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8minute Solar Nabs Its First Supply Deal With California Community-Choice Aggregators

Greentech Media

Large-scale developer 8minute Solar Energy said this week it had signed power-purchase agreements with two Northern California community-choice aggregators for a 250-megawatt solar project located in the state, including 150-megawatt hours of energy storage.

8minute, which develops solar and storage, has already inked deals for projects with all of California’s large investor-owned utilities: Pacific Gas & Electric, Southern California Edison and San Diego Electric & Gas. But the project announced this week is the developer’s first foray in the world of CCAs, which have increasingly pulled customers and thus demand from California’s traditional utilities.

Offtakers Monterey Bay Community Power (MBCP) and Silicon Valley Clean Energy (SVCE) have now worked together on seven renewables projects, five of which are solar-plus-storage. The CCAs announced two solar and storage projects built by NextEra and First Solar earlier this month. In April the two CCAs published a joint request for proposals seeking 2 million more megawatt-hours of energy delivered between 2021 and 2024, which also closed this week.

California’s crop of CCAs has so far signed more than 3.6 gigawatts of power-purchase agreements serving more than 10 million customers, according to CCA member trade group the California Community Choice Association.

Read more here: https://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/8minute-solar-energy-signs-first-ppas-with-california-community-choice-aggregators


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Fair ‘exit fee’ critical to renewable energy future

While utility responsibility related to California’s devastating wildfires is dominating headlines and the agendas of policymakers, flying below the radar is a pending decision from the California Public Utilities Commission to change the formula for a fee charged to energy consumers who leave the power supply of investor-owned utilities (IOUs) like PG&E and instead get power from local community choice aggregation programs, also known as CCAs. The new formula could radically alter consumers’ energy choices.

CCAs are increasing in popularity in California and for good reason. Authorized by the Legislature to help prevent another energy crisis, CCAs are created and run by local governments to provide clean, affordable energy that meets specific community needs. Unlike the IOUs, CCAs are transparent entities accountable to local policymakers and community members, and available funds are reinvested in local projects, rather than filling the pockets of shareholders.

The PCIA, or Power Charge Indifference Adjustment, is an “exit fee” charged by IOUs to customers that switch to another provider of electricity like community choice aggregation. The charge compensates the utilities for electricity they bought in the past at prices that are now above-market.

How the CPUC designs the new PCIA fee will greatly impact the CCAs’ ability to compete on a level playing field against these titans of energy. For months, key stakeholders have weighed in with their own proposals. The California Community Choice Association, which represents CCA programs in California, designed a win-win proposal that would lower costs for both IOU and CCA electricity customers by $2 billion through smarter, and more accountable portfolio management.

Consumers benefit when they have alternatives and a fair and balanced PCIA assures those options across California. The state should adapt its regulatory structure to encourage investments in clean energy, support local governance (that is people, not profits, focused) and foster competition to keep costs down. A reasonable PCIA is an essential component to a fair and balanced energy market.

Beth Vaughan is the executive director of the California Community Choice Association.

Read more here: Fair ‘exit fee’ critical to renewable energy future

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University of Connecticut

Events Calendar

Welcome Back Week: "Fresher Semester"

Thursday, January 18, 2018
12:00pm – 4:00pm

Stamford Campus

Students will be able to kick off a "Fresher Semester" by making their own air fresheners. There will also be face painters, caricature artists, and henna artists to remember the event.

Stamford Student Activities (primary), Stamford Campus, UConn Master Calendar

Control Panel


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12408 26th St NE || $367,450 || Sold

MOVE IN READY with new exterior and interior paint, new carpets and stainless steel appliances. Bright home with tons of natural light. Enjoy a sun room patio along with a fenced back yard complete with a deck to entertain your guests. Minutes from Lake Stevens town center, Lake Stevens High School and North Lakeshore Beach. Two car garage with tons of storage. MUST SEE!

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  • other interior FeaturesWall to Wall Carpet, Laminate, Bath Off Master, Ceiling Fan(s), Dbl Pane/Storm Windw, Dining Room, Skylight(s)

Area & Lot

  • Living Area1,266 Sq.Ft.
  • Status Sold
  • MLS ID1364292
  • YEAR BUILT1998
  • Architecture StylesContemporary
  • Water FrontageN
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text:
Chapter 87: Little Deceptions

About twenty minutes after the sun had gone down, Eric, Jesus, and Lafayette were still in Sam’s office, waiting for the status of the bond to change.

Eric raised his head sharply.

“You got somethin’?” Lafayette asked, breaking the silence that had existed between them for the last forty minutes as he and Jesus had been pouring over their magic books while Eric tried to access his bond with Sookie every few minutes.

“It’s not Sookie,” Eric said.  “I smell Bill.  He’s just pulling up in the parking lot now, and he will smell that I am here.  He cannot know of Sookie’s disappearance.  If he learns of it, he will either deter us or try to use the situation to his advance to take her for himself.  Either way, I have no time for him.”

Lafayette sprang into action, “Well, that bitch don’t need to know nothin’, that’s fo’ mother fuckin’ sure!  Let’s go, and follow my lead.”

Jesus and Eric were a bit taken aback for a brief moment, but both followed Lafayette as he led them into the bar and to an open pool table.  He threw a few balls on the table along with the cue ball, and he grabbed two discarded beer mugs left by some previous customers, handing one to Jesus.  He motioned to Sam, who was at the bar, and looked significantly at the front door just as it opened and Bill entered with one of his human bodyguards.

