Are smart cities old news yet? No way! Well, yes and no. The concept of a ‘smart city’ has been kicking around since the 1960s, but, in our ever more connected world, smart technology has never been more relevant.
At the heart of the smart technology movement is a desire to make life better for the people using it — whether that’s on a grand social scale, as in a smart city, or in the more intimate setting of a smart building or home. With sustainability increasing as a priority for more and more sectors, the applications of smart tech are broadening out in exciting ways. This edition’s feature highlights some of the smart initiatives being undertaken in the name of sustainability: innovative interactions between tech and the natural world that extend into the forest itself.
Automation and connectivity run throughout this issue: supporting the smooth operation of Victoria’s first all-electric hospital on p 34, smartening up an over-50s lifestyle community (p 32) and helping to manage the New Zealand grid (p 28). On a more sobering note, operations are going to get a lot tighter for the sale of smart tech in EU countries, with the EU bringing in a regulation that will make manufacturers and vendors responsible for cybersecurity throughout the entire product lifecycle (p 27).
Electric transport is also a hot topic, coming up in stories about bus depots functioning as energy hubs (p 16), the size of electric cars (p 25) and the steps Australia needs to take to transition to EVs (p 33).
Finally, in this issue’s industry profile on p 12, the dynamic Chris Mattner steps into the spotlight, sharing a personal story about how he came to head up South Australia-based CME Group — an ambitious, award-winning company known for its major sustainable stadium lighting projects, among other initiatives.
A CONNECTED WORLD HOW SMART SYSTEMS ARE ENHANCING SUSTAINABILITY
Katerina Sakkas
The continuing aspiration for smarter, smoother, more efficient connected and integrated infrastructure is often accompanied by a desire for greater sustainability — though this isn’t always achieved.
In an article for the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia’s (IPWEA) Insite publication1, David Jenkins looks beyond the tech to question the broader purpose of a smart city. “Technology cannot exist in silos,” he notes. “It needs to be integrated into a holistic plan”, where all technological innovations combine to deliver to the smart city vision.
“Coming from the discipline of asset management, there is a case to be made that smart cities are also about infrastructure and sustainability, not just their environmental impact but also the social and financial ones,” Jenkins continues.
“One way of thinking about it is to ask: what are the features of living in a smart city? The response would be that the city should rate highly for liveability, access, mobility, community and its environment.”
Nature is healing — through smart tech
A 2025 community greening project led by the University of Surrey would seem to fit Jenkins’ requirements. The GP4Streets project is using an array of technological tools to help UK neighbourhoods improve air quality by making their streets greener. Crucially, it places the technology in the hands of the community itself, with residents initially given monitoring tools to measure key environmental factors such as air quality, temperature and water flow. Then, they receive DIY greening kits to help them carry out activities such as planting trees and installing green walls.
As the greening progresses, sensors will track the results of the community’s efforts, with the aim of using the data to fine-tune climate adaptation strategies for UK streets.
Along with the University of Surrey’s Global Centre for Clean Air Research (GCARE), the project brings together experts from four other institutions: UWE Bristol, the University of Bath, the University of Sheffield and Imperial College London. Charities and industry partners are also participating in the project, which involves nine local councils.
“Our country’s most vulnerable need a step change in how we adapt to volatile weather and transform built environments, like streets, where limited space restricts the scope for interventions,”
said Professor Prashant Kumar, principal investigator on the project and Founding Director of GCARE.
“Working hand in hand with communities, charities, businesses and local councils, we’ll create tailored DIY greening solutions as a ‘prescription’ for urban streets — from green walls to front and back gardens. With stateof-the-art monitoring, communities will see improvements in air quality, temperature and biodiversity firsthand,” Kumar continued.
“This project, building on the foundations of the RECLAIM Network Plus2, is about empowering communities to shape a better future for themselves and their loved ones, ensuring they are part of the climate solution.”
Ben McCallan, from the charity Zero Carbon Guildford, said there were multiple barriers to implementing green solutions in the area, “so we are really looking forward to teaming up with GCARE on this project, as we did with the UK’s first ‘living gate’ installation at Sandfield Primary, to see how we can remove those blockers”.
“In Guildford, there are areas that have a frightening level of nitrogen dioxide, and we are keen to work with GCARE to help citizens improve the air quality of their communities.”
Energy transition opportunities
If ever there was a situation that lends itself to the use of smart systems, it’s the transition to renewable energy. The switch from dependence on traditional fossil-fuel-powered stations, which have built-in grid inertia that allows them to respond to surges in demand, to the growing incorporation of a diverse and less predictable array of renewable power sources, calls for a great deal of monitoring and calibration in order to get the demand–response balance right.
Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has long been an active proponent of smart energy initiatives. Its ‘AI for a flexible electricity system project’, announced in May 2023, is aimed at automating the participation of distributed energy resources (DER) like solar, wind, battery storage and EVs in the electricity market. The project’s key considerations, along with the obvious goal of wanting to reduce emissions, are energy reliability and security, and the integration of a range of technologies that enable real-time sensing, forecasting, control and optimisation.
In the private sector, network management systems from companies like Australia’s Neara and multinational Bentley Systems use digital modelling and AI-powered tools to enable utilities to design more efficient networks that can strategically incorporate a greater amount of renewable energy.
On a more localised level, CSIRO makes its Data Clearing House (DCH) software available to building owners and managers who, among other things, want to optimise the use of energy in smart buildings. DCH is a ‘plug and play’ IoT platform that enables building owners to stream data — from the Bureau of Meteorology, for example — into a central place, then consolidate this data to inform decisions about the use of energy within the building. The platform was used in a trial, launched in 2023, of 200 smart buildings in NSW, with the express purpose of gathering data to inform government on the creation of a flexible energy demand policy and asset register.
Where the forest meets the IoT
Forget about buildings for a moment: are you ready for smart forests? In Lithuania, scientists have developed a high-tech system that seeks to combat deforestation. Dubbed Forest 4.0 (a reference to the ‘fourth industrial revolution’ of the forest industry), their system is an intelligent forest data processing model that integrates blockchain, IoT and AI technologies. It enables real-time monitoring of forest conditions, sustainable resource accounting and a more transparent forest governance model.
The project is the result of a collaboration between researchers from Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) and Vytautas Magnus University in Lithuania, and Linnaeus University in Sweden.
BY ANALYSING CAMERA IMAGES AND LOOKING AT, FOR EXAMPLE, BROWNING NEEDLES, THE IoT CAN DETECT THE IMPACT OF INSECTS ON TREES, IDENTIFY DISEASE THROUGH SPOTS ON LEAVES, AND BY ENCRYPTING SOUNDS, IT CAN INDICATE ILLEGAL LOGGING. – DR EGIDIJUS KAZANAVICIUS
“Imagine buying a table and knowing exactly from which forest and tree it originated. This is exactly the outcome of the proposed forest data management model,” said Professor Rytis Maskeliunas from KTU, one of the scientists who helped to develop the system.
Forest 4.0 has multiple layers, with the first focusing on data acquisition and management. This layer gathers information from wireless sensor networks, including various IoT devices that measure factors such as tree sap, temperature and soil moisture.
The sensors, which resemble birdhouses, are installed in trees. “These devices send data to a central system, where it is analysed using AI algorithms within the data analysis layer,” said Professor Egidijus Kazanavičius from the KTU Centre of Real-Time Computer Systems, who developed the hardware.
The system also makes use of cameras already installed in the forest. “By analysing camera images and looking at, for example, browning needles, the IoT can detect the impact of insects on trees, identify disease through spots on leaves, and by encrypting sounds, it can indicate illegal logging,” Kazanavičius said.
Additionally, the Forest 4.0 model uses blockchain technology to provide supply chain traceability, allowing processes to be monitored at all stages, from forest to sawmill or even final wooden product.
Forest 4.0 joins a host of other smart habitat-protection initiatives, including Vodafone’s pilot fire detection system in Greece (2022) and a 2025 project led by the University of South Australia that is integrating remote sensing technologies with machine learning, AI and geographic information systems (GIS) to monitor and attempt to stall the damage to the world’s most fragile marine ecosystems, including the Great Barrier Reef.
A growing body of research on the use of smart forest tech suggests that these practices are gaining momentum. In her 2020 article ‘Smart forests and data practices: From the Internet of Trees to planetary governance’, published in the journal Big Data and Society3, Jennifer Gabrys, from the Department of Sociology at the University of Cambridge, observes that while remote sensing of forests has taken place for many decades, the current scale of observation, “along with the fusion of remote sensing with additional and new digital technologies, is contributing to what is arguably a transformed condition of planetary and forest observation”.
In her analysis, Gabrys questions the implications of approaching forests purely as ‘green infrastructure’. “While some insights from smart cities and smart infrastructure literature are transferrable to an understanding of wider smart environments, there also are numerous unstudied effects and transformations that are unique to these locations,” she cautions.
As smart tech is increasingly applied to the natural environment, with the likelihood of being scaled up in a similar way to smart energy systems, now seems a good time to raise such questions.
1. Jenkins, D. (2024) It’s not only the tech that makes cities smart. Insite. https:// insite.ipwea.org/its-not-only-the-tech-that-makes-cities-smart/
2. https://reclaim-network.org/
3. Gabrys, J. (2020). Smart forests and data practices: From the Internet of Trees to planetary governance. Big Data & Society, 7(1). https://doi. org/10.1177/2053951720904871
AI PLUS WI-FI MAKES SMART HOMES SMARTER
A new Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) framework, developed by scientists from South Korea’s Incheon National University, promises to make smart technology much more sensitive to human activity.
QLD TRAGEDY PROMPTS WARNING FROM REGULATOR
WorkSafe Queensland has issued a caution to electrical workers following a tragic incident in 2024. The incident occurred when an electrical worker was upgrading a split air-conditioning system located on the metal roof of a commercial building.
The worker had completed the installation of the compressor unit, mounted the base of the isolating switch, and re-routed several thermoplastic-sheathed (TPS) cables into the switch enclosure.
Then, the worker fitted an unswitched socket outlet to one of the TPS cables — with a view to providing a temporary power source to which they could connect a vacuum pump. The socket outlet was not fixed in position and the temporary set-up presented accessible single insulated conductors.
After re-energising the circuit, the worker returned to the work area and subsequently came into contact with an exposed, energised conductor, resulting in a fatal electric shock. The air-conditioning final sub-circuit on which they were working did not require RCD protection.
WorkSafe said the tragic incident underscored the importance of carefully managing task sequences to prioritise electrical safety at every stage — and the significant risks of working on or near exposed energised parts.
The organisation urged electrical workers to never assume a set-up was safe, and to always test before touching. It stressed that safety switches save lives and that, when it comes to electrical safety, there is no such thing as temporary electrical work.
