Schneider Electric, a leader in energy management and automation digital transformation, has announced a £42 million investment in a new manufacturing plant in Scarborough, North Yorkshire. The facility will create over 200 jobs to meet rising demand for electrical equipment supporting the UK’s transition to cleaner energy, including renewable sources, electric vehicles, and energy-efficient buildings.
The new site, set to open in early 2025, will be nearly three times the size of Schneider Electric’s current Scarborough location and aims to be a model of sustainable design and operations. It is expected to achieve net-zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions upon opening.
Key features of the new facility include:
Solar Energy: A state-of-the-art solar system will produce 30% of the plant’s energy, with solar panels covering 50% of the roof to maximize solar energy efficiency.
Renewable Energy Certification: Any energy consumed from the national grid will be “renewable certified.”
Intelligent Building Management: Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure platform will manage energy-efficient operations, including lighting sensors and automated climate control.
Electric Paint Line: The plant will include one of Europe’s first fully electric paint lines, supporting decarbonized operations.
Sustainable Construction: The site is targeting a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, demonstrating high standards in sustainable construction.
The facility will also promote environmental responsibility with features such as:
EV Charging: 30 electric vehicle chargers on-site.
Cycling Amenities: Dedicated bike racks, shelters, and showers.
Biodiversity Initiatives: Collaboration with Natural England to create habitats for protected species and efforts to retain existing trees and natural features.
Schneider Electric’s Scarborough site, which currently employs 450 people, specializes in manufacturing low-voltage switchgears critical for sustainable operations like EV charging and net-zero buildings.
Kelly Becker, President of Schneider Electric for the UK & Ireland, Belgium & Netherlands, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability: “We’re proud to invest in and develop innovative solutions that will drive decarbonisation in the UK while creating local, green jobs in Yorkshire. This new facility represents a significant step in our dedication to the UK’s green economy and will set a benchmark for the transition to sustainable, energy-efficient buildings.”