Shrewdd News

Phasing in a new innovative product

2012-02-01T11:39:00.002Z

Phase Mains Dimmable driver

A market leading solution, the Phase Mains Dimmable driver delivers unrivalled smooth leading and trailing edge dimming, with reduced peak currents through a bespoke soft start circuit at the mains input. It is also believed to be the most compatible retrofit dimming product on the market and is available as a 700mA variant.

Despite only recently announcing the introduction of a new Phase Mains Dimmable Driver as an addition to the company’s already successful range of CoolLED drivers, Harvard Engineering - world leader in the design, development and manufacture of LED drivers, electronic HID ballasts and control products for the lighting industry - had the highest volume of pre-orders for any new CoolLED driver.

Michael McDonnell, sales and marketing director at Harvard Engineering, commented,

“The new Phase Mains Dimmable Driver is the company’s most sought after new CoolLED driver so far. We are extremely excited by the market opportunity for a reliable and high performance mains dimmable driver and we are looking forward to the product becoming a resounding success.”

The new product will be officially launched at the ARC Show in February. Customers will also be available to see the new Phase driver at Light & Building, in Frankfurt, in April.

As well as the CoolLED range of drivers, Harvard Engineering supplies HID, fluorescent and emergency lighting ballasts, as well as the revolutionary LeafNut street lighting monitoring and control system.

Harvard:
Established in 1993, Harvard has grown to be a leading player in the LED lighting and wireless street lighting industries. Harvard’s innovative range of products includes the CoolLED range of switchable drivers and LeafNut, the revolutionary wireless remote monitoring system for street lighting.

Awards:
2011 – Shortlisted for the Orange Innovation Award at the National Business Awards
2011 – Winner of the Innovation award at the Wakefield Express Business Awards
2011 - Winner of a Queen’s Award for Enterprise, within the Innovation category
2010 - Winners of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2010 - Winners of the Light Sources & Controls Award at the Lighting Design Awards

www.HarvardEng.com

Free energy efficiency seminar in the East Midlands

2012-01-27T10:44:00.000Z

Companies in the East Midlands are invited to attend a free Continuing Professional/Personal Development (CPD) seminar aimed at highlighting how to reduce operating costs and improve overall energy efficiency through voltage optimisation. The event, hosted by leading voltage optimisation company EMSc (UK) Ltd, will take place on Wednesday 22nd February at the Jubilee Campus, Nottingham Universities.

The seminar will identify low carbon initiatives, look at energy legislation and explore voltage optimisation solutions and will include presentations by industry experts and keynote speakers. Powerstar sales engineer Kevin Simmonds will provide the keynote address on voltage optimisation. Guest speaker is Bill Mahoney, a member of the Energy Services and Technology Association and a committee member of the Energy Institute Midlands branch.  In addition Geoff Clifton, business development manager of VO4HOME Ltd will discuss voltage optimisation for domestic users and small businesses.  
Speaking about the event, Nick Lee, marketing manager at EMS said:

“This free seminar is aimed at helping businesses learn how they can benefit from voltage optimisation and the guaranteed cost savings the technology offers.”

Recognition for regional support organisation

2012-01-27T10:34:00.001Z

Yorkshire Air Ambulance helicopter

Recycling company Bag It Up was presented with the Chairman’s Award in recognition of its on-going partnership with the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) at the annual Yorkshire Air Ambulance Recognition Awards in Harrogate recently. As the YAA’s official recycling partner, Bag It Up has raised a remarkable £1.2 million through its textile recycling service since 2005, for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance alone.

The Awards celebrated the work of all involved with the YAA, which is an independent charity that provides a life-saving rapid response emergency service to 5 million people across Yorkshire.

Louise Knapton at Bag It Up said:

“We are proud of our longstanding association with the YAA, and we are honoured to receive this award. The funds raised through our recycling service have helped save lives across the region, and we would like to encourage people to keep donating their unwanted textiles, clothing and shoes to help save even more lives.”

