Electricity Industry Fundamentals: Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Power Grid Course

econext’s 1-day course provides a practical, systems-level introduction to Newfoundland and Labrador’s electricity sector.

This course is designed for professionals, businesses, and stakeholders who interact with the energy system but do not work day-to-day as power system specialists. Participants will gain a clear understanding of how electricity is generated, transmitted, regulated, and managed in Newfoundland and Labrador, with specific attention to the Island Interconnected System and the Labrador Interconnected System. The course draws on real provincial infrastructure examples, including Bay d’Espoir, Churchill Falls, Muskrat Falls, HVdc transmission, and the provincial regulatory framework.

The training emphasizes plain-language explanations of technical concepts such as power versus energy, system frequency, transmission constraints, reliability, and capacity limits. It also provides context for current and future developments that matter for renewable integration, electrification, industrial development, and decarbonization in the province.

The content is based on publicly available information and is structured to improve electricity literacy, support informed decision-making, and reduce common misunderstandings about grid capability and constraints

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the structure of Newfoundland and Labrador’s electricity system
  • How electricity is generated, transmitted, and delivered across the Island and Labrador systems.
  • Interpret transmission infrastructure and system limitations
  • Why capacity, stability, distance, and system design constrain power transfers and new connections?
  • Apply core electricity system concepts
  • Including power versus energy, system frequency, reliability, peak demand, and capacity management.
  • Understand the regulatory and institutional framework
  • The roles of NL Hydro, Newfoundland Power, the NL System Operator, and the Public Utilities Board, and how legislation shapes system planning and access.
  • Evaluate future system developments and implications
  • Planned generation, transmission, and interconnection projects and their relevance to renewable integration and electrification.

Registration

Date: February 27, 2025

Location: econext Boardroom, St. John’s, NL

Time: 9 am – 4 pm

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

 

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

 

About the Instructor

Kyle Tucker, M.Eng., P.Eng.

Kyle is a Professional Engineer with nearly 30 years of experience in electrical power systems, specializing in high-voltage transmission and large-scale infrastructure projects.

His experience spans the full lifecycle of transmission system development, including concept selection, detailed engineering, regulatory approvals, construction management, and commissioning. Kyle has worked on projects ranging from local capital upgrades to multi-billion-dollar transmission systems, with experience in AC systems up to 735 kV and HVdc systems up to ±350 kV.

Kyle has led and supported terminal station expansion projects up to 230 kV and has operational experience with hydroelectric facilities, remote diesel generation, and gas turbines. He is actively expanding his expertise in wind generation and energy storage systems.

He holds a Bachelor of Engineering (1995) and a Master of Engineering (2007) from Memorial University of Newfoundland and is a registered Professional Engineer with PEGNL.

About Angler Solutions Inc.

This course was developed in collaboration with Angler Solutions Inc., a Newfoundland-based consulting and technology firm providing professional services in the energy and ocean technology sectors.

Angler specializes in early-phase project development (FEL 1–2), supporting renewable energy, energy diversification, and electrification initiatives. The firm delivers integrated services including energy systems modelling, techno-economic analysis, grid interconnection assessments, infrastructure readiness studies, project management, and strategic advisory support.

Angler’s in-house Model for Energy Systems Optimization (MESO) enables advanced modelling and techno-economic evaluation of hydro, wind, solar, battery storage, hydrogen, and hybrid energy systems. MESO was the winner of Econext’s Clean Energy Optimization Challenge in 2025.

With strong local knowledge and partnerships across Canada, the UK, and Europe, Angler supports clients in de-risking early investment decisions and building credible pathways toward commercial energy projects.

 

Green 101 for Businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador

Are you interested in exploring how sustainable practices can enhance your business and uncover exciting opportunities? This free course is designed to help you learn how integrating green strategies can benefit your business in Newfoundland and Labrador.

This course is online and on-demand, meaning you can learn at a pace that works for you.

