Mitigating the increased risk of climate change impact on the UK’s nuclear infrastructure

Andrew Buckley, Principal Engineer, ABS Group (UK Office) looks at the impact that Climate Change is having (and is set to increasingly have) on the UK’s nuclear infrastructure, and how the multiple threats associated with increasing extreme weather events may necessitate a reassessment of risks associated with nuclear sites – both today and into the future.

The impact of Climate Change – both today and increasingly into the future – is changing the way the nuclear industry needs to look at safeguarding its infrastructure and its risk levels – especially where the ageing infrastructure of current sites is concerned.

Recent findings of a high-resolution model⁽¹⁾ found that under a high emissions scenario (RCP 8.5), rainfall events in the UK exceeding 20mm/hr could be four times as frequent by 2080 compared to the 1980s.

In a report from the UK Parliament Joint Committee on National Security Strategy published at the end of October 2022, it claimed the UK saw six major storms in the 12 months leading up to the publication of the report, including some of the highest wind speeds recorded in over 30 years.

July 2023 was also the hottest month ever recorded on the planet⁽²⁾, bringing with it heatwaves and wildfires in some countries, whilst simultaneously deluges and heavy rain episodes in others.

Looking ahead to 2050, the independent Climate Change Committee (CCC) anticipates that the UK will experience warmer and wetter winters, drier and hotter summers, and continued sea level rises; predicting that by 2050, about a third of England’s coast will be under pressure from flood risks.

The impact on nuclear infrastructure security is undoubtedly going to be challenged on an increasing basis by Climate Change.

Under the 2008 Climate Change Act, the UK Government lays an assessment of the risks to the UK from Climate Change before Parliament every five years through its Climate Change Risk Assessment (CCRA). It has highlighted that flooding is set to become more frequent and severe, affecting critical infrastructure including energy, transport, water, waste, and digital communication assets. In its last independent assessment, published in June 2021, it found that the UK is not ready for even the best-case scenario of Climate Change, let alone the current trajectory, and that “the gap between the level of risk we face and the level of adaptation underway has widened” since its last report in 2017.

Climate Change Impact on Nuclear Power Infrastructure

One of the key questions we need to ask of our existing infrastructure is: renew and re-strengthen or replace?

Our advice is that organisations should look with fresh eyes from a risk assessment perspective when it comes to Climate Change impact – in particular, the impact of rain, wind, and rising sea levels. A wait and see approach is not a good option, and operators should take the view that just because an extreme event has not happened does not mean it cannot or will not.

It is also important to look at infrastructure risks from a multi-hazard perspective. Rarely is there just a rain episode; so you could be looking at 100 mph winds accompanied by heavy rainstorms which could in turn lead to building damage, flooding, and wider associated risks.

Taking Steps to Reassess Risk

So how is the growing threat of Climate Change impacting assessments on UK nuclear licensed sites as part of the required operational safety reviews, particularly when looking at sites operating beyond their original lifespan?

Step 1: Review Demand

The biggest impact Climate Change is having on these assessments is when we Review Demand at facilities – especially around changes of use and changes in the hazard.

You should review original design loads against the requirements of both modern standards (Eurocodes), and also the potential impact for increased loads from developing Climate Change hazards and threats, and any revised demand. For example, although the frequency of an event (1 in 1,000 or 1 in 10,000 per year) has not changed, the magnitude of the event may well have changed.

Wind speed increases, rainfall increases, snow, and/or hail loads are typical weather hazards that should be considered and that are changing. Wind speed considerations are also influenced by any changes of the surrounding terrain (new buildings, etc.).

Step 2: Current Condition

Has the condition of the building or equipment deteriorated in the years since the last safety review? Are there signs of aging, damage, or have any modifications been made that could have an impact when looking at Climate Change loads, and the prospect of increased and heavier extreme weather episodes?

Step 3: Current Condition and Future Use Changes

Assessments should consider and review current condition against modern standards, whilst also addressing and assessing any potential future use changes, via analysis and assessment or another route.

Step 4: Safety Case/Operational Safety Review

As part of Operational Safety Review procedures, operators have to demonstrate to the regulator that conditions haven’t deteriorated and risks are not increasing. There is a need to build Climate Change considerations into each Safety Case.

Step 5: Planning for the Worst Credible Scenario

Just because a weather event has not previously happened does not mean it cannot or will not, and you should plan for a worst-credible scenario.

The goal here is to take the potential for an event or series of events – no matter how incredible and unlikely it may seem – and assess its credibility; in turn assessing the potential risks associated with primary, multiple, and consequential secondary risks.

Conclusion

Climate Change effects impacting our critical national infrastructure are already significant and look likely to worsen substantially under all reasonable Climate Change scenarios. The risk of future flooding of major infrastructure sites, high wind damage, landslides, and power outages are significant. They may also happen simultaneously, creating the potential for multiple cascading effects across infrastructure. The scale of the challenge facing Government, operators, and regulators is clear: there is an urgent need to review and, if require, adapt our infrastructure to the potential impacts of Climate Change.

