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Digitalisation to be ‘main driver’ of Operational Technology

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Almost half (45%) of industrial companies believe digitalisation will be the primary reason that new operational technology (OT) job roles will be created in the next three years.

The research, commissioned by Schneider Electric and carried out by Omdia, polled 407 industrial companies ranging from small and medium enterprises to large companies across western Europe (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Denmark and Sweden), the US, China, India, and Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines). The study highlighted the scale of the global industrial skills crisis, with talent acquisition a key challenge for more than half of those surveyed (52%).

However, it also identified the cure for this problem. Alongside job creation, over two-thirds (70%) of those surveyed agree that digitalization will help to tackle talent shortages, highlighting the potential of digital tools to deliver more than just productivity and efficiency.

While the skills crisis rages, the industrial workplace is undergoing rapid change. Sustainability goals and advanced technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital twins, are becoming further integrated into the workforce. The research found that 45% and 47% respectively believe that the increasing requirements of industrial companies to meet environmental and social sustainability goals will require a significant extension of existing job roles in the plant.

“Digitalization doesn’t just benefit productivity and overall efficiency. It’s vital for solving some of the people-centric challenges facing industrial businesses,” said Ali Haj Fraj, Senior Vice President, Digital Factory, Industrial Automation at Schneider Electric. “There’s a real opportunity for industrial enterprises to optimize and enhance OT roles. By reducing the time spent on administrative tasks and enabling people to better fulfil their potential, we can solve many of the key challenges facing these businesses and help build a more sustainable future.”

The survey found that over half of respondents (52%) consider talent acquisition and retention to be a challenge, but one that can be overcome, showing that a level of optimism is shared among industrial businesses around overcoming workforce challenges.

Three in five (60%) believe OT roles will change in the next three years, either moderately (41%) or significantly (19%). Furthermore, a large majority (73%) agree that digitalization will substantially change the nature of work in the next three years. Three in ten (31%) consider quality-control roles to be most significantly augmented or enhanced by digitalization.

The survey also found that in the next three years industrial companies expect new skills will be required in areas like robotics programming and integration (49% of the respondents say they have no or insufficient skills in this area) and data processing, visualization, and analytics (on average more than 30% have no or insufficient skills in these areas). While respondents say they are prioritizing investment in data processing, visualization, and analytics, robotics programming and integration is indicated as only a medium priority for almost half of those surveyed. A key recommendation from the research is thus for industrial companies to work with partners across the industrial ecosystem who can help meet technology skills deficits with solutions, training, and other capabilities to prepare their workforce for the future.

“The changing nature of the industrial workforce is, and will increasingly, necessitate investment in digitalization to empower staff and improve productivity and efficiency,” said Alex West, Senior Principal Analyst, Industrial IoT and Sustainability at Omdia. “If they don’t, the broader and more serious longer-term impact will be on innovation and an inability to mitigate talent shortages.”

The full report, entitled The Future of Work in Industry, can be accessed here.

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Concrete industry decarbonisation plans set in stone

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Ten of the world’s largest concrete companies and cement plants, including Heidelberg, Cemex and Holcim, have joined architects, engineers, and construction firms in a collective acknowledgement for action on decarbonisation of the industry. The Mission Possible Partnership (MPP) has developed a new strategy with industry input that sets out milestones and commitments needed by government, industry and investors over the next 25 years to make net zero emissions concrete and cement a reality.

Concrete is the world’s most widely used material after water, and with cement, it is an essential part of the global economy, critical to buildings, transportation, and other infrastructure. The sector currently generates 8% of global CO2 emissions: more than aviation and shipping combined. The challenge of increasing emissions is becoming more urgent as production of concrete and cement is increasing to meet global needs. Without efficiency gains, demand for cement is projected to increase by 50% by 2050.

Making Net Zero Concrete and Cement Possible’ shows, through its Net Zero scenario, how the sector can reach net zero GHG emissions and comply with a 1.5°C target if urgent action is taken across all three groups of levers:

  • 22% emissions reduction can be achieved on the demand side through efficiency improvements in construction and design reducing the volume of concrete needed without compromising safety or durability.
  • 25% reduction can be achieved in process emissions on the supply side by deploying Supplementary Cementing Materials (SCMs) to decrease the use of clinker; whilst bringing alternative chemistries to commercial stage.
  • 53% of emissions can be reduced, eliminated or captured through a combination of fuel switch, power sector decarbonisation and carbon capture utilisation and storage (CCUS).