The regulator noted that the circumstances in which the incident occurred are yet to be confirmed, with investigations continuing into the exact cause.
WorkSafe Qld has detailed information on its website about reducing the risk of electric shock.
AIoT combines the features of artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. Unlike typical IoT setups, where devices collect and transfer data for processing at some other location, AIoT devices acquire data locally and in real time, enabling them to make smart decisions. The technology has found applications in intelligent manufacturing, smart home security and healthcare monitoring.
In smart home AIoT technology, accurate human activity recognition is crucial, helping smart devices to identify various tasks such as cooking and exercising. Using this information, the AIoT system can tweak lighting or switch music automatically, thus improving user experience while also maintaining energy efficiency. WiFi-based motion recognition is a promising candidate for this type of application, as Wi-Fi devices are ubiquitous, can ensure privacy and tend to be cost-effective.
The Incheon National University research team, led by Professor Gwanggil Jeon from the College of Information Technology, has devised an AIoT framework called multiple spectrogram fusion network (MSF-Net) for WiFi-based human activity recognition. The team’s findings have been published in the IEEE Internet of Things Journal
“As a typical AIoT application, WiFi-based human activity recognition is becoming increasingly popular in smart homes. However, WiFi-based recognition often has unstable performance due to environmental interference. Our goal was to overcome this problem,” Jeon explained.
MSF-Net is a deep learning framework that achieves coarse as well as fine activity recognition via channel state information (CSI). It has three main components: a dual-stream structure comprising short-time Fourier transform along with discrete wavelet transform; a transformer; and an attention-based fusion branch. While the dual-stream structure pinpoints abnormal information in CSI, the transformer efficiently extracts high-level features from the data. The fusion branch then boosts cross-model fusion.
“The multimodal frequency fusion technique has significantly improved accuracy and efficiency compared to existing technologies, increasing the possibility of practical applications,” Jeon said.
“This research can be used in various fields such as smart homes, rehabilitation medicine, and care for the elderly. For instance, it can prevent falls by analysing the user’s movements and contribute to improving the quality of life by establishing a non-face-to-face health monitoring system.”
ALP PROMISES CASH BONUS FOR APPRENTICES
Master Electricians Australia (MEA) has welcomed the Albanese government’s recent election policy announcement that apprentices in residential construction will receive a cash bonus to help keep them in a sector critical to solving the housing crisis.
From 1 July 2025, eligible apprentices will receive a total of $10,000 paid in five instalments, on top of their wages, over the life of their apprenticeship to work in housing construction.
The initiative comes in response to the government’s Strategic Review of the Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System, which found cost-of-living pressures for apprentices are deterring people from taking up apprenticeships.
“It is essential that we get the Australian Apprenticeships system right. We need to have a system with more apprentices finishing their training and gaining the skills and qualifications that we need in
our workforce,” said Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles.
“The Strategic Review of the Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System shows apprentices are especially exposed to the cost-of-living pressures. That’s why we are making this initial investment as a first step to help address the financial challenges apprentices and their employers face.”
MEA CEO Kate Raymond said the incentive is needed to help address a looming shortfall of electrical apprentices, including matureage apprentices.
“Electrical contractors are crucial to addressing the housing crisis Australia faces; this means we need to be supporting the next generation of tradies,” she said.
“To attract young people to an industry as important as construction we need to ensure appropriate financial incentives are in place or we’re not going to have enough electricians in the long term.
NEM’S VITAL LINK SECURES HIGH-VOLTAGE TECH
Hitachi Energy has been selected to provide high-voltage technology for one of NSW’s largest energy infrastructure projects: Transgrid’s HumeLink.
The HumeLink project is being built to increase the amount of renewable energy that can be delivered across the National Electricity Market (NEM).
Hitachi Energy will deliver and install high-voltage circuit breakers for the new 500 kV, 365 km transmission line connecting Wagga Wagga, Bannaby and Maragle. This will involve partnering with two contractors, HumeLink West JV (UGL and CPB Contractors) and HumeLink East JV (Acciona and Genus), to supply substation equipment for HumeLink West and East respectively.
Raymond emphasised that small and medium-sized businesses were in particular need of support to employ and retain apprentices.
“Time and again we hear from small business members who lose apprentices to larger competitors for higher wages. We completely understand anyone seeking a better wage, which is why MEA strongly supports measures to boost financial support to apprentices in residential construction,” she said.
“Small businesses do the heavy lifting in terms of training apprentices, particularly in their early years.”
“The nation-critical HumeLink project is a vital link in the National Electricity Market which will reinforce the grid and enable the sharing of cleaner and cheaper renewable energy,” said Jeremy Roberts, Transgrid HumeLink Project Director.
“The project will create up to 1800 jobs and generate more than $1 billion in market benefits.
“We are pleased to see another project milestone, with our delivery partners securing their supply chain for circuit breakers for one new substation and the extension of three existing substations for HumeLink.”
Bernard Norton, Country Managing Director of Hitachi Energy in Australia, added: “As the energy transition in Australia is gathering pace, HumeLink is one of the major transmission projects that is needed to build a reliable, resilient and future-ready grid, which will support a sustainable energy future.
“We are pleased to supply our leading high-voltage technology and partner with UGL–CPB Contractors and Acciona–Genus for Transgrid’s vital project which will enable the delivery of additional clean energy to Australian consumers.”
Hitachi Energy is also supplying Transgrid with 15 shunt reactors for the HumeLink and VNI West projects. By stabilising voltage during load variations, these reactors increase the efficiency of power systems.
Eventually, it is anticipated that HumeLink will unlock the full capacity of the expanded Snowy Hydro Scheme and enable greater sharing of energy across the eastern states.
UL-certified screened and unscreened control cables
LAPP Australia has extensive local stock of its OLFLEX 150 control cables which are UL certified, allowing machine builders to use and export compliant machinery to North America. Without UL certification, upon arrival in North America, the machine will either be rewired or sent back to Australia, both adding cost and delay for exporters, according to LAPP.
The certification applies to the components used in appliances and machines, such as cables, cable glands and connectors, which are only accepted if they have been tested for the particular application they are being used for. Certified cables are marked with UL approval numbers and E-certificate numbers so inspectors can easily check if the cable has been approved.
A select range of LAPP cables and components, including control, BSD, appliance wire, data and Ethernet cables, are fully UL compliant.
The OLFLEX 150 control cable range comes in both screened and unscreened variants, with the screened cables being designed with electromagnetic compatibility for EMC-sensitive environments. The full range is suitable for plant engineering, industrial machinery and HVAC systems, with the cables often used in dry, damp and wet interiors (including water–oil mixtures), but not designed for outdoor use.
The cables are typically used for fixed installation under medium mechanical load conditions and applications with occasional flexing at free, non-continuously recurring movement without tensile load or compulsory guidance, the company said. In addition to UL certification, the cables are flame-retardant to IEC standards and oil-resistant to EN standards.
LAPP Australia Pty Ltd lappaustralia.com.au
Compact UPS
The Vertiv PowerUPS 9000 is a high-power-density, efficient and compact product that can provide power protection to both to small enterprise and larger data centres. The UPS is designed to be a reliable, global and modular platform, complemented by advanced services and monitoring offerings. Its compact size makes it suitable for space-constrained environments, where it can be easily integrated in powertrain or replace similar products without changing power infrastructure.
It can achieve up to 97.5% double conversion efficiency and up to 99% with dynamic online mode, according to the company.
Vertiv Australia Pty Ltd www.vertiv.com/en-asia/
What attracted you to working in the electrical industry?
I didn’t choose this industry, it chose me. At nine years old, I was diagnosed with ADD (attention deficit disorder), which made school an uphill battle. I went through four different schools, struggling to fit into a system that wasn’t built for the way I learned. Eventually, I was expelled at 16, and my father gave me an ultimatum: find a job or you’re working for me in the family business. I spent most of my childhood holidays working as free labour for my dad, so I said no thank you, I will find myself a job.
Two weeks later, he knocked on my door and said “you are starting your apprenticeship today”. I had no idea that decision was to be ‘the best decision I never made’ and would set me on a path to leadership, innovation and global impact. What drew me in wasn’t just the technical side; it was the challenge of pushing boundaries, solving problems and creating solutions that redefine industries. Today, I’m not just in the electrical industry, I’m leading a movement that’s changing the way stadiums and large-scale infrastructure
FOCUS ON CHRIS MATTNER
From being expelled from high school to leading a trailblazing South Australian electrical and lighting company, CME Group CEO Chris Mattner shares his journey and insights with ECD.
projects use lighting to enhance experiences, efficiency and sustainability.
Can you tell us a bit about CME?
CME is more than a company; it’s a culture, a vision and a relentless pursuit of excellence. We’re known for delivering world-class electrical and lighting solutions, particularly in sports and stadia lighting. With nearly four decades of history, we’ve illuminated over 400 sports fields, delivered more than 40 MW of renewable energy, and led groundbreaking projects like the Adelaide Oval LED Light Tower Upgrade, which received multiple awards for its innovation, complexity and impact on global stadium lighting standards [including the National Lighting Design & Construct award at the NECA National Excellence Awards 2024 and the Award of Excellence LiDA at the IESANZ Lighting Design Awards 2024].
But what truly sets us apart is our DNA. ‘Powered by Excellence’ isn’t just a tagline; it’s how we think, operate and execute. We push beyond industry norms, deliver innovative solutions and challenge what’s possible. We’re not just another electrical contractor; we’re
industry pioneers, transforming spaces and redefining fan experiences on a global scale.
At CME, we’re also committed to shaping the future of our industry, and that starts with building a workforce that reflects innovation and diversity. One of our most exciting initiatives is the Female Apprentice Program, designed to break down barriers, create real opportunities, and empower more women to step into the electrical and construction industry. Today, women make up less than 2% of the construction workforce, a statistic we refuse to accept. We want to inspire, nurture and develop the next generation of female electricians, technicians and project leaders, proving that talent and ambition know no gender. Our industry needs bold thinkers and passionate change makers, and we’re making it our mission to lead that charge. What does a typical workday look like for you, or is every day different?
Predictability is the enemy of progress, and in my world, no two days are the same. Some days, I’m leading high-level strategy meetings, shaping the future of the busi-
ness. Other days, I’m onsite 70 metres up a stadium light tower, ensuring projects are delivered with the highest standards. I could be presenting at global conferences, collaborating with stadium executives or some of the world sports’ most significant boards, or mentoring the next generation of leaders.
But at the core of every day is my commitment to growth, both personally and professionally. Whether it’s pushing my mindset, refining operations or innovating the next big thing, every day is an opportunity to level up to redefine what’s possible.
What have some of your career highlights been so far?
