AMPS Power Magazine - Autumn 2023

The Association of Manufacturers and suppliers of Power generating systems

AUTUMN 2023 | WWW.AMPS.ORG.UK

MAGAZINE INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

I AMPS AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE P14 A look ahead at this year’s forthcoming event

I TARGETING CLIMATE

CHANGE P10-11 with Clive Deadman

I HYBRID GENERATION

REPORT P18-21

by Geoff Halliday

FEATURE ARTICLES

P12-13

THE EMERGENCE OF SIMPLE MACHINES WITH BERNARD GOSPEL

P22-23

AKSA POWER GENERATION EARN TULIP SUSTAINABILITY AWARD

P24-25

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The Zenergize unit is your clean and quiet source of energy. power.technique.uk@atlascopco.com 01442 222 350 www.atlascopco.co.uk

CONTENTS

04: FOREWORD

from AMPS Director General, David Oates.

05: AMPS REGIONAL DAY

A recap on the recent meeting in Wolverhampton.

09: DIESEL GENERATOR DATA with Romain Mocaer.

10: THE WAR ON CLIMATE CHANGE with Professor Clive Deadman.

12: SIMPLE MACHINES

A look at ancient engineering with Bernard Gospel.

14: AMPS AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE A look ahead at this year’s forthcoming event.

16: GENERATOR POWER SEAL THE DEAL A £20 million deal for 300 ZBP Zenergise units.

18: HYBRID GENERATION IN THE POWER GENERATION HIRE MARKET 22: TULIP SUSTAINABILITY AWARD Aksa Power Generation earns prestigeous award.

24: INVESTMENT FOR GENNY HIRE 26: ROLLS-ROYCE LAUNCHES MTU HYDROGEN SOLUTIONS 28: THE CONTRACTS FOR DIFFERENCE SCHEME 30: CERES POWER’S UNIQUE SOLIDOXIDE CELL FEATURE 32: CUMMINS NEW FACILITY IN KRAKOW 34: CURRENT THINKING

Emergency backup diesel engines on installations.

38: WHAT DOES THE TECHNICAL COMMITTEE DO? Bernard Gospel outlines the work undertaken.

42: AMPS COUNCIL MEMBERS

Greetings and welcome to the Autumn edition of the AMPS Power magazine!

In this issue, we dive deeper into the ever-pressing theme of sustainability, shedding light on how our dedicated members are actively driving decarbonisation initiatives. Geoff Halliday offers valuable insights into the area of hybrid power generation, particularly within the hire market, showcasing innovative approaches to cleaner energy solutions.

Professor Clive Deadman challenges us to rethink the ‘War on Decarbonisation,’ arguing that engineers, rather than politicians, hold the keys to a more sustainable future. It’s a perspective that promises to spark thoughtprovoking discussions.

We also celebrate the success of the recent AMPS regional day, held at the iconic M&B Springfield brewery, where high-profile speakers and captivating discussions took centre stage.

As a reminder, mark your calendars for the prestigious AMPS Awards for Excellence on November 16th. Don’t miss the chance to reserve your table at this remarkable event.

We hope you find this issue inspiring and informative as we continue to champion sustainability and innovation in the power industry. Enjoy the read and let us know if there are any topics you would particularly like us to publish in future issues !

Mike Boughey Editor: AMPS Power Magazine

CONTACT AMPS The Association of Manufacturers and suppliers of Power generating Systems Unit 19, Omega Business Village, Thurston Road, Northallerton DL6 2NJ UK Director General: David Oates Chairman: Paul Aitken Director General :

david.oates@amps.org.uk Membership enquiry:

amps@amps.org.uk Publications:

Mike Boughey: ampsmagazine@amps.org.uk Disclaimer:

The information contained in this magazine is for general information purposes only. We endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the magazine or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the magazines for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. The editor, contributors and related parties shall have no responsibility for any action or omission by any other contributor, consultant, editor and shall have no responsibility for any links from this magazine to third party websites

Accounts:

accounts@amps.org.uk

+44 (0) 20 8253 4505

www.amps.org.uk AMPS POWER MAGAZINE 03

AMPS Power Magazine

F O R E WO R D

FOREWORD FROM DAVID OATES Director General of AMPS

Another eventful year for our industry that we hope to celebrate next month, with the annual AMPS Awards evening.

We are delighted to host the event at the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham with guest speaker, Dominic Holland, in attendance.

We have seven excellent awards to celebrate and hope to receive many nominations from the membership for each of the categories being presented at the evening Awards Ceremony.

During the year we have hosted several regional events across the country that have been supported by a mixture of industry experts and government department representatives. We will continue to plan for these in 2024 and link our locations to the various conferences and exhibitions across the UK, to encourage more members to attend. These are events for our members, so please ensure that you have the dates nailed in your diaries for the year.

To assist members, we have also published, in the magazine, a list of key events and conferences across our industry, that will be a useful guide to assist diary planning. We hope this will act as a reminder to each and every one of You, as it was a membership request to do this.

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We continue to look and request support for our Technical Committee, as this is the heart and soul of our Association and provides critical advice and information to Our Members. We are pleased to confirm that Chris Marsland has accepted the role of Chairperson for the Technical Committee and will work with the Working Group leaders and members, to continue the good work carried out by Andy Greer over the last few years. We thank Andy for his efforts and commitment in the role and are pleased to see him remain within the Committee for the future!

In addition, the new Policy Committee is up and running and with the support of the seven member representatives, the Team will focus on ensuring that AMPS stays close to government strategy and plays a role in adding our views and inputs to the decisionmaking process.

Finally, a big welcome to all the new 10 members who have joined the Association since the start of the year. We hope to see everyone at the various events and to canvas your support across the AMPS events. Be part of the Family and stay involved!

David

I N D U S T R Y DATA

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AMPS POWER MAGAZINE 05

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AMPS Power Magazine

AMPS REGIONAL MEETING

AMPS REGIONAL DAY 28TH SEPTEMBER 2023

The Elite Centre for Manufacturing Skills (ECMS) is an employer-led training facility located in the Black Country, designed to support the UK industry in upskilling and multi-skilling the workforce, with particular focus on developing technical skills and knowledge in engineering, manufacturing, casting and metal forming sectors.

Building on the region’s renowned industrial heritage, the Elite Centre will support the industry by providing specialist training, helping to close skills gaps.

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ELITE CENTRE FOR MANUFACTURING SKILLS: WOLVERHAMPTON

The Elite Centre has two main centres as part of the Hub and Spoke model. The Hub is based at the University of Wolverhampton’s Springfield Campus and the National Foundry Training Centre is based in Tipton, here they will deliver short courses and training.

ECMS is funded by The Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership and collaboration between, University of Wolverhampton, Dudley College, Cast Metals Federation, Confederation of British Metal forming and Institute of Cast Metals Engineers.

Jon McDonald, ESO

Jon is the Operability Strategy Manager, working within the Networks function of the Electricity System Operator. He has been at National Grid ESO since 2011 and has been in Operability Strategy since 2019. His team ensures that the ESO can identify challenges of future system operation and develop solutions to those future challenges. They publish an annual report in December; the Operability Strategy Report, which outlines the future system challenges and how we are meeting them.

In his presentation, Jon covered the journey to transition from a single period of zero carbon generation to year-round zero carbon generation in 2035. He touched on the system requirements and necessary services to meet those requirements, and the opportunities for new technologies in the transition to net zero.

Alan Beech, Clarke Energy

Alan is a time-served engineer with over 35 years’ experience within the energy industry, holding lead roles at a variety of multinational companies. Alan joined Clarke Energy in 2019 and is actively involved in Clarke Energy’s diversification to its CHP portfolio, into complementary renewable technologies, such energy efficiency adoption, solar, heat pumps, battery energy

In his presentation, Alan covered gas generation for the future. It will mainly focus on gas reciprocating engines’ (why CHP will not be a stranded asset, and why we shall still need Gas Peaking Stations to provide Long Duration Energy Storage (LDES)) but I hope to get it to touch on H2 production and Fuel cells too, opening with some insight as to the current system (electrical and gas networks) problems and where they are going.

Emma Fryer, ERM

Emma is a Partner in ERM’s EMEA Technology Team, specialising in data centre sustainability and resilience.

Before joining ERM she spent over a decade providing a collective voice for data centre operators in matters of policy, compliance and reputation at techUK. During this time, she led the UK policy dialogue on behalf of the sector, monitored regulatory developments, responded to consultations and has produced position statements on multiple legislative instruments ranging from data protection to air quality. She has a comprehensive understanding of the challenges facing this growing sector - from power provisioning to public perception.

She has produced over 200 publications from guidance materials to data centre market overviews and has established a reputation for thought leadership, readability and clarity of expression. In 2021 she was elected to the Board of the Climate Neutral Data Centre Pact and appointed to the Infrastructure Masons Advisory Council. She is a regular speaker at industry events and a judge on international panels.

AWA R D S G A L A 2 0 2 2

storage, hydrogen electrolysers / fuel cells, biomethane plants, carbon capture & utilisation and load shifting hybrid systems. He is a champion of the net-zero journey and an active member of industry trade associations and advisory bodies, advocating the UK’s whole power solution.

Mark Acton, Acton Consulting

Mark Acton MD from Acton Consulting spoke on Topic on Trends & Directives for Data Centres in UK. A senior Data Centre Consultant comfortable with extensive international experience and detailed knowledge of the data centre sector and the challenges it currently faces. Mark combines a service delivery driven approach with solid engineering and technical skills and direct operational experience of managing multiple large data centre sites.

A regular public speaker at international events and a recognised industry advisor on data centre technical issues as well as being involved in European and international data centre Standards development through CEN/CENELEC, ETSI, BSI and ISO. Mark also acts as a representative on multiple technical committees within the data centre ecosystem and is the current Chair of the Best Practice Committee for the European Code of Conduct for Data Centre Energy Efficiency, sponsored by the European Commission.

Demonstrating a successful record in Data Centre Operations Management, Data Centre Facilities Management, IT Operations Management, Data Communications / Information Systems installation and support based on 25 years of experience within the data centre sector. Having incorporated both IT and traditional engineering disciplines Mark now operates as a senior level technical consultant and brand ambassador based on direct experience of both design and operational management of world class data centres. Mark offers direct data centre service delivery experience, cross discipline expertise in data centre engineering (combining IT and Facilities), data centre Facilities Management and international data centre standards development.

AMPS POWER MAGAZINE 07

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AMPS Power Magazine

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www.emexlondon.com 08 AMPS POWER MAGAZINE

D I E S E L G E N E R AT O R DATA

Competitive intelligence expert Romain Mocaer.

THE EUROPEAN DIESEL GENERATOR MARKET REACHED ITS PEAK IN 1ST HALF 2023 The diesel generator market reached new record levels in first half of 2023, with 5% increase vs. 2nd half of 2022.

This growth follows a jump of 37% in the 2nd half.

