Sustainable Energy Impact, Renewable Green magazine, July 2019

J U LY 2 0 1 9

NEWS

LONGi Named “Top Performer” on DNV-GL PV Reliability Scorecard

30

SunPower, Hannon Armstrong and SunStrong Secure Attractive Financing

Centrica Business Solutions Expands U.S. Operations

34

36

EDITOR‘S NOTE

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urrently, we are reliant on fossil fuels to heat our homes, run our cars and power our offices, industry and manufacturing responding to our insatiable desire to power all of our electrical goods. Nearly all of the energy needed to meet our demands.

At the current rate of global energy demands, fossil fuels cannot be replace fast enough to meet these growing needs.

The consumption of these nonrenewable fuels has been interrelated to the release of modern technologies.

Studies predict that Earth will be warmer in the next century. When global warming has happened at numerous times in the past two million years, it has taken the planet about 5,000 years to warm 5 degrees. The projected rate of warming for the next century is at least 20 times faster. This rate of change is extremely unusual. The discussion s around climate change and energy problems today focus around the potential for technical solutions to energy demands that are cost effective.

Thus far, the alternative to fossil fuels has been around renewable energy sources which are expected to play an increasingly vigorous role in the mix of power generation over the next century. The demands on these marginal 4

How Life Dependent on Energy Sources and Generation energy sources are excessive.

These will need to not only keep up with the increasing population growth but also needs to go beyond the demands by contributing to the replacement of fossil fuel energy production in order to meet future energy needs considering the natural environment.

Conversely, the argument from governments: oil, coal and natural gas companies is that until renewable energy sources become more feasible as major energy providers, the only substitute in meeting the increasing demands for energy from a growing global population that requires more and more energy is to endure extracting fossil fuel assets.

Regional Office: LG Electronics Gulf FZE, P.O Box 61445, Dubai. Tel: +971 4 279 9222, UAE, Mr. Amjad Abu Alika, Tel: +971 50 450 9808, email: amjad.abualika@lge.com; Fortune International Trading LLC, Mr. Wail Halbouni, Tel: +971 50 481 3570, email: fortintl@emirates.net.ae; Ghantoot Trading, Mr. Nour Haboush, Tel: +971 50 109 4109, email: nour.h@ghantootgroup.ae; District Cooling Company, Mr. Ahmed Henedi, Tel: +971 50 658 4832, email: ahmed@districtcoolingcompany.com; Al Yousuf Electronics, Mr. Moitra, Tel: +971 50 457 6170, email: pmoitra@alyousuf.com; Bahrain, AJM Kooheji and Sons, Mr. Jayachandran, Tel: +973 36888801, email: v.jayachandran@ajmkooheji.com: Al Babtain Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Co., Mr. Naji Kataya, Tel: +965 5 051 5771, email: nkataya@albabtaingroup.com,kw; BLK, Mr. Imad Rhayel, Tel: +965 5 157 1229, email: irhayel@blk.com.kw; Oman, Oman Gulf Enterprise, Mr. Narender Kumar, Tel: +968 9 747 4505, email: narenderk@otegroup.com; Aspire Projects and Service, Mr. Vivek Wagh, Tel: +968 99357694, email: vivekwagh@aspireoman.com; Azerbaijan, NBC LLC., Mr. Elkhan Sadikhov, Tel: +994 50 216 3363, email: elkhan.sadikhov@nbc.com; Al-Con Maxiwell Group, Mr. Vagif Alexperov, Tel: + 994 50 216 2092, email: maxiwellbaku@inbox.ru; Armenia/Georgia, ARAY Gulf, Mr. Vilson Melikjanyan, Tel: +374 9 307 7755, email: vilson@aray.am; Yemen, Modern House Exhibition, Mr. Khaled Jabr, Tel: +967 71 172 0202, email: mail@mhe-yemen.com; Pakistan, Iceberg Industries (Lucky Goldstar), Mr. Imran Jamil Khan, Tel: +923 21 277 6100, email: ceo@icebergindustries.net

CON TENTS

NEWS

18 Renewable Energy’s Rate of Potential at its Extreme

32 LONGi Named “Top Performer” on DNV-GL PV Reliability Scorecard for Third Consecutive Year

34 SunPower, Hannon Armstrong and SunStrong Secure Attractive Financing for Residential Solar Lease Business Into 2020

36 Centrica Business Solutions Expands U.S. Operations with Agreement to Purchase SmartWatt

40 AUS furthers research and development in 3D concrete printing through 3D printed home project 6

F E AT U R E S T O RY

42

#LeadersTalk with Chubbsafes

48

Keeping Everyone Safe with Manlift Elevated Drive Speed Checks

52

Traditional building techniques and materials should play a part in today’s mega-cities: American University of Sharjah academic Marcus Farr

54

Organic Solar Cells Achieve the Highest Efficiency Rate

58

How to Calculate Steel Round Bar Weight

62

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S P E C IA L F E AT U R E

Every Household in the Philippines Should have the TOSOT Multi-Function Cooker Do away with the many bulky cookware lying in your cupboard because here is a revolutionary rice cooker that will change every Filipino’s kitchen experience.

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ilipinos are, undoubtedly, born lover of foods. From birthday parties and christenings to town fiestas and provincial festivals, food is what basically binds the Filipino society together. And thanks to foreign influences, Filipino moms and chefs have adapted the love for diverse cuisines while still preserving the taste of classic native meals.

Because of this varied range of dishes Filipinos love to cook, it’s not surprising how cluttered their cupboard is. A handful of casseroles and pans are quite tolerable, but having the complete set is a disaster, especially for restaurants and caterers. Fear not because TOSOT Multi-Function Cooker is here to save the day.

