JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022
RED BARN MEATS INC. WE LOOK FORWARD TO MEATING YOU! SOLAR NOVA SCOTIA FOCUSED ON SUSTAINABLE RENEWABLE ENERGY FOR ALL BLUENOSERS
THE NOVA SCOTIA SOLAR INDUSTRY NO ONE SHOULD HAVE A MONOPOLY ON THE SUN’S POWER
CONDOR ELECTRIC INC SUSTAIN. INNOVATE. CONNECT.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT TIM HOUSTON POLITICAL UNDERDOG TO NOVA SCOTIA’S 30TH PREMIER
A SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MEDIA Publication
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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE
Editor’s Spotlight It has been a crazy start to the year for the solar industry with Nova Scotia Power’s President and CEO, Peter Gregg announcing that the utility was seeking a “System Access Fee” for solar customers that were part of their Net Metering Plan. Industry leaders, solar providers and most customers of the utility spoke out against hikes of any kind with a movement of Bluenos- ers calling for more accountability and transparency from NSP and its parent company Emera with many calling for government to consider taking back control of the utility. We look at why no private for-profit company should have a monopoly on the province’s energy, nor should they be allowed to use this power to bully its customers for higher profits for its shareholders, especially it’s energy harvested from the wind and the sun and feed the grid at the cus- tomer’s own expense. In this issue we chat with David Brushett, Solar Nova Scotia Board Chair, and discuss the history of solar in Nova Scotia and how the organization is acting as an advocate, working with government at all levels to create policies sup- porting adoption of all forms of solar energy including active, passive, thermal and photovoltaic (PV) while supporting businesses offering these products and services to customers looking to make the switch to solar in the province. As businesses and homeowners alike look at solar installation and other energy efficient options to make their properties more energy efficient and environ - mentally friendly, we chat with Donnie Dominix about how his passion for nature and energy inspired Condor Electric. Plus, we get insight into Commu- nity Based Small Business and Renewable Energy from a leader in the industry while learning more about the vast improvement in technology which have lead to solar energy becoming more readily available for customers who are looking to make the switch to renewable energy sources like solar panels. Tim Houston is in the spotlight this issue as we learn more about the man, the myths and the leader in a discussion with the 51-year-old former chartered accountant to chat about family, his professional and political journey that has seen this political underdog earn the trust of his riding during his campaign as MLA for Pictou East. Only to grow his following with his vision for a better Nova Scotia for everyone and capture the Tory leadership to being given a majority vote and mandate from the people of Nova Scotia in the last provin- cial election taking office as the 30th Premier of Nova Scotia and where he might go next. We also cut the fat with Jordan and Rachel Brandt of Red Barn Meats Inc, a USDA Meat Processing Facility in the small town of Croghan, NY, on how they have been able to grow their family business well beyond their expectations and what is next in their entrepreneurial journey. As always, may staff and I want to thank everyone that made this issue possible, and we look forward to sharing more stories about growing industries, suc- cessful businesses, and brands, while spotlighting the people behind and in front of making it all happen.
MANAGING DIRECTOR Rod Gregg EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Lee Ann Atwater COMMUNICATION, RESEARCH & ADMIN Tristyn Gaudette Ashley Tanner Brooklyn Vantslot CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Megan Callahan Shannon Ferguson Deborah Jaremko Ceiledh Monk Dan Monk Ryan Myson
Aundrea Ritchie Teresa Siqueira Elizabeth Spencer
SOCIAL MEDIA Troy Gregg GRAPHIC DESIGN Aaron Jeffrey
WEB DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT Joe Uttaro PUBLISHER AIDACA Media
Lee Ann Atwater Editor
P.O. Box 35007, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3M 0G3 P: 902 405 2000 E: info@spotlightbizmag.com spotlightonbusinessmagazine.com
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SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022
What’s in the Spotlight on the cover
Solar Nova Scotia is a registered not for profit society and a volunteer run organization working collectively towards a common vision of a Nova Scotia that relies 100% on sustainable renewable energy, supported by a vibrant local industry. SOLAR NOVA SCOTIA FOCUSED ON SUSTAINABLE RENEWABLE ENERGY FOR ALL BLUENOSERS
RED BARN MEATS INC. WE LOOK FORWARD TO MEATING YOU!