There are defining moments that shape careers, and I’ve had a few:
• Adelaide Oval LED Light Tower Upgrade — Delivering a global-first lighting upgrade under immense pressure, tight deadlines and extreme weather conditions, yet finishing on time and setting a new industry standard, winning many awards.
• Winning the 40 Under 40 Inspiring Future Leader Award — A recognition
of leadership, resilience and impact. More than an award, it reaffirmed my mission to inspire others to push beyond their limits.
• Expanding CME’s reach into global markets — Taking our expertise beyond Australia, proving that South Australian innovation belongs on the world stage.
• Surviving the tough times — From navigating a complete business restructure in 2012 to scaling from $1.2m in revenue to $20m+, the lessons in resilience and reinvention have been just as important as the wins on our journey to be a $100m global stadium lighting company.
But my greatest highlight? Building a company and a team that thrives on innovation, pushes boundaries, and sets new benchmarks for excellence.
What advice would you give to those looking to get into the industry?
My biggest piece of advice is — never let anyone tell you that you cannot do something, you can do anything ! What I thought for most of my life was a deficit (ADD) ended up turning into my biggest superpower. In my
ONE OF OUR MOST EXCITING INITIATIVES IS THE FEMALE APPRENTICE PROGRAM, DESIGNED TO BREAK DOWN BARRIERS, CREATE REAL OPPORTUNITIES, AND EMPOWER MORE WOMEN TO STEP INTO THE ELECTRICAL AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY.
professional career it gives me hyperfocus and a relentless determination to succeed. The world belongs to those who show up relentlessly. If you want to succeed in this industry, bring hunger, resilience and an obsession with learning, growing and developing. Don’t wait for opportunities, create them! Surround yourself with great mentors, embrace the tough lessons, and never settle for mediocrity.
This industry isn’t just about wires and circuits; it’s about solving problems, leading innovation and leaving an impact. If you’re willing to do what others won’t, you’ll build a career that others can only dream of.
Are there any trends, innovations and changes you’re excited about?
We’re on the brink of a lighting revolution, and I’m here for it:
• The convergence of lighting, AI and immersive technology — The future of stadium experiences isn’t just about illumination; it’s about creating atmospheres, controlling emotions, and enhancing engagement. Smart lighting, sound and visuals is unlocking new ways to shape fan experiences in real time.
• Sustainability leading the charge — LED technology, energy-efficient solutions and carbon footprint reductions are changing how we approach large-scale infrastructure projects. The race isn’t just about brighter lights; it’s about smarter, greener and more efficient solutions, which also drive strong ROIs for our clients.
• Data-driven stadium optimisation — Lighting will soon integrate seamlessly with real-time data to adjust brightness, energy consumption and fan engagement dynamically.
We’re not just witnessing change; we’re driving it. And at CME, we’re not just keeping up; we’re setting the pace.
All images courtesy of CME Group.
Ultrahigh-density fibre termination panel
Designed for the most demanding data centres and telecom networks, WBT’s 7106 Series Ultra High-Density Fibre Termination Panel (FTP) has a capacity of 144 LC or LC/A ports in just 1 RU. As data traffic continues to rise, the 7106 Series offers a solution to future-proof a business’s network infrastructure.
Innovative design is a feature of the 7106 Series. The single-row fibre access and double-pivot function make port access and splicing faster and easier, allowing network administrators to maximise space efficiency while maintaining full control of their infrastructure.
Supporting ultrahigh-density rollable ribbon fibre, the 7106 Series is compatible with configurations such as 864 F, 1728 F and 3456 F. Its ability to directly splice onto MTP connectivity reduces the need for additional connectors, streamlining fibre management and cutting down on complexity.
Each 1/4 RU panel row pivots and slides out independently, supporting 36 fibres per row and totalling 144 fibres in a single RU. This future-ready design supports fibre infrastructure to grow seamlessly while simplifying maintenance and deployment.
Integrating with WBT’s optical distribution frames (ODFs) and patch cords, the 7106 Series offers a complete solution for both existing and new network installations. With a depth of 300 mm, it easily fits into compact racks, offering a space-saving advantage over deeper alternatives. With its generous capacity, smart design and high efficiency, WBT’s 7106 Series Ultra High-Density FTP suits data centres or telecom networks looking to stay ahead of growing data demands.
Warren & Brown Technologies www.wbnetworks.com.au
Motor management system
Siemens has launched the SIMOCODE M-CP motor management system designed for motor control centres (MCCs). The latest series complements the existing SIMOCODE range and introduces a more compact design, more advanced functionality, and compatibility with Ethernet-based communication. In the future, SIMOCODE M-CP will be adaptable to different operational requirements by purchasing licences that enable additional functions depending on the application.
Motor control centres are designed to efficiently distribute power to motors, enable precise control and monitoring, and offer protection against overloads, short circuits and other electrical faults.
SIMOCODE M-CP is optimised for withdrawable units in switchboards. With the ability to choose between front panel mounting and mounting on a DIN rail, the device allows for optimising space and reducing installation expense, while more integrated functions in the basic unit result in less variance. Six digital inputs and four relay outputs eliminate the need for additional modules.
The product uses single-pair Ethernet (SPE) technology to provide uninterrupted Ethernet communication and fulfil the needs of switchboard operations, while reducing wiring complexity with its thin, two-core cables.
With its diagnostic functions, SIMOCODE M-CP can provide early warnings in the event of irregularities. Long-term firmware updates also allow the system to remain functional and up to date. Siemens Ltd
www.siemens.com.au
Virtual power plant
RACV is offering virtual power plants (VPPs) for business customers following the successful installation of VPPs at RACV’s Torquay and Inverloch resorts.
A VPP is a network of solar batteries connected through advanced software systems to operate as a unified energy source. This technology captures, stores and releases energy, making it available to the grid during times of peak demand.
In setting up a VPP, RACV works with a business on a solution that suits its individual needs, before integrating the business’s energy assets into the network. These individual assets then work together, through an automated system, to respond to market demands. The VPP is designed to instantly match spare energy capacity with the highest-value opportunities in the market, giving the business the opportunity to earn revenue from its power.
RACV www.racv.com.au
The challenge of building portable switchrooms
Building a portable switchroom is no simple task. Given the electrical infrastructure they house, switchrooms must comply with a range of safety standards — something that is further complicated when a switchroom also needs to be easily moved from site to site.
The switchroom’s safety features included:
• an emergency push-bar door, for a quick exit — a requirement for all switchrooms;
When looking for a solution that could deliver a standards-compliant, safe and portable switchroom for its major projects across the country, a leading Australian electrical company turned to Modulate Group.
Modulate manufactures customised containerised buildings at its 20,000 m2 production facility in Mayfield, near Newcastle, NSW, where production and customisation to different needs are handled in-house.
Working together with the electrical company, Modulate created a fully sealed containerised switchroom that can be moved to different sites as required. The customised switchroom houses a motor control centre, variable speed drive, distribution board, transformer, local control station, fire indication panel and remote switching panel.
“Electrical switchrooms are some of the more complex containerised buildings we manufacture. We make sure they meet strict AS3000 standards, other relevant safety standards and any client-specific requirements,” said Jack Adams, General Manager at Modulate.
“The customer placed a high importance on safety and quality from the start, and they were clear with their requirements. Not only did they want to meet all relevant standards, but they wanted to maximise internal space, which is an area where Modulate sets itself apart from other portable offices,” he added.
Fully sealed to keep out dust and moisture, the electrical switchroom could be temperature controlled through three air-conditioning units integrated into the roof to save internal space.
“Two units will be operating, and the third is a backup in case one of the others fails. The system will be set up to maintain an overall temperature of below 25°C, with a calculated heat load of 20.432 kW,” Adams said.
Safety and standards compliance
Modulate containerised buildings, configured from standard 20, 30 and 40 ft (approx 6, 9 and 12 m) container templates, are cyclone-rated structures with a design life of 25 years under heavy use.
• a larger-size, fire-rated door (2.3 m high and 1 m wide);
• as a second exit, the original shipping container’s exit (on the opposite side of the switchroom to the main door) with a push bar added;
• a full fire-detection system and fire extinguishers;
• fireproof flooring made from compressed fibre cement;
• emergency exit lights for additional visibility; and
• a recess to maintain optimal canal bend limits for safety and optimised cable efficiency.
“Due to the nature of switchrooms, with electrical equipment, heat and high voltages, these extra features mean that it is fully standards-compliant, and the customer can meet their duty of care to employees and visitors that enter the portable building,” Adams said.
Controlling the internal environment
To help keep the internal space free of dust, debris and moisture, a pressurisation fan was installed. The pressurisation fan and the airconditioning units are all interlocked with the fire detection system, and will automatically shut down in the event of an alarm.
“A skillion roof allowed us to embed components that were essentially hidden within the roof cavity, thereby maximising space inside the switchroom,” Adams said.
“All of the doors are insulated, lined and sealed for a true pressurised space, meeting one of the customer’s key requirements.”
The custom-built portable containerised switchroom is one of hundreds of buildings that Modulate creates, including site offices, ablution units, workshops, storage rooms, lunchrooms, bathrooms, cafes and other customised options for industries such as mining, energy, infrastructure, construction, government projects, defence, and water and power utilities.
Modulate Group www.modulategroup.au
Images courtesy of Modulate Group.
WHEN BUS DEPOTS BECOME ENERGY HUBS
For any city looking to become more sustainable, electric buses bring clear benefits: they encourage energyefficient levels of urban population density, take dozens of polluting vehicles off the street, and don’t release emissions from exhaust.
However, introducing new fleets of electric vehicles can present a problem: a city’s power grid has to be up to managing the increased demand.
University of Utah engineering professor Xiaoyue Cathy Liu has come up with an elegant solution to this challenge — a strategy that radically rethinks how public transportation systems are integrated into other parts of civic infrastructure.
“Integrating onsite solar power generation and energy storage at bus depots introduces a brand new renewable energy production and management mode; transforming a public transport depot into an energy hub that produces more electricity than it consumes,” Liu explained.
Along with fellow researchers, Liu, who works in Price College of Engineering’s Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, analysed the potential of this approach using data from Beijing’s fleet of electric buses.
The international collaboration included researchers from China’s Beihang University, Sweden’s Chalmers University of Technology and Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI. The team’s study has been published in the journal Nature Energy Beijing’s 27,000 buses form the largest public transport system in the world. More than 90% of those in service as of 2022 are low- or no-emission vehicles. These battery-powered buses recharge through a network of more than 700 bus depots spread across 6500 square miles, a substantial piece of physical infrastructure that runs in parallel with the region’s electrical grid.
Given the power demands of the vehicles they serve, these depots put a heavy load on that grid, raising the potential for localised brownouts or other disruptions.