Other winners on the night included Annabel Johnson from Veolia Environmental Services, recycling officer in the Sheffield area, who received a Corporate Supporter Award. Ms. Johnson played a key role in providing recycling locations around the city of Sheffield, where the public can donate their unwanted garments and textiles. She also played a major role in the ‘bra and shoe’ campaigns that have boosted donations to the charity and raised awareness of the recycling fundraising schemes. The recycling banks in Sheffield alone have so far raised over £84,000.

Bag It Up has operated its recycling campaign in conjunction with the YAA since 2005, and the sustainable income stream generates approximately £250,000 for the YAA each year. Supporters can donate unused clothing, textiles and shoes at over 200 clothing banks, which can be found at various locations across Yorkshire. Bag It Up and the YAA also work with businesses who wish to operate a corporate collection with their staff and colleagues.

About Bag It Up:

Established in 2005, Bag It Up collects and recycles unwanted clothing, shoes, household textiles and mobile phones, generating vital income streams for its charity partners, be it life-saving missions by air ambulance, new wheelchairs to help children become more independent, or support for children with life limiting conditions and their families. Donations of unwanted items have helped local charities across many regions. Bag It Up encourages people to clear out their wardrobe and donate to deserving local charities helping people across the country.

www.bagitup.org.uk

Harvard launches Custom LED Design and Placement service

2012-01-11T16:34:00.000Z

Harvard engineers working on a bespoke PCB design & layout

Queen’s Award winner in the innovation category, Harvard Engineering, is pleased to announce the expansion of its successful Custom LED Design and Placement service. Established for nearly twenty years, Harvard has extensive knowledge in lighting and engineering, both essential in the delivery of bespoke LED lighting solutions.

The service was originally launched in 2010 and has proved to be so successful with customers that the company has invested in new technology and equipment to meet the growing demand.

Recent expansion to a purpose built advanced manufacturing facility in the UK ensures Harvard can provide reliable, high volume LED placement by combining the most advanced automated manufacturing processes, which also include fully automated surface mount machinery and thermal testing equipment.
As part of service, the company’s highly skilled engineering team of LED specialists will work closely with customers to deliver a bespoke PCB layout and design service. Every project will have a dedicated engineering development manager, who will be intrinsically involved from the start of each project through its completion.

Michael McDonnell, sales and marketing director at Harvard Engineering, commented,

“It is an exciting time for the company. We have always had the in-house capabilities to provide this customised service, but we have never really actively marketed it. We have now put together an experienced team specifically focused on identifying opportunities, delivering solutions and meeting customer requirements. And with over 18 years electronics manufacturing and lighting experience, we are well placed to deliver cost efficient innovative tailored solutions.”

Harvard:

Established in 1993, Harvard has grown to be a leading player in the LED lighting and wireless street lighting industries. Harvard’s innovative range of products includes the CoolLED range of switchable drivers and LeafNut, the revolutionary wireless remote monitoring system for street lighting.

Awards:

2011 – Shortlisted for the Orange Innovation Award at the National Business Awards
2011 – Winner of the Innovation award at the Wakefield Express Business Awards
2011 - Winner of a Queen’s Award for Enterprise, within the Innovation category
2010 - Winners of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2010 - Winners of the Light Sources & Controls Award at the Lighting Design Awards

Community textile recycling project

2012-01-11T14:41:00.002Z

Danielle Mugridge (front), with Ernie co-ordinators.

Southampton City Council, together with Southampton Solent University and the Central Baptist Church, has been working with one of the UK’s leading textile recycling companies Bag It Up in the Southampton area to manage discarded student clothing and textiles at the end of each academic year.

All the clothing and textiles collected by Bag It Up are processed for resale or recycling, with monies raised donated to Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

The project, which has been running since 2009, uses Southampton Solent University’s ‘Eco Ernie’ – an adapted milk float – and student volunteers to collect student clothing. The programme is all about creating and developing a culture of reuse and recycling across the Southampton region.

The partnership was shortlisted for the Best Partnership Project For Recycling in the 2011 National Recycling Awards and was a runner up in The Best Community Recycling Initiative, at the 2009 Awards for Excellence, organised by letsrecycle.com. In 2010 the partnership also won the LGC Awards to celebrate the ongoing management of student waste.

