Issuu

March / April 2022 Volume 256 | No 2 www.electricalreview.co.uk

Informing the electrical industry for 150 years

Energy Storage

Lighting

How battery energy storage could reduce costs during the energy crisis.

Powered On Live

Why efficient lighting will be an important pillar to achieving net zero.

A brand-new format for Powered On, as for the first time ever – we go live.

Conten t s Regulars

04 • Editor’s Comment It’s time to reduce our reliance on Russia.

06 • News Stories from the sector.

10 • Gossage Gossip The latest from our industry insider.

36 • Powered On LIVE

We’ve got a brand-new event we’re excited to share with you – so don’t miss it!

40 • Products Innovations worth watching.

Features

14 • Energy Storage Carlos Nieto, Global Product Line Manager Energy Storage for Packaging and Solutions at ABB, highlights the ever-mounting case for battery energy storage.

18 • Lighting Amanda Speight, Business Development Manager at CFE Lighting, explains why sustainable initiatives aimed at promoting the circular economy should be a priority for the industry in 2022.

26 • Renewables & Sustainability Simone Bruckner, Managing Director at power resistor manufacturer Cressall Resistors, explores the technology required to upscale offshore wind power.

30 • UPS

Aaron Oddy, Sales Engineer at Centiel UK, explains why simply installing the best UPS on the market and calling it a day is not always the wisest decision.

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EDITOR

Jordan O’Brien jordano@sjpbusinessmedia.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Kayleigh Hutchins kayleigh@datacentrereview.com

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Alex Gold alexg@sjpbusinessmedia.com

GROUP ACCOUNT DIRECTOR

Sunny Nehru +44 (0) 207 062 2539 sunnyn@sjpbusinessmedia.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Kelly Baker +44 (0)207 0622534 kellyb@electricalreview.co.uk

GROUP COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR

Fidi Neophytou +44 (0) 7741 911302 fidin@sjpbusinessmedia.com

PUBLISHER

Wayne Darroch

Editor’s Comment Let’s get renewable! The last few issues of Electrical Review have all had a positive introduction, all to do with moving on from Covid-19 and looking forward to celebrating our 150th anniversary. While these are all still things to be happy about, the gap between the last issue and this one has been one we never expected. What is occurring in Ukraine is nothing short of a catastrophe. The innocent people of this democratic European nation should not have to contend with bombs being thrown at their homes because a megalomaniac is stuck in the past and dreams of the great Russian empire. While I understand the West’s predicament in that they cannot directly get involved in the conflict, we need to not repeat the mistakes of 2014 when Russia first invaded the territory of Ukraine. Back then Russia barely even got a slap on the wrist for its incursion, and it felt emboldened by our lacklustre response. Never again. The biggest step the West can take is cutting Russia off from the outside world, which it has largely achieved with the latest round of sanctions. While the Russian people may not deserve to suffer due to the dictatorship in the Kremlin, the Ukrainian people also didn’t deserve this war. Therefore, there needs to be pressure on the Russian leadership, and that can only come from within. So, what can our industry do? Well, we can install more renewable energy generation for one. You may think the alternative to Russian gas reserves is to frack more of our own gas, but why give our eco-credentials a black eye? This is an opportunity to ensure our future energy security by creating low-cost electricity that we can generate ourselves all year round. This issue has some really interesting editorials all about securing our energy supply – whether it’s through energy storage, wind power, or even ensuring less electricity is being used through energy efficient light – we’ve got it all. Enjoy this issue, and as always, if you want to get in touch, I’m available at jordan@sjpbusinessmedia.com. Jordan O’Brien, Editor

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4 Electrical www.electricalreview.co.uk Review | March / April ????2022

???????? NEWS

News National Grid installs world’s first T-pylons as part of Hinkley Connection The Hinkley Connection project has achieved a major milestone, after National Grid Energy Transmission (NGET) installed the world’s first T-pylons. T-pylons are a newly-designed style of overhead electricity lines, boasting a single pole and T-shaped cross arms, which feature suspension diamond insulators – like earrings – which hold the wires, or conductors. A total of 48 of the T-pylons have now been constructed between Bridgwater and Loxton in Somerset and engineers have been putting in place the conductors that will carry the low carbon energy onto the electricity network. T-pylons form part of a suite of technologies and approaches to mitigate visual impact, including alternative lattice pylon designs and different types of underground and subsea cable systems – with each approach chosen where it’s operationally possible and cost efficient for electricity consumers. The span of cables between each T-pylon is up to 360m and the conductors are installed in sections of up to 12 T-pylons at a time, with each section taking around two weeks to ‘string’. Stringing is now complete on 36 T-pylons between Woolavington and Loxton and work is due to start in April to install the conductors on 12 T-pylons between Bridgwater and Woolavington. These 48 T-pylons will be energised in October 2022. There will be a total of 116 T-pylons along the route. Construction work has begun on the remaining 68 T-pylons on the northern section of the route between Sandford and Portbury. Those will be completed, including stringing, by 2023.

Eurocell considering UK for its first Western European gigafactory Eurocell, a British-Korean manufacturer of battery technology, has announced plans for its first Western European gigafactory, with the company eyeing up potential sites in the UK. It seems not a week goes by without news relating to the development of a gigafactory in the UK, with both the West Midlands Gigafactory and the Britishvolt site leading the way. Now, Eurocell, which is based in South Korea, is considering the country as part of its plans to become a leading supplier of batteries in the European region. Unlike other gigafactories, however, Eurocell hopes to be producing proven ‘production ready’ technologies in just 12 months, far faster than the other sites mentioned. The company says that this is possible as it already has a proven battery product which is ready for scaled-up manufacturing. While the company is not yet settled on locating its factory in the UK, it has noted that it’s eyeing up three countries for the location of its facility. Those countries are the UK, the Netherlands and Spain, although the UK could be seen as the leading candidate considering the company’s ties to the country. Plus, the image that Eurocell sent out alongside its press release is captioned ‘Eurocell UK factory rendering’, so make of that what you will.

6 Electrical Review | March / April 2022

LG exits solar business following intense competition from China

LG has confirmed that it will cease the production of solar panels and officially close its solar business, conceding that competition from China had become too fierce. The cost of solar panels has largely been falling over recent years, although the Covid-19 pandemic has caused an upswing due to the rising cost of raw materials. This increase is unlikely to be sustained, however, with Chinese firms still putting pressure on other manufacturers by offering low priced panels. Despite the forces against LG’s solar business, it’s certainly shocking to see the company completely exit from the market. This is especially disappointing considering LG offered some of the most efficient solar panels on the market. However, it’s also clear to see that the margins were getting ever thinner considering the fierce competition coming from China. It’s expected that LG will completely close its solar panel business by June 30, although it will continue to honour warranties and maintain support for customers who had already invested in the company’s solar panels.

NEWS

Western Power Distribution promises net zero by 2028 in latest business plan Western Power Distribution has become the latest distribution network operator to commit to decarbonisation as part of its next business plan, although WPD expects to achieve net zero by 2028. In addition to becoming a net zero business by itself, Western Power Distribution wants to enable stakeholders to also achieve net zero. WPD’s Business Plan for 2023 – 2028 outlines how it will create a smart, flexible energy grid and facilitate the mass connection of low carbon technologies like electric vehicle charging points, heat pumps and more localised renewable generation. Looking ahead to RIIO-ED2, WPD has set a number of new, ambitious initiatives in its business plan including: • Replacing at least 89% of the existing operational vehicle fleet with EVs by 2028; • Cutting carbon emissions from the operational fleet by 50%; • Reducing business travel by encouraging more remote working and virtual meetings.

Demand for EVs is outpacing new charger installations, according to SMMT The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has called for a new regulator to oversee EV charging in the UK, with the group noting that standards should be set to ensure every driver can benefit from the move to electric vehicles. In a seven-point plan, the UK automotive industry called for the creation of Ofcharge, which it said would monitor the market, including charging price levels and affordability, and enforce regulated minimum standards. The plain includes: • Embed consumer-centricity in policy and a national plan on charging infrastructure • Develop and implement a nationally coordi-

Gridserve open to competition at motorway service stations, reduces exclusivity terms Gridserve is set to reduce its terms of exclusivity with motorway service station operators, with the company noting that it is open to competition in the EV charging market. Following Gridserve’s acquisition of Electric Highway in 2021, the firm has been under increasing pressure regarding the monopoly it holds, with it being the only EV charging provider at the vast majority of service stations across the UK. This monopoly was a serious issue under Ecotricity’s ownership, as it was widely regarded as one of the most unreliable networks, despite its prime position. Thankfully, this is something Gridserve is well aware of, with the firm investing significant resources to upgrade the Electric Highway’s charging infrastructure all across the UK. Despite this upgrade programme, the Competition and Markets Authority opened an investigation into the Electric Highway shortly after Gridserve’s acquisition. At the time, the

8 Electrical Review | March / April 2022

CMA argued that Gridserve’s dominant position at motorway service stations could hinder the UK’s rollout of rapid EV charging. Gridserve is now ready to open itself up to more competition as a result of the CMA’s investigation, however. In fact, while the Electric Highway held 10-15 year exclusivity agreements with the likes of Moto, Roadchef and Extra MSA, which cover around two-thirds of the UK’s motorway service stations, Gridserve is willing to end those agreements slightly earlier. As part of its legally binding commitments to the CMA, Gridserve has agreed to reduce the length of the exclusive rights in its current contracts. It notes that it will not enforce its exclusivity agreements with any operator from November 2026. That means its agreement with Moto has been reduced by around two years, while its contract with Roadchef will be trimmed by roughly four years. It hasn’t agreed to any reduction in its agreement with Extra MSA, however, which is due to end in 2026 anyway.

nated but locally delivered infrastructure plan • Invest significantly to uplift all types of charging infrastructure, particularly public chargers, ahead of need • Set binding targets to ensure adequate public chargepoint provision and social equity • Enact proportionate regulation to deliver the best outcomes for consumer experience and expansion of provision • Provide adequate enabling support to incentivise and facilitate delivery of charging infrastructure • Ensure electricity networks are future-proofed and fit for purpose for zero emission mobility.