What You Can Cook With a Multi-Function Cooker But the real question is not the amount of space you save by using a multi-function cooker, it’s what you can cook with it that matters most. Multi-function cookers are basically steamers, fryers, and rice cookers all in a single pot. So pretty much anything you can cook with those kitchenwares is quite doable for a multi-function cooker.

With just a push of a button, you can prepare perfectly stewed

vegetables, brown rice, and even fried meat and fishes! Some of the favorite meals a multifunction cooker can make include vegetable soups and other different entrées, kids’ favorite kinds of pasta, any kind of stewed food, oatmeal, mulled beverages, and pudding. The possibilities are limitless!

The best part is that it makes cooking less of a hassle and more of an enjoyment especially for working moms and dads who

don’t have much available time to cook for dinner. A multifunction cooker is particularly beneficial for working parents with little kids who should be fed with homemade, nutritious food. With this revolutionary equipment that can cook great stuff within minutes, parents can still prepare healthy dishes without actually treating it as a troublesome chore. They can save much time outside the kitchen and more time playing with their kids.

Features to Look Out for in a Multi-Function Cooker There is quite a handful of styles and features available in the market for a multi-function cooker. What kind do you really need? Here are a few main features your multi-function cooker should definitely have.

• Easy to clean One of the major reasons why you buy a multi-function cooker is to stay out of the kitchen, and that includes both cooking and cleaning up afterward. Believe or not, washing the kitchenware is far more tedious than cooking the meal itself. Having a cooker with ceramic coating for the inner pot and fully removable lid is exactly what you need. Any messy grease can be easily cleaned with just a little soap and water.

• Overheat protection This type of cookware requires lesser attention than normal kitchen appliances. It can either automatically or manually cook any food and can be left unattended. With its overheat protection, users need not worry about cooking meals at high temperatures as the unit can easily switch off when it reaches overload capacity.

• Portability Multi-function cookers are much lighter and smaller than crock pots and most cookware. Because of this, users can have the flexibility to cook nearly anywhere they please, whether they’re partying on a boat, cooking in school, sleeping over at their friend’s bedrooms, or simply camping outside (where there’s a power outlet, of course). Compact cookers also

save a lot of space in the kitchen, making it so much tidier and pleasant to the eyes. Besides the weight and size, it is also quite handy to have a nice little handle in the unit for convenient moving.

• User-friendly In this age of modern technology, appliances like a multi-function cooker should have controls that can be quickly understood even without browsing through the user manual. With simple, easy-to-follow electronic and digital controls, novice and first-time cookers become less nervous when preparing the meal.

TOSOT Multi-Function rice cooker has it all for you.

Manufactured specifically to give your kitchen a touch of elegance with modern technology, this TOSOT multi-function cooker will redefine your cooking experience. Being both stylish and fully functional, it can

replace some of your bulky ookware and leave more space on your countertop. Its ten cooking programs can definitely provide you with a wider range of food options to serve for your family and friends. Featured with all-around 3D Heating, Induction Heating technology, 2.0 ceramic coating layer for inner pot, and electronic control and digital display, TOSOT Multi-Function cooker is all you will ever need in the kitchen.

To find out the best multifunction cooker for your home, restaurant or catering business, visit TOSOT showroom located at 2162 FB Harrison St., San Jose, Pasay City, Philippines or call +632-8330000 to book an appointment. You may also visit their website http://www.tosot. com.ph/ to get more information about the best multi-function cooker in the Philippines.

S P E C IA L F E AT U R E

TOSOT Aircon Products Took Center Stage at PHILCONSTRUCT Visayas

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EBU, Philippines – Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino, Lahug held one of the biggest construction and building conventions of all time with PHILCONSTRUCT Visayas. The event, which happened on June 6 to 8, 2019, succeeded in calling waves of attendees comprised of buyers, partners, contractors, and the like. To say the event was big would be an understatement. The expected number of attendees were met and many partnerships were built, paving the way for a 10

brighter future in the construction industry. The event itself was red-letter and many corporations bent on upholding product effectivity and efficiency without infringing upon sustainability showcased their life-improving innovations.

Much like the WORLDBEX event that happened last March, TOSOT returns with an amazing array of top-of-the-line products.

S P E C IA L F E AT U R E

Despite PHILCONSTRUCT Visayas being only 3 days long, TOSOT received countless delegations from various engineering organizations, HVAC distributors, retailers, building owners, shopping mall directors, facilities management professionals, contractors and interior designers who showed strong interest in TOSOT’s air conditioning units and kitchen appliances.

Those at TOSOT were able to close countless deals during the event amounting to hundreds of thousands of pesos to further their goals of creating more effective, efficient, products while championing sustainably. With these deals, they can continue to stay ahead of the curve in the industry of technological appliances.

For those who are interested to see TOSOT aircon units, visit their showroom in Pasay.

As the leading manufacturer and distributor of high-quality air-conditioning products and home appliances in the Philippines, TOSOT received hundreds of trade visitors from mechanical engineers to CEOs of multinational companies that inquired about their high-tech products.

Their chillers, cost effective and high-tech wall-mounted and floor-standing air conditioning units, sleekly gorgeous kitchen 12

appliances such as home induction cookers and water dispensers, TMV5s, to name a few, were thoroughly examined by many willing purchasers.

These kitchen wares and appliances are especially made more important, seeing as Cebu is the Philippines’ pride and joy in terms of different types of iconic Filipino dishes and recipes, with natural ingredients coming from both atop the mountains and deep beneath the sea.

For more information, visit tosot. com.ph and follow their Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages for more news and updates.

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S P E C IA L F E AT U R E

The Evolution of Door Locks: Featuring Baldwin Hardware

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rivacy and security are rights as well as privileges, and one sure-fire way of having personal privacy and security is having a lock on your door.

Truly, one of the best feelings in one’s personal life is undisturbed solitude in a room with a locked door, forcing people outside to knock before they enter. To think, a simple mechanism such as door locks and locksets grew to become so integral and engrained in any person’s everyday life.

