Canada sets up employment program for marine renewable energy sector

Marine Renewables Canada and Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC) have formed partnership to support organizations in the marine renewable energy sector interested in providing employment opportunities for youth.

The Discovering Potential program from EHRC facilitates the funding of organizations up to $25,000 per participant to develop skills and technical knowledge through internships and on-the-job training.

Electricity and renewable energy employers who are looking to build resilience in their companies can use the Discovering Potential program to develop skills the sector needs now, then bridge them into employment through subsidized work placement.

This hands-on opportunity also demonstrates to young workers how choosing a career in this sector can have an impact on building a clean energy world, according to the partners.

Elisa Obermann, executive director at Marine Renewables Canada, said: “By partnering with EHRC and sharing this program with our members, we are taking concrete steps to ensure the resilience of the marine renewables energy sector not only by inspiring youth, but by equipping them with the technical and workplace skills they need to succeed.”

Marine Renewables Canada is the country’s tidal, offshore wind, wave and river current energy association representing technology and project developers, utilities, researchers, and the energy and marine supply chain.

Since 2004, the organization has worked to advance the development of a marine renewable energy industry in Canada that can be globally competitive.

Based in Halifax, the association represents over 100 businesses and organizations across the country, many of which are located in Nova Scotia and are actively engaged in local tidal projects as well as international offshore wind energy development.

Michelle Branigan, CEO of EHRC, said: “Marine Renewables Canada members are leaders in the Canadian energy sector. Their participation in this program will bring meaningful skills development opportunities to a range of youth who may otherwise not have seen themselves succeeding in this sector.”