WHAT IS EVREC?

EVREC is a green energy project development company with goals aligned to those of the Canadian Government to set the country on a path to meet climate change goals of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 (Government of Canada 2023). The management and shareholders of EVREC have both a long track record of investing in Canadian companies that support the energy transition, and the proven capability of executing and delivering large industrial infrastructure and energy projects. We are proud Canadians and excited to have the opportunity to realize such an important project for our future generations.

The EVREC Project is a large-scale power to X (P2X) project in the Central Newfoundland region that will generate clean electricity for its use from an onshore wind farm to produce zero-carbon hydrogen and ammonia at scale. The Project will contribute to positioning Canada as a global leader in clean hydrogen production, use, and export.
As renewable hydrogen and ammonia are critical solutions for hard to abate industries (difficult-to-decarbonize), the Project has the potential to transform the path to global net zero across a number of key emitting sectors and industries in Canada and beyond.
The project components include: an onshore wind farm with a targeted capacity of +3GW [this should align with the EIS so please update]and associated infrastructure; molecular and energy storage; a hydrogen and ammonia production facility and an integrated port infrastructure. The EVREC project will produce ammonia by utilizing green hydrogen as feedstock for an electrified Haber-Bosch process, powered by renewable electricity, instead of natural gas, resulting in no CO2 emissions.
In the development of the Project and the associated model, the proponents have taken a realistic view in all assumptions and have attempted to mitigate any risks by implementing proven technology and conservative approaches in assumptions and risk mitigation practices.

P2X or “Power to X” refers to processes that involve the conversion of power (P) into another form, typically a fuel or gas (X). The production of hydrogen (H2) through electrolysis or the synthesis of synthetic fuels such as ammonia are Power to X processes. The concept is part of the broader transition towards more sustainable and flexible energy systems as it can lessen CO2 in hard-to-abate industrial sectors. EVREC is taking the historically intense CO2 production of both hydrogen and ammonia and turning those processes 100% green.

The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology (IET) is the ministry in Newfoundland and Labrador that oversees the development of new industries and projects such as EVREC. As part of the process, there was a call for crown lands and 3.8 million hectares of land were nominated. These lands went through an interdepartmental review and land constraint analysis, and IET presented for a bid of 1.66 million hectares. For more information, please visit the link Virtual Engagement Sessions on Land Areas of Interest for Wind Energy Projects Launching Next Week – News Releases (gov.nl.ca).

The Exploits Valley area boasts a world class wind resource; proximity to an existing deep-water port; water availability; the topographical characteristics to enable a cost-effective build; a stable government; a favorable fiscal framework; a defined regulatory pathway and local support from community stakeholders who have known the area in more prosperous times.

The land required for wind development depends on the size of the turbines and the wind farm’s layout:
Turbine Footprint: The actual land occupied by a single wind turbine’s foundation is relatively small, typically around 0.25 to 0.5 acres. Spacing: Wind turbines need to be spaced apart to maximize efficiency and reduce turbulence. This usually means 7-10 rotor diameters apart. The majority of the wind farmland can still be used for agriculture.

Newfoundland and Labrador is ideally suited for large-scale wind energy developments due to its geography and natural resources. The U.S. Energy Administration suggests that an annual average wind speed of 5.8 m/s (20.8 km/h) is suitable for utility-scale turbines, while high-potential areas in New-foundland and Labrador average 9.18 m/s (33 km/h). This strong wind resource enables power generation over 40% of the time, compared to around 30% in many other North Amer-ican regions. With 88% of the land classified as unpopulated Crown Land, the province offers ample space for wind pro-jects. Additionally, the province’s significant freshwater availability supports hydrogen production, making it a sus-tainable energy option. Positioned as the most easterly juris-diction in North America, Newfoundland and Labrador is closer to European markets. Combined with a skilled work-force and extensive experience in the energy sector, the prov-ince is well-equipped to capitalize on these opportunities.

