Aerial photo of NextStar Energy in Windsor, Ont. (Photo courtesy of Stellantis)
Construction has wrapped up at NextStar Energy’s (NSE) new battery manufacturing plant in Windsor, Ont. The milestone of receiving its occupancy permit brings NSE one step closer to ramping up operations at its cell manufacturing facility this year.
“This achievement is the direct result of a shared vision, effective partnership, and incredible hard work of everyone involved,” said Danies Lee, CEO of NextStar Energy. “As we transition from construction to operations, I am deeply grateful for the collaboration between our partner companies LG Energy Solution and Stellantis, our construction partner Alberici-Barton Malow, the City of Windsor, the provincial and federal governments, and all who have supported our project to be completed safely and on schedule.”
The NextStar Energy facility is a state-of-the-art battery manufacturing plant capable of an annual production capacity of up to 49.5 gigawatt hours. Core operations include electrode production, cell formation and assembly, and module assembly. NSE has hired over 950 full-time employees to date and has committed to creating 2,500 local jobs.
“Completion of construction and the granting of the occupancy permit marks a major milestone for the game-changing NextStar Energy battery manufacturing facility in Windsor,” said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens. “The $5-billion investment has placed us at the forefront of electrification, and our collective commitment to collaboration, land development, infrastructure and job creation continues to drive new investments and build the foundation of future growth and development for Windsor and Essex County.”
Construction of the 4.23 million-square-foot site began in 2022. More than 9,000 Canadian trades workers contributed over 8.4 million work hours to bring the project to life. Today, the site is home to 11 buildings: two main manufacturing facilities and nine support buildings, including a recycling centre and safety testing laboratory.
While minor construction activities continue in non-operational areas, the facility itself is fully approved for safe occupancy and is ready for production.
NextStar Energy is a joint venture between LG Energy Solution and Stellantis, and is Canada’s first large-scale battery manufacturing facility.
