Renewable Energy

PowerWalker, a pioneer in power management solutions, will be showcasing its latest innovations at Data Center World Paris 2024. The event will take place on November 27 and 28, 2024, at Porte de Versailles, Hall 7. PowerWalker will be exhibiting at stand C25, where it will showcase its power management solutions like the all-in-one MDC (Micro Data Center), compact-footprint TAP series, and the CPM series. PowerWalker’s solutions address the increasing electricity demand in data centers, AI servers, and IoT applications. These products enhance reliability and energy efficiency, supporting the growth of AI and IoT technologies globally. PowerWalker MDC: Eco-Friendly IT Solutions PowerWalker MDC represents an efficient and eco-friendly solution for data center infrastructure The PowerWalker MDC (Micro Data Center) represents an efficient and eco-friendly solution for data center infrastructure. It combines various subsystems such as UPS, power distribution, precision cooling, edge computing, dynamic monitoring, system connection, and intelligent management into a single cabinet. Instead of cooling the complete server room, installing an MDC (Micro Data Center) is way more eco-friendly to the environment. R410A refrigeration Featuring intelligent cooling and monitoring technology, the PowerWalker MDC (Micro Data Center) enhances energy and protection efficiency. It uses R410A refrigeration, which has a lower climate change impact compared to older refrigerants.  This results in more efficient cooling systems, helping businesses save on energy costs while protecting the environment. With its built-in temperature and humidity sensors, it is an ideal protection for sensitive IT equipment. Custom-built system The custom-built system allows customers to choose between single-rack and multi-rack systems The PowerWalker MDC (Micro Data Center) includes three sub-series: Basic Single Rack without Cooling, Standard Single Rack with Self-Contained DX Cooling, and Standard Single Rack with Split DX Cooling. The custom-built system allows customers to choose between single-rack and multi-rack systems, ensuring a perfect fit for specific needs. VFI TAP PF1 BE: Compact and Efficient The PowerWalker VFI TAP PF1 BE series is a three-phase UPS series with three-step IGBT PWM control technology, boasting up to 96% efficiency in online mode and 99% efficiency in ECO mode. This series’ compact design reduces up to 50% of the footprint, making it ideal for data centers and industrial complexes. The PowerWalker VFI TAP PF1 BE series works with lead-acid batteries and provides longer backup time. Its optimized battery management (OBM) helps extend battery life by 50%. PowerWalker VFI TAP PF1 BE series Another feature of the PowerWalker VFI TAP PF1 BE series is its flexibility The system's non-master-slave paralleling technology eliminates the risk of shutdown due to a single point of failure, ensuring continuous operation.  It can be paralleled and reaches an output power of up to 320kW. Another feature of the PowerWalker VFI TAP PF1 BE series is its flexibility. The 32-44 battery adjustment provides a more flexible battery configuration. VFI CPM Series: Flexible and Scalable The PowerWalker VFI CPM Series is a single 42U three-phase cabinet that offers space for ten 60kW power modules. This online modular solution can reach an output power of 600kW and features hot-swappable power modules available in 60kW. The cabinet manages synchronized work and parallel operation, resulting in a very low Mean Time To Repair (MTTR) and parallel redundancy. CPM cabinets Additionally, each CPM cabinet includes a switch module, an STS module, and an LCD panel The CPM cabinets can be configured with UPS modules, battery slots, and a combination of both, offering the highest flexibility. The CPM series combines high flexibility and scalability with excellent efficiency up to 94.5% in online mode, making it an optimal power solution for commercial purposes. Additionally, each CPM cabinet includes a switch module, an STS module, and an LCD panel. CPM cabinets are available in 30U and 42U sizes, with a compact economy version available in 15U. The CPM cabinets can also operate in parallel, doubling capacity. Latest products and solutions Following Frankfurt's Success, PowerWalker Expands New Solutions to France. Building on the success of its participation at Data Center World in Frankfurt, where PowerWalker presented its latest products and solutions for the first half of the year, the company is thrilled to showcase even more innovative solutions in Paris. Data Center World Paris is the largest trade fair in France for data center professionals, attracting a record-breaking audience of over 4,000 professional visitors in 2023. For more information, please visit PowerWalker at stand C25 in Hall 7 at Porte de Versailles on November 27 and 28, 2024.

