Building Information Modeling (BIM)

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the 21st busiest airport in the United States and Delta Air Lines' fourth-largest hub. The Salt Lake Department of Airports has been building a brand new airport, the first phase of which opened in fall 2020. GSL Electric has been working on Phase 2 of The New SLC Airport, which will be fully operational on October 31, 2023. The team has been instrumental in transforming the airport's South Concourse on the East Expansion project. The field team will be active onsite until the project is turned over to the Owner, and since the project began 3 years ago, the electricians have performed nearly $17,000,000 in electrical scope. As ever, GSL Electric's involvement in this ambitious project exemplifies its commitment to excellence and safety. A Project of Significance Salt Lake International Airport South Concourse East Expansion project is a testament to GSL Electric's expertise and dedication The Salt Lake International Airport South Concourse East Expansion project is a testament to GSL Electric's expertise and dedication. This expansion is not merely an infrastructure upgrade; it's a critical piece in the puzzle of enhancing the airport's capacity and efficiency, allowing it to better serve the needs of millions of travelers. GSL's scope on this project encompasses a substantial 201,200 square feet in the Eastern section of the South Concourse, necessitating meticulous planning and execution. One of the standout features of this endeavor is its adaptability. GSL Electric has been required to navigate a constantly changing schedule and priorities to ensure certain areas are made available to the airport authorities even before the entire project reaches completion. This demands precise coordination with the general contractor, airport authorities, and Salt Lake City officials to create a safe and functional airport that can be turned over in separate phases. Collaboration and contributions GSL Electric's role in this endeavor is not confined to electrical installation alone. They have joined forces with Taylor Electric, contributing to the HD Joint Venture team, a partnership between Holder and Big-D Construction. This collaboration speaks volumes about GSL Electric's reputation and capabilities in the industry. The scope of work undertaken by GSL Electric includes the installation of an impressive 285,550 linear feet of conduit, housing a staggering 1,384,245 linear feet of cabling. This intricate network ensures that power and data flow seamlessly throughout the expanded concourse, supporting the airport's vital functions. Wire installation and electrical infrastructure GSL Electric is committed to delivering a complete conduit and wire structure that omits MC Cable or free air cabling GSL Electric is committed to delivering a complete conduit and wire installation that omits MC Cable or free air cabling, ensuring a robust and dependable electrical infrastructure that meets the highest industry standards. Under GSL’s scope is an electrical system consisting of a 2400A Main System, backed by a robust 1500kW 1875kVA generator, an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS), and a quick connect cabinet for the plugin of the backup generator when needed. This system extends its reach to power the Early Baggage System, a critical component of airport operations. installation of electrical systems The Fire Alarm System was fully integrated with all required systems and commissioned and signed off by the city a full two months ahead of the final turnover to the owner. It is extremely rare for a system like that to be functional that far ahead of schedule.  Notably, GSL Electric has also contributed a portion of the labor in the installation of electrical systems furnished by Taylor Electric. These systems include a 4000A main for the normal power system, a 2400A Main for emergency branches with a 1500kW 1875kVA generator, and a 2400A Main with a 1500kW 1875kVA generator for standby power. Furthermore, a 200kVA Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) system ensures uninterrupted power to critical systems. Achieving milestones With a total of 170,925 labor hours invested, this field team has been a driving force behind the project's success This monumental project has been a multi-year endeavor, with GSL Electric's dedicated team working tirelessly for over three years and counting. The fact that the airport's expansion will continue in future phases through 2027, is a testament to the complexity and scale of the project. Throughout this extensive project, GSL Electric's average crew size of 30 electricians, with a peak crew size reaching up to 70 electricians, demonstrates the ability to mobilize resources effectively and efficiently. With a total of 170,925 labor hours invested, this field team has been a driving force behind the project's success. Perhaps the most commendable aspect of GSL Electric's involvement is their impeccable safety record. In an industry where safety is paramount, GSL Electric has achieved a remarkable feat by recording no recordable injuries. Recognition for the GSL Team They’d like to take this opportunity to recognize some of the key members of the GSL team who worked behind the scenes to ensure that this immense undertaking was a success. Andrew Ortiz - Superintendent, has been instrumental in organizing and coordinating with the General Contractor, Owner's Project Manager, and Owner. His extensive preplanning of underground and above-ground feeders, branch homeruns, and contributions to the BIM Models have been crucial in achieving project milestones. Rick Edwards - GSL's Onsite Safety Superintendent, under his vigilant eye the project has achieved a remarkable milestone, a spotless safety record with no recordable injuries. This achievement prompted Rex Mitchell, Safety Director from HD, to extend his heartfelt gratitude to Rick Edwards, recognizing his tireless dedication to safety and his embodiment of a safety culture that transcends professional responsibilities. Chris Spencer - Coordinator, has been the linchpin in making and modifying forms and reports tailored to the project's needs. His efforts in PCO Pricing, tracking and submitting RFI's, daily reports, and labor tracking have contributed to smooth project management. Kelly Blackard - General Foreman, has overseen the specialty foreman and played a pivotal role in coordinating with other systems foremen, ensuring seamless integration of various electrical components. Jeremy Tabone - Foreman, has been instrumental in one-line power installation, switchboards, panelboards, transformers, and extensive testing, inspections, and startup documentation. Nicolas Christensen - Lighting Foreman, has expertly managed lighting control systems, integrating components from multiple manufacturers to meet the project's unique requirements. Jeramiah Nielson - Fire Alarm Foreman, ensured the timely startup and commissioning of GSL's Phase 1 5 Gate turnover to Delta, earning accolades from the General Contractor. His commitment extended to assisting Taylor Electric with Phase 2, showcasing GSL Electric's adaptability and expertise. Shawn Harris - Branch Power Foreman, handled the installation of power conduit and wire, power wiring devices, mechanical and building equipment hookups. Phillip Harmston - initially involved in BIM coordination for the project, transitioned to become the QAQC specialist. His dedication to clearing Punchlist and Deficiency items ensured the project's flawless execution. They would also like to extend the gratitude to all of the field electricians who worked on the project in any capacity. Their dedication to professionalism, commitment to maintaining a safe work environment, expertise and craftsmanship exhibited itself throughout the project and the results of their hard work will be appreciated by airport guests and personnel for years to come.

