In our season two finale, I spoke with Carl Haeussler, Director of Business Development at Brookfield Renewables (EVOLUGEN), and a good industry associate. We discuss generation at a high level with a focus on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

BESS has seen rapid growth in recent years. It is a simple concept for storing excess energy from a high voltage grid or local distribution network, and using it during peak times when energy rates are at their highest.

BESS systems are complex, even though they are viewed as a stationary storage device. They can provide voltage regulations, frequency droop compensation, as well as functionality to black start grids during large outages.

The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) has been working on their long-term plans to find and allocate resources to meet the demand and needs of the future for Ontario. The IESO views BESS as the most cost-effective solution on the market that will taper electricity rates paid by Ontario residents and hopefully reduce those rates.

There are no other technologies available on the market that are financially feasible enough, and have as low a public impact as BESS to support growth. It is one of the best solutions for grid stability.

The need for power in Ontario is greater than it has ever been. BESS is necessary to facilitate the growth objectives set forth by the province.

Key Takeaways:

1. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are good as a Peak Time Capacity reserve but are more complex than perceived. They provide voltage regulation, frequency droop compensation, and help to black start grids in times of major outages.
2. BESS operates at different voltage levels. It can be connected at 500 kV and 230 kV grid voltages as well as Utility scale installations from 34.5 kV to as low as 600 Volts. Find the right solution and design for your needs.
3. The value of BESS is revolutionary and is not optional in Ontario. IESO predicts energy demand in Ontario to grow by 75% by 2050. We need BESS as part of the energy solution.
4. From a grid stability standpoint, it is one of the best solutions. Find the opportunity to bring this solution to your system, customer, or project.

Please subscribe to this podcast and connect with me on my website at DGG5Advising.com or on LinkedIn at Dean G. Gatien.

Powerful Connections is produced by Story Studio Network.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of continuing the discussion from last episode with Brendon Fenton (VP, PowerNorth Utility Contractors Inc.) and his partner Nick Gatien (President, PowerNorth). We discuss the future of the high voltage industry and the next 25 years.

Maintaining current customer as well as finding new opportunities to provide high level services. Being engaged early with long-time customers with constructability and details for planning to perform permitting, design, procurement, or construction planning.

Building the organization is critical. Developing the talent in the office to make sure there are new key people in the business to take on more activities. Managing the capacity to service today’s responsibilities but see the long-term work to be able to respond to you client when they need you. The apprenticeship program in the company is a core investment being done.

The importance of Business Development for the long-term is critical to your success. That includes understanding the Indigenous communities, leaders, and businesses. Find out what the stakeholders, landowners, and rights holders need.

Getting engaged with customers at many levels including development, planning, risk review and deliver great services with high quality and safety. The enthusiasm with which the leadership and key supervision can time and time again interact with customers creates trust.

Once the customer finds their service provider is an extension of them, the integration into ECI process, collaborative approach, and integrated project management helps de-risk a project and lead to successful outcomes. This leads to service agreements or review services for planning.

Stay focused on what you do and what you are good at. Manage the specialty items you need to provide a complete project solution. Develop good relations with vendors, engineering, subcontractors to create teams with similar focus, values, and great performance.

Develop the right team in the business to deliver a unique solution and compete at the highest level.

Key Takeaways:

1. Maintaining current customer as well as finding new opportunities to provide high level services.
2. Managing the capacity to service today’s responsibilities but see the long-term work to be able to respond to you client when they need you. The importance of Business Development for the long term is critical to your success.
3. Getting engaged with customers at many levels including development, planning, risk review and deliver great services with high quality and safety. The enthusiasm with which the leadership and key supervision can time and time again interact with customers creates trust.
4. Once the customer finds their service provider is an extension of them, the integration into ECI process, collaborative approach, and integrated project management helps de-risk a project and lead to successful outcomes.
5. Stay focused on what you do and what you are good at. Manage the specialty items you need to provide a complete project solution.
6. Develop the right team in the business to deliver a unique solution and compete at the highest level.

Please subscribe to this podcast and connect with me on my website at DGG5Advising.com or on LinkedIn at Dean G. Gatien.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of talking with Brendon Fenton (VP, PowerNorth Utility Contractors Inc.) and his partner Nick Gatien (President, PowerNorth). We discuss today’s issues with People, Equipment, Materials, and Resources in the high voltage business realm.

Maintaining good working relationships with equipment vendors. The standard of equipment is important because the investment in the high voltage business is big. This is a difficult business to enter, let alone maintain.

