC, Desjardins, and National Bank of Canada.

MU2 is expected to generate approximately 150 direct construction jobs, with at least 30% of the workforce drawn from local Mi’gmaq communities. Revenues will be reinvested in community initiatives.

“This project is a powerful example of how strong Indigenous-led partnerships and clean energy development go hand in hand to generate economic and environmental value,” said Michel Letellier, president and CEO of Innergex.

The wind farm will be developed adjacent to the existing 150-megawatt Mesgi’g Ugju’s’n Wind Farm (MU1), also a 50-50 partnership between the Mi’gmaq communities and Innergex. MU2 will use Nordex turbines and operate under a 30-year power purchase agreement with Hydro-Québec. The project is expected to power about 20,000 homes and reduce emissions by more than 150,000 tonnes annually.

“MU2 reflects the maturity and determination of our communities to lead impactful energy development on our own terms,” said Frederic Vicaire, CEO of MMBC. “This partnership with Innergex and the support from the CIB demonstrate that Indigenous-led projects can be scalable, bankable, and rooted in long-term vision.”

The project aligns with Hydro-Québec’s Electricity Supply Plan, which forecasts a 12 percent increase in demand between 2019 and 2029. Commercial operations are expected to begin in late 2026.

Key Takeaways:

• Nucor Corporation, a major steel producer, has made a strategic equity investment in Nexii Inc., a restructured version of a once high-flying Canadian prefab startup, signaling Nucor’s continued expansion into integrated construction solutions.
• After filing for creditor protection and being sold for just US$500,000 in early 2024, Nexii has been recapitalized by Texas-based 3 Gates Capital. The company has since resumed operations in British Columbia and is planning U.S. expansion, backed by $8 million in plant upgrades and rehiring of staff.
• Nexii is connected to national politics through Gregor Robertson, former Vancouver mayor and now Canada’s Housing Minister, who previously helped steer the company’s green building strategy as an executive.

The Whole Story:

Nucor Corporation has made an equity investment in Nexii Inc., a Dallas-based manufacturer of preabricated wall and roof systems for commercial and industrial buildings.

The investment was confirmed by Nexii CEO Audrey Pinkerton, who said it would support the company’s growth plans and product development efforts. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Nexii is the restructured successor to a Canadian startup of the same name, previously known for producing pre-manufactured panels for clients such as Walmart, McDonald’s, and Starbucks. Under new ownership, the company is expanding production capacity at its British Columbia facility and is planning to open a new U.S. plant.

Nucor, one of North America’s largest steel producers, has made several acquisitions in the building products sector in recent years. Its portfolio includes companies involved in data center infrastructure, insulated metal panels, and overhead doors. The Nexii investment aligns with Nucor’s ongoing push to provide integrated construction solutions to the non-residential market.

Nexii’s proprietary building system uses a fast-setting, low-carbon concrete shell around a steel and foam core. The company says the system is designed to reduce on-site labor, minimize construction waste, and improve energy efficiency.

Nexii was originally founded in 2019 in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, before relocating its headquarters to Vancouver. The company rose to prominence as one of Canada’s fastest-growing startups, achieving “unicorn” status in 2021 with a valuation exceeding US$1 billion just 31 months after its founding. By 2022, its valuation had reportedly reached as high as US$2 billion, fueled by significant investment rounds and rapid expansion plans, including projects with major clients like Walmart, McDonald’s, and Starbucks.

However, the company’s momentum began to stall under financial pressure. In early 2024, Nexii filed for creditor protection in British Columbia, revealing that it owed more than C$109 million to creditors. As part of the restructuring process, it sold off its subsidiary Omicron and laid off staff.

Later that year, Nexii’s assets were acquired by Texas-based 3 Gates Capital through a court-approved sale valued at around US$500,000, with 3 Gates also assuming more than C$20 million in liabilities. Under new ownership, the company was relaunched as Nexii Inc., with operations centralized in Dallas and plans to continue manufacturing out of British Columbia. By mid-2024, the new ownership group had invested $8 million into upgrading the company’s Squamish plant and rehired much of the original workforce.

Now recapitalized and restructured, Nexii is once again positioning itself as a key player in the prefabricated building materials sector.

The storied startup also has ties to national politics. Current Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson joined Nexii Building Solutions after leaving his decade-long tenure as Vancouver’s mayor, taking on the role of Executive Vice President of Strategy, Partnerships and Impact. In that capacity, he helped guide the green construction firm toward market growth and product innovation.

