Smart Cities

Solar & Storage Live Malaysia 2025 launches in Kuala Lumpur on 9 and 10 April 2025, aimed at helping Malaysia make significant strides towards a more sustainable future and meet its renewable energy generation targets. Held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Center (MITEC), the free-to-attend expo and conference brings together thousands of industry pioneers, developers, installers, policymakers, technology experts, solution providers, investors, and innovators under one roof to catalyse the expansion of solar and storage technologies and projects in Malaysia.  Green economy under NETR Energy sustainability is a key component under the Malaysia Madani principles Energy sustainability is a key component under the Malaysia Madani principles. The Malaysian government has committed billions of RMs (Ringgit Malaysia) to steer the country from a traditional fossil fuel-based economy to a high-value green economy under the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR).  Solar & Storage Live Malaysia 2025 underscores this commitment, as it brings key stakeholders within the energy value chain together to enable change and transformation. Government agencies and influential associations The inaugural event has received support from government agencies and influential associations such as the Malaysian Association of Sustainable Supply Chain & Innovation (MASSCI), Machinery & Engineering Industries Federation (MEIF), Malaysia Association of Energy Service Companies (MAESCO), Malaysian Association of Registered Energy Managers & Energy Auditors (MAREMA), Malaysian Cable Manufacturers Association (MCMA), Malaysian Oil, Gas and Energy Services Council (MOGSC), Malaysian Photovoltaic Industry Association (MPIA), The Electrical & Electronics Association of Malaysia (TEEAM), and more. Clean energy ambitions Paul Clark, Managing Director at Terrapinn Pte Ltd, said, "We’re delighted to be bringing our globally famous Solar & Storage Live brand to Malaysia for its inaugural edition. We’ve already had thousands of registrations, and more are flying in every day so the stage is set for two fantastic days of learning, networking and shopping for solutions on the expo floor." He adds, "We’ve got an array of exhibitors from Malaysia and overseas all coming together with one mission – to help Malaysia achieve its clean energy ambitions. I invite anyone interested to join us free onsite at MITEC and be a part of the change". Expert speakers of Solar & Storage Live Malaysia 2025 Solar & Storage Live Malaysia 2025’s free-to-attend exhibition offers attendees the chance to evaluate solutions from pioneering energy players such as Ningbo Deye Inverter Technology, Eastern Pacific Industrial Corporation (EPIC) Berhad, AmSolar, GoNetZero, SynVista, and many more. In addition to exploring the exhibition floor and browsing the hundreds of products on offer, the event will also offer free-to-attend tracks of content exploring Malaysia’s energy future. Expert speakers sharing their expertise at the show include: Sanjayan Velautham, Chief Operating Officer, Suruhanjaya Tenaga - Energy Commission Arina Kok, Malaysia Climate Change and Sustainability Services (CCaSS) Pioneer, Partner, Ernst & Young Consulting Sdn Bhd Ravi Krishnaswamy, Managing Director and Regional Pioneer, Asia Pacific, Frost & Sullivan Cassandra Ong, Director, Gagasan Solar Nurul Muiz Murad, Chief Executive Officer, GEDS Group Holdings Sdn Bhd Sheng Wai Chow, Chief Sustainability Officer, Hong Leong Bank Berhad Dev Archan, Regional Manager - Investment & Asset Management, Ib vogt GmbH Elina Jani, Chief Executive Officer, GreenTech Ideaslab Sdn Bhd Sebastian Petretschek, Asia Lead - Renewables and Storage, Jacobs Jaran Walia, Chief Sales Officer, SOLS Energy Datin Lorela Chia, President, Malaysia Association of Sustainable Supply Chain & Innovation (MASSCI) Davis Chong, President, Malaysian Photovoltaic Industry Association Liho Tee, Director of Business Development, Pekat Group Berhad Jarod Ho, Head of Sustainability, POS Malaysia Abdullah Hashim, Chief Executive Officer, Medivest

