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ASSOCIATION FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND CLEAN TECHNOLOGY Championing the voices of its members, communicating the industry’s needs, and highlighting the importance of renewable infrastructure
Michael Peither, CIO and co-Founder of VoltStorage GmbH, reveals the company’s innovative battery storage solutions spearheading the renewable power sector
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Behind the global tech powerhouse of the world’s Smartest City
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World-class medical diagnostics for Africa
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COCA-COLA SABCO MOZAMBIQUE Iconic and impactful brands and beverages
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Mediterranean escapism in the Land of Aphrodite
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VAN MOER LOGISTICS
On a trajectory of expansion, Batchfire Resources is the low-fugitive emission energy coal producer pursuing plans for Net Zero
Sustainability and innovation in food and beverage packaging
Gideon Burger, CEO of Axiology Labs discusses providing top quality laboratory products for life science solutions across Africa
quality laboratory products for life science solutions across Africa Gideon Burger, CEO of Axiology Labs discusses providing top
Innoquest Diagnostics is moving forward as one in pursuit of transformative healthcare. Ginny Foo, CEO, gives us the details
Donavan Hutchinson, MD of SHI UK, tells us how how organisations are being empowered to adapt to changing business models and workplace strategies
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transformative healthcare. Ginny Foo, CEO, gives us the details Innoquest Diagnostics is moving forward as one in pursuit of
empowered to adapt to changing business models and workplace strategies Donavan Hutchinson, MD of SHI UK, tells us how how organisations are being
brands and beverages Iconic and impactful
MOZAMBIQUE SABCO COCA-COLA
RESOURCES BATCHFIRE
From quaint fishing village to bustling resort getaway
EVERGREEN PACTIV
AEROSPACE MOELLER
RE S US
We go Behind the Lens with culinary storyteller, Karolina Wiercigroch
VALLARTA PUERTO From quaint fishing village to bustling resort getaway
gas turbine technology discovery in air travel and industrial Ascending to new heights of
beverage packaging innovation in food and Sustainability and
TRAVEL GUIDE
PUERTO VALLARTA
We go Behind the Lens with culinary storyteller, Karolina Wiercigroch
of modern infrastructure investment Expert Eye, Amanda Li, discusses the unsustainable nature
LOGISTICS MOER VAN
pursuing plans for Net Zero is the low-fugitive emission energy coal producer On a trajectory of expansion, Batchfire Resources
Charting cleaner waters for the Adriatic
Expert Eye, Amanda Li, discusses the unsustainable nature of modern infrastructure investment
leading sustainable logistics in Belgium Founder and CEO, Jo Van Moer, discusses
EV development on the map for global Putting Mozambique
YACHTING’S SUSTAINABLE REVOLUTION
Ascending to new heights of discovery in air travel and industrial gas turbine technology
Founder and CEO, Jo Van Moer, discusses leading sustainable logistics in Belgium
MO
waters for the Adriatic Charting cleaner
REVOLUTION SUSTAINABLE YACHTING’S
GUIDE TRAVEL
F E AT U R E
solar generation Advancing the
Land of Aphrodite escapism in the Mediterranean
ENERGY LTD GENIE
CYPRUS GUIDE T R AV E L
diagnostics for Africa World-class medical
AFRICA LANCET CERBA
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WELCOME FROM THE EDITOR
EDITORIAL Head of Editorial: Jack Salter jack.salter@outlookpublishing.com Editor: Lucy Pilgrim lucy.pilgrim@outlookpublishing.com Editor: Ed Budds ed.budds@outlookpublishing.com Junior Editor: Rachel Carr rachel.carr@outlookpublishing.com
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EME OUTLOOK
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Forging a Green Future Welcome to our 56th edition of EME Outlook magazine. As the UK aims to achieve net zero by 2050, renewable energy is front and centre of the country’s strategy to transition to a clean electricity system that doesn’t rely on burning fossil fuels. In the shorter term, UK energy providers are now also contending with the government target for all electricity to be generated from 100 percent zero-carbon sources by 2035. In view of these ambitious targets, various renewable sources such as wind, solar, bioenergy, and hydroelectric already make up a significant proportion of the UK’s energy supply. At the forefront of promoting this sustainable future, and top of the bill in our latest issue, is REA: Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA). With over 500 member organisations representing every type of clean energy source, the REA is the voice for renewable power and clean technology in the UK. “Our main aim is to develop how we deliver renewable energy and clean technology, but also to increase the availability of jobs and grow the economy as a result,” shares REA Chief Executive, Dr Nina Skorupska CBE FEI. “Our members are interested in not only producing power, but delivering renewable heat and transport, as well as looking at how the entire renewable power infrastructure works.” The energy transition is equally prominent across the Irish Sea, as Ireland commits to increasing the generation of renewable electricity with significantly upgraded solar PV capacity targets. With a vision for a fully decarbonised electricity system, we discuss how solar will help to meet these government targets with the Irish Solar Energy Association. “In a very short period, we’ve seen solar move from a very marginal contributor to Ireland’s electricity mix to a place in which it’s the fastest-growing source of renewable electricity in the country,” outlines CEO, Conall Bolger. Elsewhere, in Scandinavia, The Bioenergy Association of Finland aims to promote the preconditions of the production, use, competitiveness, and economy of the nation’s bioenergy and peat. “Bioenergy has grown impressively in Finland over the last decade and provided around one-third of our total energy consumption in 2021,” reveals Managing Director, Harri Laurikka. Beyond the trailblazing trifecta of industry spotlights in this issue, discover corporate stories from Conapto, Mondelēz International, Wind Estate, GM Architects, and more. We hope that you enjoy your read. Jack Salter Head of Editorial, Outlook Publishing EME Outlook Issue 56 | 3
C O N T E N T S
86
REGULARS
6 NEWS Around Europe and the Middle East in seven stories
10
8 EXPERT EYE Creating a 21st century workplace
BU SI N ESS I N SI G H TS
10 Energy & Utilities Merging Construction with the Digital World Paving the way towards a sustainable lifestyle
I N D U STRY S P OTL I G H TS
22 REA: Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology A future built for the energy transition
42 Irish Solar Energy Association Upgraded targets for Irish solar capacity
50 The Bioenergy Association of Finland Organically energising the nation
14 Energy & Utilities 14
Clean Energy Day and Night Reshaping the future of renewable technology
EVENT FOCUS
TOP I C A L F OC U S
Unleash AI technologies in oil and gas
18 Construction Fighting Fire with Wireless Technology Enhancing Middle East construction site safety
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4 | EME Outlook Issue 56
114 THE FINAL WORD What legacy does your company hope to leave?
112 AUTOMA 2023
EME OUTLOOK CONTENTS
MA N U FAC TU R I N G
F E AT U R E S
56 SHOWCASING LEADING
100 Policolor-Orgachim Group
Tell us your story and we’ll tell the world
Producing paint in a competitive market
Creating a Chemical Kaleidoscope
COMPANIES
T EC H NOLOGY
58 Conapto Colocation Made in Sweden Sustainable and secure data centre colocation
74
66 Towercom
F OOD & BEV ERAG E
Broadcasting from Bratislava
74 Mondelēz International
Spreading information and entertainment throughout Slovakia
Snack to the Future Sustenance and sustainability in snacking
EN ER GY & U T I L I TI E S
86 Wind Estate Estate of the Art Sustainability Ushering in the wind of change
A R C HI T EC T U R E
92 GM Architects 66
The Architecture of Good Living A seamless integration of past and present
100
106 Chelton Engineering Excellence Technological excellence in aerospace and defence
EME Outlook Issue 56 | 5
NEWS
Around Europe and the Middle East in seven stories… F O O D & B E V E RAG E
H E A LT H C A R E
ASTRAZENECA EXCEEDS PROFIT EXPECTATIONS
McDONALD’S ISSUES APOLOGY IN RECENT WEEKS, over 100 current and former McDonald’s UK employees have come forward with claims of abuse whilst working for the company. A BBC investigation has revealed that employees, some as young as 17, had suffered various forms of abuse ranging from racist slurs and bullying to sexual assault in the workplace. The fast food chain has issued an
official apology in response. Alistair Macrow, CEO for McDonald’s UK and Ireland, commented: “There are clearly instances where we have fallen short, and for that we deeply apologise.” Following the string of allegations, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has set up an anonymous email hotline, through which victims can reach out.
ASTRAZENECA, ONE OF the strongest performing listed European pharmaceutical companies, has recently reported revenues of USD$11.49 billion, which exceeds its USD$11.47 billion forecast. The increase in revenue comes soon after the Anglo-Swedish pharma giant signed a deal with Eccogene for a revolutionary weight loss pill. The company has also seen strong demand for its cancer drugs, such as Olaparib, which has been used by the NHS to treat breast cancer and advanced prostate cancer. In the years following the COVID-19 pandemic, economic growth will be welcome news for the pharmaceutical company, who is best known for its widely used COVID-19 vaccine.
CONSTRUCTION
WASL TOWER SETS NEW HEIGHTS PENDING COMPLETION IN 2024, Dubai’s Wasl Tower is a 302 metre (m) super-high-rise structure that utilises ceramic glazed fins to achieve energy efficiency and sustainability. Featuring solar-powered hot water access and innovative shading 6 | EME Outlook Issue 56
and cooling techniques, the tower has been heralded as one of the world’s most sustainable high-rises. The 64-storey structure boasts 229 residential units, 258 hotel rooms, 185,345 square feet (sqft) of office space, 11 parking floors, and a helipad. The environmentally-conscious project commences ahead of the United Nations’ annual conference on climate change, COP28, set to be held in Dubai in late 2023.
TECHNOLOGY
BUSINESS
APPLE SUFFERS TAX SETBACK
SUNAK SPEAKS AT AI SAFETY SUMMIT THE RECENT AI Safety Summit, hosted at Bletchley Park in November this year, saw tech giant, Elon Musk, participate in a 50-minute interview with UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak. ‘In Conversation’, as the discussion was labelled by organisers, the pair examined the potential benefits and
ramifications of artificial intelligence (AI) today, whilst Musk observed how “it’s both good and bad”. Their discussion turned to the impact of AI on traditional jobs. “We are seeing the most disruptive force in history here… There will come a point where no job is needed – you can have a job if you want one for personal satisfaction, but AI will do everything,” Musk detailed.
ENERGY & UTILITIES
SOLAR POWER PLANT BID SUCCESSFUL A CONGLOMERATE OF energy companies, comprising Abu Dhabi-based Masdar, France’s EDF Renewables, and Saudi energy giants Nemsa, has recently secured the A1 Henakiyah solar project from the Saudi Power Procurement Company (SPCC). The energy facility, scheduled for grid connection in 2025, will be one of the world’s largest single-site solar power plants. This valuable resource is predicted to generate over 1,100 megawatts
(MW) of power for 190,000 Saudi homes, preventing the equivalent of 1.8 million tonnes of CO2 emissions. As it strives to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2060, Saudi Arabia welcomes the clean energy project.
IN 2020, THE EU General Court ruled in Ireland’s favour over a dispute with Apple, as it emerged that the tech giant seemingly underpaid Irish taxes by €13.1 billion between 2003 and 2014. However, Advocate General of the EU’s highest court, Giovanni Pitruzzella, has called for a new assessment of the case, following an appeal from Apple earlier this year. The Irish government has also appealed, on the basis that speculation around the country’s tax policies may harm future investment. Pitruzzella’s decision responds to the lower court’s original ruling being potentially “legally flawed”. TECHNOLOGY
SAFETYNET TECHNOLOGIES TRIALLED IN SCOTLAND UK-BASED AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY manufacturer, SafetyNet Technologies (SafetyNet), is making strides in sustainable fishing. The company’s team of engineers, fishermen, and scientists has developed innovative products, such as LED light systems, underwater video cameras, and ocean sensors to enable what they daub ‘precision fishing’. Trialling its technology in Largs, Scotland, SafetyNet’s products are primarily designed to attract certain species of fish, whilst repelling unwanted mammals such as dolphins and sea turtles. This reduces wasted time, fuel, and effort, whilst increasing efficiency. Although the technology is in its early stages, the UK fishing industry embraces the innovation of sustainable practices, as it aims to accomplish net zero by 2050. EME Outlook Issue 56 | 7
Designing Buildings for the Future Billy Marigold, Divisional Director of ICT at HDR, highlights the benefits of smart buildings and the integration of specialist technology, which enables the control of business’ data, analytics, and operational efficiency to forever alter the workplace environment Writer: Billy Marigold, Divisional Director of ICT, HDR
I
ntegrating smart systems within a building allows engineers to create spaces that are not only efficient but also intelligent, flexible, and agile. Imagine a workplace where smart controls seamlessly enhance your daily experience. You can reserve a desk, meeting room, or an informal breakout area from your home using an office app that is integrated with Microsoft Office 365 or Google Suite. Alternatively, if you choose to cycle to work, the app provides route planning, bike rental information, and registration services. When you arrive, you can access stacked pods for parking, door control, electric 8 | EME Outlook Issue 56
charging points, and smart shower lockers. Upon entering the lobby, you pass through security using a facial recognition system or Bluetooth. If you have visitors, you can share a QR code for hassle-free access. The meeting room’s power turns on as you enter, and you have control over setting the blinds, climate, and mood lighting to reduce energy consumption and enhance sustainability. Smart buildings are revolutionising the 21st century workplace. They not only increase efficiency but also prioritise your comfort, wellness, health, and productivity.
21ST CENTURY BUILDINGS When exploring the building of the future, facility management teams can monitor and control mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems through a transparent, singlepane dashboard. This approach reduces installation costs and aligns with environmental initiatives aimed at achieving net zero carbon emissions and lowered energy consumption. Additionally, integrated systems that can speak to each other enhance safety and security by using data from sensors and controls to coordinate access and improve fire safety. Building operators can track efficiencies across all real estate assets worldwide, including real-time carbon monitoring. Furthermore, artificial intelligence (AI) analytics tools offer predictive maintenance for reducing operational costs and identifying potential improvements.
EXPERT EYE ARCHITECTURE
By establishing standard infrastructure across all buildings, including software and network selection, it can adapt to evolving client needs over time. Picture a world where we advance from single smart buildings to nationwide sites and eventually global portfolios with specialised controls. Therefore, smart technology is transforming our social, communication, travel, and work experiences.
two essential factors that building engineering professionals must focus on to deliver truly intelligent buildings. Early engagement and clear communication with clients from the project’s conception is critical, leading to cost-effective, integrated solutions that align with client objectives. Meanwhile, embracing open protocols enables flexibility and avoids long-term contracts, empowering clients to easily tailor software to meet their evolving needs.
DEFINING A SMART BUILDING
THE ROLE OF DIGITAL TWIN TECHNOLOGY
It is not enough for a facility to just have a building management system (BMS), which has been around since the 1970s. The true distinction between this and a smart building system lies in the level of integration and interoperability of the building network, enabling efficiency and real-time decision-making for building owners. Smart buildings can be categorised into three stages, based on the technology features implemented. Firstly, the basic non-integrated building has standalone, disjointed systems with independent reporting and multi-vendor support contracts. Secondly, the digitally enabled building comprises ICT, audiovisual (AV), security, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), andintegrated BMS networks. Benefits include reduced vendor support contracts, Internet of Things (IoT) cloud connectivity, and appready properties. Finally, the smart building includes MEP and ICT systems which exhibit interoperability with real-time data processing and interpretation tools. This enables substantial data collection and analytics, proactive reporting, and self-learning maintenance, leading to operational efficiencies, reduced costs, and healthier environments. Early adoption and single engineering design solutions are
Digital twin technology is a valuable analytics tool that sets the parameters for data analysis, aiding asset management and decision-making. The cooperation between building engineers and smart teams is crucial for the effective use of digital twins, whilst uniformity in data articulation is vital for user-friendly analytics. Intelligent technologies may not be immediately required in some cases, yet buildings should evolve to be ‘smart-ready’. The goal is to deliver workspaces that can adapt and support future technologies seamlessly. Dynamic simulation, sustainable information charts, and historical energy efficiency data all help to predict a building’s energy consumption. The data informs design choices, aligning compliance predictions with operational energy efficiency. There are two primary applications: developer shell and core with public spaces, and tenant space fit-out. However, smart design approaches may vary based on the project type. Smart buildings reduce carbon footprints, achieve sustainability targets, and enhance well-being and community. Moreover, intelligent buildings help improve the user experience and align with structural and cultural shifts in how people work and live.
NOT A ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL SOLUTION We cannot take a cookie cutter approach to smart buildings, as each project requires a tailored strategy to meet specific costs, programme parameters, client briefs, and intended uses. To deliver high-quality, competitive smart buildings, early strategic planning is essential. User experience, data dashboards, smartphone apps, cybersecurity, open standards, sensors, and communication networks are key factors in technology design. The future of smart and intelligent buildings lies in understanding scalability, flexibility, and continuous adaptation to emerging technologies. Engineers and designers play a crucial role in the ongoing transformation of how buildings are designed, constructed, operated, and maintained, thus helping to shape an intelligent and integrated built environment.
ABOUT THE EXPERT With over 30 years as an ICT professional, Marigold has had a variety of roles in the UK, Middle East, US, and Europe. His work provides clients with unparalleled, in-depth, and passionate market knowledge on areas such as ICT passive and active infrastructures, smart buildings, security systems, and AV systems. As the Divisional Director of ICT at HDR, Marigold specialises in IT operations, project set-up, strategic design, and the implementation of technology in support of the dayto-day operations of large global organisations.
EME Outlook Issue 56 | 9
MERGING CONSTRUC W I T H T H E D I G I TA L W
Striving towards building an environmentallyfriendly world for the future, Lech Kaniuk, CEO of SunRoof, speaks to us about a world run on sun Writer: Lauren Kania
W
ith an ambitious goal of enabling a green transformation without compromise, entrepreneurs Karol and Lech Kaniuk founded SunRoof, a Swedish company that has come to successfully design the most powerful photovoltaic roofs in today’s market. Known for its unique two-in-one solar roof system, SunRoof is at the forefront of transforming how solar energy is perceived and utilised. “Our aesthetically superior and 10 | EME Outlook Issue 56
highly efficient solar roof technology is leading the charge toward a future powered by renewable energy,” opens Lech Kaniuk, CEO of SunRoof. With over 1,000 solar roofs sold worldwide, the company continues to make waves and strengthen its foothold in the rapidly growing building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) industry, providing for private homes, commercial establishments, and public structures. What truly sets SunRoof apart from the crowd is its innovative approach to capturing and utilising solar power. “Our photovoltaic roofs maximise
energy production, and we ultimately use fewer materials in construction, resulting in weight savings and lower CO2 emissions compared to traditional roofs with external photovoltaic panels,” explains Kaniuk. Due to the innovative design and construction that SunRoof implements, more power than a household typically needs is produced. This can result in up to 200 watts per square metre (W/sqm), while other building-integrated solutions reach approximately 160W/sqm. With the ambitious goal to provide solar roofs with the lowest carbon
TION WO R L D
SUNROOF ENERGY & UTILITIES
“Our company has developed a reliable and secure model that is airtight, provides proper thermoregulation, and also offers complete protection against all weather conditions,” states Kaniuk.
MAKING A POSITIVE IMPACT In January 2023, the company raised €28 million, catapulting its total investment to €35 million. The funding round, led by Klima Energy Transition, attracted participation from the World Fund, Nordic Alpha Partners, and Legal & General Capital. With these resources, SunRoof will expand its services across the globe, setting its eyes on market leadership. Additionally, these funds will assist in allowing the company to explore its green initiatives even further. According to the European Commission, solar energy has the potential to become part of the mainstream energy system by providing power and heat to households and various industries. With the recent initiatives introduced in the Solar Energy Strategy as part of the EU’s RepowerEU plan to phase out Russian fossil fuels and accelerate the green transition, SunRoof is the best company to tackle these challenges.
“We facilitate building beautiful, intelligent, self-sufficient houses that will generate electricity from the sun, replacing the need to install photovoltaic panels on a classic roof,” notes Kaniuk. “A significant number of residential and commercial customers will look for solutions that do not compromise on structural aesthetics, efficiency, or durability,” he continues. At the heart of SunRoof are the two-in-one solar roofs and innovative façades that generate electricity without having to use traditional topmounted photovoltaic modules. By combining traditional materials with state-of-the-art energy capturing technology, the company not only makes the most productive solar roof found anywhere in the world but is able to keep costs low while reducing the company’s carbon footprint, using fewer resources and materials, and ensuring an aesthetic design that pleases and delights customers. “It’s more than just a business for us. Every SunRoof we install is a step forward on the path to a sustainable future. We’re thrilled with every delivery because it means we’re making a real, positive impact on the environment,” enthuses Kaniuk.
footprint on the market, SunRoof is making great strides as it has seen exponential growth over the past two years. Operations have been expanded in Sweden, Germany, and Poland, thus making SunRoof the fastest-growing company in the BIPV industry. Profiting from an innovative culture and a desire to make positive changes across the globe, SunRoof has merged construction with the digital world to produce a confident and reliable company that is leading the way in the energy and utilities industry. EME Outlook Issue 56 | 11
SUNROOF ENERGY & UTILITIES
EME OUTLOOK: WHICH PROJECTS ARE SUNROOF PARTICULARLY PROUD OF? LECH KANIUK, CEO: “We are thrilled to showcase the first grey solar roofs, which have been installed in the Monolit single-family housing estate near Gdansk, Poland. These houses are not just about aesthetics; they are symbols of eco-friendliness and progress. “Solar roofs in the colour of natural stone transform homes into green energy powerhouses that produce clean, renewable power to reduce their carbon footprint – taking a significant step towards a sustainable future!”
