St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
At the most easterly point in North America, St. John’s is the capital city of the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), Canada. St. John’s is the centre of commerce, government and culture, and commands a strategic position in Canada’s energy industry.
Canada’s Ocean City Powerhouse
St. John’s serves as the epicenter of Canada’s ocean innovation ecosystem and is Canada’s Ocean City Powerhouse. Our globally recognized cross sectoral expertise in oceans continues to be one of St. John’s core advantages – of great importance in an explosive global market that is expected to double in value to $3 trillion by 2030.
There is a diverse ocean economy with expertise in defence and security, fisheries, marine transportation, ocean technology and offshore energy. It is one of the best places in the world to receive an advanced education in ocean related programs. The city hosts some of the world’s most exclusive ocean tech facilities and technologies and these state-of-the-art resources drive innovation, research, and development in ocean-related fields.
Moreover, St. John’s rich reservoir of talent and expertise remains a cornerstone of its success, fueling innovation and driving progress across the energy spectrum. By fostering collaboration, investing in skills development, and embracing a culture of sustainability, the city is on its course towards a brighter, more resilient future.
As a World Energy City since 2002, St. John’s recognizes the energy industry as an important factor in present and future development and works to maximize economic activity and benefits. The energy industry is a driver of the local economy, and in addition to employing many people directly and indirectly, it is also the major driver of capital expenditure, and GDP growth.
Towards a renewable future
Reshaping its energy landscape and spearheading the transition towards sustainable practices, Newfoundland and Labrador is actively engaged in advancing wind to hydrogen and renewable energy. With abundant natural resources such as world-class wind and hydroelectricity potential, and a strategic location along key shipping routes, the province is positioning itself as a hub for exporting hydrogen to international markets, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change and meet emission reduction targets.
From supply and service, research and development, to production and distribution, St. John’s offers a supportive ecosystem for companies to advance renewable energy developments. With a skilled workforce, top-tier research institutions, and a collaborative business environment, the city nurtures creativity and propels progress towards a greener future.
A Hydrogen Development Action Plan which further advances the province’s status as a global supplier of clean energy was released by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador in 2024. There has also been the fostering of mutually beneficial relationships with a number of European countries, including the signing of a Joint Declaration of Intent with the City of Hamburg in Germany and a Memorandum of Understanding with the Port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands.
Offshore Energy
Since first oil over 20 years ago, more than 2.3 billion barrels of oil have been produced from four offshore oil producing projects: Hibernia, Terra Nova, White Rose and Hebron. Exploration continues, and Equinor is assessing the Bay du Nord project, Canada’s first deepwater development. These projects not only contribute significantly to Canada’s energy security but also generate employment opportunities and foster local expertise.
The province’s offshore reserves hold vast potential, particularly in the form of oil and natural gas, with discovered reserves/resources 4.9 billion barrels of oil, and 10.8 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. Companies like ExxonMobil, Suncor, Cenovus Energy, and Chevron have invested in offshore exploration and production, leveraging cutting-edge technology to extract resources and working collaboratively to identify and implement measures to further reduce emissions. The industry represents one of the lowest carbon per barrel footprints in the world.
Because of proximity to the massive hydrocarbon potential of the region, St. John’s is the commercial centre of the Canadian offshore petroleum industry, and home to international oil companies, supply and service firms, as well as specialized and diverse range of marine expertise.
St. John’s is a member of the Global Covenant for Mayors for Climate & Energy Canada, an international alliance of cities and local governments with a shared long-term vision of promoting and supporting voluntary action to combat climate change.
Mayor Breen is also member of the Advisory Committee of Canada’s Energy for a Secure Future, a non-profit organization of business leaders, Indigenous people, organizations, and experts who advocate for building a secure energy future for Canada and international partners.
Links:
Resilient St. John’s Community Climate Plan
Newfoundland and Labrador Renewable Energy Resource Data Hub
Meet St. John’s energy companies
The World Energy Cities Partnership (WECP) connects leading energy cities on all continents that are committed to fostering the transition to a more sustainable energy future.
ABO Energy
As a World Energy City since 2002, St. John’s recognizes the energy industry as integral to the economy and the benefits that permeate to education, technology and community. We have learned from the successes of member cities in the past and look forward to sharing our immense potential and bright future in renewable energy. This affiliation underscores our commitment to growing a more resilient city and leveraging our natural advantages to advance sustainable energy solutions for future generations.
Academic partnerships
The World Energy Cities Partnership (WECP) connects leading energy cities on all continents that are committed to fostering the transition to a more sustainable energy future.
Get in touch with the City of St. John’s
Heather Mills Snow
Strategic and Economic Development Officer10 New Gower St, NL A1C 5M2