Energy Management Archives - Page 2 of 6 - Facilities Management Forum | Forum Events Ltd
Posts Tagged :

Energy Management

Grid instability ‘jeopardising energy security for data centers’
By:

A new report has mapped out temporary opportunities for facility stakeholders in major European data centre markets to maintain site resilience in a challenging climate.

Titled Uptime on the Line, the new two-part whitepaper from Aggreko interviewed 700 data centre professionals consulting for large businesses in the UK, Ireland, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden. It sought insight on topics including the state of current grid infrastructure, power outages, local energy prices and supply chain delays, and how these are affecting facility construction and operations.

The report’s findings also map out how the sector’s soaring energy consumption rate is affecting its ability to put in place long-term strategies alongside short-term solutions to counteract further uncertainty and incoming stricter regulations. According to Billy Durie, Global Sector Head – Data Centres at Aggreko, the respondents’ views demonstrate how there are tactical opportunities to help manage energy and temperature control in today’s facilities.

“Data centre demand is constantly increasing, yet utility provision needed to service this new development pipeline is currently under strain,” said Durie. “Keeping new and existing facilities online during this continued expansion are therefore priorities of global importance, so it is vital conversations occur on the best way to deliver power and temperature control to sites.

“Resilience is being tested by events outside the sector’s control, including volatile energy pricing, extreme weather conditions, high consumption rates and a degraded supply chain. As this report demonstrates, old certainties such as being able to keep server halls online more than 99% of the time are now in jeopardy, meaning operators will need to explore new approaches to mitigate risks.”

With these concerns in mind, the report identifies tactical short-term solutions and more strategic, long-term options to address common obstacles for data centre professionals. This includes insufficient grid power, outages from ageing equipment, adopting demand side response schemes and fluctuating heat and power requirements.

“Today’s pressures are so significant that businesses could begin to lose sight of the longer-term view, especially in a sector dominated by short-term deadlines,” Durie concluded. “However, equipment is available today that can help lower dependency on the grid while addressing other key issues such as decarbonisation. Yet integrating decentralised energy plans poses unique issues that require expert supplier assistance to simplify and navigate.

“On-site generation, implemented with hired equipment strategies explored in this latest report, can therefore present huge opportunities for data centres, which are synonymous with high energy consumption rates. Identifying the correct equipment approach will be key to weathering growing macro issues around energy and temperature control provision, so it is crucial data centre stakeholders work closely with equipment experts to do so.”

Do you specialise in Energy Management? We want to hear from you!
By:

Each month on FM Briefing we’re shining the spotlight on a different part of the facilities management market – and in May we’ll be focussing on Energy Management.

It’s all part of our ‘Recommended’ editorial feature, designed to help FM industry buyers find the best products and services available today.

So, if you specialise in Energy Management and would like to be included as part of this exciting new shop window, we’d love to hear from you – for more info, contact Paige Aitken on p.aitken@forumevents.co.uk.

Here’s our full features list:

May – Energy Management
Jun – Security
July – Air Conditioning
Aug – Waste Management
Sep – Asset Management
Oct – FM Software
Nov – Intruder & Alarm Systems
Dec – Fire & Safety Equipment
Jan 24 – Health & Safety
Feb 24 – Building Maintenance & Refurbishment
March 24 – Cleaning
Apr 24 – Total FM

Manufacturer renews water partnership following continued excellent service from trusted experts Water Plus
By:

A manufacturer with a base in Scotland has renewed their water partnership for five years with Water Plus.

SEH Europe provides the UK, European and global semiconductor market with silicon wafer products including 150mm and 200mm Polished Wafer and Epitaxial Wafer and are based in Livingston, Scotland.

The company also tracks its water use at the site through a data logger, providing online information on water use. It also has a Combined Cooling Heating Power Plant (CCHP), generating all the energy needed in their operation at the Scotland site.

