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.

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.

Climate Adaption and Resilience Training (CART)

Have you heard of CART? The Climate Adaptation & Resilience Training (CART) Program is a foundational comprehensive 12-week training program coordinated by CLIMAtlantic for people new to climate adaptation and working with municipalities or Indigenous Communities in Atlantic Canada. econext facilitates the delivery of the CART Program in Newfoundland and Labrador.

CART helps learners understand and build skills across a range of topics:

  • Manage adaptation processes and projects
  • Understand and use climate information
  • Assess risk and vulnerability
  • Engage, facilitate, and collaborate across sectors
  • Centre equity and Indigenous leadership
  • Navigate different governance levels
  • Enhance community resiliency

Are you or someone you know interested? Build your confidence and sense of belonging in the climate adaptation field as you network and create community with other participants and experts across the Atlantic region. You will increase your understanding of climate adaptation from different perspectives, access a helpful collection of adaptation resources, gain practical experience, and learn to think more holistically while taking part in a supportive space to share and experiment.

For information on upcoming course delivery, click here.

Green Economy Foundations Training Course

Are you curious about the green economy and eager to discover how you can play a role in shaping a sustainable future? This free course is designed to help you explore the possibilities and prepare for opportunities in Newfoundland and Labrador’s growing green economy.

Why Take This Course?

The green economy is a fast growing and vital sector in Newfoundland and Labrador. But what exactly does the term “green economy” mean? This course provides a foundational introduction, helping you understand its significance to both the province and its people.

As new green projects and initiatives develop and move forward, the demand for careers, suppliers and businesses across various industries will rise. A wide range of skills and backgrounds are needed to help support this transformative shift. Now is the perfect time to learn about the concepts and upcoming opportunities that can help you transition into this space.

What You’ll Learn

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

  • Identify common green economy terms and core concepts.
  • Discuss opportunities and challenges specific to clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador..
  • Understand potential career and business opportunities in the green economy.

Course Details

This fully online course is designed for flexibility and accessibility, with three self-paced modules containing 12 engaging lessons. You can complete the material on your own schedule. The course content takes under 5 hours to complete.

In addition to the online content, participants will have the opportunity to attend in-person industry sessions. These events provide opportunities for valuable professional networking, allowing you to learn from their expertise and start building your own connections.

Course Overview:

Module 1: Introduction to the Green Economy – 90 Mins

  • Lesson 1: Terminology and Concepts
  • Lesson 2: The Changing Environment
  • Lesson 3: Government Action and Climate Change Commitments

Module 2: Green Practices and Technologies – 75 Mins

  • Lesson 1: Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions
  • Lesson 2: Energy Efficiency
  • Lesson 3: Waste Management and Circular Economy
  • Lesson 4: Climate Change Adaptation

Module 3: Sectors and Careers in the Green Economy – 90 Mins

  • Lesson 1: Electricity and Clean Energy
  • Lesson 2: Decarbonizing Industry
  • Lesson 3: Energy Efficiency Retrofits
  • Lesson 4: Circular Economy
  • Lesson 5: Clean Technology

Enrollment Information

Sign up now using the link below!

Register

For questions about the course or its content, please contact Ogaga Johnson, Director of Workforce Development, at ogaga@econext.ca.

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.

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

For more information on upcoming offerings, click here. If no dates for this course are scheduled and you would like to inquire about future offerings, please contact us.