EDP tests construction of solar park with automation technology

EDP, a renewable energy specialist, will test the construction of its first photovoltaic solar park under real life installation conditions on a large scale with the automation technology, Hyperflex. The project, named AutoPV, is located in Peñaflor, Valladolid, Spain and will use automated solutions in 3MW of the total 122MW of installed capacity, through a robotic solution. This is the first time worldwide that the technological solution, based on robotics and advanced computing, developed by Comau, has been tested in real installation conditions in an EDP solar park. With an ambitious portfolio of solar projects globally and a growing focus on technology and the hiring of qualified professionals, EDP's innovation area identified an opportunity to automate some of the construction operations of a photovoltaic park. In 2022, EDP began an in-depth study of the technological automation solutions and, after several analysis phases, moved on to the implementation of the project in July of this year. António Coutinho, CEO of EDP Innovation, comments, "EDP is at the forefront of the global trend of automation in the renewable energy sector. By investing in a solution as innovative as this, we contribute to making the construction of solar parks faster, more efficient, safer and more sustainable. We believe that technology and innovation are a decisive ally in accelerating the energy transition, and that's why this is a strategic axis of investment and growth for EDP on a global scale". By investing in the automation process, EDP aims to achieve greater efficiency in the construction of solar parks, significantly accelerating the project schedule, with the expectation of reducing the assembly time of the solar panel structure by up to 50%. This model of human-machine collaboration also allows robots to perform the heaviest tasks, such as handling structures and solar panels, while workers dedicate themselves to more specialised technical functions, creating an effective balance between technological strength and human expertise. In addition to improving efficiency, automation directly contributes to increased safety in the workplace. This process opens up room for continuous improvement, as automated technology makes it possible to identify and implement optimisations in future projects, ensuring progressive progress and greater speed in the construction of solar parks, allowing the energy transition to be accelerated. António continues, "The pilot in Peñaflor is just the first step in introducing automation solutions into EDP's robust solar business plan. EDP's goal is to transform this into a global and integrated process, capable of generating competitive advantages for all the company's operations and enhancing our human capital for more qualified activities". The project is supported by the automation technology of Comau, an Italian company and global leader in the design and manufacture of robots and automation solutions for different sectors, such as automotive and shipbuilding. The pilot project consists of the construction of part of the solar park using a mobile factory, called Hyperflex, which includes an automatic assembly station where the photovoltaic structure is pre-assembled, and a rover that transports and positions this structure at the final location on the ground. This entire system is transported in trucks to the solar park, where it is then built and assembled on site. Automation with Hyperflex and the rover has three main phases: unloading and assembly from the truck, operation (i.e. structure construction) and disassembly for the next mission. Pietro Gorlier, Comau CEO, notes, "The collaboration with EDP confirms the importance and added value of automation in renewable energies and particularly, in this case, solar panel installation. It is also a recognition of our constant commitment to developing innovative solutions that are also flexible to respond to different requirements. Thanks to our advanced technology, we allow our customers and partners to experience better quality, increased efficiency, and lower overall costs, helping them contribute to making sustainable solar energy a reality". Currently, 98% of all energy produced by EDP already comes from renewable sources, including solar, where the company has an installed solar capacity of more than 4GW. EDP, as an energy transition specialist, maintains its ambitious sustainability goals, including the commitment to abandon coal-fired generation by 2025, be 100% green by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2040.

New warehouse facility for Ovia

Scolmore Group company, Ovia, has moved its warehouse and distribution centre from its original site in Tamworth, Staffordshire, to brand new, increased-capacity premises in nearby Appleby Magna. As the lighting division continues to expand, the new 51,000 square foot site will not only accommodate an increased number of products, but will play a role in helping the company, and Scolmore Group as a whole, to manage its sustainability targets. The new warehouse unit - Mercia 51 at the Mercia Park development - has been constructed to the highest levels of specification and sustainability. The whole Mercia Park development has been built at net zero carbon in construction, and the Ovia unit is net zero ready, BREEAM Excellent and EPC A rated. The new premises also benefits from solar panels on the roof and 10 active EV parking spaces, with passive infrastructure in place for a further 32 and storage for up to 12 cycles. The relocation of the Ovia warehouse facility is freeing up the original site for other divisions within the Scolmore Group of companies, each of which is enjoying continued growth and expansion. As a measure of the increased capacity for stock holding that the new premises offers, the unit is twice as high as the original warehouse. Mike Collins, Managing Director with Ovia, says, “This is a big move for Ovia and Scolmore Group, and an exciting one too. As a proud family business and large employer in the area, investing in Mercia 51 demonstrates to our employees, customers, and the marketplace that we’re committed to the future.” Mercia Park is one of IM Properties’ first large-scale development schemes to achieve net zero in construction, and Mercia 51 raises the bar further to also be net zero ready. This means the building is optimised so the occupier can achieve net zero in operation. It has been created to a level of specification which sits within IM Properties’ Sustainable Future’s framework and aligns with the Green Building Council (UKGBC)’s recommendations. For more from Ovia, click here.