Danielle Mugridge, director at Bag It Up Ltd said:

“Our partnership with Southampton City Council has been extremely successful over the years not only at raising vital funds for the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, but also at diverting the city’s student and resident textile waste from landfill.”

Free energy efficiency seminar in London

2012-01-11T14:25:00.001Z

Wellcome Collection Conference Centre

Companies in London are invited to attend a free Continuing Professional/Personal Development (CPD) seminar aimed at highlighting how to reduce operating costs and improve overall energy efficiency through voltage optimisation. The event, hosted by leading voltage optimisation company EMSc (UK) Ltd, will take place on Wednesday 25th January at the Wellcome Collection Conference Centre.

The seminar will identify low carbon initiatives, look at energy legislation and explore voltage optimisation solutions and will include presentations by industry experts and keynote speakers. Powerstar sales engineer Gary Mills will provide the keynote address on voltage optimisation, while guest speaker Geoff Clifton, business development manager of VO4HOME, will discuss domestic voltage optimisation and its benefits.

In addition, Alan Aldrige, building services manager of Wellcome Trust, will share his experience of Powerstar at the conference centre site, followed by a tour of the installation.

Speaking about the event, Nick Lee, marketing manager at EMS said:

“This free seminar is aimed at helping businesses learn how they can benefit from voltage optimisation and the guaranteed cost savings the technology offers.”

Voltage optimisation is a simple, cost-efficient way to control a building’s incoming voltage in order to maximise energy savings and Powerstar, EMS’ voltage optimisation system, is recognised as being the most efficient voltage solution in the world – it can save up to 26.1% of total electricity consumption and related CO2 emissions without compromising the supply to electrical equipment. The payback period after installing the product is typically between 0.8 and 2.5 years.

The seminar is free to attend and will take place from 9:30 am until 1.00 pm. Attendees will be awarded with training certificates and self-assessment forms on completion of the event. Lunch will also be provided.

About EMSc UK
EMS is renowned for designing and manufacturing the Star® range of energy saving products. In addition to the market leading Powerstar voltage optimisation solution, the company also manufactures Airstar and Hotelstar, products that allow companies, organisations and hotels to reduce their energy costs as well as reduce their carbon emissions.

2011 - Winner Innovation of the Year Award Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Awards
2010 - Winner of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 - Winner of the CARE4AIR AWARD
2006 & 2004 SMART Award for Innovation

About Powerstar

Powerstar:

Can save an average of 12-15% (up to 26.1% savings recorded) of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK (on the same load and same voltage reduction).

This has been proven in independent tests by the electricity supplier RWE npower.

RWE npower commented: We did a trial with Powerstar and one other supplier. Powerstar showed a larger overall saving compared to the other supplier. In addition, it improved the power quality more. Powerstar was the better system in all aspects, including the technical design and capabilities.

Powerstar® is the registered trademark of EMSc (UK) Ltd.

Green industry experts invited to participate in nationwide seminars

2011-12-21T15:51:00.001Z

Dr Alex Mardapittas, managing director at EMS

As a result of a successful series of voltage optimisation seminars delivered across the UK in 2011, market leading voltage optimisation manufacturer EMSc (UK) Ltd, has announced it will continue with its CPD certified sessions and is inviting industry experts to participate in its line-up of 2012 events.

In particular, EMS is looking for keynote speakers to present sustainability, energy management and other green issues to businesses as part of its 2012 Powerstar CPD seminar roadshow, which will cover Norwich, Manchester, Luton, Bristol and Cardiff.

Dr Alex Mardapittas, managing director at EMS said:

“We believe that education and understanding on how energy saving technologies work is essential. Having achieved great success with our seminars in 2011, we are now looking to secure green industry experts to share the stage with us during 2012, in an effort to educate business professionals on credible energy efficiency technologies.”

EMS announced earlier this year that its turnover increased by 50%, to £12.4m.  The company also doubled its workforce and has moved into new premises to accommodate the growth it has been experiencing.

EMS is also accredited with the Made in Sheffield accolade in acknowledgement of the quality of its manufacturing process, its expansion into international markets and the international success of Powerstar.