Ongoing supply shortage causes nine out of 10 tradespeople to delay projects

Projects across the UK are being delayed due to the ongoing supply shortage, with nine out of 10 tradespeople noting that they have delayed a project. The study by small business insurance provider Simply Business unveils the devastating impact of the supply shortage, with over 27% of tradespeople saying they’ve had no choice but to delay projects by a minimum of four to eight weeks. Some tradespeople have had to delay projects even further, with 16% having delayed projects by eight to 12 weeks, and a further 13% have had to delay projects by three months or more.

Gossage Gossip “Clothes make the man” All TV news programmes love to screen vox pops. They consist of inviting unidentified members of the public to pontificate about a key topical item. Right now, nothing is more contentious than the enormous price hikes for electricity and gas purchases, being endured by just about everybody. Cameras are stuck in front of indignant householders, filmed standing at their front door. On each occasion, the person waxes eloquently (or, failing that, loudly) about the enormous burden being placed upon both them and their nearest and dearest by these vast fuel bills, and expresses concern/horror/ despair about how they will ever manage to get these bills paid. What astonishes me is just how many of these interviewees agree to be filmed emerging from their home wearing just a T-shirt or a singlet on even the coldest of days. In my view, only those wearing a thick jumper and (preferably) a nice woolly hat deserve to be listened to. They at any rate have appreciated that wearing these warm clothes enables the indoor thermostat to be turned several degrees down; thereby significantly reducing the size of precisely the energy bills they are moaning about.

French leave

Oil and wind don’t mix

Under new legislation, our normally parsimonious government has just earmarked a further £1.7 bn towards meeting their (uncosted) promise to ensure that another new nuclear fission power plant may possibly begin being built before the next election.

According to Boris Johnson, reaching net zero emissions by 2050 requires massive expansion of both offshore wind electricity and of carbon capture and storage. I presume he doesn’t mean in the same place.

By doing so, our beloved leaders are ensuring that Sizewell C will now have subsidised development, subsidised construction, subsidised power production and subsidised waste management, for a project still being run by Europe’s most subsidised company, Electricité de France. Free markets? Don’t you believe it.

Back to the Future From this month, every single household in Britain paying electricity bills by direct debit is being charged using the standard variable tariff. Each kWh will cost about 29.3p. Each standing charge will be around 38p per day. Switching to another supplier will not change this pricing structure. And in October these charges will increase – substantially. Ofgem has spoken. Older readers will recall that when electricity was publicly owned, prices charged by Area Boards also did not vary. The only difference now is that all the money is paid out to those companies in the cartel that had deep enough pockets to hedge against rising gas prices last autumn. We need to be asking ourselves, after all that, was electricity privatisation really worth the upheaval?

Danish energy firm Orsted has accused BP of trying to block the development of part of a giant wind farm off the east coast of England. Both companies have secured rights to the seabed. Orsted, the world’s largest developer of offshore wind, is seeking to build a project using the ocean floor. But BP wants to store carbon dioxide beneath it. According to a document from Orsted, published by the UK government’s Planning Inspectorate, BP is trying to ‘force exclusion’ so that Orsted can’t install wind turbines in an area where the two projects overlap. The wind project in question is known as Hornsea Project Four, which is set to have about 2.6 GW of capacity when constructed, potentially later this decade. According to the Danish company, “the overlap between the two projects accounts for about 25% of the wind farm’s area.” Losing that much space would reduce the size of the project by as much as 675 MW, which could make the project uncompetitive. The reduction in size could also make the company “unable to win a government auction to sell power at fixed prices that can be crucial to an offshore wind farm’s viability.” Effectively this dispute reveals for the first time a serious conflict between two competing net zero technologies. I suspect it won’t be the last.

The colourful Desert Kingdom Saudi energy minister Abdulaziz bin Salman told the World Economic Forum that the kingdom was pursuing blue, green and pink hydrogen development. The colours represent the way it is made, some being distinctly cleaner than others. He acknowledged that Europe was primarily interested in green hydrogen, made with renewable electricity. But Saudi Arabia, he said, preferred pink hydrogen – to be generated with planned nuclear power plants – because it would be of particular interest to women in the industry. “We are recruiting, by the way, young Saudi ladies that are happy to see the pink coming along,” said bin Salman. “We have started being very conscious of taking care of our female new recruits and new cadets. We are becoming an extremely well emancipated society.” However, the bulk of Saudi hydrogen is likely to be blue, made from methane gas and still emitting carbon dioxide in the process. Blue is of course the colour usually identified with baby boys.

10 Electrical Review | March / April 2022

SPONSORED FEATURE

A balancing act According to the Uptime Institute, ‘power remains the leading cause of outages’, so it pays to invest in technologies that can balance the need to be environmentally-conscious and risk averse. Uptime and uninterruptible power are, in many respects, business-critical, and for data centre operators, a sustainable backup power system can offer a resilient solution to safeguard against downtime and meet environmental demands. One key attribute of a sustainable uninterruptible power supply is its operating mode, which can boost efficiency, or reduce energy usage in the system, without compromising on the level of redundancy. Advanced eco modes such as Schneider Electric’s patented ECOnversion technology, which is found in its Galaxy VL three-phase UPS, offers efficiencies of up to 99% without sacrificing load protection. Further, the UPS contains pioneering safety features such as its Live Swap function, which ensures unscheduled downtime is kept to a minimum during the maintenance process. Battery technologies UPS batteries and the associated number of charge or discharge cycles is another important sustainability attribute, especially if an organisation is looking to reduce its energy usage and emissions over the lifecycle. Single-phase UPS systems, like the APC Smart-UPS range, can offer two to three times the life expectancy of traditional valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) powered systems by utilising Lithium-Ion (li-ion) batteries. Furthermore, they offer users significant benefits, including a 30%-50% lower total cost of ownership (TCO) and reduced carbon emissions. Li-ion powered solutions can also have a 50-75% smaller physical footprint compared with VRLA batteries, thereby enabling the user to right size for the load and scale up according to power demands. This reduces the need for redundant infrastructure and wasted energy, meaning users can provision now and plan sustainably for the future. Circularity attributes Another sustainability consideration is the circularity attribute of an uninterruptible power supply. Green Premium products can ensure vendors are crystal clear about the sustainability impact of their hardware systems, and help end-users to gain a greater understanding of the technologies’ embodied carbon footprint. Such aspects might include transparent environmental information about products, minimal use of hazardous substances and compliance with regulations such a Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) and the European Union (EU) Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH). Further, environmental disclosures such as a Product Environmental Profile (PEP) or circularity profiles can provide owners and operators with guidance on responsible product end of life treatments along with circular value propositions. A reduction in harmful materials Switchgear is another key attribute of a resilient power system and in recent years, many changes have been made to reduce its environmental impact. Until recently, sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) had long been used within high- and medium-voltage switchgear as an insulating and circuit-breaking medium, offering the advantages of being extremely ef-

fective and low cost. However, one big disadvantage is that it is a Greenhouse Gas (GHG) and is 23,500 times more harmful than CO2. As such it is quickly being replaced by newer and more innovative switchgear technologies. These new systems combine pure air insulation, vacuum technology with innovative Shunt Vacuum Interruption to deliver industry-leading circuit-breaking performance with zero GHG emissions. Schneider Electric’s medium-voltage switchgear systems incorporate these advanced sustainability improvements, which can deliver a proven solution for safer network management, while avoiding the use of GHGs, SF6, and eliminating the risks associated with leaks or toxic by-products. Furthermore, many of the anticipated cost efficiencies have already been addressed, which helps to support greater adoption of sustainable equipment in live and mission-critical environments. Today, meeting the needs for sustainable and resilient critical power systems is paramount. Yet, by carefully considering the type of technologies deployed, their energy efficiency and circular attributes, today’s data centre operators have the means to ensure operational continuity, while minimising their impact on the environment.

www.electricalreview.co.uk 13

ENERGY STORAGE

Full charge ahead for energy storage Carlos Nieto, Global Product Line Manager Energy Storage for Packaging and Solutions at ABB, highlights the ever-mounting case for battery energy storage.

he battery energy storage market is accelerating rapidly. For utilities, energy storage is becoming a critical enabler of the eco-transition, given its ability to balance the variability of renewable generation and build resilience. This sits alongside industrial and commercial growth as operators seek to secure reliable power supply amid continued grid instability. Batteries are, of course, not a new technology. For years they’ve been used to power our phones and computers, and more recently our vehicles and homes. However, the next and arguably most crucial step for batteries is the evolution towards large-scale battery energy storage adoption. There are many reasons for this. The energy world is in constant flux. Last year, renewables made up almost a third of global electricity generation. By 2026 this figure will likely be equivalent to today’s fossil fuel and nuclear energy capacity combined. The rising share of renewables in the energy mix brings with it new challenges. Most prevalent are the structural strains facing an ageing power infrastructure that was designed to generate, transmit and distribute electricity in real-time, under the basic assumption that the amount fed into the grid is always equal to the amount consumed. The inherent variability of wind and solar, including potential imbalances in supply and demand, and changes in transmission flow patterns, make balancing the existing grid problematic. Added to this, global warming and severe weather events continue to impact energy costs and threaten to increase local power outages. Alongside this, the broader adoption of electric vehicles is set to drastically increase load requirements. One powerful solution to address each of these challenges is battery energy storage. By allowing electricity to be stored for prolonged periods and released on demand, storage offers an incredibly effective way for utilities to absorb and manage fluctuations in supply and demand, and better accommodate unplanned outages. Because storage deployments can be scaled, due to modular manufacturing and deployment approaches, they also enable a rapid, flexible response to evolving requirements ahead of wider grid modernisation programmes. It is no surprise then that this innovation is seeing increased adoption amongst UK utilities with a record-breaking number of battery storage applications made last year. But it isn’t just about utility-scale storage. Last year saw soaring global