The Green 101 for Businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador course features 8 modules which are designed to show how climate change impacts businesses in NL, as well as how sustainability can reduce costs, improve efficiency, meet customer expectations, and open doors to new opportunities.

The course is for business owners and managers, offering practical guidance on how companies and organizations can take their next step toward a greener future.

  • Module 1 – Understanding Key Definitions and Terminology
  • Module 2 – Climate Change & Business
  • Module 3 – Understanding Your Business’s Impacts on the Environment
  • Module 4 – Addressing Your Greenhouse Gas Emissions
  • Module 5 – Improving Your Energy Efficiency
  • Module 6 – Reducing Your Waste
  • Module 7 – Adapting to Climate Change
  • Module 8 – Employee Engagement and Building a Green Culture

Click Here to Register

Fundamentals of Wind-Hydrogen in Newfoundland and Labrador

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

econext’s 1-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

Next Course Date

For a list of upcoming courses, check out our Events Calendar. If no dates for this course are scheduled and you would like to inquire about future offerings, please contact us.

About the Instructor – Ian Froude, BEng.

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.

econext marks first year of Project Zero Incubator Program as entrepreneurs pitch circular solutions

St. John’s, NL — Entrepreneurs from across Newfoundland and Labrador capped off the first year of econext’s Project Zero Circular Economy Incubator last week by pitching their ventures to a panel of industry experts. ReLab Art, founded by Yiyin Liu, took home the top prize of $3,000 for its innovative approach to repurposing physical waste from MUN laboratories into unique artwork. All other incubator participants received a $500 program contribution bonus to help support their ventures.

Program lead Audrey Parnell, Manager of Circular Economy with econext, said the inaugural year demonstrated the strength of the province’s growing circular-economy sector. “I loved the energy and diverse projects we saw from our inaugural cohort of ventures. While the circular economy is just starting in Newfoundland and Labrador, these ventures showcased the immense potential that exists in the province.”

Six Months of Work Culminate in Public Pitch Event

(Presentation by Yiyin Liu, highlighting their venture ReLab Art and showcasing some of their recycled art.).

The pitch event marked the end of a six-month incubator offering business training, circular-economy guidance, and one-on-one mentorship to help participants develop or refine their ventures. Over program phases, entrepreneurs were introduced to strategies for reducing waste, improving resource efficiency, and extending the lifespan of materials through reuse, repair, redistribution, and recycling.

Ventures explored a wide range of ideas, from oil-filtration recycling to 3D-printed farming kits. “I have been impressed with the creativity of our entrepreneurs who are able to find value in waste,” said Parnell. “There was a wide spread of ideas, which represents the range of opportunity available in our province.”

Judges from across the industry evaluated the final presentations, while community members, partners, and other representatives attended to learn about emerging companies working to shift the province toward more sustainable economic practices.

Promoting Circular Innovation

The incubator was launched to help businesses move away from the traditional “take-make-waste” model, in which products are used briefly and then discarded. Globally, only 7.2% of materials are recirculated at the end of their life, a trend that fuels resource depletion and strains natural systems.

Circular-economy approaches aim to reverse this pattern by keeping products and materials in use longer and designing systems that minimize waste. The econext Project Zero Circular Economy Incubator provides Newfoundland and Labrador entrepreneurs with the tools and expertise to grow and implement such models locally.

Acknowledging the Contributors

econext extends its thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of the pilot cohort, including the pitch judges, program participants, attending audience, subject matter experts, and program mentors.

Special appreciation is given to the team at the Synergy Foundation for their help in launching the Project Zero Incubator within Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as to the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board for their role in supporting this program.

A complete list of participating ventures is available here: here

Next Steps 

With its first year complete, econext is preparing for the next cohort. “We’re excited to move into our second year of the incubator program, building on what we’ve learned and strengthening the support we offer to entrepreneurs across the province,” said Parnell. “It’s been inspiring to see new ideas emerge around waste and circularity, and we’re looking forward to helping our 2026 cohort continue to develop and mature their businesses.”