About EMSc UK
EMS is renowned for designing and manufacturing the Star® range of energy saving products. In addition to the market leading Powerstar voltage optimisation solution, the company also manufactures Airstar and Hotelstar, products that allow companies, organisations and hotels to reduce their energy costs as well as reduce their carbon emissions.

2011 - Winner Innovation of the Year Award Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Awards
2010 - Winner of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 - Winner of the CARE4AIR AWARD
2006 & 2004 SMART Award for Innovation

About Powerstar

Powerstar:

Can save an average of 12-15% (up to 26.1% savings recorded) of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK (on the same load and same voltage reduction).

This has been proven in independent tests by the electricity supplier RWE npower.

RWE npower commented: We did a trial with Powerstar and one other supplier. Powerstar showed a larger overall saving compared to the other supplier. In addition, it improved the power quality more. Powerstar was the better system in all aspects, including the technical design and capabilities.

Powerstar® is the registered trademark of EMSc (UK) Ltd.

Shrewdd helps Innserve launch Best Cellars campaign 2012

2011-12-15T15:21:00.000Z

Yorkshire based marketing agency, Shrewdd Marketing, has been chosen by Innserve to launch the company’s Best Cellars Awards 2012, developing all the company’s marketing collateral and supporting publicity.

Shrewdd worked with local photographer Kieron Nevison to create the supporting imagery and local actor Simon Kirk, who became the campaign’s fictional character, Rupert Lovebeer, to spearhead the campaign.

Rupert Lovebeer was created to put a unique spin on the campaign, emphasising a bygone era, where the only place to drink a quality draught beer was in the pub.

Innserve, the UK’s largest drinks dispense service company supplying to over 70,000 of the 135,000 licensed premises in the UK, holds its Best Cellars Awards every year to recognise exceptional cellar and business practices, as well as all the unseen work, skill and commitment that goes into serving wonderful beer.

Steve Lakin, business development manager at Innserve, commented,

“We are really excited to be launching the campaign for 2012 with Rupert Lovebeer. Shrewdd Marketing has developed a fantastic concept for this year’s launch, the best we’ve ever had.”

Alf Lombardi, managing director at Shrewdd Marketing, commented,

“It is great to be able to develop the Innserve Best Cellars Awards campaign for 2012. We were proud to be chosen to help develop the national campaign and are delighted that Innserve are happy with the results.”

About Shrewdd Marketing:
Shrewdd Marketing has been established for over eight years and provides media and public relations, copywriting, creative services and more to clients in a variety of business to business sectors. The company was established in 2003 by Alf Lombardi the current managing director.
www.shrewdd.com

£3 million in the bag

2011-12-13T14:50:00.003Z

Bag It Up, one of the UK’s leading textile recycling companies, is pleased to announce that since being established 6 years ago it has received thousands of tonnes of donated clothing, coats, hats, bags, shoes, trainers, boots and household textiles, generating over £3 million for its partner charities.

Bag It Up works with charities throughout the UK that do not have charity shops and do not have textile recycling provisions in place. The company places strategically positioned recycling banks in a wide variety of locations including supermarket car parks, household waste recycling sites, shopping centres, community and sports clubs, and other areas with a high footfall, in order to generate donations and raise money for its regional partner charities.

Partners include Yorkshire Air Ambulance in the Yorkshire region and Thames Valley & Chiltern Air Ambulance in the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire areas.

All funds raised are for the benefit of the general public in the UK, from life-saving missions to community projects, and hospices for the terminally ill. Good quality donated items, which can be re-used are sold to second-hand clothing traders in the UK and worldwide. 'End of life' garments are recycled into industrial wipers and cloths, mattress filling, insulation and new fibres. Funds from sales go to the regional partner charity where the donated items came from.

Louise Knapton, Bag It Up, said,

“We work with regional charities up and down the country to help them collect discarded household clothing items. For many of them it has become the major source of income generation.”

Katie Collinson, at Yorkshire Air Ambulance, commented,

“Sustainable income is vital to a modern charity, and recycling as an income stream helps and affects so many people, whilst fulfilling social responsibilities. Our successful ongoing relationship with Bag It Up over the years has helped us raise a fantastic £1million, and this income helps us save lives across the region. We are encouraging people to keep donating their unwanted textiles, clothing and shoes to help us save even more money for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.”

