BFM May 2024

Procurement Essentials

How to build sustainability into procurement

A sustainable procurement strategy reaches every corner of your supply chain, from sourcing and suppliers to materials and workers. Some examples of sustainable procurement include:

• purchasing electricity from renewable sources

• using energy e icient technologies such as LED lighting

• changing fleet vehicles to ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEV) or electric vehicles (EV)

• using low carbon construction materials

As sustainability continues to grow in significance on the global agenda, it’s imperative to align your procurement strategy with the evolving values of stakeholders, customers, and employees.

Learn how building sustainability into procurement can help you achieve net zero: crowncommercial.gov.uk/procurement-essentials-cnz

Team

Business Development Director James Scrivens james@abbeypublishing.co.uk

Production Sarah Daviner sarah@abbeypublishing.co.uk

Accounts Manager Katie Brehm accounts@abbeypublishing.co.uk

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On the cover: Contents

ENTRNCE helps Oxford Brookes explore 24/7 carbon-free energy using powerful simulation tool see page 16-17

Fresh Large EVO - The air renewal unit that simplifies the air conditioning system and increases its energy efficiency

ENTRNCE helps Oxford Brookes explore 24/7 carbon-free energy using powerful simulation tool

Cleaning & Hygiene

OCS Secures Contract Extension with Birmingham Airport

A Fresh approach to Outsourcing calls to Leverage Scalability

In the dynamic landscape of facilities management (FM), the ability to swiftly adapt to changing demands is key to success. For FM helpdesk managers looking to outsource calls, scalability emerges as a key driver in the decision making process, offering many benefits that resonate across operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and bottom-line impact.

This is where Business Process Outsourcers (BPO) like Lemon Contact Centre excel, providing the scalability of agents that seamlessly meet your fluctuating needs and empower FM decision makers to navigate the ebb and flow of service requests with agility and precision.

Using state of the art technology and by leveraging their ‘real people, real conversations’ ethos, Lemon are able to expertly provide you with the additional resource that you need in order to grow your business. Operating around the clock, Lemon’s services can be utilised purely out-of-hours or as a full turnkey solution. This flexibility will ensure that your FM helpdesks are always adequately equipped to handle varying call volumes, irrespective of peaks or troughs in demand.

With Lemon as your trusted contact centre you can say goodbye to both overstaffing, causing unnecessary expenses, and understaffing, compromising on the allimportant service quality. When

outsourcing and faced with a sudden surge in requests or a lull in activity, FM helpdesks can seamlessly and efficiently scale their operations, ensuring optimal efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

By partnering with Lemon, a leading contact centre in the FM industry, you will

have the commitment of a 24-7-365 service, seamless communication and insightful reporting tools - the key to opening up fresh opportunities for generating revenue and expanding market reach.

Lemoncontactcentre.co.uk 0800 612 7595

Elta Trade appoints Lee Aris as National Manager

Following the launch of Elta’s dedicated residential ventilation division, Elta Trade, in 2023, it has announced the appointment of Lee Aris as National Manager.

Lee, who has previously worked for Elta Group as a branch manager at Idealair Group; a distributor of fans, heating, and ventilation equipment in Melbourne, Australia, has an extensive knowledge of the industry that he will bring to the role. Born in the UK, Lee moved to Australia in 2017, and in 2020, he was appointed to help establish Idealair’s Melbourne branch and build a team of ventilation and air distribution experts.

Based in Kingswinford, West Midlands, Lee will be expanding Elta Trade’s reach in the UK and ensuring that electricians, plumbers, and homeowners working on air movement around the country have compliant equipment available for purchase at a local stockist. Along with this, Lee will soon be hosting trade mornings for contractors to attend and provide new pointof-sale (POS) materials and display units for distributors to promote Elta Trade products. Speaking on his appointment, Lee said: “It’s brilliant to be back in the UK and working with Elta Trade to ensure that tradespeople handling air management systems in

residential properties have the necessary equipment and assistance on hand. Since its launch last year, Elta Trade has expanded its reach considerably and I aim to continue this through my work.

“We know that damp, mould, and indoor air quality is a constant challenge contractors face in their dayto-day jobs, and we’re here to help make sure tradespeople can remain compliant when installing a ventilation system into a residential property. With Elta Trade being part of the Elta business, we have a wide range of products available to ensure that each project meets the necessary criteria. Not only this, but we have a wealth of technical experts and knowledge at Elta, who can help advise and guide tradespeople with their projects.”

Currently, Elta Trade products can be purchased from a variety of suppliers including damp and mould specialists through to online retailers. From residential applications for kitchen, bathrooms, and utility spaces, alongside fans for industrial and commercial spaces, Elta Trade’s wide range of solutions helps keep air moving and mould at bay.