ROOF OF THE FUTURE SunRoof offers technology of the future that makes it possible to build intelligent, self-sufficient houses, neighbourhoods, and cities, and provide clean energy for different modes of transport. Surpassing all conventional solar panel installation, SunRoof’s design seamlessly integrates with any building façade and continues to set new standards in the solar energy sector. With the future of solar promising so many opportunities and benefits, SunRoof is on a mission to emerge as the leading name in building integrated solar energy across Europe and continues to expand upon its rapid growth. “Our ultimate goal is to establish the world’s largest network of interconnected photovoltaic homes and develop virtual power plants that will revolutionise the process of energy generation, consumption, and distribution,” asserts Kaniuk. The company has already begun to successfully achieve these goals through the innovative projects it has embarked upon. One such project can be seen in Poland, with a new restaurant featuring a SunRoof solar roof installed. 12 | EME Outlook Issue 56
“The two-in-one solar roof on top of the restaurant not only looks beautiful, but above all, is a source of clean energy,” comments Kaniuk. This investment allows the customer to reduce electricity costs while having a positive impact on the environment by providing up to 44.35 megawatt hours (MWh) of clean energy per year. An installed capacity of 49.95 kilowatt peaks (kWp) eliminates 34.28 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year, equivalent to 1,574 newly planted trees. Ultimately, SunRoof envisions itself as a technology company that specialises in energy production and management, with roofs being the initial focus of the company’s longterm strategy. Together with the most daring
innovators and experts in the solar energy industry, SunRoof is working towards building a world free from carbon energy and inspiring people to face climate change challenges head-on.
Tel: +48221230111 sunroof@sunroof.se www.sunroof.se
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C L E A N E N E R GY DAY A N D N I G H T Michael Peither, CIO and co-Founder of VoltStorage GmbH, tells us about the company’s innovative battery storage solutions that are spearheading the renewable power sector and aim to provide industry-leading energy security Writer: Lucy Pilgrim 14 | EME Outlook Issue 56
VOLTSTORAGE GMBH ENERGY & UTILITIES
With its services and developments, the company aims to deliver to both commercial enterprises, offering storage solutions based on Vanadium redox flow technology, as well as industrial enterprises with its IronSalt-Battery (ISB) technology, which is utilised for large-scale and grid facilities. “With sound industry expertise, we are continuously optimising redox flow technology for various areas of application,” Michael Peither, CIO and co-Founder of VoltStorage introduces. “This means that we rely on a multitechnological approach to cover various application areas of stationary battery storage solutions.” Due to VoltStorage’s proven and tested technology, customers from a variety of sectors, including trade, industry, and agriculture, will be able to secure their energy needs during periods of low wind or low sun times in which conventional forms of renewable energy might struggle. In addition, the company’s active R&D on redox flow technology represents a revolutionary resource for energy companies and their respective long-duration energy storage (LDES) needs. Consequently, the benefits of these developments
V
oltStorage GmbH (VoltStorage) is pioneering the field of redox flow storage technology as it strives to provide the ultimate usability of renewable energy with forward-thinking solutions. To further its objective, the company’s technologies and applications are significantly contributing to a sustainable future. It is regarded as a gamechanger in the provision of renewable energy and the much-needed energy transition, providing resource-efficient and environmentally-friendly storage solutions.
Michael Peither, CIO and co-Founder of VoltStorage GmbH
are endless. “Due to its unrivalled low costs and particularly high-temperature resistance, redox flow technology and ISB can ensure the provision of base loads from sustainable energies. “This includes a 100 percent integration of renewables across the year (inter-day/inter-week storage), the replacement of gas peaker plants, and reducing the load on the power grid,” Peither explains.
A BATTERY-POWERED FUTURE In the current technological landscape, battery technology is crucial for the integration of renewable energy sources into the wider national grid. This is thanks to the guaranteed storage of energy that redox flow battery power facilitates, ensuring an optimum energy supply at times when the sun and wind are absent. Alongside the dynamic development of the renewable energy sector, the cost of batteries has reduced in recent years, and this is expected to continue. Additionally, innovations in materials, manufacturing processes, and economies of scale are expected to further decrease the cost of batteries, making them more affordable and accessible for widespread use. Furthermore, ongoing R&D efforts in the battery solutions sector are focused on improving the energy density, lifecycle, safety, and efficiency of battery technologies, whilst new chemical processes are being researched with a view to improving performance and sustainability. The adoption of distributed energy storage systems is expected to rise, enabling VoltStorage to store excess energy and use it when needed, thus reducing reliance on the grid and contributing to its stability. “This highlights how important it will be to develop battery solutions based on non-critical raw materials with secure and reliable supply chains. EME Outlook Issue 56 | 15
VOLTSTORAGE GMBH ENERGY & UTILITIES
This is a crucial aspect in today’s energy storage, as most current solutions depend on material that is problematic and has unstable supply chains,” Peither informs us. “We see ourselves in a developing market with potential growth, particularly in response to many governments and regions implementing policies and incentives to promote energy storage deployment - including subsidies, tax credits, and regulatory frameworks that encourage investment in battery storage,” he adds.
VOLTSTORAGE MANAGEMENT EXPANSION Since October 2023, VoltStorage has expanded its organisational structure as it commences its next stage of development. The company has elevated previous efforts in innovation, business advancement, and R&D to new strategic heights. Effective from the 1st October 2023, Michael Peither, co-Founder and former CTO, is taking on the newly created CIO position, whilst the former COO, Verena Graf, will succeed him as CTO of the company. New to VoltStorage, Michael Reinartz, former Vice President for Production and Logistics at solar energy specialist Sonnen GmbH, will assume the role of COO, overseeing production organisation, warehousing, and logistics. Reinartz will also be responsible for establishing the mass production of the redox flow storage solutions.
SOLUTIONS FOR TOMORROW AND BEYOND
With the expansion of the leadership team and the redefinition of the
In July this year, the European Investment Bank (EIB) announced that it would support innovative projects with a venture debt loan of €30 million to co-finance the development and commercialisation of VoltStorage’s innovative redox flow battery technology. This will address both the needs of commercial and agricultural businesses, and contribute to scaling up the development of the new and groundbreaking ISB technology. On top of this, the EIB’s loan will accelerate the company’s mission of making renewable energy available day and night and advance the
growth strategy, characterised by the development of two technologies in the
company’s areas of expertise, VoltStorage will be able to further advance its field of redox flow batteries. By the end of this year, the company will have moved to a brand-new production and office facility, tripling the size of its current facilities and allowing for state-of-the-art R&D as well as production and service.
transition to a more sustainable and resilient future. “Our vision of “100 percent clean energy day and night” leads to diversified technology solutions for energy storage, built on non-critical raw materials and reliable supply chains. “By doing so, we want to provide answers for today’s and tomorrow’s energy requirements, as well as
aiding the utilisation of clean energy for commercials, small to medium enterprises (SMEs), and grid-scale installations, contributing to a muchneeded energy transition,” concludes Peither.
voltstorage.com
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FIGHTING FIRE WITH WIRELESS T E C H N O LO GY
With the rapid growth of infrastructure in the Middle East, there comes increased safety measures. We discuss how technology is helping to progress construction site safety with Jamez Pecz, Head of Global Customer Service and Business Development at wireless solutions firm, Ramtech Writer: Jack Salter
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TOPICAL FOCUS CONSTRUCTION
example, began its expansion phase from 1969 onwards. With this has come a need for governments and associative bodies to consider expanding requirements around construction regulations and site safety, particularly when considering the huge size and scale of some of the region’s most popular venues, such as the iconic Burj Khalifa. “As experts in fire safety, it is our duty to help raise awareness of the ways in which we support development across the Middle East, working closely with fire regulators, association bodies, and contractors to ensure workers and their site assets remain safe and protected on temporary construction sites,” opens James Pecz, Head of Global Customer Service and Business Development at Ramtech. “With the right safety technology in place at the very start of a construction project, be that alteration, demolition, or new build, sites can be monitored 24/7 to spot potential fires and, if they do occur, allow these to be quickly halted from becoming an uncontrolled blaze.”
ANALYSING THE RISK Fires can start on construction sites in a number of ways, which should be
F
ire presents one of the biggest threats to construction sites, with a high risk of occurrence and quickly getting out of control. In 2018, official estimates placed the value of construction in the Middle East in excess of USD$1 trillion. Saudi Arabian capital projects led the way at USD$1.2 trillion (preexecution stage), while the United Arab Emirates (UAE) came second with capital projects valued at USD$713 billion. Staggeringly, many of these areas of infrastructure have been built from scratch in mere decades; Dubai, for
well-assessed prior to starting work. This includes workers operating machinery that is often close to sources of ignition, such as highly combustible materials and solvents. If fires break out during construction phases, there is the potential added risk that protection systems such as sprinklers, fire walls, and detectors have not been installed yet. “In areas of extreme heat and weather, there is also an increased risk of fire from natural elements, so early identification and mitigation is even more crucial in these environments,” notes Pecz. Furthermore, construction sites are often open spaces and, therefore, more vulnerable to theft, vandalism, and arson, which can occur overnight when there is no one around or during quieter periods such as around annual holidays. On large sites, patrolling these areas is an enormous task, costing time and money – and is still open to errors. While it is common knowledge for builders and insurance companies to know the threat of fire, many construction sites are choosing to operate with outdated methods of protection due to a lack of awareness or understanding, as well as cost.
TOPICAL FOCUS CONSTRUCTION
“A S E X P E R T S I N F I R E S A F E T Y, I T I S O U R D U T Y T O H E L P R A I S E AWA R E N E S S O F T H E WAY S I N W H I C H W E S U P P O RT D E V E LO P M E N T AC R OSS THE MIDDLE EAST” – JA M E S P E C Z , H E A D O F G LO B A L C U STO M E R S E RV I C E A N D B U S I N E S S D E V E L O P M E N T, R A M T E C H
“During my own experience of visiting clients and travelling across the world to discuss fire safety systems, I have seen traditional air horns and fire bells on trolleys used even in the most complex construction sites,” Pecz tells us. “This poses problems when the site is large, and the sound cannot travel as easily – particularly over the noise of machinery – and it does not help to pinpoint where the emergency is. While these traditional methods are readily available, it begs the question if these are really the best tools to rely on when so much is at stake.” To put this into perspective, it was
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widely reported that the UAE had experienced a significant increase in building fires in 2022, with civil defence teams responding to more than 3,000 incidents, including 2,169 building fires. This was an increase of three percent from 2021 and 10 percent from 2020. In addition, firefighters from the Dubai Civil Defence (DCD) were recently involved in a five-hour-long fight to control a blaze which broke out in a multi-storey building which was under construction in Jumeirah Village Circle. Thankfully, there were no injuries caused by the fire, but there was significant damage.
“With more infrastructure advancements across the Middle East, including advanced projects such as NEOM on the periphery of Saudi Arabia, resilient and robust monitoring is critical,” emphasises Pecz.
TAKING ACTION The UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice states that all construction sites of any scale or type must adhere to the code and be subject to approval by the DCD. This includes a full risk assessment to note the potential hazards as well as building a fire safety plan for prevention, protection, and evacuation purposes that construction teams are made aware of. The code also acknowledges temporary fire detection and alarm systems, and mentions wireless solutions as “best suited” for construction sites, as they “can be installed on a temporary basis without wiring”. Smarter wireless fire safety technology allows for enhanced site safety in a cost-effective way. These systems are versatile and reusable, with the potential to add smoke and heat sensors, as well as medical call features. They also eliminate the need for a hardwired power source – ideal for temporary or evolving sites.
TOPICAL FOCUS CONSTRUCTION
Ramtech has been developing wireless safety systems for more than 30 years and works internationally on various sites, particularly in construction and temporary spaces. The company has a growing number of clients in the Middle East, having already delivered on large projects, including a 36-storey tower, and is working on a residential project in the coming year, showing the value of WES3, Ramtech’s wireless temporary fire alarm and evacuation alert system for construction sites. “Units that can be mounted anywhere and relocated at any time, each powered by a battery with a three-year life under normal use, secure the job site during temporary phases of construction,” Pecz informs us. “With a fully customisable system,
the units can be set out in the bestsuited configuration.” On sites with hundreds of workers, WES3’s site-wide alarm option is invaluable for worker evacuation during an emergency such as a fire, and with each unit numbered, it’s easy to track the location of the emergency. It also offers immediate remote notifications via SMS using its complementary REACT platform, so that project managers can have 24/7
peace of mind. “The system is also designed to operate in temperatures of up to 70°C, and offers dustresistant smoke detection, putting it at a significant advantage in hotter and drier climates,” continues Pecz. With work taking place so rapidly, and heavily budgeted costs, it is important that contractors are given smart options that don’t require too much additional time to deploy and understand. The WES3 system is quick and straightforward to set up, and Ramtech’s team provides round-theclock support for any queries. “Wireless fire safety technology has made saving lives, protecting building infrastructure, and safeguarding communities more possible than ever before. Those who choose to take advantage of this will reap the benefits of a more secure and safe future,” Pecz finishes. EME Outlook Issue 56 | 21
REA: ASSOCIATION FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND CLEAN TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
S P OT L I G H T O N R E A : A S S O C I AT I O N F O R R E N E WA B L E E N E R GY A N D C L E A N T E C H N O LO GY The renewable energy and clean technology industry is not only critical to the future of the UK energy market, but also the global carbon footprint and the deceleration of climate change. As such, the industry is a vital component to the progression of organisations across the UK as they encounter the inevitable energy transition Writer: Lucy Pilgrim | Project Manager: Dave West
I
n the last 25 years, the realm of renewable energy has grown from a hobby in people’s back gardens, equating to just 2.8 percent of all electricity generated in the UK, to a serious and vital element of national and international energy security, resulting in a record 40 percent of electricity coming from renewables in 2022. In accordance with the growth of UK renewable energies, the government has committed to keeping the industry stable and catering to fluctuations in fossil fuels through various legislature. This has materialised in the recently implemented Energy Act 2023, which supports energy production and security, as well as the regulation of the energy market. The legislation also sets out the carbon capture and storage of fossil fuels,
22 | EME Outlook Issue 56
as well as developing the production and transportation of hydrogen. However, despite recent commitments from the UK government and a noticeable increase in green power, renewable energy resources are still in pressing need of support. The next phase of the renewable energy industry is to rapidly grow efficient energy storage and implement the full utilisation of renewables, allowing variations in supply and demand to be balanced out. Therefore, more work needs to be done to deploy storage and all renewable technologies at scale in society through clean energy production, use, and storage. Ultimately, by progressing to the next stage of the energy transition, both the UK government and public can truly harness the achievable goal of net zero.
EME Outlook Issue 56 | 23
Biogen’s Local Authority and Commercial Development Manager, Darren Forster discusses the benefits of the recent Defra announcement regarding ‘Simpler Recycling’.
T
he recent Defra announcement on 21st October will be welcome news to Anaerobic Digestion (AD) providers and local authorities alike, ending almost five years of uncertainty since the Resources and Waste Strategy was published in 2018. Whilst there remain some questions around when Defra’s ‘new burdens funding’ will be paid to councils and how ‘modelled estimates of costs and savings’ may impact what is repaid, the Defra announcement is a significant and positive step forward for AD providers, local authorities and the wider resources and waste management sector. Biogen welcomes the news that waste collection authorities will be required to introduce weekly food waste collections to all households in England, including flats, by 31st March 2026. Since the publication of the Government’s Resources and Waste Strategy in December 2018, Biogen has worked closely with local authorities and the wider resources and waste management sector to plan for the implementation of separate
food waste collections. Through this engagement, feedback from some local authorities suggested there was significant uncertainty around future funding for food waste collections. However, this latest announcement from Government means the vast majority of councils can push on with plans to collect food waste for recycling at kerbside. Whilst the Government has permitted councils to collect food waste and garden waste mixed at the kerbside, Biogen welcomes the Government’s preference ‘for food waste to be collected for treatment by anaerobic digestion’. This technology offers Local Authorities a better economic route for food waste treatment, but also presents the best environmental outcome for separately collected food waste. The AD process generates clean, renewable gas and electricity for UK homes and businesses, improving the UK’s energy security and providing a key cornerstone of the transition to Net Zero. The other output from the AD process, digestate, is used as a fertiliser, reducing reliance on artificial fertilisers and closing the recycling loop by enabling more
Biogen is a leading food waste recycling business in the UK, operating 19 Anaerobic Digestion facilities across England, Scotland and Wales. These sites can recycle over half of a million tonnes of organic waste annually, generating 36 MWe of green energy per year – enough to satisfy more than 100,000 average households’ annual electricity requirements. Biogen’s process also produces nutrient rich PAS110 certified biofertilisers which are both much sought after by farmers to help them grow more crops. We provide an integrated organic waste management solution for supermarkets, caterers, pubs, hotels, food manufacturers and local authorities across the UK. We take care of everything. In fact when you ask us to take charge of your waste recycling you could say it’s off your plate – and onto ours. As a leading food waste management company, we pride ourselves on our reliability and ability to offer our clients the highest level of service and aftersales care. As a result, we guarantee our customers that our waste disposable units will never turn away an uncontaminated load.
crops to be grown. Crucially, AD keeps vital resources out of landfill and incineration, with AD providing a critical role in delivering a more circular economy for the UK. A further key development within the Defra announcement is the confirmation that all food waste producing businesses with more than 10 full time equivalent employees will be required to make arrangements for separate food waste collections by 31st March 2025 – whilst all food producing businesses will have to comply from 31st March 2027. This brings England into line with Scotland – which has been subject to similar requirements since 2014 – and Wales – where businesses producing over 5kg of food waste per week will be required to segregate this for separate collection from 6th April 2024. Whilst Biogen – like the rest of the AD market – welcomed Defra’s announcement, we would urge caution around plans to include in statutory guidance that local authorities provide a fortnightly collection for residual waste as a minimum service standard. Many local authorities which provide food waste collections are moving towards three and four weekly residual waste collections, which have been proven to increase recycling rates and can deliver fiscal savings in residual waste collection and disposal costs. Three and four weekly collections are proven to operate effectively and deliver behaviour change that maximises recycling performance. This is exemplified in Wales, where no less than 10 councils currently collect residual waste every three or four weeks, with all of these authorities achieving recycling rates above 60 percent in 2021/221. Biogen’s view is clear: if Government wishes to maximise opportunities to increase recycling performance, it should provide local authorities with the freedom to choose to collect residual waste three or four weekly if they feel this would benefit future recycling rates. Further, Biogen recognises that Government is not prepared to meet the costs of breaking long-term contracts. This means that in exceptional circumstances, specific local authorities may need longer to transition than 31st March 2026, where 1 Source: https://myrecyclingwales.org.uk/local-authorities
long-term waste disposal contracts run beyond this date. It is vital that AD providers and local authorities are now given certainty around dates, and therefore crucial that transitional arrangements are reserved only for exceptional circumstances where the costs of breaking long-term contracts would be overly punitive. This will enable other councils to push ahead and implement food waste collections between now and 31st March 2026, in the knowledge that their reasonable net additional costs will be funded by Defra. Nevertheless, Biogen welcomes Defra’s positive announcement on 21st October, which now enables the AD sector, local authorities and the wider resources and waste sector to properly plan and prepare with certainty. Biogen’s 12 food waste AD facilities across the UK mean we are well positioned to absorb any additional food waste tonnages resulting from separate weekly food waste collections – ensuring this resource is beneficially used to help the transition to Net Zero and a more circular economy in the UK. Darren Forster is a Chartered Environmentalist and Chartered Resource and Waste Manager, having spent over eight years working within the resources and waste sector. Shortlisted two years running in the prestigious ‘35 Under 35’ Awards, Darren’s experience covers the collection, recycling, composting, transfer, haulage, treatment and disposal of waste, as well as Anaerobic Digestion.
www.biogen.co.uk
INTERVIEW
R E A : A S S O C I AT I O N F O R R E N E WA B L E E N E R GY A N D C L E A N T E C H N O LO GY ( R E A )
A
s the largest renewable energy trade association in the UK, REA: Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA) works across 14 renewable energy and clean technologies and comprises over 500 member organisations, ranging from major multinationals, small to medium-enterprises (SMEs), and sole traders. The REA aims to champion the voices of its members, communicate the industry’s needs to the UK government, and secure the best legislative and regulatory framework for expanding renewable energy deployment and production to meet the country’s electricity, heat, recycling, energy storage, and transport needs. Dr Nina Skorupska CBE FEI, Chief Executive, tells us more. 26 | EME Outlook Issue 56
EME Outlook (EO): Firstly, could you talk us through the origins of the REA and what its founding mission was? Dr Nina Skorupska CBE FEI, Chief Executive (NS): The REA was established 21 years ago as the Renewable Power Association to advocate for the recognition that there were other forms of renewable power in addition to wind. Therefore, the association originally had members from the solar, biogas, and bioenergy sectors. Nowadays, we represent the views of over 500 member organisations comprising generators, project developers, fuel producers, distributors, equipment manufacturers, and installers. Our main aim is to develop how we deliver renewable
REA: ASSOCIATION FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND CLEAN TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
energy and clean technology, but also to increase the availability of green jobs and grow the economy as a result. Our members are interested in not only producing power, but delivering renewable heat and transport, as well as looking at how the entire renewable power infrastructure works. This includes bioenergy from biogas, biomass power, energy from waste, and all the other forms of renewable power, such as energy from the marine industry and even space! EO: Since inception, how has REA developed and progressed in terms of its key objectives and the messages it tries to get across? NS: A key part of the energy transition over the last 20 years has been the strong push towards advocating for a transition from a fossil fuel driven society to a renewable one. This transition initially needed to be subsidised to give it the kickstart that it required. Thus, for the first eight to nine years, it was about arguing the need for a subsidy system that would enable necessary
sustainable practices to be affordable for businesses. As government subsidies increased, we strived to grow the volume of renewable energy due to a heightened capability to produce and deploy resources at a decreased cost. The UK went one step further by bringing in the Climate Change Act 2008, which pledged to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 80 percent by 2050, reducing it to levels seen in 1990. Therefore, as energy efficiency became a greater part of the public conversation, it meant there was a better understanding of what renewable resources were and the technology involved, resulting in the sector becoming much less risk averse. EO: What do you find most exciting about the renewable energy sector in the UK currently? NS: The UK has been extraordinarily successful in the adaption of offshore wind and solar power, so it’s important that we continue on this trajectory. We know we have the capability from a technology standpoint to deliver 100 percent renewable power, heat, and transport by 2050.
