Grid Parity

Intelligent power management company Eaton announced the xStorage™ battery energy storage system (BESS) to accelerate decarbonization projects and maximize the impact of onsite renewables. By providing the ability to strategically dispatch stored energy and operate independently from the electric grid, the solution can help communities and businesses reduce energy costs, lower carbon emissions and maintain power during utility outages.   xStorage BESS Energy storage is the cornerstone of Eaton’s Everything as a Grid approach to the energy transition. The interoperable xStorage BESS transforms facilities from loads on the grid into intelligent energy assets by accumulating energy from onsite generation sources and discharging the energy strategically to make the biggest impact. The solution enables customers to tap into stored energy when utility rates are highest, if an outage is detected, or when energy markets are favorable for selling excess energy back onto the grid.  grid-interactive energy storage technology “Communities and businesses have a significant opportunity to improve the environment and the bottom line by taking greater control over their energy systems,” said Aidan Graham, senior vice president and general manager of Critical Power Solutions at Eaton. “We’ve already proven the capabilities of our grid-interactive energy storage technology within the data center industry. Now, we’re excited to help even more customers advance reliable, sustainable, and affordable power with our xStorage BESS.” digital capabilities Predictive, remote equipment health monitoring and system management are enabled With built-in microgrid islanding capabilities, xStorage BESS helps minimize the impact of unplanned utility outages. It also provides the digital capabilities needed to monetize energy systems through participation in grid-connected demand response programs and energy markets. Predictive, remote equipment health monitoring and system management are enabled through Eaton’s Brightlayer software suite. modular design To help customers scale as needs evolve, Eaton’s xStorage BESS provides 250 to 1000 kilo-watt hours (kWh) of usable stored energy and can be paralleled to double capacity in the future. A modular design provides customers with flexible installation options and a reduced footprint. With Eaton’s national network of highly trained field service engineers, the turnkey solution can incorporate expert commissioning and lifecycle maintenance services.

Vestel Mobility is pleased to announce its participation in the upcoming London Electric Vehicle Show (London EV Show) 2024, the UK’s foremost trade expo and conference dedicated to the EV industry. At this premier event, Vestel Mobility is a Gold Sponsor and will showcase its robust line of EV charging solutions, underlining its growing presence in the UK and European EV charging markets. Vestel Mobility's chargers Designed and manufactured in Europe, Vestel Mobility's chargers meet full UK compliance standards, delivering exceptional quality, reliability, and value to meet the growing market for residential, business, and infrastructure clients. Vestel Mobility UK, based in Langley, Berkshire, will be showcasing UK-specific solutions, with the UK Head of Sales and Business Development, Ali Khan, speaking as part of the event’s packed conference program. products on display Attendees can expect to see the versatile new Libra models, purpose-built for residential and small business With a large, interactive booth, Vestel Mobility will display its growing range of sophisticated EV chargers. Attendees can expect to see the versatile new Libra models, purpose-built for residential and small business installations, and a variety of kiosk units, including AC and DC fast charge solutions, ideal for high-traffic charge parks and public infrastructure. Libra EV charger, Gemini dual-output EV charger The exhibition stand will feature the 7kW and 22kW versions of the new Libra EV charger, the Gemini dual-output EV charger designed for commercial premises, and the 40 kW-720 kW DC wallbox, all-in-one and satellite DC fast charging station. These chargers can be custom-branded, offering flexible solutions for Charge Point Operators seeking to meet the growing demand for reliable and accessible EV infrastructure. reducing fossil fuel use As a division of Vestel, Europe's largest manufacturer of TVs and domestic appliances, Vestel Mobility is focused on helping drive the European EV revolution and reducing fossil fuel use as part of its ambition net-zero targets across the company. Based in Vestel’s 1.3 million-square-foot European manufacturing facility, Vestel Mobility can produce more than 700,000 EV chargers annually, positioning the brand as one of Europe’s largest EV charger manufacturers. in-house design and engineering Vestel brings chargers to market that embody the brand’s reputation for quality and reliability With in-house design and engineering capabilities, Vestel brings chargers to market that embody the brand’s reputation for quality and reliability, making the brand an ideal choice for installers, commercial contractors, and public specifiers. “Vestel Mobility’s presence at the London Electric Vehicle Show is a significant opportunity to reinforce our commitment to the UK market and to showcase the breadth of our product line,” said Ali Khan, Head of Business Development at Vestel Mobility UK. key speaker at LEVS24 Ali Khan adds, “We’re looking forward to connecting with distributors, installers, CPOs, and industry leaders who share our mission of making UK electric vehicle charging widely available and highly reliable.” Ali will be a key speaker on the LEVS24 conference agenda, discussing ‘The Paradigm Shift: The future of electricals in e-mobility’ and how Vestel Mobility, one of Europe’s largest electrical manufacturers, embraces and adapts to the rapidly changing market. Make sure to attend on Day 2,15:10 - 15:25.  

