Digital Transformation

In September 2022, Axpo and Kraftwerke Sarganserland AG (KSL) interrupted the comprehensive refurbishment work on the Gigerwald dam facility in Calfeisen Valley and postponed it for two years. The reason behind this decision was the scarcity of electricity during the winter months of 2022/23. The refurbishment work is now back on track. This work is essential for the safe, long-term operation of the facility and the reservoir must be entirely emptied.  Faced with the limited supply situation in winter 2022/23, Axpo and KSL decided to postpone the refurbishment of the Gigerwald dam facility for two years. This made it possible to provide up to 160 GWh of winter electricity from the water in the reservoir and from circulation operations. Construction measures can no longer be delayed if the safe operation of the facility over the coming decades is to be ensured. Gigerwald dam facility The refurbishment of the Gigerwald dam facility was made necessary by progressive sedimentation The refurbishment of the Gigerwald dam facility was made necessary by progressive sedimentation. It has now risen up to the level of the bottom outlet intake. The facility is currently able to operate as normal – but operation may become limited should nothing be undertaken soon. KSL has, therefore, restarted the refurbishment following a two-year interruption.  This will involve raising the intake structure for the bottom outlet and working water by around 20 meters. Axpo and KSL are investing around 25 million Swiss francs in the refurbishment, thereby affirming their commitment to strengthening renewable energies in Switzerland.  Mapragg hydropower plant The Mapragg hydropower plant will not continue operating while construction is ongoing as the Gigerwald reservoir needs to be fully drained. The majority of the construction work will take place in winter when there is less water flowing that would need to be channeled through the construction site and also because production losses would be greater in summer. When the refurbishment work resumes, KSL will be able to draw on the preparations made in 2022. For example, two cranes have already been installed and the personnel camp and concrete plant were erected back in 2022. Around 50 people will work on the construction site while building works are carried out over the winter.  Gigerwald reservoir The Gigerwald reservoir will be completely drained in late September and the Mapragg power plant will be shut down. Work on the dam facility is likely to continue until the end of April 2025. This will allow the facility to come back into operation in early summer 2025. Kraftwerke Sarganserland AG (KSL) is a partner company of Axpo Power AG and the canton of St. Gallen. Axpo holds 98.5% of the shares and the canton of St. Gallen has the remaining 1.5%. 

Swiss energy supplier - Axpo has made the final investment decision to commence construction of the Lålax wind farm in Finland’s Vörå municipality. An important milestone in the expansion of wind energy in Finland, the project underlines Axpo's commitment to the region. Axpo took over the project rights for the Lålax wind farm in October 2023 and has now given the go-ahead for further investment in the project. The company plans to start pre-construction work later this year. Axpo plans Construction of the four wind turbines will follow in late summer 2025. Each will have an output of 6.2 megawatts (MW) and a hub height of 134 meters. Contracts have already been signed with the turbine manufacturer Vestas.  Axpo plans to commission the wind farm, which will have a total capacity of 24.8 MW, in autumn 2025. Following completion, it will produce around 70 gigawatt hours (GWh) of renewable electricity a year, which corresponds to the electricity needs of around 17,500 four-person households.  Climate neutral by 2035 The project will be managed from Axpo's office in Vaasa, around 25 kilometers from the site The project will be managed from Axpo's office in Vaasa, around 25 kilometers from the site.  Axpo’s Head of Wind Activities in Finland, Joakim Ingves, said: "The location of the new wind project is ideal for us. My team will be responsible for overseeing the development, and from Vaasa, we can manage the construction at close quarters to ensure it is completed on time. This significant project will bring many benefits to the region, including the creation of jobs." To achieve Finland’s ambition to be climate neutral by 2035, construction of onshore wind turbines needs to be accelerated. Joakim Ingves adds: "We’re very pleased that with the construction of the Lålax wind farm, Axpo will be contributing to this goal." Axpo's ongoing strategic investment This latest expansion of the company's wind power activities in Europe is in line with Axpo's ongoing strategic investment in the development of renewable energy. Through its Volkswind subsidiary, Axpo has developed more than 90 wind farms in Germany and France with a total installed capacity of over 1500 MW. In France, Axpo is one of the major companies in the development and construction of wind farms.

