Cybersecurity

Aral Pulse has awarded Siemens Smart Infrastructure a five-year contract to deploy Electrification X from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio for its Aral e-mobility brand. Electrification X allows Aral Pulse to centrally operate, optimize, and secure Aral charging stations with ultra-fast electric vehicle charging technology. digital substations Siemens has delivered and commissioned in the past four years 300 intelligent substations and connected them to Electrification X. The digital substations powering the charging infrastructure for electric cars and trucks have an output of up to 400 kilowatts (kW). Depending on the vehicle, electric cars can charge up to 300 kilometers and reach in 10 minutes. ultra-fast chargers “To make charging as quick as refueling vehicles with conventional fuels, we’re investing in ultra-fast chargers with outputs of up to 400 kW,” said Alexander Junge, member of the Aral AG Management Board in charge of the Electromobility division. "But the chargers alone are not enough. Upgrades also require an efficient and reliable connection to the power grid. That’s why we’re happy to have Siemens on board as an expert in electrical infrastructure." dashboard Digital condition monitoring visualizes the entire energy distribution and all operating data A dashboard provides real-time insight into all safety-related messages from the individual stations. Digital condition monitoring visualizes the entire energy distribution and all operating data at medium and low voltage levels and highlights issues across the locations. A central service cloud for patches and updates, user management with multi-factor authentication, and a SIEM for attack detection make the systems NIS-2 compliant. Electrification X Dynamic Load Management The cloud-solution Electrification X Dynamic Load Management provides transparency into the status and utilization of the electric vehicle charging network for efficient and optimized charging. Dynamic load management and remote control of the digital charging stations make it possible to avoid potential capacity limitations by the distribution system operator which could result in costly violations. efficient and secure charging infrastructure “This project is a strong example of how we can connect the real and the digital worlds,” said Stephan May, CEO of Electrification and Automation at Siemens Smart Infrastructure. Installation of 350 additional digital substations at Aral’s service stations in Germany is already underway "The substations are the physical heart of the energy supply for Aral’s charging infrastructure, but without the connection to the digital world, each system would remain siloed. This central connection enables us to provide an efficient and secure charging infrastructure and, alongside Aral pulse, pave the way for sustainable and electrified mobility." Furthermore, the installation of 350 additional digital substations at Aral’s service stations in Germany is already underway. Electrification X IoT suite Built on cloud services, Electrification X is designed to manage, optimize, and automate the challenging electrification infrastructure of commercial, industrial, and utility customers. As a part of Siemens Xcelerator, an open digital business platform to accelerate digital transformation and value creation, the Electrification X IoT suite is developed according to the core design principles of interoperability, flexibility, openness, availability as a service, and the highest level of cybersecurity.

Siemens Mobility has been awarded four significant contracts by HS2 Ltd and will join key contractors under the Rail Systems Alliance. Siemens Mobility will play a crucial role in the delivery and operation of the new 225-kilometer-long British high-speed railway that will connect London and the West Midlands. Capacity and energy efficiency For the first time, Siemens Mobility will implement wayside Automatic Train Operations [ATO] over the European Train Control System [ETCS] Level 2 on a high-speed network, enabling semi-automatic train operations (Grade of Automation 2) for improved capacity, punctuality, and energy efficiency. Another contract focuses on an Engineering Management System that will enable real-time control and monitoring of railway equipment, ultimately enhancing reliability and efficiency. high-voltage power supply All awarded contracts are expected to commence in 2025 with a total order value of approximately 670 million Euros Siemens Mobility also formed a joint venture with Costain Ltd to deliver high-voltage power supply systems along the HS2 route. Finally, Siemens Mobility will take charge of implementing Operational Telecommunications and Security Systems for the entire HS2 route. All awarded contracts are expected to commence in 2025 with a total order value of approximately 670 million Euros, including long-term maintenance agreements, and potentially including additional options. electrification technology “HS2 is set to transform rail travel by offering faster and more reliable passenger journeys and freeing up freight paths in the UK. We are very proud to provide our wayside ATO over ETCS solution, enabling semi-automated train operations for improved capacity, punctuality, and energy efficiency on high-speed travel for the first time. Furthermore, we will deliver cutting-edge electrification technology and maintenance support for this groundbreaking project," said Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility. “HS2 will play a vital role in connecting the UK’s two largest cities and driving growth and sustainability nationwide. With our 5,500 UK employees, Siemens Mobility is fully committed to delivering advanced transportation solutions designed and built in Britain.” Command, Control, Signaling & Traffic Management [CCS&TM] Siemens Mobility will design, manufacture, supply, install, supervise, inspect, safety authorize, test, commission, and maintain a state-of-the-art European Train Control System [ETCS] Level 2 signaling system and traffic management solution with wayside Automatic Train Operation at GoA2. This solution will eliminate the need for traditional signals along the tracks by providing digital signaling Building on Siemens Mobility's successful signaling technology implemented in projects like Thameslink and the East Coast Digital Programme, this solution will eliminate the need for traditional signals along the tracks by providing digital signaling that feeds information directly to the train driver via a screen in their cab. This will improve operations and substantially simplify maintenance compared to conventional train control systems. Siemens Mobility will provide technical support services for the system for at least 15 years. Engineering Management System Siemens Mobility will design, manufacture, supply, install, integrate, test, commission, and maintain an integrated Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition [SCADA] system that will enable real-time control and monitoring of railway equipment, ultimately enhancing reliability and efficiency, utilizing the company's technology and provision of maintenance and technical support. Siemens Mobility will leverage its 50 years of experience in delivering advanced SCADA systems from projects such as the Elizabeth Line in London. Siemens Mobility will provide technical support services for the system for at least 15 years.   High voltage [HV] power supply systems As part of the construction of HS2, traction and non-traction substations will be built alongside the railway line A Siemens Mobility and Costain joint venture will design, manufacture, supply, install, test, commission, and maintain a high-voltage power supply system for the HS2 high-speed rail project. As part of the construction of HS2, traction and non-traction substations will be built alongside the railway line. These sub-stations will play a critical role in facilitating the delivery of power from the National Grid to high-speed trains and other railway systems, ensuring their efficient and reliable operation. Siemens Mobility and Costain will provide maintenance services for the system for at least seven years.  Operational Telecommunications and Security Systems Siemens Mobility will design, manufacture, supply, install, safety authorize, test, commission, and maintain an Operational Telecommunications and Security System along the HS2 route. This will provide Global System for Mobile Communications-Railway [GSM-R] secure, digital, wireless communications between drivers along the route. Passive provision will be made for an upgrade to the Future Railway Mobile Communication System [FRMCS]. The company will provide technical support services for the system for at least eight years. HS2: Set to transform rail travel in Britain As Britain's second purpose-built high-speed railway, HS2 follows in the footsteps of High Speed 1 HS2, the new high-speed railway currently being constructed, is set to transform Britain’s transportation landscape. Spanning 225 kilometers, the line will connect London to Birmingham with a spur to Handsacre, connecting HS2 trains to other UK cities in the North West and beyond. As Britain's second purpose-built high-speed railway, HS2 follows in the footsteps of High Speed 1, which links London to the Channel Tunnel. HS2 will deliver faster and more efficient journeys, opening new possibilities for both business and leisure travel throughout the nation. Siemens Mobility: Revolutionizing rail travel in the UK With over 170 years of history in the UK, Siemens Mobility has been at the forefront of transforming rail, travel, and transport. Employing approximately 5,500 people across over 30 sites, including manufacturing facilities in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire; Chippenham, Wiltshire; and Goole, East Yorkshire, the company is deeply committed to supporting local economies.  Innovation, sustainability, and efficiency Siemens Mobility pioneers in digital signaling technology and provides cutting-edge service solutions. In October, the company opened its €277 million Rail Village in Goole, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to manufacturing Piccadilly line trains and future UK fleets.  As a trusted partner, Siemens Mobility continues to drive innovation, sustainability, and efficiency across the UK’s transportation network.

