Smart factory to drive cleaner energy future

A new manufacturing facility in Yorkshire is set to play a key role in supporting the UK’s shift to cleaner energy.

Schneider Electric has officially opened its “state-of-the-art” Scarborough plant following a £42 million investment. 

The 16,500sq metres smart factory will produce electrical equipment critical to meeting the country’s rising energy demands, expected to increase by up to 40 per cent by 2035.

Officials say the site combines cutting-edge manufacturing technology with the expertise of a workforce whose roots in electrical production date back to the 1930s. 

They add that producing equipment in the UK for British organisations will strengthen national infrastructure, reduce reliance on global supply chains and cut costs and emissions, while also enabling faster delivery of bespoke solutions built to British standards and export-ready for Commonwealth markets.

Kelly Becker, president at Schneider Electric, UK & Ireland, Belgium and 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, added: “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.”   

The facility will also enhance the local EV charging network, installing 30 chargers and boosting regional infrastructure by more than 110 per cent. 

Designed as a blueprint for sustainable manufacturing, the site operates at net-zero for Scope 1 and 2 emissions and is partly powered by its own solar energy system.

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