Renewable Energy 2021 Trends (Covid-19 vaccines, Janssen, Bharat Biotech, Gamaleya, CanSino, Vector)

JANUARY 2 0 2 1

NEWS

Leyline Renewable Capital Announces $150 Million Investment from Newlight Partners to Provide Development Capital for Renewable Energy Projects

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Risen Energy Expands Global Footprint with 150 MW Module Order from Malaysian Power Station

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CleanChoice Energy Now Enrolling Subscribers for 8 MW Community Solar Portfolio

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Commercial High Efficiency Circulators WILO Stratos Product Brochure.

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SOLAR SWITCH

EDITOR‘S NOTE

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he COVID-19 outbreak has put a toll on the renewables industry as it did to the many other industries across the globe.

Potentially, the pandemic will shift the availability of financing, developers’ investment decisions, and the priority of government policies not only for 2020 but even until 2025. This will likely create an uncertainty in the market that has rapidly expanded in the recent five years.

Fortunately, a handful of countries are introducing massive programs to respond to the meltdown of the economy brought about by the outbreak. Several of these measures can also be implemented to the renewables sector.

Decline in Costs of Wind and Solar The massive reductions in costs in the past decade has been the top reasons why renewables are rapidly mixing into the global electricity supply. The electricity cost from onshore solar and wind PV is becoming increasingly cheaper compared to new and pre-existing fossil fuel plants.

In most countries nowadays, renewables are starting to take the frontlines and becoming the cheapest way of meeting the growing demand for electricity. An additional 4

2021 Renewables and Sustainability Trends During Pandemic positive point is that while there may be temporary disruptions in supply that can cause local price fluctuations, the pandemic is unlikely to change the preexisting downward trend on renewables cost.

Government’s Role in Renewable Energy Deployment The government will likely remain instrumental in the deployment of renewable energy in the post-pandemic world. To tackle the challenges brought about by COVID-19, initial government policies focus more on postponing planned auctions

and extending projectcommissioning deadlines.

For instance, Greece, France, Germany, and the UK have already offered some flexibility for developers who will not be able to meet the target policyrelated final commissioning dates. These measures will protect deployment this year and the next, but the delay of auctions will continue to affect the years beyond 2021, especially in countries where postponement is indefinite.

* For any inquiries, please contact Mr. Rohan Suares Address: LG Electronics Gulf, P.O Box 61445, Dubai, U.A.E, Tel. # +971 52 710 0999, Email: rohan.suares@lge.com

CON TENTS

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Co Ban Kiat: Celebrating 100 Years of Providing World Class Hardware Solutions

A Smart Helmet to Detect Covid-19 Infection

22 2021 Renewables and Sustainability Trends During Pandemic

42 Leyline Renewable Capital Announces $150 Million Investment from Newlight Partners to Provide Development Capital for Renewable Energy Projects

46 Risen Energy Expands Global Footprint with 150 MW Module Order from Malaysian Power Station

50 CleanChoice Energy Now Enrolling Subscribers for 8 MW Community Solar Portfolio

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58 Air Dryers Vs. Paper Towels: What’s the Difference?

66 The Covid-19 Survival of Engineering Companies Lies in Digitalization

70 The Future Of Engineering And Its Impact On The Industry

74 Data and Digitization Report UAE Market

82 Sharaf DG Energy challenges warehouses and factories to reduce emissions

F E AT U R E S T O RY

Co Ban Kiat: Celebrating 100 Years of Providing World Class Hardware Solutions

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o Ban Kiat Hardware Inc. has remained steadfast in sharing its genius innovations and technological solutions to multitudes of people in need, effectively entrenching itself as one of the largest purveyors of hardware, tools, small appliances, and machinery in the Philippines. As CBK Hardware nears its century-long existence, it is worth noting that before prospering into the hardware giant it is today, the brand began on a humble journey. Like any trailblazing business in any industry, the journey to a position of global leadership is not without its peaks and valleys.

The Rich History of CBK Hardware Co Ban Kiat Hardware Inc. was founded in 1920 in the heart of Binondo, Manila’s own Chinatown, due to the business acquisition efforts of the Cobankiat family patriarch. After the Wholesale buy and sell hardware business was fully acquired by the family in 1924, the business prospered for another 15 years. From its peak performance, the brand entered its first valley in the form of the devastating World War II. Fortunately, the family and their business bounced back in 1945 and re-established their headquarters in Binondo 4 years later.

the birth of Hardware Workshop stores inside SM Supermalls. Johnny Cobankiat’s other notable accomplishments include the inauguration of Coby’s Design Center as a means to answer the increasing demand of high-end architectural hardware products and the accretion and introduction of Ace Hardware USA in the country on 1997, with CBK Hardware Inc. as one of its suppliers.

In 1952, CBK Hardware was incorporated and from that day on an endless market expansion effort was made. The business began dealing in and distributing traditional hardware, a wide array of appliances, and any tool that promoted ease of life.

In 2003, the company continued to be the leading supplier in all major retail hardware stores such as Wilcon Depot, All Home, D.I.Y Hardware, Citi Hardware, and MC Home Depot, to name a few.

Mayapa Wood Products and Interior Solutions, Chubbsafes, and Lincoln Electric have also recently added to its growing world-class brand portfolio.

Needless to say, these procurements will not be CBK Hardware’s last set of acquisitions.

Business prospered further and in 1990, Johnny Cobankiat introduced the retail concept for hardware products in the country which led to

CBK Hardware Inc. acquired Mayapa Wood Products and Interior Solutions in 2013, joining the ever-extending family and business network.

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It is proud to be the most innovative manufacturer of quality wood products and interior solutions in the Philippines today.

In its vision to provide word-class hardware solutions, CBK Hardware added global brands including Chubbsafes and Lincoln Electric. Truly, CBK chooses only the best brand and quality products to serve.

Needless to say, these procurements will not be CBK Hardware’s last set of acquisitions.

2015 marked the start of CBK’s corporate social responsibility efforts. In their vision to give back to the Filipino community and engage in ethically-oriented practices, Co Ban Kiat Hardware began undertaking efforts of philanthropy, activism, and charity.

Supported by their employees and partners, numerous non-government organizations and foundations received monetary aid, product donations, and services from the company.

As of yet, CBK Hardware has gone nowhere else but upward in its journey to supply the country with world-class, life-improving technological and hardware solutions.

And what are these world-class, lifeimproving technological and hardware solutions?

CBK Hardware Today: Projects and Industries These are the countless hardware and home improvement products and services CBK Hardware utilizes to realize market leadership in every market segment. CBK Hardware has dipped its toes in different business units to cater to multiple industries, such as building materials, hardware, wholesale and retail, oil and gas, HVACR, electrical, power generation, construction, mining, machinery, equipment, utilities, telecommunications, automotives, and 9

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manufacturing, to name a few. Out of all of these areas of expertise, the retail, construction, industrial, and ecommerce sectors are Co Ban Kiat Hardware Inc.’s fortes.

