NEIA members discuss renewable energy opportunities for towns at Municipal Symposium

Ashley Smith (Fundamental Inc.), Jesse McCaw (Wreckhouse Energy), Delia Warren (Iron and Earth East), and Jacob Rodgers (Newfoundland Power) were among the participants on a panel at Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador’s recent Symposium event in Gander.

The panel “Muskrat and Beyond: Alternatives and Savings for Municipalities” zeroed in on the higher electricity rates municipalities can expect to face in the coming years – and what options and opportunities are at their disposal to proactively mitigate rising costs.

To read a news article in The Compass covering this panel, click here.

To learn more about the symposium, click here.

NEIA and its membership is always willing to engage with municipalities on how they can address energy and environmental challenges – don’t hesitate to contact us!

EDITORIAL: It’s time to talk about carbon pricing in N.L.

Below is an excerpt from NEIA Chair Alex Templeton’s recent editorial in The Telegram (May 4) on carbon pricing and the establishment of a Clean Technology Innovation Fund.

Click here to read the entire piece.


Expected revenues from carbon pricing aren’t insignificant.

In 2019 Newfoundland and Labrador will likely see tens of millions of dollars, growing to potentially hundreds of millions by 2022. Though other provinces are reinvesting 100 per cent of carbon pricing revenues into programming to help individuals, businesses, and industries deal with rising costs, we accept that Newfoundland and Labrador faces extraordinary fiscal challenges and that this isn’t possible in our jurisdiction.

We do believe that it’s critical to provide some level of support to those industries on which our provincial economy relies, where there may not be ready-made solutions to help reduce carbon pollution. Industry will need help to make the investments required to develop new clean technologies.

As such, NEIA is calling on the province, as part of its carbon pricing plan, to establish a Clean Technology Innovation Fund.

NEIA supports government commitment to develop a renewable energy plan for Newfoundland and Labrador

For Immediate Release
April 24, 2018

The Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) is welcoming a government commitment to develop a renewable energy plan for the province. The commitment was made as part of the province’s Way Forward announcement this afternoon.

“We are very pleased that the province is recognizing the economic development potential that renewable energy presents for Newfoundland and Labrador” said Kieran Hanley, NEIA’s Executive Director.

Hanley said that supporting the pursuit of renewable energy technologies, from offshore wind to tidal energy, can help drive innovation and business growth in the province. “We have enormous resources that have gone untapped here in Newfoundland and Labrador; there is interest in their development from the private sector, but industry needs government’s assistance to break down barriers to development.” As such, Hanley says NEIA is delighted with government’s commitment to work together with stakeholders towards a plan.

“An effective renewable energy plan has the potential to increase competitiveness at the individual firm-level, complement the activities of and provide new opportunities for firms working within our existing energy sectors, and also open the door to new industrial development,” Hanley said. “We are excited to contribute what we can to the creation of the plan.’

Support for clean technology

The Way Forward: Building Our Future also committed to working with partners to find opportunities to develop and deploy clean technologies.

“The prospects for clean technology development are significant,” said Hanley, noting recent reports predict that the global market for clean technologies is forecast to grow to $2.5 trillion by 2022, more than doubling its size from 2011.

“Natural resource industries have been identified consistently as a possible competitive advantage for Canada in clean technology development,” said Hanley. “There is a real opportunity for us to leverage our expertise in our key industries here in Newfoundland and Labrador – such as oil and gas, mining, aquaculture, and forestry – and apply it from the perspective of clean growth.” Hanley said this approach will not only contribute to a more sustainable future for industries key to the provincial economy, “but also help grow business and create jobs through the export of these solutions… in what are global industries.”

Hanley says it makes sense for the province to identify clean technology as a priority, given that it is a top focus of the federal government. “NEIA has ideas on how we as a province can make the most of federal investments in clean technology, and we would welcome an opportunity to share those with decision-makers.”

The Way Forward: Building Our Future document can be viewed here.

NEIA is a not-for-profit association of businesses that promotes the development of clean technology and the growth of the green economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. NEIA has over 200 members. More information can be found at www.neia.org.

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Media Contact
Kieran Hanley
kieran@neia.org

NEIA celebrates the first carbon credits to be generated, verified, and sold in Newfoundland and Labrador

For Immediate Release
April 2, 2018

NEIA’s Executive Director Kieran Hanley welcomes participants to the celebration.

ST. JOHN’S, NL – On March 21st, 2018 the Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) and its network celebrated the first ever generation, verification, and sale of carbon credits in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Sharp Management Inc., through the design and implementation of engineered wetlands to treat sewage wastewater in the towns of Stephenville and Appleton/Glenwood, has acquired certification of 55,071 carbon credits from offsetting emissions of 50,000 tonnes of CO2, on these projects.

