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INSIDE GREAT BRITISH ENERGY: BRITAIN’S NEW STATE-OWNED POWER PLAYER
Fancy cheaper energy bills, cleaner water, and less guilt about that vacation flight you’ve got planned?
With its approach to energy production poised to transform, the UK seems to have its eyes locked on achieving its ambitious 2030 net zero grid target.
At the heart of this mission is none other than Great British Energy: a new nationalised energy entity headquartered in Scotland, for which the legislative blueprint has just been revealed by the Labour government.
Focusing on technologies such as offshore wind, this publicly owned company aims to speed up investment in renewable, clean energy – a transition which also aims to gradually reduce costs for consumers.
Legislative Blueprint and Goals
Recently confirmed in King’s Speech, The Great British Energy Bill is designed to ensure energy independence and support the production of sustainable aviation fuel.
The bill also includes measures to improve water quality and strengthen the authority of the water regulator, reflecting a holistic approach to environmental sustainability.
The new energy company will not operate as a traditional energy supplier, but will serve as an investment vehicle, driving the development of renewable energy sources.
This initiative is part of Labour’s broader green prosperity plan, which includes a £5 billion annual investment to support renewable energy projects and create thousands of green jobs.
Imagine your next job interview including the question, “So, how many wind turbines have you managed?”
Political and Economic Implications
The plan has faced criticism from figures such as Jeremy Hunt, the Shadow Chancellor, who argues that nationalisation efforts could lead to increased union influence, more strikes, and higher costs for taxpayers.
Hunt has also warned that publiclyowned utilities might necessitate taxpayer bailouts, reflecting concerns about fiscal responsibility.
Despite these criticisms, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has defended the measures, outlining the need for growth and reform in the planning system in her arguments.
Labour claims that GB Energy will cut energy bills by £300 a year per household by 2030, as well as: create hundreds of thousands of jobs; help decarbonise UK power, and; make the UK energy independent, thereby enhancing energy security.
Funding and Scale
The government has pledged an initial £8.3 billion capital investment in GB Energy, a figure that some experts argue needs to be significantly higher to achieve meaningful impact.
According to the Trade Union Congress (TUC), scaling up the company will require £61-£82 billion of investment between 2025 and 2035. Mathew Lawrence, director of the think tank Common Wealth, stresses that achieving these goals will require substantial scale.
Operational Strategy
GB Energy’s operational strategy involves partnerships with the private sector to drive investment in emerging technologies, such as floating offshore wind and tidal power.
This approach aims to derisk new technologies and attract private investment, leveraging public funds to stimulate innovation.
The company will also support local energy projects through the Local Power Plan, which involves developing renewable energy projects in partnership with local authorities and communities.
This initiative is expected to generate
up to 8GW of energy and provide significant local benefits, including job creation and community investment (think of it as the local bake sale, but instead of cupcakes, you get clean energy).
Challenges and Opportunities
At the time of writing, the energy sector’s response to GB Energy has been mixed. While some industry leaders are supportive, provided the new company does not receive special treatment in state auctions, others have stressed the need to focus on eliminating barriers that private companies face.
For instance, the development of new technologies and infrastructure should complement, not compete with, private sector efforts (sort of like playing nice in the sandbox, but with billion-dollar toys).
One of the key challenges for GB Energy will be managing the transition to renewable energy without significantly increasing energy bills. Although renewable energy sources have lower running costs once established, the price of initial investment and infrastructure development costs will be substantial.
The goal is to reach a point where the long-term savings from reduced gas consumption offset these initial costs.
Great British Energy: The Future of UK’s Energy Independence?
The success of GB Energy will depend on its ability to attract substantial investment, manage operational challenges, and deliver tangible benefits to consumers and the broader economy.
As the UK sets out on this hopeful endeavour, one question remains: how will GB Energy reshape the future of the nation, and can it deliver on its promise to create a sustainable, affordable, and secure energy system for all? https://ngpltd.co.uk/
NATIONAL GAS METERING’S HYDROGEN NETWORKING EVENT: ADVANCING CLEAN ENERGY INNOVATION
National Gas Metering (NGM) took a significant step forward in promoting the future of clean energy by hosting a two-day hydrogen event at Tyseley Energy Park (TEP), Birmingham. This also showcased their new line of hydrogen services “hydrogen solutions by ngm”.
The event brought together experts from across the energy sector to discuss, collaborate, and explore the latest advancements in hydrogen technology, all while experiencing hands-on demonstrations in a unique setting.
A key highlight of the event was NGM’s “worlds first” hydrogen powered kitchen, the first fully operational commercial kitchen powered entirely by clean hydrogen technology. The event was catered by Falcon Foodservice Equipment, showcasing the practical use of hydrogen in a commercial kitchen environment, where innovation met sustainability.
The first day was rich with expert insights. Esteemed speakers included Clare Jackson from Hydrogen UK, Victoria Mustard from National Grid – ESO soon to be the National System Energy Operator (NESO), and David Hardman from National Gas Transmission who shared their perspectives on the future role of hydrogen in the evolving energy landscape. The sessions were followed by a networking lunch, giving attendees the opportunity to discuss and collaborate.
Afterward, participants were treated to guided tours of NGM’s Hydrogen Kitchen and other cutting-edge hydrogen facilities at TEP, where they witnessed Birmingham’s role in driving clean energy innovation.
On the second day, the focus shifted to the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) study, a collaborative discussion between NGM and DNV. The conversations centred around the role of hydrogen alongside electrification, future funding
opportunities, and the potential of a comprehensive hydrogen network in the UK. These sessions provided valuable insights into hydrogen’s long-term impact on the energy transition and highlighted the critical collaborations necessary to accelerate hydrogen adoption.
The event, expertly led by NGM’s Chris Wood and Phill Burbidge, was a resounding success, fostering important discussions and forging new partnerships in the hydrogen sector. As NGM continues to lead in the development of hydrogen solutions, we remain committed to advancing the clean energy transition through innovation and collaboration.
For more information on hydrogen solutions by ngm visit their website at https://metering.nationalgas.com/ services/hydrogen-services or follow National Gas Metering’s linked in page at https://www.linkedin.com/company/ national-gas-metering.
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ENABLING
GREAT BRITISH ENERGYA zero-carbon grid requires specific technologies to ensure
As part of Labour’s plan to boost the UK’s renewable energy production, ‘Great British Energy’ will see the production of a greater number of floating offshore wind farms and tidal power projects. However, for these technologies to be a success, it’s essential to have the right enabling mechanisms in place. Here, Mike Torbitt, managing director of resistor manufacturer Cressall, explains the role of resistor technology in making GB Energy a success.
While the exact details about what GB Energy will involve are still uncertain, we can paint a pretty good picture of it from the current information at hand. Starmer’s government intends to invest £8.3 billion of funding into a new, publicly owned green power company as part of wider energy security and sustainability goals.
Delving into GB Energy
GB Energy will work with the private sector to provide investment into emerging energy technologies like green hydrogen, floating offshore windfarms and tidal power. It will also scale investment into existing renewable technologies like onshore wind and solar power. By boosting the UK’s renewable energy power, GB Energy is projected to create 650,000 new jobs across the UK, lower energy bills, increase energy security and create a zero-carbon energy system to the UK by 2030. Labour has pledged to establish GB Energy within its first few months of parliament by passing a new Energy Independence Act, meaning we could see GB Energy materialise by the end of the year.
reliability
While the benefits of transitioning to a 100 per cent zero-carbon energy system are abundantly clear, there are certain logistical and technological considerations to make to eliminate fossil fuels from the energy system completely.
The challenges of renewables
Whether it’s energy from the Sun, sea or wind, renewables have one thing in common – their input energy is extremely variable. For tidal and wind projects, the turbines work in a very similar way, so manufacturers must ensure they can safely manage what can often be high and unpredictable surges of power.
There may be times where winds or waves are so strong that high inrush currents occur. These can result in overvoltages in the system, leading to component damage, or even failure in extreme cases. When renewables like these make up the entire energy system, preventing component failure from scenarios that we know will occur at some point is essential to continuity of supply.
As renewable resources grow in sophistication, it is vital that other systems also keep pace in order to effectively manage the power they create.
Getting in control
Overvoltage issues can be remedied by using resistor technologies, which all work by limiting or regulating the flow of electronic current in a circuit. Depending on the specific renewable application, there are different solutions to prevent overvoltages.
For tidal turbines, a dynamic braking resistor (DBR) can be integrated into the generation and control circuit to protect against any excess power generated by strong currents. Cressall’s EV2 advanced, water-cooled resistor is designed for these applications. The range is modular, so multiple resistors can be combined to handle power outputs up to one Megawatt. The EV2 also boasts an IP56 ingress protection rating, making it able to withstand harsh marine environments and suitable for tidal turbine applications. In wind turbines, overvoltages are avoided by using a pre-insertion resistor (PIR). Insulated for the full system voltage, PIRs like Cressall’s mitigate against temporary overvoltages, such as those caused by exceptionally strong winds. They also absorb and control transient magnetising currents within transformers throughout the network. This control helps keep voltages consistent with minimal dips, reducing potential disturbances for users of the power network.
While the specifics of GB Energy are still yet to be announced, a fully renewable energy grid is certainly on the cards in the coming years. The industry will need to consider the importance of having the right technology in place to deal with the challenges that renewables bring, and make green energy a viable system nationwide. For more information on Cressall’s resistor solutions for renewable applications, please visit https://www.cressall.com/
FOCUS ON DELIVERING VALUE
FOR A SUCCESSFUL AND SUSTAINABLE TOMORROW
To engineer a more efficient, safer and sustainable world you need the right steam and thermal energy partner. Whatever your key drivers, Spirax Sarco have you covered.
3D SOLID-STATE BATTERIES: THE BATTLE FOR THE SKIES, THE ROADS, AND BEYOND
Concluding in December last year, the most recent UN climate change conference – or COP 28 – closed with an “agreement that signals the ‘beginning of the end’ of the fossil fuel era by laying the ground for a swift, just and equitable transition, underpinned by deep emissions cuts and scaled-up finance”.
Cynics might raise an eyebrow while voicing the well-worn idiom that they’ll “believe it when they see it”.
Such a reaction is understandable; it feels like we’ve been here before. Many, many times.
But the tide is turning when it comes to battery technology, and it’s turning at the right time: consumer demand for sustainable technologies in travel, healthcare and daily life is surging, and the need for ecofriendly, high-performance batteries has never been more critical.
The shared aspiration of specialists in this sector is to accelerate electrification by addressing the many needs of the market with superior energy density performance batteries. Range anxiety being a good example of why some are nervous to adopt electric vehicles, alongside ease of charging and of course cost. So a cost-competitive and sustainable battery with superior performance is what everybody wants. This must come with no compromise to safety, and must match the life of existing products in use (which will typically outlast the life of a vehicle).
But how do we get there?
Founded in 2020, LionVolt is among the companies that are rising to this challenge. And it all revolves around innovative 3D structured lithium-metal anodes.
