STEER Atlantic 2023 was held on November 7, 2023 in Dartmouth, NS. Browse the proceedings below for recordings and slides.
Opening Remarks: HRM’s Progress on Energy and Emissions Reductions
Kevin Boutilier
Manager of Community Energy, Environment, and Climate Change
Halifax Regional Municipality
NECB 2020: Adoption and Notable Changes for Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia’s adoption of the National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB). This session focused on highlighting the implications on the design and construction of new builds and major renovation in Nova Scotia for years to come.
This session featured two speakers.
Joe Rogers
Building Code Coordinator
Office of the Fire marshal
Government of Nova Scotia
Joe Rogers is the Building Code Coordinator in the Office of the Fire Marshal. He is a licensed plumber, has a Bachelor of Applied Science from Queen’s University and is registered in Nova Scotia as a Professional Engineer.
Originally from Ontario, his background includes working as a Building Official, running a contracting firm, Rogers & Associates Mechanical Contractors, working as a Senior Project Manager with Black & McDonald as well as working as a Code Advisor for almost 9 years at the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
He sits as a representative for Nova Scotia on the Provincial Territorial Policy Advisory Committee on Codes, Chair of the Canadian Regulatory Committee on Plumbing and the Canadian Advisory Council on Plumbing and the Federal Provincial Territorial Energy Code Implementation Group.
Anne Lombardi
Vice President, Energy Efficiency
EcoSmart Building Energy Solutions (ESBES)
Anne Lombardi is a professional engineer with expertise in high-performance building design, energy modeling, and energy performance regulations. She has an uncommonly high familiarity with the NECB, and finds genuine joy in discussing energy codes (but really, it’s true). In her work with ESBES, she conducts design energy modeling and assessments for new and existing commercial building projects, collaborating with designers, owners, builders, and industry partners locally and across Canada in pursuit of a low-carbon building future.
Anne’s previous experience includes managing Efficiency Nova Scotia’s Commercial New Construction program, teaching in NSCC’s energy sustainability engineering technology program, and conducting impact assessments of proposed tidal energy development sites. She has been monitoring her carbon footprint since the age of ten, and is passionate about helping society understand and redefine the complex systems that shape our relationship with the earth – with the ultimate goal of reducing anthropogenic impacts on the natural world. Anne’s favorite modeling advice: “All models are wrong, some are useful” – George Box
Panel: Energy Efficiency Programming in Nova Scotia
This panel presented case studies and financial business cases of energy efficiency and deep energy reduction projects as undertaken by E1 staff within the province. The panel also presented on current EfficiencyNS incentive programs and new program offering and innovations.
This session featured two speakers.
Kaelan Keys
Business Development Manager, EfficiencyOne
Kaelan Keys is a Business Development Manager Lead for Efficiency Nova Scotia. In his position, he works with developers, government, universities and Indigenous communities and other clients to encourage uptake in energy efficiency programs. Kaelan has managed residential and commercial energy efficiency programs for the past nine years and holds a Bachelor’s of Business Administration from the University of New Brunswick and a Certified Energy Manager designation.
Mike Petrosoniak
Energy Manager, EfficiencyOne
ASHRAE: Achieving Zero Energy – Advanced Energy Design Guide for Multifamily Buildings
The Advanced Energy Design Guide series provides a sensible approach to easily achieve advanced levels of energy savings without having to resort to detailed calculations or analysis. The four-color Guides offer contractors and designers the tools, including recommendations for practical products and off-the-shelf technology, needed for achieving a 50% energy savings compared to buildings that meet the minimum requirements of ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2004. The energy savings target of 50% is the first step in the process toward achieving a net-zero energy building, which is defined as a building that, on an annual basis, draws from outside resources equal or less energy than it provides using on-site renewable energy sources. For this session, ASHRAE representatives discussed these AEDG and their applicability in transitioning to net zero energy buildings in Atlantic Canada.
For multifamily residential buildings, and applies primarily to construction of new multifamily buildings covered by ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1 up to twenty floors, although much of the guidance also applies to retrofits of existing buildings, depending on the depth and breadth of the retrofits. Space types covered include independent tenant living spaces with units ranging from one to three bedrooms, where each unit has a kitchen space, bathroom(s), bedroom(s), and living spaces; first-floor spaces such as common meeting spaces, a workout room, and staff/management offices or low-energy-density mixed-use spaces such as light retail and leased offices; vertical transportation; and laundry facilities. The Guide establishes a set of energy performance goals for achieving zero energy. The goals are provided for all ASHRAE climate zones, in both site and source energy. Strategies on how to achieve these energy targets are provided throughout the Guide.
This session featured two speakers.
Aaron Smith
M&R Engineering
JohnMichael Wall
M&R Engineering
Deep Energy and Carbon Reductions through Energy Performance Contracts
Tackling common sustainability and energy challenges, exploring the impacts of inaction and identifying outcome based solutions to address these challenges in a turn-key, risk-free manor through an EPC model.