These projects will produce green hydrogen and ammonia for use in Canada and for export globally. Estimates show project lifespans can be as long as 50 years from construction completion through decommissioning. Monetarily, an estimate is that the EVREC project alone will increase the annual GDP of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador by over 5%1, offset over 1.5 million tonnes of C02 every year2, and contribute over CAD$5 billion3 to Newfoundlanders through remittances to the provincial budget as well as various stakeholder benefit agreements. All projects will also pay provincial corporate tax and water royalties to the province. Peak full-time employment in the area is expected to exceed 11,500 jobs. The projects aim to ensure the development and use of the province’s crown lands for wind energy projects is done in a manner that ensures the greatest long-term benefit for residents of the province. For more information on the process, visit the link Crown Land Call for Bids for Wind Energy Projects /Industry, Energy and Technology (gov.nl.ca).
1 Assuming the estimated project revenue upon full project COD and the Provincial GDP of CAD$29 billion.
2 Based on most up-to-date hydrogen production numbers and a 100% offset of hydrogen produced via steam methane reforming with a carbon coefficient of 10 kgCO2/kgH2
3 Includes the estimated economic impacts associated with operations and the spending of provincial tax/royalty revenues on public services. Values are shown in 2024 dollars

EVREC will develop, construct, and operate a wind-to-green ammonia project on the brownfield site of the former Abitibi logging lands near Botwood, in Central Newfoundland. We are structuring its design to use 100% renewable wind energy that we generate. It is not from the Newfoundland grid. The Project is planning to utilize a grid connection to draw power (if available) for critical loads or to provide power to support the local and provincial grid in times of need.

Will remain ongoing through the development phase of the project and will be reported as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment.

The port will be restored to its historical working order to accommodate inbound and outbound shipments. During the construction phase, a section of the port previously used by Abitibi will be upgraded to receive wind turbines and other materials required for the initial build. Botwood will have a fully operating international deep-water port as a result of the Project.

While it is not possible at this early stage in project development to firm up the exact job opportunities, they will be developed throughout the different project stages and will result in opportunities for various levels and skill sets. At this time, we expect the project construction and operation will require:
• Project and construction managers
• Engineers (electrical, mechanical, civil, design, HVAC, chemical, process, laboratory)
• Control room operators
• Environmental specialists
• Crane and heavy machinery operators
• Wind techs (The College of the North Atlantic is offering this certification)
• Welders
• Electricians
• General Labour

If you are planning any type of training or future education, please consider these areas. Check on our website regularly as jobs will be posted as the project develops.
We also anticipate a growth in the local economy indirectly created by EVREC in the hospitality industry, housing construction, retail development and professional services to the area.

Wind Turbine Technician Programs
College of the North Atlantic (CNA): Wind Turbine Technician Program:
The Wind Turbine Technician program prepares students for the energy industry by developing skills in mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems. Students apply classroom theory in a wind turbine facility and receive critical safety training, including working at heights and inside nacelles, with a focus on industry safety protocols.
Hydrogen Technician Programs
College of the North Atlantic (CNA): Hydrogen Technician Program:
With training as a Hydrogen Technician, students will gain strong technical skills and be on the cutting edge of a revolutionary change in the sustainable energy economy.
Memorial University: Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science:
Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in Mechanical, Electrical, Process and Civil Engineering. These programs include courses in renewable energy systems and related fields, such as energy sustainability and power systems.

Renewable Energy Technology Programs
College of the North Atlantic (CNA): Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology (Power and Energy Systems) Diploma: This program covers renewable energy technologies such as wind, solar, and energy management systems.

Welding and Metal Fabrication
College of the North Atlantic (CNA):
Welding Engineering Technology Diploma:
Provides comprehensive training in welding, focusing on industrial and specialized welding techniques for sectors such as renewable energy and infrastructure projects.

Environmental and Safety Training
Marine Institute of Memorial University: Safety and Environmental Management Programs:
Offers courses in safety management and environmental protection, relevant to working in renewable energy industries.
Memorial University: Major in Biology (Applied Ecology and Conservation):
Prepares students with ecological knowledge, field experience, and analytical skills, which can enable graduates to assess environmental impacts and protect wildlife, such as avian species, in renewable energy projects.

