With the advent of the Green Energy and Green Economy Act, 2009 - passed into law on May 14, 2009 - Ontario continues its leadership in renewable energy initiatives. This was reinforced in September 2009 when Ontario announced specific steps to support the transition to more electricity generated from green energy and to encourage investment opportunities in Ontario's green economy. Leading the way is Ontario's establishment of North America's first comprehensive Feed-In Tariff Program for energy generated from renewable sources.

The demand for alternative energy in North America is growing - and Ontario is in a prime position to meet that demand. Its strategic location in North America, long-term government support for alternative energy generation and advanced and diverse manufacturing capabilities, position Ontario as a preferred location for manufacturers of sustainable, alternative energy technologies and related components, service providers and project developers.

Research and testing are essential for the successful development and production of new technologies and products. Ontario companies and multinationals with R&D operations in Ontario have become world leaders in a number of specialized environmental areas. This can be attributed in part to the province's exceptional R&D advantage, which includes leading minds, world-class research centres that know how to work with industry - and one of the best R&D tax credit programs to be found anywhere.

Sustainability also applies to environmental practices. Responsible industries want to conduct operations using cleaner technologies and in jurisdictions that support efforts to manage environmental footprints and energy consumption. This is a central element of Ontario's support of the alternative energy sector.

Ontario offers specific tax incentives focused on the deployment of renewable energy systems, as well as government funding for the commercialisation of new energy technologies.

If your business is in the environment or alternative energy sector, consider Ontario. We can help you.