Vikrant Bhatt, Commercial Director of Elta, went on to say: “We’re thrilled that Lee has accepted our offer to join

the Elta Trade team following his relocation back to the UK from Melbourne. With his keen understanding of ventilation and business drive, we hope that his appointment will result in further positive work for the latest division of Elta. Stockists and customers will now be able to speak to Lee to learn how they can become a supplier of Elta Trade products and improve air quality.”

For more information about Elta Trade, please visit: https://www.eltatrade.co.uk/

Building & Facilities Management magazine covers all of the major FM areas of interest within the workplace and the built environment.

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Chubb Joins the Lancashire Skills Pledge: Committing to Community Engagement and Employment Excellence in Blackburn

Chubb Fire & Security is proud to announce its recent commitment to the Lancashire Skills Pledge, solidifying its role as a leading employer in the Blackburn community, where its UK headquarters is located. By joining this vital initiative, Chubb underscores its dedication to nurturing local talent and enhancing employment opportunities across the region.

The Lancashire Skills Pledge, which recognises organisations actively contributing to skill development and employment opportunities, now counts Chubb among its esteemed network of over 400 businesses. As part of this pledge, Chubb is committed at empowering individuals and fostering a skilled workforce that can meet the challenges of tomorrow.

As a new member, Chubb has been awarded a Skills Pledge

certificate and a member badge - symbols of its dedication to community development. These emblems represent Chubb’s promise to inspire, upskill, and create pathways for career advancement within the local community.

Kirsty Brooks, Director of Employee Experience and Development at Chubb commented on the partnership, saying, “By signing the Lancashire Skills Pledge, we reaffirm our commitment to the professional growth of our employees and to the broader Blackburn community. We are excited to play a central role in shaping a future where everyone can access the opportunities they need to succeed.”

Chubb’s engagement with the Lancashire Skills Pledge is an opportunity to showcase

its ongoing learning initiatives and successes in community involvement. This partnership is especially significant as Chubb continues to strengthen its presence in Blackburn. This strategic move enhances Chubb’s workforce capabilities and enriches the company’s community ties. The Skills Pledge aligns perfectly with Chubb’s goals to provide meaningful employment opportunities and be an active participant in Lancashire’s economic development.

Chubb is looking forward to making a lasting impact and fostering an environment where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. To find out more about Chubb’s opportunities in the region and throughout the UK, please visit www.chubb.co.uk/jobs.

CHSA introduces new Certification Marks for Accredited Manufacturers: ‘Our Standards. Your Guarantee’

The Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association (CHSA) has introduced new certification marks for members of its Accreditation Schemes for Manufacturers, providing greater clarity to buyers of cleaning and hygiene products.

The new Certification Marks clearly state the Accredited product. Buyers will quickly and easily now know if the Accredited products are soft tissue, plastic sacks, cotton mops or cleaning chemicals.

Membership of the CHSA will be indicated by the new CHSA Member Certification Mark. This Mark indicates the member has signed the Association’s stringent Code of Practice, which includes the Competition and Markets Authority’s Green Claims Code. It does not indicate Accreditation of a product category.

Lorcan Mekitarian, Chair of the CHSA explained: “Standards are in the DNA of the CHSA. We have a long track record of improving and maintaining standards in the industry, so buyers and users of cleaning and hygiene products get what they pay for. The introduction of these new Certification Marks for our Accredited Manufacturers is another step forward, clearly stating exactly which product is Accredited.”

The CHSA has five Accredited Manufacturer categories:

• Accredited Manufacturers of soft tissue guarantee the dimensions and count of every product and other required information is as indicated on the label.

• Accredited Manufacturers

of plastic sacks guarantee they are fit for purpose and the dimensions and count and other required information are as indicated on the label.

• Accredited Manufacturers of cotton mops guarantee the weight, absorbency and, where relevant, the cotton content. They also guarantee the dimensions and count, and other required information are as indicated on the label. The dimensions and count of all ancillary products are also covered by the Scheme.

• Accredited Manufacturers of cleaning and hygiene chemicals guarantee the product volume and other required information is as specified on the label and fully supported by relevant test data. In addition, they guarantee the containers and plastic bottles holding the chemical products are recyclable.

• Accredited General Manufacturers, who will have the CHSA Member Certification Mark, have signed the CHSA’s Code of Practice.

The CHSA also has an Accreditation Scheme for

distributors of cleaning and hygiene products. All distributor members:

• Have committed to buy cleaning and hygiene products from a CHSA Accredited Manufacturer or product that conforms to the relevant Scheme standard. They also guarantee cleaning and hygiene products not covered by a CHSA Accreditation Scheme for Manufacturers conform to the clear and rigorous commitments within the Code of Practice.

The integrity of the CHSA’s Accreditation Schemes is underpinned by Independent Inspection. A quality assurance professional audits CHSA members at least annually, confirming compliance to the Scheme. The combination of the Code of Practice, signed by every member, and Accreditation Schemes guarantee CHSA members:

• Trade ethically and sustainably;

• Provide quality, fit for purpose products; and

• Make sure what’s on the box is what’s in the box.

www.chsa.co.uk

Energy with AKCP Sensors

Contact us for a FREE site survey or online demo to learn more about our industry leading environmental monitoring solutions and how they can help to reduce your energy costs. Scalable, with Ethernet and WiFi connectivity, over 20 sensor options for temperature, humidity, water leakage, airflow, AC and DC power, a 5 year warranty and automated email and SMS text alerts.

