ABB strengthens commitment to reduce carbon emissions

On its way to reaching its ambitious science-based targets, the company commits to electrifying its vehicle fleet by 2030, sourcing 100% renewable electricity by 2030 and establishing energy efficiency targets, including the systematic use of energy management systems. As part of its new Sustainability Strategy and its ambition to enable a low-carbon society, ABB has committed to partner with its customers and suppliers to reduce their emissions and to achieve carbon neutrality in its own operations by 2030. Ahead of World Environment Day on June 5, ABB today announced that it has joined three initiatives led by the international non-profit Climate Group in line with its action plan and focus areas identified to reduce its own emissions: EV 100: ABB commits to electrifying its fleet of more than 10,000 vehicles by 2030. ABB in Sweden, for example, has already started to convert its around 700 company cars to all-electric vehicles, while ABB in the UK announced last year that the company will be transitioning its over 500 company cars to an all-electric fleet by 2025. RE 100: ABB commits to sourcing 100 percent renewable electricity until 2030. In 2020, 32%, of all the electricity used by ABB, was either purchased as certified green electricity or generated by the company’s own solar power plants. Since 2020, ABB in Switzerland already sources 100 percent of its power from renewable sources. EP 100: ABB commits to establishing energy efficiency targets and continue deploying energy management systems at the company’s sites. Already today, more than 100 ABB sites are covered by externally certified or self-declared energy management systems. Furthermore, the company’s own reduction targets have now also received approval by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) confirming that they are in line with the 1.5°C scenario of the Paris Agreement. The SBTi is a partnership between non-governmental organizations CDP, United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). The SBTi defines and promotes best practices in science-based target setting and independently assesses companies’ targets. ABB has also joined the Business Ambition for 1.5°C Campaign, a global coalition of UN agencies, business and industry leaders, led by the UNGC. “At ABB, we want to lead by example across our own operations and the confirmation that our ambitious targets are now scientifically verified is an important milestone for the company,” says Theodor Swedjemark, Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer. “We believe that the combination of technology and empowered people is key to reducing emissions and avoiding the further heating of our planet.” ABB’s Sustainability Strategy has a clear focus on areas with the biggest impact – enabling a low-carbon society by reducing emissions, preserving resources, and promoting social progress underpinned by a strong commitment to integrity and transparency. As part of the strategy and starting in 2021, ABB has also added specific targets related to sustainability into its senior management remuneration.

Lighting upgrades critical to school energy efficiency drive

A leading lighting manufacturer says lighting upgrades will be critical in helping schools become more energy efficient. Analysis of Government data, carried out by eLight, shows the amount of money spent by schools on energy bills has increased by 6.5% in the last five years, as they struggle to implement energy efficient technology. With lighting accounting for 50% of a school’s total electricity costs, Tamlite Lighting says by implementing upgrades, energy use can be significantly reduced often in return for a relatively small investment. And with the summer holidays approaching, Tamlite Lighting’s Managing Director, John Allden, says now is the perfect time to look at lighting upgrades. “Properly specified, the latest generation of LED lighting systems can deliver long-term cost-savings that make a dramatic difference,” he comments. “LED lighting is quick and easy to install, pays back fast, and creates minimal installation disruption. With an increased focus on how education establishments can operate more efficiently, a well-designed lighting scheme is the best way to reduce energy consumption.” The benefits of LED lighting are twofold as it will also help create a learning environment that is supportive of both student and teacher wellbeing. Mr Allden adds: “Teaching spaces have changed, and they are now more dynamic, more considered and more human-centric. To reflect this, they should be designed to have a positive impact on learners and teachers. Fortunately, with the latest LED lighting and control technologies, it is now easier than ever before to identify and install systems that will work to the benefit of both students and teachers. "By seeking a perfect balance between natural and artificial light, with different light output at different times of day, it is possible to offer illumination that works in conjunction with students’ natural rhythms. And deploying user-friendly controllers and interfaces allows staff to make easy adjustments and deliver appropriate levels and consistency of illumination, as well as eliminate glare. For those seeking to benefit from lighting upgrades, our expert team is on hand to work with architects, bursars, governors and headteachers to optimise learning environments for generations to come.”