GlobalLogic Inc. is pleased to announce the opening of a new Security Operations Center (SOC) in Kraków, Poland that utilizes the capabilities of Hitachi Cyber. This announcement comes as organizations face a critical moment in cyber security, with the start of 2025 bringing heightened risks from AI-driven attacks, ransomware-as-a-service, and supply chain vulnerabilities. According to recent reports by ENISA, cyber incidents across Europe have doubled in the past year, and the impact on critical sectors such as healthcare, energy, and manufacturing has been profound. Additionally, according to Fortinet's 2024 Global Cyber Security Skills Gap Report, 70% of companies struggle to safeguard their assets due to a growing shortage of skilled cyber security professionals. Kraków Security Operations Center (SOC) The Kraków SOC is positioned to address these pressing challenges by providing 24/7 monitoring and tailored solutions that help organizations mitigate risks, ensure compliance with regulations like GDPR and NIS2, and build resilience against an increasingly sophisticated threat landscape. Individual approach and advanced technology The new SOC offers a unique combination of services, covering the protection of networks, servers The new SOC offers a unique combination of services, covering the protection of networks, servers, applications, devices, and processes. These solutions leverage advanced tools for detection, analysis, and response, utilizing — among other technologies — AI capabilities to precisely monitor threats. The center's offerings are tailored to the specific needs of various sectors, including finance, energy, rail, manufacturing, and healthcare. The SOC is distinguished by its customized approach and ability to address the challenges related to operational technology (OT), such as industrial equipment and information technology (IT) such as infrastructure, which requires specialized security measures. Use of advanced tools and AI The center focuses on identifying and responding to threats in OT and IT environments, taking into account differences in their architecture, protocols, and communication. Through the use of advanced tools and AI, the SOC enables the detection of unusual behaviors and rapid responses to potential attacks. In addition, it supports organizations in meeting regulatory requirements, helping them effectively mitigate risks and build resilience. Growing security needs SOC-as-a-Service offers an opportunity to quickly scale operations to cater to growing security needs The center in Kraków enables the outsourcing of SOC functions, which is particularly attractive to small and medium-sized enterprises. These organizations can benefit from a fully operational SOC without incurring the costs of building and maintaining their infrastructure. For large organizations, SOC-as-a-Service offers an opportunity to quickly scale operations in response to growing security needs. The combination of GlobalLogic’s experience in digital engineering and Hitachi’s cyber security expertise and Hitachi Europe's complex market overview enables the delivery of a unique solution: GlobalLogic Secure Application Engineering. Leverage AI to strengthen protective capabilities As part of this service, security engineers propose enhancements and ensure compliance at every stage of an application's lifecycle, leveraging artificial intelligence to strengthen protective capabilities and introduce innovative security mechanisms. This solution bridges the gap between security and efficiency-focused engineering, ensuring seamless integration throughout the process. As a result, the Kraków-based SOC offers an innovative approach to data protection. Combine cutting-edge technology with industry expertise Matt Castonguay, Chief Revenue Officer - Hitachi Systems Trusted Cyber Management, Hitachi, said “The opening of our state-of-the-art Security Operations Center in Kraków reflects Hitachi Cyber's unwavering commitment to safeguarding businesses across Europe against an ever-evolving threat landscape.” He adds, “By combining cutting-edge technology with decades of expertise, we are empowering organizations to navigate complexity, ensure compliance, and build resilience in the face of growing cyber security challenges. This initiative reinforces our vision of creating a secure digital future, where innovation and security go hand in hand.” Kraków's investment in the future This state-of-the-art center, now fully operational, is a strategic point of support for companies “The opening of the SOC in Kraków marks another step in our mission to support European companies in protecting their data and safeguarding their reputations. Utilizing Hitachi Cyber, we provide clients with comprehensive protection that not only addresses current needs but also prepares them for future challenges,” emphasizes Igor Byeda, Group Vice President, of Europe at GlobalLogic. This state-of-the-art center, now fully operational, is a strategic point of support for companies in the European region, offering scalable solutions and specialized expertise to address evolving business needs. Leverage skilled professionals and advanced technologies By leveraging the center’s skilled professionals and advanced technologies, organizations can scale their operations efficiently, while reducing reliance on internal resources and optimizing security processes, resulting in significant cost savings of £1 to £3 million annually for large organizations. Through the integration of global expertise, local resources, and advanced technologies, the newly launched SOC is an important contribution to building a secure digital ecosystem in Poland and across the continent.

