Grid Parity

On January 20, 2022, the first converter valve of the China Great Bay Area DC back-to-back project was successfully put into operation for the first time, marking an important step forward for the interconnection of the core areas of the Eastern and Western Pearl River Delta of the Guangdong power grid. The converter valves were supplied by NR. Unit 1 on the East side of Guangzhou took the lead in entering the system commissioning stage among the four units of the whole project, creating a new record of successful operation and "zero" sub-module failure, thanks to various innovations and efforts. Safety and reliability of the sub-module In the design, the iterative upgrading to improve the reliability is made on the primary design and secondary board, which effectively ensures the safety and reliability of the sub-module. In terms of test methods, two non-invasive whole tower test methods have been pioneered. One is the valve tower rapid test technology, which can compress the test time of a single tower by at least 5 times, and maintain the integrity of the secondary circuit and optical fiber circuit of the sub module in the whole process. Communication status data of submodules Two technologies greatly improve the test efficiency and reliability of the converter valve subsystem The second is the communication on-line monitoring technology, which obtains the communication status data of submodules in real time. The two technologies greatly improve the test efficiency and reliability of the converter valve subsystem, and lay a foundation for the success of the one-time operation of the converter valve. Through technological innovation, NR assisted the owner to complete the set objectives with high quality and quantity under the condition of tight deadlines. It took only 45 days from the installation of the converter valve to the commissioning of the system. Scientific and technological innovation The DC back-to-back project of Guangdong power grid will strengthen the power supply guarantee of the China Great Bay Area. At the same time, it also has important functions in fault isolation, emergency power support, power exchange, and so on. NR will continue to practice the corporate purpose of "creating value and serving society" through scientific and technological innovation, and providing customers with high-quality products, solutions & services.

Luxi Island microgrid system, which was designed, supplied, commissioned and delivered by NR, has been successfully put into operation. The system effectively solved the black start problem of 10kV feeder level microgrid with impulsive load, and has won high recognition from users with an advanced and intelligent control strategy, a stable and reliable microgrid system. Power supply of Luxi Island The power supply of Luxi Island was transmitted remotely by submarine cables Luxi Island is located on the east coast of China. The power supply of Luxi Island was transmitted remotely by submarine cables, which was easy to cause power supply interruption due to cable and tower damage. Due to the weak load carrying capacity of the original microgrid system, complex black start steps, difficult operation and low success rate, once the power was cut off, the recovery time was long, which seriously affects the production and life of residents on the island. Microgrid energy management system NR provides microgrid integrated solutions, including a microgrid energy management system, a microgrid coordination controller, an energy storage converter, and other core equipment, which effectively solves the existing problems. A microgrid system was required to quickly restore power supply after a power loss of the large power grid, and the black start function was the most important means to restore power supply and an important guarantee for the stable operation of the system. 10kV distribution network feeders usually have a large number of T-connected transformers, large load capacity. Research of microgrid technology NR successfully realized the black start function under the condition of full input of 10kV The simultaneous start of transformer inrush current and a large number of motor loads was easy lead to black start failure. The automation level of the existing distribution network system was low, relying on the manual opening and closing switch of the operation and maintenance personnel, and the power failure time of the system was long.  In view of these problems, based on the long-term accumulation in the research of microgrid technology, NR successfully realized the black start function under the condition of full input of 10kV feeder load through intelligent one-key black start control and flexible synchronous parallel start technology of multiple converters. Technical advantages of NR The whole process took less than 10s from the issuance of command to the stable establishment of bus voltage, and quickly realized power supply restoration of 18  transformers, 1359 resident users and 177 non-resident users. The power supply reliability of Luxi Island has been significantly improved. The successful implementation of the project has further consolidated the technical advantages of NR in the field of microgrid, and provided the solution for the local autonomy of the new distribution system with high distributed energy resource penetration. NR will continue to practice the corporate purpose of "creating value and serving society", and contribute more to the development of a reliable green power system.

Rural electric cooperatives - CORE Electric Cooperative and Holy Cross Energy (HCE) have partnered on a new solar array on Colorado’s Eastern Plains. The Hunter Solar project is a 75-megawatt solar array in Arapahoe County, Colorado. CORE will buy 45 MW and HCE will purchase 30 MW of power output. CORE and Holy Cross Energy partnership CORE and HCE both have committed to carbon-neutral and greenhouse gas reduction goals CORE and HCE both have committed to carbon-neutral, renewable energy and greenhouse gas reduction goals supporting statewide goals. “Hunter Solar adds to CORE’s growing portfolio of renewable energy sources powering the path to energy independence and clean energy solutions for our members,” said Chris Hildred, CORE’s Power Supply Director, adding “We are proud to work alongside HCE in meeting our collective cooperative goals.” The Hunter Solar project “This project represents one more step on HCE’s journey to provide our members with 100% clean energy by 2030,” said Bryan Hannegan, President and CEO of Holy Cross Energy (HCE). He adds, “Projects such as this represent the power of collaboration amongst cooperatives, and we look forward to sharing this clean energy resource with CORE for years to come.” Long-term power purchase contracts Long-term power purchase contracts will serve both utilities throughout the region southeast of Denver and in the mountain communities in Eagle, Garfield, and Pitkin counties. In total, Hunter Solar is anticipated to power the equivalent of approximately 15,500 homes annually. Solar arrays mounted on a tracking system The solar arrays are mounted on a tracking system, allowing them to follow the sun throughout the day as it moves from east to west, capturing maximum output from the sun.