Let’s first take a look at how the current lithium-ion technology works and then dive into lithium-metal anodes and the benefits these may bring, what their potential applications are, and what the hurdles are on the pathway to widespread adoption.
Kevin Brundish, Chief Executive Officer, LionVolt
TODAY’S LITHIUMION TECHNOLOGY
The go-to product in widespread use today is the lithium-ion battery. Given the move to electrification in many industries, including automotive, this technology is being rapidly developed to improve energy density, allowing extended range for vehicles and longer times in between charges for consumer electronics items such as phones and laptops.
A typical lithium-ion battery cell has historically used a lithium based compound in one of the two electrodes (the cathode), and a carbon based material in the other (the anode). To pack even more energy into these cells means changing these materials for more energetic alternatives.
Over the years, substantial work has been done on the lithium compound – the cathode – whereas the carbon based electrode – the anode – has remained relatively unchanged. But that is changing.
Newer anodes which introduce materials such as silicon doped carbon compounds, have been developed, but even these are just evolutions of the historical design. A more revolutionary approach is required, which is why the industry is now looking to swap out the carbon material entirely and replace it with a higher performing alternative. Lithium-metal anodes are seen as one of the most promising contenders to achieve exactly this.
LITHIUM-METAL ANODES: BENEFITS AND APPLICATIONS
The emerging solution now being considered is a new anode material, with pure lithium-metal materials being one of the frontrunners.
B.V.
How do they compare to traditional lithium-ion batteries and their carbonbased anodes?
Well, it’s hard to do justice to the science in a short article, but it hinges the fact that lithium metal has around 10 times more energy capacity than the original carbon based materials. By utilising this anode material, substantially more energy can be packed into the same volume or material weight, boosting the energy density of the battery cell.
A lithium-metal based anode could be used in a conventional cell as a drop in replacement for the carbon based anode, and give an uplift in energy of around 1.5 times. However, lithiummetal based battery cells face challenges of relatively low charging speed and low life, so there have to be some changes in the cell design to manage this.
Companies such as LionVolt are working on different methods to tackle these challenges. The approach of LionVolt is to apply a 3D structure on the anode, which is one of the few solutions that overcomes both the challenge of low charging speed and the challenge of low life. This makes a lithium-metal anode a practical reality. And, as a drop in solution that can be made for a similar cost per kwh, we can continue to enjoy the trends of price reduction being seen across the industry.
What’s more, there’s also considerable potential for the LionVolt approach in next generation solutions such as solid state and sodium (salt) batteries. Solid state offers even higher energy densities and significantly greater safety, but requires a metal anode –such as a LionVolt 3D lithium anode – that can deliver the performance
and life for an affordable price. Sodiumion cells offer a great alternative to lithium-ion; as sodium is more widely available it is more sustainable, cheaper and has properties which make it safer. However sodium-ion cells are lower in energy density than lithium ion cells, and therefore need the performance benefit of a new anode material such as a sodium anode – a further application of the LionVolt 3D anode approach.
But whatever the material used, not only do new anode technologies increase today’s range, they can be ‘dropped into’ the existing supply chain. And, in the case of LionVolt – which is based in Eindhoven in the Netherlands – almost 80 percent of the supply chain needed for the production line can be sourced locally.
So what can these batteries actually be used in?
Well, anything that needs power is a potential candidate for this technology. Initial activity, though, is focused on enabling advancements in electric vehicles (EVs), consumer electronics
(including the fast growing consumer wearables segment), and even electric aviation. All share the twin objectives of increasing range or device time and charging more quickly – on top of doing so at less cost to the planet.
In the case of EVs, for example, the greatly increased energy density of these cells means that drivers can travel in excess of 800 km on a single 15-minute charge – this represents approximately four times the ability of traditional batteries.
And it’s only a matter of time before planes get a piece of the action, perhaps first via a hybrid approach that sees engineers unload the propulsion engine or improve efficiencies even further than those available today.
HURDLES
While the next generation of batteries is starting to meet the growing demand for green energy storage in various sectors, full-scale uptake is being hampered
by a range of factors, including inertia, ignorance, and the continued dominance of oil and the internal combustion engine.
But the transition to a low-carbon economy is good for governments keen to improve and demonstrate sustainability initiatives. So its acceleration could be facilitated by these same governments, whether through grants, infrastructural investment or tax breaks. Savvy private investors might also see the opportunities that this technology brings to their portfolios. Also taking into account that the replacement potential of next generation batteries is vast. As such, the lithium-ion battery cell market value is forecasted to total USD 400 bn per annum in 2030.
By making such better-performing, more durable and more sustainable batteries for multiple applications, this methodology can tangibly contribute to the clean energy transition – something that readers can be a part of and which the world is watching. https://lionvolt.com/
Putting the App into Happy Housing
The smart way to meter, measure and manage energy resources for Councils and residents alike.
What’s the simplest way for you to offer residents a simple but secure opportunity to pay for their gas or electric? The smartest solution undoubtedly comes from Energy Controls; making it easy for customers to pay for their energy while they’re relaxing at home
And it couldn’t be more straightforward or more rewarding.
Pay-As-You-Go
Whether you’re looking to streamline your energy overheads with automated meter readings or get paid upfront using the latest prepayment system, Energy Controls has the products and expertise to help. They have a fully hosted, web-based software solution linked to market-leading Payment Platform that enables property managers to offer tenants a simple 'Pay-As-You-Go' solution for making energy payments
Energy Controls’ award-winning SMART meters are ideal for all types of sub-metering applications, ranging from blocks of flats to travellers sites and social Housing
Business Booster
Energy Controls have been trading for 33 years and are now the leading Supplier of prepayment metering systems to the Landlord sector.
They have invested heavily in an IT infrastructure that delivers a secure, reliable and robust online payment solution which in turn gives the Council and residents alike immediate access to their energy usage data around the clock.
Energy top-up payments can be made online anytime from anywhere using the FREE App
“The prepayment opportunity that our SMART Meters offer our customers provides an instant boost to cash flow” Chris Smith,
Managing Director
• Get paid upfront for your energy supplies
• T Tenants can Top-up online or via our FREE app
• Cashless money transfers directly into your bank
• E Emergency Credit feature
• Remote disconnect/reconnect of power supplies
Accurate Data
The Energy Controls’ SMART meter portal enables Property Managers and tenants to monitor their energy usage trends, on the go from anywhere and at anytime.
Our online payment platform integrates seamlessly with PayPoint to allow users to top up their meters securely, online or using our FREE App A variety of energy usage and financial reports are generated automatically and are sent directly to customers on a regular basis.
Happy Customers
But you don’t have to take Chris’s word for it. Simply read what the Gypsy and Traveller Team Manager for West Sussex County Council had to say:
“Working with Energy Controls, we have introduced a new cashless PayPoint system for the SMART meters at our Traveller Sites. This system has been a huge improvement for the Council because not only does this mean our staff no longer have to handle cash, the PayPoint service gives our residents greater flexibility and independence. I would not hesitate in recommending Energy Controls and their products and services.”
The Manager at Southend YMCA went even further:
"Energy Controls supply 21st century thinking and a great web based service, with lots of useful functions, allowing you to see how much energy has been consumed on an individual basis. We highly recommend Energy Controls to any business. The whole experience of having the latest metering system installed was too good to be true and very straightforward.”
SMARTER FOR BUSINESS
Adrian
Barber from Prefect Controls investigates the
broader benefits of smart buildings on business performance.
The evolution of smart buildings sees the integration of IoT devices sensing, monitoring and controlling environmental conditions. The internet enables Information exchange with other devices. Intermediate interfaces present, interpret, and analyse data. This helps us to understand performance for many aspects including access, use, heating, and safety, to name a few.
Student accommodation is an unusual type of commercial residence, compared with other multi-occupancy property, such as residential flats or hotels. For example, occupancy patterns are different. Hotels rooms are frequently visited by house-keeping teams who monitor their condition, while occupiers of residential flats have a vested interest, in the case of heating, to manage their environment, balancing comfort with economy.
For managers of student rooms, their estate is dense, there is a lack of visibility. Without regular access to rooms, assessing conditions is impossible. It may appear that the building is performing effectively, but just because there are no complaints, doesn’t mean there aren’t any issues!
Student accommodation is a prime example of smart technology delivering many benefits. One advantage – managing and reducing energy consumption. Energy teams can see what is being used where and when and create efficiency strategies. But smart technology is not all about energy, carbon, and sustainability.
The promise of central collation and interpretation of quantitative and/ or qualitative data helps to build strong business cases to install equipment that makes buildings perform more effectively. Broadening the scope of a smart system and providing multi-faceted data should encourage buy-in from other parties –
Health and Safety, Maintenance, Welfare, Operations, etc. not to mention investors.
In practical quantitative terms, value is straightforward to identify. Indisputable, robust figures prove energy and water consumption. The measuring of which unveils space and water heating data. Adjustments made to temperatures and timings, will feed savings straight onto the bottom line.
Analysis that has the intention of making savings, doesn’t have to conclude that energy use should be restricted though. Better information will help to identify waste. If waste is targeted, the quest to make savings by restricting energy use is diminished, therefore, there should be no detrimental effect on the comfort of residents. Evidence from smart control has proven that heating load can be reduced by 50% per room simply by cutting waste.
More indeterminate, but equally of value, is smart technology’s qualitative data that through monitoring and control, delivers time and financial efficiencies, but also wellbeing benefits.
On a catastrophic scale, imagine a kitchen fire, caused by an unwatched pan or, undetected escape of water – each potentially causing millions of pounds of damage. Use of smart tech would limit/prevent such occurrences. Insurance companies are increasingly interested in proactively reducing risk with such applications.
Less dramatically, temperature data collected from water pipes
saves on labour cost, eliminating the need to visit every tap to flush the system. Simultaneously, evidence is logged, proving Legionella water safety plan criteria is met.
Occupancy data helps with maintenance scheduling. Knowing when rooms are empty, means work can be carried out efficiently and conveniently.
Humidity data identifies room conditions that could promote damp and the growth of mould. Quick action will prevent the worsening of the situation.
Tighter water temperature control obviously has a financial benefit, but monitoring also can present alerts of overheating and the potential for scolding.
Smart building systems provide access to better information and encourage more efficient management practices. ESG strategies also benefit. Businesses that can prove their environmental impact, social awareness and ethical behaviour credentials are more attractive and improve their reputation with employees, customers, supply chain, and of course investors. www.prefectcontrols.com
WHAT IS DISTRIBUTED ENERGY AND WHY DOES IT MATTER NOW MORE THAN EVER?
With energy resilience high on the policy agenda for the new government, John Behan, CEO of AMPYR Distributed Energy (ADE), discusses the pivotal role that distributed energy and private finance will play in the energy system of the future.
The energy landscape is changing at a rapid pace and, for businesses, the need to decarbonise is driven by both commercial and compliance considerations. It’s not just a cost concern, but also about mitigating supply risks and creating long-term certainty in a disrupted market. Add into this growing sustainability pressure from stakeholders and the conversation moves from embracing best practice to ‘do it or be left behind’.