This ingenious invention originated from ancient Egypt, which was comprised of a simple wooden bolt jammed in a slot with several holes on its upper surface. To open doors locked this way, a toothbrush-like key with pegs that matched the holes could unpick this secure lock. While it was rudimentary, its simple design is actually the basis for locks and keys today. These locks were utilized by the ancient Egyptians to safeguard their royal treasures and valuable items of religious, polytheistic significance.

When the 18th century came along, locksmiths and the industry upped the ante with next level materials, such as metal locks, more secure 14

inner mechanisms, and multiple levers to stop bolt movement—increasing security and giving homeowners some repose.

During this time, many locksmiths, inventors, and engineers flourished as the demand for privacy and security continued to soar.

From then up until 1946, a family of dreamers and smiths set up a business called the “Baldwin Tool and Die Company”. This company went on to create letter boxes stamped from sheets of brass and, more importantly for them, door knob creation.

Seeing doorknobs as their craft and expertise, those at Baldwin began perfecting these simple yet impactful, everyday tools with metal, glass, and brass. Their commitment allowed their catalogue to double and their name to be widely known all through the United States of America.

Their portfolio of clean and curated door knobs is as wide as can be—from the estate door knobs with impressively latticed curves and a high-end design; contemporary and rustic reserve knobs; and the affordable yet luxurious prestige series. All these door knobs are also fully customiz-

alike. Stepping into the environment of smart technology truly was the right decision for those at Baldwin.

Baldwin did not cease its efforts to continuously modernize their inventions for the convenience of people, setting the bar higher and higher with each new lock model.

able to cater to any homeowner’s needs, be they big or small.

However, creating door knobs was still too small a dream for those at Baldwin. This gave them the drive to set the standard of door manufacturing. They created top-of-the-line door hardware, improving upon the plain door lock to locksets including keyed entry knobs, smart locks, keypad entries, rim locks, turn pieces, and more. They managed to do this by collaborating with respected architects. From this partnership, a variety of

different architectural styles of door knobs and locksets were created, with each mechanism formed from the finest materials and excellent finishes.

Stepping forward into the new age meant improving upon designs that were already advanced. To exemplify this inventive nature, Baldwin introduced a line of keyless entry locks. Aptly named Home Connect, these smart, atypical, and futuristic locksets were quite easy to use and were even more secure than prior models all while promoting user-friendliness to home and business owners

As a testament to their forward-thinking and proactive brand identity, Baldwin launched a mobile app called Baldwin Evolved.

This app is the melting pot in which innovation merges perfectly with convenient security and manifold functionalities. This electronic touch-to-open solution designed to exceed the luxurious, uncompromising architectural standards of Baldwin customers, is a digital platform that grants home and business owners the ability to control and monitor locks from anywhere and collect data about each door.

To open these technological wonders, digital e-keys may be used for remote access.

Baldwin continues to take steps into the future each and every day. Transcending the simple creation of locks, those at Baldwin has fostered this environment of privacy, security, and ease of use. For anyone who would like to avail these state-of-the-art knobs, locks, and locksets, potential buyers can visit Co Ban Kiat 15

S P E C IA L F E AT U R E

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Hardware Inc. website or visit COBY’S Design Center Showroom in EDSA Shangri-La, Mandaluyong City, as the trusted distributors in the Philippines.

This is especially important for any Filipino—whether they are home or business owners, have a family, own a property, or more. Refining a location’s security to be nigh

impenetrable, fostering a safe space where people can be as private as they want, and decreasing the work needed for them to have such security and privacy is the foundation upon which Baldwin Hardware stands. This is indeed extremely helpful for the individuals in the Philippines who wish to purchase these luxury locks.

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As drawn in previous points, renewable energies would not be able to meet the increasing demand. The total world energy demand is about 400 quadrillion British Thermal Units (BTUs) annually.

One ‘BTU’ is about the energy and heat generated by a match. Oil, coal and natural

18

gas supply about 350 quadrillion BTUs. Oil provides most of this, around 41 percent of the world’s total energy supplies. Coal provides 24 percent and natural gas provides the remaining 22 percent.

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COVER STORY

Energy Sources’ Impact to Existence

All energy sources have some impact on our environment.

Fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas is more harmful than renewable energy sources by most processes, including air and water pollution, damage to public health, wildlife and habitat loss. However, renewable sources such as wind, solar, geothermal, biomass, and hydropower also have environmental impacts, some of which are significant.

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A notable number of countries around the world have pledged to go renewable in the next 10-20 years. On the other hand, countries notorious for their enormous amounts of carbon emissions have also pledged to severely cut down their greenhouse emission rate.

This has resulted in an accelerated focus on constructing renewable energy plants. The objective of these pledges is to reduce

COVER STORY

the harmful effects of carbon emissions on the planet.

According to International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the total renewable power sector net additions recorded in 2017 reached new highs. Data from a report published by IRENA shows that hydro energy led the global installed capacity by 22

301.8 GW, followed by wind at 115.4 GW, solar energy at 38.2 GW, bioenergy at 13.5 GW and geothermal at 3.5 GW. The exact type and intensity of environmental impacts varies depending on the specific technology used, the geographic location and a number of other factors.

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Harnessing power from the wind is one of the cleanest and most sustainable ways to generate electricity

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Environmental Issues Linked with Energy Sources Understanding the current and potential environmental issues associated with each renewable energy source, we can yield steps to effectively avoid or minimize these impacts as they become a larger portion of our electric supply.

Harnessing power from the wind is one of the cleanest and most sustainable ways to generate electricity as it produces no toxic pollution or global warming emissions.

Wind is also abundant, inexhaustible and affordable which makes it a viable and large-scale alternative to fossil fuels. Despite its vast potential, there are a variety of environmental impacts associated with wind power generation that should be recognized and mitigated. The fact that oil is a finite material is not a problem.

