Newfoundland and Labrador Energizes Global Partnerships with Belgium for Green Hydrogen and Wind Energy

Newfoundland and Labrador has taken a powerful step toward becoming a global leader in clean energy following a successful energy mission with a high-profile delegation from Belgium. The mission, held from September 26-27, 2024, was hosted by the Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, alongside the Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy, and Technology. The delegation was led by H.E. Patrick Van Gheel, the Ambassador of Belgium to Canada, and included key players from Belgium’s hydrogen and wind energy sectors.

With growing global demand for renewable energy, this mission was not only timely but strategically vital. Belgium, a European leader in hydrogen production and green energy, sought to strengthen ties with Newfoundland and Labrador, a province poised to become a major player in wind energy and green hydrogen production. The two-day event was packed with opportunities for collaboration, positioning both regions at the forefront of the clean energy transition.

A Partnership for Green Hydrogen and Wind Energy

The mission aimed to foster collaboration in hydrogen production, laying the groundwork for Newfoundland and Labrador to export hydrogen to Europe through Belgium’s ports. It also focused on exploring future projects in wind energy, where Newfoundland and Labrador’s natural advantages make it a potential powerhouse.

For the province, the visit provided a golden opportunity to showcase its growing capabilities in renewable energy. Newfoundland and Labrador’s pristine winds and vast coastal waters make it an ideal location for the development of wind energy, which in turn supports the production of green hydrogen. The presence of Belgian energy innovators allowed local companies to make direct connections, sparking conversations that could shape the future of the province’s energy landscape.

Sealing the Deal with Belgium’s Ports

A highlight of the mission was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and th. The MOU, signed by Minister Parsons, will establish a green shipping corridor, directly linking Newfoundland and Labrador’s renewable energy supply with European markets. This agreement sets the stage for enhanced cooperation and opens the door for exporting green hydrogen from the province to meet Europe’s energy demands.

Belgium, with its well-established hydrogen ecosystem, has rapidly become one of Europe’s primary import and transit hubs for renewable hydrogen. The expertise Belgian companies bring spans the entire value chain, from electrolyzer development to network infrastructure and ammonia transport. This makes Belgium a critical partner for Newfoundland and Labrador’s clean energy ambitions.

CertifHy: Paving the Way for Hydrogen Exports

Another significant milestone during the visit came from Brussels-based consultancy firm Hinicio, which announced progress in their CertifHy pre-certification program. This program, launched in 2024, runs pre-certification for renewable fuels, ensuring that hydrogen produced meets the stringent criteria for European markets.

Two Canadian developers—Exploits Valley Renewable Energy Corporation (EVREC) and World Energy GH2—based in Newfoundland and Labrador, were among the first to receive CertifHy pre-certification. This important designation signals that the province is ready to export hydrogen to Belgium, moving one step closer to full certification and commercial hydrogen production.

A Clean Energy Future in the Making

With this mission, Newfoundland and Labrador continues to position itself as a global supplier of clean energy, driving forward the growth of the green hydrogen sector. By joining forces with Belgium, the province is securing its place on the world stage, demonstrating that it has the potential, resources, and partnerships to meet the growing demand for renewable energy.

Premier Andrew Furey expressed his enthusiasm for the new partnership, “Positioning Newfoundland and Labrador as a global supplier of clean energy and supporting the growth of the green hydrogen sector have been strategic priorities for our government. I want to thank Ambassador Gheel and the Belgian delegation for their partnership and for recognizing Newfoundland and Labrador’s important role in meeting the growing demand for green hydrogen to help the world transition to a clean energy future.”

Minister Parsons echoed this optimism, “I was pleased to welcome Ambassador Gheel and the Belgian delegation to Newfoundland and Labrador. Our jurisdictions are forging strong ties to foster successful renewable energy projects. Newfoundland and Labrador are of global interest because of their potential as a renewable energy hub to meet world demand for green energy. The MOU provides great opportunities for both jurisdictions and will help maximize the province’s economic potential for the benefit of all residents.”
As Belgium aims to become a key player in Europe’s green hydrogen market, Newfoundland and Labrador are rising to the challenge, ready to power the future with clean, renewable energy. This collaboration is not just a win for the province; it is a significant step toward a more sustainable, energy-independent world. The energy revolution is here, and Newfoundland and Labrador is leading the charge.