Motor Fuel Group in charge with the help of Wisenet cameras

Motor Fuel Group (MFG), the UK’s largest independent forecourt operator, has entrusted Wisenet cameras manufactured by Hanwha Techwin to help protect its major investment in electric vehicle (EV) charging hubs. With the sales of electric vehicles growing, MFG is accelerating its plans to offer ultra-rapid, electric vehicle (EV) charging bays – up to 12 charging bays at each location - across its 900+ station network. Dedicated Wisenet video surveillance systems are being installed to deter and detect vandals, as well as maximise the customer experience by helping MFG personnel to quickly identify if any charging equipment has been damaged. Andrew Edwards, group infrastructure director at MFG, says: “Reflecting the wish of many drivers to own eco-friendly vehicles, we expect the sales of EVs to continue to rapidly increase year-on-year, which is why we have made a commitment to lead the market with the provision of fast, clean and 100% renewable energy.” AGE CCTV The contract to install the Wisenet systems was awarded to AGE CCTV, a division of AGE Electrical Services Ltd. “We have been installing new video surveillance solutions and upgrading existing systems at MFG forecourts for over 15 years. In all cases, we have used Wisenet cameras in line with MFG’s decision to single source cameras and recording devices from Hanwha Techwin,” says Jason Gargiulo, Managing Director of AGE CCTV. “It was just a simple matter therefore of working with Hanwha Techwin’s pre-sales and technical teams in order to specify which Wisenet camera from the company’s extensive range, would best assist MFG personnel to observe close up detail of any activity occurring at their EV charging hubs.” 5-megapixel images Depending on the number of charging bays at each location, AGE CCTV has installed one or more 5-megapixel Wisenet QNO-8080R bullet cameras. The QNO-8080R is a true day/night camera, equipped with built-in IR illuminators which enables it to capture superb quality images regardless of the lighting conditions. It also benefits from enhanced Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) which performs at up to 120dB to produce clear images from scenes containing a challenging mix of bright and dark areas which normally results in overexposed or underexposed images. With many MFG (EV) charging sites being unmanned, authorised MFG personnel are able at any time to remotely access the live images captured by the H.265 Wisenet QNO-8080R cameras or retrieve the recorded video of any incidents. They can do so from a desktop PC or laptop by using Hanwha Techwin’s management software or conveniently via their smartphones or tablets using the Wisenet mobile app. The images are transmitted over 4G technology and in this respect, the WiseStream II complementary compression technology built into the QNO-8080R is proving to be a significant benefit. Bandwidth efficiency is improved by up to 75% compared to current H.264 technology when WiseStream II is combined with H.265 compression.

SSEN and EA Technology celebrate a 10-year asset management agreement

As a trusted provider of software, consultancy, and technical services to Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN), EA Technology is delighted to announce a 10-year agreement to provide the company with its Asset Investment Management Software Solution, EA Technology | Invest. SSEN is the first company to adopt this new web-based software, providing the company with the very latest tools in asset management and investment decision support. The agreement cements the relationship for the ongoing development of the solution to SSEN and coincides with the business-wide rollout of EA Technology’s Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) application with a new, modern user interface. These enhancements deliver improved visibility and accessibility of asset information across the business, informing investment decision making to increase reliability and reduce costs, giving real benefits to SSEN and its customers. The 10-year agreement is testament to the excellent working relationship shared between SSEN and EA Technology. EA Technology is proud to have provided its Asset Investment Management solution since 2015 and has worked closely with SSEN and the other UK Distribution Network Operators to develop and implement the Common Network Asset Indices Methodology. This has culminated in the full integration of EA Technology | Invest software solution into SSEN Asset Management systems. Landel C Johnston, SSEN’s RIIO-ED2 CBRM Lead and System Integrations Manager, comments on this new arrangement: “We have worked with EA Technology’s core specialist staff in developing a robust condition-based risk management toolset. We now have the predictive modelling capability to best manage our network assets, using our field collected observed and measured conditions to ensure we can make justified future investment plans by making the correct intervention at the right time. We are confident that this long-term contract will allow SSEN to lead in its decision making for the future of our networks using EA’s Invest solution and we are delighted to be the first company to be using this software.” Dave A Roberts, EA Technology’s Commercial Director says, “this is fantastic news for EA Technology, and we are delighted that SSEN entrusts us to continue providing this important service into 2031! A 10-year commitment shows great faith in the ongoing benefits our Invest software brings. We are very proud of our Invest solution and very much look forward to continuing the journey towards truly optimised network investment decision making”. Asset management and replacement decisions need to deliver the very best returns for businesses and the customers they serve. This relies on access to accurate, up to date information and the application of robust and reliable transparent methods.  Through this agreement EA Technology will provide SSEN with all of the tools needed to develop well-justified investment plans for the next 10 years and beyond. Invest represents the third generation in EA Technology’s Industry-recognised history of risk-based Asset Performance and Investment Management software.  It delivers enterprise level access to asset condition and risk data, using map views, dashboards and data analytics to enhance the user experience and increase accessibility. Invest forms part of EA Technology’s Visea suite of web-based software solutions with a common look & feel, all dedicated to delivering valuable insights into electrical networks for their owners and operators.

