Hydro-Québec subsidiary Hilo is expanding its smart energy management service to businesses.

After a second season in the residential sector, Hilo is now expanding its offer to businesses across Québec.

Launched two years ago, the company specialises in energy management through a turnkey service.

Hilo offers organisations automated smart energy management and personalised service to help optimise their electricity demand in peak winter periods. Starting this year, businesses and institutions will be eligible to participate in Hilo challenges and earn rewards, just like residential customers.

Hilo challenges are occasional events to reduce energy use during a winter peak period. During a challenge, the app sets automatic thermostat actions to reduce the set temperature for a few hours, while minimising discomfort. A preheating option is available. Users can expect about 30 challenges each winter and will receive monetary rewards for each challenge they complete.

“Hilo aims to serve as a virtual generating station by coordinating electricity demand to meet the needs of the power system,” said Sébastien Fournier, chief executive officer of Hilo. “Organisations that use energy wisely help decrease future electricity needs and limit greenhouse gas emissions. They play an active role in the major social project that is Québec’s energy transition.”

To reduce their electricity use for approximately 100 hours in winter when demand in Québec is highest, organisations will let Hilo adjust their buildings’ heating, ventilation and humidity level.

They free up energy when the power system is under the most pressure and earn cash rewards that can add up to thousands of dollars. That was the case for Ikea, Collège de Rosemont, Cascades, Carbonleo, Manuvie, Vélodrome de Bromont and Montoni, which took part in the prelaunch phase in recent months.

Hilo will work closely with firms specialising in building automation to ensure the compatibility of its technology with current systems.