Markham innovator says product could save you 50 per cent on hydro bill

York's YSpace opens in Markham downtown showing off entrepreneurs, inventors

Yorkregion.com
Nov. 7, 2017
By Tim Kelly

How would you like to save up to 50 per cent on your hydro bill?

A Markham innovator who has come up with his own new product courtesy of York University's YSpace in Markham downtown may have the answer to your prayers.

Jean-Charles Jr. Mercedat, 31, is an electrical engineer who lives and works in Markham. He is the founder of RaZeus Tech, a startup that promises to revolutionize the way we use energy.

And Mercedat was just one of about a dozen innovators who showed off what they've developed as YSpace opened its doors to the public Monday afternoon atop Cineplex at 139 Enterprise Blvd.

York University's president Rhonda Lenton, Markham-Unionville MPP Michael Chan and Mayor Frank Scarpitti were on hand to do the honours of opening up YSpace.

"Today, more than ever in a global knowledge economy, it's essential and it's obvious to us how important innovation and entrepreneurship are for success and the benefit of our research beyond the university. We know that beyond the university, the external community relies so heavily for that research and innovation," said Lenton.

Mercedat's innovation comes from his belief that as electric cars become more popular and home electricity use spikes, smart energy use will be more important than ever.

"I didn't want higher electricity costs to come in the future, so I wanted to help to make it easier for the homeowner. It's basically a way to increase energy supply while decreasing energy consumption."

His system would work by using smart technology through computer manipulation to carefully monitor all energy outputs and inputs throughout your home throughout the day. The computer system will make sure you use the least amount of energy possible, ensuring you save money.

Mercedat believes his system, which he has patented, is about three to five years from hitting the market, but he's confident you'll be able to use it some day.

"You'll have lower monthly bills and save more energy," he said.

And what does RaZeus stand for? Ra is the Egyptian sun god and Zeus is the Greek lightning and thunder god. "I just put them together," Mercedat said.