Aggreko upscales battery investment to $200m to support the energy transition

Aggreko has increased its global investment in mobile battery energy storage solutions (BESS) to around $200m, allowing more industries to access the latest in battery technology and reach net zero targets.

The global leader in energy solutions will be investing a significant proportion of this for growing it’s European BESS fleet to enable more customers to decarbonise their power provision, add resilience, improve efficiency and overcome power capacity constraints.

The introduction of this larger European fleet of small, midand large-size BESS forms part of Aggreko’s Greener Upgrades initiative, which is aimed at supporting customers move to greener solutions. In 2023, Aggreko Europe invested over $140m in its Greener Upgrades portfolio, increasing its fleet of new steam boilers, Stage V generators, battery storage, oil free air compressors and chillers.

By bringing these new, greener technologies to the market, Aggreko is reinforcing its commitment to playing a key role in the energy transition, a key part of it’s new global sustainability framework, Energising Change™.

Through carrying out fieldbased trials with customers, Aggreko is helping companies become early adopters of new technologies like batteries supporting the move towards the use of cleaner and greener energy solutions. Supporting energy intensive sectors such as manufacturing, data centres, petrochemical, utilities and construction, the Greener Upgrades initiative allows organisations to

access more efficient and environmentally friendly solutions. As companies look to reduce their emissions in line with net zero targets and strategies, the ability to draw on temporary solutions that enable them to navigate the energy transition, balancing the need for resilience with economic viability. Being able to adopt this technology will enable the organisations to balance their power use and improve flexibility as they introduce more renewable power provision to their sites.

Rodrigo Salim, Head of Product Line – Battery & Energy Storage at Aggreko said: “Energy storage is set to be a critical component of the energy transition. Yet many organisations in energy intensive industries may not have the capital, infrastructure or skills in place to introduce the technology overnight. Like all new technologies, there is always the risk of which one to choose. At Aggreko our sectorised approach enables us to really understand customers challenges and help them

select the best solution without risk of capital investment.”

Whether using a battery solution in a hybrid set-up or on their own, the enhanced BESS fleet will help in reducing emissions, lower NOx as well as fuel consumption across a wide range of applications. In addition, introducing BESS solutions can help to solve capacity constraints and provide off-grid power resilience as part of a decentralised energy solution particularly for high energy users.

Rodrigo continued: “Many industries are making their transition to renewable power, and within that must balance intermittency and the skills gap. By consulting closely with customers and providing greener solutions like BESS in a rental capacity, we can help unlock opportunities for our customers so they can scale up their own decarbonisation efforts.”

For more information on Aggreko’s BESS provision, click here.

When a building is finished, that’s just the beginning

SECURING AND SAFEGUARDING

Our Fire Solutions engineers deliver a full range of active and passive fire services, as well as security systems to protect buildings and their users.

PTSG is the UK’s leading supplier of specialist services to ensure buildings remain safe, compliant, clean and maintained – in ALL areas.

PTSG operates five independent business divisions, delivering a full portfolio of specialist services for buildings in all sectors. This ensures they remain in the same first-class condition as when they were built – from ancient monuments to iconic skyscrapers.

Ask us about what we offer in all five of our business divisions.

FREE Upgrade on AKCP sensorProbe+ Environmental Monitoring Systems

Cost-effective Environmental Monitoring Solutions for Server Rooms and Data Centres

AKCP, the world’s oldest and largest manufacturer of professional monitoring solutions, have announced a free upgrade for their sensorProbe+ SP1+ and SP2+ environmental monitoring systems.

The PRO upgrade provides users with extended features ideal for monitoring more complex server rooms and data centres, giving access to thermal cabinet mapping, IPV6, SNMPv3 and VPN communications and user accounts. The PRO version also include 5 free virtual sensors for monitoring thirdparty devices (via Modbus or SNMP GET). On the SP2+ model, the PRO license also unlocks 2 further intelligent sensor ports expanding the

unit to a 4 sensor port system.

The AKCP SP1+ is a compact, robust sensor monitoring device, ideal for server rooms, wiring closets and other applications where a small number of sensors are needed. Equipped with a dry contact I/O, an intelligent sensor port, and features a built-in temperature sensor, or temperature and humidity sensor on a fixed 5ft cable, allowing it to be precisely placed where needed. A locking DC power jack secures the power supply ensuring accidental unplugs do not occur.

The AKCP SP2+ is the big brother of the SP1+, with 4 intelligent sensor ports, and a built-in buzzer for audible alerts. With the addition of a 4G cellular data modem the device is ideal for remote

sites where primary network communications may be unstable, or not available.