The sensor solutions provider - HENSOLDT is further expanding its production capacities at the Ulm site. A second printed circuit board assembly line has already been put into operation in electronics production. A third assembly line is to follow in 2025. The total investment volume amounts to eight million Euros. Radar production Printed circuit boards are indispensable for HENSOLDT products. Given the security of supply in the procurement of electronic components and the high demand for products that can be delivered quickly, it is proving to be an advantage for the company to have full control over core technologies such as the assembly of printed circuit boards. In particular, the ongoing conversion to series production in radar production is increasing the demand for components enormously. Printed circuit boards “Given the increasing demand, the urgency of delivering products and solutions quickly and on a large scale is noticeable,” says Gregor Schwab, HENSOLDT Head of Production. Gregor Schwab adds, “By expanding our production capacities, we have already more than doubled the number of printed circuit boards manufactured from 36,000 to 80,000 per year over the past two years.”

Delta, a global pioneer in power management and a provider of IoT-based smart green solutions, announced it has provided approximately 3,500 Delta M125HV PV inverters to MOVE ON Energy GmbH to power Europe's largest solar power plant, the 650MW Witznitz Solar Park. Located near Leipzig, Germany, this landmark project collectively generates enough green electricity to power 200,000 households annually, translating into a reduction in carbon emissions by over 250,000 tons each year. Robust performance “This project marks a significant step forward in our mission to transition from traditional fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. We selected Delta as our inverter supplier for their proven technical expertise and ability to meet the stringent requirements of this large-scale operation,” said Wolfgang Pielmaier, Technical Director and Co-Partner of MOVE ON Energy. Wolfgang Pielmaier adds, “Delta’s inverters provided us with the system certificates necessary for extra-high voltage operations, and their robust performance ensures that we can maximize the efficiency and output of the solar park.” Global energy transition “The Witznitz Solar Park is a project of superlatives, and we are thrilled to have played a pivotal role in its success. Our team of over R&D engineers worldwide, with more than 25 years of experience in the photovoltaic industry, brought the expertise needed to deliver exceptional performance for this project,” said Andreas Hoischen, Senior Director and Head of Photovoltaic Inverter Solutions at Delta EMEA. Andreas Hoischen adds, “This collaboration with MOVE ON Energy underscores Delta’s commitment to advancing the global energy transition through innovative power electronics.” M125HV inverters M125HV is designed for 1500V DC and 600V AC systems with one MPP tracker, making it ideally suited Delta’s M125HV inverters, designed to handle the complex demands of high-voltage grid integration, are a critical component of the solar park’s infrastructure. With a peak efficiency of 99.1 percent and features, such as intelligent cooling systems and a wide MPPT voltage range, these inverters ensure optimal performance even in harsh conditions. The M125HV is designed for 1500V DC and 600V AC systems with one MPP tracker, making it ideally suited for large-scale solar installations like Witznitz. Additionally, these inverters are certified according to VDE-AR-N 4120/4130 standards, crucial for feeding energy directly into the 380 kV grid. Witznitz Solar Park The Witznitz Solar Park is not just impressive in scale but also its logistical achievements and environmental contributions. The construction involved nearly 30,000 pallets of solar modules, 7,500 module tables spanning 440 kilometers if laid end-to-end, and up to 500 workers at peak times. The energy generated is transmitted through a purpose-built infrastructure that includes 207 transformer stations, ensuring the efficient delivery of power. The park's DC cables alone extend approximately 550 kilometers. Ecological sustainability Beyond energy production, the Witznitz Solar Park also emphasizes ecological sustainability. MOVE ON Energy has integrated various biodiversity initiatives, including nesting boxes for birds and bats, rock piles, ponds, and the cultivation of nearly 23 kilometers of field hedges. These measures enhance the local ecosystem, making the solar park not only a source of clean energy, but also a contributor to regional biodiversity.

