Why energy insight is the new infrastructure investment

As organisations across the UK face mounting pressure to reduce emissions and control costs, many are discovering that the smartest infrastructure investment is not physical – it’s analytical.

According to TEAM Energy, the key to unlocking meaningful energy savings lies in understanding how your estate actually uses energy, and where it’s being wasted.

In a recent article, TEAM considers the role of the commercial energy audit, positioning it not as a compliance exercise, but as a strategic tool for transformation. With energy prices volatile and net zero targets looming, the timing could not be more relevant.

From data to direction

The blog highlights how audits, which can range from desktop reviews to investment-grade assessments, arm organisations with the insight needed to make confident, cost-effective decisions. Whether it is identifying inefficient HVAC systems, uncovering hidden baseloads, or benchmarking performance across sites. An energy audit is designed to turn raw data into actionable intelligence.

And it is not just about the big-ticket items. Even simple upgrades, like switching to LED lighting, can deliver significant returns. To illustrate this, TEAM has launched a free online tool: the LED Lighting Energy Savings Calculator. This enables organisations to estimate their potential savings in energy, cost, and carbon by inputting just a few details about their current lighting setup.

A smarter path to net zero

What sets TEAM’s approach apart is its focus on clarity and customisation. Every audit is tailored to the organisation’s estate, operations, and sustainability goals. The result is a roadmap that not only supports compliance and funding applications but also builds a compelling case for change – one that stakeholders can get behind.

As the energy landscape evolves, so too must the way organisations manage it. Insight, not infrastructure, is the foundation of a smarter, more sustainable future.

To explore how a commercial energy audit could benefit your organisation, and to try the LED calculator, read the full blog at teamenergy.com.

Legrand Launches State-of-the-Art Lighting Control Platform

Legrand UK & Ireland has launched a state-of-the-art lighting control platform, designed to meet the needs of diverse buildings, including high-end office developments, sports stadia, large hospitals and other major infrastructure developments.

Wattstopper PLUS, powered by Encelium technology, offers a platform that works with Legrand’s range of CP Electronics DALI-2 sensors and supports compliance with Approved Document L, Volume 2. DALI-2 compliant, it can be installed in wired, wireless and hybrid configurations, making it easy to add new floors or buildings to existing systems.

Wattstopper PLUS is especially flexible because it is compatible with all DALI dimmable and non-dimmable luminaires. As a result, it not only offers an excellent solution for new developments, but also for renovation works.

Further compounding the benefits of Wattstopper PLUS, a substantial element of the commissioning work can be carried out off-site, thanks to the use of a system database that mimics the real-world. As a result, disruption to other construction work or building operations can be kept to a minimum, with ensuing cost savings.

Moreover, Wattstopper PLUS supports compliance with Approved Document L, Volume 2, as energy usage from lighting can be calculated and reported in line with the latest statutory requirements.

Russell Vanstone, Product Manager – Connected Buildings, said: “Meeting the needs of occupants with quality lighting that continually adjusts according to changing conditions through the day can have a major impact on both wellbeing and energy consumption. Getting lighting right is critical to the success of any major development or renovation project.

“Wattstopper PLUS draws upon Legrand’s decades of experience in lighting, digital building products, including sensor technologies, to deliver a high-end lighting system that caters for projects with the most stringent demands for quality lighting controls.

“Our full-service project support guides projects from concept to completion with tailored solutions and end-to-end technical support. We’re on hand to assist consultants and specifiers with system layouts, integration advice and application planning, and we’re able to manage project delivery, supporting timelines, logistics and coordination. Our expert commissioning team configures and programs the system to meet performance expectations and, even after installation is complete, we offer remote and on-site support, diagnostics and servicing for the full lifecycle of the building.”

Legrand will be showcasing its range of Connected Buildings products at LiGHT25 this year. Visit stand T14 for a demonstration and to find out more.

To find out more about Wattstopper PLUS, please visit Legrand.co.uk.

Reflections from Davos 2025: Where are we now?

COPA-DATA: © phimprapha / Adobe Stock

At the halfway point of 2025, Stefan Reuther, Member of the Executive Board at industrial automation supplier COPA-DATA, looks back at the important topics raised at January’s WEF conference — and what we can learn today.

Six months on from attending January’s annual World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting at Davos, Switzerland,I’d sum it up like this: a bit of a sensory overload, but well worth it. Despite the jetlag, endless panels and daily foot traffic equivalent to a mid-sized marathon, WEF25 still delivered solid insights into the trends shaping 2025. Now, as we reach the midpoint of 2025, it’s a good moment to reflect on where progress has been made — and where challenges remain.