However, the market peak seems to have been reached, and the second part of the year and early 2024 looks set to be more complicated, at least for powers below 750 kVA.

Very different trends depending on the power nodes

The second quarter of 2023 marks a turning point for powers below 750 kVA. This market, which has grown very strongly over the last 12 months, is now experiencing a significant drop in orders, and a sales decrease is therefore expected for the coming months.

For what? The main drivers which pulled the market upwards are no longer there: Ukraine massively imported small power generators in Q4 2022 and Q1 2023 (more than US$400M in six months) but this episode is now over, the Fear of an energy crisis caused by the conflict in Ukraine is no longer as strong as last fall, and above all product stocks at distributors have filled up and the race for the product is now over.

In just a few months, we went from a situation where demand exceeded supply to a situation where supply exceeded demand.

The market should return to “normal” levels in the coming months.

On the other hand, for generators of more than 750 kVA, and more particularly for generators of more than 2000 kVA, the situation is quite different. This product segment is still taking full advantage of the hyper growth of data centers, driven in particular by the development of AI, and the prospects for hyperscale projects are still growing strongly.

The United Kingdom and Germany in particular, but also Spain and Ireland are

home to a large number of projects, even if Ireland could see its growth slowed down by some government restrictions.

Focus on the UK market

The United Kingdom is not immune to this trend, and if the small and medium power market is expected to decline by 2024 (return to pre-crisis levels), the large power market (2000+ kVA) is still growing.

On the other hand, and this is also an underlying trend in Europe, the gas generator market is experiencing much more complex prospects, due to the consequences of the gas crisis but also the strong development of grid-scale BESS solutions.

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AMPS Power Magazine

B E AT I N G C L I M AT E C H A N G E

THE 10 RULES OF WAR TELL US HOW TO BEAT CLIMATE CHANGE We are coming up to the centenary of Coca Cola’s decision to stop including cocaine in its drinks. It was in 1929 that the company decided to stop selling narcotics to children. At the time this decision was controversial and difficult. But the company has survived admirably: it still exists and owns our planet’s most recognised brand.

In 500 BC Sun Tzu defined the 10 rules of war.

Professor Clive Deadman Clive has a background in mining and automotive Engineering, 9 years in private equity, and 18 years with United Utilities and Electricity North West. Sectors of interest include water, wastewater,

Perhaps nudged by the prohibition legislation Coca Cola successfully conformed to the first two laws of war: (1) Selection of aim and (2) Take offensive action. But their success relied on them addressing all the rules of war.

In the UK we have started to do something similar for our decarbonisation war. We have set somewhat legal targets (Rule 1) for

decarbonisation in 2035 (3 general elections away) and 2050 (6 general elections away).

We have made a great and leading start in certain areas (Rule 2) but from now on things get much harder. This leadership is critical but not in itself enough. In respect of most of the other 8 rules of war we need to raise our game.

healthcare and the associated regulation.

As a Professor of Water and Energy, Author, and Chair and non-executive Director of a range of organisations Clive helps organisations prioritise, finance, and deliver competing customer service, resilience, environmental, carbon, healthcare and financial objectives.

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THE RULES:

gas & electrical power, housing,

1. SELECTION OF AIM 2. TAKE OFFENSIVE ACTION 3. CONCENTRATION OF RESOURCES 4. INTELLIGENCE 5. ECONOMY OF EFFORT

6. MORALE 7. UTILITY OF EFFORT 8. SECURITY: PROTECT VULNERABILITIES 9. SIMPLICITY 10. FLEXIBILITY

The recent ULEZ roll out in London demonstrates ‘no plan survives contact with the enemy’. Particularly when disruption arrives if the public do not broadly agree with urgency, costs, purpose and need. But this is not a ‘London’ thing; it is a world thing.

most failed installations have been caused because 1–3-month maintenance tasks have been neglected, or under floor water heating densities have been poorly specified or corrosion issues in coastal areas have been ignored. It is not complicated but there is a ‘knack’ to everything.

Rather disappointingly the estimated costs over the next 20 years of decarbonising the USA is estimated to be between $300 billion and $50 trillion (a ridiculously wide range) and yet research by the CATO Institute identify over half of Americans are unwilling to pay more than $1 a month on decarbonisation and only 39% will pay $10 a month.

Wind turbines: Wind turbine prices have dropped by 60% in the last 10 years. Most of the problems wind farm developers face are human made barriers, such as regulations protecting competing environmental factors or connection/network engineering blocks.

But there is a route through all this and if you are reading AMPS Power you have an important role to play in this war. Our MP’s and civil servants have a key role, but technical and business skills are rare in Whitehall. We cannot batter our way to the carbon neutral world we need using current technologies. And here, there is great cause for hope: Heat pumps: They are increasingly able to function in cold weather. In the US in 1980 heat pumps struggled to deliver 6 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) but new inverter technology means this year most states have adopted a minimum requirement for 15 SEER. We are learning

PV: Since the 1980 Mono-Silicon PV panels have increased in efficiency from 10-13% to 26%. However, Perovskite cells which were only first demonstrated in 2010 (13%) are now claimed to outperform traditional units. Enhanced Tandem Perovskite units have, in the last 2 years, improved by 4% efficiency improvement and are claimed to deliver 33.7% efficiency. There are numerous challenges ahead, but brilliant and practical minds are solving them. Washing off the dust and leaves also makes a big difference.

So, there is great opportunity. The thermodynamic maximum limit for PV panels is 87% efficiency.

Batteries: The energy densities for lithium-ion batteries have tripled since 2010. Researchers developing lithium-air batteries are hoping soon to further double

battery performance. Elon Musk is hinting at a 50% battery performance improvement next year. If as usual, he delivers half of what he promises he will be a hero yet again.

Home insulation: In the UK the number of homes with full double glazing has risen from 73% in 2009 to 88% in 2021. During this period 200mm loft insulation has risen from a disappointingly low of 24% to an improved but miserable 39%. The most efficient energy saving is the energy that is not needed. A ‘fabric first’ approach is not sexy but given time it is a game changer.

There is a need for a dream for delivery 6 general elections away but this, in itself, is not enough. We need more of a focus on economy of effort, a concentration of resources and intelligence. Engineering skills, innovation and a focus on housekeeping and basic maintenance are at the centre of things from now on.

So, to conclude addressing climate change is not a ‘special operation’ that will not particularly affect us. This is a long campaign to protect our homeland. Together we need to develop the weapons needed to win this climate war.

We now have the dream but it is time to be practical and think about all of the 10 rules of war.

AMPS POWER MAGAZINE 11

AMPS Power Magazine

HISTORY OF ENGINEERING

engineering made the world

SIMPLE MACHINES

Following the last article on the boat, I considered the next step, we had previously covered spears, levers, sleds, ramps and buildings, boats and displacement. How to guide our engineer beyond this to the future, what came next?

Bernard Gospel

Technical Committee Secretary

TechSec@AMPS.org.uk

Bernard Gospel‘s continuing series of articles based on the topic of the history of engineering, loosely based on the BBC radio programmes and podcasts ‘a history of he world in 100 objects’ and ’50 things that made the modern economy’.

The wheel (too easy), the axle? The bearing? Lubrication? The pulley? The screw?

Does it matter?

Should we first pause and with the benefit of hindsight think? One of my mentors told me that ‘before starting a task, you should think. It may be your last chance….if it goes wrong, you may be too busy solving problems to think…’ Sensible advice.

So, we have these potential inventions, can we assess them grade them, classify them, what do they do?

The last gives the clue.

The answer is that there is no answer, as always there is parallel development.

It took the renaissance philosophers to come up with the theories, but, as always, the germ of the idea came much earlier.

You will remember our friend Archimedes who gave us the theory of buoyancy and the understanding of how boats float?

The idea of a ‘simple machine’ originated with Archimedes who studied what he

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called simple machines: lever, pulley, and screw. He discovered the principle of mechanical advantage in the lever.

Archimedes’ famous remark regarding the lever: “Give me a place to stand on, and I will move the Earth,” expresses his realisation that there was no limit to the amount of force amplification that could be achieved by using mechanical advantage.

Philosophers defined the classic five simple machines (excluding the inclined plane) and were able to calculate their (ideal) mechanical advantage. defined as mechanisms that can “set a load in motion”: lever, windlass, pulley, wedge, and screw.

However, the Greeks’ understanding was limited to the statics of simple machines (the balance of forces), and did not include dynamics, the trade-off between force and distance, or the concept of work and power.

A simple machine is a mechanical device that changes the direction or magnitude of a force.

In general, they can be defined as the simplest mechanisms that use mechanical advantage (also called leverage) to multiply force.

PULLEY

LEVER

INCLINED PLANE Usually, the term refers to the six classical simple machines that were later defined by Renaissance scientists: A simple machine uses a single applied force to do work against a single load force. Ignoring friction losses, the work done on the load is equal to the work done by the applied force. The machine can increase the amount of the output force, at the cost of a proportional decrease in the distance moved by the load. The ratio of the output to the applied force is called the mechanical advantage (MA).

Simple machines can be regarded as the elementary “building blocks” of which all more complicated machines are composed. For example, wheels, levers, and pulleys are all used in the mechanism of a bicycle.

The mechanical advantage of a compound machine is just the product of the mechanical advantages of the simple machines of which it is composed.

Various post-Renaissance authors have compiled expanded lists of “simple machines”, often using terms like basic machines, compound machines, or machine elements to distinguish them from the classical simple machines above.

During the Renaissance the dynamics of the mechanical powers, as the simple machines were called, began to be studied from the standpoint of how far they could lift a load, in addition to the force they could apply, leading eventually to the new concept of mechanical work. In 1586 Flemish engineer Simon Stevin derived the mechanical advantage of the

inclined plane, and it was included with the other simple machines.

The complete dynamic theory of simple machines was worked out by Italian scientist Galileo Galilei in 1600 in Le Meccaniche (On Mechanics), in which he showed the underlying mathematical similarity of the machines as force amplifiers. He was the first to explain that simple machines do not create energy, only transform it.

The classic rules of sliding friction in machines were discovered by Leonardo da Vinci but were unpublished and merely documented in his notebooks.

If a simple machine does not dissipate energy through friction, wear or deformation, then energy is conserved, and it is called an ideal simple machine.

In this case, the power into the machine equals the power out, and the mechanical advantage can be calculated from its geometric dimensions.

Although each machine works differently mechanically, the way they function is similar mathematically. In each machine, a force is applied to the device at one point, and it does work moving a load at another point. Although some machines only change the direction of the force, such as a stationary pulley, most machines multiply the magnitude of the force by a factor, the mechanical advantage.

AXLE & WHEEL

WEDGE

SCREW

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AMPS Power Magazine

A M P S AWA R D S F O R E XC E L L E N C E

NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM

AMPS AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE THURSDAY 16TH NOVEMBER 2023

Birmingham beckons with a fresh venue, diverse categories and a splash of comedy for the 2023 AMPS Awards for Excellence.

