Last weekend, we made waves at the Champion of the Crescent Stand-up Paddleboard Race! As a Course Sponsor and a competing team, we were thrilled to be part of this meaningful event, raising awareness and funds for youth mental health initiatives through the Surrey Hospitals Foundation.
The event was a tremendous success, raising a total of $218,346. These proceeds will support critical youth mental health programs. For example, art therapy, music therapy, recreation therapy, sensory interventions, and therapeutic writing at the Surrey Hospitals Foundation.
At Houle, we’re committed to creating opportunities, enriching lives, and bringing communities to life. This means caring about the people who share their lives with us. We recognize the critical role of youth mental health in shaping our future. By supporting youth mental health initiatives, we empower the next generation and pave the way for a future where young individuals can thrive, achieve their potential, and prioritize their well-being.
Thank you to the Surrey Hospital Foundation for organizing this amazing event and for leading efforts to support youth mental health programs! Together, we can all stand up for youth mental health and create a brighter, healthier future.
Learn more about our community initiatives here.
We’re proud to announce that on June 21, 2024 our project, Third Space Commons, received the inaugural ECABC Innovation Award at the AGM & Gala Dinner in Penticton!
In 2022, Third Quadrant Design, a UBC student-led team, embarked on a journey to create Third Space Commons for the 2023 Solar Decathlon Build Challenge. Initially designed as a single-family home, Third Space quickly evolved into a symbol of sustainable construction.
The Solar Decathlon Challenge, organized by the U.S. Department of Energy, is an international competition that challenges collegiate teams to design and build highly efficient and innovative buildings powered by renewable energy. It features two main competitions: the Design Challenge, which spans one to two semesters and focuses on design only, and the Build Challenge, a two-year program where teams design and build their projects.
Participating in the 2023 Build Challenge, Third Quadrant Design competed against teams from around the world, showcasing their dedication to advancing sustainable construction practices. Our entry, Third Space Commons, stood out for its unique approach and innovative solutions.
This carbon-negative material was used for constructing the walls of Third Space. Not only does hempcrete provide insulation and moisture regulation, but it also absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, aligning perfectly with the project’s sustainability goals.
We minimized waste and costs by repurposing materials from buildings slated for demolition.
Passive design principles reduced the need for artificial systems. Natural ventilation, rainwater collection, and energy-efficient lighting were key elements.
We integrated intelligent lighting control, energy-efficient floorboard heating, HVAC systems, and controls to optimize energy usage.
All these innovations contributed to Third Space’s environmental footprint reduction. Compared to a baseline building, Third Space achieved a 75% reduction in total carbon emissions over its projected 10-year lifespan.
The interdisciplinary Third Quadrant Design team, comprising engineering, architecture, arts, and business students, drove this project from design to completion. Our mentorship and technical support helped the student project team overcome challenges, refine their skills, and make meaningful contributions to sustainable construction.
ABOUT THE AWARD
The ECABC Innovation Award recognizes outstanding innovation in construction practices and technology. This year’s theme focused on Green Infrastructure, highlighting a project that contributed to BC’s transition to a low-carbon future. Receiving this inaugural award underscores our commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainable building and inspiring future projects.
We are thrilled to announce that Houle has once again achieved Platinum membership status in Deloitte’s Best Managed Companies program! This marks our twelfth consecutive year receiving this prestigious recognition for our exceptional management abilities and business practices.
At Houle, we commit to excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth as the foundation of our operations. These principles guide every decision we make and reflect the hard work and dedication of our entire team in leading our industry forward. Their passion, expertise, and pursuit of excellence have been instrumental in our success.
As we continue to evolve, we remain dedicated to bringing communities to life by delivering exceptional service and driving positive change in the industry.
We extend our congratulations to all this year’s winners! See the winner’s list here.
Canada’s Best Managed Companies remains the hallmark of excellence for private Canadian-owned and managed businesses. Since its inception in 1993, this program has attracted hundreds of entrepreneurial companies competing for recognition through a rigorous and independent evaluation of their management skills and practices.
The awards are granted across four levels:
This program is proudly sponsored by Deloitte Private, CIBC, The Globe and Mail, Salesforce, and TMX Group.
For more information, visit www.bestmanagedcompanies.ca.
Are you seeking residential electrical services to support your home improvement projects? From power upgrades and inspections to EV charger installations, our licensed electricians will ensure your home’s electrical systems are safe and tailored to meet all your electrical needs.
