Ulrich Spiesshofer will become ABB Ltd.'s chief executive from Sept. 15, the power and technology company said in a statement on Monday.

The company is grappling with integrating expensive acquisitions made by his predecessor Joe Hogan and a possible slowdown in China.

Mr. Spiesshofer had been one of the favorites for the top job at the world's largest maker of power grids and substations, according to reports in the Swiss media. The 49-year-old German had been head of its discrete automation and motion division since 2009 where he doubled revenue and integrated with U.S. industrial motors business Baldor—ABB's largest-ever acquisition, the statement said.

"I am extremely pleased the new CEO comes from within the company and brings a solid track record and deep knowledge of the portfolio," ABB Chairman Hubertus von Grünberg said. ABB didn't make Mr. Spiesshofer available for interview.

Read full article.

Source: The Wall Street Journal

King impressed by New Jersey IOU's smart grid savvy

The Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) should be completely restructured because the utility was so slow to restore power after Hurricane Sandy struck last fall, Rep Peter King, R-NY, told a NEMA-sponsored event yesterday in Washington, DC. The congressman held a news conference shortly after Sandy where he asked the "[US] Army Corps of Engineers to come in, federal officials to come in and run LIPA.

"That's how out of control they got," King said in response to a question from Smart Grid Today .

LIPA was one of the slowest of the affected utilities to restore power after Sandy tore up the East Coast last October and knocked out power for about 8.2 million people. At a meeting four days before Sandy, trustees of LIPA discussed the coming storm for a total of 39 seconds in a two-hour meeting, the New York Times reported online in November.

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, D, "was almost at war with LIPA during" Sandy and wants to overhaul the utility's management, King said yesterday.

In his January "State of the State" address, Cuomo proposed privatizing the utility, saying, "Hurricane Sandy revealed systemic flaws and weakness in LIPA's structure" (SGT, Jan-14).

New York City Mayor Bloomberg gave LIPA some constructive criticism when earlier this week he laid out a slew of steps that the Long Island utility and Consolidated Edison could take to better prepare for climate change (SGT, Jun-12). Bloomberg's plan could be "a model for the country" in terms of infrastructure preparedness, King said yesterday.

Part of LIPA's problem is its insularity, he argued. The utility, whose service area of 1.1 million customers is in King's congressional district, needs to be "more responsive to elected officials" to avoid repeating its post-Sandy performance, the congressman added.

Whereas New Jersey "had a much better, computerized system so they were able to tell people when they could expect their power to come back on," LIPA "couldn't tell within 10 days as to how long it was going to be," King lamented.

King impressed by PSE&G

King was at a US House homeland-security subcommittee hearing this month where an executive from New Jersey IOU Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G) said "smart grid technology ... makes it possible for utilities like ours to obtain critical information that can help pinpoint problems and automate restoration," he reported.

"Smart grid technology can dramatically shorten the time it takes to restore service in the aftermath of a storm and can prevent outages from becoming widespread," Jorge Cardenas, PSE&G's VP of asset management and centralized service, added, according to testimony on the subcommittee's website. Cardenas was explaining his firm's proposed $450-million investment in smart grid technologies.

Asks PSE&G to help LIPA

After hearing that testimony, King encouraged PSE&G officials to meet with their LIPA counterparts to share best practices in leveraging smart grid technologies, the congressman said yesterday. For him, the surest way to fix LIPA is through public accountability, "an entirely new management," and by studying the methods of neighboring utilities that performed much better during the storm.

LIPA calls itself the second largest municipal electric utility in the US in terms of electric revenue, though instead of answering to a city council as do many other municipals, each of LIPA's Board of Trustees members was appointed by a state lawmaker or the governor, according to the utility's website.

Source: Smart Grid Today

The federal government is turning to obvious but oft-neglected sources—shippers and transportation advisers—for advice on how to improve the national freight system and boost supply chain competitiveness.

The recommendations from two groups—the Advisory Committee on Supply Chain Competitiveness and the National Freight Advisory Committee—will likely shape how the Commerce Department and Department of Transportation operate. Their findings could also influence how Congress approaches laws relating to transportation infrastructure, customs and trade policy.

Advisory committees are nothing new to Capitol Hill, but the focus on freight policy comes as legislators ramp up their rhetoric on the importance of moving goods and materials effectively, said Emil Frankel, director of transportation policy for the Bipartisan Policy Center.

In the short term, the largest opportunity for their recommendations to be realized is in DOT’s national freight plan and policy, and the next surface transportation bill. The current $105 billion spending act, which called on the U.S. to catch up with the likes of Germany, Canada and other Western countries in creating a national freight policy and a strategic plan, expires at the end of September 2014.

The ACSCC has a head start, having been established in November 2011. The 40-member group—with executives from BNSF Railway, Boeing, Campbell Soup, Halliburton, Menlo Worldwide Logistics, Pfizer and Target—is set to provide final recommendations to the Commerce Department in September on freight policy, trade and competitiveness, information technology and data, finance and infrastructure and regulations.

The final recommendations are likely to be bold, judging from the discussion during the committee’s June 4 meeting in Washington. The ACSCC wants to use already collected data to map major supply chains by commodities and to target major chokepoints and transfer nodes, including customs clearance points at ports and land borders, and metropolitan congestion.

The findings could then complement the DOT’s study on freight congestion by mode, providing the department with a better understanding on where it can “get the most bang for its buck” for its investments, said Cynthia Ruiz, deputy executive director at the Port of Los Angeles.

“In order to make products in the United States that are competitive, you need to bring the components for manufacturing entering into the country competitively and reliably,” said Anthony Barone, director of global logistics policy at Pfizer.

Ways to achieve this include reducing certain duties on some manufacturing components, streamlining customs border clearance and the granting of foreign trade zone designations, and modernizing U.S. export credit support. The executive branch agencies could complete some of the committee’s working recommendations, but others will need congressional approval.

The advisory committee floated the idea of creating a national supply chain executive dashboard, which would fuse already available sets of trade data and give real-time insight into supply chain threats. Also recommended is creation of a White House-sponsored “SWAT Team” that would complete the long-delayed and over budget "single window" for electronically processing trade data, known as the International Trade Data System.