Both devices come with a 5year warranty and optional 1year free use of the AKCP Cloud Server for up to 5 units, as well as having their own graphical user interface if utilszed on a closed network.

Server Room Environments Ltd are the AKCP partner for the UK, providing next day deliveries from stock, support and installation services.

For more information contact Server Room Environments Ltd https://www. serverroomenvironments. co.uk/akcp-uk

Tel: 0800 030 6838

Email projects@ serverroomenvironments.co.uk

Your Commercial Hire Partner

Do you need a fast, reliable, tailor-made hire solution? We’re not just a supplier for all of your hire needs nationwide, but your hire partner who will work alongside your business to provide expertise, consultation and a complete hire procurement service, saving you valuable time and money.

Whether it’s powered/ manual access, plant hire, tool hire, temporary accommodation, power generation, waste disposal and more, we’ll coordinate all your hire needs, end-to-end with a single point of contact.

• End-to-end hire management with a single point of contact

• Nationwide set rates

• Unrivalled knowledge & expertise

• Kit ready, on-site and on-time

• Great value every time

• Certainty, reliability, ease & speed

• Working with your deadlines - speedy & smooth deliveries

Whatever your challenge, we’ll get it sorted.

Contact us today for a free quote: Customers@wownowhire.co.uk

www.wownowhire.co.uk https://www.linkedin.com/company/wownowhire/ WowNow Hire | Facebook

Replacement Pumps

Replacing a submersible pump for drainage, wastewater or sewage is relatively easy if you can read the equipment’s nameplate and if the product is available. However, the difficulties start when either of these is not an option.

This is where the assistance of a pump expert such as Pump Technology Ltd, probably the UK’s largest independent submersible pump expert for drainage, wastewater and sewage applications, can be a lifesaver.

They hold one of the biggest stocks of replacement pumps at competitive market prices and their specialist team will quickly be able to select a suitable, easy to fit, replacement to provide the correct pumping performance!

Will McPhee, Technical Manager, and his team have extensive knowledge of all manufacture’s pump ranges and models, enabling them

to identify and provide a likefor-like replacement or, if the broken pump is superseded, offer an appropriate equivalent. Selecting the right replacement when a like-forlike pump is not available requires extensive, specialist knowledge. Online websites or even “AI” still can’t match this.

The Pump Technology Ltd

engineering team is made up of long servicing staff (typically with fifteen plus years with the company) and their in-depth knowledge and technical resources enable them to ensure that any replacement pump is right first time. This allows contractors to go back to site with full confidence in completing the required works successfully and on time.

The first task is always to correctly identify the broken pump. This is easy with a readable nameplate. However, this is not always the case, and because almost everybody now has a camera, a photograph of the pump from several angles will enable the Pump Technology Ltd team to work out the make and pump model.

From this they can establish the pump’s pumping performance, physical size and interface measurements. For free standing pumps pump feet or, for pumps in a pump station, duckfoot and claw arrangements plus discharge port position and size must be specified.

The engineers will also provide advice on every aspect of a project, floats, control panels, alarms, guide rods, chain, manhole

cover etc. In fact everything needed to complete the job.

Sometimes a replacement pump is not going to be the answer. The site requirements might have changed and a refurbishment or upgrade to the pumping system may well be required.

In this situation the Pump Technology Ltd engineers will discuss the application, study site drawings to understand inflows, site elevations, discharge runs and the size of the static head for the pump to overcome. They will then provide a comprehensive

specification for engineers to present a technical submittal to their clients for review and approval.

For all drainage, wastewater or sewage pumping requirements the Pump Technology Ltd engineering experts are on hand to provide a properly researched, detailed, best practice and optimal commercial solution.

More Information: 0118 9821 555

www.pumptechnology.co.uk

Fresh Large EVO - The air renewal unit that simplifies the air conditioning system and increases its energy efficiency

Clivet continues its commitment to the principles of the IAQ by further expanding its range of innovative solutions for air renewal, purification and sanitization. The latest novelty is Fresh Large EVO, the full fresh air unit with active thermodynamic recovery, ecological R-32 refrigerant, full inverter technology and electronic filtration, which simplifies the annual cycle air-conditioning system and increases its energy efficiency.

Fresh Large EVO utilizes active thermodynamic recovery technology not only to completely cover the ventilation load but also to provide a contribution to meeting the building’s heating requirements.

Fresh Large EVOCiSDN-Y EF 1 S, available with air flow rates from 300 to 2500 m3/h, is ideal for commercial, tertiary and large residential applications. It is characterized by:

• R-32 refrigerant, which has a low GWP (Global Warming Potential) and ensures excellent performance in extreme conditions, low refrigerant charge and high coefficient of thermal exchange

• Efficient energy recovery of exhaust air with low fan consumption thanks to active thermodynamic recovery

• Full inverter technology, which optimizes the unit’s performance even at

part load ensuring high efficiencies all year round

• It contributes to the satisfaction of internal loads even at extreme temperatures.

