Under the banner “Just born and already 30”, the celebrations recognised not only the grand opening but also the 30 years Franco Traverso, President and CEO of Silfab and pioneer of PV in Italy since 1981, has been in the industry.
“No greater satisfaction could exist for me than seeing the fruits of the know-how acquired over time that will now help the development of solar in the province of Ontario. Here in Canada I found not just a welcoming environment and ample support from the local, provincial and federal governments, but also superb collaborators and technicians very capable of actively contributing to the success of this entrepreneurial initiative,” commented Traverso during the grand opening, which drew over 250 guests from Italy and Canada and included several distinguished politicians: the Honourable Sandra Pupatello Minister of Economic Development and Trade, the Honourable Amrit Mangat Member for Provincial Parliament for Mississauga-Brampton South and the Mayor of Mississauga, Her Worship Hazel McCallion, as well as Gianni Bardini, the Italian Consul General.
“As our economy continues to turn the corner, Silfab’s investment is just the latest endorsement of Ontario’s strength as a global leader in green energy. With its skilled workforce, forward-looking renewable energy policies and efficient access to North American markets, Ontario is the natural location as the continent’s clean technology manufacturing hub,” said Sandra Pupatello [see inset].
Minister Pupatello announced that the province has approved a €2,2 million loan to the company to support the first 60 MW of production. The loan to Silfab was approved after a rigorous due diligence examination by the Provincial government. Silfab will invest approximately €10 Million for the first 60 MW of plant production in Ontario, and has already initiated a further expansion of that capacity.
By mid 2011, the plant will produce 370 000 modules per year, with the potential to achieve 180 MW of modules, all optimized to have an elevated cell utilization yield over 99%. At full capacity, the plant will employ 200 people. Silfab Ontario Inc. will distribute its Ontario-made solar panels throughout North America.
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