There needs to a body that prioritizes freight projects of national significance and ensures such initiatives get funding, said Rick Gabrielson, Target’s director of international transportation. That virtual “referee” needs to ensure the states aren’t making piecemeal freight investments that fail to enhance to national network, he said.

The DOT’s work to create a national freight policy and strategic plan could help with such planning. But no such freight-focused funding mechanism exists, and future funding for grant programs that have aided freight projects in the past — Projects of National and Regional Significance and Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery—is uncertain.

The committee also recommended completing the Next Generation Transportation System, which will allow airlines to better manage capacity and reduce delays, and harmonizing air cargo security regulations with other countries. Members want the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to hold off on further tightening of federal hours-of-service regulations for the trucking industry. The latest change to the HOS rules is slated to take effect July 1 unless an U.S. appeals court strikes it down.

The committee held off on taking a side in the debate over raising truck weights and sizes, deferring instead to the findings of an ongoing DOT study of the contentious issue.

How these recommendations will be melded into the DOT’s work to create a national freight policy remains to be seen. A clearer picture could emerge when the 47-voting members of the DOT advisory committee, which includes executives from Home Depot, Cargill and Con-way, meet for the first time later this month.

Insightful recommendations from the private sector and policy wonks, however, offer no guarantee the Obama administration and Congress will act on their suggestions. The National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission, set up through the 2005 surface transportation bill, called for a higher federal fuels tax and eventually foresaw charging drivers by how far they traveled as a way to boost the Highway Trust Fund.

Those suggestions went unheeded, but recommendations to streamline construction projects and focus on the most-needed infrastructure fixes have become a mantra for Congress and the administration. Even selective listening can deliver results.

Source: The Journal of Commerce

Diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton worked with Portland General Electric (PGE) to develop an energy storage system and customized solutions for the new Salem Smart Power Center, a five-megawatt (MW) energy storage facility unveiled today in Salem, Ore. The 8,000-square-foot fully functional smart grid site will allow PGE to demonstrate how the integration of renewable energy sources, including wind and solar, and demand-response technology can increase the reliability and efficiency of energy for business and residential customers.

"PGE is working hard to pave the way for the smart grid in the region, and Eaton’s collaboration with this important project will help Oregon and the nation learn how to build intelligent energy resources for the future while continuing to deliver long-term value for customers," said Jim Piro, PGE president and CEO. "Eaton’s power system expertise helped make the project possible, and we appreciate the dedication to excellence they brought to this project.”

Eaton has one of the largest and most experienced teams of power system engineers in the industry. PGE drew upon this expertise for the design, engineering, integration and testing of the Salem Smart Power Center. Eaton also modified its award-winning Power Xpert ^TMinverters seamlessly into the site’s energy storage system. The inverters are designed to maximize energy harvest from renewable resources and transform energy into clean, reliable alternating current.

Read full article.

Source: Business Wire

Littelfuse, Inc., the global leader in circuit protection, today announced it has completed the previously announced acquisition of Hamlin, Inc. from Key Safety Systems for $145 million.

“We are pleased that the acquisition has closed on schedule. Hamlin is an excellent addition to our company and a significant step forward in our strategy to build a global sensor platform,” said Gordon Hunter, Chief Executive Officer.

About Hamlin

Founded in 1949, Hamlin Electronics is a leader in sensor technology, providing standard products and custom solutions for leading global manufacturers in the automotive and other industries. The company’s product line includes reed, hall-effect and its newly-developed PWG linear sensing technologies, as well as switches and relays. Headquartered in Lake Mills, Wis., Hamlin has manufacturing, engineering and sales offices in the U.S., Mexico, Europe and Asia. For more information, please visit the Hamlin website.

Read full article.

Source: Business Wire

New High-Tech LED Light Bulbs Can Be Controlled From Anywhere in the Country with the Xfinity Home App

Comcast, a global media and technology company, and OSRAM SYLVANIA, a leader in lighting solutions and services, announced today the companies have entered into an agreement to offer energy efficient light bulbs that can be controlled remotely from anywhere through the Xfinity Home platform. By collaborating with OSRAM SYLVANIA, Comcast is further enhancing its Xfinity Home service by providing Sylvania’s new energy-saving LED smart light bulbs that can be plugged into any standard light bulb socket, and that can save up to 83 percent in energy costs and last up to 17.5 times longer than standard incandescent light bulbs. In addition by partnering with OSRAM SYLVANIA, Comcast becomes the first service provider to offer an integrated remote controlled light bulb.

“With Osram Sylvania, we are bringing innovative lighting solutions that integrate with the Xfinity Home platform and provide home control and green technology features to our customers,” said Mitch Bowling, Senior Vice President and General Manager of New Businesses for Comcast Cable. “Home automation is a growing trend that takes complex ideas and turns them into simple solutions that can be delivered to thousands of people. This is another example of how we are continuing to evolve our Xfinity Home product by creating more innovative home control solutions for our customers to enjoy.”

“We are proud to work closely with Comcast to develop sophisticated, yet easy-to-use, lighting solutions for Xfinity Home,” said Tim Lesch, Senior Vice President, OSRAM SYLVANIA. “These energy saving light bulbs allow consumers to remotely control their lighting via a smart device when they need them, and set the desired level of brightness, while helping to save power and electricity costs “

Specifically, the SYLVANIA ULTRA iQ^TM LED BR30 flood light bulb has a life of 35,000 hours, which reduces maintenance and lamp replacement costs. In addition, it has integrated dimming controls that use the Zigbee^® Home Automation standard to create a system that can be controlled wirelessly for quick and easy adjustments using a smartphone or the Xfinity Home app. The 11w ULTRA iQ BR30 bulb emits 700 lumens providing 63 lumens per watt. Utilizing warm white 2700K color temperature light with a color rendering index (CRI) of 80, the SYLVANIA ULTRA iQ LED bulbs are dimmable to 5 percent and can help use up to 83 percent less energy than the incandescent bulbs they replace.