From planning and development to optimized operations, Siemens technology will enable the realization of Siemensstadt Square, a sustainable city district of the future in Berlin. Spanning an area of 76 hectares, the foundation stone was laid today at this urban redevelopment project, which represents an investment of €4.5 billion. Through collaboration with a number of project partners, Siemens will help transform the industrial site of more than 100 years in Berlin Spandau into an inclusive, urban district comprising production, research, learning, and living in one place. Sustainable building management Combining the real and the digital worlds, Siemens technology will form the backbone of the new neighborhood. Intelligent digital twin technology sits at the heart of planning, optimization and operation of the urban infrastructure, which will comprise everything from renewable energy supply to sustainable building management. Siemens technology will form the backbone of the new neighborhood By gradually building up a digital image of the future neighborhood, urban planning, construction and infrastructure data can be used multi-dimensionally and over the life cycle of the city district in a more efficient way, adding greater value and optimizing sustainable outcomes. This intelligent technology also makes it possible to identify challenges at an early stage and to develop efficient solutions in a targeted manner.  Optimizing sustainable outcomes “Siemensstadt Square is a model for how urban development can be successfully shaped worldwide and a blueprint for the sustainable transformation of former industrial zones,” commented Matthias Rebellius, Managing Board Member of Siemens AG and CEO of Smart Infrastructure. “We are very proud to be implementing such a wide range of Siemens technology across infrastructure, industry and transport within the district. This is a real example of how we are using technology to truly transform the everyday for every one of the 35,000 people who will live and work in Siemensstadt Square.” Virtual building representations Building X 360° Viewer, serves as a collaborative tool using virtual building representations Siemensstadt Square demonstrates how digital products can be used to modernize and retrofit existing infrastructure. In addition to digital twin technology, Building X 360° Viewer, serves as a collaborative tool using virtual building representations for planning retrofits to existing building stock.  Building X is a digital building platform that supports customers to digitalize, manage, and optimize their building operations. It is part of Siemens Xcelerator, an open digital business platform that enables customers to accelerate their digital transformation easier, faster and at scale. Optimized building operations Meanwhile, looking to the future and the development of new office buildings planned for 2027, complimentary digital solutions, Building X Energy Manager and the integrated on-premise building management system, Desigo CC create the basis for optimized building operations. Desigo CC enables central monitoring and efficient control of building HVAC operations Utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI) insights, the Building X Energy Manager application can be used for monitoring, analyzing and optimizing the energy consumption, cost and carbon footprint of the building portfolio and can deliver energy savings of up to 30 percent. Meanwhile, Desigo CC enables central monitoring and efficient control of building heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) operations. Energy consumption of future phases The Energy Digital Twin from Siemens Smart Infrastructure has also been piloted to simulate the energy consumption of future phases at Siemensstadt Square, which will be realized in stages up to 2035. Ensuring that all of this energy comes from renewable sources, Siemens is working in collaboration with Berliner Wasserbetriebe and a local energy supplier, to develop Europe's largest wastewater heat exchanger of its type. In combination with heat pumps, this system will supply the district with 100 percent CO₂-neutral heating and cooling, with the electricity required for this generated 100 percent from renewable energies. Sustainable mobility strategy Siemens is not only transforming how people live and work within Siemensstadt, but also how they move Siemens is not only transforming how people live and work within Siemensstadt, but also how they move. Public transportation, walkability and bikeability are the core focus of the sustainable mobility strategy for the district.  This sustainable neighborhood concept includes e-mobility, with up to 50 percent of parking spaces set to be equipped with electric charging points from across the Siemens portfolio. Matthias Rebellius concludes: “This project offers a clear way forward for other metropolises around the world that encounter similar challenges of how to modernize in a sustainable way." "It proves that by combining the real and digital worlds, sustainable urban development is even possible in historically grown structures – the technology exists and in Siemensstadt Square we will have a real-life example for everyone to experience first-hand.”