Delta, a pioneer in power management and a provider of IoT-based smart green solutions, unveiled its broad spectrum of next-generation power and liquid cooling solutions at NVIDIA GTC 2025. These solutions are designed to bolster the performance and energy conservation in NVIDIA-enabled AI and HPC data centers, including the newly launched Power Capacitance Shelves and in-row 1.5MW liquid-to-liquid Coolant Distribution Units (CDU). NVIDIA Omniverse™ platform Delta’s AI-based Smart Solutions converge with NVIDIA Omniverse™ and NVIDIA Isaac Sim platforms The showcase also demonstrates how Delta’s AI-based Smart Manufacturing Solutions converge with NVIDIA Omniverse™ and NVIDIA Isaac Sim platforms to achieve seamless cyber-physical integration and enhance the productivity and flexibility of smart production processes in diverse manufacturing applications. Ping Cheng, Delta’s Chairman and CEO, said, “Delta strives to collaborate with our customers to provide smart and energy-efficient solutions capable of accelerating the development of the AI industry while fostering sustainability." Integrated with AI technologies Cheng added: "Our showcase at this year’s GTC demonstrates innovative power and cooling solutions for AI data centers, quite a few of which were designed with NVIDIA for their next-generation GPU architecture, as well as a smart manufacturing demo line integrated with AI technologies." "Moreover, our D-Bot cobot, power and cooling solutions for the NVIDIA MGX platform are also being featured. This comprehensive solutions portfolio for both cloud data centers and edge applications is a testament to Delta’s unique innovation prowess in the AI era.” Key highlights at the Delta booth #1023 at NVIDIA GTC 2025 AI-based Smart Manufacturing Demo Line Delta has leveraged its unique smart manufacturing expertise and system integration capabilities to develop five smart production scenarios of PC board assembly, which visitors will have the opportunity to interact with on-site. IIoT-based Line Manager enables remote control, autonomous exhibit line functions, and data analytics The AI-based Smart Manufacturing Demo Line features an ecosystem in which Delta’s D-Bot series Collaborative Robots (cobots), Omni® inserter, Integra® modular glue dispensing machine, DIATwin digital twin system, and IIoT-based Line Manager platform, collaborate along with NVIDIA Omniverse and Isaac Sim to enable cyber-physical production with virtual reality synchronization, virtual commissioning and product parameter input, smart production recipe generation and management, automated production line changeover, automated collision avoidance, and more. The IIoT-based Line Manager enables remote control, autonomous production line operations, and data analytics. By uploading product recipe parameters to Line Manager, manufacturers can quickly changeover between different product manufacturing processes while dynamically optimizing process parameters such as processing route and speed, achieving seamless automated mixed-model production. Power Solutions for AI and HPC Data Centers Delta is launching a new Power Capacitance Shelf at GTC. Designed to ensure a stable power supply for AI and cloud computing servers, this system boasts built-in lithium-ion capacitors (LIC), high power density and long hold-up time (5-second/15kW load) to perform fast charge/discharge so as to mitigate the GPU dynamic load reflections (AI server EDPP and idle mode transitions) to the AC electricity grid. In addition, the new 19-inch 1RU 66kW AC-DC Server Power Shelf offers industry-pioneering efficiency up to 97.5%. In traditional AI data centers, AI servers commonly occupy up to 3/4 of rack space, leaving limited room for power supply, backup power, and power capacitance systems. Delta’s New HVDC Server Power Solution Delta is also showcasing new parallel HVDC Modules for 800Vdc to 50/12Vdc power conversion Delta’s new HVDC server power solution, designed through collaboration with NVIDIA, helps IT managers solve that challenge by offering groundbreaking power supply capacities.  The solution includes the newly-developed 72kW AC-DC Server Power Shelf to convert 400-480Vac from the transformer to 800Vdc with efficiency up to 98% while the new 90kW DC-DC Server Power Shelf converts 800Vdc to 50Vdc with efficiency as high as 98.5%. Lastly, Delta is also showcasing new parallel HVDC Modules for 800Vdc to 50/12Vdc power conversion and with power density up to 2,500W/inch3. Delta-Designed Rack for the NVIDIA MGX Platform The industry’s first ORV3 Inverter Power System for 2.5kVA/230Vac, and the new 2RU compact 22kW Battery Backup System to support 48Vdc systems with up to 60 seconds of backup time and surge load capability, are also featured. The Delta-designed rack for the NVIDIA MGX platform, offers a 1,400A busbar as well as 42RU manifold, is also exhibited along with key Delta solutions, such as management switches, server cooling solutions, 1RU inverter shelves, 1RU 55kW power shelves (3 phase), 72kW HVDC power shelves and 90kW DC-DC power shelves, 19’’ power capacitance systems, 2RU 22kW Battery Backup Power, and 4RU L2L CDUs. Liquid and Air Cooling Solutions for AI Data Centers and GPU Systems New rack fans capable of supporting other rack power architectures, including HVDC (400-800Vdc) The newly launched 1.5MW L2L (liquid-to-liquid) CDU, approved into the privileged NVIDIA RVL and AVL lists, is specifically designed to handle the thermal management challenges of multiple high-density racks, which can exceed 100kW capacity each. Delta’s liquid cooling solutions showcase also includes Cold Plate Loops, designed for the latest NVIDIA GPU/CPU to operate in conjunction with Delta’s 4RU L2L In-Rack CDUs for NVL72/36 as a complete rack scale cooling solution, as well as the powerful new 6RU in-rack CDU design with 200kW cooling capacity for next-generation chips.  Also featured are cutting-edge air cooling options, including the new 3D Vapor Chamber boasting 1000W cooling capacity in a 4RU form factor, server fan achieving 20% performance increase versus prior models, and new rack fans capable of supporting different rack power architectures including HVDC (400-800Vdc). Passive Components for AI and HPC Data Centers Delta’s new High Density Power Chokes (dual/quad) support GPU operations under high current and high temperature (up to 150oC) conditions. For power and IT shelves operating in the high current (4000-8000A), high voltage (±400V), and high frequency (10-100MHz) conditions, the newly-launched Core-Shell Liquid Cooling Busbars offer power dissipation up to 400kW with ultra-low inductance and superior performance. Welcome to Delta’s booth #1023 at NVIDIA GTC 2025 to learn how Delta and NVIDIA collaborate to usher a new era of AI-based smart manufacturing and energy conservation in the AI realm.

