Clarington Council and Mayor Adrian Foster said the municipality is deeply disappointed, dismayed, discouraged and shocked over Ontario Power Generation (OPG) decision to move its headquarters to Oshawa.
“We are deeply disappointed in the decision to rescind the commitment to build a new corporate headquarters for OPG in Clarington, said Mayor Foster. “Clarington Council and the local business community have worked for decades to support OPG and the nuclear industry. I cannot begin to convey how discouraged we are with the lack of local engagement in this decision.”
OPG announced plans to buy the General Motors headquarter building in Oshawa and move in in 2024. The value of the deal was not revealed. In 2019, the provincial government, alongside OPG, announced plans to build a consolidated headquarters in Clarington next to the Darlington nuclear station.
“I understand the business case in the reversal to build headquarters in Clarington, but it’s shocking that neither OPG nor the Government of Ontario recognized the ramifications that our community faces,” said Mayor Foster.
In a separate statement, the Municipality of Clarington said it is dismayed and disappointed by the province’s unexpected decision. “…the loss of revenue and infrastructure to the community will directly impact our community’s plan.”
Over the coming weeks, staff and council in Clarington will assess the extent of the impact of this move and consider the next steps, said the statement.
Corporate Headquarters
OPG’s decision will bring more than 2,000 highly skilled corporate staff to Oshawa, alongside their existing presence at the Pickering and Darlington Nuclear Generating Stations, said a statement from Oshawa.
OPG Oshawa headquarters will encompass a 26,433 square metre (284,522 square foot) office building on 29.94 hectares (74 acres) of land at 1908 Colonel Sam Drive. Anticipated occupancy will come in late 2024.
With an electrical generating portfolio including hydroelectric, nuclear, solar and biomass, OPG is one of the most diverse electricity generators in North America.
“We are thrilled to welcome Ontario Power Generation’s new corporate headquarters to the City of Oshawa,” said Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter. “OPG’s announcement continues the diversification of Oshawa’s economy and employment base, bringing further strength to our robust talent pool.”
Durham Region pleased
John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer, said: “We were pleased to hear that Ontario Power Generation (OPG)—one of our longest-standing partners—is purchasing a large office building from General Motors of Canada (GM Canada) located in Oshawa. This investment by OPG helps to solidify Durham Region’s position as the Clean Energy Capital of Canada, and will enable jobs and growth of the Durham economy.
“This positive news will leave an economic impact for the region as a whole—one that will be felt for decades. It’s a testament to the opportunities here in Durham Region. It’s a great place to invest, offering innovative thinkers, growth opportunities, and partnerships driving business,” he added.
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