For wholesale and retail business segment, CBK Hardware supplies to over 2000 partner wholesale and retail stores nationwide, which includes D.I.Y stores, roadshops, depots, and much more for 68 brands and over 6,000 SKUs. For industrial, the brand has both ensconced strong distribution channels in innumerable business sectors and boasts an expansive list of automotive, hospitality, service, and other industry clientele who all trust in 12

the brand to supply them with superb improvement solutions. In the area of construction, the brand has been one of if not the most trusted partners of hardware suppliers of distinguished real estate developers and construction companies nationwide. Lastly, CBK Hardware Inc. has been looking to the future in the area of ecommerce, priding itself to be the first hardware distributor to aggressively offer products online through websites, partner ecommerce platforms, and social media accounts. Truly, CBK Hardware Inc. has come a long way and, fortunately for them, there is still a long, long way to go.

Together in Excellence: Brand Portfolio CBK Hardware Inc.’s product portfolio has lengthened and evolved over the years since its establishment in 1920. Currently, the brand is one of the country’s leading suppliers of the top-of-the-line hardware and home improvement materials to a long list of brands. CBK Hardware Inc. is constantly putting its nose on the grindstone and burning the midnight oil, invigorated by its vision to be the largest network supplier of the biggest brands in the world in the hardware industry. Its employees are the backbone of the company as they endlessly source the best products to supply its customers.

With 68 trusted global brands of building materials, electrical,

houseware, power equipment, outdoor, plumbing, hand and power tools, CBK Hardware Inc. has been steadily paving the way to a brighter future for the Philippines and the world. They have served over 1,500 industrial and commercial organizations with over 6,000 hardware products to choose from. They have satisfied over 1,600 roadshop customers, partnered with over 600 home building specialty stores nationwide. CBK Hardware has distributed items that have aided in erecting over 50 premium 5-star hotels, residential condominiums, and secure office buildings.

In their 100 years, CBK Hardware Inc. has accumulated an extensive list of global brands. They have been distributing brands such as Baldwin, Chubbsafes, DeWalt Power Tools, Dormakaba, Facom, Fairbanks Scales, 13

F E AT U R E S T O RY

Lincoln Electric, Nilfisk Professional Cleaning Equipment, Pelican, Proto, Ridgid, Shop-Vac Vacuums, Stanley Hand Tools, Toho, Viper Cleaning Equipment, Westinghouse, Yale Locks, and more. These brands are all being smoothly distributed to customers who want to get more bang for their buck when it comes to home and facility improvement, safety and security, D.I.Y projects, energy conservation, cleaning and disinfection, and the like.

Supplied and shared out by CBK Hardware Inc., these brands are truly together in excellence.

Corporate Social Responsibility Efforts Business in the hardware industry is not the only way the brand is helping the world become a better place. CBK Hardware Inc.

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is also partaking in multiple advocacies, philanthropic endeavors, humanitarianism, and charity work, because those in the company are wholeheartedly committed to contributing towards the growth of society and the environment.

Hundreds if not thousands of people from different walks of life have benefited from CBK Hardware Inc.’s initiatives, from the intensive CSR programs to the hardware donations for the improvement of living facilities. Stomachs have also been fed in the conducted feeding programs.

The goodwill of CBK Hardware Inc., was also gifted to the neglected children and elders residing at different charitable institutions. Another CSR campaign entitled Pailaw ni Juanita was also dedicated to Mrs. Juanita Co, the company’s shining beacon of hope who

shared her blessings by giving out large amounts of flashlights by teaming up with different NGOs known for their advocacies in livelihood, peace, order, and education.

Through a fruitful partnership with ABSCBN’s Mission Possible, CBK Hardware Inc. has also provided state-of-the-art hardware solutions to a near endless quantity of customers as well as the neediest. This showcase of livelihood was able to transform the lives of 5 case studies in little ways by donating quality power and hand tools that have helped increase income generation.

CBK Hardware is also an active supporter of Brigada Eskwela, a school preparation program for the upcoming academic year by donating hardware materials and engaging their employees in constructing, painting, and cleaning the different areas of each selected educational institution.

Environmental conservation is also an area in which CBK Hardware Inc. volunteers.

Recently, those in the company have implemented many clean-up drives such as the one in the coastline of the Las PiñasParañaque Critical Habitat and Ecotourism Area (LPPCHEA) in partnership with Haribon Foundation last August 11. #WithCBKweCanHELP Donation Drive has also been created In response to the increasing number of individuals who are in dire need of help due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This donation drive’s proceeds have been donated to children and elderly in chosen institutions. Other drives include the 100 Donation Drive which is a 10-month long CSR project that aims to help 100 organizations.

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To the Next 100 Years With all of these financial and tool donation drives, feeding programs, partnerships with humanitarian organizations, and other forms of noble CSR efforts, CBK Hardware Inc. is building the community and fostering an environment of togetherness. While their tools and appliances certainly do help in improving the home situation, charity and philanthropic endeavors such as these are what can improve the overall life situation of both the givers and the receivers.

As the company enters a new century, there will be even more local and global brands to acquire and form a partnership with, more ways to help out and give back to the community that deserves the utmost care, more homes and buildings to improve using the many tools and appliances the brand has in its disposal, and more individuals to help in any way.

In the same way the brand was ever-present in the last century, so too will CBK Hardware Inc. be present, proactive, and professional in the next. With endless brands to befriend, CSR efforts to initiate, facilities to improve and establish, and people to help, CBK Hardware will always lend a helping hand.

Where to Buy? For 100 years, Co Ban Kiat Hardware Inc. is the most trusted distributor of home improvement and hardware items in the Philippines.

Let’s shop wisely. #StayAtHome and order online at your convenience. Visit us in the following sites and enjoy deals, discounts, and more!

Website: https://www.cbkhardware. com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ cbkhardware/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/ cbkhardware Join our Fast Growing Viber Community http://%20https//bit. ly/3ebeCXU

Co Ban Kiat Hardware, Inc.

Ground Floor, Cobankiat Building II, 231 Juan Luna St. Binondo Manila, Philippines.