14 Electrical Review | March / April 2022

electricity demand push the grid beyond its limits, triggering blackouts in many major economies. Current geo-political tensions are also putting the spotlight on energy security, giving a very real reminder of the threat that energy instability poses for commercial operators. In response, more industrial and commercial businesses are looking to take matters into their own hands by investing in renewables and smart technologies which can help them do more with less. Battery energy storage forms an important part of this picture, allowing businesses to manage energy costs by leveraging peak shaving, load shifting and maximisation of self-consumption. It also offers the reassurance of critical backup power, preventing revenue losses in the event of a power outage – with a single hour of downtime estimated to cost a large commercial UK organisation £8,500. The cumulative effect is a record growth trajectory, with the global battery energy storage market predicted to grow from $9.21 billion in 2021 to $26.81 billion in 2028. But with so many different options now on the market, varying greatly in terms of quality and functionality, where do those seeking to invest in battery energy storage even begin?

The inherent variability of wind and solar, including potential imbalances in supply and demand, and changes in transmission flow patterns, make balancing the existing grid problematic

Where to begin? The first consideration should be safety. Any grid provider or commercial operator has a duty of care to ensure safe and secure working conditions for personnel and other maintenance staff. It is incredibly important the energy storage solution which they will be working near to is built to the highest safety standards. This is even more important when you consider that these installations may be located in public spaces, such as parking lots, where children and other vulnerable members of society may be present. Choosing from a reputable manufacturer who has a proven track record in this area and can guarantee all key standards are met is imperative. Key concerns should be that the solution has been factory-tested and pre-engineered to reduce risk – and contained in a lockable enclosure to prevent unauthorised entry and protect components from vandalism. Scaling up Scalability must also be accounted for. The shift to renewables is making it much harder for utilities to predict how much energy they need to supply the grid at any time. The same can be said of large-scale commercial energy

ENERGY STORAGE

Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

users as decarbonisation efforts and the introduction of new technologies make it difficult for businesses to predict what loads they may require a year from now, never mind in five years’ time. In this vein, the ability to grow, support wider strategic objectives and scale up as needs increase is essential when specifying any type of battery energy storage investment. Going digital Alongside this sits the digitalisation piece. From monitoring and controlling operations to optimising efficiencies and the analytical power of data, through to the introduction of artificial intelligence and machine learning, digitalisation is key to providing the insights needed to make better decisions about energy savings and emissions. Energy storage plays a part in this by allowing operators to control use based on new digital knowledge – so any system must not only complement the current infrastructure but future vision. For utilities, it is likely that energy storage will form part of a wider grid modernisation programme, while the transition to smart buildings may be the long-term objective for commercial and industrial operators. Finally, it may sound obvious, but choosing the right supplier can pay dividends. At ABB, for example, we realise that specifying a battery ener-

gy storage solution can be challenging. That’s why we work closely with our customers to not just specify the most suitable solution but to ensure that their investment aligns with their strategic goals. This forms part of a long-term partnership approach designed to support each point in their decarbonisation journey.

The global battery energy storage market is predicted to grow from $9.21 billion in 2021 to $26.81 billion in 2028 As the world moves towards its vision of a low carbon society, it is becoming clearer that this cannot be achieved without battery storage. From empowering utilities to deliver renewable energy in an efficient, secure, and resilient way, to helping industry decarbonise, optimise and gain energy security, it’s easy to see why storage has become so widely regarded as our energy future’s unlikely secret weapon.

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ENERGY STORAGE & BATTERIES

Battery will get you everywhere

Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

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ENERGY STORAGE & BATTERIES

Pete Bevils, the CEO and Founder of EV3POWER, explains how battery energy storage could help reduce the reliance on the grid and thus reduce a business’ impact when it comes to rising energy costs. atteries and energy storage will play a significant role in the future of the UK business economy. Energy research company Wood Mackenzie estimates the market will grow 27 times in GWh terms by 2030, adding 70 GWh of capacity a year to exceed 729 GWh by the end of the decade. Commercial and environmental considerations are driving the growth in the market. Recently, the rise in the cost of energy has thrust alternative means of power further into the spotlight. It has many businesses looking at the feasibility of reducing their energy bills by adopting a sustainable energy strategy that includes battery storage. The need for businesses to reduce energy costs is exacerbated by the growth in electric vehicle sales and the rapid advancement of the EV infrastructure across the UK. Private and public sector investment in a range of e-mobility solutions continues apace. From electric car fleets, to EV buses, trucks and vans, commercial entities are experiencing increasingly higher electricity costs. Whilst this cost is off-set by savings made through EV grants and fuel prices, businesses are sensibly looking at ways to keep a tight rein on this rapidly growing line in their budget. One way to do this is to use battery storage as a means of reducing energy bills, but this part of the answer, and only half of the question.

The question develops from “how do I save money by investing in battery storage?” to “how do I make money by investing in battery storage?” Getting the right fit It’s stating the obvious, but batteries need to be fuelled by something, whether that’s the grid or renewables. Taking power from the grid to fuel battery storage could help save money. How much and where the cost saving opportunities are depends on the business and the sector in which it operates. For example, a logistics company with an EV fleet will have very different energy needs to a financial services company. Ideally, investment should be made in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydrogen, as well as battery storage, to reduce reliance on the grid or, in a perfect world, take a business off-grid completely. As we gradually shift electricity production over to renewable sources such as wind and solar, it’s becoming obvious that there are major sections of our economy that will benefit from being off-grid. The main energy generation technologies we can use to do this are wind and solar, which are not only mature and established but also cheaper than anything else we have today.

Investment opportunities Which brings us to the second part of the question. For businesses that have a self-sufficient energy infrastructure, batteries should be considered an asset for generating revenue. So, the question develops from “how do I save money by investing in battery storage?” to “how do I make money by investing in battery storage?” Almost all off-grid solutions have batteries at their heart. They are the powerhouses of the off-grid infrastructure and they can play a key role in shifting energy demand and generation patterns, allowing excess to be stored so it can be sold at times of greater need – and value. What’s amazing about the success story of batteries so far is that it has been achieved pretty much in the absence of subsidies.

As the battery storage market grows and renewables are adopted more widely, businesses that take a long view will reap the long-term benefits Unlike solar and wind, which were originally propped-up through feed-in tariffs and similar support mechanisms, almost all battery installations worldwide have earned their keep from day one. Batteries have been able to do this because they can support numerous value-creating applications, from improving solar power self-consumption to facilitating energy arbitrage. And as time goes by, markets are creating even further opportunities for energy storage to deliver value. The good news for business is that sustainable energy production and storage is getting more efficient all the time and costs are reducing. For example, battery costs have dropped to the point where they can be incorporated into renewable energy projects without significantly impacting the levelised cost of electricity (LCOE). Commercial considerations aside, the environmental benefits of batteries are numerous. The critical question is: when fossil fuels have been phased out, what will happen for the hours or days when the sun doesn’t shine, and the wind doesn’t blow? In Europe, this can happen for several weeks a year, over large regions. The likelihood of such weather patterns has prompted some observers to question whether there will ever be enough storage to tide the grid over. Batteries alone will not be able to solve the problem, that’s for certain – but it’s clear that as the battery storage market grows and renewables are adopted more widely, businesses that take a long view will reap the long-term benefits. The key to success for any business thinking of either reducing costs and carbon usage or aiming to use battery storage as an asset for revenue generation, is to find the right commercial partner. It is important to engage experts who understand the renewables and energy storage landscape and the market. Ideally, if businesses are looking to invest, or have invested, in EV cars or commercial vehicles, they choose a partner who understands EV instructure and how the network of energy production, storage and usage fits together. They will help you develop the right solution for your specific business and sector and help you identify where costs can be saved and where revenue opportunities lie.

www.electricalreview.co.uk 17

LIGHTING

Why now is the time for lighting to switch on the circular economy Amanda Speight, Business Development Manager at CFE Lighting, explains why sustainable initiatives aimed at promoting the circular economy should be a priority for the industry in 2022.

Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

18 Electrical Review | March / April 2022

LIGHTING

f the last few years are anything to go by, decarbonisation is driving significant shifts in governmental policies, industrial rules, regulations and consumer behaviour. In November, world leaders gathered in Glasgow to attend the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference, better known as COP26, to reaffirm commitments to climate targets set in the landmark Paris Agreement of 2015. This is framed around a goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C, with many nations, regions and individual businesses committing to bold net zero targets that straddle across the next three decades. Indeed, a key announcement at COP26 was the UK Government mandating businesses in high-emitting industries to publish their net zero strategies. Lighting has a big role to play. If these climate commitments are to be met, lighting stocks must be made sustainable, become smarter and be embedded into the circular economy. Put simply, a circular economy is a model of production and consumption which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible.