Using advanced data science scene techniques, Liu and her colleagues have been exploring whether locally generated solar power
would be sufficient to counterbalance this demand. Critically, they are also studying the complicated economic factors that would determine this approach’s feasibility.
“More than meeting demand, our simulations show that these depots could net out to be energy producers, further stabilising the grid,” Liu said.
The study is based on a computer model of the Beijing bus network, complete with real-world data on air temperature and solar irradiance at each depot, recorded over the course of 2020. Combined with the rooftop surface area of each depot, the researchers were able to predict the electric output of solar panels that could be installed there.
Adding to the complexity of this model is the fact that depots can significantly vary in terms of both supply and demand. With more buses to charge, busier depots can make the most of a day’s sunshine, while more remote depots would need to store or redistribute their excess electricity lest it go to waste.
“We found energy storage to be the most expensive factor in the model, so smarter and strategic charging schedules would need to be implemented,” Liu said. “That responsiveness is critical, as variable energy pricing schemes have such a large impact on the overall economics.”
The researchers aim to further generalise their model, providing a pathway for other countries to estimate the return on investment of similarly transforming bus depots and other pieces of civic infrastructure into energy hubs.
The research is being funded by the Beijing Nova Program, National Key R&D Program of China, the German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport’s project HOLA, the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program, and Mistra Carbon Exit.
HYDAC LEADS THE WAY IN AS/NZS 61439 CERTIFIED ELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS
In today’s industrial landscape, compliance with electrical safety standards is not just a requirement—it’s a necessity. With the increasing complexity of electrical systems, ensuring safe and reliable operations is crucial to avoid costly downtime, equipment failures, and safety hazards. HYDAC is at the forefront of this movement, setting industry benchmarks with its AS/NZS 61439-certified electrical control panels.
The Importance of AS/NZS 61439 Compliance
AS/NZS 61439 is the Australian and New Zealand standard for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies. It outlines stringent requirements to ensure the safety, performance, and reliability of electrical assemblies. Compliance with this standard is not just about ticking a regulatory box— it provides tangible benefits, including enhanced safety by reducing risks of electrical faults and failures, improved reliability for consistent performance in demanding environments, legal protection by minimising liability in case of electrical incidents, and increased longevity of electrical components and systems.
HYDAC’s Certified Electrical Solutions
HYDAC has developed a comprehensive approach to electrical control panel design, ensuring every assembly meets the rigorous demands of AS/NZS 61439. This certification is not merely an added feature —it is embedded in HYDAC’s entire design and manufacturing process.
Precision Engineering & Quality Assurance
HYDAC follows a structured process to design and manufacture electrical control panels, ensuring compliance at every stage. Every panel undergoes meticulous engineering reviews to confirm compliance with AS/NZS 61439. Only highquality, certified components are used to guarantee longevity and performance. Panels are rigorously tested under various operating conditions to ensure reliability in real-world applications. Comprehensive documentation is provided for each panel, offering clients full transparency and confidence in compliance.
Tailored Solutions for Industry Needs
HYDAC’s expertise extends beyond compliance. The company works closely with clients to develop customised electrical control solutions that align with specific operational requirements. From mining and energy to manufacturing and automation, HYDAC’s panels are designed to support diverse industrial applications.
The Risks of Non-Compliance
Failing to comply with AS/NZS 61439 can have serious repercussions. Businesses operating with non-compliant panels face increased risks, including higher chances of electrical fires, short circuits, and failures, legal and financial consequences such as legal action, fines, and costly retrofits, and unreliable performance leading to inconsistent operation and potential system downtime.
By choosing HYDAC’s certified solutions, businesses can mitigate these risks and ensure long-term operational security.
Future-Ready Electrical Solutions
HYDAC’s commitment to innovation goes beyond compliance. The company continues to evolve its electrical engineering capabilities, incorporating smart technologies and automation to enhance efficiency, performance, and sustainability. As industries move toward smarter, more integrated electrical systems, HYDAC remains dedicated to delivering cutting-edge solutions that meet and exceed industry standards.
Partner with HYDAC for Certified Electrical Control Panels
With extensive experience in electrical automation and a strong commitment to compliance, HYDAC is a trusted partner for businesses seeking certified, highperformance electrical solutions. By prioritising safety, reliability, and efficiency, HYDAC is helping industries navigate the evolving regulatory landscape with confidence. To learn more about HYDAC’s AS/NZS 61439-certified electrical control panels, visit www.hydac.com.au. HYDAC also has two podcasts on this topic available on its website.
SIX TRENDS SHAPING THE INDUSTRY OF THE FUTURE
Hubertus Breier, Board Member for Technology and Innovation, LAPP
Products, processes and services constantly need to become faster and better to keep up with the growing needs of industry. As part of this rapid growth, connectivity solutions are being put to the test.
Technology experts at LAPP see six key trends that will shape the industry.
1. Direct current (DC) technology
DC technology will make an important contribution to the success of the energy transition and to greater sustainability. This is because experts have established that the use of DC grids significantly reduces energy consumption in existing systems by avoiding conversion stages. The need for copper for the three/four-core DC cables and AC-DC converter devices is also reduced. DC grids in factories also contribute to a lower peak power at the supply connection to the grid and reduce the load here. LAPP has therefore prioritised the development of cables and wires for low-voltage DC grids for industrial applications and already has a large portfolio of connection solutions for industrial DC grids.
Collaboration between LAPP and Fraunhofer IPA has led to the development of a scalable DC network concept for a produc-
tion site expansion in France, for example. This increases efficiency and enables the integration of PV systems for sustainable grid concepts. This pioneering conceptual work supports the transformation of the factory power supply towards direct current and promotes efficiency and sustainability.
With Australia being one of the leading countries globally for solar panels, there is huge opportunity for industry to capitalise on solar — on factory roofs, for example — to enhance its sustainability credentials.
2. Digitalisation
181 zettabytes (that’s the number 181 followed by 21 zeros) is the forecast for the amount of digital data generated worldwide in 2025. How can this gigantic amount of data be transmitted quickly and stably?
Copper cables alone cannot cope with this. The solution: light, or more precisely, fibreoptic, cables. A futureproof communication infrastructure in the factory with fibre-optic cables is therefore essential. Today, there are already implementations such as fibre-
to-the-curb, where the fibre-optic connection is laid to the distribution box in front of the house or factory.
Fibre-to-the-machine is the next logical step in order to connect the highly networked machines in the factory with sufficient data transmission capacity.
3. Single pair Ethernet (SPE)
Of course, copper-based data transmission is still the dominant solution in the industry. Since 2019, LAPP has been a member of the SPE Industrial Partner Network e.V. This association of well-known companies is a central information and exchange platform for SPE, helping the technology to achieve breakthroughs. In simple terms, the aim is to connect field-level devices (e.g., sensors or actuators) to the cloud via the Ethernet protocol, paving the way for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).
Ethernet Advanced Physical Layer (Ethernet-APL), which is partly based on SPE, was developed especially for demanding applications in the process industry. The
APPLICATIONS ARE BECOMING MORE COMPACT, INSTALLATION SPACES SMALLER, AND MORE DATA AND POWER CONNECTIONS HAVE TO BE PLUGGED INTO THE SMALLEST OF SPACES.
technology enables safe data transmission up to field level in potentially explosive environments. This is supported through the “intrinsic safety” protection technique. Ethernet-APL also bridges large distances of up to 1000 m.
4. Miniaturisation
The trend towards miniaturisation is continuing in many areas of industry. Applications
are becoming more compact, installation spaces smaller, and more and more data and power connections have to be plugged into the smallest of spaces.
To address these market requirements, LAPP has developed connectors with diverse applications. For example, its EPIC POWER M12L and M12K connectors are suitable for collaborative human-robot solutions, so-called “cobots”, which work together with humans in production or in the warehouse. The technical properties of the connectors were simulated during development using virtual models.
5. EMC compatibility
In the smart factory, machines and systems are becoming increasingly networked. As a result, the issue of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is becoming increasingly important. Particularly in industrial systems in which frequency converter-controlled motors are used, unwanted currents can increasingly occur on the potential equalisation cables (PA) or protective earth cables (PE). These unwanted currents can affect neighbour-
ing data lines and their data quality during transmission, trigger fault circuit breakers incorrectly or even lead to increased corrosion effects in building structures.
LAPP’s ÖLFLEX FD Servo zeroCM motor cable has been designed to manage leakage currents using a special stranding process, and contributes to the EMC optimisation of frequency-controlled drive systems.
6. Sustainability
Users are also increasingly looking for environmentally friendly and energy-efficient connection solutions for cables.
Along with developing a cable with a sheath made from a partially bio-based TPU, and a prototype cable with a sustainable PVC sheath, LAPP is also investigating initial approaches to the use of recycled material, both in the production cycle and the use of “cable scrap”.
In addition to product-related sustainability approaches, transparency and documentation of the product carbon footprint are important.
AUSTRALIA’S CLIMATE TARGETS WHY ENGINEERING IS CRITICAL TO MEETING
As Australia’s ambitious 2050 net zero and 2030 greenhouse gas reduction deadlines approach, sustainable engineering in the renewable energy sector will determine whether these goals are met.
Engineering — the backbone of infrastructure — is critical to achieving our climate targets and ensuring long-term sustainability, yet questions still linger around the speed we are moving at and the diverse energy needs required to meet these targets. Australia has made substantial strides in renewable energy over the past decade, with capacity increasing from 77 PJ to 291 PJ annually. Yet still, this pace falls short when compared to the scale of energy transition needed to meet national targets. Per the Net Zero Australia project, Australia will need to triple its power capacity by 2030 to be on track for net zero by 2050. Engineers are essential for this to be achieved.
Solar, wind and battery storage capacity form the foundation of this transition, yet challenges remain in scaling both grid-connected and offgrid solutions quickly enough. Given the projected energy needs, it’s crucial that Australia’s engineering efforts include a diverse mix of infrastructure to include off-grid and ‘behind-themeter’ solutions, allowing businesses and communities to become energy self-sufficient and resilient.
Engineering’s role in renewable energy and storage Engineers are at the forefront of designing these crucial renewable solutions
necessary for Australia to meet its targets. While traditional on-grid systems are vital, offgrid and behind-the-meter solutions must be given a greater deal of weight as they offer flexibility and reliability, especially for businesses in remote areas or industries needing uninterrupted energy. Off-grid projects that combine renewable generation with battery storage allow businesses to reduce grid dependency and manage their energy use more effectively, lowering long-term costs and reinforcing energy security.
To address the growing need for renewable infrastructure, it’s essential to invest in high-quality, resilient materials and advanced designs. With Australia’s varied climate, solar panels, wind turbines and batteries must be equipped to endure extreme conditions such as intense heat, dust and high wind. By prioritising durable materials and sustainable design approaches, Australia can reduce maintenance costs and enhance the longevity of renewable assets, creating reliable energy solutions across both on-grid and off-grid settings.
