Operators Summit 2025

April 16-17, 2025
Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto Airport & Conference Centre

Caption: Opening remarks made by CanREA’s Director of the Operators Program, Mathieu Côté.

More than 325 professionals from across Canada’s renewable energy landscape gathered at the Delta Hotel in the heart of Toronto for CanREA’s fifth annual Operators Summit. This year’s edition was the largest conference and exhibition devoted to the operations and maintenance of renewable energy and energy storage sites in Canada.

The event gathered top leaders, innovators and experts for two days of networking and sharing the latest advances in wind, solar and energy storage.

The theme of the 2025 summit, Engaging Our Communities, focused on the vital importance of community engagement in renewable energy projects. The summit highlighted real-world examples and best practices for fostering stronger, more inclusive partnerships with host municipalities, First Nations communities and local stakeholders. Discussions centered around how collaboration with communities can accelerate the transition to a low-carbon future and ensure sustainable energy solutions.

The program featured in-depth technical sessions on wind, solar and energy storage technologies, as well as discussions on health and safety best practices and workforce development. Attendees also had access to targeted networking events with industry leaders and innovators.

A series of plenary sessions explored best practices for working with local stakeholders, municipalities, and First Nations to develop strong partnerships that foster community support and enhance the sustainability of renewable energy projects.

Over the course of two days, professionals from across the renewable energy sector attended specialized sessions covering the latest advancements in wind, solar and energy storage technologies. Networking events facilitated key connections for those seeking collaboration or insights on upcoming projects.

Caption: CanREA’s President and CEO Vittoria Bellissimo and Manager, Operators Program, Mary MacLean sign and accept the EHRC’s Leadership Accord on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion with Mark Chapeskie, Vice President of Program Development and Yoana Turnin, Program Manager of Careers and Education from EHRC.

In a unique session, Electricity Human Resources Canada launched their new report, “Winds of Change: Labour Market Dynamics in Renewable Energy.” The discussion focused on addressing the growing need for skilled professionals in the renewable energy sector as well as strategies for training and retaining talent.

A dynamic exhibition area featured leading companies showcasing the newest products and services for the renewable energy sector, providing a space for operators to explore cutting-edge technologies and solutions.

Health and safety experts led discussions on safe operational practices, particularly in renewable energy sites. Operators gained valuable insights into maintaining a safe and sustainable working environment amidst evolving challenges in the industry.

To wrap up the summit, an insightful plenary explored how operators play a critical role in advancing the energy transition in Ontario with the government set to launch the largest expansion of non-emitting generation in a decade.

Thank you to our sponsors:

CanREA extends its gratitude to all the attendees, exhibitors, and sponsors who contributed to making the 2025 Operators Summit a success.

Health & Safety Sponsor (EDF)

Caption: Nick Spratt, Andrew Kingstone, Elisabeth Miclo and Dan Barker from EDF.

Hospitality Sponsor – Day 1 (PANDELL)

Caption: Joshua Kong, Kathy Dodds, John Pongo and Jennifer Phone from Pandell.

Reception Sponsor (Clearlight Energy)

Caption: Ian MacRobbie, Artem Bogachuck and Mark Eagle from Clearlight Energy.

Event Sponsors

Caption: Lindsay Mackay, Will Peterson and Richard Sutherland from Aviva.
Caption: Jeremi Michaud, Yamile Fino Martinez and Antony Glover from Enercon.
Caption: Austin Zacharko and Tyler Peng from Sungrow.

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