CAMBRIDGE, ON, Oct. 21, 2009 /CNW/ -- ATS Automation Tooling Systems Inc. ("ATS" or "the Company") and Photowatt, its wholly-owned subsidiary, today announced they will lever their global solar expertise and Ontario presence to advance the Ontario solar market.

As part of its comprehensive approach, ATS plans to:
-   Develop solar projects;
-   Offer complete solutions to installers and developers including
modules, balance of system, technical support, project management,
financing and site maintenance, with the ability to meet and exceed
content requirements under the Green Energy Act;
-   Build Photowatt modules directly at its existing Cambridge
facilities, as well as through a contract manufacturing arrangement
with an Ontario-based partner;
-   Designate a "green wing" on its existing Cambridge campus and invite
others wishing to participate in the Ontario market and/or produce
products in Ontario to consider cooperation and co-location.

The Green Energy Act regulations announced in Ontario on September 24, 2009, introduced Feed-in Tariffs and domestic content rules for alternative energy producers. ATS believes the improved regulatory environment, combined with increasing focus on alternative energy will support growth in the Ontario solar energy market. ATS is uniquely positioned, with Ontario-based manufacturing and extensive solar capabilities and experience to participate in the market.

"With our very broad capabilities in solar and as a leading equipment, engineering and manufacturing company with over 900 employees and approximately 1 million square feet of facilities in Ontario, we have the capability to meet demand and lead the domestic market," said Anthony Caputo, ATS Chief Executive Officer. "I would invite other companies interested in this innovative market to consider collaborating with us at our new green wing."

Said George Smitherman, Deputy Premier and Minister of Energy and Infrastructure: "This investment announced by ATS represents further progress in Ontario's pursuit of green energy and green jobs."

ATS and Photowatt intend to make additional announcements with respect to their Ontario plans in the coming weeks.

About ATS

ATS Automation Tooling Systems Inc. provides innovative, custom designed, built and installed manufacturing solutions to many of the world's most successful companies. Founded in 1978, ATS uses its industry-leading knowledge and global capabilities to serve the sophisticated automation systems' needs of multinational customers in industries such as healthcare, computer/electronics, energy, automotive and consumer products. It also leverages its many years of experience and skills to fulfill the specialized automation product manufacturing requirements of customers.