As part of a modernization project to ensure the continued reliability of their rapid transit system, Port Authority Trans Hudson (PATH) in New Jersey undertook a capital improvement project to replace an existing traction power substation near Jersey City, NJ.  As part of this project, our engineers performed AC & DC short circuits, coordination, and arc flash studies for the proposed electrical facilities. circuit and coordination study For any rail transit authority, the main goal of a traction power substation is to facilitate the movement of trains in a timely and reliable manner. From an operating standpoint, the traction power substation equipment must determine the difference between allowable heavy-duty overloads associated with train starting and damaging power flow due to equipment failure or a track fault.  Thus, a properly modeled short circuit and coordination study contributes to the complete understanding of the rate of rise of DC and suggests the proper setting of “rate of rise” relays, which is vital for the reliable operation of the transit system. operating criteria To meet the desired functionality of the traction power substation, their engineers ascertained a protection scheme to maximize functionality for PATH based on their operating criteria.  The extent of the analysis and studies included: Equipment duty evaluation and protective device settings for the AC Switchgear. Circuit modeling of the Extra Heavy Duty Rectifier Transformers with coupling factors and commutating reactance parameters, as applicable to ANSI Circuit #31 with 12-pulse rectifiers. AC-side backup protection for Extra Heavy Duty Rectifier operation (formerly NEMA RI-9), to supplement integral equipment protection provided by the manufacturer. DC Switchgear and circuit breaker evaluation with the determination of DC overload and “rate of rise” overcurrent protection settings. DC Traction System service voltage comparison between existing 650V DC operation and future upgrade to 750V DC. Computation of L/R Time Constants for distant and close-in track faults. DC protective devices To establish an effective electrical distribution system for transit facilities, it is important to consider all aspects associated with the intended application. When performing a study involving an AC supply to a Rectifier System and DC distribution network, the differences in behavior may appear counterintuitive. Whereas high fault currents reduce the service life of AC protective devices, lower fault currents with high L/R ratios to the point of fault present difficulties for DC protective devices. Whereas the modeling of AC distribution components has become straightforward given the aid of commercial software evaluation tools, the same software requires scrutiny and engineering oversight to accurately depict the DC network.

Intelligent power management company - Eaton announces a collaboration with Treehouse to enable high-quality, cost-effective and code-compliant residential electrification projects. The collaboration brings together Eaton’s digitally enabled electrical solutions with Treehouse’s AI-powered software and end-to-end installation capabilities, helping expedite the energy transition and electrification at home with EV charging, energy storage, heat pumps and more. Installation time and costs Consumers looking to electrify and reduce their carbon footprint at home need to understand the installation time and costs required to make it happen.  Eaton and Treehouse will provide consumers with fast, accurate pricing and access to licensed electricians for safe, code-compliant installations. Eaton’s intelligent hardware solutions Treehouse will apply Eaton’s intelligent hardware solutions to specific facilities and scope projects Treehouse will programmatically apply Eaton’s intelligent hardware solutions to specific installations and scope projects accordingly, helping ensure the smartest solutions are deployed at scale.  Together, the companies will streamline and expedite retrofit and new construction projects from scoping, design, bid to installation and provide electrical contractors with pre-sold jobs.  Breakout technologies “At Eaton, we’re all in on the energy transition and we’re making it happen at scale by delivering breakout technologies and industry collaborations needed to delight customers and make it more accessible and affordable,” said Paul Ryan, General Manager of Connected Solutions and EV Charging at Eaton. He adds, “Treehouse consistently ranks among the highest in customer loyalty and satisfaction, which is vital for Eaton and our joint customers. We’re confident this collaboration will streamline and expedite U.S. electrification projects, driving consistency, reliability and sustainability - while saving time and money.” Advances Eaton’s Home The multi-pronged collaboration advances Eaton’s Home as a Grid approach by simplifying and accelerating a safe energy transition: Reducing the obstacles to electrification and helping ensure the smartest, most effective solutions are deployed through Treehouse’s end-to-end installation platform and a nationwide network of contractors. Helping electricians complete more projects faster by saving time at the electrical panel, incorporating the most innovative and effective hardware, and reducing the truck rolls required to design and bid each project. Providing consumers with detailed project scopes, accurate costs and access to licensed electricians at the point of sale to enhance transparency, fast-track projects and avoid unnecessary upgrades. Supporting best-in-class, installation programs for automotive OEMs, utilities and hardware manufacturers at scale. Smart home solutions Eaton will become the preferred technology supplier for Treehouse installations “Eaton is both an industry pioneer and an innovating pioneer in the electrification age,” said Eric Owski, Treehouse CEO, adding “Our collaboration with Eaton will accelerate our ability to deliver turnkey and cost-effective electrification projects, from EV charging to home energy storage and heat pumps.”  Under the agreement, Eaton will become the preferred technology supplier for Treehouse installations, providing the solutions to support residential projects, including its AbleEdge home energy management ecosystem, Green Motion EV chargers and expansive portfolio of smart home solutions. installation experiences The Eaton Certified Contractor Network will have access to Treehouse’s end-to-end installation platform that supports scoping, design, permitting, and installation. Treehouse is a software-enabled installation platform for electrification projects. By operating as a centralized, end-to-end partner, Treehouse helps companies – including auto retailers, fleet providers, utilities, and electrification hardware manufacturers – scale electrification programs nationwide and deliver seamless, delightful installation experiences for customers.