This year we’re heading to the National Motorcycle Museum in Solihull for our awards ceremony and gala dinner. Attendees can look forward to exclusive access to the museum from 5.30 to 7.00 pm, when our networking drinks reception will kick start the evening.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS Ticket sales for the awards are now open. Tickets are £185 + VAT per person, or £1750 + VAT for a table of 10. Invoices will be issued once bookings are received.

TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS, PLEASE VISIT:

www.eventbrite.co.uk

/e/amps-awards-for-excellencetickets-715362347037

14 AMPS POWER MAGAZINE

S Our host this year will be comedian Dominic Holland, who will be presenting the winners with their awards.

CATEGORIES

The criteria for this year’s awards categories Member Company of the Year Award

The “Member Company Award” recognises outstanding contributions by an AMPS member company, highlighting their commitment to growth, innovation, and ambition.

Innovation and Technology Award

The “Innovation and Technology Award” celebrates ground-breaking innovations that enhance the sector’s capabilities and drive positive change.

THIS YEAR’S

SPONSORS We would like to thank all of the sponsors for this year’s event. Support from our members is what makes these events possible.

The headline sponsor for this year’s awards is

The pre-dinner networking reception is sponsored by

Environmental Product of the Year Award

The “Environmental Product of the Year Award” recognises innovative solutions for the power industry that significantly contribute to sustainability, energy efficiency, and environmental impact while positively impacting the sector.

Project of the Year Award

The Project of the Year Award aims to showcase projects that have exemplified excellence, forward-thinking, and ingenuity, setting new standards in the industry. This award celebrates projects that have gone above and beyond, achieving remarkable success while navigating complex challenges and unique contexts.

Business Growth and Strategy Award

Entrants for the “Business Growth and Strategy Award” should be able to demonstrate sustained revenue growth, expanded market share, and / or examples of seizing new business opportunities. Judges will be looking for companies that are able to showcase a clear vision, adaptability, and resilience in dynamic market conditions.

Table sponsor

Member Company of the Year Award is sponsored by

Innovation & Technology Award is sponsored by

Environmental Product of the Year Award is sponsored by

Project of the Year Award is sponsored by

Energy and Sustainability Award

The Energy and Sustainability Award recognises outstanding initiatives and achievements in promoting energy efficiency, conservation, and sustainable practices. Eligible candidates will be evaluated based on how they are leading the way in transforming their own business practices to be more sustainable (Those wishing to showcase sustainable customer solutions should enter the Environmental Product of the Year category).

Business Growth and Strategy Award is sponsored by

Energy and Sustainability Award is sponsored by

Apprentice of the Year

The “Apprentice of the Year Award” will celebrate the achievements of apprentices who have displayed outstanding skills and brought a fresh perspective to their business. The winner will be someone who has demonstrated a strong work ethic and a dedication to learning.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT: WWW.AMPS.ORG.COM

Apprentice of the Year Award is sponsored by

Thank you to all of our award category sponsors

AMPS POWER MAGAZINE 15

AMPS Power Magazine

G E N E R AT O R P O W E R / AT L A S B A P C O

GENERATOR POWER MAKES BIGGEST EVER ORDER FOR ATLAS COPCO ENERGY STORAGE UNITS S Atlas Copco’s Paul Webster sealing the deal with managing director of Generator Power Ltd, Steve Cardwell at the recent Plantworx exhibition.

The £20 million deal for 300 ZBP Zenergize battery energy storage units is part of Generator Power’s objective of reducing its carbon footprint – and helping customers do the same.

Funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Atlas Copco’s largest customer in the UK – Generator Power – has ordered 300 ZBP Energize battery energy storage units, in the UK’s largest ever contract for the new technology. The Normanton, West Yorkshire, based portable power company will supply the units from its ten locations across the UK; from Inverness in Scotland to Reading in England’s South East. The deal is part of Generator Power’s stated aim of ‘Embracing the latest technologies to make a positive difference to how we impact the environment’.

The order will see 200 ZBP Zenergize 45/75 energy storage units supplied, supplemented by a further 100 of the ZBP 15/60 models. The ZBP Zenergize 45/75 Lithium-ion battery technology is compact yet can provide over 12 hours of power with a single charge. Both models are portable products with ‘plug-andplay’ capabilities, simple to install and silent, limiting noise pollution on site. And, as they emit no exhaust emissions, they can be stored safely indoors or even underground if required.

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The units being supplied to Generator Power feature ultra-advanced controllers, as well as Atlas Copco’s Fleetlink remote telematics system. Its 48-volt batteries power Victron inverters for three phase or three single phase outputs. They can be run in tandem with other battery storage units and will deplete their batteries down to just 10% power before automatically calling for generator support.

Lower operational costs – and carbon emissions Description automatically generated“This is one of our most significant orders for energy storage units we’ve ever had, and appropriately it comes from one of our most forward-thinking customers, Generator Power,” says Paul Webster, Atlas Copco UK’s business line manager for power and flow. “These portable BESS products provide remarkable benefits, such as lower operational costs, higher return on investment, and meet green emissions. Not only is electricity cheaper than diesel, per unit of energy, our ZBP’s, even partially fully charged, can switch off and stop absorbing

KEY INDUSTRY EVENTS Below is a list of industry and trade events for the remainder of 2023 and 2024, that AMPS Members should find useful and may want to attend.

2023 Green Gas Day, REA – 11 October: Birmingham Highways UK – 18/19 October: NEC, Birmingham Solar & Storage Live – 17/22 October: NEC, Birmingham EMEX – 22/23 November, London IHEEM/Healthcare Estates – 10/11 October

2024 from other power sources such as generators and the grid. In conjunction with this cost reduction, these battery storage units will play an important role in driving down carbon emissions.

Greener credentials can be maximized via renewable power sources such as solar and wind.”

“We are always looking for ideas for smarter, greener ways to keep the power flowing,” says Steve Cardwell, Generator Power’s Managing Director. “We have a track record for innovating and this investment in energy storage units is a natural progression of our commitment.

These energy storage units not only have the capability to provide power to sites at a much-reduced cost but also generate very little carbon emissions. This is good for business and also a step forward in helping the construction industry achieve its goal of becoming a greener, more environmentally conscious industry.”

Deliveries of the energy storage units begin in August.

Electricity Storage Network Conference - 24-26 January: IET, London PowerGen International - 23/25 January: New Orleans, USA Executive Hire Show – 14/15 February: Coventry Arena Energy Storage Summit – 21/22 February: Novotel, London West Key Energy Rimini – 28 February/01 March: Rimini, Italy Data Centre World – 6/7 March: Excel, London Distributed Energy Show – 13/14 March: Telford Middle East Energy - 16/18 April: Dubai Solar & Storage – 29/30 April: Excel, London All Energy Trade Show - 15/16 May: Glasgow UK Solar Summit – 4/5 June: The Oval, London Future of Utilities Summit – 19/20 June: QEII Centre, London Hillhead Show - 25/27 June: Buxton International Conference on Power & Energy - 28/29 June: London World BioGas Expo – 10/11 July: NEC, Birmingham Solar and Storage Live – October 2024 (days TBC): NEC, Birmingham EMEX - October (days TBC): London IHEEM/Healthcare Estates - October 2024 (days TBC): Manchester

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT:

WWW.ATLASCOPCO.COM

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H Y B R I D G E N E R AT I O N

G R Halliday

Business Consultant

WB Power Services Ltd

Geoff Halliday started his career as an apprentice working for Square D (later part of Schneider) before moving into the critical power sector where he has now worked for over 40 years, splitting that time equally between both the UPS and standby diesel generation sectors.

During this period Geoff has held several roles ranging from Customer Service Engineer, Project Manager, Technical Director, Sales Director through to Managing Director.

The Critical Power market exposes the individual to a wide and diverse range of market sectors ranging Health Care, Life Science, Water Treatment, Banking and Finance, Military, Manufacturing, Process Control through to Data Centres of all sizes. Drawing on his management skills, product knowledge and vast application experience amassed throughout his career Geoff now enjoys sharing his knowledge with others.

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HYBRID GENERATION IN THE POWER GENERATION HIRE MARKET

Diesel Generating sets have been used in many different types of emergency / standby or hire applications for very many decades now and as such the operating principles are well understood.

An engine is connected via a shaft to an electrical alternator; This allows the fuel (usually diesel) used to power the engine which then turns an alternator to convert the motion of the engine into electricity.

These principles have not changed much for over 100 years, although the efficiency has greatly improved. Over the last few decades, it’s become clear that the use of fossil fuel, such as petrol, diesel or natural gas, in general is problematic in terms of their impact on the environmental and the sustainability of their continued use.

Diesel is by no means the worst offender – in cars, for example, diesel tends to emit less CO2 than petrol engines, because they use the fuel more efficiently. In this period of transition from fossil fuels to other energy sources it is beholden on us to find ways of improving the efficiency of energy conversion and by virtue of this reduce the environmental impact of what we do.

Technologists in the generator industry have turned their attention to this and the use of hybrid generators particularly in the “hire” sector are in the ascendancy. When correctly

used these generator/battery combinations use less diesel overall and hence have a reduced impact on the environment.

In their basic form a hybrid generator consists of a traditional diesel engine alternator combination which is supplemented by a battery pack. In operation either source can supply the required electrical power.

There are many benefits to choosing to use a hybrid generating set on your hire generator application, which include:

k Increased generator efficiency k Reduced fuel consumption k Reduced CO2 emissions and hence carbon footprint k Quiet system operation overnight k Reduced generator maintenance costs k Additional redundancy of supply It is worth noting that these systems can also be used with existing mains supplies, standby generators as well as renewable energy sources such and solar or wind power.

worked together so that they could develop training packages for both the hire sales team and installation, service, and maintenance teams.

The early testing work undertaken combined with a good amount of real-life data led to the realisation that this combined package had much more to offer than was being sold by third party organisations.

HOW IT WORKS

The generator also picking up battery recharging early in the morning. Whilst this mode of operation is easy to set up and does tick many of the desired performance boxes such as silent operation overnight, eliminates light load low efficient running of the engine, reduced running hours and emissions it doesn’t necessarily provide an optimised operation solution.

There are several ways in which the “hybrid generating set” can be operated and the savings / environmental impact will vary accordingly.

The key is to optimise the performance of both generator and battery system using them as a fully integrated energy solution optimised for the lowest possible level of emissions.

Much like a hybrid car, the battery system utilises power in the most efficient way.

Installed between the generator output and the load, the battery system is designed to complement the operation of a generating set, allowing it to operate more efficiently at higher load levels for shorter periods of time or for the load to be fed by the battery alone.

One such mode of operation would be for example as the system load increases, or as the battery’s stored energy level is depleted, the battery system will start the generator; the generator will supply the load whilst also recharging the batteries ensuring the diesel engine is running at its most efficient point.