Planning with customers for procurement of items is critical. Leveraging the relationship with the customer for procurement of items is critical.

It is a busy marketplace. Subcontractor onboarding is very key to finding organizations that share and align with the same values. Trust and relationship are the key to success. The conflict-free operations on a job are vital to delivering the outcome required.

Successfully delivering results, project after project, especially in complex projects, is why we are successful.

Building a strong team to join and grow the organization in a professional manner. Investing in our apprenticeship program resources to continue to get better to provide clients with well-rounded services.

Key Takeaways:

1. Maintain good relationships with equipment vendors.
2. Establishing a standard of equipment is important because the to investment in your business is big.
3. Planning with Customers for procurement items is critical to the outcome, risk mitigation, and maintaining a schedule.
4. Find the subcontractors and service providers that meet your values and create the trust for a good working relationship.
5. Successfully deliver results especially in complex projects to meet your customer’s requirements, establish a long-term relationship, and create repeat business.
6. Invest in your apprenticeship program to build the resources to build a strong team to grow the organization in a professional manner. The goals and objectives are to provide your customer with well rounded list of services.

Please subscribe to this podcast and connect with me on my website at DGG5Advising.com or on LinkedIn at Dean G. Gatien.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Amélie Morissette (Senior Strategic Planning Manager) and Julie Turgeon (VP Construction) from INNERGEX. We review a number of points related to Project Execution Planning in the Energy Sector.

The energy sector is experiencing unprecedented growth and the next ten years will see $100 billion+ per year in renewable generation. Managing the project execution, resources, materials, logistics, and most of all risks will be a challenge. Those that have the ability and experience will be successful in the delivery and creation of these new assets. 

Canada and the United States are busier than they have been since WWII infrastructure development. We are beyond updating or upgrading systems. This is all of that and at the same time double and triple capacity while adding in new technology on the fly as it develops.

Risk management is the most critical item and skill that project managers need and use. Implementing strategies to mitigate risk is the core of any project execution plan. Managing all the moving parts of cost, schedule, scope, design, procurement, and construction execution are all part of a project execution plan. Selecting and organizing the right Project Management Model is the key to a successful outcome.

The three models we review are typical Engineer, Procure, Construct (EPC), Engineer, Procure,  and Construction Management (EPCM), and Integrated Project Delivery (IPD). The later being a very good solution for complex projects that are developing and building with shared risk and reward. The benefit of collaboration with the key parties of Owner, Developer, Project Manager, Designer, and Contractor managing all aspects of the project in an open atmosphere.

Key Takeaways:

1. Managing projects is complex and relies heavily on risk management and the ability of the key people involved to control the outcomes for a successful project. 
2. The energy sector developments happening are massive, and the emerging technology has pushed the boundaries of risk mitigation in execution planning. Having the right project management plan for the scope of work is critical to the success of the project.
3. The tracking and managing of the four (4) Project Pillars (Charter, Budget, Schedule, Risk) are required for a clear picture of the ongoing project for successful outcomes.
4. The three main project delivery models are Engineer, Procure, Construct (EPC), Engineer, Procure, and Construction Management (EPCM), and Integrated Project Delivery (IPD). The right solution will be developed during Project Execution Planning.

Please subscribe to this podcast and connect with me on my website at DGG5Advising.com or on LinkedIn at Dean G. Gatien.

In this episode, I speak with Rob McNeil (President, Composite Power) about the impact of Artificial Intelligence in the energy sector in grid transformation.

There are three areas we cover in identifying impact: the business and operations of Composite Power, suppliers they represent, and their customers.

The initial steps are to help customers deploy equipment to collect data, and the challenge is to evolve to implementation with the right vendors and technologies for customer business and operations. The outcome has to be accelerated change, adopting new system monitoring with the intent to make electricity more reliable and more affordable. With increases in capacity, there is going to be huge initial investment. At the end of the day, we should have more power, better information, more control, more reliability, and cheaper rates.

The focus is productivity and cost. Power needs to be cheaper as well as more reliable. We need technology to drive efficiency.

Key Takeaways:

1. The role of AI is increasing significantly and are improving the ability of system monitoring, control and operations. Good planning and implementation will make our systems better, safer, and cheaper.
2.  AI is having an impact on business in deploying tools to make operations more efficient.
3. The energy sector transitions to integrate AI in data collection and monitoring is accelerating quickly but there is still lots of work to do in utilizing ADMS, OMS, DERMS, etc. These developments are changing the opportunities for business, customers, utilities and suppliers. This is an opportunity that will benefit many. Find your place in the AI investment in our electrical systems.
4. In the huge increase in the scale of power required and being built we need technology to drive efficiency and reduce the cost of power.

