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WINTER 2020

CHP RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGY INSULATION As organisations With renewable being Pipe Insulation has coordinate their economic the energy source been selected for recovery from the global most resilient to a Grade 1 listed pandemic, CHP can COVID-19 lockdown Georgian spa deliver impressive energy measures, we examine hotel in Buxton. But and cost savings 9 four ways to digitalise your grid 29 why was it chosen? 32 EM-WIN20-EDF:EM-WIN20-EDF 16/12/2020 12:31 Page 1 EM-WIN20-PG03_Layout 1 14/12/2020 14:47 Page 3

CONTENTSCOVER STORY CONTENTS

Diesel Rotary Uninterruptible Power Supply NEWS Monitoring & metering Looking into the benefits of Power 26. Taking the right steps towards energy Continuity’s Diesel Rotary 4. Plans for underwater energy monitoring Uninterruptible Power Supply super-highway in development 27. Monitoring an energy 5. Project to develop near zero emissions self-sufficient water internal combustion engine announced reclamation plant

FEATURES Renewable technology To ensure that you continue to receive 29. Grid digitalisation: how your free personal copy of this Combined heat & power (CHP) COVID-19 is accelerating change magazine, please ﬁll in the reader registration card, or register online at 9. Six reasons why CHP is good for business 30. Harnessing the ground’s geothermal www.connectingindustry.com potential 10. The hidden value of compressed air heat recovery 31. Keeping solar shining Energy Management is sent free of charge to individuals who meet the publisher’s strict terms of control. Building Management Systems Insulation

Annual subscription rates are: 12. Building-in digitalization 32. A kool solution for insulating historic building pipework UK - £45.00 14. Smart solutions for smart buildings Overseas - £103.00

Connecting Industry, London Road, 17 Eco power Maidstone, Kent, ME16 8LY 17. A volt from the blue: How electric vehicles Tel: 01622 687031 can give back to the grid www.datateam.co.uk

HVAC 21. Making district heating more sustainable 22. High ceilings, low energy 31 23. A sustainable approach to plate heat exchangers The statements and opinions expressed in connectingindustry/Instrumentation magazine are not those of the editor or Datateam Business Media Ltd unless described as such Lighting & controls 24. Let there be light! www.facebook.com/EMmagazineDatateam 25. Learning about the benefits of LED lighting @CI_EnergyMan

EDITOR ADVERTISING MANAGER CIRCULATION ENQUIRIES Rachael Morling Lisa Smith Tel: 01580 883844 Tel: 01622 687031 Tel: 01622 699179 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR PRODUCTION MANAGER Louise Tiller Claire Noe Tel: 01622 699129 Tel: 01622 607963 [email protected]

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PLANS FOR UNDERWATER ENERGY SUPER-HIGHWAY IN DEVELOPMENT

east of Scotland, a hub for offshore renewables, “CoP26 will provide the perfect opportunity for down to two points in the north-east of the UK to showcase its innovation, progress and England, Selby and Hawthorn Point. leadership in tackling climate change and we are The east coast of Scotland is already home to proud to be major partners in the event. almost 1GW of operational offshore wind farms “We firmly believe the UK can achieve its with a further 4.4GW in the pipeline, and up to ambitious net zero targets but it must be done 10GW predicted following the outcome of the next through investment and innovation in essential Scottish offshore wind leasing round, Scotwind. projects like the Eastern Link, providing benefits Survey works along the route have recently for customers and society in the long term. commenced, with construction works currently “CoP’s success is, in part, thanks to the expected to take place from 2024. collaboration of sectors, industries and countries Three of the UK’s largest energy firms have Alistair Phillips-Davies, chief executive of SSE, and we are looking forward to exploring this confirmed they are developing plans to deliver an said: “The development of the East Coast link is mammoth opportunity with SSE and national Grid.” underwater super-highway that will see the north one of the most exciting energy developments nicola Shaw, UK executive director at national Sea become the hidden power house of Europe. over recent decades. It is essential to delivering Grid, said: “This project will help transport enough The Eastern Link will be made up of some of the the UK’s 40GW offshore wind target by 2030 renewable electricity for around 4.5 million homes world’s longest subsea HVDC cables with a and critical to our own commitment to build a across the UK and will become part of the combined capacity of up to 4GW. The project will network for net zero emissions. backbone of the UK’s energy system. It’s a great be led by SSE, ScottishPower and national Grid, “With the eyes on the UK ahead of CoP26 example of companies working together on setting off from Peterhead and Torness. next year, this project clearly demonstrates impressive engineering feats that will help the The cables will significantly increase the how the UK is leading the world in tackling the country hit its net zero carbon target by 2050. UK’s capacity for clean, green, renewable power, climate emergency and supporting thousands of www.nationalgrid.com enabling enough electricity for around four jobs and supply chain opportunities.” www.scottishpower.com million homes to travel up to 440km from the Keith Anderson, CEo of ScottishPower, said: https://sse.co.uk/home

FIAT CHrySLEr AUToMoBILES SELECTS THE UK AS A TESTBED For EV InnoVATIon

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and Kaluza, a leading times when carbon intensity is lowest and energy Mitsubishi Electric has announced intelligent energy platform, have entered into a is cheapest, without the need for a separate smart that SAV has become a Value Added reseller (VAr), joining the Memorandum of Understanding aimed at exploring charge point. At scale, this would enable drivers to manufacturer as a specialist provider how to deliver cheaper, simpler and more sustainable benefit from reduced bills, lower carbon emissions and of central plant rooms for heat EV charging services to FCA’s customers through a seamless in-app charging experience oriented networks and energy metering and Kaluza’s pioneering cloud platform. around their individual needs. monitoring systems. During the first phase of their partnership, the two A select group of Fiat 500 EV customers in the UK “At SAV, we’ve been pushing companies will develop a smart charging service for will be invited to trial the smart charging service hard over the years to lower heat Fiat 500 EV customers using the Kaluza platform. during the first half of 2021, and provide ongoing network design and operating temperatures, to improve efficiency The direct-to-car technology will leverage live data feedback through dedicated forums. and enable inclusion of more low from local grid operators to shift car charging to www.fcagroup.com carbon heat sources. Mitsubishi Electric’s heat pumps fit perfectly into this journey as heat pump CoPs Welcome to the Winter issue of SIEMENS POWERS are optimised in low temperature Energy Management, published as ZERO-EMISSION BUSES heat networks,” said Jan Hansen, the temperatures have started to director for SAV Systems. www.sav-systems.com drop, the heating’s being turned up, In partnership with Tower Transit, and the tumble dryer is working Siemens Smart Infrastructure has overtime in many homes – leading provided the charging infrastructure ByteSnap Design has launched an electric vehicle (EV) charging many of us to think about rising for 37 new fully-electric double division, Versinetic. The new division energy bills and climate change. decker buses in London. will provide a range of hardware, Just recently, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced his ‘Ten Point Westbourne Park garage is software and consultancy services all Plan’ for a ‘green industrial revolution’. The plan includes such areas the operator’s first depot with under one roof for manufacturers of as: offshore wind production; the generation of low carbon hydrogen; fully electric routes with power EV charge points. advancing nuclear as a clean energy source; accelerating the transition infrastructure, maintenance and www.bytesnap.com to electric vehicles; research projects for zero emission planes and charging facilities. Here, Siemens ships; greener and more energy efficient homes and public buildings, provided 34 AC and four DC Sicharge Vital Energi is set to support heat and much more. Expected to create around 250,000 jobs, the Plan will units (AC22 & UC200), supplying network skills development with the opening of a £2million training help the UK move towards its net zero target. a total charging power of two centre at its Blackburn HQ. As can be seen in the pages of this issue, there are many ways to megawatts. Buses are recharged Gary Fielding, chairman of Vital reduce emissions and save energy. In this issue, for example, we find primarily overnight or during Energi, said: “As a company out: how Combined Heat & Power (CHP) can deliver impressive energy operational breaks via the AC22s. The dedicated to providing sustainable, and operational cost savings; why vehicle-to-grid (V2G) charging could high-power UC200 DC charging- long-term heat and power solutions, tempt more drivers to purchase electric vehicles; the benefits of ground units provide fast charging. we believe it’s our responsibility to source heat pumps; and if heat exchangers are being overlooked when The Metrodecker EVs will save help close the skills gap facing our industry and support the workforce it comes to energy efficiency. more than 1,800 tons in greenhouse that is set to deliver the UK’s low- gas emissions well-to-wheel in carbon future.” Rachael Morling - Editor each year of operation versus a Euro www.vitalenergi.co.uk VI bus. https://new.siemens.com

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VERT TECHNOLOGIES RECEIVES GRANT FUNDING proJeCT To DeVeLop neAr Zero eMISSIonS FOR ENERGY HARVESTING TECHNOLOGY InTernAL CoMBUSTIon enGIne AnnoUnCeD edinburgh-based Vert Technologies has been awarded £60,000 from Innovate UK to fund the development of revolutionary technology to Heat management specialist, Zircotec, has announced its involvement harvest wasted energy from the UK’s natural gas distribution network. with Dolphin n2, now owned by fpT Industrial, and Brighton University, The grant comes from Innovate UK’s £134million Sustainable on a ground-breaking project to develop a new internal combustion Innovation fund aimed at helping SMes respond to CoVID-19. It will be engine that has the potential to transform the commercial powertrain used to optimise the company’s disruptive Conical rotary Compressor market with its near zero emissions. (CrC) technology for expander applications which can harvest energy Zircotec provides cutting edge thermal coatings and precision, from natural gas distribution systems. ceramically coated components, along with its patented encapsulated Large-scale compression stations have traditionally been used to heatshields that meet the very high demands of this recuperated split- drive the flow of gas through the UK’s fixed natural gas pipeline cycle, next generation engine. networks. However, as the pressure required by the majority of end-use Two versions of the recuperated split-cycle engine are being developed, applications is significantly lower, much of the energy added to the gas called Thermopower and Cryopower. Likely to run on diesel at first, the new by compression is ultimately wasted. technology is expected to significantly reduce the amount of fuel consumed. Vert Technologies believes its CrC technology can be adapted to recover The new collaborative project, a significant portion of the wasted energy and use it to drive an electrical called re-ArMD (recuperated generator. The company will use its Innovate UK funding to develop the engine – Advanced route to Conical rotary expander (Cre), in partnership with G-plus Technology. Market Demonstrator) will www.vert.co.uk demonstrate that it can also run on carbon-free hydrogen fuel. The engine separates the ‘cold’ Green enerGy DeAL CoULD See CITy of and ‘hot’ parts of the traditional LonDon CorporATIon SAVe £3MILLIon internal combustion engine (ICe). A first set of cylinders draw in A ‘pioneering’ £40million green energy deal could provide a blueprint air and compress it – in the for local authorities seeking to reduce carbon emissions and cut costs, Cryopower version, liquid nitrogen is injected at a temperature of almost according to the City of London Corporation. -200˚C to keep this process cool for maximum efficiency. The simpler The governing body of the Square Mile has signed a power purchase Thermopower omits the use of liquid nitrogen and uses water. Then the agreement with Voltalia – an international player in renewable energies compressed air passes through a recuperator, where the engine’s exhaust – to buy all the electricity produced by a new-build 95,000-panel solar heats it up – saving fuel which normally has to do this. The air now passes to farm in Dorset for 15 years. the second, hot cylinder set, which are thoroughly insulated – unfeasible in a The deal, the first of its kind in the UK to be signed directly between normal ICe where the same cylinder handles hot and cold processes. a renewables producer and governing authority, will enable Voltalia to The Zircotec coatings massively reduce the temperatures in the areas of leverage cash to build the facility, while saving the City Corporation the engine where heat is not wanted, reducing heat transfer, keeping the around £3million in energy costs. heat in the hot part of the engine. Through the retention of heat in the The solar plant will have a total capacity of 49.9 megawatts – enough to combustion cycle, significantly less energy is lost through the cooling power the equivalent of 15,000 homes – and will provide over half the City system, thus a high-performance efficiency is produced. The heavy duty Corporation’s electricity, powering buildings including its historic Guildhall thermal propulsion system offers fuel-cell levels of efficiency (55% Brake

headquarters, three wholesale markets and the Barbican arts centre. Thermal efficiency) and near-zero emissions (5% euVI nox). Jamie Ingham Clark, chair of the City of London Corporation’s Corporate The recuperated split cycle engine is relatively low cost and easy to Asset Sub-Committee, said: “This is a pioneering scheme which we hope will manufacture. It aims to compete with zero emission drivetrains, targeting lead the way for local authorities across the UK. It means they can play their long haul trucks (where zero-emission technology is least easy to apply), part in reducing emissions without the risks of owning their own energy 0.5-50MW distributed power generation (an area seeing rapid growth to firms or infrastructure and without the need for Government funding. reinforce electricity grids and balance out intermittent renewables), and www.cityoflondon.gov.uk www.voltalia.com mixed-mode rail. www.zircotec.com