The Via Inspirada Center for Excellence (VICE), an endeavor by the City of Henderson, is set to become a nexus of education and training. Throughout the construction process, GSL Electric played a pivotal role in delivering an exceptional electrical installation. Let's delve into the details of the contributions the GSL Electric team brought to the VICE project. Navigating unique challenges GSL Electric's skilled team came these challenges head-on, turning the hurdles into opportunities Every project presents its unique set of challenges, and VICE was no exception. With a significant portion of the building constructed using block material and an owner's emphasis on concealed conduits, the routing and installation of the electrical system demanded meticulous planning and execution. GSL Electric's skilled team approached these challenges head-on, turning the hurdles into opportunities for creativity and innovation. Their expertise and attention to detail ensured a seamless integration of the electrical system within the architectural framework, resulting in a remarkable outcome. Exceeding expectations The Via Inspirada Center for Excellence spans an impressive 17,000 square feet, and hosts a state-of-the-art advanced manufacturing training program, a public art gallery, and the city's economic development department. GSL Electric, with an average crew size of only three field electricians, invested a total of 4,626.5 labor hours into this transformative project. Their combined decades of experience were the key to delivering superior results thoughout every step of the construction process. Electrical specs GSL Electric ensured that every wire, every link, and every part adhered to the highest industry norms Under GSL Electric's expert guidance, the electrical system at VICE stands as a testament to their technical prowess and commitment to excellence. The installation involved a staggering 32,175 linear feet of electrical cable and 30,592 feet of conduit. The electrical service installed, a 1200A 277/480V 3 phase, 4W, 42K AIC, provides a robust and reliable power supply to support the facility's diverse needs.  With precision and care, GSL Electric ensured that every wire, every connection, and every component adhered to the highest industry standards, guaranteeing the safety and efficiency of the electrical infrastructure. A culture of safety At GSL Electric, safety is not just a priority; it is ingrained in every aspect of their work. The Via Inspirada Center for Excellence project is a shining example of GSL Electric's unwavering commitment to safety. Throughout the entire project duration, not a single OSHA injury was reported, demonstrating GSL Electric's dedication to maintaining a safety-first culture. Field leaders and the entire GSL Electric team worked diligently to ensure a safe working environment for everyone involved. Celebrating team excellence Jerry and Omar exhibited exemplary workmanship, dedication, and unwavering commitment While the success of the Via Inspirada project can be attributed to the collective efforts of the entire GSL Electric team, special recognition is due to two exceptional individuals: Jerry Tewes and Omar Perez. From the project's inception to its completion, Jerry and Omar exhibited exemplary workmanship, dedication, and unwavering commitment. Their contributions were invaluable, and their attention to detail helped achieve outstanding results. Unwavering commitment to safety The Via Inspirada Center for Excellence stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and meticulous craftsmanship. It would not have been possible without a team dedicated to bringing their best to the project. Their ability to overcome unique challenges, deliver exceptional electrical construction, and maintain an unwavering commitment to safety demonstrates their expertise and professionalism. 

At the annual World of Concrete tradeshow in Las Vegas, Bosch Power Tools – a pioneer for power tools, measuring tools, and accessories – will introduce its latest products and give attendees a sneak peek of what’s to come in 2025. “We are thrilled to showcase our newest tools that will enhance efficiency for the trade workers who tackle tough jobs every day,” said Steve Shepherd, Vice President and General Manager for Bosch Tools North America. “We took to heart the feedback we received through our trade research, and this latest round of cordless product launches was designed to meet worker’s needs, helping to improve efficiency and productivity all on one 18V system.”  Improving efficiency and productivity Representatives from Bosch Power Tools will present the new additions to its lineup during World of Concrete’s first press conference on Jan. 21, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. PST in room N251 of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Following the press conference from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. PST, media participants will be led to a Post-Conference Media Workshop in the brand booth where they can get first-hand experience with the new products and engage with product managers in a quiet space fit for filming, and interviewing. Capturing unforgettable photos Get in on the action at the Bosch Power Tools booth with daily interactive activities Throughout the rest of the week, Bosch Power Tools will host the various activities at their World of Concrete booth (#O31601) to help workers have fun and show them how the brand’s latest innovations will make them feel invincible on the jobsite.  Get in on the action at the Bosch Power Tools booth with daily interactive activities! Compete in hands-on tool challenges, enjoy games hosted by Mark Shunock, capture unforgettable photos, and enter to win exclusive prizes like custom-painted hard hats. Don’t miss the Hard Workers Happy Hour with live music or personalized booth tours for creators and media. It’s all happening daily—come experience the excitement! Unique photo opportunities Daily Activities: Head-to-Head Challenges: Each day, at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. PT, show attendees can compete in a one-on-one challenge using some of Bosch's tools to break concrete and win prizes. Product Challenges: Putting Bosch Power Tools products to the test, show participants can check out several product challenges including the legendary Brute 10 lb. Challenge and Dunk the 18V Revolve400 Rotary Laser bag toss. Interactive Games and Prizes: Hosted by a special guest, Mark Shunock of Vegas Golden Knights and Top Rank Boxing, attendees will participate in games and chances to win prizes each day at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., and 2 p.m. PT. Bosch Power Tools Photo Experience: Attendees can experience unique photo opportunities and capture long-lasting memories of their tradeshow experience. Custom Painted Hard Hat Sweepstakes: Step into the Bosch Power Tools booth for a chance to win a custom painted hard hat by top NHL Goalie helmet artist Jason Livery. Hard Workers Happy Hour: From 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. PT, Tuesday and Wednesday, participants can enjoy a live music happy hour to meet and mingle with Bosch Power Tools and fellow attendees. Creator and Media Booth Tours: Content creators and credentialed reporters can visit the Bosch Power Tools booth to interact with and use the new products, ask questions and receive personalized, one-on-one tours with product managers. Newest tools showcased Virtual Activities: YouTube Livestream: On January 22 at 2 p.m. PST, Bosch Power Tools will host a livestream exclusively on YouTube that gives viewers a tour of its World of Concrete booth, sharing details on the newest tools showcased at the conference, while providing participants a chance to win a Hydro Dipped Hard Hat.  Real-Time Social Media Content: Follow along as Bosch Power Tools shares live updates on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and more using #BoschWOC25.

