think niagara. think original.

solar energy

think diversity. think niagara.

Across Ontario, ‘green’ energy projects, driven by the pace-setting provincial Green Energy Act and generous Feed in Tariff incentives are changing the electrification landscape of regions and local communities. Innovative solar energy projects are beginning to dot rural fields and rooftops as they seek to convert the abundant thermal radiation of the sun into renewable sources of energy. Solar power, like the sun, is here to stay.

Niagara has the capacity and resource base to become a leader in the design, manufacture and installation of solar technologies. Over the years, the region’s automotive parts, aerospace, maritime and construction industry sectors have relied on the diversity of products from its niche metal fabricating and electrical component manufacturers to the depth of its applied research in renewable power generation.

Innovative local firms are targeting thermal product development for commercial, industrial and residential use, e.g., water, space and pool heaters, street and residential lighting, on-site illuminated messaging and safety signage. Pre-engineered photovoltaic systems have spurred the growth of specialist installers, technical advisors and trouble shooters.

To capture the renewable energy from the sun, Niagara College has developed a full suite of electro-mechanic, microelectronic and photonic manufacturing programs, and a specialized Renewable Energy Technician Program to help advance solar technologies. Leading-edge laboratories and equipment, such as the wavelength-selective thin film solar cell research facility, and other technological resources, can help companies design, test and measure electrical output from solar components. Skilled instructors, internship programs and, most importantly, versatile graduates are able to offer advice on manufacturing processes and market development.

Domestic and international investors are discovering that Niagara is an ideal location for solar energy development and a number of local projects, either in the planning stages or under development, are starting to build momentum in the region’s solar sector. With spectral irradiance comparable with other locations in southern Ontario and a regional commitment to smart growth principles, Niagara is positioned to secure its share of solar energy companies and occupations.

We invite you meet Niagara’s industry and institutional leaders who are committed to solar energy development, and explore opportunities to establish as a business presence in the region, build new supply chain networks and open new markets in this burgeoning industry sector.

think solar energy. think niagara.

Niagara’s natural abundance is matched by the multitude of companies that have found a home here, in a wide range of emerging business sectors perfectly suited to the Region.

www.niagaracanada.com

think niagara. think success.The Niagara Region has been the setting for many a Canadian success story. Now we invite you to become a “Niagara Original” by growing your own business here in our fertile soil.

With 55+ years of combined experience, we have a history of successful projects completed in alternative energy, particularly in solar for developers and local utilities. Synchro navigates the project from idea to connection, keeping our client’s “Power Under Control”. Niagara has low business costs, supply chain connectivity, and with over 100 years of green energy projects in hydro generation – is the perfect place to shine for solar.

Peter Zylstra and Dan Michitsch • Principles, Synchro Engineering Limited

engineering, design, analysis and services

We’re a group of renewable energy veterans, with proven experience in navigating regulatory markets, identifying opportunities, financing projects and getting them built. We chose Welland as an ideal location for our $45 million, 10 MW solar farm for various reasons, like affordable land, electrical infrastructure, proactive local government and utility, and a welcoming community. In fact, pending approvals, we could see another project in Welland, with two more in Fort Erie.

Rob Miller • Country Manager, Axio Power Canada Inc.

solar farm development

www.niagaracanada.com

Niagara College is a leader in applied research among Ontario Colleges. Applied research is practical, aimed at helping business and industry become more innovative and competitive. By integrating applied research into offerings such as our Photonics and Renewable Energies programs, and our Thin Film and Clean Room facilities, we are training the next generation of skilled employees to meet the needs of the growing Solar Industry.

Dr. Ben Cecil • Dean of Technology, Niagara College Canada

innovation through education and r&d

EDP is new to the solar industry and markets combiner box technology and connectivity solutions. Niagara is ideal for nurturing such a product line because of the willingness of its local development offices and the Niagara Industrial Association in embracing the opportunity and imagining its potential. There is a newfound enthusiasm in working together that I haven’t seen in over 20 years. That’s the strength of doing business in Niagara.

Joe DeMan • President, E.D. Products Ltd.

electronic component manufacturing

natural power and people power. together in one perfect location.

Fort Erie • Grimsby • Lincoln • Niagara Falls • Niagara-on-the-Lake • Pelham Port Colborne • St. Catharines • Thorold • Wainfleet • Welland • West Lincoln

www.niagaracanada.com • +1.905.685.1308

Niagara Canada is a prosperous, diversified, and sustainable

regional economy that offers:

• A broad manufacturing base and supply chain network

• Multimodal transportation – rail, road and water

• A strategic central location with easy access to major markets

• Highly skilled and experienced workforce

• Pro-business regional and municipal government

• A business culture open to innovation and change

• Strategic support from government and academic partners

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