BAXI HEATING COMMITS TO A CLEANER, GREENER, PRODUCT PORTFOLIO

Baxi Heating UK and Ireland, part of gases today. To tackle that figure and decarbonise existing homes by 2050, all BDr Thermea Group, has promised to new heating installations must be low carbon by 2035 at the latest according revolutionise the way we heat our homes to the UK’s official climate advisor, the Committee on Climate change (CCC). and buildings. The announcement coincides new builds will also have to have low carbon heating from the mid-2020s. with the prime Minister’s 10-point plan for Baxi Heating is committed to delivering low carbon solutions to homes a Green Industrial revolution and places and businesses and to driving down costs through innovation and product Baxi Heating at the heart of the ‘heating evolution – building on its ambition to make the world a better place for transformation’ that is required to achieve future generations. the UK’s climate targets. As part of the Green Industrial plan, the prime Minister has committed Karen Boswell oBe, recently appointed managing director, said: “our to create the first hydrogen heated neighbourhood by 2023, the first pledge is to be carbon neutral in all our operations by 2030, and to lead the village by 2025 and the first entire town by the end of the decade. Baxi phase-out of carbon intensive heating by ensuring every product we make Heating and BDr Thermea Group intend to be at the vanguard of this from 2025 will work with low carbon energy.” mission and are currently developing and testing one of the UK’s first The company has committed to a portfolio of cleaner, greener products, 100% hydrogen boilers. The boiler manufacturer has been working closely that will work with low carbon fuels by 2025, either directly such as with Government to trial hydrogen and other low-carbon heating hydrogen boilers, heat pumps, smart electric water heating and heat technologies. To date, Baxi Heating has been involved in the UK’s networks or hydrogen ready boilers than can be converted after installation. hydrogen taskforce, Hy4Heat, HyDeploy and USer projects. Baxi Heating plays a prominent role in the residential and commercial It has also recently introduced a new range of low-carbon heat pumps heating market, providing heating and hot water solutions to UK homes and to its portfolio of sustainable heating products, which will be targeted businesses. As such, it has a huge responsibility to drive positive change and towards a wide range of markets. These include new build and rural reduce greenhouse gas emissions. properties, supporting a UK wide aspiration for 600,000 annual heat Heating is responsible for 37% of the UK’s total contribution to greenhouse pump installations by 2028. www.baxiheating.co.uk

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE COVER STORY

DIESEL ROTARY UNINTERRUPTIBLE POWER SUPPLY Looking into the benefits of Power Continuity’s Diesel Rotary Uninterruptible Power Supply WITH POWER COMES Diesel Rotary RESPONSIBILITY Uninterruptible Power GRID Power outages happen and will Supplies provide peace happen to your site too. of mind for any mission Momentary spikes and brown outs are critical business increasing each month due to harmonic production facility distortions caused by UK reliance on Alternative Energy Sources. Unlike Fossil fuel and Nuclear, these alternatives peak and trough. Therefore, the responsibility to carry out weekly OFF load tests as well as monthly ON BUILDING LOAD tests are a necessity. This proves the system will both start and support the site during a power outage. Test & Test again. AT THE START OF YOUR JOURNEY Whether it’s your production facility, data centre, laboratory, aerospace facility, or distribution centre, Power Continuity Systems give you peace of mind – knowing, whatever happens, your 100% iesel Rotary Uninterruptible Power INSTANTANEOUS POWER PROTECTION Automatic Power Protection System will Supplies provide peace of mind for WITHOUT BATTERIES OR DIESEL? provide TRUE 24/7 Business Continuity. Dany mission critical business production All our N+N rotary flywheel installations Please visit - facility. Kinetic energy stored within the will support multiple short power outages https://powercontinuity.co.uk/critical flywheels is discharged instantaneously, without any requirement for batteries or -power-planning-design/ ensuring that your facility carries on diesel generators. regardless. Installed NO Break Power The kinetic energy held within the THROUGHOUT YOUR JOURNEY Systems ensure seamless emergency flywheels will discharge, instantaneously, AND BEYOND, WE’RE HERE TO power without any interruptions at all. supporting your critical production SUPPORT YOU External GRID Power outages won’t affect site, flawlessly. Power Continuity Engineers will service & your company because you’re covered In the event of a prolonged power maintain your emergency standby diesel 24/7 by Power Continuity. outage, then the support diesel engine generator to ensure that it will prevent generator will start to support the Rotary power outage disruption forever. BATTERY FREE RELIABLE STANDBY UPS system ensuring 24/7 power. Each system is a fully automatic, power EMERGENCY POWER SOLUTIONS protection solution. Diesel Rotary Uninterruptible Power DESIGN, BUILD AND INSTALL – MAIN Once installed, we’ll eliminate ALL & ANY Supplies don’t rely on Lead Acid Batteries CONTRACTOR GRID disruptions forever, ensuring or any Chemical based battery storage for At Power Continuity we design and build Business Continuity. 24/7. Power their power source. our own generators as well as installing Continuity is our name and our business. Kinetic energy is chemical free. This can the whole operational system with our be used over and over again as its energy own engineers. Ground works, bespoke FOR REAL 100% NO BREAK POWER PROTECTION is replaced rapidly, unlike batteries that power rooms, containerised data centres, SOLUTIONS take hours to replenish. data centre refurbishments. Each Power Continuity Rotary Power Conception to implementation, every We DESIGN- We BUILD- We INSTALL- We MAINTAIN installation is supported by a rapid start part of the journey is handled by our Uninterruptible Rotary Power Solutions diesel generator. Therefore, ours are own trained teams, who together have dependable 24/7 power protection over 25 years of ‘in the field’ front line WE ARE POWER CONTINUITY systems that can run for hours or even experience, power protecting the days – your power guaranteed. biggest names in the UK. Call us on T: 0845 055 8455. We’re here to help 24/7

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COMBINED HEAT & POWER FEATURE

As organisations Six reasons why CHP is coordinate their economic recovery from good for business the global pandemic, Combined Heat and Power (CHP) can deliver impressive energy and operational cost savings, while also supporting business resilience and sustainability. Hugh Richmond, CEO of distributed energy company Edina, explains

A number of tax and HP/cogeneration is frequently the 3. TAX INCENTIVES storage to access the most lucrative, financial incentives most effective energy cost reduction A number of tax and financial incentives fast response markets. increase the economic Ctechnology, particularly for sites with a increase the economic case for case for cogeneration. 5. BOLSTERING ENERGY RESILIENCE The most significant is high heating or cooling demand, where cogeneration. The most significant is exemption from Climate CHP can yield savings of around 30% exemption from Climate Change Levy CHP systems have a very high uptime – Change Levy (CCL) on and rapid payback of two to three years. (CCL) on natural gas input fuel and typically operating at 97% availability. natural gas input fuel So here are six benefits of CHP: self-generated electricity used on site. Sites with a reliable gas supply can benefit and self-generated This can provide thousands of pounds from a stable supply of power, heat and, electricity used on site. 1. HIGH EFFICIENCY worth of energy cost savings as CCL is if necessary, steam to keep operations This can provide CHP is almost twice as efficient as using one of the biggest green taxes. running smoothly. thousands of pounds separate grid power and individual boilers. Huge increases in CCL rates were Although most CHP units are set up worth of energy If correctly sized, cogeneration can achieve introduced in 2019 to replace lost tax to use a small percentage of grid power, cost savings efficiencies of up to 90%. revenues when the Carbon Reduction they can be run independently from the Since energy is generated and Commitment (CRC) Energy Efficiency electricity network in island mode. This consumed on-site, there are none of Scheme was phased out. CCL on natural ensures business continuity in the event the transmission and distribution losses gas increased by a further 19.7% on 1 April of power supply disruption. Alternatively, of transporting electricity from remote 2020 and will continue to increase sharply standby emergency generators, or battery power plants. In addition, these through to 2023, making the CHP storage can be used in tandem with CHP traditional, unabated power stations, exemption on gas even more beneficial. systems to ensure back-up power. generate a significant amount of To qualify for CCL exemption, waste heat. By contrast, CHP systems cogeneration projects must qualify as 6. ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS recover much of the heat ‘lost’ during ‘good quality’ CHP under the Combined Due to its high efficiency and utilisation generation and use it to heat spaces, Heat and Power Quality Assurance of waste heat, natural gas cogeneration water, or in process heating. (CHPQA) scheme. CHPQA assured schemes can reduce emissions, with renewable By connecting an absorption chiller to a may also be eligible for preferential CHP delivering much greater carbon CHP system it can be used in trigeneration business rates and taxation benefits under savings. Government figures on the total mode to produce chilled water for use in the Annual Investment Allowance. carbon savings of the UK’s installed processes like refrigeration and process CHP, relative to fossil-fuel power 4. FLEXING POWER FOR PROFIT cooling, or for air conditioning. stations, were 10.47 MtCO2 in 2019. CHP systems are usually connected CHP systems can play a complementary 2. ULTRA-LOW FUEL PRICES to the network electricity supply to role alongside other low and zero Gas-fuelled CHP systems can generate maximise system efficiency and ensure carbon measures as organisations power much more cheaply than availability of power at all times. This work towards net-zero goals. Some purchasing network electricity because provides an opportunity to use power companies reinvest the substantial cash wholesale gas prices are so much lower flexibly so that grid electricity is savings from CHP in renewable projects than power prices and this long-term only used when wholesale prices are that may have a longer payback time. trend looks set to continue. cheapest. Self-generated power can As a market-leader in the supply, The latest UK government energy be used at expensive peak times. installation and after-care support of statistics reveal that the gas Spark Spread There’s also scope to generate CHP systems, Edina can provide flexible (the difference between the retail price revenue from flexible power capacity finance to support project delivery and of energy and the cost of fuel used to via grid-balancing Demand Side help power your future. generate that energy) is currently at its Response schemes, such as the Capacity highest in nearly 20 years – reaching a Market. CHP systems can also be Edina peak of 5.6 in the last quarter of 2019. used in combination with battery www.edina.eu

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FEATURE COMBINED HEAT & POWER

The hidden value of compressed air heat recovery

Atlas Copco looks into how recovering the waste heat from air compressors can help manufacturers lower their carbon footprint and enhance energy efficiency

ocial responsibility is forcing manufacturers some can recover up to 94% of the to find new ways of reducing their carbon supply energy to the air compressor. Semissions and energy consumption. Although Air-cooled systems – which the use of low-energy light bulbs and automated cool compressed air using a lower heating offer some immediate carbon savings, pressure air stream – are common there is still pressure to reduce this even further. in small and medium compressor

Aside from the negative impact of CO2 systems. This warmed air can then production on the environment, there is also be used to heat buildings. The the financial burden of energy usage. For this energy-saving comes from a reason, manufacturing companies are actively reduction in heating purchased exploring ways to lower their carbon footprint from external sources. Unfortunately, and enhance energy efficiency. this saving can only be realised in the One area that offers a significant opportunity colder months of the year.

to reduce CO2 emissions is by recovering the Oil-cooled systems use a flow of oil to remove waste heat from air compressors. While this has heat from the compressed air. In a closed system, gained some traction in Europe, the adoption of the oil can be routed back into the manufacturing company was

compressed air energy recovery has been slower process. Heat is transferred into the able to reduce CO2 emissions by 260,000 tonnes in the UK, with the perceived complexity of heat manufacturing process in a heat exchanger, thus per year by using this recovery method. recovery systems contributing to the slow uptake. reducing the need for electric or gas heating. In addition, a packaging plant in Northern Nevertheless, research shows that significant Water-cooled systems can be open or closed Ireland found a different use for recovered benefits can be gained. The experience of those and circulating or non-circulating, with the energy. Greiner Packaging uses its excess already pursuing this strategy confirms this data. most useful being a closed-loop system with heat to contribute to the central heating Statistics show that compressed air typically circulating water. Water circulates between the system of a local secondary school. Dungannon accounts for about 12% of the total energy costs air compressor cooler and a process heat Integrated College has 600 pupils and uses for industrial manufacturers, and up to 40% for exchanger, resulting in a transfer of excess £40,000 of heating on an annual basis. In this some. However, 70-94% of energy consumed compressor heat into the manufacturing process, case, Atlas Copco installed Z-range oil-free by air compressors is recoverable. Without any thus reducing the need for heating. In a closed- screw compressors with water coolers for energy form of recovery, this energy is lost through loop system, water quality is strictly controlled recovery. Up to 80% of the electrical input energy radiation to the atmosphere or through cooling using additives, which prevents the build-up of is recovered as hot water. The school also

systems. The carbon equivalent of every kW of mineral deposits. As such, the system is efficient reduced its CO2 footprint by 200 metric tons

energy saved makes this a viable target for CO2 and clean and can remain operational for a long through reduced energy purchase. reduction measures. period without intervention. These case studies demonstrate both the Recovering heat from compressed air reduces environmental and financial opportunities of RECOVERING HEAT the need for purchasing energy; and it is this investing in compressed air heat recovery, yet

