Transportation

As access to capital is a common challenge for entrepreneurs, Verizon is announcing new $10,000 grant funding opportunities available for small businesses via the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready platform. Small business owners who register on the platform can receive free, personalized access to over 50 online courses in English and Spanish, mentorship opportunities with industry experts, 1:1 and group expert coaching, virtual and in-person community events and the opportunity to apply for grant funding. Verizon’s new round of grant funding The program is operated in partnership with Next Street and Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) The program is operated in partnership with Next Street and Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC). To date, Small Business Digital Ready has reached over 350,000 small businesses nationwide, of which 51% are women-owned and 62% are Black or Hispanic-owned. Until December 13, 2024 at 11:59pm PT, small businesses can unlock the application for this round of grant funding by first registering on the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready portal and completing at least two courses, coaching or community events, in any combination between July 1, 2024 and December 13, 2024 at 11:59pm PT. Small businesses that complete the application will be eligible for consideration to receive a $10,000 grant. Verizon Small Business Digital Ready “Small businesses are the backbone of communities, and we have a responsibility to help them thrive,” said Donna Epps, Chief Responsible Business Officer at Verizon. Donna Epps adds, “Verizon Small Business Digital Ready was created to uplift small business owners through digital skills training, and we’re proud to offer another grant opportunity to this diverse and growing community of small business owners nationwide.” ‘Small Business Funding Marketplace’ The platform is also launching ‘Small Business Funding Marketplace’, a repository of open funding and loan opportunities available to small businesses, and has launched ‘Learning Paths’. Learning paths, such as ‘Improve your access to capital’ and ‘Build your unique brand’ prompt users to complete a series of resources to help them get closer to achieving a business goal.

Lumens was most recently Group Chief Financial Officer at Louis Dreyfus Company. Prior to that, he spent 20 years with Shell in various senior financial roles, among which he was a Chief Financial Officer of Shell Trading and Supply. According to the oil company, Neptune’s current CFO Peter Thomas will assist with the transition and remain involved with the future development and growth of the company. Neptune management team Sam Laidlaw, Executive Chairman of Neptune, said: “I’m delighted with that Armand is joining the Neptune management team. His deep knowledge and experience of energy and capital markets further strengthen the team for the next chapter of growth and demonstrate our ambition to be the pioneering international independent E&P company." “I am enormously grateful to Peter for the formative role he played in the company’s creation and the fundamental role he continues to play in its development. Without him, we would not be the successful company we are today.” Gas acquisition opportunities Neptune completed the announced purchase of VNG’s Norwegian subsidiary VNG Norge Private equity-backed Neptune was formed by Laidlaw, a former Centrica manager, back in 2015 to target oil and gas acquisition opportunities.  Late in September, Neptune completed the previously announced purchase of VNG’s Norwegian subsidiary VNG Norge for an undisclosed price. The deal was announced on June 28, and completed on Friday, September 28. Engie’s E&P business A month earlier, Neptune bought Apache’s 35% working interest in the Seagull development and a 50% working interest in the Isabella prospect; in the North Sea. The biggest acquisition by Neptune was completed in February this year when Neptune said it had wrapped up the previously announced acquisition of Engie’s E&P business, in a transaction valued around €4.7 billion.

Applied Precision would like to invite everyone to the Enlit Europe 2024, held in Milan, Italy, which will take place from 22nd till 24th of October 2024. Enlit Europe 2024 Interested people can use the following link to register to the event for free as a guest of Applied Precision:  Enlit Europe 2024 – Expo Pass – Visitor Pass Registration The Applied Precision staff will be happy to meet visitors to the event at their booth - 6.F60.

