CTP Invests €57 Million in Hitachi Energy Project in Brno, Creating 200 Jobs
CTP, the largest listed developer, owner, and manager of industrial and logistics properties in Europe by gross lettable area (GLA), has announced a significant investment project for its long-standing partner, Hitachi Energy. This new initiative at CTPark Brno in the Czech Republic represents a major milestone in the companies’ collaboration and the expansion of sustainable industrial infrastructure.
Investment and Project Scope
CTP has committed €57 million to the construction of the first phase of this ambitious project, which includes a 50,000 sqm state-of-the-art high-voltage products factory. This investment is projected to yield an expected return on cost (YoC) exceeding 10%. The factory will manufacture gas-insulated lines (GIL) and components for gas-insulated switchgear (GIS), which are essential for the transmission and distribution of electricity.
In addition to the factory, CTP envisions a broader expansion plan that will see the development of an innovative campus designed to enhance the range of services within CTPark Brno. This campus is expected to provide an enriching working environment, facilitate collaboration, and drive further technological advancements within the industrial park.
Technological Advancements and Modern Production Capabilities
The new facility will feature cutting-edge production technologies to ensure efficient and high-quality manufacturing processes. Among the key technological enhancements are:
- Modern Welding Shop: The factory will incorporate highly reliable friction stir welding technology, which ensures superior weld quality, increased durability, and improved production efficiency.
- Robotic Powder Coating Facility: A fully automated, robotized powder coating system will be installed, enhancing precision, consistency, and surface durability of the manufactured components.
- Advanced Service Centre: A newly established service hub will support maintenance, product testing, and post-production adjustments to meet evolving customer needs.
All facilities within the project will be tailored to the specific requirements of Hitachi Energy, ensuring seamless integration of new technologies with the company’s existing production methodologies. Moreover, the facility will adhere to the most stringent quality control standards, guaranteeing optimal performance and reliability of the manufactured products.
Enhanced Employee Experience and Workplace Amenities
CTP and Hitachi Energy have prioritized the well-being and productivity of employees by implementing advanced workplace solutions. Some of the key features include:
- Automatic Environmental Controls: State-of-the-art temperature, lighting, and humidity control systems will be deployed to maintain optimal working conditions throughout the facility.
- Underground Car Park: In a move to enhance accessibility and convenience, an underground parking facility will be constructed directly beneath the production hall, making commuting easier for employees and visitors.
- Spacious and Ergonomic Workspaces: The facility’s layout and design will prioritize comfort, safety, and efficiency, incorporating ergonomic workstations and well-ventilated production areas.
This development is expected to create approximately 200 new jobs, strengthening the local labor market and contributing to economic growth in the region.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
Sustainability is a cornerstone of this project, with a strong emphasis on energy-efficient infrastructure. Key sustainable elements include:
- Heat Pumps and Solar Panels: The integration of renewable energy sources will enhance energy efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of the facility.
- BREEAM Outstanding Certification: CTP aims to achieve the prestigious BREEAM Outstanding certification, demonstrating its commitment to environmentally responsible construction and operational practices.
- Green Building Design: The architectural and engineering design of the factory will align with sustainability best practices, optimizing resource efficiency and minimizing environmental impact.
By embedding sustainability into every aspect of the project, CTP and Hitachi Energy are setting new industry standards for eco-friendly industrial development.
Future Expansion: The Development of a Unique Campus
Following the completion of the high-voltage products factory, CTP has ambitious plans to build an adjacent campus that will serve as a dynamic hub for employees and visitors. The campus will feature:
- Modern Office Spaces: Flexible office solutions will accommodate a variety of business needs, promoting collaboration and innovation.
- Residential Facilities: On-site housing options will be available, making it easier for employees to live near their workplace and reducing commuting times.
- Cafes and Social Spaces: The inclusion of cafes, lounges, and recreational areas will create a vibrant atmosphere that fosters community engagement.
- CTBox Units: These multi-functional spaces will cater to administrative, showroom, warehouse, and light production needs, enhancing operational flexibility.
The campus concept is designed to encourage knowledge-sharing, facilitate professional networking, and improve the overall quality of life for those working within CTPark Brno.
Hitachi Energy’s Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability
Hitachi Energy has been a tenant at CTPark Brno since 2014, initially leasing 15,000 sqm. Over the years, the company has continuously expanded its presence, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and technological progress. As a global leader in power and automation, Hitachi Energy specializes in power generation, transmission, and distribution solutions with a focus on renewable energy and digitalization of power grids.
The new facility in Brno will play a crucial role in the company’s transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions. It will be instrumental in producing Hitachi Energy’s EconiQ portfolio, which eliminates the use of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), a potent greenhouse gas, in high-voltage equipment. This aligns with the company’s broader mission to reduce environmental impact and accelerate the transition to carbon-neutral energy systems.
Pavel Kovář, Country Managing Director of Hitachi Energy for the Czech Republic and Slovakia, emphasized the significance of this project:
“Our factory in Brno is a testament to our commitment to expanding our global capacity to meet the accelerating demand for clean energy solutions. The project at CTPark Brno will provide an ideal environment for producing our eco-efficient EconiQ portfolio. Our investment of over 1.1 billion CZK will not only increase production capacity but also support the growing need for sustainable energy technologies.”
CTP’s Vision and Strategic Goals
CTP sees this project as a key driver of industrial growth and sustainability within the Czech Republic. Michal Dospěl, Regional Construction Director of CTP, highlighted the long-term vision:
“We are proud to deliver this state-of-the-art, high-tech facility for our long-standing partner, Hitachi Energy. This development exemplifies our commitment to sustainability and innovation. We believe that this project will significantly contribute to the expansion of CTPark Brno, providing our clients and employees with an outstanding work environment and opportunities for growth.”
By fostering strong partnerships with leading global technology firms, CTP continues to enhance its reputation as a premier industrial real estate developer.
