Ontario Government Invests in Solar Manufacturing Project

Morgan Solar Inc. will receive a substantial financial contribution from the Ontario government to facilitate the launch of its commercial activities in the province. The young Toronto-based company has developed a unique photovoltaic (PV) panel characterized by its lightness, sturdiness, and unparalleled sunlight-concentrating capacity. With the $1.86 million in funding it received from the government, Morgan Solar will soon begin manufacturing its patented technology for market.

Construction of a new production facility will undoubtedly create many temporary employment opportunities, but once operational, Morgan Solar’s production line could create as many as twenty new long-term solar jobs. The provincial government’s investment reflects the considerable growth of the solar energy industry, even during one of the worst economic crises in the past several decades. As the solar industry becomes even more entrenched, demand for skilled employees with solar training is also expected to increase, thus, creating new demand for manufacturing training and PV installation classes throughout the province.

An Innovative Approach to Green Energy

The basic idea behind Morgan Solar’s revolutionary technology is the Light-Guide Solar Optic (LSO) – a novel, concentrated photovoltaic design that uses neither lenses nor mirrors. VP of Business Development, Nicholas Morgan, describes the LSO as a “highly efficient, low cost solar technology.” This patented optical system has incredible sunlight-concentrating potential (up to 1400-fold) in addition to being cheap and easy to manufacture. Additionally, the technology is 100% recyclable and uses only environmentally safe materials. Nicholas Morgan is convinced that his firm can contribute to “making solar energy one of the most widely used and affordable power sources in the world.”

Ontario Becoming Solar Energy leader

The decision to fund Morgan Solar Inc.’s project was made by John Milloy, head of Ontario’s Ministry of Research and Innovation. He described this investment as a step towards making Ontario “the North American leader in clean energy,” adding that this project would also help the province by “creating good jobs for Ontario families in a growing industry.” However, the exact details of Morgan Solar’s manufacturing capability have yet to be worked out. Rezoning plans in Toronto could derail construction of a production facility if city planners agree to reserve the current site for condominiums. Efforts are already underway to make sure that this does not happen.

Even with Morgan Solar’s manufacturing plans unresolved, Ontario’s reputation as a solar energy hub continues to grow, thanks to increased demand for renewable energy solutions and accompanying training opportunities. Ontario Solar Network Chairman, Jacob Travis, comments that, “Morgan Solar is good for Toronto’s economy; it’s a great example of exciting innovations in the solar industry.” He adds, “Their presence here sends a signal that Ontario can lead the way as an international solar powerhouse. We’re hopeful they can begin production ASAP.”

photo: Morgan Solar