Category: Technology

Cranes are the muscle behind Canada’s biggest builds. From lifting precast concrete panels on high-rises to placing turbines in remote energy projects, crane companies play a vital role in nearly every corner of the construction industry. Whether it’s a mobile crane navigating tight urban streets or a tower crane reaching into the skyline, these machines — and the people who operate them — are essential to getting the job done.

This list highlights some of the top crane companies operating across Canada. These firms supply and service the equipment that makes vertical construction, industrial expansion, and infrastructure development possible — safely, efficiently, and at scale.

Sterling Crane

Sterling Crane, part of Marmon Crane Services under Berkshire Hathaway, is one of Canada’s largest crane rental providers. With a 625‑unit strong fleet spanning All Terrain, Rough Terrain, Boom Trucks, Carry Decks, Hydraulic Truck and Crawler cranes (up to 885 ton capacity), they operate from at least 27 locations coast‑to‑coast in Canada. Headquartered in Edmonton, they serve the industrial, infrastructure, power and commercial sectors with both bare-rentals and fully operated services. Known for their engineering-backed lift planning, ISO‑9001 quality systems, and heavy-lift contracting, they’re a go-to for complex and large-scale projects.

North West Crane Enterprises Ltd.

Founded in 1993 and based in Leduc, Alberta, North West Crane is a premier Western Canada provider of truck, Rough Terrain, All Terrain, crawler cranes and telehandlers. They are Canada’s exclusive dealer for Ferrari knuckleboom cranes and also distribute Weldco, XCMG and Manitex machinery. Their fleet ranges from 40 ton units to massive 4,000 ton cranes, and their services include sales, rentals, in-house installation, custom fabrication, crane certification, and parts servicing. With locations in Leduc and Grande Prairie, they’re recognized for high-quality support and regional excellence.

Atlantic Crane & Material Handling

Headquartered in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, with branches in NS, NB, and Newfoundland, Atlantic Crane & Material Handling was founded in 1997. They specialize in overhead cranes, custom material handling systems, crane design/engineering, equipment modernization, preventive maintenance, inspections, rigging solutions and operator training. A team of 11–50 technicians, they deliver tailored, safe, and efficient material handling across Atlantic Canada, from design and installation to service and training.

GWIL Crane Service

GWIL Crane Service is a B.C.-based mobile crane provider with over four decades of experience. Operating out of Burnaby and Castlegar, the company offers a diverse fleet that includes all-terrain, rough-terrain, truck-mounted, carry-deck, lattice boom, and crawler cranes ranging from 6 to 500 tons. Known for its 24/7 availability and certified operators, GWIL emphasizes computerized lift planning and strict adherence to provincial safety standards.

Eagle West Crane & Rigging

Based in Abbotsford, Eagle West Crane & Rigging is a major player in the B.C. crane rental market and part of the TNT Crane & Rigging network. Their fleet includes over 650 cranes, ranging from hydraulic and folding boom to crawler and rough terrain models. The company also manufactures and supplies precast concrete barriers and retaining walls. Eagle West is known for engineered lift planning, industrial moving services, and a strong safety culture backed by COR and IIF certification.

RKM Crane Services Ltd.

RKM Crane Services operates across British Columbia with yards in Langley, Chemainus, and Kamloops. They specialize in mobile crane rentals, offering boom trucks, rough terrain, all terrain, and crawler cranes with capacities from 8.5 to 500 tons. The company provides engineering-integrated lift planning, rigging, hoisting, and 24/7 emergency services, serving sectors such as construction, energy, and infrastructure.

Regional Crane Rentals Ltd.

Operating since 1972, Regional Crane Rentals is based in Ottawa and serves both Ontario and Western Quebec. The company offers a wide range of hydraulic truck, boom truck, and all-terrain cranes, with capacities reaching up to 550 tons. They also provide repair, inspection, and certified operator services, maintaining a strong reputation for safety and reliability in the region.

Elite Crane Rental Inc.

Elite Crane Rental is a family-owned company based in Hamilton, Ontario, with additional yards in Toronto and Niagara Falls. Since 2015, they’ve provided a wide range of mobile cranes including all-terrain, boom truck, carry deck, rough terrain, crawler, and spyder cranes, with capacities from 8 to 600 tons. All operators are Red Seal-certified, and the company offers full project coordination with a focus on safety and customer service.

TNT Crane & Rigging Canada

TNT Crane & Rigging operates one of Canada’s largest crane fleets, with over 700 units and capacities reaching 900 tons. Headquartered in Edmonton and serving the country through a national network, TNT offers mobile, tower, carry-deck, and crawler cranes. They are known for in-house engineering, specialized rigging services, machinery moving, and industrial storage, serving large-scale industrial and infrastructure clients.

Bigfoot Crane Company Inc.

Bigfoot Crane Company, based in Abbotsford, British Columbia, specializes in tower cranes, self-erecting cranes, and high-angle material handling solutions. Founded in 2014, the company also operates a crane training academy that offers certification programs for folding boom, stiff boom, self-erecting, and tower cranes. Bigfoot is recognized for its focus on safety, innovation, and comprehensive support services for material handling.