The company welcomes interest from property owners, facilities management companies, supermarket managers, anyone who feels that they have a high foot-fall and would like to have a charity clothes bank on their premises as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility programme.

About Bag It Up
Established in 2005, Bag It Up collects and recycles unwanted clothing, shoes, household textiles and mobile phones, generating vital income streams for its charity partners, be it life-saving missions by air ambulance services, new wheelchairs to help children become more independent, or support for children with life limiting conditions and their families. Bag It Up encourages people to clear out their wardrobe and donate to deserving local charities helping people across the country. Donations of unwanted items have helped local charities across many regions.

Clugston Construction hits hat-trick

2011-12-13T12:15:00.000Z

One of the North’s leading privately owned building and civil engineering contractors, Clugston Construction - with offices in Leeds, Scunthorpe and Hebburn Tyne and Wear - is pleased to announce it has been given permission to commence construction of its third multimillion pound Energy from Waste (EfW) facility this year. This time the facility is in Oxfordshire.

Working in joint venture with French technology partner CNIM, who will provide the process equipment, the new facility will be constructed for, and operated by Viridor, one of the UK's leading recycling, renewable energy and waste management companies. On completion it will provide an essential, long-term alternative to landfill disposal for Oxfordshire council.

The project is the third EfW development scheme of its kind to be secured by the joint venture in less than twelve months, having already started projects in Staffordshire and Lincolnshire earlier in the year. And reinforces Clugston’s strategic vision to develop it’s presence in the sector, representing a further milestone in the company’s involvement with projects delivering a sustainable environment for the UK.

Once constructed the plant will divert from landfill at least 95 per cent of the residual waste delivered to the facility, while also generating 24 megawatts of electricity – enough electricity to power over 38,000 households.

Steve Radcliffe, managing director of Clugston Construction commented:

“We are delighted with the approval to commence site activities, which means we look forward to starting construction works on another exciting EfW project with our partner CNIM.”

Clugston Construction is a privately owned regional building and civil engineering contractor and a member of the Clugston Group, which was established over 70 years ago by the current chairman’s father. Operating from four regional offices across Northern and Eastern England, the company has built a reputation for safely delivering a wide variety of services and projects. For further information about Clugston visit www.clugston.co.uk

CNIM Group designs, develops and produces turnkey industrial solutions with high technological content, and offers expertise, services and operating solutions in the fields of environment, energy, defence and industry. For each of its activities, the Group strives for technological excellence by mastering all the technologies and high-level industrial resources it implements and by being able to launch innovative products owing to the creativity of its teams. The CNIM Group is a medium-sized company, operating in 15 countries. With its 3,000 employees, the Group’s 2010 turnover amounted to nearly €632M. For further information about CNIM visit www.cnim.com.

Safe and Sound

2011-12-13T11:59:00.001Z

Baths Hall site prior to completion

Scunthorpe based company ProTouch Security, one of the UK’s leading security companies, has successfully completed a security contract for Clugston Construction during the build of the famous Baths Hall entertainment venue in Scunthorpe.

The contract with Clugston Construction involved ProTouch providing alarm activation patrols, which meant as soon as an alarm was activated a ProTouch security guard was on site in no time at all. Security also included random mobile patrols and during the final stages of the construction, two Security Guards were on site 24/7, whilst expensive equipment was being installed.

A spokesperson at Clugston Construction, commented,

“ProTouch Security did a very professional job for us at the Baths Hall. We have no hesitation in considering the company for other projects. We would also happily recommend them to other companies.”

Tommy Buxton, managing director of ProTouch Security, commented, “We are extremely pleased that a well established local company like Clugston Construction was happy with the security service we provided. We pride ourselves on delivering tailored solutions, as we did at the Baths Hall. It’s also great to be recommended to other local companies.”

Mr. Buxton added,

“Being based in Scunthorpe means we can offer all our local and regional customers not only an uncompromising service but the most competitive rates available in the market.”