Delivering sustainable bioenergy impact through collaborative research
Future Biogas, UK
Bioenergy in the UK and Europe
Delivering impact
Bioenergy in the UK is a significant and increasing component of the country’s renewable energy portfolio.
The Supergen Bioenergy Hub is a collaborative research initiative funded by the UK government through UK Research and Innovation. With a focus on delivering impact, the hub aims to increase sustainable biomass production in the UK to minimise greenhouse emissions, focusing on key aviation, hydrogen, heat and product sectors. The hub’s novel technology development projects in the following areas could significantly impact UK energy system sustainability:
In 2021, bioenergy in the UK delivered: - 32 percent of renewable electricity - 92 percent of renewable transport fuel - 72 percent of renewable heat This represents 13 percent of the UK’s total electricity, five percent of its total fuel, and seven percent of its total heat supply. Biomass has a huge range of end uses, from energy applications such as domestic heating, transport fuel and electricity generation, to displacing fossil feedstocks and their derivatives in manufacturing and construction. Various domestic and imported biomass sources are used for energy production in the UK and Europe, including wood, agricultural residues, energy crops and organic waste. The UK government has provided financial incentives and subsidies to encourage the use of biomass for energy production. Schemes like the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) and Contracts for Difference (CfD) have supported the growth of the biomass industry. The EU has set ambitious renewable energy targets – with a particular focus on bioenergy – with the aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. To ensure that bioenergy production is sustainable and does not harm the environment, the UK and the EU have implemented sustainability criteria, including restrictions on the source of biomass and emissions standards. The UK’s recently published Biomass Strategy demonstrates an ambition to develop a more holistic approach to ensuring sustainability, where both carbon and non-carbon risks and benefits for society, the environment and the economy are assessed and accounted for. Researchers at the Supergen Bioenergy Hub worked closely with government departments to provide scientific evidence to inform the UK Biomass Strategy, and the strategy’s commitment to developing a cross-sectoral sustainability framework follows the hub’s work in this area. Left: Terravesta Athena ™ Miscanthus
• • • •
Digitalisation and AI for AD (anaerobic digestion) Biowaste electrolysis Negative emission hydrogen from biomass gasification Waste gasification for hydrogen-BECCUS (bioenergy with carbon capture, utilisation and storage) • rDME (renewable dimethyl ether) for off-grid energy • Bio-derived sustainable aviation fuels Other projects will provide cross-cutting information to advance sustainability in the areas of: • Global indirect land use change (ILUC) • Biomass fractionation • Bio-based and biodegradable chemicals • Scale-up of feedstock production • Biorefinery efficiency and scale-up • Maximising sustainability trade-offs The hub fosters collaboration between researchers, industry stakeholders, policymakers and the public to facilitate knowledge exchange and promote the integration of sustainable bioenergy solutions into the UK’s energy landscape. The hub works closely with industry partners through a variety of mechanisms, including project collaboration, secondments and its advisory group. A new industrial forum is being launched to share technical information and respond to the challenges of the biomass and bioenergy community. A key industrial partner is the REA (Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology), which acts as an important connector between industry and academia in this space. The Supergen Bioenergy Hub sees sustained partnership between academia, industry, governmental and societal stakeholders as the key to successful and sustainable deployment of bioenergy.
Professor Patricia Thornley is Director of the Supergen Bioenergy Hub and the Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute at Aston University, UK. She is a chartered physicist with over 30 years’ experience of bioenergy in the commercial and academic sectors. Could you offer some insight into the Supergen Bioenergy Hub to date and how the focus on delivering impact has changed your approach? The Supergen Bioenergy Hub has delivered internationally leading research in sustainable bioenergy systems for the last 12 years. Comprising outstanding UK research groups, it has focused on identifying sustainable biomass resources, honing clean technologies for efficient conversion to energy and high-specification products, and taking a whole systems approach to identify which options deliver sustainability objectives. This has allowed us to support companies moving into biomass for their net zero ambitions and organisations seeking evidence on the real impact of biomass systems in different global contexts. But research and evidence can only get you so far. Increasingly, we have been working with partners as they take their first steps towards deployment. Our new focus on impact will allow us to comprehensively support UK businesses trying to deliver carbon reductions via biomass. We will focus more on individual technologies that have the potential to disrupt traditional operations, like using AI to improve performance and deploying advanced chemical techniques to convert biomass to hydrogen or aviation fuels. To accelerate research commercialisation, we’ll be working directly with technology developers and end-users as much as possible.
Sustainability is at the very core of your work. Tell us more about your sustainability research and its impact. I want the research we do to have positive benefits for the environment, the economy and for people in the UK and worldwide. Assessing and monitoring the sustainability of different bioenergy systems is incredibly important. The first aspect of sustainability many people think about is carbon – and it’s right that they should. We’re living at a critical period for climate change and need urgently to reduce carbon emissions. It’s imperative that all of our work is focused on bioenergy systems that actually reduce carbon emissions. But we need to go further and look at the cumulative impact globally. Our projects on scaling up biomass production and indirect land use change are particularly important as they give large-scale perspectives on potential impacts. We also need to go beyond carbon. There are a whole
host of environmental factors (air quality, water pollution, land contamination, biodiversity, to name a few!) that can be affected by growing and using biomass, and those effects can be positive or negative. Then there are ‘non-environmental’ impacts. These economic and social impacts often attract less attention at early stages of development but can be absolutely critical when it comes to implementation. Initiatives are often judged not (only) by their ecological impact, but by how many jobs they create, what environmental or infrastructure benefits result, and whether they make a positive difference to the UK’s trade balance. We assess and evaluate those tradeoffs to facilitate informed decision-making and improve the design and operation of bioenergy facilities.
What opportunities does biomass provide for companies looking to decarbonise their operations? Biomass can be really effective in decarbonising heat requirements: whether high-temperature industrial process heat or low-temperature space heating. It offers particularly valuable solutions in rural and coastal locations. There’s huge potential in sectors like food processing, but also in a whole range of process industries like glass, cement and chemical production. We also need to be aware that this isn’t just about energy. Many of the products that we currently get from oil, gas and coal could become more challenging to produce in a decarbonised future. Biomass provides a renewable source of carbon for things like bio-derived plastics (which can also be biodegradable, so win-win), but also potentially for surfactants (used in the laundry and personal care sectors) as well as for waxes, greases and lubricants. That means there are companies who today make a whole range of products, chemicals and materials who might be able to make their carbon footprint and operations more sustainable by switching to bio-derived feedstocks in the future. We can help by working with industrialists to identify suitable feedstocks and analyse the performance and sustainability of pathways to new products.
How do you currently work with industrial partners and what opportunities do you see for the future? We have an advisory board comprising mostly industrial partners and they are embedded into many of our projects. Moving forward we want to make those opportunities more widely available.
That’s why we’re establishing an industrial forum: a physical and virtual space where industrialists and academics can share technical details and respond to challenges. If you want to get involved, get in touch. We also want to improve understanding among other key stakeholders who have less specific interest in bioenergy, like planners, local authorities and consultants. That’s why we’re establishing a professional forum to facilitate two-way exchange of information and personnel. We’ll run training and information sessions at a less technically focused level, and provide a mechanism for locating specialist expertise in academia. We hope this will help unblock some of the barriers that still exist around biomass utilisation.
What do you think are the next big questions for UK bioenergy research and what most excites you? While the UK has made huge progress with its carbon targets, I am increasingly convinced that we will need to
remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere to limit climate change impacts to tolerable levels. Trees and plants are very efficient at doing that for us. I think we need to capitalise on the asset of our trees and plants by strategically developing biomass to energy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS). The principle of using energy that hasn’t contributed CO2 to atmosphere, but has actually removed it, is game-changing! Of course, the challenge is in ensuring sustainability at a reasonable cost. On a related note, I do get worried at the prospect of sinking huge quantities of CO2 underground (one of the storage options for BECCS). Carbon atoms in all shapes and forms have been essential for our existence for millennia. When we get to 2050 and beyond, we might regret having securely buried all those carbon atoms so inaccessibly. So, I’m a big fan of exploring ways of using the carbon sequestered in trees and plants to provide the things we need. That opens up a whole array of exciting opportunities for new products and materials, and we’ve only just begun to scratch the surface. I think there are many exciting developments to come!
The Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute at Aston University
The Supergen Bioenergy Hub works with multi-sector stakeholders to develop sustainable bioenergy systems that support the UK’s transition to an affordable, resilient, low-carbon future. Our research aims to identify pathways for delivering bioenergy with wider social, economic and environmental benefits. As we enter the next phase of our journey, we’re looking for partners to help us create impact through collaborative projects. If you have a decarbonisation vision that could be supported by biomass and bioenergy... ....we want to hear from you!
www.supergen-bioenergy.net/contact
THE REA AT COP28 The REA is excited to be a part of the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference, known as COP28, held between 30th November and 12th December. With King Charles as the opening speaker, the event will include 80,000 delegates from 197 countries talking about the importance of renewable energy and how to accelerate its deployment worldwide. The REA is an official United Nations Observer, and is honoured to be the only energy trade association to be invited to host a pavilion in the Blue Zone at COP28. The Blue Zone is where the negotiations take place, with access restricted to the national delegations of members of parliament from all around the world, as well as the official UN Observers. Our Renewable Energy Action (REAction) pavilion will promote the immediately available technologies and solutions for accelerating decarbonisation. While there are some areas where further research is needed, the main challenge for decarbonisation is scaling up existing solutions, and we want to push the countries and companies present to really embrace the transition and remove the barriers that are holding back the deployment of renewable energy technologies, all actions that could be taken today if they were serious about wanting to make our world a sustainable one.
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Therefore, there must be a consensus to work hard to deliver it and positively deter the impacts of climate change. At COP26, held in Glasgow, we stated that the UK would be the first nation to reach net zero. It is therefore key that we take action and identify what the main levers are to reach this goal and accelerate the UK’s leadership in reaching carbon neutrality. EO: On the other hand, what are the sector’s biggest challenges? NS: There are definitely some organisations who have historically benefitted from fossil fuels, so it’s not in their vested interest to encourage an energy transition. They might look like they are adopting energy efficiency, but that may not realistically be the case.
REA: ASSOCIATION FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND CLEAN TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
“UNLIKE TRADITIONAL FOSSIL FUELS, PEOPLE CAN CHOOSE T O H AV E R E N E WA B L E E N E R G Y I N T H E I R H O M E S , TO B E CO M E N OT J U ST CO N S U M E R S BUT PROSUMERS WHO CAN C O N T R O L A N D U N D E R S TA N D W H AT T H E Y A R E C O N S U M I N G ” – D R N I N A S KO R U P S K A C B E F E I , CHIEF EXECUTIVE, REA
The problem lies in the fact that our members who have solar projects in the pipeline approach the grid company for a connection but are told that they can’t connect until close to 2037. Therefore, a lot of our work is about shortening the time frame in planning and constructing a physical asset that can be used for renewable energy use. EO: Have you got any strategies or objectives in the pipeline that you wish to highlight?
If we are to carry on using fossil fuels, this can only be by using clean technology in the form of carbon capture and storage (CCS) to capture and store or use the emissions. This lets us reach net zero by capturing GHGs emitted by fossil fuels to help speed up the transition to renewable energy, and also means we have less reliance on fossil gas. But really, the only long-term future we see is one completely powered by renewables and clean technologies. EO: What trends are currently transforming the renewable energy sector and how is the REA responding to them? NS: The industry is focusing on the barriers hindering the energy transition and the necessary infrastructure not just in the UK, but worldwide. For example, if you want to build a renewable project such as an offshore wind or solar farm, how can you connect this to the grid and ensure the power flows where it’s needed?
NS: In the future, we will continue to specifically identify green jobs available and the steps people can take to harness the advantages of these opportunities. Therefore, job security will provide proof of the positive impacts found in the energy transition and is key to winning the hearts and minds of the people who feel scared or threatened by renewable energy. In the shorter term, I love meeting with organisations that are not a part of the renewable technology sector and encouraging them to build solar panels on their roof or think of alternative ways of heating their facilities. It’s great for businesses to see the positive impacts they are having and connect the dots around the overall vital effects of renewable energy, which will hopefully encourage a more natural transition. EO: How do you see the REA and the renewable energy sector developing over the next five years? NS: With the general election happening next year, we know that the entire energy transition still faces significant challenges, which are currently delaying the roll-out of low carbon technologies across all sectors. EME Outlook Issue 56 | 33
Renewable Energy Specialists
Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners, is a specialist global investment manager focused exclusively on the infrastructure needed to deliver the energy transition, and strives to be a leader in decarbonisation.
Q
uinbrook Infrastructure Partners (“Quinbrook” or the “Company”) brings an industrial perspective to investing in renewable and decarbonisation infrastructure, leveraging the three decades of experience its senior team of professionals have gained from investing collectively over USD 8.2 billion in energy infrastructure assets, representing a total enterprise value of c.USD 28.7 billion or 19.5 GW of power supply capacity. Quinbrook aims to protect and enhance the value of invested assets for the long-term benefit of its investors through the proactive identification and management of environmental, social, climate change and corporate governance aspects of those investments. However, Quinbrook’s sustainability and impact objectives extend beyond this to local job creation, regional economic benefit, greater community engagement, and reduced environmental impacts from the daily operation of portfolio assets. The Company is currently developing and constructing some of the largest renewables and storage infrastructure projects undertaken in the UK, US, and Australia (such as Project Gemini), and is striving to operate at the forefront of the unprecedented and accelerating energy transitions through a number of industry-leading investments and initiatives.
PROJECT GEMINI - LARGEST SOLAR AND STORAGE PROJECT IN US HISTORY WHEN PPA SIGNED1 690 MW solar PV and 380 MW Bess – land area equivalent to approximately half of Manhattan Island, requiring 1.8 million solar panels
SUSTAINABLE UK ENERGY In the UK, Quinbrook is focusing on opportunities arising from the accelerated decarbonisation of power (target of 100% decarbonised power by 2035, and 95% low carbon power by 20302) and the broader net zero transition. High energy prices, geopolitical instability, and the UK’s ambitious net zero goals are bringing into focus the critical need to accelerate the building of the next generation of energy transition infrastructure. With aging UK coal, gas, and nuclear plants soon to be retired, significant long-term capital investment in replacement renewable supply infrastructure, battery storage, smart grid, and related businesses will be needed just to maintain levels of supply3. Quinbrook views the need for new infrastructure as an opportunity to deliver measurable ESG impact from asset creation to optimisation, which it considers fundamental to any ‘high-impact’ focused investment thesis. Large-scale solar and battery storage projects are key to achieving the decarbonisation imperatives of the energy transition all over the world4, and Quinbrook via delivery of Project Gemini and Project Fortress (the UK’s first nationally significant solar and storage project) is endeavouring to create a blueprint for projects in the UK to come as the UK seeks to triple solar capacity by 20305. Just as importantly, Quinbrook is committed to doing this in a way that is truly impactful in supporting jobs and delivering a range of tangible benefits to the local community.
“Our commitment to sustainability, ethics, and responsible stewardship extends to our diverse stakeholder community and the numerous communities where our ventures operate.”
Project Fortress – Site Visualisation
The huge scale of projects such as Fortress is set to provide a meaningful contribution to improving the UK’s energy security and further decarbonising the power grid, helping to progress the country’s journey to net zero9. Further, these new build projects are able to generate additional environmental impact outside of decarbonisation of the power system, as going forward all UK infrastructure projects post November 2023 will be required to increase biodiversity by 10% to secure planning consent10.
However, the ongoing energy transition presents challenges in terms of grid stability. Historically, grid stability in the UK’s power systems has been maintained by large synchronous power plants predominantly fuelled by carbon-intensive coal and gas. As a result of the energy transition, these older fossil plants are being phased out and non-synchronous renewable generators, such as wind and solar, pose new reliability challenges as they do not possess the same grid stabilising properties. Due to the rapid proliferation of renewables across the UK, National Grid launched the Pathfinder Programme to source new ways to provide critical grid stability services11. National Grid’s Stability Pathfinder program offers indexed, long-term contracts to secure essential grid support services from assets such as synchronous condensers.
UK’S FIRST Nationally Significant Solar + Storage Project6
LARGEST UNDER CONSTRUCTION Solar + Storage Project In UK8
Project Fortress – UK’s Largest Under Construction Solar & Storage Project
PROJECT FORTRESS
AT 373 MW solar PV, when consented Project Fortress was >3x times the UK’s next largest consented solar PV project7
FORTRESS TO DELIVER a biodiversity net gain of 65% across 140 acres of the site
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE In addition to its investment in projects in the UK, Quinbrook has invested in a growing portfolio of innovative UK businesses that directly support the energy transition in important areas, such as Flexitricity and Habitat Energy. These entrepreneurial businesses founded in the UK, reinforce Quinbrook’s strategic moves into the supply of critical flexible capacity, grid support infrastructure and intelligent battery storage optimisation that together enable more variable and weather-dependent renewables to be built as the UK looks to secure its long-term energy supply and seize the opportunities of Net Zero.
In its Future Energy Scenarios 2023, National Grid highlighted the importance of utilising electricity storage, and demand side flexibility, to deliver a balanced whole energy system15. Habitat Energy16 and Flexitricity17 are leaders in these sectors, and are considered by Quinbrook to be well positioned to capitalise on the growth projected by National Grid in both the storage and demand response as the Country continues to decarbonise. By supporting the UK grid in managing the challenges presented by a massive scale-up in intermittent wind and solar, Quinbrook is able to deliver high-impact investments that enable ever more renewable energy capacity to be built and carbon emissions abated. Quinbrook considers that this is the only way the UK’s success to date in decarbonising its power sector can continue at the rapid pace that is needed for its net zero goals. Additionally, decarbonisation has a much broader responsibility to minimise environmental harm, and Quinbrook endeavours to support the areas in which its assets reside. Such initiatives have included the creation of collocated pollinator habitats, supporting local farmers, recycling and reusing assets such as batteries and solar panels, stopping the usage of native timber and food sources land for biomass, and minimising water use through better design. Ultimately, Quinbrook believes that better stewardship and deliberate sustainable impact practices are inherently tied to both capital protection and value growth.