On April 28, 2025, Robertson won election as Liberal MP for Vancouver Fraserview–South Burnaby and, just weeks later on May 13, was appointed by Prime Minister Mark Carney as Canada’s Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, also overseeing Pacific Economic Development Canada.

Key Takeaways:

• The Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) has ruled that the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission pipeline project has been substantially started, allowing its 2014 environmental assessment certificate to remain valid indefinitely, provided it is not suspended or cancelled.
• The project, now owned by the Nisga’a Nation and Western LNG (acquired from TC Energy in March 2024), is proposed to supply the Ksi Lisims LNG facility and is undergoing assessment for two major route amendments—one to end at Pearse Island and another to reroute part of the eastern section for efficiency.
• The EAO will continue compliance monitoring throughout construction and operation. The pipeline is designed to transport 2 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day, with future expansion potential up to 3.6 billion cubic feet per day.

The Whole Story:

The chief executive assessment officer of the Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) has determined that the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission (PRGT) natural gas pipeline project has been substantially started.

With this decision, the certificate remains in effect for the life of the project, unless it is cancelled or suspended pursuant to the Environmental Assessment Act. The environmental assessment certificate approving the PRGT project was issued in 2014, following the EAO’s environmental assessment. The certificate required the project to have been substantially started by Nov. 25, 2024, for it to remain valid.

The EAO undertook a detailed assessment process that started at the end of November 2024, examining all evidence relevant to the matter of whether or not the project is substantially started. First Nations potentially impacted by the project had an opportunity to provide their views.

The EAO developed a report on its findings from a field assessment of the project site, documentation from Prince Rupert Gas Transmission Ltd. and information from First Nations, Gitanyow Hereditary Chiefs, Gitxsan Wilps and members of the public for the decision-maker’s consideration. Only construction and other project-related activities by the proponent up to Nov. 25, 2024, were considered.

As outlined in his reasons for decision, the chief executive assessment officer determined that the physical work completed is consistent with standard pipeline development, and together with other activities and investments undertaken, the company demonstrated a strong intention to advance the project in the near term.

Substantial start determinations are made on a case-by-case basis, considering all relevant facts. Substantial start determinations are commonly delegated by the minister of environment and parks to the EAO’s chief executive assessment officer.

EAO compliance and enforcement officers will continue to monitor the PRGT project throughout construction and operation to ensure the project meets all requirements in the project’s environmental assessment certificate.

The PRGT project was approved in 2014 to run about 900 kilometres between Hudson’s Hope in northeastern B.C. and Lelu Island near Prince Rupert (the site of a previously proposed, but since cancelled, LNG processing facility). The project as approved includes both land and marine sections of pipeline, along with compressor and metering stations.

The PRGT project was acquired from TC Energy Corporation by Nisga’a Nation and Western LNG in March 2024, to supply natural gas to the proposed Ksi Lisims LNG facility, a project the EAO is currently assessing.

Prince Rupert Gas Transmission Ltd. applied to the EAO in 2024 to change the pipeline route to end on Pearse Island at the proposed Ksi Lisims LNG site. This amendment request is currently being assessed by the EAO.

The EAO is also assessing a separate amendment request received in 2024 to reroute the eastern portion of the pipeline between Chetwynd and Mackenzie, which includes moving the route south to follow part of an existing cleared right of way and shortening it by about 50 kilometres.

The PRGT pipeline project would transport approximately 2 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day, with capacity to expand to about 3.6 billion cubic feet per day.

Key Takeaways:

• AtkinsRéalis and Électricité de France (EDF) have signed a significant collaboration agreement aimed at supporting the global expansion of nuclear energy by combining their engineering capabilities, sharing best practices, and jointly providing non-reactor equipment and commissioning services.
• The partnership will help scale up the development of both large and small nuclear reactors to meet growing international demand for low-carbon, reliable energy, while each company retains the ability to compete independently in reactor technology selection processes.
• The agreement deepens the long-standing relationship between the two companies—already collaborating on nuclear projects in the UK and France—and positions them to jointly enhance nuclear capabilities and energy security in Canada, Europe, and globally.

The Whole Story:

AtkinsRéalis Group announced it has concluded a pivotal collaboration agreement with Électricité de France (EDF), one of the world’s leading electricity production and distribution companies.