According to Energy Secretary Ed Milliband, “the only way to protect ourselves as a country for the longterm is to deliver cleaner, cheaper, homegrown energy – boosting our energy independence, creating jobs and tackling the climate crisis.” Indeed, as we move away from large-scale centralised generation to a more fragmented decentralised model, distributed energy will take centre stage.
But what is distributed energy, how is it helping to address concerns over resilience, supply security, compliance and decarbonisation, and why is it considered such a gamechanger in an energy landscape now giving decarbonisation a sense of urgency not previously seen?
WHAT IS DISTRIBUTED ENERGY?
Distributed energy is the name given to energy generated onsite, or close to
where it will be used. It includes rooftop and ground mounted solar panels, as well as wind turbines and battery storage. Such resources have an important role to play in the energy landscape of the future and can be used to improve system reliability and reduce overall energy costs.1 Siting energy generation near where it will be used also reduces transmission losses, mitigates the need for future grid upgrades and enables the rapid deployment of renewables.
HOW CAN DISTRIBUTED ENERGY HELP BUSINESSES?
Decarbonising operations and accelerating towards net zero is fast becoming a board-level business priority. Amid energy price volatility, rent hikes, supply chain disruptions and rising inflation, businesses are looking for sustainable, funded solutions to streamline the balance sheet.
To accelerate progress, earlier this year policymakers removed planning permissions surrounding flat roofs, as well as scrapping the 1MW restriction for industrial rooftop solar and relaxing planning around solar canopies on car parks. With the new government looking to fast-track greener energy adoptions and electrifying the grid, the emphasis on tripling the adoption of solar by 2030 has really put the opportunity for
onsite generation front and centre for businesses looking to decarbonise. The fact that it can now be achieved with no upfront costs could be a game changer.
Distributed energy offers several business-critical advantages. It not only helps to reduce energy costs (in some cases by up to 50%)2 and lower carbon emissions, but also supports business resilience by reducing reliance on centralised energy supply. Thanks to the availability of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), an agreement that sees renewable energy generation technology installed by a provider and sold to a customer at a cost-effective fixed price, distributed energy is affordable and easy to implement. What’s more, it delivers these benefits almost immediately.
WHERE IS DISTRIBUTED ENERGY MOST BENEFICIAL?
Any business where there is available rooftop space can take advantage of rooftop solar, the fastest growing and most accessible form of onsite generation. In fact, there are several sectors where energy use is high, such as industrial centres and warehousing, and so is the potential for onsite generation.
We are engaged with a wide range of businesses, from sports stadia and conference centres to distribution hubs and factories, all keen to harness 2 https://bit.ly/EM-OCT-AMPYR
the benefits of onsite generation. The primary concerns of course are how much will it cost and what the risks might be. When funded by the PPA model, for example, there are no upfront costs, making adoption of renewable energy technologies much more accessible for many.
One sector that has already identified an industry-wide opportunity for solar is the warehouse sector, which is experiencing rapid growth. The UK Warehousing Association’s (UKWA) own research3 identified that UK warehousing has the roof space for up to 15GW of new solar, doubling the UK’s solar PV capacity.
Because the UK’s 20% largest warehouses can provide 75 million square metres of roof space, it helps to avoid the need to develop new land equivalent to the footprint of 500,000 houses. Projected to reduce
energy costs by between 40-80%, the UKWA estimates that in aggregate rooftop solar PV has the potential to save the industry £3 billon per year.
Other energy intensive sectors such as data centres are turning to renewable energy to help decarbonise operations as they come under increasing pressure to operate in a sustainable way.
OVERCOMING RISK
Many businesses may think that going beyond renewable energy procurement, to explore areas such as onsite generation, is too daunting, especially with challenges and barriers around grid connections, capacity, returns, pricing and liabilities.
However, when it comes to distributed energy, the models for deployment have been tried and tested worldwide. At ADE, for example, we have an initial fund of £100m to deploy on projects in the UK and across Europe. What this means in
DISTRIBUTED ENERGY
practice is that businesses can access both the expertise and the funding required to secure a system that is right for them, with no upfront costs.
We understand that businesses don’t want renewable energy installations to be a liability, so having a partner that goes far beyond just the acquisition and installation of renewable energy assets and looks for ways to drive optimal performance and value – year in, year out, is going to be critical.
MAKING DISTRIBUTED ENERGY SYSTEMS WORK HARD FOR BUSINESS
Ultimately, onsite generation, when done well, can save organisations money, increase energy security, increase business competitiveness and ensure compliance… all while ensuring a better world for us all.
To find out how accessible distributed energy systems are in the UK, visit www.ampyrde.com
UNLOCKING PUBLIC SECTOR DECARBONISATION FUNDING
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and its delivery partner Salix has announced the launch of Phase 4 of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS). I’ve put together a brief breakdown of everything you need to know about the latest scheme and how you can unlock funding for your public sector Net Zero projects.
What funding can I access for my decarbonisation projects?
• The total amount of funding available has not yet been confirmed and is dependent on Spending Review outcomes.
• We’re expecting the application portal to open in mid-October, but – at the time of writing – no firm date has been announced. I’d urge you to make sure you register for updates from Salix. This will ensure that you’re notified when a date is announced.
• You don’t have long to apply once the portal opens. The application portal will close on 25 November 2024. Start gathering information you’ll need for the application now.
• The scheme will run from 2025/26 to 2027/28. This means that any projects funded by Phase 4 PSDS will need to be completed by 31 March 2028. If your application is successful, you should expect a grant offer letter by May 2025.
What are the key changes from previous funding rounds?
• Unlike previous phases, Phase 4 will no longer be first-come, first-served. Instead, funding will be based on the cost to save a tonne of direct1 carbon (£/tCO2eLT) per application.
• Applications will be ranked in order of the cost of carbon and then bucketed into three tiers. The top 30% performing applications will be in the top tier, middle 40% in the second tier, and bottom 30% in the third tier. Applications will be randomised in each tier to
1 Direct carbon emissions are the release of greenhouse gas emissions associated with fossil fuel use. This means that projects that reduce or replace the use of fossil fuels with lower carbon sources of fuel will have a better cost of carbon saved.
Matthew Caville, Senior AdvisorDecarbonisation of Complex Sites at Energy Systems Catapult
determine the final funding allocation with the top tier prioritised.
• Applications must achieve a direct carbon cost below £510 per tCO2eLT. In previous phases, this has been £325 per tCO2e. This opens up opportunities for a broader range of decarbonisation projects. The definition of public sector organisations now aligns with the Procurement Act 20232, potentially impacting the eligibility of higher education institutions. This will typically mean higher education institutions that are either wholly or mainly funded by public funds will be eligible.
What support is available?
We want to help ensure you’re successful in your application for funding. If you work in any area of the public sector, we’ve made a wide range of free Public Sector Decarbonisation Guidance available on our website to support you in developing high quality applications for the PSDS. https://es.catapult.org. uk/tools-and-labs/public-sectordecarbonisation-guidance/ Check out the guidance, toolkits, and templates; I’ve listed some of those that might be of interest. Heat pumps guide: this guide covers the types of heat pumps suitable for non-domestic applications, feasibility considerations and complementary technologies to improve system efficiencies. Examples of alternative electric heating solutions are also provided.
2 In the Procurement Act 2023, a ‘public authority’ is an organisation that is:
1. Wholly or mainly funded by public funds or, 2. Subject to public authority oversight, AND 3. Does not operate on a commercial basis. Higher education institutions are independently governed and therefore will not meet the public authority oversight test therefore to be eligible, a higher education institution must meet the wholly or mainly funded by public funds test.
What the numbers mean: this guide provides a breakdown of the typical types of numbers that are considered best practice to generate as part of your decarbonisation programme and an easy guide on how to interpret them. This will help with getting business cases signed off and applying for Salix Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) funding. Main guidance on Procurement: this guide aims to help you navigate your Net Zero procurement processes with your procurement team. It covers the basics of public sector procurement, why it is important to make the right procurement decisions and helps you to understand the available routes.
What should I do next?
Download the free resources from the our Public Sector Decarbonisation Guidance website. https://es.catapult. org.uk/tools-and-labs/public-sectordecarbonisation-guidance/
Read the application Phase 4 PSDS guidance notes and check your eligibility. This is especially important if you are a higher education institution given the eligibility change to definitions of a public authority under the Procurement Act 2023. https://www.salixfinance. co.uk/schemes/phase-4-publicsector-decarbonisation-scheme
Download the Phase 4 PSDS application form to understand the level and quality of information and data points you will need to gather to make your application, and begin sourcing the information now. Information needed could come from across your origination so it’s advisable to start collating now.
Register for an account on Salix’s website (https://www.salixfinance.co.uk/) and attend Salix’s webinars when they are announced. https://es.catapult.org.uk/
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN AN ENERGY MANAGEMENT PROCUREMENT COMPANY
Scott Barber, VP of I&C, POWWR
For some time now news headlines have been full of stories of how inflation continues to make it difficult for businesses in the public sector and beyond. While it may seem new for businesses to be hyper-focused on cost savings, it is, of course, something they have always been conscious of to a greater of lesser extent. It is that just right now it is getting extra attention.
Energy procurement is one area where public sector businesses are, quite rightly, turning to in a drive to cut down on their costs in their drive to ultimately save money. The process of understanding and managing all the moving parts of energy procurement can be complex and tedious, but it has never been more important to make strategic energy purchases. Thankfully, energy procurement management companies are popping up more and more. They do what they say on the tin and their sole focus is on helping businesses purchase energy more proactively, so the business can make more strategic choices related to their energy usage. It is not a process to be sniffed at. Well-curated supply contracts can result in thousands of pounds in additional supply-side savings. But what is it that a public sector business should be looking for in an energy management procurement company?
RELIABILITY
Of course, energy is central to everything a business does. A power cut generally results in a business being stopped in their tracks. It is important that a business does not get caught short. Make sure that the energy supplier chosen is one that can be trusted. Look at customer reviews and testimonials to see what other businesses think about them. Beyond testimonials, look at the energy procurement strategies they share on their website. Plus, ensure that each strategy is based on solid research and reports from brokers and sellers,
and that as a customer you would have control over the plan on offer.
COST SAVINGS
As we witness an unprecedented global shift towards renewable energy sources, energy suppliers are increasingly confronting new challenges. This transition, while essential for sustainability, introduces significant volatility in energy supply and costs. Factors such as the intermittent nature of solar and wind energy, compounded by geopolitical and environmental uncertainties, have made the energy market more unpredictable than ever and led to widespread price rises.
There are still deals out there, though, so make sure to shop around. Remember that sometimes the first deal seen is not the best. Do thorough research to seek out the best deal for the business when it comes to energy procurement, so the business is saving the most amount of money possible. Having said that if a deal seems too good to be true it probably is. Make sure to read the small print.