Phone +632 8243-1931 Phone +632 8243-5263 Phone +632 8894-6561 Email info@cobankiat.com.ph ; ind@cobankiat.com.ph

Coby's Designer Center

Unit 467 level 4 Shangri-La Plaza Edsa Corner Shaw Boulevard Mandaluyong City, Philippines Phone +632 86364895

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About CBK Hardware For almost a hundred years, a family’s surname has become synonymous to the country’s biggest hardware supply company. Co Ban Kiat Hardware Incorporated, of the Cobankiat family has a regular client network of more than 1,500 industrial organizations; 1,600 traditional community hardware stores, and 584 home building specialty chain of stores across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

This ever-growing conglomerate traces its humble roots to Manila Chinatown, as a pioneer enterprise started by family’s patriarch, Mr. Cobankiat in 1920. Despite the ruins of World War II, the business goes back to its feet in 1948, rebuilding a storefront from the very same spot where it was known for three decades.

This ever-growing conglomerate traces its humble roots to Manila Chinatown, as a pioneer enterprise started by family’s patriarch, Mr. Cobankiat in 1920. Despite the ruins of World War II, the business goes back to its feet in 1948, rebuilding a storefront from the very same spot where it was known for three decades.

While the Filipinos continue to rebuild their lives post war, CBK Hardware sees the opportunity to introduce the retail concept once unheard for in hardware industry. Cobankiat Hardware brought the first DIY business in the Asia. A do it on yourself concept that created Cobankiat hardware in the Philippines. The Hardware Workshop Store is the fruit if this endeavor. CBK Hardware further cemented its legendary distribution channel with the creation of Coby’ Design Center in Edsa Shangi La in 1996, a specialty store that caters to discriminating taste of modern Filipinos.

In 1997, Mr. Johnny Cobankiat, the 4th generation Cobankiat leader, set another milestone for the company when he brings a franchise of Ace Hardware USA to the Philippines, and signs up CBK Hardware as one of its major suppliers. This further expanded into delivering quality world class products nearer to families of Filipino overseas workers in the countryside.

A century’s excellence can quickly pass, and guided by the vision to be the largest network supplier of the biggest global brands in the hardware industry, CBK Hardware resolve to source the best products to supply its customers anytime and every time.

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he current pandemic can potentially change developers’ investment decisions, priorities of government policies, and the availability of financing through 2025. This, in turn, creates a significant uncertainty on the renewable energy market which had been continuously and rapidly expanding in the past five years.

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Fortunately, several countries are starting to introduce big stimulus programs as a response to the current economic slowdown and their way to support their economies.

Some of these measures appear to be relevant for the renewables sector.

Decline in Costs of Wind and Solar There is no doubt that the huge reductions in cost for wind and solar power have been the major reason behind renewables promptly transforming the electricity mix worldwide. In fact, in 2020, wind and solar PC developers won auction bids at record low contract prices only ranging from below US$20/MWh to 50/MWh. Offshore wind has also achieved substantial cost reduction and scaleup over the past several years thanks to the European policies. This is projected to repeat in the emerging offshore wind markets in North America and Asia.

Although the disruptions in supply due to the COVID-19 crisis may lead to local price fluctuations, it is unlikely that the pandemic will shift the declining cost trends. In fact, manufacturing overcapacity in solar PV is expected to reach record high levels in the next few years, putting more downward pressure on the prices of modules.

Government’s Role in Renewable Energy Deployment Almost 50% of the wind and solar PV projects in the pipeline for the next five years are tied to planned, but not finalized, auctions or other incentives (rebates, tax credits, FITs) backed by the government. With the COVID-19 crisis, there may be challenges in the timely implementation of the government’s previously announced plans. For example, projects under government-backed auctions will only be implemented if countries decide to maintain their planned schedule of tenders. However, this may not be the case, especially with the decreasing electricity demand and lowered fossil fuel prices.

In the short term, governments will likely delay scheduling new auctions for renewable capacity and switch to natural gas plants to meet existing and new demand. But in the medium and long term, the economic position of wind and solar continue to become stronger with cost reduction and long-term price predictability over project lifetimes.

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There may be challenges in the timely implementation of the government’s previously announced plans.

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The plummeting power prices, lower electricity demand, and weaker financing environment may cause such projects to be reconsidered.

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New Market-Driven Projects are Impacted More Corporates have taken increased interest in signing power purchase contracts directly with solar and wind projects outside the main schemes of government policy, thanks to the declining cost of renewables and their desire to meet their private decarbonization goals and avoid future price volatility. Developers who entered such agreements also accepted the extra risks of having shorter contracts and greater exposure to wholesale electricity prices. Although projects ties to private agreements make up around 25% of projects in the pipeline, the plummeting power prices, lower electricity demand, and weaker financing environment may cause such projects to be reconsidered.

Long-lasting COVID-19 Impacts on Biofuels Markets The Renewable Energy Directive of the EU policy framework for biofuels dictates that member states may augment the contribution of conventional (crop-based) biofuels to renewable energy in transport by no greater than one percentage point over levels achieved this year. With this, it is no longer surprising that any market disruption brought about by the pandemic in 2020 will change the share of conventional biofuels consumed, affecting the maximum permitted share in member states even beyond 2020.

With oil prices having a sustained low trend, there is a high possibility of policy makers delaying, if not entirely abandoning, their support in biofuel policy. This can already be seen in the ASEAN region, where countries have postponed action to allow higher biofuel blends to the market since the low oil prices compromised the budget available for supporting biofuel measures. In Thailand and Indonesia, funds that were previously used for supporting biofuels have reduced at the same time that low oil prices have boosted the cost of biofuel subsidy.

On the other hand, Brazil and India set up long-term ambitions to surge the contribution of biofuels in transport.

Scaling up production in order to meet these ambitions will need new production capacity, though. This, in turn, is dependent on the financial position of the industry to invest in new plants.

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N E WS

Leyline Renewable Capital Announces $150 Million Investment from Newlight Partners to Provide Development Capital for Renewable Energy Projects Injection of funding for project pre-construction signals developers are accelerating the clean energy transition in the United States Leyline Renewable Capital, a provider of development financing across several renewable energy sectors, announced a $150 million investment by Newlight Partners LP. This investment will enable Leyline to identify and provide development-stage debt and equity to support renewable energy projects throughout the United States. To date, the Leyline team has developed, financed and/or constructed more than $2 billion in 170+ projects totaling 1GW+ electricity - which equates to 140,000 metric tons in greenhouse gas reductions.

“By taking a patient view on the projects we choose to support we are able to identify promising opportunities for renewable energy projects and build deeper relationships with developers, ensuring projects are successful and profitable,” said Erik Lensch, CEO of Leyline Renewable Capital.

“Newlight Partners recognizes a clear opportunity with our team’s unique experience at the forefront of the renewable energy market and this new funding will help us advance the development of 42

renewable energy projects at their critical early stage. With Newlight’s support we will work to accelerate the clean energy market from coast to coast.”