Following an investment of up to €230 million, Siemens Mobility is opening its Train Manufacturing Facility as a key part of its new Goole Rail Village in the United Kingdom, on a site which spans 67 acres, the size of 35 football pitches. London Underground’s new Piccadilly line trains will be assembled at the factory in Goole, before they start entering passenger service from 2025, helping Transport for London (TfL) transform rail travel across the UK’s capital. Siemens Mobility’s investment in the UK Siemens Mobility announced additional investment of up to €50 million in a state-of-the-art new facility in Goole Overall, Siemens Mobility’s investment in the region will create up to 700 new jobs and an additional 1,700 supply chain opportunities by 2030. This investment will strengthen local production to serve global markets. Alongside the opening, Siemens Mobility announced an additional investment of up to €50 million in a state-of-the-art new facility in Goole to assemble and overhaul bogies for trains. New Bogie Assembly and Service Center The new Bogie Assembly and Service Center will incorporate and expand Siemens Mobility’s current capabilities to overhaul bogies from UK trains, including the 3,224 strong fleet of vehicles (572 trains) that it maintains in the UK. It will also include new production lines for assembling bogies for new trains, a first for Siemens in the UK. This new investment will secure around 100 existing jobs and create up to a further 200. It is due to be operational towards the end of 2026. Impressive, world-class facility Commenting on the investment, UK Transport Secretary - Louise Haigh, said: “This impressive, world-class facility will be transformational to Goole and its people, providing a boost to the region’s economy and supporting hundreds of skilled jobs. Its opening demonstrates the importance of high quality, long-term investment to pave the way for employment and growth.” Louise Haigh adds, “I know how vital rail manufacturing is to our economy, which is why we will not sit on our hands when it comes to supporting it. For too long, the cycle of boom-and-bust has held back this sector. That’s why I am determined to put an end to the stop-start approach to investment and provide the industry with the certainty it needs to deliver a railway that is fit for the future.” New state-of-the-art Piccadilly line trains Mayor of London - Sadiq Khan, said: “This train manufacturing facility in Goole is a fantastic example of the expertise we don’t have and how investment in London benefits the whole country.” He adds, “This factory, where the new state-of-the-art Piccadilly line trains will be built, will create up to 900 direct jobs and support another 1,700 in the supply chain, delivering great benefits to the wider UK economy, showing that where London succeeds, the whole country succeeds and vice versa.” Sadiq Khan continues, “I’m excited to continue working together with the new Government to build a better, fairer and more prosperous London, and country, for everyone.” New Rail Village in Goole, East Yorkshire “We are celebrating the opening our Rail Village in Goole, East Yorkshire, where we are investing up to €277 million in building a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for the Piccadilly line, as well as for future UK train fleets and a host of other facilities.” said Karl Blaim, Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer of Siemens Mobility. He adds, “This great moment builds upon our significant investments in a modern signalling manufacturing facility in Chippenham, further solidifying our long-term commitment to the advancement of the UK's rail industry.” Karl Blaim continues, “Siemens Mobility has a proud history of over 180 years in the United Kingdom and has been transforming rail, travel, and transport in Britain. We have delivered every fourth passenger train in the UK, are pioneers in digital signaling technology and provide leading service solutions. Our dedicated team of 5,500 UK employees is committed to delivering top-quality transportation solutions, from Britain, for Britain.” Opening of the Siemens Mobility factory Andy Lord, London's Transport Commissioner, said: “The opening of the Siemens Mobility factory in Goole marks a new stage in this transformational project. The new Piccadilly line trains that are being assembled in Goole will change the experience of millions of Tube customers every year, helping to drive growth and revitalise communities not only in the capital, but across the country thanks to the supply chain.” Andy Lord adds, “We are working with Siemens Mobility, the Mayor of London and the Government to ensure that the benefits felt from this project will continue through funding for new Bakerloo line trains to replace the existing fleet, which at more than 50 years old is the oldest operating in daily passenger service anywhere in the UK. We look forward to welcoming the first new Piccadilly line test train to London later this year and for customers to start using them when they come into service from next year.” Goole Train Manufacturing Facility The Goole Train Manufacturing Facility, with its cutting-edge technology, highly skilled workforce, and strategic location, is set to become a cornerstone of the British and global rail industry. It will bolster the UK's rail manufacturing capabilities. The Goole Rail Village consists of the Train Manufacturing Facility which assembles and commissions trains, the Components Facility where Siemens maintains gearboxes, traction motors and other parts for train and tram fleets, the Logistics Center warehousing facility and the Rail Accelerator and Innovation Solutions hub for Enterprise (RaisE) business center, all of which will now be joined by the Bogie Assembly and Service Center.