Eric had picked up on Lafayette’s idea, had handed Jesus a pool cue, and had one in his hand as well, even before Bill walked in.

Everything had happened so quickly that the few people eating in the main bar area barely noticed.

As soon as he knew that even Bill was in earshot, Eric said in a bored tone, “Really, gentlemen, it would be impossible for you to beat me, even though I am giving you two turns for my every one.  I do not know why you demanded a rematch.”

Sam, by this time, had called Holly over to him and had a new pitcher of beer on a tray already.  The microwave dinged, and he placed a blood on the tray as well and silently motioned for her to take the drinks to the pool table.

Holly picked up the tray and carried it over even as Bill walked at human pace toward the back of the bar.

Eric took the blood from Holly and looked at it disdainfully, playing the part he’d determined was necessary.  He looked right at Lafayette.  “We must really change the stakes.  Buying a round of drinks for the winner―especially when my prize is this shit―is not quite stimulating my desire to win.”

“Well, you can feel free to lose whenever you wants to, bitch,” Lafayette snapped playfully as he used the new pitcher to fill up the two fresh and frosty mugs that Sam had also sent over.  “Meanwhile, I believes that it’s my shot!”  He took the cue from Jesus’s hands and approached the table, lining up to hit a striped ball since there were three times as many of those still on the table.

By this time, Bill had stepped up to the pool table and was looking suspiciously at the group.  Just then, Eric’s phone buzzed, and he picked it up.  There was a text from Pam, saying, “Have hooked up with Jarod.  Just checked surveillance.  Bill is on his way to you.  He somehow knows Sookie never came home after her shift.”

Eric looked up nonchalantly and put the phone back into his pocket.  “My king,” he said with a slight bow in Bill’s direction.  “Would you care to join the game?  A bit of real competition after these humans would be welcome.”

“Fuck,” Lafayette said under his breath dramatically as he missed his shot.

Bill shook his head.  “Thank you, but no, sheriff.  I wonder that you are here and not at Fangtasia.”

“Ah,” Eric said shrugging his shoulders.  “I have decided to pass the responsibility of the bar to Chow and Pam for the most part.  I will, of course,” he nodded to Bill again, “continue my sheriff duties and will even be able to devote more time to them now.”

Bill looked at the three even more suspiciously.  “Then, I would think that you would wish to spend the evening with Sookie―celebrating the pledging.”  He almost spit out the words.

“Indeed,” Eric said rolling his eyes toward Lafayette and Jesus.  “That would have been my preference, but Sookie insisted that we have,” he paused, looking at Lafayette.  “What did she call it?”

“Male bonding time,” Lafayette supplied, without missing a beat.

“Indeed,” Eric said again with obvious displeasure.

“And where is Sookie this evening?” Bill asked, looking around.  “Not working, I see.”

“No,” Eric said, sighing dramatically as if for an audience.  “Sadly―for me, that is―my child has taken Sookie shopping with my gold card.  Of course, I know that Sookie alone would not do damage to my finances, but since Pamela is with her, I’m slightly concerned.”  He winked at Lafayette.

Jesus grinned as if he didn’t have a care in the world, “Sookie called that part female bonding, right?”

“Indeed,” Eric said yet again, this time scoffing.

Bill looked completely nonplussed.  He’d been hoping to find Sookie at the shifter’s bar this evening, preferably with Eric nowhere in sight.  Instead, he had found Eric making nice with Sookie’s friends, something he’d never been able to succeed in doing no matter how hard he’d tried to ingratiate himself into their circle.  His only consolation was the fact that Eric looked so bored.

“Well, sheriff, I’ll leave you to your male bonding,” he sneered.  “Please give Sookie my regards.”

Eric bowed a bit as Bill turned to walk away.  The few patrons who had gathered in Merlotte’s after their work shifts for a quick dinner and beer or to watch the football game had become accustomed to Vampire Bill during the past year or so.  Even they could sense the tension in the Civil War veteran as he turned and began to walk out of the bar.

Eric, on the other hand, continued to look nonchalant as he sunk the only solid ball that had made its way onto the table with a seemingly impossible shot.  As Bill neared the entrance, he spoke again for his benefit, “Really, gentlemen, perhaps we should find another activity if we are to continue this bonding ritual my wife seems so hell-bent that we perform.”

“Well―the football game starts in a little while,” Jesus supplied helpfully.

Eric scoffed, “American football?  Only the Viking team―I believe it is from Minnesota―interests me.”

Still playing their parts to perfection, Lafayette and Jesus both chuckled at this.

Through the corner of his eye, Eric saw Bill glance back once in their direction as he exited.  Smelling that Bill was still right outside, probably spying through the window, Eric lined up the eight ball, sank it in the side pocket, and then continued his bored banter, “Care for another game, gentlemen?”  Eric turned his back to the entrance and looked at the two witches significantly so that they would know that Bill could still most likely see them, if not hear them.

Jesus said, “Why not.  This time, we will go first.”  He began to pull all the balls out and put them on the table to rack them.  Eric sat on a stool as if it were the throne at Fangtasia and picked up his phone, seemingly ignoring the actions of the two humans with him―or, in other words, behaving exactly as Bill would expect him to.

Lafayette laughed, “Well, it looks like we owe you another blood.”

Eric looked up at Lafayette and continued the act.  “What joy is mine,” he said sarcastically as he downed the one he’d been given a few minutes before.