Embarking on a home renovation can be exciting but overwhelming, especially when it comes to integrating advanced electrical systems. Our licensed electricians offer expert guidance for complex wiring, energy-efficient improvements, and smart home technologies. We go beyond mere installations; we design electrical plans specific to your renovation needs, ensuring compliance with local codes and safety standards. Here’s how we can assist:
Safe and proper electrical connections for appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators, washers, and dryers with our professional wiring, grounding, and protection measures.
Enhance your outdoor space with professional electrical solutions for hot tubs and saunas.
From stylish lighting fixtures to appliance upgrades, we’ll electrify your kitchen makeover.
Upgrade your bathrooms with superior lighting, in-floor heating, and more.
Improve air quality with advanced ventilation solutions.
Turn your basement into a functional space with the right electrical setup for home theaters or offices.
Leverage BC’s Secondary Suite Incentive Program for rental suite installations that attract tenants.
See if you’re eligible for the program, click here.
Take control of your property’s lighting ambiance and energy usage with our customizable lighting design options, including dimmer switches, smart lighting systems, and more.
Upgrading your heating and cooling system? Proper electrical infrastructure is crucial. Our electricians are experts in equipping your home with modern HVAC systems, ensuring efficient operation and energy savings:
Our Services
Before installation, we conduct a thorough evaluation of your existing electrical system to determine if upgrades or changes are necessary to support your new HVAC equipment. This includes detailed load calculations to ensure that your electrical panel and circuits can handle the increased demand.
Navigating the complexities of building codes and permits can be challenging. Our team handles all aspects of compliance. From acquiring the necessary permits to ensuring that all installations meet local electrical codes and regulations.
We don’t just stop at assessing and preparing your electrical systems. Our experts also manage the complete installation process. From wiring your new heat pump or air conditioning unit to integrating it with your home’s existing electrical system. This ensures that all components work seamlessly together for optimal performance.
To keep your HVAC system running efficiently and safely, we provide ongoing maintenance services. Moreover, our team can assist with emergency repairs, solving issues quickly to maintain your system’s reliability and your home’s comfort.
As technology advances, integrating HVAC systems with smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular. We can help connect your heating and cooling systems to smart thermostats and other devices. We also help enable automatic adjustments and energy savings.
Regular inspections are vital for ensuring the safety and efficiency of your electrical and HVAC systems. Our comprehensive inspection services help identify potential issues before they become major problems, providing peace of mind and saving you money in the long run.
Considering an EV charger for your home? Our comprehensive services include everything from securing permits to choosing the right charger, ensuring a smooth installation:
Our licensed electricians can obtain electrical permits for EV charger installations, ensuring compliance with local regulations and safety standards.
Upgrade your service to support the power demands of an EV charger.
Choose the best charger for your needs and let us handle the installation.
Optimize your energy usage with smart charging solutions.
Ensure your home is safe with our top-notch electrical repair and upgrade services. Whether it’s outdated wiring or a panel upgrade, our team is ready to tackle any challenge, 24/7.
Upgrade outdated systems to meet current safety standards
Enhance your home’s power capacity with a panel upgrade.
Click here to learn more about our electrical repairs and upgrade services.
From pre-purchase evaluations to renovations, our inspections provide a detailed overview of your home’s electrical systems, helping you make informed decisions and ensuring compliance with all regulations.
At Houle, we’re committed to delivering exceptional electrical services tailored to your unique needs. Contact us today for all your electrical needs! Contact us today for all your electrical needs!
To understand more about residential electrical service, click here.
Understanding your home or residential electrical service is vital for safety, efficiency, and comfort. This guide will demystify the basics of residential electrical services, helping homeowners make informed decisions about maintenance, upgrades, and compliance.
Residential electrical service is the system that distributes electricity throughout your home, starting from the meter box where the utility company’s responsibility ends. It includes your main breaker panel, circuits, and all wiring, outlets, and fixtures.
Service size, measured in amperes (amps), indicates the capacity of your home’s electrical system. Modern homes typically require between 100 to 200 amps to safely power all devices and appliances. If your home is older, with only 60 amps, upgrading may be necessary to support today’s electrical loads and enhance safety.
Signs you might need an upgrade include frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, or the addition of high-power appliances. Upgrading from 100 to 200 amps improves safety and increases your home’s value.