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.

As the demand for power increases in the UK across growing domestic and industrial markets including the nuclear industry, so the need for reliable power generation, transmission, and distribution using Medium Voltage cables has risen with it. The demands for power has never been greater, with the explosion of development in towns and cities across the UK and the growth of industrial development and technology reliant on consistent supplies. Medium voltage cables As the incidence of non-approved cables continues, Medium Voltage (MV) cables coming onto the market should be independently approved and certified as compliant as the pressure mounts on the installation of quality products in modern building developments. Indeed, new demands are being placed on the grid continually for reliable supplies and the development of nuclear plants at sites including Sellafield and Capenhurst only increases that need for reliable supply using approved products throughout the supply chain. New demands are being placed on the grid continually for reliable supplies The supply chain should be particularly careful around the application of these cables into such high-risk environments as these as well as hospitals, major industrial sites and sub-stations serving infrastructure sites. MV cables are crucial to our infrastructure. Electricity leaves the generating site and is routed via a step-up transformer to take it up to the National Grid distribution voltages of 400Kv, 275Kv, and 132Kv. Once in the local area, the supply goes through step-down transformers that reduce the voltage to 415V with domestic supplies tapped off at 230V. Large volumes of power To facilitate moving electricity around the National Grid, there are almost 4,500 miles of overhead lines, almost 1,000 miles of underground cables, and 342 Grid substations. Once stepped down, power is then distributed on local networks at a lower voltage, commonly 66Kv,33Kv, and 11Kv. In all, there are 14 licensed District Network Operators (DNOs). Very often, the supply of power to consumers of large volumes of electricity is routed via sub-stations to feed large sites such as industrial installations, hospitals, and educational institutions. To provide power to the sub-stations - very often located on the premises of the establishment that they supply - Medium Voltage (MV) cables are used. MV cables were only developed as the level of voltages increased and the need arose for a greater classification range. A developing market The size of the market has developed to the point where the global MV cables market was valued at $39.31 billion in 2016 and is projected to grow at a rate of more than six percent until 2022. The technical design and specification of the cables themselves are of paramount importance within the power distribution network. The AEI Cables range of MV cables meet all requirements of BS6622, BS7835, and IEC60502-2 and are all approved and certified by third-party approval organization BASEC for ranges up to 33kV. There are a number of technical considerations to be taken into account including the size of the installation, the position of the installation in relation to the network, and the presence of primary and secondary sub-stations. Non-approved cabling Prior to installation, a detailed route survey should also be carried out to plan where cables will be joined and to identify any possible obstructions which may require special civil engineering works such as directional drilling. Underlying the critical nature of supplies to these types of services, the incidence of non-approved cables continues, so the application of MV cables into these important and sensitive environments becomes critical. In these environments, it is even more crucial to get it right the first time There have been many instances in the recent past of non-approved cables coming onto the market, but in these environments it is even more crucial to get it right the first time, thereby reducing the risk and the cost of anything going wrong. Look for the British Standard, European or international standard number, the manufacturer’s mark, and third-party approval markings. Even if there are markings, it is worth checking because some labels and stamps have been used fraudulently. Cables can become untraceable Cables that are unmarked but not checked can become untraceable so it is important at the point of receipt for contractors to check every time. Also, keep records of purchase and delivery to ensure that what is being installed is what was specified originally. It is well worth the small amount of time to make these checks, especially as these cables are buried and relied on to provide a continuous power supply. In a number of instances, cables are even being laid under the sea to avoid lengthy and costly delays in seeking permission from landowners. Some cables are provided with an armored layer to help protect them against damage whether installed below or above ground, generally for industrial applications. Armoring also protects a cable during storage, transport to site, and installation. Metallic armoring is always earthed at one or more points in the circuit and may therefore contribute as a protective conductor to carry earth fault current. Extensive testing Modern polymeric-insulated LV and MV cables designed for UK utility use are usually not armored but have a concentric layer of copper wires under the outer sheath. Faults in underground cables are very expensive to repair, especially cables installed under roads and pavements. Repairing a fault will probably involve cutting out a length of cable on either side of the fault and installing a new length together with joints to connect to the existing cable. MV cables are subjected to extensive testing of material components and electrical tests including AC voltage and partial discharge. MV cables are subjected to extensive testing of material components and electrical tests Supplying industries At AEI Cables, we supply products to the construction, industrial, fire protection, defense, mining, and rail industries worldwide meeting the requirements for MV cables to BS 6622 and BS7835 and the highest relevant industry standards including ISO 9001 ISO 14001, and ISO 18001 for ranges up to 500kV. These products are also approved by leading independent approvals organizations nationally and internationally including BASEC, LPCB, and Lloyds. Third-party approval verifies that they can pass rigorous testing in the conditions in which they will operate. The demand continues for MV cables of quality which can consistently supply power to meet the growing challenge in whatever form it is presented.