Siemens, a technology company announced an innovative collaboration with Spinnova, a sustainable textile technology company, to help transform the textile industry with sustainable fiber production. This collaboration underscores Siemens' strategic commitment to driving sustainability and digitalization in manufacturing industries. sustainability and digitalization Spinnova is known for its groundbreaking technology for producing textile fibers with minimal environmental impact and has teamed up with Siemens to transform the way textiles are manufactured globally. Siemens has helped Spinnova reduce its time to market with its Siemens Xcelerator automation technologies, software, and services. Scaling sustainability impact with Siemens Xcelerator SPINNOVA® fiber can then be processed into yarn and fabrics like any other conventional fiber Spinnova's patented technology produces textile fiber using a mechanical process that mimics how spiders weave their webs. This process can be used to produce fiber from a variety of raw materials, from wood to leather, textiles, and agricultural waste. SPINNOVA® fiber can then be processed into yarn and fabrics like any other conventional fiber. Increased operational efficiency "With their unique technology, based on circularity, Spinnova is setting a new standard for environmental sustainability in the textile industry," said Eryn Devola, Head of Sustainability at Siemens Digital Industries. "Our Siemens Xcelerator portfolio, our know-how, and global network are helping Spinnova scale, reduce time to market, and increase operational efficiency.” According to Spinnova, the production of SPINNOVA® fiber emits 74 percent less CO2 and uses 98 percent less water than the global average of conventional cotton, generates zero process waste, and requires zero harmful chemicals.  Siemens Xcelerator enables sustainable fiber production The transformative power of the collaboration to produce sustainable textiles is showcased at the Woodspin factory in Jyväskylä, Finland, a joint venture between Spinnova and pulp producer Suzano. With digital twins to optimize the product and production processes, IT and OT convergence for enhanced transparency, and robust cybersecurity measures, Siemens is enabling Spinnova to scale up its innovation. This has increased the company’s confidence and expedited time to market, which are crucial factors in today’s fast-paced market environments. Ramping the production “Working with Siemens has transformed how we approach manufacturing. Their technological expertise has enabled us to ramp up production quickly and brings credibility to our mission,” says Tuomas Oijala, CEO of Spinnova. “This collaboration isn’t just about advancing technology; it’s also paving the way for a sustainable future in the textile industry.” Digital twin A digital twin of the product was used to speed up, optimize, and coordinate the research and development The Woodspin factory was simulated and virtually commissioned using a digital twin with Plant Simulation in the Tecnomatix® portfolio, including its operations, material flow, what-if scenarios, and identification of bottlenecks.  This saved time, maintained quality, and increased the efficiency of operations. A digital twin of the product was used to speed up, optimize, and coordinate the research and development of the raw material base using Siemens’ Opcenter™ software, which ensures consistent quality from raw material to finished fiber. Automation architecture The entire automation architecture is based on Siemens’ Totally Integrated Automation concept, where the TIA Portal integrates line control, safety technology, end-to-end diagnostics, drives, and field devices in a unified platform. Siemens Industrial Edge enables Spinnova to collect, process, and send operational data to the cloud for analysis to track key performance indicators like energy consumption and provide transparency to customers and partners.  Defense-in-Depth concept Spinnova's cybersecurity concept is based on the Defense-in-Depth concept and uses cybersecurity technology from Siemens. The collaboration with Spinnova is part of Siemens’ broader strategy to encourage sustainable practices using technological innovations. Siemens is dedicated to shaping the future of industries where technology meets sustainability, to create a positive impact on the planet and society.

Intelligent power management company - Eaton is demonstrating broad capabilities to keep the power on at home, while helping minimize infrastructure upgrades to utility and home energy systems. The company’s AbleEdge™ home energy management system provides the foundational technology required to leverage any onsite distributed energy resource (DER) to power homes. Eaton is working with pioneering automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), energy storage and solar providers to create interoperable and cost-effective approaches ready to support vehicle-to-home (V2H) and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) now and into the future. V2H and V2G-ready solutions Eaton has demonstrated its ability to support V2G programs with utilities and automotive OEMs The average U.S. home experiences about five and a half hours without electricity per year. V2H technology can bridge that gap, keeping the power on via use of an electric vehicle (EV) battery for 10 to 20 hours for most homes, depending on the season, battery capacity and home size. Eaton is uniquely positioned to accelerate V2H and V2G-ready solutions with its longtime experience and industry-pioneering solutions to safely manage power in homes, vehicles and on the grid. Already, Eaton has demonstrated its ability to support V2G programs with utilities and automotive OEMs. Investment and managing future updates “EV batteries present an enormous opportunity to enable home energy systems that work smarter, harder and more effectively — keeping the power on and reducing home energy costs,” said Paul Ryan, General Manager of Connected Solutions and EV Charging at Eaton. He adds, “We’re delivering the breakout technology and industry collaborations needed so that homeowners can power their homes in new ways, while minimizing infrastructure investment and managing future updates through interoperability with onsite energy sources.” Home energy management system Eaton is applying its Home as a Grid approach, which simplifies the energy transition Eaton is applying its Home as a Grid approach, which simplifies the energy transition and is designed for interoperability and cybersecurity to safely and effectively enable V2H. In North America, the AbleEdge home energy management system can pair EV batteries, as well as solar and energy storage with residential electrical systems to provide power during grid outages and peak demand times. Process of incorporating DERs Eaton’s technologies streamline the process of incorporating DERs for homeowners by avoiding costly electric panel and service upgrades that can take weeks to complete – delivering significant cost and time savings. The company is expediting installations through its collaboration with Treehouse, which is providing consumers with fast, accurate pricing and end-to-end installation capabilities with licensed electricians. Partnership with Munich Electrification Eaton told its alliance with Munich Electrification to develop and market its BCS Eaton is also facilitating power distribution and protection within electric vehicles by utilizing industry-pioneering technologies that safeguard and manage power, particularly during the charging process. Eaton recently announced its partnership with Munich Electrification to develop and market its battery configuration switch (BCS), which enables more flexibility in EV charging options, reduces equipment count and enhances performance. Eaton experts at conference The company is showcasing how its solutions support more resilient, sustainable and affordable power for homes, vehicles, buildings, factories, data centers and on the grid at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. Eaton experts will be speaking at conference panel sessions: Sankaran Subramaniam, Ph.D, will explore AI at the Edge: Transforming Industries and the Workplace on January 7 at 2 p.m. in the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), North Level 2, N261 Mark Kelly will address The Energy Infrastructure of the Future on January 9 at 9 a.m. in the LVCC, North Level 2, N261 John Krzeszewski will participate in the Automotive Cybersecurity Revs Up session on January 9 at 9 a.m. in the LVCC, West Level 2, W219 Eaton solutions can be experienced during CES 2025 at booth 10341 in the North Hall. Learn more about Eaton at CES 2025. Eaton’s end-to-end electrical solutions Eaton is also demonstrating its V2H capabilities at its Pittsburgh Experience Center, where visitors can interact with Eaton’s end-to-end electrical solutions across applications. Eaton Experience Centers provide real-world application environments for experiential learning where electrical contractors, automotive OEMs, utilities, builders, and other industry professionals can see innovative technologies at work.  Each year, thousands of industry partners, customers, students, and media visit Eaton campuses to learn about the solutions powering energy systems everywhere. Learn more and visit Eaton Experience Centers.

