Solar business association launches to connect stakeholders in the OPA’s feed-in-tariff program to what and who they need to know.
Ontario Solar Network kicked off its membership campaign on October 28 with an event that connected over 120 stakeholders in the province’s fast-growing solar business community. The Network explained the essential benefits of membership for businesses and professionals in the solar industry and for those seeking to engage in this emergent sector.
Jacob Travis, Founder and President, explained the mission of the Network as, “a member-based organization dedicated to advancing business development for all stakeholders in Ontario’s Solar PV industry.” He added, “We have no intention of serving as an industry advocate to government. Our services center on market intelligence, networking opportunities, and professional development” stated Travis. “There are many complex policy issues within the industry that are the domain of CanSIA and OSEA, the industry’s established lobby groups. The Network is entirely focused on providing services to support business development in Ontario’s new and fast-moving Solar PV market.”
The kick-off event featured an uplifting address from Ontario Power Authority’s VP of Communications, Ben Chin, on the status of the FIT and microFIT programs. Chin said he values the opportunity to hear from and work with the solar industry. He also urged the industry’s to be more proactive. “Take responsibility to make sure the public understands the value of the solar program. We have to work together to make sure the program is sustainable and successful.”
Travis called on the audience to help make the Network a community of collaborators. “The success of the Network is only as good as the participation of its members,” he said. “We want members to be actively engaged to shape the services offered and help positively impact their own businesses and the solar industry as a whole.”
Upcoming Events:
- Next Networking Evening: November 25, Hilton Garden Inn, Vaughan, 6:00-9:00 pm.
- Quarterly Summits 2011: February 8, May 19, August 16, and November 8. Day-long summits will take place in Toronto.
Starting in 2011, monthly newsletters, webinars, and networking events will be exclusive to members. Quarterly Summits will be open. Members receive significant discounts and opportunities.
Until November 25, Professional Membership for 2011 is being offered at a 50% discount.
For more information on membership levels, benefits, and special sponsorship opportunities for a limited number of Founding Members, please visit www.solarnetwork.org or contact Cynthia Kenth at [email protected] or (647) 869-0733.
About Ontario Solar Network:
Ontario Solar Network is a fast-growing non-profit association dedicated to advancing business development for its members in Ontario’s Solar PV market. Member companies include manufacturers, distributors, developers, engineers, installers, lenders, investors, tax advisors, law firms, insurance brokers, and consultants, all building Ontario’s green economy and creating a labour market promising thousands of new jobs.
