Member Spotlight: CACEA

In the next installment of our Member Spotlight series, meet Cindy Gareau, Executive Director of the Canadian Association of Consulting Energy Advisors (CACEA). CACEA has been a committed member of the B2E coalition since the early days, consistently elevating the voice of energy advisors and supporting electrification across B.C. Read on to learn more from Cindy and the role CACEA plays in the sector.

Tell us about your company and your role within it.

The Canadian Association of Consulting Energy Advisors (CACEA) is a national not-for-profit organization that represents licensed Energy Advisors (EA) across Canada. As Executive Director, I worked with the board of directors to grow and strengthen both the association and EA profession. Our mandate is to support a sustainable, credible, and recognized profession by advancing Part 9 low rise energy assessments and building performance, while providing members with knowledge, a supportive network and a unified voice. In this role, I also serve as a key partner to stakeholders and change makers nationwide. My responsibilities focus on strategic leadership, advocacy, and supporting members with resources and training to drive energy efficiency and positive change in the built environment.

Why did you become a B2E member?

CACEA joined B2E to engage with a community dedicated to building electrification and to ensure the voice of EAs in included in key conversations. The network fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation, enabling CACEA to amplify our impact and contribute to a sustainable future through collective action.

What impact has the B2E community had on you/your organization?

B2E has expanded our network, inspired educational initiatives, and provided valuable resources and collaborative opportunities. The community’s support and shared purpose have motivated us to pursue ambitious goals and deepen our commitment to energy efficiency and building electrification.

Tell us about an exciting building electrification project that you’re working on or recently completed?

We recently partnered with BCIT to pilot a course aimed at providing members of the Part 9 residential building sector with practical knowledge on building electrification. The program demonstrates how both the building community and owners/residents can assess their existing electrical service and panel capacity, helping to determine whether upgrades are necessary, either for new construction or retrofits, with proper planning and assessments. This project was made possible through partial funding from the B2E Innovation Fund, for which we are very grateful.

What do you see as a key driver in advancing electrification in your industry?

A key driver is the growing recognition of the role buildings play in climate action, supported by policy, incentives, and technical innovation. Education and workforce development are equally essential, equipping professionals to implement effective building electrification solutions.

Do you have any advice for others (individuals or organizations) who want to follow your path?

Stay curious, seek our partnerships, and embrace continuous learning. The field is evolving rapidly, so collaboration and openness to change are essential. Engage with networks like B2E and share your experiences to maximize impact. It truly takes a village to achieve the change that is needed.

Is there anything more you’d like to include/want the B2E network to know?

I’m grateful for B2E’s spirit of innovation and support. CACEA welcomes new partnerships and opportunities to advance our shared mission. EAs play a central role in electrification of both new and existing buildings, ensuring that work in the residential sector results in efficient, healthy, cost-effective, resilient, and comfortable homes.

For more information, please see CACEA's website here.