Mining Magazine > Panorama > GE Energy launches Power Conversion

Panorama

GE Energy has announced the next step in the integration of its acquisition of Converteam by renaming the business Power Conversion. Power Conversion’s technologies in process controls, automation systems and high-efficiency power electronics, motors and generators will enable the company to better meet the needs of customers looking to improve operational efficiency and productivity.

GE Energy stated that the Power Conversion business will help GE maximise its deep domain expertise and expand its presence in the fast-growing energy efficiency, electrification and automation sector, which was valued at US$30 billion and is growing above global GDP.

Joe Mastrangelo, CEO of Power Conversion, said: “Today’s announcement is a significant milestone on our journey to deliver our customers more value. We are combining our technology and consultative offerings in systems integration to help the world’s fastest growing energy and industrial sectors improve the efficiency and profitability of their operations. Our strengths in these sectors will allow GE to lead by managing the entire energy lifecycle, where our customers want us to play a bigger role.”

Large industrial companies are replacing mechanical processes with high-efficiency, customised electric alternatives that deliver better reliability, require less maintenance and create lower emissions in industrial processes. This mega-trend is called electrification, which is expected to double over the next 20 years. One of the trend’s leading drivers is the oil and gas industry, which is using electrical systems to extract and transport natural gas more efficiently.

Approximately 25% of electricity produced globally is used to power electric motors in a wide range of industrial applications. Power Conversion stated that its solutions could help to improve their energy efficiency by 30%, helping to reduce electricity consumption, energy intensity and greenhouse gas emissions. Power Conversion, with GE’s industrial solutions business, will also address all steps in the energy conversion chain with a robust portfolio built around rotating machines, power electronics, wind converters, solar inverters and process control technologies.

Mr Mastrangelo added: “Power Conversion’s engineering expertise, systems focus and market customization make it a differentiator in today’s market because GE can scale its businesses and deliver new solutions to market faster than current competitors.”

The fastest growth in the industrial automation sector is expected to be in Brazil, Russia, India and China and the Middle East. The expansion will be driven by a demand in energy efficiency and integrated electrical and mechanical solutions critical to customers who are competing in highly competitive industries.