Schneider Electric’s Batam Smart Factory
Schneider Electric, the leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, has today had its Smart Factory in Batam, Indonesia, designated as an Advanced 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) Lighthouse by the World Economic Forum at its 13th Annual Meeting of the New Champions (AMNC). The Batam site is the third of the company’s factories to receive this recognition, joining its Le Vaudreuil site in France and its Wuhan site in China which were designated as Lighthouse and Developing Lighthouse sites respectively in 2018. Batam Smart Factory paving the way for digital transformation in Asia The factory in Batam has comprehensively deployed a wide range of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies including smart sensors, alarm prediction management, site benchmarking, and augmented reality to create an empowered workforce that has visibility into operations, maintenance, and energy use. With the goal to reduce maintenance costs while increasing overall equipment efficiency, the factory is so far reporting a 44% reduction in machine downtime in one year. In addition, the factory leverages IT/OT convergence by implementing digital tools like planning and scheduling management that provide an end-to-end view of demand, aligns all partners, and engages all workers, resulting in a 40% improvement in on-time delivery. It is also a testbed for machine learning, AI, predictive and digital maintenance, and connected machines and processes. With the integration of big data, cloud, and IIoT technologies, the Batam factory is paving the way for organisations in Asia to work towards their own digital transformation to become more energy efficient and sustainable in the long term. Yin Zheng, China President, and EVP, Schneider Electric, joined a dedicated session at the AMNC to discuss the benefits of the forum’s global Lighthouse network in this era of global cooperation. According to the forum, Schneider Electric’s Batam Smart Factory reflects Schneider Electric’s success in adopting 4IR technologies at scale and the impact the company has achieved to date. Being part of the global Lighthouse network means Schneider Electric will be able to share knowledge and best practices with peers and engage in new forms of collaboration, something it already does with its own Smart Factory Program. Tailored Sustainable Connected 4.0 supply chain digital transformation To date, Schneider Electric has launched nine Smart Factories in the US, Mexico, China, France, India, Indonesia, and the Philippines. These factories are core to the company’s Tailored Sustainable Connected 4.0 supply chain digital transformation, where Schneider Electric leverages digitisation through its EcoStruxure platform and architecture across its supply chain operations to deliver end-to-end integration and visibility to enhance performance. “We understand the value of the IIoT and the positive business impact that innovation and digitisation can have on our operations – particularly in our global supply chain. As a living example of how our EcoStruxure solutions deliver benefits to our customers, we are gaining those same benefits in our operation and sharing that knowledge,” said Mourad Tamoud, Executive Vice President, Global Supply Chain, Schneider Electric. “Through all of our Smart Factory showcases, we are able to demonstrate this value in real time, show the solutions at work, and share the tangible benefits that we, ourselves, are seeing from our own IIoT investment as we accelerate our Tailored Sustainable Connected 4.0 supply chain digital transformation.” Schneider Electric was recently ranked 11th in the Gartner Supply Chain Top 25 for 2019 and won the 2019 Industrial Manufacturing Supply Chainnovator Award in Gartner’s 2019 Supply Chainnovator Awards, which “recognises unconventional, innovative and high-impact supply chain initiatives in the industrial manufacturing sector.” EcoStruxure, the foundation for success Schneider Electric’s Smart Factory Program is built on its EcoStruxure platform, which comprises connected products, edge control, and applications, analytics and digital services to help decision-makers and managers digitise operations quickly, cost-effectively, and with fast return on investment. “Taking the first step towards digital transformation can seem daunting, but our EcoStruxure for Industry architecture and platform makes it easy to get started, digitising your machines and processes while maximising returns in this rapidly evolving environment,” said Peter Herweck, Executive Vice President, Industrial Automation, Schneider Electric. For more information about the Smart Factory and IIoT-enabled solutions from Schneider Electric, please visit: https://www.schneider-electric.com/en/work/campaign/innovation/overview.jsp