The balls racked, Jesus took the cue from Lafayette and lined up for his break.  As soon as the balls stopped spinning on the table, Eric stood.  His expression turned from detached to tense in a millisecond.  “He is gone,” he said quietly, motioning toward the door.  “And Sookie is waking up.  She is frightened.”

“Can you find her?” Jesus asked in a low voice.

“Yes, the signal is weak, but I can follow it as long as she is not drugged again.”

“I need you two to drive toward Monroe.  That’s the general direction that I feel her in.  I just texted Miranda and Pam, and they are also on their way there.  They will contact you if they are able to figure out a likely location where Debbie took Sookie.”

Eric had been in agony the past ninety seconds after the bond had reactivated, as he’d waited for Bill to be far enough away for him to leave Merlotte’s undetected.  The limo Bill arrived in was just past Eric’s hearing, so he knew that he could now go without the notice of the king.  Without another word, he zipped at vampire speed to the back door of the bar and took off into the night sky, sending all of his love and assurance through the bond.

back forth

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text:
Pension fix: bonds-based strategy costly, slow

An advocate of a new bonds-based strategy to stabilize troubled public pension funds says the change would be costly and take years.

The CalSTRS board last week heard what one panelist called a “raging debate” in professional circles: Do public pension funds need to be radically restructured to survive.

The issue was “liability-driven investing,” a return with a modern twist to bond-based investing abandoned by most public pension funds several decades ago. Seeking higher yields, the funds shifted to riskier stocks and alternatives such as private equity.

The increased investment earnings during good times ballooned to two-thirds or more of pension fund revenue, dwarfing employer-employee contributions. The earnings were expected to cover higher earnings for employees.

But a historic stock market crash and deep economic recession punched a big hole in public pension funds. Now state and local governments, the “plan sponsors,” face soaring annual pension payment to cover the investment losses.

Critics are calling it a “pension crisis” and warning that the pension benefits are “unsustainable.” A PPIC poll in January said 67 percent of voters favor switching new public employees to 401(K)-style investment plans, common in the private sector.

An advocate of the new bonds-based strategy, M. Barton Waring, retired Barclays chief investment officer, told the California State Teachers Retirement System board that public pensions need big change that will cause emotional, political and financial pain.

“One thing I want to exhort you to is do what has to be done, especially those that represent the teachers’ interest,” said Waring. “Do what has to be done to save a defined benefit (pension) plan in some form, because the worst defined benefit plan is better than the best defined contribution (401(k)- style) plan.”

Waring said the median amount in the tax-deferred 401(k)-style individual investment plans of persons age 60 to 65 is $75,000, not enough savings for an adequate retirement.

Liability-driven investing shifts the focus from seeking returns with riskier investments such as stocks to covering the future obligations with nearly risk-free bonds, bolstered by inflation adjustments or financial instruments called “derivatives.”

“If done completely, it would prevent surpluses and deficits from forming,” Waring said.

Among the problems, he said, is a potential shortage of federal inflation-adjusted bonds, the difficulty in getting lawmakers to boost contributions to the pension funds, and setting the level of pension benefits.

“It’s a journey,” Waring said. “It’s not something you would try to do in a year. It’s something that would take time.”

CalSTRS already is estimating that it may need to double current contributions, totaling about 20 percent of pay, to reach full funding Teachers contribute 8 percent of pay, school districts 8 percent, and the state 4 percent.

Unlike most public retirement systems in California, CalSTRS cannot set its own contribution rates, needing legislation instead. As state lawmakers struggle to close a $19 billion deficit, CalSTRS is expected to wait until next year to seek more money.

In the debate over public pension investment strategy, the view of financial economists, held by Waring, tends to conflict with the tradition of actuaries such as the other panelist, Dimitry Mindlin, CDI Advisors president.

“LDI (liability-driven investing) is a relatively new buzz word, even though the ideas have been around for quite some time,” Mindlin told the CalSTRS board.

He said it’s probably “more of a marketing campaign to sell these (LDI) investment products than anything else.” For those who think interest rates are a prime risk, he said, “you should certainly consider LDI products.”

But among the problems in adopting an LDI strategy, he said, is that pension commitments can change with pay and other variables, making cash-flow matches with bonds difficult. He said minimizing risk would require “massive” contribution increases.

“The cost would be so high, and the level of benefits would be so low,” said Mindlin, “many participants would decide your defined benefit (pension) plan is not a good thing: ‘It gives me safety but at huge cost.’ You may lose support for your system.”

Waring said shifting to a bonds-based strategy would require changing the way pension fund assets are valued, which could dramatically increase the estimated cost of paying pensions in the future.

CalSTRS currently assumes that investments will earn an average of 8 percent a year in the decades ahead. The new strategy would assume that investments would earn a much lower “risk-free” government bond rate.

A study released by Stanford graduate students in April, based on data before the market crash in the fall of 2008, said that if a risk-free bond rate, 4.1 percent, is used the CalSTRS shortfall or “unfunded liabilities” zooms from $16.2 billion to $157 billion.

Waring said that using earning estimates based on stocks and other risky investments is an “outdated” method developed a century ago by actuaries, but now used only by public pensions and some parts of the insurance industry.

“There is no place in the real world of financial economics where prospective return on assets is used as a basis for financing,” he said.