26

WE CREATE THE INNOVATORS, LEADERS & THINKERS OF TOMORROW

For over 20 years, American University of Sharjah (AUS) has been at the helm of the region’s intellectual, cultural and scientific development.

As we enter our third decade, we are renewing our commitment to providing outstanding undergraduate and graduate education, and embarking on a new era of pioneering research.

27 bachelor’s programs | 14 master’s programs | 4 research institutes | 3 research centers Executive Education | PhD in Engineering Systems Management

Learn more:

www.aus.edu/cen AUS has been ranked in the world's top 50 universities under 50 years of age.

AUS has the highest percentage of international students of any ranked university in the world.

The total world energy demand is about 400 quadrillion British Thermal Units (BTUs) annually.

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COVER STORY

Every material is finite. Life is all about taking the theoretically finite but practically limitless materials in nature and creatively turning them into useful resources.

Fossil Fuels are originally formed from plants and animals that lived hundreds of millions of years ago and became buried deep beneath the Earth’s surface. These then collectively transformed 30

into the combustible materials that we use today for fuel.

The earliest known fossil fuel deposits are from about 500 million years ago, when most of the major groups of animals first appeared on Earth. The later fossil fuels, such as peat or lignite coal began forming from about five million years ago.

-end-

31

NEWS

LONGi Named “Top Performer” on DNV-GL PV Reliability Scorecard for Third Consecutive Year

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or the 3rd consecutive year, LONGi Solar, the world leading mono-crystalline PV manufacturer, was named “Top Performer” on the annual DNV-GL PV Module Reliability Scorecard.

The 2019 edition, published by PVEL together with scorecard partner DNV-GL, informs developers, investors and EPCs on product performance and reliability to support strategic PV module procurement around the world.

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Testing for Reliability and Performance According to PVEL, while IEC and UL certifications are important indicators of module safety, long-term reliability and performance are also important to PV buyers. By extending IEC 61215 sequences and incorporating additional tests, the Scorecard approximates the impact that decades of exposure in the field has on PV modules.

The Scorecard employs four demanding test sequences that stimulate PV modules long-term performance in real world conditions. It is today the most complete publicly available comparison of PV module reliability test results.

LONGi was named “Top Performer” in all four test categories: • Thermal cycling • Damp heat • Dynamic mechanical load sequence • Potential induced degradation (PID)

LONGi Hallmarks: Technology Innovations and Product Quality DNV-GL PV Module Reliability Scorecard “Top Performer” status is validation of the reliability of LONGi high efficiency PV modules and demonstrates the company’s R&D technology leadership and quality-first approach to manufacturing.

LONGi will continue to invest in technology and bring to market innovative high efficiency products. Most recently, LONGi debuted the next generation Hi-MO4 series PV module in Intersolar Europe. LONGi is committed to providing high reliability and high power products that maximizes investment returns and promote the sustainable development of the photovoltaic industry.

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NEWS

SunPower, Hannon Armstrong and SunStrong Secure Attractive Financing for Residential Solar Lease Business Into 2020 SunStrong Acquires SunPower Residential Lease Portfolio from Capital Dynamics

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unPower (NASDAQ:SPWR) today announced that with Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. (NYSE:HASI) and SunStrong Capital Holdings, LLC, it has secured financing commitments for its residential solar lease program that will help meet SunPower’s expected customer demand into 2020. SunPower has provided solar lease financing options to customers since 2010. The attractive financing provisions with this new fund will supplement the solar loan and cash sale alternatives currently offered by the company.

The new fund is structured as a levered tax equity partnership with a multi-party forward purchase commitment, allowing generation of upfront cash margins for residential solar leases. The financing commitments for this new fund are being provided largely from a repeat group of loan and equity providers that continue to have strong long-term relationships with SunPower and Hannon 34

Armstrong.

Bank of America Merrill Lynch (NYSE: BAC) acted as the sole structuring and placement agent for the cash equity and multi-draw term loan, as well as the sole tax equity investor. Additional equity capital was provided by SunPower, Hannon Armstrong and their joint venture SunStrong, which holds equity interests in more than 55,000 residential solar energy systems.

“SunPower’s strong suite of acquisition options, and our technologically superior solar energy solutions, allows us to

continue meeting growing customer demand,” said Tom Werner, SunPower CEO and chairman of the board.

“Thanks to our financing partners, who share our clean energy future goals, we’re able to ensure funding to meet the needs of those customers who desire a leasing option.”

“This latest fund continues our multi-year programmatic investment with SunPower, helping to decarbonize the residential sector using solar, one of the climate solutions essential to mitigating climate change,” said Jeffrey Eckel, Hannon Armstrong president and CEO. “We are especially

pleased with the expansion of SunStrong’s role in this innovative fund as it demonstrates the increased financial capabilities of this new joint venture with SunPower.”

Residential Solar Business SunPower offers its lease program through its network of residential solar dealers across the U.S., new home builders where the company holds a market-leading position, and

direct sales teams. Last year, SunPower’s U.S. residential business saw annual deployment growth of more than 15 percent, bringing the total number of American homes with SunPower® solar to over 275,000 consumers.

SunStrong Acquires Capital Dynamics Residential Lease Portfolio Additionally, the company announced that SunStrong has acquired a residential lease portfolio from

Capital Dynamics. This transaction adds to SunStrong’s existing high-quality asset portfolio with the addition of more than 41 MW and 5,100 residential systems.

“This transaction reinforces SunStrong’s belief in the long-term value of owning high quality solar systems and SunPower’s commitment to providing on-going products and services to our customers,” said Werner.

