Previous Episodes
Season 1
Season 1 Episodes
The Reimagined Energy Podcast is a weekly renewable energy podcast featuring interviews with influential experts, academia, and organizations leading the way in sustainable business and clean technology. This is a Sociable Media Inc. passion project
Welcome to the very first episode of our podcast! In this exciting kickoff, Maria has the pleasure of speaking with Shannon Miedema, a highly experienced director at Halifax Regional Municipality. Shannon dives into her work with HalifACT, an active organization committed to reducing the effects of climate change in Halifax. She shares fascinating insights on the innovative strategies being implemented to sustainably shape the city’s future. She also delves into the challenges and opportunities of working towards a more environmentally conscious tomorrow.
Join us for an illuminating discussion on the critical role of HalifACT in shaping not only the future of Halifax but the planet as a whole.
The Canadian EV space is evolving to overcome challenges and transition to a fully electric future. In this episode, Maria interviews Emma Jarratt, Executive Editor of Electric Autonomy Canada, a leading publication covering the latest news and developments in the world of electric vehicles. Emma shares insights on the industry’s current state, the latest advancements in EV technology, and the future of electric mobility at Electric Autonomy.
Join us as we discuss topics such as increasing EV popularity, challenges faced by EV manufacturers, and the impact of EVs on the environment. 🔌 ⚡ 🚘
Maria is joined by Abhi, a researcher at Efficiency Canada about his work on energy poverty. They discuss the definition of energy poverty and how it affects communities, including its link to health issues, economic challenges, and climate change. Abhi shares his insights on policies and programs that can help alleviate energy poverty, highlighting successful initiatives from around the world. Finally, we delve into the future of energy poverty and the need for collaboration and long-term solutions.
Whether you’re a policy-maker, energy professional, or concerned citizen, this episode provides valuable insights into one of the most pressing issues of our time.
In this episode, Maria sits down with Valerie Bennett, a leading expert on energy efficiency. Valerie highlights the benefits and opportunities of adopting energy-efficient technologies and practices and the challenges and barriers that need to be addressed. They delve into the latest initiatives, programs, and policies at Natural Resources Canada to promote energy-efficient practices. Join us for an engaging conversation on the role of energy efficiency in building a more sustainable future.
This is the website that Valerie mentions in the podcast: Natural Resources Canada (lots of great links there).
If you’ve ever wondered whether solar energy is the right choice for you, this episode will provide the answers you need. Maria is joined with John Sheldon of Renu Energy Solutions, to demystify solar energy for both residential and commercial properties. John explains the planning, installation processes, and tax credits associated with solar energy. He debunks common myths surrounding solar power and highlights its numerous benefits, including protection against rising energy costs, financial savings, and increased home resale value. Gain valuable knowledge and make an informed decision about harnessing the sun’s power to your benefit.
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Maria goes back to school to talk to Dr. Wayne Groszko, an applied energy research scientist at the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) to discuss the school’s work in the field of renewable and sustainable energy. Dr. Groszko and his team conduct various research projects, including the development of perovskite solar cells, testing solar panels for boats, and exploring thermal energy storage as an affordable alternative to traditional battery storage. Alongside his research, Dr. Groszko highlights the importance of involving students in these projects and providing them with hands-on experience and opportunities for career development.
Sometimes, you must step outside your country (and continent) to see another perspective. In this case, in a recent “call for podcast guests” on a LinkedIn Renewable Energy Group, one of the responses was from Dr. Elezovic. Green hydrogen is a universal language and one that Dr. Elezovic knows quite well. A conversation with Dr. Nevenka Elezovic, Research Professor at the Institute for Multidisciplinary Research, University of Belgrade. Listen while we discuss the role of green hydrogen in a circular economy and how we can transition from fossil fuels to renewables globally.
