Schneider Electric has announced plans to invest £42m in a new manufacturing facility in Scarborough, North Yorkshire.
More than 200 jobs will be created as a result, with the company looking to meet increased demand for electrical equipment designed to support the UK’s transition to clean energy, including renewable energy sources, electric vehicles (EVs) and intelligent, energy-efficient buildings.
The site, which is almost triple the size of Schneider Electric’s existing Scarborough facility, will itself be a net-zero plant that uses modern technology to reduce energy waste and maximise the use of renewable energy.
It is expected to be net-zero in Scope 1 and 2 emissions when it opens in early 2025.
According to Schneider Electric, 30% of the facility’s energy will be produced by a solar energy system, with solar panels covering 50% of the roof, while any energy consumed on site from the national grid will be “renewable certified”.
What’s more, an intelligent building management system, based on Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure platform, will be deployed to ensure energy-efficient operations including light sensors, automated heating and cooling.
The new facility will also feature one of the first fully electric paint lines in Europe to support decarbonised operations.
Targeting a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, the site is designed to be environmentally friendly, with sustainable transport options for employees.
These include access to 30 EV chargers on site, as well as dedicated cycling racks, shelters and showers on site for bike riders.
Additionally, work is underway with Natural England to create a habitat for protected species and promote biodiversity by retaining as many of the existing trees and natural features as possible.
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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 that will deliver immediate and lasting decarbonisation in the UK, while bolstering the creation of local, green jobs in Yorkshire.
“The region has long been part of our operational presence in the UK, and we’re excited to expand this as part of our commitment to investing in the UK’s green economy.
“The new facility in Scarborough represents a pillar of innovation in net-zero, and one which will be an industry benchmark for the transition to sustainable, energy efficient buildings.”
Scarborough is a long-established manufacturing base for Schneider Electric, currently employing 450 people.
It specialises in the manufacture of low-voltage switchgears that protect and distribute electricity.
Innovations and achievements in manufacturing and sustainability will be highlighted and celebrated at the second annual Robotics & Automation Awards on 06 November 2024 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit www.roboticsandautomationawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable industry event – and to book your table!