In an era where bytes travel faster than sound waves, the communications industry stands at the vanguard of digital transformation. From fiber optic cables snaking across the seas to the expanding forests of 5G towers, the communications sector is powering innovation across lives, industries and societies. The 5G quantum leap: From faster downloads to redefining industries The fifth generation of mobile networks isn’t just about faster downloads - it's a seismic shift The fifth generation of mobile networks isn’t just about faster downloads - it's a seismic shift. They’re entering a world of massive device connectivity. Communications giants are investing billions to build a digital superhighway. But, beyond speed, 5G will redefine industries. Think remote surgery, autonomous vehicles, and smart cities. The 5G spectrum of mmWave, Sub-6 GHz, and DSS means super-fast speeds, excellent distance coverage, and smooth transitions from the 4G spectrum. The paradigm shift to 5G is bringing about an era of ultra-low latency, massive device connectivity, and augmented reality, with potential use cases that will rock our world. 5G will power smart cities, fuel a future of innovation 5G will power smart cities, fuelling a future of innovation and efficiency. Imagine traffic lights that adjust in real time and energy grids that optimize consumption. It will underpin universal healthcare, taking remote surgeries and patient monitoring from pilot projects to a run-of-the-mill reality. It will make autonomous vehicles the norm and bridge the gap between the physical and digital worlds, making augmented (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences even more immersive. The connectivity revolution: Advanced and frontier connectivity Not so long ago, a phone was just a phone. Now, it’s a pocket-sized command center. Communication companies have transformed from carriers to architects of connectivity ecosystems. They stitch together continents with submarine cables, create constellations from satellites, and beam Wi-Fi around the globe. The world is now a rich tapestry of signals, and the communications sector is the weaver. In the quest for seamless communication and global interconnectivity, 5G has captured headlines In the quest for seamless communication and global interconnectivity, 5G has captured headlines. But it isn't the only innovation. It’s part of a broader revolution with a symphony of technologies promising to better connect the world. Take advanced connectivity. It’s the steady progress made in expanding networks. Advanced connectivity Advanced connectivity is like the dependable workhorse that keeps users connected day in and day out. Mobile, broadband, and short-range providers are continuously upgrading infrastructure and rolling out new technologies that provide seamless connections, faster speeds and reduced latency, while supporting more connected devices across the global population. Frontier connectivity Frontier connectivity is, in comparison, more revolutionary. It’s pushing boundaries and venturing into uncharted territories. Its geographical footprint is limited at present, but it promises a transformative impact. It will bring internet access to even the most remote corners of the world. It will connect the unconnected, bridge digital divides, and make the impossible possible.  The evolution of voice interaction: Turning mundane voice interactions into dynamic, intelligent conversations Gone are the days of dialing a phone number and speaking to a human operator Gone are the days of dialing a phone number and speaking to a human operator. Or worse still, being met with a soul-destroying robotic interactive voice response (IVR) system telling users to press 1 for billing, 2 for technical support, etc. Modern chatbots have taken the phone out of the picture, replacing a maze of options with a simple typed Q&A back-and-forth. Natural language processing (NLP) Beyond chatbots, natural language processing (NLP) means AI now understands context, accents and colloquialisms. It can decipher spoken words and translate them into actionable commands. The rise of voice assistants, such as Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant, which engage in conversations and even tell jokes hints at the next stage in the evolution of communication. Already deployed in the field are deep learning, trained on vast datasets, generating machine voices that are virtually indistinguishable from humans. The world is on the precipice of instant translation from verbal or written inputs to and from both widely spoken and minority languages. And AI with emotional intelligence that analyzes voice tones and sentiments, gauging resonance and perceptions at scale. To riff on an old telecoms’ slogan - the future is bright, the future is intelligent AI. Highways in the sky: Converging clouds and satellites The communications industry is consolidating two seemingly disparate innovations - cloud computing and satellite technology - to bring seamless connectivity to the most remote parts of the world. Companies continue to launch satellites, while cloud providers build Edge data centers all over the world — they’re also combining. Partnerships that create seamless connections Major global cloud providers are forging alliances with satellite operators Major global cloud providers like Google, Microsoft, and AWS are forging alliances with satellite operators, such as SpaceX, SES, and Telesat. Such partnerships will extend the cloud’s reach, create seamless connections, and take the world closer to the Edge, where connectivity, data insights, and real-time analytics reach end users at the touch of a button. Northern Sky Research (NSR) predicts that the cloud-satellite market will reach $32 billion and generate upwards of 240 exabytes of traffic by 2031. It suggests Cloud will play a key role in bridging gaps between the traditional aerospace sector, downstream end users, and middle-layer organizations going forward. Unison between Cloud and satellite The unison between Cloud and satellite is shaking up the markets and ecosystem, promising businesses dramatic jumps in efficiency, revenue growth, and agility. It’s also lowering the barriers to entry for space-derived data services and reshaping connectivity, data processing, and digital service delivery across the globe. Guarding the digital borders: Fending off cyber security threats As data flows increase, so do cyber threats. Communications companies encrypt their messages, monitor threats, and fight off would-be attackers. But it’s a cat-and-mouse game. The more connected the world becomes, the more vulnerabilities emerge. Presently, the industry is actively defending the interconnected world, investing in robust defenses, fortifying networks, and implementing more stringent authentication measures. Communications firms Adopt a ‘zero trust’ approach Overall, communications companies are adopting a ‘zero trust’ approach Overall, communications companies are adopting a ‘zero trust’ approach. It’s a model that scrutinizes every access request regardless of location, not trusting any user or device - even those within a network perimeter. It relies on continuous verification, strict access controls, and micro-segmentation. Just like a bouncer checking IDs on every digital door. Over the last decade or so, the world has seen biometric authentication move from spy movies to the palm of people’s hands. More and more were moving away from traditional passwords and multi-factor verification to fingerprint scans and facial