CORE is prepared for significant snowfall and adverse weather forecast for Wednesday, March 13, through Friday, March 15, across their service area. Line crews in their Sedalia, Bennett, Conifer and Woodland Park districts are on standby, with additional contractors ready to assist, if needed. They also have replacement equipment on hand, and fleet vehicles are fueled up and ready to roll into even the roughest terrain in their 5,000-square-mile service area. CORE encourages members to prepare for spring storm CORE encourages members to also prepare for the expected weather. Some key tips: Keep an easily accessible ‘outage kit’ that includes a battery-powered radio or TV, flashlights or headlamps, and fresh batteries. Add enough water, blankets and non-perishable food to supply the whole family. Turn faucets on slightly during an extended outage. The slow drip will help prevent water from freezing in the pipes. Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices. Keep refrigerators and freezers closed to preserve cold food. If using a generator, follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines, such as operating it outdoors and away from windows and doors. CORE’s online Outage Center If the electric service is interrupted, use CORE’s online Outage Center to report and monitor outages, or call (833) 267-3349. To report a downed line or pole, or any other safety concern or issue beyond interruption of service, please contact them as soon as possible through any of the channels on the company’s contact page.

On May 30, the first 100MWp tidal photovoltaics power station in China was connected to the grid with full capacity. This is the first time that China has complementary developed solar and tidal energy. The successful grid connection of this power station marks that China has made new achievements in the field of comprehensive utilization of marine energy. NR Electric provides a complete set of protection and monitoring equipment for the project, and implements the engineering integration of 110kV multi terminal differential (four terminal differential) line protection and 5MW/5MWh energy storage primary frequency modulation system. Frequency modulation system This project is the first PV power station in Zhejiang Province to synchronously constructe and install 5MW/5MWh energy storage system. Goose communication is used inside the energy storage system to realize the millisecond fast response The whole station has achieved a high level of automation. In conjunction with Zhejiang Electric Power Research Institute, the first photovoltaic power station fast frequency modulation pilot project was officially comissioned, which perfectly upgraded the coordination among energy storage, SVG and inverter. Goose communication is used inside the energy storage system to realize the millisecond fast response of primary frequency modulation with photovoltaics and energy storage. Power station reservoir area Zhejiang Wenling tidal PV Power Station is located in Jiangxia Tidal Power Station and Reservoir Area, Taizhou , Zhejiang. The total area of the reservoir area is about 1.33 km. The rated installed capacity is 100MWp. The project implements a new construction model of "new green energy tidal energy + solar energy", makes full use of the water surface of the power station reservoir area. After being connected to the grid, it is estimated that the annual average on-grid power generation will be about 106.87 million kWh, which will save 32,600 tons of standard coal every year.