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.  

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.

Ahead of Utility Scam Awareness Day on Nov. 20, Ameren is reminding residential and business customers not to let their guard down during the busy holiday season. Customers should remain scam-aware and know how to spot common utility scam tactics. Utility companies worldwide partner to promote this United Against Scams campaign to raise awareness and educate customers, so they do not fall victim to scams. Latest scam tactics Holiday season is often a busy time that includes family gatherings, holiday parties, and travel The holiday season is often a busy time that includes family gatherings, holiday parties, travel, and shopping for gifts, but it is also a popular time for scammers to increase their criminal activity because they know individuals may be distracted. "One of the best ways customers can protect themselves is by learning how to recognize the latest scam tactics and reporting them to the appropriate authorities," said Carlos Ross, Manager of Security for Ameren. Uptick in utility scams Carlos Ross adds: "We often see an uptick in utility scams during the holiday season, when customers may be rushed, paying less attention to warning signs, or more concerned about finances. Scammers may call residential or business customers, threatening disconnection and demanding immediate payment, so it’s important to stay vigilant." Advantage of people Recently, a local business owner received a call, and he knew right away not to fall for the ploy. "I received a call from a man who said he was with Ameren, and he told me he would shut off my power within 20 minutes if I didn't call and make a payment," said Jerry Watson, Owner of Watson Funeral Home in Eldorado, Illinois. Jerry Watson adds, "He was very persistent and very pushy. I knew that I wasn't behind on my payments, so I didn't fall for it. It's very disheartening knowing there are people trying to take advantage of people, especially the elderly." Most Common Utility Scam Tactics Here are some tactics commonly used by scammers, especially during the busy holiday season: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, using language like 'pay now or they’ll be disconnected', or presenting special discount offers to reduce the utility bill if they pay a portion immediately. Scammers often pose as Ameren employees by using fake employee numbers or trying to mimic account information to legitimize their call. A sophisticated tactic includes masking incoming calls, so they appear to be from Ameren on caller ID systems and then giving a different phone number to make a payment. Be aware that scammers are creating fake search engine listings that include fraudulent customer service phone numbers for Ameren. They disguise themselves as company representatives to take payments or steal financial information. Customers should always go directly to Ameren.com to acquire legitimate contact numbers. A relatively new tactic is the promise to reduce the utility bill if they install solar panels on the house. Scammers are going door to door to pitch fake solar offers. Door Knocking Impostor: Door-to-door impostors pose as Ameren employees to request payment for an immediate service or installation. Social Media Charity Scam: Social media posts are telling customers that a charity will pay for their utility bills if the customer first makes a partial payment by money transfer. Scammers offer unusual suggestions for forms of payment: downloading a cash app, bitcoin, or locations of where to get cash cards. Keys to protecting themself Never give the credit card, debit card, social security, ATM, checking or savings account numbers to anyone who calls, sends a text message or email, or comes to the home requesting this information. Don't trust anyone asking for immediate payment. If they suspect someone is impersonating an Ameren employee, end the conversation and immediately call Ameren Illinois at 1.800.755.5000 or Ameren Missouri at 1.800.552.7583. Never purchase a prepaid card to avoid service disconnection or shutoff. Legitimate utility companies do not specify how customers should make a bill payment and always offer a variety of ways to pay a bill. Ameren customers can make payments online, by phone, by electronic check, by mail, or at in-person pay locations. For more information, visit Ameren.com/stop-scams. Customers should also follow Ameren on social media to receive the latest updates on scams. Sign up to manage the account online at Ameren.com where they can immediately check the status of the account.

