� INTERVIEW �
GSW : Let us talk about sustainability , especially in energy management . How does sustainability fit into Schneider Electric ' s mission , and how does it drive innovation within the company ?
AR : Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do . Our mission is to bridge progress and sustainability for all , which we encapsulate in our commitment , " Life Is On ." This is not just a tagline ; it is the foundation of how we operate . We aspire to be an " impact company ," making a positive difference globally . While decarbonization is a major focus , we are equally dedicated to improving access to energy . For example , Schneider has helped millions of people gain access to energy in the past few years . Sustainability has been central to our Environmental , Social , and Governance ( ESG ) agenda , led both by our former CEO and our current CEO , Peter Herweck .
Our sustainability goals are not just aspirational ; they are measurable . We track them using metrics like the Schneider Electric Sustainability Index , which influences key business decisions — from executive compensation to employee incentives . Beyond our internal operations , we leverage the expertise we have developed in decarbonization , automation , and digitalization to help our customers achieve their sustainability goals .
Mr . Alex Richards , Vice President and Regional Segment Leader – Mining , Minerals , Metals at Schneider Electric
For instance , we assist companies in decarbonizing their operations by optimizing energy use and reducing emissions .
GSW : You mentioned decarbonization . Could you dive deeper into how Schneider Electric helps industries like steel become more sustainable ?
AR : Absolutely . First , we practice what we preach — Schneider Electric has been recognized among the world ’ s most sustainable companies , and we have committed to achieving net-zero operations ourselves . We are also incorporating more green materials into our technology and packaging . Once we establish these internal successes , we extend that expertise to our customers .
In industries like steel , our focus is on electrification . Schneider has been a leader in power distribution for decades , whether in homes , businesses , or industrial settings like steel mills . Our aim is to help these industries transition to greener processes , like replacing traditional blast furnaces with cleaner technologies such as electric arc furnaces ( EAF ) and green hydrogen Direct Reduced Iron ( DRI ). We analyze the energy requirements for these shifts , assess current infrastructure , and recommend solutions if upgrades
Green Steel World | Issue 15 | November 2024 39