Leyline Renewable Capital develops, builds and finances renewable energy projects that emphasize efficient project development, reducing risk and increasing investor returns. Founded and managed by industry veterans who have personal stakes in the renewable energy industry, the Leyline team understands the unique opportunities and challenges that face renewable energy developers in the pivotal months and years before construction begins.

“Leyline Renewable Capital has a firm track record of identifying, cultivating and funding some of today’s most talented renewable energy developers,” said Mark Longstreth, Managing Director of Newlight Partners LP. “As cost-competitive and distributed renewable technologies scale quickly, the developers of these projects are increasingly underserved by traditional financing sources.

Leyline understands their needs and long-term goals and is positioned to be the go-to investor for entrepreneurial developers who are essential if

cities, states and major corporations are to achieve their ambitious renewable energy targets.”

“Our capital and industry expertise allow us to support the advancement of projects from development and construction to operations.

Recently, we invested in a solar portfolio that accelerated the timelines for twenty solar projects.

We took no corporate equity in the developer and the projects are now on course to be developed three times faster than the developer would have been able to achieve without our capital. That is typical of our value-added approach to investment” said Eric Rubinstein, CFO of Leyline Renewable Capital.

Unlike a traditional financial institution, Leyline provides funding combined with the expertise needed to ensure complex renewable energy projects meet aggressive deadlines while managing any variability. Leyline Renewable Capital’s portfolio includes utility-scale solar projects, as well as anaerobic digesters which process organic waste into renewable natural gas. Leyline is favored by entrepreneurial developers on the front lines of energy innovation, transitioning the grid at a more rapid pace than ever before to meet the rapidly growing market demand coming from private and public sector actors.

Leyline Renewable Capital’s Windstar Fund I jumpstarted major energy projects, which the firm continues to manage. This new funding from Newlight will allow Leyline to expand its mission by investing in a broader portfolio of preconstruction renewable energy projects. Leyline has both the stability and flexibility to support complex, long-term projects that are needed to meet today’s ambitious clean energy goals and power a more sustainable future.

Renewable energy developers who are interested in working with Leyline Renewable Capital can find more information here.

About Leyline Renewable Capital: Leyline Renewable Capital invests in the development, construction and financing of sophisticated renewable energy projects. Backed by a team of seasoned investors with deep experience in the renewable industry, Leyline provides financing that bridges the gap between mid-stage development and construction. By investing in the pre-construction phase of renewable energy projects, Leyline is able to accelerate the development process and help developers scale their business. Leyline leverages a broad base of experience in green field project development, design, construction, and financial close with an extensive network of relationships with industry leaders to provide support and capital for projects from concept to commercial operation.

About Newlight Partners LP Newlight Partners LP (Newlight) is a private investment firm focused on collaborating with management teams and strategic investors to build unique, durable businesses, predominantly in North America. For more than 15 years, the Newlight team has helped build successful enterprises in five sectors, including financial services, telecommunications, power and renewable energy, healthcare services and business services.

Led by David Wassong and Ravi Yadav, Newlight has invested approximately $6 billion in over 100 investments since 2005, first as the Strategic Investments Group at Soros Fund Management LLC (Soros), and now as Newlight after the team’s spin out from Soros in 2018. Newlight has approximately $4 billion in capital commitments 43 and assets under management.

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Risen Energy Expands Global Footprint with 150 MW Module Order from Malaysian Power Station

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hinese solar panel maker Risen Energy Co., Ltd. recently announced the receipt of an order to provide 150 MW of high-efficiency solar PV modules to a power stations in Malaysia. Malaysia’s Minister of Energy, Science, Technology, Environment and Climate Change Yb Yeo Bee Yin attended the agreement signing ceremony. It’s the biggest module order Risen Energy has to date won both in Malaysia and from an overseas floating power station.

As part of the agreement, Risen Energy will supply high-efficiency Jaeger 144 modules with an output power up to 395W each to the project. The modules will be shipped in batches starting this month and the delivery is scheduled to be completed

by June 2020.

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Risen Energy president Xie Jian said, “Malaysia is one of our key emerging markets as it boasts abundant light resources and policies favourable to the industry. We are excited to be a part of the project in Malaysia. To ensure the smooth operation of the power station, once completed, we will equip the facility with our Jaeger modules, which have proven better performance in resistance to light induced degradation (LID) and light and elevated temperature-induced degradation (LeTID). Our optimised Jaeger modules can minimise hotspots and the impacts from shade effect on their performance in power generation. With lower total cost of ownership and labour expense, our modules will bring the project owner a lower levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) and higher income from power generation.”

Besides the PV market in Malaysia, Risen Energy has expanded its presence across major markets in the U.S., Europe, Southeast Asia, Central Asia and the Asia-Pacific region. Notably, the company has achieved remarkable results in Kazakhstan and Ukraine, among other markets along “the Belt and Road.” Additionally, Risen Energy is accelerating the growth of its energy storage business as its integrated “PV + energy storage” and “PV + energy storage + charging”. Furthermore, smart micro grid solutions have been used in commercial applications.

Risen Energy is experiencing an increase in both its top line and bottom line as the firm continues expanding globally at a steady pace. Its financial forecasts for the first three quarters of 2019 expects a net profit between 765-815 million yuan (approx. US$107-114 million), an increase of 262.40%286.09% year-on-year.

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CleanChoice Energy Now Enrolling Subscribers for 8 MW Community Solar Portfolio

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ew Facilities Will Allow Nearly 1500 New York Residents to Save Money on Utility Bills and Support Regional Solar Farms

CleanChoice Energy, a renewable energy company that empowers people and businesses to cut emissions and live cleaner, healthier lives, is now accepting subscriptions for an 8 MW community solar portfolio to be built in both Albany and Orange County New 50

York. The new solar farms will allow nearly 1,500 New York residents - from across the region - to access the benefits of solar while saving up to 10 percent on their utility bills. The project will service utility customers in Central Hudson, Orange and Rockland Counties and will be developed and owned by Ameresco, Inc., a leading energy efficiency and renewable energy company.

“New York residents can now save up to 10 percent on their utility bills while supporting regional solar growth,” said Tom Matzzie, Founder and CEO of CleanChoice Energy. “Our goal is to make supporting renewable energy as easy as possible. With community solar, almost everyone with a utility bill can access the benefits of solar.”

“New York is at the forefront of environmental stewardship, empowering communities with cost-effective, clean energy options,” said David J. Anderson, Executive Vice President and Director at Ameresco. “This project will enable nearly 1,500 New York residents to support renewable energy and save money on their utility bills. We applaud the state for being a leader in renewable energy and are proud to partner on a project that expands New York’s community solar power portfolio and supports their ambitious climate goals.”

Current Central Hudson customers can learn more about supporting solar here.

Existing Orange & Rockland customers can learn more here.