Xfinity Home is a broadband and cloud-based platform that provides next-generation home security, control and energy management features that allow customers to stay connected to their home and family through the use of an interactive Web portal, mobile devices and the free Xfinity Home app. In addition to 24/7 professional monitoring, Xfinity Home offers an expanding suite of home control and remote energy management services that include lighting controls, digital thermostats, live video monitoring, custom text and e-mail alerts, remote arming and disarming capabilities, water and carbon monoxide sensors.

Pricing and availability for the SYLVANIA bulb will be announced at a later date. For more information about Xfinity Home, please visit www.xfinity.com/home.

How can the United States use smart grid technologies to strengthen the electric grid to avoid outages during severe weather? During today's OnPoint, Paul Molitor, head of communications at the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, discusses new recommendations for managing weather risk more effectively. Molitor also talks about the financial and regulatory challenges facing the industry as it tries to broaden its reach.

Source E&E Publishing

Agfa HealthCare, a leading provider of enterprise clinical imaging and IT solutions, announced the global release for sale of ICIS(TM) View 3.0* , the medical images and results viewer for the comprehensive ICIS enterprise imaging solution. The ICIS patient imaging data platform is a fundamental part of the company's global e-health strategy. Building on its leadership in enterprise imaging management and web-enabled technology, Agfa HealthCare's ICIS View 3.0 allows clinicians, specialists, and all other stakeholders to access all patient imaging data from any PACS or VNA, using a single viewer, to support continuity and productivity of patient care . This cost-effective solution leverages the hospital's existing investment in technology, and provides access to the most current and relevant patient imaging data directly from the source.

To be demonstrated in the U.S. during the Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (SIIM) Annual Meeting, June 6-9, ICIS View 3.0 consolidates the viewing experience for clinicians throughout the enterprise, providing individualized access to patient data from Agfa HealthCare's ICIS platform as well as any vendor's PACS or VNA. ICIS enables providers to manage images just like other patient information in the EMR.

Image Enabling the EMR: Clinical Context is Key

ICIS View is powered by the innovative XERO ^®technology and is a core facet of Agfa HealthCare's ICIS (Imaging Clinical Information System) workflow-centric services platform for providing secure access for all clinicians to multidisciplinary image information through the EMR. ICIS elevates imaging data capture, consolidation, management, and access from disparate departments to the enterprise, to drive powerful clinical advances and IT efficiencies. The ICIS platform enables health networks to unify their patient records within the relevant clinical context of the EMR as well as leverage their infrastructure investment.

"As more departments generate imaging data, simply consolidating storage does not solve the challenge of using imaging to improve the delivery of quality care. Clinical workflow, designed to unify patient records in the EMR, is needed to acquire, distribute, and consume these images," said James Jay, Vice President - Imaging Informatics, Agfa HealthCare. "Agfa HealthCare is a leader in recognizing and meeting this challenge. ICIS delivers a comprehensive framework to enable flexible workflows to bring images into every step of the care continuum. This provides clinicians with a single point of access for all imaging data, integrated into the EMR, which can help reduce duplicate procedures and enable efficient care."

All imaging data from all sources

An added benefit of the ICIS platform is that there is no need to migrate the data from legacy systems. ICIS View allows direct access to imaging data stored within PACS or VNAs. A single server will connect to multiple image managers at the same time, using DICOM and/or WADO. Users can view images from multiple PACS with ICIS View within their preferred presentation view, defined by a chosen ICIS theme.

Planned to be released, ICIS Clinical Applications 1.0 can be added into the solution suite, enabling viewing of MIP/MPR/3D images from CT and MR datasets, within the same browser-based viewer.

A new user interface design for cine viewing plays at the DICOM-specific frame rate, allows adjustments of cine speed and trim, and enables autoplay in 1-up mode. Mobile device usage is enhanced with quick response (QR) codes for fast image sharing and collaboration.

Driving new revenues and reducing costs

"ICIS provides secure access to imaging data from different departments in one view, to anyone who needs this information: clinicians, specialists, referring physicians and patients," comments Koen Meeusen, Global Solution Manager Regional Health for Agfa HealthCare. "This flexible and comprehensive access lets hospitals make more efficient use of their staff, provide new services for clinicians, expand their clinical services, and build a robust EMR at a lower cost. By helping hospitals drive revenues and decrease costs overall, our ICIS platform can play a key role in fulfilling hospitals' operations strategies."

With more than 100 installations deployed worldwide, ICIS View has been successfully implemented in both large regional networks that require image sharing, as well as in individual hospitals needing both internal and external image distribution.

Source: Agfa HealthCare

CMC posted on its website the following letter to its customers describing the company's acquisition by Burndy LLC and Burndy Canada, Inc.:

Dear Customer,

I am pleased to announce that Burndy LLC and Burndy Canada Inc., affiliates of Hubbell Incorporated (Hubbell), have acquired Connector Manufacturing Company (CMC) and Canadian Connector Corporation (CCC) respectively, and their Barfield products brand.

Hubbell, celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, is a leading manufacturer of quality electrical and electronic products serving a broad range of non-residential and residential construction, industrial and utility applications. CMC and CCC will be subsidiaries of Burndy LLC and Burndy Canada Inc., and part of the Hubbell Connectors, Grounding and Tooling Group (HCGT). BURNDY is a leading manufacturer of electrical connector solutions and application tooling, and operates within the Hubbell Electrical Systems platform. With an expanded base of mechanical connectors and the addition of pole line hardware and cabinets, the HCGT Group plans to strengthen its position in providing the most comprehensive set of connection solutions available in the market today.

We at CMC are very happy and excited to become a part of the Hubbell organization. We have joined a company that is a market leader with strong financial performance and shares our values for superior customer service and investment in leading product technology and innovation.

For you, our valued Customer, the change will be virtually seamless. CMC sales, service, support contacts and processes remain unchanged so you can use the same communication channels and methods you currently use.

We will continue working hard to earn your business and want to thank you for your loyalty and support.