VALUE ADDED
It is important that a public sector business does not get obsessed with just how much money they can save on their energy costs. Look at the possible benefits that are available through each supplier. What value do they add? Try to ascertain the process from start to finish. Remember, that the more information the better. It is impossible to research too thoroughly. Particularly if the organisation has certain environmental goals it needs to hit, ensure to find out how the energy procurement company goes about sourcing energy from a third-party energy supplier or local distribution company. Also look into how contracts are drafted, and what the implementation process will entail. Beyond that, ensure they can forecast future usage accurately so that the business can plan effectively.
CONTRACT DETAILS
Different energy management procurement companies offer different contract types. These are often dependent on external factors like property-specific demand requirements and/or market drivers that influence the price. What kind of contract that works best can vary from business to business. Regardless though, make sure that whichever company is chosen to help with energy procurement has transparent pricing with no hidden fees or unforeseen charges.
THE BENEFITS OF OPTIMAL ENERGY PROCUREMENT
While many public sector businesses understand the benefits of effective energy procurement, not all do. Now is the time to start. When done optimally, energy procurement lowers the risk of unforeseen charges, hidden fees, and costs. Plus, it provides more informed load forecasting, a more reliable source of fuel, and greater control over fuel costs and types. Hopefully this article has helped those public sector businesses on the fence understand the value of energy procurement. However, each business is different and has will have different requirements for their energy usage. Therefore, spend the time to ensure that the business is paired up with the right supplier. https://www.powwr.com/
INTRODUCTION TO ELECTRIFIED STEAM IN FOOD & BEVERAGE MANUFACTURING
The Dawn of a New Era in Food Processing
The food and beverage industry is on the brink of a revolution, one that promises to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and product quality. This transformation is being driven by the advent of electrified steam technology. As the world moves towards greener and more sustainable practices, electrified steam is emerging as a game-changer in food and beverage manufacturing.
WHAT IS ELECTRIFIED STEAM?
Electrified steam, also known as electric steam generation, involves the use of electricity to produce steam. Unlike traditional methods that rely on burning fossil fuels, electrified steam systems use electric boilers or electrode boilers. These boilers heat water to produce steam, which can then be utilised for various applications in food and beverage manufacturing.
BENEFITS OF ELECTRIFIED STEAM
1. ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
One of the most significant advantages of electrified steam is its potential to reduce the environmental impact of food and beverage manufacturing. Traditional steam generation methods often involve the combustion of fossil fuels, leading to significant greenhouse gas emissions. Electrified steam systems, on the other hand, can be powered by renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, or hydroelectric power. This shift can substantially reduce the carbon footprint of manufacturing processes.
2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Electrified steam systems are known for their high energy efficiency. Electric boilers can achieve near 100% efficiency as there is minimal heat loss during the process. This contrasts sharply with conventional boilers, which often lose a considerable amount of energy through exhaust gases and other inefficiencies.
3. PRECISION AND CONTROL
In the food and beverage industry, precision is paramount. Electrified steam systems offer superior control over steam generation, allowing manufacturers to maintain consistent temperatures and pressures. This level of control is crucial for ensuring the quality and safety of food products, particularly in processes such as sterilisation, pasteurisation, and cooking.
4. REDUCED OPERATING COSTS
While the initial investment in electrified steam technology can be higher than traditional systems, the long-term operating costs are often lower. The efficiency of electric boilers means lower energy bills, and the reduced need for maintenance further cuts down on operational expenses. Additionally, as renewable energy sources become more prevalent and affordable, the cost benefits of electrified steam will become even more pronounced.
APPLICATIONS IN FOOD AND BEVERAGE MANUFACTURING
Electrified steam can be used in a wide range of applications within the food and beverage industry:
• Sterilisation and Pasteurisation: Ensuring the safety and shelf-life of products.
• Cooking and Blanching: Maintaining the nutritional quality and flavour of food.
• Cleaning and Sanitisation: Keeping equipment and surfaces hygienic and free from contaminants.
• Drying and Dehydration: Preserving foods and reducing moisture content efficiently.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES
Despite its many benefits, the adoption of electrified steam technology does come with challenges. The initial capital investment can be a barrier for some manufacturers, and the availability of renewable energy infrastructure can vary by region. However, as technology advances and renewable energy becomes more accessible, these challenges are likely to diminish.
CONCLUSION
Electrified steam represents a significant step forward for the food and beverage manufacturing industry. By embracing this technology, manufacturers can improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance product quality. As the world continues to move towards more sustainable practices, electrified steam is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of food and beverage production. https://www.spiraxsarco.com/uk
UK COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC AIR COOLING: A POLICY BLIND SPOT?
Rinnai’s Tony Gittings looks at the future demand and effects of air cooling on domestic and commercial properties across the UK and Europe.
As global temperatures increase, air conditioning units will likely become a requirement for UK and European domiciles and the built environment. What will the effect of air cooling be upon the national electrical grid and UK/ European NetZero ambitions?
Sign up to the Rinnai newsletter today and track UK government policy updates - https://www.rinnai-uk. co.uk/contact-us/newsletter-sign
All present energy policy is firmly centered on reducing fossil fuels and increasing renewables as well as the effects these two fuels produce. Nothing is mentioned of an increase on future demand for commercial and domestic cooling and air conditioning technologies that will influence energy demand and NetZero aims.
Considering rising global temperatures and an increase in UK national humidity levels it would make sense to examine available information that provides some insight into what could happen when domestic and commercial cooling & air conditioning units become a property necessity.
A recent article in the Independent newspaper quoted a survey held by insurers Direct Line questioning London estate agents on air conditioning demand.
“Some 95% of estate agents are seeing an increase in demand for homes with air conditioning as temperatures rise, a survey has suggested. More than four in five agents (88%) also reported a rise in homes coming to the market with builtin air conditioning,” said the report.
This survey suggests that air conditioning is at the very least a sought-after luxury, if not a ‘must have’ appliance such as a washing machine or microwave. A sharp rise in future UK cooling & air conditioning unit demand is expected and the extra power they require for operation passes
on strain to the electrical grid.
Last June when temperatures exceeded 30°C (86˚F) the national grid had to utilize coal to provide enough power created by air conditioning usage. This was the first time in 48 days the UK grid had to use fossil fuels.
The Statista webpage has published a number of projections solely focused on the UK air conditioning market. The UK air cooling market is expected to experience an annual growth rate of 3.78% between 20242029. Additionally, there is an anticipated volume growth of 2.9% in 2025. There were also record UK sales of air cooling in 2021 at 213,000 confirmed purchases. 2021 is the last available year for definitively confirmed statistics in air cooling sales.
International usage of air-cooling units is also expanding due to sharp rises in regional temperature. Southern France, Italy and Spain now regularly experience plus 40°C heat throughout their summer months. All mentioned countries have had to place into effect a limit on air cooling temperatures so not to place too much strain on the electrical grid.
According to Idealista, a European real estate company, 41% of Spanish housing stock is equipped with air cooling technology. The Spanish air conditioner market is expected grow an annual rate of 4.25% from 2024 to 2029 and an anticipated volume growth of 3.6% in 2025.
In 2022 Spain had to introduce measures that ensured a reduction of energy usage following the Ukraine invasion and successive heat waves that have been attributed to global warming. Spanish authorities maintain legitimate concerns that an increase of electrical demand from air cooling technology could potentially lead to grid malfunctions.
Italy has experienced grid difficulties that amount to periodic blackouts specifically in the business capital Milan during July of this year - 2024. A spike in air cooling technology used to negate severe heat is thought to be a major contributing factor towards these electrical grid shutdowns due to exceeding grid capacity. Growth in Italian air cooling is projected to increase sharply in the coming years due to excessive heat caused by rising global temperatures. An annual growth rate of 6.96% from 2024 to 2029 is expected as is volume
growth of 6.9% in 2025 of Italian purchases of air-cooling technology.
France is another country affected by a rise in uncomfortable summer season temperatures. French domiciles and commercial properties are resorting to purchasing air cooling technology.
French electricity operator RTE has reportedly decided to refrain from exporting end-product electricity. RTE aims to protect the grid from increased demand attributed to air conditioning technology usage. Italy relies on French electrical imports to meet demand and could potentially feel ramifications due to the heat and aircooling demand in France and in Italy.
French purchases of air conditioning technology are projected to increase over the coming years, with a domestic market annual growth rate of 8.45% between 2024 and 2029 and volume growth of 8.5% in 2025.
Separate national electric grids from across notable economies in Europe are struggling to provide energy demand that satisfies domestic and commercial air-cooling requirements during elevated temperatures. UK, European and international growth in air conditioning units is expected to rise in the coming years with electrical grids requiring updating and maintenance in order to deal with added demand.
UK, European, and global NetZero objectives will be impacted by an expansion in air-cooling technology usage due to the added pressure they impose on electrical grids. In a global movement towards electrification supplied by renewables, national infrastructure that transports electrical energy requires updating costing billions in finances and many, many hours of intricate labour.
It could be argued that grid complications will undoubtedly become more prevalent whilst rising global temperatures cause customers to seek air cooling solutions for their commercial and domestic properties.
Rinnai is determined to keep all customers informed of any changes relating to policy amendments and nuances that affect customer energy options and choice.
Sign up to the Rinnai newsletter today and track UK government policy updateshttps://www.rinnai-uk.co.uk/contact-us/ newsletter-sign
ARE HEAT PUMPS REACHING THEIR FULL POTENTIAL?
New report by Gemserv and Minviro considers how the strong credentials of heat pumps can be upheld throughout their entire lifecycle by addressing emissions in manufacturing and material sourcing.
Heat pumps are being installed in homes across the country at a remarkable pace, with nearly 5,000 units being installed every month, according to data from MCS. This surge follows the Government’s £2,500 uplift in funding to help households switch to these low-carbon heating systems.
Heat pumps are widely recognised as a greener alternative to gas boilers, with a gas boiler producing 55% more emissions during use compared to a 10kw heat pump, according to Gemserv. While the transition to heat pumps marks significant progress towards reducing emissions, a critical question remains. Are heat pumps truly living up to their sustainable credentials from production to installation?
A new white paper by Gemserv, a Talan Company’s ESG team and Minviro reveals that there is further potential to enhance the sustainability of heat pumps – specifically within their manufacturing processes. The paper highlights that a current production process of a 10kw heat pump generates 640kg CO2 equivalent in embodied carbon emissions. Key contributors include the use of steel, the choice of refrigerants and tube insulation. While heat pumps are already a highly sustainable solution, focusing on greener manufacturing processes could further reduce their environmental impact which is at risk of being overlooked. It is crucial that there is a rigorous framework in place to limit the knock-on effects from the production process and avoid merely shifting the source of carbon emissions. By switching to sustainable materials and adopting greener manufacturing processes, heat pump emissions could be reduced by almost half, down to 340kg of CO2 equivalent. This ensures that their strong sustainability credentials are upheld throughout their entire lifecycle, from production to installation.
Key Findings Include:
• Using sustainable sourced steel powered by renewable energy could
reduce carbon emissions by up to 70%
• Insulation emissions could be cut by 50% by using recycled materials
• Further reductions can be achieved by transitioning manufacturing operations to renewable energy
The further considerations recommended by Gemserv and Minviro would not only strengthen the environmental benefits of heat pumps but also help manufacturers and installers comply with upcoming regulations. For example, the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) both push for a circular, lowerimpact economy, with LCAs invaluable in revealing hotspots necessary to achieve compliance. The paper also depicts how LCA insights can enable betterinformed corporate sustainability decision-making and improve the bottom line for manufacturers.
