econext insights: Opportunities for Domestic Clean Fuels Use in Newfoundland and Labrador

As jurisdictions around the world work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build more resilient energy systems, clean fuels are emerging as a key part of the solution. With abundant natural resources and a growing focus on innovation, Newfoundland and Labrador is well-positioned to lead in this transition. Join econext for an online workshop as we explore the opportunities and challenges of clean fuel adoption across some of the province’s most critical economic sectors.

This session builds on the findings of econext’s recent research, which took a sector-specific approach to assessing the potential for clean fuel use within Newfoundland and Labrador. The research focused on the following areas:
• Marine Transportation
• Port Operations
• Electricity Grid Integration
• Remote Communities
• Heavy Industry (e.g. Mining)
• Heavy Duty Transportation
• Public Transportation
• Aviation

Session participants will be provided with a high-level overview of the study’s findings and invited to offer feedback that helps validate and enhance the insights. Your input will help shape future work, ensuring it reflects real-world needs and supports informed decision-making.

If you’re a stakeholder in any of these areas—whether you work in operations, infrastructure, energy, or policy—your perspective is vital. This is a chance to connect with peers, share your expertise, and contribute to shaping a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for Newfoundland and Labrador. Register now to take part in this important conversation.

Register now

This event is made possible through the support of Natural Resources Canada / Ressources naturelles Canada.

econext Summer Social 2025

Celebrate the Summer with econext!

Join us for the econext Summer Social on Thursday, July 17th, 2025 from 3:00pm – 5:00pm, in partnership with takeCHARGE! This in-person event will take place at Wooden Walls Distilling, 140 Harbour Drive, St. John’s.

Connect with fellow professionals in the industry and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of networking, refreshments and snacks. This is a great opportunity to expand your professional network and connect with the econext team. Be sure to get your tickets by 4:00pm on Friday July 11th.

Space is limited – don’t miss out on this exciting event! Register now and secure your spot. See you there!

Buy Tickets Now

Environmentally Sustainable Concepts For Commerce

Going environmentally sustainable in the business realm has been a hot topic for many years. Businesses and industries have been challenged by investors and their end users to become more engaged in the pursuit of net-zero emissions, reduction of waste, and finding ways to use more renewable energy sources.

The underlying benefit to business in improved bottom lines is achievable through many means. The greatest success stories in environmentally sustainable operations and development of energy efficient practices sometimes go under the radar. This FREE virtual workshop seeks to tackle ways to find savings through going environmentally sustainable , and outlining your firm’s eco-friendly credentials.

Join RBC and econext on Wednesday June 11th from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM NDT for an immersive look at two key concepts: utilizing existing programs to find energy efficiency savings no matter what sector you operate in, and compiling and publicizing your company’s approach to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG).

RBC is pleased to bring together econext, takeCHARGE, Carbonhound, and Memorial University Business School in one event to show clients ways to make environmentally sustainable choices and publicize the good work you do.

Register today! Participants will be e-mailed the meeting link in the days prior to the event. If you have any questions about this session, please reach out to Colin Heffernan at econext (heffernan@econext.ca or (709) 979-0423).

Register now

econext insights: Clean Fuels Adoption in NL’s Marine Transportation Sector

Newfoundland and Labrador is positioned to lead in the clean energy transition, and marine transportation and port operations are key sectors in that shift. Join econext for an engaging online workshop as part of our newest series as we explore the opportunities and challenges of adopting clean fuels across these critical industries.

This session builds on the findings of econext’s recently published discussion paper and invites participants to help refine and validate those insights through real-world perspectives. We’ll take a close look at the technical, economic, and environmental dimensions of clean fuel use, with a focus on what’s possible—and what’s needed—in a Newfoundland and Labrador context.

If you’re a stakeholder in marine operations, port infrastructure, energy, or policy, your input is vital. This is a chance to collaborate with peers, share your expertise, and help shape the next steps in advancing clean fuels in the province. Join the conversation and be part of a growing movement to chart a cleaner, more sustainable future for Newfoundland and Labrador.

Register now

This event is made possible through the support of Natural Resources Canada / Ressources naturelles Canada.