Compressing air generates heat. However, the reduction that results in lower CO2 emissions most industrial companies in the UK are still air must be cooled before it can be used. In and operating costs. Due to the high cost of to embrace and realise the benefits of the many systems, the air is cooled between energy, these savings can be significant in technology. Indeed, it is estimated that 90% of compression stages and then again at the end. terms of helping companies to meet their all industrial air compressors used in the UK Intercoolers remove heat between the first and carbon reduction targets and improve could be equipped with heat recovery systems. second stage and after-coolers remove heat manufacturing plant profitability. And, as stated above, 70-94 % of the supply after the second stage. energy to an air compressor can be recovered. But how can heat can be recovered in THE BENEFITS To illustrate the vast untapped potential of compressed air systems? Coolers remove heat By using an oil coolant in their ER-S5 energy compressed air heat recovery, it is calculated from compressed air using air, water or oil. They recovery unit, a Midlands-based automotive that the technology could save 1.99% of the work on a system of heat exchange. The air textiles manufacture was able to recover heat total industrial electricity consumption in the transfers heat to the cooling medium in a cooler from its air compressor outlet. Hot oil from the UK. If that statistic isn’t compelling enough, it designed for the compressor flow rate and energy air cooler transferred energy into the process via is the equivalent of removing the emissions transfer requirements. There are different types a steel plate heat exchanger. This gave them a from 913,000 diesel/petrol cars per year, or of cooling systems used in air compressors, each continuous supply of hot process water without recovering the energy required to power 1.544 of which has advantages and disadvantages, and any extra energy purchase. As a result, the million households’ electricity consumption per year. Now, if that isn’t a compelling case *Calculations are based on total industrial electricity consumption in the UK, and an average of for compressed air heat recovery, it’s difficult 10% of industrial electricity consumption being used by compressors. to say what is. *Approximately 70% of energy is recoverable from oil-injected screw compressors, and up to 94% from oil-free water-cooled screw compressors. Atlas Copco www.atlascopco.com

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FEATURE BUILDING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

BUILDING-IN DIGITALIZATION Smart buildings are the wave of the future and not only for environmental reasons, as Andreas Schneider, CEO, EnOcean, explains

he idea of ‘sustainability’ has been around keeping with a smart building or smart for several decades, with its three pillars – home. Standardized interfaces and open Ecology,T the Economy and Society – varying wireless standards like those specified by in emphasis. But, sea levels continue to rise, the EnOcean Alliance, Bluetooth SIG and polar ice caps are melting, rain forest habitats Zigbee Alliance form the basis for this. are disappearing, and devastating fires are As an example, Thermokon, a member raging. However, COVID-19’s lockdowns have of the EnOcean Alliance, supports given the world a glimpse of clearer skies, customers all over the world with quiet and unpolluted roads, and more people climate-friendly solutions that supply using green spaces. The global pandemic may optimal room temperature, hot water, just enable things to come together in a electricity and good air quality in equal measure where an algorithm controls occupancy. radically different way – to the point where for human environments. In the future, all This approach can reduce the cost of space, the ‘Sustainability Triangle’ gets equilateral. systems will be networked, making them even especially in expensive urban locations. And many of the technologies that will make more efficient and comfortable to operate. Advantages under coronavirus measures are this happen are already in place. The pending energy transition can be managed obvious with the drive to manage increased Take the example of energy harvesting only with future-oriented energy systems. home working and for workplaces to switches and sensors in building automation Networked and smart devices are almost implement measures such as social distancing, from EnOcean. They are environmentally indispensable in this regard. At its heart, the track-and-trace and antiviral hygiene. friendly because the technology does not Thermokon solution consists of a scalable It has also recently become recognised that

require batteries or wires and therefore microservice architecture, which enables the CO2 monitors could significantly help to mitigate doesn’t pollute the environment. They are company to respond quickly and flexibly to the coronavirus threat itself. There is increasing economical because battery-free wireless changes and customer or partner requests. evidence that carbon dioxide levels in buildings sensors are significantly cheaper in the long Another key element is the use of an IoT Hub correlate strongly with the airborne spread term. They benefit society because people can for the secure and reliable connection of, of infection, so monitoring the workplace air

live and work better and healthier in smart and communication between, the devices and quality to determine the levels of CO2 in buildings. And, they make buildings greener the cloud. Older heating systems are being meeting spaces is highly beneficial.

and help to reduce their CO2 emissions. retrofitted for communication with the hub, To achieve this, CO2 monitoring devices need Based on this innovation, sensor and switch and new equipment generations will be to be dependable and easy to place. Wireless,

manufacturers, digital platform operators, connected directly to the IoT platform. battery-free CO2 sensors are the solution system integrators, gateway producers and Installers and end users can set such things and ideally need to be connected, for example,

automation companies form partnerships to as heating times and desired temperatures on to trigger alarms when CO2 concentration create ‘smart spaces’ – whether this is in office their smartphones. The compatible heat pumps goes above a certain threshold, sending alarms buildings, at home, in hotels, in retail and in can also be networked with myriad devices to building management networks, or to medical facilities. There are many ideas to from other manufacturers and be automated smartphones via wireless networks. make rooms smarter, safer and healthier and, collectively. For example, a temperature sensor LOOKING TO THE FUTURE at the same time, reduce CO2 consumption. measures the current room temperature for Smart, networked use of existing buildings demand-driven individual room control. Even when the pandemic restrictions are and infrastructure will make a balanced triangle. removed, benefits continue, with attractive While technology cannot be the sole answer, REDUCING BUILDING EMISSIONS and healthy work environments proven to when combined with other factors, digitalization Due to the legal requirement to lower carbon increase employee productivity. supports this change and makes it easier for footprints, companies are obliged to lower Smart buildings are the wave of the future and

people. After all, digitalization supplies data for their energy consumption and reduce the CO2 not only for environmental reasons. The ability new workplaces and living environments. emissions of buildings, with a logical step being to charge electric cars must be provided, while to invest in a smart, radio-based heating control demographic change requires new approaches to ENERGY MANAGEMENT system. At first glance, this pays off only where looking after people in need of care, and crowded

Buildings account for one third of all CO2 energy consumption is concerned, but in fact it is conditions in cities demand better use of space. emissions in Germany and the EU, so the an initial step toward digitalized building spaces Raw data collected by millions of sensors can energy savings potential is equally high – for and thus offers additional savings potential. be the solution for all these scenarios. This

example, with smart building control in If a certain basic infrastructure consisting of data forms the basis for energy efficiency, CO2 residential and commercial structures. radio-based sensors, gateways and actuators reduction and better use of resources. To meet the energy efficiency standards is already in place, the system can be easily Considering the large number of sensors mandated by national, international and expanded. One common application is to required, these devices must be standardized, provincial legislation, networking and smart optimise the use of rooms in commercial radio-based, self-powered and easy to retrofit. building control facilitate digitalization of heating buildings. For example, if 30-40% of the desks The energy harvesting technology from and air-conditioning systems by providing remain unused on a regular basis, it is worthwhile EnOcean enables new and existing buildings to information about a building’s actual energy to introduce a hot-desking concept. To do this, be sustainably digitalized and made smart – efficiency. Likewise, conformity to regulations additional presence sensors are needed that without any cables or battery waste. dictates that the various disciplines must be record the presence of people in a room or at a intelligently interconnected and digitalized in desk and send this information to the cloud, EnOcean www.enocean.com

12 WINTER 2020 | ENERGY MANAGEMENT / ENERGYMANAGEMENT EM-SUM20-IFM:EM-SUM20-IFM 29/05/2020 17:02 Page 1 EM-WIN20-PG14_Layout 1 24/11/2020 13:49 Page 24

FEATURE BUILDING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

three-piece connector, even when working with CAT6 cable. This makes terminations faster, simpler and more SMART SOLuTIOnS consistent, whether using CAT5e, CAT6 of CAT6Acables. Conductor wires do not need to be accurately trimmed to for smart buildings a specific length; instead, installers simply need to remove an appropriate section of jacket, remove the centre Smart technology is proven to reduce energy consumption. Brett spline (if present), untwist the pairs into the right order, and trim the ends Smyth, general manager of Ideal Industries EMEA, explains how flat. The cable can then be slid into the consistent and compliant data network terminations can help connector until seated. The unit has been designed with open ends that allow conductors to be ntroducing smart technology tailored completely fed through the connector to meet a building’s occupancy patterns before crimping. The cable can be andI the tenant’s commercial requirements pushed into the connector to ensure is a proven strategy for reducing energy the twisted pairs are as close to the pin consumption and avoiding energy waste. contacts as possible, and that the jacket We have come a long way since the is seated beyond the primary strain days of basic timers and PIR sensor relief for a secure connection. Thanks to lighting control systems, with smart the clear connector design, the installer building networks that are both flexible can then visually inspect and verify the and programmable to ensure they can correct wiring order, ensuring greater be adapted to changing needs. However, accuracy and fewer errors during the with increasingly sophisticated smart installation process. building systems comes a requirement for Once the wires have been fed through, increasingly complex data networks, and Designed to completely will not be evident until the system is the installer can pull the cable into the installing those networks requires a large re-think the traditional tested. Finding the issues on the plug, allowing the twists to be pulled to number of terminations. RJ45 assembly and network at this point can be a needle- the front of the connector. This provides Each termination requires attention to crimping process, IDEAL in-a-haystack exercise. better radio-frequency performance and detail to ensure a robust and compliant Industries’ FT-45 If the conductors are too long, minimal untwisting. solution allows installers connection. In a multi-storey office meanwhile, there is a risk that the pairs The versatile FT-45 Crimp Tool designed of smart networks to block, any smart building installation or speed up and simplify could be left exposed outside of the plug to be used with the IDEAL Industries retrofit project is likely to involve the termination of body or cable jacket. This not only looks Ft-45 Modular Plugs further enhances multiple operatives carrying out the RJ45 plugs sloppy, but could also hinder performance the right-first-time consistency of this terminations, and consistency can be on the network. In this scenario, the approach. With a single crimp cavity for compromised by individuals working conductors can also move out of place; an RJ-45/8-position connectors, it is capable with varying standards of quality. Time issue that is likely to remain unnoticed of crimping Ideal Feed-Thru standard, pressures can also jeopardise quality until the cables are tested. shielded, and unshielded connectors for and consistency, with tight programmes To overcome both of CAT5e, CAT6 and CAT6A cables. The causing terminations to be rushed. these potential data installer simply squeezes the handle to When consistency and compliance are network termination the closed position to cleanly shear the compromised, identifying the issues, contractors need to excess conductor wires and leave a terminations on the system that adopt a technique that will smooth, flat finish – crimping and need to be rectified can be an offer complete consistency cutting the cable in a single action. onerous and time-consuming for every termination, task. The answer, regardless of the number of A PROGRESSIVE APPROACH therefore, is to ensure installation operatives involved, To make it easier for installers to switch terminations are without increasing the time from conventional RJ45 connections to carried out in a way needed to complete the work. It was FT-45 system, IDEAL Industries has that guarantees best these requirements that led to the introduced two new FT-45 kits. These practice and consistency, development of IDEAL Industries’ FT-45 include the FT-45 modular crimp tool, regardless of the number of Feed-Thru modular plugs and crimp tool. the IDEAL PrepPro cable stripper and the operatives and time pressures on site. IDEAL Data T-cutter, along with a choice THE BENEFITS of either 50 unshielded connectors or 25 INSTALLATION ISSUES The FT-45 kits include Designed to completely re-think the unshielded and 25 shielded connectors. Data networks require field-termination of the FT-45 modular crimp traditional RJ45 assembly and crimping The speed, simplicity and consistency CAT5e, CAT6 of CAT6A cables using RJ45 tool, the IDEAL PrepPro process, IDEAL Industries’ FT-45 solution the system offers makes FT-45 a popular modular plugs. The more complex the cable stripper and the allows installers of smart networks to choice for installers, linking a progressive network, the greater the number of RJ45 IDEAL Data T-cutter, speed up and simplify the termination approach to installation with the assemblies and terminations required. along with a choice of of RJ45 plugs by eliminating the need progressive smart technology that is Conventional installation methods either 50 unshielded to trim conductors to a precise length helping to reduce energy consumption require conductors to be trimmed to an connectors or 25 before inserting the cable into the plug. in our built environment. exact length before the plug is placed unshielded and 25 The Feed-Thru Modular Plugs are onto the cable. If the conductors are too shielded connectors single-piece connectors, so there is IDEAL Industries short, circuits will remain open, but this no need for installers to assemble a www.idealindustriesemea.com/en.html

