Author: Chelsie Cake

WORKSHOP: Energy Storage with Angler Solutions

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Workshop Overview

Date: November 25, 2025

Time: 9:00 am – 10:30 am

Location: Co. Innovation Centre, 710 Torbay Rd (Suite A), St. John’s, NL

Angler Solutions Inc. will share insights from a recent paper that explores the potential and opportunities for energy storage systems in Newfoundland and Labrador. The presentation will cover the current technology landscape, applications from industrial, grid-level to export potential, as well as key considerations such as economic impacts and regulatory challenges. Following the presentation, participants will engage in a guided discussion to identify priority areas and potential opportunities for collaborative, industry-driven research and development on energy storage.

Register Here

Virtual attendance for this event is available. 

Workshop Objective:

To spark and advance provincial dialogue on innovation opportunities in Newfoundland and Labrador’s clean energy sector, with a particular focus on energy storage systems, including hybrid solutions, SDES/LDES, and recommendations. 

Ideal Workshop Participants:

This workshop is designed for stakeholders from academia, industry developers, and policy makers within the province who are engaged in or interested in energy storage technologies and services, and who want to explore how these can be applied to Newfoundland and Labrador’s growing clean energy industry.

Registration

Cost:

$25 + applicable fees + HST for econext members

$50 + applicable fees + HST for non-members

Please register using the above link.

Cleantech Connect – Angler Solutions

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Description

This series showcases digital, remote, and autonomous technologies designed to optimize operations and maintenance across the province’s energy and infrastructure sectors.

Each week, a Newfoundland & Labrador-based finalist who submitted a solution to the econext Clean Energy Infrastructure Optimization Challenge will take the stage at Co. Innovation Centre to share their story, present their idea, or demonstrate their technology in action. These innovators are developing scalable, sustainable solutions to address real-world challenges.

Time: Thursday December 4, 9:00 – 10:15am NDT
Location: 710 Torbay Road St. John’s, NL A1A 5G9

Register Here

Angler Solutions

Angler Solutions will be featured in this weeks session, offering a short overview of their company and their MESO (Model for Energy Systems Optimization) platform, followed by a brief demonstration.

Angler Solutions Inc. is a Newfoundland-based consulting and technology firm working across the energy and ocean technology sectors. Founded in 2020, their team draws on experience in offshore oil and gas and electricity, now focused on advancing renewable and diversified energy systems.

They specialize in early-phase project development, energy systems modelling, techno-economic analysis, and renewable integration studies. Their in-house MESO platform models and optimizes hybrid energy systems that combine wind, solar, hydro, and hydrogen with energy storage, including batteries and thermal storage. MESO can also simulate diesel generation systems used in isolated or remote communities to evaluate diversification pathways and lower-carbon transitions.

Angler helps clients de-risk early investment decisions and develop practical, data-driven roadmaps toward commercial readiness. They collaborate with partners across Canada, the UK, and Europe to deliver high-impact projects in renewable energy and ocean technology.

Whether you’re in industry, government, academia, or simply passionate about clean technology, Cleantech Connect is your opportunity to engage with the people and ideas driving Newfoundland and Labrador’s clean energy future.

Cleantech Connect – Copsys

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Description

This series showcases digital, remote, and autonomous technologies designed to optimize operations and maintenance across the province’s energy and infrastructure sectors.

Each week, a Newfoundland & Labrador-based finalist who submitted a solution to the econext Clean Energy Infrastructure Optimization Challenge will take the stage at Co. Innovation Centre to share their story, present their idea, or demonstrate their technology in action. These innovators are developing scalable, sustainable solutions to address real-world challenges.

Time: Thursday November 27, 9:00 – 10:15am NDT
Location: 710 Torbay Road St. John’s, NL A1A 5G9

Register Here

Copsys Technologies

Copsys will be featured in this weeks session, presenting their innovative approach as part of this exciting Cleantech Connect lineup.

Copsys Technologies is a start-up bringing its patented Copsys Intelligent Digital Skin (CIDS) to market, with a mission to digitally transform the way critical infrastructure is protected. Unlike traditional coatings, CIDS is a data-driven system that identifies risks early, reduces asset degradation, extends asset lifespan, and cuts maintenance costs.