Industrial Instrumentation and Control Programs
College of the North Atlantic (CNA): Instrumentation and Controls Technician Program:
Focuses on the installation, maintenance, and calibration of industrial control systems, including those used in energy production.
Process Technology Programs
College of the North Atlantic (CNA): Chemical Process Engineering Technology Program:
This program provides training on the processes involved in chemical production, relevant for working in hydrogen facilities.

Electrical and Power Systems Programs
College of the North Atlantic (CNA): Industrial Electrical Engineering Technology Program:
Focuses on training students in electrical systems, including industrial and renewable energy applications.

Project Management in Renewable Energy
Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN): Certificate in Project Management:
This program offers courses in project management that are applicable to various industries, including renewable energy. It is designed for those looking to manage projects in engineering and sustainability sectors.

Yes! While it is not possible at this early stage in project development to firm up the exact job opportunities, they will be developed throughout the different project stages and will result in opportunities for various levels and skill sets. If you are planning any type of training or future education, please consider these jobs. Check on our website regularly as jobs will be posted as the project develops.
We also anticipate a growth in the local economy indirectly created by EVREC in the hospitality industry, housing construction, retail development and professional services to the area.
14. How can our community be involved in the development of the EVREC project?
Community involvement in the development of any wind farm is crucial for addressing local concerns, promoting transparency, and building trust and support for renewable energy projects. This project is engaging the community through:
• Public consultations and meetings
• Stakeholder engagement
• Educational initiatives
• Land lease agreements
• A community benefit agreement
• Environmental impact assessments that will be openly shared
• Developing job creation and training programs.
• Community involvement in this wind farm development will require ongoing engagement from project planning through construction, operation, and decommissioning. The project is committed to effective engagement that will foster collaboration, build trust, and ensure that the project aligns with the values and needs of the local community.
• Jobs

Source: “Game Changer: Green hydrogen and the evolution of Newfound-land and Labrador’s energy sector” Jupia Consultants, March 2024
The construction of wind turbines involves a wide range of job opportuni-ties across various skill levels that may include:
o Project Management: Project managers oversee the entire construction process, ensuring that the project stays on schedule and within budget.
o Engineering: Civil, mechanical, and electrical engi-neers are crucial for designing the foundations, tur-bines, electrical systems, and overall layout of the wind farm.
o Construction Workers: This includes heavy equip-ment operators, welders, and general labourers who build the turbine foundations, erect the towers, and assemble the turbines.
o Electrical Technicians: These workers are responsible for wiring and connecting the turbines to the grid, as well as installing the necessary control systems.
o Logistics and Transport: Specialists are needed to manage the transportation of large turbine compo-nents to the site, often involving complex logistics for oversized loads.
o 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
o Operations Managers: Oversee the day-to-day opera-tions of the wind farm, including maintenance schedul-ing and performance monitoring.
o Wind Technicians: Perform routine maintenance and repairs on turbines, ensuring they operate efficiently and safely.
o Data Analysts: Monitor turbine performance data to optimize energy production and predict maintenance needs.
o Environmental Compliance Officers: Ensure the wind farm adheres to environmental regulations and man-ages its impact on local ecosystems.
o Security Personnel: Protect the wind farm from unau-thorized access and potential threats.

Hydrogen Production Facility
o Plant Managers: Oversee all operations within the fa-cility, ensuring that production targets are met safely and efficiently.
o Process Operators: Monitor and control the produc-tion processes, adjusting parameters as needed to maintain optimal performance.
o Maintenance Technicians: Responsible for maintain-ing and repairing equipment, including electrolyzers, compressors, and storage tanks.
o Quality Control Analysts: Test the purity of hydrogen and ammonia produced, ensuring that it meets re-quired standards.
o Safety Officers: Continuously monitor and enforce safety protocols to protect workers and the facility.