About CleanChoice Energy CleanChoice Energy empowers people and businesses to cut emissions, support renewable energy, and live cleaner lives.

Founded in 2012, the company has become one of the fastest-growing businesses in America, as ranked on the Inc 5000 and Deloitte’s Technology Fast 500™. CleanChoice Energy is a Certified B Corporation, a member of the American Sustainable Business Council and the U.S. Green Building Council. For more information or to become a customer, visit CleanChoiceEnergy.com.

About Ameresco, Inc.

Founded in 2000, Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE: AMRC) is a leading independent provider of comprehensive services, energy efficiency, infrastructure upgrades, asset sustainability and renewable energy solutions for businesses and organizations throughout North America and Europe.

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A Smart Helmet to Detect Covid-19 Infection * World Security unveiled a new Smart Helmet that is designed to make contactless detection of people potentially infected with COVID-19 while ensuring the highest levels of safety and security * World Security is the first security services provider in the UAE to adopt and use the revolutionary headgear which is packed with high-precision sensors, processors and transmission systems

World Security, the innovative security solutions provider of DP World, UAE Region has unveiled a new Smart Helmet that is designed to make contactless detection of people potentially infected with COVID-19, and help ease the movement of traffic in areas where it operates, while ensuring the highest levels of safety and security.

World Security is the first security services provider in the UAE to adopt and use the revolutionary headgear, which is a product of decades of innovation and research and is positioned to be the first choice for epidemic prevention activities. Made of advanced tough, yet lightweight materials, it is packed with high-precision sensors, processors and transmission systems.

The KC N901 Smart Helmet’s top five powerful functions are: Efficient contactless temperature recording, rapid screening for both indoors and outdoors, rapid screening of vehicles and passengers, and rapid face recognition and identity verification, using thermal imaging that enables the invisible visible.

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Mohammed Al Muallem, CEO and Managing Director, DP World, UAE Region, said: “With the reopening of the economy, we have now entered a new phase where monitoring public places for potential infection has become imperative. By introducing this technology at a time when the fight against the pandemic is in full swing, World Security has reaffirmed its commitment to keeping the community secure. As the frontline economic growth engine, DP World, UAE Region and its businesses are strictly adhering to the COVID-19 containment programme requirements, and we’re constantly working towards introducing such new and effective measures to ensure business continuity.�

A key to the security requirements of DP World and many other crown jewel economic assets in Dubai, World Security has been providing security solutions for over two decades in the region. The global pandemic was a never-before tackled, new challenge encountered by this established company and required unprecedented solutions.

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MVTM SERIES: MVX 60 CELL MODULES Suniva’s MVTM series modules are made of world class quality multicrystalline solar cells to bring you a reliable yield even under demanding conditions.

Offering industry-leading performance, MVTM modules have a positive power tolerance to ensure reliable output. Ideal for residential rooftop systems, and on or off-grid commercial and utility systems, MVTM modules provide excellent value, performance and reliability.

Certifications1:

Engineering Excellence

Features

Quality & Reliability

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Built with world class quality multicrystalline cells, providing excellent performance value

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Positive only power tolerance ensures predictable output

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Suniva’s state-of-the art manufacturing facility features the most advanced equipment and technology

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Provides industry-leading 25 year linear warranty (with 10 year warranty on workmanship and materials)

Suniva MVTM series modules are manufactured and warranted to our specifications assuring consistent high performance and quality worldwide.

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Marine grade aluminum frame

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TUV salt corrosion resistance tested

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Suniva is a U.S. –based company spun out from the Georgia Tech University Center of Excellence in Photovoltaics (one of only two such research centers in the U.S.)

Our specifications include: •

Rigorous quality management

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Performance longevity with advanced polymer backsheet

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Produced in an ISO 9001: 2008 facility

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System and design services available

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Certified PID free2

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Ask about our validated PAN files3

OUR PRODUCTS: Monocrystalline Modules OPTIMUS SERIES 60 cell OPTIMUS SERIES 72 cell

Monocrystalline Cells 19%+ efficiency

Multicrystalline Modules MV SERIES 60 cell MV SERIES 72 cell

Balance of Systems Solutions (BOSS) Racking, Inverters, Batteries, Energy Storage Appliances and EV Chargers

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Air Dryers Vs. Paper Towels: What’s the Difference?

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ashing of hands is important especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Proper handwashing not only reduces the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19), it can prevent the spread of other viral illnesses such as cold and flu.

According to Unicef, respiratory viruses like coronavirus disease (COVID-19) spread when mucus or droplets containing the virus get into your body through your eyes, nose or throat.

Most often, this happens through your hands.

Hands are also one of the most common ways that the virus spreads from one person to the next. During a global pandemic, one of the cheapest, easiest, and most important ways to prevent the spread of a virus is to wash your hands frequently with soap and water.

However, we do not address what happens after handwashing.

Convenience rooms or toilets are primarily used for every human’s egestion activities. Today, as long as they are kept appropriately clean, they are some of the favorite places in a building.

One area of priority in a toilet is the process of hand drying after toilet use.

Hand drying is generally done by the use of a paper towel or air dryers. However, there is a persistent debate on which hand drying method is best. This has given rise to queries such as, “are hand dryers cleaner than paper towels?” and vice versa.

Here, we examine the debate and what makes the difference between these two methods of hand drying.

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Why Hand Hygiene Is Important A lot of diseases and germs are transmittable by hand contact. After the preventative measure of hand washing, hand drying is next in order.

Hand drying is important because any left-over bacteria on the hands after washing can be removed. These are other considerations that make hand drying an important act: • Hand Washing May Be Done Wrongly: It is common knowledge that washing the hands with soap is the most effective hand hygiene habit.

However, there is no quality control system to confirm proper handwashing in a toilet. Hand drying is then the last resort to save most people. • Germs Can Easily Be Passed Through Wet Skin: Germs tend to remain on improperly washed hands. The hand in a wet state can quickly transfer just about any form of germ to other surfaces.

Germ survival is less likely on dry skin.

The use of air dryers and paper towels are the main methods of hand drying. As mentioned, there has been a constant comparison on which of the two is the best.

Let’s examine them.

Hygiene Paper towels are the clear winner in this comparison. Paper towels are one-use. All you need to do is wipe your hands with it and then dump them in the bin. This accounts for effective hand drying and less contamination within the space of the toilet.

Jet air dryers blow fast air to the point that it might cause germs to fly through the toilet space.

This puts other and future toilet users at risk of contamination. Warm hand dryers, with the warm environment they create, are believed to aid bacteria growth.

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Building for the environment

Bioclimatic architecture is the latest buzzword in construction. But since antiquity, the Greeks knew how to position settlements and buildings to take full advantage of the sun and air for heating, cooling, and light.

