Group EFACEC, a supplier of automation systems and infrastructure solutions to the global energy and transport sectors, has acquired Atlanta-based Advanced Control Systems, Inc. for undisclosed terms.

Founded in Portugal in 1948, EFACEC employs more than 2500 people, with a presence in more than 60 countries and annual revenue in excess US $600 million. EFACEC will leverage the acquisition of ACS as one part of a strategic growth plan for the North American market.

Founded by retiring CEO John Muench in 1975, ACS has grown into a leading provider of smart grid automation solutions to the electric power industry. ACS has over 250 utility customers worldwide. EFACEC will operate ACS as a wholly owned U.S. subsidiary, with headquarters remaining at the current location in Norcross, Georgia. Muench will serve as an advisor and consultant to EFACEC.

Newly appointed ACS Chief Executive Officer José Barbosa said, “ACS has built a well-deserved reputation as an innovator and a reliable partner to utilities for over three decades. EFACEC will build upon this history of success as we expand ACS’ range of products and services and increase distribution worldwide. Together, ACS and EFACEC will launch new products and expand services to meet the needs of a rapidly growing smart grid marketplace.”

Prior to the acquisition of ACS, Group EFACEC already counted several leading North American investor-owned utilities among its customers, including Florida Power and Light, Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Southern Company and Duke Energy. Major U.S. utility customers of both ACS and EFACEC include Nevada Power and NSTAR.