The governor’s pension advisor, David Crane, reportedly was removed from the CalSTRS board by the state Senate four years ago because he contended that a huge debt owed for future pensions was being hidden from the public.

Crane and one of the economics professors who agree with the methodology of the Stanford study, Josh Rauh of Northwestern University in Chicago, were among the speakers at a roundtable on pensions held last week by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Last month, the Governmental Accounting Standards Board asked for comment on a proposal directing public pensions to use the risk-free earnings rate, but only for debt not covered by their assets.

The change would increase a pension fund’s estimated shortfall or “unfunded liabilities,” presumably a prod toward increasing employer-employee contributions to properly fund future obligations.

In a preliminary report, Jack Ehnes, the CalSTRS chief executive, told the board last week that the proposed accounting change only applies to the reporting of debt, not how pension plans are actually funded.

But, Ehnes said, what if a lower risk-free rate did lead to higher contributions, and earnings turned out to be nearer the current 8 percent target? The plan would have surpluses and the current generation would pay more than its share of costs.

The CalSTRS board, like the board of the California Public Employees Retirement System, is considering lowering its assumed earnings rate, possibly from 8 to 7.5 percent a year.

Several board members requested a briefing on the earnings rate from impartial experts in September, more preparation for a tentatively scheduled decision in November. Some points of view on the complex issue were mentioned at the meeting last week.

Allan Emkin of Pension Consulting Alliance told the board that “it’s going to be harder to make money in the next 25 years than it was in the previous 25 years.”

He said investment asset classes are no longer as favorable. For example, 10-year bonds yielding 16 percent in the early 1980s now yield 3 percent, and stock price-earning ratios that were 8 percent are now 16 to 17 percent.

“We collectively are going to have to be more innovative, more creative because the tools that worked, which were basically to be fully invested at all times, will probably not be the best strategy for the next 25 years,” Emkin said.

Asked for a breakdown of the assumed 8 percent earnings rate, Chris Ailman, the CalSTRS chief investment officer, said 3 percent is inflation and 5 percent is real growth, reduced further by the nearly 2 percent usually received from stock dividends.

“I would argue, and I have, with people who said it’s going to be 6 (percent) or lower that they are basically saying the United States is going to go in the drain in the next 100 years,” said Ailman. “I’m not willing to go there.”

Reporter Ed Mendel covered the Capitol in Sacramento for nearly three decades, most recently for the San Diego Union-Tribune. More stories are at https://calpensions.com/ Posted 12 Jul 10

2 Responses to “Pension fix: bonds-based strategy costly, slow”

  1. Fake OCO Says:

    It is a simple strategy, you invest in low risk T-Bills and other gov investments, with low returns, and offer modest pensions at an age similar to Social Security.

    You cannot invest in hedge funds, private equity or other high risk investments with pension funds-especially when the fund has no downside and can make the taxpayers cover their casino gambling bets.

  2. JOHN MURPHY Says:

    Hello, I have put in my notice and will no longer be working under PERS retirment system in CA at a police officer. I have a little over 5 years in. Do you kow if I am able to cash out my retirment early? i know there are large fines but just curious, Thank You Jason

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Lupinus obtusilobus; Satin Lupine   (view details)

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New items added to our SALE, shop NOW!

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Pair this with the matching X-Cuff Ring to complete your look.

  • DetailsThis cuff has been hammered and filed.
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Camping Gear

Camping in the Rain? The 5 Things You MUST Have | Camping Gear

Last Updated on January 7, 2021 by Jody

We've been camping a long time. First in tents, then a small camper, and now an RV, with a few cabin stays thrown in for a change of pace. No matter our method I've found that there are 5 things you really must have to be prepared for camping in the rain.

Camping in the rain tips
CLICK HERE to pin this article to your camping tips board!

#1 : Tarps

If you heed no other words of my advice, know this: tarps are your best friend when you are camping in the rain. When we were tent campers, we always put a large tarp under our tent before we set up. And, if rain was possible, we would put another over our tent. Consequently, we stayed far drier than our friends who didn't use a tarp.

We also use tarps to cover anything left outside overnight – chairs, grill, etc.- so they aren't wet in the morning.

If you have a bit of rope, something to attach it to, and a few stakes, you can also craft a second dry shelter with a few tarps. Definitely a sanity saver if space is small!

#2: Alternate Method for Cooking

If your only dining plans involve cooking over fire, you're going to be very disappointed (and quite hungry!) if it rains too much. While you can certainly keep a fire going through even the most drenching downpour, it is certainly no fun to stand in the rain to cook. Pack easy-to-eat cold foods and also consider a travel propane grill.

#3: Extra Towels

When you are wet there is nothing so good as a dry towel. And, because towels aren't likely to dry well when it's raining, you'll want a few extra. Don't forget about the pets! No one likes a wet dog in the tent or camper!

Packing light? Use Microfiber, quick dry towelsTip: if you are tent camping pack your clothes in plastic storage containers (like Rubbermaid) to keep everything dry!

#4: Camping Rug

Also called a ground mat, this has been our favorite purchase since we began camping. Available in a variety of sizes, colors, and designs, a Camping Rug is thicker than a tarp, so is less likely to lift with the wind while providing cushion from sticks and rocks on the ground.

Placed just outside a tent or camper, this will also help keep dirt from tracking into your abode.

#5: Boredom Busters

There is nothing worse than being stuck in a small space with nothing to do. Be sure to bring some boredom busters: books, a deck of cards, UNO, wireless speakers… Anything to avoid the ‘I'm bored' whining (from kids and adults!)

