Mitsubishi Electric transformer factory opens in Memphis

Mitsubishi Electric Power Products Inc, a U.S. affiliate of Mitsubishi Electric Corp, has opened its North American transformer factory in Memphis, Tenn. The $200 million, 350,000 square-foot facility occupies nearly 100 acres in Memphis’ Rivergate Industrial Park.

“This facility is our largest single investment in the United States and represents our commitment to provide reliable energy infrastructure as the power grid continues to expand in North America and internationally,” said Kenichiro Yamanishi, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Electric Corporation. “This facility will significantly increase our transformer manufacturing capacity and allow us to stay competitive in the robust global energy market.”

Production of large power transformers at the facility will begin immediately with 65 new employees. A total count of new hires is expected to reach approximately 275 at full production. The company continues to recruit qualified manufacturing and technical personnel, including management, professionals, and production technicians.

At full capacity, Mitsubishi Electric’s new factory will produce more than one large transformer each week. The facility’s testing systems, used to verify the quality and integrity of these high voltage transformer applications prior to shipment, are among the largest and most advanced in the world. The Memphis factory has already received orders from Dominion Virginia Power and Southern California Edison for transformers to be delivered in 2013 and early 2014.

“This complex represents new jobs, and a growing domestic industry vital to our national security. For Southern California Edison, this is the latest chapter in an ongoing relationship with Mitsubishi Electric. I’m pleased that SCE is among the first companies to place an order for four new 500 kV transformers manufactured here in Memphis,” said David Mead, Southern California Edison’s senior vice president of transmission and distribution.

The Memphis facility is capable of producing the largest power transformers in the world, with voltage levels exceeding 765 kV - the highest system voltage used in North America for efficiently transmitting electric power. These units contain tons of precisely machined steel and copper windings and can exceed 400 tons in shipping weight.

“Dominion is pleased to use transformers provided by Mitsubishi and to have some of the first units produced by this world class facility serving our customers,” said David Roop, director of electric transmission operation at Dominion Virginia Power.

© Business Wire