NVC Lighting partners with packaging supplier

Lighting manufacturer, NVC Lighting, has boosted its environmental credentials by teaming up with packaging solutions provider, Springpack – saving costs and reducing plastic usage in the process. Since implementing Springpack’s Armour Wrap 12 months ago, the NVC Lighting team has achieved an expected cost saving of £4,000, while saving 47kg of plastic compared with previous wrap mechanics. Armour Wrap is a high performance, multi-layered pallet wrap that provides strong puncture resistance, that can be stretched more than a regular wrap and will increase load stability. The partnership is another step in NVC Lighting’s continued attempts towards a more sustainable operation, with the company achieving Carbon Neutral status in 2022. Chris Reilly, Warehouse Manager at NVC Lighting, says, “Working with Springpack and using Armour Wrap has had a real positive impact on day-to-day operations in the warehouse. It’s a reliable, trusted service, helping us to increase efficiency and save plastic”. The business operates from purpose-built premises in Birmingham including offices, 90,000 ft² of warehouse space and an assembly facility for made-to-order products. The switch to working with Springpack has also helped to improve NVC Lighting’s ability to make reliable and accurate forecasts regarding packaging in line with customer demands. Andy Pagett, Chief Operating Officer at NVC Lighting, adds, “As a business, we are constantly looking for ways to improve our environmental efficiency and identified packaging as an area to focus on. “We reached out to Springpack to enquire about our warehouse consumable needs and have been really impressed with the results from a cost and innovation perspective. From an environmental standpoint, we have transitioned to using eco-friendly bubble wrap, air pillows, and document-enclosed wallets, all of which help contribute to our wider sustainability goals.” James York, Managing Director at Springpack, concludes, “We’re delighted to work with NVC Lighting, helping the team to reduce their plastic usage and fulfil customers’ orders in a timely, effective and sustainable way.” For more from NVC Lighting, click here.

Acrospire provides sustainable lighting for Luton bus shelters

Acrospire, a British manufacturer of exterior lighting products, recently came up with a solution to help illuminate bus stops in and around the Luton area. In Luton, the Borough Council is responsible for maintaining and positioning bus stops and shelters. With funding through the Department of Transport’s Bus Service Improvement Programme (BSIP), the Council has embarked on a series of upgrades, including the replacement of its network of bus shelters. As part of this initiative, it sought a durable, reliable, and cost-efficient lighting solution to enhance commuter safety, and as a result, Acrospire stepped in to provide a solar-powered solution that ensures zero energy consumption and robust performance. In collaboration with the local authority and contractor Volker Highways, Acrospire utilised the MSL-50 from partner Greenfrog. This modular, solar-powered LED lighting system features separate panels and light components designed for canopies, shelters, and amenities without mains power- providing the ideal basis for the Luton bus shelter light. Steven Lain, Service Manager, Bus Services & Operations, Luton Borough Council, explains, “We needed a lighting solution for our bus shelters that required no external power supply. The solar-powered lights eliminate the cost and complexity of electrical installations, and they are incredibly robust, ensuring long-term durability even in the face of vandalism.” Working closely with Greenfrog and Volker Highways, Acrospire designed a custom solar-powered bus shelter light around the MSL-50 system to fit the mechanical construction of Luton’s two-bay bus shelters. Engineered to endure the most demanding environments, the MSL-50 boasts a 316-grade stainless steel exterior and a toughened glass lens for high vandal resistance – addressing any concerns the Council might have had about vandalism. Its compact integrated battery ensures easy installation and offers a cost-effective lighting solution for various applications. Steven adds, “With no power supply at the shelter, there’s no need for electrical testing or risk of vandalism to the power. The solar lighting system is virtually maintenance-free, with no energy costs and minimal upkeep required. This fit-and-forget solution will last many years, with battery maintenance unlikely for at least a decade.” The lighting installation across Luton’s 150 bus shelters not only fulfils the Council’s safety objectives but also underscores a commitment to sustainability and cost-efficiency. The MSL-50’s rugged design ensures it can withstand public use and potential vandalism. Steven praised the project’s impact, noting, “The solar lighting installation for this first tranche of bus shelters in Luton has worked really well. It not only provides safety and accessibility but also sets a precedent for sustainable development; we look forward to seeing the results applied to some of our larger bus shelters around the borough.” For more from Acrospire, click here.