Hitachi Astemo, Ltd. (hereafter “Astemo”) and GlobalLogic Inc. (hereafter “GlobalLogic”) have been strengthening their collaboration to lead the trends of software-defined vehicles. Astemo President & CEO, Kohei Takeuchi and GlobalLogic CEO, Nitesh Banga discussed the future of mobility through digital transformation. As a global mega-supplier, Astemo has been providing tangible value in the In-Car domain as internal vehicle technology, such as software that enables advanced vehicle functions, including autonomous driving. Internal vehicle technology In addition, Astemo focuses on the Out-Car domain, which is technology outside of vehicles that expands functionality and improves performance through cloud and communications technology. To further strengthen support for the Out-Car field, Astemo Cypremos, Ltd. (hereafter “Cypremos”) was established on November 1. Astemo Group as a Tier 0.5 supplier will continue to develop technologies and provide value for the mobility of the future. Vehicle OEMs are rapidly transforming to become Tech companies and developing SDV architecture Vehicle OEMs are rapidly transforming to become Tech companies and developing SDV architecture to provide over-the-air updates and generate additional revenue streams through the lifecycle of the vehicles. GlobalLogic is enabling the mobility industry through this transformation by creating technology both in-vehicle and around-the-vehicle platforms that create revenue streams for the OEMs and the broader mobility ecosystem. Electric vehicle propulsion systems The company has formed various partnerships with major Automobile manufacturers, Parts suppliers, Hyperscalers, Semiconductor companies, Fleets, and Automotive retail. GlobalLogic is also focusing on the development of electric vehicle propulsion systems and is contributing to the realization of next-generation sustainable transportation and enhanced vehicle safety, comfort, and connectivity. The two CEOs, who discussed the future of mobility through digital transformation, made the following statements. Software and digital transformation Astemo, Takeuchi CEO: "Astemo has the VISION. We provide more than just safety and peace of mind. By removing barriers like time and space, we aim to empower people worldwide to enjoy greater freedom and quality of life.” “The keys to achieving this vision are software and digital transformation. Therefore, Astemo established Cypremos as a new company that provides software and cloud services aimed at expanding its support for SDV and realizing new mobility services. The new company will provide value by improving car intelligence and mobility evolution linked to the cloud. Astemo continues to accelerate the development of technologies for future mobility, working with various partners with excellent technologies such as GlobalLogic, to realize our VISION.” Engineering digital products GlobalLogic, Nitesh Banga CEO: "At GlobalLogic, our purpose is to create a positive impact for society and the planet by engineering digital products, platforms, and services that are designed for desirability, curated for intelligence, and built for excellence. In close collaboration with our clients across healthcare, energy, finance, mobility, and more, we drive business transformation through intelligent, sustainable solutions.” “We share in Astemo's VISION and together, will build a future where technology elevates daily life and promotes meaningful, sustainable change for the mobility industry and communities worldwide." Astemo will accelerate its efforts together with GlobalLogic and our other various partners to develop the mobility of the future for sustainable growth.

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.

Lanner Electronics, a pioneer in network computing appliances and industrial AI computers, will officially unveil its latest innovation, the EAI-I233 and EAI-I251 industrial-grade Edge AI computers, at NVIDIA GTC 2025. Powered by the NVIDIA® Jetson AGX Orin™ system on module (SOM), these advanced platforms are designed to deliver low-latency AI inferencing capabilities at the edge for industries including retail, manufacturing, transportation, and smart city. EAI-I233: AI inference system The EAI-I233 features a compact design and is powered by the NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin SOM The EAI-I233 features a compact design and is powered by the NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin SOM, offering up to 64GB LPDDR5 memory and 2048 CUDA® cores for exceptional AI performance. With versatile connectivity options, including 1x GbE RJ45, 1x 10GbE RJ45, 1x 2.5GbE RJ45, 4x USB 3.2, 2x COM, and M.2 expansion slots for WiFi and 5G/LTE connectivity, this platform is ideal for deployment in space-constrained environments, such as retail stores, airports, branch offices, enabling real-time AI inferencing for video analytics applications. EAI-I251: Ruggedized AI Platform for Extreme Conditions The EAI-I251, designed for harsh environments with an operational range of -40°C to 70°C, is powered by the NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin SOM with 64GB LPDDR5 memory. Ideal for AI inference in autonomous systems, industrial visual inspection, and physical security, it features extensive I/O options, including 8x video-in (GMSL2), multiple LAN ports (1GbE, 10GbE, 2.5GbE with PoE+), USB 3.2, COM (optional CAN), DIO and M.2 slots for WiFi and 5G/LTE connectivity. This compact yet robust solution ensures seamless integration for edge AI applications. NVIDIA JetPack SDK 6.2 Support NVIDIA Metropolis stack for vision AI workloads, CUDA-X™ accelerated libraries, and robust development tools Seamlessly integrated with the NVIDIA JetPack™ SDK 6.2, both EAI-I251 and I233 empower developers with access to Jetson™ Linux, NVIDIA Metropolis stack for vision AI workloads, CUDA-X™ accelerated libraries, and robust development tools, accelerating the deployment of AI-driven in-vehicle video analytics. “With the NVIDIA Jetson platform, our latest edge AI computers redefine industrial AI performance, reliability, and connectivity,” said Spencer Chou, Senior Director of the Edge AI Division at Lanner Electronics. Advancements in AI and edge computing Chou added: “Introducing these innovations at NVIDIA GTC 2025 underscores our commitment to driving advancements in AI and edge computing for mission-critical applications.” The EAI-I233 and EAI-I251 will debut at Lanner's Booth #1908 during NVIDIA GTC 2025, Mar 17-21, at San Jose Convention Center. Visitors can experience live demonstrations and explore how these platforms enable real-time AI inferencing across industrial sectors.