“This is a significant milestone in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Kieran Hanley, NEIA’s Executive Director. “NEIA promotes the development of clean technology and the growth of the green economy in in this province, and what Sharp Management has achieved is a perfect illustration of the kinds of opportunities that exist in our sector.” Hanley said that Sharp is providing an excellent example for the province’s startup and entrepreneur communities, “… showing us that there is much to gain from providing solutions that are effective, efficient, and environmentally sustainable.”

Glenn Sharp from Sharp Management presents representatives from the municipalities with certificates recognizing their ownership of the province’s first-ever carbon credits.

“Making this truly significant,” said Hanley, “is that the municipalities in our province that had the foresight to invest in clean technology are going to be rewarded for their efforts.” Revenues generated from the sale of credits will be split 50/50 with Stephenville, Appleton, and Glenwood who made the investment in the sustainable technology.

The celebration took place at the Alt Hotel in St. John’s, and attracted over 100 interested stakeholders. Premier Dwight Ball was among those in attendance, and spoke to the provincial government’s support for the clean technology sector in Newfoundland and Labrador. As a gesture of support, Premier Ball indicated that the province would be among the first to buy credits.

Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Dwight Ball speaks to the audience.

For a 3-month period, credits will be available exclusively within this province as limited ‘first ever’ carbon credits from Newfoundland and Labrador. “NEIA is very proud to have purchased and now be the owner of the fourth ever carbon credit generated in this province,” said Hanley. The first three credits were given to Stephenville, Appleton, and Glenwood. “Congratulations to Sharp Management, and to our municipalities. This truly is an occasion to celebrate.”

For more information on the carbon credits, Sharp Management can be contacted at glenn@sharpemgmt.ca.

NEIA is a not-for-profit association of businesses that promotes the development of clean technology and the growth of the green economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. NEIA has over 200 members. More information can be found at https://neia.org.

Kieran Hanley, NEIA’s Executive Director, and Alex Templeton, the Chair of NEIA’s Board of Directors, celebrate NEIA’s purchase of Newfoundland and Labrador’s fourth carbon credit.

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Media Contact
Kieran Hanley
kieran@neia.org

NEIA launches new Environmental and Regulatory Compliance Project Management Course

For Immediate Release
March 31, 2018

ST. JOHN’S, NL – The Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) has launched a brand new course providing practitioners with project management skills and resources through the lens of an environmental professional – and customized to the regulatory conditions and requirements of the province.

“Extensive consultation with our members and within our networks revealed a need for course materials specific to industrial and regulatory conditions in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Kieran Hanley, NEIA’s Executive Director. “Our Environmental and Regulatory Compliance Project Management (ERCPM) course will help participants managing projects – with a focus on those typically seen here in this province – proficiently do so while adhering to environmental needs and regulatory best practices in this jurisdiction.”

The two-day classroom course engages participants through five interactive modules, offering: (1) a refresher on project management principles; (2) a detailed overview of the regulatory environment in Newfoundland and Labrador; (3) considerations for projects and maintaining environmental compliance; (4) insight on the role environmental management systems (EMS) play; and tools for environmental and regulatory project management.

Hanley said that the introduction of the ERCPM course stems from the organization’s strategic plan. “Some years ago, NEIA identified the provision of relevant and quality training and professional development opportunities for its members as a key priority.” Hanley noted that the ERCPM course itself was years in development. “We are pleased to now be presenting this material to practitioners in the province, helping build skill sets and fill knowledge gaps in our green economy.”

The first delivery of the ERCPM course took place on March 22-23, 2018 with a full class. A waitlist is already in place for the next course, which will be delivered later in 2018. More information about the course can be found at https://neia.org/environmental-compliance-regulatory-project-management/ and inquiries regarding registration can be made directly to Hanley at kieran@neia.org.

“We are excited to add the ERCPM course to our training and professional development calendar, and are actively developing a number of other interesting programs as well. Stay tuned.”

NEIA is a not-for-profit association of businesses that promotes the development of clean technology and the growth of the green economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. NEIA has over 200 members. More information can be found at https://neia.org.

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Media Contact
Kieran Hanley
kieran@neia.org

NEIA Elects its 2018-19 Board of Directors

For Immediate Release
March 30, 2018

ST. JOHN’S, NL – On March 28, 2018, the Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) elected its Board of Directors for 2018-19, including the re-appointment of Alex Templeton, an Associate with McInnes Cooper, as the organization’s Chairperson.

