Schneider Electric is investing £42 million in a brand-new manufacturing facility in Scarborough, North Yorkshire. In response to increased demand for electrical equipment in the UK following moves to cleaner energy, including renewable energy sources, electric vehicles, and intelligent, energy-efficient buildings, this new facility has the opportunity to create 200 jobs.
Being almost triple the size of Schneider Electric’s existing Scarborough facility, with 450 employees currently, the site provides opportunity for sustainable design and operations in the manufacturing industry. Along side it’s purpose of assisting the UK’s shift to cleaner energy, it will become a net-zero plant and will use modern technology to reduce energy waste and maximise the use of renewable energy, expecting to be net-zero in Scope 1 and 2 emissions on its opening in early 2025.
“This new manufacturing facility will drive new, quality jobs in Scarborough and help us go beyond net-zero to become England’s first carbon negative region.” – David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire
The facility will be powered by 30% solar energy, with solar panels covering 50% of the roof to maximise efficiency. Any additional energy required from the national grid will be “renewable certified” to ensure its sustainability. To further enhance energy efficiency, the facility will incorporate an intelligent Building Management System (BMS) based on Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure platform, which will control operations such as lighting, heating, and cooling through sensors and automation. Additionally, the facility will feature one of the first fully electric paint lines in Europe, supporting its commitment to decarbonised operations. With a goal of achieving a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, the facility will set a high standard for sustainable construction.
“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.” – Kelly Becker, President at Schneider Electric, UK & Ireland, Belgium & Netherlands
The site’s use of sustainability also extends to its transport with employees having access to 30 EV chargers on site and a dedicated sheltered area for bike riders. Furthermore, work is underway with Nature England to create a habitat for protected species, whilst promoting biodiversity by retaining as many of the existing trees and natural features as possible.
Sustainability should be at the core of every organisation, and as the UK’s only Schneider Electric Alliance Master Industrial Distributor and awarded Schneider Electric’s Global Alliance Industrial automation Partner of The Year 2024, it is particularly pleasing for us here at BPX to see Schneider Electric prioritising sustainability, investing in the UK, and creating so many opportunities.