The Port of Halifax is one of the world’s largest naturally deep, ice-free harbours. It is Canada’s Ultra Atlantic Gateway and a regional economic engine. Captain Allan Gray, President and CEO of the Halifax Port Authority, unveils their focus on hydrogen as a potential fuel source for large ships and their determination to become a demand aggregator for clean energy. Under the leadership of Captain Gray, they are full steam ahead on sustainability and the delicate balance of economics, community integration and the environment. Join this episode to discover how the HPA is working to determine the port’s role in the energy transition, including bunkering services, the supply of marine-related shipping fuels, and the storage and export of hydrogen-based shipping fuels.
Maria sits down with Mark Kirby, Senior Advisor of the Canadian Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association, for a little science class on the elements. They discuss the limitless potential of hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy source and share valuable insights into the latest advancements in hydrogen and fuel cell technologies. Mark shares his expertise and sheds light on the role hydrogen could play in decarbonizing various sectors, such as transportation and industry. Please tune in to learn about Canada’s initiatives in the hydrogen space and how it is positioning itself as a global leader in this transformative energy sector. Take advantage of this engaging conversation that explores the future of clean energy and the pivotal role of hydrogen in shaping a greener world.
How do we create change through the choices we make? By making small, consistent choices. Thinkwell Shift is a behaviour change company that specializes in resource conservation. They encourage people to make lasting changes in their daily lives to conserve resources such as water, energy, and waste. Maria interviews Ruvi Mugara, Director of Projects on how the company is leading the charge to educate the next generation (and ourselves) to do just that! Don’t miss this inspiring podcast episode about behavioural change and sustainability.
How is nuclear energy part of the clean energy mix? Fawn Zeuchner of ARC Clean Technology joins Maria as they discuss the pivotal role of nuclear energy in combating climate change, meeting global energy demands, technological advancements, safety protocols, and dispelling common misconceptions. Please tune in for a fresh perspective on the remarkable potential of nuclear energy and its transformative possibilities in shaping a sustainable future.
Approximately 95 percent of a lithium-ion battery can be recycled into new batteries.* Maria is joined by Ravi Gade, CEO of ES Recycle and an esteemed expert in lithium-ion batteries. Learn how end-of-life batteries can be reimagined and made stronger and the transformative impact they could have. Tune in to hear about Ravi’s groundbreaking research and his inspiring vision for a greener future! (Source: *Canadian Renewable Association)
The transition to sustainable mobility will require how Canada rethinks how it interacts with its grids. Have you considered electric vehicles also being used as portable energy storage providers when not in use? Think of electric-powered school buses during the weekends and summer months. Instead of sitting idle, they can be used to provide electricity for special events etc. Imagine grid to electric vehicles and vice versa. Cool, eh?
Maria spoke to Christopher Ralph, Manager of Energy Solutions and Sustainable Mobility of Lion Electric, about their plans to change portable, sustainable energy.
Maria talks to Rob Bennett, CEO of Block Energy, a US-based energy company focused on developing and deploying innovative, sustainable energy solutions. Rob shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities in the energy industry and discusses Block Energy’s unique approach to sustainability, including its focus on developing advanced energy storage solutions and its commitment to creating positive social and environmental impact. Maria and Rob talk about the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving the transition into a more sustainable energy future. Tune in to hear Rob’s wealth of expertise and gain a deeper understanding of a future full of possibilities!
In this episode, Maria speaks with Sadiq Pirani about safe, smart, and sustainable mobility solutions in Canada, focusing on electric and autonomous vehicles, public transportation, and bikes. Mr. Pirani shares insights on how technology can make transportation safer and more efficient while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. They discuss the role of bikes in a sustainable transportation system, and how cities can promote cycling as a safe and accessible mode of transportation. Whether you’re a policy maker, transportation professional, or simply interested in the future of mobility, this conversation offers valuable insights into the path towards a cleaner, safer, and more connected Canada.