Sincerely,

Nick Moraitis
Vice President, Sales & Marketing

Source: Connector Manufacturing Company (CMC)

At a time when copper stockpiles are rising to the highest levels in a decade, manufacturers are paying the biggest premiums for the metal in as much as seven years.

Two reports, one from the Wall Street Journal and the other from Bloomberg, show financing deals are locking up supply and extending lines at warehouses.

The reports say that while inventories tracked by the London Metal Exchange more than doubled in the past year and supplies exceed demand for the first time since 2009, getting copper is becoming more expensive and taking longer. Buyers in Shanghai pay $135 a metric ton more than LME futures, up from $55 last year, Metal Bulletin data show. Luvata Malaysia Bhd., a circuit-board parts maker, stopped buying from local LME stockpiles after waiting times rose to three months from three days at the start of 2012.

That means manufacturers may not be reaping all the benefits of the 28 percent slump in prices since they reached a record two years ago. A big reason is because financing accords are curbing access to metal. As much as 30 percent of LME-tracked reserves are tied up in the agreements, Societe Generale SA estimates. About 84 percent of stockpiles are now concentrated in three locations, lengthening lines just as supply from mines is constrained by disruptions including a port strike in Chile and landslides in Utah and Indonesia.

“Premiums are up, and they’re up substantially,” said Rodney Kent, chief executive officer of Camden, New York-based International Wire Group Holdings, Inc., which had sales of $734 million last year. “You used to be able to clear an order and get an off-take in a matter of days, and now it can be a matter of months.”

Read full article.

Source: tED Magazine

Acuity Brands, Inc. introduces BLANCA™ 700 Series spot, flood, linear surface and linear cove white LED luminaires from Winona^®. BLANCA white LED luminaires provide a smooth, uniform distribution of light to wash or graze applications such as commercial building facades, architectural details, landmarks, hospitality and architainment.

“BLANCA LED luminaires are designed to illuminate architectural features with a beautiful light quality to enhance aesthetics and details of the target feature,” said Patrick Brown, Winona Senior Product Value Stream Manager. “With four specific white LED color temperatures, we can provide color consistency across the BLANCA 700 series.”

BLANCA white LED luminaires are IP66 rated to weather the elements. They provide premium performance in both lumen output and energy efficiency. BLANCA LED luminaires are available in a variety of color temperatures (2700K, 3000K, 3500K, 4000K) and multiple distributions, making it easy to select an appropriate optic distribution for any application.

Source: Acuity Brands

The University of Kentucky (UK) College of Engineering has named Jim T. Pauley to its Hall of Distinction. He is senior vice president of external affairs and government relations at Schneider Electric USA, chair of the NEMA High Performance Building Council, and chair of the American National Standards Institute Board of Directors. The honor was bestowed on the basis of his exemplary career achievements and outstanding character.

The Hall of Distinction, which was established in 1992 to recognize past graduates and encourage similar success among current students, honored Mr. Pauley and five other alumni of the College of Engineering in 2013.

Read full article.

Source: ANSI

Honored for exceptional support of electrical distribution channel

Leviton received the 2013 Industry Award of Merit at the National Association of Electrical Distributors' (NAED) national meeting in Boston on May 6. As part of NAED's Annual Achievement Awards, which recognize individuals and companies that embody the industry's highest standards, Leviton was honored for the company's active role in promoting and supporting the wholesale electrical distribution industry.

"Leviton is honored to receive this prestigious distinction from our customers and friends at NAED," said Donald Hendler, Leviton's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Relationships are a vital aspect of business in the electrical industry, and NAED provides a forum for relationship development and advancement in the industry. At the forefront of innovation, Leviton strives to pursue and maintain relationships to reach the shared goal of manufacturers and distributors to provide our customers with most innovative solutions in the industry."

Leviton was honored among four industry leaders who have made significant contributions to the electrical industry. As a longstanding member of NAED, Leviton received the Industry Award of Merit for the company's dedication and commitment to both the NAED and the industry.

"This award is a true testament to our valued relationships with Leviton's loyal distribution channel alliances," said William Marshall, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Leviton. "We look forward to continuing to provide smart solutions to our partners and are dedicated to our ongoing commitment to the distribution channel."

Source: PR Newswire

WattStopper announced the new LMLS-600 dual loop photosensor that provides superior automatic daylighting control for applications with skylights. Developed in cooperation with the California Lighting Technology Center (CLTC), Wal-Mart and three California utilities, the device includes two photosensors – an open loop sensor to detect daylight contribution, and a closed loop sensor to read the ambient light level – and sophisticated algorithms to simplify setup and ensure optimal performance.

The LMLS-600 is the first commercial product to combine open and closed loop daylighting control strategies to prevent unwanted lighting changes, and increase energy savings. During normal operation, the closed loop sensor provides control based on the ambient light level. However, if the device detects occupant interference, the open loop sensor takes control for the remainder of the day. Previously, daylighting control for skylit areas typically relied on open loop solutions, which can cause distracting changes to electric light levels when the sun is low in the sky. Closed loop solutions overcome this problem, but on their own tend to over dim or under dim the lights.

The new photosensor features automatic commissioning, including self-calibration and establishment of setpoints, saving time for installers and improving performance. Additionally, it recalibrates itself every night to adapt to reflectance changes in the space, such as a new furniture layout, a new retail display or lamp lumen depreciation.

The LMLS-600 can be set up for switching or dimming control, and is part of WattStopper’s Digital Lighting Management (DLM) suite of intelligent controls. Combined with DLM room controllers, it can control most lighting loads, including LEDs. Set up is ladder free, from a wireless handheld configuration tool that is also used to customize a wide variety of DLM control parameters.

Proof-of-concept demonstrations showed the dual-loop solution achieves 36% energy savings compared to the 24% achieved by the open-loop solution. This 50% increase in performance will help lighting, design and building professionals comply with new code requirements for daylighting controls and energy efficiency in commercial, retail, warehouse, and industrial applications.

Source: WattStopper

May is National Electrical Safety Month and WESCO International is doing its part to raise awareness about the workplace electrical safety hazards that claim the lives of more than 350 workers each year. WESCO’s Electrical Safety Guide, produced in collaboration with the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), is a comprehensive collection of case studies, definitions, and examples to help its customers protect themselves against the top electrical hazards in the workplace.

