ProLec GE Waukesha, announces that they will create 330 new jobs and add an additional capital investment of $140 million to increase the output of medium power transformers by 200 units.
This expansion is anticipated to be a 2.5-year project. This estimated cost will encompass all engineering, construction, and required equipment to increase the unit production in medium power transformers. For the Goldsboro facility, this would be an increase in the maximum capacity from 220 units to 420 units per year.
Strong market demand for medium power transformers will support this expansion and the increased throughput will allow Prolec‐GE to achieve the goals set in its Growth Plan to further increase its market share in North America.
Goldsboro operations began as Hevi-Duty Electric, a division of Sola Basic Industries, in a warehouse on James Street in August 1966 as a staging/light assembly location while the current facility was being built. Five winding machines, an arc weld-line, a small press brake and a small fabricator were installed, and a line to stack cores was set up. People were hired and production began in anticipation of the full factory startup.
In December 1967, Hevi-Duty completed the 120,000 square foot facility located at 2701 US Highway 117 South. This plant was designed and built for manufacturing small power transformers rated through 10,000 KVA – both dry-type and liquid-filled. By the end of 1967, 157 people were employed at the new plant.
Fast forward to today, the facility encompasses 171,500 square feet of manufacturing and office space and employs over 350 people. After several acquisitions, completion of major plant upgrades in 1979 and 1993, along with phasing out dry-type power transformers in 1990, its production capabilities now include units up to 60 MVA and 230kV.
“It is essential for government, industry, and community leaders to collaborate early and frequently to drive growth in the manufacturing sector,” said Xignux CEO Juan Ignacio Garza Herrera during his speech. “This $140M investment reflects our long-term commitment to creating sustainable value for North America’s energy market and our pride in energizing life and society to contribute to a better world. Our collaboration with the state of North Carolina, Wayne County, and our joint venture partner, GE Vernova, will be instrumental in helping us turn this commitment into something tangible that will benefit our customers and all those that rely on the country’s power grid.”
N.C. Representative John R. Bell, IV expressed his congratulations to Prolec GE Waukesha on their decision to expand in Wayne County. He highlighted,” This major investment reflects a strong commitment to innovation, job creation, and community development in the area. The choice to grow their facilities showcases the strength of the local workforce and the appeal of the business environment. This expansion is set to generate high-quality jobs and boost the economic vitality of the community. Prolec’s investment in Wayne County is beneficial for all parties involved.” Bell added, “It exemplifies the positive outcomes that can arise from strategic collaborations between businesses and local governments. The energy sector is at a pivotal point, needing to meet the increasing demands of our citizens.”
“We are proud to support the expansion of Prolec-GE Waukesha, Inc., one of our long-standing industry partners. Their growth reinforces the vital role our existing industries play in driving economic development and job creation in Wayne County. This is more than an investment in facilities—it’s an investment in our people, our future, and the continued strength of our community.” Chip Crumpler, Wayne County Manager.
“The expansion of Prolec in Wayne County marks a significant milestone for our region,” stated Mark Pope, EDR President. “This development not only underscores Prolec’s confidence in our community’s potential but also highlights the strategic advantages we offer, such as prime accessibility and a skilled workforce. The investment will create numerous high-quality jobs, fostering economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for our residents. Furthermore, Prolec’s commitment to innovation and sustainability aligns perfectly with our vision for a prosperous and resilient future. This collaboration is a testament to the power of partnerships between industry leaders and local stakeholders, driving forward the energy sector to meet the evolving needs of our society.”
” We are excited that Prolec-Ge Waukesha, Inc. decided to expand here in Wayne County This expansion is a clear indicator of the region’s competitive advantage – our skilled workforce infrastructure and strong support for Industry development. As a community, we are committed to creating a thriving environment for companies to succeed and grow here in Wayne County. The new jobs and opportunities generated by this project will have a meaningful, lasting impact for our residents, and we are proud to be a partner in Prolec-Ge Waukesha success said Julie Graham, Existing Industry Director.
Partnering with the North Carolina Economic Development region were the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, Department of Commerce, NC General Assembly, North Carolina Community College System, Wayne County, Wayne County Development Alliance, Duke Energy, North Carolina Southeast, Wayne Community College.
Contact:
Mark Pope, President
North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region
mark.pope@ncgtpedr.com
252-559-3907
www.ncgtpedr.com