While they are a vital part of our armoury, we should not treat LED lighting as the silver bullet that will catapult our industry into the circular economy realm. LEDs continue to lead the way In lighting terms, that means creating products and systems which last as long as possible, can be restored and minimise waste. We’re already seeing progress in this regard. In his opening remarks in Lighting Europe’s 2021 Annual Report, Lionel Brunet, the association’s President, declared, “The European lighting industry already has the technology and products today to achieve close to 10% saving in overall European electricity consumption by 2030 – this means that all conventional lighting technologies must now switch to LED.” Indeed, the rapid rise of LED lighting must continue to gather momentum. Commercial, industrial, and public sectors are all turning to LED technology to improve their carbon footprints and cut energy costs. Compared to more traditional alternatives such as fluorescent (CFL) and high-density discharge (HID) lamps, they are far more sustainable solutions and better suited to circular economy models. LEDs last far longer, contain no mercury or other harmful gases, and do not emit harmful UV rays. This is leading to spiking demand for LED lighting solutions. According to research by Mordor Intelligence, the LED lighting market was valued at $75.81 billion in 2020, and is expected to reach $160.03 billion by 2026 – that represents an average annual growth rate of more than 14%. Furthermore, the study suggests that savings of $18 billion in electricity costs can be made by transitioning to energy efficient LEDs, with more than 160 million metric tonnes of carbon dioxide being removed from the atmosphere every year.

Lighting must focus on repair and restore However, while they are a vital part of our armoury, we should not treat LED lighting as the silver bullet that will catapult our industry into the circular economy realm. A key component of the circular economy is the ability to reuse and repair products, delaying or eliminating as much as possible the end-oflife concept. For the lighting industry, this not only means creating products which are built to last (as LEDs are), but with serviceable parts that can be repaired and replaced. This is what the BS8887 standard refers to. BS8887 outlines the various steps required to remanufacture a product. Widespread adoption of this standard among lighting manufacturers will be crucial to the sector’s sustainability performance in years to come. Moreover, with rising energy costs already starting to hit consumers and businesses, lighting systems which stand the test of time will be a vital source of savings. Smarter lighting will help meet net zero targets Adopting smart lighting solutions will also play into the circular economy model. These systems incorporate intelligence gathered through sensors so that lighting can respond to the needs of the environment it is in, avoiding wastage caused by failure to turn lights off once a room has become unoccupied. We are already seeing a shift away from standalone LED lighting measures and a move towards more integrated system solutions made up of LED and networked lighting controls. It should also be noted that the data gathered by smart lighting sensors can lead to other benefits with the potential to contribute to the circular economy. For example, building managers can acquire information on how and when rooms are occupied and make more informed strategic decisions about not only lighting, but also heating, air conditioning, cleaning frequencies and ordering of supplies – all of which carry circular economy implications.

We are already seeing a shift away from standalone LED lighting measures and a move towards more integrated system solutions made up of LED and networked lighting controls. Organisations which invest in efficient and smart lighting systems, as well as other sustainable policies, stand to benefit from growing consumer awareness about net zero and environmental responsibility. There is plenty of research to support this, while the Mordor Intelligence report cites heightening consumer awareness as a key factor behind the massive growth of the LED lighting market. Indeed, employees are increasingly looking for their employers to align with their values on sustainability, a factor which may even impact their decision whether to join or leave a company. The lighting industry can and should continue to build awareness. By showcasing the latest innovations and proving the case for LEDs and smart lighting solutions, we can encourage both domestic and commercial stakeholders to shift to more sustainable lighting practices. In doing so, a key step towards net zero can be taken.

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LIGHTING

Lighting the way to a net zero future Simon Greenwood, Sales Director Trade & Specification at Signify UK&I, puts a spotlight on the need to improve the energy efficiency of the world’s building stock – noting that efficient lighting will be an important pillar to achieving net zero.

Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

ast year, COP26, the UN annual climate conference, featured a day fully dedicated to addressing the environmental impact of cities and the built environment – an issue that continues to be addressed – urgently. Given that our buildings are responsible for 40% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, it’s surprising that this point is so often overlooked. Buildings and out-dated construction practices have contributed to this crisis, and we must quickly turn our new and existing buildings into climate emergency first-responders. Yet, even within this space, it’s new, zero-energy buildings that make the headlines, with futuristic designs that incorporate cutting-edge technology to perform with the lightest possible impact.

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LIGHTING

Raising the standard of our new building stock will be a welcome change, driven by new building codes that will ensure that construction projects adopt a net zero standard. But to achieve our ambitious 2030 emissions reduction targets, we must look to the areas where we can make the most meaningful impact. Within Europe, 85 to 95% of our current building stock will still be in use in 30 years’ time. If we focus energy-efficiency initiatives on the small percentage of new buildings, we address only a minor part of the problem. Picking up the pace to brighter solutions First and foremost, we need to accelerate the switch toward energy-efficient connected LEDs. This is a simple but significant step that will contribute to countries meeting their targets to reduce emissions by at least 55% by 2030.

It’s new, zero-energy buildings that make the headlines, with futuristic designs that incorporate cutting-edge technology Upgrading to LED lighting is one of the quickest and least intrusive parts of the renovation process. This isn’t rocket science. Today, lighting accounts for about 12% of our global electricity consumption a year. By moving to more energy-efficient LED lighting, we can drop this to 8% by 2030, even while the total number of light points continues to rise. It’s a fast, non-disruptive intervention that can act as a frontrunner as we accelerate preparations for more complex renovations. If businesses and cities around the globe switch to LED lighting, we can reduce our carbon footprint by more than 553 million tonnes of CO2, the amount of emissions that 25 million trees could sequester in a year. Making the switch would also generate electricity savings of 1,132 TWh, which is equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of 494 million households. This would save a total of €177 billion per year on electricity costs. For the UK and Ireland, switching to LED lighting in the professional lighting market could reduce CO2 emissions by 3.9 million tonnes, the amount of emissions that 175 million trees could sequester in a year. Making the switch would also generate electricity savings of 16.1 TWh, which is equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of more than 4.3 million households. This would mean a saving of €3.8 billion on electricity costs. The switch to LED is just one part of the puzzle. The new generation of LEDs are not just energy efficient but connected. Converting to smart or connected LED lighting can reduce the built environment’s lighting-related energy consumption by up to 80%, offering carbon emissions reductions and bringing down electricity costs. Connecting LED lighting to a network and introducing sensors and controls further enhances their efficiency while laying the groundwork for a digital smart building framework that brings together multiple functions and applications, multiplying the benefits. A lighting system can be connected to other smart building technologies like sensors that can switch off lights in unoccupied rooms or

adjust lighting levels in response to natural daylight conditions. Such systems can yield a 30% electricity saving over and above the savings from switching to LED. To add to the benefits, the lights themselves are sustainable and it is one of the quickest renovations that dramatically cuts carbon – it does not require large capital investments and has a short payback time. Boosting the renovation rate In professional lighting, the outlook shows that most opportunities are still ahead of us, as two thirds of the installed base is still conventional lighting technology. This means that we need to speed up renovation within commercial and industrial sectors as well as within housing, retrofitting older consumptive systems with more energy-efficient connected LED installations, and do it by 2030. A fundamental part of this transition is to more than double the annual rate of building renovation to 3% per year, as opposed to the current 1%. As mentioned above, converting to connected LED lighting has the power to reduce the built environment’s lighting-related energy consumption by up to 80%. It will also deliver carbon reductions and reduce costs. It will improve the comfort of those using the building. And it will accelerate the adoption of smart technologies by governments, in industry, and in households across the world, reaping benefits in productivity, health, wellbeing, and digital innovation. To achieve this, we need nations around the globe to revise their buildings codes and set high standards in the materials that are used, and the energy buildings consume, not just in our new buildings, but in our existing building stock, too.

If businesses and cities around the globe switch to LED lighting, we can reduce our carbon footprint by more than 553 million tonnes of CO2

The renovation revolution In the European Union and the UK and Ireland, the Renovation Wave initiative aims to take on the challenge of upgrading aging buildings to keep our emissions within agreed levels. The initiative aims to double the annual energy renovation rate in the next 10 years. Such a plan yields multiple benefits, slashing emissions from our built environment while reducing energy poverty, improving quality of life, and creating skilled local jobs. The UK also has a resilience and recovery plan – The Ten Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution – which lays out a broad roadmap towards this goal and in particular its financing. Decarbonising the UK and Ireland’s built environment is a significant challenge that also comes with major opportunities – accelerating the adoption of energy-efficient solutions and job creation. But with so much at stake, and with quick and significant additional gains on the table, it’s high time for our built environment to take its place on the world’s most important agenda.

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SPONSORED FEATURE

Introducing the new Kohler Medical Isolated Power Supply (MIPS) medical IT system Kohler Uninterruptible Power (KUP) is delighted to announce the launch of its new Medical Isolated Power Supply (MIPS) system.

MIPS system provides patient safety by reducing electrical shock hazard, reducing tripping of breakers during earth faults and continuously monitoring normal and abnormal conditions. These vital electrical medical IT systems are isolated from earth and enable insulation maintenance faults to be monitored. Used in Group 2 medical locations, according to HTM-06-01, a MIPS system minimises the risk of failure so that, in the event of a first fault to earth, supply continuity is maintained. The new Kohler MIPS system easily integrates with the many KUP UPS and generator systems installed in hospitals and other healthcare facilities, or those of other manufacturers. Backed by best-in-class support, the UK built system was designed from the outset to fully meet or exceed the requirements of UK HTM06-01 whilst incorporating design features identified during customer research. Systems may be configured with four different levels of power distribution (6, 12, 18 or 24 MCBs), giving flexibility of use across locations including operating rooms, intensive care rooms, MRI suites, recovery rooms and therapy rooms. Complementing the core MIPS unit are modern, easy-to-use status and alarm panels for local, operating room and central control room indication.

transfer system provides a fast changeover between supplies.