Here’s a recap of some of my key takeaways from the event — aside from bumping into David Beckham, who was present at WEF25 to collect his Crystal Award, which was certainly a highlight! I’ll also ask: what can we learn from these insights at the midpoint of 2025?

Geopolitics and global tech

The theme, “Collaboration in the intelligent age”, wasn’t just branding — it reflected a real sense of urgency. Leaders across sectors seemed to agree: global shifts require collective, tech-enabled action.

But the elephant in the room? The Trump administration. Much of the hallway buzz focused on potential ripple effects for the European Union (EU) and China. Now, the EU and United States reached an agreement to avoid further escalating tariff tensions. Another response we’ve seen: China accelerated its domestic chip production.

Despite these tensions, cooperation continues in areas like climate tech and hydrogen infrastructure. Still, the uneasy triangle between Washington, Brussels and Beijing remains defined by both competition and collaboration, and a new era of deal-making more on a bilateral than global level.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen put it well in January: “The world is changing and so must we.” That set the tone. Leaders are realistic about the urgency — and complexity — of what lies ahead. One quote that stuck with me: “We must impact what we can impact.” A good reminder in a volatile geopolitical landscape.

AI’s Achilles heel

Artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing and biotechnology are reshaping industries — but without clean, structured data, even the most powerful AI systems won’t deliver. As Matt Garman, CEO of Amazon Web Services (AWS) put it: many AI projects fail due to disorganized, unlabeled or undigitized data.

At COPA-DATA, as experts in industrial automation, we see this all the time. Legacy systems don’t transform themselves — and the last mile of extracting usable data is both hard and essential. There are no shortcuts.

Do you like a good read about this topic, check out our latest customer magazine Information Unlimited about “The World of Data”.

As of May 2025, nearly half of enterprise AI projects are delayed or failing, largely due to poor data readiness — caused by fragmentation, outdated sources and weak model performance. A Fivetran survey confirms the struggle.

There is progress, though. Companies like Microsoft and AWS are expanding DataOps offerings — a set of practices that apply DevOps principles to data management — to address the readiness gap.

Meanwhile, biotech is stepping out of the lab and into real-world impact — from healthcare to agri-tech to climate resilience. In just six months, CRISPR (a gene-editing technology that enables targeted modifications to DNA) trials have advanced crop resilience, and pharmaceutical companies like GSK have taken groundbreaking therapeutics — including a new liver disease treatment — into late-stage trials. It’s not hype — it’s happening.

Decarbonization: From buzzword to business imperative

One standout moment which still echoes today in my mind came from Fatih Birol, executive director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), who called this the “Age of electricity.” Demand is growing six times faster than overall energy production. But the real bottleneck? The grid.

A June IEA report confirmed that electricity use continues to outpace total energy demand, warning that underinvestment in the grid poses a major global risk.

Since WEF25, the EU has launched major initiatives to modernize grids and drive industrial decarbonization — the Clean Industrial Deal channels over €100 billion, including €1.5 billion for grid component manufacturing, and an Affordable Energy Action Plan to cut costs and streamline permitting.

The package also includes a European grids initiative to de-risk cross-border projects and boost digitalization and flexibility. An accompanying Action Plan for Grids outlines steps for better planning, permitting and financing. The European Parliament backs these moves, calling for tighter alignment between national grid plans and EU decarbonization goals.

At COPA-DATA, we’re focused on making power generation, distribution and consumption smarter, more flexible and more efficient. There’s no decarbonization without digitalization — and as grid resilience becomes critical, we’re investing further to meet that need for a “Twin Transition”.

Innovation means fixing what’s broken

At WEF25, innovation wasn’t just about what’s next — it was about fixing what’s broken. The most exciting developments? Intelligent systems that bridge the gap between old and new. Tools that extract meaningful data from legacy systems and feed it into real-time decision-making — retro-fit at its best.

A final thought on trust and collaboration

Let’s be clear: COPA-DATA doesn’t come to Davos for champagne and selfies — though bumping into Beckham was a nice perk. We’re there because we’ve earned our place as a trusted Global Innovator — and that comes with responsibility. So, what can we take away from Davos now that we’ve reached the midpoint of 2025?

The conversations at WEF25 reaffirmed a truth we already know: digitalization is no longer optional. It’s a survival strategy — especially in sectors like energy, water and manufacturing. We’re doubling down on supporting our partners in their net-zero and digital transformation efforts which means – to keep it very simple – their existing equipment must become more effective, productive and efficient.

