Vantaa, Finland, October 2, 2013 — The Switch, supplier of megawatt-class permanent magnet generator and full-power converter packages for wind power and other renewable energy applications, and YASKAWA Electric Corporation (“YASKAWA”), a global manufacturer of servomotors, controllers, inverters, and industrial robots, today announced they will enter into a strategic cooperation on high-power motors, generators and converters. By combining forces, the two companies plan to leverage each other’s technology expertise, expand their product range and to strengthen their market positions in Europe and Japan. This cooperation will result in a more complete offering in product packages and eventually in bigger and better wind turbines.
“With strong expertise in medium voltage technology, YASKAWA is an ideal partner for The Switch to complement our present product offering. This cooperation will provide us with a solid foundation to serve our old and new customers in wind power and other applications, and we look forward to expanding our presence in Japan,” says President and CEO of The Switch Jukka-Pekka Mäkinen.”
“A networked business model is the hallmark of The Switch and collaboration with YASKAWA reinforces this networking approach. By tapping into experts in a particular area, even from other business areas or other industry expertise, it is possible to gain knowledge and enable the entire industry to develop,” Mäkinen adds.
“The Switch‘s proven capability in megawatt-class power generation in the European wind market and its wide product portfolio will greatly benefit YASKAWA in our commitment to develop our product range, to expand our existing customer base in Japan and to win more market share in Europe,” adds Hiroyuki Ougi, Corporate Senior Vice President of YASKAWA.
YASKAWA
YASKAWA Electric Corporation provides core technologies focused through the fields of motion control, robotics automation, and systems engineering aimed at enhancing customer return. Since it’s foundation in 1915, YASKAWA has provided the best in products and technology to the market. From motor applications, advancement of industrial automation, creation of Mechatronics, and cutting edge robotics, Yaskawa has continuously been at the forefront of each era. For more information, visit http://www.yaskawa.co.jp/.
The Switch
With 6.5 GW of installed wind power capacity, The Switch is a leading supplier of megawatt-class permanent magnet generator and full-power converter packages that effectively capture power from highly variable new energy sources like wind and solar. The technology ensures reliable, future-proof grid compliance and maximized energy yields. Starting operations in 2006, The Switch reported net sales of EUR 43.2 million in 2012. The company employs a total of 210 persons. The Switch is headquartered in Vantaa, Finland. For more information, visit www.theswitch.com.