References:

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-36499-9#Abs1
https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/july-2023-hottest-month-ever-recorded

2024 energy landscape: Five things to look out for

As we step into 2024, the UK energy landscape will continue to undergo changes as businesses strive to be more sustainable and energy efficient. From legislative compliance to carbon reduction goals, several key energy and carbon management initiatives are set to shape your business operations. In this blog, TEAM’s Head of Consultancy, Timothy Holman, explores five crucial actions to keep an eye on throughout the year.

New additions to the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS)

The Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme, a pillar in the UK’s commitment to energy efficiency, is continuing to evolve. With the publication of the ESOS Phase 3 consultation response, new guidance and updated legislation, several additions have been made to the scheme. In 2024, businesses will have to comply with the changes in compliance requirements with a sharper focus on identifying and implementing energy saving measures.

If you fall into scope for the scheme one of the new, additional, mandatory requirements calls for you to submit an annual ESOS Action Plan, the first one being due by 5 December 2024. Additionally, organisations will now be required to report any efficiency savings made, this will be included in the Action Plan which will now be made publicly available. This means you may need to appoint a consultant to complete both your ESOS compliance and assist you with the development of your energy saving Action Plan this year.

If you are familiar with the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) framework, there are similarities although these new ESOS reports will be much more detailed.

It is also worth noting that despite the delay to the Phase 3 deadline, the compliance period for Phase 4 has officially started, so you will need to start thinking about your building energy audits and data capture for this next Phase too.

Staying abreast of ESOS developments has never been more crucial for organisations aiming to reduce their energy consumption and enhance overall sustainability. These new elements, subject to public scrutiny, make it impossible for organisations to put ESOS to the back burner until the 4-year phase deadline comes back around in 2027. ESOS will now need to be very much a part of an organisation’s operations with energy efficiency progress being reported every single year.

How will COP28 impact 2024?

At the end of last year UN climate summit, COP28, took centre stage. Providing an international platform for discussions around global climate policies, emission reduction targets and collaborative initiatives, the overriding focus from many governments, campaigners and lobbyists was on whether countries could agree to phase out fossil fuels. However, after days of negotiations the final deal called on countries to move away, rather than phase out, the use of fossil fuels.

With recent licences for North Sea oil and gas extraction, a process that allows us to mitigate the need to “import from abroad with higher embedded emissions than producing at home”, according to the Minister for Energy Security and Net Zero, Graham Stuart, the current response to the COP28 narrative may question whether we, as a nation, are actually on track to meet the 2050 target.

There were also agreements where commitments have been set to double energy-efficiency improvement rates, triple renewables by 2030, as well as to establish new standards to unlock global trade in hydrogen.

It will be interesting to see what progresses over the coming year and whether these different messages have an impact on how businesses contribute to the UKs net zero target.

Rising energy costs

Volatility around energy prices is set to continue through 2024, we already know that the domestic energy price cap has been raised 5% for this first quarter, significantly impacting energy expenditure for consumers. The impact on businesses will also be felt when renewing contracts as there is no forecasted big reduction in prices in the foreseeable future. High energy prices are here to stay and there will be no Government subsidies to support business this year as in 2022 and 2023, after the final support from Energy Bills Discount Scheme ends completely after March.

Proactive management of energy consumption will be a key focus for organisations looking to maintain competitiveness and financial resilience. Keep a close eye on energy data and establish good energy efficiency practices, particularly in these winter months, to offset higher energy costs and mitigate against any further insecurity.

How will Carbon Reduction Strategies and GHG reporting change?

ESOS is not the only compliance to be evolving.

Currently, large organisations are required to disclose their Scope 1 and 2 emissions under the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) framework, but Scope 3 reporting is largely voluntary. Following a consultation that closed at the end of December, which sought views on costs, benefits and practicalities of increasing Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions reporting in the UK, we are waiting to see if this will affect how organisations manage SECR.

However, with an increasing emphasis on decarbonisation, it is important for businesses to reevaluate and strengthen their carbon reduction strategies. It is becoming harder to be part of another business’ supply chain due to tighter regulations around selling and buying to certain types of organisations and sectors. The NHS, for example, come April, will be extending their Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) requirements to cover all new procurements, requiring all suppliers to publish their own carbon plans for Scope 1 and 2 emissions, and a subset of Scope 3 emissions before they can sell into the NHS. Businesses with a carbon reduction plan and a green procurement policy will not only have more freedom in the value chain but they will be ahead of the game when further regulations come into play.

It’s an election year

The next general election must take place before the end of January 2025, so the expectation is that it will be held within the next 12 months. Existing uncertainty and lack of clarity around energy legislation and regulations will prolong frustration amongst business energy professionals. The Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, promised to “set out the next stage in our ambitious environmental agenda” at COP28 last year, although this seems to have got lost in the discussions.

So, as we step closer to the UK’s mandatory target of becoming net zero by 2050, focus on the knowledge and information that is available to you within your business strategy and operational data instead of waiting for the uncertainty to pass.

In 2024, energy management is not merely a business practice; it is a crucial driver of sustainability and resilience in the face of global challenges and potential change.

