econext Clean Energy Infrastructure Optimization Challenge
econext invites Canadian innovators to present technology solutions that lower maintenance costs while enhancing the reliability and performance of remote clean energy infrastructure in Newfoundland and Labrador. The winner of this challenge will receive a $50,000 cash prize to help advance their technology.
Challenge Launch: February 2025
Optimizing Clean Energy Infrastructure in Newfoundland and Labrador
econext invites Canadian innovators to present technology solutions aimed at reducing maintenance costs and improving operational performance of remote clean energy infrastructure, including wind turbines, transmission lines, and hydroelectric generation facilities.
The winner of this challenge will receive a $50,000 cash prize to help advance their technology.
Innovative approaches and advanced technologies are key to unlocking Newfoundland and Labrador's clean energy potential. To remain competitive and profitable in today’s rapidly evolving market—and to support net zero goals—continuous innovation in operational efficiency is vital.
Challenge Statement
Lowering monitoring and maintenance costs for clean energy infrastructure is critical to operational efficiency and/or reducing costs for end users.
Canadian innovators to propose solutions that reduce these costs while improving performance and reliability of clean energy infrastructure across remote regions of Newfoundland and Labrador (NL).
A successful solution will:
- Utilize innovative technologies to reduce monitoring and maintenance costs of clean energy infrastructures.
- Function effectively within NL's climate, environment, and clean energy industries.
- Provide a remote, autonomous, and/or digital solution.
- Reduce GHG emissions and/or minimize environmental impacts.
- Improve the operational performance and reliability of clean energy assets.
- Operate in harsh weather conditions, including strong winds and freezing temperatures. Minimize the need for in-person technician inspections through remote diagnostics.
Challenge Opportunity
This Challenge offers a unique opportunity for innovators to showcase their solution, gain industry visibility, and establish valuable partnerships.
The winner will receive:
- $50,000 CAD cash prize to help advance the technology.
- Meeting with industry partners interested in solution exploration
Challenge Background
Newfoundland and Labrador is rapidly emerging as a global hub for clean energy production, including green hydrogen, thanks to:
A clean electricity grid powered by nearly 100% renewable energy.
Significant energy storage potential.
Substantial untapped clean energy resources, with ample land and freshwater availability.
Existing port infrastructure and proximity to export markets and established shipping routes.
A skilled workforce and supply chain experience in supporting large-scale energy projects.
To ensure the long-term success of future projects in the province, improving financial viability while minimizing environmental impacts is essential. Innovative approaches and advanced technologies are key to unlocking NL's clean energy potential. To remain competitive and profitable in today’s rapidly evolving market—and to support net zero goals—continuous innovation in operational efficiency is vital.
High maintenance costs frequently create barriers to scaling clean energy solutions. Reducing these costs can make clean energy infrastructure more attractive to investors, accelerating NL’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Lower operational expenses create a ripple effect, lowering costs for end users and making clean energy more accessible and affordable for communities.
Much of NL’s clean energy infrastructure is located in remote, harsh environments where routine maintenance can be both costly and logistically complex. Reducing these operational costs is essential to improving the economic viability of clean energy projects, particularly in isolated and off-grid communities.
Electricity demand in NL continues to rise, driven by projected population growth, industrial expansion, and the need for reliable power generation to support electrification efforts. Enhancing the reliability and efficiency of clean energy infrastructure—such as wind turbines, transmission lines, and energy storage systems—will be critical to maintaining consistent power generation and ensuring long-term energy security.
Considerations & Barriers to Adoption
The clean energy industry in Newfoundland and Labrador is rapidly evolving, with several large-scale projects on the horizon. It is essential to recognize that the proposed solutions may be applied to clean energy infrastructure currently in the planning stages, set to be developed in the future.
Solutions should address key challenges specific to the region, including:
- Harsh Weather Conditions: Strong wings, freezing temperatures, and storm risks;
- Remote Locations: Limited accessibility and high logistical costs;
- Connectivity Limitations: Gaps in cellular and internet coverage;
- Legacy Systems: Compatibility with existing infrastructure and technology; and
- Cybersecurity Risks: Protecting critical infrastructure from digital threats.
The Partners
econext is a not-for-profit association with a mission to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador by: (1) stimulating research, development, and innovation; (2) preparing its workforce for a greening economy; and (3) acting as a catalyst for climate change action within its industries, businesses, and communities.
econext has been working for over 30 years on behalf of its members across many sectors to support environmentally sustainable economic development.
Evaluation & Eligibility
Key eligibility criteria include:
- Technology Readiness Level (TRL 5-8)
- Applicants must be a Canadian company
Key evaluation criteria include:
- Feasibility
- Scalability
- Applicability to NL industry and environment
- Reduction in operating costs
- Environmental footprint reduction (emissions, and/or habitats)
Challenge Updates
February 4, 2025: Applications open
February 19, 2025: Informational webinar (register)
March 21, 2025: Applications close
May, 2025: Winners announced
Our Partners
The Clean Energy Infrastructure Optimization Challenge is run in partnerhip with econext and their industry partners, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and RBC.
Industry Partners
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