Schneider Electric, who make electric management and digital automation equipment, plan to spend £42million on tripling the size of their operations in Scarborough.
The new 16,500m2 manufacturing facility aims to meet the demand for such equipment as the UK moves towards cleaner energy, including renewable energy, electric vehicles, and intelligent, energy efficient buildings.
The company says its site at Cayton Low Road, Eastfield, will be a blueprint for sustainable design and operations. The plant would become net zero and will use modern technology reduce energy waste and maximise the use of renewable energy.
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Three-tenths of its energy would come from solar energy, with solar panels covering half of the roof.
Any energy consumed on site from the national grid will be “renewable certified.”
An intelligent Building Management System, based on Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure platform, will ensure energy-efficient operations including light sensors, automated heating and cooling.
It would also aim to meet the highest BREEAM sustainability standards.
In addition, sustainable transport options would be offered, with the site having 30 EV chargers, dedicated cycle racks and shelters and showers on site for bike users.
Work is also underway with Natural England to create a habitat for protected species, and many trees will be retained.
Scheider Electric is long established in Scarborough, already employing 450 people.
(Image: Supplied)
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 which 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.”
David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire , said: “York and North Yorkshire has a well-established and thriving manufacturing sector, which is home to an abundance of leading and specialist companies.
“So, it is fantastic to see Schneider make this huge investment in their future in Scarborough.
“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.
“Leaders like Schneider attract other manufacturers, and we welcome investment as we look to become a production and advanced engineering hub of excellence.”
The investment in Scarborough is in addition to a £7.2 million facility upgrade to Schneider Electric’s site in Leeds, announced in October 2023, meaning the company will create more than 300 jobs in Yorkshire over the next ten years.