Robert Crail, Principal Engineer at manufacturer SEH Europe (Shin-Etsu Handotai Europe Ltd), said: “Water Plus is easy to deal with, responding to any queries I have in a fast and efficient manner and gives me an excellent level of service. Because of this I was more than happy to renew our contract for water services for the next 5 years. This allows me to forecast costs and work with Water Plus in the longer term, addressing any needs we might have, with regard to our water use and effluent discharge.”

Helen Murphy, Key Account Manager with Water Plus – who is based in Scotland and works with Robert and the company, said: “SEH Europe has been with Water Plus a number of years and know they get the knowledge, expertise and value through their water partnership with Water Plus, so it’s great we’re continuing our work together.”

SEH Europe is part of an alliance dedicated to corporate social responsibility in supply chains and has committed to Net Zero by 2050.

Water Plus, which has a base in Glasgow and one in Staffordshire, provides water and wastewater billing and customer service, along with a range of technical water services and information around water efficiency, for organisations of all sizes across England and Scotland. In March 2023 it’s won a UK Customer Satisfaction Award in the Sustainable Customer Service category, including for its work with organisations around their water use and awareness raising. It was also shortlisted for three Water Industry Awards in 2022, including Water Retailer of the Year and Water Efficiency Project of the Year.

Water Plus also won two National Sustainability awards in October 2022, including one for Water Reduction approaches around water efficiency work and awareness-raising – and won four Green Apple Environment Awards in November 2022, including Gold for Water Management.

To partner with Water Plus for your water and wastewater, contact hello@water-plus.co.uk.

More information – and examples – of how Water Plus is helping organisations, is available at: https://www.water-plus.co.uk/about-us and more tips to #BeWiseOnWater , increase efficiency and reducing risks to operation can be found here and here.

ESOS Phase 3: 1 Year To Go – Here’s what you need to know
By:

By Delta-Simons Ltd

Attention Facilities and Compliance Managers! If your business qualifies for the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS), there is only 1 year left until the Phase 3 deadline on December 5th, 2023.

ESOS is a UK government program that requires certain large organisations to conduct energy audits on their buildings and industrial processes. The audits are designed to identify opportunities for energy savings and to help organisations become more energy efficient. The program is administered by the UK Department of Energy and Climate Change. Don’t miss this opportunity to conduct energy audits on your buildings and industrial processes to identify opportunities for energy savings, reduce your energy consumption, and become more energy efficient. In addition to the benefits of energy efficiency, participating in ESOS can also help to engage your workforce and avoid financial penalties for non-compliance.

In July 2022, the government announced key changes to ESOS phase 3 in a bid to engage more companies in the scheme including Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSEs), as well as deliver clearer guidance for ESOS requirements and enforce and elevate higher standards for energy data reporting. These changes to Phase 3, including the reduction of the de Minimis allowance from 10% to 5%, have a substantial impact on many UK businesses.

You can read about these changes in Delta-Simons Ltd latest blog: https://deltasimons.link/va3

As the deadline for submission approaches, demand for audits will increase and the number of available ESOS Lead Assessors and Auditors will decrease, so it’s important to start preparing early. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to improve your organisation’s energy efficiency and make a positive impact on the environment.

Carbon management software spend to hit $256m by 2027
By:

Banks, insurers, private equity and investment managers are driving a spending boom in carbon management as they gear up to meet regulatory standards.

That’s according to a new report from independent research and advisory firm Verdantix, which predicts global spending on carbon management software across the finance industry will rise fivefold to $256 million by 2027 compared with just $51 million in 2021 as companies increasingly adopt Task Force on Climate-Related Disclosures (TCFD) regulations.

Financial services businesses need specialist software to track data and estimate Scope 3 carbon emissions stemming from their portfolio firms. The 2022 TCFD status report found 43% of financial institutions interviewed ratedScope 3 GHG emissions as a ‘very difficult’ recommended disclosure.