About ProTouch Security:
ProTouch Security is one of the UK's top 10 providers of event safety, event security, crowd management, door supervisors, stewards, event management and other security solutions.
ProTouch Security is a finalist in the Security Company of the Year 2012 - Event Production Awards.

Services include:
Boundary Guard Systems
Alarm Response Units
Mobile Patrols
Lock and Unlock Services
Static /Manned Guarding
Security Dogs
Security Alarm Install and Maintenance

www.protouchsecurity.co.uk

Innserve launches Best Cellars campaign with the help of Rupert Lovebeer

2011-12-01T15:16:00.001Z

Cut-out of fictional character Rupert Lovebeer with Innserve technicians.

Innserve the UK’s largest independent drinks dispense service company has launched its successful Best Cellars Awards 2012 with the help of fictional character Rupert Lovebeer. The fictional character - who was created to emphasise a bygone era, when the only place to drink a quality draught beer was in a pub - is putting a unique spin on the campaign.

The Innserve Best Cellars Awards recognise exceptional cellar and business practices, as well as all the unseen work, skill and commitment that goes into serving wonderful beer.

There are 6 top prizes to be won of £1,000 - 3 nationwide prizes of £1,000 for the Best Cellar and 3 nationwide prizes of £1,000 for the Best Newcomer. In total there are over 42 prizes to be won including 18 area prizes of £200 for the Best Cellar and 18 area prizes of £200 for the Best Newcomer. Closing date for entries is 5th May 2012.

When reviewing entries judges will look at a number of key factors including, cellar management, line cleaning and cellar regime, understanding of how a cellar works, clean sparkling glassware, a commitment to training staff and of course the desire to always serve the perfect pint.

Rupert Lovebeer will appear on all the competition’s marketing collateral and across digital media, as part of an integrated marketing campaign to promote the competition to over 70,000 licensed premises the length and breadth of the UK.

This year’s competition was well received and proved to be one of the most successful in the competition’s history with hundreds of entries. 2011 Regional Best Cellars winner Gerry Collins of The Hut Pub in Uxbridge commented:

“Winning the Innserve Best Cellars Award has proved to be extremely valuable. Our customers are delighted to be drinking in a pub that has been acknowledged for taking care of its beer. Word of mouth quickly spread and despite the recession we’ve actually seen the number of drinkers increase. The plaque on the wall is also a great talking point.”

Steve Lakin, business development manager Innserve said:

“Every year the awards seem to attract more interest, we are anticipating 2012 to be no exception, particularly with Rupert Lovebeer spearheading the campaign. We believe the growing success of the competition is due to the fact that many appreciate the recognition that serving a great beer affords. Winning a prestigious Innserve Best Cellars Award provides an opportunity to highlight to all existing and potential customers the care and attention that is going into delivering great pints.”

About Innserve
Innserve supplies, installs and maintains drinks dispense systems in over 70,000 of the 132,000 licensed premises in the UK. Over 300 drinks dispense maintenance and installation technicians are directly employed, covering the UK from Lands End to John O'Groats. This sets Innserve apart as the major provider of a nationwide service in the drinks dispense field. For further information about Innserve visit www.innserveltd.co.uk.

Clugston Construction secures £17.5 million contracts

2011-12-01T12:11:00.001Z

Clugston Construction, one of the North’s leading privately owned building and civil engineering contractors, with offices in Leeds, Scunthorpe and Hebburn Tyne and Wear has secured contracts worth a total of £17.5 million.

The projects, which include a factory extension and an office resource centre in Leeds and Immingham, are for leading international companies with operations in the Yorkshire & Humber region.

Construction work on the projects is varied, requiring design and build elements to both and will involve the company using local labour and suppliers from across the region, which it always seeks to do, whenever it can, to deliver projects. There will be over 100 people working on the projects at their peak.

In addition, the company has also recently started work on a Performing Arts block at John Leggott College in Scunthorpe. The £2.5 million project, which is being partly funded with money from the Young People’s Learning Authority (YPLA), is part of a rolling programme of improvements being made to the College’s West Common Lane campus to ensure it continues to provide a high quality learning experience for young people.

