Each April, Boston reminds us of the power of the human spirit as the world’s oldest annual marathon transforms the city into a symbol of endurance, innovation, and community. Last year, I had the privilege of standing along historic Boylston Street as runners took their final strides toward the finish line of the Boston Marathon, presented by Bank of America.

I was especially proud to cheer for more than 70 runners who were Schneider Electric employees. With our North America headquarters in the heart of the city and more than 2,000 employees living and working across New England, our connection to the region runs deep.

Running toward a more sustainable future

As the Official Sustainability Partner of the Boston Athletic Association, Schneider Electric brings energy technology and expertise to help the B.A.A. measure, plan, and accelerate its sustainability journey. It applied our strengths in electrification, automation, and digital intelligence to an organization ready to lead the endurance sports industry forward.

Recognized by TIME and Statista as the World’s Most Sustainable Company, and named a Most Innovative Company in Business by Fast Company, Schneider Electric helps organizations and cities reduce energy use, minimize emissions, and strengthen resiliency.

For the B.A.A., we improved efficiency across every dimension, helping them calculate their carbon footprint, set ambitious climate targets, release annual sustainability reports, and implement operational best practices across all events.

It’s a powerful example of our mission to be Energy Technology Partner, helping customers drive meaningful, sustainable impact through energy technology.

Why the marathon matters for Boston’s energy future

Making such an iconic global event more sustainable extends far beyond race day. Our partnership with the B.A.A. supports three key areas:

• Smarter, More Efficient Operations
  We help the B.A.A. evaluate everything from energy procurement to resource use, reducing waste and improving operational efficiency.
• Scalable Renewable Energy Solutions
  Through advisory services and digital tools, we support renewable energy strategies that extend beyond marathon week and into year-round operations.
• A Platform to Inspire Millions
  The marathon offers a global stage to demonstrate what’s possible when sustainability and human performance work hand in hand, driving broader adoption of smart, efficient energy solutions.

Technology for performance

Just as runners rely on strategy, discipline, data, and endurance, cities rely on digital infrastructure and smart energy systems to perform at their best. Our solutions help reduce energy consumption through digital monitoring, improve resilience against weather and grid instability, and advance electrification to better serve residents, visitors, and future marathoners.

One example is our new North American headquarters, the Winthrop Center, just over a mile from the Boston Marathon finish line. It features advanced smart building technologies certified to the Passive House standard, operating among the lowest energy use profiles in Boston’s office market.

A marathon of shared purpose

What inspires me most about our partnership with the B.A.A. is what it represents: a shared commitment to lead with purpose and redefine what progress can achieve. The B.A.A. brings a proud tradition of excellence and community. Schneider Electric brings nearly two centuries of energy innovation and leadership.

As runners take their final strides toward Copley Square, determination and purpose are on full display. Together, we’re helping power a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable future for Boston and beyond.