• Maximum filtration efficiency with iFD electronic filters (ISO 16890 ePM1 90%), guaranteeing high air quality and at the same time low ventilation consumption

• Absence of contamination between exhaust and intake air flows

• Smart free cooling and indoor air quality management

• 30% recycled EPP structure for maximum acoustic comfort and thermal insulation, as well as ease of transport and installation.

• Extended operating range down to -20°C in heating mode

• Easy system design thanks to the fact that all components are already integrated

• Advanced remote control and monitoring solutions

Comment by product manager Damiano Rossi: “The new Fresh Large EVO represents a further step

forward in the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) world in the direction of air quality and efficiency.

Thanks to its distinctive thermodynamic recovery with full inverter technology and iFD filtration, it is the ideal solution for applications such as schools, offices, small retail outlets, restaurants, banks, car dealerships, be they new buildings or existing ones.

Its use is a guarantee of plant simplification, yearround efficiency and high air quality, benefiting not only the plant operator but also and above all the people who can live, work, study, efficiently and comfortably in a healthy and safe environment.

Thanks to these distinctive features, Fresh Large EVO was chosen for the MCE Awards 2024.”

The cooling industry comes to InstallerSHOW

This year’s InstallerSHOW – the UK’s largest event for influential installers, specifiers and decision makers within heat, water, air and energy - will welcome the cooling industry to the NEC, Birmingham from 25th-27th June with a host of events, lectures and discussions as we aim to inform, debate, network, and celebrate.

Whilst the show has historically centred around heating and plumbing, this year sees an expansion to embrace a wider range of HVACR issues. InstallerSHOW has created a dedicated Climate Solutions Theatre to mark the occasion – providing a focal point for discussions on cooling, heating, IAQ and M&E.

As World Refrigeration Day falls during the show on Wednesday 26th June, the Climate Solutions Theatre will see the UK launch of WRD, incorporating a range of interviews and events around its 2024 theme of Temperature Matters – including a reception to mark 200 years since the birth of Lord Kelvin, the socalled Father of Refrigeration.

26th June will also see a series of sessions tackling some of the cooling industry’s hot topics: Institute of Refrigeration President Graeme Fox will give a keynote address on his experiences in the presidency; an expert panel will tackle what people need to know about the latest F-Gas news; refrigerant specialist A-Gas will discuss the importance of reclaiming refrigerants; and consultant Omega Solutions will present on decarbonising supermarket cooling.

Thursday 27th June is also an important date for the cooling sector as the theatre dedicates an entire day to celebrating Women in Cooling

and Heating. It is anticipated that this will host the biggest industry gathering of women in the UK. Events include an opening address from Colleen Keyworth of the US Women in HVACR association, a panel discussion with leading women from the cooling industry, and a networking lunch for women in both cooling and heating.

World Refrigeration Day will also announce its inaugural Influential Women Showcase at the show.

Another highlight of the diversity discussions on Thursday 27th June will see Countdown’s Rachel Riley discussing her STEM journey alongside a cross-section of the heating and cooling industry.

Other points of interest at this year’s InstallerSHOW include:

The IOR session What Installers Need to Know about RACHP on Tuesday 25th June

An international skills challenge featuring Luke Haile, recently picked to represent Team GB at WorldSkills in Lyon in September, brazing off against some of China’s finest

refrigeration technicians. Heat pump guru Graham Hendra will give a lecture called Heat Pumps: What’s the Fuss About on Tuesday 25th June Government construction Director David Hancock will lead a discussion on the opportunities in HVAC from the New Prisons Programme, also on 25th June

Added to this are dozens more sessions around the show discussing heat pumps and, of course, a wealth of exhibitors showing new products that will be relevant to those working across the cooling industry. With over 600 exhibitors, there’s no shortage of choice, and with 20,000 visitors expected to attend, there will be no lack of networking opportunities either.

The official InstallerSHOW 2024 preview is now live, featuring the lowdown on the highlights of this year’s event. View the official preview here.

InstallerSHOW takes place at the NEC, Birmingham from 25th-27th June. Entry and parking are completely free. Get your ticket here.

ENTRNCE helps Oxford Brookes explore 24/7 carbon-free energy using powerful simulation tool

As part of its push towards Net Zero, Oxford Brookes University is investigating credible routes to achieving 24/7 carbon-free energy (CFE) across its estate.

In partnership with technology innovator ENTRNCE, the university has simulated various scenarios in which a mixture of onsite and contracted energy could match the university’s electricity consumption with carbon-free electricity sources, every 30 minutes of every day.

The pioneering research was informed by ENTRNCE’s Matcher; a powerful data platform which aligns realtime electricity demand with clean energy sources.

Clean energy ‘score’

ENTRNCE’s analysis provides full transparency of Oxford Brookes’ energy consumption.

