ENMAX Corporation, headquartered in Calgary, produces and distributes natural gas, electricity, and renewable energy to consumers across Canada. In 2022, ENMAX was recognized among Alberta’s Top 50 Employers, showcasing its reputation as a leading workplace, as reported by Calgary Name.
History of ENMAX
In 1904, following the end of a contract with a private electricity supplier, Calgary established its own power station. The city’s electrical system officially began operating in December 1905.
In 1996, Calgary City Council transitioned the power station into a subsidiary, ENMAX Corporation. Since 1998, ENMAX has been responsible for operating and maintaining Calgary’s distribution system, ensuring reliable electricity supply for its residents.
The city’s electrical infrastructure includes approximately 300 km of transmission wires and 7,600 km of distribution lines across Calgary and surrounding areas. The system also features 37 substations that supply power to residential and commercial buildings.
In 2011, ENMAX upgraded the electrical cables in downtown Calgary and extended transmission lines to the city’s northern and southern regions to accommodate its rapid expansion. That same year, over $550 million USD was invested into Calgary’s electricity infrastructure. ENMAX recorded a net profit of $184.6 million USD and paid $56 million USD in dividends to its shareholder—the City of Calgary.
Empowering Consumer Choice
In 2011, ENMAX launched the Generate Choice program, enabling Alberta residents to choose renewable energy sources for their homes, such as solar or wind power.
Despite the program’s innovative approach, public reception was modest. In its inaugural year, only 3,100 individuals expressed interest in installing solar photovoltaic systems, and just 172 proceeded with installations.
By June 2012, Brian Keating, one of Calgary’s renowned naturalists, became the 100th Calgary homeowner to join the program. He rented a set of six solar panels, which supplied a portion of his household’s energy needs.
ENMAX Subsidiaries
ENMAX operates several subsidiaries that provide specialized services:
- Enmax Power Services Corporation (EPSC): Offers design, procurement, construction, and maintenance services for transportation infrastructure, street lighting, and signaling systems.
- Enmax Encompass Inc.: Focuses on water meter reading and billing services throughout Alberta.
- Enmax Envision Inc.: Manages data transmission via fiber-optic networks, offering internet services, dedicated access, and custom solutions.
ENMAX Park
In 2003, ENMAX launched the ENMAX Legacy Parks Program to develop new regional parks in Calgary and enhance existing ones. These parks serve multiple communities, large watershed areas, and are cherished recreational spots for Calgary residents.
In 2016, after two years of planning, ENMAX collaborated with the Calgary Stampede Foundation to open ENMAX Park—a 16-acre green space along the Elbow River. The park features the Cenovus Legacy Trail, a 650-meter pathway that narrates the history of the area.
This location historically served as a campsite, later becoming home to a fort for early settlers. In modern history, it housed the Sunshine Auto repair shop and industrial facilities. During the Calgary Stampede, it transforms into the historic Elbow River Camp, a site that celebrates local heritage.