Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and automation, has officially opened a new state-of-the-art smart factory in Scarborough, North Yorkshire. Full site commissioning is expected by the end of the year.
With Britain’s electricity demand forecast to rise by up to 40% by 2035, the facility is designed to support the UK’s long-term transition to cleaner energy by producing critical electrical equipment for national infrastructure.
Schneider Electric’s history in Scarborough dates back to the 1930s, with generations of product development and manufacturing expertise embedded in the local workforce. The new site combines this experience with the latest manufacturing processes and digital technologies, enabling customers to collaborate directly with designers and engineers to develop bespoke solutions.
By manufacturing in the UK, the company says it will strengthen resilience in Britain’s electrical infrastructure, reduce dependence on international supply chains, and cut costs and carbon emissions through shorter logistics routes. The plant will also produce equipment certified to British standards, making it export-ready for Commonwealth markets.
The Scarborough facility will expand the region’s electric vehicle charging network, hosting an additional 30 EV chargers and increasing local capacity by more than 110%.
The site is also being positioned as a global benchmark for sustainable manufacturing. Net zero in Scope 1 and 2 emissions, the factory incorporates renewable energy, with 30% of its power generated by an advanced solar energy system installed on site.
The investment builds on Schneider Electric’s long-standing presence in Yorkshire and follows a major 2023 investment in Leeds. The Scarborough expansion also cements the company’s role as one of the largest private-sector employers in the area, with some staff having more than 50 years of service.
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.”
The opening has been welcomed across government and industry.
Rt Hon Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, said: “This is fantastic news for people in Scarborough who will be benefiting from skilled jobs and ongoing training because of this brand-new facility. Our clean power mission is already driving investment and growth, providing opportunities for people right here in North Yorkshire. It comes ahead of our Clean Energy Workforce Strategy, which will help create high quality jobs across the country.”
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 of Make UK, added: “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.”