Solar companies take a shine to Windsor


Substation Relay Protection Training

Our customized live online or in‑person group training can be delivered to your staff at your location.

  • Live Online
  • 12 hours Instructor-led
  • Group Training Available
Regular Price:
$699
Coupon Price:
$599
Reserve Your Seat Today
Solar energy companies are helping to diversify the Windsor region's economy, which is good news for an area hit hard by the recent downturn in the economy.

The Windsor region has historically relied heavily on the auto industry for jobs but as the economy faltered, plants closed and the unemployment rate jumped. The area has one of the highest unemployment rates in the country.

Now, solar energy companies are helping turn that scenario around. About a dozen such companies have set up operations in the area, said Naidu Rakesh, a director with local economic development corporation, and he's working with others to encourage them to do the same.

Naidu said the location, climate and a skilled workforce are key factors.

"We should not forget we are right next to another large market which is in the U.S. so being located here, not only can you serve the Ontario market but you can also serve U.S. market," he said.

"These companies go and locate in a place where they can find talent, they can find people who can manufacture, assemble and move products and our region has that."

One of the new solar companies is Unconquered Sun, which produces solar panels. CEO Sean Moore lost his job at Ford three years ago. He said his new company is doing well with 25 employees, which he will double later this summer.

While Mayor Eddie Francis is pleased the economy is diversifying, he said solar energy companies will likely not replace the region's automotive base.

"The auto industry continues to have a very strong presence and footprint," he said.

Related News

No deal Brexit could trigger electricity shock for Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland No-Deal Power Contingency outlines Whitehall plans to deploy thousands of generators on barges…
View more

Ontario Power Generation's Commitment to Small Modular Reactors

OPG Small Modular Reactors advance clean energy with advanced nuclear, baseload power, renewables integration, and…
View more

Europe's Worst Energy Nightmare Is Becoming Reality

European Energy Crisis shocks markets as Russia slashes gas via Nord Stream, spiking prices and…
View more

TransAlta brings online 119 MW of wind power in US

TransAlta Renewables US wind farms achieved commercial operation, adding 119 MW of wind energy capacity…
View more

Ontario will not renew electricity deal with Quebec

Ontario-Quebec Electricity Trade Agreement ends as Ontario pivots to IESO procurement, hydropower alternatives, natural gas…
View more

Global: Nuclear power: what the ‘green industrial revolution’ means for the next three waves of reactors

UK Nuclear Energy Ten Point Plan outlines support for large reactors, SMRs, and AMRs, funding…
View more

Sign Up for Electricity Forum’s Newsletter

Stay informed with our FREE Newsletter — get the latest news, breakthrough technologies, and expert insights, delivered straight to your inbox.

Electricity Today T&D Magazine Subscribe for FREE

Stay informed with the latest T&D policies and technologies.
  • Timely insights from industry experts
  • Practical solutions T&D engineers
  • Free access to every issue

Live Online & In-person Group Training

Advantages To Instructor-Led Training – Instructor-Led Course, Customized Training, Multiple Locations, Economical, CEU Credits, Course Discounts.

Request For Quotation

Whether you would prefer Live Online or In-Person instruction, our electrical training courses can be tailored to meet your company's specific requirements and delivered to your employees in one location or at various locations.