The Toledo Region’s longstanding strength in glass and plastic films, originally a mainstay of the automotive industry, is now a force for innovation in solar power technology.
Beyond manufacturing infrastructure, the region possesses the skilled labor force and academic support to foster ongoing leadership and success in this rapidly evolving business sector.
Emerging leaders in the solar energy have established significant operations in the Toledo Region, and a growing roster of early stage companies is joining them.
- The Regional Growth Partnership estimates that more than 5,000 jobs in advanced energy have been created in the Toledo Region during the past five years.
- The State of Ohio recognizes two of the region’s universities, Bowling Green and University of Toledo, as centers of excellence in advanced solar technology.
- As of 2011, Ohio’s Third Frontier Initiative has invested over $33 million in the photovoltaic cluster in Northwest Ohio.
- Toledo is within 100 miles of 63% of US PV solar cell manufacturers, such as First Solar and Uni-Solar.
- Toledo-based Xunlight PV modules are used to power the first 100% solar-powered billboard in New York Times Square.
- The Northwest Ohio Solar Energy Hub focuses on promoting entrepreneurs, economic development and commercializaton in the region and solar industry to ensure that Ohio's existing industries retain their competitive advantage in the global marketplace.
Rocket Ventures
Green Energy Ohio
Ohio Air Quality Development Authority