Staying informed about legislation, mitigating energy costs through energy efficiency, and building carbon reduction strategies will empower organisations to navigate the evolving energy landscape successfully. A commitment to responsible energy management will not only contribute to reducing environmental pollution but also position your businesses long-term success in an increasingly sustainable world.

www.teamenergy.com

Heat networks across England and Wales receive a share of over £8 million for modernisations and improvements.

Funding from Round 3 of the Heat Network Efficiency Scheme (HNES) is being awarded to a wide range of organisations including social housing providers, local authorities, health, education and private sector companies.

This latest announcement of £8.1 million brings the total awarded so far under HNES, which is funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, to £25 million. 34 heat networks will benefit, helping to increase their operating efficiencies and improve the heating experience of over 9,000 residents, hospital patients, students and public sector workers.

The capital grant funding provided will result in annual carbon savings of over 89,000 tCO₂e per year over the next 40 years. Simultaneously, the revenue grant funding secured will facilitate optimisation studies, unlocking opportunities to identify additional carbon savings in the years to come.

Lord Callanan, Minister for Energy Efficiency and Green Finance, has welcomed today’s HNES funding announcement:

“Everyone – from families and hospital patients to students and public sector workers – should be able to receive a reliable heating and hot water supply.

The UK is a world leader when it comes to cutting carbon emissions and while we are committed to funding new, greener heat networks, we also need to update our inefficient systems so everyone can enjoy the benefits and this funding is aimed at doing exactly that.”

Louise Singleton, Principal Consultant at Gemserv and HNES Programme Manager, added:

“We are delighted to know that funding from HNES is translating into real-world benefits. Round 3 grants will help to unlock tangible cost reductions and higher heating efficiency for 9,000 residents, as well as hospitals and university students.

Revenue funds also presents a huge opportunity to unlock benefits for countless more heat network customers across England and Wales. We are excited to start working with our funded projects to facilitate the use of low cost, energy efficient heating and support the UK’s journey on the pathway to Net Zero.”

Below is a summary of the projects which have successfully secured HNES funding in Round 3.

Capital Grant Funding

Capital grant funding will go directly towards covering the cost of operational works to improve the efficiency of existing heat networks. In this round, over £7.6 million will improve heat networks serving over 5,000 residents.

Housing Associations and Social Housing Providers

Consort Road (aka Sarawak Court)

Notting Hill Genesis has been awarded £725,661 for the Consort Road heat network. Funding provided will unlock a full system replacement including a new energy centre, pipework and control units. 49 residents will benefit from planned improvements.

Duffryn District Heating System

Newport City Homes Housing Association Limited has been awarded £3,715,972 for the Duffryn District Heating System. Funding will go towards replacing over 3km of pipework across the network, whilst also upgrading control systems and insulation. This work will improve the performance of the network for over 970 homes, local schools, and businesses.

Cottesmore House

The Guinness Partnership has been awarded £461,435 for the Cottesmore House heat network. Funding will change the network from a 4-pipe system to a 2-pipe system to help reduce heat losses and energy consumption. 48 residents will benefit from network improvements.

Private Sector

The Banks

Seascape Management Limited has been awarded £36,548 for The Banks heat network. Funding will go towards replacing existing network equipment to help modernise the network, including pumps and insulation measures, bringing the network’s infrastructure up to current standards. Improvements will benefit 74 residents.

Cranbrook

E.ON UK has been awarded £1,562,274 for the Cranbrook heat network. Funding provided will enable the retrofitting of Heat Interface Units in residents’ homes to provide better reliability and more efficient units, as well as reduced heat losses. Efficiency improvements will be carried out in the early phases of Cranbrook but will benefit over 3,000 residents across the network.

One Brighton

One Brighton Energy Services Ltd has been awarded £54,484 for the One Brighton heat network. This is the second phase of the improvement works, after having received HNES Demonstrator funding in 2022. This project will reinsulate secondary pipework and valves across the network to increase efficiency levels and reduce heat losses. Improvements across the network will benefit hundreds of residents and a large community building.

Vattenfall’s Redcliffe Heat Network

Bristol Heat Networks Limited has been awarded £746,582 for the Redcliffe Heat Network, owned and operated by Vattenfall. Funding will help replace the pipework across the primary network. 740 residents will benefit from these network improvements.

Health and Education Organisations

University of Plymouth, Portland Square

The University of Plymouth has been awarded £243,280 to upgrade to a sustainable heating system in the Portland Square area of its campus. The funding supports the University’s decarbonisation plan, by improving the efficiency of the network to allow fossil fuel-powered appliances to be replaced with heat pumps and electric boilers in the future.

Revenue Grant Funding

Projects across England and Wales in Round 3 have also been awarded over £486,000 of revenue grant funding to undertake optimisation studies to review the performance of their heat networks and identify areas for improvement.

The following organisations have been awarded revenue grant funding for optimisation studies:

Housing Associations and Social Housing Providers

Notting Hill Genesis, for the Baths Court heat network to investigate high gas usage and suggest ways to reduce outages and overheating.

The Hyde Group, for the Packington heat network.