Maria sits down with David Adams, President of Global Automakers of Canada, to discuss the future of the automotive industry. From electric vehicles to autonomous driving technology, they explore the challenges and opportunities facing the industry, as well as the role of government in shaping the future of transportation. Listen in for a fascinating conversation on the exciting changes that are reshaping the automotive landscape.
Join Maria as she speaks with Maggie Woolsey-Gray, a board member of the Electric Vehicle Association of Atlantic Canada (EVAAC) to discuss the future of electric vehicles in the region. Maggie shares her wealth of knowledge and expertise with Maria as they talk about the benefits of EVs, including their positive impact on the environment and the potential cost savings for drivers. They also discuss the industry’s challenges and the role EVAAC plays in supporting local policies that encourage the use of electric vehicles. Whether you’re a seasoned EV driver or just curious about the technology, the episode is an exciting look into the EV world!
Season 2
Season 2 Episodes
AI-Powered Solutions: Climative’s Journey to Low-Carbon Living
There are so many uses for artificial intelligence; in this case, it can help us save on energy costs. In this episode, Maria McGowan interviews Winston Morton from Climative, a climate data platform revolutionizing energy and climate assessments for homes and buildings. They discuss how Climative utilizes artificial intelligence for digital audits, providing pathways to net-zero or low-carbon buildings.
Diverse Voices, Green Choices: Claire Harris on Energy Transformation
In this episode of the Reimagined Energy Podcast, Maria sat down with Claire Harris, a senior advisor in the area of environment and inclusion at NB Power. Claire shared insights into her remarkable journey in the energy sector, the shifts she’s witnessed over the past decade, and what lies ahead for the industry. They delved into the evolving landscape of the energy sector, discussing the shifts, challenges, and the critical role of diversity and inclusion in the energy transition.
Switching Gears: Sustainable Solutions for Your Commute
From Wind to Watts: Atlantic Canada’s Energy Sector
Do you have questions about Energy? Want to improve your understanding of how the energy sector works and how it impacts your life? In this episode of the Reimagined Energy Podcast, host Maria McGowan welcomes Michelle Robichaud from the Atlantica Centre for Energy. They discuss their interactive energy maps highlighting the region’s diverse energy infrastructure. Michelle talks about the challenges and opportunities specific to Atlantic Canada, such as the transition to clean energy, offshore wind, nuclear, and hydrogen projects.
Reimagining Nuclear Waste: Fueling Moltex Energy’s Innovation
In this episode of the Reimagined Energy Podcast, host Maria McGowan speaks with Rory O’Sullivan from Moltex Energy. They discuss Moltex’s mission to develop nuclear technology that can produce affordable, clean energy while addressing the nuclear waste challenge. Moltex Energy offers three unique technologies: a molten salt reactor, a waste recycling facility, and a thermal energy storage system. The key innovation is recycling existing nuclear waste as fuel.
From the Ground Up: Aecon’s Zero-Carbon Initiatives
Maria McGowan sits down with Prabh Banga, Aecon’s VP of Sustainability. In addition to Aecon’s focus on safety and sustainability, they’re also testing zero-emission equipment and low-carbon construction materials. Prabh offers valuable advice for companies looking to embark on their sustainability journey. Give their podcast, “Road to Net Zero,” a listen as it covers a range of sustainability topics in the construction industry, and Acon’s future focus is on technology and innovation to further reduce emissions during construction projects.
Digging Deeper Into PRI Engineering’s Geotechnical Expertise
Can we ensure the stability of large-scale solar arrays in the face of extreme weather events and changing regulations? Host Maria McGowan chats with Tom St. Onge from PRI Engineering, a civil engineering consulting firm specializing in geotechnical engineering. They discuss crucial processes involved in the risk management role of renewable energy projects and explore PRI Engineering’s commitment to growth and education in the field.