“Most workplace electrical fatalities and injuries can be avoided by following proper safety procedures such as lockout/tagout, de-energizing and wearing correct personal protective equipment,” said Steve Van Oss, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for WESCO. “WESCO prides itself on being a total solution provider, and our Electrical Safety Guide is the latest example of our comprehensive portfolio of safety and security solutions to ensure that those who work around electricity go home safely at the end of each work day.”

The 28-page Electrical Safety Guide includes listings of safety products and solutions along with electrical safety tips to maintain the safety of electrical workers in the field. The guide, which will be distributed to WESCO employees, suppliers, and customers, is available on the company’s website.

Read full article.

Source: ESFI

High Voltage DC breakers for transmission, ‘Small Wind’ solutions, switchgear for turbines highlight ABB’s presence in Chicago.

ABB, the wind industry’s leading power technology and grid interconnection solutions provider, today announced developments from the floor at the annual AWEA WINDPOWER 2013 conference and exhibition.

Technologies unveiled during AWEA WINDPOWER 2013, at the ABB booth (#3743), include:

• Small Wind market solutions – The US and Canada are leading the world in production of small wind turbines, defined by IEC 61400-2 as having a rotor swept area of less than 200 m2, giving a small wind turbine power of 100kW or less. ABB, with components in more than 40,000 wind turbines worldwide, is sharing its expertise in small wind designs and grid interconnections, including efficient and safe solutions for a complete electrical drivetrain.
• Ring Main Unit Switchgear. ABB will be demonstrating new ring main unit (RMU) medium-voltage switchgear designed specifically for wind turbines, enabling functions such as grounding, switching, disconnecting, cable connections and protection to be integrated with compact, cost-effective and maintenance-free functional units.
• ABB low voltage drives. ABB will be offering a full line of wind turbine converter solutions covering the complete wind market, including small, community and utility-scale wind farms. These drives’ features include HW and SW functions for fault ride-through and grid code compliance. ABB also is providing new grid integration, with PC simulation models for utility compliance studies. ABB offers test facilities to validate compliance.
• Forecasting the Wind. Ventyx, an ABB company, will be demonstrating its Ventyx Energy Portfolio Management (EPM) solutions, which focus on the siting, curtailment, and uncertainty of forecasting and valuation of wind generators.

“We’re pleased to again be a part of the AWEA WINDPOWER event as we establish ourselves as not only an experienced technology solutions supplier for the wind industry, but as a proven expert in connecting windpower to the transmission grid efficiently and reliably,” said Dennis McKinley, director of wind power solutions in North America for ABB.

High Voltage DC Breakers for Wind
ABB recently developed a powerful high-voltage direct current (HVDC) breaker that will significantly impact the use of wind-generated electricity. The HVDC breaker removes a 100-year-old technological barrier in the development of DC transmission grids.

DC can carry three times more power over long distances with up to 50 percent less power loss than alternating current. In the past, it was not widely used due to an inability to safely stop the current or identify errors across a power grid. The new HVDC technology facilitates the long distance transfer of off-shore wind energy into electricity networks in a safe, cost-efficient and power-saving manner.

The hybrid HVDC breaker development has been a flagship research project for ABB, which invests over $1 billion annually in R&D activities. The first uses are expected to be with integration of electric transmission from large-scale renewable power projects planned in Europe.

“Over the years, natural gas has presented the wind industry with pricing competition, but it is not an infinite source and experiences significant cost fluctuations,” said McKinley. “Wind energy will continue as a plentiful source, and ABB’s HVDC breaker represents a huge stride in harnessing the potential of wind energy as a viable power supply and improving the future grid.”

Further information, including video, can be found at http://www.abb.com/hvdcgrid.

On April 27, lighting control pioneer Lutron Electronics was announced as the 2013 recipient of the Da Vinci Science Center (DSC) Corporate Grand Maestro Hall of Fame Award. The award recognizes Lutron’s substantial contributions to the scientific community of eastern Pennsylvania and western New Jersey.

The DSC Hall of Fame Awards honor students who show a unique passion for science inside and outside of the classroom, educators in grades K-12 who inspire enthusiasm for science with innovative approaches, and partners who support the Center’s mission.

“Lutron Electronics embodies all of the qualities for which the Grand Maestro Corporate Award stands,” said Lin Erickson, Da Vinci Science Center Executive Director and CEO. “By pursuing his ideas with creativity and passion, Joel Spira started a revolution that literally has changed the way we see the world around us with groundbreaking technology. Lutron’s contributions to the scientific community of our region and our world are truly legendary.”

As part of its ongoing energy-saving awareness campaign, in 2011, Lutron presented DSC with an interactive exhibit that teaches kids how much energy can be saved by dimming the lights. In the United States alone, Lutron products save an estimated 10 billion kWh of electricity, or approximately $1 billion in utility costs per year. The company holds 758 US patents and 2,058 non-US patents.

Source: Lutron

The historic Castle Museum in Michigan brings its French Revival style architecture to life with Lithonia Lighting D-Series LED floodlights for less than one dollar per night.

The Castle Museum in Saginaw, Michigan is now illuminated with 19 Lithonia Lighting^®, D-Series LED Flood Luminaires from Acuity Brands Inc. The museum partnered with Saginaw Sees the Light, a local organization devoted to illuminating Saginaw’s architectural treasures, to showcase the facility’s historic architecture.

The newly installed LED floodlights give the 40,000-square-foot facility a definitive nighttime presence at a fraction of the cost of traditional sources. Using only 41 watts per fixture, the Saginaw Museum can now be illuminated for less than one dollar per night.

“The building’s 19 new LED floodlights consume less than 780 watts,” said Brad Dobbs, Lithonia Lighting Value Stream Manager. “The energy savings are incredible with the D-Series floodlight. Additionally, without lamps to change, the floodlights maximize maintenance savings.”

