Hitachi Energy plans to invest $457 million in expanding its power transformer production facility in South Boston, Virginia. The expansion is expected to create 825 new jobs and make the site the largest manufacturing campus for large power transformers in the United States.
The facility will produce large power transformers used in high-voltage transmission, power generation, AI data centers, and industrial applications. Governor Glenn Youngkin stated, “Thank you, Hitachi Energy, for trusting Virginia, again! Hard-working Virginians and a business-friendly environment are what first brought Hitachi Energy to the Commonwealth. Now, after years of success here, they are doubling down on that decision with this landmark investment in South Boston. Eight-hundred and twenty-five new jobs will be transformational for Southside Virginia, as will the power transformers those new hires are set to build. These transformers are critical to our Nation’s electrical grid and will be built right here in Virginia.”
Governor Youngkin also announced a workforce housing project to support incoming employees: “We are also proud to announce a major workforce housing project to support Hitachi’s new employees. We are partnering with Halifax County and Virginia Housing to build 96 new homes supported by a grant from the Virginia Workforce Housing Investment Program.”
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura commented on the economic impact: “Virginia’s manufacturing sector is continuing to grow with this exciting investment from Hitachi Energy. 825 new employees in South Boston will soon be constructing the critical electrical equipment needed to power even more economic growth in the Commonwealth. As our energy demands rise, Virginia and Hitachi Energy are rising to the occasion.”
The project aims to address growing energy needs in Virginia while supporting domestic access to essential grid technologies. Local government is contributing land for workforce housing construction near the facility, with Halifax County waiving permit and connection fees.
Andreas Schierenbeck, CEO of Hitachi Energy, said: “Power transformers are a linchpin technology for a robust and reliable electric grid and winning the AI race. Bringing production of large power transformers to the U.S. is critical to building a strong domestic supply chain for the U.S. economy and reducing production bottlenecks, which is essential as demand for these transformers across the economy is surging. As the global leader in electrification, Hitachi Energy is uniquely positioned to deliver critical power solutions for the American market. Our investments in expanding U.S. transformer manufacturing capacity—including at our new South Boston facility—are already creating good-paying American jobs, strengthening local communities, and reinforcing economic independence. At Hitachi Energy, we are deeply grateful for the leadership and support of the Trump administration, Governor Youngkin, Virginia’s General Assembly, and the Commonwealth’s congressional delegation, who came together to make this critical production capacity possible to power our energy future.”
W. Bryant Claiborne of Halifax County Board of Supervisors added: “We are honored to partner with Hitachi for the expansion of the South Boston facility. The additional jobs and substantial financial investment in the community shows Hitachi’s commitment to Halifax County and our commitment to a strong business climate where industry can grow and thrive. This is a great day for our citizens, our businesses and for Hitachi. We look forward to the development of this project and the growth of our community.”
Joel Medley from Halifax IDA stated: “We are pleased to support the continued growth of Hitachi in Halifax County. We are honored Hitachi has selected the South Boston plant for this investment. Since the groundbreaking of the original plant in 1967, this facility and its people have been vital members of our business community. We look forward to continuing work with company leaders on workforce housing, training and childcare throughout this project and into the future.”
Linda Green from Southern Virginia Regional Alliance said: “Hitachi’s leadership in transformer technology is advancing energy reliability worldwide, with South Boston, Virginia, standing as a key hub where investment in people and processes strengthens both community growth and global innovation. We are grateful for Hitachi’s continued investments in Southern Virginia and for the company’s expanding role in meeting the world’s rising energy demands.”
Delegate Luke Torian remarked: “The investment by Hitachi Energy represents a significant step forward in advancing Virginia’s future. The General Assembly remains committed to strengthening the Commonwealth’s manufacturing sector and ensuring that we are prepared to meet increasing energy demands. We welcome Hitachi’s partnership in helping us achieve these critical goals.”
Senator Tammy Mulchi said: “This historic investment by Hitachi Energy in South Boston highlights the bright future ahead for Southside Virginia. I am proud that our region will play a key role in meeting the Commonwealth’s growing energy needs. Hitachi Energy has been a true partner to Halifax County and the surrounding communities, not only through major investments but by supporting families and creating opportunities throughout our communities. This investment will transform lives, strengthen communities, and lay the foundation for lasting growth in the great Commonwealth.”
Delegate Danny Marshall commented: “It is powerful news that Hitachi Energy will produce large power transformers at the South Boston plant. Nationwide there is a shortage of electricity, especially for large-scale industrial applications. The shortage of equipment is part of the problem. Southside Virginia will help resolve some of that problem as Hitachi workers produce these crucial transformers.”
Congressman John McGuire (VA-05) noted: “A vigorous and reliable electric grid is critical for the American economy and American energy dominance. Bringing power transformer production to the U.S. is vital as energy demand skyrockets,”said Congressman John McGuire (VA-05).“I am thankful that this investment will establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in South Boston, to produce necessary large power transformers. This $457 million investment and facility will create more than 800 new high-paying jobs in Virginia’s Fifth Congressional District.” He thanked various officials including President Trump.
Hitachi Energy operates globally across over 140 countries with more than 50,000 employees worldwide.
The Virginia Talent Accelerator Program will provide support services such as recruitment assistance at no cost as an incentive tied directly with job creation efforts.
