Energate Inc. partners with Vancouver’s Tantalus Systems to integrate its programmable home solution with an interface from Tantalus that will allow utilities to communicate with consumers through the Ottawa-based company’s ‘smart’ thermostat. The resulting programmable communicating thermostat will, among its numerous capabilities, permit utilities to signal consumers during times of heavy energy use, allowing them to cycle down pre-selected appliances, such as air conditioners or clothes dryers.