Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and automation, has announced a £42 million investment in a new manufacturing facility in Scarborough, North Yorkshire. The significant expansion, expected to create over 200 new jobs, is part of the company’s broader effort to support the UK’s transition towards cleaner energy sources, including renewable energy, electric vehicles, and intelligent, energy-efficient buildings.
The new site, set to open in early 2025, is almost three times the size of the company’s current Scarborough facility and is designed as a model of sustainability. It will be a net-zero plant, targeting zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions, and will employ cutting-edge technologies to reduce energy waste and increase the use of renewable energy.
One of the major features of the new facility is its solar energy system, which is set to produce 30% of the site’s energy. Solar panels will cover half of the roof space, ensuring that solar energy is efficiently harnessed. Any additional energy consumed from the national grid will be “renewable certified,” guaranteeing that the plant operates in an environmentally responsible manner.
Schneider Electric has also integrated its EcoStruxure platform, an intelligent Building Management System, to manage the facility’s energy efficiency. The system will optimise operations through automated heating, cooling, and lighting sensors, ensuring the plant minimises unnecessary energy consumption.
In a first for Europe, the new facility will include a fully electric paint line, underscoring Schneider Electric’s commitment to decarbonised operations. The plant is aiming for a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, highlighting its ambition to meet the highest standards in sustainable construction and operation.
Environmental considerations extend beyond energy use. The new site has been designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating eco-friendly transport options for its workforce. The facility will offer 30 EV charging points for employees, alongside dedicated cycling racks, shelters, and showers to encourage green commuting. Additionally, Schneider Electric is collaborating with Natural England to create a habitat for protected species, while retaining as many existing trees and natural features as possible to promote biodiversity.
Scarborough has long been a cornerstone of Schneider Electric’s manufacturing operations, specialising in the production of low-voltage switchgears. These switchgears are critical for protecting and distributing electricity, playing a key role in sustainable projects such as the installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure and the development of net-zero buildings. Currently employing 450 people, the new expansion is expected to significantly boost the company’s capacity to meet the growing demand for electrical equipment as the UK continues its push towards cleaner energy.
Benjamin Jeffery, Sustainability Lead at Schneider Electric, said, “Our investment in Scarborough is an important milestone in our commitment to helping the UK transition to a cleaner, greener future. By integrating state-of-the-art technology and sustainable practices into our operations, we aim to demonstrate that industry can lead the way in decarbonisation while delivering vital infrastructure for the UK’s energy transition.”
This latest investment by Schneider Electric further strengthens the company’s position as a leader in energy management solutions, reinforcing its role in helping to shape a more sustainable future for the UK and beyond.