“The fixtures are perfect because they are barely noticeable, and the real true spotlight is on the architectural features of the building,” said Ken Santa, Castle Museum President and Chief Executive Officer. “We were thrilled beyond belief. The lighting significantly enhances the historic architecture and makes it possible to enjoy it 24-hours a day.”

D-Series LED flood luminaires are sleek and stylish and distribute light to a target area using a choice of seven different optics. While the D-Series LED Flood Luminaire, Size 1, was used for this application, Lithonia Lighting has two larger sizes of the D-Series LED floodlights that deliver up to 12,500 lumens.

D-Series LED Flood Luminaire, Size 1, delivers up to 3,675 lumens and has an expected service life of more than 20 years. The floodlights offer energy savings of approximately 80 percent versus comparable metal halide luminaries.

Souce: Acuity Brands

John Burke, President and COO of Kirby Risk Electrical Supply, named IDEA Chairman

The Industry Data Exchange Association, Inc. (IDEA), the official technology service provider and eBusiness standards body of the electrical industry, today announced its new officers and directors for 2013-2014.

The IDEA Board of Directors elected John Burke, President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), Kirby Risk Electrical Supply, as the IDEA Chairman of the Board for 2013-2014. He previously served on the IDEA Board as the Vice Chairman from 2012-2013 and Treasurer from 2011-2012.

“Much progress has been made over the past year engaging the manufacturer community in a campaign to address the accelerating demand for quality data and information. Our objective over the next year will be to continue to build on these successes with particular emphasis on data quality improvements and filling significant gaps that impede manufacturers’ and distributors’ success in fulfilling end user expectations,” said Burke.

Prior to joining Kirby Risk in 2001, Burke held positions as COO with SourceAlliance, Southeast Division, President of Rexel, S.A. and Vice President, General Manager of EESCO Division of WESCO International. Burke began his career with GE where he spent 15 years engaged in various management positions. Burke serves on supplyFORCE, Board of Directors as Chairman; NAED and NAED Education and Research Foundation Board of Directors; EDGE Electrical Global Supply, Board of Directors; and an Advisory Board member for Industrial Technology at the College of Technology, Purdue University.

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Source: IDEA

The following is a notification from UL to consumers, electrical installers and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) that the duplex receptacle identified below may pose a fire or shock hazard. The receptacle does not comply with UL's safety requirements and is not authorized to bear the UL Mark. The receptacle is employed in lighting controllers sold for use in greenhouses, indoor gardening and hydroponics applications. The receptacles may also have been sold individually.

Name of Product: Duplex Receptacle referred to as a Universal X-Plug 120-240V Receptacle.

Number of Units: 2000.

Manufacturer: Zhejiang Trimone Co., China.

Date of Manufacture: 2012.

Hazard: The receptacle can accept plugs for either 120 or 240 volt products. A potential fire or shock hazard exists if the receptacle is not wired to match the voltage rating of the device plugged into the receptacle.

Identification: The receptacle is a duplex outlet with both slots having a "T"-shaped opening. The receptacle can accept 120 and 240 volt, 15 and 20 amp plug types. It can also accept a polarized type two prong plug, in either orientation. The receptacle may have "E243553" stamped into the metal mounting tab.

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Source: UL

Eaton is collaborating with Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) to promote electrical safety and raise awareness of the dangers of counterfeit electrical products.

The effort will focus on the dangers of counterfeit electrical products as part of a broader outreach effort during National Electrical Safety Month this May. Eaton is continuing its effort to educate key audiences about counterfeit products and the dangers they pose in residential and industrial settings as well as the adverse economic impact.

“The leadership role Eaton is taking to educate all facets of the electrical industry about the dangers of counterfeit electrical products is helping reduce health, safety and economic dangers,” says Thayer Long, executive vice president and chief executive officer, IEC National. “As we help our members face the challenges posed by the ever-changing world of the electrical industry, the importance of electrical safety and avoiding counterfeit electrical products is a message that can save lives and prevent injuries and property damage.”

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Source: CEPro

Development of hybrid High Voltage DC (HVDC) breaker will help shape the power grid of the future

ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, has been recognized by MIT Technology Review for its hybrid high-voltage direct current (HVDC) breaker, placing it among the ten most important technology milestones of the past year. This is an annual list highlighting the top ten breakthrough technologies the editors believe will have the greatest impact on the shape of innovation in the years to come.

“Since 2001, our editors have carefully selected the technologies poised to make the greatest impact on the shape of innovation in the years to come and the organizations leading the charge in those fields,” said MIT Technology Review’s Editor in Chief and Publisher, Jason Pontin. “ABB is helping to define the way we think about creating practical, high-voltage direct current circuit breakers.”

The hybrid HVDC breaker overcomes a 100-year-old barrier to the development of interconnected HVDC transmission grids, which can help improve grid reliability and enhance the capability of existing AC (alternating current) networks. It combines very fast mechanics with power electronics, and will be capable of ‘interrupting’ power flows equivalent to the output of a large power station within five milliseconds - that is thirty times faster than the blink of a human eye.

HVDC technology facilitates the long distance transfer of power from hydropower plants, the integration of offshore wind power, the development of visionary solar projects, and the interconnection of different power networks. Deployment of HVDC has led to an increasing number of point-to-point connections in different parts of the world. The logical next step is to connect the lines and optimize the network.

ABB pioneered HVDC nearly 60 years ago and continues to be a technology driver and market leader with many innovations and developments, recently earning it a place among MIT Technology Review’s top 50 most disruptive companies in 2013.

Source: ABB News

While the president launches an exciting initiative to map the brain, a new tax hurts the very innovation it seeks.

Step into any operating room where neurosurgery is being performed, and there is a good chance that the surgeon is viewing the brain through a camera. Technology today is saving lives by enabling surgeons to see what the naked eye cannot. As archeologists use advanced radar technology to examine sensitive sites before excavating, neurosurgeons use advanced imaging technology to get a clear picture of the brain before operating.

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Source: The Wall Street Journal

ABB the leading power and automation technology group, and Power-One, Inc., a leading provider of renewable energy and of energy efficient power conversion and power management solutions, today announced that their boards of directors have agreed to a transaction in which ABB will acquire Power-One for $6.35 per share in cash or $1,028 million equity value.

