Mike Holmes is a professional contractor, television host, public speaker, educator, influencer and writer. For decades, he has tirelessly been dedicated to improving building standards and sustainable construction. Holmes has been confirmed as a speaker and panelist for SPARK 2019: Carbon Positive on Wednesday, October 30 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

The Make It Right® Approach

Mike Holmes has built an international brand based on quality, integrity and trust for over 15 years. His no-nonsense, Make It Right® approach appeals to TV audiences and industry leaders world-wide, making him one of North America’s most trusted contractors. He has completed over 220 home renovations and remodeling projects and 52 home inspections throughout his television career. His TV shows are broadcasted in over 90 countries.

Holmes on Homes was so successful it led to a series of spin-off shows, including Holmes in New Orleans, Holmes Inspection, Best of Holmes on Homes, and Holmes Makes It Right. He also sits as a judge on the panels of the Handyman Challenge. He is also an international best-selling author of Make it Right and The Holmes Inspection.

Advocating for Better Building Practices

Holmes’ longstanding advocacy for sustainability, net zero construction, and an industry-wide approach to a high standard of clean energy practice solidifies him as the perfect speaker and panelist for SPARK 2019: Carbon Positive.

“The cost of energy is rising, and there’s no sign of it levelling off at any point. We’re going to see more energy-efficient infrastructure. We’re going to see more initiatives that bring operations to higher performance levels. And we’re going to see an increase in demand for experienced and skilled trades who know how to do this—the right way,” says Holmes.

“Mike Holmes’ approach to sustainability—incorporating smart, simple, environmentally friendly solutions—is helping deliver real, positive change. His work supporting regulations have helped the construction industry meet higher energy-performance levels. And, his relentless efforts have led to more skilled tradespeople that deliver on these high standards,” said Steve MacDonald, ERA CEO.

Leveraging technology to reduce CO2 emissions in Alberta

The Holmes Group partnered with Effect Home Builders to launch the first Holmes Approved Homes program in the City of Edmonton. In 2018, Effect renovated a 1940’s apartment building to become one of the most energy efficient office buildings in the city, the first to exist off the electrical grid in Edmonton. Using new technology, Effect was able to reduce the buildings’ CO2 emissions by 80 percent. ATCO also supported the project, providing first of its kind in Canada technology that reduces GHGs emissions by using natural gas to produce heat and electricity. The technology also captures wasted heat and uses it to heat the building.

“Our partnership with Mike Holmes certifies that we use only the best techniques, practices, and technologies that help reduce people’s cost and reduce our collective environmental impact. His advocacy for sustainable living and high standard construction makes him a great fit for SPARK,” said Dale Rott, founding partner, Effect Home Builders.

“For Edmonton to become a leader in sustainability, we need private and public sectors and residents to work together. That is why it was inspiring to see the opening of Edmonton’s first office disconnected from the electrical grid come to life through the innovation and leadership of Effect Home Builders and Holmes Approved Homes. My hope is to see more partnerships and innovations like this, as they help us with adapting to climate change by transitioning to a low-carbon future. SPARK represents a great opportunity to hear more about initiatives like this,” Don Iveson, Mayor of Edmonton.

Natural Gas Innovation Fund (NGIF)—an ERA Trusted Partner —invested $95,000 into the renovation project. “This new office space offers a real opportunity to showcase how clean technologies and natural gas can come together in present day to lower GHG emissions while driving costs down in a Canadian commercial building. He aligns perfectly with the Carbon Positive them for SPARK,” said John Adams, Managing Director, Natural Gas Innovation Fund.

More About Mike Holmes

Mike Holmes was officially acknowledged by the Canadian House of Commons for his promotion of skilled trades and advocacy for improved building standards. In 2009, he was an advisor to the Canadian Government for the COP15 in Copenhagen, the United Nations’ conference on climate change. He has also been named Forbes’ Third Most Trustworthy Celebrity and Reader’s Digest’s Second Most Trusted Canadian.

Holmes is also a well-known philanthropist. The Holmes Foundation promotes skilled trades in youth, awarding up to twenty scholarships and bursaries of $1,500 to students enrolled (or enrolling) in a Canadian college or university residential construction program. Bursaries are designed to help students complete their training with all the tools, books, and supplies they need. Through his work as national spokesperson for SOS Children’s Villages Canada, he has helped raise over $19.5 million.

In 2014, The Holmes Group and the Assembly of First Nations celebrated the completion of the “G’WIIGWAAMNAANIIN” (Building Homes & Building Skills) pilot project for housing and infrastructure in Atikameksheng Anishnawbek in Ontario. The community now has housing units that are built to First Nation Sustainable Development Standards (FNSDS) that were developed as part of the project to create safer, healthier and durable homes and communities for First Nations.