GE Vernova Expands Factory to Keep Up with HVDC Tech Demand

GE Vernova has announced it is expanding its manufacturing facilities in Stafford, UK.

The driving force behind this growth? The rising demand for High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission systems.

These systems are vital for ushering in the UK's shift to renewable energy and powering green energy projects across Europe, North America and Asia.

The expansion specifically shines a spotlight on two main GE Vernova sites: its HVDC facility at Redhill and Stafford Transformer Facility in Lichfield.

HVDC and transformer expansion

At Redhill, the plan is to double its valve manufacturing capacity. This leap forward will be propelled by adding an extra Voltage-Sourced Converter (VSC) valve assembly line.

Valves are the core of HVDC converter stations, seamlessly managing power flow from renewable sources like offshore wind farms to the grid.

Meanwhile, over in Lichfield, the transformer production site — significant for its role in UK grid manufacture — will see substantial upgrades.

Transformers from this site have been pivotal, recently contributing to the 1.4 GW Sofia Offshore Wind Farm in the North Sea.

The enhancements are aimed at increasing capacity and refining the production of HVDC converter transformers, essential for integrating renewable energy into the grid.

"Helping our customers deliver sustainable, affordable and reliable energy to people worldwide is central to GE Vernova’s mission," says Philippe Piron, CEO of GE Vernova’s Electrification Systems business. 

"By expanding our Stafford operations, we are strengthening our ability to support the energy transition in the UK and the rest of the world and creating new jobs as a result.”

Job creation on the horizon

These developments mark GE Vernova’s second significant investment in Stafford. In 2018, the site saw the construction of a world-leading HVDC valve test facility and a control system testing facility, which now bolsters the large-scale testing of HVDC systems for European and global projects.

The Grid Solutions division anticipates this expansion will spawn about 600 new UK jobs from 2023 to the end of 2025, including positions for engineers and skilled craftsmen focused on valve testing and assembly.

Through advancements in grid and power transmission technologies, GE Vernova not only electrifies industries and the world but also demonstrates how the shift towards green energy fosters manufacturing job opportunities — a vital discussion point in the UK amidst job losses in traditional industries.

Powering Europe's renewable future

Stafford remains a critical hub for GE Vernova, with three manufacturing sites including the HVDC and Transformer facilities as well as a Grid Automation site at Redhill.

The ongoing investment here is crucial for the production of clean energy technologies, meeting both local and global energy needs.

Recently, the company committed to supplying HVDC systems for five offshore wind projects managed by TenneT, aiming to connect 40GW of offshore wind farms to high voltage grids in the Netherlands and Germany.

The manufacturing of valves and transformers for these projects will take place at the Stafford facilities, underlining their strategic significance in supporting the renewable energy transition.

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