Schneider Electric’s 2021 North American Innovation Summit: A Discussion with a Canadian company

EIN SE Innovation 400

November 15, 2021

By Elle Bremmer

On November 10, 2021, Schneider Electric held its virtual Innovation Summit North America, which was comprised of presentations from industry professionals regarding the summit’s central theme of digitization and a path towards sustainability. Topics included grids, data centres, and buildings of the future; sustainable supply chain operations; and sustainability, among others. Schneider Electric’s Canadian president, Adrian Thomas, hosted a session titled “Leadership and the Climate Challenge: The Path to Net-Zero” where Thomas, along with Frances Edmonds of Hewett Packard Canada and Toby Heaps of Corporate Knights discussed the changes that business is making to head towards net-zero emissions and how these changes impact businesses in the short- and medium-term.

In a meeting with Adrian Thomas, he discussed his vision of the path towards net-zero, for both Schneider Electric and beyond. Currently, Schneider Electric is striving for carbon neutrality by 2030. Schneider has global priorities and local commitments to reach this goal, all aligned with the 17 sustainability goals of the UN. Regarding climate change in Canada, he says that “with the size and population of Canada, we are actually one of the largest energy per capita consumers in the world, and that comes through the economy that we have. […] There is a misconception in Canada that our energy is completely green, when in reality it is very much not.” He cited a study from Environment and Climate Change Canada that Canada is warming twice as fast as the global average. He reiterated that now is the time for businesses, governments, and individuals to join forces boldly and aggressively to mitigate the most severe effects of climate change in the country, such as flooding. (See this 2019 map to find Quebec’s re-zoning of flood areas after the region faced severe flooding in 2017).

However, he mentions that Canadians have an excellent opportunity during the energy transition to deliver more efficient infrastructures. “I think Canada can also leverage the diversity of the population, its attractiveness to immigration to really bring innovation to the country to help us get through this energy transition.”

As for how the energy transition can be completed more smoothly and efficiently, Thomas offers two primary strategies to combat excess consumption of energy: a drive for decarbonization and leveraging technological advancements. He references other objectives from Annette Clayton, the keynote speaker of the summit. Overall, there are three steps organizations can take for a more sustainable future, Thomas says. “Reduce, Replace, Engage. Reduce per unit consumption per output, replace emitting sources of energy with non-emitting sources of energy, such as with renewables, and engage.” He continues, “large corporations, such as ourselves can really drive a difference in climate change. Engage with your employees and customers. Engage with supply chains. Supply chain emissions account for 11-11.5x more CO2 for a business than your direct consumption.”

As for how businesses can decarbonize their supply chain, Thomas says that “transparency is key.” He continues, “there is a saying in business that what gets measured gets done.” For businesses to create sustainability targets, they need to have a baseline understanding of where they are at and monitor and measure their carbon footprint.

Overall, Thomas seems to have an optimistic vision for the future but emphasizes the importance of actions taken. He also mentions how meeting smaller and more short-term goals are integral for hitting longer-term targets down the line. Regarding Schneider Electric and its role in the energy transition, he says: “We are known as an electric company, but sustainability is at the heart ofOverall, Thomas seems to have an optimistic vision for the future but emphasizes the importance of actions taken. He also mentions how meeting smaller and more short-term goals are integral for hitting longer-term targets down the line. Regarding Schneider Electric and its role in the energy transition, he says: “We are known as an electric company, but sustainability is at the heart ofwhat we do. One of the things that really gives me optimism is how digitizing and electrifying are really helping to solve this crisis. Providing infrastructure and software development is really important during this energy transition.”

Go HERE to learn more about the summit

Related Articles


Latest Articles


Changing Scene

  • BC Hydro Making it Easier and More Affordable to Connect New Homes

    BC Hydro Making it Easier and More Affordable to Connect New Homes

    July 24, 2025 BC Hydro is supporting the construction of new housing developments in growing communities by advancing changes to streamline upgrades and reducing the cost of new customer connections to BC Hydro’s electricity grid. “As communities across B.C. grow, so does the need for essential housing. We are committed to ensuring we’re ready to… Read More…

  • Mitrex Sets Record with Largest BIPV Solar Panel Mural at SunRise Residential in Edmonton

    Mitrex Sets Record with Largest BIPV Solar Panel Mural at SunRise Residential in Edmonton

    July 22, 2025 Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) manufacturer, Mitrex proudly announces that its transformative SunRise Residential project in Edmonton, Alberta, has earned the Guinness World Record for the largest solar panel mural globally. This landmark project showcases Mitrex’s innovative BIPV solar panels, blending cutting-edge solar technology with vibrant cultural artistry to redefine sustainable architecture. Sustainable Architecture with BIPV Spanning over 30,000 square feet, the Mitrex eFacade PRO plus… Read More…

  • Nexans Unveils a Cable Made with 100% Recycled Materials

    Nexans Unveils a Cable Made with 100% Recycled Materials

    July 24, 2025 Nexans has reached a major milestone in its sustainability journey by developing a prototype cable made entirely from recycled materials — a first in the company’s history. This innovation combines technical performance, industrial feasibility, and a drastically reduced environmental footprint, marking a decisive step forward in circular economy. A cross-continental success story… Read More…

  • EFC Welcomes New Manufacturer Member: MGM Transformers

    EFC Welcomes New Manufacturer Member: MGM Transformers

    July 24, 2025 Since 1974, MGM Transformers has produced tough and trusted transformers designed to get the job done right. As a leading manufacturer, the company employs a highly experienced and dedicated engineering team that excels in custom designs. MGM Transformers is committed to excellent quality and service, offering industry-leading lead times and exceptional customer service. MGM Transformers specializes… Read More…