Category: News

Abbie Hodder named CEO of Women in Resource Development Corporation

Posted on by kieran

For Immediate Release
December 9, 2024

On Friday, econext‘s Chief Operating Officer Abbie Hodder was announced as the new CEO of the Women in Resource Development Corporation (WRDC).

“I know I speak for the econext team, Board of Directors, and membership in offering a big ‘Congratulations!’ to Abbie,” said Kieran Hanley, econext‘s CEO.

Abbie started with the Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association in 2012, with her responsibilities growing over time to ultimately lead the organization’s international business development activities and take on the role of COO.

“Abbie has played such an important role in all of the success that econext has had these past years, and has been integral to the organization transforming from NEIA to become what it is today,” said Hanley. “We sure are going to miss her, but we know that her success at WRDC will be to everyone’s gain!”

Hanley noted that econext‘s recent research on expected clean energy industry job demands makes it clear that increasing women’s participation in trades and technology is going to be a key success factor. “WRDC has made an excellent selection; Abbie brings with her experiences and skills which are certain to help move the needle – as she has done with such effectiveness at econext these past years,” said Hanley.

Abbie will officially join the WRDC team in January 2025.

“We are so happy for Abbie and wish her the best in this new adventure.”

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.

CEO Message – November 27, 2024

Posted on by kieran

Help chart the course for NL’s future offshore wind industry

If you are interested in the future of offshore wind in Newfoundland and Labrador – whether that be from a technical, policy, socio-economic, developer, or environmental perspective – time is running out to provide your feedback on work completed on a regional assessment.

The Committee for the Regional Assessment of Offshore Wind Development in Newfoundland and Labrador has released its draft final report which can be downloaded here.

The main purpose of the regional assessment is to contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of future impact assessments for specific projects. The report covers a wide range of topics from environmental impacts (i.e., acoustics, marine habitats, ocean life), to potential for conflict with other ocean users (i.e., fisheries, transportation, parks), to icebergs and sightlines. The report also makes recommendations on what areas are most appropriate for future licensing.

While the recommendations stemming from the report are not binding, they will certainly be taken seriously by federal/provincial regulators of a future offshore wind industry in the province. With this in mind, it is important for all interested parties to take a look at it through the lens of their expertise and make comment.

For its part, econext will be making a submission based on comments that we have received from our members through the life of the regional assessment. As you review, if you come across something that you strongly believe needs to be considered or adjusted, please let us know so that we can incorporate this into our own feedback.

As a heads up, you’ll need to set aside some time. The report is a hefty document sitting at 828 pages. Responses are due before midnight on November 29. For more information on how to provide feedback on the report, visit the regional assessment website.

// Kieran Hanley
CEO

econext highlights green economy opportunities for municipalities at 2024 MNL Conference

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

For Immediate Release
November 20, 2024

From November 7-9, 2024, econext proudly attended and supported the Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador (MNL) Conference, Trade Show, and Annual General Meeting in Gander, NL.

This event brought together municipal leaders from across the province to discuss critical issues, which included sustainability, economic development, and climate resilience.

Manager of Climate Services (Sepehr Khosravi) stands in front of the econext display.

econext CEO Kieran Hanley presented at the conference and CLIMAtlantic Climate Services Manager Sepehr Khosravi engaged with delegates on the exhibition floor on how communities can benefit from growth of the green economy.

“Our goal is to establish long-term relationships with municipalities to understand their efforts, challenges, and experiences in addressing community climate change needs.” Said Khosravi, noting that econext has projects underway with a handful of municipalities across the province. “We are passionate and committed to providing meaningful support to municipal staff and councils as they tackle their climate challenges.”

“Our core message is clear: you are not alone on this journey. All you need to do is contact us, and we can start together.”

If your municipality is interested in learning how econext can help, reach out directly at www.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 recognizes strategic importance of newly announced Labrador West transmission study

Posted on by kieran

For Immediate Release
November 13, 2024

Last week at the Mineral Resources Review 2024 Conference, the Government of Canada announced investment in a ‘Labrador West Transmission Study’ to help explore expanding transmission infrastructure in support of mining in Labrador West.

