Mitsubishi Power outlines gas turbine market growth and net zero goals in Savannah

In a pivotal meeting of the Special Committee on Resource Management, representatives from Mitsubishi Power shared insights into the company's ambitious growth and sustainability goals, highlighting their significant role in Georgia's energy landscape. Jim Keller, Vice President of North American Manufacturing, and Joe Sticka, Vice President of U.S. Sales for Gas Turbines, presented a comprehensive overview of Mitsubishi's operations and future plans.

Mitsubishi Power, a subsidiary of the larger Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, has established a robust presence in Georgia, particularly with its manufacturing facility in Savannah. This facility, spanning 430,000 square feet on over 80 acres, is pivotal in producing heavy-duty gas turbines for the Americas. Keller noted the company's impressive growth from just four employees in 2002 to nearly 3,000 today, underscoring the strategic decision to locate in Savannah over other potential sites.

The executives emphasized the company's commitment to sustainability, aiming for a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2040. This aligns with broader industry trends, as the demand for gas turbine equipment is projected to double, driven largely by the increasing need for reliable power sources amid a surge in data center construction and coal retirements.

Sticka elaborated on the market dynamics, pointing out that the convergence of various factors, including weather-related supply chain challenges and regulatory pressures, is creating a significant demand for gas generation. He highlighted that the typical development cycle for new power plants is lengthy, often taking 60 to 70 months, which adds urgency to the need for immediate solutions.

The discussion also touched on Mitsubishi's innovative projects, including advancements in hydrogen production and storage, which are part of their broader decarbonization strategy. The company is exploring technologies that will allow for the blending of hydrogen with natural gas in their turbines, with a goal of achieving 100% hydrogen combustion by 2030.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that Mitsubishi Power is not only a key player in Georgia's energy sector but also a significant contributor to the global transition towards cleaner energy solutions. The company's ongoing projects and ambitious targets reflect a commitment to addressing the challenges of energy demand while prioritizing environmental sustainability.