Please subscribe to this podcast and connect with me on my website at DGG5Advising.com or on LinkedIn at Dean G. Gatien.

In this episode, I speak with Christine Goulais (CEO, NBISIING Power) and Brendan Huston (CEO, Nipissing First Nation (NFN)) about creating Indigenous business, economic growth, and building something meaningful for the community.

There is incredible opportunity to build long-term, meaningful relationships that foster things like innovation, inclusion, and shared business success. Having a seat at the table to contribute to significant decisions around the business and its strategic direction and investments. The most important things are economic sustainability.

Organizations need to align values, but the challenge of creating a great relationship is that it takes time to build and cultivate a relationship. Creating an Indigenous business is not just about economic growth but also building something meaningful. Christine and Brendan discuss developing a business and a partnership that aligns values and strategic direction.

NBISIING Power is in a unique position to support the Nation business and the Nation partnerships.

The energy sector has always been the lead in networking. While supporting customer’s strategic objectives related to Indigenous procurement and capacity building in Ontario and Canada, NBISIING Power also provides an Indigenous-owned and -led opportunity for both customers and vendors to do business with.

When organizations support Indigenous business growth and procurement, NBISIING Power provides that solution. In all of this providing support while at the same time diversifying their offerings that they bring to their customers and vendors having an Indigenous partner.

The vision speaks loudly of balance and economic independence.to understand the diversity opportunity that the potential business can create. This reminds us of the capacity, clarity, and certainty we discussed in Season 1.

Key Takeaways:

1. First Nation Communities must have good leadership and internal structure in their business development and management.
2. The communications and exchange of business and sourcing plans will contribute to the successes of Indigenous Partnerships.
3. The energy sector developments are changing the opportunities for business to develop and the opportunity for mutual growth, economic development, and equity ownership in the communities to create wealth.
4. Strategic planning and organizational structure as well as community values help create the balance in Indigenous Businesses.

Please subscribe to this podcast and connect with me on my website at DGG5Advising.com or on LinkedIn at Dean G. Gatien.

In this episode, I speak with Merv McLeod (co-founder, McLeod Wood Associates Inc.) about Indigenous Communities and dealing with generational wealth.

How do you transfer the value of an Indigenous business to family, or keep it a business on a First Nation Reserve? How do you enter business, grow it, and then transfer from generation to generation?

Equity and Credit do not exist in a First Nations community like they do in a regular municipal community. The only assets are cash, cash flow, and the experience of the owner. Are there any trucks or assets you can actually find value in?

The cash flow is there for running the business, paying for payroll, and hopefully putting some money away for retirement.

Land is assigned to individuals. It is not owned and cannot be sold. If there is no way to sell/transfer the business, how does it carry on? The issue of how to set up credit models, or even mortgages, is difficult and more readily available to First Nations Government versus private individuals.

Municipalities usually have more private sector business than public jobs, whereas the First Nations Community will have more public sector jobs or jobs related to projects in the community.

The energy sector will grow opportunities and create jobs, which will bring money and spending to the communities. The potential benefits from new generation or transmission projects is changing that situation.  

Merv highlights the issues facing First Nations businesses and individuals in First Nations communities. The energy sector is changing that.

Key Takeaways:

1. There needs to be more work in creating ways for Indigenous Business to develop and grow on reserve.
2. The energy sector developments are changing the opportunities for business to develop and the opportunity for equity ownership in the communities to create wealth.

Please subscribe to this podcast and connect with me on my website at DGG5Advising.com or on LinkedIn at Dean G. Gatien.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of talking with Brad Duguid, senior advisor at Sussex Strategy Group and the new President of The Association of Major Power Consumers Ontario (AMPCO).

Brad was a councillor for almost ten years in the city of Scarborough and Toronto, and a provincial MPP for 13 years. He has had seven ministries, including Aboriginal Affairs, Labour, Energy & Infrastructure, Economic Development, Research & Innovation, Trade and Training, Colleges & Universities. He was known as a troubleshooter for government, which leads to his value as an advisor at Sussex, as well as a good choice for AMPCO at this time.