Of course, the WEF isn’t above criticism — someone even emailed me, questioning my integrity for attending. To that person: thank you. Trust isn’t granted by title or attendance list; it’s earned through action. And we really want to act and make an impact in the right direction.

We’re not in Davos as Austrian delegates, but as individuals and as a company committed to helping others digitalize, automatize, decarbonize and build a smarter, more sustainable future. And no, we’re not part of any dark plot — unless the dark side now includes digital twins and smart grid analytics. If so, our Jedi power is collaboration.

Together with our partners and customers, we’re working to ensure that nobody is left behind in the digital transition. Especially not the millions of SMEs out there who really want to transform their businesses. Through continued innovation and cooperation, we hope that WEF26 will bring real progress in overcoming the toughest challenges. No WEF, no problem? Maybe. But no collaboration? That would be a real problem.

Here’s to making real progress — together.

Explore software solutions for smart, sustainable manufacturing.

Carrier supports London Gatwick’s journey to Net Zero with dedicated HVAC maintenance and upgrades

Carrier Commercial HVAC has been supporting London Gatwick Airport with its ‘Decade of Change’ goals by providing proactive service and maintenance for the airport’s cooling infrastructure.

Carrier Commercial HVAC is part of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions.

London Gatwick is the UK’s second-busiest airport, welcoming tens of million passengers every year. To maintain optimal conditions for passengers, staff and key infrastructure, Carrier provides service and maintenance for approximately 50 chillers across the North and South Terminals, which deliver essential cooling to the terminals and buildings.

Carrier has been a long-term service partner of London Gatwick, initially maintaining the district cooling plant before expanding to oversee the airport’s chiller assets in 2018. The service contract includes physical and remote service visits, comprehensive asset management and proactive compliance support, including F-Gas and insurance inspection requirements. A dedicated Carrier technician is also on-site daily, helping to maintain system performance.

“As an airport, Gatwick never sleeps. Maintaining the cooling infrastructure requires precision, efficiency and a deep understanding of its needs,” said Adam Wright, Business Development Manager, Carrier Commercial HVAC UK&I. “Any servicing, repairs and upgrades must be carefully planned to avoid any disruption to daily operations. We’ve therefore structured our approach accordingly so we can keep chillers running and performing as required day in, day out.”

In addition to maintenance, Carrier provides strategic support to modernise London Gatwick’s HVAC infrastructure. In one example, an end-of-life chiller at Jubilee House was replaced with a Carrier AquaForce® 30XAV unit, operating on ultra-low GWP PUREtec® HFO R-1234ze refrigerant.

The next phase of the partnership will focus on helping London Gatwick meet its sustainability targets through its Decade of Change policy, including becoming net zero for Scope 1 and 2 emissions.

“By managing our cooling infrastructure and providing expert guidance on F-Gas and insurance inspection requirements, Carrier is a trusted service and maintenance partner,” said Steve Kelso, Head of Engineering, London Gatwick. “Carrier’s solutions and on-going support is also helping us reduce operational expenditure and work towards our 2030 environmental target of achieving net zero for Scope 1 and 2 emissions.”

Carrier will continue to offer support and guidance, not just on new equipment, but also sustainable HVAC solutions tailored to the airport’s evolving needs.

To find out more about how Carrier can support your facility’s HVAC service and maintenance needs call 01372 220 220 or visit www.carrier.com/commercial/en/uk/service/

IES has launched a 3D model of Dublin Town, mapping 3,000 buildings on the road to net zero

IES has launched a publicly accessible 3D Urban Energy Model of the Dublin Town Business Improvement District, a landmark digital twin that places more than 3,000 city-centre buildings under a single, data-rich lens.

Commissioned by Dublin Town Business Improvement District – the organisation representing over 2,000 businesses across the capital – the model offers the most detailed picture yet of how each premise consumes energy, emits carbon, and could profitably transition to net zero.

Built with IES’s urban modelling engine, fed by an analytics platform and connected through the stakeholder engagement portal, the model fuses live operational data from buildings with physics-based simulation.

This unique combination allows users to explore current building performance, benchmark operational carbon emissions, pinpoint energy-intensive properties, and run sophisticated retrofit scenarios that range from light-touch behavioural changes to deep fabric upgrades, new heating systems, on-site renewables, and district-energy connections.

The resulting evidence is presented through live, interactive dashboards that continuously track progress, verify savings, and prevent buildings from slipping back into inefficient operation.