In the presence of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and the Governing Mayor of Berlin, Kai Wegner, Siemens held the groundbreaking ceremony in Berlin for one of Europe’s largest urban development projects. Around 35,000 people will live and work at Siemensstadt Square, which will have an area of roughly 188 acres and floorspace of more than a million square meters. The project is a blueprint for the effective design of urban brownfield development projects and industrial transformation worldwide. Digital technologies from the entire Siemens Xcelerator platform – from an end-to-end digital twin to artificial intelligence (AI) – will make the district livable and fit for the future. Numerous project partners Together with numerous project partners, Siemens will create a ‘district of the future’ at the more than 100-year-old industrial site in Berlin’s Spandau area; the space will bring together manufacturing, research, learning and living. Living space for up to 7,000 people will cover a total area of 270,000 square meters. Siemens will create a ‘district of the future’ at the more than 100-year-old industrial site Thirty percent of this space will comprise social housing. In addition, numerous companies and partners will create up to 20,000 jobs. The transformation of the district will bolster the location’s competitive edge and make the industrial jobs based there competitive and fit for the future. Siemens itself is investing €750 million – its largest-ever single investment in Berlin and a strong commitment to Germany as an industrial location. By 2035, total investment in the project will reach up to €4.5 billion.  Combining artificial intelligence "This laying of the foundation stone is encouraging. Because it shows what we can already achieve in Germany today - in urban planning and in the construction of modern neighborhoods. Siemensstadt will remain what it has been for 125 years - a place of new beginnings, a place of the future and of confidence!" said Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Siemensstadt will remain what it has been for 125 years - a place of new beginnings" "Siemensstadt Square will be the blueprint for the city of the future," said Roland Busch, President and CEO of Siemens AG. "The project will combine artificial intelligence, digital twins and other technologies from the Siemens Xcelerator platform to transform an industrial brownfield area into an engine for solid, healthy growth. Net zero will be ensured through automated production and building technology, optimized energy management and green mobility. It will be a blueprint for sustainable growth and competitiveness through digitalization." Sustainable smart city "The future is being made at a new location in Berlin. As we lay the cornerstone for the new Siemensstadt Square neighborhood, we are marking the start of an exciting urban development project: an advanced, sustainable smart city in the middle of one of Berlin’s fastest-growing areas for new construction.” “It will significantly help Germany’s capital city to reach its climate targets and attract skilled workers, in part because the neighborhood will offer housing with a high quality of life. I am very grateful to Siemens; the Senate Department for Urban Development, Building and Housing; and the borough of Spandau for their outstanding cooperation on this flagship project," said Governing Mayor of Berlin, Kai Wegner. AI-optimized biodiversity monitoring As a result, errors can be detected in the digital city and avoided in the real world Siemensstadt Square will demonstrate how technologies from the Siemens Xcelerator platform can combine digital and sustainable solutions at all levels of the city: from intelligent sustainable buildings with photovoltaic roofs to AI-optimized biodiversity monitoring and solutions for electric vehicles. At the heart of the planning, optimization and operation of the urban infrastructure is an end-to-end digital twin, which consolidates all datapoints from a campus twin, a building twin and an energy twin. Through the intelligent connection and utilization of this data, a complete virtual image of the district is created, and data silos are broken down. As a result, errors can be detected in the digital city and avoided in the real world. Potential for improvement can be continuously identified in the digital world and implemented, so that even visionary concepts can be tested and a livable future actively shaped. Monitoring supply variants The campus twin, which was developed in collaboration with Bentley Systems, a partner on the Siemens Xcelerator platform, acts as a digital real-time master plan and brings together all relevant data – everything from building information to planning status. The building twin, part of the Building X software suite on the Siemens Xcelerator platform, is used to carry out the photorealistic replanning of the existing area. The energy twin is used to generate forecasts in the virtual world and to monitor supply variants Siemensstadt Square is customer zero for this project. Industrial buildings more than 100 years old and with an area of around 250,000 square meters have already been integrated into a “walk-in” twin without interrupting their ongoing operation. To optimize the district’s power supply, the energy twin is used to generate forecasts in the virtual world and to monitor supply variants. With the help of data analysis, integrated AI optimizes energy efficiency, traffic and waste management and enables forecasting. Traffic and waste management "I started my training and career at Siemensstadt thirty years ago. Today, as a member of the Managing Board, I’m laying – together with my fellow colleagues – the foundations for a district of the future. As a native of Berlin, today’s a special day for me. After more than 100 years as a closed production site, Siemensstadt Square will become an open meeting place.” “A space that will enable people to live together in an inclusive and climate-friendly manner and will significantly shape the future of the people of Berlin. This project is a beacon for Berlin, Germany and Europe," said Cedrik Neike, member of the Managing Board of Siemens AG. Internal combustion engines The electricity required for the system will be generated entirely from renewable and local energy sources The project’s comprehensive energy design shows how established cities can reduce their carbon emissions. In collaboration with Berliner Wasserbetriebe – Berlin’s water supply and wastewater disposal utility – and an energy supplier, Europe’s largest wastewater heat exchanger will be installed at the location.  While the district currently emits around 3,000 tons of CO2 a year – an amount equivalent to the annual emissions of 2,100 cars with internal combustion engines – the system will combine with heat pumps to start supplying the district with 100 percent carbon-neutral heating and cooling in 2026. The electricity required for the system will be generated entirely from renewable and local energy sources. And all of this will be achieved with significantly more residents and a higher productivity level. Historic administration building The groundbreaking ceremony marks the start of the construction phase for Module 1 of the project. Already from July of this year, visitors and partners will be able to experience the new Siemensstadt Square district in a showroom in the historic administration building. The German Chancellor unveiled this showroom today. The first two buildings will be completed in the fall of 2026: an atrium building – the so-called Siemens Hub Berlin – and an information pavilion that will keep local residents up to date on the project’s progress. A 60-meter high-rise structure, which will also house part of the Siemens Mobility team, and a redesigned entrance plaza (to be completed in mid-2027) are also being constructed.