Applications for the 2026 Project Zero Circular Economy Incubator will open in the coming year. Updates will be shared through econext’s weekly newsletter, and inquiries can be directed to incubator@econext.ca.

econext insights: Marine Transportation Decarbonization – Technology and Training Priorities

Join us as we present recently released data on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions sources in Newfoundland and Labrador’s marine transportation sector. We will outline best available data relating to:

  • Tankers
  • Supply ships
  • Cruise ships
  • Fishing vessels
  • Ferries
  • and more!

Marine transportation is responsible for ~11% of Newfoundland and Labrador’s total GHGs. The achievement of net zero by the year 2050 depends on our ability to develop and implement new decarbonization solutions – from the use of low-carbon or clean fuels to the implementation of battery/electric technologies.

Access to this new data will allow us to better understand where our province’s efforts are best placed as we prioritize the research, development, and adoption of new technologies – and develop training and professional development programs in support.

Date: December 12, 2025
Time: 10:00am NST
Location: Online
Price: Free!

View the Recording!

With support from:

econext ideathon | September 19-21, 2025 | MUN St. John’s Campus

This event took place September 19-21, 2025. Click here to read the news release which summarizes the event and highlights the winning teams!

econext Ideathon

Embrace the Future of Clean Growth! econext is thrilled to announce it’s next ideathon, paving the way for innovative solutions that will drive sustainable progress in Newfoundland and Labrador. This time, we are bringing the ideathon back to the MUN St. John’s Campus! The weekend-long event, open to all MUN students, will be taking place in-person September 19-21, 2025.

Challenge: Design a solution, system, or approach that helps individuals, communities, or companies offset/reduce their carbon footprint in a meaningful way.

Click here for the opening ceremonies slideshow.

Click here for the prompt presentation.

Click here for the judging rubric. 

View the mentor schedule.

What is an ideathon?

Ideathons are competitive events in which students work together in teams over a short timeframe to come up with solutions to a set challenge. Our ideathons are a space to develop innovative solutions for clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The specific challenge, relating to clean growth, will be released at the beginning of the weekend where we will provide you with all the necessary information needed to participate.

Teams will consist of 3-5 students.

Learn more about our previous ideathons here: September 2023 | March 2024

Who can participate?

This is a multi-disciplinary event and we welcome any student from Memorial University to participate. If you are interested in clean growth, we encourage you to join us! Please note that this event takes place at St. John’s campus, and transportation and accommodations will NOT be provided.

When and where?

The ideathon will take place at the Core Science Facility at Memorial University’s St. John’s Campus over a 48-hour period from September 19-21, 2025. A schedule is available below.

We encourage students to stay on campus while working to take part in workshops and activities and to benefit from mentors.

Why should you participate?

  • We will be awarding cash prizes to the top three teams
  • Network with people in the industry as well as your peers
  • Workshop opportunities
  • Learn about the clean growth industry
  • Team building
  • You will be provided with free meals and snacks
  • Group activities
  • Have some fun!

How to register?

Registration is individual, but you will be required to work on teams of 3-5 studentsSubmission of teams will take place on the evening of Friday September 19. If you have already established a team, you will be required to submit your teams then. If you haven’t already established a team, there will be opportunity throughout the evening to network to form teams. We will assist in matching individuals to teams as needed.

Registration for this event is now closed. If you are interested in competing, please reach out to Timilehin Oguntuyaki at timilehin@econext.ca.

What is the schedule?

Our ideathon is a weekend-long event, beginning on Friday, September 19 at 5pm and ending on Sunday, September 21 at 5pm.

(Schedule is subject to potential changes)

Our Partners

OPENING CEREMONIES

3RD PLACE PRIZE

Have questions?

Reach out to Timilehin Oguntuyaki at timilehin@econext.ca.

Environmental and Regulatory Compliance

Are you looking for resources to help navigate Newfoundland and Labrador’s regulatory environment?

Our Environmental and Regulatory Compliance course is here to provide practitioners with environment and regulatory overview and resources through the lens of an environmental professional, and is customized to the regulatory conditions and requirements of Newfoundland and Labrador.