“In partnership with Dublin Town, we have created a living, breathing map of the city centre’s energy story,” said Ruth Kerrigan, COO at IES. “For the first time, business owners, investors, and policymakers can interrogate engineering-grade data in real time and see exactly which retrofit pathway will cut emissions, slash bills, and future-proof our historic streetscape.”

The work dovetails with Dublin City Council’s wider 2030 climate objectives. IES subjected the model to a suite of decision-support analyses, testing shallow, medium, deep and full-renovation strategies against the district’s decarbonisation targets. Annual operational-savings curves and stepped investment plans are now visualised for every building, giving stakeholders a clear, financially-robust roadmap towards climate neutrality.

Richard Guiney, chief executive of Dublin Town, believes the project marks a turning point for urban regeneration. “Dublin has committed to bold carbon-reduction goals, but businesses need the clarity and confidence to act,” he said. “This model translates ambition into practical steps and empowers every operator to be able to map their pathway to lower costs and lower carbon.”

To accelerate action on the ground, IES is extending free energy-audit support to eligible small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the district through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland voucher scheme.

Companies with fewer than 250 employees, turnover below €50 million, and annual energy spend above €10,000 can secure a comprehensive assessment delivered by IES’s consultants. The audit involves reviewing a year of utility bills, conducting an on-site survey, identifying waste, and recommending no- and low-cost measures. Through this, it quantifies potential capital projects and sets out the corresponding energy, cost, and carbon savings in a tailored report for each building.

For building owners and managers ready to move beyond operational diagnosis to delivery, IES Live – the company’s flagship product – takes the district-wide insights down to individual assets, creating dynamic, evidence-based decarbonisation plans that are continually validated against real-time performance data. By comparing live energy feeds with predictive simulations in a single environment, IES Live offers a fully integrated platform, capable of turning building physics into actionable data and verified results.

With the model now in place and the tools to act readily available, Dublin’s path to a greener, more competitive city centre is mapped out.

For additional information, please visit www.iesve.com.

Renowned Welsh Science Park Selects Custom Rinnai R290 Heat Pumps for Heating and Hot Water decarbonisation

Wales’s first dedicated science park has taken a decisive step toward energy resilience and carbon reduction by installing a custom-designed Rinnai heating and hot water system. The solution features multiple R290 high-temperature air source heat pumps, buffer vessels, and Modbus BMS integration – delivered as a complete, optimized package by Rinnai’s in-house design team.

Contact Rinnai today for design support https://www.rinnai-uk.co.uk/contact-us/help-me-choose-product

The science park, also known as a research park, technology park or innovation centre, is a purpose-built cluster of spaces. Labs, workrooms and meeting areas are designed to actively support research and development into commercially orientated & viable science and tech businesses and services.

The three-storey facility is built to BREEAM Excellence standards, comprising offices, laboratory and workshop space for up to 700 people. It forms the hub for the entire Parc and a regional centre for a range of businesses from start-ups to large corporate companies.

Rinnai supplied 10 x 27 kW hi-temp ASHP heat pumps and all these units had anti-corrosion treatment to protect from erosion caused by the nearby sea air. Also, part of the system is a 3000L buffer vessel custom-design and manufactured to the site’s requirements.

Selection of units was based on the need for low height & able to spread weight of system across channel on the roof. Scop of each 27kw unit at flow temperature of 65c is 3.21.

Rinnai’s range of air source heat pumps utilizes R290 and has a LOW scoring GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerant. It allows for several operational benefits: energy efficiency is improved by 10%, the enabling of water temperature of up to 75 degrees Celsius and R290 usage provides compliance alongside the European F-Gas Regulation which focuses on phasing down refrigerant environmental impact.

Rinnai’s R290 air source heat pump range is available in 11 different sizes, from 6 kW up to 50 kW. All units arrive with control systems that allows time sensitive programming and customization enabling specific customer requirements to be met. The range is ratified with an ERP rating of A +++ and A ++.

Rinnai offers full technical support including a Design Service plus a Carbon Calculation Service which considers design from a holistic perspective of capital expenditure, operational expenditure, and carbon savings.

To find out more about the market leading Rinnai range request a free brochure today www.rinnai-co.uk/contact-us/request-brouchure

Rinnai’s H3 range of products include domestic and commercial heat pumps that offer immediate property decarbonisation. Rinnai is determined to provide UK customers with cost effective low carbon solutions towards domestic and commercial hot water and building heating provision.

