October 31, 2023 – Hubbell Inc. is acquiring Northern Star Holdings Inc. (a.k.a. Systems Control)—a portfolio company of Comvest Partners—for $1.1 billion US.

“This acquisition enhances Hubbell Utility Solutions’ industry-leading franchise across utility components, communications and controls,” said Gerben Bakker, Hubbell’s chair, president & CEO, adding the company is “highly complementary to Hubbell’s portfolio, enabling us to deliver additional value to our core utility customers […]”

Systems Control is a manufacturer of substation control and relay panels, as well as turnkey substation control building solutions. Its offerings are critical to grid reliability, says Hubbell, as they enable utility customers to protect and control substation infrastructure while detecting faults and controlling the flow of electricity.

“Substation automation is critical to upgrading aged infrastructure and enabling the integration of renewables and electrification on the grid,” noted Greg Gumbs, president, Utility Solutions. “Systems Control has a proven value proposition, with leading manufacturing quality and engineering expertise driving labour savings for utility customers while enabling them to operate critical infrastructure reliably and efficiently.”

The transaction is anticipated to close by the end of 2023, subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.