Ontario has secured a $3.2-billion investment from Norwegian manufacturer Vianode to build a large-scale synthetic graphite facility in St. Thomas, marking the company’s first entry into the North American market and adding new momentum to the province’s growing electric-vehicle and clean-technology manufacturing corridor.
The project, announced Wednesday, will create nearly 300 jobs in its initial phase and as many as 1,000 positions once fully operational. The province is framing the deal as a major step in its plan to bolster industrial resiliency, strengthen domestic supply chains and compete for global investment amid ongoing trade uncertainty.
“Today’s announcement is a historic milestone for southwestern Ontario and a major win for workers, creating good-paying manufacturing jobs today and for generations to come,” said Premier Doug Ford. “We’re proud to welcome Vianode to St. Thomas as we strengthen our province’s competitive advantage in a critical industry and build the most competitive, resilient, self-reliant economy in the G7.”
Synthetic graphite is a key material used in lithium-ion batteries, nuclear reactors, semiconductors, aerospace and defence systems, and steelmaking. The province says attracting large-scale production will support not only jobs at the St. Thomas site but also employment across the supply chain, including mining, refining, battery manufacturing, transportation, research and broader advanced manufacturing.
Government officials also emphasized the geopolitical significance of the investment. China currently controls more than 80 per cent of global synthetic graphite production, raising concerns for industries dependent on secure and diversified sourcing. Vianode’s project will be the first major low-emission synthetic graphite facility in North America.
“With economic uncertainty undermining global supply chains, Ontario continues to stand as the stable and reliable economic partner that our allies are looking for,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “As demand for synthetic graphite ramps up at home and abroad, Vianode’s investment will position the province as a leading supplier for strategic industries, ensuring that Ontario’s economy and workers benefit for years to come.”
The St. Thomas plant is being built in multiple phases and is expected to reach a production capacity of up to 150,000 tonnes per year — enough to supply synthetic graphite for approximately two million electric vehicles annually. To support the project, Ontario is providing a loan of up to $670 million, contingent on a final agreement.
“Today marks an important step towards a resilient North American battery supply chain,” said Burkhard Straube, CEO of Vianode. “Ontario and the city of St. Thomas have been strong partners from day one, and Via TWO will bring industrial-scale, low-emission graphite to market through a phased build-out that supports customers, communities and the clean-energy transition.”
Local representatives also highlighted the regional benefits, calling the decision a vote of confidence in St. Thomas’s workforce and industrial capacity.
“Vianode’s decision to build its first North American facility here means hundreds of good-paying jobs for local families and new opportunities for businesses across our region. It shows the confidence global leaders have in our community and workforce. This project will strengthen supply chains, create lasting economic growth and position our region at the center of the clean economy for years to come,” said Rob Flack, MPP for Elgin—Middlesex—London.
“We thank the Province of Ontario for helping to make this milestone possible. St. Thomas has always played an important role in the automotive industry, and today we’re embracing the next chapter — one rooted in clean technology, innovation and sustainability. We are thrilled to welcome Vianode to our city and celebrate the skilled jobs and environmental progress this project brings to our community,” said St. Thomas Mayor Joe Preston.
“St. Thomas is exactly where we need to be — next to major manufacturing hubs and in a region with the skills to scale. We’re committed to being a good neighbour, creating high-quality jobs and working with local partners as we build Canada’s first large-scale synthetic graphite facility,” added Emanuele Tricca, Managing Director of Vianode Canada.
Economic development agencies involved in securing the investment said the project strengthens Ontario’s position in the global EV supply chain.
“Vianode’s decision is a clear signal that Ontario remains a dependable and competitive partner for business growth. Investing today demands clear strategy and steady navigation through a changing economic landscape, especially for landmark projects of this scale. We’re proud to have worked with Vianode along the way to help it enter a new market and grow with confidence in Ontario,” said Khawar Nasim, CEO of Invest Ontario.
“Vianode’s decision to invest in St. Thomas is a powerful vote of confidence in our community, our workforce and our vision for the future of advanced manufacturing and sustainability. This new facility will strengthen our region’s position in the global battery supply chain and bring high-quality jobs, innovation and long-term economic growth to St. Thomas. We’re proud to welcome Vianode and look forward to supporting their success as they become an integral part of our thriving industrial ecosystem,” said Sean Dyke, CEO of the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation.
The announcement follows several years of heightened investment in Ontario’s EV and battery-related industries. According to the province, more than 400 companies committed $39 billion last year, helping create nearly 25,000 jobs.