Independent connections provider expands team despite COVID-19

Worcestershire-based Independent Connections Provider, Rock Power Connections, has expanded its team with the appointment of nine new staff members, following an increase in demand for its services. The business recently secured a new three-year contract with Western Power Distribution [WPD], building on the major project frameworks which the team have worked on over the past six years. This, alongside the increase in demand for Electric Vehicle (EV) EV charging infrastructure, has resulted in an increase in business growth over the last 5 months. As a result, Rock Power Connections has appointed Brad Hudson, Brian Williams and Jim Garner to support its new electrical installation contract for Western Power Distribution (WPD), together with new Project Manager, Rob White, who will play a critical role in Rock Power Connection’s EV charging installations. New employees have also been appointed throughout the business to meet an increase in demand for electrical connections, with new hires taken on to support ICP, Civils and Primary Substations work. Matt Crampton, Director of Rock Power Connections, says: “Over the past 12 months, Rock Power Connections has continued to provide vital installations across all areas of the network, despite the challenges the pandemic has presented. “The number and breadth of roles of our new hires reflects the business’ sustainable growth strategy, and illustrates development in all areas of the business. These hires come after a string of successful contract wins and the need to expand our team to meet growing demand. “We believe our growth in the first quarter of 2021 is a sign of things to come, and I am excited to see what the rest of the year brings for the business.” Founded in 2012, Rock Power Connections is a family-run Independent Connections Provider, which specialises in the design and installation of new and upgraded electricity connections to business, industrial and commercial properties UK wide.

IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect continue to expand delivery options

IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect have announced expanded delivery options to include Call & Collect and has added new postcodes to their same-day delivery service, making it even easier for professionals to order products flexibly and in line with the demands of their project schedules. The Call & Collect service offers a new way for tradespeople to quickly access the wide range of IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect products essential for getting the job done. Once the order is placed, customers can conveniently collect their items directly from the trade counter in Basildon, Essex an hour later. Same-day delivery has also been expanded to include CO, N, EC and WC postcodes, building on the Southend-On-Sea, Chelmsford and Romford IG, & E postcode areas where the service is already available. The new services join an existing line up of delivery options, making ordering from both companies’ wide range of stocked architectural ironmongery and electrical products even more convenient for tradespeople to work to their own schedule. Marco Verdonkschot, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect says, “We know how important it is to keep our customers supplied with the goods they need, when they need them. We already offer free next day deliveries and a Click & Collect service to over 6,000 pick-up points nationwide and are delighted to expand our delivery options with a one-hour Call & Collect service and same-day delivery to several new postcodes. “We are dedicated to extending our delivery capabilities to offer even more convenience for our customers to access our huge range of products and ensure there is a delivery option for all. With low trade prices and free returns, we are proud to enhance our award-winning service to tradespeople across the country.”

