Metso Forms Joint Venture with SAC for Strengthening Power Automation in China

Metso entered into a joint venture with SAC, Guodian Nanjing Automation to strengthen its presence in China for power automation control systems. Through the joint venture they will be focussing on developing the concept of digital power plants to the Chinese market. Metso will own 33% of the joint venture while SAC will own 67% of it.

Metso’s aim in the venture is to provide cost-effective power automation control systems to the Chinese market. They intend to use the max DNA automation technology along with SAC’s digital power plant products. As part of the joint venture, new products would be developed, for which they assure after sales service. More than 300 employees from China will be employed to work on the joint venture. The Vice President of sales at Metso, Steve Gandy, regarded the joint venture as an opportunity for Metso to establish themselves in the Chinese market. The venture would be a boost to their control over 140 power units in China. Metso has installed the maxDNA systems at more than 700 power plants across the world. The State Power Ministry in China had recommended Metso amongst the eight DCS companies earlier. The joint venture is planning to start its operations after receiving the required official approvals from the Chinese authorities. SAC is a public company, which is owned 58% by Huandian Power International. Huandian Power International is amongst the five leading power producing companies in China.