The transaction would position ABB as a leading global supplier of solar inverters—the “intelligence” behind a solar PV system—to a market forecasted by the International Energy Agency to grow by more than 10 percent per year until 2021. This rapid growth is being driven by rising energy demand, especially in emerging markets, rising electricity prices and declining costs.

“Solar PV is becoming a major force reshaping the future energy mix because it is rapidly closing in on grid parity,” said ABB’s CEO, Joe Hogan. “Power-One is a well-managed company and is highly regarded as a technology innovator focusing on the most attractive and intelligent solar PV product. The combination of Power-One and ABB is fully in line with our 2015 strategy and would create a global player with the scale to compete successfully and create value for customers, employees and shareholders .”

Power-One has one of the market’s most comprehensive offerings of solar inverters, ranging from residential to utility applications, and a broad global manufacturing footprint. It also has a power solutions portfolio that is adjacent to ABB’s power conversion business. Power-One employs almost 3,300 people, mainly in China, Italy, the US and Slovakia. In 2012, it generated $120 million in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) on sales of approximately $1 billion. “This transaction delivers significant value to our shareholders and will enable Power-One to accelerate its growth,” said Richard J. Thompson, CEO of Power-One. “Together we can better address the growing worldwide demand for innovative, renewable energy solutions and strengthen our global leadership. I believe ABB is the right partner and now is the ideal time for our companies to join forces.”

ABB’s leading portfolio in power and automation, global footprint and service organization make it a natural player in solar PV. For many years ABB has brought its solutions to the solar PV industry and is on track to generate sales of more than $100 million in solar inverters in 2013. Solar inverters are one of the fastest-developing technologies in power electronics, requiring substantial research and development (R&D) resources. In 2012, ABB invested about $1.5 billion in R&D overall.

“The combination of these two successful companies will create significant value-driven growth based on innovation – which means inverters offer opportunities for differentiation—global reach, high quality and technology leadership,” said Ulrich Spiesshofer, head of ABB’s Discrete Automation and Motion division, into which Power-One will be integrated. “The acquisition supports the implementation of the division’s strategy for renewable energy and the goal to build on our strength in power electronics.”

The transaction is structured as a merger and is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including approval of Power One's shareholders at a special meeting and receipt of customary regulatory approvals. The merger agreement contains certain agreed deal protection mechanisms. Investment funds affiliated with Silver Lake Sumeru have entered into an agreement to vote in favor of the transaction. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2013. ABB will finance the transaction out of its own funds.

Credit Suisse acted as financial advisor to ABB, and Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP acted as legal advisor. Goldman Sachs & Co. acted as financial advisor to Power-One, and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP as legal advisor.

Comprehensive wireless technology portfolio provides superior results compared to competitive “one size fits all” wireless systems.

Acuity Brands, Inc. will be demonstrating its industry-leading portfolio of wireless lighting controls at LIGHTFAIR^® International 2013, April 23-25, in Philadelphia. The booth will feature four distinct indoor and outdoor wireless technologies, allowing attendees to learn first-hand about the features and benefits of each technology and determine the best options to meet their lighting control goals.

“Wireless networking technology can now provide control solutions to achieve energy savings and improve quality of lighting in diverse applications,” said Steve Lydecker, Acuity Brands Lighting Senior Vice President of Technology. “Whether it is managing roadway lighting assets for entire municipalities, enabling enhanced occupant experiences in covered parking structures, optimizing industrial lighting operation independent of circuiting, or allowing simple classroom and office energy retrofits – wireless lighting control systems are providing solutions across a wide range of challenging environmental conditions.”

Just as modern mobile devices require multiple wireless options based on distance and speed – 3G for connecting to distant cell towers, Wi-Fi for connecting to home and office networks or Bluetooth® for nearby connections – so too do lighting systems. A broad portfolio of wireless solutions is required to meet the needs of different applications.

“Our wireless technologies are impacting the way we manage and control lighting in profound new ways,” said Lydecker. “For example, our ROAM® streetlight monitoring system is critical to identifying street and parking light outages. Through smart LED fixture retrofits in parking garages and industrial applications, Adura^® mesh technology allows customers to achieve energy savings of up to 70 percent. Our nWiFi™ solution overlays on the existing computer network in office scenarios for easy implementation, and it can be connected to mobile applications so lights can be turned on or off remotely. And our RDT technology allows for simple and cost-effective retrofit of classrooms and private offices using battery operated sensors and energy harvesting switches to provide control solutions without any wiring connections.”

Source: Acuity Brands, Inc.

Acuity Brands, Inc. will hold a Technology Tuesday educational series on April 23 at Lightfair International (LFI) 2013 in Philadelphia. Technology Tuesday will explore advanced technologies that are paving the way for solid-state lighting.

“The purpose of LFI 2013 is to pair industry experts with lighting professionals to help advance the lighting industry,” said Steve Lydecker, Acuity Brands Senior Vice President of Technology. “Technology Tuesday allows attendees to learn about revolutionary technologies and take an in-depth look at what is next in the industry.”

Attendees have the opportunity to earn up to four Professional Development Hours. Technology Tuesday sessions are offered between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. in meeting room 203B at the Philadelphia Convention Center. The sessions include:

• OLED Luminaires: A New Perspective: This session will discuss the prospect and opportunities of OLED lighting, uncover the principles of OLED technology and explore the creative character of OLED luminaire design. Presented by Peter Ngai, PE FIES LC, Acuity Brands Vice President Research and Development, Mike Lu, PhD, Acuity Brands Lighting Director, OLED Lighting Design Center.

• Achieving Full Spectrum Tunable White LED Engines: Learn how tunable white LED engines are distinguished in the market for exceptional control of color and color quality throughout a wide dynamic range. Presented by Jason Rogers, Acuity Brands Lighting Software Development Engineer.

• Adura Wireless Networking: Digital Control of Intelligent Lighting: This session will present how Adura^® wireless networking technology enhances the design of luminaires and control systems, enabling new lighting control applications. Presented by Charlie Huizenga, Acuity Brands Lighting Vice President, Innovation.

