(St. John’s, NL – Thursday, June 1, 2023) The third and final day of the Energy NL Annual Conference & Exhibition 2023 concluded this afternoon after a discussion about the technological advancements occurring in the Newfoundland and Labrador energy sector and a look to the future of the industry and the skills required to successfully participate in the energy evolution. As well, the lunch keynote speaker, Leah Hextall, gave an insightful talk about breaking down barriers in the workplace. Overall, the conference was a success being sold out for the first time ever and having a keen eye on both sides of the energy equation, the renewable and non-renewable sectors.
The final day began with an impactful speech by Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, which included a recognition of the leading role the Newfoundland and Labrador energy industry will play in the future of the province, and his commitment to supporting and growing the sector. Premier Furey also provided his support for the Bay du Nord project and committed to working collaboratively on the project in the best interest of the sector and the province. From there attendees were provided an update on the Terra Nova FPSO and took a deeper look at some of the exciting technological advancements occurring in the province, including CCUS. Equinor Canada spoke about the Bay du Nord project with Country Manager Tore Loseth stating he believes in the project as it is a good one for the province and he committed to continue to work with the supply and service sector. The final session also provided insight from an international renewable energy training institution which is partnering with post-secondary institutions in Newfoundland and Labrador, along with information on The Launch, the newly operational research centre of Marine Institute.
The keynote lunch address featured Leah Hextall, Sports Journalist and National Hockey League Broadcaster, who shared her story of breaking into and succeeding in a male dominated field and provided insights on how her experience can be beneficial for all sectors and employers. As well, Energy NL and techNL collaborated on a tech market in the afternoon as a way to engage companies in the sector and highlight the abilities of their members to innovate and tackle critical issues facing the energy sector.
With an enhanced exhibition area (including the addition of a demonstration stage), exceptional speakers, sector-leading networking, and information on the latest developments in the industry, feedback from Energy NL members and delegates has been overwhelmingly positive.
“While we experienced some unexpected and disappointing news about the Bay du Nord project, surprise quickly became resolve and Energy NL members remain committed to making the project a reality. Energy NL members remain optimistic about the future of the energy industry, one that looks to include a robust renewable energy sector powered by wind and clean fuels, along with an offshore that includes lower carbon oil, natural gas potential, and carbon capture and storage potential. At Energy NL, we share the enthusiasm of our members and look forward to building on the momentum established this week and fostering their opportunities for success. We cannot wait for the year ahead and the exciting possibilities and success that we will discuss next June.”
- Charlene Johnson, Energy NL CEO
The Energy NL Conference & Exhibition 2024 takes place June 4 to 6 at the St. John’s Convention Centre, and given the early sellout for 2023, interested delegates are encouraged to save the date and make their plans early.
Energy NL represents approximately 500 member organizations worldwide which are involved in the energy sector. Members are active in all areas of the supply and service sector and include a diverse representation of businesses that range from offshore supply vessels and helicopters, carbon reduction and sustainable technologies, health and safety equipment and training, engineering solutions and fabricators to law firms and human resource agencies.