Welcome to Solar & Storage LIVE 2022
Join us at Solar & Storage Live from 18-20 October 2022 at the NEC, Birmingham. This is the UK’s largest renewable energy exhibition uniting the Solar, Storage & EV industries to power the energy system of the future, with 3,000+ attendees and 200+ speakers, plus it is FREE to attend. There is no better place for the community to meet, share ideas and do business. There’s something for everyone; 150+ exhibitors, a high-level conference, a start-up and innovation zone, a poster zone, strategic partners to network with and much more. More than 150 exhibitors will fill the show floor at this year’s event. As well as the exhibitors, the hall also includes five theatres each with a specific theme. This year this includes the Large-Scale Solar and Storage, Commercial & Industrial Solar and Storage, Everything Installer, Energy Storage and ChargEV Theatres. Over 200 speakers will be involved in the jam-packed agenda across the different stages, including representatives from some of the world’s largest energy companies. Solar & Storage Live are also currently seeking the brightest and most innovative start-ups who are revolutionising the Solar, Storage and EV space. Participating within our innovation zone is the best way to create business collaboration between start-ups, corporates and multinational companies. Investors will look to find their next unicorn whilst multinational companies will look to create partnerships and acquisitions. Our innovative start-ups will get the chance to take a 1 sqm stand to present their most iconic solutions, ensuring you make those valuable connections and will also be offered the chance to take up a 20 minute pitching slot within our agenda (subject to availability). To read about all this and more, see our website: https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/solar-storage-live/index.stm To register your attendance, click here For Sponsor or Exhibitor enquiries – Please contact Tom Moon, tom.moon@terrapinn.com On the evening of Wednesday 19th October 2022, attendees will gather for this years’ Solar & Storage Live Awards at the Hilton Metropole. This year, English stand-up comedian, radio DJ and actor Justin Moorhouse will be hosting the ceremony, with 13 coveted awards on offer. Categories include Contractor of the Year, Residential Solar and/or Storage Project of the Year, Commercial Solar and/or Storage Project of the Year, Utility Scale Solar and/or Storage Project of the Year, International Solar and/or Storage Project of the Year and the Alan Clark Award for Local/Community Energy amongst others.
Introducing… The Circular Lighting Report
Recolight has unveiled a news service specialising in sustainable lighting. The Circular Lighting Report is set to become the lighting industry’s onlin hub for all sustainability matters. It is an independent news and information resource, edited by the experienced lighting journalist Ray Molony. As well as news, the platform will include explainers on the latest innovations, opinion from thought leaders and video interviews with leading disruptors. Molony has an unparalleled track record of journalism in the lighting industry. With the Circular Lighting Report, he now has a platform on the Recolight website to share news, views and insights in sustainability and lighting. Announcing the partnership, Ray Molony said: “The Circular Lighting Report will be a jargon-free guide to the latest developments in sustainable and circular lighting. I see it as a place where we can learn about the people, products, projects and processes that are shaping our industry’s low carbon future..” For several years, Recolight has supported and facilitated the adoption of circular economy principles by the lighting industry. In 2022 Recolight has launched several key initiatives to provide information, practical guidance, and services to help companies transition to a circular economy. Commenting on the news, Recolight CEO Nigel Harvey said: “We are delighted that Ray is partnering with Recolight, as we drive forward our shared sustainability agenda. This development is a natural evolution from our webinar series, and will aid the transition to a low carbon lighting industry.”
InstallerSHOW moves to the NEC heralding a new era for the plumbing, heating, electric and renewables industries.
