North America | June 19, 2025

ABB Installation Products Opens New Manufacturing Facility

The South Building adds substantial capacity to its existing plant and brings production of key grid‑technology products under one roof.

 

Image for illustrative purposes

Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA: ABB has officially opened a new $40 million, 90,000 ft² facility focuses on manufacturing Elastimold cable accessories and Fisher Pierce circuit indicators—essential components for underground power distribution, fire mitigation systems, and grid hardening projects. These products play a crucial role in strengthening electric networks, improving reliability during storms, wildfires, and ageing infrastructure challenges.

To meet growing demand, ABB invested an additional $15 million in automation and digital testing equipment. The new automated setup significantly boosts output, doubling local production and enabling over 1 million extra units annually. Over 80% of this output is destined for U.S. utility projects, with the remainder supporting international infrastructure efforts.

The expansion creates more than 150 full-time jobs onsite, bringing total workforce to around 565, with further recruitment planned. ABB is partnering with regional training programmes and community colleges to build a capable workforce.

ABB’s president of Installation Products, Khalid Mandri, highlighted the urgency behind the investment: as utilities face increased electricity demand, severe weather, and the shift towards SF₆‑free switchgear and decarbonisation, local production of reliable grid components becomes critical. Producing these supplies in-country accelerates delivery, boosts technical support and maintains quality control.

The Albuquerque facility now features a pioneering Innovation Centre dedicated to R&D, customer collaboration, and training. This improves ABB’s ability to rapidly prototype and test new technologies alongside utility partners.

This expansion is part of ABB Installation Products’ broader strategy. Over the past five years, the company has invested more than $125 million in U.S. production, automating and upgrading facilities to support electrification and resilience. ABB sees this as a response to infrastructure challenges—such as ageing networks, climate threats, and increasing consumption.

By localising production, ABB shortens supply chains, enhances responsiveness, and ensures components are available where they are most needed. The aim is to support utilities with a dependable supply of high-performance grid products—keeping power flowing even under stress.

Source: T&DWorld