Changing Systems for a Better World: Three Standout Projects from 2024
As we step into 2025, we’re reflecting on some of the projects from the past year that embody our purpose of Changing Systems for a Better World.
At Prism, that change includes improving buildings, implementing technology, and changing culture to support long-term sustainability and decarbonization. These three elements don’t exist in silos. In fact, our most impactful projects often span across all of them.
This past year, our work with District of North Vancouver, Vancouver Community College (VCC), and Vancouver School Board (VSB) showcased how improving infrastructure, leveraging innovative technology, and supporting behavioural shifts work together to drive meaningful change.
“Our purpose, Changing Systems for a Better World, drives everything that we do. It guides our efforts to help clients transition to a low-carbon and resilient future by transforming systems in ways that create lasting impact,” says Robert Greenwald, President of Prism Engineering.
“These projects highlight some of the best of our work and reflect the capacity of our team to ensure buildings are more comfortable, efficient, and sustainable; to leverage technology to solve real challenges and deliver results; and to empower people and organizations to create change,” he adds.
Here’s a brief overview of each project:
District of North Vancouver
Prism’s expertise in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure helped the District of North Vancouver plan and install public charging stations in locations that support EV adoption. While this project was centred around technology, the approach went beyond simply installing chargers—it was about ensuring they were strategically placed to support accessibility, convenience, and adoption. Making EVs a more practical choice for residents requires more than infrastructure alone; it also involves encouraging behavioural shifts that drive broader cultural change.
“Local governments are looking to close gaps in public charging infrastructure, making EV adoption more accessible. This project is a great example of how we help communities reduce emissions and noise while supporting their sustainability goals,” explains Adam Franklin, Associate and Electrical Engineer.
Service: Electric Vehicle Charging Station Design and Implementation
Main goal: Reduce barriers to EV adoption by installing public charging stations at high-traffic, strategic locations in North Vancouver.
Results: Four Level 2 public charging stations at Lynn Valley Village and two 50 kW Level 3 stations at Norgate Park, with new EV charging stations planned over the next years.
Vancouver Community College
At Vancouver Community College, our team conducted in-depth climate resilience and decarbonization studies to identify opportunities VCC can implement to reduce emissions while making its buildings more energy efficient and resilient to climate change. This project builds on Prism’s decades-long experience working with advanced education institutions, helping them transition to lower-carbon operations while ensuring campus facilities remain resilient to climate change.
“These projects helped create systems change by building VCC staff capacity through workshops and discussions. These sessions aimed to deepen their knowledge and understanding of climate change mitigation and adaptation for buildings and the ways in which it can be actualized to increase institutional sustainability and climate resilience,” says Julianne Pickrell-Barr, Associate and Climate Action Specialist.
Service: Climate Resilience and Decarbonization Studies
Main goals: Identify opportunities for decarbonization and climate resilience improvements for both the Downtown and Broadway campuses.
Results: Short- and long-term actions to manage energy, reduce carbon emissions, and increase climate resilience to mitigate existing and future climate change risks.
领英推荐
Vancouver School Board – Charles Dickens, Sir James Douglas and J.W. Sexsmith Elementary Schools
Our recommissioning work focused on optimizing HVAC systems to improve efficiency and reduce emissions at three VSB elementary schools. Beyond the technical upgrades, this project was about maximizing the value of existing systems—fine-tuning operations, providing facility teams with better insights, and ensuring the schools remain comfortable and healthy spaces for students and staff. The impact was substantial, with an 80% reduction in emissions and recognition with a 2023-24 ASHRAE BC Technology Award.
“By implementing innovative renewable heating and ventilation system control strategies, we solved long-standing challenges,” says Iram Green, Energy Team Leader.
Service: Recommissioning
Main goals: Review the heat pump systems to optimize energy use and reduce emissions at three elementary schools: Charles Dickens, Sir James Douglas and J.W. Sexsmith.
Results: Approximately $27,000 in annual energy savings, 52% to 80% emissions reduction across the schools, and a 2023-24 ASHRAE BC Technology Award.
Prism is here to support your organization’s success.
Interested to learn more?
Read more about our services
Learn more about Prism
CNC Programmer at PRICE INDUSTRIES LIMITED
1 周How can public charging stations make EV adoption easier? What does it take for a college to plan for a low-carbon future? How can schools improve HVAC efficiency for better comfort and sustainability? At Prism, we’ve been working on these challenges with the District of North Vancouver, Vancouver Community College (VCC), and the Vancouver School Board. Each project is a step toward Changing Systems for a Better World. Read the article to learn more about these initiatives.