Infrastructure improvements to support these projects gener-ate additional employment:
o Civil Engineers and Surveyors: Required to design and oversee the construction of roads, ports, and other in-frastructure needed to transport turbine components and materials for hydrogen production facilities.
o Construction Workers: Engage in building or upgrad-ing roads, railways, and ports to accommodate the heavy and large-scale materials required for these pro-jects.
o Transportation Planners: Plan and optimize the logis-tics of moving large components to the site, ensuring minimal disruption to local communities.
o Port Operators: For projects involving maritime transport, port operators and dock workers play a cru-cial role in handling large shipments of components and materials.
o Utility Workers: Install and upgrade power lines, water supplies, and other utilities necessary for the opera-tion of wind farms and hydrogen facilities.

If you are planning any type of training or future education, please consider these areas. Check on our website regularly as jobs will be posted as the project develops.
We also anticipate a growth in the local economy indirectly created by EVREC in the hospitality industry, housing construction, retail development and professional services to the area.

Energy NL advocates for local businesses to be involved in the ener-gy industry and provide services to major projects.
Local businesses can benefit from servicing hydrogen production facilities through:
Material: Local suppliers can provide materials, equipment, and ser-vices required for the construction and maintenance of hydrogen plants. This includes everything from raw materials to specialized machinery and technical services.
Logistics and Transportation: Companies involved in logistics and transportation may find opportunities to transport hydrogen, associ-ated products like ammonia, or the equipment needed for produc-tion and distribution.
Technical and Professional Services: Engineering firms, IT services, and environmental consultancies could see increased demand for their ex-pertise in supporting hydrogen production projects.

To date, the project has demonstrated strong CSR support throughout the initial development and continues to have an active CSR campaign and community outreach. Key highlights to date: 1. Signed exclusive agreements with the Town of Botwood and Exploits Valley Port Corporation, 2. Successfully engaged the community through several meetings before the submission, which have garnered a noteworthy attendance of over 500 individuals. Most of the feedback received from attendees has been positive, indicating that the Project has an impactful and effective CSR Plan. We have also attended several co-sponsored information sessions with the Town of Botwood and have done several info sessions and get-togethers with the regional mayors from Exploits Valley and the staff. The active participation of community members and stakeholders in these meetings is a testament to the collaborative efforts being made towards executing the Project with support of the community, 3. Executed a Social License/MOU with the Qalipu Nation, which was signed and submitted with the proposal, and participated in numerous EVREC events and joint press releases, 4. The Project received an open letter of support signed by eight Mayors of the surrounding communities (Exploits Valley Region), addressed to Andrew Fury and the Minister of IET (Industry Energy and Technology). This was submitted before the final decision was released on the bid, 5. A key differentiator that sets us apart from other awarded projects is that it is targeting an area in Central Newfoundland that has been the industrial heartland for many years. Over the past century, the region has seen several large industrial and employment bases shut down. Most of the land and infrastructure targeted by the Project are repurposed forestry sites that were once a significant driver of Newfoundland’s economic engine, thanks to the Abitibi Consolidated Pulp and Paper Company. The communities in the region were historical “Company Towns”, communities formed to support these industries, and they are excited to see a project that aims to revitalize such an important area and bring new opportunities back to the region. Many other projects are in small communities primarily based on fishing or other outdoor and touristic pursuits (not historically heavy industry) and have a different connotation to the lands being targeted for development. Central Newfoundland, through the Project’s engagements, is focused on bringing back jobs to the region, and this is the main driver behind the local government and population support of the Project.

This project requires water for electrolysis and cooling. It is currently believed that the project will require similar levels of water con-sumption to those used historically on the project site and will be drawn from Peters Pond. What is the estimated overall economic impact of a hydrogen project?
The economic impact of a hydrogen production project can be sub-stantial, varying by size and scope.
Energy NL commissioned an economic impact report for the poten-tial of the industry. According to this report, by combining direct, in-direct and induced impacts, an average green hydrogen project will boost provincial GDP by $2.3 billion during its construction and an additional $394 million annually, over the life of the project.
An average project would create $1.8 billion worth of employment income and support over 17,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) person years of employment across the province during construction.
Source: “Game Changer: Green hydrogen and the evolution of New-foundland and Labrador’s energy sector” Jupia Consultants, March 2024

Green hydrogen is a highly sought-after commodity in international energy supply. Newfoundland and Labrador have the opportunity to be a leading global jurisdiction to supply renewable energy.

