HARRISBURG, PA — In a significant move to bolster the state’s renewable energy and manufacturing sectors, Pennsylvania has announced an investment of over $6.7 million to support the expansion of Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, Inc. (MEPPI) in the Pittsburgh region. This initiative is part of a larger $86 million investment by MEPPI and its parent company, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (MELCO), aimed at constructing an advanced switchgear factory and expanding power electronics facilities and test labs.
The ambitious project is set to create at least 200 new jobs while retaining an additional 806 positions in Southwestern Pennsylvania. The new factory will specialize in producing gas-insulated and vacuum circuit breakers, essential components in the transmission and distribution grid, aligning with the U.S. goals of renewable energy adoption and decarbonization.
Governor Josh Shapiro expressed his commitment to business growth and economic opportunity, stating, “Pennsylvania is open for business, and we are working every single day to make our Commonwealth the best state in the nation for business growth and economic opportunity. Right here in the Pittsburgh region, we’re making targeted investments to attract more projects like this one, boost our economy, and create good-paying jobs for Pennsylvanians.”
The project underscores Pennsylvania’s competitive edge, having successfully attracted the venture over Ohio. MEPPI has received a comprehensive funding proposal from the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), including a $4 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant and a $2.75 million Pennsylvania First grant. Additionally, the company is encouraged to apply for a tax deduction through the Qualified Manufacturing Innovation and Reinvestment Deduction (QMIRD) program.
DCED Secretary Rick Siger praised the investment, noting, “MEPPI’s investment in the Pittsburgh region is a tremendous win for all of Pennsylvania. Energy and manufacturing are two key sectors we’re focusing on in the Economic Development Strategy, and projects like MEPPI’s are further fueling these industries and our economy.”
MEPPI’s President and CEO, Tricia Breeger, highlighted the strategic importance of the new factory, stating, “By investing in a state-of-the-art switchgear factory, we will serve our customers, and we will significantly advance the production of critical components that strengthen both distribution and transmission grids while driving new technologies forward in support of the nation’s decarbonization initiatives.”
The Allegheny Conference on Community Development CEO, Stefani Pashman, emphasized the region’s historical role in manufacturing, commending MEPPI’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and its collaborative approach with state and county partners.
This expansion is a testament to Pennsylvania’s strategic focus on enhancing its infrastructure to support key industries, thereby paving the way for a stronger, more sustainable economic future.
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