While the technology sector was once considered the most desirable in terms of salary and job security, recent layoffs have exposed its vulnerability. Job security has always been a sought-after job benefit, and one career path that’s often overlooked is skilled trades. The skilled trades industry stands out as a resilient sector, offering the next generation of workers a promising path for growth and professional development through on-the-job experience and education. Significant talent gap With the retirement of Baby Boomers leading to a significant talent gap, current trade professionals are now more determined than ever to attract younger workers to the industry.  Regrettably, many students in high school fail to see the value of pursuing a career in skilled trades. In a 2022 survey, only 16% of students noted they were likely to consider a career in the skilled trades. However, as other industries face a high level of uncertainty, the skilled trades offer stability and constant demand for services such as new construction, renovations, and climate change-resilient building improvements. The Benefit of Trade Education One of the major benefits of skilled trades education is its flexibility and room for career advancement The skilled trades industry presents young professionals with unique opportunities for hands-on learning and digital skill development. And as the next generation begins to explore higher education alternatives to gain valuable life skills, hands-on training in skilled trades becomes increasingly appealing. In trade education, learning happens directly from experiences in the field, complemented by classroom training, on-demand video sessions, and even virtual reality (VR) simulations. This approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to start their careers immediately, avoiding the burden of college debt. One of the major benefits of skilled trades education is its flexibility and room for career advancement. Unlike traditional four-year college programs, trade school education typically lasts around two years, making it accessible to individuals at different stages of their careers. Moreover, the skilled trades industry provides workers with continuous opportunities for education and specialization. Formal certifications or licensing requirements define career paths in the skilled trades, and workers can pursue additional certifications to open new avenues for advancement. Beyond Traditional Training Techniques To maintain its resilience, the skilled trades industry is embracing technology To maintain its resilience, the skilled trades industry is embracing technology, integrating tech-focused learning methods and digital platforms to streamline processes and increase efficiency. Gen Z is inherently tech-savvy, and incorporating new technologies in training and in the field will attract these younger generations to the industry.  This can include implementing tech-focused learning methods, embracing gamification, or transitioning from physical code books to digital platforms to streamline processes, make work more efficient, and increase engagement on new tools coming onto the jobsite. While the skilled trades industry offers numerous opportunities for growth and professional development, it is essential to acknowledge that these professions are not without their risks. Enhancing safety training Skilled trade workers, particularly those in fields like construction, electrical work, and fire safety, are often exposed to serious fire, electrical, and related hazards on the job. Ensuring the safety of these workers is of paramount importance. One powerful solution to enhance safety training is the integration of digital learning technology One powerful solution to enhance safety training is the integration of digital learning technology, which is uniquely suited to provide deep immersion simulations. By incorporating virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) training modules, skilled workers can experience lifelike scenarios that simulate potential hazards in a controlled environment. This kind of training allows them to develop critical skills, practice emergency response procedures, and make informed decisions without facing real-life risks. By leveraging digital learning technology, the skilled trades industry can better equip its workers with the knowledge and experience needed to enhance job safety and minimize workplace accidents. The Bottom Line The skilled trades industry presents a promising future for the next generation of talent. It offers resilience in the face of economic fluctuations and provides abundant opportunities for growth and professional development through hands-on training. To attract a new generation to this industry, organizations must be willing to not only emphasize value, in terms of resiliency salary, to candidates, but also show that the industry is moving towards innovation just like any other profession. As the industry continues to embrace technology, such as digital learning, it will remain relevant and appealing to young, technologically adept individuals seeking rewarding and stable careers. And by showcasing the value and potential of skilled trades, we as skilled trades professionals can inspire more individuals to consider this path and take the first step toward a successful and fulfilling career.

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.

