Celebrating 15 Years at Prism: Sam Thomas’s Journey and Impact in Energy Management
Last summer, Sam Thomas lived out a lifelong dream, embarking on a three-month cycling adventure across Europe with his family. For him, it wasn’t just about covering 2,000 kilometers—it was about spending time with family while his kids are young.
The trip coincided with Sam’s 15th anniversary at Prism Engineering and a well-earned break. Over the years, he has significantly contributed to our company’s successes, culture and direction, as well as to the energy management industry overall.
Sam and his family at the Col du Galibier, in the French Alps. The cycling trip had 14,000m of total vertical gain.
A leader’s path at Prism
During his time at Prism, Sam has played a pivotal role in developing services, building teams, and fostering relationships. Today, Sam is one of our Principals, the Strategic Energy Management (SEM) Team Leader, and the Kootenay Branch Manager of our office in Nelson, BC.
Sam’s journey into energy management began with an early passion for sustainability. “When I was little, I loved watching nature documentaries on TV. I was fascinated by Greenpeace and their work. I used to tell my parents that I wanted to be a ‘Green Pea’ when I grew up. I have always been interested in and passionate about the environment, sustainability, and responsible use of resources,” he recalls.
Born in the United Kingdom, he grew up in New Zealand, where rural life at his family’s vineyard and winery instilled a strong work ethic and a connection to the environment. This enthusiasm led him to study Applied Physics in Energy Systems, with a focus on energy efficiency and renewable energy.
When Sam moved to Canada, Prism was his first employer in the country. Starting at the Burnaby office, he soon envisioned expanding the company’s reach beyond the Lower Mainland. “It has been a little more than 11 years since we opened our office in Nelson, BC,” Sam shares. “My family was looking for a change and I saw a niche that Prism’s services could fill.”
Sam remembers the hard work that went into building a client base in the beginning. “I got a lot of support from Robert Greenwald for that. He helped me develop skills to promote our company to local clients,” he recalls.
The decision to open the Nelson office was welcomed by Prism’s leadership, who recognized the opportunity to better serve the southern interior of British Columbia. Over the past decade, Sam has cultivated a strong local team and established Prism as a trusted partner in the region. “People really appreciate us being local and knowledgeable about the region,” he adds.
Sam (right) with Brian O’Donnell, Founder (left), and Robert Greenwald,
President and CEO of Prism Engineering (center).
Impactful projects
Reflecting on his 15 years at Prism, Sam recalls several stand-out projects. “The chiller expansion that we completed at Interior Health’s Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital in Trail, BC, in 2014, is one I’m particularly proud of,” he notes. This project involved interconnecting chiller plants to improve redundancy and system efficiency. The retrofit alone was expected to save 194 tons of eCO2 and reduce energy costs by $19,000 annually. “It was very rewarding to complete that project and see our presence in the region making a tangible difference.”
His work as the first Energy Manager for the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) from 2009 to 2014 helped the institution meet its energy reduction targets two years ahead of schedule. “It was exciting to create change within the organization as they were very receptive to our ideas. The SEM program we established there continues to exist to this day.”
Other significant projects in strategic energy management include collaborations with Thompson Rivers University (TRU) for ISO 50001 and with Strathcona County to develop an Energy Management Plan.
At Prism, Sam has also contributed to various improvements within the company. As a Principal, he plays a key role in helping set Prism’s strategic direction, building and developing our services, and leading people and teams.
Early in his career, he helped develop Prism’s Energy Management Assessment (EMA) tool, named ENGAGE, to support clients in their SEM journeys. “The EMA tool helps clients assess their energy management practices, identify gaps, and create actionable plans to close them,” Sam explains. “We’ve completed more than 100 EMAs using this tool. You know that you’ve facilitated a good EMA if you’ve created the space for a good conversation about SEM between operations and management. The ENGAGE tool really helps us do that.”
Sam working as an energy manager for UFV in 2010.
Looking to the future
Sam is excited about the expansion of our work in strategic energy management, both geographically and in scope. “SEM intersects with almost everything we do at Prism,” he says. “The potential for growth is huge, and we’re currently working on a diverse range of projects with BC Hydro and FortisBC and expanding our reach beyond British Columbia.”
He observes that the energy management industry is evolving as more people recognize the challenges posed by climate change. “Today, organizations are much more interested in reducing their emissions,” he notes. “They’re also more willing to accept longer payback periods, recognizing the importance of prioritizing emission reductions.”
To support this shift, executive and leadership training becomes crucial. “What inspires me in SEM is the opportunity to build capacity with different stakeholders. If we can use our skills to coach and train energy managers to become better at what they do, then we will be better off in the big picture,” he says.