Aurora Green continues to move the world, and more and more Zoomlion equipment has become the first choice of overseas customers. In this issue of 'Aurora Construction Shadow', let's lock the construction 'drilling' family's global journey together, and watch Zoomlion's rotary drilling rigs show off their skills. ZR300D rotary drilling rig Samsun, the largest port city and railway terminal on the Black Sea coast of Turkey, the ZR300D rotary drilling rig serves the local municipal road during construction projects. It adopts a new generation of homemade power heads, with additional secondary buffers, higher structural strength, more stable equipment into the rock, and longer guides for more accurate rock penetration. easy performance ZR140 rotary drilling rig performs with ease, the project pile diameter of 0.65 meters ZR140, ZR255D, ZR300D, and other equipment participated in the foundation construction of local resettlement houses, contributing to the reconstruction of Turkey after the earthquake. Facing the low temperature of tens of degrees below zero and the hard frozen soil layer, the ZR140 rotary drilling rig performs with ease, the project pile diameter of 0.65 meters, and the pile depth of 25 meters, in the same operating conditions, can be compared with foreign equipment with the same power to save fuel by about 10%. construction efficiency Dhaka is the capital and the largest city of Bangladesh, and the ZR160L rotary drilling rig "Scud" efficiently assists in the construction of local bridge piling works. The machine is matched with high flow pump and valve, and the power head combines high torque and high speed, which makes it easy to dump the soil, and the construction efficiency is higher; the whole machine can be transported with Kelly bar, and it can switch between work and transfer quickly, and it has one-key automatic inverting and erecting of mast, which can save 4 hours for dismantling and assembling in a single time and 30% of the cost, which is highly appreciated by the customers. time and cost savings The ZR160L rotary drilling rig was able to adapt to complex working conditions such as rugged mountains The Mayan Railway was described by the president of the country as 'the world's only public construction project', the project schedule is tight, the efficiency and reliability of the construction equipment are very high, the ZR160L rotary drilling rig by its fast work and transit switching ability, as well as a single dismantling and assembly of time and cost savings, fully adapted to the rugged mountainous areas and dense jungle and other complex conditions to ensure the completion of the project on time. The ZR160L rotary drilling rig was able to adapt to the complex working conditions such as rugged mountains and dense jungle, which provided a strong guarantee for the timely completion of the project. transport infrastructure Mexico City has a population of more than 22 million permanent residents, with more than 4.8 million cars, while the city's transport infrastructure is relatively insufficient, the construction of the viaduct project will help alleviate local traffic congestion. Yogyakarta Expressway Project is the first motorway in East Java, Indonesia. The project has a pile diameter of 1.2 meters and a depth of 43 meters, which is equivalent to the height of a 12-story building. ZR255D rotary drilling rig rises to the challenge and breaks through the ground, becoming a bright star on the construction site.

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced that it will collaborate with the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) to co-organize football clinics for children in Southeast Asia when the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup™ 2024 trophy tour visits local cities between September 28 and November 9. Mitsubishi Electric is the title partner of the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024, a biennial tournament that the AFF will organize for 11 Southeast Asian national teams between December 8 and January 5. Executive partnership agreement Mitsubishi Electric signed an executive partnership agreement in November last year The clinics will be held in six cities—Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi, Jakarta, and Manila, the last venue in recognition of the Philippines being newly added as one of the tournament's 11 host countries.  Clinic participants will include coaches from FC Imabari, a Japanese professional football team in the Meiji Yasuda J3 League, with which Mitsubishi Electric signed an executive partnership agreement in November last year, and legendary players from each country's national team, who will conduct lessons and mini-games to help children learn about football, the joy of sports and the importance of pursuing dreams. FC Imabari Chairman Takeshi Okada will also attend selected clinics. Partner of the tournament Mitsubishi Electric, in addition to helping solve pressing issues in global society and contributing to sustainability through its businesses, also strives to create a more vibrant and enjoyable world through activities involving culture, the arts, and sports. When the company was the title partner of the tournament in 2022, it invited legendary football players from the national teams of Southeast Asian countries to conduct football clinics for children in Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. As the title partner of the tournament as well as organizer of additional clinics, Mitsubishi Electric is contributing to the future of Southeast Asia by encouraging local children to pursue their dreams.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Oshkosh Airport Products, a division of Pierce Manufacturing Inc., a subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation announces Airservices Australia has issued a purchase order for four Oshkosh Airport Products Striker® Volterra™ 6x6 Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) hybrid electric vehicles. These environmentally advanced fire apparatus will be deployed at the new Western Sydney International Airport (WSI), set to open in 2026. Striker Volterra 6x6 The Striker Volterra 6x6 comes equipped with an Oshkosh-patented hybrid-electric drivetrain, featuring an electro-mechanical infinitely variable transmission. This enables zero-emissions operation through the integrated onboard batteries and uninterrupted power supply by coupling with the internal combustion engine for pumping and drive systems. innovative design  Airservices Australia is making a significant investment to support the development of an “airport of the future” WSI is a transformational infrastructure project expected to boost economic activity, provide local employment opportunities, meet Sydney's carbon-neutral sustainability initiatives, and meet the area’s growing aviation needs. Airservices Australia is a government entity making a significant investment to support the development of an “airport of the future,” featuring world-pioneering technology, innovative design, and a sustainability plan incorporating assets like the Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles.  sustainability "As the first airport built in Australia in over 50 years, WSI is not just an airport; it's a statement of intent for a more sustainable future,” said Dave Archer, Vice President of Engineering for Oshkosh Vocational. He adds, “The Striker Volterra vehicles, with their hybrid electric technology, align perfectly with Airservices Australia and WSI’s goals. These vehicles are not only an asset to emergency response capabilities but also play a crucial role in larger environmental sustainability initiatives." environmentally conscious choice Dave Archer continues, "They symbolize a dedication to intelligent design, energy optimization, fire crew safety and efficiency, and ultimately, a carbon-neutral future." Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles demonstrate the most advanced acceleration and reduced fuel consumption compared to our standard diesel models, making them an environmentally conscious choice for emergency response services. Striker Volterra features Striker Volterra ARFF demonstrates a 28 percent improved acceleration compared to the standard diesel models WSI’s four new Striker Volterra 6x6 vehicles will feature an industry-pioneering modular cab design, TAK-4® all-wheel independent suspension, and a 50’ Snozzle® High Reach Extendable Turret. They each house an 11,356-liter (3,000-gallon) water tank, a 1,590-liter (420-gallon) foam tank, and a 7,570 lpm (2,000 gpm) water pump, along with a 250 kg (550 lb.) dry chemical powder system. Accelerating from 0 to 80 kph (0 to 50 mph) in under 25 seconds, the Striker Volterra ARFF demonstrates a 28 percent improved acceleration compared to the standard diesel models when fully loaded. training, implementation, and service support Dave Archer added, “The collaboration between Oshkosh Airport Products and Airservices Australia marks a significant step forward in the aviation industry's commitment to sustainability. We remain committed to a strong partnership, providing world-class training, seamless implementation, and unwavering service support to ensure these vehicles exceed expectations in the critical missions of ARFF crews.” By leveraging new technologies and innovations like Oshkosh Airport Products’ Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles, WSI will showcase the feasibility of low-carbon operations and set a new standard for airports worldwide.

