Ballard Power Slashing Costs 30% in “Fundamental Reset” with Job Cuts

What’s Going on at Ballard Power?

Ballard Power Systems is launching a sweeping internal overhaul — including workforce reductions, significant cost-cutting, and a strategic pivot away from aspirational growth — in a bid to stabilize financially.

The Vancouver-based fuel-cell manufacturer announced the move in a July 30 release, describing it as a “bold strategic realignment” aimed at achieving cash-flow positivity by the end of 2027.

“Today’s plan is not about waiting for a market to emerge — it’s about focusing on the market that is,” said new CEO Marty Neese, who took over earlier this month. Neese succeeded Randy MacEwen, who served as President and CEO for 11 years.

This is Ballard’s second major restructuring in less than a year, underscoring growing pressure in the clean energy sector amid slower-than-expected hydrogen adoption and capital market constraints.

Key Changes and Cost-Saving Measures

Ballard said it will cut annualized operating costs by at least 30% by 2026 (relative to the first half of 2025), through a mix of:

• Immediate workforce reductions
• Streamlined operations and tighter portfolio integration
• Cutting capital expenditures
• Prioritizing fuel-cell products with strong commercial traction
• Exiting non-core programs

The company said the moves will enable “disciplined growth, sharper market execution, and stronger financial performance in line with current commercial realities.”

Next Steps for Ballard Power Staff

If you’re fired or let go from Ballard Power, understanding your legal rights is crucial.

Non-unionized employees in Canada are entitled to severance pay. This includes individuals working full-time, part-time, or hourly.

The amount you’re owed is based on a variety of factors, including your role, tenure, age, and ability to find similar work.

📺 WATCH: Everything Non-Unionized Employees Need to Know About Severance Pay

Key Severance Facts:

• Compensation: Severance packages, which can be as much as 24 months’ pay, may include salary, bonuses, commissions, and other forms of compensation. Use our firm’s free Severance Pay Calculator to better understand your entitlements.
• Deadlines: You generally have up to 2 years from the date of your termination to review and negotiate severance offers.
• Action steps: Consult an employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP to ensure your severance package is fair and aligns with Canadian employment laws.

Lost Your Job at Ballard Power? Contact Us

If you’ve lost your job at Ballard Power for any reason, the experienced employment law team at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can help.

Our employment lawyers in Ontario, Alberta, and BC have helped thousands of non-unionized employees get justice and full severance packages.

📞 Call us today at 1-855-821-5900 or request a consultation online.

Disclaimer: The materials above are provided as general information about the rights of non-unionized employees in Canada. It is not specific to any one company and SHOULD NOT be read as suggesting any improper conduct on the part of any specific employer, or a relationship between Samfiru Tumarkin LLP and a specific employer.