Innovation Summer 2026

PACIFIC CENTRE HEAT RECOVERY AND THERMAL ENERGY STORAGE

First Light Energy Solutions designed a novel, large scale decarbonization system for the 1.5 million-sf Pacific Centre in Vancouver. This innovative project utilizes heat recovery chillers paired with a 4,200-kWh bio based phase change material Thermal Energy Storage (TES) tank – one of the first of its kind in Canada. By capturing and storing waste heat, the system reduces the complex’s annual greenhouse gas emissions by 1,300 tonnes of CO 2 e. This project exemplifies environmental stewardship through world-class energy efficiency and climate change mitigation. The team ensured public safety by navigating the complex structural requirements of integrating massive TES infrastructure within a high traffic retail and office environment. The rehabilitation of this landmark built environment demonstrates a pioneering approach to urban resilience and long-term resource preservation.

Company: First Light Energy Solutions Participants: Moises De Alba, P.Eng. P hoto : F irst L ight E nergy S olutions

UNDERWATER NOISE STUDY FROM ELECTRIC AND DIESEL HARBOUR TUGS

Robert Allan Ltd. conducted a full-scale study comparing underwater radiated noise (URN) from one battery-electric harbour tug and one comparable diesel-mechanical tug operating in the Port of Vancouver. The study was commissioned by the Innovation Centre of Transport Canada to support quieter vessel design and to inform stakeholders on how to reduce the impact of URN on the marine environment. Using a dedicated underwater listening station, the project quantified noise emissions during typical tug operations, including loitering, transit, and push/pull. Results showed that battery electric propulsion significantly reduces URN during transits and loitering – conditions that dominate typical duty cycles – by eliminating diesel engine structure-borne noise. Noise reductions in these conditions were equivalent to removing 6 equivalent traditional diesel-mechanical tugs from the water. When producing high thrust, propeller cavitation dominated the noise for both vessels, resulting in similar URN levels. Company: Robert Allan Ltd.

Participants: Giorgio Burella, EIT; Mike Shives, P.Eng.; Mike Phillips, P.Eng.; Vince den Hertog, P.Eng.; Waltfred Lee, EIT. P hoto : R obert A llan L td .

Innovation Summer 2026

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