Schneider Electric is set to invest £42 million on a new manufacturing facility in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, creating over 200 jobs.
The new site will replace the company’s existing facility and Shch to embrace sustainable manufacturing processes and operations.
The 16,500 sqm facility has been designed to minimise energy waste and maximise the use of renewable energy sources. Schneider Electric claims that the site will embrace sustainability in both manufacturing processes and operations through the use of advanced technologies.
Upon its opening in early 2025, Schneider Electric expects the facility to achieve net zero in both Scope 1 and 2 emissions. It’ll do this partly through the implementation of a solar energy system that will cover half of the roof, while also ensuring that any energy consumed from the national grid is renewable certified.
The plant is being designed to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating and will incorporate an intelligent building management system to optimise energy use. It also aims to support decarbonised operations with one of Europe’s first fully electric paint lines.
Schneider Electric has been a part of Scarborough’s manufacturing landscape for many years, currently employing 450 people specialising in the production of low-voltage switchgears crucial for sustainable operations such as EV charging infrastructure and net zero buildings.
Kelly Becker, President at Schneider Electric, UK & Ireland, Belgium & Netherlands, said, “Sustainability is at the core of our purpose, culture, and business. We’re proud to be investing in and developing innovative solutions which will deliver immediate and lasting decarbonisation in the UK, while bolstering the creation of local, green jobs in Yorkshire.”
Jonathan Reynolds, Business and Trade Secretary, commented on the investment, stating, “This huge investment from Schneider Electric will not only safeguard existing jobs but create 200 new ones. Increasing investment is a mission at the heart of this government, and our modern Industrial Strategy will help us deliver long-term, stable growth that supports skilled jobs.”
Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive of Make UK, added, “This is a marvellous example of how sustainable manufacturing can be achieved, creating many highly skilled jobs in the process. Green technologies are going to be the solution to many of the challenges that we face and Schneider should be applauded for pioneering this facility. It is an exemplary model for other manufacturers to follow when they build new facilities.”
The new facility will be located at Scarborough Business Park, a short distance from Schneider Electric’s existing site, and will be managed by Caddick Developments. It’ll also complement the recent expansion to Schneider Electric’s operations in Leeds, which was announced last year.