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08 HEADLINES IN THE SPOTLIGHT 10 EVENTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT 22 CANADA’S ENERGY SECTOR TRANSFORMATION More Indigenous communities taking the lead in Canadian oil and gas 30 EVOLUTION OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY Seaweed to Spray Foam 36 KEEPING YOUR $$ IN THE BANK Easy Tips and Home Projects to Help You Save Money 44 DESIGN OF THE TIMES Designing Your Home Starts with You 76 VC FUNDING Encouraging Inclusive Investors to Remember Equity 88 ROSS CHOCOLATES Because everyone should be able to enjoy eating chocolate 98 TRICORBRAUN Taking their presence in Beverage Packaging Market to the Next Level 100 CALM HOME, CALM MIND Tips for Less Stress at Home 110 GUILTY CHOCOHOLIC MAMA You can do this! 114 EYES ON 2022 Effective Non-Surgical Cosmetic Treatments for Aging Eyes
Red Barn Meats Inc is a meat processing business owned by Jordan and Rachel Brandt. In August 2009, they started their business, which was known at that time as Brandt’s Custom Meat. In 2013, the couple took their business to the next grade and became a USDA Facility in the small
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David Brushett, Solar Nova Scotia Board Chair discusses the history of Solar in Nova Scotia and how the organization is acting as an advocate, and working with government at all levels to create policies supporting adoption of all forms of solar energy including active, passive, thermal and photovoltaic (PV) while supporting businesses offering these products and services along with the residential and commercial customers that are currently using or looking to make the switch to solar in the province.
town of Croghan, NY. We had the opportunity to chat with the Brandts about their family business that has grown beyond their expectations and what is next in their entrepreneurial journey.
CONDOR ELECTRIC INC SUSTAIN. INNOVATE. CONNECT.
THE NOVA SCOTIA SOLAR INDUSTRY NO ONE SHOULD HAVE A MONOPOLY ON THE SUN’S POWERHELP
TIM HOUSTON POLITICAL UNDERDOG TO NOVA SCOTIA’S 30TH PREMIER in the spotlight
62 Business and home- owners alike are looking at solar panel installation to make their prop- erties more energy efficient and reduce their carbon foot- print on the environ- ment while saving hundreds of dollars in the process. With the vast improve-
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What had started as a campaign by Nova Scotia Power and their President and CEO, Peter Gregg to put one customer against the other has back- fired and created a strong movement of Bluenos - ers calling for more accountability and transpar- ency from NSP and its parent company Emera. Many Nova Scotian’s are asking for the govern- ment to even consider taking back reins and control of the utility stating that no private for profit company should have a monopoly on the province’s energy, and use its power to bully cus- tomers, especially ones that harvested energy from the wind and the sun and feed the grid at the customer’s own expense.
Nova Scotia has its first Progressive Conservative premier since 2009 with Tory Leader, Tim Houston leading his party to victory with a campaign that promised to spend massively on health care. We sat down with the 51-year- old former chartered accountant to chat about family, along with his professional and political journey as politi- cal underdog whether it was in his campaign for the MLA for Pictou East to capturing the Tory leadership then on to earn a majority vote from Bluenosers and taking office as the 30th Premier of Nova Scotia.
ment in technology, solar energy has become more readily available for customers who are looking to make the switch to renewable energy sources like solar panels. We had the oppor- tunity to sit down with Donnie Dominix to talk about how his passion for nature and energy was the inspiration for Condor Electric and get some insight into Community Based Small Business and Renewable Energy from a leader in the industry.
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SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022
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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE
SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022
HEADLINES IN THE SPOTLIGHT
AMAZON BEATING SUPPLY CHAIN CHAOS Amazon has been quietly chartering private cargo ships, making its own containers, and leasing planes to better control the complicated shipping journey of an online order. Now, as many retailers panic over supply chain chaos, Amazon’s costly early moves are helping it avoid the long wait times for available dock space and workers at the country’s busiest ports. By chartering private cargo vessels to carry its goods, Amazon can control where its goods go, avoiding the most congested ports. A handful of other major retail- ers like Walmart, Costco, Home Depot, Ikea and Target are also chartering their own vessels to bypass the busiest ports and get their goods unloaded sooner. According to SJ Consulting Group, Amazon has been on a spending spree to control as much of the shipping process as possible. It spent more than $61 billion on shipping in 2020, up from just under $38 billion in 2019. Now, Amazon is shipping 72% of its own packages, up from less than 47% in 2019. Another strain on the supply chain is manpower. Amazon fought this off by offering sign-on bonuses of up to $3,000 to all the 150,000 seasonal workers it’s hiring this year for unloading and loading, picking and packing at more than 250 new facilities Amazon opened in the U.S. just in 2021 showing that the company clearly identified and planned far ahead for the final bottleneck in the supply chain backlog.
TOYOTA BECOMES AMERICA’S TOP-SELLING AUTOMAKER
REACHING THE STARS Sixty years after NASA set the goal, and three years after its Parker Solar Probe launched, the spacecraft has become the first to “touch the sun.” The Parker Solar Probe has successfully flown through the sun’s corona, or upper atmosphere, to sample particles and our star’s magnetic fields. The Parker Solar Probe launched in 2018 and set out to circle closer and closer to the sun. Scientists, includ- ing the spacecraft’s namesake astrophysicist, Eugene Parker want to answer fundamental questions about the solar wind that streams out from the sun, flinging energetic particles across the solar system. Before Parker Solar Probe’s mission is done, it will have made 21 close approaches to the sun over the course of seven years. The probe will orbit within 3.9 million miles of the sun’s surface in 2024, closer to the star than Mercury -- the closest planet to the sun. Although that sounds far, researchers equate this to the probe sitting on the four-yard line of a football field and the sun being the end zone.