Fleet electrification provides opportunities to achieve climate goals while delivering social, financial, and environmental benefits to individuals, businesses, and communities, but the road to successful EV implementation is not without obstacles. Your EV fleets need to work — all the time under varying conditions — to ensure optimal uptime while maintaining energy efficiency. Consequently, electric vehicle service equipment (EVSE) can’t just be “tacked onto” your existing operation. Rather than a “new standalone addition,” it requires a thoughtful and forward-looking approach to seamlessly integrate into your overall facility. Ensuring the type of reliable power needed for an electrified fleet is critical. Luckily, there are a number of new and emerging solutions that promise to deliver clean and reliable local power generation. The Challenges The availability and reliability of the power needed to support electrified fleets is a primary roadblock for many commercial fleet operators. It’s important to look at where that power comes from, how much it will cost, and whether it will be available when needed. Projections indicate that the demand for electricity will surge by 50% during the next two decades Today’s energy landscape is complex. Projections indicate that the demand for electricity will surge by 50% during the next two decades, with no signs of slowing down. According to Grid Strategies, the U.S. electric grid is not prepared for this level of significant load growth. The sheer amount of power needed to keep trucks charged and running 24/7 can be substantial. This poses a key risk for reliability in EV infrastructures, particularly in mission-critical situations. In addition, most fleet operators have become accustomed to fairly predictable fuel costs, since many take advantage of long-term supply arrangements. By contrast, electricity grid costs can vary and result in unpredictable spikes. This adds an extra layer of complexity when it comes to the planning and timing of fleet charging. As a result, many fleet charging operations are turning to local power generation. Intelligent Microgrids, the Energy Insurance Microgrids are nothing new, with rural communities relying on them for decades. Increased affordability and shifting regulations are allowing for more of these microgrids to be powered by renewable energy methods. A common misconception is that microgrids can completely off-set power from the grid. In reality, they are designed to provide peak load shaving and system resiliency. Coupled with an EV infrastructure, microgrids can offer more flexible and reliable energy management. When compared to a traditional microgrid for a building system, microgrids for fleet electrification present new challenges. Most notably, microgrids for fleet electrification are not modeled on an existing load, but rather anticipated demand, which can make reliable load-based modeling more difficult. However, an "intelligent" microgrid uses control systems to manage, store, charge, and discharge energy across the system. Strategic energy management The system can buy power from the grid during low-cost periods while storing self-generated solar power These controls monitor supply and demand, track real-time electricity prices, and create efficient charging schedules, considering factors like Time of Use (TOU) and peak day rates. For example, when electric fleets plug in, demand may increase significantly overnight, making strategic energy management crucial. The system can buy power from the grid during low-cost periods while storing self-generated solar power for later use. When prices rise, it discharges stored energy, keeping costs stable. It can also operate independently, ensuring continuous power during outages and disruptions, improving efficiency, cost control, and reliability. Conversely, fleets often permit charging flexibility within defined boundaries, providing a unique dispatchable resource that can be tuned to fit the needs and energy resources of the customer. A New Category of Local Power Generation Linear generator technology is proving to be an innovative solution for EV infrastructures by providing flexible, resilient and cost-effective on-site base load power. Linear generator technology provides fuel-flexibility meaning they can directly run and switch among traditional fuels like natural gas or propane. Or, they can use low and zero-carbon fuels such as RNG, biogas, hydrogen, and ammonia. Its backup capabilities ensure power through hurricanes, sub-zero snowstorms, excessive heat, and other extreme conditions. Based on capex and operating costs, linear generators can provide a competitive levelized cost of ownership compared to grid power or other alternatives in certain regions. Net-zero goals These solutions allow for flexibility and integration of new fuels as they become available The technology can also be quickly deployed at scale, which is ideal for large fleet operators looking to quickly and cost-effectively deploy resilient EV charging infrastructure while reducing emissions and working toward net-zero goals. What’s more, linear generators deliver a more “future-proof” path. While the dominant sources of fuel for local power generation today is well understood, new and exciting fuels are on the horizon. These solutions allow for flexibility and integration of new fuels as they become available. All without having to replace or retrofit existing equipment. Experts Will Power the Future As companies look to integrate EVs into their operations, a well-thought-out plan for infrastructure is essential to ensure safety, reliability, and long-term success. The integration of onsite power systems will play a critical role in optimizing energy use, lowering costs, and maintaining system resilience. The good news is that energy management is becoming more flexible, ensuring that fleet electrification is not only sustainable but also cost-effective. To ensure a seamless transition and maximize the benefits of fleet electrification, many companies will be moving forward by working with experienced consultants and planners to create a future-proof infrastructure that meets both operational and environmental goals.

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.