RINNAI OFFERS CLEAR PATHWAYS TO LOWER CARBON AND DECARBONISATION PLUS CUSTOMER COST REDUCTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL, DOMESTIC AND OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY  

  • Rinnai’s range of decarbonising products – H1/H2/H3 – consists of hot water heating units in gas/BioLPG/DME, hydrogen ready units, electric instantaneous hot water heaters, electric storage cylinders and buffer vessels, a comprehensive range of heat pumps, solar, hydrogen-ready or natural gas  in any configuration of hybrid formats for either residential or commercial applications. Rinnai’s H1/2/3 range of products and systems offer contractors, consultants and end users a range of efficient, robust and affordable low carbon/decarbonising appliances which create practical, economic and technically feasible solutions. 
  • Rinnai is a world leading manufacturer of hot water heaters and produces over two million units a year, operating on each of the five continents. The brand has gained an established reputation for producing products that offer high performance, cost efficiency and extended working lives. 
  • Rinnai products are UKCA certified, A-rated water efficiency, accessed through multiple fuel options and are available for purchase 24/7, 365 days a year. Any unit can be delivered to any UK site within 24 hours.
  • Rinnai offer carbon and cost comparison services that will calculate financial and carbon savings made when investing in a Rinnai system. Rinnai also provide a system design service that will suggest an appropriate system for the property in question.
  • Rinnai offer comprehensive training courses and technical support in all aspects of the water heating industry including detailed CPD’s.
  • The Rinnai range covers all forms of fuels and appliances currently available – electric, gas, hydrogen, BioLPG, DME solar thermal, low GWP heat pumps and electric water heaters More information can be found on Rinnai’s website and its “Help Me Choose” webpage. 

RINNAI FULL PRODUCT AVAILABILITY 24/7 FOR NEXT DAY DELIVERY of ALL HOT WATER HEATING UNIT MODELS INCLUDING 48-58kW UNITS-

SAVINGS OF

20%              REDUCTION of opex cost,

30%              REDUCTION of initial cost

15%              REDUCTION in carbon

75%              REDUCTION of space

Visit www.rinnai-uk.co.uk  Or email engineer@rinaiuk.com  

For more information on the RINNAI product range visit www.rinnaiuk.com

Renfrewshire Council to deliver largest networked heat pump system to council housing in Scotland  

Renfrewshire Council is to replace the gas supply in two of its council housing high-rise blocks with an innovative networked ground source heat pump solution, which will be the largest installation of its kind in Scotland.

Residents at the two multi-storey blocks in Gallowhill, Paisley will see their gas supply replaced with the renewable heating system, installed by contractor Kensa, which collects heat from underground pipes and transfers it to homes using an individual shoebox ground source heat pump providing reliable and efficient heating and hot water all year round.

The project is the first time a local authority in Scotland has delivered a solution of this nature and scale in its properties.

The flats at Gallowhill Court and Glencairn Court were selected as the gas pipework is nearing the end of its lifespan. A review of potential heating systems revealed ground source heat pumps to be the most cost effective and efficient system for tenants.

Work is set to start on site this month with the project expected to be completed by summer 2026.

In the long term, once the gas supply has been removed residents will no longer need to pay gas standing charges and heating costs will be included in their electricity usage which may help to simplify bills and potentially reduce overall costs.

Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Communities and Housing Policy Board, Cllr Marie McGurk said: “We want to make our homes as comfortable and efficient as possible for our tenants. By introducing the ground source heating solution in Gallowhill we will deliver a reliable and environmentally friendly system which will help to simplify our tenants’ energy bills.

“As a Council, we continue to consider climate change in every decision we take and we’re reducing our emissions wherever possible in the services we deliver – while continuing to access funding opportunities to make the large-scale changes we know are needed.”

Renfrewshire Council was awarded £1,788,382 of funding from the Scottish Government’s Scotland Heat Network Fund to support the delivery of the project.

Cabinet Secretary for Housing Màiri McAllan said: “I am very pleased that the Scottish Government has been able to support this project via Scotland’s Heat Network Fund.

“This is an excellent example of the growing role that heat networks have to play in Scotland, supporting our twin aims of delivering affordable heat and reducing fuel poverty whilst also cutting carbon emissions. We want to encourage greater use of heat networks and later this year we will set out measures to attract further investment by encouraging non-domestic and especially public buildings to connect to these schemes.”

Kensa, a pioneer of networked ground source heat pumps, have been appointed by the Council to carry out the works.