Toshiba Electronics Europe GmbH announces the release of its MG10-D Series, a family of air-filled conventional magnetic recording (CMR) HDDs supporting SAS and SATA interfaces and capacities of up to 10TB. Crafted with precision engineering and over 50 years of Toshiba experience, the MG10-D Series delivers improved performance and power efficiency over prior generations. With sanitized instant erase (SIE) and self-encrypting drive (SED) options, valuable data is safeguarded by a storage solution known for its robust performance and unwavering dependability. New MG10-D Series The new MG10-D Series fits seamlessly into a wide variety of business-critical applications Built for the increasing application demands of enterprise server and storage solutions, the MG10-D Series delivers a new level of performance. For example, compared with the previous model, the new 10TB MG10ADA10TE provides an approximately 13% better maximum sustained transfer speed of 268MiB/s and doubles the cache buffer size to 512MiB.  It also reduces power consumption in active idle mode by approximately 21%, to 5.74W. Architected to deliver improved total cost of ownership (TCO), the new MG10-D Series fits seamlessly into a wide variety of business-critical applications, such as email, data analytics, data retention, and surveillance. Design of the MG10-D Series “Toshiba’s MG10-D Series delivers exceptional performance to meet the demands of growing business-critical applications." "The new cutting-edge design of the MG10-D Series is engineered for sustainable enterprise environments and fits seamlessly into existing infrastructure reducing TCO,” said Larry Martinez-Palomo, Vice President, Head of Storage Products Division at Toshiba. Features of MG10-D Series The MG10-D Series is a 5-disk CMR standard 3.5-inch, 7200 RPM air-filled platform. Available capacities are 2TB, 4TB, 6TB, 8TB, and 10TB for both SAS and SATA. SATA is also available in a 1TB drive. The series supports 6Gb/s SATA or 12Gb/s SAS interface options in Advanced format 512e and 4Kn.  The MG10-D Series will be available in CQ3. A 512n option is available on the 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB offerings to support legacy systems with native 512-byte block sizes. Designed for 24x7 enterprise reliability, the MG10-D Series has a workload rating of 550TB, an AFR of 0.44% and an MTTF/MTBF of 2M hours. The MG10-D Series will be available in CQ3.