“This investment is an excellent example of the economic growth potential that a focus on decarbonization can have,” said Kieran Hanley, econext‘s CEO.

The funding announced will help Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro complete a study, which is the next step in understanding the requirements to build an additional transmission line between Churchill Falls and Labrador West. If this infrastructure were to be completed, it would make more clean energy resources available to existing and future critical minerals projects in the region.

“This could have three important impacts,” said Hanley.

“First, this could represent a significant investment into NL’s clean energy infrastructure – helping us to make the most of the world class hydro resources that we have while creating green jobs and business opportunities in the process.”

Second, Hanley said that the availability of additional clean electricity could allow mining operations in Western Labrador to reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which would be a significant help to both industry and the province in meeting their climate change targets.

“Lastly, this could help to further position Newfoundland and Labrador as a clean energy and critical minerals powerhouse,” said Hanley, noting it will open the door to future low-carbon mining activities that will help supply the world with the materials that it needs to facilitate the energy transition.

“We applaud the efforts of Natural Resources Canada, our provincial government, NL Hydro, and industry to partner on initiatives like these which help to unlock the province’s economic potential.”

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.

Largest econext conference yet a reflection of Newfoundland and Labrador’s emerging green economy opportunities

Posted on by Chelsie Cake


For Immediate Release
November 6, 2024

On October 30, 2024, econext hosted its annual conference at the Delta Hotel in St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador. This sold-out event drew almost 300 participants, who gathered to discuss the province’s emerging green economy opportunities and the innovative technologies that could drive future growth.

“Newfoundland & Labrador is on the leading edge of clean growth on a global scale,” said Kieran Hanley, econext’s CEO. “Our conference provided the chance for businesses, governments, communities, and academia to learn more about a number of these quickly evolving opportunities.”

Throughout the day, attendees engaged in a series of panel discussions ranging from: the Canadian perspective on the emerging hydrogen energy; advancements in energy storage, biomass, and grid technologies; lessons in social license and stakeholder engagement for clean energy projects; and advancing cleantech innovation.

The Hon. Dr. Andrew Furey (Premier of Newfoundland & Labrador) gives a keynote address at the econext 2024 Conference.

“We were excited this year to welcome speakers representing organizations from all across the continent,” said Hanley. “Being on an island, it is important to get that outsider’s perspective on where our province stands in the bigger picture.” Hanley said that those who travelled for the conference will also now be able to spread the word within their known national and international networks about the exciting things happening in NL.

Jean Habel (Canadian Renewable Energy Association, Victoria Gatehouse (Rio Tinto), Michelle Lethbridge (ABO Energy), Graeme Burk (Electricity Canada), and econext Vice-Chair Heather Murphy (SEM Ltd).

One of the conference’s key announcements was the launch of the Clean Energy Innovation Challenge, a collaboration between econext and Foresight Canada.

The challenge invites innovators from across the country to propose solutions for reducing the monitoring and maintenance costs associated with clean energy infrastructure through the use of clean technology. With a $50,000 prize pool and additional support available to winning teams, the challenge aims to accelerate the development of cost-effective, sustainable solutions. To read more about the challenge, click here.

Jeanette Jackson (Foresight Canada), Santosh Raikar (Silverpeak Renewables Investment Partners), Marija Ilic (MIT Department of Engineering & Computer Science), and econext Chair J. Alex Templeton (McInnes Cooper).

The 2024 econext conference was carbon neutral via offsets purchased from Sharp Management.

“econext would like to express its thanks to all of our partners, panelists, moderators and attendees for helping to support and contribute to this event. We look forward to welcoming you all again in 2025.”

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 and Foresight Canada announce Clean Energy Innovation Challenge

Posted on by kieran

For Immediate Release
October 30, 2024

St. John’s, NL – Today at the econext 2024 Conference, econext and Foresight Canada have announced the Clean Energy Innovation Challenge.

The Clean Energy Innovation Challenge invites innovators to propose solutions that reduce the monitoring and maintenance costs for clean energy infrastructure through the application of digital, remote, and/or autonomous technologies—while improving environmental sustainability.