Morwest Crane & Services Ltd.

Morwest Crane & Services is a Calgary-based tower crane provider founded in 1988. The company is the exclusive Canadian distributor for Wolffkran tower cranes and offers services including crane rental, erection, dismantling, climbing, and sales. With operations across Canada and the U.S., Morwest serves high-rise construction and major infrastructure projects with a reputation for quality and engineering support.

NATIO GRUES

Serving the Greater Montreal area including Laval, Montreal, and Terrebonne within a 120 km radius, NATIO GRUES has over 35 years of industry experience providing crane and boom truck rental services. They offer comprehensive assembly, dismantling, and operation services for construction projects across commercial, industrial, institutional, residential, and agricultural sectors.

Tremblay Grues

Founded in 1976 and covering all of Quebec, Tremblay Grues offers boom trucks and mobile cranes for rent with 24/7 emergency service. They serve commercial, industrial, agri-food, metallurgical, oil, gas, and chemical sectors, providing both equipment rental and certified operators throughout the province.

Able Crane Services

Operating since 1977 and based in Winnipeg, Able Crane Services has established itself as Manitoba’s leading crane rental company with over 30 modern cranes ranging from 9-ton carry deck units to 270-ton all-terrain cranes. They provide comprehensive services including 3D lift analysis, precast concrete installation, heavy haul, and machinery moving throughout Manitoba and surrounding provinces.

NCSG Crane & Heavy Haul Corporation

Founded in 1987 and based in Edmonton, NCSG is a leading industrial services company with approximately 700 employees and an extensive fleet of over 280 mobile cranes. They serve the geographic region from Western Canada through Montana and North Dakota down to Texas, specializing in oil sands, oil and gas, LNG, mining, refining, and wind projects. Their comprehensive services include crane rental, heavy haul, jack & slide systems, and hydraulic gantries.

Cropac Equipment Inc.

Established in 1977, Cropac has become the Canada-wide authorized distributor for Tadano rough terrain, all terrain, and telescopic boom crawler cranes. With locations in Ontario, Quebec, Alberta and B.C., they provide comprehensive coverage with factory-trained technicians serving coast-to-coast.

Konecranes Canada

As a global leader in overhead crane services and manufacturing, Konecranes maintains significant Canadian operations with locations in Burlington, Windsor, Ottawa, Dartmouth, and Newfoundland. They specialize in overhead cranes, hoists, warehouse automation, and provide comprehensive service networks for industrial crane maintenance and repair across Canada.

Sarens Canada

Acquired Canada Crane Services in 2011 and rebranded as Sarens Canada in 2014, this company has become a major player in wind energy, oil & gas, and civil infrastructure projects. Based in Leduc, Alberta, with expanding presence across B.C. and Ontario, Sarens Canada features the specialized LG1750 crane designed specifically for wind turbine projects, offering unique advantages over traditional crawler cranes in the growing renewable energy sector.

Mammoet Canada

One of the world’s largest crane rental companies with significant Canadian operations, Mammoet operates both western and eastern divisions. Mammoet Canada Western spans nine branches from Regina to Vancouver with capacities from 3 to 750 tons, while Mammoet Canada Eastern services Northern Ontario with specialized heavy lifting and transport solutions for mining and industrial sectors. Their global expertise and extreme capacity equipment (including 1,600-tonne crawler cranes) make them essential for major infrastructure and industrial projects.

Amherst Crane Rentals 

Amherst is a Toronto-based leader in crane rental and concrete pumping services, serving Southern Ontario for over 60 years. Founded in 1962, it has grown from a small startup to one of Canada’s most recognized heavy equipment service companies, still family-operated and renowned for its reliability and expertise. They boast an extensive fleet of state-of-the-art cranes, including mobile cranes, rough terrain cranes, and boom trucks, with capacities ranging from 8 to 600 tons.

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

Canada’s data centre sector is rapidly expanding to meet the growing demand for cloud services, AI processing, and secure data storage. From hyperscale campuses to regional colocation hubs, the country’s infrastructure push is being led by a mix of general contractors, dedicated developers, and multinational operators. Here’s a look at the key players building out Canada’s data centre ecosystem.

Bird Construction

Bird Construction is a leading Canadian builder with a strong track record in mission-critical infrastructure, including data centres. With over 100 years of experience and a workforce of more than 5,000 across 18 cities, Bird delivers both greenfield and retrofit projects. Notable data centre builds include the Rogers Data Centre in Edmonton, Shaw Campus Data Centre in Airdrie, and a confidential 300,000 sq. ft. facility in Calgary, built to LEED standards. The company leverages prefabrication, laser scanning, and self-perform capabilities to deliver complex, sustainable projects with schedule certainty. Bird often acts as a general contractor for hyperscale and enterprise clients, reflecting its growing role in this high-demand sector.

