In an announcement this week, Strickland designated the Northwest Ohio Solar Energy Hub in an effort to promote entrepreneurship and attract solar researchers, manufacturers, educational facilities, and others involved in the industry.
"By pairing Northwest Ohio's glass manufacturing legacy with its innovative research and university strengths, this hub will help accelerate the growth of Ohio's solar industry," said Strickland.
The state has also designated hubs aimed at promoting healthcare technology and aerospace development. Other entities involved in this particular effort include the University of Toledo and Bowling Green State University.
This region of the country has actually figured prominently in past media reports highlighting the economic potential of green jobs. This is because Toledo was once known for its glass manufacturing industrial base, which provided materials to the auto industry in Detroit. The old facilities that once produced glass sheets have proven to be compatible with solar panel manufacturing activities.