Mark Potter, Regional Manager for Scotland at Kensa, said: “We’re proud to be working with Renfrewshire Council on this landmark decarbonisation project. Networked heat pumps offer an effective, energy efficient solution to help flats transition away from gas and other inefficient heating systems. By connecting each flat to this system we’ll help residents stay warm and comfortable during winter, while keeping energy use and heating costs low.

“Kensa has a strong track record of delivering ground source heat pump systems for projects like this, and we look forward to seeing the long-term benefits it will provide for the Council, residents, and the wider community.”

This project is part of wider regeneration plans for Gallowhill which include the development of 65 new build council homes which will also feature low carbon air source heat pumps and a planned Gallowhill Link project which would provide a new active travel and safe route to the new Paisley Grammar School Community Campus currently under construction.

Why greater flexibility amongst technology vendors is needed to unlock the next phase of digital transformation for the energy and utilities sector

Alex Gittens

Alexander Gittens, Sales Manager for Utilities & Energy at Getac UK, discusses why better flexibility from technology vendors will be pivotal in helping energy and utilities providers bridge the gap between legacy tech and new tech, driving the next evolution of digitisation across the sector.

Digital transformation is already helping the energy and utilities sector optimise efficiency, streamline processes and overcome a variety of ongoing challenges, from solving workforce skills shortages to keeping workers safe in challenging/high-risk environments.  However, with global demand for energy and utilities expected to rise by as much as 32% by 2050, it’s clear that much more needs to be done if providers are going to effectively meet such a significant increase in demand over the coming years.

Planning and Infrastructure Bill is a signal of intent

A key part of meeting future demand will be the construction of major new infrastructure – something that hasn’t been easy to do in the past. In recognition of this, the UK Government’s new Planning and Infrastructure Bill promises to streamline decision making and remove red tape, paving the way for groundbreaking critical infrastructure projects to be green-lit much faster than previously possible. This, combined with the commencement of AMP8 at the start of April 2025 – which will see £88 billion allocated amongst Britain’s water companies for network investment over the next five years – means a pivotal new phase for the UK energy and utilities  sector is now underway.

However, while clearing legislative hurdles and securing funding are both essential parts of any new critical infrastructure project, they are just the beginning. Every new project must be  planned, built and maintained once complete. This means the pressure is on energy and utility providers to become as efficient as possible at every stage of the process if they are to stand any chance of achieving their long-term network construction and maintenance targets. Doing so will require even higher levels of digitisation than currently exist today, starting with the devices that energy and utility professionals use on a daily basis, both in and out of the field.

Effective digital transformation requires with a solid foundation

Every effective digital transformation project starts with a solid technology foundation and the challenging nature of energy and utilities field work means most organisations within the sector have embraced rugged technology for this purpose.

Rugged laptops and tablets not only enable workers to operate in a wide range of challenging environments without fear of damage or failure, but their extensive warranties and comprehensive servicing programmes ensure extremely low total cost of ownership throughout the lifecycle of each device.

Tech vendors are becoming barriers to success, not enablers of it

However, as things stand, a lack of flexibility amongst many rugged manufacturers is making it difficult for energy and utility companies to meet their digital transformation goals. Factors such as excessively high minimum order quantities, overly rigid SKUs, long lead times and a lack of customisation options at the point of purchase are all contributing to organisations being saddled with devices that aren’t entirely fit for purpose. This means they are forced to outlay additional costs on alternative devices and adaptors to get the job done properly.

A great example is the need for legacy connection ports in new rugged devices. Many energy and utility field workers need to interact with a combination of old and new infrastructure every day, meaning they require a variety of connection ports on their devices that allow them to do so quicky and easily. If their devices do not have these ports built in, they must carry specialist adaptors with them in the field, which can easily be lost or broken. While some rugged manufacturers do offer such legacy ports as built-in options on their devices, excessively high minimum order quantities (sometimes of 500+) often makes it financially unviable if only a small number of such devices are needed. Other customisation examples include high gain GPS modules, rugged USB ports, DUAL Serial and LAN ports – the list goes on.

Fortunately, the rugged landscape is changing, led by manufacturers like Getac who can leverage their agile supply chains to offer high levels of device customisation, along with significantly lower minimum order quantities and lead times. This marks a major turning point for the energy and utilities sector, giving organisations the opportunity to spec devices exactly how they need them, and have them in-hand in a matter of weeks, not months.