UK’S LARGEST PORTFOLIO OF SYNCHRONOUS CONDENSERS CONTRACTED TO NATIONAL GRID12 QUINBROOK HAS SECURED a portfolio of 7 synchronous condensers, each supported by a stability pathfinder contract with National Grid THE 7 PROJECTS are located across England, Scotland and Wales ONCE OPERATIONAL the 4 Scottish projects are able to provide the equivalent capacity to >600MW of thermal (coal/gas) MVA SCL13 THE FIRST PROJECT in Quinbrook’s portfolio, was the only non utility project to secure a contract in stability pathfinder phase 1 and was the first new build project in stability phase 1 to be fully operational14 EQUIPMENT SPECIFICATION and procurement for the delivery of the synchronous condensers prioritised local contractors and specialists. Once operational, Quinbrook’s total synchronous condenser portfolio is expected to have supported over 1,500 jobs in Levelling Up Priority 1 regions across the UK.
https://www.blm.gov/press-release/interior-approves-plan-largest-solar-project-us-history 2 https://www.gov.uk/government/news/major-acceleration-of-homegrown-power-inbritains-plan-for-greater-energy-independence 3 Aurora “Great Britain Power and Renewables Market Forecast” October 2023 4 https://www.iea.org/reports/net-zero-by-2050 https://www.ft.com/content/60a90c04-f7ea-4a20-ba07-00ca6abced86 6 gateleyplc.com/insight/case-studies/advising-on-cleve-hill-the-first-solar-park-delivered-by-dco/ 7 BNEF country database accessed July 2023 8 BNEF country database accessed July 2023 9 https://www.ft.com/content/60a90c04-f7ea-4a20-ba07-00ca6abced86 10 https:// naturalengland.blog.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/183/2022/04/BNG-Brochure_Final_Compressed-002.pdf 11 www.nationalgrideso.com/future-energy/projects/pathfinders/ stability 12 www.nationalgrideso.com/future-energy/projects/pathfinders/stability/Phase-3; www.nationalgrideso.com/future-energy/projects/pathfinders/stability/Phase-1; and www.nationalgrideso.com/future-energy/projects/pathfinders/stability/Phase-2 13 www.nationalgrideso.com/document/238741/download; 14 nationalgrideso.com/future-energy/ projects/pathfinders 15 National Grid ESO “FES 2023” July 2023 16 Habitat Energy Performance Metrics based on LCP Enact Data, April 2022 – June 2023, Capacity weighted average income (GBP/MWh/year) 17 https://www.nationalgrideso.com/document/170431/downloadlexitricity created the first demand response portfolio in GB 1
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+44 207 818 8600 | info@quinbrook.com | www.quinbrook.com |
“ W E S E E R E N E WA B L E ENERGY AND CLEAN T E C H N O L O G Y A S A WAY OF LEVELLING UP AND D E M O C R AT I S I N G E N E R G Y U S E I N S O C I E T Y, G I V I N G P E O P L E A G R E AT E R CHOICE” – D R N I N A S KO R U P S K A C B E F E I , CHIEF EXECUTIVE, REA
REPORT: ENERGY TRANSITION READINESS INDEX (ETRI) 2023 Sponsored by Eaton and Foresight Group, the REA’s ETRI 2023 assesses and compares the electricity markets in 14 European countries. The report revealed that while the UK has set ambitious decarbonisation goals and its regulatory alignment to reach net zero is to be commended, current policy priorities appear more focused on short-term political imperatives, leading to increased investment uncertainty. Investors will be attracted to the UK’s energy transition only if they can see patterns of clear governance and regulatory stability emerging, says the report. At present, the signals are simply not strong enough. The report finds that the UK has risen slightly in the overall rankings since last year, sitting in front of countries such as Germany, Italy, and Switzerland. However, it is lagging behind European countries which have flexibility markets that better deliver fair, transparent, and simple access. Countries involved in ETRI 2023: - UK
- Norway
- France
- Ireland
- Sweden
- Italy
- The Netherlands
- Denmark
- Spain
- Germany
- Switzerland
- Finland
- Poland
- Greece
Find out more about where your country is faring in the energy transition here.
38 | EME Outlook Issue 56
However, the recently implemented Energy Act 2023 will be a catalyst for much needed action and is a very significant step towards our goals. We look forward to working alongside the government in the coming months to help ensure energy is affordable for households and businesses and to make the UK more energy independent in the long-term. Subsequently, we need to create a system that addresses the different issues associated with the likes of offshore wind and solar power in homes.
REA: ASSOCIATION FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND CLEAN TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
At Clarion, we do things a little differently Clarion’s Energy & Projects team comprises more than 30 specialists in various legal disciplines. Our team has a dedicated energy and low carbon infrastructure focus and draws together in-depth knowledge, expertise and industry experience of the energy, renewables and low carbon sector to deliver excellent legal advice in a commercial context. Through our established relationships with our carefully selected best friend independent law firms around the world, we are also able to support you with advice relating to issues in any country outside the UK in which you have projects or disputes.
Christian Hellmund (Head of Energy & Projects) has been excellent at providing commercial advice in addition to infra/energy industry knowledge. He is very pragmatic and provides options clearly laying out the risks and opportunities of how to proceed.” - Legal 500
+44 (0) 113 246 0622 | enquiries@clarionsolicitors.com | www.clarionsolicitors.com
For example, if people are generating renewable power themselves, how do we ensure that that this happens in a way that builds the grid network whilst rewarding people for their sustainable practices? This can be achieved by running your washing machine overnight when there’s more available power, which makes it more cost-effective as power, price, and demand go hand-in-hand. As such, we need a simple market to persuade people to charge their car or put their washing machine on overnight. Of course, not everybody can, so we need to ensure that renewables are an accessible option for all. EO: Are you optimistic about the future of renewable energy and clean technology in the UK? NS: I would describe myself as an optimistic realist. I would like us to go faster in the deployment of renewable energy and clean technology, and for the government to do an awful lot more in accelerating this future. Despite the UK’s undoubted success to date on cutting emissions, Prime Minister (PM) Rishi Sunak recently announced measures that will undoubtedly slow down the UK’s progression to net zero. This will continue to impact the UK and also send mixed signals internationally.
The PM could be stimulating the economy – one of his major priorities – by accelerating the energy transition through green supply chain support, finding new routes to market to decarbonise heat, implementing zero-rated VAT for new small-scale energy storage installations, and announcing ambitious transport decarbonisation measures and new funding for local authorities to deliver the new Simpler Recycling measures. Yet, addressing these barriers remains unmentioned. Moving forward, the REA continues to urge all political parties to focus on delivering the investment we need to grow the renewable energy industry, to unlock the abundant potential of our clean technologies. The UK’s energy security and net zero targets depend on it. When we gather in Dubai next month for COP28, there will be 197 countries coming together to act more decisively to tackle climate change. Thus, within the context of the PM’s words, it makes me more determined to advocate for what must be done.
www.r-e-a.net EME Outlook Issue 56 | 39
Reliable Electric Vehicle Charging Solutions EV charging specialist, Mer, is on a mission to provide sustainable solutions for drivers and businesses in the UK - this is a core part of the company’s DNA.
tailored solutions using renewable energies such as hydro-power, onshore wind, and solar. This integration enables Mer to provide all-in-one service that includes EV charging, energy storage and electricity.
Mer is a European EV charging company owned by Statkraft. Through its extensive experience with renewable energy and electric mobility, the company is combining the best of both worlds to power the European shift towards a purer form of transportation.
Mer has incorporated sustainability into its business strategy and some of its initiatives include:
Expertly backed by Statkraft’s 125-year legacy in renewables, Mer gives its customers and partners the chance to be part of Europe’s most sustainable electric vehicle (EV) solutions.
• •
The company believes in EV solutions that must be sustainable beyond their primary purpose: to charge low-carbon vehicles with clean energy.
• • •
RELIABLE ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING SOLUTIONS Mer provides trusted EV charging infrastructure and services that keep businesses and the public on the road and driving toward a cleaner, greener future.
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One of the company’s main goals is to make sustainable electric mobility easy and accessible for everyone. Working closely with other Statkraft-owned businesses, Mer is able to offer
Become carbon neutral by calculating and offsetting emissions, but this is only the beginning for the company as it establishes carbon reduction goals One Charger One Tree initiative – Mer is planting a tree for every new public charger it installs Mer has published its first sustainability report Providing recyclable charge tags ISO 14001:2015 Environmental management system certificate. This certificate demonstrates Mer’s commitment to continual improvement and sustainable business performance Using FSC or recycled paper and envelopes
Statkraft, the owner of Mer, is not new to clean energy. The company has been producing renewable energy for over a century. Statkraft develops, owns, and operates wind, solar, hydro, and greenergrid projects. Mer believes that renewable energy is both a solution to climate change and more economical than conventional fossil fuel energy. Mer also now creates packages of charging, storage, and electricity maximising convenience and cost savings. • • •
Mer has 34,000 charge points installed across Europe Drivers have saved over 640,000kg of CO2 savings using Mer chargers Mer supports Rewilding Britain - sustaining communities, and tackling the species extinction crisis and climate emergency
Mer’s overall objective can be boiled down to three key principles: • • •
Every day, Mer strives to grow its business in a sustainable manner, considering its impact on people, the environment, and society. Mer is passionate about what it does, and the company values a curious mindset and seeks to grow and learn from failing. Mer is entrepreneurial and the company values its creativity and ability to craft and build a sustainable, powerful, and successful company together.
uk.mer.eco | sales.uk@mer.eco |
IRISH SOLAR ENERGY ASSOCIATION INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
S P OT L I G H T O N S O L A R E N E R GY IN IRELAND As part of its commitment to increasing the generation of renewable electricity, the Irish government has significantly upgraded its 2030 solar PV capacity targets Writer: Jack Salter | Project Manager: Deane Anderton
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reland has set a target for 80 percent of its electricity to be generated from renewable sources by 2030. One such renewable source is solar energy, with the Irish government subsequently increasing its solar PV capacity targets from 2.5 gigawatts (GW) to 5GW by 2025 and 8GW by the end of the decade. This lofty ambition exemplifies the shift of solar energy from a fringe technology to a crucial component of Ireland’s 42 | EME Outlook Issue 56
renewable transition. The promise of solar in reshaping Ireland’s energy mix was demonstrated in 2022 when the country’s first utility-scale solar farm developed under the Irish government’s Renewable Energy Support Scheme (RESS) was connected to the national grid. It was a record year for renewable generation capacity, with 616 megawatts (MW) connected to the grid at the end of 2022. However, there is still a significant amount of work that
PHOTO © STATKRAFT IRELAND, BALLYMACARNEY SOLAR FARM IN COUNTY MEATH
remains to be done regarding solar microgeneration and commercial projects, and solar development in Ireland is not without its challenges. For example, there are high costs associated with developing solar projects in Ireland, such as connection costs that are, on average, greater than those in many other European countries. Other challenges include planning process delays,
electricity network upgrades, and the need for storage technology investment. Roughly 25 percent of solar projects that were successful in the first RESS auction in 2020 are now not progressing. If solar is to play its part in achieving the Irish government’s overarching 80 percent renewable electricity target, such issues need to be minimised to ensure that as many projects as possible progress to completion. EME Outlook Issue 56 | 43
INTERVIEW: I R I S H S O L A R E N E R GY A S S O C I AT I O N With a vision for a fully decarbonised electricity system, Conall Bolger, CEO of the Irish Solar Energy Association, discusses pushing the energy transition forward and how solar will meet the Irish government’s upgraded 2030 electricity capacity targets EME Outlook (EO): Firstly, could you talk us through the origins of the Irish Solar Energy Association - when was it founded, and what is your mission? Conall Bolger, CEO (CB): The Irish Solar Energy Association was founded by seven companies in May 2013, 44 | EME Outlook Issue 56
Conall Bolger, CEO, Irish Solar Energy Association
and I’d say a lot has changed in the intervening decade. We’re celebrating 10 years of operation, and it’s never been a straight or easy path. The “solarcoaster” has had many ups and downs, but lately, a lot more ups. Luckily, many of the original companies are still involved in the association. We’re now numbering about 160 members, representing the whole industry across ground-mounted developers, rooftop installers, lenders, investors, manufacturers, service providers, and various other interested parties. We try and represent the industry to maximise the volumes of Irish solar generation, and our vision is very much for a fully decarbonised electricity system. How we go about that is through engagement, education, and encouraging best practice. Engagement is really about working with stakeholders and external third parties to shape policy and
IRISH SOLAR ENERGY ASSOCIATION INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
regulatory frameworks and encourage wider electricity decarbonisation. The education piece is more focused around research, media, and public engagement and communications about the benefits of solar in the Irish context. We’re also encouraging best practices as we want the industry to scale in an appropriate way. We’re therefore undertaking work on utility-scale planning guidelines, as well as developing rooftop standards for solar. Through these three areas, we’re trying to build towards that vision of a decarbonised electricity system. On a side note, we’re going to be celebrating our 10th anniversary later this month in Cork. EO: What is your current take on the solar energy industry in Ireland? Is it a particularly exciting or challenging environment to work in? CB: I’d say it’s a transformational time. In a very short period, we’ve seen solar move from a marginal contributor within Ireland’s electricity mix, to a place in which it’s the fastest-growing source of renewable electricity in the country. This summer, we’ve seen days where solar met 10 percent of Ireland’s power needs, and that’s at a very early stage of the industry’s development. We recently announced the results of our third renewable electricity auction under the Irish government’s Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS), and for the third auction running, solar was awarded the majority of the capacity, so we’re definitely at a point where solar is becoming far more mainstream and visible. The inflection point was definitely in 2022, as the first utility-scale solar farm was connected to the Irish network. In the second RESS auction, solar was awarded 1.5 gigawatts (GW), so substantial numbers are starting to emerge. The behindthe-meter rooftop space is extremely active; we had the
introduction of export tariffs for electricity that people generate themselves, and residential planning restrictions were eased, which prompted activity in the industry and unlocked a lot of pent-up demand resulting in significantly increased activity. Seeing this potential, the government increased the national solar target substantially. In November 2021, our industry target for 2030 ranged from 1.5GW to 2.5GW. In December 2022, that 2030 target increased to 8GW, with an additional new target of 5GW by 2025. This shows the confidence in solar becoming a substantial player in Ireland’s energy mix. It’s fair to say our industry and our association has played a role in these developments. As an industry and an association, we now have to scale and deliver change at a rate unseen in Ireland’s energy sector before now. EO: How does the Irish Solar Energy Association promote solar as a leading renewable energy technology that will push the energy transition forward, and contribute to a clean economy? CB: It comes back to our mission and values as an association. We try to pursue policies that optimise outcomes for society, be constructive in our contributions to policy, and propose concrete measures that are grounded in data. We also try to be holistic in our views, so we obviously represent solar as a technology, but also as a constituent of the wider energy value chain, and we try to take that broader approach in our contributions. At all times, we emphasise interventions to aid solar cost reduction. That wider framework has been very helpful as we’ve gone through our mission of engaging, educating, and encouraging best practice. We’ve been working hard with other stakeholders to try and remove barriers and encourage the policy regulatory framework amenable to
Conall Bolger, Minister Eamon Ryan, and ESB Networks’ Managing Director Nicholas Tarrant at Millvale solar farm in County Wicklow
Conall Bolger at ESB Networks’ launch of Networks for Net Zero PHOTO © IRISH SOLAR ENERGY ASSOCIATION
PHOTO © NEOEN
EME Outlook Issue 56 | 45
IRISH SOLAR ENERGY ASSOCIATION INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
From left to right: Conall Bolger with Senator Lynn Boylan and Deputy Darren O’Rourke at Solar Ireland 2022 conference PHOTO © IRISH SOLAR ENERGY ASSOCIATION
“THERE’S A PHENOMENAL LEVEL OF INDUSTRY INTEREST I N TA K I N G P A R T I N T H E S O L A R A N D B R OA D E R E N E R GY T R A N S F O R M AT I O N ” – CONALL BOLGER, CEO, IRISH SOLAR ENERGY A S S O C I AT I O N
solar. There’s a diverse range of players across government, politicians, regulators, network agents, state agencies, and international investors, so it’s a big group. Key to that engagement is funnelling input from our members, using our working groups, the board, and other avenues to ensure we’re representing and capturing the views of the solar industry. They don’t always agree with each other, but we do our best to be representative of what will drive good results for Ireland and renewables deployment. We ensure solar is prominent through the education work streams, commissioning interesting research into the industry to ensure the solar viewpoint is evident. We’re active in the media and very visible at conferences and other events. Basically, we’re always looking for opportunities to spread 46 | EME Outlook Issue 56
the solar gospel. Finally, it’s incumbent on us to scale responsibly, hence the need to develop a suite of best practices. EO: Could you describe how solar will meet the Irish government’s target of providing at least 8GW of Ireland’s electricity capacity by 2030? CB: One of the strengths of solar is that you have a lot of vectors to deliver capacity, and you don’t need a lot to go right for the numbers to start getting pretty big. As mentioned, we’re on track to be close to 1GW installed by the end of this year, which suggests a really fast rate of change. In terms of the pathway to the target, we have markets across the utility, residential, and commercial scales. We’ve now had three RESS auctions awarding a substantial amount of capacity. The utility scale pipeline is now at 10GW. The key is delivering and maximising that capacity because with grid connection timelines, we are running the risk of it not being delivered on time. In addition, you have the rooftop sector, which is moving very fast, where microgeneration has been one of the real success stories. This year, we’re on track to install 34,000 microgeneration systems; last year, we installed 17,000, and the year before, we installed close to
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IRISH SOLAR ENERGY ASSOCIATION INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
7,600, so the industry has doubled in each of the past two years. Something else that’s beginning to develop is the commercial space, which is quickly moving from kilowatts to megawatts. There’s a phenomenal level of industry interest in taking part in the solar and broader energy transformation. If you add those numbers up, what you find very quickly is that there are very credible scenarios where you get to those kinds of figures the government are talking about, but it will come down to delivery and implementation. There are probably areas of development that we as a country need to progress. EO: How do you see solar energy in Ireland developing over the coming years? CB: Beyond scaling, the Irish solar industry is changing in a lot of ways. We are seeing a variety of business models, and we’re seeing scale at the same time, so it’s a very exciting time. A lot of projects from the first RESS auction have also gone on to sign corporate power purchase agreements (PPAs). It’s quickly becoming extremely commercially sophisticated, with Meta, Microsoft, and Google all signing substantial corporate PPAs. That commercial sophistication belies the relative immaturity of the market. We’re even looking at behind-the-meter corporate PPAs, which again are happening very rapidly in this market. The policy frameworks are currently under discussion with the regulator and policymakers for private wires, which has been a long-standing missing piece of our decarbonisation jigsaw, as well as hybrid sites with multiple technologies behind a single connection point on one site. It really comes back to the nature of the technology; you can use solar panels in a lot of different contexts. Users can generate their own power, you can have large-scale projects, and you can pair solar with batteries; those different use cases are going to be key tools in Ireland’s decarbonisation journey.
Solar Ireland 2022 conference PHOTO © IRISH SOLAR ENERGY ASSOCIATION
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“WE’RE BLESSED WITH AN E X T R E M E LY S T R O N G P R O J E C T P I P E L I N E , W I T H OV E R 1 0 GW A C T I V E LY I N D E V E L O P M E N T F R O M P L A N N I N G T H R O U G H TO P R O J E C T S B E I N G B U I LT ” – CONALL BOLGER, CEO, IRISH SOLAR ENERGY A S S O C I AT I O N
EO: Finally, what are the Irish Solar Energy Association’s key priorities in order to fully decarbonise Ireland’s electricity system? CB: We’re blessed with an extremely strong project pipeline, with over 10GW actively in development from planning through to projects being built along with burgeoning residential and non-residential sectors. If Ireland was to deliver on its targets in terms of watts per capita, we would be one of the leading markets in Europe and the world, so what we’re trying to do is really ambitious. However, there are key areas that need addressing and measures that we as a market have to undertake if we’re really going to stand out. Grid infrastructure is probably priority number one for the Irish solar industry. At a very fundamental level, it takes too long and costs too much. The price of renewables in Ireland is too high, our auctions are expensive, and there are domestic policy reasons contributing to that. For a
IRISH SOLAR ENERGY ASSOCIATION INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
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long time, in partnership with our colleagues in other renewable technologies, we’ve been calling for a cost of renewables task force. This is a strategically significant and important industry, so we need to get serious about it. We need to look at driving those costs out, and a lot of those costs are generated by state bodies. We as a state can make decisions to address that situation. Aligned with the cost of infrastructure, we need to think about clever ways of unlocking capacity in the short term. That’s about implementing private wires, hybrids, and common-sense changes that move the agenda forward and are relatively simple, rather than getting bogged down in the minutiae
of longer-term issues. Essentially, it’s about accountability and implementation. The fact is that, at a high level, we like the plan. The industry and most bodies have bought into the government’s targets and the climate action plan, but now it’s about actually delivering on it, ensuring there’s accountability, that we’re implementing it clearly, and that there are the appropriate resources in the right places at the right time to push the plan through. For example, we believe there are a few tweaks to the auction framework that could really help make sure the capacity that is awarded gets delivered. We want a thriving auction, working alongside a thriving corporate PPA market. We want to ensure that when a contract is awarded, it gets delivered, because the goal is ultimately green kilowatt hours on our system. Having a drop-off between an auction and projects actually getting delivered is not a helpful outcome.
Tel: +353 1 902 062 | info@irishsolarenergy.org www.irishsolarenergy.org EME Outlook Issue 56 | 49
S P OT L I G H T O N B I O E N E R GY IN FINLAND Biomass is an essential renewable energy source and a key factor in reaching European climate targets for 2030, in which 42.5 percent of EU energy consumption must originate from renewable energy sources Writer: Ed Budds | Project Manager: Deane Anderton
T
he Scandinavian nation of Finland has a low population density and a high forest area per capita, meaning it possesses a high domestic potential for solid biomass, a source that accounts for 90 percent of its national bioenergy. The main application of bioenergy in Finland is in renewable heat, both in direct heating (predominantly in industry) and in district heating. Across the nation, the use of solid biomass in industry has been increasing, while the reliance on fossil fuels has been dissipating. About half of power production in Finland is based on renewables, with equal importance placed on hydropower, bioelectricity, and wind power, of which is steadily increasing. Another third of Finland’s power production has been produced through nuclear energy. Elsewhere, an important share of electricity consumption in Finland has been covered by imports, but this changed in 2023 as the new Olkiluoto 3 nuclear plant started operation. The use of liquid biofuels in transport is relatively high across Finland, representing 10 percent of overall transport energy consumption, with a strong focus on advanced biofuels which can be counted in double measure towards the European targets. Furthermore, wood residues form Finland’s main source of bioenergy. About half of the country’s wood production is eventually used for heat and power in industry, in district heating systems, or in households directly. Today, the combined heat and power plants are common both in industry and in cities, and typically use fluidised bed technology to combust or gasify a wide range of forest residues.
