Prolec GE, a leading player in energy infrastructure, has successfully completed a $34 million expansion of its Shreveport facility, marking a significant step towards meeting U.S. energy transition goals. The expansion, which started in early 2023, enhances the company’s production capabilities, bringing innovation, job creation, and economic growth to the region. The new upgrades help alleviate transformer supply chain challenges while bolstering the reliability and flexibility of the nation’s electrical grids.
The expanded Shreveport facility now includes a third production line, adding the ability to produce three-phase pad-mount electrical transformers. These transformers play a crucial role in improving the efficiency and flexibility of power systems, particularly in renewable energy projects such as wind farms and solar parks. In addition, the layout improvements have optimized existing manufacturing lines for network transformers and voltage regulators, resulting in a 15% capacity increase for each product line.
At the official unveiling event on November 20, 2024, company leaders, government representatives, and local officials gathered to celebrate the milestone. Among the attendees were Bridget Bartol from U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm’s office, Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux, as well as representatives from Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry’s office, U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy and John Kennedy, and U.S. Congressman Mike Johnson. Additionally, Prolec GE employees, Louisiana Economic Development officials, and community leaders were present to commemorate the achievement. This expansion also led to the creation of over 270 new jobs, cementing Prolec GE’s role as a key contributor to the local economy.
“We are immensely proud of this expanded facility,” said Ricardo Suarez, CEO of Prolec GE. “Not only does it boost our ability to meet the growing needs of our customers, but it also reinforces our commitment to maintaining a resilient and reliable U.S. electrical grid. Our dedicated team worked relentlessly to make this vision a reality, and we are eager to continue delivering high-quality products that support both the local economy and energy infrastructure.”
As the largest transformer manufacturer in North America, Prolec GE designs, manufactures, and sells solutions for electricity generation, transmission, and distribution. The additional capacity in Shreveport is expected to alleviate transformer supply chain concerns, positioning the company for sustained growth in the U.S. energy market.
Xignux CEO Juan Ignacio Garza Herrera emphasized the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and community leaders. “This expansion would not have been possible without the efforts of our partners, including government agencies, the Shreveport community, and our joint venture partner, GE Vernova,” he said.
GE Vernova CEO Scott Strazik underscored the significance of this development for the energy sector. “This is an exciting milestone for Prolec GE and a key step in advancing the energy transition,” Strazik noted. “The new manufacturing line and the jobs it creates will continue to strengthen the supply chain for critical grid equipment, ensuring energy security and supporting national security in the U.S. and beyond.”
The ceremony also featured guided tours of the newly upgraded facility, showcasing the state-of-the-art equipment, testing labs, a new training area, and improved process flows. Production employees provided valuable insights at select workstations.
About Prolec GE
Prolec GE, a joint venture between Xignux and GE Vernova, has been a leader in electric industry manufacturing for over 25 years. With eight strategically located manufacturing facilities in Mexico, the United States, and Brazil, the company serves a broad array of industries, including construction, engineering, and both conventional and renewable energy. Prolec GE is committed to delivering high-quality products and solutions for the generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical energy.
About Xignux
Xignux, based in Monterrey, Mexico, is a leader in the energy and food sectors. With over 31,000 employees across Mexico, the U.S., and Brazil, Xignux manages a diverse portfolio of companies that contribute to society’s progress. Through its businesses like Viakable, Prolec, and others, Xignux plays a vital role in the energy transformation and food production industries.
About GE Vernova
GE Vernova is a global energy company committed to powering the world while advancing the energy transition. The company operates across Power, Wind, and Electrification sectors, and its solutions help provide affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy worldwide. GE Vernova’s headquarters is in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and its technologies support energy security and economic growth across more than 100 countries.