Overview
Westinghouse Electric Company, a pioneer in electrical technology and nuclear energy, has a rich history spanning over a century. Founded in 1886 by George Westinghouse in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company has undergone significant transformations and diversifications throughout its existence.
Founding and Early Years
Initially named Westinghouse Electric Company, it was renamed Westinghouse Electric & Manufacturing Company in 1889. The company played a crucial role in developing and implementing alternating current (AC) technology, competing with Thomas Edison's direct current (DC) system. Key achievements include the development of the first practical AC transformer and the installation of the world's first operational transformer-based multiple voltage transmission system in 1886.
Expansion and Innovation
By the early 20th century, Westinghouse had become a major player in power generation, transmission, and distribution. The company expanded into consumer electronics, home appliances, and radio broadcasting, establishing KDKA, the first commercial radio station. Westinghouse's commitment to research and development led to numerous innovations, including the world's first commercial pressurized water reactor (PWR) in 1957.
Corporate Changes
In the late 20th century, Westinghouse underwent significant restructuring. The company exited the appliance business in the mid-1970s and diversified further in the 1990s, including the purchase of CBS. In 1999, the nuclear power division was spun off to form the new Westinghouse Electric Company LLC.
Modern Era
Today, Westinghouse Electric Company LLC focuses primarily on nuclear power, offering products and services including the AP1000 reactor design. The company has undergone several ownership changes, most recently acquired by Brookfield Renewable Partners and Cameco in November 2023. Despite facing challenges, including a bankruptcy filing in 2017, Westinghouse remains a significant player in the global nuclear energy sector.
Legacy and Current Operations
Westinghouse continues to be a leader in nuclear energy, with a global presence and a commitment to sustainable energy solutions. The company's legacy includes pioneering work in electrical technology, nuclear power, and consumer electronics, and it remains dedicated to improving everyday life through innovative and reliable products.
Leadership Team
As of the latest updates, Westinghouse Electric Company's leadership team comprises experienced professionals guiding the company's operations and strategic direction in the nuclear energy sector.
Executive Leadership
- Patrick Fragman: President and CEO until March 2025. Fragman has announced his intention to step down to spend more time with his family in Europe.
- Dan Sumner: Currently Deputy CEO, Sumner will become Interim President and CEO upon Fragman's departure. With over 14 years at Westinghouse, Sumner previously served as Chief Financial Officer and President of the Operating Plant Services business unit.
Business Unit Presidents
- Dan Lipman: President of the Energy Systems business unit since August 2024. Lipman oversees the deployment of the AP1000® pressurized water reactor, AP300™ small modular reactor, and other non-nuclear energy systems.
- Dan Sumner: Before his interim CEO appointment, Sumner led the Operating Plant Services Business Unit, focusing on solutions for the global fleet of operating nuclear plants.
Executive Vice Presidents
- Ron Timperio: Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President, Global Operations Services. Appointed in April 2024, Timperio leads global engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and technical capabilities.
- Adam Silverstein: Executive Vice President, Quality, Environment, Health & Safety. Appointed in April 2024, Silverstein oversees Westinghouse's nuclear safety, industrial safety, and quality assurance programs.
- Shravan Chopra: Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Executive Vice President, Global Finance & Strategy since February 2023. Chopra is responsible for Westinghouse's global finance, strategy, and M&A operations.
Senior Advisor
- David Durham: Although retiring in June 2025, Durham will remain in a senior advisory position for several months to ensure a smooth transition. He previously led the Energy Systems business unit and was instrumental in bringing the first AP1000 reactors online in the U.S. and China. These leadership changes reflect Westinghouse's ongoing evolution and commitment to innovation and growth in the nuclear energy sector.
History
Westinghouse Electric Company, later known as Westinghouse Electric Corporation, has a rich history spanning over a century, marked by innovation and influential contributions to the electrical and nuclear industries.
Founding and Early Years
Founded on January 8, 1886, by George Westinghouse in East Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company was initially named Westinghouse Electric Company. It was renamed Westinghouse Electric & Manufacturing Company in 1889 and finally Westinghouse Electric Corporation in 1945.
Development of Alternating Current (AC)
George Westinghouse played a pivotal role in developing and promoting alternating current (AC) technology:
- In 1885, he became aware of European transformer-based AC systems.
- He hired William Stanley, Jr. to develop the first practical AC transformer.
- In 1886, Stanley installed the world's first operational transformer-based multiple voltage transmission system in Great Barrington, Massachusetts.
- Westinghouse acquired Nikola Tesla's AC and induction motor patents in 1888, crucial for developing the polyphase AC system.
Industrial and Technological Contributions
Westinghouse Electric made significant contributions to various groundbreaking projects:
- Niagara Falls Power Plant: Installed hydropower AC generators at the Adams Power Plant, supplying power to Buffalo, New York, from 1896.
- Railway Electrification: Played a major role in electrifying railroads, including the New York, New Haven, and Hartford Railroad and the New York subway system.