THORNeco introduces new recessed downlight range

THORNeco, a provider of economical LED lighting products, has introduced 'Amy', new recessed downlights that are designed for circulation corridors, reception areas, schools, universities, offices, and meeting rooms. The latest addition to the THORNeco product range, Amy offers the VARIO feature (colour temperature switch), allowing contractors to easily adjust the colour temperature on-site with a flick of a switch. Similarly, the FLEX feature (lumen output switch) will enable them to choose the preferred lumen output on-site with a simple switch. These features providing the flexibility to adapt both lighting levels and colour temperature to a project's specific requirements, and installation is also designed to be straightforward thanks to its ability to be set up tool-free. The homogeneously lit opaque white diffuser delivers even, high-quality light, replacing traditional CFL downlights, while the IK06 rating offers peace of mind. Furthermore, it is easy to adapt to an emergency version on-site using the JUST Emergency Plug & Play kit, ensuring safety and compliance. Amy offers a direct replacement for traditional 1x18W, 1x26W, 2x18W, or 2x26W CFL downlights, making it ideal for modern, energy-efficient lighting solutions. For more from THORNeco, click here.

BGEN signs five-year contract with INEOS O&P

BGEN, one of the UK’s largest engineering firms specialising in mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, control and automation, has announced that it has signed a five-year contract with the petrochemical manufacturer, INEOS O&P UK. As a trusted partner since 2018, BGEN will provide a range of services to help INEOS optimise plant efficiency at its site in Grangemouth, Stirlingshire. Under the contract, BGEN will provide value added engineering solutions to INEOS O&P UK and deliver a comprehensive suite of electrical and instrumentation services for the business, strengthening its position as a multi-disciplined services contractor. Planned work at INEOS O&P UK’s 1,700-acre site has already commenced, including preliminary support for installation, maintenance, inspection, testing, and commissioning. Additionally, BGEN will provide materials and equipment, as well as managing a number of support functions and nominated sub-contractors as required. "We have a proven track record in advanced manufacturing and this experience enables us to deliver intelligent solutions to support the complex demands of the plant," says Paul Carvill (pictured above), Managing Director at BGEN. "We look forward to delivering tailored services for INEOS O&P UK and contributing to the success of its operations at Grangemouth." With a strategic location in Grangemouth since 2000, BGEN’s Scottish operation has expanded and now employs 60 people. It specialises in providing mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, control and automation services to businesses across many sectors including energy, FMCG, heavy industry, pharmaceutical and utilities. For more from BGEN, click here.

NG Bailey selected as MEP partner for new Agratas gigafactory

NG Bailey has been named as one of two MEP partners for the delivery of the new multi-billion-pound Agratas gigafactory in Somerset. With delivery led by Sir Robert McAlpine, NG Bailey will provide a full range of mechanical, electrical and plumbing services (MEP) for the new battery-cell manufacturing facility, which is set to be the UK’s largest gigafactory when work completes. The building will be based on a brownfield site near Bridgewater, Somerset and is set to cover an area of 244,710m². Initially producing batteries for Jaguar Land Rover electric cars from 2026, by the early 2030s it is estimated that the gigafactory will produce nearly half of the car batteries the UK automotive sector needs. The project builds on NG Bailey’s significant experience in supporting clients who are leading the transition to a lower carbon future. The company has recently been principal contractor for at the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre (UKBIC), which supports the development of new battery technologies, while elsewhere, it is leading on the delivery of lower emissions solutions for other clients through its range of MEP services. Jonathan Stockton, CEO at NG Bailey, says, “One of our goals as a business is to play a key role in supporting the transition to a lower carbon future, so we are delighted to be having such a vital role in this important project, which will have a significant impact on the UK’s ambitions for the decarbonisation of the economy. “Our talented team have a long track record in delivering projects of this scale, including as the principal contractor on UKBIC, and we are looking forward to using our market leading expertise and innovative use of offsite manufacturing to develop a wide range of bespoke solutions which will support the gigafactory in its next phase of development.” For more from NG Bailey, click here.