“The clean energy opportunity in front of Newfoundland and Labrador is tremendous,” said Kieran Hanley, econext‘s CEO. “From major wind-to-hydrogen projects to the growth of our domestic electricity grid, we are on the verge of significant green economic growth in our province.”

More information on the province’s emerging clean energy industry can be found here. Hanley said that improving the economics of future projects and minimizing their environmental impacts will be important for their success. New ideas and approaches will be important in helping Newfoundland and Labrador reach its clean energy potential.

Staying competitive and profitable in today’s rapidly evolving market requires continuous innovation. It’s also key to meeting net zero targets. Foresight’s Innovation Challenge program connects industries with tailored cleantech solutions that address sustainability and operational challenges. By offering a de-risked and cost-efficient process for sourcing, testing, and validating solutions, Foresight enables industry leaders to achieve their sustainability goals and drive impactful change with cutting-edge innovations.

“We are honoured to collaborate with econext on this challenge, deepening our connection with the Atlantic provinces. Clean energy infrastructure is a critical gateway to decarbonization, and by linking the right innovations, we can deliver turn-key, high-impact solutions that can be deployed swiftly—driving sustainability and economic growth across Newfoundland and Labrador and beyond.”
Jeanette Jackson, CEO, Foresight Canada

A total of $50,000 in cash prizes in addition to a series of supports will be made available to competition winners to help them advance their proposed concepts. “This is a significant opportunity for innovators to get their ideas in front of industry and draw interest to their technologies.”

Industry partners supporting the challenge include ABO Energy, EverWind Fuels, North Atlantic, Pattern Energy, World Energy GH2, Newfoundland Power, and Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro.

The Challenge has been made possible through support from RBC and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). Details, including submissions guidelines and deadlines, will be announced soon.

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.

About Foresight Canada

Foresight Canada helps the world do more with less, sustainably. As Canada’s largest cleantech innovation and adoption accelerator, they connect public and private sectors to the world’s best clean technologies, de-risking and simplifying the adoption of innovative solutions that improve productivity, profitability, and economic competitiveness, all while addressing today’s most urgent climate challenges.

CEO accepts takeCHARGE Luminary Award on behalf of the econext team

Posted on by kieran

The 6th annual takeCHARGE Luminary Awards took place on October 23, celebrating companies, organizations, communities, and individuals across Newfoundland and Labrador making great strides in energy efficiency.

econext CEO Kieran Hanley accepted the “Leadership Award” on behalf of the econext team.

“Our team has been working hard to develop and implement programming to help SMEs and communities in Newfoundland and Labrador become more energy efficient,” said Hanley. “I am honoured to accept this award on their behalf.”

Hanley said that econext has a number of exciting initiatives on the horizon that will accelerate clean growth in the province through energy efficiency. “We can’t wait to talk about what we are working on – stay tuned!”

The awards event was held at the Emera Innovation Exchange, where the takeCHARGE team gathered with award recipients both in person and online. This year’s 13 recipients were:

  • NL Health Services – BIG Award
  • Franks General Store – BIG Award
  • CLEAResult – Partnership Award
  • Nunatsiavut Government – Partnership Award
  • Colemans – Sustained Excellence Award
  • Ingram’s Electrical Ltd. – Sustained Excellence Award
  • Kieran Hanley (econext) – Leadership Award
  • Ethel O’Brien – Leadership Award
  • Heat Pump Solutions Ltd. – Electric Vehicle Awareness Award
  • Penney’s Pitstop Ltd. – Electric Vehicle Awareness Award
  • Jack Byrne Regional Sport & Entertainment Centre – Innovation Award
  • Makkovik Inuit Community Government – Community Impact
  • Town of Placentia – Community Impact

More information on the takeCHARGE Luminary Awards can be found here.

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 releases discussion paper exploring connection between climate change adaptation and economic development

Posted on by kieran

For Immediate Release
October 16, 2024

econext has released a discussion paper which connects the dots between climate change adaptation and economic development in Newfoundland and Labrador.