recognition. It’s as if communications providers are upgrading from rusty padlocks to state-of-the-art uncrackable safes. AI to play a much larger defensive role Looking forward, the world will see AI play a much larger defensive role, including machine learning algorithms analyzing vast quantities of fast-moving network traffic, detecting anomalies in real time and predicting threats. In collaboration with governments, industry bodies and private businesses, the communications sector will propel information sharing, threat intelligence, and collective defenses. Emergence of advanced technologies like 5G The communications industry is at the forefront, shaping the digital landscape The communications industry is at the forefront, shaping the digital landscape, and its impact will continue to reverberate across all sectors, societies and personal lives. With the emergence of technologies like 5G, advanced and frontier connectivity, voice interaction evolution, and the convergence of cloud computing and satellite technology, the world is witnessing an unprecedented era of innovation. As advancements unfold, it's clear that the communications industry will play a pivotal role in shaping how everyone connects, communicates, and collaborates, now and in the future. Carmel Owens, MD of GlobalLogic Ireland Athlone-based Carmel Owens is the Managing Director (MD) of digital engineering major firm - GlobalLogic in Ireland. Having joined GlobalLogic in 2020, then Sidero, Carmel has more than 20 years’ experience in the IT sector. In 2023, GlobalLogic acquired cloud and software development company - Sidero to expand its European footprint and position it at the forefront of technology innovation in Ireland. Extensive industry experience Carmel Owens previously held senior executive roles with major indigenous and multinational technology players, including SQS (Expleo), Version 1, Dell EMC, and Sungard Availability Services. At GlobalLogic, Carmel Owens is responsible for spearheading continued growth, shaping the company’s strategy, and overseeing daily business operations. Carmel was named Person of the Year at the 2024 Tech Excellence Awards in association with IP Telecom.

Even during the era of big business, most residential electrical service companies tend to be on the smaller end with less than 20% employing more than 100 workers. And, like most small businesses, electrical contractors probably assume that they don’t need public relations and that their advertising efforts are enough to sustain them. But this is a common misconception. PR isn’t a luxury reserved for million-dollar companies and can be used to help progressively scale your business in the long run. Lead generation companies If you’re like most electrical contractors, you are using the marketing and advertising advice that many other home service companies have taken over the years and have confined your advertising into avenues such as direct mail, lead generation companies, truck wraps and a reliance on third-party referral websites. That is one reason why adding PR to your marketing budget is a necessity While these are all good options, the problem is that your competition is also using the same marketing techniques you are using and are probably only reaching the same set of potential customers. That is one reason why adding PR to your marketing budget is a necessity if you want to rise above your peers in your market. Residential electrical services If you were to do a quick Google search for electrical contractors in your community, chances are you’d find page after page of similar options. And, if you aren’t on the first page of that list, you aren’t making much of an impact. But, with the right PR partner, you can build your company’s reputation and recognition so that it becomes synonymous with good residential electrical services. A public relations expert can help you develop campaigns that show you as a thought leader in your market while helping you secure earned media in your local news and trade publications. A public relations expert can help you develop campaigns that show you as a thought leader These methods increase your visibility. Strong visibility not only helps you reach a wider audience, it inadvertently helps you move up spots in Google rankings. The more mentions your company gets on social media, in the news and on other online platforms, the better Google ranks your website. what is Earned media So what is earned media? That’s media that isn’t paid for or owned by your company and includes media interviews, customer reviews and organic mentions on social media. And, it’s important because it is by far the most trusted form of publicity available. Studies have shown that more than 90% of consumer trust earned media over paid-for advertising. Consumers have become savvy to commercials and no longer uses ads as their main method of researching a potential service partner. But, it’s getting this earned media that can prove tricky for most electrical contractors. Most of you probably don’t know any journalists and you certainly don’t have time with your busy schedule to cultivate relationships with the media. Potential service partner A good PR expert can pitch your expertise and story ideas surrounding your company That’s where a PR agency can help. Many of them are former reporters or know the business well enough to have built relationships with many media outlets. A good PR expert can pitch your expertise and story ideas surrounding your company to media both locally and in trade publications. It’s also possible that you haven’t considered the need to consistently read and respond to your customers’ reviews online. This is important because studies have shown that more than 92% of consumers say they read online reviews before they purchase a product or hire a service provider. Social media game Since you do have a business to run, it may be difficult to carve out enough time to reply to these reviews – both the good and bad ones – in a way that is both effective and conciliatory. But, a PR partner does have the time and the experience to do this for you. But, a PR partner does have the time and the experience to do this for you Finally, PR helps you stay on top of your social media game. It’s not enough to simply have a company Facebook or LinkedIn page – you have to consistently post content and engage your followers. Coming up with something new to post is a challenge when you’re trying to schedule house calls, pay bills and hire quality electricians. Attracting new customers Once you have developed a PR strategy that helps you to promote your brand, increase your visibility and develop you and your company as the market leaders in your community, you’ll begin to notice that your brand is reaching a wider audience. And, it’s a proactive strategy that will help you influence the market in your favor. These positive messages help you grab the attention of your target audience and connect with them on a personal level. PR is about telling a good story to build relationships and it’s these relationships that will help you grow beyond that of your competitors. Heather Ripley is founder and CEO of Ripley PR, an elite, global public relations agency specializing in skilled trades, B2B tech and franchising. Ripley PR has been recognized by Entrepreneur Magazine as a Top Franchise PR Agency five years in a row and was named to Forbes’ America’s Best PR Agencies for 2021. She is the author of ‘NEXT LEVEL NOW: PR Secrets to Drive Explosive Growth for your Home Service Business.’