DNV is pleased to have supported a landmark solar and storage project in the Republic of Palau in the Western Pacific region. Philippines-based power producer - Solar Pacific Energy Corporation (SPEC), the solar developer of listed Alternergy Holdings Corporation, appointed DNV as Owner’s Engineer for the 15.3 MWp solar power and associated 13.2 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) in Ngatpang state on Babeldoab, the largest island in the Palau archipelago. The USD 29 million project, which is jointly owned by SPEC and its listed parent – Alternergy, will meet more than 20% of Palau’s energy needs. SPEC was awarded a long-term power supply agreement by the Palau Public Utilities Corporation (PPUC) to feed power to the central grid in Badelboab. The power plant was inaugurated last June 2. DNV’s work scope for the solar + BESS hybrid system DNV assessed if the design would meet two main purposes: grid smoothing and energy generation DNV’s work scope for the solar + BESS hybrid system, SPEC’s first venture into overseas markets, spanned four phases across the design, pre-construction, construction, and project completion stages. DNV assessed if the design would meet two main purposes: grid smoothing and energy generation. It advised on project scheduling and progress tracking, and checked the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract on SPEC’s behalf. “Solar Pacific is grateful to DNV for its excellent technical and project management support throughout the pre-construction and implementation stages of this exciting project. DNV provided valuable expertise to ensure the delivery of a rather complex project that involved a PV and battery storage hybrid solution on a challenging project site located in a remote location. We look forward to expanding our working relationship with DNV throughout the Asia Pacific region,” said Mike Lichtenfeld, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Solar Pacific Energy Corporation (SPEC). DNV, Alternergy and SPEC partnership “Alternergy is delighted to conclude another successful renewable project with DNV,” said Gerry Magbanua, the President of Alternergy, adding “Since 2014, we have collaborated with DNV in developing our pioneering wind and solar projects in the Philippines.” Project construction management was conducted remotely from DNV’s Singapore office Project construction management was conducted remotely from DNV’s Singapore office, with DNV’s partner providing onsite construction personnel supervised and managed by DNV and owner’s site representatives (OSRs) for both the civil and electrical engineering aspects. The OSRs monitored construction and with input from DNV specialist engineers, delivered several monitoring, inspection, verification, witnessing and testing activities during construction, commissioning, testing and energization of the system. DNV inspections post-commissioning DNV inspections post-commissioning ensured that non-conformance with contract specifications was sufficiently rectified, before certifying the project as ready for handover and issuing the Final Completion Certification. According to DNV’s latest Energy Transition Outlook report, Southeast Asia will see solar PV and solar coupled with storage play a significant role in the region’s electricity generation share, rising sharply from the late 2030s to generating 74% of the electricity by 2050.