As the demand for power increases in the UK across growing domestic and industrial markets including the nuclear industry, so the need for reliable power generation, transmission, and distribution using Medium Voltage cables has risen with it. The demands for power has never been greater, with the explosion of development in towns and cities across the UK and the growth of industrial development and technology reliant on consistent supplies. Medium voltage cables As the incidence of non-approved cables continues, Medium Voltage (MV) cables coming onto the market should be independently approved and certified as compliant as the pressure mounts on the installation of quality products in modern building developments. Indeed, new demands are being placed on the grid continually for reliable supplies and the development of nuclear plants at sites including Sellafield and Capenhurst only increases that need for reliable supply using approved products throughout the supply chain. New demands are being placed on the grid continually for reliable supplies The supply chain should be particularly careful around the application of these cables into such high-risk environments as these as well as hospitals, major industrial sites and sub-stations serving infrastructure sites. MV cables are crucial to our infrastructure. Electricity leaves the generating site and is routed via a step-up transformer to take it up to the National Grid distribution voltages of 400Kv, 275Kv, and 132Kv. Once in the local area, the supply goes through step-down transformers that reduce the voltage to 415V with domestic supplies tapped off at 230V. Large volumes of power To facilitate moving electricity around the National Grid, there are almost 4,500 miles of overhead lines, almost 1,000 miles of underground cables, and 342 Grid substations. Once stepped down, power is then distributed on local networks at a lower voltage, commonly 66Kv,33Kv, and 11Kv. In all, there are 14 licensed District Network Operators (DNOs). Very often, the supply of power to consumers of large volumes of electricity is routed via sub-stations to feed large sites such as industrial installations, hospitals, and educational institutions. To provide power to the sub-stations - very often located on the premises of the establishment that they supply - Medium Voltage (MV) cables are used. MV cables were only developed as the level of voltages increased and the need arose for a greater classification range. A developing market The size of the market has developed to the point where the global MV cables market was valued at $39.31 billion in 2016 and is projected to grow at a rate of more than six percent until 2022. The technical design and specification of the cables themselves are of paramount importance within the power distribution network. The AEI Cables range of MV cables meet all requirements of BS6622, BS7835, and IEC60502-2 and are all approved and certified by third-party approval organization BASEC for ranges up to 33kV. There are a number of technical considerations to be taken into account including the size of the installation, the position of the installation in relation to the network, and the presence of primary and secondary sub-stations. Non-approved cabling Prior to installation, a detailed route survey should also be carried out to plan where cables will be joined and to identify any possible obstructions which may require special civil engineering works such as directional drilling. Underlying the critical nature of supplies to these types of services, the incidence of non-approved cables continues, so the application of MV cables into these important and sensitive environments becomes critical. In these environments, it is even more crucial to get it right the first time There have been many instances in the recent past of non-approved cables coming onto the market, but in these environments it is even more crucial to get it right the first time, thereby reducing the risk and the cost of anything going wrong. Look for the British Standard, European or international standard number, the manufacturer’s mark, and third-party approval markings. Even if there are markings, it is worth checking because some labels and stamps have been used fraudulently. Cables can become untraceable Cables that are unmarked but not checked can become untraceable so it is important at the point of receipt for contractors to check every time. Also, keep records of purchase and delivery to ensure that what is being installed is what was specified originally. It is well worth the small amount of time to make these checks, especially as these cables are buried and relied on to provide a continuous power supply. In a number of instances, cables are even being laid under the sea to avoid lengthy and costly delays in seeking permission from landowners. Some cables are provided with an armored layer to help protect them against damage whether installed below or above ground, generally for industrial applications. Armoring also protects a cable during storage, transport to site, and installation. Metallic armoring is always earthed at one or more points in the circuit and may therefore contribute as a protective conductor to carry earth fault current. Extensive testing Modern polymeric-insulated LV and MV cables designed for UK utility use are usually not armored but have a concentric layer of copper wires under the outer sheath. Faults in underground cables are very expensive to repair, especially cables installed under roads and pavements. Repairing a fault will probably involve cutting out a length of cable on either side of the fault and installing a new length together with joints to connect to the existing cable. MV cables are subjected to extensive testing of material components and electrical tests including AC voltage and partial discharge. MV cables are subjected to extensive testing of material components and electrical tests Supplying industries At AEI Cables, we supply products to the construction, industrial, fire protection, defense, mining, and rail industries worldwide meeting the requirements for MV cables to BS 6622 and BS7835 and the highest relevant industry standards including ISO 9001 ISO 14001, and ISO 18001 for ranges up to 500kV. These products are also approved by leading independent approvals organizations nationally and internationally including BASEC, LPCB, and Lloyds. Third-party approval verifies that they can pass rigorous testing in the conditions in which they will operate. The demand continues for MV cables of quality which can consistently supply power to meet the growing challenge in whatever form it is presented.

The electrical industry is expected to have a labor shortage of about 60,000 workers by 2026. A labor shortage in the electrical trade is not inevitable, but it is likely to continue if the industry does not take steps to address the issue. Like other skilled trades, the electrical industry is facing challenges that could contribute to a labor shortage, including an aging workforce, a lack of interest among younger generations, and competition from other industries. However, there are strategies the industry can implement to address these challenges and attract a new generation of workers. These strategies include increasing awareness of the benefits and opportunities of skilled trades, investing in training and education programs, improving working conditions and compensation, embracing technology, promoting diversity and inclusivity, and collaborating among industry, education, and government. Improving working conditions Factors in the current labor shortage in the electrical industry include: Aging workforce: Many workers in the electrical industry are nearing retirement age, and there are not enough younger workers to replace them. This has led to a shortage of skilled workers with many years of experience in the industry. Lack of interest in the trades: There has been a decline in the number of young people pursuing careers in the skilled trades, including electrical work. This is due in part to a focus on four-year college degrees as the preferred career path, as well as a lack of awareness of the benefits and opportunities of skilled trades. Competition from other industries: The electrical industry is competing with other industries, such as construction and manufacturing, for skilled workers. Training and education: Training and education are critical for developing the skills and knowledge necessary for electrical work. However, there is a shortage of qualified trainers and educators. Increasing demand: The demand for electrical services is increasing, particularly in areas such as renewable energy and smart grid technology. Attracting and retaining workers To attract and retain workers, the electrical industry must offer competitive wages and benefits One strategy to address the labor shortage is to increase awareness of skilled trades and to promote the benefits of a career in the electrical industry through outreach programs in schools, career fairs, and other events. Providing access to quality training and education programs that develop the skills and knowledge necessary for electrical work is crucial for attracting and retaining workers. This can be done through apprenticeship programs, vocational schools, and community colleges. To attract and retain workers, the electrical industry must offer competitive wages and benefits, as well as a safe and supportive work environment. This includes offering training and development opportunities, flexible schedules, and opportunities for advancement. Inclusive work environment The electrical industry is changing rapidly, and workers must be equipped with the latest technology and tools to stay competitive. Providing workers with training and access to the latest technology can help attract and retain workers. The electrical industry should actively promote diversity and inclusivity to attract a wider pool of workers. This includes efforts to recruit workers from underrepresented groups and create a welcoming and inclusive work environment. The electrical industry is changing rapidly, and workers must be equipped with the latest technology Companies in the electrical industry are addressing the labor shortage problem by investing in workforce development programs and initiatives. For example, Schneider Electric has developed a comprehensive workforce development program called the Schneider Electric Energy and Automation Training (SEAT) program. The SEAT program provides training and certification for employees, customers, and partners in areas such as energy management, automation, and digital transformation. Developing training programs Siemens has developed several initiatives to address the labor shortage in the electrical industry. These initiatives include apprenticeship programs, vocational training programs, and partnerships with educational institutions to develop training programs. Graybar, a distributor of electrical products and solutions, has developed a workforce development program called Graybar University to provide training and education for employees, customers, and partners in areas such as lighting, automation, and safety. Joint apprenticeship training program Collaboration among industry, education, and government is crucial for developing solutions The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) have developed a joint apprenticeship training program that provides training and education for individuals looking to enter the electrical industry. The program provides on-the-job training and education in areas such as electrical theory, safety, and installation. Collaboration among industry, education, and government is crucial for developing solutions to the labor shortage in the electrical industry. This includes partnerships between industry and education institutions to provide training and education programs, as well as government initiatives to support workforce development in the skilled trades.