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Also, it might require more discipline to use a hand dryer. Toilet users sometimes have to wait for up to a minute for the air dryer to dry their hands thoroughly.

If many people are waiting in line to use the air dryer, some might forgo it completely. This increases the likelihood of having incompletely dried hands when leaving the toilet, increasing their risk of contracting and spreading germs.

The Cost Difference Both air dryers and paper towels serve the fundamental purpose of maintaining healthy habits. From a medical point of view, cost shouldn’t be a factor of consideration. Still, cost drives most business decisions. So, it must be considered.

A paper towel dispenser has a very insignificant initial cost, but its running cost racks up your expenses pretty quickly. On the other hand, air dryers are known for their higher initial cost of purchase and significantly lower running costs.

The running cost of paper towel dispenser comes from the cost of buying paper towels while that of an air dryer comes from energy costs. You can lower both operating costs by buying less expensive paper towels and buying more energy-efficient air dryers.

In this comparison, the air dryer wins.

This is because paper towels still cost so much more over the years, and their use is hardly controllable.

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Environmental Friendliness The carbon footprint of both hand drying methods must also be weighed to know which one performs better.

Paper towels can be examined based on the material they are made of and how they are disposed of after use. Paper towels are made of a new paper from trees or recycled waste papers. Trees are used to produce paper towels, which has a considerable effect on the environment. Although paper towels can be made with recycled paper, they end up in landfills or are composted because they cannot be recycled.

Notably, paper towels do not use electricity. However, they have a long chain of production and disposal that negatively impacts the environment.

Air dryers, on the other hand, have a high environmental impact when in use. About 20 to 80 grams of CO2 equivalents are produced whenever they are used. However, there are more energy-efficient options, like jet air dryers. Most of them come with tags that detail their energy efficiency.

Air dryers win in this comparison rank.

Modern and Low Maintenance Option Air dryers are a more advanced option compared to paper towels. They typically look trendy, parched against the wall as though they are interior decoration items. This is one of the reasons many organizations invest in them. Also, air dryers are a low maintenance option. They do not require a trash can or ever get exhausted.

Paper towel trash cans need to be cleaned out and the dispenser refilled often. Using paper towels might amount to an increase in toilet staff responsibilities.

Air dryers, on the other hand, afford easier toilet cleaning and less concern on how users will get their hands cleaned.

Final Thoughts The debate between air dryers and paper towels is most unlikely to end soon. This is partly because it is a debate being used to fuel the marketing of either product. The priority in hand drying is to ensure that maximum hand hygiene is achieved.

Paper towels are the winners when it comes to hand hygiene. However, air dryers trump paper towels in terms of cost, environmental friendliness, and a more modern outlook.

Many businesses may opt for an air dryer without much consideration. However, it is a worthy consideration that companies who want to maintain a very hygienic environment go for paper towels. The prioritization of hygiene over costs can be an excellent way to boost company image.

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SOLARWATT Glass-Foil Solar Modules

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The SOLARWATT M135-55 GET AK Solar Modules developed for power grid connected photovoltaic systems integrate the well-known properties of all SOLARWATT´s modules such as a high quality, large energy yields and very low power tolerance with an efficient installation and an outstanding cost effectiveness.

SOLARWATT M135-55 GET AK The modules manufactured in Glass-FoilsLamination Technology have an extremly high mechanical stability and are therefore very resistant against environmental influences.

monocrystalline solar cell with 16 - 17% efficiency, 125 x 125 mm

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SOLARWATT AG Maria-Reiche-Straße 2a 01109 Dresden, Germany Tel. +49 (0) 3 51 / 88 95-0 Fax +49 (0) 3 51 / 88 95-111 www.solarwatt.de info@solarwatt.de Certified acc. to: DIN EN ISO 9001 and 14001

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SOLON SOLiberty Energy Storage Solution.

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H igh-performance energy storage for up to 70% independent electrical power supply Spacious battery system with an industrial-quality 24 kWh lead-acid battery Simple upgrading for current PV plants Low acquisition and maintenance costs Quality product with a ten-year performance guarantee Fully recyclable battery system and affordable replacement terms

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The Covid-19 Survival of Engineering Companies Lies in Digitalization

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he impact of the Coronavirus has been a shock reverberating across every aspect of our lives and in every business.

In the engineering sector, the current global pandemic is forcing the hands of industrial, construction, manufacturing, energy, and HVAC to prepare for a post-COVID-19 world.

As many countries are beginning to relax, or look at relaxing, measures imposed as a result of the crisis, engineering firms need to be ready to rapidly evolve to address a very different world and a possible recession.

The future of engineering and contracting services is a moving target, and institutions must streamline their operations and be able to cost-effectively bring the

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right products to the right customers.

It is important that engineering and tech companies are able to adapt in order to ensure a smooth reopening of financial markets and the economy, whether that be digital or physical.

Being agile won’t just save us, it will sustain us To succeed in a market that keeps changing, you need to be able to move quickly and be agile, composing new products and services faster.

Even with restrictions relaxing in many countries, the expectation is that many employees will continue to work from home and that face-to-face interactions will continue to be limited. The

value of enabling an agile engineering workforce through digitalization has increased even more. Simply put, new solutions are needed across many industrial sectors, and the push for digital remains a top priority.

There are also millions unable to work who are receiving support from governments backed by banks and financial institutions by implementing measures like payment holidays and delayed interest payments. This is where the ability to be agile and flexible, and work in a dynamic environment is vital.

Investing in digitalization and putting it at the center of the engineering strategy provides a competitive edge and longevity. To build the best experience, tech companies

need to start changing with the market, instead of hoping the market will stop changing.

Enter composable banking for engineering firms Today, even the simplest banking service involves a complex orchestration of core systems, transaction processing, decisionmaking, reporting, analytics, authentication, security and more. Monolithic platforms make it harder to incorporate the latest capabilities and tools, and the opportunity for financial institutions today is to replace any component whenever needed without embracing new technical risk.

Composable banking is a new approach to building banks and lending businesses that treats change as a constant. It is about having the control to use fit-for-purpose technologies to compose precisely the right design and delivery of financial services infrastructure.

With fintechs coming in and attracting industrial customers with digital offerings, it becomes increasingly important for the established ones, like the big banks, to work on retaining their engineering customers by digitising, and fast. To serve an agile market, financial institutions need to compose new products and features faster than everyone else to predict demand and to better serve existing customers like renewables, contractors, oil & gas, construction, water treatment and telecoms.

COVID-19 has had a transformative effect across societies, economics and offices. As market dynamics keep on changing, engineering, energy, industrial and technology have a chance to make a positive impact on their customers.

Composable banking offers innovative solutions for organisations to create their own architecture for new products and services faster.