NEC Birmingham will soon open its doors for the first time to InstallerSHOW, the UK’s largest plumbing, heating and electric trade show. Taking place from 21-23 June, InstallerSHOW will see over 300 manufacturers, 100 speakers and will see an estimated 10,000 visitors descend on its new home. Previously held in Coventry, the move to a larger venue reflects the immense transformation the plumbing, heating and electrical industry is currently undertaking. The SHOW This year’s event will have a specific focus on the practical steps the industry can take now for a more sustainable future.Leading the change are a number of local manufacturers, including Worcester Bosch, one of the UK’s largest heating manufacturers. Martyn Bridges, Director of Technical Services at Worcester Bosch, commented: “The industry is in a very different place to where it was 12 months ago. Recent changes have given installers the necessary but complex task of understanding how they can operate in a more sustainable and efficient way through the products and technologies they use and integrate. InstallerSHOW is an essential part of our strategy for better informing our installer community and equipping them with the tools and information they need in order to do their job more efficiently whilst also contributing to the wider drive towards Net Zero”. Mike Costain, Managing Director of Lyrical Communications added: “With an industry increasingly transitioning towards a Net Zero future, InstallerSHOW is also evolving to meet the demands of professionals eager for guidance on meeting Government targets and customer expectations.. We’re delighted to be able to offer the industry this essential platform where they can get hands on with the products, technologies and people that are actively playing a role in shaping that future”. Some of the features visitors can expect at this year’s show include • Installing the Future. NOW! – designed to give installers a practical understanding of heat, biomass and hydrogen boilers, solar panels and energy storage. • Wates Innovation Zone – featuring exclusive product demos developed in association with market-leading suppliers of sustainable technology to help in building design, construction and maintenance. • Elemental theatres – focusing on net zero, retrofit and decarbonisation solutions in heat, water, air, and energy, aimed at decision-makers working in local authorities, social housing, and house builders. Ian Taylor, Managing Director, Conventions & Exhibitions, NEC Group commented: “It’s clear that a shift change towards a more sustainable future is necessary, and the organisers of InstallerSHOW are pivotal to this change. Birmingham is brimming with talented companies in this sector, who, whilst locally located, are contributing to the wider national movement to reduce our carbon footprint. Bringing the show to the NEC will create a positive trading environment for sharing expertise and ideas in this area across the heating and energy community.” For further information, or if you would like to visit InstallerSHOW please visit: Installer 2022 Registration About Worcester Bosch Worcester Bosch was established in 1962 and has been part of the Bosch Group since 1996. Manufacturing gas and oil boilers for domestic use from two manufacturing plants – Worcester and Clay Cross. Employing 1850 people in the UK, Worcester Bosch is the UK market leader in boiler technology. Worcester Bosch also has a range of smart controllers and renewable technologies. For more information on Worcester’s full range of gas and oil boilers, please visit: https://www.worcester-bosch.co.uk/. Alternatively, follow Worcester Bosch on Twitter (@WorcsBoschCare), Instagram (@WorcesterBosch) and Facebook (@WorcesterBosch).
A simple plan to maximise the potential of your BEMS
Over the course of its 30+ years as an association the BCIA has successfully adapted to changing demands, new trends and evolving technology to maintain its position as a single leading voice representing the BEMS sector in the UK. As the organisation has grown, whether purely by increasing membership, becoming more influential in government policy or developing career pathways, the overall aim to promote better understanding, application and use of building controls has always remained as the common motive in discussions, decisions and initiatives. In keeping with promoting a better understanding, the Technical Guides designed by the BCIA’s Technical Working Group provide a helpful, one stop shop to enable members to work more effectively and also to provide the necessary information to potential clients so they can become familiar with whatever systems they are having installed and what it will do for their buildings. With rising energy costs and the Net-Zero by 2050 target moving closer every day, energy efficiency in buildings has never been more crucial. Consequently, the importance and impact of BEMS will continue to grow and the innovation behind them will continue to improve. To ensure a BEMS is as efficient as it can be it is important that it is planned, installed and maintained correctly. The BCIA’s Technical Guide on planning your building controls and building energy management system provides a simple breakdown of everything that needs to be considered when planning a BEMS. The two-part document forms an essential checklist of questions about the building, such as whether it is a new-build or a refurbishment project, who the end users are and what they want the BEMS to achieve, the ongoing maintenance plan for the BEMS and how its data will be stored and used. By considering and answering these questions you can build up a robust outline of the requirements of your BEMS. BCIA President Graeme Rees said: “Specifiers and building managers have a significant amount of energy under their control so it is important that they consider their objectives and examine their priorities. It should not be assumed that the BEMS will achieve these objectives, unless they have been discussed with the controls specialist. The questions in this document are designed to guide you towards a clear picture of what the BEMS needs to achieve, and any particular requirements you might have for a particular project.” All Technical Guides can be downloaded from the “Resources” section of the BCIA website. www.bcia.co.uk