“This collaboration agreement with a world-class organization like EDF is a gamechanger for the nuclear industry and makes good strategic sense,” said Ian L. Edwards, President and Chief Executive Officer, AtkinsRéalis. “There is a global need for more cleaner, affordable and reliable energy that can only be achieved with nuclear power. Only by scaling up our efforts can we address the need for more low-carbon energy and for global market demand of 1000 large and small reactors.”

The collaboration agreement, which will expand the strategic partnership between the two nuclear power nations and better integrate their respective industries, will cover both pre-technology and post-technology vendor selection processes and will include:

• Engineering support
• The provision of non-reactor equipment
• Sharing of best practices
• Installation and commissioning services
• Engagement between the centres of excellence of each organization

Both companies will continue to compete on reactor technology vendor selection processes where appropriate or when asked by governments and developers in support of global efforts to transition to low-carbon energy.

“AtkinsRéalis is already working with EDF in the UK and France as a strategic partner in their new nuclear build program. This collaboration strengthens our relationship and will enable both organizations to extend international capacity, while harnessing their collective expertise and technical capabilities, to support the next wave of nuclear generation in the coming years,” said Joe St. Julian, President, Nuclear, AtkinsRéalis.

“The deepening of our partnership with AtkinsRéalis underscores EDF’s commitment to steering progress in the nuclear industry alongside our valued Canadian partner. By combining their global and complementary expertise, knowledge and skills, both our companies demonstrate their dedication to fostering innovation and bolstering both our nations’ nuclear capabilities for enhanced energy sovereignty and security. The power of working together will drive us forward in Canada, in Europe and around the world,” said Vakis Ramany, SVP, International Nuclear Development, EDF.

Canada is actively advancing the development and deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs) as part of its clean energy transition and net-zero goals. The federal government, alongside provinces like Ontario, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, and Alberta, has endorsed a national SMR Action Plan to support the safe, commercially viable rollout of SMRs.

Ontario Power Generation (OPG) is leading the way with the construction of a GE Hitachi BWRX-300 SMR at the Darlington site—the first grid-scale SMR project in North America, set to be completed by the end of the decade. Parallel efforts include feasibility studies, regulatory groundwork by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), and investment in Indigenous engagement, workforce development, and supply chain readiness to ensure SMRs play a significant role in decarbonizing Canada’s energy, mining, and remote sectors.

Key Takeaways:

• The Ontario government and City of Toronto are moving forward with plans to build a third electricity transmission line into downtown Toronto, responding to projections that the city’s electricity demand will nearly double by 2050 — especially in fast-growing areas like the Port Lands and East Harbour.
• The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) has proposed three potential routes — two overland and one underwater — all designed to minimize land-use impacts by leveraging existing corridors, underground cabling, or underwater infrastructure. A final recommendation will be made by August 2025 after further public and stakeholder engagement.
• Alongside the transmission line, the IESO will explore complementary solutions such as rooftop solar, battery storage, and expanded energy efficiency programs to help manage peak demand and ensure a reliable, affordable power supply for Toronto’s growing population and infrastructure needs.

The Whole Story:

The Ontario government and City of Toronto are working together to bring a third electricity transmission line into downtown Toronto to ensure the city has the power it needs to support new homes, economic growth and major infrastructure like transit. The government’s plan to significantly expand energy infrastructure is an important part of its work to protect Ontario by making the province the most competitive jurisdiction and best place to invest and create jobs in the G7.

“We are acting now to protect Ontario families, workers and businesses by ensuring our province’s largest city has the power it needs to grow,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines. “By planning for and investing in this critical infrastructure, we’re securing the electricity needed to power new communities like the Port Lands and East Harbour in downtown Toronto, as well as supporting major transit expansions like the Ontario Line and securing a reliable and affordable energy supply without relying on other jurisdictions.”

Toronto’s electricity demand is expected to roughly double by 2050, with the greatest need being projected in the downtown core. The City of Toronto is currently supplied by only two transmission supply paths, one from the west at Manby Transmission Station (TS) near Kipling Road and Dundas Street and one from the east at Leaside TS near Overlea Boulevard and Millwood Road. These pathways will start to reach their capacity in the early 2030s. Following more than a year of technical analysis and public engagement, Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) has confirmed a third transmission line will be required to meet Toronto’s growing demand.

“Toronto is growing. As we build more housing, transit, and create more jobs, we’re going to need the power that fuels and sustains economic growth,” said Olivia Chow, Mayor of Toronto. “With our electricity needs doubling over the coming decades, we’re ready to work with the provincial government to advance a third transmission line that will help power our growing city.”

