Hitachi Energy Announces Major Expansion in North Carolina with $10 Million Investment and New Job Creation

Hitachi Energy Expands in the U.S. with New Facility

In a significant move aimed at strengthening the power infrastructure in North America, Hitachi Energy has announced a $10 million investment in a new Power Electronics Center of Competence to be built in Cary, North Carolina. This state-of-the-art facility, set to launch in the fall of 2026, will create approximately 150 new jobs and enhance engineering, testing, and system integration capabilities locally.

The decision to establish this center comes in response to the increasing electricity demand across the region, driven by rapid growth in AI data centers, electrification of industries, and overall population increases. U.S. electricity consumption is projected to rise by 35-50% by 2040, signifying an urgent need for innovative solutions to improve grid capabilities.

During the announcement, U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright highlighted the importance of this expansion, noting that it would not only create job opportunities but also facilitate the development of vital technologies needed for modernizing the power grid. This investment is also part of Hitachi's broader $1 billion investment plan aimed at U.S. manufacturing initiatives, which includes operations in South Boston, Virginia.

The Power Electronics Center will house cutting-edge technologies, including STATCOMs, Fixed Series Compensation (FSC) systems, and advanced grid control devices. These innovations will increase electrical transmission capacity without the need for new power lines, thus improving overall grid stability and reliability.

Additionally, the facility is poised to become a key player in cybersecurity within the energy sector, helping to protect critical infrastructure against sophisticated digital threats. The integration of secure system architectures, continuous monitoring, and effective incident response protocols will fortify the ability to safeguard utilities as they transition into an increasingly interconnected digital environment.

Local leaders, including North Carolina Governor Josh Stein and Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley, expressed their enthusiasm over this announcement. They emphasized that the state's strong reputation for innovation and technology makes it an ideal location for Hitachi's endeavors in the energy sector. The collaboration between government officials and Hitachi Energy underscores a shared vision to promote job creation and bolster energy independence in the region.

"We are entering an 'age of electricity' where the growth in demand is outpacing traditional grid capabilities," explained Marco Berardi, Senior Vice President at Hitachi Energy. "This new facility will enhance our ability to respond swiftly to client needs and contribute to a more reliable energy future."

The Power Electronics Center is expected to become a hub for talent, attracting skilled professionals in the engineering field and providing training opportunities aligned with the latest in energy technology development. Its establishment signifies a pivotal step in addressing the pressing energy challenges of our time, encouraging a sustainable path towards energy resilience and security.

Hitachi Energy’s expansion in North Carolina not only reflects its commitment to providing reliable energy solutions but also highlights the vital role of public-private partnerships in navigating the complexities of evolving energy demands. With plans in place, Cary is set to emerge as a center for energy innovation, contributing to the North American grid’s modernization efforts. This investment represents a significant leap forward in Hitachi Energy's mission to power a sustainable energy future in the United States and beyond.