14 WINTER 2020 | ENERGY MANAGEMENT / ENERGYMANAGEMENT EM-WIN20-PG15:EM-WIN20-PG15 15/12/2020 16:57 Page 1

RELIABLE, AFFORDABLE, ELECTRIC ECO VEHICLES Introducing our range of cost-effective, fully electric JLC Group have been instrumental in providing several products and solutions to a wide range of their existing and new customers, to vans and cars. support them throughout the recent and ongoing pandemic. With our range of Personal protection screens, Occupancy control systems, Body temperature monitoring equipment, Touch-free switches and Hand sanitisers, we are able to help Organisations, their staff, customers and visitors protect themselves from COVID-19. Not only can JLC Group supply this extensive range of services and products, we are also able to supply reliable, affordable, fully electric ECO vehicles to support commercial use and city living. Both Vans Our range of highly practical, affordable, fully electric ECO vans and & Cars now cars are perfect for city couriers and local delivery services or city and available in town living. The City Van is also ideal for tradespeople and commercial the UK environments such as Airports, Seaports, Local Authorities, Distribution ...we can Centres and Warehouses. In fact, anywhere in the UK where short journeys supply and are made or goods transported, these vehicles are the perfect solution. fit charging The ECO cars are of compact design, allowing them to navigate in points too! and around confined areas. They’re small, stylish and affordable and can be used in both commercial environments much like the vans or can be used for city and town living. The ECO Cars and ECO Vans can be fitted with additional GPS We supply an impressive range of affordable, tracking that includes real-time monitoring, allowing you to track and adaptable, multi-use electric vehicles, providing oversee vehicles through an app or browser. If needed to be reviewed, quality low cost electric you can playback all activity, and lastly, overspeed alerts vehicles for both if your vehicle exceeds the private individuals set speed limit. and commercial For further information applications. please do not hesitate to contact us. T: 0800 170 1515 - www.jlc-group.co.uk JLC Group www.jlc-group.co.uk

ENERGY MANAGEMENT | WINTER 2020 15 EM-WIN20-KOHLER:EM-WIN20-KOHLER 16/12/2020 13:07 Page 1 EM-WIN20-PG17_Layout 1 01/12/2020 10:14 Page 1

ECO POWER FEATURE

A volt from the blue: How electric vehicles can give back to the grid

While the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) has been on a consistent incline, only two-fifths of UK drivers are planning on purchasing an EV as their next car. Peter O’ Driscoll, managing director, RingGo, considers whether vehicle-to-grid (V2G) charging will help to convince drivers to move away from petrol and diesel

egistration fgures from SMMT show an With vehicle-to-grid the potential to save a couple of hundreds of Ruptick in electric vehicle (EV) purchases, (V2G) charging, energy pounds per year through the V2G programme. with diesel down by 38% and EVs up by 195%. stored within electric Estimates on money saved vary with energy The government has helped spur along the vehicles can be drawn supplier – E.ON Energy approximates that uptake of electric cars through its plan to ban back to the national customers could save £308 per annum, new UK petrol and diesel cars by 2030. electric network, whereas OVO Energy suggests that customers EVs, however, do not have the lion share or the grid could save as much as £800 per year. of the market – there’s still some persuasion In addition, when implemented at scale, the that needs to happen to boost widescale system offers exciting opportunities to promote change. RingGo’s research reflects this, finding sustainable energy supply. For instance, one that only two-fifths of UK drivers say that of the major aspects that counts against wind they are planning on buying an EV for their power is that its capability fuctuates with the next car, despite 76% of the population weather. However, EVs could help stabilise this admitting that they are aware of the energy source. EVs could store surplus energy environmental impacts of driving. produced during windy periods and then supply So, how can drivers be convinced to move it back when there’s a lull – reducing wind away from petrol and diesel? Enter vehicle-to- power intermittency. grid (V2G) charging. This is another string to the EV bow and something that will likely help WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON motivate drivers to make the switch. Many of the big benefits of V2G charging depend on EVs being more popular. In many HOW IT WORKS ways, attitudes to electric vehicles are still in The concept works by enabling energy stored provider projected that, with 5.5 million 2G their infancy. Even though the 2030 ban looms within electric vehicles to be drawn back to capable EVs in 2030, the fleet could provide a decade away, much work needs to be done to the national electric network, or the grid. 8.6 TWh of balancing over the year, meeting frst take drivers off the fence about electric Normally, when there’s a surplus of electricity 77% of the grid’s needs. vehicles and inspire purchases. in the grid, EVs siphon off charge for their Despite these environmental benefits, Once there’s mass uptake, then the number- batteries. However, during times of peak RingGo’s research found that almost a third crunching with mass V2G charging starts to demand on the grid or when there’s a shortage (32%) of drivers who are open to EVs require look really great. It will be a piecemeal process of electricity, EVs can discharge their juice a greater availability of charging points to to promote large uptake, but V2G charging is back to the grid for a profit. make the switch, whilst one in five (20%) of another exciting tick in the pros column for EVs. A parked electric vehicle can be left plugged those currently not considering an EV would into the grid. If the driver has opted to be consider buying one if their range were greater. RingGo part of a V2G charging programme, then Additional hesitancies to make the leap https://ringgo.co.uk software can calculate when that car should highlight the need for greater knowledge about EV charging points tactically receive and supply energy. Typically, the capabilities and benefts of electric vehicles. these vehicles charge at night when energy Essentially, changing ingrained behaviours demand is low and send power back to the will be difficult in the lead up to 2030. But grid during the day. now is the time for the government and local The system is a compelling reason for drivers authorities to highlight how each individual to make the switch to an EV, as it empowers can contribute to the future of the planet by drivers to contribute to a wider, global cause. simply making the switch. OVO Energy, the clean energy provider, recently initiated a V2G trial programme which THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING connects cars across UK residences to form a V2G charging is a gift for both drivers and the virtual power plant. From the trial, the energy environment. Financially speaking, drivers have

Sources: https://www.smmt.co.uk/vehicle-data/car-registrations/ https://ringgo.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/RINGGO-EBOOK-2020-09-08.pdf https://www.ovoenergy.com/ovo-newsroom/press-releases/2020/november/biggest-ever-mobilization-of-uk-customers-supported-the-grid-during- expected-supply-crunch.html

/ ENERGYMANAGEMENT ENERGY MANAGEMENT | WINTER 2020 17 EM-WIN20-PG18:EM-WIN20-PG18 16/12/2020 13:38 Page 1

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BOILERS, PUMPS & VALVES FEATURE

EnErgy EfficiEnt ProcEss HEating Chris Horsley, process engineering director at Babcock Wanson, explains how massive gains have been made in making process heating systems more energy efficient and, in doing so, have also reduced emissions

Right: plant room in the 1980/90s water and ultimately raising steam. The EPC ES Thermal invariable featured fire tube boilers Modern steam generators have Fluid Heater is an anda steam generators – big fuel guzzling progressed considerably and now include automatic coil type, a very accurately controlled burner which multi-pass thermal fluid beasts that had relatively limited heater which precisely temperature control and required skilled creates a defined heat input to a double matches fuel input engineers to be available at all times to coil of steel tube through which a precise to plant energy operate them. Energy efficiency was not quantity of feed water is pumped. only requirements and high on the list of priorities when it came a small amount of excess water is fed includes its own in-built to process heating back then – fossil into the coil to provide the correct exhaust gas to fuel was low in cost and the idea that it operating conditions at all times and combustion air might run out at some point wasn’t a a steam/water separator is usually economiser for highest consideration. and, as for the wider incorporated at the coil outlet to ensure and return pipework which can provide practicable operating green agenda, including concerns over dry steam is provided to the process. heat to one or more users or systems. efficiency pollution and air quality, well that barely Using this method, steam generators instead of water running through the made it on to the radar. consume less energy as they only fire pipework, a thermal fluid – often a a lot can change in 30 years – and on demand for steam from the process, simple mineral oil – is used as the heat now every aspect of manufacturing has and can be very quickly brought up to transfer medium. come under the energy efficiency working pressure when steam is required. this simple and easily automated spotlight. With heat raising systems this means the bare minimum of closed loop design, allowing for high being particularly large energy users, standing losses resulting in reduced temperatures (up to 350°c in standard manufacturers have invested considerable overall emissions. steam generators also form), means thermal fluid heating r&D resources into improving existing offer improved safety due to their low systems can use 20-50% less energy systems and developing entirely new water volume content and simplicity of overall to transfer the same amount energy efficient ones. control and operation. Babcock Wanson of heat when compared to the steam EsM steam generators, for example, give heating systems above. What’s more, IMPROVING ON THE PAST operating efficiencies of up to 96% with if you opt for a thermal fluid heating Both fire tube and coil type steam very low overall emissions. system with integral economiser, even generators produce ‘dry’ saturated steam Developments have also been made less fuel is consumed, even when to maximise the delivery of heat to the by most good fire tube boiler/burner operating at high fluid temperatures. user. Both types of boiler operate along makers to improve overall efficiency the Babcock Wanson EPc Es thermal the same basic principles in that water and control, which also means reduced fluid Heater, for example, is an is confined in a restricted space and is fuel demand, better control of the automatic coil type, multi-pass thermal heated by burning a fuel source. the burner and general boiler safety fluid heater which precisely matches energy of combustion is transferred systems and improved emissions. fuel input to plant energy requirements Babcock Wanson ESM from the flame to the water by With all these developments in and includes its own in-built exhaust steam generators give radiation and conduction, heating the design and control, both fire tube and gas to combustion air economiser for operating efficiencies of coil type steam generators are ideal highest practicable operating efficiency. up to 96% with very low for use where both direct and indirect there are a number of other very overall emissions heating are required simultaneously, important benefits – financial, and where heat transfer at a constant environmental, safety and otherwise – temperature is required. to be had from using thermal fluid heaters, but that’s for another time. THE NEW(ER) CONTENDER if you are still relying on older steam in a very large number of applications, based technology, rather than commit to fire tube and coil type steam generators a new, more energy efficient system, you have, however, been replaced by the new might want to think again as the energy kid on the block: thermal fluid heaters. savings alone could well save you money thermal fluid heating is based on a over a short period of time. similar basic principle to a low pressure hot water system. it consists of a Babcock Wanson heater connected to carbon steel flow www.babcock-wanson.com

/ ENERGYMANAGEMENT ENERGY MANAGEMENT | WINTER 2020 19 UK Manufacturing ad A4:Layout 1 06/11/2020 12:08 Page 1