In the overhead crane market, precision and reliability are critical due to the demanding nature of heavy-duty applications. Overhead cranes require advanced motor control systems to ensure smooth, efficient, and safe operations, particularly in lifting and transporting heavy loads. The complexity of these operations demands high-performance drives that can manage constant torque, minimize load oscillations, and provide reliable braking sequences.  Delta's innovative AC motor drive solutions Addressing these unique requirements, Delta's innovative AC motor drive solutions have been successfully adapted to enhance the performance and reliability of overhead crane solutions provided by Elektro-Mak Crane Systems Ltd., a manufacturer of overhead cranes in Turkey. This collaboration has showcased Delta's strong market position and demonstrated its commitment to enhancing operational efficiency in the crane industry. Enhancing operational efficiency Elektro-Mak Crane Systems Ltd. is renowned for its expertise in producing overhead cranes Established in 1989 in Izmir, Turkey, Elektro-Mak Crane Systems Ltd. is renowned for its expertise in producing overhead cranes with capacities ranging from 250 kg to 200 tons and bridge openings below 45 meters.  Operating from a state-of-the-art plant in Manisa covering 6,000 m², Elektro-Mak is a prominent player in the Turkish crane market. The company's dedication to quality and innovation has positioned it as a trusted partner for heavy-duty crane solutions. Delta and Elektro-Mak partnership The collaboration between Delta and Elektro-Mak began with the goal of enhancing the performance of overhead cranes using Delta's advanced AC motor drives. Elektro-Mak adopted Delta's C2000+ AC Motor Drives for hoisting, ME300 AC Motor Drives for long travel, and trolley operations. These drives were selected for their high-level motor control performance, competitive pricing, and robust technical support. Overcoming tough environmental conditions Delta's AC motor drives were integrated into Elektro-Mak's overhead cranes, addressing the company's need for a cost-competitive solution with an anti-sway function using open-loop control. The entire testing and commissioning process, completed in just two days, required extensive support from Delta's R&D and product management teams, particularly for parameter adjustments and overcoming tough environmental conditions. The integration process faced challenges, particularly with the anti-sway function without an encoder. However, through persistent testing and parameterization on-site, Delta's team successfully implemented a solution that met Elektro-Mak's stringent requirements. Enhancing safety and operational efficiency The success story of Elektro-Mak underscores the importance of close collaboration The results of this collaboration were outstanding. Elektro-Mak experienced a significant improvement in crane performance, with the anti-sway function and reliable braking sequence enhancing safety and operational efficiency. The ease of integration and robust performance of Delta's AC motor drives allowed Elektro-Mak to meet its production goals effectively in less time. This project is a testament to Delta's commitment to providing innovative, cost-effective automation solutions tailored to meet specific customer needs. The success story of Elektro-Mak underscores the importance of close collaboration and a thorough understanding of customer requirements. Adopting cutting-edge technologies In the words of Martien Heesterbeek, Product Manager at Industrial Automation Business Group, Delta EMEA, "This project with Elektro-Mak not only showcases our capabilities in delivering advanced automation solutions but also reinforces our commitment to customer satisfaction and innovation. We are proud to have supported Elektro-Mak in achieving significant improvements in their production processes." Şükrü Terzi, General Manager at Elektro-Mak shared his thoughts on the collaboration: "Partnering with Delta has been a transformative experience for us. The integration of their AC motor drives into our crane systems has not only boosted our production reliability and efficiency but also underscored our commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies. Delta’s support throughout the project has been excellent, and we look forward to continuing this successful partnership." Advanced motor control systems Elektro-Mak has set a new benchmark in the overhead crane industry The collaboration between Delta and Elektro-Mak has set a new benchmark in the overhead crane industry, demonstrating the immense potential of integrating advanced motor control systems in industrial applications. As Delta continues to innovate and expand its product offerings, the company remains committed to providing reliable and efficient solutions, including both small and high-power AC drive that meet the evolving needs of the market. Leveraging Delta’s cutting-edge automation solutions Delta's unwavering dedication to problem-solving and customer support, combined with Elektro-Mak’s operational excellence and strategic insights, has forged a formidable partnership. This collaboration stands as a beacon of success in the automation industry, providing a model for others seeking superior solutions in overhead crane manufacturing.  By leveraging Delta’s cutting-edge automation solutions, Elektro-Mak has set a new benchmark in the overhead crane industry, demonstrating the immense potential of integrating advanced motor control systems in industrial applications.

The Aare power plant in Klingnau has been reliably producing electricity for almost 90 years. From 2026, Axpo and AEW Energie AG will be renewing the turbines and generators, and investing CHF 71 million to do so. This will increase electricity production by around 11 per cent. Klingnau Aare power plant (AKA) The Klingnau Aare power plant (AKA) has been in operation since 1935 with an installed capacity of 43 MW. Since then, it has produced an average of 210 million kilowatt hours of renewable electricity per year.  The planned replacement of the three generators and the overhaul of the three turbines will further increase the high availability of the power plant. In addition, the revised turbines will be able to process more water for electricity production. This will increase average annual production by around 11 per cent to 230 million kilowatt hours. This corresponds to the electricity requirements of over 55,000 four-person households. Significant investment in renewable energies Axpo and AEW Energie AG are investing around 71 million Swiss francs in the modernization Axpo and AEW Energie AG are investing around 71 million Swiss francs in the modernization, thus underlining their commitment to security of supply and renewable energies. Axpo invests large sums in the Swiss electricity infrastructure every year and once again covered around 40 per cent of Switzerland's electricity requirements in the 2023/24 financial year. The focus of AEW's investments for security of supply in the areas of production and grid is in the canton of Aargau, where it supplies around 103,000 customers with electricity. Modernization of AKA's production facilities Due to their long service life, a fundamental modernization of AKA's production facilities has become necessary. From 2026, the three machine groups - consisting of turbines and generators - will be overhauled or replaced in stages. This will take around six years. During this time, the power plant will remain in operation on a partially reduced basis. The Klingnau Aare power plant (AKA) will return to full operation from 2032. The AKA is a partner plant operated by Axpo (60%) and AEW Energie AG (40%). The concession was renewed in 2015 and runs for 60 years until 2075.

Verizon has been recognized as a pioneer in the first-ever Gartner Magic Quadrant for 4G and 5G Private Mobile Network Services, the only U.S.-based mobile carrier to be placed in the Leaders Quadrant. Pioneers are recognized for a combined assessment of the Ability to Execute and Completeness of Vision related to their activity in the private mobile network services market. Verizon’s core competency Gartner defines 4G and 5G PMN services as private wireless network deployment “Verizon has worked tirelessly to serve and advance the market for private wireless networks, and I feel this recognition from Gartner, together with the market response from our customers, is incredibly rewarding,” said Jennifer Artley, SVP of 5G Acceleration, Verizon Business. “Verizon’s core competency is building networks. Combine that with our customer-centric approach, well-integrated portfolio solutions and platforms, and our U.S. licensed-spectrum advantage and you have our foundation for market leadership. We look forward to further developing the market and its ever-expanding ecosystem of partners, devices and applications both domestically and internationally.” Magic Quadrant Market Definition Gartner defines 4G and 5G private mobile network (PMN) services as private wireless network deployment, operation and management services for the exclusive use by a given organization, to provide dedicated connectivity for people and assets of an enterprise setting. 4G and 5G PMN services are delivered as an end-to-end service that covers design, architecting, deployment and management, based on the 3GPP standards, in a specific enterprise location, with dedicated or a mix of shared assets, such as spectrum or core network. Gartner Evaluation Criteria Gartner puts “high” weighting on the following for Ability to Execute: Customer Experience For Ability to Execute, “Gartner evaluates vendors on the quality of their multiregion, end-to-end PMN services offering that enables enterprises to improve their operational performance and efficiency, and to positively impact revenue, retention and reputation within Gartner’s view of the market,” according to Gartner. Gartner puts “high” weighting on the following for Ability to Execute: Customer Experience, Sales Execution/Pricing, and Product/Service (core goods and services that compete in and or serve the defined market, including capabilities, quality, feature sets, etc). “Medium” weighting is placed on Overall Viability and Market Responsiveness or Track Record. future direction and innovations For Completeness of Vision, “Gartner evaluates service providers on their ability to articulate logical statements convincingly about the market’s current and future direction, innovations, customer needs, and competitive forces, and on how well these correspond to Gartner’s position,” according to Gartner. Gartner evaluation criteria puts “high” weighting on the following for Completeness of Vision: Market Understanding, Innovation, and Offering (Product) Strategy. “Medium” weighting is placed on Vertical/Industry Strategy and Business Model.

