Hitachi is planning a nearly $500-million factory that will create many skilled jobs and strengthen local manufacturing. CTV London’s Sean Irvine has the details.
In the midst of a trade conflict with the United States, a global energy firm is making a significant investment in London, Ontario.
Hitachi Energy has revealed a $479-million commitment for a new transformer insulation factory, backed by both federal and provincial governments.
The facility will cover 226,000 square feet (21,000 square metres) and will be located at Huron Street and Veterans Memorial Parkway.
“This new facility will create over 100 permanent skilled manufacturing and engineering jobs,” said Carla Vicente of Hitachi Energy Canada.
The federal and provincial governments are providing a total of $50 million in support.
“More than 20,000 tonnes of wood fibre will be transformed into electric grid pressboard and will enhance the domestic supply chain as well as our forest sector,” stated federal Industry Minister Melanie Joly during a news conference at the site.
Ontario Economic Development Minister Vic Fedeli noted that this facility will be Canada’s first transformer pressboard plant and the largest one globally.
Industry Minister Melanie Joly, sixth from left, and Ontario Energy Minister Stephen Lecce, sixth from right, join Hitachi Energy executives to break ground on a new $479-million transformer insulation factory in London, Ont., in a Friday, Oct. 16,.. Industry Minister Melanie Joly, sixth from left, and Ontario Energy Minister Stephen Lecce, sixth from right, join Hitachi Energy executives to break ground on a new $479-million transformer insulation factory in London, Ont., in a Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 handout photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout – Hitachi Energy Canada
Ontario Energy and Mines Minister Stephen Lecce mentioned that innovative thinking drives this investment.
“We’re creating an end-to-end supply chain made in Canada by Canadians for Canadians; I think that’s the best example of how we can advocate for Canada’s interests,” he said.
While construction is already underway, the plant isn’t expected to be operational until late 2028.
This project marks Hitachi Energy’s second initiative in London. Last year saw them acquire Canduct Industries which makes transformer cooling equipment.
Executives from Hitachi Energy indicated that site easements along with access to electrical power were key factors influencing their decision to build here.
Mayor Josh Morgan stressed how crucial reliable energy infrastructure is for attracting significant investments like this one.
“Safe, secure power sources along with solid infrastructure are absolutely essential for these kinds of projects.”
Hitachi Energy assures that progress on the factory remains steady despite possible economic fluctuations ahead.
“We have strong foundations ensuring that everything is set for timely completion. Both Hitachi Energy and Hitachi are dedicated for the long haul,” remarked Bruno Melles who leads Hitachi Energy’s Transformers business unit.
Correction
This story has been corrected; an earlier version misspelled Carla Vicente’s name.
Related Stories
Source link