CEO Michael Maguire will present recent developments and ongoing projects advancing disruptive applications across industries such as energy, renewables, marine, and naval toward commercial readiness.

Whether you’re in industry, government, academia, or simply passionate about clean technology, Cleantech Connect is your opportunity to engage with the people and ideas driving Newfoundland and Labrador’s clean energy future.

Cleantech Connect – Oil Filtration Solutions

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Description

This series showcases digital, remote, and autonomous technologies designed to optimize operations and maintenance across the province’s energy and infrastructure sectors.

Each week, a Newfoundland & Labrador-based finalist who submitted a solution to the econext Clean Energy Infrastructure Optimization Challenge will take the stage at Co. Innovation Centre to share their story, present their idea, or demonstrate their technology in action. These innovators are developing scalable, sustainable solutions to address real-world challenges.

Time: Thursday November 20, 10:00 – 11:15am NDT
Location: 710 Torbay Road St. John’s, NL A1A 5G9

Register Here

Oil Filtration Solutions Ltd.

Oil Filtration Solutions Ltd.  will be featured in this weeks session, presenting their innovative approach as part of this exciting lineup.

Presentation Blurb:
Our session will introduce Oil Filtration Solutions Ltd. (OFS) and its innovative oil recycling and purification technologies that enhance equipment reliability, reduce maintenance costs, extend lubricant service life, and reduce environmental impact. The presentation will also feature a brief demonstration of our Oil Recycling Technology and latest smart oil monitoring device designed for remote applications or those requiring constant oil monitoring.

Presenter Bio:
Bill Butler is the President of Oil Filtration Solutions Ltd., based in Conception Bay South, Newfoundland & Labrador. A graduated of Memorial University of Newfoundland (B.A., B.Sc.) and with over two decades of experience in industrial filtration and clean technology, Bill has led the company’s expansion into international markets. His leadership focuses on advancing practical, cost-effective solutions to reduce the consumption, transportation, and storage of hazardous materials and support the global transition toward cleaner, more efficient energy systems.

Company Bio:
Oil Filtration Solutions Ltd. (OFS) is a Newfoundland and Labrador–based clean technology company specializing in advanced oil purification and recycling systems for industrial and renewable energy applications. Founded in 2002, OFS represents technologies that remove water and ultra-fine contaminants missed by conventional oil filtering technologies, from diesel engine, turbine, gear, hydraulic, and transformer oils—restoring oil performance, extending equipment & oil life, and reducing environmental impact. OFS, also offer next-generation smart monitoring technologies measuring key oil health metrics in real time, enabling predictive maintenance and lower operating costs. The company serves clients across the marine, construction, transportation, power generation, and renewable energy sectors in Canada and internationally.

Whether you’re in industry, government, academia, or simply passionate about clean technology, Cleantech Connect is your chance to connect with the people and ideas shaping Newfoundland and Labrador’s clean energy future.

Cleantech Connect – SEM

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Description

This series showcases digital, remote, and autonomous technologies designed to optimize operations and maintenance across the province’s energy and infrastructure sectors.

Each week, a Newfoundland & Labrador-based finalist who submitted a solution to the econext Clean Energy Infrastructure Optimization Challenge will take the stage at Co. Innovation Centre to share their story, present their idea, or demonstrate their technology in action. These innovators are developing scalable, sustainable solutions to address real-world challenges.

Time: Thursday November 13, 9:00 – 10:15am NDT
Location: 710 Torbay Road St. John’s, NL A1A 5G9

Register Here

Sikumiut Environmental Management Ltd. (SEM)

As part of the series, Sikumiut Environmental Management Ltd. (SEM) will present its technology initiatives, highlighting environmental sensing, AI modeling, and geospatial software development.

Founded in 2022 and proudly rooted in Newfoundland & Labrador, SEM began with a mission to deliver smart, sustainable environmental solutions tailored to local needs. Over time, SEM has grown into a dynamic company offering expertise across five service areas:

Environment
Geomatics
Digital Solutions
Engagement
Recruitment

SEM develops practical, locally informed strategies that promote responsible development. With a growing focus on technology, the company explores innovative ways to solve client challenges. With experience across both public and private sectors, SEM brings a deep understanding of the regulatory, environmental, economic, and social considerations involved in projects of all sizes. Wherever SEM works across the province, the goal is to create meaningful, lasting impact across communities and industries.