Use these camping in the rain tips to keep your camping trip from being a wash-out.

Save or share this article!

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New OPCAT Discussion Paper! Instituting A National Preventive Mechanism In Canada

The Canada OPCAT Project today launches a major discussion paper on how the OPCAT might be implemented in Canada. Titled ‘Instituting A National Preventive Mechanism In Canada – Lessons Based on Global OPCAT Implementation’ the paper argues that a brand new institution should be established as the country’s future NPM under the instrument.

To date, the very limited publicly available information strongly suggests that Canada is considering designating an array of existing detention oversight bodies as part of a multi-body NPM.

However, as the on-going government-sponsored OPCAT consultation process in Canada has been almost entirely closed to civil society and Indigenous groups, it remains impossible at the present time to say whether this is the case for certain.

Nonetheless, the published discussion paper strongly argues against such a potential multi-mechanism approach to OPCAT implementation in the country and contends that the optimal NPM solution would be to establish an entirely new structure.

Discussion paper
Prison by Kim Daram (2005)

The establishment of a specialized NPM would have to overcome some very tangible political and legal obstacles if it were to become a reality. Crucially, the Canadian Government and its provincial and territorial counterparts would have to develop an appetite to finance such a body.

Even so, the alternative approach of designating a combination of existing bodies at the federal, provincial and territorial levels would be arguably much more complicated politically, legally and organizationally and possibly even more expensive.

The research inevitably focuses in-depth on the existing human rights architecture in Canada as part of this wider discussion. In so doing, the discussion paper offers an analysis of the different mechanisms which could potentially play a role vis-à-vis the OPCAT, most commonly a combination of federal, provincial and territorial human rights commissions and ombudspersons offices.

The paper concludes, however, that without significant modifications to their legal statutes, mandates and operational foci, organizational structures, budgets and composition these mechanisms would be poorly placed to assume an OPCAT mandate.

In order that this discussion paper is not a mere exercise in mapping out different NPM scenarios in the Canadian context, the research also draws heavily on existing global OPCAT practice at the national level. This central focus of the research has been undertaken with a view to highlighting the potential shortcomings which frequently beset NPMs as well as to underscoring good NPM-related practice.

By drawing on this domestic analysis as well as an examination of OPCAT global practice, the key question is thereby explored of how the OPCAT might be effectively implemented in Canada in accordance with key international guidance and advice.

Even if readers disagree with the ultimate thrust of the document, its publication is primarily intended to stimulate a lively discussion in Canada on how the OPCAT might be implemented in practice. Surprisingly, to date, there has been relatively little academic research undertaken into this key question in the country. This discussion paper therefore seeks to plug this gap and explore how Canada might implement the instrument domestically.

Discussion paper Aberystwyth University

This research was originally undertaken by the Canada OPCAT Project’s Matthew Pringle in the course of 2018 as part of an LL.M. dissertation in International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law. It was presented to the Department of Law & Criminology at Aberystwyth University in Wales in late September 2018. The research was very well received by Aberystwyth University and in December 2018 it was formally awarded a mark of 95% as well as the Aberystwyth University Graduate School Prizes for the highest scoring dissertation and masters across the university.

However, please do not take Aberystwyth University’s word for it! Why not download the paper and make your own mind up whether a new NPM institution is the optimal solution for Canada’s challenge of implementing the OPCAT?


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Spotted: Canadian Tuxedo at Sebastian Ingrosso at Coachella

Just before Swedish DJ Sebastian Ingrosso brought down the house at Coachella, I spotted Rachel O’Reilly braving the Sahara Tent heat in a Canadian Tuxedo. Rachel is seen here rocking a denim Trouvé top and new Gap denim cutoffs, which she said she absolutely loves!

About Gretchen Schneider

I live in - and for - LA. Obsessed with my dog, social media and denim. I kick it with Hollywood Jesus, and eat like a king ... with princess portions. View all posts by Gretchen Schneider

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Working Holiday Visa Canada Requirements

A Working Holiday Visa belongs under the IEC (International Experience Canada) program.

Some of the most popular places to go on your working holiday are Toronto and the city of Vancouver. If you want to get started on your way to Vancouver, find out how you can start your working holiday in Canada.

What Are the Working Holiday Visa Canada Requirements

Step 1 - Which Countries Can Apply

Make sure you are one of the 34 countries that are part of the working holiday program.

Below is a list of countries that are allowed to apply for the Working Holiday Visa. Requirements also apply for certain age limits. Check out if you can apply!

Country Name Application Age (Years) Country Name Application Age (Years)
Australia 18-30 Belgium 18-30
Chile 18-30 Czech Republic 18-35
Costa Rica 18-35 Croatia 18-35
Denmark 18-35 Estonia 18-35
France 18-35 Germany 18-35
Greece 18-35 Hong Kong 18-30
Ireland 18-35 Italy 18-35
Japan 18 to 30 Korea 18 to 30
Latvia 18 to 35 Lithuania 18 to 35
Mexico 18 to 29 Netherlands 18 to 30
New Zealand 18 to 35 Norway 18 to 35
Poland 18 to 35 Slovakia 18 to 35
Slovenia 18-35 Spain 18 to 35
Sweden 18 to 30 Taiwan 18 to 35
Ukraine 18 to 35 United Kingdom 18-30

Step 2 - Your Passport

passport luggage

You must have a valid passport from your country of origin before you can apply for your Working Holiday Visa in Canada.

