Iron & Earth East (I&EE), in partnership with the Autism Society of Newfoundland and Labrador (ASNL), is soliciting for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the construction of the 365 Greenhouse Project!

This project will showcase renewable energy technologies, address food sustainability solutions, and allow ASNL to expand their services to benefit community members with Autism Spectrum Disorder through Good Roots Gardening. It is the first greenhouse of its kind to be built in NL and will be among the first net-metering projects to be connected to the provincial grid.

This is a unique opportunity for local contractors and volunteers to be involved in a high-profile, community-based, environmentally-friendly initiative that will have broad-reaching, positive impacts. In addition, we are calling for donations of materials, monetary support, and volunteers.

About the project

The 365 Greenhouse is a multifaceted project with three primary objectives: showcasing renewable energy technologies, highlighting issues regarding food sustainability, and serving as a community-building and educational tool. It will operate year-round, benefiting from natural light during the standard growing season and generating the heat and light required for growing during the winter months using photovoltaic (PV) modules.

The greenhouse is to be built at the Elaine Dobbin Centre for Autism on Clinch Crescent in St. John’s, NL. Upon completion of construction it will serve ASNL’s Good Roots Gardening program, allowing them to increase production volumes of fresh produce for The Pantry Café and Catering, and expanding their training programs. The installation of grid-connected PV modules will serve to offset electricity costs for the site when surplus generation takes place during warmer months.

“We want a place people can go to see renewable energy in action. This is truly a community project in every way, and we want to get as many community members involved as possible." 

Delia Warren, Director of Iron & Earth East

“Services and supports for adults on the spectrum are very limited. Our focus with this new social enterprise is giving participants a better chance to be more actively engaged in the community. Through on-the-job training, goal-setting and teamwork, these adults are being set up for success in the world of work.” 

Scott Crocker, CEO of Autism Society, Newfoundland Labrador
 

For more information regarding EOIs please visit the NLCA website, or contact [email protected] with any queries or donation offers.