Greater vendor flexibility is critical to long-term success

If energy and utility companies are to stand any chance of meeting ambitious industry targets over the next few years and beyond, they need to work with flexible technology vendors who can help them, not hinder them, in achieving critical digitisation goals along the way. This means building, customising and supplying rugged devices that are properly tailored to the task at hand, in a quick and timely manner. Only then can the sector take the next step in its digital transformation journey.

Solid Energy expands UK offering with ultra-high temperature heat pump options

Solid Energy's High Temperature Modular Heat Pump, which is capable of producing flow temperatures of 170°C using isopentane refrigerant

Leading Danish manufacturer Solid Energy has upgraded its hydrocarbon range of ultra-high temperature modular heat pumps for the UK market, with the new line-up capable of reaching flow temperatures of 170°C.

At a launch event hosted by the Danish Embassy in London, the large heat pump specialist highlighted the benefits of a solution aimed at customers looking to decarbonise process heat operations.

Industrial process heat applications in factories, food processing and distilleries are expected to be the main focus for the very high temperature options, while the system can also provide cooling if required.

Operating on a choice of four hydrocarbon refrigerants, depending on application, the high temperature (HT) units use the same compressor technology and other components found in Solid Energy heat pumps already delivering low temperature district heating projects.

The refrigerant options are:

  • Propane: for refrigeration and heat pump operation for heating purposes. Suitable for cooling between -30°C and 25°C, and heat output from 30°C to 65°C.
  • Isobutane: for heat recovery and heat pump operation for district heating and industrial process heating. Suitable for cooling between -10°C to 40°C, and with heat rejection in the range 50°C to 95°C.
  • Butane: for heat recovery and heat pump operation for industrial process heating and hot water. Suitable for cooling between 0°C to 50°C, and with heat output from 70°C to 120°C.
  • Isopentane: for heat recovery and heat pump operation for industrial process steam and hot water. Suitable for cooling between 35°C to 90°C, and with heat output from 90°C to 170°C.

The system modules range in size from 200kW to 1.2MW, and multiple modules can be linked to give larger capacities controlled as one system. The semi-hermetic screw compressors boast a design life of 100,000 hours, requiring minimal maintenance and no oil changes, and are housed in noise-reducing cabinets for ultra-quiet operation.

Designed and built in Denmark, the heat pumps are delivered fully factory tested with minimal installation required, while integrated refrigerant leak detection and ATEX compliant ventilation ensures compliance with UK and European safety directives.

Ken Kneale, Business Unit Director UK & Ireland, said: “Every Solid Energy heat pump is designed to the specific needs of individual projects. Using our advanced performance calculator, we can select the appropriate compressor size. Depending on the operating temperature we then select the hydrocarbon refrigerants to be used.

“Our design flexibility allows us to implement multiple compressors using the same refrigerant or to select a combination of different refrigerants. This ensures that we can achieve the desired flow temperature while maximising the coefficient of performance (COP).’’

Also introduced at the embassy event was a totally new configuration of the technology, the XL4, aimed at projects requiring high output from limited floor space. Each XL4 module has four compressors, and Solid Energy is currently working to deliver a 70MW project in Denmark.

Kneale added: “The XL4 offers the same high efficiencies as our one cabinet, one compressor modular units with the benefits of needing less space and greatly reduced installation costs.”

Solid Energy is working with specialist partner Pure Renewables Commercial in the UK, with the Hull-based business offering technical sales, installation, commissioning and after-sales support.

For further information, please contact: Ken Kneale at kk@solidenergy.dk or visit: https://www.solidenergy.dk/en/heat

National Grid launches £8 billion Electricity Transmission Partnership to help power Britain’s clean energy future

An aerial view of National Grid's 400kV Sandford substation, built as part of the Hinkley Connection Project.

National Grid has introduced a transformative new approach to the way it works with Britain’s supply chain, designed to accelerate the delivery of £8 billion worth of vital substation infrastructure across England and Wales and support the UK’s clean energy transition.

The Electricity Transmission Partnership (ETP) remodels how National Grid engages with suppliers, moving to a longer term collaborative approach that builds strong regional partnerships and rewards partners for high quality performance over time.

The initiative awards regional exclusivity of substation work to ETP partners based on how well they perform and their commitment to expanding their capacity, an approach that aims to strengthen the UK supply chain, encourage long term investment, and support the development of local skills and capability.

It also marks a major boost to National Grid’s ambitious RIIO-T3 investment plan, which proposes up to £35 billion investment in the transmission network in England and Wales over the five years to March 2031, including to build new substations or upgrade existing ones.