Connect Housing Association Limited, for the Ancion Court, Hawthorn Mill, and Nowell Court heat networks to review efficiency levels and address overheating issues.

Worthing Homes Limited, for the Caxton Court and Davenport Court heat networks to review efficiency levels.

Wakefield and District Housing, for the Smirthwaite, Park Dale and Monument Mews heat networks to review efficiency levels and assess flow temperatures throughout the year.

SNG (Sovereign Network Group), for the Biko House and Atrium Point heat networks to address overheating issues, leaks and heating interruptions, and reduce costs for consumers.

Local Authorities

Waltham Forest Council, for the Aldriche Way Estate heat network, to investigate efficiency levels and high costs.

Birmingham City Council, for the Canterbury Tower and Adelaide Tower heat networks to review efficiency levels.

Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council, for the Mottram Street heat network to review efficiency levels and address lack of heating controls in dwellings.

Charities

Guildhall Feoffment Trust, for College Square heat network to review efficiency levels.

Health and Education Organisations

University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust, for the Royal Lancaster Infirmary, Furness General Hospital and Westmoreland General Hospital heat networks to review efficiency levels and address data gaps, with a view to future decarbonisation of the networks.

Hywel DDA University Health Board, for the Prince Philip Hospital heat network to investigate high gas usage and over and under heating.

Private Sector

Gateshead Energy Company, for the Gateshead District Energy Scheme to review efficiency levels, as well as improve system operation and controls following new heat sources and connections being added.

Michael Laurie Magar Ltd, for the Silkworks & Silvermill heat network to suggest ways to address network outages and to improve the overall efficiency of the system.

Switch2, for the Royal Arsenal and Royal Arsenal Riverside heat networks to review efficiency levels.

More information about HNES including upcoming events can be found on Gemserv’s website, the delivery partner for the HNES Scheme, here.

Gemserv has been appointed as the Delivery Partner for HNES supported by Ramboll who will be providing technical assessment, Turner & Townsend providing applicant support and Lux Nova providing legal support.

Integrated smart sockets: the newest tool in the energy saving toolkit

Steve Kenny, vice president and general manager of Honeywell Building Management Systems

The Internet of Things (IoT) landscape is one that is continually evolving and shifting to meet the modern demands and needs of numerous industries and applications. Although IoT devices have impacted many sectors, these technologies have had a significant influence on automation within commercial buildings. Smart devices are proving invaluable for controlling, monitoring and automating individual functions within buildings, which is driving the use of increasingly sophisticated building management systems (BMS) to make larger scale impacts. Connecting a series of IoT-enabled lights with outdoor light sensors via a BMS, for example, can enable building and energy managers to automatically adjust room lighting based on sunlight levels.

With potential such as this, it’s no surprise that the global building automation systems market is anticipated to grow from around $77 billion in 2023 to over $130 billion by 2030.[1] The value these systems can bring to businesses — by reducing energy consumption and operating costs — comes from how they are set up and, crucially, the smart devices underpinning them.

IoT devices in commercial buildings

There are many different types of IoT building technologies available that energy managers can utilise to reduce operational costs and enhance energy efficiency. For example, smart building management systems offer a comprehensive solution by integrating various IoT components. These systems use sensors to monitor various factors such as occupancy levels, temperature, and lighting conditions, enabling real-time adjustments. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems with IoT integration can optimise temperature control by responding to occupancy levels and weather data, reducing energy usage and costs.

While these smart systems present the opportunity to reduce energy usage and operational costs in the long run, they can come with significant upfront costs. For businesses that might not have the funds available, installing these systems might not be a possibility especially as it could be a while before savings can be made. Nonetheless, there are other actions that can offer meaningful reductions in energy usage with a shorter payback period.

In any building, like a commercial office space, there tends to be hundreds if not thousands of plug sockets. From computers, printers, fridges, and other plug-in devices, offices have countless devices which consume energy — referred to as small power. In fact, small power can account for a quarter of a building’s entire energy usage,[2] and this consumption happens in plain sight.

Although many businesses can address small power usage by encouraging employees to be mindful of turning devices off at the outlet when they’re not in use, this might not be a reliable solution, especially if there are a significant number of outlets.

Integrated smart sockets

Historically, electrical sockets were not integrated into BMS, but new technologies now make it possible, enabling continuous insight and control into small power loads. These solutions can help establish any sockets across a building that have been left on unnecessarily as well as any devices in sleep mode that might consume electricity without staff noticing.

These smart electrical sockets allow businesses visibility into their building’s energy usage, remotely power down unused sockets, and automate functions such as scheduling, grouping, and alarms. Data is available down to an outlet level, enabling more robust information and control of energy use in a building along with other site energy data such as HVAC and lighting use. Furthermore, whilst these ready-now smart sockets can integrate with a BMS, they can also run effectively as a stand-alone solution. As such, these smart solutions are a perfect alternative for businesses that are looking to reduce energy usage, but are not able to offer full BMS integration or implement costly HVAC strategies.

