Editor’s note: This post has been updated in July 2025 for accuracy and comprehensiveness
Across the globe, industry accounts for a staggering 37% of the world’s total energy consumption. Continued increases in production within energy-intensive industry subsectors have fueled the growth in energy consumption over the last decade. This significant influence has accelerated the need to embrace more sustainable technologies, focusing on decarbonization as an essential global priority.
Why is decarbonization important?
With energy consumption rising, decarbonization remains a strategic priority, driving rapid sustainability-related legislation and impacting businesses at an unprecedented pace. New laws and directives, such as the Climate Change Act, decarbonization targets, and investment reporting directives are intensifying regulatory pressures in a rapidly evolving landscape. It is expected that Scope 3 emissions—accounting for ~75% of companies’ emissions—will become a future mandatory reporting requirement.
In this context, Schneider Electric™ has taken a proactive and committed role in creating sustainable solutions. We recognize that decarbonization is not only a requirement but also an opportunity to innovate and lead change. Our solutions encompass various sectors—from infrastructure to power distribution—emphasizing stakeholder collaboration and producing sustainable and adaptable solutions tailored to evolving end-user needs.
Sustainability in action
To address sustainability challenges in buildings and industrial facilities, Schneider Electric has developed a range of new-generation steel floor-standing enclosures. PanelSeT SFN–Steel modular cabinets help address these challenges in three key ways:
- Low-carbon steel: Enclosures contain up to 50% low-carbon steel—recycled (scrap) material processed through a 100% renewably-powered electric arc furnace (EAF)—significantly reducing CO2 footprint.
- Scope 3 impact: The reduced CO2 footprint translates to Scope 3 reductions for customers.
- Packaging: Packaging uses 70-100% recycled cardboard with minimal single-use plastic.
This combination of low-carbon-emission steel and improved packaging reduces up to 34% of carbon emissions in the total enclosure lifecycle.*
Continuing the journey with PanelSeT SFN, Schneider Electric introduces the PanelSeT SM – Steel Monobloc enclosure. It is made of low-carbon-emission steel, manufactured using more than 50% recycled steel and energy from renewable sources.** This provides a 48% reduction in cradle-to-gate CO2 emissions and a 23% reduction in cradle-to-grave emissions compared to the previous version.***
In a rapidly changing business environment, flexibility is key
Schneider Electric’s enclosures, including PanelSeT SFN and PanelSeT SM, are designed to meet the evolving needs of new-gen industries.
PanelSeT SFN has a modular design that offers quick and easy assembly with a kit that simplifies installation and reduces storage space by up to 80%. Its robust cabinet features a unique, patented bolted-frame design that supports up to 3,300 lbs (1,500 kg) of static load, along with convenient additions such as a quick-fix mounting plate and semi-closed door hinges, to simplify installation and reduce labor. It seamlessly integrates with the previous version for a hassle-free upgrade.
PanelSeT SM has evolved to include over 100 commercial references and tailored solutions for machining, painting, and accessories fitting, offering versatility and meeting specific needs. It features a new patented quick-fixing and two-handle system for double-door enclosures,**** making assembly and operation easier and more efficient. The enclosure is designed for robustness and reliability, featuring IP55 and IK10 ratings, as well as BV, UL, and Marine Certifications. Its compact design provides robustness and includes grounding studs for safety.
These ranges of steel floor-standing enclosures are highly versatile and suitable for a variety of applications, such as:
- Industrial environments
- Machinery
- Power, solar, and wind grids
- Transportation
- Water infrastructures
What does our sustainability strategy look like?
Schneider Electric has solidified its global commitment to sustainability through tangible actions, ambitious goals, and a comprehensive strategy. In 2024, we launched the Environmental Data Program to provide environmental data on our products, embrace circular economy principles, and preserve the planet for future generations.
Our solutions comply with environmental regulations and contribute to the opportunity for innovation and the creation of a more sustainable future. In every product and strategy, we demonstrate that sustainability and efficiency can coexist. To learn more, visit our website.
* According to the comparison of PanelSeT SFN PEP (ENVPEP2301018) and Spacial SF PEP (ENVPEP110923) using the same calculation methodology provided in the Product Category Rules of PEP Ecopassport association (PCRed4).
**Low Carbon Emission Steel (LCES) implementation timeline: – Mounting plate made with LCES starting June 2025- Body belt of the enclosure gradually transitioned by end of 2025
*** Comparison between Spacial SM PEP and PanelSeT SM PEP using the same calculation methodology provided in the Product Category Rules of PEP Ecopassport association (PCRed4).
****The inner handle system for double door available from January 2026
About the author
Alessandra Orfei,
End Users Sales Engineer
Alessandra is a Production Engineer with a passion for marketing, with over 5 years of experience at Schneider Electric.
About the author
Berta del Pino,
Marketing & Product Launch Leader
Berta has a background in Advertising and Public Relations, with over 5 years of experience at Schneider Electric.
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