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) will also play a transformative role in the industry. “At Prism, we’re exploring AI capabilities, from reviewing energy modelling data to helping prepare for energy studies,” he shares.
Last fall, we celebrated Sam’s 15-year anniversary during our annual company “Townhall”. As part of that, we asked him what Prism’s purpose, “Changing Systems for a Better World”, means to him:
“Changing the world starts with changing the systems that shape it. At Prism, we focus on transforming organizational, physical, and internal systems to help manage energy and emissions. While challenges abound, there’s incredible progress being made—and so much more to do. Being part of this mission inspires pride and hope for a brighter future.”
Prism’s SEM Team. From left to right: Mike Latimer, Senior SEM Coach;
Robert Greenwald, CEO & President; Shannon Hardman, Senior SEM Coach;
Sam Thomas, SEM Team Lead; Josh Caplan, Senior SEM Coach;
Richard Senez, Energy Management Professional.
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Solar Panels and Battery Energy Storage Systems Myth Buster
With advancements in solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage (BES) technologies, renewable energy systems have become a key tool for reducing carbon emissions and supporting sustainability goals. Used separately or combined, these systems not only contribute to environmental stewardship but also offer significant financial incentives.
Despite their growing adoption, misconceptions about solar panels and battery storage systems persist. To help cut through the noise, our Electrical Team has compiled and debunked seven common myths that may be holding organizations back from exploring the full potential of these technologies.
Let’s gain some clarity and uncover the facts!
Myth 1: Solar panels don’t work in cloudy or cold weather.
Fact: Solar panels can still generate electricity on cloudy days, though at reduced efficiency. They work efficiently in cold weather, as solar panels are more efficient at converting sunlight to electricity when temperatures are cooler.
Myth 2: Solar panels require constant maintenance.
Fact: Solar panels are low-maintenance and can last for 25-40 years. They do, however, need regular inspections and occasional cleaning to remove dirt, dust, or debris. Many systems also come with warranties that cover performance for decades.
Prism offers design and implementation support for solar PV systems for commercial and institutional buildings.
Solar panels are low-maintenance and can last for 25-40 years. Photo: Envato Elements.
Myth 3: Solar panels can damage roofs and cause leaks.
Fact: It’s true that some solar panels need to be attached by drilling into the roof, which can sometimes cause damage or leaks. There are special mounting systems, however, that don’t require drilling. These systems use weights or clamps to hold the panels in place, keeping the roof intact and preventing leaks.
Myth 4: Batteries only store energy for nighttime use and don’t last long.
Fact: While batteries are used to store excess solar energy generated during the day for use at night, they also help with load management during peak demand times or power outages, as seen in Figure 1 below. This offers greater resiliency, as well as cost savings.
Modern lithium-ion batteries have lifespans of 10-15 years or more, and their performance and durability continue to improve with advancing technology. Battery energy storage systems are available in a wide range of sizes, from residential to utility-scale.
Integration of solar and battery storage
Figure 1: Simplified interconnection and energy flow diagram for a Solar PV system with BES integration.
Myth 5: Solar panels and battery systems are too expensive.
Fact: Costs have significantly dropped in recent years, and many governments and utilities offer incentives, rebates, and financing options that make solar and battery systems more affordable than ever. Over time, these systems often pay for themselves through energy savings.
In British Columbia, BC Hydro offers rebates of up to $50,000 for businesses and multi-unit residential buildings (MURBs) for solar and battery systems rated at less than 100 kW. Additional funding is available for larger systems through BC Hydro’s Load Displacement Incentive program.
Myth 6: Solar panels and batteries are difficult to integrate with existing systems.
Fact: Modern solar and battery storage systems, when properly designed, provide seamless integration with existing electrical infrastructure.
Prism provides expert electrical design and implementation support by working with contractors and suppliers to ensure a hassle-free integration process.
Myth 7: Solar panels and batteries can’t support large-scale energy needs.
Fact: Advances in technology have made solar panels and battery energy storage systems scalable for commercial, institutional, and industrial use. Customized solutions can be designed to meet large-scale energy demands, making them a viable option for even the most energy-intensive operations.
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Banner Photo credits: Left, Prism Engineering; Right, UniEnergy Technologies, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons with changes.
Changing Systems for a Better World: Three Standout Projects from 2024
As we step into 2025, we’re reflecting on three standout projects from this past year (2024) 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.
Charging stations at Norgate Park (left) and Lynn Valley Village. Photo: Prism Engineering Limited
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.
VCC’s Broadway campus was one of the locations that took part in this project. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
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.
J.W. Sexsmith Elementary School was built in 2013. Photo: Prism Engineering Limited
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