Make sure that your passport will not expire during your stay in Canada. This can affect how long you can stay in the country and may cut your vacation short!

If you do apply for a new passport during your holiday, make sure that you update your passport number on your permit.

Step 3 - Do You Have Enough Funds?

You must have at least CAD$2,500 to help support you before you find work in Canada. This is an important requirement that you need otherwise you will not be able to apply.

Step 4 - Health Insurance

medical insurance

Have health insurance, if you plan to work in Canada temporarily, you cannot qualify for public healthcare, so make sure you take out health insurance.

The Canadian government will need to see proof that you have health insurance for your entire stay, this must cover:

  • Medical repatrician;
  • Hospitalisation; and
  • Medical care

Some companies you can use for insurance are True Traveller and World Nomads.

Step 4 - Police Certificates

Make sure you have no previous criminal record. This is normally proven through a Police Clearance Certificate that you can apply for at your local police station. This certificate must then be handed into the Immigration Office

There are a few countries that do have different requirements for police certificates.

You can find out more about the application process for a police certificate based on where you live. Check out this link to find out more information about the process.

Step 5 - Your Return Ticket

Lady holding boarding passes

Have must have proof that you have bought a return ticket after your Working Holiday Visa has expired.

This is to prove that you have the intention to move back to your country of residence.

Step 6 - Hand in Your Resume

Make sure that before you start the application process, you have updated and checked over your CV. You may need to show it during the application process and who knows if you may find a prospective employer somewhere along the way.

Make sure that your CV includes:

  • Your education level; and
  • Your job description and the duties involved;

Step 7 Apply for a Medical Exam

medical examination of elderly patient

If you have lived in these countries, you must apply for a medical exam

  • Hong Kong;
  • Korea;
  • Latvia;
  • Lithuania;
  • Taiwan; and
  • Ukraine

Please note that this medical exam cannot be done at just any doctor.

You must have a medical exam that is completed by a doctor who is part of the Canadian Panel of Physicians.

You can find the closest approved doctor by following this link Enter in your country of residence and a list of medical professionals will pop up.

If you plan to work in any medical field during your stay, you must apply for a medical examination, even if you do not live in any of the above countries.

Step 8 - Apply for Biometrics

Another thing you must be aware of for your Working holiday Visa Canada requirements are Biometrics. Biometric are a new security feature that Canada has brought into the immigration system.

You can learn more about the biometric system in this handy video

So now you know a little bit more about what biometrics are and how they are used by the Canadian government. Check if you are one of the people who must apply for them.

Apply for biometrics after the 31 of December, 2018:

  • Australia;
  • Chile;
  • Costa Rica;
  • Japan;
  • Korea;
  • Mexico; and
  • Taiwan

You need to apply for biometrics:

  • Czech Republic;
  • Croatia;
  • Denmark;
  • Estonia;
  • France;
  • Germany;
  • Greece;
  • Ireland;
  • Italy;
  • Latvia;
  • Lithuania;
  • Netherlands;
  • Poland;
  • Slovakia;
  • Slovenia;
  • Spain;
  • Sweden;
  • Ukraine; and
  • Great Britain

Things to Know

Can You Bring Your Children or Partner?

You cannot bring your dependants with you. This applies to anyone who is under your care or under the age of 22 and is not married.

You cannot apply with your partner! If you do want to apply for a Working Holiday Visa, you must apply separately from your partner.

How Much Does it Cost?

The costs for a working visa will involve approximately CAD$155. Biometrics can cost around CAD$85 per person.

Your medical exam costs can vary depending on your medical professionals, so please be aware.

How Much Can You Pack?

If you arrive in Canada by air, there is a 23kg limit on your baggage, so unless you want to pay extra for your baggage make sure you only pack what you need!

Be aware of the time of year you are travelling to Canada. Early autumn and late winter can be quite chilly so don’t forget to pack some warm clothes. Don’t have any? No need to worry. Canada has a number of second hand stores you can drop in that fit your budget.

Plug Points

Canada has its own voltage plug point. So if you are from Europe most of your plug points will not work in Canada.

You can pick up some adapters at the airport when you arrive so you don’t have to worry about packing them in your luggage.

Working Holiday Visa Canada Requirements

Are you ready to go on a vacation of a lifetime? Now you can. All you have you do is is make sure that you can meet all the Working Holiday Visa Canada requirements.

Once you have done this, sign up here. We will assist your application to help make your vacation one you can trulyremember.


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Friday , May 7 2021

Cancellation of the Wizz Air service?

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Due to increased fuel and summer timing, Wizz Air's low-cost Hungarian airline lowered its profit prospects, which reached a record high after tax profit in the first financial year ending September 30.

According to a statement published on Wednesday on the airline website, the company increased its passenger traffic by 20% to 18.8 million compared to the first half of 2017 and increased its revenue to the same extent to EUR 1.3 billion . In this context, daily sales revenue was 25, the level of additional revenue by 12.5% over the same period last year. In the summer schedule, flights were mainly delayed due to weather conditions and airspace capacity problems due to the additional cost and high cost of kerosene, Wizz Air's costs were 28% higher than the one-year level. For Kerosene, the company spent 43% more than last year.

