Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne has announced a new advanced energy centre that will put the public and private sectors around the same table to develop next-generation technologies.
Based at the MaRS Discovery District, a Toronto-based innovation centre, the Advanced Energy Centre will see utility and government officials come together with private industry to “extend Canada’s lead” in new energy technologies.
“This centre will help our entrepreneurs become global leaders in energy technology, while creating good jobs here in Ontario,” Wynne said in a statement.
“By partnering with the private sector, we are building our knowledge economy, driving innovation and keeping Ontario competitive.”
Founding partners Capgemini Canada Inc., a Toronto-based consulting firm, and Siemens Canada Ltd. will both play a role in the centre.
Wynne said the centre will build on energy conservation initiatives, as well as energy data and storage solutions.
“The transformation of energy networks and infrastructure is estimated to create a $3-trillion global market by 2020,” said MaRS chief executive Ilse Treurnicht.
“I’m thrilled that MaRS will be working with entrepreneurs, government and industry stakeholders to ensure that leading Canadian innovations capture a significant share of this growing export market.”
Former Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) president and CEO Paul Murphy has been named the founding chair of the centre’s advisory board.
“The co-operation of the public and private sectors is key to the success of this effort,” said Murphy. “By combining our proven energy sector expertise with our disruptive innovations, the centre will be a game-changer when it comes to exporting our energy solutions.”