The white paper spotlights four key areas for improving the sustainability of heat pumps:
• The significant role of steel production in driving heat pump emissions
• The hidden environmental costs of tube insulation in heat pump manufacturing
• The impact of on-site electricity consumption during manufacturing The need to carefully assess the environmental impact of refrigerants By implementing these improvements, we can ensure heat pumps, which are already a low carbon heating solution, are made even more sustainable. This will allow households to enjoy low carbon heating while ensuring minimal environmental impact at every stage of the product’s lifecycle.
Waco Yokoyama, Sustainability and Circular Economy Consultant at Gemserv, commented: “The life cycle impact of the products we are using to achieve net zero emissions is just as important as the emissions produced by these products in operation. The choices manufacturers and installers make now are critical to ensure an energy transition that extensively reduces carbon emissions and addresses broader impacts on the environment.
It has been an honour to partner with Minviro to explore the alternative materials, production methods and practices that can be implemented to eradicate greenwashing, accelerate decarbonisation and support corporate regulatory compliance for heat pump manufacturers.”
Jordan Lindsay, Research and Development Manager at Minviro, said: “There is no doubt that low carbon technologies like heat pumps are the right solution to replace fossil fuels. We are proud to have utilised our life cycle assessment (LCA) capabilities in this study to demonstrate how to maximise the sustainability benefits of heat pumps through reducing their embodied carbon in materials and refrigerant choice.
LCA provides a holistic overview of environmental impacts, serving as a reliable evidence base for manufacturers when identifying areas for improvement to prevent corner-cutting and to minimise the risk of creating new environmental or social issues when producing sustainable technologies." www.gemserv.com www.minviro.com
RINNAI AND NAKED ENERGY LAUNCH INNOVATIVE SOLAR
AND HEAT PUMP INTEGRATION WHITEPAPER FOR SUSTAINABLE HEATING SOLUTIONS
Rinnai and Naked Energy have collaborated to introduce a whitepaper as a precursor to a CIBSE certified CPD, the paper entitled Sustainable Synergy: Integrating Heat Pumps and Solar Thermal to Satisfy the Hot Water Needs of an archetype hotel. This paper and CPD can be preregistered for at https://www.rinnai-uk.co.uk/contactus/Solar-thermal-and-heat-pump.
The whitepaper researches and evaluates in fine detail the financial and operational outputs of a DHW solution comprising of high temperature heat pumps and solar thermal collectors utilized in an obvious commercial settingan archetypal hotel.
Rinnai’s Sean Ehlen, together with Zanil Narsing of Naked Energy, have prepared both the whitepaper and CPD to provide the detailed data for building services consultants, system designers, main HVAC contractors and installers to consider when approaching commercial property installations that require strong and sustained system efficiency and maximized reductions in energy usage and carbon loads.
Within the main body of this paper various DHW systems operational capabilities were compared when satisfying the hot water demand of an archetype hotel. Simulation calculators were produced to highlight how the key metrics of each DHW system compared over a 20-year period.
The findings of this study demonstrate how parallel dual storage SAHP’s (Solar Assisted Heat Pumps) reduce the carbon loads by 96% whilst requiring 49.5% less primary
energy, compared to a conventional gas-fired water heater system, in turn maximizing the systems efficiency.
The data extrapolated from this whitepaper further suggests that Rinnai’s parallel dual storage SAHP (Solar Assisted Heat Pumps) system should be considered by sites and all major end-users such as institutional domains, office blocks, retail malls and chainhotels. Contractors and consultants are now with an expectation of clients’ requiring carbon reduction without diminishing performance. All sites are now expected to reduce carbon emissions whilst installing systems aligned with future building standards.
Rinnai’s latest CPD is part of an overall strategy that aims to supply UK customers with detailed analysis of decarbonising technology towards commercial applications. Rinnai will continue to offer valuable services and information to UK customers that assist in easy and appropriate product selection that delivers operational efficiency.
Rinnai’s design team offer a range of services that include cost and carbon calculations as well as a “Site Consultation Form” that details on-site data of current heating and hot water system capabilities. Customers can view the results in a rapid
low carbon replacement suggestion by a professional team member.
Visit Rinnai’s website at https:// www.rinnai-uk.co.uk/contact-us/ Solar-thermal-and-heat-pump and preregister for this exciting whitepaper and CPD release.
MICROWAVE SENSORS: AN ESSENTIAL LIGHTING MOVE
In an era where sustainability is at the forefront of building design and operation, implementing technology that can boost energy efficiency and reduce wastage is a must. One of the most effective tools in achieving this goal when it comes to lighting are motion responsive microwave sensors, an advanced technology that provide effortless control and reduce unnecessary lighting use.
Using a principle known as the ‘Doppler Effect’ to detect movement, microwave sensors emit continuous low-level microwave signals across a designated space or ‘detection area’. These signals reflect off objects and return to the sensor, which constantly analyses the reflections for any changes in the signal pattern caused by movement. When changes are detected, the sensor activates the lighting system, providing illumination as needed.
An essential component in any lighting installation, microwave sensors are a key tool in the bid to ensure buildings are run as efficiently and sustainably as possible. In this article, Chris Anderson, Technical Manager at Ansell Lighting explains more about the dynamic technology and how it can help to conserve energy use across buildings of all uses and sizes.
Ideal for use in both internal and external lighting systems, microwave sensors have revolutionised the way lighting can be operated and managed, ensuring illumination only when there are people actually using a space. The adoption of more flexible and hybrid
working practices has seen the popularity of microwave sensors soar, enabling buildings to respond to usage and occupancy patterns with precision.
The main advantage of this is undoubtedly reduced energy use. By ensuring lights are only on when
areas are in use, microwave sensors can reduce energy consumption across building portfolios, helping organisations in turn to cut carbon and achieve sustainability targets.
This should also translate to lower energy bills and therefore significant cost savings over time. Additionally, because lighting systems are used more efficiently, there will also be less wear and tear on the infrastructure, leading to reduced maintenance costs and longer lifespans for the lighting fixtures.
Microwave sensors are also much more effective than traditional infrared sensors in environments with walls and glass. Their high sensitivity means movement can still be detected through such obstacles making them the ideal solution for offices with partitioned spaces, warehouses with stacked goods or retail stores with glass displays. They also have a much wider detection range so are an ideal option for large spaces such as car parks, open plan offices, meeting rooms and warehouses.
If microwave sensors are something you are considering installing, then placement, integration and sensitivity
must all be taken into account as these factors can have a real impact on the effectiveness of the technology.
Microwave sensors should be installed at a height where they can effectively cover the desired detection area. Metals, air currents and soundwaves can all cause false triggers so placement near ceiling fans, heating vents, direct sunlight and heavy machinery should be avoided. Microwave sensors should never be installed in metal casings or in close proximity to metal products.
Integration is also a crucial consideration. Ensuring that the microwave sensor is compatible with the existing lighting system and other automation technologies will ensure seamless operation and maximise the effectiveness of the technology.
Finding the right balance in sensitivity of the sensors is also essential if false triggers are to be minimised and the system is to operate reliably. Many microwave sensors will have sensitivity settings which will require fine-tuning once installed to meet the surrounding environment and application
requirements. If the sensitivity setting is high, more minor movements will be detected. A high sensitivity will also affect the detection range of the sensor, enabling it to cover a larger area. Higher sensitivity settings are therefore ideal for large, expansive spaces like warehouses, car parks, or open-plan offices.
It is worth noting though that whilst high sensitivity can improve detection, it can also increase the likelihood of false alarms if not properly calibrated. For instance, overly sensitive sensors might react to minor, non-human movements, like curtains fluttering or HVAC systems operating therefore, finding the right balance is crucial.
An ideal solution for those tasked with reducing and monitoring energy use within buildings, microwave sensors are a powerful and adaptable technology. Easy to retrofit or install as part of a newly designed system, they offer a dynamic and functional approach to lighting. They are also extremely useful within a smart lighting system, further enhancing the energy savings that can be made. www.ansell-lighting.com
WHY DIGITAL TWINS ARE A BRIGHT IDEA
Digitalisation in design and planning isn’t new. For years now, Building Information Modelling (BIM) models have been used to empower designers, architects, engineers and planners to visualise, collaborate, and optimise their designs in virtual environments to accelerate innovation and streamline efficiencies. It is only more recently though that this powerful tech category is coming to the fore in a wider range. Part of the reason can be attributed to Apple Inc. Though its recent Vision Pro headset – what it has called a ‘spatial computer’ – may have been met with a mixed reception, there’s no doubt it marks an important evolution in the market. Far from simply an entertainment or gaming experience, it’s indicative of a growing transition towards VR and AR use in a wide range of very compelling commercial applications that will appeal to a number of businesses.
One of the most notable of these is spatial design. When BIM technologies are partnered with the latest generation of 3D modelling and spatial data capture, the ability to scan rooms and generate quick true-to-scale 3D models to ensure project-specific customisation and precision can be game-changing. In the past, this process would be incredibly costly, time consuming and fraught with potential risk. Now, anybody, with the minimum of training, can use these platforms to create the ideal design for their needs, and, crucially, easily liaise with other stakeholders to amend and confirm their plans.
Why this matters for the lighting industry is that one of the most experimented with factors is how buildings are illuminated. This stands to reason – lighting has a profound impact on the comfort and ascetic of a building as well as its functionality. Due to higher energy costs and the need for improved sustainability, there is real value to be had in finding highly efficient lighting solutions. Meanwhile legislation, such as the recently introduced amendment to the RoHS Directive, continues to render the need for innovation, especially in terms of efficiency, more critical.
Experimentation with digital twins is not confined to finding out how to light a building with as few light fittings as possible, it’s also about how you can creatively use light to create the best possible environment.
Martin Huber, CEO and CoFounder of 3D modelling and spatial data company Metaroom by Amrax, discusses how digital twins are opening the door to the adoption of new lighting solutions
Saving money on traditional lighting solutions will also increase the willingness of building owners/designers and facility managers to allocate more resources to cutting edge technology such as UV disinfection. These lighting solutions can improve the overall healthiness of a space. This isn’t just attractive to the healthcare industry – it’s relevant to any business that seeks to improve the wellbeing of their employees while also reducing time lost to sickness. Higher up on the innovation scale is smart lighting enabled by quantum dot technology. Designers can now create lighting environments that closely mimic actual daylight and can be linked to a building user’s circadian rhythm to dynamically change in line with how sunlight differs throughout a normal day. Research has shown that this has a huge impact on wellbeing and could be transformative during the long winter months or for workers on night shifts. However, the sector where we are likely to see the biggest demand is within dynamic and IoT lighting systems. This is because digital twins and spatial computing also opens the door to the holy grail of building design – truly smart buildings. As many will be aware, this is the concept that every factor within a building is controlled via a series of smart devices and AI to react in real time to external and internal variables to create, in essence, a living environment.
