New style of drive train leverages an optimized permanent magnet generator and full-power converter package to capitalize on variable wind speeds for maximum energy capture and delivery to the grid.

With its innovative drive train technology, The Switch plans to take successes gained in European and Asian wind installations to bolster its presence in North America, one of the highest growth areas for new wind turbine installations.

Power technology companies The Switch and American Superconductor Corporation (NASDAQ: AMSC) today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement whereby AMSC intends to acquire The Switch to help strengthen its position in the wind turbine component market and to support AMSC’s growth to EUR 720 million (US$ 1 billion) in annual revenues.

With sales of both power converter systems and permanent magnet generators to wind turbine manufacturers worldwide, this acquisition, worth EUR 190 million, diversifies AMSC’s customer base and channels to market and enhances The Switch’s growth.