The promise of electric vehicles is closer to reality than ever before. New plans and investments at the federal level designate billions of dollars to move our country toward clean energy, including $2 million to help auto manufacturers retool facilities to increase EV production. Additionally, the Biden Administration has announced a goal to create 100% carbon-free electricity by 2035 and a net-zero carbon economy by 2050. Domestic EV marketplace The domestic EV marketplace has grown from 16,000 to more than 2 million vehicles in the last decade and is poised to expand at lightning speed over the next ten years. S&P Global mobility has predicted that by 2030, electric vehicles (EVs) will make up 40% of the U.S. market share of new vehicles on the road. This dramatic increase in EVs will require a nationwide network of charging stations to meet the demand from the current 140,000 to over 1.1 million. Charging stations It is a necessity that regulators lay the groundwork now for a reliable and secure charging networkThe expansion of charging stations will undoubtedly give zero-emissions drivers more confidence in their ability to refuel more conveniently. Still, it’s critical that confidence in infrastructure security also be prioritized alongside this growth. If not adequately protected and monitored, charging stations could serve as access points for cybercriminals, potentially leading to personal data leaks, attacks on vehicle systems, and even widespread blackouts. As EVs continue to gain momentum as realistic alternatives to CO-2 emitting vehicles, it is a necessity that developers and regulators lay the groundwork now for a reliable and secure charging network for the long term. EV Charging Infrastructure and the electric grid The nation’s electric grid generates and delivers electricity essential to everyday life. It’s made up of power plants and other sources of generated electricity, complete with transmission and distribution lines and infrastructure that delivers essential power. Grid connection An important aspect to remember about EV charging stations is that they connect to their relative electric grid. Simply put, the infrastructure for charging stations is comprised of devices that wait for another device to connect and communicate. However, it lacks a third-party firewall or other devices that can act as protection. Unfortunately, this results in vulnerability and means new doors for cybercriminals to walk through. Cybersecurity risks If the grid became compromised by a large-scale attack, it could lead to destructive and widespread blackouts Even before EV charging stations are factored in, the electric grid faces substantial cybersecurity risks from criminals, terrorists, hackers, and foreign governments every day. If the grid became compromised by a large-scale attack, it could lead to destructive and widespread blackouts that would undoubtedly affect EV charging stations and other essential institutions such as banks, hospitals, and gas stations. With the expansion of EV charging stations, the risks only grow. Now is the time to address threats and strategize before disaster strikes. Risks of connectivity emerge The world we live in has reached a level of being almost entirely connected at all times – security systems, appliances, health monitors, industrial sensors, and now, our vehicles. While the connectivity of vehicles has been incredibly beneficial to consumers and the automotive industry alike, the growth in the internet of things (IoT) has opened countless doorways for cybersecurity threats. Software flaws One young information technology security specialist reported finding flaws within a third-party software that a handful of leading EV manufacturers use. It gave him access to more than 25 EVs in at least 13 countries. The man, who stumbled on the findings in 2022, said he could remotely control some EV functions, including starting vehicles, unlocking windows and doors, disabling security systems, and turning on stereo systems and flashing headlights. The IT specialist said he could also tell if a person was in the vehicle. In a separate and concerning situation, a single compromised password led to a foreign-fronted cyberattack on a U.S.-based pipeline in 2021. It halted the fuel supply process on the east coast and cost the company $4.4 million in ransom money. Cyberattacks Thousands of charging stations are already in danger of being targeted by cybercriminals The point is that even massive and powerful companies can fall victim to cyberattacks. Even though cybersecurity is a critical issue for EV manufacturers, their systems are still vulnerable to hackers. Thousands of charging stations are already in danger of being targeted by cybercriminals, and as the number of stations grows, so too will the risk. The higher the number of entry points, the more opportunities hackers will see. If they can break into and gain access to even the most sophisticated EVs, it could be catastrophic. Ensuring security and reliability through proactivity Because charging stations are connected to the country’s primary grid, the entire infrastructure must be armed with the most aggressive security measures. The risks associated with modernized electric vehicles are not something that traditional automotive safety regulations and security standards properly cover. The complicated and rapid evolution of EVs is putting them at a heightened threat. When charging stations are connected to the electrical grid, it is imperative to ensure strong cybersecurity measures are in place to remain dependable and effective.  Embedding cybersecurity technology We often see outside parties utilized to secure tech because of the frequent lack of necessary cyber protection The best way to ensure the electric grid's safety is to build cybersecurity technology directly into the charging stations. We often see outside parties utilized to secure tech because of the frequent lack of necessary cyber protection. Unfortunately, the promising growth EVs and their charging stations bring to our environment also contributes to technology’s vulnerabilities, which can cause key security measures to be overlooked. There’s no getting around it: EV charging stations are highly vulnerable to hackers. Awareness and solutions As the growth continues, there is an acute need for heightened awareness and solutions for the weaknesses associated with these charging stations. These solutions should consider everything from the charging points and devices to operators of the energy distribution networks and infrastructure providers. We must aim to implement advanced cybersecurity measures that will keep safe drivers and all the data that EVs contain.

Quanergy Solutions, Inc., a provider of 3D LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) security solutions, was chosen by Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to analyze footfall to support the passenger journey with the ultimate goal of enhancing operational efficiencies. Quanergy’s technology is delivering accurate data-driven insights for YVR’s Domestic Check-in and Security Screening facilities.  Real-time insights “Through the implementation of Quanergy’s solutions, we have harnessed the power of real-time insights, gaining a deep understanding of passenger volumes and the associated wait times at different stages of their journey through the terminal,” said Jason Williams, Manager of Innovation & Technology Group, YVR. He adds, “With this high-precision data at our disposal, we can trigger real-time alerts whenever we approach or exceed predefined thresholds. This invaluable capability enables us to collaborate seamlessly with our stakeholders, ensuring that our travelers experience a smooth and stress-free journey through our airport.” Q-Track YVR currently uses insights to meet several operational and business imperatives, such as reducing check-in time With Quanergy’s 3D LiDAR sensor and advanced perception software solution, Q-Track, YVR can accurately identify, classify, and track people/objects for enhanced operational insights. YVR currently uses these insights to meet several operational and business imperatives, such as reducing check-in time and time spent passing through security, which ultimately sees an increase in customer happiness. streamline operations “We are pleased to have collaborated closely with the YVR team, resolving a multifaceted challenge encountered by many passenger terminals today,” said Adam Andres, Vice President of Global Sales at Quanergy. He adds, “The forward-thinking of the YVR Innovation and Technology Group, in embracing Quanergy’s field-tested and fully scalable Q-Track solution, led to the achievement of our project objectives. We take pride in our contribution, providing real-time actionable intelligence to enhance security, streamline operations, and elevate the overall passenger experience.”