Packaging materials help to protect fragile electronics and electrical components from breakage. Small electrical devices and electronics are often packaged in individual plastic coverings within a larger box. Manufacturers use a variety of plastics to produce anti-static bags, pouches, film, and bubble wrap for electronics. single-use plastics Excessive consumption of single-use plastics and other packaging materials is an emerging concern in the electrical market. The use of plastic and non-recyclable materials in equipment packaging is contributing to the electrical market’s environmental footprint. organic packaging More electrical manufacturers need to transition towards a more sustainable future and implement organic packaging. Companies can minimize the negative environmental impact and become more green-friendly. While the industry has previously had a negative environmental impact, many businesses are rectifying these issues. Using less paper, plastic, wood, metal packaging, and other auxiliary materials contributes to the goal of being lightweight, recyclable, and sustainable. polystyrene foam Of the total plastic packaging waste, around 40% is disposed of at sanitary landfills Many electrical components are packaged with plastic shrink films. In addition, polystyrene foam can be used to cushion components, and plastic corner protectors may be used to strengthen boxes. Less than 10% of the plastic waste ever generated has been recycled. Plastics pollute the ocean and do not decompose in landfills. Of the total plastic packaging waste, around 40% is disposed of at sanitary landfills, 14% is collected for recycling, and 14% makes its way to incineration facilities (which cause CO2 emissions). The negative impact of plastic The fact is, most plastics used for packaging are recyclable, although most wind up in landfills due to ineffective or non-existent packaging recovery schemes. In addition, plastics contribute to emissions of greenhouse gas at each stage of their lifecycles. Therefore, plastics, which contribute up to 13% of the total “carbon budget,” will negatively impact efforts to meet the Paris climate agreement. action against single-use plastics There is a shift in focus from consumer education to holding manufacturers responsible for their environmental impact Focusing on consumer behavior has spurred much of the campaign against plastics to date. For example, the federal government has taken steps to phase out single-use plastics in national parks and other public lands. Several states have taken action against single-use plastics. For example, New Jersey no longer allows grocery stores and retailers to distribute plastic bags. The Garden State has also banned polystyrene foam packaging from restaurants and food companies. However, there is also a shift in focus from consumer education to holding manufacturers responsible for their environmental impact. Maine and California are focusing on the issue and may be among the jurisdictions to target manufacturers’ role in single-use plastics. replacement alternatives There are replacement alternatives available, but they tend to add costs for manufacturers. For example, bioplastics are made with biodegradable sources that can break down faster than traditional plastics. However, bioplastics must be properly disposed of through composting to break down. Also, bioplastics are not recyclable and can even contaminate other recyclable materials. Disposal in a landfill, which is common, defeats the purpose of using more expensive materials.  environmentally friendly alternatives Some argue that recycled plastic may be the greenest alternative, although it results in recyclables winding up in landfills Instead of polystyrene foam, packaging may consist of corrugated cardboard or plastic alternatives that are allegedly more environmentally friendly. Biodegradable wood or paper are other alternatives. However, disposal in landfills continues to be problematic with decomposition sometimes leading to the production of methane (a greenhouse gas). However, some argue that recycled plastic may be the greenest alternative, although recycling realities instead result in recyclables winding up in landfills, where they do not decompose. EPR schemes An added cost for electrical manufacturers might be a requirement to pay into extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes. EPR is a strategy to add the estimated environmental costs associated with a product’s entire lifecycle to the cost of the product. In effect, the strategy assigns responsibility for the environmental impact of products to the manufacturer. Legislation Legislation to address packaging EPR has been implemented in Maryland, New York, Washington, and New Jersey (originally introduced in 2022 and still active). In 2016, the Product Stewardship Institute developed a model packaging EPR legislation, then updated it in 2019 with input from the industry and government. Maine and Oregon used the model to enact packaging EPR laws in 2021, Colorado followed suit in 2022 and, that same year, California also enacted legislation that the model informed.

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.

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.

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.

WEG stands out once again by supplying a large custom-built induction motor for an Integrated Steel Plant in the Eastern part of India, in the state of Odisha. The induction motor of the MGW line, 26 MW/4 Poles/11 kV, is the largest ever manufactured in WEG's manufacturing site in India for the Indian market, it was selected to drive the main air compressor of the oxygen plant, essential for the operation of the entire Phase-1 of the steel production plant. challenges of interchangeability The project involved replacing an existing motor at the plant, a complex task that required technical expertise to overcome the challenges of interchangeability of the new motor with the existing structure. For this, it was essential to combine all the dimensions of the machine, ensuring that no modifications were necessary on-site or in the foundation. From the water inlet and outlet to the oil lines, cable entry points and shaft details, each element was carefully considered for an efficient transition. WEG supplies induction motor System criticality has been significantly minimized, eliminating the need for complex maintenance The choice of an induction motor not only met the technical demands, but also offered substantial advantages over synchronous motors, commonly used for this application because induction motors are rare in this size and power.  System criticality has been significantly minimized, eliminating the need for complex maintenance associated with components such as the exciter and exciter panels, as well as delicate integration with motor and rotor telemetry systems. WEG's commitment The reliability of WEG's induction motor was a key element in keeping production running smoothly. Since the motor was installed, the steel plant has not experienced any unplanned downtime in the last one year of operation, contributing to a continuous and efficient production environment. With WEG's commitment to offer technological and reliable solutions to the market, this association not only increases the productivity of the plant, but also contributes to increasing the steel production capacity on Indian soil.