It helps financial institutions create modern customer experiences to compete in the digital era — and constantly evolve them to respond to change.

In the long-term, companies can choose to embrace the new world based on rapid evolution and modern ways of working, or continue on the old paths which will see them unable to adapt when needed most.

Embracing the fintech era for engineering companies

There is one thing in common for organisations, regardless of how far they have come with digitalization. The COVID-19 pandemic has made it clear that you can no longer manage your business the same way as before.

For many businesses, adopting new and agile ways of operating based on composable banking will help guide their path and prepare them for the very different time that lies ahead of us.

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SOLON photovoltaic modules Reduce C02 emissions by 15,000 kg / kWp over a 20-year period Greater power from the same surface area Solar glass ensures high energy yields Individual performance data sheets for each module Made in Germany Modules

SOLON is one of the main manufacturers of solar modules in Europe, offering its customers only high-grade quality modules. An excellent energy yield is guaranteed because we use high-quality crystalline solar cells and tempered solar glass that is extremely transparent.

Solar glass

We use special solar glass from well-known suppliers for manufacturing our photovoltaic modules. This glass has a special surface structure and an increased light transmittance. This significantly increases the energy yields of the SOLON solar energy systems – over the entire module lifetime.

Frames

Our module frames are made from extruded anodised aluminium. They are extremely torsion resistant, have drainage bores, and are suitable for all existing installation systems. On request SOLON can provide modules without frames.

Power output guarantee

The module's output will still be 90 percent in 10 years, and 80 percent in 25 years, based on the minimum output levels at delivery. Please find our power output guarantee on our website at www.solon-pv.com/english/service.

Certification

SOLON modules are tested by TĂœV (German Technical Inspection Agency), certified according to IEC 61215 Edition II and IEC 61730.

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The Future Of Engineering And Its Impact On The Industry There is no doubt that Genetic Engineering, which is the basis of modern Molecular Biotechnology, will be the most interesting scientific field of the next century. Because the initial achievements to date promise a lot. Although they evoke mixed feelings of excitement, anxiety and confusion in the world, as seen recently with the possible modernization of human cloning or genetic control of longevity, and many others.

The opportunities are only likely to grow across all areas, especially the Asian and Middle Eastern markets where new concepts are forever evolving. In this instance, people wanting to move into this line of work should look at educating themselves in all areas of advancements and give yourself the opportunity to complete your goals.

Change is coming Due to the advance of digitization, the range of job profiles demanded by employers is increasingly wide and jobs are constantly appearing that until a few years ago were unthinkable that they existed. This makes the gap between job demand and the reality of the labor market widening.

The engineering sector is particularly affected for this reason, it is one of the sectors that generates the most vacancies and it is very difficult to fill them, according to an analysis of trends in the labor market carried out by the human resources company Randstad. The market needs expert professionals in all emerging branches of engineering.

Any company must have a multidisciplinary profile, with great versatility and analytical capacity, strategic vision, proactivity and adaptation to change, since they are the characteristics most sought after by companies. Especially after the COVID-19 crisis, it’s vital that companies are providing adequate risk assessments for all workers - or could humanity be replaced by more digital aspects?

Some of the areas and profiles most in demand in the short and medium term are: • Electrical engineering: Due to the growth of society, the need to meet various requirements in the fields of engineering related to the generation and use of energy,

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Robotics in more areas?

the design of electromechanical elements and the automation of systems is generated.

• Smart cities: The population is increasingly concentrated in cities, which are experiencing a rapid evolution towards aspects of intelligent management of resources, efficient urban planning, sustainable mobility and other elements that make up a Smart City. This panorama requires the specialized work of engineers with knowledge in Open Data, artificial intelligence and systems and application development capable of creating technologies for these objectives.

• Biomedicine and biotechnology: Although engineers already had a presence in the medical and health areas, it is one of the newer professions at an academic level.

• Industrial organization: It is one of the least technical profiles of engineering in the industrial field, but it is one of the most demanded by companies and, also, one of the most successful among students despite being relatively new.

• Industrial design: Design is applied in all aspects of society. Its objective, however, is not only aesthetic, but also seeks to make all the products it creates more useful, comfortable and efficient. Design is a distinctive element in the very competitive market in which we find ourselves.

The main challenge of building robotics continues to be the integration of robotics from the controlled environment of a factory to a changing environment such as construction activities. The potential of the robot is its ability to carry out work beyond mere manual operation, but also beyond industrial repetition and its direct control by digital data. Robots are becoming more autonomous and can perform more functions and tasks, reducing the waiting time for them to be used in construction.

At first, the supervision of professionals and their interaction with robots in construction will be essential. Robots’ difficulty in navigating complex environments will initially require significant human intervention. However, the trend is for less skilled workers to be replaced by robots, while higher skilled workers will collaborate with the latter.

The speed and precision of a robot can dramatically increase productivity on a construction site. The challenge is undoubtedly the ability to program it to perform the right tasks efficiently. In addition to the benefit in the field of productivity, the accident rate of workers will also be reduced, as robots carry out part of the jobs that involve more occupational risks. Robotics can completely transform construction as we understand it today.

The impact of technology in construction can influence not only work processes, but also architecture, engineering and creativity in the design of new environments. The great challenge is that robots do not replace human capacity and that they help improve architecture, aesthetics, productivity, design, safety and quality of life for construction professionals.

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Solar Transport

Solar Transport Solar Transport fuels competitive differentiation with Citrix cloud-based solutions

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Data and Digitization Report UAE Market

Executive summary

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As data volumes continue to grow and become more disparate by the day, the time is now for organizations to implement ways to efficiently leverage this critical data.

In July 2019, Alteryx surveyed 500 United Arab Emirates (UAE) businesses to understand how data and analytics are driving their businesses to thrive in this data-led world.

The new Alteryx-commissioned research uncovers the benefits and impact of data analytics in digitization projects across six of the most digitally advanced countries in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and AsiaPacific (APAC).

This report summarizes the key findings of the research and uses the information gathered to provide a snapshot into how companies across the UAE are progressing in their analytic journey. It explores the current thinking into the value of data, the primary data challenges, the culture of data and analytics and the key technology enablers to demonstrate how a smart approach to data guides the way to successful digitization.

Commenting on the findings of the research, Alan Jacobson, chief data and analytics officer at Alteryx said: “The business case for data has truly been acknowledged. While many are still balancing data inefficiencies with the challenge of a shortage of skilled data workers, this latest research from Alteryx underscores that investing in data and analytics alone won’t deliver real business-altering results. Whether performing precision marketing to improve sales or analysing data from various departments across an organization, the world of business is quickly becoming the world of analytics. A smart approach to data and a data literate culture will guide the way for successful digitalization.”