Steve Radcliffe, managing director at Clugston Construction, commented:

“We are delighted to have been chosen to work on these developments, which are close to our offices in Leeds and Scunthorpe and will enable us to use our local supply chain.”

www.clugston.co.uk

New Head-Hunter for Kelly Services Leeds

2011-12-01T12:04:00.001Z

Mark Weir, the new Business Manager at Kelly Services Leeds.

Kelly Services, the recruitment company which offers total workforce management solutions including Permanent Recruitment, Temporary Staffing and Search & Selection, has recently employed a new Business Manager for their Leeds office.

Mark Weir joins the team with over 10 years experience in recruitment, with specific expertise in placing candidates at CEO and senior management roles. Mr Weir’s appointment means the team now has experience in covering all permanent and commercial recruitment from office junior to senior executive, as well as temporary staffing.

Kelly Services prides itself on understanding the critical business importance of the recruitment process and works closely with organisations to better understand their workforce needs, developing a tailored solution for each.

Mr Weir commented,

“When Kelly Services approached me for this exciting role, I was thrilled to move into the Yorkshire area. Although the economy is not as buoyant as it could be, I am confident that the region will grow and expand. I am committed to ensuring all Kelly Services candidates and clients get the highest quality service, whether they are SMEs or blue chip companies, and look forward to the opportunities that will come along in my new role.”

Mark Weir’s team serves Leeds and the wider Yorkshire area from the Kelly Service’s office in Gildersome.

About Kelly Services:
Kelly Services has been delivery a broad range of Total Workforce Management solutions since 1946. The company’s unique approach has helped them to develop relationships with some of the UK’s leading organisations across a range of industries. Kelly Services has particular expertise in Permanent Recruitment, Temporary Staffing and Search & Selection. For more information, please visit www.kellyservices.co.uk.

Export growth leads to new distributors

2011-11-25T09:58:00.001Z

International business development manager, Paul North

Having recently reported another year of outstanding growth, Yorkshire (Rotherham) based company EMSc UK Ltd is pleased to announce it has expanded its international network by signing distribution agreements with companies in Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain and Malta.

 In Sri Lanka, Powerstar has signed an exclusive agreement with Direct Contact International (Pvt) Ltd, a subsidiary of Coalit UK, to market, develop and install the Powerstar products. Reference projects include the company’s own office complex, as well as leading hospitality brand Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts.

EMS has also secured an agreement with the UAE’s MHM Green Systems in Dubai to optimise power consumption at the famous Atlantis The Palm Hotel, Dubai. Other projects include Marriott Hotels and Tencate.

In Bahrain the company has secured a distribution agreement with Mannai Tech and in Malta CD Powersaving recently became an exclusive distributor for Powerstar after already a successful period of cooperation. Projects include Millies Cookies and Amigos Restaurants.

Paul North, EMS international business development manager commented:

“In response to increased international interest in Powerstar, our market leading voltage optimisation solution, we are happy to announce we have signed a number of international distribution agreements. Having experienced significant growth over the past few years, both in the UK and internationally, we anticipate our growth to continue at an even faster pace thanks to mounting worldwide demand for our revolutionary technology. We are proud to be flying the flag in so many new markets, particularly bearing in mind the current economic climate.”

The latest additions to the growing team of international distributors now sees the Powerstar system exported to more that 15 countries which also include Ireland, Cyprus, Greece, Australia and South Africa.

EMS manufactures all its products in the UK and counts ASDA, Hilton Hotels, Whitbread,  London Transport, Sheffield University as well as a large number of other government departments, Local Authorities and the NHS, as customers.

The company is celebrating 10 years of continued success, having recently announced another successful 12 months trading, with turnover increasing by 50%, to £12.4m. It is also accredited with the Made in Sheffield accolade in acknowledgement of the quality of its manufacturing process, its expansion into international markets and the international success of Powerstar.

Powerstar is the registered trademark of EMSc (UK) Ltd.