Whether you’re in industry, government, academia, or simply passionate about clean technology, Cleantech Connect is your opportunity to engage with the people and ideas driving Newfoundland and Labrador’s clean energy future.

Residential Building Deep Retrofit Discovery Session

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

The ReCover Initiative, in partnership with econext, is pleased to invite you to the next round of community sessions for residential and small multi-unit owners on the afternoon of November 6, 2025. These workshops build on insights gathered during the March 2025 sessions and are designed to foster deep retrofits for homes and buildings.

Register Here

About the Community Sessions

Session Goal

To present key findings from the March 2025 sessions and gather your feedback on proposed strategies.

Session Format

This session will include a:

  1. Lunch
  2. Brief presentation outlining the background
  3. Discussion on the following key topics: Building understanding and awareness about deep retrofits through clear messaging and communication, helping you chart a deep retrofit pathway that maximizes your investment, defining the role and responsibilities of a Navigator to support homeowners through the retrofit process, and exploring financial incentives for deep retrofits.

Who Should Attend

Homeowners and owners/operators of multi-unit residential properties (three storeys or less) and subject matter experts who are:

  • Interested in energy efficiency and deep retrofitting
  • Willing to share their views openly

No knowledge of energy efficiency or deep retrofit experience is required.

Date: November 6th, 2025

Time: 12.30 p.m. – 5 p.m. NDT

Location: Alt Hotel, Cyan Room

What to Expect

  • An overview on the findings from the March community sessions
  • Presentation of current research findings and common building types
  • Next steps for reporting back to you

We recognize the value of your time and greatly appreciate your commitment to supporting homeowners and small multi-unit building owners in advancing deep retrofits. This session is planned to be both practical and energizing. You’ll hear from experts on strategic communications, retrofit planning, and funding options.

One participant from each province will be selected for a personalized ReCover session to discuss deep retrofit opportunities for their property. Participants will also receive a branded workshop kit.

We hope you’ll join us for this important session, an opportunity to co-create strategies to help homeowners navigate deep retrofits for existing buildings.

The capacity is limited, please register soon!

From runways to rooftops: Students explore sustainable solutions at fifth econext Ideathon

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

St. John’s, NL  — From September 19–21, Memorial University hosted the fifth econext Clean Growth Ideathon, bringing together students with one shared goal: to come up with real solutions that help reduce carbon emissions.

This year’s challenge asked participants to design a system, product, or approach that could meaningfully reduce or offset a carbon footprint, whether for individuals, communities, or companies. Over the course of the weekend, students worked in teams, guided by mentors and industry professionals, to turn their early ideas into pitchable concepts.

First Place Winners

First place went to NLight (Farhan Probandho, Aria AzadiPour, Aayushman Srivastava, Kasey Keats), a team tackling the environmental impact of fast fashion and textiles. Their project focused on turning discarded clothing into new, usable materials, cutting down on textile waste and the emissions that come from fabric breakdown.

Second Place Winners

In second place, Fantastic 4 + 1 (Aiyan Raaid, Mohammad Rajin Hasan, Allison Wragg, Kelvin Fumo, Jake Clarke), proposed a plan to bring green roof technology to buildings throughout the downtown St. John’s core. The team highlighted how vegetated rooftops could help lower building emissions, improve insulation, and save energy, while also cooling the city and supporting biodiversity.

Third Place Winners (Supported by NLCU)

Third place went to HARRA – TERRA (Blessing Torti, Abdullah Khan, Okechukwu Ezekwesili, Zainab Parween), whose idea turns organic and fish waste into clean electricity. Their proposed system captures methane produced during decomposition and converts it into power, creating a local energy source from materials that would otherwise go to waste.

“These ideas show how practical, creative, and forward-thinking students are,” said Timilehin Oguntuyaki, Green Career Development & Training Lead with econext. “Every team approached the challenge differently, but all shared the same drive to find solutions that could work here in Newfoundland and Labrador.”