Aico Gateway kitemarked by British Standards Institution

Aico are pleased to announce the official Kitemark certification of their SmartLINK Gateway from the British Standards Institution (BSI). This is a significant accolade for market leader in domestic Fire and Carbon Monoxide protection Aico, as the SmartLINK Gateway is the first product of its kind to have third party certification. Aico’s innovative SmartLINK Gateway provides access to real-time data insight into the status of the Smoke, Heat and Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm systems across entire housing stock. Using its built-in GSM data connection, the Gateway utilises Aico’s next generation of wireless technology to report events including Fire/CO activations and alarm head removals as they happen to the SmartLINK cloud portal, for full visibility and remote monitoring. The SmartLINK Gateway has achieved the BSI Kitemark for Internet of Things (IoT) Commercial, a multi-faceted Kitemark that examines the product and associated system and process in its entirety. In the case of Aico’s Gateway, the BSI tested the connectivity and communications within the SmartLINK system, the associated mobile app and cloud portal, as well as the data encryption and security of the system. Findings demonstrated that the SmartLINK Gateway stores data in a secure way and does not use weak encryption algorithms for communications, safety functions are maintained in the event of system failure and the system utilised OTA (Over the Air) updates with appropriate policy in place. Product Development Manager for Aico, Michael Wright comments “We are delighted to have received Kitemark certification for the SmartLINK Gateway. We welcome third party certification for IoT products such as the Gateway and achieving this is due recognition of the communications performance and security of the product”. The BSI Kitemark is a renowned mark of quality, demonstrating that a product has been thoroughly and rigorously assessed and proven to meet recognised industry standards. It represents quality, safety and reliability of product.

ECS card holders reminded of new Occupational Qualification Structure

The Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) is reminding ECS card holders with a Network Infrastructure occupation that from 1 July 2021 all card renewals need to meet the requirements of the new Occupational Qualification Structure for the Network Infrastructure industry. This includes the requirement for a Network Infrastructure assessment for Network Infrastructure Installation Assistant and new routes to a Network Infrastructure Installer Gold Card. The Network Infrastructure industry’s new Occupational Qualification Structure came into play on 1 January 2021 and has been developed by an industry-wide working group formed of the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA), the Joint Industry Board (JIB), SELECT, CNet Training and a large group of employers. Setting the benchmark for new entrants to the market at Level 3, it crucially addresses the need to recognise professionals currently in the workforce that already benefit from hands-on experience, previous education and training and industry recognised qualifications. Dan Little, Director of J Brand, one of the employers involved in forming the new structure, says: “The development of this new occupational structure for Network Infrastructure will set the bar for the industry to aid new and existing operatives on the right career path to become qualified in their craft. From the new options for apprenticeships, to recognising the experienced workforce through assessment, the ECS structure brings an industry recognition and credibility which is necessary for proving the competence of the workforce and improving standards. We were pleased to be part of this work to raise the bar for network infrastructure given J Brand’s long and progressive history of high standards of training in this vital part of the electrotechnical sector.” Jay Parmar, Chief Executive of the JIB, adds: “The new pathway clarifies the differences in education, training and experience for those already in the industry, and sets out a route for those entering the network cabling infrastructure industry. The JIB is delighted to have been involved in what we believe will mark a significant upturn in professionalism and competency in the Network Infrastructure industry.”