The battery system typically seamlessly transfers between battery and engine power, reducing carbon emissions and generator run hours and therefore any potential maintenance costs. Another common application is when a generator and battery system combine to power a suite of construction site cabins.

Power demand in this type of application is high during weekday days and low overnight and weekends. Typically, overnight the load is lighting, security and during the winter some background heating. The standard mode of operation would be generator running during the day and battery overnight.

It led to a determination within WB to fully explore and quantify potential savings for clients, to ensure our teams new how this could be achieved and has ultimately led to the development and production of our own NetZPack battery solution.

WB has undertaken extensive development and testing of the NetZPack product ensuring that operation of the generating set and performance of the battery system are fully optimised ensure we are securing the maximum efficiency of operation when running on generator and secure the maximum possible life from the battery system too.

We should not forget that there are significant environmental costs associated with the production and manufacture of Li-Ion batteries. TESTING WB undertook a wide range of testing to both optimise its third-party battery fleet but more so when developing the NetZPack product. This was important for a wide range of reasons: -

k Ensuring correct matching of generating set to battery for a range of different load levels, applications and operational settings

OPTIMISING THE SOLUTION

k Closely monitoring engine fuel consumption in various load scenarios and on a range of generator ratings

Always looking to innovate, WB Power Services Ltd was an early adopter of the combined generator and battery solution particularly on construction sites and 24/7 continuous running applications where low overnight noise levels were key.

k Understanding optimum operational performance window of the battery under a range of load levels and duty cycles

Early deployments of these packages used battery systems purchased from third party vendors. WB’s new product integration team initially set about securing an understanding of how the two devices

k Selection of battery type, expected lifetime performance, battery capacity, string configuration and manufacturer quality

k Discharge/recharge performance and characteristic of the battery system

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AMPS Power Magazine

H Y B R I D G E N E R AT I O N

WORKED EXAMPLE

As part of WB’s research and development programme it undertook a number of monitored field tests on a range of generator and battery system combination and various load types.

One such evaluation was undertaken when working in conjunction with one of our DNO utility clients who was undertaking some overhead power line replacement work in an area with just a few residential properties.

The sort of application where a combined generator and battery system work well together. In this instance the load assessment provided by the client indicated that whilst there would be load on the system 24 hours per day there would likely be three very distinctive peak periods of loading, morning, lunchtime with the largest and longest coming during the evening.

Armed with a more detailed profile WB selected a Kohler J66 generating set housed in a close fit canopy and extended run base tank with a NetZPack 30/75 battery unit. The red line on the first graph shows the actual load profile during a typical weekday 24 hour period.

The green blocked areas show periods when the generator was running. The blue line on the second graph indicates the state of charge of the battery system. The battery system is used to supply the load during the

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periods of lighter load. The generator is the used to supply the load during periods of higher load whilst also recharging the battery system. When used in this combination it can be clearly seen that the generator:-

k Rarely runs at low levels of load:-

heavier load levels where the engine is: • Running at optimal engine temperature with minimum • l/kWh fuel consumption

• Avoiding periods of light load running issues

• Avoiding inefficient burning of fuel at low load levels

k Generator not running overnight reducing localised noise pollution

k Generator / Engine

• Lowest level of emissions per kWh

In this particular example the results were as follows:

• Runs for a shorter period reducing running costs and maintenance requirements

k Generator run time reduced by 61%

• Is typically always running at a

k Estimated fuel saving of 24%

k Generator average load up by 258%

IMPORTANT TAKE AWAYS

k Quality of battery manufacture

Maximum optimisation can only be achieved if the vendor closely matches the generating set to the battery system. This isn’t just down to the getting the correct set rating, but it is down to the performance of the specific engine type/ manufacturer as set/engine performance does vary.

k Mix of materials used in manufacturing the batteries

WB understands this well and is able optimise this within the NetZPack operational software. The key to a successfully deployment and use of a hybrid generator package isn’t just about reducing fuel consumption of the generating set, it is also about optimising the performance and the life expectancy/life cycle of the batteries too as there is an environmental impact in the materials used and manufacture of these batteries.

k Seek to maintain the battery operating temperature to optimal levels particularly when charging and discharging

WB’s extensive product development testing and operational experience has found securing optimal performance isn’t straightforward but needs to be based on a wide range of design and operation considerations such as:-

It can be seen just how important it is for the vendor to provide the right product package for the power requirement and load environment if both operational and lifecycle performance is to be maximised.

k Battery configuration when combined into a product package

The knowledge built up during the expensive development testing and operational testing of the NetZPack product has been locked into the NetZPack’s operational software and product training imparted into the Hire Sales team when dealing with client enquiries. We put the multi power input graphic shown in the brochure at this point.

k Selection of battery charger and charging regime adopted

k Optimise the number of charge/ discharge cycles the battery is subjected to k Excursions outside the battery’s optimal performance range (typically 80-20% level of charge)

The NetZPack is also able to use power provided from other sources such as renewable energy from wind or solar with either or both working in combination with the generating set.

With so many of these variables will be outside the control of the operator control and supplier but all of which will impacting the operational performance and life cycle of the product.

Additionally, the system has an input for a grid-based mains supply making a great source of power where the grid supply is unstable and subject to frequent disruption and hence enhancing the reliability and of the grid.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: WWW.WBPSLTD.CO.UK

IN MEMORIUM

JOHN GOODENOUGH John Goodenough, materials scientist and Nobel laureate, was born on July 25, 1922. He died on June 25, 2023, aged 100

John Goodenough, a pioneer in energy storage, faced retirement from the University of Oxford in 1987 but went on to transform the world of portable electronics.

His work in the discovery of lithium cobalt oxide laid the foundation for modern lithiumion batteries, revolutionizing the way we power our devices.

Despite his significant contributions, Goodenough remained modest about his achievements, emphasizing the importance of how technology is used for the greater good. In the quest for sustainability, he continued working well into his nineties on solutions to power electric cars for extended journeys, highlighting his dedication to addressing pressing engineering challenges.

academic career. His work at the University of Chicago led to innovations in the field of materials science. Goodenough’s journey took him to Oxford and then to the University of Texas at Austin, where he continued his groundbreaking research, even in his nineties.

His impact on technology is immeasurable, as his inventions are now used in countless everyday gadgets, though he remained modest about the financial rewards.

John Goodenough’s work and dedication to sustainable solutions continue to shape the world of energy storage

Born in 1922, Goodenough overcame dyslexia and pursued a love for nature and science. He served in the US Army Air Force during World War II before embarking on a distinguished

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AMPS Power Magazine

A K S A P O W E R G E N E R AT I O N

AKSA POWER GENERATION’S

REVOLUTIONARY SUSTAINABILITY ROADMAP EARNS PRESTIGIOUS AWARENESS RAISING ORGANISATION AWARD As one of the world’s leading generator manufacturers, Aksa Power Generation is a company that is aware of its responsibilities towards the world and future generations and acts by putting environmental sustainability principles at the centre of its activities.

Therefore, it aims to minimize its environmental impact by implementing various measures. With its comprehensive sustainability agenda, Aksa Power Generation won the Awareness Raising Organisation Award in 2022 as part of the “Environment Awards” organised by the TULIP Sustainability Centre.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT:

WWW.AKSAPOWERGEN.COM

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Among the applications in the sustainability agenda of the company in its new factory in Cerkezkoy is the establishment of a painting line that is more insulated and produces less waste in the powder coating process, so unnecessary powder paint consumption is reduced, and resources are used more efficiently. In addition, electric carriers are preferred instead of fuel-use carrier equipment used in the factory, thus reducing the consumption of non-renewable fuels.

In this way, it also minimizes the amount of hazardous waste generated as a result of the maintenance-repair activities of carriers.

Aksa Power Generation, playing an essential role in the fight against the climate crisis, also meets the energy consumption of its Cerkezkoy plant from renewable energy sources.

For this purpose, a Rooftop Solar Energy System with a capacity of 900 kW was installed, and 60% of the internal energy consumption started to be obtained from solar energy. Thus, Aksa Power Generation reduces its dependency on traditional energy sources and actively contributes to the use of renewable energy.

In addition to their commitment to renewable energy, Aksa Power Generation produces environmentally friendly products with low carbon emissions, thanks to their gas generators.

Aksa Power Generation reduces energy costs by providing high energy efficiency with its cogeneration and trigeneration systems and contributes to a significant reduction in fuel savings, greenhouse gas emissions and carbon emissions.

Aksa Power Generation offers product options that comply with Stage V standards.

In line with the environmentally friendly policies of the European Union, Stage V emission standards have been established.

These standards aim to control and reduce harmful exhaust emissions from diesel engines. This contributes to the goals of improving air quality and reducing environmental impacts. Moreover, Aksa Power Generation provides its customers with a sustainable energy solution by offering product groups that comply with HVO standards.

HVO is a sustainable fuel type obtained as a result of the hydrogenation or refining of vegetable oils. This fuel aims to reduce environmental impacts by using it as an alternative to fossil-based diesel fuels.

HVO has low emissions and is an environmentally friendly option. Their dedication to minimizing carbon emissions aligns with their goal of being naturefriendly and supports the fight against climate change.

plant is sent to licensed hazardous waste disposal facilities.

Prevention of noise pollution is also one of the issues that the company pays attention to. Aksa Power Generation is the only generator company in Turkey that can perform its sound test and manufacture 28 types of products following IEC 34 (International Electrotechnical Commission) standards. Products are inspected by notified bodies.

The company has also started “Zero Waste” studies and aims to obtain the Zero Waste Certificate in 2023. In this way, it plays an active role in environmental sustainability.

Aksa Power Generation also takes effective measures in waste management. Wastewater generated in the production facilities is treated in the treatment facility, making it harmless to the environment and discharged to the Cerkezkoy Organised Industrial Zone.

With the contract signed with the ÇEVKO Foundation, packaging waste is also collected and delivered to recycling facilities for reuse. In addition, waste oils resulting from engine tests are sent to licensed recycling companies for recycling, and waste sludge formed in the wastewater treatment

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AMPS Power Magazine

GENNY HIRE

INVESTMENT LIGHTS THE WAY FOR SUCCESS FOR GENNY HIRE Genny Hire, an Aberdeenshire based generator hire business, is making waves.

With a recent infusion of a 6 figure sum into equipment upgrades, strategic expansion, and a transformative rebranding endeavor, Genny Hire is not just growing; it’s becoming a guiding light in the industry.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT

WWW.GENNYHIRE.COM

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Founded in 2009 by Peter Emslie and Lorna Clark, the company was based in Murcar and started with a handful of generators, a few fuel tanks and a single van but with a commitment to fill a gap in the market by providing power solutions to local events and small-scale construction projects.

A move in 2020 to larger premises in Kintore gave Genny Hire the base for further growth with a substantial capital injection going towards upgrading and broadening its equipment, expanding its operations and staff, increasing their fleet and undergoing a comprehensive rebranding effort.