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NEWS

Centrica Business Solutions Expands U.S. Operations with Agreement to Purchase SmartWatt

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entrica plc announced today an agreement to purchase SmartWatt, a leading energy services and solutions company, for $37 million. The acquisition will broaden Centrica’s footprint in the U.S. and provide enhanced capabilities to meet increasing customer demand for integrated energy solutions.

SmartWatt has nearly two decades of experience improving energy systems and delivering optimum financial performance,

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human comfort, safety and productivity for commercial, industrial and public-sector customers. SmartWatt’s team of experts focus on combining lighting retrofits and efficiency upgrades such as HVAC, building automation, water conservation and performance assurance (M&V) as well as solar power to meet customers’ specific energy needs. Headquartered in Albany, New York, and with 14 offices in the U.S., SmartWatt has contractor licenses throughout the country and has completed

over 24,000 energy solutions projects, including projects for FedEx, University of California, Nestle and Pepsi.

The business will become part of Centrica’s Distributed Energy & Power business, Centrica Business Solutions, which delivers integrated energy solutions for businesses and other large energy users, combining distributed energy technologies and a variety of commercial options to improve performance and cost management, drive sustainability, and strengthen resilience.

“We look forward to joining Centrica Business Solutions,” said Chris Covell, Founder and CEO, SmartWatt. “Centrica’s technology solutions and long history of leadership in the energy industry will help us deliver better solutions to our customers. We are delighted to join forces with a distributed energy solutions market leader.”

“We are excited to welcome the SmartWatt team. The addition of SmartWatt will expand our operations throughout the U.S. with technologies that complement our existing energy solutions capabilities,” said Jorge Pikunic, global Managing Director of Centrica Business Solutions.

“SmartWatt’s impressive reputation delivering energy solutions and innovative financing, together with our existing technology and trusted customer relationships through Direct Energy Business, will accelerate our growth in the U.S.”

38

MIDDLE EAST NEWS

AUS furthers research and development in 3D concrete printing through 3D printed home project In a collaboration between industry and academia, American University of Sharjah (AUS) faculty and students will help create the first 3D printed house in Sharjah at the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTI Park). The house is expected to be completed in 2019.

While maintaining a traditional appearance, the house will be printed using state-of-the-art 3D printing technology. This initiative will help bring Sharjah to the global forefront in the sustainable construction sector and establish the SRTI Park as a regional development center for 3D printing construction.

AUS has been teaching 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) as part of the Master of Science in Civil Engineering program since 2010. The university is working on the development of this technology and training students in conducting applied scientific research, in conjunction with faculty members and external researchers from specialized companies, including Middle East Engineering Technologies (MEET), which focuses on building 3D printed structures.

AUS recently issued a new faculty 40

research grant that will advance ongoing 3DCP focused research.

Dr. Adil Al-Tamimi, Professor of Civil Engineering, teaches 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) at AUS: “I have been teaching 3DCP as a theoretical concept with the aim to motivate our students to explore new innovation in the construction industry. The students in this course usually design, produce and evaluate some innovative sustainable concretes similar to 3DCP as part of the course. They will now be able to put their classroom learning into real-life applications and get hands-on training through this collaboration.�

The current research is an extension of work begun in 2017, when Dr. Al-Tamimi and his students were invited by Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of the SRTI Park, to join a workshop on 3D concrete printing led by the Finnish Oulu University. During the workshop, two groups of AUS civil engineering students presented the initial findings of their final year design project on 3D concrete printing, which focused on developing a special concrete mixture suitable for robotic

production.

This research has continued to progress. One of the two student groups won first place in a 2018 3D concrete printing mixture competition organized by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry. In 2019, three students in the AUS Master of Science in Civil Engineering program began conducting further research on 3DCP. Haidar Al Haidary, a 2018 graduate of the program, is now employed in the field of 3DCP, working with Middle East Engineering Technologies (MEET).

Elaborating on the groups’ research, Dr. Al-Tamimi, said: “One group is evaluating the bond between multi-layers of the 3DCP produced by nozzle extrusion method simulating robotic action, and the other aims to increase structural performance of the 3DCP in flextural and tensile strengths.”3DCP is considered to be one of the most innovative and reliable ways to build residential units through the use of digital machinery. According to Al Mahmoudi, as traditional construction costs increase, the

3D technology is expected to reduce overall costs. SRTI Park aims to provide a regional center for the research and development of 3D printing construction, and AUS students and faculty will gain hands-on experience with the technology through this collaboration.

For more information about AUS, please visit www.aus.edu.

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MIDDLE EAST NEWS

#LeadersTalk with Chubbsafes

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uring the official brand launching of Chubbsafes in the Philippines, GineersNow TV spoke to Ravindran Gengadaran, Country Manager and Eric Lim, Channel Sales Manager for South East Asia at Gunnebo.

Ravindran and Eric discussed the history, product innovations and distribution channels of Chubbsafes in the Philippines.

Johnny Cobankiat, the President of Co Ban Kiat Hardware and ACE Hardware Philippines, to42

gether with the senior executives of CBK Hardware were also present during the brand launching event held at Shangri-La Hotel, Manila.

Gunnebo is the distributor of Chubbsafes in Asia while CBK Hardware is the sole distributor of Chubbsafes in the Philippines.

About the Leader Ravindran Gengadaran Ravindran is currently the Country Manager for Gunnebo South East Asia based in Malaysia. Ravindran is responsible for the following countries in the Gunnebo Group: Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar and Taiwan.

Ravindran has been in the security business since 1993. He worked for Chubb Malaysia from 1993 to 2012, leaving as a General Manager, a position he had held for 10 years. He was responsible for establishing Gunnebo Malaysia in 2012 when Gunnebo decided to establish a

dedicated company in Malaysia, and he took over the responsibility of Gunnebo South East Asia in 2016.

Ravindran has a Bachelors degree in Industrial Engineering from the US and a Masters in Business from the UK.