The Matcher platform analyses how well consumption has historically been met by carbon-free energy sources, every 30 minutes – giving the University’s energy team a clean energy ‘score’.

Following initial analysis, ENTRNCE used the Matcher to model different clean energy scenarios. This provides valuable insight and data to establish if investments in additional clean tech will move the University closer to 24/7 CFE. For Oxford Brookes, the results reveal an optimum mix of locally-sourced corporate PPAs (wind and solar), onsite renewables and energy storage.

24/7 CFE as the gold standard

24/7 CFE has not yet been achieved by any large organisation. However, it is

emerging as an exemplar for decarbonisation strategies – with significant precedence in the USA. For example, Microsoft,

Google and the United States Government (the nation’s largest energy user) have all committed to 24/7 CFE by 2030.

Oxford Brookes’ 24/7 CFE project gives the University information on its energy sourcing at an extremely granular level. This is in marked contrast to the common approach to clean energy procurement, which sees organisations securing “100% renewable” tariffs from retailers. In these instances, the electricity supplied is a mixture of clean and dirty grid electricity, labelled as “green” through the purchase of Renewable Energy Guarantee of Origin (REGO) certificates. REGObacked tariffs have come under fire for being “greenwashed”, prompting a government review into improving transparency. By shifting away from REGObacked tariffs, Oxford Brookes will stay ahead of tightening regulations on carbon reporting, and protect itself from financial risk, as the price of REGOs has skyrocketed in recent years. Whereas REGOs could

be bought for under £1 per MWh in 2019, some industry experts predict that prices will go beyond £40 or £50/ MWh in the coming years.

Jaron Reddy, UK & Ireland Manager at ENTRNCE said:

“We are delighted to support Oxford Brookes University’s first foray into 24/7 carbon-free energy (CFE). Not only does this position the university as a frontrunner on climate action, it gives them the tools they need to limit their exposure to rising REGO costs and volatile wholesale electricity market prices – and prepare for tightening regulation on carbon reporting and greenwashing. This approach sets a fantastic blueprint for other universities to follow.”

Gavin Hodgson, Decarbonisation Strategic Lead at Oxford Brookes University said:

“Oxford Brookes has set an ambitious target to reach Net Zero by 2040. To achieve our ambitions it is important that we

have a clearer understanding of the shape of our consumption portfolio. This allows us to target our investments in clean technologies and optimise our blend of on-site and remote generation renewable energy sources. ENTRNCE’s analysis has given us precise visibility over our carbon emissions and allowed us to simulate a future clean energy mix that will achieve our sustainability goals.”

Paul Spencer, Carbon Reduction Manager at Oxford Brookes University said: We wanted to take a transparent and meaningful approach to carbon reduction – and the gold standard is 24/7 Carbon-Free Energy (CFE), which requires that every kilowatt-hour of electricity consumed be met with carbonfree electricity sources, every hour of every day. The robust data and analysis provided by ENTRNCE is a great first step and will be extremely useful for future energy procurement decision making.”

EGO Power Plus takes battery charging to the next level

Leading battery-powered outdoor power equipment specialist, EGO Power Plus, has launched a trailblazing new charging system to support landscaping and groundscare professionals.

EGO recently added to the PRO X series of hardwearing and powerful tools for professionals within its product portfolio, including a chainsaw, hedge trimmers, brush cutters, line trimmers and mowers. It has also developed a next-generation battery charging solution to ensure that these robust products always have the power they need to work throughout the day.

Andrew Frohock, Product Manager at EGO, said: “Groundscare, gardening

and facilities management professionals need complete confidence that their batterypowered tools can succeed at the longest and toughest tasks. Using our unique position as a pioneer in all-electric outdoor equipment, we have developed

a new system that gives users incredible flexibility, whether that is charging high numbers of batteries overnight, or finding solutions for charging portable batteries out in the field.”

EGO’s PGX™ Professional Charging system is a flexible

charging solution that scales to meet the specific needs of any business. The system is powered by the PGX1600E-H 1600W Charging Hub, which runs off any standard electrical outlet, meaning no electrical infrastructure upgrade is required.

A modular system, PGX allows for each user to adapt it to their specific power needs. The PGX1600H Hub connects to any combination of up to 30 PGX3000D 3-Port Docks, or PGX1400PB Power Banks (available separately), to provide charging power to 90 battery ports. The system manages charging intelligently, meaning all batteries can be charged without the need for manual intervention. The charging power means that the PGX system can effectively charge up to 70 EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries, or up

to 250Ah of battery capacity overnight (in 12hrs).

The 1600W Hub and PGX3000D 3-Port Docks securely mount to the wall via steel-reinforced screw through-holes and are both E-Track-compatible via the PGX™ Commercial Charging E-Track Mounting Kit (available separately) unlocking the potential for invehicle charging for all EGO batteries, via a single power connection. Lockable battery ports provide peace of mind that the platform remains safe on the jobsite while integrated connectivity allows users to monitor and control when they charge and provides peace of mind that power will be available when it is needed.