Siemens Mobility and RATP (Régie autonome des transports Parisiens) have successfully modernized and extended the automated Line 14 of the Paris metro. This world premiere marks the first migration of an automated driverless (GoA4 – Grade of Automation) metro line to the latest generation GoA4 driverless automated system ‘Trainguard MT CBTC’. The new system, which was implemented during the past six years during passenger services, enables more efficient and reliable services on the line that has doubled in length by 14 kilometers due to extensions to the North and South. Public transportation system With a remarkable headway of 85 seconds along its entire 28 km route, Line 14 is now the longest line in the Paris network and will eventually accommodate over one million passengers daily. The expansion enables passengers to travel from Orly Airport to Paris city center in 20 minutes and from the northern business districts in Saint-Denis Pleyel to Orly Airport in just 40 minutes. Over six years, more than 250 Siemens Mobility engineers contributed to this project With its improved capacity, reliability, and efficiency, Line 14 serves as the backbone of Paris' public transportation system, connecting to the future Grand Paris Express network. Over six years, more than 250 Siemens Mobility engineers contributed to this project, with over 500,000 hours of engineering. Existing driverless line "Through the dedication and expertise of our teams, we achieved a world first by migrating an existing driverless line to a more advanced CBTC GoA4 system and extending the automated technology to the line's new sections. This technical premiere enables Line 14 to handle up to one million passengers a day with 85-second headways by 2025,” said Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility. “The timely completion of this crucial metro project for this summer’s world sports event hosted in Paris highlights the immense time pressure and collaborative efforts involved. We are grateful to our valued partners at RATP for their trust and unwavering support, without which this accomplishment would not have been possible.” Newer version of GoA4 technology Siemens Mobility teamed up with RATP to create the first driverless high-capacity automated metro line in Paris Back in 1998, Siemens Mobility teamed up with RATP to create the first driverless high-capacity automated metro line in Paris. In 2018, Siemens Mobility was awarded contracts to overhaul the line’s automation, replacing the 26-year-old ‘METEOR’ system with the advanced Trainguard MT CBTC GoA4 system.  This upgrade included building a new Operations Centralized Control Station (OCC) and equipping 72 new trains. Siemens extended automation north to Saint-Denis-Pleyel and south to Orly Airport by 14 kilometers, doubling the line’s length to 28 km and thus required the installation of a newer version of GoA4 technology; it now connects Orly airport to the Paris city center in just 20 minutes and enables travel from Saint-Denis Pleyel to Orly in only 40 minutes. Improving reliability and energy consumption Siemens Mobility's GoA4 CBTC system will also equip the future lines of the Grand Paris Express, the new 200-kilometer automatic metro network currently under construction in the Ile-de-France region. Siemens Mobility has won the contract to automate lines 15, 16, and 17. The Trainguard MT CBTC system is Siemens Mobility's high-performance CBTC solution that enables operators to maximize their network capacity by putting more trains on track, in addition to improving reliability and energy consumption. The radio-based technology precisely locates each train on the tracks and controls speed, improving safety for passengers, while also providing the ability for continuous updates on system status, that results in fewer delays and up-to-date travel information. The Trainguard MT CBTC is part of Siemens Mobility´s CBTC portfolio, which is deployed on five continents, 25 countries, 49 cities, 56 customers, 96 metro lines, 3,000 km of lines and 4,351 equipped trains.

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.