PCL

PCL Construction is one of Canada’s largest general contractors and has delivered several high-security, mission-critical facilities, including data centres. With expertise in integrated delivery models, building envelope solutions, and energy systems, PCL frequently partners with hyperscalers and telecom clients for custom builds. While many of their data centre projects are under non-disclosure agreements, they are widely recognized for delivering confidential hyperscale facilities across Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec.

TCA Developments

TCA Developments is a Canadian builder and developer specializing in data centre and colocation infrastructure. Operating in markets such as Toronto, Edmonton, and Vancouver, the company focuses on hyperscale, enterprise, and telecom-ready facilities. While public details on flagship projects are limited, TCA’s business model emphasizes secure, energy-efficient infrastructure aligned with Canadian regulatory and environmental standards.

STACK Infrastructure

STACK Infrastructure is a global data centre developer that recently entered the Canadian market with major investments in Toronto and Montreal. The company targets hyperscale customers with rapid, scalable, and sustainable data centre campuses. STACK’s developments are designed to meet high-density compute needs and integrate renewable energy, reflecting growing demand for AI and cloud capacity in Canada.

Cologix

Cologix is a leading data centre operator and developer with a significant footprint in Canada. The company offers colocation and interconnection services across facilities in Montreal, Toronto, and Calgary. Cologix continues to expand its hyperscale capacity, including a new large-scale data centre in Montreal. Their carrier-neutral approach and strategic location choices have made them a key part of Canada’s digital infrastructure.

Digital Realty

Digital Realty is a global data centre developer with a strong presence in Canada through campuses in Toronto and Montreal. They serve cloud providers, telecoms, and enterprises with resilient, energy-efficient colocation and hyperscale solutions. The company has invested heavily in expansion to meet demand from cloud computing and AI workloads, offering low-latency interconnection across North America.

eStruxture Data Centers

eStruxture is a Canadian-owned data centre provider with facilities in Montreal, Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver. The company specializes in scalable, carrier-neutral infrastructure tailored for cloud and enterprise customers. Known for its emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability, eStruxture recently expanded its Montreal footprint to support growing AI and edge computing demand.

Vantage Data Centers

Vantage is developing hyperscale campuses in Canada, particularly in Montreal. Following its 2020 acquisition of Hypertec’s data centre assets, Vantage has built a presence focused on scalable, sustainable facilities for cloud and enterprise clients. The company integrates renewable energy and advanced cooling systems to meet high-performance compute needs with a smaller environmental footprint.

QScale

QScale is a Quebec-based data centre developer focused on AI, high-performance computing, and green energy. Their flagship campus in Lévis, Quebec, is designed to run on 100% hydroelectric power and offers direct liquid cooling for energy-intensive applications. The project is backed by government support and private equity and represents one of Canada’s most ambitious climate-aligned data centre builds.

AWS, Microsoft, and Google (Self-Build Hyperscalers)

Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud are all expanding their infrastructure footprints in Canada, particularly in Ontario and Quebec. While they typically build and operate their own facilities, these hyperscalers contract major Canadian construction firms—often under strict confidentiality—to deliver highly secure, hyperscale-capable campuses. These builds are a key driver of Canada’s current data centre construction surge.

EllisDon

EllisDon is a major Canadian contractor with a dedicated Technology and Data Centre group. The firm delivers turnkey data centre solutions through design-build, IPD, and P3 models. While less publicly visible in the data centre space than PCL or Bird, EllisDon has worked on institutional, telecom, and enterprise-class facilities across Canada, offering strong technical and sustainability expertise. Their team says they are the nation’s top data centre builder.

Key Takeaways:

• Productivity crisis at a tipping point: Construction productivity in Canada has fallen to levels below those of 1997, with output per hour worked collapsing after the pandemic—even as demand for major infrastructure and housing projects skyrockets.
• Tech optimism rising: 90% of construction professionals believe tools like AI, BIM, and digital twins can boost efficiency, and over half of surveyed firms are now prioritizing prefabrication and modular building to reduce costs and timelines.
• Tariffs and labour top concerns: Tariffs on U.S. materials, a chronic skilled labour shortage, and interprovincial trade barriers are major threats. Nearly three-quarters of companies expect it will become harder to meet project demand in the next decade.

The Whole Story:

Nine in 10 construction leaders in Canada say the industry must move quickly to adopt advanced technologies if it hopes to keep pace with soaring demand for housing and infrastructure.

That’s according to a new report by KPMG in Canada, which found that most companies are already starting to see a payoff from their tech investments. Tools like artificial intelligence, modular construction, robotics, and digital project modelling are beginning to boost productivity, even as the sector faces ongoing labour shortages and economic uncertainty.

Productivity push amid labour crunch

The survey of 265 construction executives found that 78 per cent of firms are still facing skilled labour shortages, and nearly three-quarters believe meeting demand will become even more difficult over the next decade as retirements outpace recruitment.

Jordan Thomson, director with KPMG’s Global Infrastructure Advisory practice, said the pressure is mounting for the sector to “do far more with less.”

