Ontario-based Horizon Energy Solutions, Inc. has recently announced the launch of its commercial solar power generating business, as well as strategic partnerships with several local governments and educational institutions. Dubbed “Ontario’s Solar Sunbelt,” the initiative aims to promote sustainable communities in Canada through the use of green energy. A well-reputed company in the field of power generation and utilities, Horizon is among the first commercial solar power providers in Ontario.
Horizon has disclosed that it is in talks with several industrial, commercial, and educational institutions around the region as it maps out its plans to install solar power facilities. Horizon likewise plans to offer residential green energy installations in the near future. Solar power created from Horizon’s own power-generating activities, as well as from its on-site installations, will be made available to the grid through the Ontario feed-in-tariff program, which is part of the province’s Green Energy and Green Economy Act of 2009.
Green Energy Alliance
In its bid to spark synergies amongst Ontario’s many stakeholders, Horizon has also forged alliances with local governments and the academic community as a founding member of the Golden Horseshoe Strategic Energy Alliance. Horizon Energy Solutions CEO, Max Canzani, believes that this partnership can bring together the research capabilities of the academic sector, the resources of the city governments, and the knowledge and industry experience that Horizon can provide.
McMaster University, Mohawk College, and the cities of Hamilton and St. Catharines are also founding members of the Golden Horseshoe alliance. This collaboration aims to position the Golden Horseshoe as a leader in green energy in Canada.
Job Opportunities in Solar Power
Brad Duguid, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, is optimistic that the new solar power initiatives established by the Green Energy Act will attract businesses from around Canada and the rest of the world. He anticipates that the new sector will generate about 50,000 jobs in the short term.
This represents a golden opportunity for professionals and service providers interested in undergoing training in solar power installation. Schools, like Solar Academy, that train and certify solar panel installers will play an increasingly important role as Ontario continues to roll new renewable energy projects.