This 1-day course includes the following modules:

  • Overview of the Regulatory Environment in NL: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the specific regulatory environment in Newfoundland and Labrador, encompassing legislation, provincial and federal regulatory agencies, environmental assessment processes, permitting frameworks, stakeholder engagement, and essential guidance documents.
  • Environmental Compliance Considerations for Projects: Receive insights into key compliance considerations for various project components such as exploration, mining, wind energy, and more. This module will cover topics including surveying, waste management, drilling, noise control, and contingency planning.
  • Environmental Management Systems: Acquire an introduction to environmental management systems and their role in enhancing organizational performance. Participants will learn about training, record management, inspections, objectives, policies, and the ISO 14000 standard.
  • Tools for Environmental and Regulatory Project Management: This module summarizes the previous sections, exploring specific tools and guides that facilitate seamless project management within the environmental and regulatory framework. These resources are available for digital download and will aid participants in effectively managing environmental projects.

Next Course Date

For a list of upcoming courses, check out our Events Calendar. If no dates for this course are scheduled and you would like to inquire about future offerings, please contact us.

Trainer Bio: Brian Taite, M.A.Sc., CRSP, P.Eng.

Brian is an accomplished and dedicated health, safety, environment & regulatory professional with over 30 years’ experience in the energy and mining sectors. Brian has been a consultant to several major mining and energy companies, government agencies and private industry for emergency preparedness and response, incident investigation, risk assessment, regulatory compliance, auditing, HSE planning and technical integrity assurance. Brian was educated at Memorial University and was admitted to the degrees of Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1992, Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering in 1994 and Master of Applied Science in Environmental Engineering in 1999. Brian has been associated with econext since the mid 1990’s, having worked as an environmental consultant for over a decade in Newfoundland and Labrador. In 2006 he expanded his career in asset management with Shell in the UK and the Netherlands for over five years. Returning to St. John’s he worked with AMEC (WSP) as a senior environmental engineer and was soon after seconded to Rio Tinto’s IOC mine in Labrador City for his first experience in the mining sector. In 2012 Brian continued his mining experience with Vale’s Long Harbour Processing Plant as Operations Environmental Supervisor. In 2014 Brian joined WorleyParsons to develop an Environmental Management System for Alderon’s Kami Mine project and soon after took on a role as Environment & Regulatory Manager for the ExxonMobil Hebron Topsides Project. In late 2017, Brian went back to consulting at Pinchin Ltd. as Team Leader, Environmental Due Diligence and Remediation. In 2020 he became SHE Coordinator for the Vale Voisey’s Bay Mine Expansion Project construction of two underground mines in northern Labrador. In 2021 Brian worked with HMDC/ExxonMobil as the Environment Advisor for the Hibernia offshore drilling and production platform. Most recently, in 2024 he joined the World Energy GH2 team as the Environmental Compliance Manager for Project Nujio’qonik, pioneering Canada’s wind to green hydrogen industry as part of the global energy transition to clean fuels.

 

ESG Strategies and Tactics for SMEs

Are You Prepared to Lead with both Purpose and Profit in Mind?

In today’s fast-evolving market, leading companies are shifting to a new standard: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy. ESG is more than a reporting framework; it’s a powerful tool that aligns profitability with sustainability and corporate responsibility. For CEOs, business leaders, and directors committed to staying at the forefront of their industries, embracing ESG practices is no longer optional—it’s essential. Join us in this course designed specifically for executives of Small to Medium sized Enterprises who are ready to join the next frontier of business leadership.

Why This ESG Course Is Essential for Business Leaders:

1. Gain a Clear Understanding of ESG
Learn the fundamentals of ESG and how it can drive sustainable growth in your business.

2. Set and Achieve ESG Targets
Evaluate your organization through an ESG lens, set meaningful goals, and track real progress.

3. Understand ESG Reporting
Create transparent, compelling reports that showcase your company’s commitment to responsible practices.

