LONDON, Ontario - Following an extensive survey process of regional manufactures, the Economic Development Organizations of London, Sarnia-Lambton, Chatham-Kent, Huron County , Canada's Technology Triangle, and Guelph are presenting their findings and informing regional manufactures about opportunities in the Large Wind Turbine industry.
Acknowledging that the growth of electricity generation by wind power in Ontario, Canada and North America presents opportunities for investment in the southwestern Ontario region, regional EDOs looked at the talent and capability of the existing manufacturing sector that are complimentary to the manufacturing requirements by wind power components manufacturers. Together, they are developing the necessary data to profile regional business strenghts that will support Tier 1 & Tier 2 supply chain for international Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM's) who are seeking to gain a North American foothold.
Funding this initiative was made possible through the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade's Global Commerce Support Program - Invest Canada Community Initiatives, which assists communities in their efforts to attract, retain, and expand foreign direct investment in Canada. With this funding, the partnering communities have assessed interest and capabilities of regional businesses to support the wind power supplier industry and are in the midst of developing a wind power supplier directory to showcase the diversity and innovation of manufacturing capability within these regions.
The survey results and the foundation of the directory will be presented on August 26th at 9am - 10:30am at the London Club. A seminar will be hosted in London Ontario which will be broadcasted across the region of Southwestern Ontario via Webinar. Canada's Technology Triangle will host and broadcast the seminar at Conestoga College, while Sarnia- Lambton will host and broadcast from its Council Chambers.
"The LEDC is excited to share the results of our survey and inform our local manufactures of opportunities for diversification." Says Peter White, President and CEO of the LEDC, "Our regional partners have added tremendous value to this program and we look forward to working together to position our region as an attractive investment opportunity for Wind Turbine OEMs."
John Jung, CEO of Canada's Technology Triangle adds that "the survey process has helped us engage regional manufactures and we are excited to connect them via web technology and help them identify opportunities not only within the region of Southwestern Ontario, but beyond."
Members from Ontario's Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, and Helge Whittholz from Synovia Business International will address local manufactures who responded to the Wind Energy Survey that was delivered in June 2009.
For Comment: Kadie Ward
Manager, Business Growth and Retention
LEDC
Ph.519-661-1883. Cell. 226-688-6452
kward@ledc.com