CDC SHORTENS WAITING PERIOD FOR PFIZER COVID BOOSTERS Those who received the Pfizer and BioNTech Covid vaccine can now get a booster shot five months after their second dose, a month sooner than the U.S. federal government’s previous guidance. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated its recommended waiting period for people who completed their primary Covid-19 vaccination series with Pfizer’s shots. Those who received the Moderna vaccine must still wait at least six months after their second dose before getting a booster, while those who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine must wait at least two months after their first shot before getting a booster. The CDC also now recommends that children ages 5 to 11 who have moderate or severely compromised immune systems receive a third shot as part of their primary vaccination series 28 days after their second dose. Currently, Pfizer is the only recommended and authorized vaccine for kids in that age group. The shortened waiting period for Pfizer boosters reflects the greater urgency federal health author - ities in the U.S. have placed on getting third shots in people’s arms as the highly contagious omicron variant spreads at an unprecedented pace throughout the country.
It is official, Toyota Motor has dethroned General Motors as America’s top-selling automaker in 2021, marking the first time since 1931 that the Detroit auto - maker wasn’t the best-selling car company in the U.S. It also marks the first time a non-domestic automaker has taken the top spot in America. Toyota was able to manage supply chain issues better, allowing it to take away GM’s throne for the first time in 90 years. GM announced that it sold 2.2 million vehicles in the U.S. in 2021, down by 12.9% compared to the year earlier. Toyota, by comparison, said it sold 2.3 million vehicles in the U.S. last year, up by 10.4% compared to 2020. The difference in sales between the two automakers was 114,034 vehicles.
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SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022
UPCOMING EVENTS
THE FRANCHISE EXPO - VANCOUVER April 2nd – 3rd, 2022
AUTOMOTIVE INTELLI- GENCE SUMMIT (AIS) April 11th – 13th, 2022 Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley | Raleigh, NC USA Technology and digitization have changed how consumers buy, sell, finance, use and/or own vehicles, particularly in the last five to 10 years. The physical makeup of the vehicle itself has changed, too, with increased connectivity and other technological amenities, as well as greater use of electric/hybrid pow- ertrains. The Auto Intel Summit examined the innovation and digitization in the retail, finance and remarket - ing segments of the automotive industry — including regulato- ry considerations, the role of the investment community, B2B and B2C applications of such tech devel- opments and more. For more information on this event go to https://www.itng.info/
WORLD AGRI-TECH INNOVATION SUMMIT March 22nd – 23rd, 2022
Vancouver Convention Centre East | Vancouver, BC Canada The Franchise Expo - Vancouver is your only opportunity to meet with the hottest businesses face to face. Buying a franchise or proven business opportunity eliminates all the hard work of opening a business independently and will help you avoid much of the risk of starting a new business. Take control of your future, increase your income, find your path to a better lifestyle. Get the info you need to find the business that is right for you. Talk directly with qualified prospects & maximize your return on invest- ment, save hours of interview time, and source valuable potential opportunities.
San Francisco Marriott Marquis | San Francisco, CA USA The World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit is the most influential gathering of agribusiness leaders, agri-food companies, technology providers and investors across the AgTech landscape from around the world. The quality of content and diverse range of delegates makes this a must-attend event for anyone who is interested in understanding how the landscape is evolving and where the investment deals and dollars are flowing. Rethink Events do an outstanding job of repli- cating as closely as possible the experience of an in-person event, providing useful and efficient tools to explore, connect, interact and meet with a wide range of potential partners and other contacts.
PLMA’S PRIVATE LABEL TRADE SHOW January 30th - February 1st, 2022 Donald E. Stephens Conven- tion Center | Chicago, IL USA Store brands enjoyed record double digit growth last year across all U.S. channels. All signs point to that growth continuing. All you need to do is bring your products. We’ll deliver the buyers. PLMA’s trade show is your in-person connec- tion to thousands of retailers and wholesalers representing super- markets, drug chains, mass mer- chandisers, supercenters, specialty retailers, dollar stores, club stores, and military exchanges, as well as importers and exporters, brokers, and sales agents from North America and around the world. They’ll all be hunting for innova- tive and high-quality store brand products just like yours. For more information on this event go to https://plma.com/events/ plmas-annual-private-label-trade- show
INTEGRATIVE HEALTHCARE SYMPOSIUM February 17th – 19th, 2022 New York Hilton Midtown | New York, NY, NV USA At the Integrative Healthcare Symposium, practitioners from all facets of traditional and non-tra- ditional medicine unite as one, cohesive community. Attendees learn, network, and return to their practices with an enhanced appre- ciation of the modern patient’s full range of healthcare options. The Integrative Healthcare Sympo- sium is an evidence-based, multi- disciplinary conference designed to educate, inspire and connect integrative practitioners through clinically relevant sessions about alternative and complementary approaches to healthcare. The edu- cation sessions offer Q&A opportu- nities and deliver clinical takeaways that can be implemented into your practice immediately. For more information on this event go to https://www.ihsymposium. com/
AHR EXPO January 31st - February 2nd, 2022 Las Vegas Convention Center | Las Vegas, NV USA Gear up for 3 full days of jam-packed networking, education, socializ- ing and experiencing everything new in HVACR. The Show floor will be buzzing with all new products + tech, industry people, product demos, learning opportunities and the most recent updates from every segment of the HVACR industry. This is your opportunity to interact 1:1 with the latest innovations and the people that are inventing them. For more information on this event go to https://www.ahrexpo.com/
For more information on this event go to https://worldagritechusa. com/ For more information on this event go to http://www.franchiseshowin- fo.com/ WANT TO HAVE YOUR EVENT IN THE SPOTLIGHT? Send an email 4 weeks in advance to production@spotlightbizmag.com with all the details of your event.