Electrical upgrades often require permits and must comply with local building codes. This ensures safety and avoids complications when selling your home. Always check with your local building department before starting significant electrical work.
Upgrading your electrical system can also lead to better energy efficiency. Consider integrating LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and smart devices that automatically manage electricity usage, reducing costs and environmental impact.
Every homeowner should have a basic understanding of their home’s electrical service. Whether you’re considering an upgrade or simply maintaining your current system, being well-informed will help you ensure your home is safe, efficient, and up to code. Invest in your electrical infrastructure to safeguard and enhance your living environment. Contact us for all your electrical needs!
To learn more about the residential electrical services we offer, visit here.
In February 2024, we proudly received the Johnson Controls Open Globe Award for Outstanding Sales Excellence! As a leader in security access controls, being ranked among the top performers for 2023 is a testament to our talented Technology teams and their commitment to collaboration that supports delivering innovative systems integration solutions for our customers. Thanks to Johnson Controls for this recognition.
It’s through our talented teams and strong partnerships that we can succeed in delivering excellent service to our customers and communities. As BC’s leading electrical contractor and systems integrator, we are proud of our sales performance and achievement.
Les Koss, Vice President, Technology
The Johnson Controls Open Globe Award for Outstanding Sales Excellence recognizes partners who deliver exceptional knowledge and expertise when managing security access controls and have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the customer. The outstanding sales performers rank among the “best of the best” in fiscal year 2023.
We’re thrilled to be recognized among this year’s BC’s Top Employers! We’re proud of our talented teams and innovative programs that create a supportive workplace where everyone can grow and make a lasting impact. This marks the third year that we have been honoured with this distinction, reinforcing our commitment to continuous improvement and maintaining an outstanding workplace.
TOP EMPLOYER
AN ANNUAL DISTINCTION FOR EXCEPTIONAL WORKPLACES
The Top Employer designation, organized by Mediacorp Canada Inc., is awarded annually to organizations across BC that “lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work.” Employers are compared to other organizations in their field to determine which offers the most progressive and forward-thinking programs. The evaluation covers eight essential criteria:
It’s an honour to receive this recognition for our purpose-driven culture and programs that empower employees to make a positive impact in our communities. This achievement serves as a testament to our commitment to providing meaningful work, ongoing career development, and opportunities to grow.
Amber Roberts, VP, People & Culture
As BC’s leading electrical contractor and systems integrator, with over 1,200 dedicated professionals employed in both office and field positions, we’re committed to building teams that thrive. Driven by purpose and connected through collaboration, our focus on people guides our success in delivering some of the most exciting projects in the province.
Learn more about BC’s Top Employers and what sets Houle apart as an employer of choice here.
Want to work on exciting projects? Check out our current career opportunities.
Are you a strata or property manager, business owner, or homeowner? The demand for electric vehicle (EV) charging is on the rise and now is the perfect time to get your property EV Ready by expanding your EV charging infrastructure. The Province of BC is moving forward with its zero-emission vehicle targets and as of October 31st, 2023, it has approved another $6.59M in funding to re-open the CleanBC Go Electric EV Charger Rebate Program for Homes and Workplaces.
What does this mean? Whether you’re thinking of starting the planning process to upgrade your property, or your building is already approved for EV charger installation, there are BC Hydro EV charger rebates available to help you save up to 50-75% of the costs, while funding lasts.
How it Works
MULTI-UNIT HOMES (APARTMENT, CONDO & TOWNHOME COMPLEXES)
If your complex is not already pre-approved by BC Hydro for EV charger installation, you will need an EV Ready Plan. This is a professional document for your building to make at least one parking space per residential unit EV Ready, which includes the electrical infrastructure to support EV chargers.
If your plan is completed by a licensed electrical contractor or electrical engineer, you could receive a rebate of up to 75% of the costs of creating the plan, to a maximum of $3,000. Note that an EV Ready Plan is simply a starting point and does not require you to move forward with installation.
Once your EV Ready Plan is complete and approved, you can proceed with the installation of electrical infrastructure to support EV chargers. This could include electrical service upgrades, wiring, and civil works. While funding lasts, you could receive a rebate of up to 50% of the installation costs, to a maximum of $600 per parking stall, and a project maximum of $120,000. Note: while having the right electrical infrastructure is critical to being EV Ready, EV charging devices can be installed later.
