In a significant move that highlights the growing importance of America’s energy infrastructure, power management company Eaton announced a $340 million investment to convert an existing 861,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Jonesville, South Carolina, to produce three-phase transformers. The facility, which will create 700 new jobs, represents a major economic boost for Union County and will further strengthen South Carolina’s manufacturing sector.
Three-phase transformers are crucial components for dependable power distribution for utilities and commercial operations, supporting grid modernization efforts. This expansion comes at a critical time. A June 2024 report by the National Infrastructure Advisory Council found that disrupted supply chains from the 2020 pandemic, alongside trends of greater electrification and increasing construction of renewable generation and transmission infrastructure, have resulted in developers and electric utilities facing wait times of two to four years for the delivery of new transformers.
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) estimated that to meet 2050’s energy needs, the distribution transformer supply may need to increase by between 160% to 260% from 2021 levels. According to Mike Yelton, president of Eaton’s Americas Region, Electrical Sector, “Electrical power demand is increasing dramatically, and our solutions are at the heart of energy systems everywhere, from the utility grid to industrials, data centers, buildings and more.”
“We are pleased to welcome Eaton to Union County and acknowledge their investment and the new jobs opportunities they are introducing,” said Union County Supervisor Phillip Russell. “Their considerable investment highlights the confidence global companies like Eaton have in Union County’s capability to address their needs.”
Photo Courtesy Eaton
The plant will be Eaton’s eleventh in South Carolina and its third domestic manufacturing factory for three-phase transformers. The company already produces three-phase transformers at two factories in Wisconsin, as well as single-phase, pole-mount, and pad-mount transformers in Nacogdoches, Texas.
Eaton’s investment is part of the company’s broader commitment to American manufacturing. Since 2023, the company has invested over $1 billion in its electrical solutions manufacturing operations in North America, increasing production of power distribution systems like transformers, electrical assemblies like switchgear, and other equipment essential for electric grid infrastructure.
Hiring and production at Eaton’s Union County plant is expected to begin in 2027, although Eaton is currently hiring at its other South Carolina plants. The company plans to collaborate with readySC and local schools to provide industry training and support the hiring process.
“South Carolina is a leader in manufacturing due to our talented workforce, quality of life and business environment. I welcome Eaton’s investment in Union County, further ensuring our state remains on the forefront of grid modernization,” Senator Lindsey Graham reflected.
The project has received strong support from state and federal officials, including South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, who noted that Eaton’s facility “represents a major vote of confidence in South Carolina’s highly skilled, world-class workforce. This investment is a remarkable milestone for Eaton and Union County, and we celebrate the opportunities it will create throughout the state in the years ahead.” Plus, the Coordinating Council for Economic Development provided Union County with a $10 million Rural Infrastructure Fund grant and approved job development credits for the project.
This investment demonstrates how modernizing America’s power infrastructure can drive economic growth and job creation while ensuring reliable power for homes and businesses across the country.
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