Alstom to fully localize high-voltage equipment production in Russia in 2-3 yrs
ST. PETERSBURG. July 1 (Interfax) - Alstom Grid, a division of France's Alstom, plans to completely localize production of high-voltage equipment in Russia in two to three years, company vice president Gerhard Seyrling told reporters on Friday.
He recalled that production will be localized under a joint venture with the Soyuz group at a plant in Mozhaisk. The formation of the joint venture will be finalized in October, after which production of 110 kV and 220 kV gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) will begin.
Seyrling said about 15 million euros will be invested in the construction of new production facilities to make 550 kV GIS.
He said 100% of the high-voltage equipment will be assembled in Russia, but not 100% of components will be produced in Russia immediately. The same manufacturing practice is in place at Alstom Grid plants in other countries, Seyrling added.
Asked about the formation of new joint ventures in Russia, Seyrling said that the company is discussing several projects, but the information about them is still confidential.
Alstom Grid and Soyuz signed a letter of intent in June to set up joint production of electrical equipment at Soyuz's plant in Mozhaisk.
Alstom is one of the largest companies in the world that produces energy equipment and railway transport. A substantial stake in the company belongs to French construction giant Bouygues. The concern operates in about 100 countries.