Collaborators on an GBTN team are sub-consultants or a product/service provider with a strong business connection to the design, construction, and clean technology sector. Collaborators mutually benefit from the business development, learning opportunity and relationships made that continue on to leverage new business after the project is complete.

Project Collaborators include: SkyFire Energy and MMG Mortgages

How did you get involved in the SSRIA GBTN with EcoSynergy?

MMG Mortgages: I was referred by a friend to help with the financing – Shane Mouwen

SkyFire Energy: As an organization with +20 year of experience, we have developed a strong network and reputation in the industry and among solar PV installers. SkyFire has worked with Amelie/Ecosynergy previously and we were engaged early on in the retrofit. – Greg Sauer

What does it mean to you be a project collaborator and what value do you add?

MMG Mortgages: It’s always exciting to be part of a project that represents a better future for our industry and the environment. – Shane Mouwen

SkyFire Energy: Every project and every customer is important to us. That said, we really get excited about net zero equivalent (NZE) homes in Canada and being part of a retrofit such as this is really meaningful. Energy literacy in Canada is increasing but has a long way to go. It is really important for us to collaborate with those that are breaking down barriers and demonstrating that it IS possible to cut a natural has line in an area as cold as southern Alberta where the annual electrical consumption for both heating and cooling demands can be quite high. We are really excited to have a part in Amelie’s/Ecosynergy’s demonstration project. – Greg Sauer

What do you think you will gain from your participation in the project?

MMG Mortgages: Knowledge. This was a huge learning experience for me in many ways. – Shane Mouwen

SkyFire Energy: While we are certainly happy to be part of any project and take much satisfaction from a job well done and a happy customer, in this particular case, we would hope to gain an elevated standing and brand recognition due to the promotional work being done. Being associated with these projects can be more intensive than others which do not require the same level of collaboration. SkyFire is a leader in the industry and we want to ensure that we can contribute to the evolving needs of the industry and being a part of these opportunities. – Greg Sauer

What do you hope the greatest project outcome will be?

MMG Mortgages: Inspiring more people to retrofit homes to become energy efficient. – Shane Mouwen

SkyFire Energy: Greater awareness that Albertan’s can get to NZE with no gas line and solar PV is central to this. PV systems have come a long way both in terms of efficiency and also cost. It is now affordable to install solar PV which provides you with a sense of energy self-sufficiency and a hedge from geo-political issues that the world is currently facing. This case study can go a long way in educating individuals and communities that it is possible to retrofit existing housing stock and to do our part, as individuals, to address climate change. – Greg Sauer

How will you continue to use the experience and learning’s from this project to further reduce GHG emissions in the built environment?

MMG Mortgages: By having conversations with my clients about the option to add geothermal through the mortgage. – Shane Mouwen

SkyFire Energy: We will continue to support as many individuals and organizations in reducing their reliance on the electrical grid as is possible while continuing to offer great customer service. Understanding that an older home can be retrofit to NZE is really important and we need leaders to demonstrate that it can actually be done – not just on paper – using the latest and greatest technologies. – Greg Sauer