However, even the smallest spark has the potential to blaze into something remarkable. From powering trade shows and weddings to grain driers and wind turbine installations, Genny Hire was soon expanding their customer base by hiring to the events, construction, agriculture, marine, oil and gas and renewables sectors.

To date PP200, new generators, 100KW suitcase portable load banks, 690V Transformers, fuel tanks and fuel active systems have been added to Genny Hire's list of equipment for hire.

“We never imagined that our wee company could grow to such scale.” said founding director Lorna. “We had to buy more equipment and take on more staff to meet demand but it's a great sign of our customerfocused approach that clients from the early days are still with us.”

With increased warehousing and transportation infrastructure, the company can efficiently manage its growing inventory and ensure timely delivery and retrieval of generators to meet the various demands and needs of its clients, regardless of the scale or location of the project. Moreover, Genny Hire is focusing on augmenting its logistical capabilities with 24/7 technical support offered to its customers.

Recognising the importance of diversifying and new innovations, Genny Hire has allocated a significant portion of its recent investment towards acquiring state-of-the-art generator equipment that offers not only fuel and cost savings but also emission reduction.

This includes the Punch Power Flybrid, a standalone flywheel energy storage system that uses technology derived from Formula One and which enables downsizing of generators by a factor of 2 or more. It can be used in applications like tower cranes, pumps, hoists and lifts to achieve fuel savings of more than 50%.

In the future Genny Hire will also be looking to invest in battery energy storage systems and solar technology solutions to evolve their offering as the energy sector itself evolves.

By embracing these renewable energy solutions, Genny Hire is poised to offer its clients cleaner and more sustainable power options to not only meet customer expectations and requirements but also strengthen Genny Hire's competitive edge in the market.

In addition to its recent equipment, staff and fleet expansion, Genny Hire has embarked on a comprehensive rebranding campaign to improve its visibility and solidify its market presence. This rebranding effort includes revamping its logo, print collateral, redesigning its website, and enhancing its digital marketing strategies with the new logo soon to be rolled out across its entire fleet and plant.

“We want our customers to feel happy when they see our logo, whether it's when we arrive or when they show up to their place of work.

We want them to feel that we are bringing not only solutions to their problem but also reliability with help and support if they need it.” said Lorna.

Genny Hire's journey from the shadows of its beginnings to its bright future is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship, innovation and can-do attitude.

Throughout Genny Hire's growth and transformation, one thing remains constant and is their guiding light: their unwavering commitment to their customers. The company takes pride in its customer-centric approach, going the extra mile to understand each client's unique requirements and deliver tailored solutions accordingly.

Lorna said “Our tagline is 'We have the power to deliver.' but I like to think that we also deliver technical know how, support, cost savings and customer service to all our clients.”

ANNOUNCING A COMPLETE RE-DESIGN OF THE AMPS WEBSITE The redesign of the AMPS Association website marks a significant step forward in enhancing the organisation’s online presence and user experience. This project aims to modernize the website, making it more user-friendly and accessible for members and visitors alike.

The new design will focus on streamlining navigation, ensuring that important information is readily available and easy to find. This includes optimising the layout for mobile responsiveness, acknowledging the growing trend of accessing websites on smartphones and tablets. The improved design will create a seamless and responsive experience, enhancing accessibility and engagement for all users.

Visual aesthetics are a priority, with a fresh and appealing design that aligns with the association’s values and mission. The updated website will also prioritize content organisation, ensuring that it effectively communicates the latest news, events, and resources related to the Association’s field of interest.

Ultimately, the redesign will offer a more dynamic and interactive platform, fostering better member engagement, and serving as a valuable resource for those seeking information and insights in the industry. This project reflects the organisation’s commitment to staying current and providing an enhanced digital experience for its community.

VISIT THE AMPS WEBSITE AT WWW.AMPS.ORG.UK

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CO N T R AC TS F O R D I F F E R E N C E

ROLLS-ROYCE LAUNCHES MTU HYDROGEN SOLUTIONS FOR POWER GENERATION Rolls-Royce is further developing its mtu gas engine portfolio for power generation and cogeneration to run on hydrogen as a fuel and thus enable a climate-neutral energy supply.

Already today, gensets powered by mtu Series 500 and Series 4000 gas engines can be operated with a gas blending of 10 percent hydrogen. Beginning in 2022, operation with a hydrogen content of 25 percent will be possible.

“After intensive tests on test benches and pilot installations at customers in 2022, Rolls-Royce will continuously market new mtu Series 500 and Series 4000 gas engines beginning in 2023 for use with up to 100 percent hydrogen, and on a design to order basis conversion kits to allow already installed gas engines in the field to run on 100% hydrogen,” said Perry Kuiper, President Sustainable Power Solutions at Rolls-Royce Power Systems.

Power plants with hydrogen engines support energy transition “The decarbonisation of power generation requires reliable, flexible, but also climate-

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neutral, power plants to supplement the fluctuating generation from wind and sun.

We assume that natural gas will initially be the primary fuel in the development of the hydrogen ecosystem, but we see hydrogen as technically and economically possible.

That is why we continue to develop our gas engines for use with green hydrogen whether as a 10 or 25 percent admixture or for 100 percent,” explains Andreas Görtz, Vice President Power Generation at RollsRoyce Power Systems.

Rolls-Royce builds expertise for H2 ecosystem

In addition, fuel cells powered by 100% green hydrogen can play an important role in future energy supply in combination with renewable energies. At its Friedrichshafen headquarters, Rolls-Royce’s Power Systems division has installed a 250-kilowatt fuel cell demonstrator, which will be used to test and present future CO2-free energy

systems to customers. The entire hydrogen ecosystem, including the infrastructure for supply, conversion, test benches and future production, is also being mapped in the company’s own plants, thus building up expertise.

Rolls-Royce focuses its climate protection programme Net Zero at Power Systems on new technologies and fuels

With its climate protection programme “Net Zero at Power Systems”, Rolls-Royce’s Power Systems division has set itself the target of saving 35 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 2019 using new technologies. This near-term target plays an important role in the RollsRoyce Group’s ambition to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 at the latest. In addition to new technologies, a key element in achieving these targets is the certification of key mtu engine products to run on sustainable EN 15940 fuels such as e-diesel and second-generation biofuels as early as 2023.

PROLECTRIC AWARDED GOLD ACCREDITATION FOR CSR Prolectric, the off-grid, renewable lighting and power specialist, has for the second time been awarded a gold accreditation for corporate social responsibility (CSR) by leading UK based company, CSR-A, who deliver the global standard for CSR. Following an intensive review process by a CSR-A expert panel, from across the public and private sector, Prolectric has retained its gold standard accreditation, with an impressive 95% pass score. The application process requires setting in place and documenting a stringent record of activity against the ‘Four CSR Pillars’ of environment, workplace, community and philanthropy.

Rachel Preen, Managing Director, Prolectric, said: “Achieving a gold CSR Accreditation is a visible testimony of excellence in Social Responsibility and one which we are extremely proud to receive. This accolade perfectly epitomises the dedicated, talented and inspirational team I am privileged to work alongside and is testament to Prolectric’s unwavering commitment to creating an environmentally and socially conscious culture.”

“Beyond our Grade-A off-grid renewable lights and solar-hybrid generators, our

commitment to the environment runs even deeper. There’s all the stuff that people don’t see, our entire operation and how we do things.

‘Our ethics and values run through everything we do, from how we buy things and power our factories, to the way we train our colleagues and give back to the community. It’s how we plan five years ahead for products that nobody has thought of yet. To us, CSR and ESG aren’t an exercise or an initiative – looking after the environment and each other is everything we stand for”.

It is very satisfying to engage with a company who not only addresses and mitigates their operational sustainability challenges but extends and measures their influence up the supply chain.

We are delighted to award Prolectric their second gold CSR Accreditation and very much look forward to seeing the great things they currently have in planning and any further innovations, unfolding in the coming three years”.

Richard Collins, Managing Director, CSR-A said “CSR-A are extremely impressed by Prolectric’s dedication to an integrated environmental and social responsibility agenda. Their commitment to the welfare and development of their workforce and their engagement with the local community sets an example to be proud of.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: WWW.PROLECTRIC.CO.UK

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CO N T R AC TS F O R D I F F E R E N C E

THE CONTRACTS FOR DIFFERENCE SCHEME Launched in 2014, the Contracts for Difference scheme ensures projects receive a guaranteed price from the government for the electricity they will generate – giving companies certainty and confidence to invest in the UK. Contracts are awarded through a series of competitive auctions, where the lowest price bids are successful, ensuring value for money for consumers. This year’s auctions were split to ensure that new, less established energy sources do not have to compete for budget from long-established technologies – offering certainty for developers and keeping the UK at the cutting edge of the renewables industry.

Half of this year’s total capacity has been secured by new solar projects, while onshore wind projects have delivered almost 1.5GW of capacity and secured more than double the projects (24) than last year’s round (10). The latest round also saw a £10 million ringfenced budget for tidal stream help to return a record 11 projects, with a record capacity of over 50MW. There are also three winning projects for geothermal for the first time in the scheme’s

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history, totaling 12MW of capacity. This will generate enough electricity to power the equivalent of 2 million homes.

While offshore and floating offshore wind do not feature in this year’s allocation, this is in line with similar results in countries including Germany and Spain, because of the global rise in inflation and the impact on supply chains which presented challenges for projects participating in this round.

The government has an ambition of securing 50GW of offshore wind capacity and 5GW of floating offshore wind by 2030. The UK is home to the world’s four largest operational wind farms and just last year the UK installed 300 new offshore wind turbines, with Contracts for Difference contributing towards 29GW of total wind capacity and helping power the equivalent of around 24 million homes.

From 2010 to 2020, the UK has attracted almost half of all offshore wind investment in Europe, worth around £48 billion, making it the biggest market for capital spending commitments. On top of this, the £160 million Floating Offshore Wind Manufacturing Investment Scheme has also launched, offering investment into port

infrastructure projects to enable the roll-out of floating offshore wind at scale.

To support the industry even further, the government reviews its approach ahead of each Contracts for Difference round and, with the introduction of annual auctions, project developers, including from the offshore wind industry, will now have more frequent opportunities to participate. This will also allow the government to respond more quickly to ensure the scheme continues to support the sector, maintain investment and continue its success.

The government is already gearing up for the sixth round of auctions in 2024 - which will be the second annual auction - and hopes for future participation of offshore and floating offshore wind.

It is also anticipated that around £100 billion of private investment will be forthcoming into the UK’s energy transition, which is expected to support up to 480,000 jobs by 2030, including 90,000 jobs in the offshore wind.

Dr Joshua Wells Political Consultant DODS GROUP PLC

KO H L E R P O W E R S Y S T E M S

KOHLER SWITCHES BREST MANUFACTURING SITE TO LOW-CARBON HVO FUEL Substantial emissions reductions achieved with use of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel Kohler Power Systems, part of Kohler Co., has announced that its headquarters and manufacturing plant in Brest, France has switched all its fuel usage in diesel engines from conventional fossil diesel to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO).

to reduce its overall CO2 emissions by up to 50%,” said Lenaik Andrieux, General Manager of Kohler Power Systems, EMEA.

