October 10, 2025 – Thunder Bay, ON
SYNERGY NORTH was proud to host an announcement yesterday from the Honourable Kevin Holland, Member of Provincial Parliament for Thunder Bay–Atikokan, celebrating new funding from the Independent Electricity System Operator’s (IESO) Grid Innovation Fund. The IESO is investing $3.2 million to support a collaborative project between Confederation College, SYNERGY NORTH, Powerconsumer Inc., and Blackstone Energy Services Limited.
The project will see the installation and pilot of a large-scale electric heat pump and thermal storage facility at Confederation College — a first-of-its-kind initiative in Northwestern Ontario. This system will help manage electricity demand, improve grid flexibility, and enhance energy reliability across the region.
Advancing Energy Innovation in Northwestern Ontario
This initiative aligns with Ontario’s Energy for Generations plan — a long-term strategy to modernize the province’s electricity system, strengthen reliability, and support economic growth.
“This project is a powerful example of how collaboration within our community can drive real energy innovation,” said Karla Bailey, Vice President, System Planning, Asset Management & Engineering at SYNERGY NORTH. “By working with Confederation College, Powerconsumer, and Blackstone Energy Services, we’re building a smarter, more flexible grid that supports Thunder Bay’s growth and sustainability goals. Through initiatives like this, SYNERGY NORTH is helping to shape a cleaner and more resilient energy future for our customers and our community.”
The system will use thermal energy storage and heat pump technology to balance local electricity use during peak periods, helping reduce strain on the grid while improving overall efficiency and affordability.
Local Impact, Provincial Leadership
“This investment is an important step in strengthening our energy system and ensuring Northwestern Ontario is ready for future growth,” said MPP Kevin Holland. “Reliable and affordable electricity is essential for our manufacturing, mining, and forestry sectors to thrive and for new businesses to invest in our region. By supporting projects like this, our government is helping make Northwestern Ontario a leader in energy innovation and a driving force in Ontario’s economy.”
Minister Stephen Lecce also highlighted the project’s importance within Ontario’s broader energy strategy:
“Ontario is leading the way in modernizing our electricity system by investing in cutting-edge technologies that enhance grid reliability and lower energy costs for families and businesses,” said Minister Lecce. “Thanks to the leadership of MPP Kevin Holland, this funding for Confederation College’s electric heat pump and thermal storage project will help keep energy affordable for Ontarians.”
Collaboration That Drives Results
Each project partner contributes specialized expertise, from energy analytics and systems management to applied learning and community engagement.
“This innovative project will offer real-time visibility into asset operations, winter peak demand and shaving opportunities, and IESO wholesale level tests for energy and capacity,” said Tim Schneider, President of Blackstone Energy Services Limited. “The modular pilot system also allows for future capacity expansion.”
“This investment supports real progress toward a cleaner, more efficient energy future for Northwestern Ontario,” said Michelle Salo, President of Confederation College. “Through collaboration with our partners, we’re modernizing our campus systems in ways that reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency, and provide hands-on learning opportunities for our students.”
“Our focus extends beyond data analytics and energy management technologies — it’s about making distribution system demand management more inclusive by actively involving local communities,” added Trevor Su, CTO & COO of Powerconsumer Inc.
Through the IESO’s Grid Innovation Fund, Ontario continues to invest in forward-thinking initiatives that test new technologies and business models to strengthen grid efficiency and resilience. For SYNERGY NORTH and its partners, this project represents a significant step forward in advancing the energy transition in Northwestern Ontario, driving local innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.
For the full media release visit: https://kevinhollandmpp.ca/ontario-leveraging-new-technologies-to-strengthen-electricity-grid-in-thunder-bay/