Key features Central Alarm Panel: The Central Alarm Panel provides centralised monitoring of all MIPS and UPS equipment within the healthcare facility. A web browser allows authorised users to access the virtual panel from anywhere on the facility network.

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IP41 construction: Lockable IP41 external cabinet assures adequate ventilation via easily maintained dust filters. Easy installation: Equipotential Bonding Busbar

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Maintenance bypass switch: Each MIPS system is provided with a rotary ‘break before make’ Maintenance Bypass Switch (MBS). The MBS allows the output to be connected to the ATS, or directly to the primary supply or the secondary supply; the switch also allows the output to be isolated OFF. Transfer relay: Every MIPS system can be supplied by two different source supplies. The

Easing compliance with earthing requirements for Group 1 and 2 medical locations according to section 710 or BS7671, an equipotential busbar enclosure with supplementary bonding connection points is available in either flush or wall mounted formats. Top entry cable glands provide easy access to the terminals for all power, load and monitoring cable infrastructure whilst pre-installed transformers speed commissioning. Alex Emms, Operations Director for Kohler Uninterruptible Power, noted, “For both patients and staff within hospital and other medical facilities, high levels of electrical supply continuity and safety must be achieved. In general, electrical safety can be compromised by either unplanned interruptions to supply, or electric shock hazards. The installation of a Medical Isolated Power System, along with effective equipotential earthing, provides enhanced electrical safety. “The new Kohler MIPS system is a superb new addition to the KUP range, integrating seamlessly with Kohler UPS and generator systems and offering patient safety, absolute reliability and power availability.” To find out more about KUP’s MIPS systems, please get in touch by calling 01256 386700.

RENEWABLES & SUSTAINABILITY

How can we expand offshore wind to reach 2030’s 40 GW target? Simone Bruckner, Managing Director at power resistor manufacturer Cressall Resistors, explores the technology required to upscale offshore wind power. he UK’s history is enriched with maritime activity. Surrounded by water from John o’ Groats to Land’s End, the surrounding waters have played a pivotal role in trade, travel, and most recently, electricity production. However, the UK Government has lofty ambitions for offshore wind, with a target of generating 40 GW of offshore wind power every year by 2030. To achieve that goal, continued investment and development in power equipment will be needed. Offshore wind power plays to the nation’s geographical strengths while also providing a clean energy source to fuel the country’s path to net zero. The North Sea’s high quality wind resources and relatively shallow water make it an ideal location for offshore wind farms. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), around 90% of global offshore wind capacity is located in the North Sea, which is why the UK is already a world leader in this renewable power source.

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However, to reach the Government’s 2030 production goal, energy suppliers must make advancements in wind turbine technology, while simultaneously considering how their generated power will be safely transferred to the grid. Improved turbine technology Turbines capable of producing more power per rotation are essential for the development of efficient offshore wind farms. Increasing the height of the turbine tower is one way to capture more energy, since winds generally increase with altitude. The higher above ground, the more freely wind can flow thanks to reduced friction from obstacles on the Earth’s surface. Additionally, increasing rotor diameter — the width of the circle the turbine’s blades rotate in — can also positively impact energy capture. A turbine with longer blades captures more wind, and produces more electricity, meaning that wind farms may become feasible in areas with less wind, increasing the number of suitable sites across the UK’s coastline. An increased blade length means that stronger forces will act on the turbine, so the blade material needs to be appropriately chosen. To achieve an adequate stiffness-to-weight ratio to avoid deflection, carbon fibre or fibreglass blades are typically favoured. However, there is an expanding market for hybrid reinforcements, which combine the two materials together for optimum sturdiness. Improvements in wind turbine technologies have already triggered a

RENEWABLES & SUSTAINABILITY

move into deeper waters to use sites with better wind resources. Static wind turbines are still restricted to waters at a maximum depth of 60 m, so to upscale the UK’s wind power output, floating wind turbines will be essential. More suitable sites Once all viable sites within 60 m of shore have been constructed, floating wind projects will become vital to offshore’s growth. Floating offshore wind farms, which can be located up to 80 km from land, could play a key role in the long-term decarbonisation of the power sector. Floating wind turbines sit on a steel and concrete floating system instead of a fixed base, meaning they can be placed in a larger number of sites up to 200 m deep. They can also be towed, allowing them to be relocated without much additional cost. This broadens the potential

output that offshore wind could provide and brings it one step closer to the 40 GW target. In January 2022, the Government announced that floating offshore wind projects will receive over £60 million of investment. This will make uncharted areas of the UK’s coastline that are unsuitable for static turbine deployment accessible for energy capture. Since these remote areas typically receive a more abundant, stronger wind supply, investment in floating offshore wind will strengthen the UK’s position as a world leader in offshore wind energy production.

Around 90% of global offshore wind capacity is located in the North Sea, which is why the UK is already a world leader in this renewable power source Secured power supply Like all renewable energy, offshore wind can be unpredictable and inconsistent, which can make grid connection challenging. In periods of high wind, large inrush currents occur, which can lead to overvoltages on the grid and subsequent equipment malfunctioning. It’s important to prepare for these inevitable inrush currents and subsequent voltage fluctuation. There are three key approaches that might be taken. First, it’s possible to reduce the number of transformers energised at one time, which in turn reduces the inrush current. However, this adds increased system complexity and cost as it requires the installation of a switching control system.

Floating offshore wind farms, which can be located up to 80 km from land, could play a key role in the long-term decarbonisation of the power sector Equally, Point on Wave (PoW) switching minimises inrush current, but the transformer must be energised at the exact moment the voltage waveform crosses the axis. To achieve this, a control system and associated breaker must be timed to operate exactly with the voltage waveform, which again adds to the complexity of the electrical system. Alternatively, pre-insertion resistors (PIRs) are a simpler solution that require a far less precise control system, offering long-term reliability. Already in use across many of the UK’s wind farms, PIRs with a high thermal mass will absorb excess energy produced by the inrush current and safely dissipate it as heat. This prevents damage to the grid and improves the reliability of offshore wind’s power supply. Offshore wind holds great potential in the shift towards renewable energy and could be the key to decarbonising electricity generation. However, we must continue to advance critical power protection technologies to prevent any obstacles in its upscaling and to enable this powerful resource to flourish.

www.electricalreview.co.uk 27

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RENEWABLES & SUSTAINABILITY

Winds of change: It’s not just offshore wind – it’s connecting them to the grid Steve Scrimshaw, Vice President at Siemens Energy UK & Ireland, explains how installing offshore wind is just part of the problem, and how connecting these power sources to the grid also constitutes a significant challenge. ffshore wind is one of the key drivers in the UK’s energy transition plan. In fact the wind generated from Storm Eunice, which swept through Britain in February, provided more than half of the UK’s electricity via wind power. The success of building a highly coveted offshore wind sector has been down to getting the right business model in place – the CfD or Contract for Difference – which has underpinned this growing sector. In a move which will be welcomed by developers of these important projects and their supply chains, the UK’s Business Department has recently announced they will move to hold annual CfD auction events. This is much needed as we only have eight years to quadruple our offshore wind generation capacity. The fourth round of the UK Government’s Contracts for Difference (CfD) auction scheme, which opened in December 2020, aims to support 12 GW of new generation capacity. The CfD scheme has successfully driven the deployment of renewable energy across the UK, leading to the price per unit of offshore wind falling around 65% between the first allocation round (AR) in 2015 and the third in 2019. We are now at a pivotal moment as we aim to get from the current 12 GW of offshore wind energy production to 40 GW by 2030. An audacious target, given it has taken 20 years to get to the current 12 GW. In addition to increasing the frequency of CfDs to ensure a pipeline of projects, job certainty, and local content investment, we also need to see critical reforms in policy, permitting and transmission, as well as a significant manufacturing and construction effort.

Connecting offshore wind to the grid Connecting offshore wind to the grid is by no means an easy task, but technologies such as the Offshore Transformer Module (OTM) is making it easier and more cost-effective for developers worldwide. There are already numerous projects around the world that are leveraging this kind of technology. One project we hope will be successful in the latest CfD round is Moray West. The Moray Firth offshore wind farm will utilise two offshore

Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

substation platforms. Additionally, the wind farm will have an onshore substation, replicating the work done at Moray East. As part of this work, assembly and fit-out of the OTM will be done in the North East, helping to achieve the 60% local UK content outlined in the Offshore Wind Sector Deal. In addition to the work being done on projects bidding as part of the latest CfD round, there’s also much to be done to support the new projects that won leasing rights in Scottish water as part of the last Scotwind auction. This could see around 25 GW of new generation capacity developed. Many of these projects will take offshore wind to the next level, using floating technology and developing grid connection infrastructure using High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology rather than AC (Alternating Current) technology. HVDC is an efficient way of transporting large volumes of electricity over long distances to join onshore networks.

We only have eight years to quadruple our offshore wind generation capacity In addition, it is also possible that some of these projects could have hydrogen electrolysers embedded into the projects to create green hydrogen. This is an excellent example of how Britain’s transition to a low carbon economy can attract new industries, create jobs, reduce fossil fuels and generate export opportunities to come back greener from the pandemic. As the UK steps up securing a home-grown renewable energy sector, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and exposure to volatility in global wholesale energy prices, the capacity for using clean, domestic offshore wind to power the country will accelerate in the next decade. The UK has one big advantage. It has the best resource and geographies for offshore wind globally – the North Sea, which is shallow with great wind speeds. Britain has built the offshore wind industry from scratch. The main challenge was proving the concept and bringing costs down in the early days; now we move to scaling up our ambition. This technology is now established – the offshore wind is the UK’s leading renewable generation source. Our skills are in demand worldwide. In 20 years, the UK offshore wind industry has burgeoned from two relatively small turbines off the coast of Blyth to over 2,200 turbines dotted along the UK continental shelf. This is an important moment for UK offshore wind. We should be proud of these achievements, but there is still work to be done.