Designing and manufacturing transformer products since 1979
Established in 1979 Electro-Wind have been designing and manufacturing single and three phase transformer products for customers in the UK, Europe, and Global Markets over the past 40 years. As a second-generation family owned and operated company, over the past couple of years Electro-Wind has seen exponential growth, both standard and custom-built products have proved to be in demand. Material shortages in the general marketplace has boosted their UK manufacturing base. With a strong commitment and continuous passion for the businesses’ success, Electro-Wind have expanded their manufacturing premises to be based over the two sites. Investment in stock has proved not only to ensure continuity of production but enables prices to be kept as consistent as possible. With an ongoing recruitment campaign in place, Electro-Wind’s director Rachel Stanley-Cooper commented “We are continually looking for candidates that are passionate and committed to working in a established company with forward thinking values to sustain our growth and for succession planning and promotion.” With a very low staff turnover, many of the long-established team members have worked for the company for over the 20years, however the business has expanded dramatically over the past few years with the addition of many new recruits. Jeff Roberts has most recently joined the sales team. With a strong background in the electrical distribution and wholesale markets he has had many years direct experience within the electrical industry. Justyna Rokita originally from Zabrze, Poland moved to England 18 years ago. Justyna has many years of experience in electrical assembly work and currently works winding small to medium sized coils. Jack Colclough attended engineering courses at College and a Mechanical Work placement before joining Electro-Wind in the winding department Alister Holmes joined the assembly department as a core builder, Alister’s considerable experience came from working in Bespoke Lighting for several years Matt Gould has an electrical background as a qualified Electrician prior to joining Electro-Wind as a builder and finisher Chris Ball worked in the construction industry whilst working on an engineering qualification before joining the winding department Demand for custom built, British made products seems to be higher than ever and the drive to sustain growth and invest in staff is an ongoing priority for Electro-Wind. Visit the website for more information: www.electro-wind.co.uk
Tradesperson’s Turmoil: Tools stolen every 17 minutes
A tool has been stolen from a tradesperson every 17 minutes in England, Wales and Northern Ireland since March 2021, according to new analysis of police force data from Direct Line business insurance.1 In total, 31,161 tools were stolen, the majority of which (17,370) were taken by thieves breaking into vehicles. This marks an increase since before the Covid-19 pandemic. In the 2019 calendar year 28,681 cases of tool theft were reported, the equivalent of one stolen every 20 minutes.2 This growing problem is unsurprisingly hitting tradespeople hard financially. With the average value of a stolen tool costing £3852, there has been £80 million worth of equipment taken over the last year, compounding the issues for tradespeople trying to bounce back from the pandemic. While thefts from London represented 62 per cent of all incidents (19,351), Northumbria came out on top when population density was considered: Regions with the highest levels of tool theft per resident – Direct Line business insurance, 2022: Ranking Region 1 Northumbria 2 London 3 South West 4 Yorkshire and the Humber 5 East Midlands 6 North East 7 North West 8 East of England 9 South East 10 Northern Ireland Alison Traboulsi, Product Manager at Direct Line business insurance commented: “At a time when people are facing serious cost of living challenges, heartless criminals are taking away the livelihoods of hardworking tradespeople. It is not just the value of the tools stolen, theft can cause big delays on site, causing huge additional costs and causing serious scheduling headaches. We urge those considering purchasing second-hand tools to question the provenance to limit opportunities for criminals to dispose of stolen goods.” “At Direct Line, we are committed to helping tradespeople deal with the consequences of tool theft so that they can get back to work quickly. Our Tools and Business Equipment cover, which is available with Public Liability insurance, comes with Tools Essentials. This service helps tradespeople get back to work quickly by helping them to replace their essential tools within 24 hours of a valid tools claim, by providing an upfront faster payment of up to £1,500, subject to a few checks. Claims can be reported between 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday, except Bank Holidays, policy limits and exclusions apply. “We also offer a range of van insurance covers which can help tradespeople deal with damage to or theft of their vehicle.” For more information about Direct Line’s van and tradesperson insurance, please visit our website: https://www.directlineforbusiness.co.uk/public-liability-insurance/tradesman-insurance https://www.directlineforbusiness.co.uk/van-insurance