CCUS currently has the largest emissions saving potential of all available technologies, and 33-45 new CCUS plants with an annual capacity of 80 megatonnes (Mt) of CO2 must be in operation by 2030 for the industry to stay within its carbon budget. However, new data from MPP’s tracking of green industrial projects – released by MPP for COP28 – shows that the current pipeline falls short, as projects struggle to reach FID. Fifteen plants have so far reached this critical point.

MPP is calling for immediate action across the concrete production value chain from industry, governments and financial institutions worldwide to create an enabling environment for innovation and decarbonisation. Its roadmap details actions needed in the short and long term to rapidly decarbonise the sector.

Near-term milestones

By 2025:

  • Governments permitting increased use of SCMs and using procurement power to bring about deployment
  • Concrete demand reduces by 4% compared with business-as-usual
  • CO₂ transport and storage plans in place and construction started across three regions

By 2030:

  • 33-45 commercial scale carbon capture plants to be operational
  • Concrete demand peaks and starts decreasing globally
  • Global average clinker-binder ratio drops to a global average of 0.54-0.58 from 0.63 today.

By 2035:

  • 35% reduction in emissions achieved if previous milestones are met

Mission Possible Partnership CEO, Faustine Delasalle, said: “Our report sets out precisely what needs to happen to make zero carbon concrete and cement a reality, but time is not on our side. The moment to roll up our sleeves and work together across the value chain and with governments is now. Immediate collaboration and cooperation – from producers through design and construction – together with policymakers and finance – is essential to making the necessary progress this decade.

Collective acknowledgement for the strategy, from a wide variety of companies and the largest in the concrete and cement sector reflects the growing momentum of business for action in the near term. Making Net-Zero Concrete and Cement Possible joins a series of industry transition strategies, backed by 200+ industry players and developed by MPP to guide decarbonisation of seven hardest-to-abate sectors.

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ONSITE RENEWABLES MONTH: Navigating a changing landscape for Energy Managers

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The UK’s commercial sector has witnessed a significant shift in its approach to energy management over the last decade, with a growing emphasis on on-site renewable energy solutions. For Energy and Facilities Managers, this evolution represents a transition towards sustainability, efficiency, and economic viability. Here we explore how approaches to on-site renewable energy solutions have evolved and the implications for professionals managing commercial energy needs, based on input from attendees at the Energy Management Summit…

1. Diversification of Renewable Energy Sources

Initially, the focus of on-site renewable energy was predominantly on solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. While solar remains a cornerstone, there is now a more diverse range of options available. Wind turbines, biomass energy systems, and geothermal energy solutions are increasingly being considered and implemented, depending on site-specific factors like location, climate, and energy requirements. This diversification allows Energy Managers to tailor solutions that maximise efficiency and return on investment.

2. Integration with Smart Energy Systems

The integration of renewable energy solutions with smart energy management systems marks a significant advancement. Modern systems allow for real-time monitoring and management of energy consumption, enabling more efficient use of generated renewable energy. Smart grids and energy storage systems have also become more prevalent, allowing for the storage of excess energy and improving the reliability of renewable sources.

3. Financial Models and Incentives

The evolution of financial models and government incentives has made renewable energy solutions more accessible and attractive. Initiatives like the Feed-in Tariff and Renewable Heat Incentive in the UK have provided financial incentives for adopting renewable energy. Moreover, models such as Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and leasing options have reduced the upfront costs, making renewable installations feasible for a wider range of businesses.

4. Emphasis on Sustainability Goals

There is an increasing alignment of renewable energy strategies with broader corporate sustainability goals. Companies are not only adopting renewables for economic benefits but also as part of their commitment to reducing carbon footprints and achieving Net Zero targets. Energy Managers are now integral to these sustainability strategies, driving initiatives that meet both environmental and business objectives.

5. Technological Advancements and Efficiency

Technological advancements have significantly improved the efficiency and viability of on-site renewable energy systems. Innovations in solar panel technology, wind turbine design, and energy storage have enhanced the effectiveness of these systems. Energy Managers now have access to more efficient, reliable, and cost-effective solutions than ever before.

6. Collaborative Approaches and Partnerships

Finally, the approach to implementing on-site renewable solutions has become more collaborative. Energy Managers are increasingly working in partnership with energy consultants, technology providers, and government bodies to develop and implement comprehensive energy strategies. This collaborative approach ensures the adoption of best practices and maximises the potential benefits of renewable systems.

Conclusion

The landscape of on-site renewable energy solutions in the UK’s commercial sector has evolved considerably, offering Energy and Facilities Managers a range of options to meet their energy needs sustainably and efficiently. By embracing these advancements and integrating renewable solutions into broader energy strategies, they are playing a pivotal role in steering the commercial sector towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.