Eco-Champion Chronicles: The Green Odyssey of Stephen Mildenberger
Ever wondered about the challenges of being an early adopter in environmental advocacy? Join us as we explore the inspiring narrative of Stephen Mildenberger, a true trailblazer in renewable energy and conservation. His journey, akin to the struggles expressed in Kermit’s iconic song, “It’s not easy being green,” is a testament to the power of knowledge.
Connecting Energy Innovators: Wes Scott and the Smart Energy Event
It all started with a conversation that ignited the energy sector. Wes Scott shares the inception of the Smart Energy Event and why it is held in Halifax each April. In this episode, we discuss the evolution of the energy industry across Canada, with Wes emphasizing the pivotal role of government regulations, economic factors, and technological advancements. We unveil exciting plans for the Smart Energy Conference in 2024.
Powerful Partnership: Tesla’s Advanced Battery Research Lab at Dalhousie University
Cutting-edge battery research is happening in an R&D lab facility at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Dr. Michael Metzger is one of three principal investigators in the Dalhousie-Tesla research partnership on long-lived, high-energy density and low-cost batteries.
They discuss the lab’s ambitious research goals with Tesla. Learn what is at the forefront of battery research and other projects that Metzger and his colleagues have underway.
Power Shift: Eastward Energy’s Vision for a Sustainable Nova Scotia
How can using natural gas make our green goals a reality?
Maria discusses Nova Scotia’s energy transition with Derek Estabrook from Eastward Energy. Derek breaks down how natural gas plays a vital role in achieving a low-carbon future, addressing challenges in transportation and buildings. Derek introduces an integrated energy system concept by outlining its benefits and the role of gas grids and energy storage.
Artificial Photosynthesis: Harvesting Green Hydrogen Inspired By Plants 🌱
The leaves of plants have been doing it forever, creating energy through photosynthesis. Inside the chemistry building at Dalhousie University is the Dasog Research Group. This lab is where research takes place to generate energy, chemical fuels, and freshwater using sunlight. What’s really cool is that Dr. Mita Dasog and her team are being inspired by the process of photosynthesis from plants to make green hydrogen.
The EVolving Landscape of Pre-Owned EVs
How well do electric vehicles hold up in the pre-owned and rental car markets? Johnny Beckett explains how Electric Vehicle Network offers a unique business model by combining dealer services with EV rentals. The focus on renting pre-owned EVs serves as a revenue stream and an educational tool for potential buyers. Watch the full episode as Johnny addresses the risks and opportunities in the EV industry and misinformation in the evolving automotive landscape.
From Peels to Power: UPEI Innovates By Repurposing Potatoes
Researchers at the University of Prince Edward Island, led by Dr. Yulin Hu, are exploring innovative ways to convert potato waste into energy. They employ a gasification process to combine potato peels with sawdust, generating hydrogen as a clean fuel source. Additionally, they investigate the conversion of organic waste and agricultural byproducts into bio-oil, a potential alternative fuel for vehicles.
This research holds promise for sustainable energy solutions and highlights the growing interest in alternative energy.
Canada’s Vision for a Hydrogen-Fueled World
2024 is emerging as a critical year for action in Canada’s hydrogen industry. Our guest is Ivette Vera Perez, President and CEO of the Canadian Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association (CHFCA). The rapidly evolving business of hydrogen in Canada is happening now. This podcast outlays some of the logistics involved in hydrogen and ammonia transportation, including the challenges, the role of hydrogen carriers and pipelines. With the goal of boosting the hydrogen industry’s prominence in Canada’s energy landscape.
Empower Your Drive: Electric Avenue’s EV Charging Network
Mark MacDonald of Electric Avenue breaks down the business of electrification and how crucial data points can reveal the truth behind EV adoption worldwide. Mark also dispels misconceptions surrounding the grid’s capacity to handle mass EV adoption while drawing attention to the untapped potential of bi-directional charging.
This episode is a must-listen for those keen for insights into the challenges and opportunities in the EV charging industry.