Weekly trade suicides represented in ‘Lunch atop a Skyscraper’ photo recreation for Mental Health Awareness Week
For Mental Health Awareness Week (9th-15th May), the iconic ‘Lunch atop a Skyscraper’ image has been recreated with 11 mannequins to represent the number of tradespeople who die from suicide each week. The display was organised by IronmongeryDirect as part of its annual campaign to raise awareness of mental health amongst the UK trades. Its 2022 report found that more than four in five (82%) UK tradespeople deal with some form of mental health problem due to work, and sadly, many take their own lives as a result. ‘Lunch atop a Skyscraper’ photo recreation for Mental Health Awareness Week Government data shows that there are 589 suicides in the industry each year, which works out at 11 per week, on average. To visualise this tragic statistic, IronmongeryDirect positioned 11 mannequins on a platform, which was then lifted 30m into the air by a crane that was kindly donated by the excellent team at Bandshire Crane Hire. This year marks the 90th anniversary of the original skyscraper photo being taken, and the number of ironworkers in the scene matches the weekly suicide figure. The original ‘Lunch atop a Skyscraper’ photo from 1932 As part of its campaign, the Essex-based ironmongery supplier has partnered with the mental health charity, Basildon Mind, and is donating over £3,000 to support its crucial services. Emma Mamo, Head of Workspace Wellbeing at Mind, said: “In male-dominated industries such as construction, employees are often less willing and able to open up about their mental health and ask for support. This can be problematic because mental health problems often become worse if left untreated, and the consequences can be fatal. “We urge employers to create cultures where employees can speak openly and honestly about their mental health.” Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect, said: “The Lunch atop a Skyscraper image is famous for its message of hope for the industry and camaraderie between workers, so it’s heart-breaking to think that the same number of tradespeople seen in the photo die from suicide every single week. “Unfortunately, our research found that almost nine in ten individuals don’t feel comfortable talking about their mental health, yet this is one of the most positive steps people can take to start addressing any issues. “We hope that by raising awareness of mental health in the trades, this stigma can be removed and the situation can start to improve.” To read IronmongeryDirect’s Mental Health in the Trades: 2022 report, visit: https://www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/research/mental-health-in-the-trades/
Football legends officially open MKM Aldershot
Footballing legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and commentary supreme Martin Tyler have teamed up to launch MKM’s new Aldershot branch, which officially opened its doors to the trade and public this Monday (9th May). Customers, fans, and staff all witnessed ‘Just how the pros do it’, with twice Premier League Golden Boot Winner, Hasselbaink, taking penalties against MKM Aldershot Co-Branch Director, Matthew Ince, while Martin Tyler provided expert commentary on the proceedings, all in celebration of the new merchant opening its doors. Matthew Ince, MKM Aldershot’s Co-Branch Director, commented, “Having two football icons in Jimmy and Martin come down to help officially open our new branch was absolutely fantastic. It was an incredible day, with plenty of customers in attendance to celebrate with us. We’re delighted to have opened our doors and are looking forward to providing a first-class service to customers in the local area.” In addition to Jimmy and Martin helping to officially open the new branch, MKM Aldershot also announced a charity partnership with Help for Heroes on the day, highlighting the branches’ local ties and understanding of the area’s rich military heritage. All-time leading Aldershot FC goal scorer, Mark Butler, also attended the opening, in recognition of MKM becoming a sponsor of the club, further cementing the branches’ place within its local community. Luke James, MKM Aldershot’s Co-Branch Director, said: “We’re delighted that all the hard work leading to this moment has paid off. Our goal is to provide the people of Aldershot and the surrounding areas with quality building supplies at reasonable prices. Of course, the work is only just beginning, today is day one, but we’re so happy to have had Jimmy, Martin and Mark join us for this special moment.” The new branch, on a 2-acre site, is conveniently located at Unit 1, Blackwater Park, just seconds off the A331, and stocks the latest in building and landscaping supplies, while also boasting a stunning kitchen and bathroom showroom. “Our new branch has created around 20 new jobs in the area, with our team carefully selected to ensure our customers have access to the best expertise and advice available, alongside the quality products we offer,” explains Matthew Ince. “That’s why we have specialists in branch for several areas, including plumbing and heating, kitchen and bathrooms, landscaping, and more. Whether you’re in the trade or just looking to add value to your home, everyone is welcome to pay us a visit, meet the team and find out how we can help with your next project.” For more information, visit www.mkmbs.co.uk