The ideathon included workshops, mentorship, and networking opportunities throughout the weekend. Students gained hands-on experience developing ideas with sustainability at the core, an approach that reflects econext’s ongoing work to support the green economy across the province and represent a wide array of diverse perspectives for change .

econext thanks all mentors, judges, and partners who contributed to the event, and extends special appreciation to takeCHARGE NL and NLCU for their continued support.

For more information about future ideathons or partnership opportunities, contact:
Timilehin Oguntuyaki – timilehin@econext.ca

About econext
econext is a not-for-profit association with a mission to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador by: (1) stimulating research, development, and innovation; (2) preparing its workforce for a greening economy; and (3) acting as a catalyst for climate change action within its industries, businesses, and communities. econext has been working for over 30 years on behalf of its members across many sectors to support environmentally sustainable economic development. More information can be found at https://econext.ca.

econext 2025 Conference showcases innovation and new opportunities in Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy

Posted on by Chelsie Cake


For Immediate Release
October 15, 2025

The 2025 econext Conference welcomed leaders, innovators, and community partners from across Newfoundland and Labrador and beyond to explore how collaboration and innovation are shaping the province’s green economy. Held at the Delta St. John’s on October 9, the event highlighted the opportunities, partnerships, and ideas driving progress across the region.

“It’s inspiring to see how much collaboration and creativity exists within this community,” said Laura Barron, CEO of econext. “This year, we are seeing conversations that are more focused on taking action.”

Alex Templeton of McInnes Cooper (Chair of the econext Board), gives the opening address at the econext 2025 Conference.

This year’s conference covered a range of topics related to Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy transition, including innovation in the electricity sector, the path to net-zero marine transportation, workforce development, and emerging national and international clean energy trends.

Panel- National and International Clean Energy Trends: Nicolai Pogadl (Canadian German Chamber of Industry and Commerce), Jean Habel (Canadian Renewable Energy Association), Grace Khatrine (Angler Solutions), Elisa Obermann (Marine Renewables Canada) and Ian Froude (Pedal & Shift).

Panel- Innovation in Newfoundland and Labrador’s Burgeoning Electricity Sector: Jim Sarvinis (Hatch), Stephen Rowe (SEM Ltd), Tom Krauklis (Newfoundland Power), Delia Warren (Daymark Energy Advisors) and Courtney Wall (Newfoundland Power).

“We work to ensure the agenda reflects what our members are facing and talking about every day,” Barron explained. “From energy, to workforce, and opportunities here and abroad, it’s all connected.”

Speakers shared insights on how collaborations between industry, government, and communities are helping to drive innovation and investment across the province. Discussions highlighted the number of proposed projects and the people and skills necessary to support a growing green economy.

Panel- Workforce Considerations for Newfoundland and Labrador’s Green Economy: Gail Collins (Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro), Hendrik Goos (Green Goos Solutions), Denise Riggs (North Atlantic), Joshua Green (Mysa) and Ogaga Johnson (econext).

Attendees also heard from other speakers, including the 2025 econext Ideathon winners, whose innovative idea showcased how emerging entrepreneurs can contribute to Newfoundland and Labrador’s sustainability goals. econext staff provided updates on new initiatives supporting green business and member collaboration. A presentation from Procurement Assistance Canada offered insights for local companies interested in accessing federal procurement opportunities.

“Momentum is building,” said Barron. “We’re seeing projects that were discussed as ideas on this stage a few years ago that are now progressing into new phases, and that’s exciting to hear and learn about.”

As the day came to a close, there was a clear sense that Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy continues to evolve, and that collaboration remains at the heart of it.

Panel- Net Zero and Marine Transportation in Newfoundland and Labrador: Andrew McHardy (KPMG Canada), Karen Perry (Hatch), Jason Baggs (Canadian Coast Guard), Allison Ryan (Green Marine) and Joe Singleton (Marine Institute).