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT
N ova Scotia has its first Progressive Con - servative premier since 2009, with Tory Leader Tim Houston leading his party to victory with a campaign that promised to spend massively on health care. We sat down with the 51-year-old former chartered accountant to chat about family, along with his professional and polit - ical journey. Houston has always been considered a political underdog whether it was in his campaign as MLA for Pictou East to his capturing the Tory leadership on the first ballot to earning the trust of Bluenosers as the 30th Premier of Nova Scotia. POLITICAL UNDERDOG TO NOVA SCOTIA’S 30TH PREMIER by Lee Ann Atwater TIM HOUSTON Spotlight: We know that you were born in Halifax and lived in different places around the world as your father was in the military. What was it like and when did your family make Halifax home again? Premier Houston: Looking back, it was an incred- ible way to grow up. We moved from Halifax to Summerside before I started school, then to Trenton, Ontario for a few years before moving to Comox, British Columbia and finally back to
Photos courtesy of Premier’s Office
is where I developed my, “Head down, get stuff done” outlook.
Halifax for my father’s retirement posting. My Mom grew up in the North End of Halifax and they always hoped to return and settle down in Nova Scotia. I have the earliest of childhood memories of Comox because I was there from grade 3 to grade 8, but Halifax is home. I went to junior high, high school and university here. I think when you move a lot as a child and are always making new friends, settling into new schools and new teams, you learn to be resilient. Since my Dad was away a lot, for months on end at times, a lot fell to my Mom and watching her
“ Since my Dad was away a lot, for months on end at times, a lot fell to my Mom and watching her is where I developed my, “Head down, get stuff done” outlook.”
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Spotlight: You attended Saint Mary’s Univer- sity in Halifax and graduated in 1992 with a Bachelor of Commerce. Why the move to Bermuda to work as a consultant in 1995? Premier Houston: A sense of adventure and a need for change. I got to know some Bermudians both at SMU and also through the CPA program and it always sounded like a great place to live and work. Turns out, it was. We started our married life there and both of our children were born in Bermuda so we have fond memories of our time there. I actually encourage young people to explore other places, but it’s best when they can go explore, learn and then bring those new, sharp- ened skills and perspectives back home to Nova Scotia. Spotlight: What motivated your return to
Photos courtesy of Premier’s Office
“ I actually encourage young people to explore other places, but it’s best when they can go explore, learn and then bring those new, sharp - ened skills and perspectives back home to Nova Scotia.”
Premier Houston: Personally, I followed a woman to Pictou County. Carol had a personal connec- tion to Pictou County. Her family has always had a cottage in Pictou County and she spent her summers literally on the same property that we now live. While we were in Bermuda, her parents retired to Pictou County. Over the years when we would come home for visits we would always spend our time there and we fell in love with the people and community.
Nova Scotia in 2007? Premier Houston: Like my parents before me, it was always our hope that our children would grow up in Nova Scotia, close to family. We lit- erally share a driveway with my in-laws, so we were able to raise our children surrounded by family. Plus, there’s no place in the world like Nova Scotia and nowhere I would rather live. Spotlight: How does a city boy and his city girl wife (Carol) from Halifax end up in Pictou County?
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Pictou East on October 8, 2013 and re-elect- ed on May 30, 2017. What was the deciding factor around announcing that same year your candidacy for the leadership of the Progres- sive Conservative Party of Nova Scotia? Premier Houston: I could see the potential for the province, and I was watching it slip away. It became clear that the Province needed a more focused leadership team and I couldn’t sit idly by.
“ I always say there are two reasons peopleget involved in politics. One is that someone asks you to run, and the other is that you get angry about something. No one asked me!”