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced that it has delivered the first unit of an air-surveillance radar system to the Philippine Air Force last month. The system, which was designed, manufactured and tested in Japan, was ordered by the Department of National Defense of the Republic of the Philippines in August 2020. first unit of air-surveillance radar system delivered Mitsubishi Electric continues to work on the remaining units for future delivery This is the first time a Japanese company has transferred finished defense equipment to a foreign government since the Japanese government established the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology in April 2014. Mitsubishi Electric continues to work on the remaining units for future delivery. Mitsubishi Electric contributes to Japan’s security In accordance with the government’s aforementioned Three Principles, Mitsubishi Electric is contributing to Japan’s security by working to strengthen deterrence through cooperation with the Japanese government, in order to meet needs for joint development, equipment transfer and participation in supply chains involving various governments and companies in other countries.

WEG stands out once again by supplying a large custom-built induction motor for an Integrated Steel Plant in the Eastern part of India, in the state of Odisha. The induction motor of the MGW line, 26 MW/4 Poles/11 kV, is the largest ever manufactured in WEG's manufacturing site in India for the Indian market, it was selected to drive the main air compressor of the oxygen plant, essential for the operation of the entire Phase-1 of the steel production plant. challenges of interchangeability The project involved replacing an existing motor at the plant, a complex task that required technical expertise to overcome the challenges of interchangeability of the new motor with the existing structure. For this, it was essential to combine all the dimensions of the machine, ensuring that no modifications were necessary on-site or in the foundation. From the water inlet and outlet to the oil lines, cable entry points and shaft details, each element was carefully considered for an efficient transition. WEG supplies induction motor System criticality has been significantly minimized, eliminating the need for complex maintenance The choice of an induction motor not only met the technical demands, but also offered substantial advantages over synchronous motors, commonly used for this application because induction motors are rare in this size and power.  System criticality has been significantly minimized, eliminating the need for complex maintenance associated with components such as the exciter and exciter panels, as well as delicate integration with motor and rotor telemetry systems. WEG's commitment The reliability of WEG's induction motor was a key element in keeping production running smoothly. Since the motor was installed, the steel plant has not experienced any unplanned downtime in the last one year of operation, contributing to a continuous and efficient production environment. With WEG's commitment to offer technological and reliable solutions to the market, this association not only increases the productivity of the plant, but also contributes to increasing the steel production capacity on Indian soil.

Oshkosh Airport Products, a division of Pierce Manufacturing Inc., a subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation announces Airservices Australia has issued a purchase order for four Oshkosh Airport Products Striker® Volterra™ 6x6 Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) hybrid electric vehicles. These environmentally advanced fire apparatus will be deployed at the new Western Sydney International Airport (WSI), set to open in 2026. Striker Volterra 6x6 The Striker Volterra 6x6 comes equipped with an Oshkosh-patented hybrid-electric drivetrain, featuring an electro-mechanical infinitely variable transmission. This enables zero-emissions operation through the integrated onboard batteries and uninterrupted power supply by coupling with the internal combustion engine for pumping and drive systems. innovative design  Airservices Australia is making a significant investment to support the development of an “airport of the future” WSI is a transformational infrastructure project expected to boost economic activity, provide local employment opportunities, meet Sydney's carbon-neutral sustainability initiatives, and meet the area’s growing aviation needs. Airservices Australia is a government entity making a significant investment to support the development of an “airport of the future,” featuring world-pioneering technology, innovative design, and a sustainability plan incorporating assets like the Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles.  sustainability "As the first airport built in Australia in over 50 years, WSI is not just an airport; it's a statement of intent for a more sustainable future,” said Dave Archer, Vice President of Engineering for Oshkosh Vocational. He adds, “The Striker Volterra vehicles, with their hybrid electric technology, align perfectly with Airservices Australia and WSI’s goals. These vehicles are not only an asset to emergency response capabilities but also play a crucial role in larger environmental sustainability initiatives." environmentally conscious choice Dave Archer continues, "They symbolize a dedication to intelligent design, energy optimization, fire crew safety and efficiency, and ultimately, a carbon-neutral future." Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles demonstrate the most advanced acceleration and reduced fuel consumption compared to our standard diesel models, making them an environmentally conscious choice for emergency response services. Striker Volterra features Striker Volterra ARFF demonstrates a 28 percent improved acceleration compared to the standard diesel models WSI’s four new Striker Volterra 6x6 vehicles will feature an industry-pioneering modular cab design, TAK-4® all-wheel independent suspension, and a 50’ Snozzle® High Reach Extendable Turret. They each house an 11,356-liter (3,000-gallon) water tank, a 1,590-liter (420-gallon) foam tank, and a 7,570 lpm (2,000 gpm) water pump, along with a 250 kg (550 lb.) dry chemical powder system. Accelerating from 0 to 80 kph (0 to 50 mph) in under 25 seconds, the Striker Volterra ARFF demonstrates a 28 percent improved acceleration compared to the standard diesel models when fully loaded. training, implementation, and service support Dave Archer added, “The collaboration between Oshkosh Airport Products and Airservices Australia marks a significant step forward in the aviation industry's commitment to sustainability. We remain committed to a strong partnership, providing world-class training, seamless implementation, and unwavering service support to ensure these vehicles exceed expectations in the critical missions of ARFF crews.” By leveraging new technologies and innovations like Oshkosh Airport Products’ Striker Volterra ARFF hybrid electric vehicles, WSI will showcase the feasibility of low-carbon operations and set a new standard for airports worldwide.