Meeting the demand for resilient, sustainable infrastructure
Business and industry commitments are driving demand for resilient renewable solutions that go beyond mere capacity increases. Industry players are increasingly focused on infrastructure that can deliver efficient, reliable energy, while also supporting corporate sustainability goals. For many, this
involves integrating renewable energy with large-scale battery storage, ensuring energy availability regardless of weather conditions or grid stability — an engineering challenge particularly relevant for Australia’s unique and diverse climate.
Expanding battery storage and innovative storage solutions such as pumped hydro and hydrogen storage is essential to balance supply and demand. Currently, Australia operates only 3 GW of large-scale storage, far below the estimated 49 GW needed by 2050 to support a fully renewable grid. Increased investment in these storage technologies would allow businesses greater energy autonomy, stability and resilience, helping them reduce their reliance on the grid while improving operational efficiency.
Paul Carmignani, Managing Director, Powertech
Challenges in long-term infrastructure investment
Many projects are developed under tight budgets, prioritising cheaper materials or minimal upfront investment, which can compromise the durability and performance of renewable installations. For businesses seeking to integrate off-grid solutions, prioritising investment in high-durability materials and sustainable infrastructure can bring significant long-term value by minimising maintenance costs and downtime. While upfront costs may be higher, a reduction in maintenance costs and extended lifespan will reduce the expense over time and help ensure that renewable systems can withstand Australia’s diverse climate zones and offer more reliable energy solutions.
Engineering’s growing skill shortage
Perhaps the most significant barrier towards Australia achieving its lofty sustainability targets, however, is a distinct shortage of specialised engineering talent, particularly in critical areas of renewables and energy storage. A recent report by Engineers Australia highlighted the sector’s labour shortage reaching its highest level in over a decade, with demand outpacing supply by nearly three times the rate of the general workforce. Without an increase in the number of skilled engineers, reaching these targets cannot be achieved. Resources are too low and significant government and industry investment in recruitment, education and training is crucial to expand the talent pool
needed to meet the scale of future demands. Our goals cannot be achieved without it.
Sustainable engineering solutions developed today will not only shape a resilient, reliable energy landscape for Australia but also support the nation in reaching its net zero and greenhouse gas reduction targets. Australia stands before an immense opportunity to be a global leader in best practice and efficiency. Through a collaborative approach among government, industry and engineering leaders, Australia can accelerate this progress and quicken its pace. But the time to act is now, with immediate response necessary for cleaner, more resilient energy systems that fulfil both national commitments and global climate responsibilities.
24 V power supply system
The Sitop PSU8400 3-phase power supplies and Sitop SEL1600 selectivity modules can be conveniently parameterised and diagnosed via integrated displays or IOLink. This enables high transparency and enhances the reliability of the 24 V supply and its individual load branches.
According to Siemens, the compact 24 V/20 A and 40 A power supplies have a degree of efficiency of 96% and adjustable overload behaviour. The selectivity system consists of a basic module with four 10 A outputs each and can be expanded to up to 40 outputs via expansion modules. The modules of the Sitop PSU8400 and Sitop SEL1600 can be easily connected via prefabricated 24 V brackets and data cable; however, they can also be combined independently of each other with other power supplies or selectivity modules. Siemens Ltd www.siemens.com.au
Heavy-duty enclosures
Hammond has introduced the IP68 1550ZF range: flanged versions of all 18 sizes in its heavy-duty 1550Z die-cast aluminium enclosure family. The full-size flange is spot-welded to the base to provide a strong, smooth mounting plate for use when the units are secured to a surface.
The 18 sizes range from 50 x 45 x 30 mm to 223 x 147 x 83 mm, with the lid’s thickness ranging from 5–33 mm in depth depending on the size. The tongue and groove design and a pre-formed one-piece silicone rubber gasket provide IP68 environmental protection, making the enclosures suitable for installation in environments where dust and water will be present.
The enclosures are UL- and cUL-listed and have been independently tested to IP66, IP67 and IP68. They are also rated to NEMA Type 4, 4X, 12 and 13. All sizes except the smallest have an impact rating of IK08, defined in IEC 62262 as the equivalent to the impact of a 1.7 kg mass dropped from 300 mm above the impacted surface.
Depending on the size, the lid is secured to the base with either two, four or six stainless steel Philips machine screws located outside the gasketed area, giving repeated access without degrading the environmental protection. The enclosures are available in a natural finish or with a tough polyester black powder finish to both the outside and inside. In the painted versions, clear areas are provided around the grounding points.
Hammond Electronics Pty Ltd www.hammfg.com
Flexible cable
The Treoflex TA35 is a high-quality flexible rubber cable designed for industrial and outdoor use. Built with fine-stranded Class 5 copper conductors, it is designed to provide excellent flexibility and reliable power transmission. Its EPR (ethylene propylene rubber) insulation and durable chloroprene rubber sheath provide strong resistance to heat, moisture, abrasion and oils.
With a working voltage rating of 0.6/1 kV and a temperature range of -40 to +90°C (fixed) and -20 to +90°C (moved), it is suitable for demanding applications, including construction equipment, portable tools and industrial machinery. Available in multiple sizes and multiple core configurations, the Treoflex TA35 delivers durability, safety and performance, making it a sensible choice for challenging environments.
Treotham Automation Pty Ltd www.treotham.com.au
WHY YOUR ELECTRICAL BUSINESS NEEDS A LOCAL SEO STRATEGY
Luca Mason, Owner, Sparky Digital
Have you ever noticed how some electrical businesses always appear first in Google searches? While luck plays no part, the answer isn’t complicated — they’re using local SEO. If that sounds technical, don’t worry. It’s simpler than you might think.
Providing digital marketing services exclusively to electricians around Australia, at Sparky Digital we’ve seen firsthand what makes the difference between businesses that show up in local searches and those that don’t. The numbers tell an interesting story: 46% of Google searches in Australia are people looking for local businesses. Yet many electrical contractors haven’t even claimed their Google Business Profile. That’s a huge opportunity for electricians ready to take their online presence seriously.
Your website basics
Think of your website as your digital shopfront. Every marketing effort leads back to it, with one goal — getting potential customers to contact you when they need an electrician.
With over 50% of people now searching on mobile, your website needs to work perfectly on phones. Try this: visit your website on mobile and attempt to find your services and contact form. If it’s frustrating for you, it’s frustrating for customers. A clunky website isn’t just annoying — it’s costing you valuable electrical jobs.
Your website needs dedicated pages for each electrical service you offer. Break down “electrical services” into specific pages for residential work, commercial installations, emergency repairs, safety inspections etc. This makes it easy for customers to find what they need and helps Google understand your services. Each page should clearly explain your expertise in that specific service area.
The contact form is your money maker — keep it simple and ensure it works flawlessly on every device. Place your phone number prominently in the header so it follows customers as they browse your site.
Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile is often the first impression customers get of your business. Keep it fresh with photos of your completed electrical work — neat switchboard upgrades, properly terminated distribution boards and clean lighting installations show your quality workmanship.
Reviews are crucial. Make review requests part of your job completion process. Ask while you’re still onsite and the customer is happy with your work. These genuine reviews are vital for your local visibility. Follow up with a simple email containing your review link — most satisfied customers are happy to help if you make it easy.
Local search basics
When people need an electrician, they search Google with patterns like: “electrician Sydney”, “emergency electrician near me” and “commercial electrician Melbourne”. Create specific pages for each area you service. Describe the electrical problems you commonly solve in different locations. This helps Google match you with local customers. Include details about common electrical issues in older homes, commercial buildings and emergency situations specific to each area you serve.
Building local backlinks
Think about backlinks as digital recommendations. Start with professional associations like Master Electricians or NECA. Consider joining your local Chamber of Commerce too — it’s another great way to build both online visibility and local business connections.
Community involvement through sponsoring local sports teams or events creates both online and offline visibility. Your business name on team uniforms and field signage, combined with website mentions, strengthens your local presence. These connections often lead to wordof-mouth referrals alongside the SEO benefits. Don’t forget about local business directories — but focus on quality over quantity. Make sure your business details are consistent across all platforms.
Putting it all together
Local SEO is an ongoing process. Keep your website current, respond to reviews, update your project photos and stay active in your community. These efforts compound over time, building a solid online presence that brings steady work.
Remember, every day, people in your area are searching for electricians. With the right approach to local SEO, you could be the first electrical business they see. In today’s market, being found online isn’t just nice to have — it’s essential for any growing electrical business. Start implementing these strategies today, and you’ll be better positioned to capture valuable local searches tomorrow.
Luca Mason is the owner of Sparky Digital, a marketing agency that exclusively partners with electricians and other trades. Sparky Digital offers web development and strategic local SEO campaigns to help tradespeople grow their businesses.
Hospitality precinct opts for large-scale solar
A Brisbane hospitality precinct has installed a large-scale solar array as part of achieving its ambitious sustainability goals.
Howard Smith Wharves (HSW), owned by Artemus Group, is a riverfront precinct containing restaurants, cafes, bars, event spaces, a hotel and a brewery.
Having already diverted 97% of its waste from landfill, the precinct commissioned an energy audit and kitchen electrification study from Origin Zero, with the aim of reducing emissions by 44% by June 2026, compared to 2022 levels. Origin Zero is a branch of energy provider Origin that helps large businesses work towards net zero goals.
Following the audit, Origin Zero proposed the 179 kW rooftop solar array as well as power factor correction (an adjustment of power supply systems to enhance efficiency) to achieve immediate supplyside emissions savings of 7.2% across the precinct’s many venues.
“These two quick and simple solutions drastically reduce our emissions, so of course we jumped at the opportunity,” said Luke Fraser, CEO of Artemus Group.
“It’s exciting to continue redefining sustainability in hospitality as we work collaboratively to raise the industry standard and to support national emissions reduction targets and help the country toward net zero by 2050.”
Liam McWhirter, Origin Zero’s GM Enterprise and Strategic Partners, said Origin Zero had worked closely with Howard Smith Wharves to understand its business needs and identify the right solutions to help achieve its sustainability goals.
“The first step in the process was conducting a full energy audit and carbon assessment,” McWhirter said.
“We’ve since been able to implement a range of initiatives together, including the installation of a rooftop solar system that meets heritage requirements and will generate a considerable portion of Howard Smith Wharves’ day-time energy usage,” he continued.
“Alongside achieving meaningful carbon emissions reductions, our work with Howard Smith Wharves will also deliver significant energy savings,” McWhirter added.
The audit found electricity corresponded to 69% of HSW’s energy consumption but 90% of its emissions due to the high emissions factor of the Queensland electricity grid. Decarbonisation of the grid over the coming years with the phase-out of coal power plants is expected to contribute emissions savings of 25% for the precinct.