Bringing engineering to life in the primary classroom

For the fourth year running, heating and hot water solutions provider, Baxi, is partnering with Primary Engineer to bring STEM into classrooms in the Preston area and inspire a new generation of engineers. A group of the company’s engineers will be spending the next few months working with teachers in participating primary schools as they deliver the Primary Engineer Construction project to the children. The programme kicked off in October as local teachers, supported by Baxi engineers and the Primary Engineer team, were introduced to this year’s construction projects: a shoebox tipper truck for the lower primary years and a lighthouse tower with an electrical circuit for the upper primary school children. Peter Short, Quality Project Lead at Baxi and one of the volunteer engineers, says, “The initial session was all about meeting with the teachers, so that together we become comfortable with building these fun but reasonably challenging construction kits. Having this time with the teachers at the outset is great as it makes it easier to understand how best we can support them and the children in the classroom. I’ve also been invited to speak at an assembly about myself and my job. Fingers crossed I can answer all the questions! “For me the goal is help the children understand what an engineer does, the multiple career options open to them in this sector, and the skills that are required to begin a career in engineering. And it goes without saying that my ultimate aim is to inspire them to become engineers!” Over the next few months, Baxi’s engineers and the teachers will take the skills and knowledge that they have pooled back to the classrooms to begin the programme with the children. Primary Engineer is an educational not-for-profit organisation connecting engineering and technology professionals like Baxi with schools to provide a real-world link to engineering. This unique programme provides a unique opportunity to engage with engineering, meet and work with engineering professionals and develop vital skills. Research shows that STEM aspirations and perceptions are formed during the primary years, making early engagement with pupils vital to overcome the skills crisis with a more diverse talent force. Baxi is a founding member of the Construction Inclusion Coalition (CIC) which works to improve equity, diversity and inclusion across the sector. For more from Baxi, click here.

Timeguard introduces flicker-free smart wall switch

Timeguard, a manufacturer of time, light, safety and climate control innovations, has introduced a new smart wall switch which is a simple and direct two-wire replacement for a standard switch - and the company says that it eliminates the problematic flickering that can occur when controlling LED lighting with smart switches. This, Timeguard explains, is because the power is routed through an internal battery, rather than capacitors. The small mains current that has to be maintained to power the switch itself is absorbed by a trickle-charging battery, which can hold onto it, unlike the capacitors used in earlier design concepts. The mains supply is therefore effectively isolated from the switching controls and cannot cause flickering with even the lowest-power LEDs. The ZV700 offers all the automatic time control options that Timeguard is renowned for, including timed and photocell control, as well as acting as a normal switch. The new smart wall switch is available from wholesalers now. For more from Timeguard, click here.

Workshop for lighting producers announced

Recolight has announced the first date for a new LCA and EPD training workshop. The one day, in-person session will run on 27 November in London and will provide hands-on guidance for lighting manufacturers on Life Cycle Assessments and Environmental Product Declarations. The workshops will feature a roundtable environment with a maximum of 12 delegates, giving the opportunity for full interaction, feedback, and questions for each topic. They are intended to equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to understand LCAs and EPDs for lighting products, the timescales, data requirements, and how best to use product families to minimise costs. The importance of product specific rules, and the role of the luminaire specific PSR-0014 will be covered in detail. There will be opportunities to see online LCA preparation in action, and will include case studies of luminaire LCA data, and use of a luminaire specific EPD creation tool. Lighting designers, specifiers and end users are increasingly demanding credible third-party certified environmental metrics, and LCAs and EPDs are often considered the best way of meeting those needs. With an increasing number of lighting producers announcing that they have made LCAs and EPDs available, those that don’t act risk being left behind, Recolight claims. The workshop will be led by LCA expert and Recolight Environmental Metrics and Training Manager, Dr Max Robson. Representatives of One Click LCA will also attend the event and will be able to answer questions regarding the operation of the automated One Click LCA system and the EPD Hub. Nigel Harvey, Recolight CEO, comments, “This workshop is intended to help lighting companies quickly get up to speed with LCAs and EPDs – to understand how to get started, what data they need to collect, and how to simplify and speed up the process.” For more from Recolight, click here.