Green Energy Boom: Smart Energy Company Expands, Creates Jobs in Hampton with Provincial Support

Saint John, New Brunswick, is experiencing a dynamic business landscape, with a growing focus on innovation and sustainability. As we head into the colder months, businesses are looking for efficient and cost-effective solutions, and the clean-tech sector is stepping up to meet that demand. The latest news from the region highlights a significant step forward in green energy, promising new jobs and economic growth right on our doorstep.

The Smart Energy Company, a renewable energy firm based in the Upper Golden Grove area of Hampton, has recently announced a major expansion, supported by the provincial government. This development is set to create new employment opportunities and bolster the region’s clean-tech industry.

Driving Innovation in Renewable Energy

The Smart Energy Company specializes in developing solar energy systems specifically designed for small and medium-sized enterprises, with a particular emphasis on the agriculture sector. Their flagship product, the Noreaster Micro-Solar Farm, is engineered to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide substantial long-term energy savings. This innovative system is built for easy assembly and durability, capable of withstanding harsh climates, which has garnered interest far beyond New Brunswick.

Luke Randall, the minister responsible for Opportunities NB, emphasized the importance of this expansion, stating, “This operational and workforce expansion highlights the incredible innovation happening right here in New Brunswick, including in the clean-tech sector.” He added that New Brunswick businesses are developing Canadian-made, sustainable technologies that offer practical solutions to global energy challenges, while also creating exciting career opportunities for New Brunswickers.

Job Creation and Economic Impact

The company has already welcomed three new employees: an operations manager, a project manager, and a supply chain and inventory analyst. These new hires bring valuable farming and agricultural experience from diverse backgrounds, including Carleton County, Nigeria, and India. The Smart Energy Company plans to create up to 10 full-time positions in total, with additional roles in sales, marketing, and operations to be based at their head office and warehouse. Job opportunities will be posted on their official website.

Opportunities NB is supporting this growth with a payroll rebate of up to $125,000. This investment is projected to contribute approximately $7.33 million to the direct provincial GDP by the end of 2026.

Jeff McAloon, co-CEO of the Smart Energy Company, expressed enthusiasm for the future: “After our expansion across Eastern Canada, we are now excited to grow our footprint from New Brunswick into key agricultural markets in Central Canada and the United States.” He highlighted that the support from Opportunities NB is crucial for scaling up their team, enhancing operations, and meeting the increasing demand for clean, cost-effective energy solutions. The company’s mission is to help farmers reduce emissions and save $1 billion in energy costs, fostering a more sustainable future for both the planet and agricultural businesses.

This expansion by The Smart Energy Company is a testament to New Brunswick’s commitment to fostering a robust green economy and providing valuable career paths for its residents. For more details on this exciting development, you can read the full announcement on the Opportunities NB website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Smart Energy Company?

The Smart Energy Company is a renewable energy firm based in Hampton, New Brunswick, specializing in solar energy systems for small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly in the agriculture sector.

What is the Noreaster Micro-Solar Farm?

The Noreaster Micro-Solar Farm is the company’s flagship product, a solar energy system designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and generate long-term energy savings for businesses. It is built for easy assembly and to withstand harsh climates.

How many jobs will be created?

The expansion is expected to create up to 10 full-time jobs, with three positions already filled.

What kind of government support did the company receive?

Opportunities NB is providing up to $125,000 in the form of a payroll rebate to support the creation of these new jobs.

What is the expected economic impact of this expansion?

This investment is anticipated to contribute approximately $7.33 million in direct provincial GDP by the end of 2026.