Origin Zero developed an emissions reduction pathway to map the various actions that could help Howard Smith Wharves reach its target. It found the precinct could reduce demand-side emissions by 7.7% through various measures.
These included the use of a heat pump to supply chilled water to the precinct, offsetting 625,700 kWh of natural gas and reducing emissions by 4.3% — the biggest demand-side potential emissions reduction for the precinct.
“Our next step is to establish a plan to replace our gas appliances, obtain designs for chilled water heat recovery, and buy the green power we need — as well as implementing some other changes the audit identified that we can make for smaller gains, like optimising fans in the car park,” Fraser said.
“It’s our vision at Howard Smith Wharves to become the most sustainable precinct on the planet. We want to redefine the benchmark for sustainability in the hospitality industry in Australia.”
Image: Supplied.
Image: Supplied.
Howard Smith Wharves.
Howard Smith Wharves.
SIZE MATTERS
WHEN IT COMES TO SUSTAINABLE EVS
As electric vehicles gain in popularity, the EV market has broadened out to offer larger vehicles with greater range and performance. This has meant a simultaneous increase in the size of the batteries needed to power these larger models.
Unfortunately, when it comes to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, huge EV batteries present a problem.
A recent scientific article* by Perry Gottesfeld, the Executive Director of non-profit public health organisation Occupational Knowledge International, has drawn attention to this issue. Published in the journal PLOS Sustainability and Transformation , the article reports that lithium-ion batteries in the most popular EVs have increased in weight by 68% over the past five years, with batteries in the top 10 EV models sold now weighing an average of 595 kg.
The largest model now on the market, the GMC Hummer EV, has a battery weighing 1326 kg, making it heavier than many conventional cars and even the entire Fiat 500e electric vehicle.
Gottesfeld also presents the startling finding that the combined weight of all the batteries in the top 10 EV models sold in the US in 2023 is approximately 1.5 times the weight of the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge. That’s 884,476 vehicles with a total battery weight of 561,065 MT. Sales of the top 10 models in the US in 2023 account for approximately 74% of all EVs sold there.
The trend is not limited to the US, Gottesfeld notes, with more than half of the EV models available in China, Germany, France and the UK in recent years being SUVs or large cars.
The mass of these batteries poses a significant challenge for future waste processing and hazardous waste disposal given the existing limitations of recycling technologies.
Making matters worse, larger EVs require approximately 75% more critical minerals to produce than small electric cars and their CO2 emissions from mineral processing, manufacturing and assembly are 70% greater. The trend to larger batteries may also delay efforts to decarbonise the electricity grid as they require much greater energy consumption.
The growing size of EVs and their batteries is reversing the potential environmental gains from adopting this technology. According to Gottesfeld, there isn’t a realistic economic model for fully recycling these batteries to make new lithium-ion batteries as is the practice for recycling paper, aluminium or glass waste.
“Not all EVs are making a positive contribution to environmental sustainability and we need to better inform consumers to select vehicles that actually reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” Gottesfeld said.
In his article, Gottesfeld concludes that improved public policy, incentives and messaging are needed to drive consumer demand to smaller EVs to reduce carbon emissions and yield environmental sustainability benefits. Government subsidies and tax incentives should be better aligned to account for greenhouse gas emissions over the vehicle lifecycle.
The Simatic S7-1200 G2 controller generation provides basic but high-precision automation controls. Thanks to the device’s new functionalities, users benefit from integrated and efficient motion control, with the ability to control multiple coordinated axes and simple kinematics. The safety portfolio offers solutions for flexible machine safety, while the dedicated communication power — outsourced to a separate core — is combined with more memory and increased computing power for improved performance and scalability.
Simatic S7-1200 G2 controllers offer increased data transparency thanks to near-field communication (NFC).
Siemens Ltd www.siemens.com.au
Fuse link mounted circuit breaker
NOJA Power’s new EcoLink Reclosing medium voltage fuse alternative is a fuse link mounted circuit breaker designed to offer reclosing reliability in a compact form factor. The lightweight device offers overcurrent protection, inrush restraint and reclosing technology.
With approximately 80% of overhead line faults being transient, EcoLink’s ability to harvest line energy and reclose on faults provides operational cost savings over traditional network fuse approaches, according to the company.
NOJA Power has also released the EcoLink PC Configuration Application: a software package enabling connection, configuration and management of EcoLink devices.
NOJA Power Switchgear Pty Ltd www.nojapower.com.au
Worksite storage system
The DEWALT TOUGHSYSTEM 2.0 DXL is a large-scale storage solution designed to enhance productivity and safety on the jobsite. The DXL range, which is compatible with the TOUGHSYSTEM 2.0 range, includes heavy-duty drawers, a rolling base and a work top. These components provide a durable, mobile workshop solution suited to worksites, workshops, garages or any location where equipment is used and security is important. The range offers quick tool access, easy transport and customisable workspace options.
The DXL system comprises four new products: Deep Drawer, Shallow Drawer, 4-Wheel Dolly and Work Top. Each features auto-stacking latches for quick connectivity with each other and previous TOUGHSYSTEM modules, allowing users to create and customise combinations that meet the specific tool and accessory needs of each job. The system is also available in a 5-in-1 Tower pre-stacked combination modular workstation.
Designed for larger tools and equipment, Deep Drawers feature removable dividers for customisable organisation and heavy-duty aluminium carry handles. The drawer includes an integrated locking bar with a metal secure lock mechanism. It has locking aluminium drawer levers and a weather seal to protect tools from water and dust. The total load capacity is 25 kg.
The Shallow Drawer unit features two drawers with ballbearing slides for smooth operation, removable dividers for flexible organisation, and storage for smaller tools and accessories. It includes an integrated locking bar, locking aluminium drawer levers and heavy-duty aluminium carry handles. The unit has a total load capacity of 25 kg (12.5 kg per drawer).
The 4-Wheel Dolly allows users to transport their TOUGHSYSTEM modules across the workshop or jobsite. Equipped with 5 ″ all-terrain wheels, it can manoeuvre over rough and uneven surfaces. It has a total load capacity of 200 kg.
The Work Top attachment converts TOUGHSYSTEM modules into a 50 x 66 cm working surface. It features raised edges to prevent items from rolling off, TS 2.0 bin slots for storage of small parts and accessories, a dualuse deep storage/cup holder, a power tool hook slot and a wide ergonomic handle for comfortable transportation.
Dewalt Power Tools www.dewalt.com
HARSH PENALTIES FOR NON-COMPLIANT SMART TECH
Across its 27 member countries and population of about 448 million, The European Union (EU) hosts nearly 20 billion connected devices.
These include smart home appliances, connected vehicles, industrial sensors and medical devices. By 2030, the number of connected digital products in use within the EU is projected to reach 30 billion. As a result, the market is expected to grow from €120 billion in 2024 to between €250 billion and €300 billion by 2030. But there’s a hitch.
Last year, the European Union introduced a new regulation that will affect all manufacturers supplying connected electronic products to EU countries: the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA). The CRA makes manufacturers responsible for the cybersecurity of their products, not just at the point of sale but throughout the entire product lifecycle. Once the CRA takes effect, selling smart connected devices without regular cyber resilience testing will be illegal in Europe. Violations could result in fines of up to €15 million ($16.75 million) or 2.5% of annual global turnover — whichever is higher.
No loophole
Cybersecurity expert Jan Wendenburg, CEO of European cybersecurity and compliance company ONEKEY, explained that the CRA regulation applies not only to product manufacturers, but also to distributors: that is, importers and retailers who sell connected devices within the EU. The CRA also covers all online platforms through which consumers or businesses can purchase electronic products in European countries, without exception.
“There is no loophole,” Wendenburg said. “As soon as a product of any type or origin
has an internet connection, the strict requirements of the EU CRA legislation apply.”
Wendenburg pointed out another potential regulatory hurdle: when artificial intelligence (AI) is used in networked devices, either directly or via a cloud connection, the EU Artificial Intelligence Act (EU AI Act) must also be observed via the EU Cyber Resilience Act if international companies want to sell electronic products in the countries of the European Union.
Because of the need for continuous software updates, networked devices planned for distribution in the European Union need to be prepared right from the development phase. “EU legislation is based on security by design,” Wendenburg said. “With a development time of one and a half to three years, depending on the product category, it is therefore high time to focus on an EUcompliant product range.”
ONEKEY operates a Product Cybersecurity & Compliance Platform (PCCP) that enables international manufacturers, distributors and retailers to automatically check their networked devices, machines and systems for
compliance with the European Union’s Cyber Resilience Act. This includes all operational technology (OT) and Internet of Things (IoT) product classes.
“At ONEKEY, we are fully prepared to test internet-connected electronic products for compliance with EU cybersecurity regulations before they enter the European Union market,” Wendenburg said. “Products that fail to meet the CRA requirements will not be eligible for the CE mark, which is mandatory for sale within the EU.”
The European Union has a strong track record of imposing substantial fines on international companies that violate EU regulations and laws. Examples include Apple (€13 billion, 2016); Google (€4.34 billion, 2018); Amazon (€746 million, 2021); Samsung (€145 million, 2013); Sony, Panasonic and Sanyo (€166 million, 2016); and ChemChina (€68 million, 2017).
“The EU is not afraid to go after the big players, so it is even less afraid of fining smaller and medium-sized companies for non-compliance with EU rules,” Wendenburg warned.
How open-source tech is changing NZ’s electricity grid
Transpower, the owner and operator of New Zealand’s national electricity grid, has implemented open-source technology as a key part of a 10-year plan to modernise its Market System.
The Market System is a critical application that is designed to ensure a secure and robust power system, along with the real-time provision of optimal electricity prices.
Crunch time for the NZ grid
Transpower’s infrastructure consists of 174 substations, 25,000 transmission towers and almost 11,000 km of lines that run the entirety and width of the country. It must deliver bulk electricity (up to 220,000 V) to power cities, towns and major industrial customers.
In 2013, the grid operator faced a looming problem. The solutions it used to support mission-critical applications were nearing the end of their life and needed replacing. However, the company only had a limited number of experts available to work with these complex systems.
Confronted with the risks of outdated and unsupported technology, as well as a lack of available expertise to support architecture that had become increasingly costly to maintain and suffered long outages, Transpower initiated some sweeping changes.
The roadmap for transformation
To overhaul its Market System, Transpower created a 10-year integrated roadmap. Its aim was to ensure the system remained fit for purpose, cost-effective, resilient, flexible and scalable in the face of large-scale industry change.
The roadmap set out three distinct areas for transformation: people capability, processes and technology changes. As part of a change in processes and tools, Transpower deployed DevOps and agile ways of working.
