Governor Youngkin announces CEL Critical Power chooses Virginia for its first U.S. plant, creating hundreds of jobs and economic growth

Richmond, Virginia – Governor Glenn Youngkin announced that CEL Critical Power, a global leader in power solutions, will open its first-ever American manufacturing facility in James City County, Virginia. The $5.225 million investment is expected to generate 250 new jobs immediately, with employment projected to double to 500 by the year 2030.

The new plant will manufacture state-of-the-art critical power infrastructure used primarily by data centers across the U.S., underscoring Virginia’s expanding footprint in the rapidly growing technology and cloud services sector.

Strategic Move in the Data Center Supply Chain

Governor Youngkin hailed the project as a major win for Virginia’s economy, emphasizing the state’s preparedness and fast-tracked approach in attracting CEL.

“We are thrilled to welcome CEL to Virginia as they establish their first-ever American manufacturing site right here in the Commonwealth,” said Youngkin. “Everyone involved in this project moved at the speed of Virginia to make this possible, and the impact is already being felt on the ground. Virginia has great jobs and as CEL works to fill these 250 new positions, they are in the best location possible to attract and retain the talent they need. CEL’s growth into James City County reflects that the future of American manufacturing is right here in the Commonwealth.”

The company’s products will support next-generation AI microchips and contribute to the growing “neo-cloud” infrastructure, making Virginia a crucial node in the global tech supply chain. Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura noted the broader implications.

“By opening this new manufacturing facility, CEL is showing the positive ripple effects of data center growth in the Commonwealth and across the globe,” said Segura. “With this new plant, we are ensuring every dollar invested in Virginia data centers stays in Virginia.”

CEL’s Global Expertise Finds a Home in Virginia

Founded in Dublin, Ireland, in 1982, CEL Critical Power specializes in cutting-edge low-voltage power distribution systems, switchgear, and remote power panels. Its expansion into the U.S. is viewed as a strategic step to be closer to North American clients and boost responsiveness in a fast-paced sector.

“Today marks a very special milestone for CEL Critical Power as we open our first manufacturing facility in the United States in Williamsburg, Virginia,” said Group Managing Director Niall McFadden. “I want to thank Governor Youngkin and the Commonwealth of Virginia for their support in making CEL Critical Power’s rapid expansion into the United States a reality.”

Local Leadership and Workforce Support the Project

Local and regional leaders celebrated the announcement as a job-creating opportunity that fits well with the skilled labor force in the area, especially among veterans.

“CEL recognized that our region’s talented and skilled workforce includes many veterans departing the armed services and this project will create 250 family-sustaining wage jobs in James City County,” said Jim Icenhour, Chair of the James City County Board of Supervisors.

Hampton Roads Alliance President & CEO Douglas L. Smith echoed that sentiment, saying, “Their investment perfectly reflects the priorities of the Hampton Roads playbook—strengthening our region’s leadership in energy innovation, resilience, and reliability.”

Bipartisan Support and Long-Term Vision

Elected officials across the political spectrum expressed optimism for CEL’s future in Virginia. Senator Danny Diggs, after visiting the site, said, “The jobs that they will create will have a positive impact on our local citizens.” Delegate Chad Green emphasized that this investment highlights Virginia’s continued rise in innovation and economic leadership.

The project was secured through collaboration between the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), James City County, and the Hampton Roads Alliance. The Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP) will assist with recruitment and training, further strengthening Virginia’s commitment to growing its skilled workforce.

With its focus on sustainability, innovation, and job creation, CEL’s arrival signals a major leap forward in positioning Virginia at the forefront of advanced manufacturing and critical infrastructure development.