Schneider Electric Plans to Invest $24M in SC Operations, Including in Seneca

Leading multinational company, Schneider Electric, has recently disclosed its ambitious plans to make a significant investment of $24 million into its South Carolina manufacturing operations, along with creating 280 new jobs. The new job positions and funds invested into South Carolina form a part of Schneider Electric’s broader strategy to invest a total of $140 million and create 750 new manufacturing jobs across its U.S. operations in 2024.

Massive Jobs Expansion and State-of-the-art Products

The new added workforce, which includes 130 workers for the company’s Seneca facility and 150 workers for the Columbia facility, will be engaged in manufacturing custom power distribution products. These products play a crucial role in energy efficiency and electrification, supporting critical infrastructure and industries. These sectors range from health care and wastewater treatment to the rising demand for data center solutions across the U.S.

Modernizing Manufacturing Plants and Boosting Efficiency

According to the company’s announcement, the massive funding will be utilized to upgrade and maintain its Seneca and Columbia manufacturing plants as well as to electrify Seneca’s HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. This initiative will not only enhance the efficiency of the operation but also reduce costs, thereby helping Schneider Electric to achieve its sustainability and decarbonization goals.

Company’s Growth in the Palmetto State

Schneider Electric has a significant presence in the Palmetto State with around 1,200 employees. The multimillion-dollar investment and the creation of hundreds more jobs underscore the company’s faith in South Carolina’s strong business climate and skilled manufacturing workforce. Speaking at the SelectUSA Investment Summit, the President of North America Operations at Schneider Electric, Aamir Paul stated, “By improving our factory efficiency and growing our talented South Carolina workforce, we’re further contributing to the revitalization of American manufacturing.”

Fostering the American Manufacturing Industry

This latest announcement follows Schneider Electric’s recent expansion plans in Tennessee (March 2024) and Texas (September 2023). Since 2020, Schneider Electric has invested more than $440 million across its American manufacturing network, which comprises more than 22 facilities across 14 states. The company has been active in the U.S for 135 years and currently employs more than 19,000 workers in the country. Its products and solutions are found in 4 of 10 U.S. homes, 40% of the world’s hospitals, and in water and wastewater installations in 150 countries.

A Testament to South Carolina’s Business Climate

The further investment by Schneider Electric in South Carolina is a strong testament to the state’s robust business environment and capable manufacturing workforce. As expressed by Governor McMaster, the economic opportunities created by this expansion will benefit residents in Oconee and Richland Counties.