Photos courtesy of Premier’s Office
Spotlight: On November 27, 2012, you won the Progressive Conservative nomination in the riding of Pictou East for the 2013 Nova Scotia general election, but when did you become interested in entering politics and why did you select Pictou County to run? Premier Houston: I always say there are two reasons people get involved in politics. One is that someone asks you to run, and the other is that you get angry about something. No one asked me! Seeing what was happening around the County and the Province and talking about things around the rink, I knew it was time for me to step up. Running in Pictou County was an easy decision because it’s our home and where we always intend to live. Spotlight: You were first elected MLA of
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SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022
I was ready, energized, and focused. I wanted to give Nova Scotians an alternative. Spotlight: It has been considered an upset, when you and the Progressive Conservative party won a majority government in the 2021 Nova Scotia general election. Why do you think Bluenosers gave you their votes and electing the party and seeing you becoming the first Progressive Conservative premier since 2009? Premier Houston: We used our time in oppo- sition to study the issues and understand what was possible. The state of healthcare had been ignored by the previous government for too long and Nova Scotians weren’t seeing that the Liberals even accepted there was a problem, let alone had the desire to fix it. On the other hand, we started putting forward solutions to fix primary healthcare, long term care and access to addictions and mental health a full year before the campaign. We’ve been honest that it is going to take time, bold action and big investments. That is what I committed to and that is what our government is following through on. Spotlight: Spotlight on Business has a primary business readership, so what would you like to tell our readers and business leaders who are either doing business in Nova Scotia now or that are thinking about doing business in Nova Scotia, what they can expect from your government? Premier Houston: They can expect action. We have no interest in moving backward, our only goal is to move the province forward. We will listen, but we will act. That means we may make a few mistakes along the way, but Nova Scotians should know that we only have one objective: growing the province in every way.
This is a great province with so much potential. I’m excited about the possibilities for Nova Scotia. A province where anything is possible. Our government has a strong vision for economic growth and a solid plan to lead Nova Scotia forward. There is a large focus on helping to start and scale new businesses, helping businesses improve their sustainability and focus on growing the green economy, leveraging our unique attributes to help Nova Scotia stand out and looking at how we attract new businesses to Nova Scotia. We have launched a marketing campaign to help recruit more skilled workers to our province and we will also work with employ- ers to offer the Better Pay Cheque Guarantee, where a portion of corporate taxes will go to workers. The potential of more and better jobs will help to attract more talent to Nova Scotia and will establish a new level of loyalty between the province, the employer and everyone working for a tax paying corporation. Manufacturers and distributors will choose Nova Scotia. Existing businesses that have been building and pounding away for years will be respected and rewarded. As a government we are com- mitted to new ideas and bold solutions to better support our existing businesses and be the catalyst to attract newcomers to our shores.
“ We have no interest in moving backward, our only goal is to move the province forward. We will listen, but we will act. That means we may make a few mistakes along the way, but Nova Scotians should know that we only have one objec - tive: growing the province in every way.”
Photos courtesy of Premier’s Office
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Spotlight: Now we know that you are very busy with running the province especially during the current pandemic however, it can’t all be work and no play? What do you and your wife, Carol, like to do in your down time? Premier Houston: Spending time with family is my number one. Carol has become an incredible gardener and I treasure time around the yard and am pretty handy with a shovel but not much else. We are both getting incredible enjoyment from watching our children grow. Spotlight: You have two children, Paget and Zachary. They have been by your side at many political events, as you have been for them either in the stands or on the bus for many equestrian and hockey events over the years. Is this a show of support as you have done for them over the years or has there been some interest by them in learning more and possibly entering politics in the future as you have done? Premier Houston: We are supportive of each other. We’re close through highs and lows. I’m fortunate that both kids actually seem to enjoy coming to some political events. Paget is more of a political watcher - she follows quite closely even if she hesitates to always admit it. Spotlight: What is the biggest lesson you have learned along the way in your professional and political journey? Premier Houston: Be thoughtful. Don’t rush to judgment where you can avoid it. Get the facts and consider the impact of your decisions and actions. I don’t consider myself as someone that needs a ton of information to make a decision, but I’m learning to try to slow things down a little more. It’s a work in progress. Spotlight: What has been your biggest surprise either professionally or politically? Premier Houston: I think my biggest surprise was how fast people will set their own life and agenda aside to step up for their community. It’s the Bluenoser way, so it shouldn’t surprise me, but seeing the number of people who will
get in the system, you receive world-class care from our physi- cians and healthcare professionals. But just a few months in, I know there are still people struggling. I want them to know that my goal remains - and it is the mandate of my government - to get them the access they need. Spotlight: What is something that we would be surprised to know about you? Premier Houston: Our family is heavily interested in rescue dogs. We currently have two border collies we adopted. My wife is very passionate about helping dogs, so we have had blind and deaf dogs in the past that she has nurtured and trained. I absolutely love them and the positivity they bring to our lives. Spotlight: Being from Halifax, we are curious about your take on the famous Pictou County style pizza? Are you a fan of the somewhat thicker, chewier dough and a spicy brown sauce? When was the last time you grabbed a combo slice? Premier Houston: I’m a huge fan of pizza in general. It would be a rare week that I don’t have pizza. Carol makes a great pizza and when I’m in Halifax you might spot me around Pizza Corner (just a lot earlier in the evening than in the 90’s). In Pictou County, George at Sam’s Trenton or Rhonda at Acropole Westville are my go-tos. Spotlight: I couldn’t end our conversation without asking if there are any aspirations of a possible run at Canada’s top political post of Prime Minister sometime in the future? Premier Houston: While it is an honour to be in that conversa- tion, I think we have plenty on our plate here in Nova Scotia. I am totally and completely focused on our province. Houston’s love of this province and its people along with the many conversations and discussions with people all around Nova Scotia regarding making the province a better place to live, work and do business is what sparked his interest in politics and his passion to make a difference for the people that live and work here. I believe in full disclosure, and I will let you know that Premier Houston and I have been friends for over a decade, I am not a political person and anyone that knows me can confirm that, but one thing that I do know about Tim, is that he is genuine, honest and always has time to listen, whether at the rink, grabbing a bite to eat or attending an event. He is not going to sugar coat his answer or just tell you what you want to hear just to make you go away. That is what is called integrity and I think that is what is needed more of these days in our daily lives.