Looking ahead

Today, IoT devices are continuously adapting and evolving to meet ever-changing needs. Considering automation within buildings is set to increase rapidly, energy managers should look towards adopting the latest IoT offerings to ensure their buildings are running as efficiently as possible.

Reducing energy usage is an important initiative for many businesses and, to prioritise energy efficiency, it is vital for energy managers to utilise IoT offerings. Modern technological electrical sockets are the latest IoT devices that can help to reduce building energy use as quickly and efficiently as possible, without a large upfront investment.

[1] Fortune Business Insights, Building Automation Systems Market Size 2023-2030, Published: August 2023 [Accessed: October 18, 2023]

[2] US General Data Administration, Plug Load FAQ, Poll, S. and C. Teubert, 2012 [Accessed October 18, 2023]

Standardised remote control for water and wastewater sites

Hastings District Council and Napier City Council are both located in Hawke’s Bay, on New Zealand’s North Island. The two local authorities wanted a single, standardised remote telemetry solution to be deployed across all their water and waste-water treatment plants, pump stations and treatment plant infrastructure. To solve these challenges, the councils turned to Ovarro, the specialist in remote telemetry systems, for a robust and reliable solution.

Ovarro’s Kingfisher CP-35 remote RTUs were chosen as the best solution for the two Hawke’s Bay councils’ needs. The RTUs had already proved successful when implemented across the water infrastructure in the city of Auckland, over 400 km away from Hawke’s Bay.

Supported by Ovarro’s local distributor, CSE W Arthur Fisher (CSE-WAF), the Kingfisher RTUs were installed across the Hawke’s Bay region’s wastewater and water treatment sites, reservoirs and pump stations. The modular RTUs have replaced outdated PLCs with a uniform technology.

The Kingfisher uses Toolbox Plus v8.3 software that supports online changes during commissioning. Water- and shock-proof SD cards are installed in the RTUs’ processors, safeguarding against the loss of critical data in the case of a catastrophic failure. The cards also allow quick-cloning of the RTUs after environmental disasters like cyclone damage and flooding.

Replacing outdated PLCs

The new solution would replace the outdated programmable logic controllers (PLCs), aged remote telemetry units (RTUs) and analogue radios installed across the sites, while also simplifying technological requirements for their maintenance teams. They also wanted to reduce the need to stock spare parts from multiple vendors.

The high-performance capabilities of the Kingfisher CP-35 RTU make it an easy choice to replace ageing PLC assets. Parts of the Hawke’s Bay’s infrastructure already used Kingfisher RTUs including the PC1, CP-11, 12, and 21. This was an advantage, as the modules within its network — inputs / outputs (IO), backplanes and power supplies — were compatible and interchangeable with the new RTUs. This increased the speed of roll-out, and reduced costs, when replacing the old PLCs.

Operational benefits

Kingfisher CP-30 RTUs were first standardised in New Zealand, in 2010, by Watercare Services Ltd, the local water authority in Auckland. The RTUs were rolled-out across over 700 assets in the city.

Watercare then worked with CSE-WAF and Ovarro to develop the Kingfisher CP-35 with daughter cards that improved the RTUs’ expansion and customisation capabilities, modularity and flexibility. The CP-35 was rolled out in Auckland, and is now being used in Hawke’s Bay.

The Kingfisher has software for executing control algorithms, and a graphical interface that displays SCADA control parameters. Both features have been shared with other regional water authorities to reduce development and roll-out costs, and speed-up standardisation processes. This makes it easier for Ovarro and CSE-WAF to support local communities and helps engineers familiar with Kingfisher RTUs work across different territories.

“With Ovarro’s Kingfisher C-35 RTUs, a single, standardised remote telemetry solution has been successfully rolled-out across the region,” said a spokesperson for Napier City Council. “It was delivered on-time, on-budget and it continues to operate extremely well.”

To learn more about Ovarro’s remote telemetry solutions for water and wastewater sites, visit its website.

Honeywell transforms building management with first-of-its-kind technology

New platform features built-in cybersecurity, faster network speeds and innovative technology to address building managers’ concerns and strategies

Honeywell (NASDAQ: HON) have launched Advance Control for Buildings, a groundbreaking platform marking one of the company’s most substantial leaps in building controls innovation to date.

Designed to automate building management and provide the foundation for a building’s energy efficiency strategy, Advance Control combines the latest technologies with decades of innovation and domain expertise. Automation and machine learning fuel a streamlined operation system featuring built-in cybersecurity and technology to deliver faster network speeds that, in an industry first, uses existing wiring. This announcement further supports Honeywell’s recently announced plans to realign its business with three compelling megatrends, including automation and energy transition.

“Today, buildings are facing mounting pressures around safety, operational efficiency and energy efficiency. By pushing the boundaries of technological advancement, Advance Control not only helps building managers optimise their building operations to meet these pressures, but also champions innovation,” said Steve Kenny, vice president and general manager, Honeywell Building Management Systems. “Automation breaks down operational barriers to give building managers more control over the efficiency of their buildings, ultimately helping improve the occupant experience while advancing energy management goals.”