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HVAC FEATURE

MAKING DISTRICT HEATING MORE SUSTAINABLE Decarbonisation of the UK’s building stock is a priority that has taken centre stage in discussions around suitability. Given its effect on choice of heating solutions, low carbon solutions like district heating are becoming a more attractive proposition. Alexandra Leedham, technical leader – Renewable Energy at REHAU, explores the latest developments

istrict heating networks supply heating loads up to 16MW. Flexible PE-Xa pre- and hot water to numerous properties via insulated pipework in coils can then be easily Dan underground pre-insulated pipe network, connected to this main spine, ensuring more eliminating the need for individual heat cost-effective installation for heat network sources. It is becoming a popular solution developers as they extend networks. among developers and operators, as much The growth of fourth-generation district of the maintenance is centralised to a single heating technology has further increased the energy centre. Similarly, it allows emissions implementation of all-polymer networks, as reductions in line with sustainability-minded lower flow temperatures allow for less heat legislation – most prominently, the losses. Taking into account the material’s Government’s target to reduce carbon expected 50-plus year lifespan, polymer emissions to ‘net zero’ by 2050. systems are being considered a sustainable These targets, along with the latest 10-point means of futureproofing a building’s heating Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution, have and hot water requirements. made sourcing low-carbon heating and on building services professionals to fulfil this. By implementing a PP-R pipe main spine, hot water systems a priority for building Funding initiatives such as the Green Heat building and energy managers can provide professionals. This, combined with continued Networks Scheme (GHNS) will help in this properties with reduced pressure losses of onus on lowering energy bills and driving up transition, and favour these low-carbon schemes up to 19% when compared to a steel solution. efficiencies, means that district heating systems in both residential and commercial applications. Minimised corrosion risks also minimise could be the key to lowering emissions and Due for launch in 2022, the GHNS will replace possibility of system failure risk and expensive improving heating efficiency. the existing Heat Networks Investment Project, repairs thereafter, with costs further reduced and will similarly award grants to domestic and due to lower pumping costs. As PP-R is up to EVOLVING HEAT NETWORKS commercial projects implementing sustainable, 37% lighter than steel, it is not only easier to Most heat networks across the UK and low-carbon district heating systems. handle on site, but also lowers emissions during Europe are classed as third-generation, Shifting standards and regulations are also transportation. This sustainability is improved with water circulating at 70-95˚C. However, creating an environment more amenable to further by the fact that the PP-R material is 100 more fourth-generation systems with a district heating systems. For instance, the latest per cent recyclable. comparatively lower 50-60˚C flow temperature Standard Assessment Procedure for building While pressure on building services are being implemented, due to less heat loss regulations (SAP 10.1) consultation sets professionals to decarbonise their operations across the network making them more efficient standards for a new lower emissions factor for and select low-carbon solutions grows, and cost-effective. electricity, which advocates heat pumps as a considerations around reducing materials used Alongside these benefits, fourth-generation more sustainable solution. Compared to the SAP and installation times continue to endure.

systems, due to their centralised design, reap 2012 metric of 0.519 kgCO2/kWH, SAP 10.1 Because they eliminate expansion bends

the same benefits as their predecessors. For proposes a value of 0.136 kgCO2/kWH – a 75% present in steel networks, polymer pipework building services professionals, this includes improvement in heat pump derived electricity helps reduce installation times, with less reduced carbon emissions and easier, more carbon savings from previous figures. materials and welding also required across the cost-effective, maintenance due to Green progress and carbon-neutral scheme. PP-R pipe’s lighter weight and the eliminating individual boilers. legislation will continue to promote low- PE-Xa pipe’s flexibility also allows contractors Fourth-generation systems were also carbon, heat pumps and waste heat compared a quicker and more flexible installation. developed with low-carbon heating sources in with traditional fossil fuel systems. As such, The increasing need to decarbonise heating mind, with lower flow temperatures suiting building professionals must understand what and hot solutions, combined with traditional centralised heat pumps and waste heat innovations best combine with low-carbon challenges around quicker, more cost-effective sources, leaving them well-placed to help networks, and the impact of material choice installations without compromising quality, contribute to net zero goals. With district has on the resulting solution. means building professionals are under more heating, heat sources can be changed or added pressure than ever before. Polymer district over time, increasingly the flexibility for the AN ALTERNATIVE TO STEEL heating systems, specifically of the fourth heat network operator. Traditionally, steel has been the material of generation, provides a practical, low-cost choice for district heating systems, however, option for these amenities, delivering easy HELPING LEGISLATION recently polymer networks are growing in installation and maintenance. The Government’s 10-point plan has signalled prominence. With reinforced polypropylene the beginning of low-carbon heating (PP-R) pipe now available as the main spine, REHAU development and, as such, there will be pressure polymer networks are now able to provide heat www.rehau.uk/districtheating

/ ENERGYMANAGEMENT ENERGY MANAGEMENT | WINTER 2020 21 EM-WIN20-PG22_Layout 1 24/11/2020 14:37 Page 24

FEATURE HVAC

HIGH CEILINGS, LOW ENERGY One of the challenges associated with high ceilings, particularly in commercial and industrial premises, is regulating the internal temperature. Here, Alan Macklin, technical director at Elta Group and chairman of the Fan Manufacturer’s Association, explains how the latest destratification technology can prove an invaluable asset

any premises and facilities have Managing air circulation high ceilings – from warehouses to of keeping large spaces at a comfortable of all HVAC equipment. in premises with high Mretail, museums to factory floors – and a temperature for occupants, this can OCCUPANT WELLBEING ceilings results in a common factor across all of these is an amount to a significant figure. number of challenges, inevitable battle for thermal comfort. As It should be noted that there is a general INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE requiring the balance of hot air rises, this leads to a concentration increased focus on providing comfortable potentially large energy of heat far above where it is needed. It is also true that destratification fans, working environments for staff. The bills with the need to To keep rooms at a temperature such as Elta Fans’ Zoo Fans range, require concerning re-emergence of Sick achieve a comfortable, that avoids discomfort for building a less invasive installation than traditional Building Syndrome in offices (whereby ambient temperature occupants, this can often mean heating air movement methods. They can be poor air quality leads to a range of health the ceiling area to as much as 10˚C to fitted in a matter of minutes using a concerns) highlights the work that needs 20˚C more than the desired floor-level simple cable and grip method, and the to be done towards occupant well-being; temperature. So, when you consider the self-contained design means the fan and businesses cannot ignore the extra energy expenditure this requires, won’t interfere with existing lighting or health and safety of their employees. it is important to look for alternative, sprinkler systems. When you consider that Thermal destratification is an effective more cost-effective, means. time is money, any installation that keeps and cost-efficient way to achieve this. downtime/premises closure to a minimum A side-effect of improving occupant WHAT IS THERMAL can be seen as a massive bonus. comfort is that it can actually boost DESTRATIFICATION? Thermal destratification also ensures productivity in facilities such as factories Stratification is a natural process in that heating systems as a whole and warehouses. Ensuring a more which layers of air, increasing in suffer less wear and tear. As heat is ambient temperature and eliminating hot temperature, build from floor to ceiling. directed to where it is needed, it and cold spots will enable employees to It is the reason that the ceiling area of allows thermostats to switch off continue working for sustained periods of a tall room is invariably warmer than quicker and systems to cycle off sooner, time, in a comfortable environment. the bottom. Thermal destratification which ultimately increases the lifespan mixes the internal air to prevent these UP TO THE CHALLENGE layers from forming, to create a more Managing air circulation in premises uniform temperature across the full with high ceilings results in a number height of the room. By pushing hot air of challenges, requiring the balance of Left: The Zoo Fans at the ceiling down towards ground potentially large energy bills with the range can be fitted in a level, this effectively circulates thermal need to achieve a comfortable, ambient matter of minutes using energy to ensure the whole premises temperature. By turning to the latest a simple cable and is a consistent temperature. thermal destratification fans, it is grip method, and the By minimising temperature possible to prevent spiralling running self-contained design differential to as little as 1˚C, the latest costs, while simultaneously improving means the fan destratification fan technology can occupant comfort. won’t interfere with reduce annual heating costs by as much existing lighting or as 30%. When you consider the total cost Elta Fans www.eltafans.com sprinkler systems

22 WINTER 2020 | ENERGY MANAGEMENT / ENERGYMANAGEMENT EM-WIN20-PG23_Layout 1 24/11/2020 16:40 Page 1

HVAC FEATURE

Are heat exchangers being overlooked when it comes to energy efficiency? Andrew Peacock, service manager, Energy Division UK & Ireland at Alfa Laval, addresses the apparent increasing issue of run-to-fail attitudes and the impact this could be having on energy usage A SUSTAINABLE APPROACH TO PLATE HEAT EXCHANGERS not fully optimised and could be draining drive up the energy required to process businesses unnecessarily. a medium, costing a business more money and raising a plant’s carbon AN EFFICIENT EXCHANGE emissions. In fact an academic report Gasketed plate heat exchangers (GPHE) from 2015 stated that numerous are the most common type of compact studies have shown that heat heat exchanger. They are often used exchanger fouling may be responsible

for food and drink processing, chemical for 1-2.5% of global CO2 emissions. production, and heating and cooling Fouling is caused by the settlement purposes. In a GPHE, the metal plates are of particulates, biological matter, fitted with elastomeric gaskets which formation of scale, decomposition seal and direct each fluid into alternate and crystallisation. These unwanted channels. Hot channels will be placed deposits create an insulating layer that against cool channels with each fluid lowers the efficiency of heat transfer flowing counter or co-currently to between two fluids. facilitate thermal transfer. Despite the fact that GPHEs have a The aforementioned features mean self-cleaning effect due to the turbulent GPHEs are prized for their high efficiency flow inside the channels, it is crucial to The International Energy t’s an undeniable fact of the 21st rate afforded by a large surface area, and be aware of the fouling status in order Agency recently tracked century that we need to use less are up to five times more efficient than to retain high thermal efficiency. clean energy progress in Ienergy – it’s how we get there that’s alternative technologies such as shell relation to the COVID-19 open to discussion. and tube heat exchangers. They have a WHAT CAN ENERGY MANAGERS DO? pandemic, explaining Of course, the impact of COVID-19 versatile and small footprint and also Less-than-ideal operating conditions that while we are seeing appears to have temporarily accelerated enable waste-heat recovery. Depending will raise an organisation’s energy an inevitable temporary decline in overall the country’s energy transition with less on manufacturer, the latest designs consumption across the whole process, industrial energy movement of people, an increase in enable improved thermal efficiency, energy spend and carbon footprint. consumption, the renewables, and considerable slowdown media flow and minimise risk of fouling In order to mitigate the issues crisis itself could in industrial activity. – something Alfa Laval has been discussed here, energy managers need impede clean energy In fact, the International Energy Agency prioritising for years. to consider the incremental changes transition progress recently tracked clean energy progress Not only is design crucial to efficiency, that can be made. in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, but these components also often feature However, while fouling is easily explaining that while we are seeing an within modern efficient heating methods identified, other damage will be much inevitable temporary decline in overall such as cogeneration and district heating harder to determine without the right industrial energy consumption, the systems. As many will know, combined tools. Therefore it makes little sense crisis itself could impede clean energy heat and power (CHP) is one of the most to leave a crucial part of production to transition progress. This is mainly due to efficient methods of energy utilisation – those with only rudimentary knowledge, new tighter margins and fewer scalable over 90% of energy can be channelled especially when damaged or fouled technologies to abate emissions, as back into efficient use. It is a highly components have such a profound companies try to remain financially cost-effective solution that brings many impact on a business’s ability to remain buoyant and revive production levels. benefits. And with regards to district competitive. By consulting an expert Consideration must therefore be given heating, this reliable and eco-friendly team to provide regular in-field analysis to the low hanging fruit – i.e., the heating delivery method offers the to detect problems at their earliest incremental changes that can be made flexibility to tap into a variety of heating stages, energy managers can avoid in our day-to-day operations. sources, including energy from the false economy of a ‘run-to-fail’ This is where plate heat exchangers renewable or recycled sources. approach, playing their part in improving (PHE) come in. Subject to an industry- A no brainer for improving energy efficiency to make future savings. wide misconception that they are efficiency, wouldn’t you say? However, To find out more, download Alfa ‘simple’ components, PHEs are often just having a GPHE in place isn’t enough. Laval’s full report ‘Fit for Duty’: overlooked as a key to improved www.alfalaval.co.uk/fitforduty efficiency. At Alfa Laval, we estimate SO WHAT COULD BE THE PROBLEM? there are thousands of PHEs – of all While GPHEs are durable, issues still Alfa Laval brands and sizes – in operation that are occur with regards to fouling. This can www.alfalaval.com