The compound annual growth rate among financial companies is estimated by Verdantix as 31% until 2027, while its Market Size And Forecast: Carbon Management Software 2021-2027 (Global) report forecasts the total market will grow at an annual rate of 28% to hit $1.49 billion by 2027.

Verdantix predicts that the EMEA region will be the fastest-growing and it will overtake North America as the biggest global market by 2025 and will be worth more than $650 million two years later.

North America will still grow strongly but Verdantix estimates SEC climate disclosure rules announced in March 2022 will not come into effect until 2025 for major quoted firms worth more than $700 million and 2026 for smaller publicly traded companies.

Technology, media and telecommunications firms’ spending on carbon management software is expected to grow strongly as well, mainly driven by net zero pledges and competitive pressures. Industries with fossil-fuel-intrinsic emissions and hard-to-abate emissions will grow more slowly.

Alessandra Leggieri, ESG & Sustainability Analyst at Verdantix said: “Combined regulatory and non-regulatory drivers will increase demand for carbon management software dramatically. Economic factors such as high inflation will have minimal negative impact on budgets because of strong regulatory pressure. Firms should start implementing carbon management software now to streamline their data collection and reporting. With an accurate understanding of their emissions, firms will not only comply with regulations, but also withstand reputational pressure and gain competitive advantage in their markets.”

SSE Energy Solutions seeks to drive logistics efficiencies
By:

SSE Energy Solutions has been appointed to design and install power infrastructure at significant new logistics sites across the country.

Future proofed infrastructure designed to ease the transition to net zero will be incorporated in major projects including the brand-new Matrix 49 Bristol Logistics Park in Avonmouth; Konect, on the site of the former Kellingley Colliery in West Yorkshire; and the Flagship Park development in Peterborough.

More than 125MVA of infrastructure will be strategically delivered across these developments, including four primary substations connected at EHV to the local grid.

It is widely accepted that the UK will need to invest in smart energy infrastructure to deliver its net zero targets in energy, transport, and heat. SSE’s work will pave the way for the sites to adopt clean energy solutions going forward, including power generation, EV charging and smart power systems. The UK has and continues to see significant growth in the logistics sector, with record levels of investment and demand.

Other sites also being delivered include Panattoni Park, Bristol; the Jade Business Park, County Durham; and the Mountpark Logistics Parks near Hinckley and in Knottingley. Additional sites in Teesside and Scotland will be announced in the coming weeks.

SSE Energy Solutions is seeing significant demand for an increase in power coupled with a strategic focus on sustainability and net zero. Working with their clients, they are taking a ‘Whole System’ approach to energy infrastructure.

Noel Powell, Head of Business Development at SSE Energy Solutions, said:  “SSE Energy Solutions invest in, build, and connect localised flexible infrastructure creating a more resilient and sustainable energy system. We’re helping the UK accelerate to net zero with Whole System Thinking. We are playing a pivotal role in the growth of the logistics sector across the UK.”

“Our projects are a true collaboration with our clients to ensure an optimum technical and commercial solution is provided. At SSE Energy Solutions, our ‘Whole System’ approach to energy infrastructure means we can work from the very beginning at the design stage to work out resilient and reliable systems for high power sites including vast logistics parks.”

“Working to build infrastructure to support carbon net-zero power and support long-term decarbonisation goals, such as electric vehicle charging and on-site generation, is key for so many logistics businesses these days. We are proud to have the trust and confidence of our customers and partners to build greener, reliable energy systems across vast development sites.”

Currently under construction is the Matrix 49 development in Bristol, a joint venture between BentallGreenOak and Equation Properties which will extend to 65 acres and host a variety of building sizes ranging from 133,438 – 584,361sq ft across three separate build phases, totalling more than 1.1m sq. ft. The plans include an enhanced power supply to all units, with optionality to be upgraded further, EV charging points provided with provision to future-proof occupier fleet requirements, and renewable technologies such as Solar PVs and air source heat pumps that will mean reduced energy consumption and CO2 emissions.