As part of this rollout, Honeywell recently announced strategic alliances with two semiconductor leaders, NXP^® Semiconductors N.V. (NASDAQ: NXPI) and Analog Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ: ADI) to streamline the transition to intelligent edge processing. With NXP, Honeywell seeks to elevate machine learning and autonomous decision-making for enhanced energy management and convenience, as well as enhanced security within and beyond the building. The joint efforts with ADI aim to deliver more efficiency and increased intelligence through digital connectivity and advanced signal conversion across many industrial applications.

“As the building automation market demands greater digital connectivity and security enabling data driven efficiencies, ADI has invested in new technologies meeting these needs while also offering flexibility for future upgrades. Our single-pair Ethernet (T1L) enables the possibility of reusing a building’s existing wiring, helping to reduce installation time, cost, and waste. ADI is pleased to work with Honeywell to bring this new technology to building management systems for the first time in Advance Control for Buildings,” said Diarmuid McSwiney, Managing Director, Industrial Connectivity and Control at ADI.

“Security resilience is increasingly required for networked control systems,” said Rafael Sotomayor, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Secure Connected Edge, NXP Semiconductors. “Honeywell’s Advance Control for Buildings platform leverages NXP processors that efficiently combine machine learning with advanced security technologies to protect sensitive building automation infrastructure.”

According to the UN Environment Programme, buildings account for 37% of global CO2 emissions ^[i], resulting in increasing pressure to identify and reduce energy use. At the same time, the lack of skilled labour makes it difficult for building owners to find technicians to upkeep and modernise spaces.

“Real estate and facilities leaders are placing top priority on optimising building operations,” said Sandy Rogers, a principal analyst with Verdantix, a research and advisory firm. “Organisations require greater visibility and automated control across their building portfolios, and they will increasingly look to digital innovations such as AI and machine learning for added intelligence.”

About Honeywell

Honeywell is an integrated operating company serving a broad range of industries and geographies around the world. Our business is aligned with three powerful megatrends – automation, the future of aviation and energy transition – underpinned by our Honeywell Accelerator operating system and Honeywell Connected Enterprise integrated software platform. As a trusted partner, we help organisations solve the world’s toughest, most complex challenges, providing actionable solutions and innovations through our Aerospace Technologies, Industrial Automation, Building Automation and Energy and Sustainability Solutions business segments that help make the world smarter, safer and more sustainable.

For more news and information on Honeywell, please visit www.honeywell.com/newsroom

The magic wand: How energy experts would solve net zero

Victoria Mustard, Decarbonisation Strategy Lead at Xoserve.

In 2023, I asked guests on Xoserve’s podcast, Decarb Discussions, to participate in a little thought experiment about the future of energy. Using a theoretical “magic wand” that would eliminate all constraints on energy systems, they had one wish to bring about the energy system of the future. As we welcome the new year and make our resolutions for 2024, let’s look at what energy experts from the commercial, academic, and non-profit sectors wished for.

Developing a hydrogen economy

One widely discussed solution is hydrogen. As part of Britain’s net zero strategy, it could help decarbonise gas, provide seasonal storage, and keep hard-to-abate sectors moving forward. To boost the hydrogen economy and bring the UK to the forefront of decarbonisation, Charles Perez-Storey, Principal Engineer at Progressive Energy wished for “blending to be sanctioned, for the Gas Safety Management Regulations change to happen, and by 2025 let’s have all the barriers removed and get ahead of the game again.

The UK has fallen behind America and Europe in decarbonisation, so achieving those three things will be fantastic.”

Part of Charles’ wish did become a reality, with the Government announcing it would support the blending, up to 20%, of hydrogen in the gas networks following industry trials and a safety assessment. The power of the podcast magic wand!

Alex Brightman, Hydrogen Home Coordinator at Northern Gas Network also believes hydrogen will play a critical role in Britain’s future energy mix and asked to “get some decent green hydrogen production. It’ll benefit not just those who are on the gas network but everybody.”

Unfortunately, Alex’s wish was not realised before the Government announced the hydrogen heating village trial in Redcar, expected to start next year, would not move forward as the main source of green hydrogen supply would not be available.

A boost for net zero fuels

As well as hydrogen, policymakers and the energy industry, are exploring other solutions for decarbonising gas, including biomethane. John Baldwin, the Managing Director of CNG Services, believes that biogas is a valuable energy solution, but is aware that barriers created by inefficient planning processes hinder the implementation of renewable gas projects. To address this issue, John requested that “the government should chat with the Environmental Agency and come up with fit-for-purpose rules and processes. We don’t want to take shortcuts, but we just don’t want to spend years over quite trivial things – that’s not the way to decarbonise.”

Thomas Baxter, Senior Lecturer at the University of Aberdeen thinks nuclear fusion could offer a solution to meeting energy consumption demands. Providing a safer reaction process to nuclear fission used in power plants that doesn’t create long-lasting radioactive waste. He said about safe nuclear fusion, “you could get limitless energy” but expressed frustrations with the fact that nuclear fusion continues to be a long time coming. ”It’s 20 years away, and it’s always been 20 years away” and so if he could, he would bring about developments in this area – “that would be pretty neat.”