DNV is pleased to have supported a landmark solar and storage project in the Republic of Palau in the Western Pacific region. Philippines-based power producer - Solar Pacific Energy Corporation (SPEC), the solar developer of listed Alternergy Holdings Corporation, appointed DNV as Owner’s Engineer for the 15.3 MWp solar power and associated 13.2 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) in Ngatpang state on Babeldoab, the largest island in the Palau archipelago. The USD 29 million project, which is jointly owned by SPEC and its listed parent – Alternergy, will meet more than 20% of Palau’s energy needs. SPEC was awarded a long-term power supply agreement by the Palau Public Utilities Corporation (PPUC) to feed power to the central grid in Badelboab. The power plant was inaugurated last June 2. DNV’s work scope for the solar + BESS hybrid system DNV assessed if the design would meet two main purposes: grid smoothing and energy generation DNV’s work scope for the solar + BESS hybrid system, SPEC’s first venture into overseas markets, spanned four phases across the design, pre-construction, construction, and project completion stages. DNV assessed if the design would meet two main purposes: grid smoothing and energy generation. It advised on project scheduling and progress tracking, and checked the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract on SPEC’s behalf. “Solar Pacific is grateful to DNV for its excellent technical and project management support throughout the pre-construction and implementation stages of this exciting project. DNV provided valuable expertise to ensure the delivery of a rather complex project that involved a PV and battery storage hybrid solution on a challenging project site located in a remote location. We look forward to expanding our working relationship with DNV throughout the Asia Pacific region,” said Mike Lichtenfeld, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Solar Pacific Energy Corporation (SPEC). DNV, Alternergy and SPEC partnership “Alternergy is delighted to conclude another successful renewable project with DNV,” said Gerry Magbanua, the President of Alternergy, adding “Since 2014, we have collaborated with DNV in developing our pioneering wind and solar projects in the Philippines.” Project construction management was conducted remotely from DNV’s Singapore office Project construction management was conducted remotely from DNV’s Singapore office, with DNV’s partner providing onsite construction personnel supervised and managed by DNV and owner’s site representatives (OSRs) for both the civil and electrical engineering aspects. The OSRs monitored construction and with input from DNV specialist engineers, delivered several monitoring, inspection, verification, witnessing and testing activities during construction, commissioning, testing and energization of the system. DNV inspections post-commissioning DNV inspections post-commissioning ensured that non-conformance with contract specifications was sufficiently rectified, before certifying the project as ready for handover and issuing the Final Completion Certification. According to DNV’s latest Energy Transition Outlook report, Southeast Asia will see solar PV and solar coupled with storage play a significant role in the region’s electricity generation share, rising sharply from the late 2030s to generating 74% of the electricity by 2050.

Located on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, Yanbu is the nerve center of the Kingdom’s petrochemicals industry. One of Yanbu’s critical installations is the power station, which has several Gas Turbine Generators (GTGs) with a total capacity of 524.6MW.  The power station caters to the region’s total electricity demand. DG sets In case of any unexpected shutdown, the GTGs are restarted by DG sets designed specifically for Black Start applications. The DG sets are supplied by Saudi Diesel Equipment Co. Ltd., a well-known local manufacturer, and supplier to the oil and gas industry since 1978s. The new DG sets are supplied to replace a 35 years-old existing DG sets based on a detailed assessment by the company responsible for the maintenance of the power station. Entrusted with the task, Saudi Diesel opted for alternators from Nidec Leroy- Somer, its trusted supplier.  DOL starter motors Given the critical nature of the project, the company ordered two DG sets for redundancy and reliability The GTGs are equipped with DOL starter motors of 600kW, 4.16kV rating, and the starting current is very high, 6 times the nominal current which means there is a huge inrush current experienced by the alternator. Given the critical nature of the project, the company ordered two DG sets for redundancy, and thereby, reliability.  Black Start The DG set first acts as a Black Start and is primarily responsible to start the turbines that are down or under planned maintenance shutdown. The DG set is also used to feed auxiliary loads in case the need arises for emergency loads other than the turbine load, before or after the Black Start, till such time the turbines take over the full load.  Challenge For Nidec Leroy- Somer, the challenge was to design a medium voltage 4.16kV alternator with a rated power of 4000kVA. This is a high-speed alternator, IP23 rated, so there were some constraints regarding the design of the machine.  An important consideration was adapting the design to the ambient temperature of 50°C with the humidity reaching 100% in consideration of the very harsh environment at the site. D550 digital AVR AVR has functionalities including online monitoring with manual and remote controls Nidec Leroy- Somer also used the latest D550 digital AVR, which is ideal for parallel genset operation. The AVR also has a wide range of functionalities including online monitoring with manual and remote controls. The two alternators were designed and manufactured after a thorough calculation of all electrical parameters following detailed discussions with the client before finalizing the design. Once assembled, the alternators were tested and approved by Saudi Diesel along with third-party inspectors, a prerequisite for any machine exported to Saudi Arabia. synchronous speed “Any application that involves a power plant is very critical, because in case of a shutdown, the unit has to restart and come online as fast as possible, and these are very heavy turbines, each of 50MW. Also, they must run to a synchronous speed before energizing the equipment and connecting to the grid. That is the critical part, getting the GTGs into a synchronous speed before connecting to the grid,” says Nawar Shubber, Regional Sales Manager at Nidec Leroy-Somer.  complete packaged units The two DG sets were supplied as complete packaged units, each measuring 13mtr (L) x 5mtr (W) x 6 meters (H) in dimensions.  The diesel engine is from MTU, Germany. Each package is a complete unit with the Engine coupled to the Alternator, Diesel Tank, MV Switchgear, 480V Motor Control Center (MCC), Control Panel, Fire Alarm, Suppression System, and Radiator Cooling System.  axial up-blast fans Two axial up-blast fans have been installed for ventilation purposes during operation to maintain the temperature rise inside the enclosure within 5-degC.  The ingress protection rating during standby time for the whole package is IP56. The packages are based on a plug-and-play concept easy to install, easy to run, and easy to maintain.  gas-tight enclosure Enclosures for the entire generator set, fabricated locally, contain UL-motorized louvers" “Enclosures for the entire generator set, fabricated locally, contain UL- motorized louvers for totally enclosed operation during shut-down. The package is designed as a gas-tight enclosure while the fire alarm and suppression systems in these units are tested by NFPA 2001 and BS EN 15004-1,” says Kathim Alrifai, Project Manager at Saudi Diesel Equipment Company.  generator Apart from the harsh environment, the project is also located within a high seismic zone. The generator is mounted on dual spring and rubber vibration isolators designed to withstand earthquakes and seismic activity within specific limits, as determined by the data applicable to the city.