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.

Packaging materials help to protect fragile electronics and electrical components from breakage. Small electrical devices and electronics are often packaged in individual plastic coverings within a larger box. Manufacturers use a variety of plastics to produce anti-static bags, pouches, film, and bubble wrap for electronics. single-use plastics Excessive consumption of single-use plastics and other packaging materials is an emerging concern in the electrical market. The use of plastic and non-recyclable materials in equipment packaging is contributing to the electrical market’s environmental footprint. organic packaging More electrical manufacturers need to transition towards a more sustainable future and implement organic packaging. Companies can minimize the negative environmental impact and become more green-friendly. While the industry has previously had a negative environmental impact, many businesses are rectifying these issues. Using less paper, plastic, wood, metal packaging, and other auxiliary materials contributes to the goal of being lightweight, recyclable, and sustainable. polystyrene foam Of the total plastic packaging waste, around 40% is disposed of at sanitary landfills Many electrical components are packaged with plastic shrink films. In addition, polystyrene foam can be used to cushion components, and plastic corner protectors may be used to strengthen boxes. Less than 10% of the plastic waste ever generated has been recycled. Plastics pollute the ocean and do not decompose in landfills. Of the total plastic packaging waste, around 40% is disposed of at sanitary landfills, 14% is collected for recycling, and 14% makes its way to incineration facilities (which cause CO2 emissions). The negative impact of plastic The fact is, most plastics used for packaging are recyclable, although most wind up in landfills due to ineffective or non-existent packaging recovery schemes. In addition, plastics contribute to emissions of greenhouse gas at each stage of their lifecycles. Therefore, plastics, which contribute up to 13% of the total “carbon budget,” will negatively impact efforts to meet the Paris climate agreement. action against single-use plastics There is a shift in focus from consumer education to holding manufacturers responsible for their environmental impact Focusing on consumer behavior has spurred much of the campaign against plastics to date. For example, the federal government has taken steps to phase out single-use plastics in national parks and other public lands. Several states have taken action against single-use plastics. For example, New Jersey no longer allows grocery stores and retailers to distribute plastic bags. The Garden State has also banned polystyrene foam packaging from restaurants and food companies. However, there is also a shift in focus from consumer education to holding manufacturers responsible for their environmental impact. Maine and California are focusing on the issue and may be among the jurisdictions to target manufacturers’ role in single-use plastics. replacement alternatives There are replacement alternatives available, but they tend to add costs for manufacturers. For example, bioplastics are made with biodegradable sources that can break down faster than traditional plastics. However, bioplastics must be properly disposed of through composting to break down. Also, bioplastics are not recyclable and can even contaminate other recyclable materials. Disposal in a landfill, which is common, defeats the purpose of using more expensive materials.  environmentally friendly alternatives Some argue that recycled plastic may be the greenest alternative, although it results in recyclables winding up in landfills Instead of polystyrene foam, packaging may consist of corrugated cardboard or plastic alternatives that are allegedly more environmentally friendly. Biodegradable wood or paper are other alternatives. However, disposal in landfills continues to be problematic with decomposition sometimes leading to the production of methane (a greenhouse gas). However, some argue that recycled plastic may be the greenest alternative, although recycling realities instead result in recyclables winding up in landfills, where they do not decompose. EPR schemes An added cost for electrical manufacturers might be a requirement to pay into extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes. EPR is a strategy to add the estimated environmental costs associated with a product’s entire lifecycle to the cost of the product. In effect, the strategy assigns responsibility for the environmental impact of products to the manufacturer. Legislation Legislation to address packaging EPR has been implemented in Maryland, New York, Washington, and New Jersey (originally introduced in 2022 and still active). In 2016, the Product Stewardship Institute developed a model packaging EPR legislation, then updated it in 2019 with input from the industry and government. Maine and Oregon used the model to enact packaging EPR laws in 2021, Colorado followed suit in 2022 and, that same year, California also enacted legislation that the model informed.