Projects will be required to avoid protected watershed areas and will use industrial water supplies. Provincial regulations also require all project proponents to have environmental management systems in place, including water analysis, environmental protection plans, risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans. Water contamination risks from hydrogen production are low, especially with proper man-agement. Electrolysis, the main method of green hydrogen produc-tion, only requires water and electricity, with oxygen as a byproduct. A hydrogen plant uses a relatively small amount of water compared to other industrial processes, including those we are fa-miliar with here in Newfoundland and Labrador. Producing 1 kilogram of hydrogen via electrolysis requires approximately 9 litres of water. Newfoundland and Labrador’s abundant freshwater supply makes it a viable location for hydrogen plants.

Hydrogen-ammonia production facilities, especially those powered by renewable energy like wind and solar, generate minimal greenhouse gas emissions.

Green ammonia is produced using renewable energy sources- in EVREC’s case, wind turbines and solar will fuel the process. This electricity powers an electrolyser, which splits water (H2O) into hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2). This process is known as electrolysis and results in the production of green hydrogen. This green hydrogen is then combined with nitrogen (extracted from the air) in a process known as air separation. The hydrogen and nitrogen are then combined to create green ammonia by a process (Haber-Bosch) which has been used for over 100 years and now has been adapted to be powered by sustainable energy.

Ammonia production is highly energy intensive and has traditionally been produced using fossil fuels. In 2020, global ammonia production created approx. 450 million metric tons of carbon dioxide into the air- all of which can be eliminated by producing it using green renewable energy.

The key applications of green ammonia are for fertilizer production, agriculture, chemical industry, hydrogen carrier, fuel for power gen-eration, fuel for the maritime and shipping industry, energy.

Ammonia has been produced, handled, and shipped safely for over a century. It plays a critical role in agriculture as a key component of fertilizers, as well as in refrigeration and industrial processes. Ammonia is a commonly shipped good with 20 megatons per year typically shipped globally and in 2020 there were 120 ports with ammonia trading facilities. Thanks to its long history of use, robust safety standards have been developed to mitigate risks, making ammonia transport and handling routine in global industries. Its established safety record underscores that, with proper protocols, ammonia can be managed efficiently and securely. Standard safety measures include proper ventilation, protective equipment for workers, and adherence to transportation regulations. Newfoundland and Labrador have extensive experience in the safe handling, storage, and shipping of energy products, such as crude oil, and this experience, combined with regulations and protocols will ensure the safe handling, storage, and transportation of ammonia.

Wind turbines undergo routine maintenance (visual inspections, lubrication of moving parts, monitoring of key performance indicators) to identify and address minor issues before they escalate. Predicative monitoring systems are often installed in turbines to continuously assess the condition of critical components. This includes vibration monitoring, oil analysis and other sensors that provide real-time data on the health of the turbine. During the life of the turbine, periodic inspections, both internal and external, are scheduled to assess the condition of components that may not be easily visible during routine maintenance. These inspections help identify wear and tear and potential issues that may require corrective action.

The lifespan of a turbine (anywhere from 20 to 30 years or more) is influenced by the quality of the equipment, its operating environment and advancements in technology. The major components of a wind turbine are a tower, nacelle, blades, hub, gearbox, generator, and control systems. Each of these components has a specific lifespan, with some components potentially requiring replacement or major overhaul during the turbine’s operational life.
As turbines are dismantled, the components are repurposed, recycled, or disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner. Under the Crown Land Application, EVREC has the obligation of decommissioning all assets.

