Sustainable industries and buildings: Leading the way to a decarbonized future 

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The industrial sector accounted for a staggering 37% of the world’s total energy consumption in 2022, compared to 34% in 2002. Over the last decade, energy consumption growth has been fueled mainly by the steady increase in production within energy-intensive industry subsectors. 

This significant influence necessitates embracing more sustainable technologies and focusing on decarbonization as a global priority. 

Why is decarbonization important? 

In the current landscape, decarbonization has emerged as a strategic priority. This trend is driving the rapid succession of sustainability-related legislation, which is impacting businesses at an unprecedented pace. New laws and directives, most of which are driven by European Union (EU) institutions, are increasing regulatory pressure. From the Climate Change Act to the new directives on reporting decarbonization targets and investments, the regulatory landscape is evolving rapidly. 

As such, it is expected that Scope 3 emissions — which account for  ~75% of companies’ emissions, on average — 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. 

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. We’ve adopted Green Premium certification for the majority of our products, embraced circular economy principles, and guide every decision by the vision of preserving the planet for future generations. 

Our applications encompass various sectors in an ever-changing world, from infrastructure to power distribution. We acknowledge the importance of collaborating with key players in the project lifecycle including panel builders, OEMs, contractors, and system integrators. This collaborative approach ensures that our solutions are not only sustainable but also adaptable to the diverse needs of end users. 

Sustainability in action 

To address sustainability challenges in buildings and industrial facilities, we have developed PanelSeT SFN steel floor-standing enclosures to help address sustainability challenges in three key ways:

1. The product contains up to 50% decarbonized steel, produced by processing a large amount of recycled material (scrap) through an electric arc furnace (EAF).
   • The EAF is powered by 100% renewable electricity (such as wind and solar power), resulting in a significantly reduced CO₂ footprint.
2. The reduced CO₂ footprint translates to Scope 3 reductions for customers. 
3. Sustainable packaging incorporates 70-100% recycled cardboard and almost no single-use plastic. 

This combination of decarbonized steel and sustainable packaging leads to a reduction of up to 34% in carbon emissions per cabinet.

In a rapidly changing business environment, flexibility is key.

PanelSeT SFN’s modular design offers quick and easy assembly. The kit version not only simplifies the installation process but reduces storage space by up to 80%. This versatile and adaptable design ensures that critical infrastructures are ready to meet future challenges. 

The cabinet is not only sustainable but also robust and efficient. Its unique and patented frame design, combined with a bolted structure, allows it to support up to 3,300 lbs (1500 kg) of static load. Moreover, with features such as a quick-fix mounting plate and semi-closed door hinges, installation becomes simpler, requiring less labor. 

This new modular enclosure is highly versatile and suitable for a variety of applications, such as:

• Industrial environments
• Power and solar grids
• Transportation
• Water infrastructures

Its seamless integration with the previous version allows for an easy, hassle-free upgrade. 

At Schneider Electric, we are leading the way towards a decarbonized future. Our solutions not only comply with environmental regulations but also 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.  Learn more.