Scolmore enters the consumer unit market

Scolmore is continually looking at ways to improve and develop its existing product offer, and to explore new areas for expansion. The result of its latest new product development programme completes the company’s offer in the wiring accessories category - bringing to market a comprehensive Consumer Unit and Circuit Protection range. Marketed under the name ‘Elucian by Click’, the official launch follows months of extensive research and consultation with contractors and installers to come up with a range of products that best suits their requirements and that are compliant with all the latest regulations. It means that wholesalers and installers now have access to a one-stop shop for everything wiring accessories related from one of the industry’s most trusted and reliable brands, and Scolmore has made a significant investment to ensure that stock levels of the new products are high to meet the anticipated demand. Designed with the installer in mind, Elucian is an extensive range of metal consumer units that will cover a broad range of installations and offers a number of features and benefits that will enhance the products’ convenience, flexibility and safety properties. The CONSUMER UNIT collection comprises a total of 58 individual lines which fall under five main product groups: • 100A Mains Switch Consumer Unit. • Dual RCCB Consumer Unit – 100A Mains Switch + 2 x 80A Type A RCCB. • Dual RCCB/SPD Consumer Unit – 100A Mains Switch + 2 x 80A RCCB + 2 Pole SPD. • Combination Unit – 100A Mains Switch + 2 x 80A RCCB. • RCD Incomer – Mini Board – RCD. Scolmore has highlighted some of the key features that the company believes will make these units stand out in the marketplace: • Non-Combustible Enclosures – to ensure compliance against the third amendment added to the BS 7671 Wiring regulations in 2015 requiring consumer units and similar switchgear assemblies in domestic premises to have a non-combustible enclosure. • Mains Switch Tail Clamp - for added stress relief to ensure the Mains Tails terminations do not come loose and to help fix the Mains Switch Isolator more securely to prevent any rocking or movement. • Knockouts - a wide range of 40mm, 32mm, 25mm and 20mm knockouts making each board universally adaptable for all installation and cable types. install and best installation practice. • Rear Knockouts - for easy removal and to provide ample cabling capacity for any installation type. • Earth and Neutral Bar Configuration - to allow for best practice installation of each board type, neatness of connections and ease of circuit identification. • Backed off Neutral and Earth Bar Screws - for added convenience and to allow quick and easy termination. • Keyway Din Rail - a fast release Keyway Din Rail allows for ease of installation. • MCB style solid blanks for any unused ways - Din Rail mountable and can only be removed when the cover is removed, for added safety. CIRCUIT PROTECTION RANGE The Elucian Circuit Protection Range comprises Mains Isolator Switches, RCCBs, SPDs, MCBs, RCBOs and blank modules: • 2 Pole 100A Mains Isolator Switch. • Type A 2 Pole 30mA RCCBs (63A, 80A and 100A) . • Type 2, 2 Pole 40kA SPD available in 275Uc (V~). • 1 Pole, True 6kA B Curve & C Curve MCBs. • Compact Type A 1 Pole + Neutral True 6kA B Curve & C Curve 30mA RCBOs. • A single way Din Rail Blank module. [embed]http://youtu.be/m0D8Vw9n_1c[/embed]

Maxlogic fire detection integrated with Wisenet WAVE VMS

Mavili Elektronik Ticaret has developed a plug-in which enables its Maxlogic intelligent addressable fire detection system to interact with Hanwha Techwin’s Wisenet WAVE video management software (VMS). The integration of Maxlogic with Wisenet WAVE via the Mavili SPRVSR+ plug-in, ensures control room operators can rapidly visually verify a fire alarm event and take appropriate action. Detailed maps, together with information on the Maxlogic devices installed at each site, can be displayed alongside images captured by Wisenet cameras. When an alarm event occurs, a pop-up message instantly appears on the screen, with operators able to view live images from cameras installed at the event’s location. PTZ cameras are automatically moved to point to where there might be a fire. After viewing the video of an event, operators can use Wisenet WAVE’s graphical user interface to silence the alarm and reset the system, whilst an event log provides access to the recorded video for forensic post-event investigations. “Adding video verification to our Maxlogic fire detection system with the help of Wisenet high resolution cameras, means we can offer end-users even greater peace of mind in knowing they are benefiting from an integrated solution that offers them a very high level of protection from a potential fire”, says Mr Gurkan Erdem, Sales & Marketing Director of Istanbul based Mavili Elektronik Ticaret A.S. “In addition to capturing superb quality images, Wisenet cameras have an excellent reputation for being robust and ultra-reliable. Hanwha Techwin is therefore an ideal technology partner for us to work with to ensure our customers gain maximum advantage from their Maxlogic intelligent addressable fire detection systems”. Wisenet WAVE Wisenet WAVE is designed to make it almost effortless to monitor high-definition video streams. An auto-discover feature ensures connected cameras and a wide range of third-party IP network devices can be addressed and set up in just minutes. An intuitive ‘drag & drop’ tool makes it easy to set up a display of live and recorded images on a single screen or video wall, with customisable layouts and sizes. Other key features include a virtual PTZ which, with just a simple click of the mouse, enables operators to zoom in to see close-up detail of any suspicious activity, whilst motion detection and video analytics support can be configured to generate alerts when user-defined incidents occur, with push notifications sent to mobile devices. “We are delighted that an independent manufacturer such as Mavili Elektronik Ticaret A.S. has entrusted Hanwha Techwin to be its preferred technology partner and has invested its time in developing the SPRVSR+ plug-in”, says Uri Guterman, Head of Product & Marketing for Hanwha Techwin Europe. “The Maxlogic fire detection brand is highly respected and has achieved success in over 70 countries. Mavili Elektronik Ticaret A.S. shares our passion for providing the highest possible levels of pre and post-sales support and we are therefore very pleased that this integrated solution will be available to all our customers across Europe”.