While shortages have slightly eased since 2023, 70 per cent of companies still say the labour crunch is affecting their ability to bid on new projects or complete existing ones. That’s prompting many to prioritize technology that improves efficiency, streamlines work, and reduces reliance on manual labour.

Modular, AI and automation gaining traction

The report shows firms are increasingly prioritizing prefabrication and modular construction (53 per cent), along with demand-driven supply chain systems (56 per cent) and AI-powered tools (also 53 per cent). Other emerging technologies—such as drones, robotics, and wearable exoskeletons—are also being explored.

More than 80 per cent of respondents said their recent technology investments have already improved labour productivity or project outcomes.

“These investments are about to pay dividends and transform how we build in Canada,” said Tom Rothfischer, national industry leader for building, construction and real estate at KPMG. But he warned that high input costs and economic headwinds threaten to limit further investment.

Procurement reform seen as key to progress

A major theme in the report is the role of clients and procurement processes in shaping how quickly the industry modernizes. About 43 per cent of respondents said clients now play a “highly influential” role in their decision to adopt new technologies, and nearly 80 per cent said procurement is starting to evolve to support innovation.

Still, construction leaders say outdated tendering systems remain a barrier. “Too often, the system prioritizes lowest price over long-term value,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, president of the Canadian Construction Association. “If we want a modern, productive construction sector, governments must reform procurement to foster collaboration, ensure fair risk-sharing, and create the confidence companies need to invest and grow.”

Gilbert called for urgent action on interprovincial trade barriers and regulatory fragmentation, adding that the sector can’t deliver Canada’s housing and infrastructure targets without coordinated policy reform.

“The construction sector is the foundation of Canada’s nation-building ambitions,” he said. “Nothing gets built without us. The time to act—together—is now.”

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:

• Ottawa is using a high-tech mapping vehicle equipped with LiDAR and 360° cameras to create a detailed digital inventory of traffic infrastructure, including signs, signals, and crosswalks.
• The project feeds into the city’s Digital Twin program, a 3D virtual model used by planners, architects, and emergency services to improve decision-making and infrastructure management.
• Privacy safeguards are in place: the system automatically blurs faces and license plates to protect personal information during data collection.

The Whole Story:

Don’t be surprised if you spot a City of Ottawa SUV cruising your neighbourhood this summer with what looks like a camera rig bolted to its roof. It’s not filming for Google Street View—but it’s not far off.

The vehicle is part of a new initiative called the Mobile Mapping of Traffic Infrastructure Project, a collaboration between several municipal departments aimed at creating a detailed digital inventory of the city’s traffic infrastructure. The effort falls under Ottawa’s broader Digital Twin and Reality Capture program, which uses advanced mapping technologies to build a 3D model of the city.

Mounted on the SUV is a Mosaic Meridian system—an advanced mobile mapping platform equipped with LiDAR sensors and a 360-degree camera. It will be used to scan and document features such as street signs, traffic signals, crosswalks, pavement markings, and streetlights.

City officials say the high-resolution digital inventory will support more efficient planning, installation, and maintenance of traffic assets. The collected data will also be integrated into Ottawa’s growing Digital Twin—a high-fidelity virtual replica of the city that helps planners, architects, and emergency services make better-informed decisions.

“Think of it like Google Street View, but purpose-built for the infrastructure that keeps our roads safe and functioning,” the City said in a statement.

The Digital Twin program relies on a suite of technologies, including LiDAR, drones, photogrammetry, and immersive 360-degree imagery, to digitally replicate both the exterior and interior built environment of Ottawa.

To address privacy concerns, the city confirmed that an automated system will blur any faces or license plates captured during the data collection process.

Parts of the Digital Twin are already accessible to the public via Engage Ottawa, where it is being used to support the development of the city’s new zoning bylaw.

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:

• AtkinsRéalis has partnered with the BWT Alpine Formula One Team, officially launching the collaboration ahead of the 2025 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, with a focus on engineering innovation and talent development.
• The partnership includes plans to create an engineering academy, aimed at training future engineers by leveraging AtkinsRéalis’ expertise in high-performance sectors like aerospace, defence, and nuclear energy.
• Both organizations will share resources and facilities, combining cutting-edge motorsport technology with advanced engineering solutions to enhance performance, sustainability, and technical excellence on and off the track.

The Whole Story:

Engineering and nuclear services firm AtkinsRéalis has entered a new partnership with the BWT Alpine Formula One Team, marking its official launch ahead of this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve.

The collaboration was unveiled Thursday in Montreal by Ian L. Edwards, president and CEO of AtkinsRéalis, and Karel Loos, head of trackside engineering at Alpine. The companies say the partnership will focus on engineering collaboration, technological innovation, and skills development — including the creation of an engineering academy to help train the next generation of talent.

“We are proud to partner with BWT Alpine Formula One Team, starting at this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix,” said Edwards. “By combining our global expertise with BWT Alpine Formula One Team’s pioneering spirit, we’re creating a relationship where seasoned engineers and rising talent can grow together, challenge conventions, and deliver real-world impact in performance, sustainability, and technological excellence.”

