French energy storage and uninterruptible power supply (UPS) specialist SOCOMEC is substantially expanding its manufacturing capacity in Benfeld, Alsace. A new competence centre is currently being built on a site of around 16,000 square metres, which, in addition to pure manufacturing space, will include integrated test and development laboratories as well as a showroom. The company is providing a total investment volume of 45 million euros for the construction project. Commissioning of the industrial complex is scheduled for the end of 2027.
With this new build, the manufacturer is responding directly to sustained high demand, driven primarily by dynamic growth in the digital economy and the Europe-wide expansion of data centres. As SOCOMEC marketing manager Guy Schaaf explains, the capacity expansion enables faster responses to customer requirements while keeping production costs under control. Consolidating operations on site also reduces transport-related carbon emissions.
Securing the location and automation in manufacturing
The choice of location underlines the company's commitment to its historical roots in Alsace. According to SOCOMEC, as the last remaining UPS manufacturer producing in France, the direct proximity to its existing plants in Benfeld secures vital synergies. The new site is intended to serve as a strategic hub for exports across the entire EMEA economic area, while also offering sufficient land reserves for future expansion.
Inside the production halls, the company relies on advanced operational technology to optimise workflows and relieve staff of repetitive tasks. This includes, in particular, the following technical components:
- —Use of modern industrial robots along the production lines
- —Implementation of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for internal logistics
- —Establishment of dedicated testing and laboratory environments for trials under real-world conditions
- —Targeted training measures for employees adapting to digitalised workplaces
Sustainable building standards in line with RE2020
Beyond its industrial functionality, the scheme also serves as a technological showcase for clients, who can inspect and test the full portfolio of energy solutions on site. The architectural design takes account of current environmental standards: the complex will be equipped with photovoltaic systems and green roofs, fully meeting the stringent criteria of the French environmental and building regulation RE2020.