The IESO has identified three potential options for new transmission supply in Toronto, each of which has been designed to minimize land-use impacts by using existing infrastructure corridors, underground segments or underwater routes:

• An overland route from Pickering to Leaside in Toronto. This line would connect Cherrywood Transmission Station (TS) to Leaside TS using an existing transmission corridor.
• An overland route from Pickering to the Port Lands in Toronto. This line would connect Cherrywood TS to Hearn TS via Warden TS, using an existing corridor to Warden TS, then possibly transitioning to an underground cable from Warden TS to Hearn TS.
• An underwater cable from Darlington or Pickering to the Port Lands in Toronto. This line would connect underwater through Lake Ontario.

The IESO – as part of its Integrated Regional Resource Plan – will conduct further engagement this summer — including continued public engagement and targeted discussions with the City of Toronto, Indigenous communities, and key stakeholders — to inform a final recommendation to the government by the end of August 2025.

Once a final recommendation is made, the Ontario government will evaluate what actions must be taken to kickstart its development. Depending on the option selected and the necessary approvals, construction and commissioning could take between seven to 10 years to complete.

In addition to a third transmission line, the IESO will also continue engagement to identify complementary solutions to meet electricity demand across Toronto. This could include small-scale generation and storage, such as rooftop solar and battery systems, as well as expanded energy efficiency programs to reduce strain on the grid and help manage peak demand.

Key Takeaways:

• BC Hydro is launching a 10-year, $36-billion capital plan — the largest in its history — to upgrade and expand B.C.’s electricity system and meet rising demand from population growth, housing, industry, and the shift to clean energy.
• The plan focuses on increasing the province’s supply of clean, renewable electricity through new generation and transmission projects, supporting B.C.’s climate goals and its transition away from fossil fuels.
• The capital plan is expected to create approximately 10,500 jobs annually over the next decade, supporting economic development in communities across the province, including significant opportunities for Indigenous participation.

The Whole Story:

BC Hydro has launched two requests for expressions of interest (RFEOI) to explore the next era of the province’s power potential, expand clean-energy resources and advance energy efficiency.

Officials say these actions are critical to ensuring a stable, reliable electricity system that supports new housing, businesses and industries while keeping energy costs affordable for people.

“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to lead the world in clean energy and we’re acting with urgency to make sure every British Columbian benefits,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions. “By expanding our clean-power supply and increasing energy efficiency, we’re securing our power grid, building a resilient electricity system and creating sustainable jobs that drive economic growth.”

The first RFEOI focuses on expanding B.C.’s long-term capacity to meet peak electricity demand as consumption patterns evolve. BC Hydro is seeking ideas on capacity and baseload energy projects, including geothermal, pumped storage and hydroelectric resources. Capacity and baseload projects can reliably deliver firm power and provide backup for intermittent energy projects, such as wind and solar that rely on external, uncontrollable conditions such as the wind blowing or the sun shining to deliver power.

The second RFEOI targets innovation in energy efficiency by identifying partners capable of delivering market-ready technologies that help conserve energy in homes and buildings. Through the RFEOI, BC Hydro seeks to collaborate with industry leaders and forward-thinking organizations to help people in British Columbia save energy and lower costs.

Energy efficiency is the cleanest and least expensive way to meet increasing demand for power. The energy-efficiency RFEOI supports BC Hydro’s comprehensive Power Smart energy savings program and complements BC Hydro’s $700 million expanded Energy Efficiency Plan, which increases investments in tools, technologies and rebates. These initiatives encourage energy-conscious decisions and help customers reduce electricity consumption. BC Hydro estimates that this plan will save customers $80 million annually and deliver more than 2,000 gigawatt-hours of electricity savings by 2030, the equivalent of powering more than 200,000 homes.

“We are looking beyond the near term and opening up exploration of the next chapter of B.C.’s energy future by advancing the dialogue with industry participants and potential partners around clean-technology investments and expanding our leading energy-efficiency programs,” said Chris O’Riley, president and CEO of BC Hydro. “With BC Hydro’s long-standing legacy of delivering clean, reliable power, these initiatives will drive growth, sustainability and energy security, creating new opportunities across British Columbia.”

The information gathered from both RFEOIs will guide future energy planning and procurement strategies. Submissions will close in September 2025.