“ I think my biggest surprise was how fast people will set their own life and agenda aside to step up for their community. It’s the Bluenoser way, so it shouldn’t surprise me, but seeing the number of people who will drop everything to help out is really refreshing.”
Photos courtesy of Premier’s Office
drop everything to help out is really refreshing. We see it when they step up for a political party, a leader or to help the province. I have been sur- rounded by so many supportive people who step up without question and pitch in. Spotlight: What has been your biggest disap- pointment either professionally or politically? Premier Houston: I’m a person that likes to acknowledge issues. I’m not a fan of looking the other way and pretending there is no problem. An early business mentor of mine had an expres- sion: problem stretchers out, problem solvers in. I don’t have time for people that “stretch” or ignore problems. Seeing firsthand the state of healthcare is my biggest disappointment and that’s why it’s my biggest motivator. For too long, the government stuck to a series of talking points designed to give the impression that there was no problem. That’s disappointing. We are working all day, every day to try to improve access to care. There is no question, when you
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SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022
MORE INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES TAKING THE LEAD IN CANADIAN OIL AND GAS CANADA’S ENERGY SECTOR TRANSFORMATION
fellow Heather Exner-Pirot wrote in a May 2021 report. “This is often the most consequential way through which they can achieve economic self-determination and real leverage in how projects proceed, including having a more direct say in the environmental pro- visions of projects.” Here are some current examples:
by Deborah Jaremko
A growing number of Canada’s Indigenous communities are becoming owners of oil and gas projects that can help reduce envi- ronmental impacts while lifting their members out of poverty. More project ownership builds on momentum in the industry’s spending with Indigenous busi- nesses. “In my life now, I see so much conversation about the importance of Indigenous people sitting at the table of major projects and discussions. The conversation is with the major stakeholders, and that’s Indigenous people,” said Jordan Jolicoeur, president of Métis-owned Carvel Electric, during a recent webinar hosted by the Canadian Asso- ciation of Petroleum Producers launching a new report about Indigenous engagement in oil and gas.
“Indigenous people have been here for tens of thousands of years, and when those projects leave, Indigenous people will still be here for hundreds of thou- sands of years in the future, so our voice is very important on the future of Canada. I believe that voice is being heard now, and that is a very large part of recon- ciliation.”
Northern Courier Pipeline Construction of the Northern Courier Pipeline, which went into service in January 2018. Photo courtesy TC Energy Indigenous communities: Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, Chipewyan Prairie First Nation, Conklin Métis Local 193, Fort Chipewyan Métis Local #125, Fort McKay Métis Nation, McMurray Métis, Fort McMurray #468 First Nation, Willow Lake Métis Nation Eight Indigenous communities in Alberta’s oil sands region have entered into a joint agreement with Suncor Energy to acquire 15 per cent ownership of the Northern Courier Pipeline, which connects Suncor’s Fort Hills oil sands mine to the project’s East Tank Farm.
Indigenous communities involved in the resource sector have gained significantly more influence and benefits over the past 20 years, according to the Ottawa-based Macdonald-Laurier Institute (MLI). “The trend in recent years has evolved towards nations asserting themselves as partners, owners and shareholders in resource development,” MLI
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The partnership between the company, five First Nations and three Métis communities is called Astisiy, a Cree word that means “thread made from sinew,” which is used in activities like Indigenous beading. Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation Chief Allan Adam said the opportunity “represents an example of what is possible when Industry and Indigenous communities collaborate on economic reconciliation. Through embracing such partnerships long-term benefits are realized for the greater good.” The group’s investment in the pipeline, supported by the Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corpo- ration, is expected to generate approximately $16 million in revenue annually for the communities for decades.
