The Bowman Centre at Sarnia-Lambton's Western Research Park has formally invited Ontario's premier and energy minister to join a ten-year private/public sector energy program.
The program, undertaken by the Canadian Academy of Engineering, seeks to establish a bitumen upgrader refinery in Sarnia-Lambton.
Development of a national high voltage electrical grid and the re-energizing of Canada's manufacturing capability are other priorities.
Program proponents say big energy projects like a $10-billion upgrader would boost interprovincial trade, increase job opportunities and address negative environmental factors like carbon dioxide emissions.
Two local delegations to Toronto have already reviewed the program with Energy Minister Bob Chiarelli.
The minister and deputy minister have been invited to speak about Ontario's energy future at a conference May 5 and May 6 at the Holiday Inn in Point Edward.
Ministry officials have indicated a response will be forthcoming.