As part of a long-term modernization project at the Baltimore Washington International (BWI) Airport, Helios Electric was retained to perform design-assist, system integration, and on-site field engineering services.  The project involved replacing an existing 7.5/10.5 MVA outdoor substation transformer and performing retrofit services at the corresponding medium-voltage switchgear lineups. The project also included enhancements to the electrical system protection since power reliability was deemed vital for airport operations. SEL-787 transformer protection relay A new SEL-787 transformer protection relay was installed to perform advanced transformer monitoring, controls, and system protection. New pilot control devices were installed on the corresponding switchgear lineups to indicate transformer faults, alarms, and mechanical conditions. Vacuum circuit breakers at the existing switchgear lineups were retained and modified to establish connectivity with the new substation transformer and the new transformer protection relay. transformer protection functions This installation approach yielded improved protection for the new transformer while limiting the scope, budget, duration, and power outages required to accomplish the necessary tasks. The improved transformer protection functions included the following: ANSI-87 – Current Differential Protection ANSI-87G – Restricted Earth Fault Protection ANSI-50/51 – Phase Overcurrent Protection (Backup) ANSI-50/51G – Ground Overcurrent Protection (Backup) ANSI-63 – Transformer Sudden Pressure ANSI-71 – Transformer Low Oil Level ANSI-49 – Transformer High Winding Temperature ANSI-26 – Transformer High Oil Temperature AC/DC control modifications To fulfill the customer’s desired requirements, the Helios Electric team investigated the internal circuitry of the switchgear lineups and ascertained the specific AC/DC control modifications required at the existing. Work performed under this project included the following: Examining and analyzing the components and sub-components of the existing switchgear lineups. Tracing the existing 35kV-class and 15kV-class vacuum circuit breakers to determine the existing field configuration. Developing modified equipment shop drawings for approval, construction, and as-built conditions. Programming and configuration of SEL-787 Transformer Protection Relay to establish system protection, controls, and integration with the facility’s Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) System. Installing and modifying existing 35kV-class and 15kV-class vacuum circuit breaker controls to accommodate the new substation transformer and transformer protection relay. Developing Operation & Maintenance (O&M) manuals for modified electrical equipment lineups. On-site electrical equipment training for airport maintenance personnel.