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UPS

Looking outside the UPS box Aaron Oddy, Sales Engineer at Centiel UK, explains why simply installing the best UPS on the market and calling it a day is not always the wisest decision. UPS protects the critical load within all types of facilities. The highest quality, true modular UPS systems will increase availability and resilience whilst removing single points of failure. However, simply installing the very best UPS on the market is not enough to completely mitigate the risk to the critical load. We also need to look outside the UPS box to ensure the surrounding infrastructure also avoids single points of failure. Considering the overall infrastructure in a new build can be relatively straightforward, however, it may be that you’re installing a UPS into an existing building or an empty room with no infrastructure and that comes with its own unique challenges. The ideal scenario is to create a separate room for the switchgear and batteries. This minimises air conditioning costs as the UPS can run at a higher temperature than VRLA batteries, which need to be kept at around 20-220°C to optimise their design life.

Oversized UPS systems cost more to buy, install and run so getting this right from day one will reduce the total cost of ownership for the end-user It’s important to work with clients to establish information about the load in order to understand their needs and provide the right configuration for the UPS, as well as the associated infrastructure. Of course, a modular UPS can offer the flexibility, availability and scalability to suit most facilities, but you will still need to understand what the load is supporting, how critical it is and what the load consumption will be. That way you can provide the optimal solution and ensure it is right sized from the outset. This is especially important as oversized UPS systems cost more to buy, install and run so getting this right from day one will reduce the total cost of ownership for the end-user. Equally important will be understanding the required resilience of the system. Will an N+1, N+N or 2N+1 configuration be needed? Also, the autonomy or run time of the batteries needs to be considered. This will depend on how long it takes to undertake a graceful shut down to protect servers or to switch over to a generator. Using an N+N UPS configuration is often a good solution for critical

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facilities as it introduces duplication and redundancy of systems. Risk can further be mitigated by using an A&B configuration, meaning two separate power supply paths are used, and there is no single point of failure from the power source to the UPS to the load. If both power supplies come from a single source, loss of mains will cause both UPS systems to run on DC, until mains are restored, or a secondary power supply is provided, for example, a generator. This extra level of resilience through duplication also needs to be considered for the outputs of the UPS too. For an A&B system, two separate distribution boards will enable one side of the UPS to be isolated for maintenance while the other ensures the load remains fully protected. For new build installations it’s relatively simple to advise on the best configuration of the UPS and associated infrastructure. For legacy installations perhaps which were installed 10-15 years ago, now ready for lifecycle replacement, the challenges are slightly different as you are often working with ‘what we’ve got’. Here, a careful assessment of the current situation is prudent to see what needs to be changed to mitigate risk to the load during the installation and in the future. We often find that even though the infrastructure, including the UPS systems have been designed with separate A&B feeds, certain loads may not always have the capability of being dual fed. This introduces single points of failure and puts this critical load at risk. To remove this risk, it is essential that they are fed via fast-acting static transfer switches taking independent supplies from each UPS system. Similarly, a centralised output distribution board can also add a single point of failure into your overall infrastructure, in some cases this is the only option. Be aware that in this scenario, if the UPS needs to be isolated or removed, the shared output board remains live and cannot be maintained unless the load is shut down.

UPS

To fully remove risk to the load, everything needs to be duplicated, the mains input supply, the output distribution, and everything associated with the UPS system, including the batteries. Removing all the single points of failure within the surrounding infrastructure is just as important as within the UPS set up itself. Recently we were presented with a replacement situation that had a centralised infrastructure and no means of bypassing the UPS system. This meant that there was no way of replacing equipment without shutting everything down, which was not an option for the client. Fortunately, we were able to create a safe workaround as the load was fed by dual output distribution.

Simply installing the very best UPS on the market is not enough to completely mitigate the risk to the critical load We partnered with other specialists to supply a temporary containerised energy farm; essentially a mobile solution that can include a UPS and generator which can be deployed to any site. This enables us to provide secure power to the load during the decommissioning of the

existing UPS system through to the commissioning of the new. This ensures the load remains supported for the duration of the works. Working closely with the client and other contractors we scheduled and agreed a timetable of works so everyone on site was prepared for the switch over. Mitigating any risk before the next element of works took place was essential. Here, communication was a key element of a successful installation to ensure risks were identified and timescales established so everyone was comfortable with their area of responsibility. To remove any risk during future works we installed an external bypass which means, there will be no need to shut down and switch to a temporary power protection for upgrades or any remedial works to the UPS. For any legacy UPS systems that are being considered for replacement, a comprehensive site survey identifies issues early and enables solutions to be put in place to overcome any challenges which are presented. A facility may appear to have the highest level of resilience but often it is not quite as simple as that! Additional work may be required to ensure the load remains protected during the new installation. However, a thorough site survey, close collaboration with clients and thinking outside the UPS box, means you can create a future-proofed system which removes single points of failure not only from the UPS but associated infrastructure too, protecting the critical load.

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UPS

Exploring ECO mode in a UPS Chris Cutler from Riello UPS examines how an uninterruptible power supply’s ECO operating mode works and explores whether the potential energy savings are worth any trade-off in reliability.

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Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

s energy costs continue to spiral, facilities managers across every industry are eager to reduce power consumption where possible and identify potential savings. UPS manufacturers play their part by developing ever more efficient models. Indeed, many modern UPS are capable of high efficiency (i.e. >97%) even in maximum protection online double conversion mode. Most UPS systems now also incorporate ‘economy’ operating modes offering even greater efficiencies. But do the promised savings add up in practice? Before we go on, we should first clarify what we mean when we talk about UPS efficiency. This term describes the ratio of power entering the UPS compared to the power that exits to supply your load. Whenever electricity flows through a UPS’ components, a certain share dissipates as heat and sound. So, take a UPS with a 95% efficiency rating. That means 95% of the original input powers the load, with the other 5% ‘wasted’ running the actual UPS. UPS efficiency has increased steadily in recent years, with ratings in excess of 95% now the norm rather than the exception. Most modern

UPS

UPSs, especially transformer-free models, also have a flatter efficiency curve, which means they can achieve high efficiency even at loads of just 20-25%. A typical industrial or data centre UPS will have a service life of up to 15 years. Now even a 1% or 2% improvement in operating efficiency over such a period can add up to significant energy savings. Not only is this positive financially, but there are also environmental benefits in terms of reduced power consumption and CO2 emissions. ECO mode explained ECO mode works in a similar way to an offline or standby UPS system. This means the bypass line (i.e. raw mains electricity supply) powers the load and the UPS’ inverter is switched off. Whenever there’s an issue with the mains, the critical load experiences a fractional break while the automatic bypass transfers it back to the inverter. Operating in this way increases UPS efficiency to more than 99%, compared to the 93-97% efficiency of your typical unit running in online mode. That’s a difference of anywhere from 2-6%, which could equate to substantially lower electricity bills. Another advantage of ECO mode is that there’s less wear and tear on some of the components inside the UPS’ inverter and rectifier.

ECO mode undoubtedly introduces a lower level of resilience both in terms of slower transfer time to backup power in case of a failure and generally inferior power quality to your connected loads Deciphering the drawbacks Of course, there is one obvious downside to ECO mode – your IT load is exposed to raw mains utility power. If you’ve got a clean and stable mains supply, there’s relatively little risk. But if there’s any disruption to the mains, you’ve potentially got a serious problem on your hands. If there’s an issue with the mains, your UPS goes through the following process: • Detect the power problem • Determine whether and how to respond • Energise the inverter • Open the static bypass switch • Transfer the load onto the inverter output. This process takes time. And even though it might only be 1-16 milliseconds, it’s still leaving your critical load exposed. While most modern servers can override even a 16ms loss of power, that’s not the case for other components or devices. For example, just an 8ms loss to a transformer can cause it to surge and trip circuit breakers when the voltage goes back to normal. As well as the loss of electrical protection, running in ECO mode runs the risk of other drawbacks too. Firstly, you might get damaging harmonics, as ECO mode disables the power factor correction you get as standard with an online UPS. ECO mode also requires the inverter to restart in response to power

events. Whether this happens once a month or once an hour, this change in power to the inverter causes a shock to the system. Such thermal transients are one of the main causes of failure in electronic power systems. And in ECO mode, these thermal transients occur at the exact time when you need your UPS to be at its most reliable. Finally, there are issues with fault clearing. In online UPS mode, your unit will quickly detect a fault on the output, then switch to bypass to get the extra fault clearing that opens protective devices downstream of the UPS. But in ECO mode it’s tricky to distinguish between an output fault and a loss of input power. The Active ECO alternative Recent advances in firmware and electrical designs have resulted in another energy-saving mode called Active ECO. Sometimes referred to as ‘Advanced ECO’, it is similar to standard ECO mode as it still sees the mains supply power the load. But the big difference is that the inverter remains on at all times, running in parallel with the input without actually carrying the load. As the inverter is always on, the UPS can take over the critical load far quicker than in standard ECO mode if there are any issues with the mains. Active ECO also incorporates the power filtering that shields the critical load from any damaging harmonics. Because the inverter circuit remains powered at all times, there is a 0.5-1% drop-off in efficiency running in Active ECO mode compared to standard ECO mode. But it’s still higher efficiency than online mode, so has come to be seen as some sort of happy medium between the two. Looking to the future Running in ECO mode can clearly deliver energy savings and reduce the overall total cost of ownership of the UPS, but for mission-critical sites, its use should be sparing. However, ECO mode might be appropriate out of hours when a facility’s critical loads are inactive. Another option could be running the UPS in an N+X parallel redundant installation, where one unit operates in online mode as the primary UPS and the rest run in ECO mode until they are actively required to support the load. The Green Grid, a not-for-profit data centre organisation, compares ECO mode to free cooling, where facilities take advantage of low outdoor temperatures to cool critical infrastructure; this isn’t perhaps a fair assessment. That’s because ECO mode undoubtedly introduces a lower level of resilience both in terms of slower transfer time to backup power in case of a failure and generally inferior power quality to your connected loads. Such perceived risk is perhaps one reason why many operators of critical facilities remain reluctant to utilise ECO mode. It’s likely that continued advances in UPS technology will reduce the energy savings associated with economy operating modes even further. Silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors are one such example. These are far smaller and lighter than the silicon-based components used in UPS, while they can also run in much higher ambient temperatures. Such qualities enable UPS with SiC to achieve efficiency of up to 99% in true online double conversion mode. This performance could potentially render ECO mode redundant as the UPS will deliver the same energy savings while also providing conditioned, reliable, and high-quality power.