Rising material prices and inflation, in general, are likely to continue to plague electricians and others in the trade service businesses, according to a new survey conducted by the business management software platform Simpro. In the survey, 20% of electrical respondents say they are more likely to face rising material prices this year, while 20% of owners, CEOs, and business managers in the broader category of trade service businesses are more likely to face inflation concerns. ongoing economic uncertainty Another big concern across all trade service businesses is staff retention. Even higher percentages of survey respondents expect continuing challenges presented by the labor market: 73% anticipate hiring to be more challenging in 2023 than last year because of a lack of skilled workers (cited by 51% of respondents) and ongoing economic uncertainty (cited by 50%). The survey, conducted in January 2023, also highlighted changes trade service companies saw in the market last year compared to 2021. Customer acquisition Customer acquisition was more challenging in 2022, according to 66% of survey respondents In a service-based industry, customer satisfaction is a high priority: 95% of trade professionals noted that customer experience is paramount, and 73% have adopted technology tools specifically designed to enhance the customer experience.  Customer acquisition was more challenging in 2022, according to 66% of survey respondents, while customer retention was more challenging for 60% of respondents. Hiring was also more difficult than in 2021, according to 76% of the survey respondents. Simpro’s smart technology solutions In the survey, Simpro seeks to highlight the ways technological innovations can shape the future of trade services businesses and their customers. Simpro’s total business management software platform for commercial trade service businesses performs functions such as job quoting, scheduling, inventory tracking, invoicing, and others.  Simpro’s smart technology solutions and expert long-term support help businesses build, repair and power their future with control over operations. “Voice of the Trades” survey Trade professionals are estimated to spend more than 18 hours a week on tasks such as scheduling In the “Voice of the Trades” survey, 72% of trade professionals (including HVAC, security, plumbers, contractors, electricians, and others) believe that new software and technology must be adopted to remain competitive. Also, 60% feel that administrative burdens have a negative impact on their ability to service customers. Trade professionals, including electricians, estimate they spend more than 18 hours a week on tasks such as scheduling, inventory, invoicing and overall workflow management. The report reveals why it is so hard to find a contractor or service technician right now: 49% of respondents share a belief that time on admin has directly contributed to that customer frustration. Clear roadmap for operational efficiency  “The Voice of the Trades findings confirm the need for trade businesses worldwide to implement technology solutions to lessen the burden of business management in any economy,” said Gary Specter, CEO of Simpro. “This research provides a clear roadmap for improving operational efficiency so trade organizations can better serve their customers.” The report gleaned feedback from 840 respondents who are trade industry professionals, with a geographic pool that includes the U.S., U.K., Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. Founded in 2002 by an electrical contractor and headquartered in Brisbane, Australia, Simpro supports more than 8,000 businesses and 200,000 users worldwide in the electrical, plumbing, HVAC, security and fire protection industries with 700-plus employees in six offices around the world.

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.

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.

Jenkins sold a Jenkins Motor Test System to Oman, where temperatures can exceed 120ºF. While Jenkins Motor Test Systems are built tough and for industrial environments, this specific location required customizations to be the most effective in an extremely hot environment. Locations near large bodies of water or tropical environments can also cause problems as the humidity in the air will cause the copper wiring in the transformer to oxidize over time. Although Jenkins designs its equipment to operate for long periods, some applications for customer environments require specific customization. The Solution  Jenkins engineers and winders worked together to develop a custom solution for this harsh climate, particularly paying close attention to temperature and water resistance. To customize the transformer for this environment, the Jenkins team made the following modifications: Doubling the spacing between winding layers to increase airflow. Encasing the transformer first in a high tolerance epoxy varnish, and then in a polyester over-dip that prevents the application from rust, dust, and harmful materials. Utilizing expanded metal at the base of the MTS enclosure, allows heat to escape, reducing the internal temperature. Installing temperature-sensitive cooling fans (set to 100ºF) atop the enclosure to prevent overheating. The Results  Jenkins technicians checked insulation for 10,000 volts (resistance to ground), checked each voltage leg, and high voltage potential to ground, and ensured the taps were in the correct place. Voltage was confirmed to operate up to 20% above normal operation, ensuring maximum efficiency and longevity of the transformer. These modifications have resulted in prolonged use of the Jenkins Motor Test System in harsh environments and ultimately customer satisfaction.

Fluence Energy, Inc., a global provider of energy storage products, services, and optimization software for renewables and storage, announces that the company has been selected by Origin Energy Limited (Origin) to deliver a 300 MW / 650 MWh battery at the Mortlake Power Station in southwest Victoria. The project will use Fluence’s Gridstack™ energy storage product with a 15-year service agreement contributing to Origin’s strategy to accelerate renewable energy and energy storage in its portfolio. The system will also utilize Fluence’s AI-powered asset performance management (APM) software, Nispera™, to optimize the battery’s operational performance. Energy storage projects The system will capture excess power during periods of high renewable generation  “We are honored to be selected by Origin to deliver this grid-forming battery-based energy storage system and deploy our ecosystem of solutions,” said Fluence President and Chief Executive Officer, Julian Nebreda. Julian Nebreda adds, “Australia is an important market for Fluence. Our local team is now delivering over 1 GW energy storage projects within Australia to enhance grid stability and enable the country’s clean energy transition.” Energy storage system to be commissioned in late 2026 The site preparation and civil works of the Mortlake Battery are expected to commence following a period of detailed design and procurement activity. The energy storage system is anticipated to be commissioned in late 2026. Located in Victoria’s South West Renewable Energy Zone, this energy storage system will provide system strength to the grid. The system will capture excess power during periods of high renewable generation and discharge to meet peak demand.

