WINDSOR, ONTARIO — NextStar Energy has officially received its occupancy permit for its $5-billion electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturing plant in Windsor, marking the completion of major construction at Canada’s first large-scale battery production facility.
The landmark project, a joint venture between LG Energy Solution and Stellantis, spans 4.23 million square feet and includes two primary manufacturing facilities — Cell and Module — as well as nine support buildings, such as a recycling centre and safety testing laboratory. With the permit in hand, NextStar is now moving closer to initiating operations that will power the future of Canada’s EV sector.
“This milestone is like being handed the keys to a new car,” said Brett Hillock, Chief Operating Officer of NextStar Energy. “Our team is eager to fine-tune the processes, validate our systems, and move toward producing certified material that will pave the way for mass production. There’s a real sense of excitement in the air as we prepare to bring this facility fully online.”
The Windsor-based plant, located just off the E.C. Row Expressway and Banwell Road, is designed with an annual production capacity of up to 49.5 gigawatt hours. Core operations will include electrode production, cell formation and assembly, and module assembly.
Over 950 full-time employees have already been hired, with commitments to create 2,500 local jobs once the plant is at full capacity. Construction, which began in 2022, represents a transformative investment not only for Windsor and Ontario, but for Canada’s national EV strategy.
Hillock confirmed that while minor construction continues in non-operational areas, operational teams are now testing and validating production lines with sample material. Mass production is targeted to begin by the end of 2025, a key step in helping North America meet its growing demand for clean transportation solutions.
“This facility puts Windsor at the centre of Canada’s EV future,” Hillock added. “It ensures we are not only part of the global supply chain but leaders in delivering battery technology that will drive innovation, sustainability, and economic growth.”
NextStar Energy’s Windsor plant is expected to be a cornerstone of Canada’s clean-tech economy, fueling electric vehicle production, supporting environmental goals, and securing the nation’s role in the competitive EV battery industry.