RDP, U of A & Flexible Machines Corp. Collaborate to Advance Alberta’s Sustainability Priorities

With support from a $230,000 Alberta Innovates grant, Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP), the University of Alberta (U of A) and Flexible Machines Corp. (FMC) have partnered to advance urban planning and environmental efficiencies across Alberta. 

Central to this collaboration is FMC’s machine learning tool for automated wind flow mapping. Used alongside anemometers—devices that measure wind speed and direction—this tool will validate real-time wind data across RDP’s main campus, identifying ideal locations for wind and ventilation systems to improve energy efficiency and air quality. 

“This partnership reflects our commitment to applied research that supports Alberta’s economic and social priorities. While the initial focus is wind mapping on our campus, this project connects with our data-sharing alliance, expands collaborative insights and creates applied research opportunities for students,” says Dr. Tonya Wolfe, Associate Vice President, Applied Research, Red Deer Polytechnic. “The Energy Living Lab at Red Deer Polytechnic explores all forms of energy generation. By examining wind energy opportunities on campus, we’re actively contributing to the advancement of our living lab model.”

The initiative also draws on the University of Alberta’s deep expertise in wind flow mapping. Both institutions will exchange knowledge to reduce HVAC usage across U of A’s main campus, underscoring their shared goal of sustainable infrastructure.

"Red Deer Polytechnic is our first partner, and they're excited to use this tool,” says Brian Fleck, Mechanical Engineering Professor, University of Alberta, and Director of Flexible Machines Corp. “This surprisingly complex task has massive implications for the campus' HVAC systems, including significant energy savings and even the strategic placement of small-scale wind turbines for local power generation."

Flexible Machines Corp. aims to expand its current technology by developing wind analysis software with automated grid generation and faster computation, positioning the company to capitalize on new commercial opportunities in product licensing and consulting.

Beyond the technical innovation, the project supports Alberta’s broader push toward a low carbon economy. RDP will also serve as a test bed for wind energy prototypes, strengthening Alberta’s reputation as a leader in smart wind flow solutions.

The partnership could create up to 100 skilled jobs and offers two students an opportunity to engage in applied research, advancing their education while contributing to Alberta’s innovation ecosystem.

Anemometers are being installed across RDP’s main campus, collecting real-time data that feeds directly into FMC’s AI-powered system. This live feedback will guide future infrastructure decisions and reinforce applied learning across all partners.

In addition to the $230,000 Alberta Innovates grant, the project, worth a total of $730,000, is funded by $170,000 in non-cash goods and services and $330,000 in cash funding.  

Learn more about the Polytechnic’s applied research and innovation