This session featured two speakers.
Ashley Jones
Account Executive, Johnson Controls
Ashley Jones is an Account Executive with the Sustainable Infrastructure division of Johnson Controls Canada. Her main focus is supporting organization reach their infrastructure, energy and GHG reduction goals through the support of an Energy Service Company (as known as an ESCO).
Mark Pasini
Engineering Manager, Johnson Controls
Mark works for Johnson Controls as their area engineering manager for Ontario and the East Coast. Mark leads the conceptualization and development of energy and infrastructure renewal projects, and ensures the work meets or exceeds the objectives. Mark is a P.Eng, and holds his CEM and CMVP.
Lunch Keynote: Nova Scotia’s Transition to Deep Energy and Emissions Reductions
Stephen MacDonald
President & CEO, EfficiencyOne
Stephen MacDonald is the President and Chief Executive Officer of EfficiencyOne, the not-for-profit operator of Canada’s first electricity efficiency utility, Efficiency Nova Scotia. Under Steve’s leadership, EfficiencyOne continues its track record of meeting its energy savings targets under budget, with a focus on continuous improvement, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
Nova Scotia’s results and innovative model have been cited by the influential International Energy Agency, and by the Pan Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change. Steve has been recognized as one of Atlantic Canada’s Top 50 CEOs for 2019 and 2020 and is a recipient of Canada’s Clean50 award; both acknowledging his industry-leading efforts promoting energy efficiency and reducing C02 emissions.
Steve is a relentless champion for the development and growth of the energy efficiency industry in Nova Scotia, and the more than 2,500 people working in this field across the province. He is regularly asked to participate in national discussions on energy efficiency and climate policy. A Chartered Professional Accountant, prior to his appointment as President and Chief Executive Officer, Steve previously served as EfficiencyOne’s Chief Operating Officer and held senior leadership positions with a Nova Scotia Crown Corporation and Grant Thornton. Steve is a member and Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for the YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth and chairs the Governance Committee. He is also a member of the Advisory Committee for The ReCover Initiative, a project to develop a deep energy retrofit solution that responds to the climate crisis at the speed and scale necessary to meet our greenhouse gas reduction targets. He has been a member of the Advisory Committee of the Canadian Business for Climate Policy and the Maritimes Energy Association Nominations and Elections Committee.
EV Charging Infrastructure: Challenges and Opportunities
Canada is actively working to expand its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, and the situation has evolved further since then. Several key developments include the continued growth of charging networks in urban areas and along major highways. Federal and provincial governments were offering financial incentives and support for charging station installations, encouraging their proliferation. Efforts to ensure interoperability and standardization of charging infrastructure are ongoing, making it easier for EV owners to access different charging networks.
Home charging installations were becoming more common, boosting the convenience of EV ownership. The adoption of electric vehicles, including commercial fleets, are rising. Additionally, Canada’s commitment to environmental goals, such as achieving net-zero emissions, underscored the importance of EVs and their associated charging infrastructure.
Due to slow EV infrastructure construction, an aging utility grid and slow EV supply chain, is it possible to meet federal and provincial mandates?
Anthony Winston
Owner, Winston Engineering Inc.
Originally hailing from Chicago, IL, Anthony pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, specializing in Power Transmission and Distribution, at the esteemed Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering at Arizona State University. His career journey began in the defense sector, where he contributed to designing and updating missile/radar test stations. Later, he transitioned into a role as a test director, wherein I was involved in the creation of a validation system for an impressive 8MW, 15,000RPM high-speed electric compressor motor. Subsequently, he pursued my Professional Engineering License in California and shifted my focus to the power industry. Before founding Winston Engineering, Inc, he accumulated extensive experience in various projects. This included coordinating automated Lutron lighting design, developing controlled plug load systems, and designing temporary power systems for the construction of Loma Linda Children’s/Adult Hospital. These experiences have shaped his expertise and laid the foundation for the values and commitment that define Winston Engineering, Inc today.
Path to 80% Renewable by 2030
The presentation discussed the Nova Scotia Power path to phase out coal and reach 80% renewable energy by 2030.
Erin Peachey
Lead System Planner, NS Power
Erin Peachey is the System Planning Lead working on the System Planning and Grid Integration Team for Nova Scotia Power. Erin leads various projects and initiatives across the Resource Planning and Transmission Planning teams and provides support on Environmental Policy initiatives. A key focus has been the Evergreen IRP Update, the outcome of which is the long term strategy to support business priorities related to 2030 coal phase-out, 80% renewable generation, and electrification.
Erin was previously Senior Project Manager, Capital Projects for Nova Scotia Power where she focused on the management of both hydro and T&D projects and provided support for projects that require the use of the Decision Analysis process as a decision making tool. Prior to joining NS Power, Erin worked in several project management/development roles within the Oil and Gas Industry in Alberta. The latter part of this experience was focused on project management with a strong stakeholder/regulator/government engagement focus as well as system modeling. Erin is a graduate of Dalhousie University with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering.