SoFi Stadium, a world-class venue, turned to industry major - Belden for a complete end-to-end cabling and connectivity solution. Belden’s cutting-edge technology supports the stadium’s data-heavy demands, including the one-of-a-kind, roof-suspended Oculus video board, Wi-Fi infrastructure, digital ticketing, and a DAS system. Belden’s solutions for SoFi Stadium When the stadium’s owners required a solution that delivered top-tier quality, performance, and reliability while reducing labor costs, they called Belden. Count on Arrow to deliver unparalleled excellence in the low-voltage industry. Arrow will equip with the competitive advantage needed for any customer, any configuration, and any budget. Copper Cables & Copper Solutions Discover the ultimate lineup of Belden Inc. category cables, tailored to suit every application imaginable! Discover the ultimate lineup of Belden Inc. category cables, tailored to suit every application imaginable! Many cables featured their signature patented Bonded-Pair design, guaranteeing unparalleled signal integrity. Plus, with DataTuff® Industrial category cables, rest assured the system remains resilient against the toughest environmental conditions. Category 6A Choose from an assortment of configurations including small diameter, snake, industrial, non-bonded, and their innovative patented Bonded-Pair technology. Elevating performance benchmarks, Belden's renowned 10GXS Cable stands as the gold standard in the industry. Category 6 Belden has a wide array of Category 6 performance options, featuring their top-of-the-line REVConnect 3600 System cable boasting premium performance and ample headroom. The REVConnect 2400 System cable, surpasses TIA-568-C.2 standards, all backed by Belden’s renowned quality. Category 5e Belden presents a range of Category 5e performance options, with their flagship 1200 Series cable delivering exceptional headroom, surpassing the TIA-568-C.2 Category 5e standard. Featuring Bonded-Pair technology, their 1200 Series ensures unparalleled robustness in installations. Patch Panel Belden’s commercial-grade panels are available in modular (empty) configurations Belden offers a comprehensive range of copper patch panels tailored to meet the demands of both commercial and industrial settings. Belden’s commercial-grade panels are available in modular (empty) configurations or pre-loaded with high-quality copper jacks designed for Category 6A, 6, and 5E network installations. Trunk Cable Optimized for data centers, enterprise networks, and any environment prioritizing swift installation, Trunk Cable Assemblies offer factory termination and rigorous testing, slashing installation time by up to 90%. Eliminating the need for termination, these assemblies come in diverse lengths, equipped with connectors tailored to specific application requirements. Patch Cord Enhancing both performance and physical durability, Belden’s Copper Patch Cords ensure optimal transmission quality for network channels. With superb return loss characteristics adaptable to any environment, Belden’s Copper Patch Cords come in modular, small-diameter, and traceable solutions to meet specific needs. Fiber Cable & Fiber Solutions Discover an array of high-quality indoor and outdoor cable solutions within Belden’s comprehensive product line, featuring both tight buffer and loose tube designs. Tailored for diverse industrial settings, their offerings include armored, burial, and ruggedized options. Crafted to meet various specifications, their product range encompasses OM1, OM3, OM4, OM5, and OS2 (Single Mode) configurations. Tight Buffer Fiber Cables Tight-Buffered Fiber Cables are perfectly tailored for enterprise environments Tight-Buffered Fiber Cables are perfectly tailored for enterprise environments, these cables stand out as a crowd favorite, ideal for intra-building backbones and both horizontal and vertical installations.  Offering versatility like no other, they come in fiber counts ranging from two to an impressive 144, making them adaptable to any project scale. Whether indoors or outdoors, these cables are engineered to exceed expectations, boasting a design that ensures seamless performance in any environment. Loose Tube Cables Belden’s Loose Tube Cables offer the ultimate solution for all outdoor and indoor/outdoor fiber optic needs. Whether it’s for OSP, conduit, direct burial, aerial, or trunking applications, Belden’s cables offer unmatched versatility and performance. Choose from a variety of options including dry or gel-filled single and double-jacket designs, with plenum and riser ratings. Armored Cables Belden’s armored cables are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures, moisture, and physical damage. The armor layer provides an extra level of protection against mechanical stresses, such as crushing, impact, and abrasion, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the cable. It also helps to maintain cable integrity in areas prone to disturbances such as rodent activity. Connectors Belden’s connectors seamlessly integrate fusion splicing with field-installable connectors Belden’s connectors seamlessly integrate the advantages of fusion splicing with the ease of field-installable connectors, they greatly enhance flexibility for field termination, while elevating installation performance and reliability beyond traditional mechanical splice connectors.  Eliminating the need for crimping, polishing, or adhesives during termination significantly reduces installation errors. Cassettes Belden offers an advanced DCX and LAN Cassettes platform designed to cater to a wide spectrum of density requirements, ranging from low to ultra-high density applications. Cassettes platform encompasses frames, cassettes, and covers for a comprehensive array of connector types, including LC, SC, ST, and MPO connectors, as well as Copper RJ45 Jacks and Couplers. Patch Cords Simplified, durable, adaptable, and readily accessible. Unmatched quality and performance define Belden's FX patch cords, engineered with a robust design to endure daily wear and tear. Available in standard configurations off the shelf or swiftly customized for tailored installations, they ensure reliability in any setting. 

Siemens has developed a digital twin especially for large event spaces. The technology makes it possible to realistically reproduce and simulate very precisely a building’s acoustics and structure. The Sound of Science application will be used for the first time in the Großes Festspielhaus – the Large Festival Hall – at the Salzburg Festival. Sound of Science application Orchestral formations on the stage can also be tested and arranged in advance Sound of Science will enable event organizers to virtually explore how acoustics change in different spatial configurations – for example, how adding acoustic panels affects the listening experience – in order to select the optimal acoustic scenario. Orchestral formations on the stage can also be tested and arranged in advance – before a single note is heard in the real world. This approach saves money, resources and time. Siemens to use digital twins “With Sound of Science, we’re designing the future. Digital twins are not only transforming the everyday for many companies, but are also creating new opportunities for the cultural and creative industries,” said Prof. Dr. Stephan Frucht, Artistic Director of the Siemens Arts Program. Dr. Stephan Frucht adds, “In the future, we’ll be able to plan stage productions better and even simulate them acoustically in advance. We’re delighted to have the Salzburg Festival at our side as a long-standing partner, who recognizes the opportunities such innovations offer.” Sound of Science app for select partners Siemens will make the Sound of Science app available to selected partners from the cultural world free of charge as a demonstration application. There are currently no plans to market the application. Its simulation solutions, however, may be purchased. The Salzburg Festival’s Großes Festspielhaus is the first and only large event space to date in which Sound of Science is available. However, Siemens is planning to digitally simulate further spaces – including concert halls in Germany and England. At the Salzburg Festival, audiences will have an opportunity – unique for the time being – to use VR glasses to experience the application at the festival’s opening on July 20. Siemens and the Salzburg Festival “Siemens and the Salzburg Festival share a common passion for excellence and innovation. And we’re delighted to partake in this pioneering technological development and innovation as part of our long-standing close and trust-based partnership,” said Dr. Kristina Hammer, President of the Salzburg Festival. Dr. Kristina Hammer adds, “We’re excited to see what diverse applications will stem from Sound of Science in the future.” Siemens Simcenter’s simulation solutions The technologies used are part of the simulation solutions from Siemens Simcenter The technologies used are part of the simulation solutions from Siemens Simcenter, which has been part of the company’s core business for over 15 years. The technology is mostly used in industry – for example, for the acoustic optimization of vehicle interiors or for protection against street noise. For Sound of Science, Simcenter uses a combination of impulse response measurements and ray tracing for the 3D modeling of each event space. These methods can measure the echo and reverberation of a sound and simulate how sound waves propagate in a room. Depending on the material, reflections of sound waves behave differently. Those that bounce off a concrete wall react differently from those that hit a carpet or reach the ear directly. As a result, the simulation can reproduce the individual sound signature of each event space – in other words, its acoustic DNA. Siemens Festival Nights Siemens has been working closely with the Salzburg Festival for around 30 years. Since 1999, the company has also been the festival’s main sponsor. Since 2002, the Siemens Festival Nights have been held on Kapitelplatz square during the Salzburg Festival. Since its beginning, this open-air event has provided more than one million visitors with the opportunity to experience previous and current festival productions on an LED screen free of charge. In addition, some of the Salzburg Festival’s venues are equipped with Siemens technology from the areas of building automation, security and acoustics.

