Energy NL commissioned an economic impact report for the potential of the industry. According to this report, the operations phase the proposed projects would support nearly 1,800 direct jobs and 3,800 total jobs across the province on an annual basis, not considering the spending of tax/royalty income. The number of jobs available will vary by project, and we encourage you to visit developers’ websites for project-specific information.
Source: “Game Changer: Green hydrogen and the evolution of Newfoundland and Labrador’s energy sector” Jupia Consultants, March 2024
The construction of wind turbines involves a wide range of job opportunities across various skill levels that may include:
Project Management: Project managers oversee the entire construction process, ensuring that the project stays on schedule and within budget.
Engineering: Civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers are crucial for designing the foundations, turbines, electrical systems, and overall layout of the wind farm.
Construction Workers: This includes heavy equipment operators, welders, and general labourers who build the turbine foundations, erect the towers, and assemble the turbines.
Electrical Technicians: These workers are responsible for wiring and connecting the turbines to the grid, as well as installing the necessary control systems.
Logistics and Transport: Specialists are needed to manage the transportation of large turbine components to the site, often involving complex logistics for oversized loads.
Environmental Consultants: They ensure that the construction process complies with environmental regulations and that any impact on local wildlife and ecosystems is minimized.
Once operational, both wind turbines and hydrogen production facilities offer a variety of long-term career opportunities:
Wind Turbines
Operations Managers: Oversee the day-to-day operations of the wind farm, including maintenance scheduling and performance monitoring.
Wind Technicians: Perform routine maintenance and repairs on turbines, ensuring they operate efficiently and safely.
Data Analysts: Monitor turbine performance data to optimize energy production and predict maintenance needs.
Environmental Compliance Officers: Ensure the wind farm adheres to environmental regulations and manages its impact on local ecosystems.
Security Personnel: Protect the wind farm from unauthorized access and potential threats.
Hydrogen Production Facility
Plant Managers: Oversee all operations within the facility, ensuring that production targets are met safely and efficiently.
Process Operators: Monitor and control the production processes, adjusting parameters as needed to maintain optimal performance.
Maintenance Technicians: Responsible for maintaining and repairing equipment, including electrolysers, compressors, and storage tanks.
Quality Control Analysts: Test the purity of hydrogen and ammonia produced, ensuring that it meets required standards.
Safety Officers: Continuously monitor and enforce safety protocols to protect workers and the facility.
Infrastructure improvements to support these projects generate additional employment:
Civil Engineers and Surveyors: Required to design and oversee the construction of roads, ports, and other infrastructure needed to transport turbine components and materials for hydrogen production facilities.
Construction Workers: Engage in building or upgrading roads, railways, and ports to accommodate the heavy and large-scale materials required for these projects.
Transportation Planners: Plan and optimize the logistics of moving large components to the site, ensuring minimal disruption to local communities.
Port Operators: For projects involving maritime transport, port operators and dock workers play a crucial role in handling the large shipments of components and materials.
Utility Workers: Install and upgrade power lines, water supplies, and other utilities necessary for the operation of wind farms and hydrogen facilities.