Indigenous community: Frog Lake First Nation The Frog Lake First Nation near Bonnyville, Alberta owns a major piece of the Lindbergh oil sands project. Through Frog Lake Energy Resources Corp., the community owns Lindbergh’s cogeneration plant, which provides the facility with heat and electricity generated from natural gas. It also exports elec- tricity into the Alberta grid and contributes to the province’s efforts to phase out coal power. Frog Lake generates monthly cash flows for the First Nation by leasing back the facility to Lindbergh owner Strathcona Resources Ltd. Its ownership of the plant is supported by the Alberta Indigenous Resources Corporation.
two years to work toward a go-ahead decision in 2023. Startup is planned for 2027, shipping LNG to Asian markets to help replace high emitting coal-fired power. “The difference between Cedar and any other project is the huge equity piece and that owner- ship. I believe it’s what every First Nation in this country strives for – if not the world strives for,” said Haisla Chief Councillor Crystal Smith. “It will bring tremendous economic opportunities and benefits, ensuring the Haisla people have control of our own future.”
Cedar LNG Cedar LNG project map. Courtesy Cedar LNG Indigenous community: Haisla Nation The Haisla Nation on B.C.’s north coast is approx- imately 50 per cent owner of Cedar LNG, a proposed $2.4-billion floating export terminal that if built will be the largest First Nations- owned infrastructure project in Canada. Cedar LNG got a push forward this June with Pembina Pipeline Corporation acquiring the remaining 50 per cent interest and announcing plans to invest about US$90 million over the next
First Nations themselves – is one of the largest business investments to date by a First Nations entity in Canada. The economic benefits of ownership include funding social programs, education and training, developing business capacity and building infra- structure, Mikisew Cree First Nation says. Lindbergh Cogen
East Tank Farm Photo courtesy Suncor Energy Indigenous communities: Fort McKay First Nation, Mikisew Cree First Nation Also at Fort Hills, the Fort McKay and Mikisew Cree First Nations already own 49 per cent of the project’s East Tank Farm. Completed in 2017, the $545-million deal – initiated by the
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Polaris Carbon Capture and Storage The Quest CCS facility - part of the Athabasca Oil Sands Project - has safely sequestered more than six million tonnes of CO2 in its six years of operations. Photo courtesy Shell Indigenous communities: Reconciliation Energy Transition participants TBD, Papaschase First Nation. Reconciliation Energy Transition, an affiliate of Indigenous-owned Project Reconciliation, has entered into an agreement with Shell to add “material ownership for First Nations” in the company’s proposed Polaris carbon capture and storage (CCS) project. Polaris would be Shell’s second CCS project in Alberta. Its first, called Quest, has successfully captured and stored more than six million tonnes of CO2 deep underground since startup in 2015, or the equivalent of taking more than 1.3 million cars off the road. Reconciliation Energy Transition says its investment in Polaris “will support environmental steward- ship and create pension-like intergenerational wealth – thereby supporting the path towards healing, respect and self-determination for participating Nations.” Project Reconciliation also has a bid underway for ownership of the Trans Mountain Pipeline and the expansion that is currently under construction. Ksi Lisims LNG Indigenous community: Nisga’a Nation Ksi Lisims LNG is a $10 billion proposed new Canadian natural gas export project near the Alaska border on the B.C. north coast owned jointly by the Nisga’a Nation, Rockies LNG and Western LNG. The community has been working to attract an LNG project to its lands for close to a decade, accord- ing to Nisga’a Nation president Eva Clayton. Ksi Lisims LNG filed its initial description of the floating project with provincial and federal regulators in July. Startup is planned in late 2027 or 2028.
Cascade Power Project Artist’s rendering of the Cascade Power Project. Image courtesy Kineticor Resource Corp. Indigenous communities: Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, Enoch Cree Nation, Kehewin Cree Nation, O’Chiese First Nation, Paul First Nation, Whitefish Lake First Nation A new natural gas-fired power plant being built with capacity to supply eight per cent of Alberta’s electricity requirements is partly owned by six First Nations communities. The Indigenous Communities Syndicate is investing $93 million for an equity stake in the Cascade Power Project, operated by Kineticor Resource Corp. Cascade is currently under construction and expected to start operating in 2023. Securing the deal, supported by the Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation, is “transformational” for the First Nations communities, said Alexis Nakota Sioux Chief Tony Alexis.
“ Projects improve industry’s environmental per - formance and enable First Nations self-determi - nation”
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LNG Newfoundland and Labrador Miawpukek First Nation Chief Mi’sel Joe and Miawpukek First Nation Chief Sharleen Gale (center) announce plans to increase their interest in the proposed LNG Newfoundland and Labrador project. Photo courtesy First Nations Major Projects Coalition Indigenous communities: Miawpukek First Nation, First Nations Major Projects Coalition The B.C.-based First Nations Major Projects Coalition and Miawpukek First Nation on Canada’s East Coast are working together on the first-ever Indigenous equity participation in an Atlantic offshore project, called LNG Newfoundland and Labrador. First LNG shipped to Europe from the $10-billion project is targeted for 2030, meeting growing demand for low-emission natural gas and, potentially, clean hydrogen. “Our inclusion in this project is historical, transformational, and an example of how the offshore energy industry, Canada, and Newfoundland and Labrador are truly embracing and giving effect to reconciliation,” said Miawpukek First Nation Chief Misel Joe. KANATA CarbonHub Indigenous communities: Frog Lake First Nations #121 & #122, Kehewin Cree Nation and in the future other participating Treaty Six First Nations Leaders representing Treaty Six First Nations in Alberta are proposing an Indigenous-led carbon capture and storage (CCS) hub located on their traditional territory. The communities are partnered in the proposed project with Kanata Clean Power & Climate Technol- ogies Corp. and Vault 44.01 Ltd. It is initially proposed by Frog Lake First Nations #121 & #122 and Kehewin Cree Nation, but it is expected their majority ownership stake will be opened to other Treaty Six First Nations as the development progresses.