David Sanchez, executive technical director of the BWT Alpine Formula One Team, said the partnership reflects the sport’s constant need for engineering excellence.

“We are excited to enter into this partnership with AtkinsRéalis; as competitors in Formula One, cutting-edge engineering is the most important part of the team’s operations,” said Sanchez. “The wide variety of groundbreaking technology mastered by AtkinsRéalis excellently combines with the fast-paced world of motorsport and we are excited to begin this new relationship this weekend in Montreal and beyond.”

According to AtkinsRéalis, the collaboration will draw on its expertise in high-performance engineering across sectors like aerospace, defence and nuclear energy. The company says the partnership will include joint use of resources and facilities to advance both organizations’ technical capabilities.

BWT Alpine, which competes in the FIA Formula One World Championship with drivers Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto, is based in Enstone, U.K. The team has won multiple championships and secured its most recent Grand Prix victory in 2021. It finished the 2024 season with two podiums and placed sixth in the Constructors’ Championship.

AtkinsRéalis, formerly SNC-Lavalin, is headquartered in Montreal and provides engineering, project management and environmental services across Canada and internationally.

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:

• Stelumar Advanced Manufacturing Inc. (SAMI), backed by Mattamy Asset Management and founded by Peter Gilgan, aims to increase the supply of modular homes in Canada through automation, robotics, and AI.
• Although SAMI has a strategic relationship with Mattamy Homes as both investor and future client, it will operate independently and serve a wide range of homebuilders.
• SAMI plans to open a cutting-edge facility in the Greater Toronto Area, with the goal of producing thousands of homes annually to address housing affordability and align with government priorities on modular construction.

The Whole Story:

A new company backed by Mattamy Asset Management is aiming to increase the supply of modular housing in Canada by leveraging automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence.

Stelumar Advanced Manufacturing Inc. (SAMI) has been launched by entrepreneur Peter Gilgan, the founder of Mattamy Homes. The company will focus on the advanced manufacturing of residential building components such as modules, wall panels, floor systems, cabinetry, and millwork. These prefabricated parts are intended to streamline construction and reduce costs.

SAMI plans to open a manufacturing facility in the Greater Toronto Area next year. The company says it will be one of the most advanced and automated modular housing plants in North America.

While SAMI has a strategic relationship with Mattamy Homes – both as an investor and future customer – it will operate independently and serve a broad range of homebuilders.

“We started to seriously look at the opportunity in the last couple of years,” Gilgan said in a statement. “What I think about is the young couple who wants a home where they can live and raise a family, and right now they’re facing a situation where there isn’t enough supply of quality homes and what there is they can’t afford – that’s what this is all about.”

Mattamy Asset Management Chair Kathleen Taylor said the investment aligns with the firm’s focus on addressing housing affordability in Canada.

SAMI says it intends to work with all three levels of government to scale up production and deliver thousands of new homes annually. The company also noted that its plans align with federal goals around increasing the use of modular construction.

“The team is excited about the prospects to make a real difference,” said Peter Hass, General Manager of SAMI. “By harnessing advanced manufacturing and data-driven design, we have an opportunity to build faster, smarter and more sustainably.”

SAMI will operate as a separate entity from Mattamy Homes.

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:

• Isobloc and CarbiCrete have launched Isobloc ZÉRO, the first insulated masonry block made from decarbonized concrete in North America, combining thermal efficiency with drastically reduced carbon emissions.
• The product leverages CarbiCrete’s patented process, which replaces cement with steel slag and uses captured CO₂, significantly lowering the environmental impact of concrete production—an industry responsible for about 8% of global CO₂ emissions.
• Designed and manufactured in Quebec, Isobloc ZÉRO meets ASTM standards and supports green building certifications like LEED and WELL, offering contractors and developers a practical solution to meet growing environmental requirements without sacrificing performance or profitability.

The Whole Story:

Quebec-based companies Isobloc, known for its high-performance, durable insulated concrete blocks, and CarbiCrete, a world leader in decarbonized concrete, are proud to announce the launch of Isobloc ZÉRO: the first insulated masonry solution made from decarbonized concrete in North America.

This 100% Quebec innovation combines thermal performance, ease of installation, and a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions—helping to make building construction more sustainable.

Concrete is the most widely used construction material globally due to its affordability and durability. However, producing one of its key ingredients—cement, the binding agent—is responsible for around 8% of global CO₂ emissions, more than the entire aviation industry.

By combining CarbiCrete’s patented process—using steel slag and captured CO₂ to produce cement-free concrete—with Isobloc’s energy-efficient insulated block system, Isobloc says the ZÉRO product delivers the same performance as standard concrete while significantly reducing construction’s carbon footprint. Their team noted that the Canadian construction industry is expected to reach USD 417.3 billion by 2033, making such solutions more critical than ever.

“Many cities and municipalities have committed to decarbonizing construction in the coming years,” says Eric Dionne, President of Isobloc. “With Isobloc ZÉRO, we’re not just building walls—we’re building for future generations. This is a real revolution in construction. An insulated masonry solution that’s durable, easy to install… and now decarbonized.”

