1. How would you describe your organization’s work?
Shift is Canada’s single source for comprehensive clean energy solutions. Our teams design and build Solar Photovoltaic Systems and Energy Storage Systems for residential and commercial clients.
2. How did the group originate?
Shift was founded in 2010 by Colyn Strong with the goal of helping people save money on energy costs.
3. What has changed along the way?
Initially, Shift focused on LED retrofits, but in 2017, we transitioned to Solar PV and Energy Storage. In 2019, Shift became a Certified Tesla Powerwall installer and later added Turn-Key BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaics) to our portfolio. These have remained our focus ever since!
4. What makes Shift unique?
Solar and Energy Storage is our sole focus—we don’t get distracted by anything else. Beyond our industry-leading expertise and passion, we also offer a rare 25-year production warranty—if your system doesn’t produce what we promise, we’ll compensate you for the difference.
5. Can you describe a project you are particularly proud of? How did that project inform
future work?
One of our proudest projects is BC’s largest solar rooftop array—a 1.2 MW system for Wesgroup’s client, Lululemon. The solar panels on their Delta warehouse even spell out “Lululemon.” This project showcased our ability to execute large-scale installations and solidified our reputation in the industry. We partnered with Wesgroup on this project, and that relationship has led to further collaborations.
6. How do relationships with community affect your approach?
Community engagement is at the core of what we do. The solar industry is still young, and we see an opportunity to be the trusted source of knowledge. When people learn from you, they promote you.We actively engage with the community wherever possible—whether it’s through our in-school solar program, where we educate students on renewable energy, or by attending community events with our portable off-grid solar trailer. By bringing solar technology directly to people and making it accessible, we help spark conversations and build awareness about the power of clean energy.
7. What does sustainable energy mean to your organization?
It’s everything. Without sustainable energy, we won’t prosper. Fossil fuels are harmful to the planet, and they are running out. Sustainability must be embedded in everything we do, or future generations will pay the price. Every second, 174,000 terawatts of energy hit the Earth. If we could capture just one hour’s worth, we could power the planet for an entire year. The energy is there—let’s use it!
8. When you look at British Columbia’s energy landscape, what do you see going well and what needs improvement?
BC is ahead of many provinces and countries in clean energy due to hydroelectric power, but we must diversify. Water won’t last forever—we’re seeing less rain each winter, and hydro disrupts habitats. Solar, on the other hand, has minimal environmental impact. As BC electrifies (with more EVs and heat pumps), our energy demand will rise. The only way forward is to add more solar, wind, and renewables to the mix.
9. What is our most significant opportunity here in British Columbia?
Solar power. Right now, the focus is on installing panels, but soon, battery storage will take center stage. BC has the potential to lead Canada in clean energy innovation—one step at a time. Beyond traditional solar, Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) presents a major opportunity. Homes should be designed with solar in mind—south-facing roofs, no obstructing plumbing stacks, and skylights placed strategically. We’re proud to be leading BC with our BIPV product, a two-in-one roof and solar solution. This is the future of renewable energy, and the opportunity is enormous.
10. What does being a member of the BCSEA mean to you?
It means we’re part of something bigger than ourselves—a network of people and a community with a shared vision: sustainable, clean, and renewable energy for British Columbians. The best way to achieve this goal is to work together. Let’s do this!
Chris Palliser
Community Manager – Shift
Discover more sustainable energy leaders in British Columbia by exploring our Business Member Directory.