GE Vernova has modernized its high-voltage grid testing and research laboratory at its Noventa di Piave facility near Venice, Italy.
The project is part of a four-year investment worth about $7.2 million. It strengthens the site’s role in developing and testing technologies used in modern electricity grids.
The laboratory tests equipment that safely moves electricity from power plants to homes, businesses, and industries. These tests confirm that equipment performs reliably before it enters service. This process helps utilities reduce risks and improve the stability of their power networks.
The upgraded facility expands testing of critical grid components, including transformers and disconnectors. Transformers adjust voltage levels so electricity can travel efficiently over long distances. Disconnectors allow engineers to safely isolate sections of the grid during maintenance or emergencies.
Grid Testing Drives Innovation
Electricity demand continues to rise as industries grow and more electric vehicles and digital services rely on power. At the same time, countries are connecting increasing amounts of renewable energy such as wind and solar to their electricity networks. These changes require stronger, more flexible grid equipment that can withstand demanding conditions.
Eric Chaussin, Vice President and CEO of Power Transmission at GE Vernova, said reliable electricity grids depend on equipment that has been thoroughly tested and validated.
He said the investment strengthens the company’s ability to innovate in Italy and respond to customer needs more quickly. He added that the upgraded laboratory will help deliver more resilient power systems for customers in Italy and international markets.
The Noventa di Piave site is part of GE Vernova’s Electrification business. The facility has more than 50 years of experience in the design and testing of power transmission equipment. Today, it employs more than 300 people and plans to add around 15 new employees each year.
The modernization supports the site’s long-term growth strategy. It also helps attract skilled engineers and technical specialists to the region. At the same time, the investment strengthens the local economy by supporting advanced manufacturing and research jobs.
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Italy Remains Key Part of GE Vernova
The Noventa di Piave facility works closely with GE Vernova’s manufacturing site in Sesto San Giovanni. Together, the two locations combine research, testing, engineering, and manufacturing capabilities. They support Italy’s electricity infrastructure while also supplying products to customers worldwide.
The laboratory upgrade follows another major investment announced by the company. GE Vernova recently revealed plans to expand manufacturing capacity at its Sesto San Giovanni facility through an investment of more than $30 million. The expansion is designed to increase production of equipment needed for modern electricity grids.
GE Vernova has supported Italy’s power sector for more than a century. Today, the company’s technologies help enable about 25% of the country’s installed power generation capacity. This long-standing presence makes Italy one of the company’s important engineering and manufacturing hubs.
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The laboratory modernization also aligns with GE Vernova’s broader global investment strategy. The company plans to invest approximately $11 billion in capital expenditure and research and development between 2025 and 2028.
However, the upgraded Italian facility is expected to play an important role in developing and testing the next generation of reliable grid technologies.