Operating profits fell by 1.9% to EUR 300 million, but due to the positive balance of financial transactions, the company's earnings after tax improved by 1.2% to EUR 296 million and achieved a new record. However, due to the delayed increase in kerosene and the additional costs due to delays, Wizz reduced the expected profit level at the end of the financial year from the previous package of 310-340 million euros and now the company expects a profit of 270 to 300 million on 31 March of the following year.

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Friday , May 7 2021

Kurucs returns to Brooklyn's Nets in a few hours at G-League – Basketball –

Rodion Kurucs He was unable to take part in the five previous Nicholas & # 39; Nets in the NBA because of injuries, but the club changed its official status yesterday and stated that in the next game (tonight against the Rockets) it was on the question in question. Kurucs officially moved for the first time in his Nets career in the G-Championship but tonight, about three hours before the Nets, the Nets, the Rockets, again officially called the Brooklyn Team.

Nets' preliminary release in the media claims that Kuruca's participation in today's game is no longer a "question mark" but "feasible". True, it should be recalled that since the Kuruca injury team has returned to other injured players, its playing time is not guaranteed at all.

Restoring the injuries for a few hours, "getting in" to the showroom is not uncommon and takes part in the training of the second team. According to the NBA's Brooklyn NBA, there is no morning training, so the Kurucs could only be sent to a training session for the Long Island Division. A few days ago, another Nets basketball player, Jannan Musa, was sent to the G League within a few days, but he was recalled to Brooklyn within a few hours.

The Brooklyn game starts at 1:30 pm on Sunday in Houston, Texas. Before the start of the season, the Rockets came to the NBA's most important favorites, but the season started to be terrible and won 6 games in six games. Brooklyn also has a much better balance (3-5), and this night they play against James Harden, Chris Paul and Carmelo Entonio.

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Don’t just be aware, be involved

I’m not a big fan of awareness months. There are so many these days that each month shares a long list of issues to be aware of along with a corresponding ribbon color. There’s even a Zombie Awareness Month. It’s May (gray ribbon) in case you want to mark your calendar.

Every October, when Domestic Violence Awareness Month comes around, I have an uneasy feeling. It’s not that I don’t think that domestic violence awareness is important. Of course it is. But I wonder what we are accomplishing. Does awareness actually lead to behavior change? Researchers say no.

I’ve seen awareness about domestic violence grow significantly over the years. That’s a great thing and it needed to happen. But I don’t want us to stop there. Now that people are aware, I want them to act. I want everyone to realize that they can be a part of the solution. They can learn about the resources out there so if someone turns to them for help they’ll know what to do. They can talk to young people about what a healthy relationship looks like. They can ask a friend “How’s your relationship?” and make chatting about this a normal part of life.

I’m not suggesting we all cancel our Domestic Violence Awareness Month activities. But let’s shift our focus to turning October into Domestic Violence ACTION Month.DVAM-logo

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Packing a Cape 31 into a “box”

Packing a Cape 31 into a “box”

With the Cape Town-produced Cape 31 making inroads in international markets, the pacy speedster needs to be transported to all corners of the world safely and in tact. Erik Bjerring from Cape Town Yacht Services explains how these logistics are done.

The yacht management/ service provider is based out of the Cape Grace Marina at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. “We became involved with the Cape 31 in 2017 when Mike Hayton, owner of the Corby 49, NITRO, asked me to enquire about chartering a Cape 31 for the first official Cape 31 Invitational event in Cape Town. We re-branded the charter boat with the NITRO logo, and after only a day and a half of practice we finished in 2nd place, 1 point behind TNT”, says Erik. Mike and Erik met with C31 builder, the late Uwe Jasperson, and placed an order for a new boat. “We projected-managed the boat to launch, and I am still boat captain of the boat today”, he adds.

Read all about it at

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'multi OR skilled OR tech OR telemetry OR transmountain OR campus OR prn OR days OR at OR the OR hospitals OR of OR providence OR el OR paso OR tx OR STATECODE:"TX"' Jobs | ITNS Career Center

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Telesales Agent - German/English Speaking

Company Description

Launched in 1998, this pioneering British-born brand has specialised in creating amazing experiences and unforgettable memories - from hotels, city breaks and holidays to theatre, entertainment and spa days. Experts in brightening up online travel, is among the worldwide leaders in the field, helping hundreds of thousands of customers every year find, and do, "whatever makes them pink". is part of lm group, publicly traded multinational Group, among the worldwide leaders in the online travel industry. Every month, the Group reaches across all its websites and mobile apps (in 17 languages and 40 countries) 60 million unique users that search for and book their travel and leisure experiences. More than 1,200 people enjoy working with us and contribute to provide our audience with a comprehensive and inspiring offering of travel related products and services.

Job Description is looking for a Telesales Agent for German and English Markets and manual booking activity.

Key Responsibilities

  • Attend customers both inbound and outbound with German and English customers
  • Sell holiday packages

  • Very good German and English
  • Previous experience in phone sales
  • Thorough and meticulous with extreme attention to detail
  • Proactive team player
  • Self-motivated, tenacious, use initiative and problem solver
  • Work to tight deadlines with a can-do attitude
  • Strong communicator internal/external
  • Work under pressure
  • Work with commercial targets

  • Previous experience in the travel sector or similar
  • Oriented business results
  • Versatility
  • Communication skills

Additional Information

  • We ask you to attach your CV in English


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Associate Structural Engineer

  1. Glasgow
  1. Project, programme & cost management

Associate Structural Engineer

Atkins, a member of SNC-Lavalin is one of the world’s most respected design, engineering and project management consultancies, with over 50,000 employees worldwide. At Atkins, we offer more than just a job. We offer an opportunity to make a difference and shape the world to benefit future generations and the natural environment.

