CUMMINS: DRIVING ZERO-EMISSION GOALS WITH INNOVATIVE TECH

Gary Johansen, VP Engineering at Cummins discusses how the business is working with clients and utilising new technology to achieve zero-emissions.

Operating in 190 countries with more than 70,000 employees, Cummins is a global enterprise and energy-to-power solutions provider. The business is driven by the goal of providing the right solutions for its customers to promote their sustainability ambitions, whether that’s regarding environmental, economic or community sustainability.

Destination Zero highlights Cummins’ ambitious goal of adopting a zeroemission footprint by 2050, through achieving zero emissions, waste and water usage within its operations. This not only applies to Cummins but to the business’ products in use too, as Cummins’ customers use fuel to operate the products, which of course, generates a carbon footprint.

Advancing Technologies And Emissions Reduction

To achieve these goals, Cummins is investing in a broad array of technologies that the business believes are meaningful and important for future sustainability efforts. For example, Cummins is investing in fuel-cell technology through zeroemission space Accelera, which is converting hydrogen energy into electrical power. “We also recognise that battery energy storage is a very critical part of many of our applications moving forward,” Johansen says. “So, we’re investing in battery energy storage and fuel cell technologies, while also advancing core technologies of today, including internal combustion engines to run on low and no carbon fuels.”

Additionally, Cummins has also been advancing internal combustion engine (ICE) efficiencies and emissions for decades – and continues to provide heavy investments. “Our exhaust emissions technology and other critical components, such as fuel systems, air handling systems and electronic controls are all critical to reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency,” Johansen explains.

“The world needs us to decarbonise our infrastructure, and Cummins is providing opportunities to do so, as we serve so many which are crucial to our communities. Because of this, I don’t think there’s ever been a more exciting time to work at Cummins, or in the power space.”

MILLER SVP OF CONSTRUCTION, NTT GLOBAL DATA CENTERS

This strategic approach allowed us to scale rapidly while also providing flexibility to adapt the product based on customer requirements.”

Achieving scale

Addressing the topic of scale, Miller underscores the two primary tenets that drive the company’s approach: cost predictability and scalability. Through their standardisation efforts – and the subsequent ability to streamline operations and improve efficiency – NTT has successfully achieved scalability while maintaining cost control and project predictability.

Navigating the supply chain

As we all know, supply chain challenges have truly been redefined in recent years, and it’s no hyperbole to say that these disruptions have been unprecedented.

“However, by partnering with multiple suppliers in each equipment category and sharing our roadmap transparently, NTT ensures that suppliers have a clear understanding of our requirements.

“This collaboration enables effective planning, proactive decision-making and better management of supply chain risks,” she says.

Additionally, she points out that the standardisation of equipment across sites, allows NTT to leverage flexibility and move equipment as swiftly as needed, ensuring timely delivery: “Early commitment and close communication with partners facilitates timely responses to potential impacts during the production stage, enabling us to make informed business decisions and agile adaptations.”

The importance of having good people at NTT

Miller emphasises the crucial role of having a talented and dedicated workforce at NTT. “Hiring the right people and providing them with the right support enables them to take ownership of projects and make decisions that impact NTT’s overall success,” she says.

She draws from her experience at large tech companies, where working at a fast pace under pressure can be challenging.

“I believe that enjoying the work environment and having positive relationships with colleagues are essential for a fulfilling experience in any company.