The thermostats, along with other smart devices meant to maximize energy efficiency, will be designed in Quebec and built in Stelpro’s Shawinigan plant. (The Logic)

Talking point: This is the first partnership for Hydro-Québec’s new smart-device division Hilo, which is tasked with reducing electricity consumption across the province. For Stelpro, the partnership is a boost in a market into which Google’s Nest and Amazon-backed ecobee are increasingly pushing. For Hilo, this is about reducing environmental impact and simultaneously freeing up energy that can be sold outside the province. Heating makes up over 50 per cent of a home’s electricity use, according to the provincial utility, so the widespread adoption of these devices could help with both goals. This may be the first of several partnerships to come for Hilo. When it launched in mid-October, the division said it was planning to offer solar energy panels, smart storage and electric-mobility offerings.