Designed and manufactured in Quebec, Isobloc ZÉRO is intended for architects, contractors, developers, and institutions looking for tangible solutions to meet new environmental standards without compromising quality or profitability. Company officials added that it offers real added value, meets ASTM 90 performance standards, and contributes to certifications such as LEED, BBCA, WELL, and SmartScore.

“CarbiCrete is constantly pushing the boundaries of green building,” says Jacob Homiller, CEO of CarbiCrete. “By combining our cement-free concrete technology with Isobloc’s energy-efficient solution, we’re giving building professionals a powerful tool to reduce both embodied and operational carbon in buildings.”

Founded in 1984, Isobloc manufactures insulated masonry blocks that combine structure, thermal insulation, and architectural finish. The company is known for its local, sustainable, and innovation-driven approach. 

CarbiCrete is a Montreal-based carbon removal technology company whose patented technology enables the production of cement-free, decarbonized concrete made with industrial by-products and captured carbon dioxide. 

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:

• Canada Growth Fund Inc. (CGF) is committing up to $138 million to Calgary-based Eavor Technologies to accelerate the commercialization of its innovative closed-loop geothermal system, Eavor-Loop.
• Since CGF’s initial $90 million investment in 2023, Eavor has made major technical advances at its first commercial-scale project in Germany, including new drilling technologies and proprietary systems like Eavor-Link AMR and Rock-Pipe.
• CGF’s investment supports the retention of Eavor’s leadership and talent in Canada, aligning with its broader mandate to scale homegrown clean technologies and strengthen the country’s low-carbon innovation ecosystem.

The Whole Story:

Canada Growth Fund Inc. (CGF) and Eavor Technologies Inc. announced a financing commitment by CGF of up to $138 million to accelerate the development and commercial deployment of Eavor’s geothermal technology.

Founded in 2017, Eavor is an advanced geothermal technology company based in Calgary, Alberta. Eavor has proven pilot versions of its proprietary closed-loop geothermal system (Eavor-Loop) and a first commercial project is under construction in Geretsried, Germany. In connection with the transaction, CGF executed a definitive agreement committing it to invest up to $138 million: $89 million on financial close and $48 million upon the achievement of certain milestones.

Eavor-Loop leverages Canada’s talent and expertise to build the next generation of geothermal innovation. CGF first invested $90 million in Eavor in October 2023, through a direct commitment in its Series B preferred equity fundraise. Since CGF’s initial investment, Eavor has progressed construction of its first commercial-scale facility in Geretsried and achieved major milestones including successfully intersecting wells using its new Eavor-Link Active Magnetic Ranging (AMR) system; deploying its proprietary insulated drill pipe to enable well construction in high-temperature environments; setting, sidetracking, and retrieving whipstocks to drill deep multilateral wells; and implementing its proprietary Rock-Pipe technology to seal the multilateral wells.

CGF’s scaling capital will continue to facilitate the Company’s Canadian presence by ensuring the majority of its leadership and employee base remain in Canada and leverage Canada’s drilling knowledge and know-how to catalyze the next generation of global geothermal innovation. Eavor’s continued growth will secure its innovation and employment footprint in Canada at its Calgary, Alberta headquarters.

“Our continued investment in Eavor, as the company completes the first commercial-scale application of its technology, is a prime example of CGF’s steadfast commitment to scaling up Canadian companies and investing at a critical stage of their development,” said Yannick Beaudoin, President and CEO of Canada Growth Fund Investment Management Inc. (CGFIM). “CGF was established to drive innovation and competitiveness across new and traditional sectors of Canada’s industrial base, and Eavor is well aligned with our mandate.”

CGF has announced 13 investments since its launch in June 2023 and has committed approximately $2.7 billion to Canadian projects and companies. It has a mandate to invest in Canadian clean technology businesses that are scaling innovative technologies at the demonstration or commercialization stages of development.

“We are grateful for CGF’s continued commitment to our Canadian company, which uses Albertan expertise to drive innovation in the development of new advanced geothermal technologies,” said John Redfern, Co-Founder and CEO of Eavor. “Eavor has achieved significant development and technical milestones in scaling clean, reliable, dispatchable heat and power using its proprietary closed loop geothermal system, and we look forward to building on this progress in the months ahead.”

CGF is a $15 billion arm’s length investment vehicle that helps attract private capital to build Canada’s clean economy by using investment instruments that absorb certain risks, in order to encourage private investment in efficient low carbon projects, technologies, businesses, and supply chains.

Key Takeaways:

• EllisDon has partnered with The Phil App to transform how it sources and disposes of excess soil and aggregate. By using Phil’s open marketplace and tracking tools, EllisDon aims to streamline its material handling processes while enhancing operational efficiency and environmental compliance.
• The partnership is expected to reduce average haulage distances by more than half (from 65 km to 25 km), leading to meaningful reductions in carbon emissions and transportation costs. This shift supports EllisDon’s broader sustainability and digital transformation goals.
• By listing its excess material needs on The Phil App, EllisDon is promoting transparency and collaboration across the construction value chain. The platform enables municipalities, contractors, and developers to easily find and repurpose materials, helping the industry adopt more sustainable and compliant practices.