NEIA’s Board of Directors guide the strategic activities of NEIA, which are focused on its six ‘lines of business’, providing:

  • a support framework for entrepreneurs and startups;
  • networks to help increase productivity and competitiveness;
  • tools to encourage and foster innovation;
  • export and international business development programming;
  • training and professional development opportunities tailored to environmental sector employees; and
  • leadership on policy and advocacy issues

Members of the 2018-19 Board of Directors include:

  • Alex Templeton (Chair) – McInnes Cooper
  • Brian Taite (Vice-Chair) – Pinchin LeBlanc Environmental
  • Adam Anderson – Resource Innovations Inc.
  • Don Drew – Newco Metal and Auto Recycling Ltd.
  • Al Ducey – BMSna
  • Ashley Noseworthy – EDGEWISE Environmental
  • Jonas Roberts – Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions
  • Erin Stapleton – Stapleton Environmental Consulting
  • Abdul Zubair – Newfoundland Soiltec Inc.

More information on NEIA’s Board of Directors can be found at: https://neia.org/board/.

NEIA is a not-for-profit association of businesses that promotes the development of clean technology and the growth of the green economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. NEIA has over 200 members.

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Media Contact
Kieran Hanley
kieran@neia.org
709.237.8190

NEIA provides clean growth lens to forestry, manufacturing industries in Corner Brook

Forestry Innovation Day in Corner Brook, NL

For Immediate Release
March 5, 2018

CORNER BROOK, NL – The Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) was in Corner Brook last week to talk about clean growth opportunities and supports relating to the local manufacturing and forestry industries.

On Tuesday, NEIA’s Executive Director Kieran Hanley presented at the Manufacturing Insights: Green Sustainability for Profit session held by the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME). “The CME talked about the seven forms of green waste found within the sector – energy, water, materials, garbage, transportation, emissions, and biodiversity,” said Hanley. “On behalf of our membership, I was able to provide participants with insight on the local companies that can provide local clean technology and environmental solutions.”

Related: Session in Corner Book drives home green sustainability message
On Wednesday as part of Forestry Innovation Day, NEIA hosted the Bio-Economy Workshop which explored clean growth opportunities within Newfoundland and Labrador’s forestry industry. “There are a number of exciting opportunities within the forestry industry that have potential both from an economic and clean growth perspective,” said Hanley. “With the emergence of the NL Forestry Industry Association, as a community of stakeholders we are becoming well-positioned to pursue these opportunities in partnership.”

Related:

Foresty Innovation Day was presented by NEIA in partnership with the Canadian Woodlands Forum, the Newfoundland and Labrador Forestry Industry Association, FPInnovations, and Resource Innovations. More information on the event can be found here.

At both events, Hanley had the opportunity to promote the capabilities of NEIA’s membership, and help stakeholders explore possible funding and support mechanisms available to the to help address needs and pursue initiatives.

Related:

NEIA is a not-for-profit association of businesses that promotes the development of clean technology and the growth of the green economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. NEIA has over 200 members. More information can be found at www.neia.org.

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Media Contact:
Kieran Hanley
kieran@neia.org

NEIA works with government and industry partners to develop work plan to help grow Newfoundland and Labrador’s tech sector

For Immediate Release
February 23, 2018

Watch as Kieran Hanley, NEIA’s Executive Director, addresses the technology summit and its work plan from the perspective of clean technology.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) was pleased to join NATI, the CME, ACADA, and the provincial government at the technology summit on Friday in announcing its technology sector work plan. The work plan includes actions that each of the partners will take to achieve the collective goal of growing the technology industry and stimulating new private sector employment.

“There’s opportunity in Newfoundland and Labrador to increase commercial activity and create new jobs in the area of clean technology adoption and development. The world economy is driving towards greater stewardship on carbon emissions and environmental impacts, and technology is in the driver’s seat. Those of our industries that capitalize on this reality in their operations here at home, or by exporting their expertise and services abroad, can achieve competitive advantage and growth. Unlocking the opportunity involves applying the right supports at the right junctures, and NEIA feels the technology work plan is a step towards putting that idea to practice. NEIA appreciates the opportunity to put a clean tech lens on the development of this work plan, and we’re looking forward to putting the plan to action with our partners in government, academia and industry.”
Alex Templeton – Chair, NEIA

Newfoundland and Labrador firms continue building business relationships in Guyana

For Immediate Release
February 9, 2018

Georgetown, GY – A delegation of firms from Newfoundland and Labrador are strengthening business relationships between this province and Guyana at GIPEX – the Guyana International Petroleum Business Summit and Exhibition.

A significant offshore project sanctioned for first oil as early as 2020 – and the prospect of future development in the region – are providing firms operating in Newfoundland and Labrador’s oil and gas industry the opportunity to bring their expertise international. This includes members of the Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) with expertise in the application of clean technology and environmental products and services within the industry.

