The Finnish technology supplier Metso is joining forces with SAC, Guodian Nanjing Automation Co., Ltd (previously State Automation Company), to strengthen its position in the power automation control systems market in China. The new joint venture will concentrate on developing the digital power plant concept focusing especially on the Chinese market.

Metso will own 33 % and SAC will own 67 % of the joint venture. The joint venture will support Metso's target to offer proven, cost-effective power automation control solutions for the Chinese markets. The new company will manufacture and market Metso's maxDNA automation technology and SAC's digital power plant products. Furthermore the joint venture will develop new products and provide comprehensive after-sales services. The joint venture will have over 300 employees in China.

"By joining forces we gain share in the Chinese power market. We have already over 140 power units controlled by our systems in China", comments Metso's Steve Gandy, Vice President Sales and Operations, Energy and Process Systems in Asia.

The new company will start its operations following official approval by the required Chinese authorities.