Even during the era of big business, most residential electrical service companies tend to be on the smaller end with less than 20% employing more than 100 workers. And, like most small businesses, electrical contractors probably assume that they don’t need public relations and that their advertising efforts are enough to sustain them. But this is a common misconception. PR isn’t a luxury reserved for million-dollar companies and can be used to help progressively scale your business in the long run. Lead generation companies If you’re like most electrical contractors, you are using the marketing and advertising advice that many other home service companies have taken over the years and have confined your advertising into avenues such as direct mail, lead generation companies, truck wraps and a reliance on third-party referral websites. That is one reason why adding PR to your marketing budget is a necessity While these are all good options, the problem is that your competition is also using the same marketing techniques you are using and are probably only reaching the same set of potential customers. That is one reason why adding PR to your marketing budget is a necessity if you want to rise above your peers in your market. Residential electrical services If you were to do a quick Google search for electrical contractors in your community, chances are you’d find page after page of similar options. And, if you aren’t on the first page of that list, you aren’t making much of an impact. But, with the right PR partner, you can build your company’s reputation and recognition so that it becomes synonymous with good residential electrical services. A public relations expert can help you develop campaigns that show you as a thought leader in your market while helping you secure earned media in your local news and trade publications. A public relations expert can help you develop campaigns that show you as a thought leader These methods increase your visibility. Strong visibility not only helps you reach a wider audience, it inadvertently helps you move up spots in Google rankings. The more mentions your company gets on social media, in the news and on other online platforms, the better Google ranks your website. what is Earned media So what is earned media? That’s media that isn’t paid for or owned by your company and includes media interviews, customer reviews and organic mentions on social media. And, it’s important because it is by far the most trusted form of publicity available. Studies have shown that more than 90% of consumer trust earned media over paid-for advertising. Consumers have become savvy to commercials and no longer uses ads as their main method of researching a potential service partner. But, it’s getting this earned media that can prove tricky for most electrical contractors. Most of you probably don’t know any journalists and you certainly don’t have time with your busy schedule to cultivate relationships with the media. Potential service partner A good PR expert can pitch your expertise and story ideas surrounding your company That’s where a PR agency can help. Many of them are former reporters or know the business well enough to have built relationships with many media outlets. A good PR expert can pitch your expertise and story ideas surrounding your company to media both locally and in trade publications. It’s also possible that you haven’t considered the need to consistently read and respond to your customers’ reviews online. This is important because studies have shown that more than 92% of consumers say they read online reviews before they purchase a product or hire a service provider. Social media game Since you do have a business to run, it may be difficult to carve out enough time to reply to these reviews – both the good and bad ones – in a way that is both effective and conciliatory. But, a PR partner does have the time and the experience to do this for you. But, a PR partner does have the time and the experience to do this for you Finally, PR helps you stay on top of your social media game. It’s not enough to simply have a company Facebook or LinkedIn page – you have to consistently post content and engage your followers. Coming up with something new to post is a challenge when you’re trying to schedule house calls, pay bills and hire quality electricians. Attracting new customers Once you have developed a PR strategy that helps you to promote your brand, increase your visibility and develop you and your company as the market leaders in your community, you’ll begin to notice that your brand is reaching a wider audience. And, it’s a proactive strategy that will help you influence the market in your favor. These positive messages help you grab the attention of your target audience and connect with them on a personal level. PR is about telling a good story to build relationships and it’s these relationships that will help you grow beyond that of your competitors. Heather Ripley is founder and CEO of Ripley PR, an elite, global public relations agency specializing in skilled trades, B2B tech and franchising. Ripley PR has been recognized by Entrepreneur Magazine as a Top Franchise PR Agency five years in a row and was named to Forbes’ America’s Best PR Agencies for 2021. She is the author of ‘NEXT LEVEL NOW: PR Secrets to Drive Explosive Growth for your Home Service Business.’

The promise of electric vehicles is closer to reality than ever before. New plans and investments at the federal level designate billions of dollars to move our country toward clean energy, including $2 million to help auto manufacturers retool facilities to increase EV production. Additionally, the Biden Administration has announced a goal to create 100% carbon-free electricity by 2035 and a net-zero carbon economy by 2050. Domestic EV marketplace The domestic EV marketplace has grown from 16,000 to more than 2 million vehicles in the last decade and is poised to expand at lightning speed over the next ten years. S&P Global mobility has predicted that by 2030, electric vehicles (EVs) will make up 40% of the U.S. market share of new vehicles on the road. This dramatic increase in EVs will require a nationwide network of charging stations to meet the demand from the current 140,000 to over 1.1 million. Charging stations It is a necessity that regulators lay the groundwork now for a reliable and secure charging networkThe expansion of charging stations will undoubtedly give zero-emissions drivers more confidence in their ability to refuel more conveniently. Still, it’s critical that confidence in infrastructure security also be prioritized alongside this growth. If not adequately protected and monitored, charging stations could serve as access points for cybercriminals, potentially leading to personal data leaks, attacks on vehicle systems, and even widespread blackouts. As EVs continue to gain momentum as realistic alternatives to CO-2 emitting vehicles, it is a necessity that developers and regulators lay the groundwork now for a reliable and secure charging network for the long term. EV Charging Infrastructure and the electric grid The nation’s electric grid generates and delivers electricity essential to everyday life. It’s made up of power plants and other sources of generated electricity, complete with transmission and distribution lines and infrastructure that delivers essential power. Grid connection An important aspect to remember about EV charging stations is that they connect to their relative electric grid. Simply put, the infrastructure for charging stations is comprised of devices that wait for another device to connect and communicate. However, it lacks a third-party firewall or other devices that can act as protection. Unfortunately, this results in vulnerability and means new doors for cybercriminals to walk through. Cybersecurity risks If the grid became compromised by a large-scale attack, it could lead to destructive and widespread blackouts Even before EV charging stations are factored in, the electric grid faces substantial cybersecurity risks from criminals, terrorists, hackers, and foreign governments every day. If the grid became compromised by a large-scale attack, it could lead to destructive and widespread blackouts that would undoubtedly affect EV charging stations and other essential institutions such as banks, hospitals, and gas stations. With the expansion of EV charging stations, the risks only grow. Now is the time to address threats and strategize before disaster strikes. Risks of connectivity emerge The world we live in has reached a level of being almost entirely connected at all times – security systems, appliances, health monitors, industrial sensors, and now, our vehicles. While the connectivity of vehicles has been incredibly beneficial to consumers and the automotive industry alike, the growth in the internet of things (IoT) has opened countless doorways for cybersecurity threats. Software flaws One young information technology security specialist reported finding flaws within a third-party software that a handful of leading EV manufacturers use. It gave him access to more than 25 EVs in at least 13 countries. The man, who stumbled on the findings in 2022, said he could remotely control some EV functions, including starting vehicles, unlocking windows and doors, disabling security systems, and turning on stereo systems and flashing headlights. The IT specialist said he could also tell if a person was in the vehicle. In a separate and concerning situation, a single compromised password led to a foreign-fronted cyberattack on a U.S.-based pipeline in 2021. It halted the fuel supply process on the east coast and cost the company $4.4 million in ransom money. Cyberattacks Thousands of charging stations are already in danger of being targeted by cybercriminals The point is that even massive and powerful companies can fall victim to cyberattacks. Even though cybersecurity is a critical issue for EV manufacturers, their systems are still vulnerable to hackers. Thousands of charging stations are already in danger of being targeted by cybercriminals, and as the number of stations grows, so too will the risk. The higher the number of entry points, the more opportunities hackers will see. If they can break into and gain access to even the most sophisticated EVs, it could be catastrophic. Ensuring security and reliability through proactivity Because charging stations are connected to the country’s primary grid, the entire infrastructure must be armed with the most aggressive security measures. The risks associated with modernized electric vehicles are not something that traditional automotive safety regulations and security standards properly cover. The complicated and rapid evolution of EVs is putting them at a heightened threat. When charging stations are connected to the electrical grid, it is imperative to ensure strong cybersecurity measures are in place to remain dependable and effective.  Embedding cybersecurity technology We often see outside parties utilized to secure tech because of the frequent lack of necessary cyber protection The best way to ensure the electric grid's safety is to build cybersecurity technology directly into the charging stations. We often see outside parties utilized to secure tech because of the frequent lack of necessary cyber protection. Unfortunately, the promising growth EVs and their charging stations bring to our environment also contributes to technology’s vulnerabilities, which can cause key security measures to be overlooked. There’s no getting around it: EV charging stations are highly vulnerable to hackers. Awareness and solutions As the growth continues, there is an acute need for heightened awareness and solutions for the weaknesses associated with these charging stations. These solutions should consider everything from the charging points and devices to operators of the energy distribution networks and infrastructure providers. We must aim to implement advanced cybersecurity measures that will keep safe drivers and all the data that EVs contain.