Harnessing the Atlantic Breeze: SWEB’s Wind Energy Projects
If you live in Atlantic Canada, it can be windy. Storms bring gale-force winds, and hurricanes briskly pass, creating a challenging landscape for wind energy generation. Rory Cantwell, the CEO of SWEB Development, knows how. It’s part of SWEB’s approach to fostering meaningful collaboration with key stakeholders.
Cantwell busts common wind farm myths and the unique opportunities for wind energy generation in Atlantic Canada and the northeastern US.
How Schneider Electric is Leaving Emissions in the Dust
What does it mean to maximize output while minimizing emissions without compromising efficiency? Frederick Morency of Schneider Electric shares their ambitious sustainability initiatives. Morency discusses the company’s commitment to energy management, biodiversity conservation, and their lofty goal to achieve net-zero operations along with no net biodiversity loss by 2030.
Season 3
Season 3 Episodes
Harnessing Big Data for Big Energy Decisions with Sutubra
Cameron Wade, the visionary behind Sutubra Research, believes that energy transformation is a numbers game – and the numbers never deceive. Sutubra Research stands out in the industry by leveraging big data to guide clients in decarbonizing their energy systems. Their unique approach involves applying advanced mathematics and complex systems to interpret data, enabling clients to make informed energy decisions.
Carbon Credits and Power Purchase Agreements 101
Do you ever hear acronyms like REC, ESG, and PPA and find yourself instantly confused? Joining us this week is Dana Saric from Capital Power who explains Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and carbon credits and how they affect the energy industry. Realize how Indigenous communities can decarbonize with PPAs, and be inspired by the positive impact of carbon credits and Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) on our energy future.
Lennox Island First Nation’s Vision for Energy Sovereignty
Drew Bernard of Lennox Island First Nation is embracing renewable energy and driving change to his community’s energy grid. From wind and solar projects to electrifying their local fishing fleet, this First Nation community on Prince Edward Island is redefining what it means to be energy-sustainable.
Drew is not just pioneering renewable energy projects. He’s also championing the importance of intertwining Indigenous cultural values and community engagement in these initiatives.
Upcycling Cars into Electric Powerered Trucks
Maria McGowan chats about EVs with Natal Antonini, the brains behind Upcycle. From their establishment in Summerside, PEI, Antonini outlines how a simple relocation to Canada sparked an innovative green technology idea: turning everyday electric cars into trucks. They go into detail about how the company reduces waste in a circular economy and discusses the process of transforming a 2009 to 2013 Corolla into an EV truck.
Safety by Design: Canadian Hydrogen Safety Centre
This episode of the Reimagined Energy podcast provides a look into the new Canadian Hydrogen Safety Centre, detailing a conversation with the principal scientist, Nirmal Gnanapragasam, from Canadian Nuclear Labs. Nirmal shares the centre’s objectives of predicting safety challenges, how they are fostering partnerships, creating safety parameters, and offering independent advisory services for the hydrogen industry.
Taking the Risk Out of High-Risk Energy Decisions
Choosing a sustainable energy model is a big decision with many moving parts. But Terri-Lynn Duque from Ignite Energy Solutions has all the answers to dissolve lingering apprehension about renewable energy and dispel common myths.
Charging Your EV: What You Need To Know
On this episode of the Reimagined Energy podcast, Maria McGowan has a conversation with Mark Marmer from Signature Electric. Mark shares his insights on a wide range of electric vehicle topics, including the industry’s evolution, charging infrastructure, connectors, and the future of EV adoption. Additionally, he shares the differences between level one, level two, and level three chargers.
Visit Signature Electric’s Educational YouTube channel here!
Sharing in the Benefits of Distributed Energy Resources
Ed Cullinan, from Nova Scotia Power, discusses the Smart Grid Nova Scotia project and its goal of integrating distributed energy resources into the energy system. The project included pilot programs such as battery storage, community solar gardens, and EV smart charging.