Both initiatives are part of the recently announced Clean Power Action Plan, an ambitious strategy to strengthen energy security, enhance system resilience and accelerate the transition to clean power. The plan also includes:

• launching a second call for power to acquire a target of as much as 5,000 gigawatt-hours per year of energy from large, clean and renewable projects, which builds on the success of the 2024 call for power and resulted in 10 new renewable-energy projects, with First Nations asset ownership between 49% and 51%, capable of powering about 500,000 new homes;
• investing more than $12 million from the B.C. Innovative Clean Energy fund in a targeted three-year call for new, made-in-B.C. clean-energy technologies that will combat climate change and create sustainable jobs; and
• streamlining connections to B.C.’s grid to enable new homes and businesses to access clean electricity faster and less expensively.

Through these actions, BC Hydro is reinforcing its commitment to delivering clean, reliable energy, supporting British Columbia’s transition to a low-carbon economy and ensuring electricity remains affordable, sustainable and accessible to all residents.

Key Takeaways:

• Ontario’s proposed Protect Ontario by Securing Affordable Energy for Generations Act would, for the first time, direct the province’s two main energy agencies to make job creation and investment attraction explicit priorities, folding economic development into every major power-planning decision.
• With electricity demand forecast to rise 75 % by 2050 — driven largely by a wave of data-centre projects that could equal nearly 30 % of today’s peak load — the bill seeks to let regulators screen those facilities and green-light only the ones that deliver high-value jobs and keep Canadian data inside Canada.
• The legislation would also expand funding tools for new nuclear and hydrogen projects and let utilities spend ratepayer dollars to exclude “hostile foreign” suppliers.

The Whole Story:

The Ontario government has introduced legislation that would weave economic development, cybersecurity and hydrogen production into the province’s long-term energy planning.

The Protect Ontario by Securing Affordable Energy for Generations Act, 2025 would give the Independent Electricity System Operator and the Ontario Energy Board a new, explicit mandate to pursue projects that create jobs and attract investment. It also proposes letting utilities spend ratepayer dollars to bar “hostile foreign participants” from Ontario’s electricity sector and to prioritise Canadian-made equipment.

Energy Minister Stephen Lecce said the bill is a response to an expected 75 % jump in electricity demand over the next quarter-century — the equivalent of powering four-and-a-half Torontos — as more people plug in electric vehicles, heat pumps and data centres. “As global competition intensifies, energy demand surges, and affordability becomes more important than ever, Ontario isn’t standing still — we’re stepping up,” he said in an interview.

A key pressure point is the rapid expansion of data-centre projects that support artificial-intelligence and cloud-computing services. Proposals waiting in the queue could require as much as 6,500 megawatts of new capacity, nearly 30 % of today’s provincial peak demand. The bill would create an authority to decide which of those projects proceed, favouring facilities that promise high-quality jobs and keep Canadian data on Canadian soil.

Other measures in the act would:

• expand the Future Clean Electricity Fund so it can pay for new nuclear reactors and the transmission lines needed to connect them; and
• broaden the IESO’s responsibilities to include hydrogen initiatives financed through the existing Hydrogen Innovation Fund.

Associate Minister Sam Oosterhoff, whose portfolio covers energy-intensive industries, said the legislation “assures all power consumers of an integrated, all-of-the-above energy approach that prioritises economic growth and affordability — for decades to come.”

If passed, the act will underpin Ontario’s first Integrated Energy Plan, expected later this month. The province says the plan will map out how to keep electricity bills stable while building enough low-carbon generation to supply homes, factories and the next wave of digital infrastructure without relying on imports from neighbouring jurisdictions.

Key Takeaways:

• Alberta has established the Sand and Gravel Task Force to review and streamline regulatory processes for sand and gravel pits on private land, aiming to reduce approval times and improve efficiency.
• While the task force seeks to speed up project timelines, members from municipalities and industry stress the importance of maintaining environmental standards and protecting farmland and infrastructure.
• The task force includes MLAs, municipal representatives, and industry stakeholders, with a mandate to deliver actionable recommendations within six months to strengthen Alberta’s aggregate supply chain.

The Whole Story:

Alberta has launched a new task force aimed at reducing regulatory delays and red tape in the province’s sand and gravel sector, a move the government says will improve access to critical construction materials without compromising environmental protections.

The Sand and Gravel Task Force will review provincial regulations governing privately owned sand and gravel pits and deliver recommendations within six months. The goal, according to the government, is to speed up approval timelines for new projects while addressing long-standing concerns from landowners and industry operators.

