Global energy management company Schneider Electric is set to create more than 200 new jobs with a £42m investment into a new manufacturing facility in Scarborough.
The company plans to triple the size of its current plant in the North Yorkshire town, where it employs around 450 people, to meet increased demand for electrical equipment to drive the UK’s move to cleaner energy. The net-zero plant will use modern technology to reduce energy waste and maximise the use of renewable energy. Construction of the new facility also aims to promote biodiversity by retaining as many of the area’s existing trees and other natural features as possible.
Kelly Becker, president at Schneider Electric for the UK & Ireland, Belgium & Netherlands, stated: ‘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.’
News of the new plant has been welcomed by Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, who stated: ‘This huge investment from Schneider Electric will not only safeguard existing jobs but create 200 new ones. Increasing investment is a mission at the heart of this government, and our modern Industrial Strategy will help us deliver long-term, stable growth that supports skilled jobs. Our commitment to becoming a clean energy superpower is steadfast, and investments like these in North Yorkshire make a huge contribution to bolstering the UK as a leader in energy management and automation. We’re showing investors that Britain is back as a stable place to do business, helping to secure the investment needed to make every part of our country better off.’
David Skaith, mayor of York and North Yorkshire, commented: ‘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.’
This significant investment underscores the burgeoning role of Yorkshire in the UK’s transition to a sustainable, green economy and highlights Schneider Electric’s commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.
