The new plant, nearly three times the size of Schneider Electric’s existing Scarborough facility, is set to open in early 2025. The site will be designed to operate as a net-zero facility, utilising advanced technologies to minimise energy waste and maximise the use of renewable energy.

Approximately 30% of the plant’s energy needs will be met by a solar power system, with solar panels covering half of the roof. Additionally, energy from the national grid will be “renewable certified.” The facility will also feature an intelligent Building Management System, which will manage energy-efficient operations such as light sensors and automated heating and cooling.

One notable feature will be a fully electric paint line, one of the first of its kind in Europe, designed to support decarbonised operations. The facility aims to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, highlighting its commitment to sustainable construction standards. The site will also offer sustainable transport options for employees.

Supporting the UK's Green Energy Transition

Schneider Electric’s existing Scarborough facility employs 450 people and produces low-voltage switchgear, critical components in the UK’s move toward energy-efficient solutions, including electric vehicle charging infrastructure and net-zero buildings.

Kelly Becker, president of Schneider Electric UK, Ireland, Belgium, and the Netherlands, said: "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."

Regional and Industry Support for the Investment

David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, welcomed the investment, noting the positive impact on local job creation and the region's drive toward becoming England’s first carbon-negative area. Stephen Phipson, chief executive of Make UK, praised the facility as a model for sustainable manufacturing and job creation in green technologies.

The investment in Scarborough complements a £7.2m upgrade to Schneider Electric’s Leeds site, announced in October 2023. Together, the projects are expected to create over 300 jobs across Yorkshire in the next decade.

Sustainable Growth and Industry Recognition

Schneider Electric, which employs 5,000 people in the UK and Ireland, ended 2023 with a global turnover of €36bn. The new Scarborough facility, located at Scarborough Business Park, will be managed by Caddick Developments, with Schneider Electric as its anchor tenant.

The company was recently shortlisted in the Large Business category at the Yorkshire Sustainability Excellence Awards, recognising its contributions to sustainable practices and environmental impact.

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