We are seeking an Associate Structural Engineer with demonstrable experience at senior level and with strong client facing and business development skills. The role will be based in our Glasgow office. This new appointment is part of our aspiration to develop and grow our structural capability in Scotland and the wider UK.

You will be a Chartered Civil/Structural Engineer with a proven track record of successful delivery of design projects from concept to detailed design and completion of construction and you will be responsible for the technical direction of our Client’s projects. Credibility, competence and technical excellence are a given as the role requires close working with our internal and external clients, decision makers, industry stakeholders and other consultants to develop robust design solutions through collaborative and proactive management of client demands - providing leadership from both a technical delivery and people management perspective.

You will be required to demonstrate a developed understanding of the market and industry and ability to focus our business to take full advantage of market conditions and have extensive experience in preparing bids and tendering opportunities.

Our Glasgow office provides multidisciplinary design and engineering services and integrated solutions across a wide range of sectors. Drawing upon a diverse skill set and a proven track record of delivery we are playing a leading role in some of the world’s most challenging and exciting engineering projects. These include Airports, Defence, Energy, Civil Infrastructure, Education and Rail.

This key appointment offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity to apply knowledge, experience and problem solving skills to lead and develop a major part in the development of our business.

Key Experience

  • Degree-qualified Civil / Structural Engineer
  • Chartered (CEng) Civil/Structural Engineer with an industry profile
  • A member of the Approved Certifier of Design Scheme (SER Certifier)
  • Extensive post graduate experience in major structural engineering building projects
  • Proven track record in design delivery with specific experience of; steel, reinforced concrete, masonry and timber designs from concept to detailed delivery, foundation design and structural analysis, construction delivery, specialist skills such as port design, blast design, airport design, bridges and tunnels
  • Detailed knowledge of design codes and standards relating to structural engineering
  • Detailed knowledge and experience of 2D and 3D design software packages and suitability of their use at project level
  • Knowledge of construction implementation with proven site supervision and contract administration experience.
  • Proven track record in delivering technically excellent design projects on time and to budget
  • Sound commercial understanding of the consultancy business
  • Good communicator (written, verbal & presentations)
  • A natural curiosity for developing innovative and cost effective solutions for our clients
  • Natural team builder, developing the technical excellence of our growing team.
  • Able to develop and motivate others
  • A winning attitude
  • Proven record of developing client relationships and winning new consultancy work

  • Identify opportunities, lead and support business development and work winning / bidding activities
  • Establish, develop and maintain relationships with key and prospective clients
  • Technical responsibility for structural engineering design delivery
  • Review calculations, drawings, specifications and act as SER Certifier on projects.
  • Project Management and Design Management of our consultancy services, delivering projects to time and to budget. Management and technical development of our capabilities and individual Engineers
  • Client and stakeholder interface
  • Co-ordination and management of other discipline inputs into projects
  • Development and growth of the structural engineering team

What we offer

Atkins recognise that there are many well qualified people who are looking to further their career, but who cannot commit to full time employment. We support flexible working arrangements and are interested to discuss how we can accommodate individual requirements. As part of this commitment, we understand the need for a diverse and flexible workforce, where a work-life balance is important. So, by default Atkins offers flexible working, where there is no fixed 9 ‘till 5, no need for a 5-day week, no requirement for a full-time contract, and no requirement to spend all your working time in the office.  Our IT systems support home-working, so where you have parental or carer duties; or you simply need to be elsewhere for a parcel, servicing your car, or waiting in for a tradesperson; Atkins will work for you.  Similarly, Atkins’ corporate social responsibility provides the opportunity to give something back to the community, and we run professional networks supporting groups such as local schools, charities, parents, those coming out of the armed-forces and women in engineering.

Atkins develops individuals through a portfolio of training and development activities designed to help you make the best of your abilities and talents. These are reviewed with individuals through an annual appraisal process.

Rewards and Benefits

We offer a competitive salary that is regularly tested against other consultants with a default 25-days leave each year plus bank holidays and options to buy some or sell of that leave.

To support and safeguard your physical and mental wellbeing we provide an employee assistance programme offering advice and support in times of need.You will also have access to our Flexible Benefits, where you can opt in to a wide range of benefits to complement your work/life balance: such as medical insurance, gym membership, the cycle-to-work scheme, child care vouchers, charitable giving, additional pension contributions etc.

Please refer to our website for details of our full benefits package .

This role may require security clearance and offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. If this is necessary, it will be discussed with you at interview. If applying to this role please do not make reference to (in conversation) or include in your application or CV, details of any current or previously held security clearance.

Atkins recognise that there are many well qualified people who are looking to further their career, but who cannot commit to full time employment. We support flexible working arrangements and are interested to discuss how we can accommodate individual requirements.ATKINS, part of the SNC Lavalin Group, is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce. As an Equal Opportunities Employer, we value applications from all backgrounds, cultures and ability.

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SKU: 20675

Finding Strength to Survive a Crisis or Tragedy

“Be encouraged, for you can take control of your response to tragedy,” says clinical social worker Wheeler. After allowing yourself to grieve and getting the help you need, it’s time to cultivate hope and let go of the past, Wheeler counsels.

By Eugenie G. Wheeler

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