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.

Veterans make good job candidates. Military experience comes with a heightened work ethic and a sense of responsibility. Many veterans have experience working outdoors and with their hands. They are used to being team members. Coming out of the military, however, veterans may find themselves at a loss for a career path. “Veterans are used to getting up early, being on time, wearing a uniform, and they are dedicated and committed,” says Marvin Key, CEO and Co-Founder of ForgeNow, a training program for the electrical trades. “Veterans are a large percentage of our best graduates.” ForgeNow seeks to address the shortage of skilled workers in Dallas, Texas, community, and throughout the country. Key says the intensive eight-week course provides benefits comparable to two years of on-the-job training. At a community college or vocational school, such a course might take from 12 to 24 months. Bootcamp-style curriculum Currently, the courses cover residential electricians and residential HVAC. They will expand into industrial and commercial over time, and later add curricula for plumbing and maintenance technicians. Progress is analyzed and assessed weekly, and graduates are credentialed and ready to work Attendees train like military trains. The school is intensive, immersive, and full-time with a bootcamp-style curriculum. Trainees are equipped with a full uniform including work slacks, a t-shirt, a hoodie, and work boots, along with tools and a tool bag, all included in tuition. Training is from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. five days a week. Progress is analyzed and assessed weekly, and graduates are credentialed and ready to work.  “We try to hold our graduates to a level they are not accustomed to,” says Key. ForgeNow opened for classes in January 2020, and soon faced challenges from the coronavirus pandemic. However, while other education alternatives transitioned to video and distance learning during the worst of the pandemic, the program continued to operate in person (and safely), providing hands-on education throughout the pandemic. Social distancing During the pandemic, ForgeNow followed all city of Dallas protocols, including sanitizing facilities and social distancing. They were approved to remain open during lockdown because they were training essential employees. The veteran-owned business is targeting the military demographic as an important pool of enrollees “It’s been a challenging year and a half, but I am excited about the trends,” says Key. “Short-term immersive training in the way to go. The success speaks for itself.” In addition to serving former military students, ForgeNow also has several vets on the staff, including Co-Founder Rob Holmes, a combat veteran, and West Point grad, as well as an instructor who is a Marine. The veteran-owned business is targeting the military demographic as an important pool of enrollees.  GI Bill benefits Fully licensed and approved as an education facility in Texas, the program is eligible for federal training grants for the underemployed, Title IV federal financial aid funding, and veteran students can use their GI Bill benefits. ForgeNow is actively engaged with the U.S. Army Reserve and was chosen as a public/private partnership company A former Air Force recruiter, now retired, helps with enlisting students. Recruitment has accelerated recently; for a while, the pandemic prevented recruitment activities such as career fairs. ForgeNow is actively engaged with the U.S. Army Reserve and was chosen as a public/private partnership company. They work with Fort Hood, Killeen, Texas, the largest active U.S. military base, to attract candidates, and they promote the programs via social media. While welcoming to anybody, ForgeNow has identified three constituencies who are likely students. One is the U.S. veteran in transition, either from a non-commissioned or enlisted position, who is looking for new opportunities after their service. Recidivism Another constituency is the “second-chance community,” those who were formerly incarcerated and have been carefully screened as appropriate candidates. They work with reentry programs to clarify and understand the appropriate candidates, which are accepted on a case-by-case basis. One of the best ways to keep an inmate from going back into the system is a good job and career In serving “second-chance” students, ForgeNow helps to address the problem of recidivism: nationally, roughly 70% of inmates who are released will end up back behind bars. One of the best ways to keep an inmate from going back into the system is a good job and career. ForgeNow works with a handful of high-quality, faith-based reentry programs that recruit candidates from within the walls of prisons and help them develop life skills. The Prison Entrepreneurship Program in Texas has only a 7% recidivism rate. Inmates enrolled in such programs get new responsibilities and show initiative. ForgeNow participates in career nights sponsored by these organizations to recruit students. New citizen communities “We can provide training to give them an opportunity for skills and knowledge that will never leave them,” says Key. “So far, we have had more success stories than not. We are changing lives. We started this curriculum as a for-profit endeavor. I for one sorely underestimated the goodwill and societal contribution that training can make.” ForgeNow is currently working with a non-profit organization to enroll 16 Afghan refugees The third constituency includes “new citizen communities,” including immigrants. For example, ForgeNow is currently working with a non-profit organization to enroll 16 Afghan refugees who have a history with the U.S. military. There is a capacity of 100 students in the 20,000-square-foot facility, with one-third of the space dedicated to classrooms. There is also a 10,000-square-foot lab for in-person training on various equipment. Placing graduates Attracting students has been a challenge during the pandemic and its aftermath; in October, the program had 17 students. However, they have trained 150 students since the program began in January 2020. Placing graduates is among the company’s missions. “We are currently working to broaden the list of contractors/employers around the country who are welcoming to our graduates,” says Key. The network is a work-in-progress, but 100% of graduates in 2021 had job offers. As enrollment grows, it will take additional effort to maintain that level.