The final guest for 2023 on Decarb Discussions was Matthew Cole, the Head of the Fuel Bank Foundation. When asked what he would resolve, he said: “I’d make properties more energy efficient and just make sure that we use the energy we need to, then people’s bills would reduce straight away.

Even if you’re struggling to pay, then your house is suddenly warmer because it’s more energy efficient. That would be my big wish, but it has to be a really big wand because it’s an expensive thing to do.”

This hypothetical question – what would you do if you had a magic wand? – is a light-hearted end to the podcast’s in-depth look at the challenges and potential solutions around decarbonising gas, as well as Britain’s journey to net zero from all perspectives of the energy industry. It offers a fascinating insight into what experts in their field envision for our energy future.

Only by sharing these ideals can we hope to develop a plan to achieve them. There is not one wish or one fuel that can solve net zero but with collaboration, investment and policy decisions, we may be able to achieve some of these aspirations. Hopefully, they aren’t inconceivable and may be an integral part of achieving the UK’s emission targets.

Nottingham Trent University launches pioneering Net Zero Carbon Supplier Tool with over 30 universities signed up

Nottingham Trent University (NTU) has launched a pioneering tool to enable higher education institutions and their suppliers to meet Net Zero Carbon targets – with over 30 universities already incorporating it into their supply chain processes.

Developed by colleagues in sustainability and procurement (at NTU), and in collaboration with NETpositive Futures, the Net Zero Carbon Supplier Tool not only provides an institution with their supply chain carbon emissions data but also proactively targets and influences its suppliers to reduce their own carbon emissions. Following a successful trial with six universities, the Tool has now launched to sector with over 30 universities already on board as part of a one-year action research project.

The Net Zero Carbon Supplier Tool helps universities to calculate the carbon footprint of their supply chain. By collecting supplier-specific carbon footprint data, universities can report on the sustainability impact of the goods and services they purchase, as well as track reductions in emissions when sustainability interventions are implemented. Aligning with sector-specific carbon footprint calculation methodology, the Tool helps universities to understand how suppliers are responding to the shared challenge of climate change and support them in taking actions to progress net zero carbon in their own businesses.

Suppliers are each provided with an estimated carbon footprint and a bespoke carbon reduction plan free of charge. Regardless of how many universities they do business with, only one account is needed as the data is shared. By completing some simple steps, suppliers who already know their carbon footprint and have committed to take action, can share this with multiple universities via the Tool.

Laura Mayhew-Manchón, Head of Sustainability at Nottingham Trent University said:

“NTU has a commitment to not only meet its own Net Zero Carbon target by 2040, but also to build sustainable supply chains across the higher education sector. Supply chain emissions are the largest single source of emissions within our own footprint – five times greater than our emissions from energy use, which is common in many organisations. Our Net Zero Carbon Supplier Tool goes some way to help us and the sector to reduce our Scope 3 emissions in a targeted and informed way

“The Tool has two main benefits to the universities who use it – a more robust understanding of supply chain emissions which includes being able to see the positive impacts of sustainability interventions as they happen; and providing a conduit to engage and support suppliers from across the supply chain on their own sustainability journeys.”

Larissa Morrish, Head of Procurement at Lancaster University said:

“Lancaster University declared a Climate emergency in 2020 and has set an ambitious target to become Carbon Net Zero by 2035. We’ve reduced our electricity and heating emissions by 50% since 2005 but we know there is a long way to go significantly impact our Scope 3 emissions. Visibility of carbon reduction activities in the supply chain is a huge challenge for all organisations.

“The Net Zero Carbon Supplier Tool gives us a tangible way forward to work with our suppliers and to record their carbon reduction activities. I’m particularly pleased with the engagement from our SME suppliers who made up 70% of responses. Many measured their carbon impact for the first time using the tool and unlike larger suppliers did not already have a carbon reduction plan in place”.

The universities taking part in the one year action research project are:

Anglia Ruskin University

Aston University

Bath Spa

Birmingham City University

Canterbury Christ Church University

City, University of London

Coventry University

Durham University

Kingston University

Lancaster University

London School of Economics and Political Science

Nottingham Trent University

Ulster University

University of Bath

University of Birmingham

University of Bradford

University of Cambridge

University of Exeter

University of Law

University of Leeds

University of Leicester

University of Liverpool

University of London

University of Manchester

University of Nottingham

University of Oxford

University of Plymouth

University of Southampton

University of Surrey

University of Warwick

University of Westminster

Universities that are interested in signing up to the Tool will be able to do so once the year-long project has been completed at the end of 2024. For more information, contact sustainability@ntu.ac.uk.

Wave wins multi-million pound contract with UK Ministry of Justice

National water retailer, Wave, has won a substantial public sector contract with the Ministry of Justice, following a competitive tender through the CCS Water framework. The three-year contract, which commences in January 2024, comes with an option to extend for a further year and is expected to generate annual water revenues of around £28m.

The contract is Wave’s second large contract win in recent months, having successfully secured the sole position on YPO’s direct award water framework in September for a second consecutive term.