• Deep Dimming LED Drivers in the Heart of Intelligent Luminaries: Explore the dimming perfection offered with eldoLED^® drivers and learn how they make it easy to add fixture-based controls to lighting systems. Presented by Gilles Abrahamse, General Manager, eldoLED America Inc.

All registrants who attend a session will be qualified to win one of four iPad mini tablets.

Technology addressed during the learning sessions will be on display at LIGHTFAIR^® International in the Acuity Brands booth #801 or the eldoLED booth #3207 from April 23 – 25, 2013.

The University of California at Davis’ (UC Davis) California Lighting Technology Center (CLTC) is hosting a launch event for WattStopper’s LMLS-600 Switching and Dimming Dual Loop Photosensor, the first commercial product to combine open and closed loop daylighting control strategies. The breakthrough technology is the result of a joint research project including WattStopper, CLTC, Wal-Mart and three California utilities, and the LMLS-600 is the newest component of WattStopper’s energy efficient Digital Lighting Management (DLM) technology platform. Widely regarded as a pivotal innovation in daylight harvesting and efficient building design, the core technology is patented by UC Davis.

The launch celebration, scheduled for Wednesday April 17, 2013, includes a seminar, technology demonstration, luncheon, and tours of CLTC's new daylighting and LED laboratories. Scheduled speakers include CLTC Co-Director Konstantinos Papamichael, CLTC Outreach Specialist Tom Herbert, Wal-Mart Sr. Electrical Engineering Manager Douglas D. May, and WattStopper Regional Vice President Charles Knuffke. The lecture portions of the event will be available via webinar for those unable to attend in person. For more information see the launch invitation.

The new LMLS-600 includes two photosensors – an open loop sensor to detect daylight contribution, and a closed loop sensor to read the ambient light level – and sophisticated algorithms to simplify setup and ensure optimal performance. It provides superior automatic daylighting control for buildings with skylights, preventing distracting lighting level changes and delivering 50% greater energy savings than previous control solutions. The dual loop sensor will help cut costs and fulfill new energy code requirements in commercial applications including retail stores, warehouses, schools and office buildings.

The LMLS-600 features automatic commissioning, including self-calibration and establishment of setpoints, saving time for installers and improving performance. Additionally, it recalibrates itself every night to adapt to reflectance changes in the space, such as a new furniture layout, a new retail display or lamp lumen depreciation. For more information on the LMLS-600.

Source: WattStopper

The 3M Cogent MiY-Touch indoor touch-screen biometric access control reader bested more than 80 other products to win the coveted Judge’s Choice Award at the Security Industry Association’s (SIA) 2013 New Product Showcase (NPS) last week at ISC West in Las Vegas.

The MiY-Touch indoor biometric touch-screen access control reader is compact, fast, and one of the lightest readers in its class. Designed with an intuitive interface and visual user feedback, MiY-Touch also is easy to use. Security systems integrators see benefits with features like built-in time and attendance functions, external USB for add-on devices, Sandbox API framework support, and an optional detachable contact/contactless smart card reader that meets current SP800-116 standards.

MiY-Touch is the fifth product to be introduced in the 3M Cogent MiY product line. Accolades for the company’s MiY line include previous SIA NPS Awards, ESX Maximum Impact Awards, and ASIS Accolades.

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Source: Business Wire

San Antonio’s Comal School District saves approximately $54,000 in energy with help from Acuity Brands lighting and controls solutions.

The Comal School District (“District”) in San Antonio is installing indoor and outdoor lighting and controls from Acuity Brands, Inc. in schools across the district to achieve significant energy and maintenance savings. The District needed energy efficient lighting and controls solutions for multiple high performance school designs.

Kinder Ranch, an 87,300 square-foot elementary school, is the first in the District to feature a high performance lighting solution. The District installed 2’ x 4’ Lithonia Lighting^® SP T8 fluorescent troffers and 2’ x 4’ WRT T8 fluorescent troffers in classrooms and hallways. Gotham^® 8-inch AF compact fluorescent downlights were installed in common areas for architectural downlighting. As a way to further maximize energy savings, nLight^® lighting controls were installed to customize lighting for school activities such as quiet time and projector usage.

To address energy savings inside and out, Kinder Ranch utilized a combination of Lithonia Lighting WST series luminaires and KSF2 luminaires for area lighting in parking lots, entrances and exterior hallways.

“The custom lighting controls solution offers many options for energy savings, especially in a school setting,” said Zachary Schneider of CMTA Consulting Engineers. “We evaluated the sequence of operations for the school and tailored specific controls for maximum energy efficiency. Complementing the control system, the high efficiency T8 fluorescent troffer lighting fixtures provide a longer lifespan and therefore require less maintenance.”

Kinder Ranch Elementary successfully completed the 2011-2012 school year as a high performance school, exceeding the ASHRAE standard and total energy usage of 24.5 kBtu per square-foot-per-year. Comparing Kinder Ranch to other elementary schools in the area, the District saved approximately 45 percent on utility costs. For the 2011-2012 school year, the energy savings was roughly $54,000.

Comal School District is using the Kinder Ranch Elementary high performance school model to construct an elementary school, middle school and high school.

With a comprehensive offering of lighting systems (both fluorescent and LED), controls and daylighting capabilities, Acuity Brands tailors solutions for each school system’s specific economic, architectural and operational requirements.

Source: Acuity Brands

Siemens has been awarded an order for the turnkey supply of the Panda Temple II power plant in Temple, Texas. Following the Temple I and Sherman Power Projects, this is the third order awarded to Siemens by the private equity firm Panda Power Funds within less than a year.      

Siemens will supply the natural-gas-fired combined-cycle power plant in consortium with its partner, Bechtel. The plant, with a gross installed electrical capacity of 758 megawatts, will be among the cleanest fossil-fueled power stations in the U.S.A. Once completed by the end of 2015, it will be able to supply the power needs of approximately 750,000 homes in the Central Texas area. The order volume including a long-term service agreement is approximately USD300 million.