Electricians play a pivotal role in preventing electrical fires by following safe practices during installations, repairs, and inspections. At a minimum, electricians should ensure all electrical wiring and components are installed according to current building codes and manufacturers' specifications. This includes using the right size wires for the amperage load, using approved materials, and properly securing all connections. During electrical inspections, electricians should identify and address any potential fire hazards. Electricians can also advise homeowners on electrical safety measures they can take to prevent fires. These include safe appliance use, avoiding overloaded outlets, and the importance of smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Maintenance of electrical systems Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) can prevent possible fires. GFCI outlets have built-in protection to detect imbalances in electrical current and quickly shut off power to prevent shocks and potential fires, particularly in areas prone to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms. Regular maintenance of electrical systems is also crucial for fire prevention. Electricians can perform preventative maintenance checks to identify and address any developing issues before they become serious fire hazards. Fire departments responded to an average of 32,160 home fires involving electrical distribution Fire departments responded to an average of 32,160 home fires involving electrical distribution and lighting equipment each year in 2015–2019, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Electrical fires cause scores of civilian deaths and hundreds of civilian injuries, as well as millions of dollars in property damage. Fire Hazards in the Home Some of the electrical components that present fire hazards in the home include faulty electrical outlets and switches, worn or damaged components, overloaded circuits, damaged or frayed cords, and misused extension cords and power strips. Improper use of light fixtures can also be a danger, and space heaters can be a fire hazard if they are placed too close to flammable materials or left unattended. Damaged or frayed cords can cause sparks and ignite nearby flammable materials As outlets and switches age, the wiring behind them can loosen and break, causing sparks and fire. Loose plugs can also overheat and ignite surrounding materials. Plugging too many appliances into a single outlet or using extension cords instead of proper wiring can overload a circuit, thus causing overheating and fires. Damaged or frayed cords can cause sparks and ignite nearby flammable materials. Cords that are kinked, pinched, or have exposed wires should be avoided and replaced immediately. Minimizing the Risk of Electrical Fires Here are some steps a homeowner can take to minimize the risk of fire from electrical systems: Upgrade the electrical system, especially if the home is older. If the electrical system has not been updated in a while, a qualified electrician can advise if it needs modernization. This could involve upgrading to breakers with better safety features such as Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) technology. Schedule an electrical safety inspection. Having a qualified electrician periodically inspect a home's electrical system can identify potential problems before they escalate into fire hazards. Keep flammable materials away from electrical components, including curtains, furniture, and piles of paper. Sparks and overheating can easily ignite nearby flammables. Addressing Multiple Threats Effective communication is key for electricians to impress upon homeowners the seriousness of fire hazards. Avoid technical jargon and explain fire hazards in clear, concise language that homeowners can understand. Focus on the potential consequences, like damage to property or injury, to heighten awareness. Pictures can be worth a thousand words. Show homeowners examples of damaged wiring, overloaded outlets, or faulty installations that pose fire risks. This can be done through photos on a tablet or phone, or even carrying around small physical samples. Frame the conversation around safety for the homeowner and their family. Highlight how addressing these hazards can prevent potential fires and ensure a safe living environment. Provide a written report after the inspection or repair. This report should detail the identified hazards, the corrective actions taken, and any recommendations for future maintenance or upgrades. By combining clear communication, visual aids, and a focus on safety, electricians can effectively convey the importance of addressing fire hazards to homeowners and empower them to make informed decisions about their electrical systems.

The electrical industry is expected to have a labor shortage of about 60,000 workers by 2026. A labor shortage in the electrical trade is not inevitable, but it is likely to continue if the industry does not take steps to address the issue. Like other skilled trades, the electrical industry is facing challenges that could contribute to a labor shortage, including an aging workforce, a lack of interest among younger generations, and competition from other industries. However, there are strategies the industry can implement to address these challenges and attract a new generation of workers. These strategies include increasing awareness of the benefits and opportunities of skilled trades, investing in training and education programs, improving working conditions and compensation, embracing technology, promoting diversity and inclusivity, and collaborating among industry, education, and government. Improving working conditions Factors in the current labor shortage in the electrical industry include: Aging workforce: Many workers in the electrical industry are nearing retirement age, and there are not enough younger workers to replace them. This has led to a shortage of skilled workers with many years of experience in the industry. Lack of interest in the trades: There has been a decline in the number of young people pursuing careers in the skilled trades, including electrical work. This is due in part to a focus on four-year college degrees as the preferred career path, as well as a lack of awareness of the benefits and opportunities of skilled trades. Competition from other industries: The electrical industry is competing with other industries, such as construction and manufacturing, for skilled workers. Training and education: Training and education are critical for developing the skills and knowledge necessary for electrical work. However, there is a shortage of qualified trainers and educators. Increasing demand: The demand for electrical services is increasing, particularly in areas such as renewable energy and smart grid technology. Attracting and retaining workers To attract and retain workers, the electrical industry must offer competitive wages and benefits One strategy to address the labor shortage is to increase awareness of skilled trades and to promote the benefits of a career in the electrical industry through outreach programs in schools, career fairs, and other events. Providing access to quality training and education programs that develop the skills and knowledge necessary for electrical work is crucial for attracting and retaining workers. This can be done through apprenticeship programs, vocational schools, and community colleges. To attract and retain workers, the electrical industry must offer competitive wages and benefits, as well as a safe and supportive work environment. This includes offering training and development opportunities, flexible schedules, and opportunities for advancement. Inclusive work environment The electrical industry is changing rapidly, and workers must be equipped with the latest technology and tools to stay competitive. Providing workers with training and access to the latest technology can help attract and retain workers. The electrical industry should actively promote diversity and inclusivity to attract a wider pool of workers. This includes efforts to recruit workers from underrepresented groups and create a welcoming and inclusive work environment. The electrical industry is changing rapidly, and workers must be equipped with the latest technology Companies in the electrical industry are addressing the labor shortage problem by investing in workforce development programs and initiatives. For example, Schneider Electric has developed a comprehensive workforce development program called the Schneider Electric Energy and Automation Training (SEAT) program. The SEAT program provides training and certification for employees, customers, and partners in areas such as energy management, automation, and digital transformation. Developing training programs Siemens has developed several initiatives to address the labor shortage in the electrical industry. These initiatives include apprenticeship programs, vocational training programs, and partnerships with educational institutions to develop training programs. Graybar, a distributor of electrical products and solutions, has developed a workforce development program called Graybar University to provide training and education for employees, customers, and partners in areas such as lighting, automation, and safety. Joint apprenticeship training program Collaboration among industry, education, and government is crucial for developing solutions The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) have developed a joint apprenticeship training program that provides training and education for individuals looking to enter the electrical industry. The program provides on-the-job training and education in areas such as electrical theory, safety, and installation. Collaboration among industry, education, and government is crucial for developing solutions to the labor shortage in the electrical industry. This includes partnerships between industry and education institutions to provide training and education programs, as well as government initiatives to support workforce development in the skilled trades.