The Whole Story:

EllisDon Corporation has announced the addition of a new Technology Ecosystem Strategic Partner, The Phil App, as a fundamental change in its excess material sourcing and disposal process. EllisDon will list and source excess soil and aggregate in Phil’s free and open marketplace, then digitally track from source to destination. The Phil App joins EllisDon’s Technology Ecosystem as a part of its ongoing commitment to operational excellence, sustainability, and digital transformation.

This partnership will assist in diverting materials away from landfills to nearby projects for beneficial reuse. By doing so, EllisDon could achieve a 60% reduction in haulage distance; Phil’s load tracking users are hauling materials 25 kilometers on average to their destination compared to the provincial average of 65 kilometers – driving meaningful economic and carbon reduction benefits.

The adoption of The Phil App aims to support EllisDon in reducing compliance risks, gaining new levels of operational visibility, and making it easier for partners across the value chain to adopt sustainable practices.

“This partnership is more than moving excess material from sites, it’s about tracking our carbon impact and understanding our impact on the environment and the industry,” said Brandon Milner, Chief Innovation Officer and Senior Vice President of Digital & Data Engineering, EllisDon. “Working alongside the team at The Phil App means we can now track and evaluate every kilometer our material travels. Furthermore, this single platform will provide our construction teams with a great technology to future-proof our sustainability and technology efforts across the organization.”

“Our mission is for every truck load of construction material to travel the shortest distance possible to a compliant site. That level of haulage optimization is only possible with our unique marketplace and tracking tools. We make it simple for estimators, engineers, contractors, haulers, owners, and municipalities to cut their haulage distance and related emissions in half.” said Bryan Kerr, Co-founder of The Phil App. “We have cracked the code on incentivizing good compliance in a very challenging environment; Ontario companies who create quality listings can now get matched with leaders like EllisDon.”

EllisDon’s excess material requirements can now be viewed publicly on The Phil App at  www.getphil.app. Projects seeking to source locally available soil or excess materials can search, match, and coordinate directly with EllisDon through the platform. Listings are updated regularly and are accessible to developers, contractors, municipalities, and other stakeholders looking to reduce their haulage costs and carbon footprint.

720 Modular has broken new ground on the East Coast, successfully delivering the region’s first complex, multi-storey modular housing projects.

For 720’s Founder and CEO Troy Ferguson and Project Development Partner Craig Mitchell, it wasn’t just an opportunity to create desperately needed homes for vulnerable people — it was a chance to act as ambassadors for the entire modular sector. The pair showcased how modular construction can rapidly deliver housing with efficiency and precision.

The opportunity came at a time when the modular industry was looking to diversify. With a slump in the oil and gas sector, demand for multi-unit commercial modular buildings had plummeted so Ferguson decided to pivot toward the growing demand for Canadian housing. The company was born in 2020 and was quickly engaged by the Canadian Mental Health Association in PEI and local stakeholders because of its experience delivering complex modular projects across the country.

Building local

As the first project of its kind in the region, 720 brought its west coast expertise to Prince Edward Island, a region that has been hit hard with housing shortages. All they needed was a willing team. 

“In modular construction in general it’s all about the strength of the team and the strength of the partners and so what we really wanted was a good collaborative team that was willing to try something new,” said Mitchell, who began connecting with companies. “They were all willing to give modular a try.”

Through 720’s progressive design-build delivery model, early feasibility discussions were translated into actionable modular solutions. The process began by evaluating site constraints, the target population, and the required unit mix. From there, 720 engaged its architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and site partners in a collaborative planning process that emphasized constructability, speed, and community integration.

“We’re bringing our design-build experience to a new market that really has never done modular,” said Mitchell. “It was an opportunity for us to teach.”

Staying on track

You can’t control everything on a construction project — some variables can threaten to derail budgets and timelines. Fitzroy was no different. But 720’s modular approach enabled the team to mitigate risk and maintain certainty for the client.

Partway through permitting, additional funding from the Canada Housing and Mortgage Corporation (CHMC) allowed the project to add a fourth floor with minimal delay, thanks to the flexibility of modular design. Permits were re-submitted and approved within two months.

Foundation work was completed before winter, while modules were built in a factory during the colder months. Once the weather cleared, 36 modules were craned into place over just seven days — including a rain delay — transforming an empty lot into a four-storey building in one week.

“Local residents had never seen this before,” said Mitchell. “There was just an empty lot but in a week there was a four-storey building. People were amazed.”

After erection, finishing work — including siding, electrical, and basement completion — took five more months. The full project, from contract award to occupancy, was completed in 14 months, just slightly beyond 720’s internal 12-month goal. Mitchell noted this was still a strong result for a first-time collaboration among a new consultant team, contractor, and owner.