About the Leader Eric Lim Eric Lim is the Regional Channel Sales Manager for South East Asia based in Gunnebo at the Singapore office. Eric’s role in Gunnebo Singapore encompasses in taking care of the overall Sales and Marketing operations in the countries in South East Asia.

Eric has been in the Security and Architectural hardware business since year 2008. He started working with DormaKaba in Year 2008 to 2014 as the Sales Director for the Far East Region and follow with Allegion PLC (a spin off company from Ingersoll Rand) in the US Public Listed company in the Fortune 500 as the General Manger for South East Asia prior to joining Gunnebo South East Asia operations in year 2017.

Upon graduation in Year 1995

with a Bachelor of Building from Australia, Eric has worked for the Singapore Government in the national development for Singapore till year 2003 before joining the private sector working for real estate developers and a multi-national Construction Company for project and construction management projects in South East Asia, Southern Europe, India and the Middle East.

In Year 1998, he obtained his Master of Science (International Construction Management) from the Nanyang Technological University in Singapore with the scholarship awarded by the Government of Singapore.

About Chubbsafes Chubbsafes is one of the oldest safes brand in the world. Trusted the world over, the Chubbsafes solutions have been providing protection around the globe for people, cash and valuables for almost 200 years.

The Chubbsafes solutions are well-known and appreciated for their unique combination of robustness, reliability and modern designs. They associate experience in security with technological innovation to create trustworthy products for maximum protection against burglary, fire and explosives.

They are rigorously tested by international and independent accreditation bodies to guarantee the best protection available.

The Chubbsafes’ customer base is diverse ranging from householders, small commercial shops, large retail environments, jewelleries to the largest financial institutions and high-risk sites.

Chubbsafes security solutions including safes, vaults and vault doors and safe deposit boxes are sold and used all over the world.

Chubbsafes is licensed to the Gunnebo security group which is a global leader in security products, services and solutions with an offering covering cash management, safes and vaults, entrance security and electronic security for banks, retail, Cash-in-Transit companies, mass transit, public and commercial buildings and industrial and high-risk sites. The Group has an annual turnover of ₏610 million, employs 5,700 people and has sales companies in 33 countries across EMEA, Asia-Pacific and the Americas as well as Channel Partners on over 100 additional markets.�

MIDDLE EAST NEWS

About CBK Hardware For almost a hundred years, a family’s surname has become synonymous to the country’s biggest hardware supply company. Co Ban Kiat Hardware Incorporated, of the Cobankiat family has a regular client network of more than 1,500 industrial organizations; 1,600 traditional community hardware stores, and 584 home building specialty chain of stores across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

This ever growing conglomerate traces its humble roots to Manila Chinatown, as a pioneer enterprise started by family’s patriarch, Mr. Cobankiat in 1920. Despite the ruins of World War II, the business goes back to its feet in 1948, rebuilding a storefront from the very same spot where it was known for three decades.

While the Filipinos continue to rebuild their lives post war, CBK Hardware sees the opportunity to introduce the retail concept once unheard for in hardware industry. The Hardware Workshop Store is the fruit if this endeavor.

CBK Hardware further cemented its legendary distribution channel with the creation of Coby’ Design Center in Edsa Shangi La in 1996, a specialty store that caters to discriminating taste of modern Filipinos.

In 1997, Mr. Johnny Cobankiat, the 4th generation Cobankiat leader, set another milestone for 46

the company when he brings a franchise of Ace Hardware USA to the Philippines, and signs up CBK Hardware as one of its major suppliers. This further expanded into delivering quality world class products nearer to families of Filipino overseas workers in the countryside.

Interested to Buy?

A century’s excellence can quickly pass, and guided by the vision to be the largest network supplier of the biggest global brands in the hardware industry, CBK Hardware resolve to source the best products to supply its customers anytime and every time.

Ground Floor Cobankiat Building II 231 Juan Luna St. Binondo Manila, Philippines.

Phone +632 2476557 Phone +632 2432734

To order Chubbsafes, visit https://www.cbkhardware.com/ You may also purchase directly to the following showrooms:

Co Ban Kiat Hardware, Inc.

Coby’s Designer Center Unit 467 level 4 Shangri-La Plaza Edsa Corner Shaw Boulevard Mandaluyong City, Philippines Phone +632 6364895 Phone +632 6364896

MIDDLE EAST NEWS

Keeping Everyone Safe with Manlift Elevated Drive Speed Checks

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levated drive speed for Aerial work platforms: It goes without saying that you can drive Aerial Work Platforms (AWPs) forward and reverse, like just about any vehicle. The forward or reverse speed is determined by how far forward or back the driver pushes the drivestick – this method is commonly known as proportional drive.

However, for safety reasons, it is only possible to drive an AWP at the maximum speed when the boom or scissor lift is in

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transport or stow position.

When the boom or scissor lift is elevated, the machine is less stable, and driving at an excessive speed could cause the AWP to tip over and accident may arise.

Accordingly, a “limit switch” or “proximity switch” automatically triggers a message communicated to the onboard computer that the access platform is in an elevated position. Instead of the maximum speed of perhaps 6 km/hour, the computer automatically limits the maximum speed to what is called “elevated drive speed”

MIDDLE EAST NEWS

First Check as Safety Rule At Manlift, we test to make certain that this elevated drive speed restriction is operational in a specified area of our yard.

We do this as part of the first check responsibility as soon as the machine comes back off-hire.

During this first check, the AWP is timed as it is driven with the boom or scissor lift in an elevated position over a set distance of 10 to 20 meters. That way, our first checker can make absolutely certain that the elevated drive speed as specified by the manufacturer is not exceeded. The checker records the result on the first check document so that we know whether or not it is within the safe speed parameters.

If the checker does notice any discrepancy, it is flagged for the mechanical engineers in the workshop to make the required adjustments to ensure that the elevated drive speed is in full compliance with the manufacturer’s safe speed limit.