“There are unique similarities between what is occurring in Guyana now and what our province experienced in the early days of our own industry,” said Abbie Lacey, NEIA’s Manager of International Business Development. “We feel that by sharing our experiences, and reaching out in partnership, there are opportunities for Newfoundland and Labrador firms to diversify their activities into this new market.”

Lacey said that this spirit of partnership and collaboration is important, an approach exemplified well in a joint venture announced yesterday between the Caron Hawco Group of Newfoundland and Labrador, and Sagacity Media of Guyana. The newly created Guyana Strategic Services will specialize in business development services for firms looking to grow through activity in Guyana. The Canadian High Commissioner for Guyana, Lillian Chatterjee, said the alliance “… is an excellent example of Canadians and Guyanese working together to help build this emerging oil and gas industry and helping to solidify Guyana as an investment destination.”

RELATED: Guyanese and Canadian companies join forces targeting Guyana’s petroleum opportunities

Newfoundland and Labrador firms are showing they are committed to building lasting relationships in the region, something Lacey said that has been noticed and has been well received in the market. “NEIA and its partners led a delegation of firms to Guyana last Fall,” she said. “We were provided with a warm welcome in September, and we were pleased to reciprocate that hospitality in welcoming a delegation from the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry in November.”

High Commissioner of Canada to Guyana, Mrs. Lilian Chatterjee (centre) is flanked by CEO of Sagacity, Chris Chapwanya and Canadian Business Owner, Caron Hawco, of the Caron Hawco Group at the official announcement of the new partnership. Image courtesy of OILNOW

Lacey noted that an MOU signed between NEIA and GCCI in November has proved valuable already for both organizations. “The GCCI has been very helpful to our delegation in terms of facilitating introductions and providing their insight,” said Lacey. “A trust is being built between our organizations that we believe will be of benefit to our respective memberships.” Lacey added that the support of the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) has been instrumental in helping the delegation maximize the value of its time in Guyana.

NEIA’s international business initiatives in the region are a product of continued collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation (TCII) and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

GIPEX 2018 runs from February 7-9 in Georgetown, Guyana. NEIA is a not-for-profit association of businesses that promotes the development of clean technology and the growth of the green economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. NEIA has over 200 members. More information can be found at https://neia.org.

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Media Contact:
Kieran Hanley
kieran@neia.org

NEIA sees opportunity for local firms in offshore wind energy industry

For Immediate Release
February 7, 2018

The Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) is encouraging firms in the province to consider the offshore wind energy industry as an avenue for business growth.

“It is expected that global offshore wind energy capacity is to grow by over 650% by 2030,” said Kieran Hanley, NEIA’s Executive Director. “This means expanding supply chains and many billions of dollars worth of investment – representing a real opportunity for our firms.”

Hanley’s comments come following an offshore wind energy workshop in St. John’s that NEIA organized with Marine Renewables Canada. “Part of the workshop yesterday focused on the supply chain in offshore wind, and we were struck by how similar it looked to what we are already familiar with here in Newfoundland and Labrador.” Hanley says that the province’s demonstrated expertise providing ocean technologies and services in the offshore oil and gas sector positions local firms well to explore opportunities worldwide in wind.

RELATED: Kraken Wins International Offshore Wind Energy Competition

“It is clear, given the rapid expansion of this industry worldwide, that there are opportunities for our local firms to diversify their activities and the markets in which they are engaged.” Hanley says that NEIA will be working to help firms in the province identify and pursue those opportunities.

“… it is important and prudent to have an open and informed discussion on the possibilities for wind energy development off the shores of our province.”

– Kieran Hanley, NEIA’s Executive Director

The workshop also focused on the prospect of offshore wind energy development in Newfoundland and Labrador, possible export markets, and current Federal supports available to help foster the emergence of the industry.

“Natural Resources Canada has an enormous funding program call open right now that would apply to offshore wind energy developments,” said Hanley. “Considering the economic development potential associated with a large industry like this one, it is important and prudent to have an open and informed discussion on the possibilities for wind energy development off the shores of our province.”

RELATED: NRCan’s Emerging Renewable Power Program

Hanley said there are benefits to being a first-mover in the region. “If we can build expertise here in Newfoundland and Labrador, that is something we can export for years to come as the industry grows in North America.”

“There are challenges to offshore wind development in our province – but given the opportunity before us, let’s take a look at what we might be able to do together to address those challenges.”

NEIA is a not-for-profit association of businesses that promotes the development of clean technology and the growth of the green economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. NEIA has over 200 members. More information can be found at https://neia.org.

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Media Contact
Kieran Hanley – kieran@neia.org