Lighting is obviously one of the major factors within that scenario and companies which provide these smart integrated solutions are going to see major interest in their products. The final opportunity for lighting companies is working more closely with tech platforms within the 3D modelling space to directly integrate their products into these applications. This will enable users to experiment directly with existing and even potential new products during the design process. Lighting companies will also be able to collect data on how designers are innovating which will provide invaluable product development insights. Closer integration with modelling platforms also has the virtue of helping the technology to develop. Lighting companies can provide their deep expertise to enhance the customer experience by suggesting new functionalities. This in turn should enable users to do even more experimentation driving further innovation in a virtuous cycle. The reality is that the advent of digital twins and spatial design has the potential to change everything we thought we already knew about lighting design in all aspects of aesthetics, functionality, sustainability, occupancy comfort and well-being, and brand identity. A bright idea would be to begin to integrate virtualisation in strategic lighting design today, as its significance continues to grow in the years to come. https://amrax.ai/
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DIGITAL FUTURES FOR UK ENERGY: DE-RISKING YOUR NET ZERO JOURNEY WITH DATA AND DIGITAL TWINS
In January, the ESO signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Digital Twin Programme, and funding is secured to create a connected digital twin of Wales’ energy transmission and distribution network.
The positive government response to the Digital Spine Feasibility Study1, indicates an impetus to decarbonise the Grid by 20302 Data and digitisation have a critical role, as highlighted in the government response, “A decarbonised, flexible, and secure energy system needs to be managed in a modern, dynamic and accurate manner... a complex energy system will require access to trusted data, and new digital infrastructure.”3
This summer techUK launched a research project examining emerging business models and the economic impact of digital twins.4 Nationally, the role of 1 https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/ media/66bdd1600a079b65ea323e5f/digitalspine-feasibility-study-full-report.pdf
With pilot projects planned to progress a data sharing infrastructure for the UK’s energy system – a ‘digital spine’
– Daniel Mardapittas, Market Strategist from Powerstar considers how businesses can harness the power of data and digital twins to inform their own Net Zero journey.
digital twins and the vital importance of data to the energy transition is recognised.
Businesses can reap immediate benefits while looking to the UK-wide 2050 Net Zero target: through microgrid technology and AI-driven energy data management, using a digital twin to justify investment. Crucially, companies can stagger implementation – commissioning individual assets, each designed for better power resilience and more flexible, affordable power while contributing to sustainability strategies.
Microgrid implementation is a major project, but the market is growing exponentially – global estimations of USD 37.6 billion this year, projected to grow
to nearly $88 billion by 2029.5 In the UK, the promise of a new industrial strategy demonstrates government commitment to meet clean energy targets.6 For businesses, investing in microgrid technology can help provide area-wide power resilience; lower emissions through improved energy management, and reduced energy spend through access to better data. At the heart of a microgrid is a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), to maximise on-site renewable assets and – if incorporating Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) – provide essential power for
5 https://bit.ly/EMOctPowerstar
6 https://bit.ly/EM-Oct-Powerstar
short-term disruptions. This offers power resilience, while helping reduce emissions and energy spend. A modern BESS with UPS is far more efficient than traditional alternative – for one Powerstar client, switching to a modern BESS reduced spend by £225,000 p.a. saving 190 tonnes of CO2 emissions. With more distributed energy sources and intermittent generation, the capability to store on-site generated renewable energy makes a BESS a valuable asset for a resilient Net Zero pathway.
Data management is critical to the UK’s 2030 Grid decarbonisation ambition. For businesses considering a microgrid, accurate data is crucial. A neural networkbased, AI-enabled microgrid controller – an Energy Management System (EMS) such as Powerstar’s proprietary Energy Optimisation System (EOS) – provides precise control, dynamically integrating energy technology assets, and forming a cohesive energy infrastructure network. The EMS continuously monitors load profile, allowing for strategic real-time planning and optimal performance across a combination of energy sources: Grid or onsite generated power. Intelligent decisionmaking, across all connected assets, allows changes, faults and disruptions to be detected and responded to in realtime, providing the data to help energy managers pinpoint areas of weakness /
cost / unnecessary emissions. AI-driven software learns, based on automated data collection, and sensors and equipment across a site provide real-time information, enabling the EOS to actively learn: the more data, the more assets connected, the better the system performs.
There is a strong economic case for the growth of digital twins: any business needs confidence in Net Zero-driven infrastructure investment. Advanced modelling and simulation – a digital twin – can envisage a multitude of scenarios, enabling companies to establish the business case. New energy solutions can be mapped onto existing energy infrastructure profile prior to commissioning. Data allows for stresstesting: evaluating technologies across a host of conditions, whereby potential issues are identified at the design stage.
With a governmental will to decarbonise, businesses need to demonstrate clear Net Zero commitments. Companies can take incremental steps – starting with BESS, with the potential to grow later to a
full microgrid solution – while digital twinning proves return on investment.
Fintan Slye, Executive Director of ESO commented at the 2024 Energy UK conference: “Great Britain has made incredible progress in decarbonisation but there is still a huge amount for us to do to achieve Clean Power by 2030 and a net zero economy by 2050... we are committed to playing our part, but it requires all of us to do things differently, to act together and to act with urgency now.”7
Robin Hale, Chief Executive, Major Energy Users’ Council (MEUC)
The UK’s energy landscape is undergoing a profound transformation. As energy managers, you are navigating a complex transition toward a more sustainable, efficient, and resilient future. The challenges are multifaceted: regulatory shifts, volatile markets, technological advancements, and the pressing need for sustainability are redefining how organisations consume and manage energy.
At MEUC, we understand that these challenges cannot be tackled in isolation. Collaboration, knowledge sharing, and collective action are more critical than ever. Our upcoming 16 October, Autumn Conference and Exhibition in Coventry is designed to empower energy managers like you with the insights, tools, and networks needed to thrive in this new era.
CHAMPIONING MAJOR ENERGY USERS
For over four decades, the MEUC has been the voice of major energy users in the UK, including intensive industry, manufacturing, transport, communication, retail and public sector organisations. Our mission is to represent and support entities that are significant consumers of energy, water, and related services. We provide a platform where members can:
• Influence Policy: Engage directly with regulators and policymakers to shape energy legislation and standards that impact your operations.
• Access Expertise: Gain insights from industry experts on best practices, technological innovations, and market trends relevant to the public sector.
Network Strategically: Connect with peers across various sectors to share experiences, challenges, and solutions.
• Optimise Resources: Leverage collective buying power and shared knowledge to achieve cost savings and efficiency gains.
THE AUTUMN CONFERENCE: A CATALYST FOR CHANGE
Scheduled for 16 October at the Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Centre in Ansty Park, Coventry, the MEUC’s Autumn Conference and Exhibition is more than just an event – it’s a convergence of ideas and collaborations that will shape the future of energy procurement and management in the UK.
WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND?
Networking Opportunities: Build relationships with industry leaders, suppliers, and fellow energy managers.
Market Volatility: Learn about tools and approaches to mitigate risks associated with fluctuating energy prices and supply uncertainties.
• Technological Innovations: Discover new technologies that can enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs.
• Sustainability Strategies: Learn how to meet sustainability targets and contribute to the UK’s net-zero ambitions.
Regulatory Insights: Navigate the evolving regulatory environment with clarity on upcoming changes and compliance requirements.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE CONFERENCE:
• Insightful Keynotes: Hear from leading figures who will share perspectives on market dynamics and the trajectory of the UK’s energy transition.
Interactive Discussions: Participate in sessions that delve into practical solutions for energy and water efficiency, demand-side response, renewable integration, and more.
• Expert Panels: Engage with experts discussing critical topics such as energy storage, digitalisation, and the role of data analytics.
• Exhibition: Explore the latest products and services from suppliers who understand the unique needs of large I&C and public sector organisations.
REGISTER TODAY
In a time when face-to-face interactions are more valuable than ever, don’t miss this essential gathering. Register for the MEUC Autumn Conference 2024 at: https://meucnetwork.co.uk/ events/autumn-conf24/ Be part of the conversation that will shape the energy landscape for years to come.
THE POWER OF COLLECTIVE INSIGHT
professionals, we create a rich environment for innovation and problem-solving. The challenges you face are shared by many, and through collaboration, we can accelerate progress toward our common goals.
BEYOND THE CONFERENCE: ONGOING SUPPORT AND ENGAGEMENT
Our commitment to supporting major energy users though extends beyond our events. The MEUC offers year-round resources, including: Regular Briefings: Stay updated with the latest industry news, regulatory updates, and market analyses.
• Energy Sector Training: Enhance your team’s capabilities with specialised training programmes and follow-up sessions.
• Advocacy: Benefit from our efforts to represent your interests at the highest levels of government and industry bodies.
Member Forums: Participate in webinars and discussions that address the unique challenges the energy transition is creating.
JOIN US IN SHAPING THE FUTURE
As energy managers, you have a pivotal role in steering your organisations – and the country – toward a sustainable energy future. The MEUC provides an opportunity to equip yourself with the knowledge, networks, and inspiration to make a tangible impact. The journey toward a sustainable and efficient energy future is complex, but it doesn’t have to be undertaken alone. By uniting as a community of major energy users, we can overcome obstacles, seize opportunities, and drive meaningful change. I look forward to welcoming you to the conference and working together toward a brighter energy future.
One of the MEUC’s core principles is that collective insight leads to better outcomes. By bringing together a diverse group of energy
For more information about the MEUC and membership opportunities, please visit https://meucnetwork.co.uk/membership/
There’s still time to secure your free registration for EMEX, the Energy Management and Net Zero exhibition being held at London’s ExCeL on 20 & 21 November 2024.
New for 2024, the BSI Academy is a dedicated area from BSI Group, the national standards body of the UK, where you can take part in free, 40-minute CPD-accredited training sessions. Covering vital areas of learning for the sustainability sector, this is an exclusive opportunity to elevate your professional learning at no cost. The three bitesize courses running on both days of the show are: Introduction to Energy Management ISO 50001, Introduction to Environmental Management ISO 14001 and Introduction to Net Zero. Places are filling up fast so hurry if you want to secure a slot.
Returning in November are the ever-popular roundtables exclusive to those operating in the public sector space. Places on these are strictly limited to allow for meaningful discussions and this year will cover areas such as: Balancing sustainability investment within ongoing maintenance projects; Property decarbonisation: 2030 strategies and practical supply chain planning and Collaboration and partnerships to share best practice. Table hosts will share their own experiences and encourage group discussion and questions. Most tables will run twice, so you have the opportunity to join two tables on each day, with additional time for networking and making new contacts for the future. Sponsored by Local Partnerships, a joint venture between the Local Government Association, HM Treasury and Welsh Government, they help the public sector deliver projects and change at a local level. Full details of all the sessions are available on the main show website, and places can be reserved as part of the visitor registration form.