Once the electrical infrastructure is in place, you’ll be ready for EV charger installation. You could receive a rebate of up to 50% of the costs, up to a maximum of $1,400 per charger to purchase and install Level 2 networked EV chargers, to a maximum of $14,000.
For standalone EV chargers at workplaces (for employee use) and multi-unit homes, BC Hydro is offering rebates of up to 50% of costs up to a maximum of $2,000 per charger to purchase and install eligible Level 2 networked EV chargers, to a maximum of $14,000. The building must be pre-approved.
Owners or residents of single-family homes, row homes, or duplexes that purchase and install an eligible Level 2 EV charger could receive a rebate of up to 50% of costs, to a maximum of $350. BC Hydro is also offering incentives of up to $250 for single-family home customers who install eligible EV chargers, and power management rebates for installing power-switching devices.
Why Upgrade Now?
save up to 75%
($3,000 MAx)
When working with a licensed electrical contractor.
save up to 50%
($120k MAx)
On electrical work required to support EV charging.
save up to 50%
($1,400 MAx)
Per Level 2 charger, to a max. of $14,000.
Save up to 50% costs, to a maximum of $2,000 per charger
For multi-unit homes & workplaces.
save up to 50%
($350 max)
Save an additional $250 on eligible smart EV chargers, and, ask us about rebates for
installing power-switching devices.
As a licensed electrical contractor, working in Vancouver and across BC, we can help with all your EV charging needs and help maximize your eligibility for EV charger rebates. From developing EV Ready plans and pulling electrical permits to installing electrical infrastructure, EV chargers, and power-switching devices for homes, our EV charger installers and certified electricians have you covered. From residential to commercial properties, we’ll ensure that your project meets all regulatory requirements. To start your EV Ready Plan, you can request a service or call us at 1.844.GO.HOULE.
Click here for more info on the CleanBC Go Electric EV Charger Rebate Program.
On Giving Tuesday (November 28, 2023), our Burnaby team participated in the annual CKNW Kids’ Fund Pledge Day charity event! Every year, this long-standing radiothon brings in millions of dollars by phone and online donations. This fundraising event goes towards supporting BC kids and their families as they navigate various health challenges. This includes providing grants for specialized medical equipment, therapies, and programs for at-risk youth. Visit here to learn more or donate.
We were able to send a team of five volunteers to help answer the phones to raise funds for the CKNW Kids’ Fund. Houle also donated $5,000 and Lori Podnevar was interviewed live on-air about Houle’s involvement, which you can hear in the video above. In total, the event raised more than $3.3 million for the important work of the CKNW Kids’ Fund, topping the previous record of $2.7 million set last year. Read the news article here.
Overall, we’re proud to support this important cause and the communities where we live, work, and play.
Since 1945, CKNW Kids’ Fund has granted millions of dollars to support hundreds of thousands of children with different challenges. Through the generosity of organizations and communities, they helped families by providing grants for essential specialized medical equipment, therapies, and programs for at-risk youth.
Electrical preventative maintenance is crucial for any building, whether commercial, residential, institutional, or industrial and infrastructure. It focuses on catching issues with your building’s electrical equipment and preventing unplanned outages and disruptive failures. From a property management perspective, this could mean the difference between a $500 fix and a $10,000 repair.
To establish an effective electrical preventative maintenance program, several key elements come into play, including annual electrical operating permits, annual infrared scanning, and electrical distribution maintenance. Let’s delve deeper into these essential components:
To ensure the safe operation, maintenance, and inspection of electrical equipment, Technical Safety BC or your local municipality mandates annual electrical operating permits for facilities working with such equipment.
Whether your building falls under the category of commercial, residential, industrial, or institutional, we can help you set up and apply for your annual electrical operating permit through Technical Safety BC or your local municipality.
We use infrared cameras to identify deficiencies in electrical equipment through the detection of abnormal heating. This can help catch potential issues before they cause a system failure or outage.
Our electrical distribution maintenance includes the maintenance of switchgear and transformers that feed power from the electrical service provider to your building.
Maintenance is required every 42 months for dual radial switchgear and recommended for single high-voltage feed switchgear.
We can plan and complete shutdowns outside of working hours to reduce disruption to building occupants.
With our preventative maintenance solutions, you can avoid equipment failure and operational disruption, ensure safe and reliable electrical systems, and comply with insurance requirements.
Contact us today to discover how our preventative maintenance solutions can benefit your property!