- World's Columbian Exposition: Supplied electric lights and power for the 1893 event.
- Nuclear Power: Built the world's first commercial pressurized water reactor (PWR) in Shippingport, Pennsylvania, in 1957.
Expansion and Diversification
By the early 20th century, Westinghouse had expanded significantly:
- Manufacturing Facilities: Established plants in East Pittsburgh, Newark, Cleveland, and internationally in Manchester, Havre, and Hamilton.
- Product Range: Produced a wide array of products including generators, steam turbines, electric railway motors, home appliances, and lighting equipment.
- Research and Development: Known for its robust research division, working on projects such as microwaves, the Van de Graaff generator, and television technology.
Corporate Developments
- Labor Relations: Signed a national labor agreement with the United Electrical, Radio and Machine Workers of America in 1941.
- Corporate Changes: In the late 20th century, underwent significant reorganizations, selling off various divisions and venturing into media by acquiring CBS and Infinity Broadcasting.
Legacy
George Westinghouse's legacy includes over 360 patents and the founding of 60 companies. The firm's contributions to AC technology, nuclear power, and various industrial and consumer products have had a lasting impact on modern society. Today, Westinghouse technology forms the basis for approximately half of the world's operating nuclear power reactors.
Core Technology
Westinghouse Electric Company's core technology, particularly in recent collaborations and innovations, centers around several key aspects:
eVinci Microreactor
The eVinci microreactor is a cornerstone of Westinghouse's innovative nuclear energy solutions. This versatile microreactor can produce electricity ranging from several kilowatts to 5 megawatts, operating continuously for eight or more years at full power before refueling. It utilizes heat pipe technology for passive heat transfer, eliminating the need for complex coolant systems or moving parts. This enhances reliability, reduces maintenance requirements, and mitigates risks associated with coolant loss or high system pressures.
Heat Pipe Technology
The heat pipes in the eVinci microreactor transfer heat from the nuclear core to a power conversion system without the need for water cooling or recirculation systems. Based on over 60 years of proven use, this technology improves reliability while providing a simple, non-pressurized method of heat transfer.
Self-Regulating Solid Core Block (SCB)
Westinghouse is developing a self-regulating 'solid core block' (SCB) for their micro-scale nuclear reactors. This SCB uses solid material to passively regulate the reaction rate, ensuring safe shutdown without additional controls, external power sources, or operator intervention. This design aims to address common challenges of current nuclear power plants, such as complicated plant designs and high operating costs.
Factory-Built and Compact Design
The eVinci microreactor is fully factory-built, assembled, and shipped in a container, allowing for rapid deployment in various locations, including remote communities, industrial facilities, and maritime applications. Its compact design and minimal maintenance requirements make it suitable for a wide range of use cases.
Regulatory and Safety Standards
Westinghouse and its partners, such as CORE POWER, are working to develop a regulatory approach for licensing floating nuclear power plant systems. The eVinci microreactor incorporates advanced safety features that minimize failure risks and ensure reliable and environmentally responsible energy production. These technologies and design approaches are central to Westinghouse's efforts to provide carbon-free, safe, and scalable energy solutions for various applications, including maritime, coastal, and remote locations.
Industry Peers
Westinghouse Electric Company operates in the nuclear power technology and services industry, competing with several key players:
General Electric (GE)
GE is a major competitor, offering a wide range of nuclear technology and services to utilities worldwide. Its global presence and extensive experience make it a formidable rival for Westinghouse.
Areva
Areva is another significant competitor, providing nuclear power solutions globally. Its expertise in nuclear technology and strong customer base challenge Westinghouse's market share.
Rosatom
Rosatom, a state-owned Russian company, is a significant player in the global nuclear power market. It competes with Westinghouse through its advanced nuclear technology and competitive pricing.
China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC)
CNNC is a leading nuclear power company in China, offering a wide range of nuclear technology and services. As China continues to invest heavily in nuclear power, CNNC poses a threat to Westinghouse's market position.
Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions Corporation
Although Toshiba is the parent company of Westinghouse Electric, it also competes in the nuclear power industry through its own nuclear technology and services.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is a Japanese company and a major player in the nuclear power plant equipment market, providing advanced reactor technologies and services.
Doosan Corporation
Doosan Corporation, based in South Korea, is another key player in the nuclear power plant equipment market, offering various equipment and services for nuclear power plants.
GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy
This collaboration between GE and Hitachi focuses on advanced reactor technology, fuel, and nuclear services. It is a significant competitor in the global nuclear sector.
TerraPower
TerraPower is a nuclear energy technology company focused on developing advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors and other carbon-free energy solutions.
Babcock & Wilcox (B&W) and BWXT
These companies are also competitors in the nuclear power industry, providing various nuclear power equipment and services, including heat exchangers and steam generators. This competitive landscape highlights the diverse and global nature of the nuclear power technology and services industry in which Westinghouse Electric Company operates.