Abboud Ghanem, Senior Director – Middle East and Africa at Alteryx, added: “There is no doubt that data is key in driving business success in the minds of businesses across the UAE. Every data worker, regardless of technical acumen, wants to be able to easily find and understand what information is at their disposal; have the flexibility to prep, blend, enhance and analyse data from more sources; and easily operationalise analytic models through a collaborative and governed platform. At Alteryx, we will continue to make the Alteryx Platform easier to use for all data workers, while extending its ability to handle more sophisticated data science outcomes for trained data statisticians in order to create an analytics-centric culture across most every industry and functional areas of business.”

Data is permeating every part of business and is key to success • With over three quarters of survey respondents (79%) agreeing that data is a critical corporate asset for driving the business forward it’s clear that businesses are taking advantage of what seems to be insurmountable data sources across industries and internal functions.

• When it comes to where businesses are in their analytical journey, almost two thirds (62%) of UAE businesses class themselves in the advanced stages of their analytic journeys.

• For those businesses leveraging data for insights over two fifths (41%) report the major business benefit as increased productivity, followed by over one third (36%) citing they gained better insight into customers, and over one third (34%) stating the ability to make savings and efficiencies for my department or organisation.

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• Businesses are also seeing soft benefits increase. Over three quarters (79%) agreed that using data analytics has helped break down internal silos. Respondents cited improved employee satisfaction (41%) as a benefit of using data. Overall two in five (40%) said that analytics improved work-life balance and are able to better balance their lives after embracing data in their role.

Businesses can’t win in analytics without the human element • With digital skills classed as a major priority for businesses, over four in five (83%) agree that everything they are investing in data and analytics is useless without people who understand it.

• Proving that businesses simply cannot proceed to tackle the technical challenges existing in a data-driven industry without the right workforce, more than two fifths (41%) reported that it was easier to access the talent needed to manage analytics than last year, while almost one in three (32%) have a team of dedicated data scientists for all their analytics work.

• Only one in five businesses reported that a talent shortage prevented them from becoming a data-driven business.

• Those who are leveraging data report several key factors that they still need to overcome in order to be more efficient. When allocating time to performing impactful data analyses, one in three (33%) cite data quality as a big challenge to building a data pipeline for the business, followed by almost one third (30%) stating a lack of strong data governance is a major contributing factor to wasted time that could have been spent assembling insights.

A culture of data and analytics is needed to transform data into actionable insights • When it comes to the building blocks for their digital transformation initiatives, over four in five (81%) agree that empowering people is the key to digital transformation.

• Stressing that empowering employees to affect business-change with data will enable them to succeed in their digital transformation initiatives, over one third (35%) state a culture of data and analytics will be the biggest game changer for analytics success while two fifths (40%) state they need more focus on employee skills and talent to drive transformation.

• Businesses are starting to build this culture to derive value out of their data, as almost one third (30%) have a clear enablement strategy based around community, training, and tools that drives our data analytics usage and over one quarter (29%) hold regular data workshops to inspire data workers to generate insights as part of our data analytics strategy.

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• In an increasingly data-driven world, over two thirds (70%) of respondents agree that data is so valuable that it’s become a new currency, and the same number agree data progression is also key to career progression.

Technology can be an enabler or constraint to data analytics success • Proving data will always be at the forefront and one of the most important drivers of success and true digital disruption, businesses across the UAE reported the top three technology enablers having the greatest impact on their business today as data and analytics (42%), artificial intelligence/machine learning (36%) and blockchain (33%).

• When asked their top technology priorities to continually modernize their analytic journey, UAE businesses digital transformation enablers (47%), getting more value out of our data resources (47%), and further investment in data platforms and services (46%) in order to accelerate timeto-insight and break barriers.

• Technology can also be a constraint to a data-driven business. When asked which key technology enablers they are prioritizing investment in within the next five years to support a variety of initiative for data analytics success almost one third cited data and analytics (32%), just ahead of blockchain (28%), and artificial intelligence/machine learning (27%).

• UAE businesses anticipate the biggest technology game-changers for data analytics success within the next five years to include: self-service analytics (31%), augmented data discovery (27%) and explainable AI (27%).

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Sharaf DG Energy challenges warehouses and factories to reduce emissions Sharaf DG Energy advises companies to look to their warehouses as the first step to becoming more sustainable

Sharaf DG Energy, one of the leading solar energy solution providers in the UAE vows to tackle the issue of climate change head on, stating that the starting point should be within warehouses and factories across the region.

Manufacturing represents 54% of the world’s energy consumption and is responsible for 20% of global emissions – increase in efficiency can help to conserve energy and contribute to global CO2 reductions. Rising environmental issues and growing economic uncertainty means manufacturers must rework their current practices to ensure more is done to reduce harmful emissions and waste disposal that has a negative impact on the planet.

The logistics industry is becoming increasingly aware of its ecological impacts meaning warehouses and factories are the perfect starting place for companies to implement sustainable solutions. A combination of extensive unused rooftop space, the need for generating clean and reliable energy and the possibility of generating additional income makes warehouse ideal for solar.

The concept behind green logistics is to create measurable reductions in CO2 emissions due to daily operations from logistics and warehousing activities. To optimize operations, it is essential to create strategies that will lower costs and conserve energy.

“As the climate emergency accelerates, factories and warehouses must adapt and create new strategies with sustainability at the core of their business” says Vice President of Sharaf DG Energy, Sanjay Dabur. “There is an opportunity to turn the negative into positive and use the current environmental climate as an opportunity to look internally – Middle East manufacturers should implement the necessary changes towards becoming more sustainable – streamline processes and begin to see this as an opportunity as apposed to a threat”.

“Installing solar panels on a warehouse is financially beneficial as well as a great way to utilise empty roof space” says Mr. Dabur. “The key advantage of using solar panels is that a warehouse can become more self-reliant by producing its own energy which can amount to significant savings over time”.

Sharaf DG Energy believes the companies that will successfully navigate the current environmental issues are those that embrace sustainable solutions across their factories and supply chains – improving operations whilst increasing sustainability means higher productivity and smoother processes that will in turn benefit all areas of the company.

By making the switch to solar, Dubai warehouses could benefit from extensive annual savings, security from producing their own clean energy that isn’t dependant on stability of the energy market, along with the biggest advantage being less pollution of the planet.

Sharaf DG Energy was founded in 2014 as a progressive and forward-thinking enterprise – bringing together global experience and local knowledge to create sustainable energy solutions.

Sharaf DG Energy hails from the wider Sharaf Group comprising of 47 companies with presence in 40 countries across MENA, Africa, India & Asia. The Sharaf Group continues to dominate sectors including Shipping & logistics, Industrial, real estate, travel & tourism, IT and financial & retail since its establishment in 1975.

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