When disconnected from the PGX Hub, the PGX1400PB is a portable Power Bank that allows users to transport their energy

Sustainability

to the jobsite, and recharge their portable batteries, wherever and whenever they need to. With the energy stored in the new EGO HC2240T 40Ah Battery, from EGO’s new High-Capacity platform, the Power Bank utilises highefficiency DC: DC charging to pass this power to 2 700W charging ports, compatible with all EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries, for fast on site, off-grid charging. Both are available from Summer 2024.

“Creating a new charging system around our existing battery technology gives gardening and groundscare professionals the configurability they need. Now they have the tools, and the battery platform to comfortably keep them working all day.”

For more information on the new PRO X series from EGO, visit; www.egopowerplus.co.uk.

University of East London reduces carbon emissions in first stage of net zero strategy

The University of East London (UEL) has reduced its carbon emissions by 10 percent in phase one of its new net zero strategy

UEL partnered with Siemens to develop and deliver the strategy, designed to improve energy efficiency and renewable integration

Siemens and UEL to cocreate a ‘Living Lab’ to help embed sustainability into course curriculums

The University of East London (UEL) has reduced its carbon emissions by 10 percent from its 2020/21 baseline to 2022/23 in the first phase of its new net zero strategy, putting the organisation on track to achieve its 2030 net-zero target.

The University of East London (UEL) has reduced its carbon emissions by 10 per cent

UEL partnered with leading technology company Siemens to develop the strategy, which included a roadmap to reduce carbon emissions across the university’s campuses

in the London Docklands and Stratford, which are home to 25,000 students.

The first major step towards energy and therefore emission reduction on campus was through the installation of LED lighting in all buildings and upgrades to all building management system controllers.

As part of the second phase, Siemens is installing technologies across the University’s campuses which will help it to decarbonise its

energy consumption. This includes the installation of approximately 2MW of solar photovoltaics (PV), which is estimated to generate 1.2 GWh of zero carbon electricity a year, and the installation of 27 electric charging points at the University’s Docklands Campus, which will go live in the next month. UEL estimates that 90 percent of this zero carbon energy will be consumed across the University’s campuses, with the remainder exported to the National Grid.

UEL partnered with technology company Siemens to develop a roadmap to reduce carbon emissions across its campuses

Siemens is helping UEL to develop a ‘Living Lab’, embedding sustainability across the University’s courses

Siemens will also support UEL in creating a ‘Living Lab’ to embed sustainability across the University’s course curriculums and provide realtime data allowing students to develop the skills they need to succeed in a green economy.

Faye Bowser, Vice President for the Higher Education Vertical at Siemens, said:

“Our partnership with UEL will support the University in meeting its net zero targets, providing a structured roadmap to cut carbon emissions across both campuses.

“We’ve already made significant progress over the last 12 months and the next phase will focus on installing more new renewable energy assets on-site to support sustainable generation.

“True partnership and collaboration are key to this success, and that goes beyond decarbonisation. Achieving a net zero economy also depends on developing the right talent for the future, and

we’re making the data from our work available to students to inform their studies and equip them with the knowledge and skills they will need to thrive in the green economy.”

Professor Amanda Broderick, Vice Chancellor and President, University of East London, added: “Our long-term partnership with Siemens is central to our commitment to becoming a national decarbonisation leader, and providing a global blueprint for urban sustainability. We have already delivered significant carbon reduction savings and reduced both our emissions and energy consumption more than any other modern

university in London, thanks to state-of-the-art energy generation technology.

“And, importantly, our ‘Living Lab’ will provide our students, researchers and local businesses an inclusive place to test, research and commercialise green technology in a real-world environment, with access to the latest developments in smart technology to empower our students to become sustainability leaders of the future.”

For more information on Siemens Smart Infrastructure, please see: Siemens Smart Infrastructure

The Public Sector Sustainability Association (PSSA) provides a professional association and network for all those working in the Public Sector who have a common interest in sustainability.

For more information on joining, please visit www.pssa.info

OCS Secures Contract Extension with Birmingham Airport

The renowned international facilities management company, OCS, has successfully secured a two-year contract extension to continue delivering essential cleaning services at Birmingham Airport. The scope of these services encompasses not only the airport terminals but also various other buildings, including external areas, winter gritting for terminal surroundings, washroom hygiene, and highlevel window cleaning.

This contract extension is a direct result of OCS’s consistent service delivery to Birmingham Airport. Through a robust and collaborative partnership with the airport, OCS has demonstrated flexibility and cost-consciousness, positioning themselves as the ideal long-term solution for the airport’s premises.

Building upon their previous five-year contract (which began in May 2019), OCS will now continue their services until April 2026. Notably, during the initial contract, OCS introduced robotics into their service package, providing an innovative and efficient solution.