“As builders, we talk a lot about product and process, but at the end of the day, it’s about people,” said Ferguson. “To know that our work is contributing to a safe, supportive space for women and vulnerable individuals is humbling. Our team takes that responsibility seriously, and we’re proud to be building not just homes, but opportunities for stability, dignity, and community.”

Rather than being a one-off, 720 hopes the Fitzroy project will serve as a positive case study that showcases the potential of modular construction when done right.

Leveraging experience

Ferguson and Mitchell have spent decades in modular construction, amassing a wide range of experience. Ferguson is a successful entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in modular housing, shelters, forestry, and hospitality in Canada and the U.S.

Mitchell has worked as an ambassador for modular for almost 30 years, leading numerous offsite manufacturing and on-site construction projects, specializing in affordable housing and multi-storey commercial developments.

Now, as they enter the back half of their careers, both want to put that experience to good use. 720 specializes exclusively in modular multifamily housing. Unlike many builders who retrofit modular into conventional processes, they’ve developed a process to leverage the advantages of modular, from concept to completion. 

“Modular is a process and you need a shepherd to guide the process,” said Ferguson. “That’s what was missing in the industry. And as a result, you got some poor case studies. Traditional site-build construction teams just didn’t have that offsite knowledge and the ability to look through a lens that could tie it all together and that really is what we have brought as a value proposition to the Maritimes, and the construction industry.”

Key Takeaways:

• VEERUM secured $12 million in Series B funding, led by Veriten and Emerson Ventures, to enhance its reality-based visual operations platform. This funding will support platform improvements, client scalability, and increased adoption of digital reality technologies.
• VEERUM’s VisOps platform enables remote visualization, collaboration, and decision-making by turning reality capture data into actionable insights. It aims to expand access from 5–10% of industry workers to over 90%, reducing costly unplanned events and improving safety and efficiency
• With the digital twin market projected to reach $150 billion by 2032 and 80% of enterprises adopting reality capture technology in 2025, VEERUM is well-positioned as a leader in operationalizing reality capture across energy, mining, and infrastructure sectors.

The Whole Story:

VEERUM, a Calgary-based provider of visual operations for industrial assets, announced today that it has successfully closed its Series B funding round, raising a total of $12 million. The round closed on March 26, 2025 and was led by energy-tech investors Veriten and Emerson Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of industrial technology leader Emerson, with additional participation from existing investors BDC Capital and Evok Innovations.

“VEERUM is setting a new standard for how industrial asset owners access and contextualize their critical operations and engineering data,” said Thurston Cromwell, head of Emerson Ventures and vice president of development and innovation at Emerson. “Its innovative approach to delivering reality-based visualizations and supporting the digital asset management ecosystem is transforming the way people work and collaborate. As a global automation leader, we are excited to support their growth and vision.”

VEERUM CEO David Lod adds, “Our newest investors share the passion in creating this category of visual operations, and they are selecting the strongest companies with the most potential to make these changes in the world. This funding will allow us to enhance our platform’s capabilities, optimize delivery for clients of all sizes, and scale our offering to meet the growing demand for operationalizing digital reality.”

“Currently, only 5-10% of industry workers have access to reality capture. It’s VEERUM’s goal to make that 90%+ across client organizations, and make it common practice across all industries. By having access to current site conditions, we are de-risking unplanned events for industrial asset owners. Events like mechanical or equipment failures, severe weather, and sensor failures, result in hours, days, or weeks of lost production, costing asset owners millions of dollars in lost production each year,” says Rob Southon, CTO at VEERUM.

VEERUM stated that the digital twin market is experiencing rapid growth, with market analysts indicating a 30% to 40% annual growth over the next few years, reaching up to $150 billion by 2032. Furthermore, 80% of enterprise businesses currently use, or are expected to adopt reality capture technology in 2025.

“As an investor focused on accelerating digital transformation across the energy sector and other asset-heavy industries, we’re excited to support VEERUM in this latest funding round,” said Maynard Holt, CEO of Veriten.

He explained that VEERUM’s platform allows organizations to remotely visualize and interact with their operations in ways that were previously unimaginable. Construction teams can virtually walk through job sites before setting foot on location, dramatically improving safety and reducing field exposure. Maintenance crews can inspect assets and plan work from anywhere, cutting down on unnecessary travel. He added that by structuring and sharing reality capture data, VEERUM makes it easier for teams to collaborate, manage information, and drive smarter decisions in real time.

“We’ve seen first-hand how these capabilities deliver meaningful cost savings and efficiency improvements across the energy community,” said Holt. “As a firm deeply committed to long-term energy innovation, we believe VEERUM is leading the way in operationalizing reality capture data at scale — and we’re proud to support them on that journey.”

VEERUM’s team says they have made the world’s first VisOps platform, helping industrial teams turn reality capture data into a scalable advantage. The platform consolidates reality capture data and transforms it into actionable insights. VEERUM removes data silos by providing a central location to upload, visualize, and analyze complex data sets, reducing site visits and enabling better decision-making from anywhere. VEERUM is purpose built for asset owners, operators, and data capture companies in heavy industries like energy, mining, and infrastructure.