Schneider Electric’s £42 Million Investment in Scarborough: A Leap Towards Sustainable Manufacturing
In a significant move towards bolstering the UK’s green economy, Schneider Electric has announced a £42 million investment in a new manufacturing facility in Scarborough, North Yorkshire. This ambitious project is set to create over 200 jobs and is designed to meet the growing demand for electrical equipment that supports the UK’s transition to cleaner energy sources, including renewable energy, electric vehicles, and energy-efficient buildings.
A Blueprint for Sustainable Manufacturing
The new facility will be nearly three times the size of Schneider Electric’s existing site in Scarborough, which has long been a hub for the company’s operations. This state-of-the-art manufacturing plant is poised to become a benchmark for sustainable design and operations within the industry. Expected to open in early 2025, the facility aims to achieve net-zero emissions in Scope 1 and 2, showcasing Schneider Electric’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
A key feature of the new site will be its energy generation capabilities. Approximately 30% of the facility’s energy needs will be met through a cutting-edge solar energy system, with solar panels covering 50% of the roof. This innovative approach ensures that the building can harness solar energy efficiently. Furthermore, any energy consumed from the national grid will be "renewable certified," reinforcing the facility’s commitment to sustainability.
Intelligent Energy Management
To optimize energy efficiency, the new facility will incorporate Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure platform, which features an intelligent Building Management System. This system will utilize light sensors and automated heating and cooling to ensure that energy is used judiciously throughout the facility. Additionally, the plant will include one of the first fully electric paint lines in Europe, further supporting decarbonized operations.
The facility is also targeting a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, a prestigious standard in sustainable construction that sets it apart from conventional manufacturing sites. This commitment to sustainability not only enhances the operational efficiency of the plant but also aligns with Schneider Electric’s broader mission to drive decarbonization across the UK.
Promoting Sustainable Transport and Biodiversity
Schneider Electric’s investment goes beyond just energy efficiency; it also emphasizes sustainable transport options for employees. The new site will feature 30 electric vehicle (EV) chargers, dedicated cycling racks, shelters, and showers for those who choose to bike to work. This initiative encourages environmentally friendly commuting practices among employees, further reducing the facility’s carbon footprint.
In collaboration with Natural England, Schneider Electric is also working to create habitats for protected species in the area. The design of the facility aims to promote biodiversity by retaining as many existing trees and natural features as possible, demonstrating a holistic approach to environmental stewardship.
A Commitment to Local Employment and Economic Growth
Scarborough has been a longstanding manufacturing base for Schneider Electric, currently employing around 450 people. The new facility will not only safeguard existing jobs but also create new opportunities in the region. Kelly Becker, President at Schneider Electric for the UK & Ireland, Belgium, and the Netherlands, expressed pride in the investment, stating, “We’re excited to expand this as part of our commitment to investing in the UK’s green economy.”
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds highlighted the importance of this investment, noting that it aligns with the government’s mission to foster long-term, stable growth that supports skilled jobs. He emphasized that investments like Schneider Electric’s contribute significantly to the UK’s ambition of becoming a clean energy superpower.
Regional Impact and Future Prospects
David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, echoed these sentiments, stating that Schneider Electric’s investment would drive quality jobs in Scarborough and help the region strive towards becoming England’s first carbon-negative area. He noted that such leadership in sustainable manufacturing attracts other companies, positioning York and North Yorkshire as a hub for production and advanced engineering excellence.
Schneider Electric currently employs around 5,000 people across the UK and Ireland, with a global turnover of €36 billion as of the end of 2023. The new facility in Scarborough will be located less than 500 meters from the existing premises, ensuring a smooth transition for operations. This investment follows a £7.2 million upgrade to Schneider Electric’s site in Leeds, which is expected to create over 300 jobs in Yorkshire over the next decade.
Conclusion
Schneider Electric’s £42 million investment in Scarborough represents a significant step forward in sustainable manufacturing and the transition to a greener economy in the UK. With its focus on renewable energy, intelligent energy management, and local job creation, this new facility is set to become a model for future manufacturing operations. As the UK continues to strive for a sustainable future, investments like these will play a crucial role in achieving net-zero goals and fostering economic growth in the region.