EnerQuest expansion to create and protect nearly 280 jobs in Southwestern Ontario
Provincial funding supports reshoring efforts and domestic supply chain growth
The Ontario government is backing a nearly $15.8-million manufacturing investment in Essex County, as EnerQuest Technologies Solutions Inc. moves to expand its Harrow facility and bring production operations back to Canada.
The investment is expected to create 125 new jobs and retain an additional 154 positions, strengthening the region’s manufacturing base while reducing reliance on U.S.-based operations. The province is contributing $1.5 million through the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund, part of its broader Regional Development Program (RDP).
Government officials say the expansion reflects ongoing efforts to reinforce domestic supply chains and support economic resilience in the face of global trade pressures.
“EnerQuest’s expansion speaks not only to the resilience of Ontario’s manufacturing sector, but to the reliability of our workforce and the power of partnership,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “Through the Regional Development Program, our government is proud to support a company who is driving forward regional economic priorities and strengthening domestic supply chains through the reshoring of their operations.”
Reshoring production to mitigate risks and meet demand
EnerQuest, a custom manufacturer of prefabricated electrical equipment, plans to relocate its switchgear sub-assembly production from a U.S. sister facility to its Harrow plant. The move is expected to reduce exposure to tariff risks while increasing production capacity.
The company is also positioning itself to meet rising demand tied to key sectors, including data centre infrastructure, modular housing and medical units—areas that have seen steady growth amid ongoing digital and infrastructure investments.
Provincial officials say reshoring efforts like this are increasingly important as manufacturers respond to supply chain disruptions and shifting trade dynamics.
“By supporting strategic investments from regional businesses, our government is protecting Ontario’s workers and creating the conditions for a strong, stable, and resilient economy that can weather any storm,” said Anthony Leardi, MPP for Essex. “EnerQuest’s investment will support growth and innovation across the local manufacturing sector and create more good-paying jobs for workers and families in Essex County.”
Regional Development Program driving investment
Launched in 2019, the Regional Development Program provides financial support to businesses and municipalities to help them scale operations, adopt new technologies and enhance workforce capabilities.
To date, the program has attracted more than $2.6 billion in investments across Ontario and supported the creation of over 5,500 jobs. Through its Eastern and Southwestern streams alone, the province has committed more than $180 million to 145 companies, leveraging nearly $1.9 billion in additional private-sector investment and creating more than 4,400 jobs.
Applications for the latest intake round of the program opened on February 26, 2026, and will close on May 27, 2026.
Local partnerships underpin expansion
Company leadership emphasized the role of community support and government collaboration in enabling the expansion.
“While the technology is important, what truly makes this expansion possible is the community around us,” said Malena Marshall, Director at EnerQuest Technologies Solutions Inc. “Harrow has been more than just a location for our operations — it has been a partner in our growth. The support from local leaders, educators, and residents has helped create an environment where companies like EnerQuest can invest with confidence and build long-term careers for the people who live here. We are especially grateful for the support provided through the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund. Programs like this help companies invest in advanced manufacturing, strengthen regional supply chains, and create high-quality jobs right here in Southwestern Ontario. That kind of partnership between industry, government, and community is exactly what fuels sustainable growth.”
Manufacturing remains central to Ontario economy
Ontario’s manufacturing sector continues to play a critical role in the province’s economic performance, employing more than 800,000 workers and serving as a key driver of exports and innovation.
The province has introduced a range of measures aimed at supporting the sector, including tax incentives such as the Ontario Made Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit and targeted funding initiatives like the newly launched $150-million Ontario Together Trade Fund.
Officials say further details on the government’s economic strategy will be outlined in the 2026 provincial budget, scheduled for release on March 26.
As global trade uncertainties persist, Ontario is positioning itself to attract investment, strengthen domestic production and enhance competitiveness within the G7, with projects like EnerQuest’s expansion seen as a key part of that strategy.