RFP – Community Efficiency Financing: Brand and Website Development

Background

econext, a non-profit association working to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), is currently in the process of launching a new residential retrofit program in St. John’s, NL. This initiative is designed to help homeowners improve energy efficiency through energy audits, guided support and low-interest financing. econext will also facilitate industry training to support capacity building. By helping residents navigate retrofits while reducing financial barriers, this program will help more homeowners take action to improve energy efficiency, lower utility bills, and reduce their environmental footprint.

Objective

The objective of this scope of work is to create a compelling visual identity, and develop an accessible website that drives engagement from the public and industry professionals. This website will be a key piece of the application process, and will host information and FAQs for interested parties to learn more and assess their own benefits.

The deadline for proposals is 4:30 PM NDT May 21, 2025.

Download RFP

Please Note: An updated copy of the RFP was released on May 16, 2025. 



Questions and Answers

Answers provided by econext relating to the RFP will be posted here.

What is econext‘s role in this program, will they be providing the loans and energy audits?

econext will be facilitating and helping guide homeowners through the retrofit process, by connecting them with the appropriate parties to offer these services. econext will not be conducting the energy audits or financial services itself. Further information on the program’s process will be discussed with the successful applicant.

Who will be the main audience for this initiative? 

The primary audience for this program will be homeowners based in the St. John’s area. econext will also work to engage those in the industry who may be involved in the home renovation process, to make them aware of the service and the benefits to themselves or their clients.

Will econext be offering renovation grants through this program? 

No. econext will work to help make participants aware of existing grants or supports, and assist them in applying to relevant initiatives.

How closely should the new brand align with econext’s existing visual identity?

This brand must be able to be a subset of econext’s activities and stand apart from the main econext brand in order for the program to be scalable.

Will the vendor need to be located within Canada, or can the work be completed from international locations?

Vendors may be based internationally; however, they must maintain a Canadian-based office to ensure effective communication and facilitate meetings across time zones. econext is headquartered in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.

Will the vendor be required to build a cost-saving calculator from scratch? Are there any other details you can provide about this feature?

For the purpose of this proposal, proponents can exclude this scope of work.

Is there a budget allocation for this project?

We are asking interested vendors to propose a price based on the scope of work outlined.

 

Net Zero Community Accelerator (NCA) Energy Mapping & CEEP Workshop – Stephenville


Location: Stephenville
Date: May 14, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (local time)

As part of the Net Zero Community Accelerator (NCA) Project with partnership with QUEST Canada, this full-day, in-person workshop will focus on:

  • Mapping current community-wide energy use and greenhouse gas emissions
  • Identifying opportunities for energy efficiency and emissions reduction
  • Laying the groundwork for a Community Energy and Emissions Plan (CEEP)
  • Exploring local strategies to support clean growth and net-zero targets

This session will bring together municipal staff, local stakeholders, and community organizations to support Stephenville’s transition toward a more sustainable, climate-resilient future. Additional details, including venue information, will be shared as they are confirmed.

For more information, please contact Sara Jafari at mailto:sara@econext.ca.

Net Zero Community Accelerator (NCA) Energy Mapping & CEEP Workshop – Corner Brook


Location: Corner Brook
Date: May 13, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (local time)

As part of the Net Zero Community Accelerator (NCA) Project with partnership with QUEST Canada, this full-day, in-person workshop will focus on:

  • Mapping current community-wide energy use and greenhouse gas emissions
  • Identifying opportunities for energy efficiency and emissions reduction
  • Laying the groundwork for a Community Energy and Emissions Plan (CEEP)
  • Exploring local strategies to support clean growth and net-zero targets

This session will bring together municipal staff, local stakeholders, and community organizations to support Corner Brook’s pathway toward a low-carbon, sustainable future. More details, including the confirmed venue, will be shared as they become available.

For more information, please contact Sara Jafari at mailto:sara@econext.ca.

Green Roots – Corner Brook Edition


Empowering Careers in the Green Economy – Corner Brook Edition

 

Are you looking to build your career in the green economy? The Green Roots Career Series offers a unique opportunity to develop essential job-seeking skills, expand your network, and connect with potential employers. Through workshops, participants will gain valuable insights and even have a chance to secure an internship with a participating company.

*While attendance at the workshop not mandatory for program participation, it is highly encouraged to give applicants the best chance at securing an internship.