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FEATURE LIGHTING & CONTROLS

feature a push-fit mechanism, making rearrangements during future layout changes quick and simple. Let there be light! In addition to this, the Electrak’s Lightrak lighting control system has the capability to control and receive feedback from DALI lighting control units (LCUs) via KNX communication protocol. This feedback, of the operational status of all general and emergency luminaires, was then visualised on a graphical Head End and customised for the Microgaming installation. The solution is highly adjustable and new LCUs can be introduced anywhere on the buscom matrix without the need for any physical mounting to the building structure, or the running of any additional power or communication cables. “The Lightrak offering was ideal for Microgaming as, given the company’s office is a new large five-storey building, being able to reconfigure the system without disturbing the infrastructure means that we could make sure the client got everything Needing an efficient and reliable power distribution and lighting they wanted from the installation, while control solution for its new ultra-modern facility on the Isle of also keeping to the tight timing Man, Microgaming turned to Legrand for a solution schedules,” explained Pacelli. A MODERN DESIGN Thanks to Electrak’s lthough it officially opened its doors within the specification. These ranged As a modern workplace, the office layout Lightrak lighting control system, which combines Aon 31 July 2017, initial meetings from its 630A MR busbar, through to incorporates numerous different areas in power distribution and about the ultra-modern five-storey Electrak 24 powertrack underfloor which Microgaming employees can work lighting control via a Sixty Two building that would become busbar, Intersoc On-desk power from. This meant a constant supply of buscom trunking the new home of Microgaming, one of modules and Lightrak lighting control power across the whole building was of backbone suspended the world’s leading suppliers of online units with DALI and KNX protocol. the utmost importance to the everyday within the ceiling void, gaming software, first began for Pacelli continues: “Throughout the running of the Microgaming office. users benefit from an Legrand in late 2014. process we worked extremely closely with The Electrak 24 powertrack system enhanced plug and Named in The Telegraph as one of the the client, contractor and consultant. proved crucial to the provision of fast play system that allows ‘Top 10 coolest offices in 2017, the new Wayne Brewerton, business development underfloor-to-workstation power to both power and building houses over 150 employees, and manager at Legrand and Lightrak allow employees to work effectively and communication circuits benefits from open-plan office space specialist, was particularly integral during efficiently no matter where in the office to be tapped into at any complete with hot desk pods, standing this process, as a number of aspects they are. With minimal parts, the system point desks, work booths, breakout areas and of the project evolved as and when we is easy to install and can also be 16 meeting rooms, a gym, coffee shop, were on site. This meant we needed to reconfigured as office layouts evolve. games room and roof garden. So much keep up with the changing demands The company also fitted slab boxes to activity taking place under one roof and quickly adapt to the solutions, offer complete versatility, as well as placed high demands on the building’s which is where the sophistication of the grommets, which provide ample space electrical infrastructure, so Microgaming Legrand products really came into their for the user to plug in equipment. therefore needed an efficient power own as an alternative to traditional Furthermore, Intersoc On-desk power distribution and lighting control solution wired installations.” modules were integrated into the office that could be relied on at all times. desk space to meet the growing demand Marco Pacelli, sales specification MEETING THE DEMANDS for user-specific desk power and data engineer at Legrand UK & Ireland, Thanks to Electrak’s Lightrak lighting access. With the number of internet- worked closely with both the client control system, which combines power enabled devices used by office workers and contractors on the project. He distribution and lighting control via a on the rise, Intersoc On-desk modules commented: “Legrand UK & Ireland first buscom trunking backbone suspended provide a convenient and high-speed became involved in the project via the within the ceiling void, users benefit port for power, data and rapid USB consultants, March Consulting. Having from an enhanced plug and play charging, meaning employees can use worked with us on previous jobs, system that allows both power and and charge multiple devices from the they knew we had the products capable communication circuits to be tapped same point. The On-desk units are of meeting the varying specification into at any point. This facilitates instant powered by a busbar backbone which requirements of this exciting and connection to power and control units, provides a reliable and efficient electrical innovative workplace project.” and means the system can adapt to the connection at all times. Work began on the site in 2015, with changing layout of the office as and a wide range of Legrand’s power when needed. Designed with ease of Legrand distribution product solutions included installation in mind, the trunking lengths www.legrand.co.uk

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LIGHTING & CONTROLS FEATURE

Learning about the benefits of LED lighting ocated in Maidstone, Kent, West Borough business case for investment. eyestrain and improves alertness. The energy Primary School has 500 pupils aged West Borough, with support from Kent savings of installing LED lighting are hugely Lbetween three and 11 years of age. The main Council, sought three quotes from potential significant too, and will continue to benefit building dates from 1913, while Nursery and LED upgrade providers and selected Energys the school for many years beyond the initial Infant school buildings were added in the early Group on the basis of its competitive quote. payback period.” years of this century. The lighting had been They were also impressed by Energys Group’s The project cost £43K and is estimated to upgraded prior to LED being available, so there commitment to complete the work outside achieve annual savings in the region of £6.3k, was some strip lighting in the infant school and of the school working day. with a return on investment of 6.7 years. The corridors were poorly lit. With maintenance The solution offered by Energys Group estimated carbon reduction is 17.76 tonnes

costs also increasing, the school looked into proposed the installation of a standard LED of CO2/pa with lifetime carbon savings of making the change to LED. lighting upgrade across the entire school, 444.01 tonnes (calculated over 20 years). The SEELS programme is one of a number including outdoor lights and upgrading all of Salix Finance programmes that provide existing emergency lights and standalone Energys Group Government funding to improve energy units to LED. The company demonstrated the www.energysgroup.com efficiency and reduce carbon emissions within impact that LED can make by installing it in a the public sector. Funded by the Department couple of classrooms on a trial basis – and for Education in England, it provides an this convinced the team at West Borough that interest-free loan to schools and colleges that this was a step well worth taking. are funded by a local education authority. It The installed lighting types includes: IP Rated covers 100 different technologies, including LED Batten Fixtures, LED Panels, LED Wall LED lighting, which are focused on energy lights, LED Downlight, Outdoor IP65 LED Wall efficiency upgrades. The two main criteria for light, Flood lights and Emergency Lighting. the fund are that the loan must be paid back The word was completed within two weeks within an eight-year period, and the project during the 2019 summer holidays. must not exceed a maximum cost of £222 per Raj Gunasekaran, business development tonne of carbon dioxide saved. SEELS funding manager at Energys Group commented: “We can be accessed at any point in the year and know that our LED lighting is transformative. the whole process is designed to make it Good lighting has a such a positive impact on easy for facility managers to make the wellbeing and learning outcomes, it reduces

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FEATURE MONITORING & METERING

Taking the right steps towards energy monitoring

When focussing on the monitoring of energy, simplicity is the key to success, as Joe Warren, a director of energy management and software specialist ZTP, explains

ost organisations have considered how they can improve their and if adequate trust the system and digitise your data and processes. efficiency and reduce the consumption of electricity, gas and/or water Even the simple change of moving to electronic invoicing will have the –M whether this is due to the potential for emissions reductions, cost additional benefit of improving the payment process, and will also savings, or simply because of new legislation ushering in a new efficiency allow far quicker and easier manipulation of data providing a basis for standard. You cannot, however, reduce what you do not measure. fundamental monitoring of energy data. Most portals will also allow At this point there is a temptation to go ‘granular’ – technically there is much more detailed views on half hourly data direct from the meter, for nothing to stop every machine or circuit being measured within a site – example. On a ‘day + 1’ basis you could have the total consumption of and, of course, the idea is well intentioned. The big issue comes with the the site down to the half-hour every morning, enabling rapid responses practicality of analysing and, most importantly, reacting to the resulting to anomalies or spikes in energy. data analysis. Energy management processes will need to be developed by Step 4: Consider who is going to collate and react to this data. It is relevant decision makers regarding who will see, review, prioritise and absolutely vital that whoever is tasked with collating and reacting to implement the findings of the data analysis. Other questions regarding the data is not overwhelmed. It is by far the most common mistake to capturing and apportioning the resulting financial or environmental make – and even those fortunate to have a dedicated energy manager benefit must also be considered. are actually spending the majority of time dealing with data collection. Too much data being ignored is as bad as no data. It may also prove very Highlight these bottlenecks and revert to Step 3 if possible, to digitalise costly to set up. Opportunities are seemingly endless, making the decision the process. If there is no existing method of doing this, it can act as a tricky to say the least. Of course, the ultimate goal for any energy manager trigger for investment in extra monitoring kit. would be to have a fully digitised system, acting as an ‘overlord’ to their Step 5: When the data is at a point that it can be manipulated and is sites’ consumption, turning parts on/off at will, or even better automatically. being collated easily, the presentation of the information will make a big difference. Keeping it simple, easy to read and with the ability to make STEPS TO TAKE comparisons will ensure key messages from monitoring are actually Before this dream can be realised, however, there are many steps understood. If this is not the case it will cause disillusion with the process that need to be undertaken. Often, many opportunities for improving and poor end results. Just as important is making the collection and efficiency can be identified without the requirement for any capital manipulation as simple and automated as possible – the final presentation investment simply by utilising data available from existing supplier, should be easy to read and instantly recognisable to all stakeholders. Include consultant or TPI (Third Party Intermediaries) relationships. some context (e.g. longer term trends) and, again, focus on who the results Step 1: Define the purpose of monitoring the energy. Is it to save money, are aimed at. Site managers may have little interest in overall portfolio emissions, or for compliance reporting? It may be a combination of factors, performance, but board members are unlikely to want to see every site’s but without understanding exactly what is needed it is impossible to granular data. Find the right balance and ensure each stakeholder is happy make a strategic and cost effective decision. with their involvement. A site manager can have direct access to a portal Step 2: Decide what needs to be monitored and which level of granularity showing their site consumption. A board member may need to only see one would satisfy the criteria identified in Step 1. At this point, half-hourly or graph of normalised data showing performance. perhaps even basic monthly meter reads may be satisfactory and would require zero investment if attained from the supplier or taken on site. SIMPLICITY IS KEY Of course, the conclusion from this step could be that a greater degree It seems clear when focussing on the monitoring of energy that simplicity is of granular detail is necessary, however before jumping into a capital the key to success – not only for collating data but also when interpreting expenditure project ensure you have carried out Step 3. the results. There is already an abundance of data available from billing Step 3: Research what is already available from your energy suppliers files, supplier and TPI portals that can help start the process. Additional, and/or TPIs. This is hugely important, and you may be shocked at what is more granular data, can be added once there is a genuine requirement freely available. A ‘free’ upgrade to smart metering is the most obvious to improve the existing practice. It is unlikely that large investment is solution (before doing so check any terms or conditions associated with this needed when starting out, just an understanding of what is available, or tariff changes – however, it is extremely unlikely to negatively affect the why monitoring is needed in the first place, and who is going to interact end user in the long run). Energy portals are often seen as a nice ‘add on’, with it. Digitise existing processes and take advantage of the results. but a good system used correctly can save an incredible amount of time and provide fantastic insights to help monitoring. Check the portal’s robustness ZTP www.ztpuk.com

Too much data being ignored is as bad as no data. This graph shows an example of Daily Half Hour Consumption

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MONITORING & METERING FEATURE

Monitoring an energy self-sufficient water reclamation plant

The Tuas Water Reclamation Plant (WRP) has a treatment capacity of 800,000m³ per day and will ensure Singapore’s water security through the reclamation of used water

ABB is delivering a site-wide plant monitoring and control system for the Tuas Water Reclamation Plant in Singapore, which has been conceived as a compact and energy self-sufficient installation

UB, Singapore’s National Water Agency, core pillar of water sustainability in Singapore. team of operators on site to gain complete has awarded ABB a contract worth around Peter Terwiesch, president ABB Industrial visibility of operations and access to all P$30 million (S$40.5 million) to deliver a Automation, said: “Water demand in process data to take decisions that optimise complete site-wide plant monitoring and Singapore is currently about 430 million performance in real time.” control system for the Tuas Water Reclamation gallons a day, with homes consuming 45% Integrating a power monitoring system Plant (WRP). The WRP has a treatment and industry taking up the rest. By 2060, the alongside a building management system, capacity of 800,000m³ per day and will ensure need for water is expected to almost double. operators will be able to monitor ventilation Singapore’s water security through the To meet this demand, it is essential to close and air conditioning systems and, critically, reclamation of used water. the water loop and ensure every drop is manage energy utilisation across the site. The Tuas Water Reclamation Plant is part collected, treated, and reused. We are happy Alarm monitoring and security systems will of an integrated development known as to support this quest to treat and purify also be deployed to help ensure industrial the Tuas Nexus – a world-first greenfield water at the Tuas Water Reclamation Plant, control, including cyber security solutions that development which integrates two complex and simultaneously help to manage and save assess threats and test vulnerability. Operator facilities that bring water and solid waste energy needed in the process.” simulator training will be provided, and treatment processes together to harness ABB service teams will provide continuous synergies of the water-energy-waste nexus. VISIBILITY OF OPERATIONS asset, system monitoring and preventative With a footprint that is said to be more than Leveraging its ABB Ability 800xA control maintenance for a further eight years after 30% more compact than conventional plants, platform and Supervisory Control and Data construction is completed. the Tuas WRP is a key component of the Acquisition (SCADA), the company will deploy second phase of Singapore’s Deep Tunnel process control systems across multiple ABB www.abb.com Sewerage System (DTSS), which is estimated facilities at the site. The overall system will to cost about $4.8 billion. It will receive used integrate over 100,000 input/output signals water flows from the western part of Singapore from different assets including pumping “Integrating via two separate deep tunnels and apply stations, a wet weather facility, biosolids, a power monitoring membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology to domestic liquid and industrial liquid modules, treat and purify 650,000m3/day of domestic and product water storage, into one unified system alongside a building used water to generate NEWater, with a further control platform – providing complete management system, operators 150,000m³/day of used industrial water visibility of operations across the plant will be able to monitor treated and sent back to industries for reuse. network. ABB will also deliver advanced MBR is a filtration process where membranes process control solutions to improve plant ventilation and air conditioning are used to separate different substances. performance and efficiency. systems and, critically, NEWater is a high-grade reclaimed water Brandon Spencer, president of ABB Energy produced from treated used water that is Industries commented: “The Tuas Water manage energy utilisation further purified using advanced membrane Reclamation Plant has been conceived as across the site” technologies and ultra-violet disinfection, a compact and energy self-sufficient making it ultra-clean and safe to drink. It is a installation. Our solution will enable a small