SSE Energy Solutions is working collaboratively with project stakeholders to design and install primary infrastructure at the site including 11kV infrastructure to individual plots within the development, a 33/11kV primary substation and 33kV approach main from point of connection.

Matrix 49 Bristol is being developed to high specification, with an Excellent rating from BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) and an A-rated EPC.

SSE’s Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO), Optimal Power Networks (OPN) will adopt the network once the installation is completed, and the network is energised. OPN will own and operate all network infrastructure providing 24/7 monitoring of power at the site and the new 33/11kV primary substation via 4G, by using network management underpinned by SSE Energy Solutions’ Control Centre.  OPN’s aim is for its networks to be fit for the future and zero-carbon ready by being an enabler of low carbon technologies.

Grant Elder, Head of IDNO at Optimal Power Networks, said: “OPN is delighted to be working with SSE Energy Solutions and their clients by investing in network infrastructure to deliver the electrification of transport and industry. We are excited to be helping customers on their journey to net zero by providing resilient and future-proofed local electricity networks.”

Manufacturer makes water-saving after early action at its site, thanks to working with Water Plus
By:

The Advanced Services team at Water Plus – and water tracking technology with an online portal – helped a manufacturer after water use, which jumped from 200 litres an hour to over 2,000 litres an hour, was spotted.

Using water is an important part of the operation for YKK (U.K.) Ltd, which has its main site and offices in Runcorn, Cheshire, and manufactures zips and other fastenings for textiles. For part of their water monitoring, they worked with water retailer Water Plus to install a data logger to track their use more closely throughout the year.

The Water Plus team were closely monitoring water use for sites with data loggers when the temperatures plummeted to -8C in Cheshire – and during the rise in temperatures afterwards, that can see ground movement and cause more water pipe issues for sites. Through the Water Plus Value Added Services (VAS), the Advanced Services team alerted YKK (U.K.) Ltd to a water use rise they had spotted.

As soon as the manufacturer was made aware of the water issue, they took immediate action and isolated the pipe involved, preventing further water waste – and further costs from an ongoing water loss.

Robert Cooney, Plant Maintenance Engineer from YKK (U.K.) Ltd, said: “The excellent customer service and communication from Water Plus has all made a big difference for us. Thank you to the Water Plus team for bringing the water usage to our attention and for their ongoing support and the expert advice they provide. The data logger and online portal are a great help to our operation.

“If this water issue hadn’t been identified early, then it could have impacted our operation, which is why we’re working with the experts at Water Plus to help us with our proactive water management for our business. Without the customer support Water Plus provides, the increase in water would have gone on for longer undetected.”

There are water costs for every cubic metre of water (each 1,000 litres) measured through a water meter at a site – showing the importance for quick action when needed. And more tips to #BeWiseOnWater can be found here.

The water issue involved a leaking drain leg on a cooling tower, which has been isolated. It started after very low temperatures seen in the UK earlier in the month.

Water Plus provides water and wastewater billing and customer service, along with a range of technical water services and information around water efficiency, for organisations of all sizes across England and Scotland. It’s been shortlisted for two UK Customer Satisfaction awards in 2023 and was shortlisted for three Water Industry Awards in 2022, including Water Retailer of the Year and Water Efficiency Project of the Year.

Along with account management services, Water Plus technical water experts have helped organisations of different sizes find the opportunities to cut water waste, running costs and risks to operations, including adding data loggers that feed information into an online portal, making water across multiple sites easy to track.

To request data loggers, or additional water efficiency services, contact the Water Plus team at: hello@water-plus.co.uk.

More information – and examples – of how Water Plus is helping organisations, is available at: www.water-plus.co.uk/about-us .

Additional note:

Water use increased on 18th December, 2022. The water increase was substantially reduced within 2 days.