Further technology changes included adopting open-source solutions to replace end-of-life proprietary products and to simplify architecture while shifting to modern programming languages. This would allow Transpower to avoid a full system rewrite, resulting in considerable financial savings and minimising service disruptions.
A development-first approach
As part of its aim to deploy developer-first platforms (ie, those that prioritise developer experience), Transpower had already used a range of solutions from US software company Red Hat, including Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) to support early transformation projects. This approach was critical in attracting and retaining key staff to support the grid operator’s modernisation process.
Transpower made full use of Red Hat Fuse, fully automating the deployment of Karaf clusters across development, testing, staging, training, and real-time and operational support environments. Red Hat Satellite and RHEL were deployed to support automation across the Transpower fleet of servers.
Automation allowed Transpower to build and rebuild environments from source code. By porting the corporate ESB technology to Red Hat Fuse, it also achieved a two-year payback period.
As Transpower plans the next stages of its modernisation journey, Red Hat Application Foundations continue to provide core technologies for building, deploying and operating these applications.
Building a foundation for innovation
To maintain a dependable electricity grid, vital functions such as a secure power system, energy dispatch, and the operation of the wholesale electricity market required applications that were both reliable and ready to react to innovations in the market.
Starting with the dispatch system, Transpower began by updating key applications as Java microservices on Red Hat OpenShift as an application platform. The lessons learned from the dispatch project gave Transpower the confidence to begin modernising the architecture of the wider Market System, also built on Red Hat OpenShift.
This stable yet flexible platform allows Transpower to adapt and take on complex challenges, particularly as new power generation types and new technologies are connected to the grid. In 2022, Transpower launched real-time pricing, enabling generators, retailers and electricity consumers to make decisions in real time about energy consumption or generation.
A win-win solution
With the new tools in place, Transpower has grown its Market Systems Development Team from three staff to over 20, helping to reduce organisational risk. This has also enabled the team to scale delivery and take on large industry changes similar to real-time pricing.
“The modernised system enabled us to deliver at scale with the largest single change in the electricity market since 1996,” said Daniel Crawshay, Operations, Process and Technology Improvement Manager at Transpower.
“It’s enabled us to build our capabilities while delivering a quality output to customers.”
Red Hat Asia Pacific Pty Ltd www.redhat.com.au
WHAT LINKS EXTREME WEATHER AND MAJOR POWER OUTAGES?
A recent study out of the United States has investigated the relationship between severe weather events and power outages. Understanding this relationship is crucial for developing disaster response plans, especially as the climate changes.
Led by Vivian Do from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, the study has been published in the open-access journal PLOS Climate 1
As in Australia, it’s common for severe weather events in the US to be accompanied by large-scale power outages. These combined events can lead to major economic costs and health risks, with loss of power disrupting medical equipment, heating or air conditioning, and other important systems. As severe weather events increase in severity and frequency due to climate change, understanding the patterns and distribution of these outages is critical for community preparation and resource allocation.
Along with her colleagues, first author Do, a PhD candidate in environmental health sciences, compiled data from 2018–2020 on severe weather events (including rain, snow, heat, cold, cyclones and wildfire) and largescale power outages lasting eight hours or more for over 1600 counties across the US.
The researchers noted that, while previous studies had examined individual severe weather events (eg, heatwaves) and focused on large outages in metropolitan areas, Do and her colleagues described nationwide spatiotemporal patterns of individual (eg, tropical cyclone alone) AND simultaneous (eg, tropical cyclone + anomalous heat) severe weather events co-occurring with 8+ hour
outages. The team used hourly county-level PowerOutage.us data from 2018–2020 to define 8+ hour outages as whenever the daily proportion of customers without power was ≥0.1% for ≥8 continuous hours.
The data revealed that nearly 75% of the 1600 counties experienced major power outages alongside severe weather events during the three-year period; and over 50% of counties experienced outages alongside multiple simultaneous weather events.
Outages most commonly occurred alongside severe precipitation and heat, with precipitation-associated outages more common in the Northeast US and heat-associated outages more common in the Southeast. The study also found that co-occurring outages and wildfires became increasingly common along the West Coast from 2018 to 2020.
Multiple (2+) simultaneous severe weather events appeared to drastically increase the chances of a power outage. In New York, for example, when compared to days with no severe weather, 8+ hour outages were 9 times more prevalent during extreme heat alone, 30 times more prevalent during precipitation, and a whopping 391 times more prevalent during a heat and heavy precipitation event.2 This trend was also observed nationally.
One limitation of the study was a lack of reliable data for some US counties, so the researchers didn’t have much information about regions such as the Southwest and Mountain West.
Do and her colleagues suggested that further research providing additional data, along with simulations of severe weather combinations in different locations, will be useful for developing mitigation and response tactics.
“Power outages frequently co-occur with severe weather events like heavy precipitation, tropical cyclones or multiple severe weather events simultaneously,” Do explained.
“Understanding patterns of where and when power outages and severe weather events co-occur is crucial for informing strategies to minimise societal consequences, especially as the electrical grid ages and climate change drives more severe weather events.”
The team’s research was funded by United States’ National Institute for Environmental Health Sciences, the National Institute on Aging, and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute grant.
1. Additional authors included Nina Flores and Heather McBrien at Columbia Mailman; Lauren B. Wilner and Joan A. Casey at the University of Washington, Seattle; and Alexander J. Northrop at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Ichan School of Medicine in New York.
2. Flores NM, Northrop AJ, Do V, Gordon M, Jiang Y, Rudolph KE, et al. Powerless in the storm: Severe weather-driven power outages in New York State, 2017–2020. PLOS Climate. 2024 May 1. https://journals.plos.org/climate/ article?id=10.1371/journal.pclm.0000364
Smoke alarms
Wisualarm is a line of smoke alarms developed in partnership with Dahua Technology and distributed in Australia and New Zealand by Madison Express.
The devices feature advanced split-spectrum technology, which enhances detection accuracy by differentiating between smoke, vapour and dust particles, minimising false alarms. The HUSH feature with infrared remote allows users to silence alarms using any infrared remote control. All alarms have a single-button Test & Silence function for ease of use.
The range includes two mains power smoke alarms (DHI-HYSA5MA and DHI-HY-SA5MB); a wireless interconnected smoke alarm (DHI-HY-SA30A-R9); a standalone smoke alarm and CO alarm (DHI-HY-SA30A and DHI-HY-GC20C); and wireless interconnected module and wireless gateway (DHI-HY-MRF50-R9 & DHI-HY-GW01A).
All the interconnected products can also be connected to the wireless gateway using Ethernet or Wi-Fi, and can be wirelessly controlled and silenced through the Wisualarm App. The wireless interconnected smoke alarm connects with up to 24 devices, offering seamless integration for enhanced safety.
The smoke alarms are backed by a 10-year warranty.
Madison Express madisonexpress.com.au
N-type solar panels
Tindo’s Walara Series of solar modules is designed for the Australian climate using n-type and bi-facial technologies. These technologies allow the panels to capture sunlight from both sides to boost overall power output.
Engineered and manufactured locally, the panels are designed with half-cut cell technology that can help to reduce energy loss due to resistance and heat, leading to higher overall efficiency.
The panels are durable with a new robust 35 mm framing that is designed to minimise micro-cracks and ensure long-term performance.
Additionally, the improved packaging allows for up to 31 panels per pallet, streamlining the logistics and installation process.
Tindo solar panels are delivered on pallets with custom recycled material corner caps, ready for installation. Tindo Solar Pty Ltd www.tindosolar.com.au
Fully rugged tablet
Getac’s next-gener ation ZX10 10 rugged Android tablet combines lightweight design with powerful AIready performance and intuitive Android functionality. It is aimed at professionals working in industries such as public safety, utilities, and transportation and logistics, who need devices they can use in challenging environments.
The tablet features Qualcomm’s QCS6490 processor and neural processor unit (NPU), which are purposebuilt to support advanced AI capabilities and deliver high performance even at lower power levels. Additional features include advanced memory (8 GB LPDDR5) for ultrafast data transfer and up to 256 GB universal flash storage for a smooth user experience when running multiple applications simultaneously. The upgraded 1000-nit LumiBond screen features sunlight-readable technology and capacitive multi-touch display, for effective operation in the rain and while wearing gloves. An optional active digitiser with stylus is also available for fast note-taking and data entry in heavy rain and/or low temperatures.
The tablet includes dual SIM technology (Nano SIM + eSIM) for optimal mobile network coverage, while Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 and optional dedicated dual-band GPS offer rapid data transfer and location positioning capabilities. For those with more extensive data collection and communication needs, the device can be configured with 4G LTE and 5G Sub-6, near-field communication (NFC, non-payment) and a barcode reader.
The hot-swappable dual-battery design supports fullshift operation without downtime or delays. The product can also be configured with a single battery for users who wish to mount it on forklifts or other vehicles. Optional high-capacity Li-ion battery packs are available for longer battery life.
The unit features MIL-STD-810H certification, IP66 certification and 1.8 m drop resistance, with an operating temperature range of -29 to 63°C. Despite these fully rugged credentials, its starting weight is just 906 g.
The tablet is powered by the intuitive Android operating system, for versatility and ease of use. It is also verified as an Android enterprise recommended rugged device, meeting all the requirements of Google’s testing process; this means it will receive full security updates every 90 days for five years after the launch date, along with regular patches and feature enhancements. It is fully compatible with Getac’s Essentials Suite of software solutions to help organisations enhance field worker efficiency. Getac Technology Corp www.getac.com
SMELLY RESEARCH COULD INFLUENCE HVAC INDUSTRY
Purdue University engineers have uncovered something disturbing about the type of artificial fragrances that are designed to make our homes smell fresh and pleasant.
While chemical products such as air fresheners, wax melts, floor cleaners and deodorants might conjure up the pleasant scents of nature, they rapidly fill the air with nanoscale particles that are small enough to get deep into our lungs and spread to other organs.
These nanoparticles form when fragrances interact with ozone, which enters buildings through ventilation systems, triggering chemical transformations that create new airborne pollutants.
“A forest is a pristine environment, but if you’re using cleaning and aromatherapy products full of chemically manufactured scents to recreate a forest in your home, you’re actually creating a tremendous amount of indoor air pollution that you shouldn’t be breathing in,” said Nusrat Jung, an assistant professor in Purdue’s Lyles School of Civil and Construction Engineering.
Jung and fellow civil engineering professor Brandon Boor are at the forefront of studying nanoscale airborne particle formation indoors and comparing it to outdoor atmospheric processes.
“To understand how airborne particles form indoors, you need to measure the smallest nanoparticles — down to a single nanometre,” Boor explained.