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. 

As part of their strategy to address damp and mold, West Dunbartonshire Council will deploy Aico’s HomeLINK Environmental Sensors across all their properties. The Council is one of Scotland’s major social housing landlords, currently owning and managing over 10,400 homes, and are focusing on increasing energy efficiency, tackling existing issues, such as damp and mold, as well as improving tenant safety, health and well-being. Ei1000G Gateway and Ei1025, Ei1020 Environmental Sensors The organization has taken the proactive approach to install the Ei1000G Gateway and Ei1025 and Ei1020 Environmental Sensors in each of their homes, making this Scotland’s largest scaled Internet of Things (IoT) roll out to date. By utilizing a multi-network sim card and RF interconnection, the sensors will be seamlessly retrofitted By utilizing a multi-network sim card and RF interconnection, the sensors will be seamlessly retrofitted into existing properties and can provide the council with a consistency on key air quality information, such as carbon dioxide, temperature, humidity, as well as insights on fire and CO activations. This will then lead to insights such as indoor air quality (IAQ) risk, damp and mold, excess heat, cold homes, potential fuel poverty, and void risk. HomeLINK App for Residents The HomeLINK App for Residents empowers individuals to take control of their home’s indoor environment. Tenants will receive alarm testing reminders and tailored recommendations. Councilor Gurpreet Singh Johal, Convener of Housing and Communities, said: “None of our tenants should be living in a home that is affected by damp or mold and these new sensors will allow us to access information on the fabric of each home easily so we can take action quickly to resolve. Not only that, we will have data to track the problem and help us identify what the best approach to resolve it will be.” Biggest roll out of this type of sensor in Scotland Councilor Gurpreet Singh Johal adds, “This is the biggest roll out of this type of sensor in Scotland and I am proud that West Dunbartonshire’s approach to dealing with damp and mold is not only leading the way, but addressing the problem in an efficient and proactive manner.” As Scotland’s social housing sector now rapidly adopts the use of IoT technologies" Gregor Morrison, Regional Specification Manager for the West of Scotland said “As Scotland’s social housing sector now rapidly adopts the use of IoT technologies to help not only increase the level of home life safety, but to improve resident health and well-being. This progressive approach from West Dunbartonshire Council to provide all homes with the opportunity for this technology is admirable.” Incorporation of the Environmental Sensors Gregor Morrison adds, “The incorporation of the Environmental Sensors will be pivotal in generating essential home health insights, as well as providing data for the tenant through the resident app, leading to healthier and more energy-efficient homes within the community.” He continues, “Growing up in and around the social housing sector in Yoker & Clydebank, I’m really looking forward to continuing the close working relationship with WDC, and seeing first-hand the difference the technology can make within the community.”

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.”