ABB announces $28.5 million expansion in Henrico County, bringing over 100 new jobs to Virginia
Richmond, Virginia – Governor Glenn Youngkin revealed that ABB, a global leader in electrification and automation, will invest $28.5 million to expand its long-standing operations in Henrico County, Virginia. The expansion is expected to generate more than 100 new jobs over the next three years, reinforcing the company’s deep-rooted commitment to the region and advancing Virginia’s role in clean energy and manufacturing innovation.
Strengthening a Legacy of Innovation in Virginia
ABB, headquartered in Switzerland, has operated in Henrico County since 1968 and currently employs 184 Virginians at its 5900 Eastport Boulevard facility. With the upcoming investment, the company plans to add a new test center, warehouse, and assembly lines to boost production capabilities and meet growing market demand.
“ABB’s decision to invest again in Henrico County doubles down on nearly 60 years of success here in Virginia,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Virginia’s workforce continues to prove they can rise to the challenge and deliver world-class results. Together, we’re powering the future and meeting America’s energy needs with the groundbreaking work ABB is leading right here in Henrico County.”
Currently, the Henrico site manufactures power distribution units and static transfer switches—vital infrastructure products that support data centers, hospitals, and manufacturing plants. These devices are essential in protecting high-value equipment like servers, MRI machines, and production lines from power disruptions and electrical failures.
Economic Boost and Workforce Development
The expansion is being supported by a $300,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund, approved by Governor Youngkin, to assist Henrico County with the project. Additionally, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) and the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP) will aid ABB in recruiting and training new employees. VJIP, a state-funded program, helps reduce human resource costs for companies expanding or relocating in Virginia.
“ABB is energizing the economy of Henrico County with over 100 new jobs and $28.5 million in new investments,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura. “Keeping the lights on in this country requires an all-hands-on-deck, all-of-the-above approach when it comes to energy.”
Franklin Sullivan, ABB Electrification’s Senior Vice President of Industry Partnerships, emphasized the importance of ABB’s growing U.S. footprint:
“ABB is continually investing in our workforce and advanced manufacturing footprint in the U.S. – our largest global market – to support our customers as they focus on improving energy efficiency and uptime while reducing their energy costs. The expanded facility in Richmond will increase ABB’s production capacity to meet significant market demand for advanced electrification solutions and enable us to continue to optimize customer service in this growing market.”
Community Support and Local Praise
Local and state leaders hailed ABB’s expansion as a clear sign of confidence in Henrico County’s workforce, business climate, and long-term growth potential.
“ABB has been a valued part of our community for nearly 60 years,” said Edward S. Whitlock III, Chairman of the Henrico EDA Board of Directors. “Their continued investment and creation of new jobs in Henrico underscores their confidence in our locality and their commitment to our shared values—innovation, progress, and sustainability.”
State Senator Lashrecse Aird called the move “a tremendous win for our region and for the Commonwealth,” adding that it further establishes Virginia as a “leader in advanced manufacturing and clean energy innovation.”
Delegate Delores McQuinn, whose district includes the Henrico facility, echoed the enthusiasm:
“This significant $28.5 million investment and the creation of over 100 new jobs reflect the incredible potential of our region and its people. ABB’s continued commitment to innovation and sustainability aligns perfectly with our vision for economic growth that uplifts families and strengthens communities.”
As ABB continues to scale its operations, the expansion signals both a growing demand for energy-efficient technologies and a strong partnership between Virginia’s government, its localities, and world-class companies committed to shaping the future.
