Tuesday, October 06, 2009 at 2:50:04 PM - by Nate Lew

Enbridge, a Canadian energy company, has announced that it is acquiring a 20 megawatt solar power project in Ontario from First Solar.

The project is said to be under construction by First Solar near the city of Sarnia and is expected to become the large photovoltaic energy facility in Canada and one of the largest in North America. The facility is expected to generate enough power for about 3,200 homes.

According to Enbridge CEO Patrick Daniel, the company has invested nearly C$100 million in solar projects this year alone, and that plans are in place for additional investments in renewable energy, including some that may be located in Ontario.

"As society and governments increasingly accept green energy, we believe that solar energy represents meaningful opportunities for long-term growth," said Daniel, noting that the project is consistent with Enbridge's "low risk business model." The company also builds oil pipelines.

Along with providing clean energy for area residents, the project may also help demonstrate that solar power is viable in places like Canada, which unlike the American Southwest, is not particularly known for sunny weather.