While HVO had previously been used at the Brest site for small-scale development testing within the lab, it is now available for all generator testing.

Typical tests at the Kohler site include a generator running for 24 or 72 hours, which uses significant amounts of fuel. In 2023, the shift to HVO the site should create 78% lower emissions than it would have done using fossil diesel.

Effective immediately, the change means that 325,000 litres of fossil diesel that were previously burned at the site each year are now replaced with HVO, reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 750 tonnes.

Switching from conventional diesel to HVO reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90%, depending on the raw materials used to make the HVO. “Taking into account all sources of carbon emissions, including lighting and heating, the shift to HVO has enabled the Brest plant

To ensure a reliable source of HVO, Kohler has secured a supply agreement from a major provider, which keeps large amounts of HVO at a local storage depot near the Brest site.

As well as reducing emissions balance of CO2, HVO emits less NOx, and fewer particulates than fossil diesel. HVO is also more stable than fossil diesel, which helps Kohler ensure reliable test results, even if fuel has been in a tank for several months.

HVO is a next-generation renewable fuel which has all the advantages of a sustainable fuel source, with none of the disadvantages of first-generation biodiesels. With no

sensitivity to oxidation, HVO can be stored long-term. It is up to 90% carbon neutral and sourced entirely from waste products – making it part of a circular economy.

Kohler’s entire range of mission-critical diesel generators is compatible with HVO, and switching from fossil diesel to HVO is quick and easy. No modifications to previously installed generators are required, allowing for the immediate rollout of renewable fuel to customers. The similarity between HVO and fossil diesel further smooths the shift to biofuel, because the two fuels can be mixed directly in the tank without problems.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT:

WWW.KOHLER.COM

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CERES TECH

AMPS Power Magazine

ELECTRICITY OUT ONE-WAY GREEN HYDROGEN THE OTHER

ENGINEERING THE REVERSIBLE FUEL CELL

A solid-oxide cell developed by Ceres Power has a uniquely appealing feature – running in one direction, it generates low-carbon electricity from multiple fuels, while running in the other direction it produces ‘green’ hydrogen from renewable energy and steam.

The combination is a “huge breakthrough in the clean energy revolution,” claimed judges for the prestigious MacRobert Award, who named the firm’s SteelCell tech the UK’s top engineering innovation in July. It “delivers the sort of improved performance that will be crucial if the world is to decarbonise at the scale and pace required to tackle climate change,” they added.

The cell stacks, similar to large batteries, are made of thin perforated steel sheets, onto which a gadolinium-doped ceria ceramic membrane has been printed.

A 5kW stack has 187 layers of this electrolyte.

In fuel cell mode, a gas – either hydrogen, a hydrogen carrier such as ammonia, or natural gas – is fed over the sheets.

Hydrogen ions meet oxygen ions coming in from the cathode side, creating water and releasing electrons.

In electrolyser mode, the opposite happens – the cell is fed with electrons from renewable energy and steam, which separates into oxygen and green hydrogen.

‘Goldilocks’ temperature

While the cells are reversible, one unit would normally be expected to operate as either fuel cell or electrolyser, as the two applications require different supporting

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infrastructure, said Caroline Hargrove CBE, chief technology officer at Ceres and fellow of both IMechE and the Royal Academy of Engineering.

in the infancy of learning how to do this.

I come from a modelling background, and we’re trying to model this thing. There are many things we still don’t understand.”

The devices operate at 500-600ºC, which Ceres found to be a ‘Goldilocks’ temperature for performance, fuel flexibility, cost and robustness.

The company and its technology are now at a stage where they could start to make a real difference, however. Rather than manufacturing cells itself, Ceres has a licensing model, and it has established partnerships with major companies including Bosch in Germany and Doosan in South Korea.

“It’s way more efficient than the current technology for green hydrogen,” said Hargrove. “If you can raise steam from an industrial process, it’s even more attractive from an efficiency perspective.

The electrical efficiency of doing that can rise well above 90%.”

The fuel-cell mode does produce carbon dioxide if it is fed with natural gas, said Hargrove, but “a lot less” than with combustion. It could also be collected with carbon-capture technology.

Solving problems

Others have attempted to create such a system but have not managed to achieve the same efficiencies, said Hargrove.

Achieving high yields and making cells sufficiently robust has taken 20 years of development, starting at Imperial College London.

“It’s actually a very, very difficult problem, because it’s chemistry, and chemistry is difficult to predict,” she said. “We’re still

The cells will be most useful in applications where the levelised cost of electricity or hydrogen is key, said Hargrove, and they could be particularly attractive in coal-dominated parts of the world. As fuel cells, they will likely first be run with natural gas, then they could transition to hydrogen operation in future.

The team was “thrilled” to win the MacRobert award, said Hargrove. “We need to succeed, to ensure that we can deliver a net-zero future for our families, for society and for all our benefit.”

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CUMMINS

AMPS Power Magazine

CUMMINS OPENS NEW HIGH HORSEPOWER ENGINE REBUILD FACILITY IN KRAKOW Cummins, the global power leader and the world's largest independent engine manufacturer, is to open a state-of-the-art high-horsepower engine rebuild centre in Krakow.

The new site, set to be fully operational at the end of this year, will be the company’s first such specialist rebuild facility in Europe.

This USD 10 million investment will enable Cummins Poland to provide strategic support for its customers throughout the region, not only in the specialised engine rebuild process but also supporting local customers throughout Poland with its considerably extended distribution and warehousing capabilities.

32 AMPS POWER MAGAZINE

efficiency, and driving down costs. It will complement the company’s global network of dedicated high-horsepower engine rebuild sites, typically suited to engines 19 litres and above in size, including Cummins renowned QSK19, QSK38, and QSK60 engine models.

Furthermore, the new centre will be capable of overhauling and rebuilding smaller engines, including those from mid- and heavy-duty ranges. Since they operate in some of the harshest working environments, the rebuild process – including complete disassembly, cleaning, inspection, the replacement of major components, design improvements, and testing – is dedicated to extending the life of the original engine.

The new 4,600 m2 facility will help meet growing customer demand for such specialised engine rebuild services.

In many cases, these steps can also enhance the engine’s fuel efficiency and performance, thus making the product life cycle more sustainable.

It will also deliver a better response to the differing needs of Cummins customers across Europe, supporting them with the highest quality maintenance service, improving engine uptime, increasing engine

This is a significant step in increasing Cummins’ presence in Poland and other European countries, enabling us to meet the demand for engine rebuild services across several market segments more effectively.

Once the rigorous engine rebuild process is complete, a product can be considered ‘as new’, delivering performance that is the same or better than the original engine, so the investment is sure to prove beneficial for our current and future partners.

This is also a strategic move for Cummins globally in that it significantly expands the range of services in the region while expanding storage and distribution capacity, including a six-fold increase in warehouse space,” says Marek Matuszewski, Country Leader for Poland, the Baltic States & Ukraine at Cummins. “The location of our company’s first centre of this kind in Europe is also no coincidence.

It is situated close to the international airport in Krakow and alongside a major highway connecting the city to other European destinations, so it has excellent road, rail, and air transport links to other key countries for us and our customers.

Moreover, due to the presence of great

technical universities in the city, more world-class specialists will be able to join our team,” he added.

The new centre will feature numerous sustainable solutions, including a high-tech microbiological wash bay reusing 100% of water, the installation of solar panels, allowing Cummins to use its own green energy as well as charging points for electric vehicles.

In addition, it will be equipped with innovative systems such as two 15-tonne overhead cranes, jib cranes, a test cell with an engine dynamometer, a paint booth, and a bake-and-blast cleaner.

Cummins, which has been operating in Poland for almost 30 years now, at present has four sites here, in Krakow, Gdansk, Lubin, and Lomianki, all strategically located so that they can be readily accessed by customers from the whole country.

The newly built plant is replacing the company’s current facility also located in Krakow and will extend its present operational and rebuild capabilities.

As a result, administrative and financial specialists, as well as engineers, will join the existing team this year.

On top of that, the new site is to have two disassembly bays, four high-horsepower and three mid-range/heavy-duty assembly bays, and a MILLIPORE testing stand. Such specialised capabilities of the centre will therefore naturally generate additional interest in Poland among businesses from outside the country.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: WWW.CUMMINS.COM

AMPS POWER MAGAZINE 33

AMPS Power Magazine

MEMBER NEWS

EMERGENCY BACKUP DIESEL ENGINES ON INSTALLATIONS:

BEST AVAILABLE TECHNIQUES (BAT) Further to earlier current thinking e shots and to presentations made at AMPS Events, the Environment Agency has finally released confirmation of its guidance for BAT for diesel engines on an installation that are classed as new medium combustion plant, operating up to 500 hours a year that are exempt from emission limit values (ELVs).

This guidance applies to sites in England.

operation, especially where significant capacity is installed.

• This guidance applies to emergency backup diesel engines that are:

Regulatory requirements

• on combustion installations – Part A 1.1 activity greater than 50 megawatt thermal (input) (MWth) • part of an Industrial Emissions Directive (IED) installation as a directly associated activity both static and mobile – this guidance does not apply if the mobile plant is temporary.

This guidance gives: • build standards for diesel engines which minimise emissions of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) • ways of operating diesel engines that minimise impacts on air quality

Examples of use

Diesel engines are used as emergency backup generation on IED installations.

This can be: • for black start – restoring power without relying on the external electric power transmission network.

• as emergency backup power supply at data centres • for emergency backup power supply on manufacturing sites

Where appropriate, as a minimum the installation must meet the requirements of: Schedule 25A of the medium combustion plant directive Schedule 25B of the specified generators regulation To do this, the guidance on medium combustion plant and specified generators: environmental permits must be checked.

Build Standards

Engines must be optimised to reduce emissions (‘emissions optimised’).

Engines that are optimised to reduce fuel (‘fuel optimised’) have greater emissions and will not meet BAT unless they have secondary abatement.

Combustion plant specification sheets that keep to one or more of the former ‘2g TA Luft’ and United States Environment Protection Agency (EPA) ‘Tier 2’ (or equivalent) standards are acceptable proof of BAT plant. These do not need onsite exhaust emission monitoring.

• for power on large construction sites

If you can show your engine achieves the following guidance level (which is not an ELV compliance requirement), it can be considered emissions optimised:

Unabated diesel engines emit high levels of NOx. They can breach short term air quality standards within a few hours of

Approximately 750mg per m3 NOx (as NO2) at 15% O2 standard temperature and pressure, dry, 273K and 101.3kPa

• in the electricity balancing market – occasionally when NOx is abated.

34 AMPS POWER MAGAZINE

(equivalent to 2,000mg per m3 at 5% O2 – commonly termed ‘2g’) at a typical emergency load (usually greater than 67% of standby power rating).