It is of the utmost importance to take these safety precautions and check that the elevated drive speed is set properly. Once the equipment is on a work site, we recognize that operators are unlikely to make this check. Carrying out this essential test is but one example of how Manlift, as the owner of the access platform, takes responsibility for ensuring our equipment can be safely operated before we hand it over to the customer.

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A S I A PA C I F I C N E W S

Traditional building techniques and materials should play a part in today’s mega-cities: American University of Sharjah academic Marcus Farr

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s the global population nears eight billion, the pressure to find new, sustainable ways of accommodating the world’s population is growing. Nowhere is this more imperative than in China, where 15 mega-cities reflect the country’s rapid urbanization. China’s cities have increased in population more than five-fold since the 1970s, with approximately 813 million people now calling China’s metropolitan areas home. For Marcus Farr, Assistant Profes52

sor of Architecture at American University of Sharjah in the UAE, China’s material history and vernacular architecture present solutions for today’s developmental challenges. He believes that the history of tectonics in China’s villages hold clues for creating authentic spaces in China’s modern cities, and that drawing on traditional practices will help preserve the country’s unique cultural heritage and be more materially sustainable.

Farr has recently completed a 12-month tenure as a Fulbright Scholar in the Chinese port city of Tianjin, approximately 75 miles southeast of Beijing. The Fulbright program is one of the world’s most prestigious and competitive fellowship opportunities, bestowed upon academics who are leaders in their field, with the aim of promoting intercultural relations and cultural diplomacy. To date, 59 Fulbright alumni have won Nobel Prizes and 82 have won Pulitzer Prizes. Farr has used his Fulbright term to delve into China’s architectural and building history, understanding how past practices could inform modern builds, as the converging issues of materials, village destruction and population density impact the day-to-day lives of millions of Chinese. His research includes oral interviews, photographs, video, Chinese transcripts and ancient maps of villages and material areas. Leading architects throughout China have been assisting Farr with his work. Over the past six months, Farr has met with, and interviewed, some of the leading voices of China’s architectural scene, including architecture professors from Tsinghua University, Tongji University, Tianjin University, Nanjing University and Beijing College of Forestry, China’s leading school in landscape architecture.

Importantly, Farr’s research has examined many of China’s best-known vernacular architecture examples, such as dougong and waipan masonry.

Despite such techniques being used throughout China for thousands of years, these techniques were never consistently documented in writing. Rather, the information required to create buildings using these techniques was passed down generation to generation.

The significance of these traditional techniques for contemporary constructions lies in their suitability for the local landscape and climate. Drawing on locally available resources, using what is in abundance in an efficient manner, duogong and waipan masonry offer more sustainably driven outcomes than many contemporary techniques.

According to Farr, waipan masonry, a tiling method that has grown into a hybrid construction practice incorporating roof tiles, brick, stones and other hard materials, is a strong example of how traditional techniques can overcome modern-day challenges. He says: “The use of traditional bricks in Chinese building is declining and being

banned, due to concerns about environmental degradation.

What we are seeing as a result is a renewed enthusiasm for waipan masonry. Because this technique uses recycled materials readily available from demolished building sites, it has significant environmental benefit. It also assists in the creation of new spaces that have distinctive cultural references. By combining age-old practices such as duogong (the practice of interlocking wood joints throughout the architecture seen in structures at the Forbidden City and Summer Palace) and waipan masonry, a new Chinese architecture is emerging, sensitive to the history and landscape of the region, but also fit for purpose in a modern context.”

Lessons learned from China’s explosion of mega-cities hold resonance for engineers, builders and architects around the world, as many countries face the predicaments of urban growth

and climate change. While innovation and future-forward thinking is vital to overcoming these challenges, looking to the past also plays a role in generating positive outcomes.

Farr says: “Creating buildings that are true to their surroundings has both environmental and social benefits. As cities around the world grow and become more globalized, they tend to become more architecturally homogenous and do not always best serve the needs of those that live in them, or the landscape they occupy. By looking at the historical tectonics and building practices of a place, we are more likely to create spaces that are suited to the needs of the local environment and population, and that allow for happier and more fulfilled lives for those living in those space, both now and in the future.”

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A S I A PA C I F I C N E W S

Organic Solar Cells Achieve the Highest Efficiency Rate

Solar panels in the market today are composed mostly of silicon, which is inorganic, often formed into thick, rigid sheets that require fixed installation points.

But it appears that this quality of solar panels can be improved with the help of organic solar cells.

Carbon-based organic solar cells can be thin enough to bend and curve around structures or even within clothing. Plus, they can be manufactured to be of any color including transparent, allowing flexibility in aesthetic design.

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Amid these advantages, there is one problem with organic solar cells: efficiency. For this, they cannot compete with conventional energy sources.

But that is all in the past now.

Researchers at University of Michigan made it possible to make organic solar cells that can achieve 15% efficiency. This level of efficiency is enough to make organic solar cells a viable option in photovoltaics systems as it is in the range of many solar panels today.

“For the last couple of years, efficiency for organic photovoltaics was stuck around 11 to 12 percent,� said Xiaozhou Che, a doctoral candidate in the Applied Physics Program and a member of the research team.

The researchers had to develop a way to solve the problem on efficiency. That required inventing a process of stacking the organic solar cells, which allows interconnection of layers to prevent damage to the first cell but allows light and electrical charges to pass through. This new system can absorb light from the

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visible spectrum starting at 350 nanometers in wavelength as well as near-infrared light up to 950 nanometers in wavelength.

“When we stack them together, we increase light absorption and efficiency improves to 15 percent with an antireflection coating.

That’s considered a difficult process because there’s a chance the liquid used in processing the top cell will dissolve the layers already deposited underneath,” Che said.