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CONTRACTOR’S
EVOLUTION OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY - SEAWEED TO SPRAY FOAM
by Dan Monk
T he focus on energy efficiency of our homes has certainly grown by leaps and bounds over the past 50+ years, resulting in the National Building Code now having an extensive section devoted to the energy performance of homes. The following is a brief discussion of some of these advances however, I recommend doing some research and contacting organizations like Effi - ciency Nova Scotia to learn more about how to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
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INSULATION The majority of homes built prior to 1960 had minimal or zero insulation, some filled their walls with a bagged, dried seaweed insulation which was a ‘made in theMaritimes’ solution. When I was a boy, I recall local fishermen would haul seaweed from the shore and place it around their home to keep the wind and cold out. Others used scrap cloth to keep out drafts or to seal between the cold basement and the main living area. We have seen the evolution of insulation from seaweed to fiberglass batt, blowen in cellulose and fiber - glass, ridged foam insulation, and introduction of vapour barriers and building wrap to significantly reduce air movement through the walls. Now, we see more and more use of spray foam insulation and homes being designed that are so well insu- lated that they meet “net zero” energy require- ment. “Net zero” is an interesting topic that has evolved, if you are interested in learning more, please do a little research, as I believe it is the building gold standard for all future homes.
WINDOWS & DOORS Another area of advancement has been on windows and entry systems. We love our big, beautiful windows, with lots of glass however, they are still one of the largest sources of heat loss and gain. Not that long ago, a single pane glass window, with a storm window was consid- ered ‘high tech’ however, many people can still recall these windows would actually frost up in the winter! They had zero insulation value and were the equivalent of a hole in the wall of your home. In the 1960s and 1970s, windows started to advance with vinyl windows, better glass, double and triple thermal panes, adding seals around the windows, and improving installation methods. Even with that, a typical double thermal pane window today would achieve an R-value of 3-5. With a top-notch triple pane window with Low-E filaments and improved gas fillings between the panes, we can see windows with an R-value of 7-8. To give perspective, the requirement for a wall is R-24 and the attic is R-50. Therefore, even with the advancements of windows in the past 50+ years, they are still a challenge for energy efficiency in our homes.
HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEMS The heating of a home in a cold climate can be a significant operating cost for a home, which is why we have seen significant changes in these systems over the decades. Fireplaces and wood stoves were often the only source of heat in older homes and are still in use today, less often as a primary heating source. However, with the lack of insulations, it would be very difficult to keep all rooms warm and is often the reason you see so many doors in older homes which were used to preserve heat in the living areas. Central heat systems followed and are still in use in homes today. Typically, a central boiler was fuelled by coal and would heat water which in turn would be circulated around the home to cast iron rads to radiate heat in each room. These were effec- tive but they did take up space, could become very hot, and were not always the most efficient. There was a shift to oil fired hot water or forced warm air in the 1960s and 70s however, this came with the on-site storage of oil and potential envi- ronmental hazards due to leaks. Today, we are seeing more homes heated with heat pump technology, which also provide cooling in the summer. This dual technology can be a bonus with more extreme weather due to climate change. These units typically operate on electricity and can be air to air systems or air to water system combination. We are also seeing a lot of on demand hot water boilers to supple- ment the heat pump during the coldest days of the winter and provide domestic hot water. With continuous improvement on renewable energy sources such as solar panels and operat- ing systems, we are seeing these systems used more frequently for supplemental and primary heating.
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VENTILATION With homes being made more air-tight with better insulation, the need for air handling systems has become critical. These systems can be used to exchange the warm moist air inside the home with cooler dryer air from outside. This is completed through a heat exchanger and allows some warming of the cooler outside air. Air exchange is critical to maintaining healthy air quality within the home and control the humidity of the home. This can reduce condensation on windows and the expansion and contraction of wood floors, cabinets, and furniture. Older homes were not built with ventilation systems and when they are renovated and made more air-tight, it is important to consider the addition of an air-exchange unit.
I know that this is a lot to take in and it only scratches the surface! It’s important to note that with climate change and increased fuel costs, more energy efficient homes are critical as we move forward. The innovation and imple- mentation of alternative heating and cooling are on the rise and I’m excited to see what’s next. I hope you have found this article helpful and potentially sparked your interest to learn more on how to improve the energy efficiency of your own home.
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