Many economists are predicting a recession in 2023, although most agree business conditions should improve by the end of the year. For the electricals market, numerous factors are in play that can offset the downturn, and any projections must also consider the variables of the local market (rather than the national or international outlook). Economic weakness and challenges The Conference Board forecasts that economic weakness will intensify and spread more widely throughout the U.S. economy over the coming months with a recession starting in early 2023. Real GDP growth was expected to be 2.0 percent year-over-year in 2022, then slow to 0.2 percent in 2023, and later rebound to 1.7 percent in 2024, according to the Conference Board. 2023 comes on the heels of a challenging year for electricals, when price increases and product shortages were a stark reality. Impact of  higher prices  A troubled geopolitical environment provides an additional source of economic uncertainty Sales growth numbers in 2022 were skewed by the impact of inflation: How much of the bigger numbers were “real growth” and how much reflected the impact of higher prices? Higher prices accounted for the lion’s share of revenue growth by some estimates, with real growth in the low single digits. A troubled geopolitical environment, exemplified by the war in Ukraine and a continuing COVID crisis in China, provides an additional source of economic uncertainty.   environmentally friendly technologies A positive factor that may offset the fragile outlook in 2023 includes an overall trend toward greater electrification and away from less energy-efficient power sources. Governments around the world are pushing for more environmentally friendly technologies, which provides positive headwinds for the electricals market. In the United States, for example, the Inflation Reduction Act, passed in August 2022, includes government investments and tax incentives to drive the transition to a greener world, including $27 billion to deploy low- and zero-emissions technologies, and $1 billion more each for advancing zero-emissions heavy-duty vehicles and for zero-energy building code adoption. Tax incentives Another $750 million will be spent to establish interstate electricity transmission lines, and $87 million will go to low-emission electricity programs. Tax incentives will provide new inducements for consumers to transition to electric technologies, which means more business for the broader electrical market. The government is also encouraging investment in infrastructure spending and the construction of factories for a variety of electrical products. Residential construction The higher interest rates present affordability challenges for home buyers and a slowdown in the market Residential construction, a big factor in the electricals outlook, has slowed down considerably in 2022, and the trend will likely continue into 2023. The U.S. Federal Reserve has raised interest rates by a total of 4.25 percentage points in 2022, a trend that is reflected in the interest rates charged to homebuyers. Mortgage rates for a 30-year fixed mortgage increased from 3.2% to 6.3% in 2022. The higher interest rates present affordability challenges for home buyers and a slowdown in the market for single-family construction. Markets in the Sunbelt are less affected, but data on housing starts and building permits nationwide reflect the slowdown. Non-residential construction Non-residential construction has held up well in 2022, but demand is weakening in the new year, while a backlog of projects will likely preclude the worst of the impact, although the business pipeline will eventually be depleted. A troubling long-term trend for the construction market, and by extension the electricals market, is the tendency of companies to allow employees to work from home at least part of the time. The apparent eventual consequence is to lower the demand for office space, already reflected in lower occupancy numbers in some markets. Less construction means less demand for electrical products and services. Obviously, the long-term trend lines are still uncertain.   Supply chain woes Supply chain woes and longer lead times continued to plague the world market at the start of 2023, although the situation has improved since the worst of times. Lead times are still months longer than normal, and products powered by semiconductor chips, such as lighting controls, are especially a challenge. An employee shortage continues as companies in all sectors of the electricals market struggle to find enough employees to fill their needs. The shortage stimulates opportunities for companies to work smarter and to provide more preassembled electrical products to simplify installation.

SoFi Stadium, a world-class venue, turned to industry major - Belden for a complete end-to-end cabling and connectivity solution. Belden’s cutting-edge technology supports the stadium’s data-heavy demands, including the one-of-a-kind, roof-suspended Oculus video board, Wi-Fi infrastructure, digital ticketing, and a DAS system. Belden’s solutions for SoFi Stadium When the stadium’s owners required a solution that delivered top-tier quality, performance, and reliability while reducing labor costs, they called Belden. Count on Arrow to deliver unparalleled excellence in the low-voltage industry. Arrow will equip with the competitive advantage needed for any customer, any configuration, and any budget. Copper Cables & Copper Solutions Discover the ultimate lineup of Belden Inc. category cables, tailored to suit every application imaginable! Discover the ultimate lineup of Belden Inc. category cables, tailored to suit every application imaginable! Many cables featured their signature patented Bonded-Pair design, guaranteeing unparalleled signal integrity. Plus, with DataTuff® Industrial category cables, rest assured the system remains resilient against the toughest environmental conditions. Category 6A Choose from an assortment of configurations including small diameter, snake, industrial, non-bonded, and their innovative patented Bonded-Pair technology. Elevating performance benchmarks, Belden's renowned 10GXS Cable stands as the gold standard in the industry. Category 6 Belden has a wide array of Category 6 performance options, featuring their top-of-the-line REVConnect 3600 System cable boasting premium performance and ample headroom. The REVConnect 2400 System cable, surpasses TIA-568-C.2 standards, all backed by Belden’s renowned quality. Category 5e Belden presents a range of Category 5e performance options, with their flagship 1200 Series cable delivering exceptional headroom, surpassing the TIA-568-C.2 Category 5e standard. Featuring Bonded-Pair technology, their 1200 Series ensures unparalleled robustness in installations. Patch Panel Belden’s commercial-grade panels are available in modular (empty) configurations Belden offers a comprehensive range of copper patch panels tailored to meet the demands of both commercial and industrial settings. Belden’s commercial-grade panels are available in modular (empty) configurations or pre-loaded with high-quality copper jacks designed for Category 6A, 6, and 5E network installations. Trunk Cable Optimized for data centers, enterprise networks, and any environment prioritizing swift installation, Trunk Cable Assemblies offer factory termination and rigorous testing, slashing installation time by up to 90%. Eliminating the need for termination, these assemblies come in diverse lengths, equipped with connectors tailored to specific application requirements. Patch Cord Enhancing both performance and physical durability, Belden’s Copper Patch Cords ensure optimal transmission quality for network channels. With superb return loss characteristics adaptable to any environment, Belden’s Copper Patch Cords come in modular, small-diameter, and traceable solutions to meet specific needs. Fiber Cable & Fiber Solutions Discover an array of high-quality indoor and outdoor cable solutions within Belden’s comprehensive product line, featuring both tight buffer and loose tube designs. Tailored for diverse industrial settings, their offerings include armored, burial, and ruggedized options. Crafted to meet various specifications, their product range encompasses OM1, OM3, OM4, OM5, and OS2 (Single Mode) configurations. Tight Buffer Fiber Cables Tight-Buffered Fiber Cables are perfectly tailored for enterprise environments Tight-Buffered Fiber Cables are perfectly tailored for enterprise environments, these cables stand out as a crowd favorite, ideal for intra-building backbones and both horizontal and vertical installations.  Offering versatility like no other, they come in fiber counts ranging from two to an impressive 144, making them adaptable to any project scale. Whether indoors or outdoors, these cables are engineered to exceed expectations, boasting a design that ensures seamless performance in any environment. Loose Tube Cables Belden’s Loose Tube Cables offer the ultimate solution for all outdoor and indoor/outdoor fiber optic needs. Whether it’s for OSP, conduit, direct burial, aerial, or trunking applications, Belden’s cables offer unmatched versatility and performance. Choose from a variety of options including dry or gel-filled single and double-jacket designs, with plenum and riser ratings. Armored Cables Belden’s armored cables are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures, moisture, and physical damage. The armor layer provides an extra level of protection against mechanical stresses, such as crushing, impact, and abrasion, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the cable. It also helps to maintain cable integrity in areas prone to disturbances such as rodent activity. Connectors Belden’s connectors seamlessly integrate fusion splicing with field-installable connectors Belden’s connectors seamlessly integrate the advantages of fusion splicing with the ease of field-installable connectors, they greatly enhance flexibility for field termination, while elevating installation performance and reliability beyond traditional mechanical splice connectors.  Eliminating the need for crimping, polishing, or adhesives during termination significantly reduces installation errors. Cassettes Belden offers an advanced DCX and LAN Cassettes platform designed to cater to a wide spectrum of density requirements, ranging from low to ultra-high density applications. Cassettes platform encompasses frames, cassettes, and covers for a comprehensive array of connector types, including LC, SC, ST, and MPO connectors, as well as Copper RJ45 Jacks and Couplers. Patch Cords Simplified, durable, adaptable, and readily accessible. Unmatched quality and performance define Belden's FX patch cords, engineered with a robust design to endure daily wear and tear. Available in standard configurations off the shelf or swiftly customized for tailored installations, they ensure reliability in any setting. 