“As we make investments into the economies of our regions and our communities, the impacts of climate change need to be a key consideration,” says Kieran Hanley, econext‘s CEO. “Generally speaking, in the future our climate is going to be warmer, wetter, and stormier – and that might change how we think about economic development projects.”

“As an example, we might not want to invest into an energy retrofit of an old community centre if that same building is in great danger of being damaged by future flooding.” Hanley said that, while this might seem obvious, oftentimes these risks would not be picked up on without deliberately thinking about climate change early in the process. “Conversely, changing weather conditions might make a region more friendly to certain types of agriculture that seemed far-fetched in the past.”

“What we are trying to do with this discussion paper is outline some of the considerations that economic developers should be thinking about as they plan and support projects,” said Hanley. “The paper looks at this through an NL-specific lens and focuses on sectors – like tourism and public infrastructure – that those involved in economic development in our province often are engaged in.”

The discussion paper can be downloaded here.

Climate Change Infographics

In 2024 econext and its partner CLIMAtlantic produced a series of infographics to better articulate the expected impacts that communities in Newfoundland and Labrador are expected to experience due to climate change.

Hanley said that econext has resources to help communities and economic developers better understand climate change and the challenges – and opportunities – that come with it. “We can help provide you with the the information and resources to put you on the right path. Get in touch.”

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 contributes to Newfoundland and Labrador economic development conference

Posted on by kieran

For Immediate Release
October 9, 2024

Last week econext staff attended and participated in a panel discussion at the Economic Developers Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (EDANL) conference in Twillingate, NL.

econext‘s Manager of Industry and Community Engagement (Colin Heffernan), Special Project’s Lead (Sara Jafari), Manager of Climate Services (Sepehr Khosravi), and Director of Workforce Development (Ogaga Johnson) at the EDANL Conference.

“econext have staff members who specialize in helping communities tackle their greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change,” says Colin Heffernan, econext‘s Manager for Industry and Community Engagement and panel moderator. “Viewing a town’s opportunities and challenges through that green lens opens the door to new economic development possibilities”.

The event was focused on providing information and resources for the province’s economic development practitioners working to support their communities. “A community can be defined geographically, like a town, or more holistically as a group of businesses, stakeholders, and so on,” said Heffernan, noting that many of the same economic development principles apply in different scenarios. The event was attended by staff from municipalities, industry associations, sector organizations, business, and the public service.

econext‘s panel also highlighted the major clean energy projects being pursued in the province, and the workforce that will be required to develop them.

“There are lots of opportunities available for municipalities to help finance economic development initiatives through green and environmental projects,” said Heffernan. “What we wanted to convey at the event was that econext‘s staff are here to help communities identify and pursue those opportunities.”

Heffernan said that those interested can contact econext directly at https://econext.ca/contact/.

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.

Newfoundland and Labrador signs MOU with Port of Antwerp-Bruges in Belgium

Posted on by kieran

For Immediate Release
September 27, 2024

During a visit from a government and business delegation from Belgium, Newfoundland and Labrador signed a memorandum of understanding with the Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

“Newfoundland and Labrador is on the frontier of a new global industry,” said Kieran Hanley, econext‘s CEO. “We have the clean energy resources to help our European allies decarbonize their economies, and agreements like this one help facilitate that trade relationship.”

Hon. Andrew Parsons (Minister of Industry, Energy, and Technology) and Mr. Tom Hautekiet (Chief Business Development and Transition Officer – POAB). Image courtesy of the Embassy of Belgium in Canada.

“There are six wind-to-hydrogen developments being pursued in our province totaling over 23GW,” said Hanley. “These projects are significant on a global scale and will position Newfoundland and Labrador as an international leader in hydrogen production.”

Hanley said that coordination is required between jurisdictions that can supply clean energy and those that will be customers for it. “Relationships like the one that we are seeing develop here are important for success.”

More information on NL’s clean energy industry can be found here.

econext is a not-for-profit association with a mission to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador by: stimulating research, development, and innovation; preparing its workforce for a greening economy; and 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.