Copies of the engine specification sheets should be supplied when the permit is appled for, as these will provide evidence of these requirements and proof of BAT. The Environment Agency may consider greater than ‘2g’ diesel engines for technical reasons. For example, standby diesels on nuclear installations that are critical for safety. But they should be the best available.

The stack design should ensure good flue gas dispersion. Stacks should be vertical and emissions should not be obstructed by caps or cowls.

Operational controls

Minimise how much test diesel engines are tested. This must be less than 50 hours a year.

Avoid testing engines when the air quality is poor.

Do not test more than one engine at a time.

When using backup diesel generators, the impacts on air quality must be managed to minimise harm to human health and the environment.

AMPS Power Magazine

MEMBER NEWS

EVENT SPONSORS

JOIN US FOR THIS YEAR’S AMPS AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE 16th November 2023

HEADLINE SPONSOR

SPARKLING DRINKS RECEPTION SPONSOR

TABLE SPONSOR

AMPS MEMBER COMPANY OF THE YEAR AWARD SPONSOR

INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY AWARD SPONSOR

ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCT OF THE YEAR AWARD SPONSO

PROJECT OF THE YEAR AWARD SPONSOR

BUSINESS GROWTH AND STRATEGY AWARD SPONSOR

ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY AWARD SPONSOR

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARD SPONSOR

The National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham The annual AMPS Awards for Excellence 2023 is gearing up to be a sparkling event for Award winners and guests with over 200 people from the Power Gen Sector gathering to network and celebrate the achievements of their industry.

This year’s venue is The National Motorcyle Museum and attendees can benefit from exclusive access to the historical motorcycle collections between 5.30-7pm.

The evening kicks off at 7pm with an opportunity to network at the Sparkling Drinks Reception followed by a Gala Dinner and Awards Presentations hosted by comedian, Dominic Holland.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS

£1,750 for a table of 10 or £185 per person

www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/amps-awards-for-excellence-tickets-715362347037

or call Robert at the AMPS office +44 (0) 208 253 4505 AMPS POWER MAGAZINE 35

AMPS Power Magazine

HUMAN RESOURCES

PEOPLE CHALLENGES AND HR TRENDS REFLECTION ON 2023 AND A LOOK FORWARD TO 2024

2022 was a transformative year for organisations worldwide, largely driven by the continuing aftermath of the pandemic combined with the evolving economic landscape.

Companies grappled with significant people challenges ranging from navigating the ‘new normal’ in work paradigms to addressing rapidly evolving employee needs and expectations. The year set the tone for a profound re-evaluation of the HR domain as companies aimed for enhanced agility, resilience, and human-centricity in their people operations.

As we delve into 2023, the human resources landscape continues to morph, driven by various insights and trends identified by leading institutions. But what do these shifts mean for organisations at large?

What 2022 Meant for Organisations:

Adapting to the Unprecedented: The ‘Great Resignation’ phenomenon required organisations to question conventional norms around employee retention and job satisfaction. Many had to re-evaluate their value proposition to both existing and potential employees.

Teresa Boughey Jungle HR

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT:

WWW.JUNGLEHR.COM

36 AMPS POWER MAGAZINE

Navigating the Hybrid Model: Setting up a sustainable hybrid work model was not just about logistics; it demanded a cultural shift. Organisations had to strike a balance between operational efficiency and employee comfort and resist the urge

to return to pre-covid operational working arrangements.

Well-being at the Forefront: Acknowledging and addressing employee well-being went beyond the realm of HR into defining a company’s core ethos.

Organisations had to acknowledge that well-being directly impacted productivity and engagement and started to implement solutions to meet employees needs.

Accelerated Digital Integration: Digital transformation became less of an advantage and more of a necessity.

Organisations that failed to integrate quickly found themselves outpaced by competitors, and it’s a pace that we will continue to see accelerate as we look forward into 2023.

So, what can we anticipate for 2024?

As we venture into 2023, the landscape promises to be one of transformation and evolution. For organisations, this beckons the question: how can they effectively prioritise their people in response to these changes? Here are eight key priorities:

Leadership Development: Recognising the pivotal role leaders play in navigating change its important for

Redefining Managerial Roles: A more human-centric approach mandates a change in traditional managerial roles.

Organisations might see a shift from top-down directive approaches to more collaborative and empathetic leadership styles. Empathy, active listening, and effective communication have become the gold standards for successful manageremployee dynamics.

Holistic Employee Experience: Prioritising employee experience means organisations have to think beyond compensation. A superior employee experience is more than just job satisfaction—it encapsulates the entire lifecycle of an employee in the organisation.

2023 will see companies fine-tuning their strategies to optimise this experience, from onboarding to exit and will involve creating an organisational culture where employees feel valued, heard, and engaged.

Talent Strategies: With the changing dynamics of the global job market and increased competition, attracting and retaining top talent will be a major focus for organisations. Addressing the talent shortage will demand innovative recruiting techniques linked with the development and implementation of a strong employee value proposition.

Diversifying the Workforce Ecosystem: The workforce ecosystem is evolving. The rise of contingent workers, gig economy participants, and freelance professionals necessitates a fresh approach to talent management. If organisations want to remain competitive and provide working environments that align with generational expectations then organisations must therefore adapt operational working patterns, and reinvigorate their HR policies and practices to accommodate different types of employment relationships.

AMPS Power Magazine

practices. While AI’s influence in the HR domain isn’t new, the extent and depth of its application are expanding rapidly. From AI-driven recruitment processes to digital onboarding and training platforms, HR tech will be at the forefront of HR strategies.

Organisations that can successfully strike a balance between leveraging AI’s efficiencies and preserving the human touch in their HR practices will be well-positioned to attract, retain, and nurture talent.

HUMAN-CENTRIC MANAGEMENT

Proactive Burnout Strategies: The challenges of 2022 highlighted the prevalence of burnout amongst employees.

Taking a proactive approach towards addressing burnout will be vital in 2023 and requires organisations to re-evaluate workloads, set clear boundaries, explore flexible working arrangements, provide mental health resources, carry out regular employee check-ins and perhaps even rethink KPIs and performance metrics.

PROACTIVE BURNOUT STRATEGIES

Infusing Purpose and Sustainability: In the modern workforce landscape, employees are not just seeking meaning in their roles but also a connection to larger global initiatives. Organisations that manage to intertwine their mission with both the aspirations of their teams and sustainable solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges will experience enhanced engagement and commitment.

Crafting a work environment rooted in purpose and global responsibility is more than an HR directive; it necessitates a collective organizational effort. This involves not only reevaluating mission statements but also ensuring they align with both contemporary societal values and global sustainability goals.

As 2023 unfolds, the HR landscape is set to be a mosaic of innovation, empathy, and global responsibility. Organisations are not merely adapting to change but proactively shaping new paradigms that prioritise both people and the planet.

DIVERSIFIED WORKFORCE ECOSYSTEM

TECHNOLOGICAL INVESTMENTS

Those that can holistically integrate these emerging trends will not only foster a vibrant and committed workforce but will also solidify their position as frontrunners in a world that values both purpose and progress. The future of work beckons, and it is rich with promise and potential.

Technological Investments: A significant trend that’s set to shape 2023 is the deeper integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within human resource

T H E E F E N E R GY S H OW

organisations to priorities training and development of leaders. Effective leaders are crucial for organisational resilience, agility, and employee engagement. Although budgets may be squeezed its not the time to scale back on management leaders and development. Those organisations who continue to develop their management and leadership capability will reap the rewards.

TALENT STRATEGIES

AMPS POWER MAGAZINE 37

AMPS Power Magazine

TECHNICAL COMMITEE

WHAT DOES THE TECHNICAL COMMITTEE DO? Someone asked me this once, so it seems worthwhile to return to the topic and provide an overview.

The Technical Committee of AMPS defines its mission statement as: • To provide AMPS with clear technical guidance on national and international standards that are relevant to their businesses together with access to industry experts to provide advice on technical matters.

• The Technical Committee aims to be involved with National and International standards bodies, Government and regulatory authorities, in order to represent AMPS members interests and by influencing, communicating and understanding the relevant technical standards for our industry.

Please note that we are technical only, we do not discuss anything commercial, at the start of each meeting the Chairman reads the following, which is repeated in the agenda: • Attendees are reminded that AMPS is committed to complying with all anti-trust and competition laws and regulations.

• To this end the Association has adopted a competition compliance code. Conformity with the code is a condition of AMPS membership. Failure to abide by anti-trust and competition laws can have grave consequences for the Association, member companies and individuals concerned.

Relevant key points from the Constitution are:

Bernard Gospel

Technical Committee Secretary

TechSec@AMPS.org.uk

38 AMPS POWER MAGAZINE

• The Technical Committee represents the interests of all members of AMPS, and it is its duty to inform and consult with the AMPS Membership where appropriate.

• The TC Members do not just represent their own company, they have to consider the interests of the whole membership. The requirement to inform and consult with the whole membership is done via Current Thinking eshots from the Technical Secretary, Publication of the Minutes of Meetings of the Technical Committee, AMPS Power magazine articles and seminars and presentations at the AMPs Events and the AMPS Confernce in March.

The membership of the committee is proportional to the size of the membership and should represent the major product areas, e.g. generating sets, engines, generators, radiators, switchboards and control panels, transformers, fuel tanks and consultancy services, to list but a few!

However, there is a practical limit to the size of the committee, which is about twenty attendees at meetings. To minimise costs (Members’ subscriptions!), most meetings are held at member’s premises.

Twenty seems to be about the maximum size of members’ meeting rooms. This is one reason why we may have to limit or prevent the invitation of members and guests to the meetings, which is becoming a more frequent occurrence.

The Technical Committee meets four times per year, generally in January, April, July and October, these are scheduled to be just before the AMPS Council meetings, since the TC reports to the AMPS Council.

In line with current trends, two of the four

AMPS Power Magazine

meetings held annually are face-to-face with the other two being by teleconference.

In order to enable AMPS Members to have a personal insight into the major issues which the committee is working on, without them attending meetings, we have instituted seminars, and other means of bringing TC Committee members to the AMPS Membership at large. This is one of the Technical Secretary’s remits: to publicise the Technical Committee.

So where does the technical secretary fit into this? His specified duties include:

• Assistance to the AMPS Technical Committee Working Groups to facilitate timely responses and publishable reports.

• Managing the AMPS technical helpline queries from member/non-members in conjunction with the AMPS Technical Committee and Secretariat.

• Compilation and recording of agendas and minutes of Technical Committee meetings • Any necessary reports for the AMPS Council meetings as appropriate on any respective technical issues.

• Work with AMPS Marketing committee/agency to maintain Jargon Buster and ensure other high quality Technical Committee output including website and email newsletters.

• Be a literature member for relevant standards committees.

• Management of the response to Technical Queries.

