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Export Deal Secures Jobs At Tillsonburg Plant

A massive deal to ship 36 wind turbine blades overseas has secured the jobs of 300 people in southwestern Ontario.

Siemens Canada landed the new global export agreement to manufacture the blades at its Tillsonburg plant.

Minister of Energy Bob Chiarelli made the announcement in Tillsonburg Monday. He also commended the work of Siemens, the Town of Tillsonburg and Oxford County on their efforts to develop renewable energy in Ontario .

"Community and corporate partners like you are helping ensure our energy system stays strong. Your work is helping create good manufacturing jobs, reduce harmful emissions, and improve the quality of life in our province," says Chiarelli.

Since 2010, Siemens has manufactured 1,800 turbine blades for the province, Sweden and the United Kingdom.

“Global demand driving export opportunities, along with a strong domestic market, are key factors in creating and sustaining a green economy and renewable manufacturing jobs in Canada," says David Hickey, vice president of wind power and renewables at Siemens. "We’re optimistic about the sustained growth of the wind industry.”

Oxford County has vowed to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2050. Ontario has set a target to have 20,000 megawatts of renewable energy online by 2025.

Wind energy in the province provides enough electricity to power approximately 1.2 million homes each year.

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