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THE BIOENERGY ASSOCIATION OF FINLAND INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
EME Outlook Issue 56 | 51
INTERVIEW:
T H E B I O E N E R GY A S S O C I AT I O N O F FINLAND The Bioenergy Association of Finland exhibits and forwards the interests of the nation’s bioenergy sector. Today, it renders and represents the entire industry, from land ownership to forest and energy companies, as well as technology and research in the field
T
he Bioenergy Association of Finland aims to promote the preconditions of the production, use, competitiveness, and economy of the nation’s bioenergy and peat. It fosters expertise and knowhow in the sector and nurtures cooperation between its members alongside continuously improving the general operating preconditions of the industry. The association also promotes the use of renewable and domestic energy to create new jobs in Finland, to support sustainable development, and to provide for an orderly and just transition towards a prosperous carbon-negative future.
Metsä Fibre Kemi bioproduct mill
Elsewhere, the association aims to increase the share of renewable and domestic energy as Finland targets ending the use of coal by 2029 and climate neutrality by 2035. The use of energy peat in Finland is slowly decreasing while the material use of peat and sustainable bioenergy is growing. Finally, the association has significantly increased its activities in carbon dioxide capture, use, and storage. Harri Laurikka, Managing Director, gives his take on the country’s bioenergy landscape and how The Bioenergy Association of Finland is responding to industry trends.
THE BIOENERGY ASSOCIATION OF FINLAND INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
Harri Laurikka Managing Director, The Bioenergy Association of Finland
EME Outlook (EO): Firstly, could you talk us through the origins of The Bioenergy Association of Finland – when was it founded, and what was its initial vision? Harri Laurikka, Managing Director (HL): The association was established in 2012, when four smaller associations decided to join forces. The initial vision was to promote the production, use, and competitiveness of domestic Finnish fuels - mainly wood and peat. Wood fuels are renewable and typically produced in Finland as side streams of forestry or the forest industry. Peat, which comes from drained peatlands, has been used to produce energy for decades in Finland, but during recent years, its use has decreased to around three percent, mainly due to EU emissions trading. EO: Since its inception, how has the association evolved and progressed in terms of its key objectives? HL: A lot has changed in 10 years. I believe the strongest growth of bioenergy is behind us, so instead of quantity, we need to think more about quality in the future. Paying more attention to carbon dioxide capture, which is a process that we initiated in 2019, is a key part of this transition. Elsewhere, the safeguarding of biodiversity is another key challenge. The Finnish bioeconomy also has a new strategy to double the value added by 2035, which is likely to somewhat reduce the amount of wood available for energy use. Additionally, peat is increasingly seen in material use, either as a growing medium or as a bedding material.
Finland is also a leading bioenergy technology supplier, with companies such as Valmet, Neste, Andritz, Sumitomo SHI FW, and Ponsse currently operating in the country. The Russian conflict with Ukraine and the resulting sanctions have had a big impact on the sector in our country, which shares a 1,300 kilometre (km) border with Russia. As such, Russia used to be the largest supplier of imported wood for Finland, and now there is none coming in. Additionally, the use of domestic wood chips, and thus wood prices, has significantly increased. At the European level, ambitious climate targets and energy security require more bioenergy, but the increase needs to be balanced with other key tasks, such as the promotion of biodiversity.
THE BIOENERGY ASSOCIATION OF FINLAND - SUMMARY OF MAIN SERVICES • Interest representation of the bioenergy sector in Finland and the EU • Handling media relations and conveying messages from association members to the media • Informing members of new energy policies and legislation • Industry reports, studies, and research in the field • Webinars on current topics and seminars in the field • Bioenergia magazine and newsletter to stakeholders and members
EO: What is your current take on the bioenergy landscape across Finland and the broader European region – what are some of the major challenges and developments facing this sector? HL: Bioenergy has grown impressively in Finland over the last decade and provided around one-third of our total energy consumption in 2021. We have seen vast growth across the board in solid, liquid, and gaseous fuels, and subsequently, bioenergy has enabled the rapid reduction of fossil energy in Finland. For example, in district heating, bioenergy represented 16 percent of fuel consumption in 2010, whereas in 2022, it was 49 percent.
Metsä Fibre Kemi bioproduct mill
EME Outlook Issue 56 | 53
Biochar
“THERE IS A VERY STRONG INTEREST IN CCUS, AND NUMEROUS PROJECTS ARE ONGOING AROUND THE COUNTRY” – H A R R I L AU R I K K A , M A N AG I N G D I R E C TO R , T H E B I O E N E R G Y A S S O C I AT I O N O F F I N L A N D
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THE BIOENERGY ASSOCIATION OF FINLAND INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
are also being developed. There is also a very strong interest in CCUS, and numerous projects are ongoing around the country. Elsewhere, commercial-scale biochar production is also expected to continue developing.
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EO: How do you see the association developing over the next five years? HL: There are still some fossil fuels use left in our energy mix, so the rapid replacement of these will continue, and I believe the importance of capturing, using, and potentially storing biogenic carbon will also significantly increase in the next few years. We will also see more liquid and gaseous biofuels and synthetic fuels in our transport system. The practices and methods in energy wood harvesting will need to be continuously developed to respond to the calls for better protection of our natural environment. Elsewhere, I expect we will also see this development in the association and its membership.
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EO: What trends are currently developing and transforming the industry and how are you responding to them? HL: I expect that the increase in prices across the sector will slow the high current demand for wood chips. In addition, there is currently a strong interest in electrification, power-to-x, and sector integration, which will have a limiting effect on the growth of bioenergy in Finland. Elsewhere, climate change mitigation and new policies to stop biodiversity loss are becoming ever-more important. The association has addressed these in its strategies; for example, we have increased activities towards bioenergy with carbon capture, use, and storage (CCUS) and biochar, and presented recommendations for ecological criteria in energy wood harvesting together with Finnish Energy.
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EO: What specific goals does the association hope to achieve moving forward?
EO: Are there any key investments or recent projects you’re working on that you’d like to pay special mention to?
HL: We hope that the Finnish bioenergy sector remains ahead of the curve and continues to develop state-of-theart solutions both for domestic use and for the necessary green transition in other countries. This is what we are continuing to strive for.
HL: We have seen recent investments in heating plants operating in a district heating network, for example, in Helsinki, Vantaa, Tampere, and Oulu. A large bioproduct mill in Kemi producing significant amounts of renewable electricity has just been finished, and other biorefineries
THE BIOENERGY ASSOCIATION OF FINLAND www.bioenergia.fi EME Outlook Issue 56 | 55
Tell us your story and we’ll tell the world EME OUTLOOK is a digital product aimed at boardroom and hands-on decision-makers across a wide range of industries in Europe and the Middle East regions. With content compiled by our experienced editorial team, complemented by an in-house design and production team ensuring delivery to the highest standards, we look to promote the latest in engaging news, industry trends and success stories from the length and breadth of Europe and the Middle East. Reaching a combined audience of more than 395,000 people, EME Outlook covers a full range of industrial sectors: agriculture, construction, energy & utilities, finance, food & drink, healthcare, manufacturing, mining & resources, oil & gas, retail, shipping & logistics, technology and travel & tourism. In joining the leading industry heavyweights already enjoying the exposure we can provide, you can benefit from FREE coverage across our digital platforms, a FREE marketing brochure, extensive social media saturation, enhanced B2B networking opportunities, and a readymade forum to attract new investment and to grow your business. To get involved, please contact Outlook Publishing’s Managing Director, James Mitchell, who can provide further details on how to feature your company, for FREE, in one of our upcoming editions.
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REA: ASSOCIATION FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND CLEAN TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
w w w. e m e o u t l o o k m a g . c o m
Issue 56
REA:
ASSOCIATION FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND CLEAN TECHNOLOGY Championing the voices of its members, communicating the industry’s needs, and highlighting the importance of renewable infrastructure
S P OT L I G H T O N R E A : A S S O C I AT I O N F O R R E N E WA B L E E N E R GY A N D C L E A N T E C H N O LO GY The renewable energy industry is not only critical to the future of the UK energy market, but also the global carbon footprint and the deceleration of climate change. As such, the industry is a vital component to the progression of organisations across the UK as they encounter the inevitable energy transition Writer: Lucy Pilgrim | Project Manager: Dave West
I
n the last 25 years, the realm of renewable energy has grown from a hobby in people’s back gardens, equating to just 2.8 percent of all electricity generated in the UK, to a serious and vital element of national and international energy security, resulting in a record 40 percent of electricity coming from renewables in 2022. In accordance with the growth of UK renewable energies, the government has committed to keeping the industry stable and catering to fluctuations in fossil fuels through various legislature. This has materialised in the recently implemented Energy Act 2023, which supports energy production and security, as well as the regulation of the energy market. The legislation also sets out the carbon capture and storage of fossil fuels,
2 | EME Outlook Issue 56
as well as developing the production and transportation of hydrogen. However, despite recent commitments from the UK government and a noticeable increase in green power, renewable energy resources are still in pressing need of support. The next phase of the renewable energy industry is to solidify efficient energy storage and implement the full utilisation of existing fossil fuels. Therefore, more work needs to be done in assessing how the multi-faceted nature of renewable technologies can be positioned in society through energy production, use, and storage. Ultimately, by progressing to the next stage of the energy transition, both the UK government and public can truly harness the achievable goal of net zero.
EME Outlook Issue 56 | 3
Michael Peither, CIO and co-Founder of VoltStorage GmbH, reveals the company’s innovative battery storage solutions spearheading the renewable power sector
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C O LO C AT I O N M A D E I N SW E D E N Spearheading Sweden’s data centre colocation industry, Conapto goes one step above with its state-of-the-art data centre facilities that are evolving the country’s capacity for global data diversification. CEO, Håkan Björklund, and CCO, Stefan Nilsson tell us more Writer: Lucy Pilgrim | Project Manager: Dennis Morales
CONAPTO TECHNOLOGY
I
n the last five years, the European data centre market has achieved exponential growth, particularly in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, which holds an internationally leading data centre industry and flourishing colocation market. This is supported by a region that encourages technological innovation, further driving client demand. “The data centre industry is in a great position currently, as colocation is evolving with new technological developments such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), which is really driving the demand for sustainable power as well as secure locations to store data,” opens Stefan Nilsson, CCO of Swedish data centre colocation frontrunner, Conapto. Indeed, Stockholm is perfectly positioned to pioneer the sustainable shift that is currently taking place in the industry and is therefore an ideal location for Conapto, as it harnesses green energy and takes advantage of the eco-friendly practices of the city. “Given that the colocation industry is consuming approximately two to three percent of all energy on Earth every day, our location in Stockholm puts us in a good spot where we can focus on sustainability and reduce our environmental footprint,” introduces Håkan Björklund, CEO.
MAINTAINING GROWTH Launching as a brand in 2018, Conapto comprehensively delivers secure colocation and cloud connectivity that is fit for purpose for international and domestic customers, delivering digital services that appreciate the close proximity to Stockholm, predominantly driven by connectivity demand and customer experience. Furthermore, the company’s colocation offerings also cater to IT service providers to ensure the efficiency of their equipment in delivering the outsourcing of data. “The main objective for us at the
moment is to really grow our available capacity and focus our efforts on the Stockholm market and our loyal customers in this space, as it is an attractive place for new workloads and evolution,” elaborates Nilsson. Conapto had spent several years prior establishing its market across Stockholm, which it divides via northern and southern campuses that house each project. Regarding the former, Campus Stockholm North plans to cover 11,400 square metres (sqm), boasting a power feed of 26 megawatts (MW). In conjunction, Campus Stockholm South currently covers 10,100 sqm, with a power feed of 24MW. Through the joint capacity of both campuses, Conapto’s focus going forward is to diligently meet customer demands and expand the market in both sites. Across both the northern and southern campuses, the company currently possesses three live facilities and is subsequently building a fourth as it plans further development. Its current flagship project, Stockholm 4 South (STHLM 4 South), is a huge step for Conapto in terms of size and capacity, primarily because the facility will add 20MW and 8,000 sqm of space. Thus, compared to other colocation facilities, this project is currently one of the largest installations in Stockholm. “It has been both challenging and inspirational to be able to add that kind of capacity to Stockholm. It means that we can now cater to the specialised demands of our customers, whether it be higher densities, security, liquid cooling, or other innovations in the market,” Nilsson elaborates. Meanwhile, on the northern side of Stockholm, Stockholm 3 North (STHLM 3 North) has reached its 6MW capacity limit. As such, Conapto is currently developing Stockholm 5 North (STHLM 5 North) to provide for the increasing demand. EME Outlook Issue 56 | 59
CONAPTO TECHNOLOGY
“POSITIONED AMONGST OT H E R N O R D I C CO U N T R I E S A N D W I T H I N STO C K H O L M , WE ARE IN ONE OF THE G R E E N E S T P L AC E S YO U C A N E V E R C O N S U M E D ATA C E N T R E C A PAC I T Y I N ” – S T E FA N N I L S S O N , C C O , CO N A P TO
CONAPTO’S CERTIFICATIONS - Climate-responsible colocation from GoClimate - Fossil Free Data - ISO 9001 - ISO 27001 - ISO 50001 - ISO 14001 - Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) - International Standards for Assurance Engagements No. 3402 (ISAE 3402)
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“It is important that we can meet and exceed the expectations of our customers to deliver a greater capacity and be a good partner as a data centre colocation provider,” Björklund tells us.
ENSURING ENERGY EFFICIENCY On the highest level, the company is committed to not wasting more of the Earth’s resources than necessary. Therefore, it continues to innovate and increase its capacity with a sustainable focus underpinned by energy efficiency. This materialises in three distinct sustainable initiatives that each address the different facets of renewable energy technology. Firstly, one of the company’s main environmental practices is heat reuse, achieved by the installation of two heat
pumps in Stockholm 2 South (STHLM 2 South), with a capacity of 1MW of heat, as well as the installation of four heat pumps in STHLM 3 North, with a combined capacity of 6MW of heat. The goal of STHLM 3 North is to reuse at least 90 percent of the energy consumed and to become a vital part of the municipality’s efforts to heat up thousands of homes through the district heating network. As a result, Sollentuna municipality will be able to replace less sustainable solutions with the heat from Conapto STHLM 3 North which is powered by 100 percent renewable hydro and wind power. Thirdly, the company is utilising solar energy in partnership with Swedish power company, Vattenfall, to generate power via the solar panels on the roof of its STHLM 4 South facility.
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“WE ARE VERY CONSCIOUS ABOUT TA K I N G C A R E O F O U R PEOPLE AND ENSURING T H AT T H E Y E N J O Y T H E I R WORK AS WE FURTHER DRIVE INDUSTRY I N N O VAT I O N S ” – HÅKAN BJÖRKLUND, CEO, CO N A P TO
With installation to start in late Q1 of 2024, the solar panel project is predicted to have a production capacity of nearly 300,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) per year.
SUSTAINABLE STOCKHOLM Being positioned in Stockholm allows Conapto to really take hold of environmentally-focused technology, with very competitive pricing and some of the greenest electricity in the world. “Our location gives us a competitive advantage amongst our colleagues in the industry, who are situated in the likes of Frankfurt, London, Amsterdam, Paris, Dublin, etc. and all want a share of the global marketplace. “Therefore, positioned amongst other Nordic countries and within Stockholm, we are in one of the greenest places you can ever 62 | EME Outlook Issue 56
consume data centre capacity,” highlights Nilsson. Within the context of other European countries, there is an industry-wide push towards environmental transparency, encouraged by recently revised EU legislation. The Energy Efficiency Directive, in particular, promotes greater accountability regarding sustainability, with a principle of energy efficiency first. As a result, EU companies must consider their energy use in all relevant policies and major investment decisions. Regarding data centres in particular, the directive dictates that each centre’s performance must be monitored, with relevant energy consumption data collected and published. “Due to the new directives from the EU, you need to show
your performance in another way, which brings a whole new level of transparency into the marketplace,” explains Björklund. In response to this, as well as a wider commitment to its customer base, Conapto publishes a yearly greenhouse gas (GHG) protocol report that covers its entire environmental scope and ensures transparency around its sustainable practices. The report can also be boiled down to a specific amount of GHG and emission statements so that the company’s customers know the exact amount of CO2 generated by its facilities. Through this report, Conapto is spearheading environmental transparency; as such, an open report will become mandatory for others in the industry, particularly in the wake of the Energy Efficiency Directive from the EU.
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CONAPTO DATA CENTRES CONAPTO STOCKHOLM 1 CITY Sandhamnsgatan 63B 115 28 Stockholm CONAPTO STOCKHOLM 2 SOUTH Stensätravägen 13 127 39 Skärholmen CONAPTO STOCKHOLM 3 NORTH Bäckvägen 18 192 54 Sollentuna CONAPTO STOCKHOLM 4 SOUTH Stensätravägen 6 127 39 Skärholmen
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As the company looks towards 2024, it is focusing on its recent investments in frequency support for the national grid system. The implementation of the support system, projected for February 2024, will ensure that the country’s power network is always in balance with an automated disturbance reserve.
“With heat reuse as well as grid support possibilities in place, Stockholm is a very attractive place to be for both data centre operators as well as customers that really sets out to make a difference for both society and the environment,” Nilsson highlights. The company also aims to develop its environmental position with the use of hydrogen as a longterm replacement for generators, consequently transitioning away from fossil fuels. “Overall, we want to promote trust and transparency across both our
customer base and staff members. We are very conscious about taking care of our people and ensuring that they enjoy their work as we further drive industry innovations,” Björklund concludes.
CONAPTO Tel: +46 8 666 32 00 contact@conapto.se www.conapto.com EME Outlook Issue 56 | 65
B R OA D C A S T I N G FROM B R AT I S L AVA
Rudolf Urbánek, CEO, and Zsolt Nagy, CTO, discuss the evolution of broadcasting technology, transition to Towercom, and the company’s role in Slovakian society Writer: Jack Salter | Project Manager: Dennis Morales
S Rudolf Urbánek, CEO
preading information and entertainment throughout Slovakia. Since 1926, this has been the purpose of Towercom, one of the country’s main telecommunications (telecoms) providers based in the capital city of Bratislava. A traditional company with almost 100 years of experience, Towercom operates a nationwide terrestrial television and radio broadcasting network, providing coverage for almost all households nationwide. More and more, to complement its rich history in Slovakian telecoms, the company is
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also investing in new business lines with major mobile network operators (MNOs) on the market and actively seeking new opportunities. “Respecting our tradition and legacy, while investing in disruptive new business opportunities and developing new capabilities and competencies, is the main challenge,” opens Rudolf Urbánek, CEO of Towercom. Urbánek has always been fascinated by technology and how it can be applied to help make people and businesses more successful. He is equally interested in the execution of business transformations, as adapting to constantly changing environments has become a necessity. “The fact that Towercom was in need of dramatic change, combined with my personal decision to relocate back from Prague to my home country of Slovakia, led to this current journey,” Urbánek reflects.
TOWERCOM TECHNOLOGY
The cultural shift that is currently happening at Towercom is impacted by the need to explore new opportunities while respecting its legacy. This is combined with the fact many younger colleagues have recently joined the company with different expectations for flexibility, growth, and purpose-driven activities and projects. “You can have a vision, a great strategy, and company goals, but if the CEO is not role modelling the desired outcome and demonstrating this with even the smallest activities, it does not really work,” observes Urbánek.
EVOLUTION OF DVB 5G Broadcast technology is currently considered a possible evolutionary continuation of digital video broadcasting (DVB). EME Outlook Issue 56 | 67
TOWERCOM TECHNOLOGY
“RESPECTING OUR T R A D I T I O N A N D L E G A C Y, WHILE INVESTING IN DISRUPTIVE NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES AND DEVELOPING NEW C A PA B I L I T I E S A N D COMPETENCIES, IS THE MAIN CHALLENGE” – RUDOLF URBÁNEK, CEO, TOW E R CO M
DVB – Terrestrial (DVB-T) is one of the simplest ways to receive television broadcasts in Slovakia, and thanks to Towercom’s extensive network of transmitters and converters, the company is able to cover 99 percent of the population. However, the specificities of 5G Broadcast predispose it to become a widely used standard for broadcasting in the future. From the point of view of the 5G Broadcast network operator, the technology is hugely advantageous. Firstly, it makes use of highpower high-tower (HPHT) infrastructure to broadcast a single data stream. All mobile devices within the coverage area of an HPHT transmitter can receive the programmes distributed via this data stream. As the signal is only distributed to devices once, there is no excessive network utilisation, 68 | EME Outlook Issue 56
TOWERCOM IN NUMBERS 5.5 MILLION Every day, Towercom’s signal reaches almost all Slovakian citizens. 680 The number of Towercom transmitters found in all districts of Slovakia.
99 PERCENT Towercom covers the entire serviceable territory of Slovakia.
which means the quality of the programmes is not reduced. 5G Broadcast, therefore, allows an unlimited number of users to be reached with a single data stream without sacrificing quality. “If we follow the trend that the television viewer is moving away from the TV screen in their living room to mobile devices, 5G Broadcast is a suitable successor to today’s DVB – Second Generation Terrestrial (DVBT2) standard,” outlines Zsolt Nagy, CTO of Towercom. The volume of transferred data saved in a broadcast or multicast transmission is also greater than, for example, standard unicast. “Last but not least, since 5G Broadcast technology can be implemented in the end device at the middleware level, it represents the technical convergence of classic broadcasting and mobile services,” Nagy notes. “5G Broadcast has significant potential for broadcast network operators in general.”
TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT As in any telecoms business, a functioning supply chain is key to both company operations and technological development. It is necessary to be on top of technological development in Towercom’s core business, i.e., broadcasting and operating its infrastructure. Technological trends need to be planned via feasible roadmaps stretching several years into the future, and this could not be done without reliable long-term business partners. “In this respect, it is natural that supplier relationships are one of the critical
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EME OUTLOOK: HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO CARE FOR YOUR PEOPLE? Rudolf Urbánek, CEO: “I am constantly trying to find the right balance between pushing for impact and supporting and helping our people; I try to roll out the same behaviour further down the company. “We are traditionally working with very competent people within their field of expertise. Nonetheless, I also try to encourage the organisation and the rest of our managers to care about the company and our customers, and you simply cannot do that without caring for your people. “By care, I mean not only knowing what our people do at work but also respecting their private lives and supporting them whenever there is an urgent need. I think an open and transparent environment where people are not afraid to speak up and talk about issues is key. “This is our goal, but I must admit it is still a journey for us, and most probably a never-ending process.”
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cornerstones of our success in implementing any new technologies,” Urbánek emphasises. To enable the success of its everyday operations, Towercom relies on its network of suppliers to provide necessary and timely services to the required quality standards. “The process would not work without mutual trust, which in the long term has the potential to transform into a mutually beneficial relationship,” he continues. “If that relationship is missing, the risk of quality issues increases, which can ultimately result in a change of supplier.”
ROLE IN SLOVAKIAN SOCIETY As one of Slovakia’s main telecoms operators, Towercom is equally aware of its role within society. The company has partnered with The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, a renowned global framework for non-formal education and learning, to nurture future talent. More than ever, Towercom believes that education plays a key role in deciding what information has value and reflects the true state of affairs.
TOWERCOM TECHNOLOGY
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TOWERCOM TECHNOLOGY
“ I F W E F O L L O W T H E T R E N D T H AT T H E T E L E V I S I O N V I E W E R I S M O V I N G AWAY F R O M T H E T V S C R E E N I N T H E I R L I V I N G R O O M T O M O B I L E D E V I C E S , 5 G B R O A D C A S T I S A S U I TA B L E S U C C E S S O R T O T O D AY ’ S D V B -T 2 S TA N D A R D ” – R U D O L F U R B Á N E K , C E O, TOW E R CO M
“We collaborate with schools and tertiary education pathways as part of our diversity and inclusion strategy,” adds Urbánek. This includes a new collaboration with an IT secondary school in central Slovakia, in which the company is hosting practical training for four students over the next 12 months. Towercom also supports the most vulnerable in society, including children, with clothes collections organised every year for an orphanage in central Slovakia. The company has additionally fundraised in support of neighbouring Ukraine during the ongoing conflict with Russia, recognising the economic challenges that have sadly been caused as a result of the invasion.
Nitra Zobor Tower
“We empowered our employees to spend enough time for volunteering activities, providing humanitarian aid and helping to mitigate the impacts of the current situation in Ukraine on citizens and local businesses,” Urbánek reveals. Last but not least, Urbánek highlights how Towercom cares for the environment and planet, citing the company’s commitment to achieving net zero by 2040, with an interim target of reducing emissions by 46 percent by 2030 versus the 2019 baseline. “The 2040 abatement measures address significant decarbonisation of around 95 percent of baseline emissions,” he states.
National Management Centre
FUTURE EXPANSION The expansion of Towercom’s solar and wind energy footprint going forward will not only ensure the company becomes more sustainable, but also significantly decrease its external energy dependency. “As we have recently seen with the energy crisis, it can hurt a lot when the markets go south,” notes Urbánek. Alongside this sustainable footprint expansion, Towercom is pursuing a unique nationwide presence in rural areas of Slovakia, with the goal of growing the business. Indeed, after securing its legacy business earlier this year with longer-term contracts, the company is currently working on expanding its Towercom business line with all major MNOs on the market. Another internal project that Towercom continues to work on is the digitalisation of its processes and inventory. The company is also investing in its commercial data centre and further professionalising its services in order to constantly provide a superior customer experience, as it has done for just under a century.
Koçice Makovica Tower
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MONDELĒZ INTERNATIONAL FOOD & BEVERAGE
S N AC K TO T H E FUTURE With consumer needs at the heart of Mondelēz International, we discuss growth, innovation, and mindful eating with Mateja Podgornik, Managing Director for Slovenia and Romania Writer: Rachel Carr | Project Manager: Liam Pye
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s one of the largest snack companies in the world, Mondelēz International is leading the food and beverage industry, delivering a mouth-watering range of high-quality snacks designed to nourish as well as tickle the taste buds. “We empower people to snack right in over 150 countries and, are leading the future of snacking worldwide with iconic brands such as Oreo, Ritz, LU, Clif Bar, and Tate’s Bake Shop biscuits and baked snacks, alongside Cadbury Dairy Milk, Milka, and Toblerone chocolate,” introduces Mateja Podgornik, Managing Director
for Slovenia and Romania of Mondelēz International. Offering the right snack for the right moment, made the right way, with sustainable ingredients and packaging that consumers can feel good about, Mondelēz International holds the global number one position in biscuits, cookies, and crackers as well as the number two position in chocolate, whilst proliferating in baked snacks. From sourcing the top-quality ingredients to innovating state-of-theart packaging, Mondelēz International has adopted a field-to-shelf approach that ensures Snacking Made Right. EME Outlook Issue 56 | 75
MONDELĒZ INTERNATIONAL FOOD & BEVERAGE
The recipe for success has led to the formation of the Economic Inclusion and Supplier Diversity (EISD) programme, which empowers the company to procure innovative, high-quality, cost-effective products and services from businesses that are at least 51 percent owned, operated, and controlled by people who identify as women and minorities. “The primary goal of our EISD programme is to drive economic impact and provide business
opportunities to diverse suppliers that satisfy our procurement and contractual standards through our inclusive sourcing processes and practices. “From our makers to our bakers and order-takers, we strive to create mutually beneficial business relationships with diverse suppliers that strengthen the communities in which we operate and deliver value to our consumers and colleagues,” Podgornik details.
A CONSUMER-CENTRIC COMPANY The food and beverage industry is both exciting and demanding, as the line between meals and snacks is becoming blurred, offering plentiful growth opportunities. “Those moments when you reach for a delicious bite between meals is rising, however, there is a universal cultural tension - people don’t want to choose between snaking and eating,” Podgornik outlines.
“ W E L I ST E N TO O U R CO N S U M E R S , T H E I R N E E DS , A N D T H E I R E AT I N G H A B I T S . M A N Y O F T H E M D O N O T WA N T T O C H O O S E B E T W E E N TA S T E A N D N U T R I T I O N , A F F O R D A B I L I T Y A N D Q U A L I T Y, O R S N A C K -T I M E A N D M E A LT I M E ” – M ATE JA P O D G O R N IK, M ANAGING D IRECTO R FO R S LOVEN I A A N D R OMA N I A , MON DELĒZ I N TER N ATI ON A L
Mateja Podgornik, Managing Director for Slovenia and Romania
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Cocoa Life project
Each day, Mondelēz International is inspired to go the extra mile; its snacks are produced for many different cravings and occasions so that they can choose what they need and when they need it. “We listen to our consumers, their needs, and their eating habits. Many of them do not want to choose between taste and nutrition, affordability and quality, or snack-time and mealtime.” From an on-the-go “second breakfast” to a mindful moment of indulgence in the evening, people decide what and how they want to eat. For example, many require snacks that support a healthy lifestyle and provide nutrition for active, busy lives. “Our consumers are why we want to be the best snacking company in the world and why we put them at the heart of everything we do. With our consumers in mind, we are focused on accelerating growth by investing in our global and local heritage brands,” she highlights. “We have our local jewels in different markets that deeply connect with many local consumers worldwide, including Generation Z for example, who are nostalgic about the snacks that accompanied them as they grew up, so our local brands have a special place in their hearts,” explains Podgornik.
THE COCOA LIFE PROJECT As cocoa is the essence of chocolate and cocoa farmers face complex challenges, Mondelēz International created Cocoa Life in 2012. By 2022, the project had invested USD$400 million to empower at least 200,000 cocoa farmers and reach one million community members. The company facilitates lasting change and deep-rooted understanding through sector-wide collaboration and partnership. When consumers choose chocolate with the Cocoa Life logo, they make the right choice for protecting the planet and respecting the human rights of the people in Mondelēz International’s value chain. The project spans six cocoa-growing countries: Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Indonesia, Dominican Republic, India, and Brazil. Key areas within the Cocoa Life project: • Sustainable cocoa farming businesses work closely with farmers to ensure the sector becomes the career of choice. Mondelēz International helps growers become more productive to increase their income from cocoa. • Empowers cocoa communities to accelerate their development and improve their livelihoods through entrepreneurship, while preserving natural resources. • Conserve and restore forests, protecting and restoring the land where cocoa is grown with the farmers and communities. “Last year, we announced the next phase of the Cocoa Life project, backed by an additional USD$600 million through 2030, totalling a USD$1 billion investment since the start of the programme. This means that the increased cocoa volume will have included the work of approximately 300,000 farmers in the programme by 2030. “With this investment, we aim to catalyse ground-breaking sector collaboration to help address systematic environmental and human rights challenges and improve the livelihoods of cocoa farmers,” states Podgornik proudly.
THE RIGHT MOO-VE “We are proud of our Milka brand in particular, which launched its most tender chocolate last year, following an innovative approach. We
announced an exciting new, evolved recipe to introduce a better taste for our consumers, with a creamier and stronger chocolate taste,” Podgornik informs us. EME Outlook Issue 56 | 77
MONDELĒZ INTERNATIONAL FOOD & BEVERAGE
With the revitalised recipe, Milka continues to use only high-quality ingredients to create a creamy chocolate that fans know and love. “Our chocolate is crafted through Cocoa Life, Mondelēz International’s cocoa sustainability programme and milk from small farms in the Alpine regions. “The visual identity was also enhanced to reflect the improved taste experience. We brought a new shape of Milka Tablet, moving from a rectangular shape to a more rounded mould that has been proven to deliver a superior eating experience with a smoother texture.” Milka’s iconic packaging also has a fresh new look. Cocoa Life will play a more prominent role in the new packaging design, with the logo on the front of the pack. Lila the cow, a
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true Milka icon symbolising the Alpine ingredient that gives the chocolate its authentic, creamy taste, has also been redesigned on the chocolate mold. “From the results we had from different markets, our consumers loved these changes and proved to us that we made the right decision,” shares Podgornik.
INTEGRATION AND GROWTH Last year, Mondelēz International formally integrated with Chipita Global S.A. (Chipita), a high-growth leader in the Central and Eastern European baked snacks category, with its famous brands 7Days, Chipicao, and Fineti. This was a milestone for the company and one of its largest recent acquisitions. Completed in 2022, partnering with the bakery brand has been essential
Romanian plant
“ W E W I L L A N T I C I P AT E T R E N D S A S T H E M A R K E T G R O W S A N D B E CO M E S M O R E D I V E R S E . W E W I L L A L S O CO N T I N U E TO B U I L D A U T H E N T I C R E L AT I O N S H I P S W I T H B U S I N E S S P A R T N E R S , C O N S U M E R S , A N D O U R B R A N D S , S TAY I N G C L O S E T O A N D C A R I N G FOR OUR COMMUNITIES” – M ATE JA P O D G O R N IK, M ANAGING D IRECTO R FO R S LOVEN I A A N D R OMA N I A , MON DELĒZ I N TER N ATI ON A L
in expanding Mondelēz International’s European bakery portfolio, meeting growing consumer demand for the segment. Chipita’s products reach two billion consumers across over 50 countries, resulting in strong growth throughout the organisation. After the formal integration with Chipita, Mondelēz International’s business units in south central Europe consist of the following markets: Romania, Bulgaria, Greece, Cyprus, alongside the East Adriatic markets, spanning Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North
Macedonia, Albania, and Kosovo. At a local level, the success of the integration project was consolidated by the strong partnership the company has in place. “In Romania, following our excellent collaboration with DSV Solution, which began in 2005, we quickly doubled the warehouse space to 15,000 square metres (sqm). “Our integration with Chipita is a historic moment for our company, because becoming a global leader in the baked snacks category will contribute to our accelerated growth
as we continue to build our position in the European market, by creating the right snacks for the right moment, in the right way,” Podgornik elaborates.
MINDFUL SNACKING “We take our role of leading the future of snacking very seriously. This is why we want to help consumers enjoy the right snacks throughout the day and inspire them to snack mindfully, so they can savour and feel good about each bite,” Podgornik notes. A significant part of Mondelēz International’s commitment to EME Outlook Issue 56 | 79
MONDELĒZ INTERNATIONAL FOOD & BEVERAGE
mindful snacking derives from its focus on portion-controlled pack formats. By 2025, the company aims to generate 100 percent of its net revenue through Mindful Portion Snacks in individually wrapped serving sizes or with “mindful portion” labelling on the pack. “We promote mindful snacking because it is relevant to our market as more people use mindfulness for balance and well-being. It’s also sustainable and accessible as it can be practised by anyone, anywhere, at all ages. Thirdly, it’s effective, as research shows multiple benefits of mindful eating,” she says. Mindful snacking is about eating with intention and attention, focusing on the present moment. On-pack cues and information, brand-inspired tips,
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digital resources and programmes, health and nutrition professionals further assist Mondelēz International in promoting awareness of the practice and benefits of mindful snacking. “Our Mindful Snacking programme in Romania supports an education project to help increase young people’s understanding of the importance of healthy eating habits. This project focuses on key issues, including choosing the right snack by reading the precise information on the label. “It also promotes lifelong healthy eating habits as the programme provides knowledge on the key concepts of adopting balanced nutrition and developing skills to improve health and well-being,” Podgornik observes.
INNOVATIVE VISION In the future, Mondelēz International will continue to offer consumers high-quality snacks, together with the teams in Romania and Slovenia. Longterm plans include commencing the company’s global vision to become the world leader in the snack industry. “We will anticipate trends as the market grows and becomes more diverse. We will also continue to build authentic relationships with business partners, consumers, and our brands, staying close to and caring for our communities,” Podgornik sets out. “On a more global level, we will also focus our time and attention on understanding how consumers live, shop, and snack. Therefore, Mondelēz International invests in a global network of technical centres to research and support our growth while continuously innovating our processes.” To further this effort, SnackFutures is an independent innovation and venture hub that plays an important role in advancing Mondelēz International’s mission to lead the future of snacking as it unleashes new ideas under three core tenets: invention, reinvention, and venture. “We are inventing new brands, categories, and businesses in key strategic areas; we are incubating and repositioning our existing brands with forward-thinking ideas to discover their full potential, and we are also investing in emerging companies and early-stage entrepreneurs to unlock growth opportunities. “In our quest to guarantee our consumers snack right, we utilise technology solutions from many sources and seek winning partnerships with smart minds to be agile in applying science and technology,” concludes Podgornik.
Milka continues to use only high-quality ingredients
MONDELĒZ INTERNATIONAL IN NUMBERS • Celebrated 10th anniversary in 2022 • Aims of having 100 percent of its cocoa volume sourced through Cocoa Life by 2025 • 100 percent of packaging designed to be recyclable by 2025 • Five percent reduction in virgin plastic by 2025 and a 25 percent reduction in virgin rigid plastic • Reduce end-to-end CO2 emissions by 10 percent, absolute water usage in priority sites by 10 percent, and food waste in internal manufacturing sites by 15 percent by 2025
Mondelēz International will open its doors to anyone willing to share its solutions for top technical needs, such as designing innovative and effective cooling systems, novel research tools, sustainable methods for reducing environmental impact, and simple consumer-friendly ingredients. All relevant areas for technological advancements are available on the collaborative platform mondelezcollaboration.com.
• The Harmony charter now grows almost 100 percent of the wheat volume needed for European biscuit production • Global net revenues of USD$31.5 billion in 2022 • Operates in more than 80 countries • Employs 91,000 diverse and talented people in factories, offices, R&D facilities, and distribution • Investing more than USD$1 billion to become the digital commerce snacks leader – aiming to deliver 20 percent of revenues from digital channels by 2030
MONDELĒZ INTERNATIONAL www.mondelezinternational.com EME Outlook Issue 56 | 81
A product of FERMENTIQ™ which creates whole food ingredients
F O R AG I N G FOR THE FUTURE M
ycoTechnology Inc. (MycoTechnology) is positioned at the pinnacle of the food and beverage industry, utilising the natural mushroom kingdom to create healthier food ingredients that taste delicious. This objective has been at the core of the business from its inception in 2013, when two of the four co-founders, Alan Hahn and Pete Lumbar, each with a business background, met Brooks Kelly and Jim Langan, two scientists who were exploring the world of mushrooms from their basement, as their walls were decked with growing mushroom mycelia, the root system of fungi. This sparked a passion project for Hahn, as his diagnosis of diabetes made him consider what foods were truly healthy and delicious, which quickly became a founding mission of the company. “Hahn felt that if anything tasted
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As Vice President of Marketing, Innovation and Growth Strategy at MycoTechnology Inc., Lisa Wetstone discusses the founding principles of the company and the transformation of attitudes around the alternative protein industry Writer: Lucy Pilgrim
good, then he couldn’t eat it. And it is due to the rejection of this principle that he believed there must be a way to make food that tastes good and is good for your health,” introduces Lisa Wetstone, Vice President of Marketing, Innovation and Growth Strategy at MycoTechnology. From there, Hahn and this fellow co-founders went on to discover how a particular strain of mushroom mycelia produces an amazing mix of enzymes and molecules that can block bitterness. They quickly discovered that they could add just tiny amounts of this ingredient to dramatically change the flavour of foods and beverages for the better. Today, based in Colorado, the company totals nearly 100 staff members. The beautiful facility features state of the art 90,000 litre fermentation tanks which grow the mycelia and provide ingredients for the Americas, Europe and Asia.
MYCOTECHNOLOGY INC. FOOD & BEVERAGE
CLEARIQ™: BITTER BLOCKER The first discovery of MycoTechnology was a myceliaderived bitter blocker ingredient. Now referred to as ClearIQ™, the ingredient is used in very small quantities to improve the flavour profile of a wide range of products, enhancing positive flavours while reducing undesirable off notes.
MYCOTECHNOLOGY INC. FOOD & BEVERAGE
FERMENTIQ™: UPGRADING PLANT PROTEINS MycoTechnology’s FERMENTIQ™ product line uses the unique process of mycelial fermentation to unlock enhanced taste, texture, and nutrition of plant proteins. The company combines pea protein, or a complete blend of pea and rice proteins, with mushroom mycelia in its large-scale fermentation tanks to create market-leading plantbased protein ingredients.
Butter chicken: a product of FERMENTIQ™
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MYCOTECHNOLOGY INC. FOOD & BEVERAGE
“WE’RE WRAPPING S TA I N L E S S S T E E L A R O U N D N AT U R E , UTILISING THIS A M A Z I N G N AT U R A L PHENOMENON, M U S H R O O M M YC E L I A , T H AT I S R I G H T B E N E AT H O U R F E E T ” – L I SA W E TSTO N E , V I C E PRESIDENT OF MARKETING, I N N O VAT I O N A N D G R O W T H S T R AT E G Y, M Y C O T E C H N O L O G Y INC.
DELICIOUSLY HEALTHY Although the plant-based meat sector is a key part of the latest innovations in food ingredients, MycoTechnology sets itself apart from this particular space. “We really don’t think of ourselves as a company focused on plant-based meat, and that’s just because we’re thinking about how to make food that’s healthier and tastes better across the board,” Wetstone explains. “For us, it’s all about how you can change behaviour and how we can provide consumers with more and better options that are good for health, and something that they actually want to buy and eat, whilst supporting a sustainable system,” she adds. Therefore, MycoTechnology is simply harnessing the power of the natural kingdom of fungi that has been seriously underutilised in the modern food system. Its team seeks to make the most of the amazing capabilities of natural mycelial fermentation, as a previously overlooked field. Within the wider context of biotechnology (BioTech), Wetstone alludes that MycoTechnology’s platform and capabilities may expand into precision fermentation, the latest major technological innovation in our food system.
“When you talk about BioTech and the food sector, the question is usually, how do I make this economical on a large scale? With that consideration in mind, we believe that there is a huge potential for precision fermentation. Whether it’s creating small molecules and nutrients, functional ingredients, or even substitutes for animal-based products, each can be created in a more predictable and sustainable way,” she expresses.
ALTERING ATTITUDES The next wave of innovation in the plant-based movement comes in the form of altering people’s attitudes, subsequently changing behaviours and consumer habits, and significantly, giving people a reason to make those changes. “Telling a story around health and nutrition really gives an opportunity for the industry to differentiate itself from the world of animal products. “For decades, there has been a lot of attention around protein as a nutrient. But protein isn’t the whole story. To remedy this, do we rebrand the alternative protein movement as the holistic nutrition movement? Does it really need to be an alternative, or is it about just giving people options that work for their health and the
planet?” questions Wetstone. As such, MycoTechnology firmly believes that with education and time, consumers will begin to understand it is a very familiar and sustainable technology that is being engaged to create healthier food that tastes and functions a lot better.
