Factory's expansion expected to create 100 jobs

Industry Minister Sarah Jones, centre, recently visited the factory in Stafford

An energy component manufacturer has said the expansion of one of its factories is expected to create about 100 jobs.

GE Vernova confirmed it would be doubling its transformer production capacity by expanding its site in Stafford.

It will include a new transformer testing laboratory, which would help it to deliver "critical transformers for renewable energy transmission".

The project was expected to create opportunities for apprentices, trainees, engineers, and manufacturing specialists, a company spokesperson said.

Johan Bindele, the firm's vice president and CEO for grid systems integration, said the expansion further strengthened the company's manufacturing legacy in the UK.

"Just as importantly, it creates opportunities for highly-skilled workers who will help shape the future of energy infrastructure," he said.

Industry Minister Sarah Jones, who visited the site on Thursday, said the expansion would help to boost energy supply chains and create jobs.

"Upgrading the grid is critical to delivering homegrown clean energy to millions of homes, and this manufacturing facility will help make vital components to get more clean energy projects plugged in," she said.