Need Energy Management solutions for 2023? FM Forum Recommended Supplier Directory can help!
By:

Looking for a new Energy Management supplier for your building, venue, school or company? The FM Forum Recommended Supplier Directory is home to dozens of trusted partners ready to help make your project a reality!

Put simply, there’s something to suit every requirement.

Start Your Search Now

Are you an FM supplier? Get listed!

The FM Forum Recommended Supplier Directory is the perfect platform to raise your organisation’s profile and extend your reach.

Promoted via the FM Briefing newsletter, website and our renowned meet-the-buyer facilities events – this digital FM directory offers a comprehensive list of industry solution leaders.

Click Here To Get Listed!

Or, for more information, please contact Paige Aitken on 01992 374079 or p.aitken@forumevents.co.uk

 

87% of business leaders expect to increase sustainability investment in short-term
By:
87% of business leaders expect to increase their organization’s investment in sustainability over the next two years. Customers are the primary stakeholder group creating pressure for organizations to invest or act on sustainability issues, selected by 80% of executives, followed by investors (60%) and regulators (55%).

“Sustainability enables businesses to cope with disruption,” said Kristin Moyer, Distinguished VP Analyst, Gartner, which carried out the research. “Economic uncertainty, geopolitical conflict and escalating materials and energy costs are forcing businesses to reexamine all forms of expenditure. This focus on essentialism, in combination with increasing stakeholder desire to see progress on environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals, creates new opportunities for enterprises to grow while mitigating cost and risk.”

The survey was conducted in June and July 2022 among 221 respondents in North America, Europe and Asia/Pacific. Respondents were executives in director roles or above within organizations with enterprise-wide annual revenue of at least $250 million for fiscal year 2021, which are currently engaged in sustainability-related activities.

Sustainability Protects Organizations from Disruption

The survey found that 86% of business leaders see sustainability as an investment which protects their organization from disruption. Additionally, 83% said sustainability program activities directly created both short- and long-term value for their organization, and 80% indicated that sustainability helped their organization optimize and reduce costs.

Specifically, the top areas where survey respondents said sustainability programs are mitigating cost increases are energy consumption, business travel and customer transactions (see Figure 1).

Fig. 1. Top Operations-Related Costs Being Mitigated Through Sustainability Programs

Source: Gartner (November 2022)

“Executive leaders are achieving both operational and supply chain savings through their sustainability programs,” said Moyer. “This kind of ‘two for one,’ where sustainability investment supports a business goal like cost optimization, significantly enhances the program’s impact by creating a virtuous cycle.”

Sustainability Drives Growth and Innovation

Sustainability can also enable new value creation and business growth opportunities. Fifty-seven percent of business leaders said the enterprise sustainability program has a strong connection to the results on the income statement, and 42% of respondents are leveraging their sustainability activities to drive innovation, differentiation and enterprise growth through sustainable products.

“Investing in sustainability can support product differentiation but be wary of greenwashing risks – there are no shortcuts to sustainable growth,” said Moyer. “Focus on product attributes that are important to customers and how these priorities shape buying decisions. When viewed through a strategic lens, sustainability can provide a ray of sunshine for businesses during difficult market conditions.”

WEBINAR: ‘Why we need an energy efficiency revolution in commercial real estate’
By:

7 in 10 hybrid workers are concerned the UK energy crisis will impact the cost of working from home. And worries don’t stop here, with half of UK hybrid workers (55%) expressing concerns about the energy efficiency in their workplace, rising to 71% in the US.

Energy management needs to be at the top of the agenda for commercial real estate owners and managers.

It’s time for companies to make real changes that benefit not only their running costs and the efficiency of their buildings, but the health of the planet 🌍

Join Infogrid for a webinar: ‘Why we need an energy efficiency revolution in commercial real estate’ on 30th November 4pm GMT | 11am EST with expert perspectives from:

Register Here