ON THE HEALTH HORIZON Looking ahead, MycoTechnology is primarily focused on the global expansion of its mycelia fermentation enterprise. The company has recently acquired a strategic partnership with the Oman Investment Authority (OIA). Through this collaboration, the company is working to develop mycelia as a whole food ingredient for consumers, rather than simply using it as a tool. Thus, alongside a greater expansion in Europe and across the globe, MycoTechnology is transforming the food and beverage industry one mushroom at a time!
(720) 897-9306 www.mycoiq.com/contact-us www.mycoiq.com EME Outlook Issue 56 | 85
Wind Estate, one of Denmark’s leading energy companies, is bringing its longstanding knowledge and expertise to develop its UK portfolio. We learn more with CEO, Ane Mette Lysbech-Kleis Writer: Ed Budds | Project Manager: Jack Belton
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WIND ESTATE ENERGY & UTILITIES
E STAT E O F T H E A RT S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y
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cross Europe, the presence of the renewable energy agenda remains strong. Indeed, the manifestation of climate change and the pressing need for independent, fossil-free power production is growing increasingly evident. Meanwhile, the increasingly concerning, ever-changing nature of our natural environment continues to creep closer and is beginning to tangibly impact many people’s daily lives.
Navigating the expansive European energy industry and the current swathe of environmental turbulence is Wind Estate, one of Denmark’s leading energy companies. “We develop, buy, construct, own, and operate sustainable wind and solar energy projects in Denmark and the UK,” opens CEO, Ane Mette Lysbech-Kleis. As such, Wind Estate currently owns and operates approximately 400 wind turbines with a production
capacity of 650 gigawatt hours (GWh) and a power capacity of more than 300 megawatts (MW). “Our business areas span the entire journey of project development, from ideation to the operation of complete onshore and offshore wind turbines, purchases of existing wind turbines, service, maintenance of our own turbines, monitoring, and energy trading, as well as the sale of clean power,” she continues.
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WIND ESTATE ENERGY & UTILITIES
“WHETHER IT’S GREENFIELD D E V E L O P M E N T, A C Q U I S I T I O N S , CONSTRUCTION, OR O P E R AT I O N , W E H AV E TO P - N OTC H CO M P E T E N C I E S AND EXPERIENCE” – A N E M E T T E LY S B E C H - K L E I S , C E O , W I N D E S TAT E
Energy from wind power is now widely recognised as the most affordable way of creating new electricity. In this way, Wind Estate has long been cognisant of the wind industry’s potential, and the company therefore seeks to offer a productive collaboration with those who wish to be part of the vast supply chain.
BECOMING A RENEWABLE FORCE FOR GOOD Wind Estate possesses turbines from many different manufacturers in its vast portfolio, located over a large geographical area in Denmark. The company services and maintains the older wind turbines itself, while the new ones are maintained by external service providers. Concurrently, by constantly monitoring all wind turbines in its portfolio, Wind Estate’s renewable energy production functions optimally all year round. 88 | EME Outlook Issue 56
EME OUTLOOK: HOW DO YOU EMPOWER YOUR PEOPLE AND RECOGNISE THEIR VALUABLE CONTRIBUTIONS? Ane Mette Lysbech-Kleis, CEO: “I believe in leading, not managing. I’m available and empathetic, I listen, I’m genuinely interested, and I encourage new thinking as well as flexibility. Ultimately, I trust my employees. “By giving our people the responsibility and authority, it’s fundamental that we trust our staff to make the right decisions and grow in their roles. “We believe empowerment is the route to individual growth and the success of the organisation. We also value cooperation, open and honest communication, and different perspectives as we strive for a workplace where innovation, curiosity, and progress are the focus. We need to be bold, courageous, and dare to think big and new. To dare and to fail is a natural part of progress, and new ways of working and fresh ideas are key to growth and our success. “We promote a culture where continuous learning, challenging the status quo, and the use of experience is part of our organisational DNA.”
The organisation currently consists of 50 dedicated employees and has always prioritised maintaining a lean and efficient structure. This ensures that Wind Estate can adapt quickly to changes, make decisions efficiently, and remain competitive in the market.
This approach allows the company to maintain an agile and dynamic work culture where each employee’s contribution is crucial to its success. “Wind as a resource is both extremely generous and intimidating, and being able to navigate and
WIND ESTATE ENERGY & UTILITIES
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harvest that free power is a true wonder of nature,” Lysbech-Kleis elaborates. “Being island-born in the southern part of Denmark, water and wind have been part of my life from the early years of my childhood. Then later, the power of wind really made a huge personal impact on my life, giving me the ability to sail the world during my five years of maternity leave,” she recalls fondly. For Lysbech-Kleis, the renewable industry is the most exciting, complex, and impactful business to be in. “Now I’m with Wind Estate as CEO, which I enjoy very much, to be able to stay in the utility business, the closeness to the core business, and the almost daily contact with everyone is a true gift,” she affirms.
ENERGY WITH A DIFFERENCE Since the 1990s, Wind Estate has been intricately involved in the
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development and acquisition of wind turbines, having always seen renewable energy projects as a sound and future-proof investment. “One of our core competencies is the acquisition and operation of wind turbines, where we excel at keeping operating costs low with our service team and approach, which also ensures us a position in the market for acquiring existing wind turbines,” enthuses Lysbech-Kleis. Wind Estate exists today as an energy company that is extremely passionate and dedicated to doing its part in the green energy transition, as well as helping to secure the build-out of green, fossil-free energy whilst still delivering a sustainable business. “At Wind Estate, you meet only top skilled energy professionals who know what it takes to make green energy excel with high-tech technologies and in an oftenchallenging political environment,” Lysbech-Kleis informs us.
“Whether it’s greenfield development, acquisitions, construction, or operation, we have top-notch competencies and experience. This is what we have successfully been doing for almost three decades,” she furthers. Keeping its partners and stakeholders close is key for Wind Estate, as the company believes that success is achieved together through transparent and trustful relationships. “A mutual understanding of the process and timing is the foundation for our success.” In the early stages of a project, Wind Estate takes the initiative to ensure the early involvement of local communities. This is part of a company promise to prioritise and value local engagement as Wind Estate’s business model is cradleto-grave, meaning it sees projects through from early scouting to the production of green energy for many years. EME Outlook Issue 56 | 89
WIND ESTATE ENERGY & UTILITIES
THE PRIDE OF OVERGAARD The largest designated green power production area in Denmark is Overgaard. One of 32 energy parks in the country, the Overgaard Energy Park is located in the municipality of Randers, which is also where Wind Estate’s headquarters is situated. Upon completion, the area will be approximately 1,400 hectares in size, consisting of wind, sun, and Powerto-X (PtX) production, which will produce enough power to facilitate a minimum of 370,000 households. The Overgaard Energy Park currently houses two developers: Wind Estate and EuroWind. “We have a good relationship and foster close collaboration with EuroWind, and have jointly developed
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and planned the currently used area in the most optimal way for both parties,” Lysbech-Kleis describes. The site is named after the large Overgaard Estate, which dates back to 1500. Wind Estate has been active in Overgaard since 2002, where initially, the first build-out of green production met some resistance from the local community as there were several instances of local farmers blocking the access route with tractors and heavy machinery. However, the situation today is very different, with the help of local buy-in and support from both the community and politicians. Wind Estate repowered part of its site with larger turbines in 2008, and the company is now planning further repowering and expansion
of production at the site as well as the build-out of enhanced solar production processes. “We estimate the next phase of the project will be completed in 2026, and the new site will be able to produce fossil-free energy until at least 2060,” acclaims Lysbech-Kleis. Elsewhere, an impressive component of Wind Estate’s burgeoning portfolio is the Pearie Law Wind Farm, a four-turbine site located near West Calder, Scotland. The successful execution of the Pearie Law Wind Farm and the rest of this central belt cluster will not just represent a significant achievement for Wind Estate, but also a noteworthy step towards a greener and more sustainable future in Scotland. This project, like all things worth
doing, is not without its challenges. Overcoming these challenges will be a testament to the dedication and expertise of the team behind this ambitious renewable energy project. As the Pearie Law Wind Farm takes shape, it will undoubtedly contribute to Scotland’s clean energy portfolio, reduce carbon emissions, and drive the transition towards a more environmentally conscious energy landscape.
OVERCOMING ADVERSITY The main challenges currently facing Wind Estate come from within the complex renewable energy industry itself, as the sector contends with great uncertainty across the board. “We currently operate in Denmark and the UK, and both countries
are experiencing challenges with grid constraints. The grid is old and insufficient for maintaining the required level of production,” highlights Lysbech-Kleis. “Due to these grid constraints, we and several of our colleagues have started to intently look into fresh options for direct lines to offtakes and for battery solutions.” Furthermore, Wind Estate is heavily engaged in the public space and through trade organisations, arguing that there is a desperate need for predictability in the development process and more dialogue between governmental bodies with a common aim and an acceptance of the need for compromise across green energy production to ensure that the EU’s energy targets are met.
During 2024, the company aims to deliver the sustainable growth of energy generation through acquisition and development processes, including the expansion of technologies and markets. “Moving forward, we must complete a revamp of our end-toend project processes, enabling us to develop, construct, operate, and decommission our assets with excellence and nothing less,” LysbechKleis concludes enthusiastically.
WIND ESTATE Tel: +45 87611144 mail@windestate.com www.windestate.co.uk
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GM ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTURE
THE ARCHITECTURE OF GOOD LIVING
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As a globally renowned architecture and design firm, GM Architects has made waves with its unique vision of expressing the identity and culture of a place. We speak to CEO Galal Mahmoud to delve even further into this ideology and how it manifests Writer: Lauren Kania | Project Manager: Jordan Levey
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rchitecture is an amalgamation of art and science. Inherently intertwined with aspects of psychology, sociology, environmentalism, politics, and so much more, architecture is not just the physical environment where individuals live and interact but a representation of how a society views itself and, subsequently, the rest of the world. This deeply rooted reflection of the values, successes, and even downfalls of various civilisations plays a significant role in the manner in which architecture is consumed today.
GM ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTURE
No better is this blend of history and modernity cherished and expressed than through the designs and constructions envisioned by GM Architects, an architectural and design firm centralised in Lebanon but prominent across the globe. Galal Mahmoud, CEO of GM Architects, first began his career in the late 1980s in Paris, France, primarily focusing on luxury retail and interior design. After 10 years of learning and growing within the French architectural sector, Mahmoud opened an office in his home country of Lebanon with the intent to bring over his experience gained abroad. “The idea was to focus on Lebanon and the Middle East and use our Beirut office as a base and a hub for the wider region,” expands Mahmoud. Although returning to Lebanon entailed beginning from scratch, the rapid pace of reconstruction and the company’s decades of experience and vast international portfolio meant that there was a lot to be accomplished. Mahmoud and his partners, Anwar 94 | EME Outlook Issue 56
Hajj, Randa Chahine, and Elie Waked, tackled this opportunity with a distinctive mindset. “Our philosophy is to simultaneously work on a project both inside and outside,” Mahmoud explains. “Our approach is more about the experience one will gain when approaching a building or resort and how an individual can live both inside and out. There are no boundaries when we design these projects as you want to open yourself to it entirely and connect not just visually, but with
all the senses,” he continues.
A MULTICULTURAL ENDEAVOUR Having initially specialised in interiors for the luxury and residential markets, GM Architects has now branched out and encompasses architecture, interior design, landscape, and site evaluation and analysis in seafront locations. This evolution aligns with GM Architects’ passion for implementing multiculturalism into each of its projects.
As a premier furniture manufacturing factory, we pride ourselves on creating timeless pieces that seamlessly blend aesthetics with functionality.
Our commitment to quality is reflected in every stage of our process, from research and design to drawing, fabrication, and installation. We boast a diverse portfolio, ranging from luxurious hotel interiors to dynamic commercial spaces. At Furniture Gallery, our skilled artisans leverage cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, ensuring each bespoke piece not only meets but exceeds expectations. Meticulously selecting premium materials, we prioritise enduring quality while maintaining an environmentally conscious ethos. Our furniture is a statement of excellence, crafted with precision and a commitment to both artistry and responsible practices. With a seamless blend of traditional artistry and cutting-edge techniques, our fabrication process ensures every piece stands as a paragon of durability and aesthetics.
The journey at Furniture Gallery, from raw materials to the final installation, represents a harmonious synergy between technology, expertise, and collaborative partnerships, allowing us to produce furniture that transcends expectations.
To conclude, we are excited to share the successful collaboration for Project Myconian DEOS, of a space that reflects both elegance and functionality, with the esteemed architectural office GM Architects, led by the visionary Mr. Mahmoud Galal. The synergy between Furniture Gallery and GM Architects has been nothing short of remarkable, combining creativity and expertise to bring the project to life. Photography credits: Christos Drazos
Furniture Gallery, we shape stories
furnituregallery.gr
“I planned a trip to Thailand and Bali to visit, stay, and live in as many resorts as I could; this is where I captured that true experience of well-being as you are connected immediately to the environment around you,” says Mahmoud. This approach to a lifestyle which idealises comfort in an outdoor environment equally as much as inside has become a characteristic of GM Architects’ constructions, calling to many discerning travellers seeking 96 | EME Outlook Issue 56
a truly immersive experience. “We immerse ourselves into the culture of a country or location and try to bring it in. When I say culture, it covers everything – the history, the lifestyle, the arts, the crafts; the spectrum is expansive,” notes Mahmoud. “It’s not just putting a painting on a wall that represents a local artist; it goes far beyond that and sweeps through the whole project. Sometimes you won’t even see or
notice it, as you feel that you are in that country, but it’s not in your face.” With Mahmoud’s multicultural background embedded in GM Architects’ DNA, the company has become permeable to every location it arrives in and ultimately provides a completely holistic experience. Integral to this are the suppliers and partners whom the company works with. “It is very important that we work with a lot of local suppliers when
GM ARCHITECTS ARCHITECTURE
“ M Y P R I O R I T Y I S W O R K I N G W I T H P A S S I O N AT E P E O P L E A N D T R Y I N G T O B U I L D A B R I D G E T H AT A L L O W S U S T O TA K E A P R O J E C T F R O M A T O Z I N T H E B E S T C O N D I T I O N A N D W I T H T H E B E S T R E S U LT S P O S S I B L E ” – GALAL MAHMOUD, CEO, GM ARCHITECTS
GM ARCHITECTS’ RECENT PROJECTS: BEIT NOUN BOUTIQUE HOTEL, 2022 – A newly restored heritage house turned into a boutique hotel in the historic Lebanese village of Mechmech, that reveals a colourfully modern interior with vernacular architectural forms. When given the opportunity to transform this space, GM Architects wanted to treat the sprawling property more like the experience of visiting a home rather than a hotel. LE MERIDIEN HOTEL, 2022 – A 5-star modern design hotel in the heart of Riyadh that features contemporary chic designs and invites guests to savour the good life, offering limitless possibilities to discover the cuisine and culture of a dynamic city. SOFITEL WINTER PALACE, 2020 – Located in the city of Luxor, Egypt, overlooking the river Nile and the Valley of the Kings, GM Architects has led the revamping and modernising of this prestigious hotel with new creative components that reflect and embody the historical and archaeological roots of its location. JUMEIRAH AL SAHEL RESORT AND SPA BAHRAIN, 2019 – A 5-star resort secluded from the city that represents the journey taken by pearl traders for millennia. Envisioned as a place of cultural exchange and lively interactions, it references Bahrain’s shores where life is intertwined with the sea. SHERATON BUSINESS RESORT, 2023 – A business resort located at the western top of Africa within close reach to central Dakar. It is surrounded by lush gardens and inviting beaches overlooking the majestic Atlantic Ocean.
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we are in a country for a variety of reasons. Why should you import something when you can find it nearby? This ultimately helps the local industry and artisans,” Mahmoud explains. These partnerships only further connect to the central goal of embracing a culture and producing an authentic, subliminal narrative that allows the design to feel completely integrated into the context of an environment.
DISAPPEARING INTO THE ENVIRONMENT “Architects should always have the environment in the back of their mind whenever they design a project,” Mahmoud states. Mahmoud defines a successful project as one which disappears 98 | EME Outlook Issue 56
“ W E H O P E T H AT T H E L E G A C Y W E W I L L L E AV E B E H I N D I S T H AT O F G O O D E T H I C S AND PROFESSIONALISM. AND MOST OF A L L , W E WA N T P E O P L E T O F E E L B E T T E R I N T H E S P A C E S T H AT G M A R C H I T E C T S H A S C R E AT E D ” – GALAL MAHMOUD, CEO, GM ARCHITECTS
into the environment and is discreet, humble, and becomes well-integrated to ensure that the people are in direct contact with the landscape around them. One such example of this harmony with nature is the current project GM Architects is undertaking in Mykonos, Greece, which is a hub for tourism and unparalleled seafront views.
“There is a saying in the country that God created the sea and gave it to Greece,” recites Mahmoud. This growing hunger for original and integrated designs is what drives the passion and commitment behind GM Architects. Additionally, the expectations of travellers have come to change over the recent years.
“Travellers have become very much aware of what they want, the experience they are looking for, and, ultimately, how they want to live it,” insights Mahmoud. “It’s no longer just about having a room with clean sheets and 45 square metres of space. They’re well-travelled and are aware of so many more things, so we have to make sure that we’re always ahead of the game and responding to these new demands which are changing regularly, as every generation comes with its own new travel expectations,” he continues.
BUILDING A LUXURIOUS FUTURE As the market continues to grow and evolve, GM Architects is highlighting its focus on developing strong partnerships with its clients. “It’s not just about service anymore; it’s a partnership. We’re working more and more with clients who are personally involved in their project because they’re passionate and want to make sure it’s going to be successful,” insights Mahmoud. These intimate partnerships allow GM Architects to stay consistent in its vision and how it deals with every
different location while building a steady base of clients who trust the company’s innovative abilities. “We’re not looking to have a super big operation with 100 architects and designers. We’re a boutique brand trying to work hand-in-hand with our clients from the moment they start thinking about a project until the moment we hand it over,” expands Mahmoud. Such a personalised experience is what makes for a seamless choreography between the final product and its environment. This authentic and genuine approach, combined with broad experience and exposure to diverse cultures, has resulted in the perfect formula for a successful end result. “Architecture is not an enclosed box anymore. It is a box that opens your soul, your spirit, and your heart to what’s happening around you, and this is how we define our next way forward,” concludes Mahmoud.
MUSEUM OF CIVILISATIONS AT VENICE ARCHITECTURE BIENNALE Located on Martyrs’ Square in the heart of Beirut, the Museum of Civilisations is built upon a site sunk deep into the successive strata of the civilisations that once made up the capital. This museum is an expression of Lebanon’s rich history, showcasing the roots that make up a profoundly multicultural country, consisting of an archaeological dig, exhibition area, and space for reflection. The project is built with an outer metal framework 20 metres (m) deep and 60m long, with a series of platforms at differing levels. Each platform examines one of the civilisations that once called Lebanon home and the entire expanse is surrounded by water to represent the Mediterranean, a constant throughout each and every
GM ARCHITECTS gm-architects.com
civilisation.
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C R E AT I N G A CHEMICAL LEIDOSCOPE
POLICOLOR-ORGACHIM GROUP MANUFACTURING
With a constantly expanding product range of paints and resins for various industries, as well as domestic use, PolicolorOrgachim Group’s CEO, Irina Mandoiu, talks about its reinvention and innovation Writer: Rachel Carr Project Manager: Nicholas Kernan
Irina Mandoiu, CEO
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panning two countries, Policolor-Orgachim Group began as two separate entities, both with a long-standing reputation in the paint industry. In Romania in 1965, Policolor was founded, while Orgachim had already been established in the Bulgarian market since 1901; the two companies are therefore part of the manufacturing heritage in their respective countries. It was 1998 when the merger occurred, with Policolor acquiring 51 percent of Orgachim’s shares. EME Outlook Issue 56 | 101
“Orgachim is a brand with high awareness, reinventing over 95 percent of itself decade by decade, keeping up with consumer needs, developing successful brands, and being a trendsetter in the industry,” opens Irina Mandoiu, CEO of Policolor-Orgachim Group. The group produces resins, speciality chemicals, and coatings, operating in the architectural, automotive, construction, and industrial sectors. Mandoiu finds production a fascinating field, especially as it involves fast adaptation and learning to keep up with consumer challenges, as well as inspiring and creating new trends. “This is where most professionals are shaped, allowing them to continue within the same sphere or migrate to other areas with a solid knowledge base and a deeper level of dynamism. However, those of us currently leading production units are responsible for changing the perception or even the 102 | EME Outlook Issue 56
label of this profession,” she observes. With over 20 years of experience coordinating sales, distribution, operations, and marketing strategies, the challenge of being a CEO is a natural continuation of the experience that Mandoiu has accumulated as she leads Policolor-Orgachim Group into the future and onto global recognition.
