Today, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, in partnership with the Government of Canada, is pleased to announce the coming into force of legislation to enable the development of offshore renewable energy in Newfoundland and Labrador. This follows the passage of the federal Bill C-49 in October 2024 and Newfoundland and Labrador’s mirror legislation, Bill 90, in March 2025, which is proclaimed today.
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is also committed to its strong history of joint management with the Government of Canada and will work together with them to unlock the enormous potential of offshore renewable energy collaboratively and responsibly.
Quotes
“This legislation is a significant step forward in allowing our province to move forward with the development of our province’s offshore renewable energy as well as modernizing provisions relating to the offshore oil and gas industry.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“This powerful legislation will boost the already-strong role Newfoundland and Labrador plays in Canadian energy and delivers on our promise of harnessing the power of clean energy to open and diversify trading markets, create jobs and make Canada an energy superpower.”
Honourable Tim Hodgson
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
“The Government of Canada recognizes the important role Canada’s vast ocean resources play in driving long-term economic growth and strengthening our future. This legislation unlocks significant opportunities for Newfoundland and Labrador, strengthening the province’s position as a leader in clean energy, enhancing our energy sovereignty and creating more high-quality, sustainable jobs.”
Honourable Joanne Thompson
Minister of Fisheries
“Offshore Newfoundland and Labrador has an abundance of energy, including lower-carbon oil, and significant potential for offshore wind development. Establishing joint management for offshore wind and modifying the land tenure system for offshore oil and gas development are positive steps forward as we address energy security and undertake nation-building projects.”
Charlene Johnson
CEO, Energy NL
“The transition to the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Energy Regulator marks an exciting new chapter for our organization, and we look forward to the important work that is to be done.”
Scott Tessier
CEO, Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Energy Regulator
“The implementation of this legislation marks a pivotal step forward in unlocking the immense offshore wind potential off Newfoundland and Labrador’s coast. It provides the regulatory clarity and collaboration needed to advance clean energy development, attract international investment and create sustainable jobs. With decades of expertise in ocean industries and a growing marine renewable energy supply chain, Atlantic Canada is well positioned to lead the way in building a thriving offshore wind sector that benefits local communities and contributes to Canada’s emissions targets.”
Elisa Obermann
Executive Director, Marine Renewables Canada
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Learn more
Provincial Government Introduces Atlantic Accord Mirror Legislation
The Offshore Renewable Energy Regulations Initiative
Canada Offshore Renewable Energy Regulations
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