CEL Critical Power, a company specializing in power solutions for the AI and cloud industry, will open its first American manufacturing facility in James City County. The announcement was made by Governor Glenn Youngkin, who said the $5.225 million investment is expected to create 250 new jobs initially, with plans to expand to 500 employees by 2030.
Governor Youngkin commented on the development: “We are thrilled to welcome CEL to Virginia as they establish their first-ever American manufacturing site right here in the Commonwealth. Everyone involved in this project moved at the speed of Virginia to make this possible, and the impact is already being felt on the ground. Virginia has great jobs and as CEL works to fill these 250 new positions, they are in the best location possible to attract and retain the talent they need. CEL’s growth into James City County reflects that the future of American manufacturing is right here in the Commonwealth.”
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura added: “By opening this new manufacturing facility, CEL is showing the positive ripple effects of data center growth in the Commonwealth and across the globe. With this new plant, we are ensuring every dollar invested in Virginia data centers stays in Virginia. For data centers in other parts of the country or the world, Virginia is uniquely positioned to provide fast, reliable transportation of the products they need. It’s a win-win for the Commonwealth.”
Niall McFadden, Group Managing Director at CEL Critical Power, stated: “Today marks a very special milestone for CEL Critical Power as we open our first manufacturing facility in the United States in Williamsburg, Virginia. I want to thank Governor Youngkin and the Commonwealth of Virginia for their support in making CEL Critical Power’s rapid expansion into the United States a reality. It is no surprise that Virginia consistently ranks among the top locations for business in the United States, offering a great supply chain ecosystem, excellent infrastructure and a large pool of technical talent.”
CEL Critical Power was founded in Dublin, Ireland in 1982. The company designs low-voltage power distribution systems and switchgear equipment tailored for high-demand applications such as next-generation AI microchips.
James City County Board of Supervisors Chair Jim Icenhour welcomed CEL’s decision: “James City County prides itself on being home to industry-leading manufacturing companies and CEL Critical Power is a wonderful addition to our growing industrial sector. CEL recognized that our region’s talented and skilled workforce includes many veterans departing the armed services and this project will create 250 family-sustaining wage jobs in James City County. I am pleased that our economic development staff, Hampton Roads Alliance, and VEDP were able to collaborate to attract this world-class provider of power solutions.”
Douglas L. Smith, President & CEO of Hampton Roads Alliance said: “We’re proud to welcome CEL Critical Power to Hampton Roads. Their investment perfectly reflects the priorities of Hampton Roads playbook—strengthening our region’s leadership in energy innovation, resilience, and reliability. From offshore wind to critical power manufacturing, Hampton Roads is charting course for America’s energy future.”
Senator Danny Diggs expressed his support: “I would like to thank Virginia Economic Development Partnership for working with CEL Critical Power to establish a $5.225 million investment in James City County. This marks company’s first American manufacturing facility… The jobs that they will create will have a positive impact on our local citizens.”
Delegate Chad Green added: “The Commonwealth of Virginia and James City County continue to serve as a beacon for economic opportunity and job growth… Because of investments made by Governor Youngkin and General Assembly… more job opportunities will continue seek our region as potential for economic development.”
The Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP) will support job creation efforts at CEL’s new facility by providing consultative services along with funding aimed at employee recruitment and training activities.
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