Power Co Canada has announced that it has chosen the well-known Ellis Don Corporation as the general contractor for its St. Thomas gigafactory, marking an important step forward as the project progresses into its next construction phase.
This selection allows work on-site to continue building on the steady progress made since breaking ground in 2025. Construction is now advancing into key infrastructure and structural phases that will support future production.
“Partnering with Ellis Don allows us to keep construction moving while ensuring we retain the flexibility to scale the facility in line with market demand and long-term industry evolution,” said Joel Karlsberg, chief procurement officer, Power Co Canada.
Initial efforts are focused on the first phase of development, which includes essential building structures and site-wide infrastructure needed for future production. The construction involves creating the production-building shell, along with mechanical, electrical, plumbing installations, energy and utility systems, and supporting site services. About 60 Ellis Don workers are currently present on-site, expected to grow to around 1,300 workers at peak times, alongside additional personnel supporting other project activities.
“The Power Co facility represents a transformative investment in Canada’s industrial future, and Ellis Don is proud to play a role in its delivery,” said Max Mantha, president of Construction at Ellis Don. “As a Canadian-headquartered employee-owned company, we are committed to building the infrastructure that will help support Canada’s growing electric vehicle and battery manufacturing sector. This project will create opportunities for skilled tradespeople, local businesses, and communities across southwestern Ontario. We look forward to collaborating with Power Co and our partners on this landmark development.”
Simultaneously, Power Co is aligning the project’s timeline and product strategy with changing market demands, technological advancements, and Volkswagen Group’s long-term strategy. The St. Thomas facility is now expected to start operations in 2029 to accommodate next-generation battery technology while keeping flexibility for scaling over time as market conditions evolve.
“The St. Thomas gigafactory remains a cornerstone of our North American strategy,” added Karlsberg. “We are continuing to build now while determining how and when the facility scales over time. This is about getting the pacing right-not stepping back-to protect our long-term investment while supporting regional jobs and positioning Canada, Ontario, and St. Thomas to benefit in a dynamic and evolving market.”
Featured image: (Power Co Canada)
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Initial efforts are focused on the first phase of development, which includes essential building structures and site-wide infrastructure needed for future production. The construction involves creating the production-building shell, along with mechanical, electrical, plumbing installations, energy and utility systems, and supporting site services. About 60 Ellis Don workers are currently present on-site, expected to grow to around 1,300 workers at peak times, alongside additional personnel supporting other project activities.
“The Power Co facility represents a transformative investment in Canada’s industrial future, and Ellis Don is proud to play a role in its delivery,” said Max Mantha, president of Construction at Ellis Don. “As a Canadian-headquartered employee-owned company, we are committed to building the infrastructure that will help support Canada’s growing electric vehicle and battery manufacturing sector. This project will create opportunities for skilled tradespeople, local businesses, and communities across southwestern Ontario. We look forward to collaborating with Power Co and our partners on this landmark development.”
Simultaneously, Power Co is aligning the project’s timeline and product strategy with changing market demands, technological advancements, and Volkswagen Group’s long-term strategy. The St. Thomas facility is now expected to start operations in 2029 to accommodate next-generation battery technology while keeping flexibility for scaling over time as market conditions evolve.
“The St. Thomas gigafactory remains a cornerstone of our North American strategy,” added Karlsberg. “We are continuing to build now while determining how and when the facility scales over time. This is about getting the pacing right-not stepping back-to protect our long-term investment while supporting regional jobs and positioning Canada, Ontario, and St. Thomas to benefit in a dynamic and evolving market.”
Featured image: (Power Co Canada)
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