Sault Ste. Marie Energy Innovation Hub

In early 2012, the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre announced the release of a Smart Energy Strategy for the community, positioning it as a viable jurisdiction for investment and growth in energy projects. Drawing on the momentum Sault Ste. Marie has experienced in the alternative energy sector with the development of wind and solar farms, as well as the development of a generation and proposed waste to energy plant, SSMIC and the Destiny Energy Committee commissioned Nicholas Parker and Parker Venture Management to prepare a strategy for the community based on in-depth discussions, interviews, stakeholder sessions and an analysis on clean technology trends. Results show that participants of the study were supportive of a renewed vision for the community parallel to the guiding principles common in the Strategy. Proposed strategic priority areas and associated activities of the Smart Energy Strategy include: Accelerated Activity in Conservation, Energy Efficiency, and Heat Recovery. Alternative Energy and Development of an Intelligent Regional Grid (Smart Microgrid). Creation of a Community Investico and ensuring retention of investment throughout the region. Community Branding and Outreach. Since the approval of the Smart Energy Strategy, SSMIC in partnership with the City of Sault Ste. Marie,Sault College, PUC Inc., the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation and private sector representatives have been working collaboratively to bring these strategic priority areas to action. Estimated job creation for the Smart Energy Strategy is 300-600 for Sault Ste. Marie and region if implemented and project plans come to fruition.