“Sand and gravel are foundational for building and maintaining a strong economy,” said Glenn van Dijken, MLA for Athabasca-Barrhead-Westlock and co-chair of the task force. “From road infrastructure to industrial uses or residential housing, these resources are essential. Our government is determined to ensure the regulatory process around sand and gravel pits recognizes the need for efficiency and clarity.”

Brandon Lunty, MLA for Leduc-Beaumont and fellow co-chair, added that streamlining the process could unlock significant development potential. “With more than 1,000 sand and gravel pit registrations on private land, streamlining the applications and approvals will bring significant development benefits,” he said.

The task force includes representatives from rural and urban municipalities, as well as industry associations. Among them is Amber Link of the Rural Municipalities of Alberta, who highlighted the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental and agricultural priorities.

“Rural municipalities are on the front lines of balancing the economic value of aggregate extraction with the need to protect farmland, infrastructure and the environment,” she said. “This is an important step toward ensuring that the voices of rural communities are not only heard but meaningfully integrated into decision-making.”

Tara Elwood, representing Alberta Municipalities, also expressed support for the initiative, noting its potential to benefit the association’s 264 member communities. “I look forward to finding ways to streamline and accelerate the regulatory process for sand and gravel extraction, while upholding Alberta’s commitment to environmental excellence,” she said.

While industry groups have welcomed the initiative, the task force’s focus will be limited to aggregate operations on private lands, which are regulated under Alberta’s Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act and the Water Act. The government has emphasized that any proposed changes must still meet existing environmental standards.

Environment and Protected Areas Minister Rebecca Schulz described the initiative as part of a broader effort to modernize Alberta’s regulatory systems.

“It’s time to stop graveling under bureaucracy and start building Alberta’s future,” Schulz said. “MLA van Dijken and MLA Lunty will leave no stone unturned as they dig into this important work.”

The task force is expected to deliver its recommendations by the end of 2025.

Key Takeaways:

• TotalEnergies has signed a 20-year Sales and Purchase Agreement to buy 2 million tons of LNG annually from the future Ksi Lisims LNG facility, strengthening its North American LNG portfolio and supporting long-term supply commitments to Asian markets.
• TotalEnergies has acquired a 5% stake in Western LNG, the project’s developer and future operator, with the option to increase its ownership to approximately 10% upon final investment decision, reinforcing its integrated strategy in the LNG value chain.
• Ksi Lisims LNG, a floating LNG export plant co-developed by the Nisga’a Nation, aims to achieve net zero emissions within three years of operation through renewable energy use and carbon offsets, while delivering economic and social benefits to Indigenous and local communities.

The Whole Story:

TotalEnergies has signed a Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with Ksi Lisims LNG for the purchase of 2 million tons of LNG for 20 years from the future liquefaction plant, subject to the final investment decision of the project.

In parallel, TotalEnergies acquires a 5% stake in Western LNG, the developer, shareholder, and future operator of the Ksi Lisims LNG project. This acquisition grants TotalEnergies the option to increase its stake in Western LNG and/or take a direct stake in the plant up to approximately 10% when the final investment decision is made.

“This purchase of LNG from the future Ksi Lisims LNG plant will allow us to diversify our LNG portfolio in North America and benefit from competitive LNG supply in Western Canada to better serve our Asian customers, with whom we are developing a significant portfolio of long-term supply contracts”, said Stéphane Michel, President of Gas, Renewables & Power at TotalEnergies. “As part of our integrated strategy, we are also pleased to partner with Western LNG to support the development of this very low CO₂ emission liquefaction plant project.”

Ksi Lisims LNG is a proposed floating liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility located on Nisga’a Nation treaty lands at Wil Milit, on the northern tip of Pearse Island near Gingolx, British Columbia. Jointly developed by the Nisga’a Nation, Rockies LNG, and Western LNG, the project is designed to produce up to 12 million tonnes of LNG per year, receiving 1.7 to 2.0 billion cubic feet of natural gas daily via a pipeline from northeastern British Columbia, with commercial operations targeted for late 2028 or 2029.

The facility aims to set a new environmental standard by achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions within its first three years of operation, primarily through the use of renewable BC Hydro power, energy efficiency measures, and carbon offsets. Ksi Lisims LNG is expected to provide significant economic and social benefits, including jobs, training, and business opportunities for Indigenous and local communities, while contributing to global emissions reductions by supplying lower-carbon LNG to Asian markets as an alternative to coal and oil.