• Management of consultations in areas relevant to AMPS Members.

Other tasks

• By request of AMPS Council, the Technical Secretary attends AMPS Council meeting to report on the activities of the Technical Committee and take feedback to the TC. • Also, since later 2022, again by request of AMPS Council, the Technical Secretary attends Europgen meetings and sites on the Europgen Executive Committee.

• Europgen also has a Technical Committee, similar to the AMPS TC, and the position of Chair of Europgen Technical Committee became available. With the support of AMPS Council and AMPS Technical Committee, the Technical Secretary was appointed to this role in June 2023.

Working Groups

Since the United Kingdom left the European Union, Europgen was moved to France from England , since it had to be an EU entity to lobby and monitor European Union activities.

The AMPS Technical Committee monitors and works with the Europgen Technical Committee to monitor EU activity and monitors UK entities to follow UK activities.

The Working Groups are the core of the committee, since the majority of the work is undertaken by the Workgroups, working as a team or by representation on BSI and other committees.

Workgroups rarely meet face to face, but usually communicate by conference call or email.

The Workgroup Leaders each normally issue a report to the TC before each meeting, this is then presented to the TC at the meeting,

with any discussion recorded. This then enables the actual TC meeting to be shorter and more focussed.

It will be noted that membership of a TC Workgroup, and / or an external committee, such as BSI, or other entity is a requirement of TC Membership, as defined in the TC Constitution.

One important point is that international standards and laws are generally reviewed on as five yearly cycle. This means that, for example with ISO 8528 having thirteen parts, that even this standard has three parts being reviewed each year. So the TC has constant work coming in on this standard alone!

The Workgroups currently are: Workgroup 1 – Materials Compliance This committee works on RoHS (Restriction on Hazardous Substances) WEEE (Waste Electric and Electronic Equipment) and REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), Batteries and Accumulators and Waste Batteries and Accumulators (Battery Directive) as well as other waste regulations, DoC (Declarations of Conformity), and SDS (Safety Data Sheets).

Workgroup 2 – Grid Codes This committee works on Grid Codes, and which are imposed in Great Britain and Northern Ireland as Engineering Recommendations from the Energy Networks Association.

Currently the committee is also active in

AMPS POWER MAGAZINE 39

AMPS Power Magazine

TECHNICAL COMMITEE

ISO 8528-part 6 generating sets, as regards bringing this part into line with the testing requirements of international grid codes.

Workgroup 4 – Noise Terms of reference: • Work with Europgen on European noise legislation.

• Work with UK entities to introduce product specific test methods where appropriate.

The workgroup works across a range of noise regulations including the Environmental Noise Directive (END) and the Outdoor Noise Directive (OND) AMPS will strive to harmonise ISO 8528-10 ‘Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engine Driven Alternating Current Generating Sets, Part 10: Measurement of Airborne Noise By the Enveloping Surface Method’ to the revised OND – providing our industry control of its own product specific standard.

Workgroup 9 – Equipment Safety

• PEL/021 Secondary cells and batteries

Terms of reference:

• PEL/121/1 Low voltage switchgear and control gear

• To monitor MR and advocacy work on the MR guidance notes.

• PEL/099 Erection and operation of power installations

Workgroup 11 – EMC

• RHE013 Liquid Fuel Firing

This workgroup monitors Electromagnetic Compatibility Standards via BSI Committee GEL/210.

Each of these mirrors an ISO or IEC committee and is responsible for various BSI Standards. As we said earlier, one of our most important standards in AMPS is the ISO 8528 Generating Set series.

Workgroup 12 – UKCA (Divergence) Terms of Reference • To maintain a watching brief on divergence with EU law etc , e.g. CE / UKCA.

External entities Government and other agencies.

Workgroup 5 – Emissions Terms of reference: • For EU emissions, EUROMOT is the lead entity.

Europgen and AMPSare the link.

• For the UK, SMMT-OHEEG are the entity but for gensets only, AMPS work on their own with EA etc.

Again, a very active workgroup, being involved in the following: Non-Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM) Stage V Regulation, Medium Combustion Plant Directive (MCPD), extended by the British Government to include UK Specified Generator Legislation. In addition, the committee is also monitoring the London Environment Strategy and Air Quality, and the UK Government’s Clean Air Strategy, together with UK Cities’ moves towards Low Emission Zones and Clean Air Zones.

Workgroup 6 – Liquid Fuels Monitors changes to BS 590, BS 1412 and any fuel quality or stability issues through BSI Committee GEL210.

Liaison is maintained with DEFRA, Environment Agency, Department of Business and Trade (DBT) Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), Energy Networks Association, National Grid, Greater London Authority together with international entities such as the EU Noise Expert Group.

BSI BSI, formerly The British Standards Institution, is appointed by the UK Government as the UK’s National Standards Body (NSB) and represents UK interests at the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the European Standards Organizations (CEN, CENELEC and ETSI). BSI is a member of these bodies. Formed in 1901, BSI was the world’s first National Standards Body.

• EH/001/03 Residential and Industrial Noise

The main efforts of this workgroup is to monitor and comment on revisions to ISO 8528 through ISO Committee TC/70. These standards then become British Standards (e.g. BS ISO 8528-X).

• GEL/008 Systems Aspects for Electrical Energy Supply

This committee has been recently formed to review the standards and regulations of Battery Electric Storage Systems (BESS)

• PTI/002 Liquid Fuels

The AMPS Technical Secretary sits on most of these committees as a non-voting ‘papers’ member in addition to the other AMPS Member and does not have voting power.

The Technical Secretary actually does sit on MCE/014, ‘subcommittee 008 Generating Sets’. This is useful, as it enables the Technical Secretary to have an active role in a real committee!

Summary So the Technical Committee has a wide range of expertise, and comprises members, who with the support of their companies put in a large amount of work on issues relevant to the interests of AMPS Members.

The Committee has been able to influence the development and revision of important standards and legislation both internationally and nationally, including the Non-Road Mobile Machinery Regulation, the Medium Combustion Plant Directive, as transposed into UK Law, Grid Codes, REACH, RoHS, Waste Packaging Directive, noise regulations and various British and other international standards.

AMPS TC members sit and take a full part in relevant BSI committees, including:

Workgroup 7 – Standards

Workgroup 8 – Battery Electric Storage Systems

• PEL/002 Rotating electrical machinery

The main focus of this workgroup is the Machinery (Safety) Regulation as recently issued in the EU.

• GEL/210 EMC Policy committee • GEL/600 Earthing • JPEL/064 Electrical installations of buildings Joint committee • MCE/014 RIC engines • MCE/022 Engines for road vehicles • MCE/003 Safeguarding of machinery

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: TechSec@AMPS.org.uk

40 AMPS POWER MAGAZINE

AMPS AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE & GALA DINNER 2023

AMPS AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE & GALA DINNER 2024 TBC

National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham

AMPS COUNCIL & COMMITTEES

Thursday 16th November 2023

Tables of 10 or individual tickets.

Award nominations and dinner prices available soon.

• AMPS COUNCIL Three / Four per annum • MARKETING COMMITTEE Three per annum • TECHNICAL COMMITTEE Four per annum • POLICY COMMITTEE Three / Four per annum • FINANCE COMMITTEE Three / Four per annum

AMPS AGM, CONFERENCE & LUNCHEON Thursday 18th April 2024

One Great George Street, Westminster.

AMPS REGIONAL MEETINGS May 2024: Eminox, Gainsborough Sept 2024: Perkins, Peterborough

AMPS GOLF DAY June 2024

Generally held at Members’ premises – let us know if you would like to host a meeting, or would be interested in joining one of the groups.

FOR UPDATES OF EVENTS OR TO RESERVE TICKETS VISIT THE AMPS WEBSITE WWW.AMPS.ORG.UK OR E-MAIL ROBERT.BENNISON@AMPS.ORG.UK

AMPS POLICY COMMITTEE With the support of the membership, we have now launched the AMPS Policy Committee to help push our voice across the relevant Government sectors and institutions.

As there are many areas to capture, the Policy Committee have decided to focus on a few key areas to start the ball rolling. Initial areas discussed at the recent Committee meeting include the following topics.

Working closely with the Technical Committee, we want to ensure that our industry’s voice is heard during the consultation process on any key decisions that affect our sector and members.

• Battery Storage Strategy

We have provided various inputs to key departments such as DEFRA, Environmental Agency, and GLA over the years, but with the evolving Government Net Zero Strategy, our role in adding expertise and recommendations is even more important in the future.

• GOVT Grants & Funding within Net Zero Strategy Plan

With the assistance of a third-Party partner, Dod’s Group, we will be able to understand what Policies are being developed, and who the key government contacts are across the wide areas of Energy, Trade, and Net Zero Roadmaps.

• Biofuels • Hydrogen • Data Ownership • All reports and updates on each topic plus more, will be shared on the Members Log-in Page within the AMPS website.

Look for Policy Section and the reports along with any detailed technical papers, will be on offer to AMPS Members in 2024.

AMPS POWER MAGAZINE 41

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY...

AMPS Power Magazine

AMPS COUNCIL MEMBERS

AMPS COUNCIL MEMBERS CHAIRMAN

VICE CHAIRMAN

GMI POWER SOLUTIONS LTD

IPU GROUP

COUNCIL MEMBER

COUNCIL MEMBER

MECC ALTE UK

CRESTCHIC

COUNCIL MEMBER

COUNCIL MEMBER

PAUL AITKEN

ANDREW BELL

RICHARD A COLLMAN

ACOUSTICAL CONTROL ENGINEERS

LOUISE HAZEL

CHRIS CALDWELL

KÖKEN GUNES

AKSA POWER GENERATION

COUNCIL MEMBER

COUNCIL MEMBER

KOHLER POWER SOLUTIONS EMEA

EMINOX LTD

COUNCIL MEMBER

COUNCIL MEMBER

FUEL STORAGE SOLUTIONS

CATERPILLAR RETAIL ELECTRIC POWER SOLUTIONS

COUNCIL MEMBER

COUNCIL MEMBER

VOLVO GROUP

WBPS LTD

RICHARD RUSSETT

VINCE MCCARRY

RICCARDO SARDELLI

COUNCIL MEMBER

PAUL WEBSTER ATLAS COPCO

CARLOS VICENTE

NEIL SMITH

GEOFF HALLIDAY

TECHNICAL COMMITTEE:

BERNARD GOSPEL

MARKETING COMMITTEE:

CHRIS CALDWELL FINANCE COMMITTEE:

COUNCIL MEMBER

RICHARD COLLMAN

PAUL CAMPBELL

INDUSTRIAL POWER SYSTEMS LTD

COUNCIL MEMBER

ALAN BEECH

CLARKE ENERGY

To contact any council member individually please use;

Unit 19 Omega Business Village, Thurston Road, Northallerton, DL6 2NJ United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)20 8253 4505 Email: amps@amps.org.uk

42 AMPS POWER MAGAZINE

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