“At this scale, we can observe the earliest stages of new particle formation, where fragrances react with ozone to form tiny molecular clusters. These clusters then rapidly evolve, growing and transforming in the air around us.”
The researchers use a “tiny house lab” — a dedicated lab space for indoor air quality research that mimics a small home — in which they deploy the latest industry-developed air quality instruments to track how household products emit chemicals that evaporate easily, known as volatile chemicals, and generate the tiniest airborne nanoparticles.
Called the Purdue zero Energy Design Guidance for Engineers (zEDGE) lab, the tiny house has all the features of a typical home but is equipped with sensors for closely monitoring the impact of everyday activities on a home’s air quality. Jung led the design of the lab, which was built in 2020 as the first of its kind.
While it’s yet to be determined how breathing in volatile chemicals from common household products impacts health, the two scientists have repeatedly found that when fragrances are released indoors, they react quickly with ozone to form nanoparticles. These newly formed
nanoparticles are particularly concerning because they can reach very high concentrations, potentially posing risks to respiratory health.
Jung and Boor believe these findings highlight the need for further research into indoor nanoparticle formation triggered by heavily scented chemical products.
“Our research shows that fragranced products are not just passive sources of pleasant scents — they actively alter indoor air chemistry, leading to the formation of nanoparticles at concentrations that could have significant health implications,” Jung said.
“These processes should be considered in the design and operation of buildings and their HVAC systems to reduce our exposures.”
To continue learning more about chemical emissions and nanoparticle formation indoors, Jung and Boor are working with industry partners to test new air quality measurement instruments in Purdue’s tiny house lab before they are put on the market. Companies are drawn to the lab because it’s a more realistic setting than the chamber environments typically used for indoor air quality research and new product development.
As their research continues, Jung and Boor hope their findings will improve how indoor air quality is monitored, controlled and regulated.
“Indoor air quality is often overlooked in the design and management of the buildings we live and work in, yet it has a direct impact on our health every day,” Boor said. “With data from the tiny house lab, we aim to bridge that gap — transforming fundamental research into real-world solutions for healthier indoor environments for everyone.”
Jung and Boor’s air quality research is largely funded by the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Chemistry of Indoor Environments program. Their findings have been published in the journal ACS ES&T Air
The tiny house lab at Purdue University.
Purdue University/Kelsey Lefever.
Purdue University/Kelsey Lefever.
Nusrat Jung and Brandon Boor in the tiny house lab.
Lifestyle community gains a new level of connectivity
GemLife, a leading developer of over-50s lifestyle communities, was facing challenges with its fixed fibre network, which limited connectivity to indoor areas and lacked support for outdoor and mobile operations.
To address these gaps, the company partnered with Prospecta Utilities to deploy a first-in-class, standalone 5G mmWave fixed wireless network.
A gap in network capabilities
GemLife’s over-50s lifestyle communities have long relied on fibre-to-the-premise networks for their connectivity needs. While fibre offers high-speed, low-latency performance indoors, its fixed nature
limits coverage to only within the dwellings, leaving outdoor areas and mobile operations unsupported. This limitation created challenges in maintaining connectivity for workers, residents and operations across the entire estate. Additionally, GemLife’s existing fibre infrastructure lacked the ability to support comprehensive infrastructure monitoring or the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, which are essential for improving asset management and operational efficiency. This gap in its network capabilities hindered GemLife’s ability to provide a secure, reliable and high-speed network that could meet the evolving needs of both residents and operations.
The challenge was clear: how could GemLife implement a flexible, fibre-like network that not only delivers high-speed connectivity within dwellings but also supports dynamic operational needs such as providing outdoor coverage and enabling connection with smart devices, while also offering real-time visibility of infrastructure?
With the need for a more adaptable, scalable and comprehensive solution, GemLife sought a way to bridge the gap between fibre’s strengths and the increasing demands of modern communities. The company required a network that could provide flexible, highquality coverage for all areas of its estates,
facilitate mobile access and allow for better management of resources, all while supporting the integration of smart technologies to improve efficiency and enhance the resident experience.
A flexible, streamlined solution
GemLife engaged Prospecta Utilities to implement an innovative standalone 5G mmWave fixed wireless network, powered by Airspan’s AIR5G 7200 small cells and utilising spectrum in the 28 GHz band. Delivering fibre-like performance with speeds of up to 2 Gbps and ultra-low latency, this solution offers impressive connectivity across both indoor and outdoor spaces.
The network’s flexibility enables GemLife to stay ahead of the curve, providing consistent, high-speed coverage that meets the dynamic needs of its residents and operations, from mobile access to real-time infrastructure monitoring.
For GemLife’s operations, the 5G network has increased efficiency and reduced costs. By extending high-speed coverage beyond fixed indoor connections, Prospecta Utilities’ solution enables outdoor and mobile operations, eliminating the need for extensive wiring and supporting smooth integration of smart devices. This enables the connectivity of IoT devices like waste management sensors, flood detectors, smart meters and more, with the network simplifying operations and providing realtime data to enhance decision-making. Additionally, its integration with a future distributed energy resource (DER) and energy management system will optimise energy usage, further reducing operational costs and increasing sustainability.
The private, high-speed network supports seamless smart home integration, allowing residents to control devices like smart lighting, thermostats and security systems. It also facilitates smart access control systems for managing entry points, arranging deliveries and other IoT-enabled services — all via residents’ smartphones.
With this innovative solution, GemLife transformed its estate management and provided residents with a modern, secure and connected living environment — setting a high standard for smart, techenabled communities.
Australia’s transport industry is the third largest source of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 21% of national emissions in 2023. To meet looming net zero targets by 2050, Australia must speed the transition to electric vehicles to accelerate progress.
Despite some progress over the last 12 months, Australia is still behind in EV adoption. In 2023, EV sales reached 98,436, representing just 8.5% of the national car market. Yet it’s evident that Australians are ready for this shift, with EV sales projected to soar to approximately 2.5 million within the next decade. What’s needed now is robust infrastructure, supportive policy and streamlined solutions to accelerate progress and ease the transition for consumers.
Contrary to the misperception many Aussies hold that EVs create range anxiety, current EV models are already well-suited to meeting the daily travel needs of most Australians, with only 10% of vehicles travelling more than 100 km per day. For the majority of users, at-home charging will cover 95% of their needs.
EV solution providers are enabling car owners to install smart home chargers, offering both convenience and cost-efficiency. Overnight charging allows most EV owners to meet their daily driving needs while taking advantage of lower off-peak electricity rates, saving even more money. Additionally, the potential of ‘Vehicle-to-Home’ (V2H) technology provides a reliable backup power source during outages and the ability to reduce grid demand during peak hours, helping consumers save on utility costs while contributing to energy stability.
In response to increased safety concerns for at-home EV chargers, new regulations have been outlined under the National Construction Code to include minimum EV charging standards. Standards Australia has developed in-depth resources for EV owners to understand how to safely install and manage at-home charging solutions.
Companies nationwide, including Schneider Electric, are developing EV charging solutions, offering Australians the option to charge at home while providing comprehensive use and installation support. However, a considerable number of remote EV users will still depend on public charging facilities located on streets or in shopping centres, public car parks and apartment blocks — another challenge that requires collaboration between the private and public sectors.
Encouragingly, the National Roads and Motorists’ Association (NRMA) has partnered with the Australian Government’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) to address range anxiety in some of Australia’s blackspots on major highways using its ‘Driving the Nation’ fund. The $500 million initiative will oversee the rollout of a network of 117 EV chargers on major highways at an average interval of 150 km.
Australia’s transport sector is at a critical juncture in its journey towards net zero. Electric vehicles are not only inevitable but also essential for Australia to cut emissions and achieve ambitious climate targets. EVs provide significant environmental and economic advantages, making them a compelling choice for Australian consumers.
While challenges such as charging infrastructure and consumer hesitancy remain, ongoing investments in smart charging solutions, education programs and government initiatives are paving the way for a greener future. With the right infrastructure, streamlined solutions and support, Australia is well-positioned to embrace the electric vehicle revolution and become a sustainability leader far beyond the transport industry.
iStock.com/gehringj
Chris Kerr, Vice President & CEO Clipsal by Schneider Electric
Smooth running for Victoria’s first all-electric hospital
Asset management company Honeywell has won a 25-year contract to provide building automation solutions for Victoria’s first fully electric hospital.
With an injection of more than $900 million from the Victorian Government, the new Melton Hospital in Melbourne’s west is expected to be completed in 2029.
The 274-bed facility will include a 24-hour emergency department, an intensive care unit, maternity and neonatal services, mental health services, radiology services and ambulatory care.
When complete, it will have the capacity to treat 130,000 patients each year and see almost 60,000 patients in the emergency department.
Honeywell will be installing its building management solutions to help make Melton Hospital more energy efficient, automated and secure. These solutions include the integration of Honeywell Forge Enterprise Performance Management software, which enables condition-based maintenance to help improve the resiliency of critical systems around the clock, reduce unplanned reactive work and lower energy costs.
Honeywell Forge’s machine learning capabilities continuously study a building’s energy consumption patterns — a feature that will allow the hospital to automatically adjust to optimal energy-saving settings without compromising critical air quality.
“Honeywell’s technologically advanced building automation solutions combined with our decades of experience in total asset management make us uniquely positioned to support the building services for the Melton Hospital both today and over the next 25 years,” said Lisa Whitehead, vice president and general manager, Pacific, Honeywell Building Automation.
“As a partner to the Melton Hospital, we are committed to helping deliver Victoria’s first energy-efficient hospital that provides an optimum indoor environment with a bestin-class design built to address the critical needs of patients.”
In order to maximise ecological efficiencies in all elements of its design, construction and operation, Melton Hospital will embed ecologically sustainable development (ESD) technologies. Honeywell will manage the building in alignment with these efficiency goals, optimising peak energy demand, energy consumption and water consumption costs so that the project remains flexible and adaptable to changing social and climatic conditions.
The hospital is being delivered as a public-private partnership. Western Health is the public operator of all clinical services, while the Exemplar Health consortium, through a contract from the Victorian Government, is responsible for the hospital’s financing, design, construction and maintenance for 25 years following the facility’s construction completion.
The Exemplar Health consortium includes Capella Capital as sponsor and investor; Lendlease Infrastructure Investments and Invesis as investors; Lendlease as the builder; and Honeywell and Compass Group as facilities and maintenance management providers.
“This work will help deliver a critical uplift in the capacity of public health services in Melton,” said Sarah Neaves, director, Capella Capital.
“As Melbourne’s outer west continues to grow, the Melton Hospital project will allow the hospital to better support its patients, families and staff. We look forward to working closely with the Victorian Government, Western Health and consortium members to deliver this critical piece of health infrastructure.” Honeywell Building Solutions www.honeywell.com
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