Furthermore, this extension expands the

contract’s scope, creating additional employment opportunities with a focus on recruiting from the local Birmingham area. OCS remains committed to maintaining exceptional service standards while contributing positively to the airport’s operations and community.

“We are pleased to extend our partnership with OCS. The company’s consistent service delivery and flexibility have been instrumental in maintaining the high standards we expect at Birmingham Airport. This sustained working relationship

ensures that our passengers and facilities continue to benefit from OCS’s expertise.”

Deane Arnold, Birmingham Airport Terminal Operations Manager

“We are thrilled to continue our successful partnership with Birmingham Airport. This contract extension reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional services and maintaining a positive working relationship.”

Richard Marshall, OCS Sector Managing Director, Transport

Building & Facilities Management editorial content covers all the major FM areas of interest within the workplace and the built environment.

This includes industry developments, company news, case studies and application stories, product news as well as articles from leading authorities within the marketplace.

To find out more information about BFM Magazine or to subscribe, please visit www.bfmmagazine.co.uk

Cleaning & Hygiene

Hot off the press: New Jangro catering & hospitality catalogue

Jangro, the largest network of independent janitorial distributors in the UK and Ireland, is proud to present its new Catering & Hospitality Supplies 2024/25 catalogue. Boasting a fresh new look, the latest edition is the ultimate caterer’s companion, offering a wide range of quality brands and choice at competitive prices.

Enabling establishments to keep up to date with trends, the catalogue offers all the equipment and supplies required to stir up positive customer experiences. From front of house to back of house, casual to fine dining, the latest crockery and table presentations to environmentally friendly catering disposables, Jangro’s new Catering & Hospitality 2024/25 catalogue has it all.

Jangro is committed to becoming a more sustainable business and helping its

customers reach their own green goals. This new edition, therefore, offers a plethora of eco-conscious products, from food packaging containers, which are recyclable, compostable, and fully biodegradable, to Jangro’s awardwinning and innovative ntrl range of vegan cleaning solutions.

The ntrl portfolio comprises 13 products ideal for cleaning surfaces in a variety of environments, from kitchens through to washrooms. Registered with The Vegan Society’s Vegan Trademark, all formulas are 100% biodegradable, contain zero petrochemicals, and can reduce the product’s carbon footprint by up to 85%.

Jo Gilliard, CEO of Jangro, comments, ‘For catering and hospitality businesses, creating a great impression is as crucial as the gastronomic delights served. Front of house presentation sets the stage for the customer’s entire

experience, whilst back of house provides the foundation. What’s more, today’s consumers seek establishments that resonate with their values, particularly in terms of environmental practices.

‘Providing an exceptional customer experience, making sustainable choices, whilst also balancing a budget is a delicate juggle – our new Catering & Hospitality Supplies 2024/25 catalogue has been curated to help businesses strike this balance.’

The catalogue features all the essentials required for catering, leisure and hospitality businesses – including kitchen hygiene, utensils and equipment, cleaning chemicals, tableware and glassware, washroom supplies, work wear, janitorial and waste management.

For more information, or to order a free copy visit Jangro. net or call 01204 795 955.

Building & Facilities Management editorial content covers all the major FM areas of interest within the workplace and the built environment.

This includes industry developments, company news, case studies and application stories, product news as well as articles from leading authorities within the marketplace.

To find out more information about BFM Magazine or to subscribe, please visit www.bfmmagazine.co.uk

BECOME A CORPORATE MEMBER OF THE PSSA

The Public Sector Sustainability Association (PSSA) provides a professional association and network for all those working in the Public Sector who have a common interest in sustainability. The aim of the association is to bring together a wide group of people working across all areas of the Public Sector – to help educate, train, support and connect as we work towards a more sustainable future.

Becoming a Corporate Member of the Public Sector Sustainability Association highlights your organisations commitment to sustainability and offers a unique platform to reach our membership of committed and influential sustainability professionals in Government, Local Authorities, NHS, Education and Housing Associations. The PSSA offers a single level of Corporate Membership, providing a fantastic opportunity to gain recognition and exposure with our Public Sector membership.

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

• Comprehensive listing in Suppliers Directory

• Unlimited opportunity to supply press releases, articles & news to feature on PSSA website

• One release for inclusion in monthly Newsletter

• Opportunity to promote your own events/webinars/training courses to PSSA members

• Logo on PSSA homepage as ‘Corporate Member’ of the PSSA

• Introductory email sent to our members as the latest Corporate Member of the PSSA

• Logo - ‘Corporate Member of the PSSA’ to use on your own websites/materials

• Potential to conduct research/surveys through the PSSA

• 3 x Full Page Advertisements within either Energy Manager magazine or Building & Facilities Management magazine

• 2 x Advertising Banners to appear on the PSSA Newsletter

WHAT DOES IT COST

The current rate to become a Corporate Member of the PSSA is £1,495+VAT per annum.

Interested in becoming a Corporate Member of the PSSA? Get in touch today - call us on 01933 316931 or email us at corporate@pssa.info