Schneider Electric's Plans for a Sustainable UK Plant
Schneider Electric has announced a substantial investment of US$51m towards a state-of-the-art manufacturing site in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, UK.
This initiative marks a significant push towards enhancing the UK's clean energy sector, further establishing benchmarks in sustainable practices within manufacturing landscapes.
The expansive new facility is set to triple the size of Schneider Electric's existing premises in Scarborough and is anticipated to generate more than 200 new jobs.
This development will not only bolster local employment but also promote green skills in the region.
In addition, nestled as a core unit in Schneider's Scarborough hub which already hosts a low-carbon distribution centre, the new manufacturing plant is poised to become a flagship location for the French multinational corporation.
Championing eco-friendly practices and biodiversity
The design of the facility incorporates considerations for environmental preservation.
Schneider Electric is working in collaboration with Natural England to develop habitats for protected species and preserve existing natural landscapes.
The site also places a strong emphasis on sustainable transportation solutions for its workforce.
It includes the provision of 30 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and extensive facilities for cyclists, including secure bike shelters and showers.
These initiatives highlight Schneider's commitment to embedding sustainability into every facet of its operational strategy.
Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive of Make UK, has a great deal of praise for the project.
“This is a marvellous example of how sustainable manufacturing can be achieved, creating many highly skilled jobs in the process,” he says.
“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 exemplar model for other manufacturers to follow when they build new facilities.”
Spearheading sustainability with smart technology
At the heart of Schneider's expansion lies its unwavering commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions on both Scope 1 (direct emissions from owned or controlled sources) and Scope 2 (indirect emissions from the generation of purchased electricity).
The facility is expected to begin operations in early 2025, equipped with an array of renewable energy sources alongside advanced energy efficiency measures to meet these ambitious sustainability goals.
Integrating modern technology, Schneider Electric has planned to deploy a solar energy system anticipated to fulfil 30% of the plant’s energy needs, with photovoltaic panels installed across half of the building’s rooftop.
The additional energy requirements will be met through 'renewable certified' sources, ensuring a sustainable operation functionality.
The plant's operations will be enhanced by Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure platform, an intelligent Building Management System designed to cut down on energy wastage effectively.
This system incorporates features such as light sensors, automated heating and cooling systems, along with advanced energy monitoring mechanisms vital for maintaining an efficient energy consumption blueprint.
The facility will also host one of Europe's first fully electric paint lines, which supports the reduction of the carbon footprint in its manufacturing processes.
Kelly Becker, President of Schneider Electric UK & Ireland, emphasises the company's dedication to sustainability and innovation.
“Sustainability is at the core of our purpose, culture and business,” she says.
“We're proud to be investing in and developing innovative solutions which will deliver immediate and lasting decarbonisation in the UK, while shoring up the creation of local, green jobs in Yorkshire.”
Invigorating the green economy in Yorkshire
The extension of Schneider Electric's operations in Scarborough is part of a larger investment blueprint across Yorkshire, with a recent additional investment of US$9m attributed to its Leeds site.
Collectively, these projects are projected to create more than 300 job opportunities over the next decade, thereby reinforcing Yorkshire's stature as a burgeoning centre for green manufacturing.
The focus at the new Scarborough site includes the production of low-voltage switchgear essential for sustainable energy solutions, such as electric vehicle charging stations and energy-efficient buildings.
The new facility symbolises Schneider's enduring commitment to supporting the UK’s clean energy transition, situated a mere 500 metres from its existing premises, with Caddick Developments leading the construction.
Kelly believes that the new plant is a symbol of the company's long-term commitment to the UK's clean energy transition.
“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.”
Make sure you check out the latest industry news and insights at ClimateTech Digital and be part of the conversation at our global conference series, Sustainability LIVE.
Discover all our upcoming events and secure your tickets today. Subscribe to the ClimateTech Digital newsletter.
ClimateTech Digital is a BizClik brand