EVREC has implemented a culture of risk management. The Executive Team is responsible for protocols to protect both the on-ground organization (community, employees, the environment and assets), its shareholders’ investment and the reputation of the EVREC project. Risk is evaluated by the probability of an occurrence providing a risk level ranging from low to extreme. Mitigation strategies will then determine a residual risk rating. Identified risks that are outside the organization’s risk appetite will require implementation of a risk transfer, reduction, elimination, or exploitation strategy to reduce the residual risk level to as low as reasonably practicable. Risks identified as high with an impact above a specified threshold will be reported to Project Sponsors/Steering Committee. As the organization continues to grow, it is committed to building increased awareness and a shared responsibility for risk management at all levels of the organization. Creating a culture of careful monitoring and observation by everyone is crucial to working in a truly safe environment.

 

The company is funding the construction and operation using its own funds, as well as funds raised from investors and lenders. The product being produced is green ammonia which will be sold to an international customer, not the province of Newfoundland & Labrador.
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Threats to Birds: Migratory Bird Mortality – Questions and Answers.

The impact of wind farms on wildlife is a topic that has been studied extensively, and it is essential to consider both the positive and negative aspects. While wind energy is a clean and renewable source of power, the installation and operation of wind farms can have various effects on local ecosystems and wildlife. The positive impacts of wind farms are that they vary from habitat preservation, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and limited air and water pollution. It is also important to note that the impact of wind farms on wildlife can vary depending on factors such as the location of the wind turbines, the species present, and the specific design and operation of the turbines. The environmental assessment process used to approve wind turbines is rigorous and dedicates significant effort to protecting wildlife and plant life. Projects are designed, constructed, and operated following strict environmental regulations and ministry guidance. Thousands of wind farms that have been built around the world have clearly demonstrated the importance of appropriate siting, design and wind speed on bird, bat and wildlife habitat preservation.

Ongoing research and monitoring efforts focus on developing best practices to enhance turbine operation while protecting birds, demonstrating a commitment to balancing renewable energy needs with wildlife conservation. Canada has strict environmental guide-lines that EVREC must follow to plan and operate a wind farm. Additionally, modern wind turbines are very tall to significantly reduce the risk to bird species that fly at lower altitudes. Technological advancements in turbine design, such as larger blades and improved siting strategies, further minimize interactions with wildlife. More birds die from colliding with buildings than with wind turbines. Studies in the US indicate that wind turbines are responsible for ~0.04% of bird deaths (1). Passenger vehicles and cats are responsible for ~900 times and ~10,000 times more bird fatalities respectively than wind turbines in the US (1).

Modern wind turbines typically produce sound levels between 40-50 decibels at a distance of 500 meters; comparable to the noise level of a refrigerator.

Wind turbines often have subtle blinking lights at the top of the tower as a safety precaution for nearby aircraft (i.e. similar to the lights on local cell towers). These create much less light pollution than most industries or communities (e.g. car headlights, streetlights, busi-ness signage, light emitted from local residences).

Wind turbines have coexisted with human activities since the 1970’s. EVREC will work with communities to develop common-use agreements so areas used for these purposes remain accessible.
During construction, access to active construction areas may need to be restricted to protect public safety. Hunting regulations regarding proximi-ty to industrial installations will be in effect.
There will be fences around electrical substations, but generally, fences will not be in place around turbines or access roads.

Modern turbines are equipped with sensors to detect ice buildup, and they can automatically shut down to prevent ice throw. Additionally, tur-bines are typically sited far from residential areas.
Ice can also be detected on wind turbine monitoring systems. De-icing of the turbine blades prior to operation eliminates risks of ice-throw and limits production losses.
De-icing is available in two variations: Passive systems: Using ice-resistant coatings or paint
Active systems: Using thermal pads, or internal circulation of heated air for deicing

Shadow flicker is a visual effect caused when the sun casts a shadow of rotating wind turbine blades across a structure. Shadow flicker is a rare occurrence because the sun has to be at a precise position and angle in the sky for the shadow of the rotating blades to hit a particular structure for a limited number of minutes per day, as the sun rises or sets.