www.electricalreview.co.uk 33

UPS

Bring balance to the grid

Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

34 Electrical Review | March / April 2022

UPS

Russ Barker, Product and Service Sales Director, Ireland at Vertiv, describes how the UPS could be perfectly placed for balancing a grid increasingly made up of intermittent renewables. enewables overtook fossil fuels as the number one power source in the EU for the first time in 2020, according to the European Commission report on the State of the Energy Union 2021. As the mix of energy sources continues to shift to renewables, this transfer of generation from large fossil fuel power plants has left power networks less predictable and more susceptible to network faults. Matching demand to available supply – given the unpredictable nature of many renewable sources – and building in greater system resilience for faults is a most prescient challenge for the new renewable-powered grid.

Traditional frequency regulation is too slow for today’s demands where containment reserves must be able to increase or reduce electricity demand within seconds Stabilising supplies When mismatches in energy from generators and customer use occur, frequencies begin to change. Then, when supply rises above demand, the frequency rises, and vice versa. The greater the intermittency of energy supply, the more often imbalances occur. A further hindrance to grid stability is that traditional frequency regulation is too slow for today’s demands where containment reserves must be able to increase or reduce electricity demand within seconds. With these factors in mind, it is understandable why data centres and their power and battery systems are best placed to help balance the grid services critical to the infrastructure and ever-changing needs of the modern energy landscape. Data centres and balancing energy Data centre assets include the presence of battery energy storage – these could alleviate grid infrastructure constraints and offer the potential to provide grid services and generate new revenue streams, as well as cost savings. They can also provide grid-balancing services by using two types of energy devices. These services can be advantageous for any asset that consumes electricity and is connected to a meter. ‘Behind the meter ‘ refers to the power used on-site, on the energy user’s side of the meter, whereas ‘in front of the meter’ accounts for electricity on the grid and utility side. In Europe, balancing services vary by country and are dependent on fac-

tors such as how quickly the additional power is needed and for how long. A Vertiv whitepaper found ‘fast frequency’ response – the requirement of active power to be adjusted within 500 milliseconds to one second – to be the most lucrative area of energy-balancing services for data centres. In this instance, the uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is expected to discharge/recharge the batteries for an average of five minutes. Smart grid-ready UPS As well as stabilising energy supply, UPSs help support energy management initiatives. A recent survey by research group Omdia, expects smart grid-ready UPS deployment to be prevalent in data centres within the next four years as operators look to develop demand-side response energy management strategies. Delivering on sustainability initiatives was the main reason survey respondents gave for their interest in adopting smart grid-ready UPS systems. Reputational benefits, closely linked to gaining a competitive advantage, were also cited. Furthermore, UPS backup power systems make financial sense as they often stand idle. Almost 80% of survey respondents estimated that 1050% of the capacity of batteries in today’s data centres are in excess and can potentially be used to support the electric grid. Vertiv’s whitepaper found that 1 MW of flexible load and related battery backup can earn a data centre up to £85,000 in revenue per year and millions for a company with multiple megawatt data centres. UPS systems have evolved to attain high efficiency with smaller footprints and improved battery energy storage and monitoring systems. The incorporation of technology to interact with the electric grid means data centres can be smarter about the amount and timing of energy consumption. Taking this a step further, under the tariff-based schemes available in some regions, some data centre operators are running grid-balancing projects using UPS technologies to put surplus electricity back into the grid during peak demand.

1 MW of flexible load and related battery backup can earn a data centre up to £85,000 in revenue per year and millions for a company with multiple megawatt data centres Moving into the next stage of energy balancing Increasing the use of renewable energy is critical for the global economy to secure its energy future. As data centres and other energy-intensive industries transition to a greener approach, UPS technology will be pivotal. The subsequent adoption of grid support and demand-side services within the industry will result in environmental benefits, including reduced carbon emissions. The grid-balancing market is in its infancy. As the intermittency of renewables continues to pose a challenge, access to smart assets like the UPS with grid support functionalities and backup power systems offer the solution to stabilising the electricity grid and for data centres to become valuable energy hubs for meeting sustainability goals across all industries and geographies.

www.electricalreview.co.uk 35

Get ready to get Powered On LIVE! We love having you join us every fortnight for a brandnew episode of the Powered On Podcast, but we realise that there’s so much going on in the electrical industry, that we can’t possibly cover everything. That’s why we’re expanding the format for the very first time – and we couldn’t be more thrilled to share it with you. On June 15 and June 16, Powered On will be coming to you LIVE. We’re giving our platform to some of the industry’s foremost experts to share their expertise about the issues that are impacting the electrical industry right now. For the first ever Powered On Live, we’re going to shine a spotlight on the ever-changing electrical industry, while a second dedicated event will follow later in the year specifically for the data centre industry. The electrical industry is going through one of the biggest transitions in its entire history, so we’re giving you exclusive access to some of the sector’s leading experts who will be able to help you navigate the noise and tell you exactly what you need to know about the future of this critical industry. Whether it’s the momentous work that will need to be done to achieve net zero, or dealing with modernday threats to the continuity of power, whether due to cyberattacks or extreme weather events, there will be something for everyone at Powered On Live. So, what can you expect from Powered On Live? Well, we have two days jam-packed with sessions. For example, on day one we will be joined by Steve Scrimshaw, Vice President of Siemens Energy, who will discuss how offshore power will revolutionise the UK power grid. Meanwhile on day two we’ll have Lee Sutton, the Founder and CEO of myenergi, explain what’s next for the EV industry. And that’s just the beginning. We’ll have speakers and sessions to share in the coming months – and we can’t wait to come to you LIVE. So, why not join us on June 15 and June 16? I’ll see you there.

Find out more at poweredonlive.co.uk 36 Electrical Review | March / April 2022

If you sell products or work on projects within Power, Lighting, Fire Safety & Security, Energy Efficiency and Data Centres, make sure you enter:

Visit awards.electricalreview.co.uk Your business and your team could be celebrating in the spotlight at the ER & DCR Excellence Awards Gala Dinner on May 19, 2022 at the breathtaking Christ Church Spitalfields in London!

Sponsors:

Entertainment Sponsors:

Following the success of our second annual Excellence Awards in 2019, we invite electrical manufacturers, contractors and project owners to enter the 2022 Awards. The recipients of 2019 Awards included: TXplore robotic transformer inspection service – Entry by ABB Power Grids; UPS, temperature control, monitoring and diagnostics at Cineca, Italy - Entry by Vertiv; BS67 Smart Ceiling Rose - Entry by Adaptarose Ltd; University of Northampton - Entry by Simmtronic Lighting Control; The Hot Connection Indicator - Entry by Safe Connect; Combined heat & power at DigiPlex Stockholm data centre - Entry by DigiPlex; Refurbished servers at WINDcores, Germany - Entry by Techbuyer; HyperPod Rack Ready Data Centre System - Entry by Schneider Electric; 4D Gatwick cooling upgrade - Entry by 4D Data Centres Ltd; Green Mountain Colocation Supplier - Entry by Green Mountain

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

Contact us +44 (0) 207 062 2526 The Awards include the following categories: Power – Product of the Year – Sponsored by Omicron Power – Project of the Year – Sponsored by Omicron Lighting – Product of the Year Lighting – Project of the Year Fire Safety & Security – Product of the Year Fire Safety & Security – Project of the Year Energy Efficiency – Product of the Year Energy Efficiency – Project of the Year Innovative – Project of the Year – Sponsored by Aico Sustainable – Project of the Year Data Centre Design & Build – Product of the Year – Sponsored by Centiel Data Centre Design & Build – Project of the Year – Sponsored by EnerSys Data Centre Cooling – Product of the Year Data Centre Cooling – Project of the Year Data Centre Colocation – Supplier of the Year - Sponsored by Vertiv Technical Leader of the Year Consultancy/Contractor of the Year – Sponsored by ECA Outstanding Project of the Year – Sponsored by Riello UPS Outstanding Product of the Year – Sponsored by Riello UPS

Visit the website to check out this year’s awards and submit your entries by March 6, 2022.

awards.electricalreview.co.uk

PRODUCTS

New Elucian protective devices added to consumer unit range Scolmore continues to expand its Elucian consumer unit range to provide electricians with the broadest possible range of units and protective devices. New to the range are Time Delay RCDs, higher rated RCBOs and a retro-fit locking device. Time Delay RCDs - a new range of Type S 2 Pole 100mA Time Delay RCDs available in 63A, 80A and 100A options have now been added to the range. Time delay RCDs provide residual circuit protection against short circuits but also provide the correct level of coordination when two RCD devices are used in series on the same circuit. RCBOs - the RCBO protective devices range has been expanded to offer new, two-module (36mm wide) Type A Double Pole True 6kA B Curve and C Curve 30mA Trip RCBOs which are available in higher ratings of 45A, 50A and 63A. Locking device – a new retro-fit locking device has been added to the Elucian range, providing the means to secure the consumer unit against unwanted interference. It comes in two parts and requires the L-shaped bracket to be secured to the consumer unit board using the screw and washer supplied. The second part slots in, and with the holes aligned the padlock can be locked in place.