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.

As part of a long-term modernization project at the Baltimore Washington International (BWI) Airport, Helios Electric was retained to perform design-assist, system integration, and on-site field engineering services.  The project involved replacing an existing 7.5/10.5 MVA outdoor substation transformer and performing retrofit services at the corresponding medium-voltage switchgear lineups. The project also included enhancements to the electrical system protection since power reliability was deemed vital for airport operations. SEL-787 transformer protection relay A new SEL-787 transformer protection relay was installed to perform advanced transformer monitoring, controls, and system protection. New pilot control devices were installed on the corresponding switchgear lineups to indicate transformer faults, alarms, and mechanical conditions. Vacuum circuit breakers at the existing switchgear lineups were retained and modified to establish connectivity with the new substation transformer and the new transformer protection relay. transformer protection functions This installation approach yielded improved protection for the new transformer while limiting the scope, budget, duration, and power outages required to accomplish the necessary tasks. The improved transformer protection functions included the following: ANSI-87 – Current Differential Protection ANSI-87G – Restricted Earth Fault Protection ANSI-50/51 – Phase Overcurrent Protection (Backup) ANSI-50/51G – Ground Overcurrent Protection (Backup) ANSI-63 – Transformer Sudden Pressure ANSI-71 – Transformer Low Oil Level ANSI-49 – Transformer High Winding Temperature ANSI-26 – Transformer High Oil Temperature AC/DC control modifications To fulfill the customer’s desired requirements, the Helios Electric team investigated the internal circuitry of the switchgear lineups and ascertained the specific AC/DC control modifications required at the existing. Work performed under this project included the following: Examining and analyzing the components and sub-components of the existing switchgear lineups. Tracing the existing 35kV-class and 15kV-class vacuum circuit breakers to determine the existing field configuration. Developing modified equipment shop drawings for approval, construction, and as-built conditions. Programming and configuration of SEL-787 Transformer Protection Relay to establish system protection, controls, and integration with the facility’s Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) System. Installing and modifying existing 35kV-class and 15kV-class vacuum circuit breaker controls to accommodate the new substation transformer and transformer protection relay. Developing Operation & Maintenance (O&M) manuals for modified electrical equipment lineups. On-site electrical equipment training for airport maintenance personnel.

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. 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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. 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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.

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.