Upcoming Events

Workshop: Green Career Development and Training Session
Location: AS375, MUN Grenfell Campus, Corner Brook
Date: Thursday, March 19, 2026: | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Employment Open House
Location: City Hall, Corner Brook
Date: Friday, March 20, 2026 | 10:00 a.m.

RSVP Here

Supported by

 

Green Roots – A Learning and Networking Career Series

Empowering Careers in the Green Economy

Are you looking to build your career in the green economy? The Green Roots Career Series offers a unique opportunity to develop essential job-seeking skills, expand your network, and connect with potential employers.

Green Roots is a 7-week career development program that combine an online learning series and in-person networking events. At the end of the 7-weeks, three participants will be selected for a 4-month internship with local green economy employers.

Applications for Spring 2026 are now open. Apply now. 

Program Components:

Clean Career Course

A three-part online learning series that helps you build the foundation for a successful green career. Modules include:

• Power Up Your Personal Brand
• Grow Your Network
• Accelerate Your Interview Skills

Every two weeks, participants can join optional virtual sessions for group discussions, activities, and reflection, helping to reinforce learning and connect with program peers.

Company Connector Events

Three in-person networking events give participants direct access to employers in the green economy. These industry open houses take place at company office locations, offering a unique chance to:

• Meet and engage with professionals in the sector
• Explore different work environments
• Gain valuable career insights and opportunities

Internship

At the conclusion of the course, three participants will be selected for a 4-month internship with participating green economy companies. These placements provide:

• Work-integrated learning in real industry settings
• Skill development and hands-on experience
• Career growth opportunities for participants

Host companies benefit too, welcoming diverse talent to support business growth and innovation.

Program Structure:

7-week program with a 4-month internship for selected candidates.

Week 1: Program Kick-off, orientation, and Module 1 begins
Week 2: Virtual Learning and Reflection Session
Week 3: Module 2 begins
Week 4: In-person learning and reflection session (Half Day)
Week 4: Company Connector Event 1
Week 5: Module 3 begins
Week 6: Virtual Learning and Reflection Session
Week 6: Company Connector Event 2
Week 7: Company Connector Event 3
Week 7: Virtual Wrap-up Session and Start of Internship

Program Dates:

*Dates are subject to potential changes.

Green Roots – Spring 2026 (3 internships available)
Application Starts: April 6, 2026 (Apply Here)
Application Ends: April 24, 2026
Program Starts: May 4, 2026
Program Ends: June 19, 2026
Internship starts: Starts from July 1, 2026

Annual Program All Cohorts Event: July 30, 2026

Green Roots – Fall 2026 (3 internships available)
Application Starts: September 14, 2026
Application Ends: October 2, 2026
Program Starts: October 12, 2026
Program Ends: November 27, 2026
Internship: Starts from December 1, 2026

Questions

If you have any questions regarding participation in the Green Roots program, please reach out to econext‘s Green Career Development & Training Lead, Timilehin Oguntuyaki, at timilehin@econext.ca.

Supported by

 

Green Horizons: Career Opportunities in NL’s Green Economy

 

Exploring Career Pathways in Newfoundland & Labrador’s Green Economy

Date: March 25, 2025
Location: Holiday Inn, 180 Portugal Cove,  St. John’s NL / Online
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM

Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy is expanding, creating new career opportunities. This event is designed for individuals looking to enter or transition into the green economy. Attendees will gain insights into workforce opportunities while networking with employers and industry leaders.

Click Here to Register

Why Attend?

• Learn about career opportunities.
• Gain insights into training programs and certification pathways.
• Connect with industry experts and professionals.
• Participate in interactive and networking activities.

Event Agenda (this agenda is subject to potential changes

09:30 AM – 10:00 AM | Registration & Welcome Coffee

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM | Opening Remarks

10:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Success Stories

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM | Green Economy Interactive Game

11:00 AM – 11:15 AM | Green Horizons

11:15 AM – 12:15 PM | Panel Discussion: Career Pathways to the Green Economy in NL

• NL Hydro
• College of the North Atlantic
• Office to Advance Women Apprentices NL
• Angler Solutions
• SEM Ltd.

12:15 PM – 12:30 PM | econav Launch & Closing Remarks

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | Lunch & Networking

In-person spaces are limited. Secure your spot today! Can’t attend in-person? Join with our virtual ticket, and you will receive a link to watch this event.

For more information, contact ogaga@econext.ca.