As part of their strategy to address damp and mold, West Dunbartonshire Council will deploy Aico’s HomeLINK Environmental Sensors across all their properties. The Council is one of Scotland’s major social housing landlords, currently owning and managing over 10,400 homes, and are focusing on increasing energy efficiency, tackling existing issues, such as damp and mold, as well as improving tenant safety, health and well-being. Ei1000G Gateway and Ei1025, Ei1020 Environmental Sensors The organization has taken the proactive approach to install the Ei1000G Gateway and Ei1025 and Ei1020 Environmental Sensors in each of their homes, making this Scotland’s largest scaled Internet of Things (IoT) roll out to date. By utilizing a multi-network sim card and RF interconnection, the sensors will be seamlessly retrofitted By utilizing a multi-network sim card and RF interconnection, the sensors will be seamlessly retrofitted into existing properties and can provide the council with a consistency on key air quality information, such as carbon dioxide, temperature, humidity, as well as insights on fire and CO activations. This will then lead to insights such as indoor air quality (IAQ) risk, damp and mold, excess heat, cold homes, potential fuel poverty, and void risk. HomeLINK App for Residents The HomeLINK App for Residents empowers individuals to take control of their home’s indoor environment. Tenants will receive alarm testing reminders and tailored recommendations. Councilor Gurpreet Singh Johal, Convener of Housing and Communities, said: “None of our tenants should be living in a home that is affected by damp or mold and these new sensors will allow us to access information on the fabric of each home easily so we can take action quickly to resolve. Not only that, we will have data to track the problem and help us identify what the best approach to resolve it will be.” Biggest roll out of this type of sensor in Scotland Councilor Gurpreet Singh Johal adds, “This is the biggest roll out of this type of sensor in Scotland and I am proud that West Dunbartonshire’s approach to dealing with damp and mold is not only leading the way, but addressing the problem in an efficient and proactive manner.” As Scotland’s social housing sector now rapidly adopts the use of IoT technologies" Gregor Morrison, Regional Specification Manager for the West of Scotland said “As Scotland’s social housing sector now rapidly adopts the use of IoT technologies to help not only increase the level of home life safety, but to improve resident health and well-being. This progressive approach from West Dunbartonshire Council to provide all homes with the opportunity for this technology is admirable.” Incorporation of the Environmental Sensors Gregor Morrison adds, “The incorporation of the Environmental Sensors will be pivotal in generating essential home health insights, as well as providing data for the tenant through the resident app, leading to healthier and more energy-efficient homes within the community.” He continues, “Growing up in and around the social housing sector in Yoker & Clydebank, I’m really looking forward to continuing the close working relationship with WDC, and seeing first-hand the difference the technology can make within the community.”

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced that it has delivered the first unit of an air-surveillance radar system to the Philippine Air Force last month. The system, which was designed, manufactured and tested in Japan, was ordered by the Department of National Defense of the Republic of the Philippines in August 2020. first unit of air-surveillance radar system delivered Mitsubishi Electric continues to work on the remaining units for future delivery This is the first time a Japanese company has transferred finished defense equipment to a foreign government since the Japanese government established the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology in April 2014. Mitsubishi Electric continues to work on the remaining units for future delivery. Mitsubishi Electric contributes to Japan’s security In accordance with the government’s aforementioned Three Principles, Mitsubishi Electric is contributing to Japan’s security by working to strengthen deterrence through cooperation with the Japanese government, in order to meet needs for joint development, equipment transfer and participation in supply chains involving various governments and companies in other countries.

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.