New Facility to Become Largest U.S. Power Transformer Site, Creating 825 Jobs
South Boston, VA — Hitachi Energy, a global leader in electrification and grid technologies, has announced a landmark $457 million investment to expand its power transformer manufacturing operations in South Boston, Virginia. The project will create 825 new jobs and establish the largest production site for large power transformers in the United States—supporting high-voltage transmission, AI data centers, and industrial-scale energy applications.
This expansion is part of Hitachi Energy’s broader $1 billion commitment to U.S. growth and grid modernization. The announcement was made by Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, who praised the company’s continued investment in the Commonwealth.
“Hard-working Virginians and a business-friendly environment are what first brought Hitachi Energy to the Commonwealth,” said Governor Youngkin. “Now, they’re doubling down with this historic investment in South Boston—transforming our energy future and creating hundreds of good-paying jobs.”
To support the influx of new talent, the Commonwealth is partnering with Halifax County and Virginia Housing to construct 96 workforce housing units near the facility. The initiative is backed by Virginia’s Workforce Housing Investment Program and includes donated land and waived permit fees from Halifax County.
“This expansion will help meet rising energy demands and strengthen domestic supply chains for critical grid technologies,” said Juan Pablo Segura, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. “Hitachi Energy is helping power Virginia’s economic future.”
The new facility will serve as a hub for advanced manufacturing, showcasing how operational and information technologies converge to produce next-generation transformers. It will also support sustainability goals through on-site solar panels and biodiversity-focused landscaping.
“Power transformers are essential to a reliable electric grid and to winning the AI race,” said Andreas Schierenbeck, CEO of Hitachi Energy. “This investment reflects our commitment to building resilient infrastructure, creating American jobs, and delivering critical power solutions for the U.S. economy.”
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), Halifax County, Southern Virginia Regional Alliance, and the General Assembly’s Major Employment and Investment (MEI) Project Approval Commission collaborated to secure the project. Hitachi Energy will be eligible for a $29.4 million MEI performance grant, pending legislative approval.
Workforce development will be supported by the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program, ranked the #1 customized workforce training program in the U.S. by Business Facilities. The program will deliver tailored recruitment and training services at no cost to the company.
Local leaders and elected officials praised the announcement as a transformative moment for Southside Virginia:
- “This is a great day for Halifax County,” said W. Bryant Claiborne, Chairman of the Halifax County Board of Supervisors. “Hitachi’s investment will strengthen our community and create lasting opportunity.”
- “Since 1967, this facility has been a vital part of our business community,” added Joel Medley, Vice Chairman of the Halifax IDA. “We look forward to continued collaboration on housing, training, and childcare.”
- “South Boston is becoming a global hub for energy innovation,” said Linda Green, Executive Director of the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance. “Hitachi’s leadership is helping us meet the world’s rising energy demands.”
- “This investment will transform lives and lay the foundation for lasting growth,” said Senator Tammy Mulchi.
- “Southside Virginia will help resolve the national shortage of critical electrical equipment,” said Delegate Danny Marshall.
- “A vigorous electric grid is vital to American energy dominance,” said Congressman John McGuire (VA-05). “This facility will deliver the transformers we need—and the jobs our district deserves.”
About Hitachi Energy
Hitachi Energy is a global technology leader in electrification, delivering innovative power grid solutions with digital at the core. With operations in over 60 countries and a workforce of 50,000, the company supports utilities, industries, transportation, data centers, and infrastructure sectors worldwide. Headquartered in Switzerland, Hitachi Energy generates approximately $16 billion in annual revenue and maintains an installed base in more than 140 countries. Learn more at www.hitachienergy.com.
Media Contact:
Tyler Levinson
Communications Specialist, VEDP
tlevinson@vedp.org