Following on from the public sector roundtable success, EMEX is delighted to welcome Mott MacDonald as sponsor of further discussion groups open to all. Following a similar format to their public sector counterparts, the topic under discussion for these sessions will be focused on: Energy strategies and
Read on to discover how you can secure your free place today and take advantage of the many new, value-added features the show is offering to visitors this year…
master planning for large energy users and sites. These ‘new for 2024’ sessions are proving to be popular already so don’t delay in securing your place.
Still focusing on giving visitors to EMEX opportunities to expand their expertise and practical takeaways, the new hands-on workshops are another value-add, free feature for 2024. These fully interactive sessions are designed to demonstrate practical strategies for achieving key goals in energy management and carbon reduction. Hosted by Carbonology, Supply Chain Sustainability School and Tripple Point, further details of the different focus areas of the workshops can be found on the EMEX website and places reserved as part of visitor registration.
This year, EMEX is delighted to welcome IEMA (Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment), a global body for environment and sustainability professionals, and the YEP
(Young Energy Professionals) as hosts of exclusive peer mentoring sessions. These 10-minute sessions across both show days offer exciting opportunities to make valuable new contacts and receive specialist advice from senior professionals for those both established in their careers focusing on overcoming specific sector challenges and those at the beginning of their journey who may benefit from vocational mentoring.
All of these new, value-added features are completely free for EMEX visitors to attend. Simply register your free ticket today and select which sessions you would like to take part in: https://forms.reg.buzz/mark-allengroup/emex-2024/visitor/em
For further information on all of these plus the rest of what’s on at EMEX 2024, visit the website now: https://www.emexlondon.com
HARNESSING RENEWABLE ENERGY FOR NET ZERO AND DECARBONISATION
The UK is facing an energy revolution driven by the need to achieve ambitious net zero targets by 2050. Central to this transformation is renewable energy, which offers cleaner, more sustainable sources of power that help to decarbonise industries and public services alike.
As organisations across the UK seek to reduce their carbon footprints, renewable energy sources provide an efficient solution for reducing emissions and achieving long-term sustainability goals. At Salix, we provide governmentsupported funding that play a pivotal role in helping public sector organisations transition towards a low-carbon future.
On Monday 23 September, 2024 we launched Phase 4 of the popular Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme which has focus on decarbonising heat including complementary solutions that support the electrification of heat. By offering financial support also for energy efficiency projects, including renewable energy installations, we are empowering the UK public sector to meet its net zero goals.
We’re working side by side with the public sector to achieve our goals.
THE ROLE OF RENEWABLES IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR DECARBONISATION SCHEMES
Renewable energy is not only essential for reducing the environmental impact of energy production but also for ensuring energy security. With the phasing out of fossil fuels, the UK needs to diversify its energy supply to mitigate the risks of price volatility and geopolitical tensions associated with fossil fuel imports. Renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, hydropower and nuclear, provide to the UK at a larger scale with a more reliable and sustainable energy supply, which is crucial for the future.
At a smaller scale, the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme provides grants for low-carbon heating projects and energy efficiency.
These projects typically include the replacement of outdated fossil-fuel heating systems with low-carbon alternatives, and comprehensive building upgrades to reduce energy consumption.
Although, the decarbonisation of heat is the main focus of the scheme, complementary renewable energy solutions must be included in an eligible project. Projects must also
Davide Natuzzi, Assistant Director Energy, Carbon and Technical, Salix
comply with the ‘whole building’ approach criteria of the fund. This inclusion enables the installation of smaller heating systems, supports site energy demand by generating electricity on-site, reduces dependency on the grid, and potentially eliminates the need for costly electrical infrastructure upgrades, all while lowering energy bills.
The Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme is available for a range of projects that meet the following criteria:
• ‘Whole building’ approach: Projects should consider the energy performance of the entire building, ensuring that measures taken lead to long-term improvements in energy efficiency and carbon reduction including renewable energy such as solar thermal, solar photovoltaic and wind energy.
• Energy efficiency: Projects should target energy savings through improved insulation, lighting, or HVAC systems, ensuring that any upgrades align with broader sustainability goals and reduce the capital cost for the low carbon heating solution and reduce the overall energy demand for the site.
• Low-carbon heating solutions: Buildings must transition to low-carbon heating systems, such as heat pumps or biomass boilers, which provide cleaner alternatives to the existing ‘end of life’ conventional gas or coal and oil heating.
Since its inception, the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme has been delivered in phases, with each phase targeting on the specific goal to decarbonise heat in public buildings. The initial phases of the scheme have already demonstrated significant success, funding projects that reduce emissions across schools, hospitals, local authorities, and other public bodies.
For example, during Phase 1, around £1billion was allocated to projects that focus on reducing direct emissions from public buildings. And for Phase 3, around £1.4 billion was allocated to projects that replace end of life fossil fuel heating –continuing to support ambitious energysaving projects, with an emphasis on incorporating renewable energy sources.
One of the key differences
Phase 4 Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme has to previous schemes, is that the government has changed the way the funding will be allocated. It has moved away from the ‘first come first serve’ system.
The scheme criteria and guidance notes is published on Salix website and the application portal is expected to open in mid-October. We’re asking people to keep an eye on our website to find out more.
And just as in previous phases, renewable energy solutions are included in the eligible technologies. These include solar thermal, small hydropower, solar PV and wind turbine.
FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES: COMMUNITY ENERGY AND BEYOND
Looking ahead, renewable energy offers exciting opportunities for public sector organisations and communities. Community energy is one such opportunity, where local groups or authorities can take ownership of renewable energy projects, providing clean power to their communities and reinvesting profits in local development.
By facilitating community energy projects, alongside other financial bodies we could help unlock the potential of localised energy generation. This not only supports the decarbonisation agenda but also fosters energy independence and resilience at the community level.
As the UK accelerates its journey toward net zero, renewable energy will be a foundation of the transition. Salix, with our robust funding schemes, is playing a vital role in ensuring that the public sector can lead the way in decarbonisation and energy efficiency. By supporting the installation of renewable energy systems, improving building efficiency, and promoting low-carbon heating solutions, together with government we are enabling the UK to meet its ambitious climate goals. With future opportunities like community energy on the horizon, the path to a cleaner, greener future is more achievable than ever.
For more information about our work please visit https://www.salixfinance.co.uk/
Join the REI’s COP29 Webinar:
Our roundtable of renewable energy experts discuss the outcomes from Baku
The global conversation about climate change is more urgent than ever and COP29 is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of environmental policy. To help everyone better understand the key issues and outcomes of this landmark summit, we are hosting an exclusive COP29 webinar. This free online event will feature our industry expert speakers who will provide valuable insights into the themes and goals established during COP29. Join us Monday 25th November from 2pm – 3pm UK time.
• Expert Panel Discussions: Leading environmental experts will break down the complex themes of COP29.
• Interactive Q&A: Attendees will have the chance to ask questions and share thoughts with the panel.
• Insight into Global Climate Strategies: Learn how international cooperation is critical to combat climate change and what you can do to contribute.
Don’t miss this chance to be part of the conversation about the future of our planet. Join the Institute’s COP29 Roundtable and better your understanding of the important actions that will shape climate change and the renewable energy sector.
For more information, call us on +44 131 446 9479 or email us at training@renewableinstitute.org
Visit our website at https://www.renewableinstitute.org/ for more information on the training and events currently available at the REI.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY: HOW FLYWHEEL TECHNOLOGY CAN GIVE EV CHARGERS THE BOOST THEY NEED WITHOUT GRID UPGRADES
As the number of EVs hitting the roads increases –another 815,399 in the first half of this year in Europe alone1 – charging infrastructure needs to catch up. The European Commission’s target is for 3.5 million by 20302, and the EVs that will be plugged into them will contribute to the 60% increase in electricity consumption within the same period3, and this will necessitate investments of around €584 billion in the grid3
The scale of the investment is huge, and whether it can be delivered on time is another issue. The challenges are mirrored in many other locations around the world – California’s grid alone needs $50 billion by 20354 simply because it wasn’t designed with EVs in mind. So until upgrades can be rolled-out, which often means waiting years, EV drivers can experience slower than expected charging because the local grid simply can’t supply enough power to meet peak demand.
With the urgent need to rapidly expand public charging infrastructure and provide a reliable fast-EV charging experience ahead of grid upgrades, a flywheel power booster named ZOOZTER-100 is the ideal solution for this challenge. This kinetic power booster bridges the gap between the growing demand for ultra-fast charging and the constraints imposed by the grid. ZOOZTER-100 has already been installed at sites in the UK, US, Germany, and Israel, and additional installations
EVs are more efficient and more sustainable than combustion engine vehicles but public charging infrastructure often fails to deliver the short, convenient charging sessions that people expect, hampering their adoption. Limitations within the grid are often the problem, however flywheel technology can provide an intelligent solution. Udi Tzuri. ZOOZ Power, VP Product.
are planned in other countries.
ZOOZTER-100 features our patented flywheel technology at its core. The system draws power from the grid at idle times and converts it to kinetic energy by running the flywheel up to 17,000rpm. When an EV is connected to the charger, the stored energy is converted back into power which boosts the grid, so that the EV receives the combined output of both. This approach enables the charger to operate at peak capacity. At our most recent installations in Germany, such as in Reiskirchen and Weiterstadt, a single ZOOZTER-100 at each location successfully doubled the available power to 200 kW in Reiskirchen and increased it to 350 kW in Weiterstadt.
The ZOOZTER-100’s Energy Management System (EMS) optimizes energy use at charging stations by
managing power flow between the grid, ZOOZTER, and EVs. It dynamically adjusts distribution based on real-time demand and availability, maximizing efficiency, reducing charging times, and preventing grid overload. With predictive algorithms, the EMS enhances operational efficiency, supports grid stability, and ensures cost savings for charge point operators (CPOs). The combination of all these
capabilities enables (CPOs) to commission new sites in a relatively short time, without the high capital expenditure, lead times and disruption of grid enhancement, allowing them to quickly generate revenue and support the profitable longterm rollout of ultra-fast charging infrastructure. A single ZOOZTER-100 can support multiple charge points and takes up little space on-site.
Another benefit is that the units can be easily relocated in future to new sites that need boosting. These advantages are amplified in locations where very few chargers currently exist: not only do they have great future potential but are also key to the transition from ICE to EV by complementing – and then superseding – traditional filling stations.
Sales of new combustion engine vehicles will be banned in Europe from 2035, and by that date, adoption of EVs is estimated to have saved net CO2 emissions of around 2 Gt.5 But with public charging infrastructure being one of the most commonly cited reasons for consumers hesitating to make the switch from combustion engine vehicles to EVs, it is essential that everything
possible to ensure that they have the confidence to do so, and that means ensuring that fast chargers can deliver the short charging times that consumers expect. The grid upgrades will come, but until they do, we offer a highly energy efficient, robust, and sustainable solution.