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RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGY FEATURE

Grid digitalisation: how COVID-19 is accelerating change With renewable being the energy source most resilient to COVID-19 lockdown measures, Joël Jaton, chief technology officer, depsys, examines four ways to digitalise your grid

parameters to deliver the MAKE FUTURE-PROOF DECISIONS BASED ON visibility necessary for effective, HISTORICAL DATA informed, day-to-day The real data transmitted from the sensors to operational decision making. the server is not only available for monitoring but Additionally, decentralised is also assessed locally by the monitoring devices sensors strategically placed and then saved on the server, ready for analysis. in the network can also be Modular, software-based, solutions make it used to perform control easier to locate critical points in the network functions and measurement and provide information that can inform tasks, including managing investment decisions on network expansion and local networks. This function maintenance. The real data analytics help when it enables grid operators to comes to enquiries about network connections or sustain voltage quality via reports, allowing DSOs to give actionable insights an automated approach and make intelligent data-driven decisions. to counteract adverse So, although the energy transition was network conditions. already well underway, the COVID19 pandemic ccording to IEA’s Global Energy Review, has undoubtably accelerated the change. renewable energy has so far been the MONITOR CRITICAL POINTS IN THE COVID-19 caused both short-term challenges energyA source most resilient to COVID-19 NETWORK FIRST and reaffirmed that the energy transition is lockdown measures, with renewable electricity Grid measurement devices are ideal for necessary and unstoppable. In the future, if there being largely unaffected while demand for monitoring critical areas in the network. By is ever a second crisis, utilities will be handling other uses of energy has fallen. monitoring two or three points in the network, it in the context of a more advanced energy As Europe sets its sights on a sustainable DSOs can expect response time to be reduced transition with even more renewables on the grid. recovery from COVID-19, we are seeing a steady by 50% after a fault is detected, ensuring a It is vital that DSOs can learn from this rise in renewable energy on the grid. In fact reliable service to critical industries including pandemic, take steps to better understand according to the World Economic Forum, Italy, hospitals and manufacturing plants. their grid, and digitalise their operations so Germany and Spain set new records for variable DSOs can ‘plug and play’ such devices in they can guard against any future crises while renewable energy integration to the grid during just a few minutes by strategically placing playing an active role in enabling the world’s the first ten weeks of lockdown. them near essential feeders, loads or on local energy transition. This increase in decentralised generation, transformers, allowing for maximum visibility along with the electrification of the heating and optimal control. depsys www.depsys.com sector, the integration of power storage and the rise of electromobility, will bring new challenges that low- and medium-voltage network operators will have to deal with SOLAR FARM KEEPS THE ELECTRICITY FLOWING sooner or later, and digitalisation will be key Since 2016, EnBW Solar has operated a 4.4-hectare solar to overcoming these challenges. farm in Kenzingen, Germany, on land formerly used by Digitalisation and automation of the the French Army as a demolition range. Here, around distribution network are often seen as projects 9,900 photovoltaic modules and powerful Delta-M50A for the future, but with COVID-19 forcing the inverters provide 2.62 megawatts of peak power and hand of innovation, network operators can enough electricity to supply an average of 850 homes. immediately improve operational excellence When selecting the inverter, the most important through grid digitalisation today. factors to EnBW solar were product quality and the reliability and financial stability of the manufacturer. REMOTE TROUBLESHOOTING Meeting the requirements, Delta’s powerful M50A Grid digitalisation helps reduce network string inverter offers high-density performance and downtime by identifying the location and type 98.6% efficiency, ensuring that PV arrays can deliver of fault quicker, shortening the response time. the maximum yield possible. Optimised error identification not only increases Electricity has been flowing from this solar farm since the end of August 2016. With annual yields of 3,000,000 kilowatt-hours or more, it can supply an average of 850 households network availability and security, but also reduces with electricity, and saves 2,100 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year. In 2018, the solar the need for manual inspections, contributing farm actually delivered more electricity than expected – the forecast yield of 2,78 million to the health and protection of field engineers at kilowatt-hours was exceeded by 10%, equating to 290,000 kilowatt-hours more solar electricity a time where social distancing remains critical. than planned and 200 fewer tons of CO2 in the atmosphere. Network reliability and stability can be improved with decentralised intelligence and Delta www.delta-emea.com real-time measurement of critical electrical

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FEATURE RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGY

HARNESSING THE GROUND’S GEOTHERMAL POTENTIAL

John Rodgman, MD at Borehole Solutions, looks into the practice of geothermal drilling, the surge in popularity of geothermal energy, and the benefits of ground source heat pumps (GSHP)

n recent years, taking proactive environmental carbon footprint, and a way in which suppliers steps towards renewable energies has become and businesses are controlling their impact incrediblyI popular. Every sector – geotechnical on the environment is through using this type included – has been attempting to implement of energy. Not only can it be extracted without more sustainable practices wherever possible. burning toxic fossil fuels such as coal, gas This change in climate has led to the emergence or oil, but it can only produce approximately

of multiple geotechnical methodologies, the one-sixth of the CO2 that other electricity most prominent of which is geothermal drilling. generating sources do. Geothermal drilling can range from huge Geothermal energies have become a popular geothermal plants down to the implantation source of power in countries such as Iceland, of ground source heat pumps (GSHP). for example, where 90% of their heating

“Aside from being environmentally friendly, using a renewable source of energy also means that you may beneﬁt from Government incentives and payment schemes. Further to this, you will also naturally save money on energy costs”

pumps is created through geothermal means Despite often being a more complex and demand is supplied through geothermal and solar gain, which is one of the biggest long-winded process, many industries have energy sources. Unlike its competitors, such differences there is when looking at geothermal shifted to using geothermal energy as an as solar and wind energy, geothermal energy drilling. This means that the installation of a outlet to generate electricity. As a nation, we can be used continually throughout the year GSHP isn’t solely through a geothermal process. are becoming more and more aware of our and is extremely cost efficient. BENEFITS OF USING GSHP WHAT IS A GSHP? There are countless benefits to using this Once a Ground Source Heat source of energy – with the fact that it’s Pump has been decided renewable being one of the greatest. upon, there will be an Aside from being environmentally friendly, installation process with a using a renewable source of energy also means geotechnical contractor (or that you might benefit from Government geothermal borehole drilling incentives and payment schemes. Further to contractor). The servicer will this, you will also naturally save money on install loops of piping into energy costs. It’s no secret that the utilisation a pre-drilled borehole and, of oil and gas is a considerable expense for through this, a heat-carrying many homes and businesses, whereas using pump is circulated to transfer a GSHP can help to mitigate some of those absorbed heat from the large financial direct debits. ground to the surface, and GSHP’s are so quiet in operation that it’s into the property. easy to forget that they are there. In terms of A GSHP differs from the maintenance, minimal upkeep is needed once more commonly held concept they have been installed, meaning you don’t need of what geothermal drilling to worry about drilling into your property again. is, despite the fact that it is As renewable sources are growing in a form of this process. They popularity and many are searching for efficient are designed to harness ways to generate electricity for their home, the ground’s underlying ground source heat pumps could be the geothermal potential for answer for many. more domestic purposes. Much of the heating Borehole Solutions generated by these types of www.boreholesolutions.co.uk

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RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGY FEATURE

KEEPING SOLAR SHINING

All around the world, nations are building vast solar plants to harvest and store energy from the sun. Clive Jones, managing director of heat transfer fluid specialist, Global Heat Transfer, explains how solar plant managers can extend the lifespan of solar technology

olar farms provide a way to generate and supply large amounts of to 30 years, but only if well serviced and maintained. While external renewable energy to the grid. Not only is it clean, flexible and damage to a solar plant may be easy to identify, the heat transfer fluid affordable,S but research into the field has driven solar costs down, cannot be seen, which makes it difficult to monitor its condition. Its making it a low-cost power generation technology. Even in the UK, a invisibility, however, does not mean it can be ignored. nation not renowned for its sunny weather, developments are underway When operated at high temperatures, thermal fluids degrade over time on a 900-acre farm on the coast of north Kent. by a process called thermal cracking. If left without correct supervision or Concentrated solar power (CSP) plants use reflectors to concentrate maintenance, thermal fluid degradation can lead to problems with heat sunlight onto a receiver, which contains heat transfer fluid that is transfer systems. During cracking, the bonds in the hydrocarbon chains heated and used to convert water to steam. The steam drives a turbine, break, producing shorter chained light ends, which reduces the flash point generating electricity. In addition, the heat transfer fluid can store of the thermal fluid. Light ends boil and ignite at lower temperatures, energy from sunlight, providing consistent power despite intermittent reducing the flash point of thermal fluid and creating a fire hazard. supply. There are four types of CSP – parabolic trough, solar power As well as this, cracking produces carbon that leads to fouling – the towers, dish systems and Linear Fresnal reflectors. formation of sludge that reduces the efficiency of the system. Eventually, the system will need to be flushed and drained and the fluid replaced THERMAL FLUIDS IN SOLAR in order to keep operation efficient and safe, an expensive and time- The heat transfer fluid in a CSP must be designed to work at the consuming process. appropriate temperature for prolonged periods of operation in solar There is a standard degradation curve for each fluid, and the higher applications. Because it is more efficient to convert thermal energy to the operating temperature the faster this process takes place. However, electricity at high temperatures, the fluid must be able to withstand degradation will vary from application to application, so the best this. With parabolic trough solar generation, for example, the hundreds way to maximise fluid lifespan is regular testing. Technicians can of mirrors reflecting light into a concentrated area means the fluid has check the condition of the fluid by taking a sample from a live system to work at over 400˚C for extended periods. and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. In this way, solar plant The thermal fluid should also be designed to operate at low managers can monitor the degradation process and make sure it temperatures without freezing. The freezing point must be lower than doesn’t impact energy generation. that of ambient conditions or it must be kept above ambient Test results can inform a proactive, preventative, maintenance plan to temperature to prevent freezing. help ensure a healthy system, while reducing downtime and decreasing A eutectic mixture of diphenyl oxide and biphenyl provides the best the chance that the fluid will need replacing. For example, if the testing of both worlds. It can perform in both vapour and liquid phrases, so is shows the flash point has decreased, engineers could use a light ends thermally stable at high temperatures, and has a low viscosity, reducing removal kit to remove the volatile light ends. For large solar plants, frictional flow and the energy needed to pump it through the system. In the safest approach is to consult a third party expert on a thermal solar applications, synthetic oils like Globaltherm Omnitech are common, fluid lifecycle maintenance plan. This can include things like 24-hour but some applications use mineral based oils like Globaltherm Omnipure. engineering support, sampling and analysis and maintenance. Molten fluoride, chloride and nitrate salt, such as Omnistore, can be As the competition for the world’s largest solar farm heats up, large used as heat transfer fluids as well as for thermal storage. However, its quantities of thermal fluid will be needed. And, once the solar plant is high freezing point of 120-220˚C means anti-freeze methods are needed, established, it is vital that thermal fluids are proactively monitored and increasing operation and maintenance requirements and costs. maintained. Global Heat Transfer has the production capacity to deliver the high volumes of fluid needed for solar farm installations and has the LIFESPAN OF SOLAR TECHNOLOGY ability to deliver to remote locations in tight timeframes. Correct fluid choice for the location, size and application requirements of the plant is just the first step. A solar panel can operate efficiently for 25 Global Heat Transfer www.globalhtf.com