The project aims to increase the resilience of the city's transmission network, reducing dependence on energy supply from other locations, and meeting demand during the peak tourism season. WEG has just announced the supply of a complete energy storage system (BESS) for the city of Aspen, located in the state of Colorado, USA. The project aims to enhance the resilience of the local power grid, which does not have its own power generation system and is entirely dependent on generation from other cities. Microgrid management software The solution provided by WEG includes transformers, AC/DC voltage converters, battery containers, switching and protection systems, as well as advanced microgeneration or microgrid management software. The initial system will have a capacity of 1.5 MW of power and 2 MWh of stored energy The initial system will have a capacity of 1.5 MW of power and 2 MWh of stored energy, with the potential to expand to up to 8 MWh when fully implemented. The management software is being developed by teams of specialists in the United States and Brazil, where WEG’s largest software development technical team is based. Implementation of the BESS system This project is yet another in the portfolio of BESS systems in the United States, where WEG has a group of engineers dedicated to this product in the cities of Duluth, GA, and Barre, VT. According to Carlos Bastos Grillo, Managing Director of Digital and Systems at WEG, the implementation of the BESS system will not only reduce dependency on external energy sources, but also increase the city's resilience against power supply interruptions during the peak season and dry periods, when wildfires occur more frequently in the region. Facing similar challenges "The guarantee of a stable power supply is vital for the sustainability of local tourism, which is the backbone of Aspen's economy. We believe that this project will not only benefit residents and visitors, but also serve as a model for other cities facing similar challenges," assures the Executive. The BESS system is scheduled to be completed by September 2024, preparing Aspen for the high ski season that starts in November. Timely completion will ensure that the city does not suffer from power shortages during one of the most critical periods for local tourism.

Jenkins sold a Jenkins Motor Test System to Oman, where temperatures can exceed 120ºF. While Jenkins Motor Test Systems are built tough and for industrial environments, this specific location required customizations to be the most effective in an extremely hot environment. Locations near large bodies of water or tropical environments can also cause problems as the humidity in the air will cause the copper wiring in the transformer to oxidize over time. Although Jenkins designs its equipment to operate for long periods, some applications for customer environments require specific customization. The Solution  Jenkins engineers and winders worked together to develop a custom solution for this harsh climate, particularly paying close attention to temperature and water resistance. To customize the transformer for this environment, the Jenkins team made the following modifications: Doubling the spacing between winding layers to increase airflow. Encasing the transformer first in a high tolerance epoxy varnish, and then in a polyester over-dip that prevents the application from rust, dust, and harmful materials. Utilizing expanded metal at the base of the MTS enclosure, allows heat to escape, reducing the internal temperature. Installing temperature-sensitive cooling fans (set to 100ºF) atop the enclosure to prevent overheating. The Results  Jenkins technicians checked insulation for 10,000 volts (resistance to ground), checked each voltage leg, and high voltage potential to ground, and ensured the taps were in the correct place. Voltage was confirmed to operate up to 20% above normal operation, ensuring maximum efficiency and longevity of the transformer. These modifications have resulted in prolonged use of the Jenkins Motor Test System in harsh environments and ultimately customer satisfaction.

Fluence Energy, Inc., a global provider of energy storage products, services, and optimization software for renewables and storage, announces that the company has been selected by Origin Energy Limited (Origin) to deliver a 300 MW / 650 MWh battery at the Mortlake Power Station in southwest Victoria. The project will use Fluence’s Gridstack™ energy storage product with a 15-year service agreement contributing to Origin’s strategy to accelerate renewable energy and energy storage in its portfolio. The system will also utilize Fluence’s AI-powered asset performance management (APM) software, Nispera™, to optimize the battery’s operational performance. Energy storage projects The system will capture excess power during periods of high renewable generation  “We are honored to be selected by Origin to deliver this grid-forming battery-based energy storage system and deploy our ecosystem of solutions,” said Fluence President and Chief Executive Officer, Julian Nebreda. Julian Nebreda adds, “Australia is an important market for Fluence. Our local team is now delivering over 1 GW energy storage projects within Australia to enhance grid stability and enable the country’s clean energy transition.” Energy storage system to be commissioned in late 2026 The site preparation and civil works of the Mortlake Battery are expected to commence following a period of detailed design and procurement activity. The energy storage system is anticipated to be commissioned in late 2026. Located in Victoria’s South West Renewable Energy Zone, this energy storage system will provide system strength to the grid. The system will capture excess power during periods of high renewable generation and discharge to meet peak demand.