As part of the ETP, National Grid expects to award around £8 billion worth of substation construction work over the RIIO-T3 period, covering multiple regions and around 130 projects.

In July National Grid awarded regional delivery partner status to several successful suppliers, as well as allocating an initial £1.3 billion worth of exclusive work whose contracts will be awarded at a later stage.

Regional delivery partners include:

  • Balfour Beatty – North East region
  • Morgan Sindall Infrastructure – North West region
  • Murphy – South West (region one) and London & South East region
  • M Group Energy – South West (region two)
  • OTW – Central West region

The awards mean partners will have first refusal of future substation work in the pipeline in their region, providing them with the certainty they need to invest in growth and capability.

Two national partners, Linxon and Burns & McDonnell, will support delivery of substation work that falls outside the scope of the regional partners’ portfolios.

The ETP complements other pioneering initiatives in National Grid’s evolving supply chain ecosystem, including the Great Grid Partnership (GGP) and a new high voltage direct current (HVDC) supply chain framework. Together, these programmes are designed to provide greater capacity and resilience across multiple infrastructure construction portfolios.

The ETP model has the potential to be expanded beyond substations in future to include other network infrastructure, ensuring a consistent and innovative approach to bolstering supply chain across National Grid’s entire transmission network in England and Wales.

Energy Minister Michael Shanks said:

“The clean energy transition is the economic opportunity of the 21st century, with the potential to revitalise our industrial heartlands with skilled jobs and economic growth.

“This £8 billion partnership from National Grid is proof of that – providing a boost for Britain’s supply chains, investing in the future of our highly skilled workforce and helping to deliver clean, homegrown power that we control.”

Alice Delahunty, president of National Grid Electricity Transmission, said:

“Our Electricity Transmission Partnership marks a bold shift in how we deliver vital electricity infrastructure. By adopting a regional, long term approach, we’re giving our supply chain the certainty to invest in people, skills and innovation. It’s a key step in turning our RIIO-T3 investment ambitions into action and building a resilient grid to support Britain’s clean energy future.”

Tony Wilson, managing director of Balfour Beatty’s Power Transmission & Distribution business, said:

“We’re proud to be a regional delivery partner for National Grid’s Electricity Transmission Partnership, and especially to be entrusted with the North East – an area where we have a strong presence and a long-standing commitment, having delivered major energy infrastructure projects across the region for decades.

“This appointment recognises our proven track record in delivering critical infrastructure and our ability to mobilise skilled teams and innovative solutions at scale. The new model is a bold and timely step that will strengthen National Grid’s supply chain and accelerate the UK’s journey to net zero.”

Simon Smith, managing director of Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, said:

“With strong ties for Morgan Sindall Infrastructure in the North West, we are proud to continue to strengthen our strategic long term relationship with National Grid and support the delivery of RIIO-T3.

“This latest investment cycle from National Grid will not only be pivotal to the UK by further strengthening the energy network for current and future resilience, but it brings so much for local communities with diverse career opportunities and the utilisation of local supply chain.”

Liam Corr, energy managing director at Murphy, said:

“Murphy is proud to be a part of this new partnership, which builds on our existing strong relationship with National Grid. Our company purpose is to improve life by delivering world-class infrastructure, and the ETP framework sets out to do just this – reinforcing Britain’s transmission network for the benefit of all who live here.”

Steve Convery, substations director at M Group Energy, said:

“We’re pleased to receive the appointment to the Electricity Transmission Partnership. This partnership will enable us to manage energy projects across South Wales and the South West in the coming years.

“We’re excited about this opportunity, and look forward to working closely with National Grid, customers, supply chain and associated stakeholders to successfully deliver these essential upgrades, working towards a clean energy future.”

Yousef Chamaneh, country manager (UK) at Linxon, said:

“This partnership presents a transformative opportunity – one that calls for bold vision and deep collaboration. At Linxon, we are energised by the scale of what lies ahead and committed to working hand-in-hand with National Grid and our fellow partners to deliver lasting impact. We are truly grateful for the trust placed in us and excited to help shape a more sustainable and resilient energy future.”

Jason Chandler, UK transmission & distribution managing director at Burns & McDonnell, said:

“This partnership with National Grid reflects the progress that Burns & McDonnell has made in the UK and the growing strength of our relationships across the sector. I am incredibly proud of this appointment and the work done to date to get us to this point.

“Being named a national delivery partner allows us to help shape the future of the UK’s transmission network, delivering the infrastructure needed for a secure, low carbon economy.”

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