“What stood out to me this year was cross-sectoral alignment,” said Barron. “Whether you’re working in the energy, marine, or circular economy sectors, there’s a shared understanding that the green economy isn’t just an opportunity for the future, it’s something we’re building right now.”

econext thanks all attendees, partners and sponsors who helped make the 2025 Conference a success, and looks forward to welcoming its community back at the 2026 Conference.

About econext

econext is a not-for-profit association with a mission to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador by: (1) stimulating research, development, and innovation; (2) preparing its workforce for a greening economy; and (3) acting as a catalyst for climate change action within its industries, businesses, and communities.

econext has been working for over 30 years on behalf of its members across many sectors to support environmentally sustainable economic development. More information can be found at https://econext.ca.

econext 2025 Stakeholder Survey

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

2025 Stakeholder Feedback Survey

In an effort to improve its stakeholder experience, econext is seeking feedback from stakeholders regarding current expectations and perceptions, as well as recommendations for improvement. We value your feedback and appreciate your input on this survey.

Take the survey 

About the survey

This survey will take approximately nine minutes to complete. Respondents who complete the survey can be entered into a prize draw for one of three econext prize packs. More details on prizes will be released on our social media.

Your individual answers will be kept confidential and reported in aggregate. Participation is voluntary, and you may exit at any time before submitting.

FAQ

Who should complete this survey?

Anyone who engages with econext as a stakeholder — such as partners, members, community organizations, funders, event participants or vendors — is encouraged to participate.

How long does it take?

The survey takes approximately nine minutes to complete on average.

How is my information used?

Your responses are analyzed in aggregate to help econext understand expectations, perceptions, and opportunities to improve the stakeholder experience.

How do I enter the prize draw?

After you complete the survey, you’ll be invited to provide contact information if you wish to enter the prize draw.

Where can I find prize details?

 

1st Prize ($200 gift card, lego set, econext t-shirt)

2nd Prize (crewneck + comped ticket to 2026 conference)

3rd Prize (econext shirt hat mug) 

Disclaimer: This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with The LEGO Group or Visa Inc. All trademarks and brand names are the property of their respective owners. Prizes are provided solely by econext.

Stay Connected

Prize details and updates will be posted on our social media.

Questions?

Email info@econext.ca and we’ll get back to you!

Fundamentals of Wind-Hydrogen in Newfoundland and Labrador

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Discover the potential of the wind-hydrogen industry and Newfoundland and Labrador’s role in it.

econext’s one-day course is designed for individuals who want to gain a strong understanding of the fast-emerging wind-hydrogen industry and the economic opportunity for Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). 

Through practical examples, clear explanations, and interactive discussions, participants will:

  • Explore the renewable energy transition and why hydrogen is central to global decarbonization strategies
  • Learn how hydrogen and its derivatives are shaping the future of clean fuels and energy carriers
  • Understand NL’s unique clean energy advantage and potential as a leading supplier of green hydrogen to international markets
  • Examine the wind-hydrogen value chain, from generation to transport and use
  • Gain insights into the economic opportunities and investment potential for NL
  • Review workforce trends and skills requirements emerging in this new sector
  • Place NL in the global industry context, looking at current challenges and opportunities shaping market growth

By the end of the course, you’ll walk away with a solid foundation in wind-hydrogen fundamentals and a clearer picture of how Newfoundland and Labrador can seize this vast opportunity.

Who should attend?

  • Business leaders and entrepreneurs exploring opportunities in renewables
  • Students and professionals looking to build careers in clean energy
  • Anyone curious about the role of wind and hydrogen in NL’s energy future

Registration

Date: April 16, 2026
Location: econext Boardroom, St. John’s, NL
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM NDT

Virtual attendance for this event is available.

Cost:
$315 + HST for econext members
$445 + HST for non-members

Registration is open. Contact ogaga@econext.ca to register.

About the Instructor

Ian Froude, BEng. 

Founder & Connector

Ian is the Founder of Pedal & Shift, where he uses two decades of leadership experience to create new opportunities and strategic growth for clients. He is a Civil Engineering graduate of Memorial University equipped with years of business development, relationship building, and strategic planning experience. Ian’s diverse background—spanning municipal and provincial government, the non-profit sector, and private enterprise—enables him to connect the dots across sectors and deliver tailored, high-impact results.