Siemens has developed a digital twin especially for large event spaces. The technology makes it possible to realistically reproduce and simulate very precisely a building’s acoustics and structure. The Sound of Science application will be used for the first time in the Großes Festspielhaus – the Large Festival Hall – at the Salzburg Festival. Sound of Science application Orchestral formations on the stage can also be tested and arranged in advance Sound of Science will enable event organizers to virtually explore how acoustics change in different spatial configurations – for example, how adding acoustic panels affects the listening experience – in order to select the optimal acoustic scenario. Orchestral formations on the stage can also be tested and arranged in advance – before a single note is heard in the real world. This approach saves money, resources and time. Siemens to use digital twins “With Sound of Science, we’re designing the future. Digital twins are not only transforming the everyday for many companies, but are also creating new opportunities for the cultural and creative industries,” said Prof. Dr. Stephan Frucht, Artistic Director of the Siemens Arts Program. Dr. Stephan Frucht adds, “In the future, we’ll be able to plan stage productions better and even simulate them acoustically in advance. We’re delighted to have the Salzburg Festival at our side as a long-standing partner, who recognizes the opportunities such innovations offer.” Sound of Science app for select partners Siemens will make the Sound of Science app available to selected partners from the cultural world free of charge as a demonstration application. There are currently no plans to market the application. Its simulation solutions, however, may be purchased. The Salzburg Festival’s Großes Festspielhaus is the first and only large event space to date in which Sound of Science is available. However, Siemens is planning to digitally simulate further spaces – including concert halls in Germany and England. At the Salzburg Festival, audiences will have an opportunity – unique for the time being – to use VR glasses to experience the application at the festival’s opening on July 20. Siemens and the Salzburg Festival “Siemens and the Salzburg Festival share a common passion for excellence and innovation. And we’re delighted to partake in this pioneering technological development and innovation as part of our long-standing close and trust-based partnership,” said Dr. Kristina Hammer, President of the Salzburg Festival. Dr. Kristina Hammer adds, “We’re excited to see what diverse applications will stem from Sound of Science in the future.” Siemens Simcenter’s simulation solutions The technologies used are part of the simulation solutions from Siemens Simcenter The technologies used are part of the simulation solutions from Siemens Simcenter, which has been part of the company’s core business for over 15 years. The technology is mostly used in industry – for example, for the acoustic optimization of vehicle interiors or for protection against street noise. For Sound of Science, Simcenter uses a combination of impulse response measurements and ray tracing for the 3D modeling of each event space. These methods can measure the echo and reverberation of a sound and simulate how sound waves propagate in a room. Depending on the material, reflections of sound waves behave differently. Those that bounce off a concrete wall react differently from those that hit a carpet or reach the ear directly. As a result, the simulation can reproduce the individual sound signature of each event space – in other words, its acoustic DNA. Siemens Festival Nights Siemens has been working closely with the Salzburg Festival for around 30 years. Since 1999, the company has also been the festival’s main sponsor. Since 2002, the Siemens Festival Nights have been held on Kapitelplatz square during the Salzburg Festival. Since its beginning, this open-air event has provided more than one million visitors with the opportunity to experience previous and current festival productions on an LED screen free of charge. In addition, some of the Salzburg Festival’s venues are equipped with Siemens technology from the areas of building automation, security and acoustics.

Zermatt is a truly unique destination nestled in the Swiss Alps. The town is primarily renowned for its iconic Matterhorn Mountain, which stands at 4,478 meters and is one of the highest and most recognizable peaks in the Alps. Zermatt’s landscape includes 38 peaks over 4,000 meters. With around 2.5 million overnight stays recorded in 2023, Zermatt is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland. However, due to the town’s remote location and rugged terrain, Zermatt faces specific challenges. These include the need for reliable and sustainable infrastructure and the management of natural risks, such as avalanches and extreme weather events, which can disrupt infrastructure and pose safety concerns. These factors, combined with the altitude difference, oxygen-deficient air, and steep terrain, underscore the need for innovative solutions. For decades, together with its innovative customers, Siemens has been developing technological solutions to meet these challenges.  Evaluation of energy flows The hut operates mainly autonomously and is largely self-sufficient in its energy needs The Monte Rosa Hut, located 2,883 meters above sea level, is one of the most iconic mountain huts in Switzerland. The high-tech hut has been equipped with Siemens building technology since its reopening in 2010. In 2021, 8.6 tons of lead batteries were replaced by 2.7 tons of lithium batteries.  Continuous online evaluation of energy flows indicated the need for a new solution as the existing lead batteries would soon reach the end of their lifespan. The hut operates mainly autonomously and is largely self-sufficient in its energy needs. With the building management system Desigo CC, as the comprehensive on-site solution to manage all the systems, such as HVAC, Shading, Lighting, Power, Fire Safety, and Security, the operator can quickly review the key equipment values, check key room KPIs, and troubleshoot any potential problems.  Troubleshooting potential problems In 2024, the open and flexible IoT platform “Building X” from Siemens was deployed. Building X is the scalable digital building platform to digitalize, manage, and optimize building operations, allowing for an enhanced user experience, increased performance, and improved sustainability.  The Matterhorn summer paradise offers bike trails, adventurous kickbike and dirt scooter descents Zermatt Bergbahnen AG is Switzerland’s largest cable car company. The cable car station ‘Matterhorn glacier paradise’ is Europe’s highest cable car station at 3,883 m above sea level. It offers year-round snow experiences and stunning views of 38 peaks over 4,000 m. The Matterhorn summer paradise offers bike trails, adventurous kickbike and dirt scooter descents, and 400 km hiking trails. In the winter, the company offers, together with Cervinia/Valtournenche, 54 lifts and a total of 360 km of slopes. Rapidly changing weather Infrastructure in mountainous and challenging terrain demands high standards due to factors such as altitude, low oxygen levels, and rapidly changing weather. Siemens and Zermatt Bergbahnen share a long-standing and successful partnership in areas such as low-voltage power supply and state-of-the-art control solutions, which has been expanded with the completion of the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing and the connection from Matterhorn Glacier Paradise to Testa Grigia in Italy. Siemens solutions provide complete transparency and traceability of the system, thereby ensuring a seamless energy management overview of the entire infrastructure. This system ensures that all the energy values can be managed directly on the control units and displayed graphically on a state-of-the-art display/HMI or SCADA. Data from different subsystems provided by a wide range of manufacturers can be easily integrated into the overall Siemens system via standardized interfaces. Remote management of critical systems The Gornergrat Railway (GGB) and Matterhorn Gotthard Railway (MGB) are part of the BVZ Group The Gornergrat Railway (GGB) and Matterhorn Gotthard Railway (MGB) are part of the BVZ Group, which includes 10 subsidiaries. The BVZ Group provides public transport and tourism services in the cantons of Valais, Uri, and Grisons.  The GGB adopted the first cloud-based operational model in 2017, which was facilitated by Siemens Mobility. It ensures seamless and reliable operation. This innovative approach eliminates the need for on-site server infrastructure and allows for the remote management of critical systems. The integrated control and information system, known as “Iltis”, enhances operational efficiency and safety. This system enables remote control of signaling, monitoring of operations, and management of passenger information systems. Streamlining depot operations Another world premiere in 2023: The first mobile depot control system in the cloud, the Controlguide® TrackOps Depot, for the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn. Controlguide® TrackOps Depot is an innovative depot control solution, enabling the local management of shunting activities and streamlining depot operations. Utilizing cloud-based technologies, Siemens provided flexible and scalable depot control solutions to ensure the efficient management of railway operations. Tablet-based control interfaces were introduced for depot operations, thereby enabling the simplified and efficient management of shunting activities directly from the field.