These key wins affirm Wave’s strong reputation as the Water Industry Award’s ‘Water Retailer of the Year’, whilst supporting the business’s growth plans.

Social value formed part of the Ministry of Justice’s criteria for award of the contract, and Wave was able to demonstrate its social value credentials and customer focus through its forward-facing Social and Sustainability Promise. The company is the third largest water retailer in the market and is committed to supporting customers to achieve optimum water usage, whilst minimising costs and environmental impact.

Lucy Darch, CEO of Wave, said: “We’re delighted to have secured this contract with the Ministry of Justice, which is a significant addition to our portfolio of public sector customers. We’re a trusted supplier throughout the public sector and recognise the significance not just of delivering excellent service, but also contributing to local communities.

“This commitment is demonstrated through our Social and Sustainability Promise and our dedication to identifying inefficiencies and encouraging water and cost savings by collaborating closely with our customers.”

The UK’s Largest Exhibition and Conference Tackling Decentralised and Distributed Energy Solutions is Back

The Distributed Energy Show, taking place on 13th and 14th of March 2024 at the Telford International Centre, is a free-to-attend exhibition and conference bringing together the entire supply chain on diversified and distributed energy resources.

Innovative technological advances within the energy industry are allowing for a mass migration towards decentralised energy, enabling companies to move towards more flexible, sustainable, reliable, and efficient practices. With onsite and co-generation techniques, renewables, and energy storage on the rise, new approaches are paving the way to a brighter and more sustainable future for consumers and network operators alike.

The Distributed Energy Show features the UK’s widest array of technologies for onsite and localised heat and power generation alongside the infrastructure, software, and components necessary to connect to the network and implement a low-cost, low-carbon strategy.

Those attending The Distributed Energy Show for free can expect to see a comprehensive array of the latest emerging technologies and systems that will enable the generation, storage, management, and distribution of power and heat. With a key focus on renewable and sustainable sources, technologies on display are set to include solar systems, gas and wind turbines, smart energy systems and platforms, flexible energy solutions, power plant systems, fuel cells, and many more instrumental innovations within the sector. In addition to the attendance of energy end-users, visitors include energy suppliers, network operators, and transmission and distribution companies sourcing technologies and expertise to increase their own efficiencies and sustainability.

Caroline Bragg, Head of Policy at The Association for Decentralised Energy:

‘This pivotal event for the distributed energy sector, including a large-scale exhibition and industry-leading conference, will bring the whole supply chain together to showcase the technologies and systems to enable organisations to generate, store, manage, and distribute their own power and heat.’

The free to attend, three track conference programme with exciting panel discussions, Individual presentations, fire side chats, and interactive sessions aims to further your knowledge of decentralised energy, as well as highlighting the innovations emerging from this growing industry. The Keynote conference session will delve into crucial and ever-present matters that will define the targets and steps needed to push towards a more sustainable and reliable energy economy. From smart grids to hydrogen, heat pumps to Net Zero targets, EV charging to local energy systems, the conference sessions will explore a huge array of technologies, techniques, and systems to improve your energy management, efficiency, and storage.

We are delighted to welcome a wealth of leading expert speakers from across the industry including Innovate UK, UK Power Networks, Northern Powergrid, Octopus Energy, Veoila, Alfa Laval, Bosch, Vattenfall and many more to be announced, who will be sharing their insights into their pioneering innovations and ideas. The conference panels will discuss topics including AI & Digitalisation, Regulation, Industrial Decarbonisation, Energy Flexibility, Heat Pumps, Hydrogen & Fuel Cells, Energy Innovations, Net Zero Targets, CHP, Heat Networks, Energy Price Volatility, EV Charging/V2G Infrastructure, and Local Energy Systems.

As well as receiving a record number of visitors through the door, the show welcomes industry-leading companies to exhibit, showcasing their latest products and developments. We are delighted to be joined by organisations including Bosch, Clarke Energy, Conrad Energy, Ecotricity, Midlands Power Networks, National Gas Metering, Piclo, Powell UK Ltd, Schaltbau Machine Electrics Vattenfall UK, Wilson Power Solutions Limited and many more.

Following their successful event in 2023, Powerstar, who will be exhibiting at the 2024 show says:

“The importance being placed on decarbonisation by businesses, governments and the general public alike is driving huge amounts of innovation within the sector, and an event like this is a valuable opportunity to better keep pace with new potential partners and new technologies that synergise well with our own.”

Thousands will attend the show for two days of networking, lead generation and education at the Telford International Centre. Matt Pennington, Event Director at Event Partners Ltd, the host of the event, says:

“We are absolutely delighted with the industry-wide support we have for The Distributed Energy Show, which is coming back in 2024 bigger than ever. Major global organisations, SME’s and thought leaders are helping to shape the event, resulting in the exhibition doubling in size and an increased number of visitors attending the event.”

The Distributed Energy show looks forward to welcoming all attendees, exhibitors, speakers, and VIP guests through the doors on 13th and 14th March 2024 for what is set to be a record-breaking show.

To register for your free ticket and to stay up to date on all the latest news about the show please visit: https://distributedenergyshow.com/

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