Are you researching on-site renewables for your organisation? The Energy Management Summit can help!

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SSE Energy Solutions to build first electric HGV charging hub

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SSE Energy Solutions will build its first fully electric charging hub for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) at Tyseley Energy Park in Birmingham in the West Midlands.

The hub, located near the busy A45 in the east of the city, will accommodate up to four electric HGVs at a time and house powerful 360 kW chargers capable of dispensing up to 300 kilometres of charge within 1-2 hours, depending on the type and size of the vehicle and battery being charged.

With just 0.3% of HGVs on Britain’s roads currently electric, the project is a key milestone in SSE’s strategy to help decarbonise the road freight sector. It is estimated that diesel-run HGVs account for 17% of all road transport emissions in the UK despite making up just 5% of vehicles on its roads.

SSE has already partnered with a number of transport solutions and logistics businesses across the UK, including global logistics firm DHL, to accelerate the transition to battery-powered HGVs.

The company plans to build 500 ultra-rapid charging hubs for electric cars and commercial fleets powered by traceable, renewable energy in the UK and Ireland by 2030, with a number of sites already operational.

Established in 2010, Tyseley Energy Park is owned by the Webster and Horsfall Group and is home to the UK’s largest hydrogen refuelling station and a 10 MW waste-wood biomass power plant which generates enough electricity to power 17,000 homes.

SSE’s charging hub at the site will include a canopy which is to be formed from a combination of galvanised steel and sustainable timber and will incorporate a rainwater harvesting system to capture surface rainwater and irrigate a living green wall within the site. This means a living habitat for insects, bees, birds and bats.

Ben Brickwood, EV project development manager at SSE Energy Solutions, said: “The development of our first all-electric HGV charging hub at Tyseley Energy Park is a crucial step for SSE as we continue to enable the decarbonisation of Britain’s transport infrastructure and industries. Drawing on our expertise and experience with bus depot electrification and the roll out of EV passenger car hubs, this project demonstrates our commitment to accelerating the transition to electric for all vehicles and building the framework needed to support their rollout.

“We believe that through investments like this, and by working closely with partners like Webster and Horsfall, we can play a leading role in driving down transport emissions and building a net zero future in Birmingham, the West Midlands and beyond.”

David Horsfall, Director of Property, Tyseley Energy Park, said: “We are delighted to welcome SSE to Tyseley Energy Park and see the launch of their ambitious new HGV charging hub. This will be an enormous boost for the area which was recently re-branded as the Green Energy Innovation Quarter for Birmingham. This first of a kind HGV charging station will complement the clean fuels already on offer at TEPs low and zero carbon refuelling station and is a major step forward in the region’s efforts to improve air quality and decarbonise.”

SAVE THE DATE: Energy Management Summit 2024

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If you’re an energy management industry professional, make sure you reserve your delegate place at the next Energy Management Summit – we have both live and virtual attendance options available.

The Energy Management Summit is a unique event specifically designed for senior professionals like you within the industry!

October 8th & 9th, 2024

Radisson Hotel & Conference Centre – London Heathrow

You can attend this two-day event entirely for FREE.

BOOK YOUR PLACE HERE

£10m ENSIGN project aims to develop ‘digital twin’ for industrial clusters

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A consortium has kicked off a project to develop a digital twin for industrial clusters: The collaborative Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council’s Prosperity Partnership project, entitled ENSIGN ‘Energy System Digital Twin’, is led by Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) and includes Heriot-Watt University, University of Strathclyde, the University of St Andrews and the University of Glasgow.

The project will support the UK’s ambition to meet its 2050 net zero emissions target.

Professor John Andresen, Associate Director of RCCS at Heriot-Watt University, who works on several IDRIC projects, will lead the research on the affordable integration of net zero energy vectors, such as hydrogen, for industrial clusters.

Andresen said: “We are bringing business and academia together to co-create and co-deliver research and innovation for affordable and deep decarbonisation within industrial clusters and beyond.  This cutting-edge integration of digital twin and wider AI technologies is key to addressing industry-driven challenges and deliver economic and societal impact for sustainability and prosperity to flourish together.”

Digital twins are virtual representations of physical systems and environments which enable scenarios to be modelled, tested and analysed before applying them in the real world.  They will play a key role in designing and operating future decarbonised energy systems, especially for industrial clusters.

Digital twins’ holistic virtual methodology mirrors IDRIC’s successful whole system approach and co-creation of solutions. IDRIC has been accelerating innovation and research over the past 2 years since its launch, using this whole system approach.