The project aims to increase the resilience of the city's transmission network, reducing dependence on energy supply from other locations, and meeting demand during the peak tourism season. WEG has just announced the supply of a complete energy storage system (BESS) for the city of Aspen, located in the state of Colorado, USA. The project aims to enhance the resilience of the local power grid, which does not have its own power generation system and is entirely dependent on generation from other cities. Microgrid management software The solution provided by WEG includes transformers, AC/DC voltage converters, battery containers, switching and protection systems, as well as advanced microgeneration or microgrid management software. The initial system will have a capacity of 1.5 MW of power and 2 MWh of stored energy The initial system will have a capacity of 1.5 MW of power and 2 MWh of stored energy, with the potential to expand to up to 8 MWh when fully implemented. The management software is being developed by teams of specialists in the United States and Brazil, where WEG’s largest software development technical team is based. Implementation of the BESS system This project is yet another in the portfolio of BESS systems in the United States, where WEG has a group of engineers dedicated to this product in the cities of Duluth, GA, and Barre, VT. According to Carlos Bastos Grillo, Managing Director of Digital and Systems at WEG, the implementation of the BESS system will not only reduce dependency on external energy sources, but also increase the city's resilience against power supply interruptions during the peak season and dry periods, when wildfires occur more frequently in the region. Facing similar challenges "The guarantee of a stable power supply is vital for the sustainability of local tourism, which is the backbone of Aspen's economy. We believe that this project will not only benefit residents and visitors, but also serve as a model for other cities facing similar challenges," assures the Executive. The BESS system is scheduled to be completed by September 2024, preparing Aspen for the high ski season that starts in November. Timely completion will ensure that the city does not suffer from power shortages during one of the most critical periods for local tourism.

Quanergy Solutions, Inc., a provider of 3D LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) security solutions, was chosen by Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to analyze footfall to support the passenger journey with the ultimate goal of enhancing operational efficiencies. Quanergy’s technology is delivering accurate data-driven insights for YVR’s Domestic Check-in and Security Screening facilities.  Real-time insights “Through the implementation of Quanergy’s solutions, we have harnessed the power of real-time insights, gaining a deep understanding of passenger volumes and the associated wait times at different stages of their journey through the terminal,” said Jason Williams, Manager of Innovation & Technology Group, YVR. He adds, “With this high-precision data at our disposal, we can trigger real-time alerts whenever we approach or exceed predefined thresholds. This invaluable capability enables us to collaborate seamlessly with our stakeholders, ensuring that our travelers experience a smooth and stress-free journey through our airport.” Q-Track YVR currently uses insights to meet several operational and business imperatives, such as reducing check-in time With Quanergy’s 3D LiDAR sensor and advanced perception software solution, Q-Track, YVR can accurately identify, classify, and track people/objects for enhanced operational insights. YVR currently uses these insights to meet several operational and business imperatives, such as reducing check-in time and time spent passing through security, which ultimately sees an increase in customer happiness. streamline operations “We are pleased to have collaborated closely with the YVR team, resolving a multifaceted challenge encountered by many passenger terminals today,” said Adam Andres, Vice President of Global Sales at Quanergy. He adds, “The forward-thinking of the YVR Innovation and Technology Group, in embracing Quanergy’s field-tested and fully scalable Q-Track solution, led to the achievement of our project objectives. We take pride in our contribution, providing real-time actionable intelligence to enhance security, streamline operations, and elevate the overall passenger experience.”

Mota-Engil, a multi-national with activities focused on the construction and management of infrastructures, responsible for the construction of the Canoas wastewater lifting station, selected WEG as the provider of a large package of electrical solutions for an important initiative to decontaminate the waters of the Bogotá River, in Colombia. Sustainable development When the project is completed, the pumping station will receive the wastewater from approximately 70% of the city, corresponding to the Fucha, Tintal, and Tunjuelo river basins, and the wastewater from the Municipality of Soacha, to be later pumped to the future Canoas Wastewater Treatment Plant, which will be one of the largest in Latin America. This great milestone will make it possible to return quality water to the Bogotá River and guarantee the sustainable development of the country. Safe distribution of energy Seventeen medium voltage switchgears were also supplied in addition to low voltage load centers One of the great challenges of this project is to guarantee the safe distribution of energy to the electrical systems and motors. For this, WEG has supplied a complete 115 kV substation that includes two 30 MVA/115/13.2 kV transformers, adding more efficiency and reliability to the plant. 17 medium voltage switchgears were also supplied in addition to low voltage load centers. For this project, WEG will also be supplying six three-phase induction motors and six medium voltage variable frequency drives. Each 4,300 kW motor, vertically mounted, will be coupled to its respective pump and will be responsible for pumping 6.4 cubic meters of wastewater per second to 51.6 meters height from the well, one of the most critical processes in the plant. Improvement of the quality of life This demonstrates the company's ability to develop integrated solutions that meet the most diverse applications. With participation in other important projects in the water and wastewater segment, in various processes such as potable water treatment plants, wastewater treatment, and distribution systems, WEG reinforces its experience in this segment by being selected for this important project, thus contributing to the improvement of the quality of life of the population and the environment.