Charlotte is soon to become the new US home for HSP US, a subsidiary of the Trench Group GmbH, which recently became an independent entity after splitting from Siemens Energy. The company announced plans to invest over $50 million into a new manufacturing plant situated in Mecklenburg County, with an eye on starting operations by early 2026. The facility will focus on producing bushings, critical for high-voltage power transformers.
"Through these investments, we are not only strengthening our presence in the North American market but also laying the foundation for sustainable growth and the further development of the energy infrastructure in the region," Dr. Bahadir Basdere, CEO of Trench Group, told Mecklenburg County News. This move is expected to generate numerous jobs in the southwest Charlotte area, offering roles for machinists, engineers, and management personnel at salary averages above the MSA standard.
Dr. Nils von Dietman, CEO of HSP US, highlighted the benefits of Charlotte's skilled workforce and business-friendly environment as deciding factors in their expansion. According to an interview with Mecklenburg County News, von Dietman said, "The proximity to our key customers also played a role." The proximity in question is to Siemens Energy's new advanced manufacturing facility, which underlines Charlotte's growing reputation as an energy hub.
Local officials have embraced the news of the investment with open arms. Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners Chair Mark Jerrell expressed his pleasure, stating, "We are pleased HSP US recognizes the strength of our local workforce and is choosing to invest in our community and bring a variety of skilled jobs." Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the city's ascension as an energy powerhouse and a destination for advanced manufacturing opportunities. The addition of HSP US bolsters a successful streak for the city, following several economic development projects that have cumulatively contributed over $508 million in capital investment and 1,535 new jobs, as per Mecklenburg County.
Rounding out the collaborative effort for this project are Mecklenburg County, the City of Charlotte, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, and Duke Energy. Training initiatives are already in the works, with Central Piedmont Community College poised to partner with HSP US. "Our entire region benefits when employers invest in student success through hands-on learning and job placement," Dr. Kandi Deitemeyer, president of the college, said in a statement obtained by Mecklenburg County News. These educational collaborations aim to create a resilient workforce, ready to meet the evolving demands of Charlotte's robust energy sector.