Leader of the research, Stephen Forrest, the Peter A. Franken Distinguished University Professor of Engineering and Paul G. Goebel Professor of Engineering, said that organic photovoltaics can potentially cut way down on the total solar 56

energy system cost, making solar “a truly ubiquitous clean energy source.”

With a 20-year lifetime and at 15% efficiency, the researchers calculate that the organic cells they developed have the capacity to produce electricity at a much lower cost. When the average cost of electricity in the U.S. was 10.5 cents per kilowatt-hour in 2017, it could be reduced to less than 7 cents per kilowatt-hour.

Despite this recent development, the team still wants to improve the efficiency further.

“We can improve the light absorption to increase electric current, and minimize the energy loss to increase voltage,” Che said. “Based on calculations,

an 18-percent efficiency is expected in the near future for this type of multijunction device.”

A S I A PA C I F I C N E W S

How to Calculate Steel Round Bar Weight

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hile internet offers a lot of calculators for figuring out the weight of steel round bar, it is better to know the formula yourself, as you can’t mindlessly rely on calculators all the time. They do malfunction from time to time. While you may think that the formula for steel round bar calculation is fairly simple (D2 / 162.2) it is not.

First of all, you should mind the manufacturer’s chart for calculation the weight. Secondly, there is no exact formula to calculate the weight of steel round bar, no matter how ridiculous it may sound. You may wonder how 58

that’s possible, as there are a lot of websites offering different formulas for calculating the steel round bar weight. But the keyword in this case is “different”. They offer you different formulas. Basically, using one formula you would get one results, and using other formula will provide you with different results. So, regardless of which formula you use, you are most likely to get only approximate results.

So, does it mean that you are left without any formulas for calculating round bar weight?

Well, not exactly. There are a few ways to calculate the weight, and

we are going to provide you with them. All you have to do is to pick and choose the one you like the best.

A S I A PA C I F I C N E W S

1. The most common formula The most common formula requires you to know the density for squared inch. According to the formula you can calculate the weight of the round bar this way: Diameter in inches squared x 2.67 = lbs per foot.

2. D2 / 162.2 While this formula can be applied for calculating the round bar weight, it is generally used for calculating the weight of circular rebars. It is the formula for unit weight of steel. To use it, you need to figure out the derivation of D2 / 162.2, which you can see below: Weight of steel bar per meter = Area of the steel x Density of steel x Bar length = (3.14 x D2 /4) x 7850 kg/m3 x 1m = (D2 x 6162.25)/(1000 x 1000) = D2 X (0.006162) = D2 X 1/(0.006162)-1 = D2/162.28

3. Experimental method You can’t avoid experimental methods, when there is no ultimate formula for calculating bar weight. So, to calculate it using the experimental method, you should follow the next steps:

• take a sample length of a steel bar (let it be one feet)

• immerse the bar into the pipe

• take the pipe of the same length, but with the larger diameter, so that the bar would fit in it

• then remove the bar from the pipe, and fill the pipe once again with water

• fill the pipe with water up to the top

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• now we can state that the volume of water in the pipe equals the volume of the water that can be placed in the bar

F E AT U R E S T O RY

Help an Employee to Achieve Work-Life Balance

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ork-Life balance is critical to any employee. It is important to maintain a clear balance between work and personal life. However, the increasing use of gadgets at both work and home makes it hard to draw a separating line between the two. Adding small facilities, like the humanscale keyboard systems for instance, does make the long day at work a little less tiring as the desk is more organized ultimately facilitating the employee to complete the work fast. To ensure they have a happy and balanced life outside the office premises, something more than just physical facilities is needed.

Few tips below can be useful:

Respect Time Off Treat people’s breaks and time off as sacred. It is inhuman to call people from their time off to work for you unless it is unavoidable. Most people hate jobs that take over their life.

Encourage employees to use their time off constructively. Taking proper breaks within the day also helps to relax and recharge a tired brain. Relaxation creates new energy. That free time also gives employees a chance to focus on things in their lives. Proper work-life balance can only be attained through respecting the time allocated to work and that created for rest.

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F E AT U R E S T O RY

Support Family Time Realising that employees have a life outside work and supporting them to enjoy it is important.

Respect other people’s commitments and honor them as you would your own. Parents may at times need to get off from work early to pick their children from school. It is important to show you understand such things as an employer. It is also important to ensure that this does not flow into work performance. Being a caring employer creates a good reputation for your business and increases your employee retention rate.

Encourage Time Off Most people want to work the extra hour to earn a little more.

However, the holidays are a necessity and not a luxury.

Encourage employees to take their time off work seriously. This helps them switch off and enjoy themselves reducing the possibility of work related stress.

Light exercises are also highly recommended during time off.

It does not have to be a vacation break. Even short breaks from work within the day should be highly encouraged. They recharge employees energy as they return to work.

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Establish Boundaries Employers should create a strict forum working hours. Most employees may not be particularly thrilled about staying over for extra hours of work but some may need the extra portion. It is therefore important to ensure working hours are respected and that extra hours are scrapped. Also, set boundaries for the time in which work communication is passes to employees. It is best to use only working hours to send company messages. Let workers leave early enough to be well rested by morning and also to go over personal issues.

Overtime Is not a Culture In most businesses working for long hours even during the night is a normal thing. This should not be the case. The human body requires rest in order to perform.

Overtime tires workers over work that can be done the next day. Most employees are forced to work extra hours because of unreasonable work sharing. It is best to encourage teamwork if the work is too much for a single person. Encourage task sharing within departments.

Effective Work-Life balance promotes both employee performance and also their morale at work. It is important not to breach their privacy by giving them work during their leisure or sending them work emails during odd hours. Better yet, be an example to them. If you tell employees not to work pat certain hours, it is unreasonable for you to send them work emails after hours are long overdue.

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