The transport sector in Europe is responsible for around a quarter of the region’s total greenhouse gas emissions, and of those, three quarters
come from road vehicles6. Electric vehicles are fundamental to reducing that share and enabling countries to meet their new-zero targets by 2050. https://www.zoozpower.com/
TEAM ENERGY TO SUPPORT ORGANISATIONS WITH NEW ESOS ENERGY ACTION PLAN REQUIREMENTS
Despite the completion of these submissions, organisations that are required to comply with the scheme must also submit an ESOS Energy Action Plan based on the energy saving initiatives they have planned for their operations says TEAM’s Head of Consultancy, Timothy Holman.
The deadline for the first Energy Action Plan is the 5 December 2024, however the Environment Agency has announced an extension to the submission deadline and will accept Action Plans submitted by the 5 March 2025.
WHAT MUST BE INCLUDED IN THE ENERGY ACTION PLAN?
The Action Plan aims to act as a roadmap for organisations to achieve specific energy saving actions tailored to them to help improve their energy efficiency and work towards their sustainability goals. These improvements could be anything from equipment upgrades, to optimising processes and encouraging behaviour change throughout your organisation.
With a focused implementation timeline, organisations can prioritise projects and set their path to meet their energy saving goals. Organisations will also need to set out the estimated savings for both cost and energy from their energy efficiency projects, enabling them to better plan their journey to carbon reduction.
In addition to the Action Plan, organisations must monitor and report their progress to the Environment Agency annually to ensure they are on track to achieve the projects set out in the Action Plan.
CREATING AND SUBMITTING AN ESOS ENERGY ACTION PLAN
TEAM Energy can support organisations across all aspects of planning and writing their Action Plan to ensure it can be submitted by the deadline.
TEAM’s energy efficiency and sustainability experts will work with you
to build an appropriate Energy Action Plan tailored to your organisations needs. Compiling appropriate energy saving recommendations that you can implement into your organisation to improve your energy efficiency, TEAM’s ESOS Consultants will create a timeline for your action plan with realistic deadlines for completing these projects.
The team will then perform detailed calculations of potential kWh savings, estimate the savings that are achievable throughout the compliance period and create an Energy Action Plan to include a timeline to complete your energy saving plans.
Learn more about how TEAM can ensure you meet the compliance deadline: https://www.teamenergy. com/consultancy/compliance/ energy-savings-opportunityscheme-esos/esos-action-plansprogress-reporting-audits/
Although the deadline for the Action Plan still stands for 5 December 2024, the Environment Agency will accept submissions by 5 March 2025.
For more information on the ESOS Action Plan Submission, explore TEAM’s helpful guide: https://www.teamenergy. com/consultancy/compliance/ energy-savings-opportunity-schemeesos/energy-action-plan-guide/
WHAT ARE THE ESOS ACTION PLAN SUBMISSION DATES?
Water stress and scarcity is a growing concern for countries all over the world, even here in the UK with our famously damp climate.
Resources are starting to buckle under the combined pressures of population growth, climate change, extreme weather events, water mismanagement and ageing infrastructure, much of which dates back to the Victorian
As such, it’s essential that wide-ranging water conservation solutions are found and implemented in order to safeguard resources for the future.
The good news is that there’s a lot that can be achieved, including the likes of rainwater harvesting, grey water use, awareness campaigns, water recycling, automated meter reading, sustainable appliances and so on.
But one of the more immediate ways in which water can be conserved is through water leak detection and repair - something that, it seems, is of paramount importance given new figures showing that more than one trillion litres of water was lost to leakage by water companies in England and Wales in 2023.
An Observer review found that the worst-performing supplier was Thames Water, leaking 570.4 megalitres (one million litres) of water per day last year, totalling 200 billion litres - or just under a water of its entire water supply.
United Utilities, meanwhile, leaked over 175 billion litres, Severn Trent lost almost 139 billion, Yorkshire Water leaked 94.9 billion, Welsh Water 90.8 billion, Anglian Water 66.4 billion and Affinity Water 56 billion litres.
Thames Water has long been facing significant pressure, placed under special measures in July, with over £15 billion worth of debt now amassed.
Over the summer, the company said some £19 billion worth of its assetswhich includes reservoirs, processing plants and pipes - are failing, with risks being posed to the environment, water supply and public safety.
The country’s water infrastructure
era.
is now struggling to keep up with demand, with a lack of investment seen over the last few decades to ensure that it can keep pace.
Rounds of new investment have been announced, with £88 billion in funding set aside by Ofwat to drive improvements and build resilience into the nation’s water supply - but this will result in bill increases for households, even as record amounts in dividends are paid out to shareholders.
A representative from industry trade organisation Water UK commented on leakage rates, saying that they’re now at their lowest level on record, adding that water firms have proposed investments totalling £105 billion to shore up future water supplies and slash leakage rates by a third come 2030.
And Thames Water confirmed that it would be upgrading 112 kilometres of mains pipes in London, with plans in place to reduce leaks by 23 per cent over the next three years.
However, it also noted that a third of its leaks came from pipes in domestic customers’ properties, with smart meter rollouts instrumental in safeguarding water resources for the future.
Given the amount of water being lost to leaks, it is paramount that action is taken now to address the situation, particularly given the fact that Environment Agency estimates are that five billion more litres of water will be needed per day come 2050 in order to meet demand… with the potential for London to run out of water within the next 25 years.
THE BUSINESS CASE FOR WATER LEAK DETECTION AND REPAIR
While there isn’t much you can
do about water leaks across the wider network, you can make sure that your business premises isn’t part of the problem, taking steps to identify vulnerable areas across your site and implementing the necessary repairs as appropriate.
You may not even be aware that you have a leakage issue, given that the majority of leaks are so small that they’re hard to spot or they’re hidden away below ground… so you won’t even know there’s an issue until you see a big spike in your bills or start to notice water damage appearing on your buildings.
As well as wasting lots of precious water, water leaks can cost you and your business potentially significant amounts of water. You’ll be paying for something you’re not using, for a start, and you run the risk of major repair bills coming your way if leaks do spiral out of control.
It’s also worth noting that you put your business reputation on the line if you don’t improve your water footprint and start operating more sustainably, with consumers increasingly keen to see businesses of all shapes and sizes start taking their environmental responsibilities more seriously.
The first step towards improving your localised pipe network is to have an audit of your site carried out. This will show you how and where you’re using water, with historical bill analysis conducted that will reveal any spikes in usage that could indicate a leak.
If you’d like to find out more about the process and how your business could benefit from tackling water leaks, get in touch with the SwitchWaterSupplier.com team today.
Photo: Skitterphoto at
SOUTHERN BASED GYM GROUP CONVERTS TO RINNAI’S LOWGWP ASHP TO SUPPORT DECARBONISATION PROGRAMME
A chain of gyms has successfully piloted Rinnai’s LOW-GWP commercial ASHP (Air Source Heat Pump) with the aim of replacing their existing carbon intensive electric storage water heater systems which rely on multiple electrical immersions. The flexibility of Rinnai’s bespoke system design capability has even ensured that some of the existing electric water heaters can stay in situ as a part of a cost saving Hybrid heat pump system – saving the end user on cost and reducing carbon emissions.
Each gym studio that Rinnai had to measure revealed different kW load limits ranging from 8kW to 20kW. Rinnai’s system design team then decided on the necessary decarbonizing technology required for each individual gym, bespoke design-led packages including a mixture of Rinnai decarbonizing HDW heating technologies was then selected, these include;
The Rinnai system selection is supported by unique capital expenditure, operational expenditure and carbon modelling, ensuring that the end user could make practical, economical and technically feasible decisions.
To the right are a few graphs that illustrate carbon output, CAPEX costs and system efficiency over 5 years. The graphic inputs are shown only for the 12 kW ASHP, 300 heat pump cylinder and direct electric storage water heaters (E-cylinder 305L) for one of the gyms in the southern region. The first graph focuses on carbon production.
The second graph details the CAPEX costs associated with Rinnai’s 12kW Air Source Heat Pump over 5 years.
The final is a graph that reveals the annual consumption of energy Rinnai’s 12kW fully electric system.
Rinnai aims to make heat pump design simple and model the reality of total system performance. Including the use of SPF (seasonal performance factors) which analysis the complete system performance for support with your next design contact Rinnai today https://www. rinnai-uk.co.uk/contact-us/help-me-choose-product
RINNAI HYBRID HEAT PUMP SYSTEM
PROVIDES PRACTICAL, ECONOMIC, AND TECHNICAL SOLUTION AT LUXURY COMPLEX IN THE CITY OF LONDON
Rinnai Low-GWP 50kW Heat Pump, bespoke thermal stores, Plate Heat Exchangers and ten cascaded I2HY20 Hydrogen- ready continuous flow water heaters specified at new development in the heart of Farringdon district of London.
On this site Rinnai’s Hybrid water heating H2 array of Low-GWP 50kW heat pump plus bespoke thermal water stores, with optimised coil transfer to maximize heat pump performance, have been combined with ten cascaded Hydrogen blends ready (I2HY20 certified) continuous flow water heaters. The systems were delivered in one complete consignment, ready for installation at a new multi-million-pound development in the Farringdon district near the City of London. The expansive complex will comprise of a new luxury hotel, prestigious & contemporary office space plus affordable housing units.
The multi-purpose use of the site meant that only a fit-for-purpose design would satisfy the practicalities and nuances of space, demand, and energy usage in ensuring hot water requirements are met and exceeded 24/7.
The site was originally a Victorian-
era schoolhouse for poor children. It was a ‘Ragged School’ - the term ‘ragged school’ was used by the London City Mission as early as 1840 to describe the establishment of schools, ‘formed exclusively for children raggedly clothed’. From around 1845 until 1881, the London ‘Ragged’ schools gave rudimentary education to about 300,000 children who were the poorest of the poor - orphans, waifs, and strays.
The expansive retrofit site will pay respect to this heritage with many of the original features retained in the 150+ bedroom luxury hotel, almost 20,000 sq ft of opulent capital city office space and nine new-build affordable residential units. The hotel group already has one other unit in London with two others planned.
Comments Darren Woodward for Rinnai, ’The site is very complex and still has many original features from the Victorian era – meaning that a
full and comprehensive site survey with capital expenditure, operational expenditure and carbon modelling was conducted. We paid special attention to the practical requirements of the site which included 150 luxury bedrooms that needed constant hot water on demand, but we also needed to meet the site’s decarbonisation credentials. The overall system design meant that a truly hybrid system employing a heat pump, plate heat exchangers, bespoke thermal stores plus Hydrogen-ready hot water heating units was supplied in one complete consignment.
“We believe that a solution like this is the way forward on the bigger retrofit sites in London and all other UK cities. Once we had the data for capital expenditure, operational expenditure, and carbon modelling we were able to demonstrate to the clients a value proposition of a delivered-to-site-inone-package. This site has proven that Hybrids can create a practical, economic, and technical feasible solution whereby all technologies and appliances work efficiently in terms of operational costs and lowering the carbon footprint without impacting overall system performance. Visit www.rinnai-uk.co.uk
20-21 November 2024 •
5 FREE conference theatres
Industry expert speakers
The latest product innovations
Unrivalled networking opportunities
NEW features for 2024! Mentoring Sessions Workshops BSI Academy Training Sessions SPONSORED BY
