Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, Inc. (MEPPI), in partnership with its parent company, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (MELCO) in Japan, has announced an $86 million investment aimed at enhancing advanced switchgear production and power electronics in the United States. This initiative responds to the growing demand for transmission and distribution grid products as the U.S. progresses toward renewable energy and decarbonization goals.
The approval of this investment by MELCO is part of a broader strategy to bolster energy systems production capabilities both domestically and internationally.
MEPPI plans to build a new Advanced Switchgear Factory in Western Pennsylvania, covering approximately 160,000 square feet. This marks the company’s first new manufacturing facility in over ten years. Initially, the factory will produce vacuum and gas circuit breakers, eventually focusing predominantly on vacuum circuit breakers to align with the evolving requirements of U.S. electric utilities and to support national decarbonization efforts. Once fully operational, the facility is expected to create over 200 full-time jobs.
In addition to the new factory, MEPPI will also expand and upgrade its current facilities in Warrendale, PA, investing in power electronics and testing laboratories.
Tricia Breeger, President and CEO of MEPPI, emphasized the significance of these investments, stating, “At MEPPI, we lead with innovation. By investing in a state-of-the-art switchgear factory, we will better serve our customers and significantly advance the production of critical components that strengthen distribution and transmission grids, while driving new technologies to support the nation’s decarbonization initiatives. Our switchgear and power electronics solutions are vital for meeting the increasing electricity demand, from powering homes and businesses to supporting the rapid growth of data centers.”
The new factory will incorporate advanced software and automation technologies, enhancing operational efficiency and maintaining high product quality. Breeger added, “By introducing process improvements, we will optimize our operations while ensuring that we meet the growing energy needs of the U.S. and remain at the forefront of technological innovation.”
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is also investing in MEPPI’s expansion, offering a $4 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant and a $2.75 million Pennsylvania First grant through the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).
“Pennsylvania is open for business, and we are committed to making our Commonwealth the best state for business growth and economic opportunity,” said Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. “In the Pittsburgh region, we’re making strategic investments to attract projects like MEPPI’s, boost our economy, and create good-paying jobs for Pennsylvanians. My Administration is focused on building a stronger economy that creates opportunities and a brighter future for our communities—these jobs are a significant step forward in that mission.”