After the Minister of Energy brought forward the Long-Term Energy Plan and was at the centre of the tough decision for Ontario to get off coal-fired generation, he has a lot of pride in knowing that his efforts and hard work mattered. The elimination of smog days in Toronto was the single greatest climate change initiative in North America, until now. Ontario has one of the cleanest energy systems in the world, a huge, impactful, global advantage for Ontario.

Brad and I talk about being the voice of AMPCO to be involved in helping the government with solutions for reliable and affordable power, and the on-going push to get off fossil fuels and deal with the infrastructure and use of natural gas generation for electricity, a huge item to review. We discuss the new Integrated Energy Resource Plan that will review electricity and include review of natural gas generation.

Key Takeaways:

1. The transition away from Natural Gas will require practical technologies at an affordable price.
2. All sectors in the energy industry including government and regulator, need to collaborate on solutions to obtain the capacity we need in the short and long term.
3. In light of the drastic changes in the global economy.  Reliable and affordable energy sources are more important than ever.

*This was recorded January 27, 2025 prior to the provincial election February 27.

Please subscribe to this podcast and connect with me on my website at DGG5Advising.com or on LinkedIn at Dean G. Gatien.

In this episode, Dean mentions the legacy and widsom of his father Clary, and his upcoming 100th Birthday.  Clary passed away on February 6, 2025.  This obituary shares more about his full life: sudbury.com/obituaries/gatien-clarence

In this episode, Christine Goulais (CEO, NBISIING Power) and Rob McNeil (President, Composite Power Group Inc.) present the importance and value of Indigenous Relationships and Partnerships. They discuss why their Partnership works so well.

They both have their histories and journeys that have led them to this point where they meet in their careers, and they reveal how their openness and constant communication is their success and their strength.

I have known Rob for about 20 years. I have only known Christine about 4 years, but I knew who she was when she was still with Hydro One. What strikes me the most is their calmness and modesty through it all. They are focused and driven. Their exuberance comes out with their achievements and their wins.

I feel their ability to collaborate drives the support for Indigenous business and for the community. Their presence in the Supply Chain in Ontario and Canada is being felt and is a great example of economic development. This is not just a great commercial business, but also a shining light of what is meant by ‘meaningful and respectful’ at work.

Key Takeaways:

• Diversity breeds innovation. Indigenous Businesses contribute to the perspectives we strive for in business in doing it better, differently, efficiently, and embracing innovation.
• Indigenous communities have been building economies for hundreds of years and are ready to work in a meaningful way.
• Today, Indigenous businesses and communities lead with their values and foundations of trust, respect, and commitment
• NBISIING Power also believes in sharing knowledge and benefits with others to support capacity building across other nations.

I want to close this episode with a question: Knowing what you have heard listening to this episode, as well as the recap between Rene and myself, what action are you taking to support Indigenous business development and Indigenous economic growth?

Please subscribe to this podcast and connect with me on my website at DGG5Advising.com or on LinkedIn at Dean G. Gatien.

In this episode, I speak with Andy Kerr (Director, HSE at ALECTRA Utilities) about Culture in the High Risk Sector. Andy is one of the best Subject Matter Experts I know in Health and Safety. He was involved in one of the first Arc Flash Risk Assessments for the Utility Industry in 2002, worked for the legacy E*USA, and is now at ALECTRA. We discuss the items of human behaviour not written in regulations, policies, or rules.

Andy reviews the pride of the trade, and how good culture happens when no one is looking. The concerning issue is that pride sometimes gets in the way of people wanting to ensure they are not viewed as making a mistake. Andy brings his experiences from professional motorsports to provide an analogy for us to consider, in communicating when things happen or when they're not perfect.

The industry culture, the organizational culture, the trades culture, the fear of embarrassment, or fear of discipline tend to result in these incidents going unreported. In the eyes of the participant – nothing happened.

Andy and I talk about Zero, or relentlessly pursuing to zero. How it is a great statement for a banner to go on your safety tag line. We get honest about zero. Andy wants to make our listeners think about how to pursue beyond zero.

Key Takeaways from our discussion:

1. Great Culture discusses the mistakes and near hits for learning and not for punishment. Good Health and Safety is non-reprimand.
2. Great Culture works at Health and Safety every day. It is not something that happens by itself.
3. Great Culture celebrates accomplishments.
4. Great Culture does not look through the lens of Management, Union, or Tradesperson. They look through the lens of human exposed to hazards wanting humans to go home safe at the end of the day.
5. We can always do Better.

Please subscribe to this podcast and connect with me on my website at DGG5Advising.com or on LinkedIn at Dean G. Gatien.