See innovation at work on Canadian egg farms 

For many Canadian egg farmers, innovation is about finding new ways to strengthen their farms, improve efficiency and prepare for the future. Across Canada, farmers are investing in technologies and practices that respond to the unique needs of their farms as they look to the future. 

Through our Innovative farmer series, we’re sharing the stories of some Canadian egg farms putting innovation into action. Keep reading to learn more.

“It’s about building something that works for the hens, the environment and the long-term.” – Ben Entz

Ben Entz has managed Huron Poultry for more than 30 years, and when constructing a new barn in 2019, he turned the province’s abundant sunshine into a practical heating solution. The farm’s SolarWall® system—dark, perforated panels that preheat incoming cold air—provides consistent, solar-heated airflow, helping maintain a more stable barn climate by boosting airflow without losing heat.

“Sustainability means to be self-sufficient at the end of the day, knowing that you can rely on yourself and being able to move forward and leave something for the kids.” – Larry Hofer

More than a decade ago, Green Acres Colony made a big bet on solar. Nearly 8,000 panels generate enough electricity to power the egg farm entirely on renewable energy, with surplus energy going back into the local grid and the surrounding colony community. For egg farmer Larry Hofer, sustainability means self-sufficiency: the ability to rely on yourself and leave something lasting for the next generation.

“It’s about building a farm that’s healthy for our animals and sustainable for generations to come.” – Jerry Hofer and Elvin Waldner 

When Newell Colony built a new egg barn, the colony saw an opportunity to invest in the future. Their heat recovery ventilation system captures heat from outgoing air to preheat incoming fresh air. This technology warms the fresh air entering the barn, saving energy while ensuring comfortable barn temperatures for both the hens and the farmers who care for them.

“The pullet barn is 100% solar-powered, even in the wintertime.” – Justin Dunphy

Justin Dunphy made history when his fourth generation family farm in New Brunswick became one of the first in Atlantic Canada to integrate solar-powered battery storage. The solar system now supplies more than 63% of the farm’’s power and has eliminated 88 tonnes of CO₂ since installation. For Justin, the goal goes beyond his own farm: he hopes the successful solar implementation inspires more egg farmers across the country to explore renewable energy.

Visit our sustainability page to learn how egg farmers care for their hens, environment and the community. 

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