Virginia Transformer Corp. will invest $40 million to expand its manufacturing facility near Rincon, Georgia, according to an announcement by Governor Brian P. Kemp. The expansion is expected to create more than 400 new jobs in Effingham County.
Governor Kemp stated, “Along with state and local leaders in the coastal region, we’re proud to celebrate this major expansion and Virginia Transformer’s decision to double down on Georgia. This is just the latest testament to the impact of our partnership approach, and I want to congratulate Virginia Transformer on this exciting announcement. We look forward to the impact their decision will have on the Rincon and Effingham County communities.”
The facility, known as Georgia Transformer, produces custom-designed large power transformers for industries such as utilities, data centers, and renewable energy. It covers 250,000 square feet and manufactures transformers ranging from 30 MegaVolt-Amperes (MVA) up to 500 MVA at voltages as high as 525 kilovolts. The site has seen several expansions since joining Virginia Transformer in 2015.
Speaker Jon Burns commented on the timing of the investment: “I’m proud to join Governor Brian Kemp and leaders across Southeast Georgia in applauding Virginia Transformer’s expansion in Effingham County. This investment comes at a critical moment as our region continues to face the fallout of recent mill closures and the loss of good-paying jobs. We are grateful for Virginia Transformer’s commitment to expanding their presence here in Georgia, and we look forward to welcoming the new job opportunities this project will create for the citizens of Effingham County.”
Prabhat Jain, CEO of Virginia Transformer, said, “Virginia Transformer is the largest U.S.-owned producer of power transformers in North America, and we’ve been able to grow by focusing on delivering for customers. We are known throughout the industry for being an engineering company that makes power transformers with the shortest lead times. This additional investment for our customers will further underscore that position. And, we plan to continue to grow to serve our customers.”
The expansion project is scheduled to begin construction in January 2026 at 2789 GA-21 in Effingham County. Job applications for roles in operations, maintenance, and assembly are currently being accepted online.
Matt Saxon, Chairman of the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority, noted: “Virginia Transformer’s continued investment in Effingham County is a powerful endorsement of our community’s skilled workforce, strategic location, and supportive business environment. The retention of more than 800 existing jobs and creation of 400 new positions represents a major economic milestone for our region, and we are proud to stand alongside Georgia Transformer as they grow.”
District 5 Commissioner Phil Kieffer added: “This expansion underscores Effingham County’s position as a leader in advanced manufacturing and skilled workforce development. We congratulate Virginia Transformer on this exciting milestone and applaud their continued investment in our community. We also commend the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority for their dedication to supporting existing industry and fostering the kind of environment where companies can thrive.”
Dorie Bacon from the Georgia Department of Economic Development worked with local partners including Georgia Power and Georgia Quick Start on this project.
Pat Wilson, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development said: “Virginia Transformer’s expansion comes during a time when the demand for utility and commercial scale is at an all-time high. By attracting sectors that serve the energy grid, we ensure that businesses not only grow but thrive in Georgia, benefiting both our economy and communities. Congratulations to Effingham County on the continued growth of existing industries such as Virginia Transformer.”
Virginia Transformer Corp serves various markets including utilities, renewable energy providers, data centers, industrial firms, mining operations, oil and gas companies as well as commercial clients.