GENERATION-LEADING INNOVATION “Younger people no longer want to work in factories; the average age of our production employees is 50+ years. Therefore, we need a new plan. To attract a new generation, we need to be technologically advanced, which is the direction we are currently pursuing in both locations,” Mandoiu emphasises. The next generation is more accustomed to tablets and phones than pens and paper, and PolicolorOrgachim Group is constantly
evolving. “We choose innovation that matters and improves quality of life.” The most recent example is Policolor’s success in Romania this year, where all substances, products, organisation and referential (SPOR) interior paints have been classified as A+ and A under French volatile organic compounds (VOC) regulations. French VOC testing in EUROFINSaccredited laboratories in Denmark provides information on indoor air
POLICOLOR-ORGACHIM GROUP IN NUMBERS • • • • •
Four plants Four legal entities 200 employees in Romania 500 employees in Bulgaria €38 million revenue by the end of Q2 in 2023
POLICOLOR-ORGACHIM GROUP MANUFACTURING
“ W E A R E C O N T I N U O U S LY L O O K I N G F O R T R E N D S I N M A N U FA C T U R I N G , N E W E Q U I P M E N T S U C H A S PA L L E T I S I N G R O B OT S , S U S TA I N A B L E WAY S O F M A N U FA C T U R I N G P A I N T S , A N D FA S T E R P R O D U C T I O N U S I N G FEWER RESOURCES” – I R I N A M A N D O I U, C E O, P O L I CO LO R - O R G AC H I M G R O U P
quality with potential inhalation toxicity on a scale of classes ranging from A+ (very low emissions) to C (high emissions). “This accreditation reflects the success of our R&D team, but more importantly, how a manufacturing company can change things for the better,” she states. Policolor-Orgachim Group has integrated production capabilities for raw materials and finished products, with a capacity of 65,000 tonnes per annum, divided by product type
between Romania and Bulgaria. In 2019, the Policolor arm of the group completed construction of its new factory in Bucharest after an investment of €7 million, which also included the value of the land. “This relocation was necessary as the old factory had become situated in the middle of the city. The new site is an industrial area within a 2.5 hectare (ha) complex alongside a modern warehouse,” shares Mandoiu. The state-of-the-art factory produces paints, decorative plasters,
enamels, and varnishes, as well as related products like primers and undercoats. Production lines include waterborne decorative paints, lacquers, and adjacent products. “The site has internalised logistics, with the objective of both enhancing the quality and quantity of Policolor products and optimising the efficiency of delivery to customers,” she adds.
INVESTMENT STRATEGIES At the top of Policolor-Orgachim Group’s priorities are innovation and technological adaptation, with two recent investments underpinning the organisation’s strategy. “Alongside the Bucharest factory, this year the company invested €2 million in expanding the initial construction and automating production. By 2025, we have planned investments of an additional €3 million for equipping the facilities with state-of-the-art machinery. EME Outlook Issue 56 | 103
POLICOLOR-ORGACHIM GROUP MANUFACTURING
“The results have already emerged. This year, we completed the new production hall, doubling the space to 3,000 square metres (sqm) and increasing the capacity to over 30,000 tonnes per year,” Mandoiu informs us. Simultaneously, Policolor-Orgachim Group maintains investments in the support and relevance of commercial brands at the top of consumer preferences through communication campaigns, trade marketing, repositioning, and rebranding. “We annually analyse and expand our target by optimising product performance and product line extensions, but we aim to protect profitability by harmonising the brands and product categories at group level. “Our commercial policy is based on
increasing our presence in modern DIY retail, strengthening our presence in traditional trade, and developing new communication channels and business segments in the B2B sector with our partners,” details Mandoiu.
ONGOING CHALLENGES Along with Policolor-Orgachim Group’s success, there have been many challenges, some of which are ongoing. The most recent ones are faced by the anhydrides division, where operations have been constrained due to difficulties in accessing orthoxylene, the primary raw material in anhydride production, following the EU ban on imports from Russia in 2022. The entire industry has been significantly affected by supply chain disruptions and price increases for
EME OUTLOOK: HOW DO YOU MOTIVATE YOUR WORKFORCE AND WHAT TYPE OF INITIATIVES ARE OFFERED TO EMPLOYEES? IRINA MANDOIU, CEO: “Beginning this year, all our people-related initiatives are grouped under the People of Policolor (POP) or People of Orgachim (PO) umbrellas. From the first level of Maslow’s pyramid, which is based on the idea that certain basic needs must be met before individuals can progress up the hierarchy to more complex needs, we offer a competitive benefits package adapted to each country, including hybrid work. We are very much focused on the well-being of the office and factory area. “In the following year, we will introduce the concept of a benefits basket, and, in this way, the flexibility and the number of choices will grow exponentially. We are running health education and screening campaigns, connecting with all the organisations via the newsroom – a dedicated time to meet with employees. There is a monthly newsletter running throughout the organisation where we go beyond presenting what is new and focus on spotlighting our people. We also host a classical lunch with the CEO, and recently, an idea-generating process rewarding best improvement suggestions has gained popularity among our colleagues. “Another important pillar is face-to-face discussions with employees, through a project called Open Talk. Based on this, external communication campaigns on LinkedIn have started, where we present each person and talk about their experiences in our company. To engage and connect across the organisation, we are also successfully running the Steps in Colour project, a massive market visit with people from different departments going into the field.”
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raw materials. However, the aspect that differentiates Policolor-Orgachim Group is the fact that it has its own factory that supplies a generous portion of the raw materials used in production, assuring constant quality. “In times of crisis, a key criterion that remains steadfast is trust – trust in the mission and vision of our projects, in the team, and in the opportunity to build and further nurture business champions, both in Romania and Bulgaria,” Mandoiu highlights. As one of the traditional paint producers in the area, PolicolorOrgachim Group has long-standing relations with international suppliers stretching back almost 30 years. “One of our strengths is that we have shared projects with a common goal: the quality of the services. Logistics is susceptible to outside influences, such as adverse weather conditions. One of the challenges of working with a logistics partner is therefore to ensure that it will perform best in times of crisis.” The organisation aims to use local suppliers as part of its strategy to reduce CO2 emissions from transportation. “Our last two projects headed in this direction, as we bought bulk raw materials as frequently as possible, reduced the number of orders for small quantities, and found alternative suppliers closer to our plants,” she says. There are two different models of logistic operations for PolicolorOrgachim Group. In Romania, the external logistics are handled by a third-party supplier; in Bulgaria, the company has its own logistic infrastructure. “We have our own warehouses and employees, but we externalised the transportation two years ago,” affirms Mandoiu.
A COLOURFUL FUTURE Policolor-Orgachim Group constantly looks to the future with exciting plans and key priorities.
“We are continuously looking for trends in manufacturing, new equipment such as palletising robots, sustainable ways of manufacturing paints, and faster production using fewer resources,” reveals Mandoiu. In Bulgaria, Policolor-Orgachim Group has invested in new labelling and warehousing equipment that will help to reduce waste and contribute to a cleaner environment. Furthermore, in Romania, the first step of automation has been finalised, with a state-of-the-art in-can tinting line produced by Dromont, one of the most reliable and innovative leaders in the field of automated lines and
solutions for paint coatings. “Our strategy for the next five years is to increase productivity with automation and to use our most valuable resource – people – in processes where they can bring value to our business.” Focusing on scaling its operations, Policolor-Orgachim Group is undergoing a technological and organisational transformation. This is alongside delivering an exceptional customer experience through innovation and sustainable products. “As a responsible manufacturer, we constantly invest in environmental protection by producing cleaner
products for a safer environment, reducing waste, and safeguarding air and water quality. We also prioritise the well-being of our employees. “On the social front, we are committed to supporting education, the arts, and a healthy lifestyle to become an example of excellence in sustainable practices,” closes Mandoiu.
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ENGINEERING E XC E L L E N C E From novel static discharger designs and radio silent tuneable antennas, to the first airborne LTE missioncritical public safety radio, Chelton has achieved a number of world firsts. We learn more about its success with President, Jason Abbott Writer: Ed Budds Project Manager: Kierron Rose
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helton exists today as a formidable force in the aerospace and defence manufacturing industry. With a vast portfolio spanning Antennas, Avionics, and Land equipment, the company has been securing success in demanding environments since Chelton’s inception in 1947, and has continued to define the aerospace and defence industry with numerous notable, world-leading achievements. Furthermore, Chelton has continued to adhere to its founding
principles to overcome immensely complex communication challenges and deliver fail-safe, pioneering technology to some of the world’s most formidable militaries and public safety agencies. “We specialise in the design, manufacture, and delivery of highly reliable and innovative aerospace, land defence, and commercial airborne equipment,” opens Chelton’s President, Jason Abbott. “It is quite an achievement for Chelton to have been in the industry for over 75 years and is a testament
CHELTON MANUFACTURING
to the worldwide reputation we have built for quality, capability, and reliability,” he adds. Boasting an expansive product portfolio, Chelton’s capabilities span across both military and commercial industries. Antennas are the company’s mainstay, having pioneered some of the most well-established technologies in the industry, such as tuneable and conformal antennas used in helicopters and fighter jets. This technology has most recently been developed for next-generation fighter jets such as the KF-21 Boramae. Applying this sizable expertise, Chelton has also been able to extrapolate its collected knowledge from antenna development into avionics with its range of GNSS Anti-Jam and Mission Critical Communications products. Elsewhere, the company’s Land business unit spans areas such as Land Antennas, Air Traffic Control, Vehicle Intercom Systems, and Explosive Ordnance Detection. The development and skills for these departments are honed at Chelton’s dedicated R&D and specialist manufacturing sites.
CHELTON MANUFACTURING
BECOMING AN INDUSTRY SPECIALIST Today, Chelton’s three distinct specialised business units operate out of the company’s sites across the UK and Finland. These locations include Newmarket, Redhill, Joensuu, and its headquarters in Marlow. Additionally, having been a key figure in the industry since 1947, Chelton has been able to work and partner with some well-known giants in the industry, from big original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) including Airbus, Leonardo, and Lockheed Martin to militaries and public agencies across the world, such as The HALO Trust. These strong relationships have seen Chelton equipment installed and used on over 120 core platforms and counting, including some innovative and prominent projects such as the Korean KF-21.
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To date, strong, long-term relationships with both OEMs and users have allowed Chelton to focus on innovative solutions that offer tangible benefits to customers and users. The company’s technical teams are not isolated in the laboratories, but instead are out in the field able to enjoy close relationships and collaborate with customers. “As an agile company, we are able to make quick decisions and maintain control of our own technology roadmap. This means that we de-risk new technologies in advance of engineering developments,” explains Abbott. “We use our own funding to drive our research activities, but with a clear understanding of customer sponsorship to take this to market. Our products are proprietary, highly engineered, rich in intellectual property, and predominantly exported to
overseas customers,” he shares.
SERVICE WITH A DIFFERENCE Over the years, Chelton has expanded its skills and product portfolio to be more than just an expert in antennas. “We’ve defined the aerospace and defence industry with a number of vital achievements and global firsts. It is our special appreciation for the engineering aspects of the company that originally set such strong guiding principles, that we still follow today,” Abbott sets out. “The engineering skills that we hone mean we can develop worldleading and advanced equipment, including stealth technology with low observability solutions,” he enthuses. Similarly, Chelton wishes to reiterate that it is ‘far more than just antennas’, not just in its product range but also in the service it offers. From modelling and design configuration to testing and installation support, Chelton offers a full, end-to-end experience to
CHELTON MANUFACTURING
EME OUTLOOK: HOW DID YOU FIRST BECOME INTERESTED IN THE AEROSPACE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY? Jason Abbott, President: “I started off studying mechanical engineering, but gradually transitioned to railway manufacturing and eventually aviation. “It’s been nice to progress through three different industries. My reason for moving into aviation was just to try something different, and I’ve been in this field for around 12 years now. “I’ve been quite lucky in my career that, through engineering and aviation, I’ve travelled around the world, from Asia and the Far East to the US and Europe. “For me, the things that I enjoy the most are product development and people management. Today, my job is all about managing, working with, and recruiting strong engineers, particularly because it’s a technical business, and getting them to develop high-quality products has become a real passion of mine.”
ensure its customers receive the best possible service. “Our technology and commitment to quality and continuous improvement, through automated manufacturing, for example, ensure our products are securing success for our customers in some of the world’s most challenging environments,” Abbott tells us. “At the end of the day, we want to enable the advancement of aviation and defence products for our customers through innovation and engineering excellence, and ensure our technologies improve efficiency as well as safety.” Chelton prides itself on being on its customers’ team, from product exploration and configuration all the way through to installation and aftersales support. Whatever a system’s ambitions, Chelton is there to see it through and deliver technological excellence. “Many of our customer relationships
stretch back decades, affording us a deep understanding of their challenges, and allowing us to act like a development partner rather than just a supplier,” Abbott excites. It is Chelton’s long-standing pedigree of serving customers for over 75 years that has resulted in established, long-term customer relationships. By delivering products that were developed many years ago, the company recognises that clients need a long-term, stable partner, and a safe pair of hands that they can depend on long into the future. The structure of the company is set up to enable an agile response to its clients, and remain customer-focused, efficient, and flexible so that it can react quickly to meet technically challenging requirements. Although Chelton has a wide range of commercial aerospace components, it differentiates itself through
close customer collaboration. This may be as simple as supporting the integration of equipment onto the platforms, but also extends to full, custom developments that allow equipment to be built into the structure of an aircraft. These close relationships drive Chelton’s technology roadmap and ensure that internal research is both innovative and relevant.
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HARMONY ACROSS THE BUSINESS Chelton has worked relentlessly to position itself at the forefront of advancing aviation and driving innovation across the industry. As such, the company is now actively involved in developing cutting-edge aerospace and defence solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and military capabilities. “By integrating emerging technologies such as data analytics and automated manufacturing, we assure the very best and most technically advanced products for our customers that are suitable for now as
well as the future,” Abbott reiterates. More broadly, collaborations and partnerships with other industry players, universities, research institutions, and regulatory bodies continue to play a significant role in Chelton’s innovation strategy to shape the future of aerospace and defence. “Our roots are as an engineering company, and our success is driven by the people behind the products. We invest in training and development to ensure engineering excellence runs through the veins of the company and secures its future.” Abbott believes that his responsibility is to continually
CHELTON’S ATTRIBUTES TO SUCCESS COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION AND ENGINEERING Chelton has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation by staying at the forefront of technological advancements and by investing in R&D to ensure its products and solutions remain cutting-edge. SKILLED AND DIVERSE WORKFORCE The company’s long-standing success is undoubtedly linked to its talented and dedicated workforce. Over the years, Chelton has fostered a culture of excellence and educated its employees to ensure the best in design, manufacturing, and customer support. CUSTOMER-CENTRIC APPROACH Chelton provides tailored and bespoke solutions and services, along with exceptional customer offerings. GLOBAL REACH Expanding its presence on a global scale has allowed Chelton to tap into diverse markets and gain valuable international experience, as well as build a vast network of customers and partners through strategic partnerships. QUALITY ASSURANCE Maintaining high standards of quality control and rigorous adherence to industry standards has earned Chelton a reputation for reliability and performance. This commitment to quality has led to long-term customer trust and a high Mean Time Between Failure (MBTF) rate. LONG-TERM VISION Chelton’s ability to maintain a long-term vision while remaining agile in response to short-term challenges has been instrumental to its sustained success.
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improve the business by providing clear, strategic direction, opening opportunities for all employees, and operating the company with a set of values and behaviours that fit the business. “Empowering and creating an environment for our people to thrive in is fundamental in making Chelton a great and fun place to work,” he enthuses. Some of the company’s key drivers include constantly investing in and evolving both Chelton’s people and its products, to both improve and excel across the market. “We employ excellent people and develop highly technical products to serve our complex customer base, which enables us to be the market leader in our space,” Abbott adds.
FORWARD-THINKING PROJECTS A key example of a long-term relationship that has been nurtured by Chelton, leading to an innovative product range, is the company’s work with Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI). Chelton has been a partner to KAI for both helicopter and aircraft programmes, but in 2017 developed a range of advanced, fifth-generation fighter conformal antenna technology that was integrated into the skin of the aircraft. This represented a significant leap forward for Chelton and has helped drive international discussions about sixth-generation technology. Chelton enjoys numerous established relationships with governments and humanitarian agencies that have allowed the company to develop worldbeating Ground Penetrating Radar technology for mine detection. “Our technology allows the reliable detection of even the most difficult threats, which are largely invisible to traditional metal detectors. This accelerates the time to clear an area and reduces the risk to de-miners,” Abbott acclaims.
“ W E WA N T T O E N A B L E T H E A D VA N C E M E N T O F AV I AT I O N A N D D E F E N C E P R O D U C T S F O R O U R C U S T O M E R S T H R O U G H I N N O VAT I O N A N D E N G I N E E R I N G E XC E L L E N C E ” – J A S O N A B B O T T, P R E S I D E N T, C H E LT O N
“Elsewhere, we also work on a number of projects delivering whole systems such as the UK Home Office’s Emergency Services Mobile Communications Programme – the first of its kind – which will see an upgrade to the Emergency Services Network.” For this project, Chelton will be providing a new Aircraft Communications System based on TETRA and LTE, which will be used on emergency service rotorcraft across England, Scotland, and Wales.
STABILITY AND GROWTH After two years of acquisitions and rebranding, Chelton has now vigilantly reached a place of stability and growth.
“This has been driven not only by our excellent leadership team, but also by our exceptional workforce,” Abbott says proudly. “We have been able to identify positive actions to create a comprehensive mission, vision, and set of values to ensure that we hold each other accountable for our actions and build psychological safety in the workplace,” he states. This, along with a raft of other internal initiatives for Chelton’s employees, such as family fun days, Christmas parties, volunteering, donations to fundraising activities, well-being events, and more, all build towards creating a happier, healthier, and more empowered workforce. By guiding, coaching, and
encouraging Chelton’s teams, Abbott is aiming to create a collective feeling of pride and self-worth throughout the entire company. “My job is to create an environment that people thrive in, whether they’re old or young, technical or operational. “It is my role to create a business environment where people want to come to work every day and are proud of our achievements,” he continues. At what is an exciting time for the defence and aerospace industry, the team at Chelton is very enthused about developing its technical capability and product range to meet these challenges and continue to prosper moving forward.
CHELTON Tel: +44 (0)1628 472072 info@chelton.com www.chelton.com EME Outlook Issue 56 | 111
EVENT FOCUS
AUTOMA 2023 27th-28th November 2023 | Vösendorf, Austria | www.automacongress.com
Unleash AI Technologies in Oil and Gas with AUTOMA 2023 TH E TO P IC of artificial intelligence (AI) in the oil and gas industry is one of the highlights of the Oil and Gas Automation and Digitalisation Congress, held on 27th-28th November 2023. The Congress gathers leading industry representatives to share innovative methods of industry transformation through digital tools and AI systems. The whole value chain of the oil and gas industry has been facing great changes since the switching to switch to AI. More companies are implementing high-tech tools in exploration, development, production, transportation, and refining. For instance, TUPRAS has designed and implemented a portfolio for consolidating data science activities in the Tupras Data Analytics Centre. The platform shares business details, data-related knowledge, modelling procedures, and deployment steps of projects for mediating and scaling ongoing operations, enriching knowledge transfer among stakeholders, facilitating ideation of 112 | EME Outlook Issue 56
new products, and supporting the onboarding of new employees and developers. AI allows companies to discover new exploration prospects and enable better usage of existing infrastructures. At AUTOMA 2023, delegates are going to explore further industry development through AI systems, including predictive maintenance to manage unplanned operation shutdowns, first principle simulation techniques to provide sustainable production, and data science to impact the efficient performance of a company. At the session, “Artificial Intelligence in Oil and Gas”, Norito Iwamuro, Senior Engineer at JGC Corporation, will discuss the digitalisation of information transfer from design in the EPC industry. Abhinav Priyadarshi, Global Director, Digital Transformation and Innovation at Wood, will also present the speech dedicated to creating a digital twin from scratch with a help of AI. Abhinav Priyadarshi
is going to discuss the collection and integration of data from various sources, modelling and simulation of the process, and deployment of the digital twin for real-time monitoring and control. Among the speakers and delegates that will be imparting their intelligent solutions for industry transformation are representatives from NIS j.s.c. Novi Sad, Wood, Petrofac, PKN ORLEN S.A. Plock Refinery, Repsol, DESFA S.A., OMV Downstream GmbH, Seadrill, and many others. The format of the congress provides an opportunity to network with key players of the industry for further mutually beneficial cooperation. Bojan Dimitrijevic, Digital Transformation Strategy Manager at NIS j.s.c. Novi Sad, shared his experience of participating at AUTOMA 2022: “This congress is a great opportunity to meet industry leaders as well as smaller companies.” Learn more about AI in oil and gas with AUTOMA 2023: https://sh.bgs. group/wf
THE FINAL WORD To round off each issue, we ask our contributing business leaders for their views on the same question
WHAT LEGACY DOES YOUR COMPANY HOPE TO LEAVE? Ane Mette Lysbech-Kleis CEO, Wind Estate “We want to leave a better climate and planet for future generations and species. We also do our part in reducing the use of fossil fuels by promoting and making more green electricity available in the grid, and by supporting local independent power production.” 114 | EME Outlook Issue 56
Stefan Nilsson CCO, Conapto “Our legacy will consist of two things. Firstly, to be an honest company that is a great working place, where people can enjoy themselves and grow as human beings. Secondly, we want to be seen as a very climate-responsible organisation that is proactive in minimising its carbon footprint.”
Mateja Podgornik Managing Director for Slovenia and Romania, Mondelēz International “We aim to create a future of snacking where people and the planet thrive together. We want to be the number one choice for chocolate, biscuits, and baked snacks. Additionally, regarding our impact, we have a clear focus to lead where we matter most and drive change where the world needs it.”
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