Newfoundland and Labrador
Critical minerals, policy, and the energy transition
The Energy Transition in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Nestled on the eastern edge of Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador are poised for a dynamic shift towards a sustainable energy future intertwined with the burgeoning potential of critical minerals. With a landscape rich in natural resources and a history steeped in energy production, the province stands at the cusp of transformation, leveraging its unique geographical advantages to pave the way for economic prosperity and environmental stewardship. From the rugged terrain of Labrador to the pristine shores of Newfoundland, the province is home to a wealth of mineral deposits essential for emerging technologies, renewable energy systems, and electric vehicles. Guided by forward-thinking policies and a commitment to sustainability, Newfoundland and Labrador are embarking on a journey to harness their renewable energy potential, including abundant hydroelectric resources, wind energy, and emerging tidal power projects. These initiatives aim to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, foster innovation and create new opportunities for economic growth. Furthermore, the province's strategic focus on critical minerals development pinpoints its vision for a diverse and resilient economy. With vast deposits of minerals such as nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements, Newfoundland and Labrador are well-positioned to capitalise on growing demand.
Newfoundland and Labrador's energy revolution
Newfoundland and Labrador is undergoing a major shift in its energy sector, with a strong focus on wind, hydrogen, and hydroelectric power. Supported by federal funding and international partnerships, the province is aiming to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 while unlocking significant economic opportunities and creating new jobs. This energy transformation is positioning Newfoundland and Labrador as a leader in renewable energy and clean electricity. By harnessing its rich natural resources—wind, hydro, and hydrogen—the province is driving economic growth, cutting carbon emissions, and building a more sustainable energy future.
Wind and hydrogen development
The province has launched an ambitious Crown Lands Nomination and Bid Process for Wind Energy Projects, aiming to develop onshore wind resources for clean hydrogen and ammonia production. In August 2023, four companies—EverWind NL, Exploits Valley Renewable Energy Corporation, Toqlukuti’k Wind and Hydrogen Ltd., and World Energy GH2—received Wind Application Recommendation Letters, allowing them to pursue wind-hydrogen projects. These initiatives could transform Newfoundland and Labrador into a global hub for green hydrogen, with one study suggesting a potential industry value of $11 billion annually by 2050.
The Exploits Valley Renewable Energy project, in partnership with EDF Group, is a key example. It plans to produce over 200,000 tonnes of electrolytic hydrogen annually, powered by more than 3 GW of wind and solar energy. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with operations starting by 2030. Similarly, the North Atlantic Wind to Hydrogen Project aims to develop a 320 MW wind farm and produce 30,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually, leveraging existing infrastructure in Come by Chance.
Hydroelectric expansion
Hydroelectric power remains a cornerstone of the province’s energy strategy. In December 2024, Newfoundland and Labrador signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding with Québec to co-develop hydroelectric projects in Labrador. This includes constructing the Gull Island Generating Station (2,250 MW) and upgrading Churchill Falls to add 1,100 MW of capacity. The agreement is expected to generate $1 billion annually for the province and create thousands of jobs.
Electrification and microgrids
The province is also focusing on electrification to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Over 90% of Newfoundland and Labrador’s electricity is already generated from renewable sources, primarily hydroelectricity. Efforts are underway to expand the interconnected electricity system and integrate renewable energy into remote diesel-powered microgrids. The Labrador Interconnection Options Study identified wind generation and battery storage as the most cost-effective solutions for these communities.
National and global partnerships
Federal investments, such as the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program, are supporting clean energy projects in the province. Additionally, international partnerships, including the Canada-Germany Hydrogen Alliance and agreements with the Port of Rotterdam, highlight Newfoundland and Labrador’s role in supplying clean hydrogen to global markets.
Source: SFA (Oxford)
Energy Raw Materials and products produced in Newfoundland and Labrador
Essential minerals production and products in Newfoundland and Labrador
The journey of Canada's critical minerals
Canada's renewable energy progress hinges on crucial minerals like lithium, nickel and cobalt, PGMs, rare earths, and minor metals, essential for low carbon and future technologies supported by sustainable mining and innovation policies. This strategy underscores the importance of these minerals in achieving a future of sustainability and energy security. Discover how these critical minerals are pivotal to Canada's sustainable energy transition.
Meet the Critical Minerals team
Trusted advice from a dedicated team of experts.
Henk de Hoop
Chief Executive Officer
Beresford Clarke
Managing Director: Technical & Research
Jamie Underwood
Principal Consultant
Ismet Soyocak
ESG & Critical Minerals Lead
Rj Coetzee
Senior Market Analyst: Battery Materials and Technologies
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