4. Stay Competitive
Understand the different models surrounding ESG that environmental industry firms can embrace to maximize benefits and minimize risks.

5. Connect with Like-Minded Leaders
Build valuable connections with other executives who are committed to forward-thinking, purpose-driven leadership.

Next Course Date

For a list of upcoming courses, check out our Events Calendar. If no dates for this course are scheduled and you would like to inquire about future offerings, please contact us.

Trainer Bio: Dr. Tom Cooper

Tom has significant consulting expertise with over twenty years’ experience in the field. He is currently a professor of Strategic Management at Memorial, teaching governance at a MBA level. Prior to taking his position at Memorial University, Tom worked as a senior manager with PricewaterhouseCoopers’ Performance Improvement Consulting and advisory practice in the United Kingdom and was team leader of their Governance, Risk and Compliance Financial Services practice. Since returning to Newfoundland and Labrador he has worked with a wide range of clients across different sectors predominantly focusing on strategic planning, training, and performance improvement. He is a Certified Management Consultant and teaches on the ICD program out of Rotman in Toronto. He is the past Chair of Food First Newfoundland and Labrador and sits on their executive committee, past Chair of SmartICE, and currently the Public Representative on both the boards of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Newfoundland and Labrador as well as the Provincial Health Research Ethics Authority Board for Genetics.

Contaminated Sites Health & Safety Training (40-Hour Hazwoper)

econext annually conducts a 40-Hour HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations & Emergency Response) training course.

Course Details

Also known as the 40-hour Contaminated Sites course, this training is compliant with the requirements of the OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.120 HAZWOPER. Successful completion of the classroom and practical exercises will result in certification for the attendees. This certification is recognized in the US and Canada for work performed at uncontrolled waste sites.

This course focuses on understanding US and Canadian health and safety regulations and practices; hazmat recognition; PPE/CPC selection; decontamination procedures; spill control and containment; exposure monitoring; spill reporting and spill response planning. Practical exercises include level ‘A’ and ‘B’ responses to simulated hazmat incidents. Full exposure to realistic spill scenarios designed by instructors with over 40 years experience, will make this one of the best training courses you have ever participated in.

The HAZWOPER course is designed for hazardous waste clean up (remediation) workers, treatment, storage and disposal workers, emergency response personnel, health and safety staff and environmental consultants. Course content is compliant with 29 CFR 1910.120(e) which satisfies municipal, provincial and federal requirements for health and safety training for site workers at uncontrolled waste sites in the US and Canada.

The 40 Hour Contaminated Sites Health & Safety Training (40 Hour HAZWOPER) meets the mandatory requirements of the OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.120(e) which also satisfies the requirements of Public Works and Government Services Canada and Defence Construction Canada.

Next Course Date

For a list of upcoming courses, check out our Events Calendar. If no dates for this course are scheduled and you would like to inquire about future offerings, please contact us.

Contaminated Sites Health & Safety Refresher (8-Hour Hazwoper)

econext annually conducts an 8-Hour HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations & Emergency Response) refresher training course. This course is for anyone who has completed an OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER training course or the 8 Hour Refresher within the last two (2) years.

Course Details

Also known as the 8-hour Contaminated Sites course, this training is compliant with the requirements of the OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.120 HAZWOPER. Successful completion of the classroom and practical exercises will result in certification for the attendees. This certification is recognized in the US and Canada for work performed at uncontrolled waste sites. DCC and PWGSC are now requiring contractors to have this certification to qualify for some tenders involving hazmat. Course content is compliant with 29 CFR 1910.120(e) which satisfies municipal, provincial and federal requirements for health and safety training for site workers at uncontrolled waste sites in the US and Canada.

This course is for anyone who has completed an OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER training course or the 8-Hour Refresher within the last two (2) years. A copy of your current certificate must be submitted to econext in advance of training.

Next Course Date

For a list of upcoming courses, check out our Events Calendar. If no dates for this course are scheduled and you would like to inquire about future offerings, please contact us.