Learn more about the Smart Grid Nova Scotia Project here.
From Carbon Footprints to EV Blueprints: Dunsky’s Role in Climate Advising
If you own an electric vehicle, you can say a thing or two about charging infrastructure. Host Maria McGowan is joined by Jeff Turner, Jeff is the Director of Clean Mobility at Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors. He has a lot to say about electric vehicles (EVs) and EV infrastructure!
Climate Change: What is Holding us Back?
Sean Kelly, a well-known sustainability consultant and co-founder of the Climate Story Network, is on a mission to help organizations have a positive impact on the environment. Sure, there are climate change naysayers, yet Sean applies curiosity and creativity in his approach.
Transforming Waste into Clean-Burning Hydrocarbons
Eden Energy Solutions is on a global mission to clean up the planet by turning waste into energy. How? While organic waste is transformed into clean-burning, carbon-neutral hydrocarbons, self-generating power is produced.
How Nova Scotia is Leading the Charge with Community Solar
The Community Solar Project in Nova Scotia is Canada’s first subscription-based community solar program. Since its launch in March 2024, academics, industry, and the public have received it well. The program aims to increase solar energy access to communities and individuals by allowing them to participate in and benefit from generating renewable electricity.
How Sympower is Transforming Energy Flexibility
Sympower is Europe’s leading energy flexibility service provider, aiming to facilitate the transition to a renewable energy system. One key way Sympower achieves this is through demand response, where it works with its clients to adjust their energy usage in response to real-time market signals.
Community-Driven Energy: Addressing Energy Poverty With Renewables
How can a small community become an international example of how to approach energy poverty? Say hello to Erika Shea, New Dawn Enterprises‘s dynamic President and CEO, and explore how this Cape Breton-based nonprofit social enterprise is pursuing its sustainable energy transition. Erika shares New Dawn’s innovative journey—from retrofitting buildings for energy efficiency to embracing renewable energy solutions—all while confronting the urgent issue of energy poverty that burdens many local households. Erika also shares advice for other social enterprises and unveils New Dawn’s exciting plans, including new construction projects and ambitious community solar initiatives.
Wind Power Using Electromagnetic Technology
Imagine a world where a city skyline has wind turbines on rooftops. It is possible and can be a cost benefit to developers and manufacturers to generate energy from the wind on their buildings. In this episode of the Reimagined Energy Podcast, host Maria McGowan speaks with Jesse Marcel, co-founder of Airborne Motorworks, about their innovative wind turbine technology that utilizes electromagnetic technology for enhanced efficiency and low maintenance. The conversation covers the company’s evolution, its turbines’ unique design, potential applications in urban and industrial settings, and the environmental benefits of their technology.
Balancing the Grid: How Sympower Drives Demand Response
Demand response is not a new concept, but it has gained increased attention and development in recent years as the need for efficient energy management grows. ICYMI, demand response is where consumers can adjust their electricity usage in response to high-demand periods. This can involve reducing or shifting energy consumption to lessen the electrical grid load during peak demand, helping maintain stability and efficiency within the system. Maria McGowan speaks with Cinzia Alberti from Sympower, who shares their advocacy efforts to educate European policymakers to adopt the notion of demand response. Cinzia outlines future directions for Sympower’s advocacy work, particularly in light of recent changes in the European Parliament and the energy landscape.
Balancing the Grid: How AI Meets Solar
In this episode of the Reimagined Energy Podcast, host Maria McGowan speaks with Noaa Cohn, a product manager at InRange, about the intersection of data, AI, and renewable energy. Noaa shares her journey from big data to the energy sector, highlighting the importance of aligning incentives between landlords and tenants to optimize solar energy deployment. They discuss the role of data centers in energy consumption, the installation process for solar energy, and the potential of battery storage. Noaa shares her knowledge about the collaboration with utilities and the future expansion plans for InRange, including opportunities in healthcare energy solutions.
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