Shreveport has been making transformers for more than half a century. Now the local plant is preparing for a new round of growth, with a $34.5 million expansion that could bring 175 direct jobs to the area.
GE Vernova Transformers Shreveport LLC plans to upgrade its existing facility on West Bert Kouns Industrial Loop with new manufacturing equipment, process improvements and supporting infrastructure. The goal: increase production of transformers used in industrial operations and renewable energy, including equipment for digital factories and battery storage. GE Vernova News
A local plant with a long history
The facility’s Shreveport story began in 1969, when General Electric broke ground on the plant. Transformer production started the following year. Today, the operation covers about 500,000 square feet and has continued to adapt as technology and customer needs have changed.
The expansion is expected to create 175 direct jobs while retaining 637 current positions. Louisiana Economic Development estimates another 185 indirect jobs could be supported across Northwest Louisiana—making 360 potential new job opportunities connected to the project. Louisiana Economic Development
Why transformers are in the spotlight
Transformers help move electricity through the grid and deliver it where it’s needed. As electricity demand grows, so does the need for the equipment that supports power systems, industry and newer technologies.
GE Vernova says engineering and equipment procurement are underway. Installation is expected to continue through the end of 2026 and throughout 2027, with production expected to reach full capacity in 2028. GE Vernova News
An investment in Shreveport’s workforce
Louisiana’s incentive package includes a $300,000 performance-based grant for site and infrastructure improvements. GE Vernova is also expected to participate in the state’s Quality Jobs and Industrial Tax Exemption programs. The company’s growth reflects the importance of the skilled workforce already operating the facility—and keeps a long-standing manufacturing presence in Shreveport moving into its next chapter. Louisiana Economic Development
For a city with generations of manufacturing history, this is more than a new equipment announcement. It’s a sign that a local operation built decades ago is still adapting to what the world needs next.
Read more: Louisiana Economic Development’s announcement | GE Vernova’s announcement