Scolmore • 01827 63454 Find out more: www.scolmore.com

Phoenix Contact’s Termitrab offers surge protection with an overall width of 3.5 mm The Termitrab complete product family from Phoenix Contact features the narrowest protection against overvoltages, with an overall width of just 3.5 mm per protective device. The device dimensions play a key role in measurement and control technology applications. Such applications often require a large number of signals, each needing appropriate protection. The portfolio of narrow surge protective devices has now been extended. Protective devices with an overall width of 6 mm are available for practically all signal technology applications. The range stretches from the protection of individual signal wires right through to the protection of four-conductor applications. The remote signalling option and disconnect knives are available in a number of circuit versions. Protective devices are also available with the same overall width for data and telecommunications applications. The Termitrab complete portfolio also provides a wide range of products for Ex applications. Additionally, remote signalling modules for monitoring up to 40 neighbouring protective devices are also available. With separately available fuse holders, vulnerable signal lines can also be protected against overcurrents.

Phoenix Contact • 01952 681700 Find out more: www.phoenixcontact.com/en-gb/

Unicrimp adds Metal Cable Cleats to Q-Fire range Unicrimp has added a range of Metal Cable Cleats to its growing Q-Fire portfolio of fire-rated cable accessory products. The new Metal Cable Cleats meet BS 7671 (18th Edition) requirements and are designed to prevent cables from premature collapse during a fire and in doing so, to keep emergency services and the public safe. The 18th Edition wiring regulations stipulate that cable support systems must be constructed with materials that will withstand premature collapse caused by direct exposure to heat. There are no applications excluded – trunking, conduit and cabling fixed to surfaces of the building or attached to cable support systems must all have fire-resistant supports in place. Unicrimp’s fire-rated black Metal Cable Cleats are available in 14 different size options suitable for cable sizes from 5mm up to 50mm. The key feature of the product is an oval fixing hole which allows for cable diameter tolerances. To install the metal cable cleat, the electrician just needs to bend the cleat around the cable and fix in place to the designated wall.

Unicrimp • 01827 300 600 Find out more: www.unicrimp.com

40 Electrical Review | March / April 2022

PRODUCTS

Megger makes circuit breaker analysis fast and easy Developed in response to user demand for an affordable mid-range circuit breaker analyser that is fast and easy to use, the new EGIL 200 from Megger delivers dependable results with a minimum of user intervention. Ideally suited for testing high- and medium-voltage circuit breakers in substation and industrial applications, this versatile instrument offers a wide range of functions, including all of the standard measurements specified in the IEEE C37 and IEC 62271 standards. The new EGIL 200 is based on technology used in Megger’s EGIL and TM-series circuit breaker analysers. It combines the ease of use offered by these instruments with many of the other features that have made them so popular. These include DualGround timing using the patented dynamic capacitance measurement (DCM) system; and accurate PIR contact timing and PIR resistance measurement, even in difficult environments, thanks to patented Active Interference Suppression technology. Other key features of the EGIL 200 are one-click report generation to a PDF file or direct to an optional integrated printer, and robust construction that makes it suitable for use in even the most demanding of onsite conditions. In fact, the EGIL 200 is so robust that it can even be shipped as goods without the need for a protective transport case.

Megger • 01304 502101 Find out more: uk.megger.com

New LED street lighting range from Ovia Ovia continues to expand its floodlight range and the latest addition is the Gator range of LED Street Lighting with CTA Switch. With an IK10 housing and IP66 rated, Gator is ideal for lighting large outdoor areas, such as car parks and walkways, and is designed to be quick and simple to install via toolless entry, with the toolless gear tray allowing for easy maintenance. There are three size/wattage options to choose from – large (135W), medium (65-100W) and small (20-40W) – and they offer 50,000 hour lifetime and 85⁰ x 150⁰ beam angle. They are available in a grey finish and come with a five-year warranty. The reversible mount option is an additional feature. The mount bracket can be rotated and pivoted to allow for vertical or horizontal fitment with no additional joints required. The Spigot size is 76mm and a wall bracket is available. The shorting cap can be replaced with a photocell sensor to assist with energy saving. The full Gator range can be seen in the Ovia Issue 3 catalogue which can be downloaded from the Ovia website – www.oviauk.com – and the Scolmore Group app.

Ovia • 01827 300 640 Find out more: www.oviauk.com

Delmatic’s DALI-2 Multi-discipline Microsensor is the most powerful all-in-one sensor for smart IoT solutions Delmatic’s DALI-2 Multi-discipline Microsensor combines occupancy and daylight detection with integrated temperature and humidity monitoring, making it the most powerful all-in-one sensor for smart IoT solutions. The sensor is certified to the latest DALI-2 lighting control standard and forms part of a smart platform with BACnet and MQTT technology for seamless communication with building management systems and integrated services. The software-defined sensor delivers DALI-2 dimming and scene-setting, monitoring changes in occupancy and ambient daylight levels to ensure the control and operation of lighting and services exactly meets the requirements of any space. Biodynamic and tuneable-white options adjust lighting intensity and colour temperature to enhance occupant comfort and well-being. The integral environmental sensor measures and shares high-resolution temperature and humidity data with the building ecosystem so that HVAC speed, temperature and connected services continuously adapt to changes in the indoor environment. The powerful features and functionality of the sensor leads to greatly enhanced sustainability and major energy savings over the lifetime of a building, as well as reduced capital and installation costs. The abundance of occupancy and environmental intelligence captured by the sensors provides building owners and facilities managers with actionable insights to optimise the energy-efficiency of lighting and connected services.

Delmatic • 020 3184 2000 Find out more: www.delmatic.com

www.electricalreview.co.uk 41

PRODUCTS

Sangamo – the right Choice for energy efficiency With huge hikes in energy bills looming when the new price cap comes into force on 1 April, householders are looking at ways to reduce their energy consumption to help combat rising bills. Understanding how their heating system is performing and how they can make small changes to improve its efficiency is one area for consideration. The Sangamo Choice range of timers and heating controls from ESP was revamped last year, with the main aim of introducing new features that would help boost the products’ energy saving properties. For example, the Choice+ thermostats include a TPI feature to ensure a maintained temperature by analysis of the heating and cooling periods. In addition, Choice+ programmable thermostats include Optimum Start and Delayed Stop for additional efficiency for the time programmed. These features combine to offer the best in heating comfort and energy efficiency when compared to traditional on/off thermostats. A smart thermostat allows householders to control and monitor the room temperature and thermostat activity around the home from anywhere in the world, via an app. Sangamo’s Wi-Fi thermostat offers energy efficient programming and remote access via the Sangamo choice app. It is straightforward to install and operate and is suitable for electric, gas or oil systems.

ESP • 01527 515 150 Find out more: www.espuk.com

Uptime Institute approves range of innovative Tier III Ready data centre designs A range of innovative Tier III Ready data centre designs have now been fully approved by the Uptime Institute. The team at Cannon Technologies, working in conjunction with several OEM manufacturers, including CENTIEL UK, have spent more than three years developing a pre-certified set of solutions now available in ratings of: 100kW, 250kW, 500kW and 1MW. Mark Awdas, Engineering Director, Cannon Technologies confirms: “The first 100kW data centre solution, using a 2N design configuration was completed and approved in 2019, and since then we have worked closely with our industry partners to make various Tier III data centre designs available for facilities requiring different sized systems. This award now provides our customers with fact-based evidence that their final build will more easily obtain their final Tier Certification. “We now have four Tier III ready Modular DC designs described as ‘concurrently maintainable’ which ensures that any component can be taken out of service without affecting production. It’s been a long and detailed process, but now clients can purchase a Tier III ready data centre solution to match their needs.” CENTIEL’s leading three-phase, true modular UPS CumulusPower and technical support was chosen to be incorporated into the designs.

Centiel • 01420 82031 Find out more: https://centiel.co.uk/

Listen to ‘Your on-load gap changer: it’s trying to tell you something’ The OLTC of a power transformer plays a vital role in maintaining a stable voltage level within the electrical grid. It’s a mechanical switching device that regulates the system voltage by adjusting the transformer turns ratio. Due to the thermal and mechanical stresses generated when the load current is switched, various OLTC components such as the contacts can suffer wear and tear over their lifetime. In order to reliably assess the condition of the OLTC, increasingly advanced diagnostic tools have been developed. Typically, a static resistance measurement is performed to check for increased contact resistances. Moreover, a dynamic resistance measurement (DRM) records the change in current during the switching operation to analyse the OLTC’s timing and check for possible current interruptions. In this episode of Energy Talks, you will learn more about the vibro-acoustic measurement (VAM) with the help of our VAM experts - Dr. Karsten Viereck from Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen and Christoph Engelen. You can listen to this 16 minute podcast on the OMICRON website below.

OMICRON • 01785 848100 Find out more: https://bit.ly/3qOJ9Ud

42 Electrical Review | March / April 2022