Kaishan USA, a major producer of air compressors, has unveiled Terravanta Power Systems, its new geothermal power generation company, during a groundbreaking ceremony for a manufacturing site in Loxley, Alabama.
The project establishes a new US manufacturing platform dedicated to supporting the growing geothermal energy sector, a Kaishan statement noted.
“As demand for reliable electricity continues to increase, geothermal energy is gaining momentum as a dependable, around-the-clock power source,” it added.
“Expanding geothermal development requires manufacturing capacity, specialised equipment and industrial expertise to support projects across the United States. Terravanta was created to meet that need.”
Terravanta is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kaishan Compressor USA and will be supported by the broader Kaishan Group.
The company plans to invest US$74.5mn in a 200,000-square-foot manufacturing and assembly facility and draws upon extensive geothermal experience developed through projects across multiple continents.
“Many companies entering the energy sector start with an idea,” said Keith Schumacher, CEOof Terravanta Power Systems.
“We are starting with many years of experience in engineering, operations, exploration and manufacturing. That gives us a different perspective and a different level of capability from day one.”
At the new facility, Terravanta will manufacture advanced screw and turbine expander systems that serve as critical components for geothermal projects across the United States.
Terravanta's modular wellhead designs, powered by efficient expanders, provide a competitive advantage in the marketplace, according to Schumacher.
He said local manufacturing capabilities, short lead times and strategic partnerships delivering advanced geothermal exploration technologies will help accelerate geothermal deployment nationwide.
Richard Teal, Mayor of Loxley, said the new investment would add some 63 new jobs to the local economy.
“We are excited that Terravanta Power Systems has chosen Loxley as the home for this innovative manufacturing operation supporting the future of geothermal energy. We look forward to building a strong partnership.”