The project will create more than 20 new, highly skilled academic research jobs and PhD positions. It will deliver new knowledge and understanding of future energy systems, and will integrate real-time modelling, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to help introduce and progress the application of digital twins closer to ‘business as usual’.

The project is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council’s Prosperity Partnership Fund, with matched funding from Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) and contributions from several other organisations.

Partners in the four-year project also include Heriot-Watt University, University of Strathclyde, the University of Glasgow, University of St Andrews, UK Power Networks, D’Arcy Thompson Simulator Centre, National Grid Electricity Transmission, and the National HVDC Centre.

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Synthetic biology has ‘vast potential’ across industries

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The emerging field of synthetic biology will unlock several new realms of innovation, ranging from environmentally friendly luxury materials to novel cancer therapeutics and even using DNA as a new form of data storage. Not only that, synthetic biology potentially provides advanced solutions to global challenges such as food insecurity, climate change, and plastic pollution.

That’s according to GlobalData research, which explains that synthetic biology, commonly abbreviated to synbio, involves changing the genetic material of existing biological systems by copying, cutting, or moving segments of DNA to give them new functions and characteristics.

GlobalData’s latest report, “Synthetic Biology,” highlights numerous industries, including agriculture, consumer, energy, food, healthcare, industrial materials, mining, packaging, and technology, that will be impacted.

Isabel Al-Dhahir, Senior Analyst in the Thematic Intelligence team at GlobalData, said: “The possibilities of synthetic biology are boundless. Pushed forward by the growing demand for sustainable materials, environmental remediation, and innovative therapies, synthetic biology could transform numerous industries. Growing enthusiasm saw venture capital investment into synthetic biology surpass $1 billion in 2023, a more than tenfold increase since 2016.”

Al-Dhahir continued: “Synthetic alternatives to meat, precious metals, natural fibers, fuel, and medicines, among others, continue to be developed. The environmental benefits of such innovations are often the focus, but these developments will also facilitate the next stage of supply chain management.”

Advancements in synthetic biology could enable lean supply chain management, decrease reliance on imports, and further support reshoring efforts. Accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic and sustained by the US-China trade wars, supply chain shifts are already visible as countries and corporations try to protect themselves against further disruption.

Al-Dhahir concluded: “Synthetic biology is a very young and promising field with enormous potential. However, the market has struggled to find a firm footing. Mixed public perception towards genetically modified consumer products and unclear regulations poses a significant barrier. Additionally, the field is largely dominated by startups that do not have sufficient capital to scale their production. In healthcare and technology, however, there is increased mobilization in this market by the likes of Janssen, Novartis, and Microsoft.”

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Devising a Sustainable HVAC Strategy: Key considerations for Energy Managers

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Commercial energy managers face the critical task of balancing operational efficiency with sustainability, especially in the realm of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. A sustainable HVAC strategy is paramount not just for reducing carbon footprints but also for ensuring economic efficiency and regulatory compliance. Here, we outline the key considerations for UK Energy Managers in developing such strategies…

1. Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact

The cornerstone of a sustainable HVAC strategy is energy efficiency. Energy managers must prioritise systems that minimise energy consumption while maintaining optimal performance. This includes evaluating the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of HVAC units and opting for models with higher ratings. Additionally, the environmental impact of HVAC systems, particularly in terms of refrigerants used and their Global Warming Potential (GWP), is a critical consideration. The shift towards low-GWP refrigerants is not only a sustainability practice but also aligns with regulations such as the EU’s F-Gas Regulation.

2. Integrating Renewable Energy Sources

Incorporating renewable energy sources like solar power or geothermal energy into HVAC systems can significantly enhance sustainability. Solar-assisted heat pumps, for instance, reduce reliance on conventional electricity, leveraging natural resources to cool and heat buildings. For energy managers, this means exploring opportunities for renewable integration and assessing the feasibility and cost implications of such installations.

3. Advanced Control Systems and Automation

Modern HVAC systems equipped with smart controls and automation can lead to significant energy savings. Automated systems can adjust temperatures based on occupancy, time of day, and external weather conditions, thereby optimising energy usage. Integrating these systems with Building Management Systems (BMS) allows for real-time monitoring and adjustments, providing energy managers with greater control and insight into energy consumption patterns.

4. Regular Maintenance and Upgrades

Proper maintenance of HVAC systems is vital for sustained efficiency. Energy managers must ensure regular servicing to prevent inefficiencies and identify areas for upgrades. This includes routine checks for leaks, duct cleaning, filter replacements, and system calibration. Upgrading older systems to more energy-efficient models can also yield long-term cost savings and environmental benefits.

