Schneider Electric has officially opened its new state-of-the-art smart plant in Scarborough, with full site commissioning targeted by year end.
With Britain’s electricity needs expected to increase up to 40% by 2035, the plant is designed for long-term growth, producing the critical electrical equipment needed as the UK moves to cleaner energy.
Schneider Electric’s manufacturing roots in Scarborough stem from the 1930s and this history has resulted in a considerable amount of product development and manufacturing knowledge being captured in the local workforce. Customers will now benefit from a combination of this knowledge and skills and the latest manufacturing processes and technology.
By manufacturing in the UK, Schneider Electric is building resilience into the nation’s critical electrical infrastructure, reducing exposure to global supply chain shocks and slashing carbon emissions through shorter, optimised transport and logistics routes.
The new facility will also boost the EV charging network in and around Scarborough. An additional 30 EV chargers will be hosted on site, increasing local EV charging infrastructure by more than 110% and accelerating the transition to electric fleets.
The factory will also serve as a global blueprint for sustainable design and operations in manufacturing. Net-zero in Scope 1 and 2 emissions, the plant uses modern technology to reduce energy waste and maximise the use of renewable energy – 30% of which comes from its own advanced solar energy system.
Kelly Becker, president at Schneider Electric, UK & Ireland, Belgium & Netherlands, said: “UK manufacturing is the backbone of the nation’s infrastructure drive. With electricity demand set to hit new heights, our Scarborough site – rooted in Yorkshire expertise – gives us the scale and agility to respond quickly to market changes and support the UK’s energy transition and beyond. By expanding our local footprint, we’re working even closer with customers to deliver a decarbonised, resilient energy system for the future.”
David Skaith, mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said: “Schneider Electric is backing our vision for a greener York and North Yorkshire with this £42 million investment in its Scarborough base. The opportunities afforded by this larger site will help keep more of our talented young people and skilled workers on the coast.
“This is a moment I’ve been looking forward to, having followed this project from its early stages to its official opening today. It shows the confidence businesses have about our commitment to clean energy. This new state-of-the-art facility will produce the electrical equipment we need, putting our region at the heart of the UK’s transition to cleaner energy.”
Lord Harrington, chair, Make UK, said: “The decision by Schneider Electric to invest £42m to build a new factory in Yorkshire is a powerful vote of confidence in the strength and resilience of UK manufacturing. This facility represents not only a boost to regional industry and skilled employment, but also a commitment to innovation and sustainability – values that are at the heart of our sector’s future.
“With features such as rooftop solar panels and cutting-edge digital technologies, the factory sets a new benchmark for smart, low-carbon manufacturing in the UK. We warmly welcome this investment and look forward to the positive ripple effects it will have across the supply chain and local communities.”