/ ENERGYMANAGEMENT ENERGY MANAGEMENT | WINTER 2020 31 EM-WIN20-PG32_Layout 1 26/11/2020 14:13 Page 24

FEATURE INSULATION

A kool solution for insulating historic building pipework

Kooltherm Pipe Insulation from Kingspan has been selected for a Grade 1 listed Georgian spa hotel in Buxton. Here we find out why…

ingspan Kooltherm Pipe Insulation is one allowed pipework – including that used to for guests at the luxury hotel. The product is Kof the most thermally efficient pipework transport the naturally heated thermal water – certified as a best-in-class low emitter of insulation materials available, with an aged to be effectively insulated with the thinnest harmful VOCs under the Eurofins Indoor Air thermal conductivity as low as 0.025W/mK possible thickness of insulation. Comfort Gold standard, showing it complies (at 10°C). As a result, this has been chosen to This was a key requirement for the project as with some of the most demanding voluntary insulate the pipework distributing ancient Richard Drew, managing director of installers specifications from across Europe. thermal spring water around a refurbished Gill Insulation, explained: “This was a highly Additional benefits of the insulation are Georgian spa hotel in Buxton. complex installation due to the Grade 1 listed that it possesses excellent smoke and fire Constructed during the 18th and 19th nature of the building which limited the scale characteristics, with a Euroclass reaction to Centuries, the historic Crescent, Natural Baths of alterations that were possible and meant fire rating of BL,s1,d0. A BIM object can also and Pump Room have been restored as part of a pipework had to be lagged in highly confined be freely downloaded from the bimstore in £70 million project by Buxton Crescent, which spaces. Our highly experienced installers were Revit format. is jointly owned by CP Holdings and the Trevor able to overcome these challenges through With Kingspan Technical Insulation’s free Osborne Property Group, established to deliver careful detailing and installation, along with Pipeline Technical Advisory Service, which can the project and manage it on completion. The the reduced overall diameters of the insulated be contacted on 0808 168 7363, clear advice regeneration project includes a thermal natural pipework which could be achieved with and guidance can be accessed at every stage in mineral water spa, visitor attraction (managed Kingspan Kooltherm Pipe Insulation.” a project, the company explains. by the Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust), retail In addition to its excellent thermal units, and an 81-bedroom luxury spa hotel performance, Kingspan Kooltherm Pipe Kingspan to be operated by ENSANA. Freehold of the Insulation also supports a healthy environment www.kingspantechnicalinsulation.co.uk buildings is held by High Peak Borough Council and Derbyshire County Council who, alongside the Heritage Lottery Fund, also provided grant GREEN HOMES GRANT VOUCHER SCHEME funding for the project. TrustMark is working alongside government to help deliver the Green Homes Grant Voucher MEETING THE CHALLENGES Scheme. The vouchers will allow homeowners to obtain funding for up to two-thirds (up to £5000) There were significant challenges faced by the of the cost of the energy efficiency measures identified, while lower income households including project team which included Vinci Construction those on certain benefits could be entitled to have as much as £10,000 of the costs fully covered. UK and Imtech, including the Crescent They will be able to use the vouchers to install one or more of the following: External building’s Grade 1 listed status, its poor state wall insulation; internal wall insulation; cavity wall insulation • Under-floor insulation: solid of repair, and its close location to the town’s floor • Under-floor insulation: suspended floor • Loft insulation; flat roof insulation; room-in- historic springs. But while the focus has been roof insulation • Park home insulation • Air source; ground source heat pump • Solar thermal • on sensitive restoration, the building services Biomass boiler. specification also makes use of modern In addition, households can use their voucher for further energy saving measures. These technologies which will make the building include one or more of the following: Draught proofing; double or triple glazing; secondary both comfortable and cost efficient to run. glazing, when replacing single glazing • Energy efficient replacement doors • Hot water tank This is why Kingspan Kooltherm Pipe thermostat; hot water tank insulation; heating controls. Insulation was installed on concealed pipework throughout the buildings. TrustMark www.trustmark.org.uk The performance offered by the insulation

32 WINTER 2020 | ENERGY MANAGEMENT / ENERGYMANAGEMENT EM-WIN20-ADVERTORIALS:AUTO 16/12/2020 13:31 Page 33

TECHNOLOGY IN ACTION ADVERTORIAL Stay Safe with Snickers Snickers Workwear NEW POLARTEC® POWER STRETCH® Workwear protective Jackets and Fleeces – the ‘Sustainable’ Choice Sharp, stylish looks and market-leading recycled POLARTEC® fabric technology make these a must for the wear solutions for Men autumn on site or outdoor leisurewear. nickers Workwear continues to lead the way with working clothes that have an and Women Sergonomic design, superb functionality and fit – for both craftsmen and women. Snickers Workwear – The versatile FLEXIWork full-stretch jackets, deliver a tight, body-hugging fit with Your Health, Your Safety, Your Wellbeing On Site. efficient moisture transportation and durable shape retention plus great freedom of movement. There’s also long johns to match for full body insulation. ong working days and The AllroundWork fleeces and bodywarmers – made from 80% recycled poly- Lcheap uncomfortable ester - are packed warmth and comfort to keep your body warm or comfortably clothing makes Snickers cool when you most need it. Workwear’s protective Fashionable and functional, they combine practicality with street-smart looks and wear range the better- the right kind of sustainable choice. informed choice for men Snickers and women working in u 01484 854788 u [email protected] u www.snickersworkwear.co.uk hazardous environments and inclement weather. There’s a comprehen- Top Quality SAFE Face Protection from Hellberg Safety sive selection of ergonomically designed ellberg Safety specialist PPE products include highly advanced Base-, Mid- and Top-layer Hface protection products, noise hazard protection and clothes, certified as communication solutions for personal safety and wellbeing on site. appropriate for different risks at work to ensure comfort, Hellberg’s interoperable face protection products offer helmet health and workforce-wellbeing all day, every day. and visor solutions to suit a variety of internal and external work The new range also includes waterproof and windproof situations. With a standard product design across the range, users AllroundWork Hi-Vis Jackets that provide protection in low- are able to mix and match visors, carriers, and hearing protectors light, high-risk environments. for complete ‘headband-only’ or ‘safety helmet’ solutions that So, whatever the hazard on site, the Snickers Workwear protect against the hazards faced in differing task environments. Hi-Vis collection and ProtecWork range can provide a pro- Everything single component in the Hellberg Safety PPE tective wear solution to provide maximum, certified pro- range combines the hallmarks of, advanced technology, quality tection whatever the risks on site. and comfort with superb, practical protection for the hazards you’re likely to face - whatever job you’re doing in high-risk Snickers work environments. u 01484 854788 u [email protected] Hellberg Safety u www.snickersworkwear.co.uk u 01484 854788 u [email protected] u www.hellbergsafety.com

Aico’s groundbreaking SmartLINK Gateway technology ico, the market leader in domestic Fire and Carbon uct facilitates the safety of tenants at all times and aids systems. Events are reported directly as they happen via AMonoxide protection, has launched the SmartLINK with compliance across housing stock, ensuring ease of the online portal, which gives accessible intelligence that Gateway, the Ei1000G. This is a first in asset management and monitoring for RSLs and clear, actionable intelligence. can be actioned, reported on and documented. compliance, providing full visibility and remote whole system Fife Council served as a trial site for the SmartLINK The Ei1000G SmartLINK Gateway aims to improve effi- monitoring of Aico Fire and Carbon Monoxide alarm systems. Gateway, Lead Officer Jim Macdonald commented “In a ciency, reduce costs, aid with forecasting and compliance Stemming from their ethos of innovation, Aico has building that relies on residents for access, we can monitor and enable smart asset management. This groundbreak- launched the SmartLINK Gateway to provide a ground- alarm systems remotely to make sure everything is working technology gives a proactive breaking solution for Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) ing correctly, and the tenants are kept safe. The main ben- approach to fault-find- to have access to real time data insight into the status of efit of this product would be saving time and money while ing, defining any trends the Smoke, Heat and Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm systems getting an immediate response, rather than going through in alarm activations and across their entire housing stock. Using its built-in GSM the normal procedures. We have always found that Aico is maintenance require- data connection, the Ei1000G utilises Aico’s next genera- very adaptable in working with clients, such as ourselves, ments while drastically tion of wireless technology to report events including to make sure the products are fit for purpose.” minimising the issue of fire/CO activations and alarm head removals as they hap- Aico have always been at the forefront of Radio property access. The pen to the SmartLINK cloud portal, for full visibility and Frequency (RF) technology and are now leading the way in SmartLINK Gateway will remote monitoring. revolutionising this technology with real-time data moni- revolutionise the way in which alarm The development of the Aico SmartLINK Gateway has toring. By using in-built GSM data connection and RF inter- systems are managed, paving the way to a solution- been greatly influenced by RSLs and their teams, through connection to interface with Aico alarms and accessories, focused approach to asset management. extensive feedback and rigorous trials that have signifi- easy installation and reliable connection is assured, mean- cantly shaped the final product; Aico designed this alarm ing full visibility of connected RF systems. Although Aico management system to assure tenant safety at any time. designed for SmartLINK, the Ei1000G is backwards compat- u 01691 664100 As the pinnacle of Aico’s technology, this pioneering prod- ible and therefore will also give visibility to RadioLINK+ u www.aico.co.uk/Ei1000G

CONNECTINGINDUSTRY.COM/ENERGYMANAGEMENT ENERGY MANAGEMENT | WINTER 2020 33 EM-WIN20-PG34_AUTO 16/12/2020 14:12 Page 34

Keep up to date with...

See what we have coming up in the Spring 2021 issue

• Air Conditioning • Electric Transport • Bio Energy/Fuel/Mass • Facilities Management • Boilers, Pumps and Valves • Monitoring & Metering • Efficient Products • Purchasing Utilities

Copy Deadline - 02/03/2021 If you would like to contribute or advertise in the next issue please contact Lisa Smith [email protected] • 01622 699118 www.connectingindustry.com/energymanagement

CLASSIFIED WEB LOCATOR

CABLE SOLUTIONS ENERGY MONITORS INDUSTRIAL PLUGS & SOCKETS

www.elandcables.com www.imh.co.uk www.ceenorm.co.uk [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT/IP/PATENTS - COST RECOVERY TEST & MEASUREMENT UPS & STANDBY POWER

www.mcs-corporate.com www.martindale-electric.co.uk www.criticalpowersupplies.co.uk [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] EM-WIN20-PG35 new_EM 18/11/2020 13:43 Page 35

Air Conditioning Energy Monitors Energy Monitoring & Targeting Energy Saving Controls

Formed in 1993, IMH Technologies Ltd is the exclusive distributor of the Dranetz Technologies range of power quality monitors. Shortly after, we added the Dent Instruments of Oregon range of energy and data loggers. In addition, IMH represents the interests of Electrotek who are part of the GPT operations that also owns Dranetz Technologies. They are a specialist power quality analysis software company. More recently, IMH have been assisting in the new, low-cost PQube Boilers instrument from Power Standards Laboratory of California and we have been involved in the SEMI47 & IEC 61000-4-34 testing instruments specifically developed by PSL. Throughout, IMH Technologies has offered an independent power quality consultancy UPS operation that has been used by the major utilities and customers throughout the United Kingdom and offshore. IMH offers full repair and service capability for the major products and, where possible, we try to source the components to keep even quite ancient instruments in service. METER PROBES Calibration to National Standards is offered at competitive prices.

IMH Technologies Ltd 8 Roach View, Purdeys Industrial Estate, Rochford, Essex SS4 1LB Tel: 0845 8800 240 Email: [email protected] Web: www.imh.co.uk

Energy Monitoring Specialists Optical Meter Reading Probes • IEC 62056-21 (‘1107/FLAG’) with magnetic attachment • Mechanically fixed version for long term reading • PACT slot version available • Range of host connector options including USB • British made, worldwide quantity supply & low prices Email for info & prices: To advertise here please contact: [email protected] Lisa Smith on 01622 699118 METMOTEC™ or www.metmotec.com [email protected]

CONNECTINGINDUSTRY.COM/ENERGYMANAGEMENT ENERGY MANAGEMENT | WINTER 2020 35 EM-WIN20-POWER CONTINUITY OBC:EM-WIN20-POWER CONTINUITY OBC 09/12/2020 09:09 Page 1