Deep Energy Retrofit Case Study: Killam Library
This presentation provided a detailed case study of developing and implementing a deep energy retrofit of a large institutional building. It also discussed lessons learned and things to consider when developing a DER project.
This session featured two speakers.
Ray Carrigan
Energy Manager, Dalhousie University
Ted Loucks
Partner, MCW Custom Energy Solutions Ltd.
The Energy Ahead of Us: Integrated Solutions to Net-Zero
This is a pivotal time in the energy industry. To reduce emissions to net-zero by 2050, energy systems will need to be completely transformed, while continuing to meet growing energy demand. Net-zero emissions in Nova Scotia by 2050 is a very ambitious – and achievable – goal. And to achieve net-zero how we make and use energy must change – we’ll need to use every tool available including more energy efficiency, electric vehicles (both battery electric and fuel cell electric), new heating technologies, and much more low-carbon energy. We’ll also need more integrated energy systems, including electric and gas grids, working together in complementary ways. This session highlighted some of the ways that the gas distribution system can support electrification and help Nova Scotia achieve net-zero emissions including green hydrogen, gas heat pumps, renewable natural gas, and hybrid heating systems.
Derek Estabrook
Vice President, Business Development, Eastward Energy
Derek Estabrook has been the Vice President of Business Development for Eastward Energy, the natural gas distribution utility in Nova Scotia, since 2015 where he leads the company’s sales, marketing, and business development teams. Derek’s team is developing sustainable energy solutions including low-carbon hydrogen, renewable natural gas, and gas heat pumps to support Nova Scotia’s energy transition to net-zero emissions. In 2021, Derek and his Eastward Energy colleagues played a leading role in the launch of the Atlantic Hydrogen Alliance to support the development of hydrogen in Atlantic Canada. Prior to joining Eastward Energy, Derek worked for 20 years in sales, marketing, product innovation, and business development roles at PepsiCo, Agropur, Gatorade Canada, and Maple Leaf Foods. Derek holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Dalhousie University. He lives in Halifax where he is an avid runner, cyclist, cross country skier and outdoor enthusiast who also serves as a Director on the board of Nordiq Canada.
Decarbonizing the Built Environment through HVAC Innovation
As Canada focuses on emissions reduction and a net zero future, building decarbonization must be considered. This presentation explored HVAC technologies that can be utilized to decarbonize the built environment.
Kasey Boxleitner
Decarbonization Sales Leader, North America
Kasey Boxleitner is the Decarbonization Sales Leader of the Commercial HVAC Americas business for Trane Technologies plc. In this role, Kasey has responsibility for driving growth in the decarbonization space. She aids internal efforts to develop and implement standard work practices for strategic growth initiatives while supporting customer efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
Kasey joined Trane after graduating from the University of Wisconsin with her bachelor’s in mechanical engineering in 2017. She has held various roles with Trane leveraging her engineering background to help customers achieve their goals. Her specialty is the design and implementation of decarbonized systems.
Kasey lives in Boston where she volunteers with Youth Enrichment Services and Project Scientist. She is on the Board of Governors for the Boston ASHRAE Chapter and is a member of BOMA and NAIOP.
Gala Keynote: A comprehensive assessment of the ongoing energy transition in Atlantic Canada
This keynote offered a comprehensive assessment of the ongoing energy transition in Atlantic Canada. The audience was presented a glimpse into the future of the energy landscape by examining potential scenarios in 5, 10, and 25 years.
Key Learning Objectives:
- Discover actionable strategies and steps that can be taken today to ensure a smooth transition.
- Gain valuable insights into the various energy projects and policies currently in progress or on the horizon and explore their potential implications for the Atlantic Canadian region.
This keynote will stand as a vital resource for individuals and organizations looking to adapt and thrive in the evolving energy sector.
Michelle Robichaud
President, Atlantica Centre for Energy
Michelle has more than 20 years of progressive public relations and business management experience. She has lead research projects and community engagement initiatives as a consultant for various government, NGOs and community groups with her own company and as a community volunteer.
In her role as President of the Atlantica Centre for Energy as a proactive voice for the energy sector, Michelle advocates for the evolution and growth of Atlantic Canada’s energy sector, including efforts to launch transformative new clean energy technologies such as hydrogen and small modular reactors.
She currently serves on the executive committee of the Atlantic Hydrogen Alliance and the Atlantic Clean Energy Alliance, and is a member of the national SMR Leadership Roundtable and Energy Safety Canada’s Energy Transition Steering Committee. Most recently she has accepted a position with Statistics Canada’s External Advisory Committee (EAC) for the Canadian Centre for Energy Information.
Previously, Michelle worked at the New Brunswick Community College and for the New Brunswick Financial and Consumer Services Commission. She is also a proud mom to twin daughters, Madelyn and Sophie who will soon join her as University of New Brunswick alumni.
Return to the conference archive.