5. Staff Training and Engagement

A successful HVAC strategy involves not just technological solutions but also human factors. Training staff on energy conservation practices and encouraging responsible use of HVAC systems can contribute significantly to sustainability goals. This involves educating employees on the impact of their actions, such as adjusting thermostats or opening windows, and fostering a culture of energy consciousness.

6. Compliance with Regulations and Standards

Adhering to national and international standards and regulations is crucial. In the UK, this means compliance with the Building Regulations, specifically Part L, which deals with the conservation of fuel and power. Energy managers must stay abreast of legislative changes and ensure that HVAC systems meet or exceed these standards.

Developing a sustainable HVAC strategy in the UK commercial sector requires a multifaceted approach. Energy managers must navigate a landscape of technological advancements, regulatory requirements, and environmental considerations. By focusing on energy-efficient technologies, renewable integration, smart systems, regular maintenance, staff engagement, and compliance, they can devise strategies that not only reduce environmental impact but also offer economic and regulatory benefits. As the emphasis on sustainability continues to grow, these strategies will become increasingly integral to the operational success and environmental stewardship of UK businesses.

Are you looking for HVAC solutions for your business? The Energy Management Summit can help!

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Do you specialise in Onsite Renewables solutions? We want to hear from you!

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Each month on Energy Management Briefing we’re shining the spotlight on a different part of the market – and in December we’ll be focussing on Onsite Renewables.

It’s all part of our ‘Recommended’ editorial feature, designed to help energy management buyers find the best products and services available today.

So, if you’re a supplier of Onsite Renewables solutions and would like to be included as part of this exciting new shop window, we’d love to hear from you – for more info, contact Danielle James on 01992 374085 / d.james@forumevents.co.uk

Our features list in full:

Dec – Onsite Renewables
Jan 24 – Energy Management Systems
Feb 24 – Renewable Energy
Mar 24 – Carbon Management
Apr 24 – Metering & Monitoring
May 24 – Water Management/Strategy
Jun 24 – Energy Storage
Jul 24 – Data Collection & Management
Aug 24 – Waste Management
Sept 24 – Solar PV
Oct 24 – Lighting
Nov 24 – Heating & Ventilation

Is GenAI the key to sustainable industry?

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As the transformation towards Industry 4.0 reaches its peak, generative AI (genAI) is looking to redefine operational processes across diverse sectors: from custom automotive designs to optimised construction blueprints, genAI’s capability to design, prototype, and support customers is marking a new dawn.

THat’s according to research from says GlobalData, with Saurabh Daga, Associate Project Manager of its Disruptive Tech division, stating: “GenAI demonstrates the incredible possibilities of combining intelligence with industry. It can play a transformative role in predicting, designing, and improving processes and products. It is not just a new tool; it can be seen as a paradigm shift in how industries approach thinking, designing, and manufacturing. The ultimate promise is achieving a unique blend of creativity and efficiency that has never been seen before.

“GenAI algorithms can decode the understanding of technicalities across different sectors, like aerospace & defense, mining, and packaging, to create sustainable and efficient solutions. It enables industries to explore new areas of design and functionality. Moreover, when applied to sectors like energy & power, genAI can support sustainable solutions by aiding the generation of optimal designs for infrastructure and systems.”

GlobalData’s Innovation Radar report, “Code to Machine – Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) Meets Industrial Sectors,” delves into over 50 real-life genAI implementations. The report categorizes these implementations based on the end-use sectors and use cases.

Hyundai’s recently launched “Open for Imagination” digital campaign uses genAI to let users craft custom outdoor dreamscapes with the new SANTA FE. Using a text-to-image AI model, it generates unique images from user-selected keywords for moods and landscapes. Accessible through Hyundai’s official Instagram, it offers interactive, personalized engagement.

ABB partnered with Microsoft to infuse genAI capabilities into industrial digital solutions. This collaboration aims to enrich the ABB Ability Genix Industrial Analytics and AI Suite, increasing user engagement and optimizing the use of contextualized data for efficiency and sustainability. ABB is leveraging Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Service to complement the ABB Ability Genix platform.

Shell is leveraging genAI technology in its deep-sea exploration and production to increase offshore oil production. It is using AI startup SparkCognition’s large AI algorithms to analyze extensive seismic data to discover new oil reservoirs in the Gulf of Mexico.

Daga concluded: “GenAI is not just a tech buzz word; it may turn out to be a game-changer for industries. Its unique ability to design, predict, and optimize can reduce design constraints. By harnessing the combination of large language models with technologies such as IoT and cloud industries can enhance efficiency all the while embracing creative design ideas, eventually leading to an innovative future.”

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