Mitsubishi Electric US (MEUS), the second-largest employer in Maysville, is investing more than $143 million to build a new manufacturing facility.
The company recently announced plans to repurpose an existing manufacturing facility and will establish the first-ever U.S. factory to build advanced twin-rotary variable capacity compressors.
Investing In US Manufacturing
The advanced twin-rotary variable capacity compressors is the key technology used in Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS) highly efficient heat pump systems.
A significant majority of these types of compressors are currently built in Asia.
METUS heat pumps offer precise temperature control, excel in cold climate conditions and operate efficiently to reduce carbon emissions associated with the heating of residential and commercial buildings.
“I had the privilege of meeting with Mitsubishi Electric’s leadership during last week’s economic development visit to Japan to discuss our longstanding partnership and how we can continue to grow together. We also discussed the unique opportunity presented by this project, and it is incredible news for the company and for the commonwealth,” said Governor Andy Beshear. “The establishment of this facility positions Mitsubishi Electric, a leader in all-climate heat pump systems, to take its business to the next level and emphasizes the importance of investing in companies that are committed to U.S. manufacturing. I want to congratulate the company’s leadership on their decision to reinvest in Kentucky.”
As the first of its kind in the United States, this investment will help grow domestic heat pump production capability necessary to meet the anticipated increased demand for these products.
The Cabinet for Economic Development believes this is the largest project in Mason County in 20 years.
Further investments in renovations and facility modernizations will help reduce building emissions, improve energy efficiency and lessen environmental impact, consistent with Mitsubishi Electric’s goal of making all of its factories net-zero by 2030.
Long History With Kentucky
Mitsubishi Electric has produced automotive components in Kentucky since 1995.
The company also has a long history of training Maysville’s next generation of workers through collaborations with Morehead State University and the Maysville Community and Technical College, among others.
As the automotive landscape has diversified beyond the internal combustion engine, Mitsubishi Electric has worked diligently to identify a viable alternative for this manufacturing facility and maintain its commitment to Maysville.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in November 2023 announced $169 million in funding for nine projects to accelerate U.S. heat pump manufacturing capability at 15 sites across the country.
This project was selected by the DOE for a $50 million grant, which is pending final approval.
“Mitsubishi Electric is grateful to the Commonwealth of Kentucky for providing incentives to ensure we maintain our manufacturing presence in the Bluegrass State,” said Mike Corbo, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Electric US. “Creating technologies that support vibrant and sustainable societies is at our company’s core. This repurposed facility brings the production of compressors for our highly efficient heat pump systems here to the U.S., and with that new jobs and investments in technology that make American homes more comfortable, more sustainable and less expensive to heat and cool. This collaboration is a huge step toward many of our shared goals.”
Once open, the new facility is estimated to create 122 new full-time jobs.
For more information, visit us.mitsubishielectric.com.