Powerstar:

Can save up to 26.1% of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Is an approved energy savings system and may qualify for an interest-free Energy Efficiency Loan from the Carbon Trust.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK. This has been proven in independent tests (on the same load and same voltage reduction), head to head with similar competitive systems. In these tests Powerstar achieved:
Significantly higher energy savings (up to 13% more)
Reduced harmonics by 88% more than competitive systems
Running significantly cooler than competitive systems. (While Powerstar operated at normal ambient temperatures, competitive systems were operating at nearly 70°C).

The EMS team has over 150 years combined experience in designing and manufacturing special transformers and the Powerstar design is a direct result of this experience.

2011 - Winner Innovation of the Year Award Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Awards
2010 - Winner of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 - Winner of the CARE4AIR AWARD
2006 & 2004 SMART Award for Innovation

Harvard celebrates another successful year despite recession

2011-11-25T09:41:00.001Z

The Orange Innovation Award Winner: Harvard Engineering, Wakefield From left: Martin Stiven, Everything Everywhere, John McDonnell, Managing Director, Harvard Engineering, Michael McDonnell, Sales & Marketing Director, Harvard Engineering and Richard North, CEO, Wow Stuff (previous winner)

Harvard Engineering, world leader in the design, development and manufacture of LED drivers, electronic HID ballasts and control products - including LeafNut the revolutionary wireless remote street lighting system - is celebrating another successful year after increasing turnover by 50%, winning two prestigious innovation awards and expanding into a new purpose built manufacturing facility.

In April Harvard won a Queen’s Award for Enterprise, within the Innovation category. The award, which was presented by His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent, was in recognition of the success the company is experiencing with the revolutionary wireless remote monitoring and control street lighting system, LeafNut.

LeafNut was also the reason behind Harvard winning the Orange Innovation Award, at the Orange National Business Awards in November. Sherry Coutu, Investment Committee, NESTA, who sat on this year’s National Business Awards shortlisting panel, commented:

“Harvard Engineering scored highly for its innovative wireless street-lighting system.” And declared LeafNut as “A triumph of customer led entrepreneurship”.

The company’s new premises in Normanton, Wakefield, includes a world leading research and development centre, a manufacturing facility - with some of the most advanced automated assembly equipment in the industry - a showroom and a large open-plan office space. The larger premises are ideally suited to accommodate Harvard’s ambitious and ongoing growth plans.

Michael McDonnell, sales and marketing director at Harvard commented,

“We have had another extremely exciting and successful year and we would like to thank the whole team for all their efforts. We are now looking forward to the next 12 months as we continue to implement ambitious growth plans both in the UK and internationally, whilst continuing to develop new innovative products.”

To meet the growing demand for its products Harvard has also recently established new offices and relationships in Spain, Italy and Australia, following on from the success of the French office which opened in 2010.

All Harvard’s products and solutions are fully researched, developed and manufactured in their facility in the UK.

www.HarvardEng.com

Harvard Engineering

Established in 1993, Harvard has grown to be a leading player in the LED lighting and wireless street lighting industries. Harvard’s innovative range of products includes the CoolLED range of switchable drivers and LeafNut, the revolutionary wireless remote monitoring system for street lighting.

LeafNut:

The LeafNut system has been deployed in approaching 100 locations across the world

The system can save up to £46 a light per year and up to 100kg of carbon emissions per year on each street light

LeafNut comes with guaranteed savings

LeafNut uses the WiMAC wireless CMS technology to remotely monitor and control the output of each individual street light

The innovative technology reduces maintenance costs by identifying lamp problems in advance and accurately predicting lamp failure

LeafNut helps councils meet Carbon Reduction targets

The LeafNut system is a result of the senior management teams 20+ years experience in the lighting industry.

Awards

2011 – Winner of the Orange Innovation Award at the National Business Awards
2011 – Winner of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise, within the Innovation category
2011 – Winner Insider Media Growth 100 (Yorkshire) Innovation Award
2011 – Winner of the Innovation Award at the Wakefield Express Business Awards
2010 – Winner of the Light Sources & Controls Award at the Lighting Design Awards
2010 – Winner of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10 Innovation in Action Award
2009 – Winner of the Yorkshire Post Business in Excellence Award

Harvard supporting worthwhile causes

2011-11-25T09:23:00.001Z

Harvard Engineering staff members have been getting into the charity spirit dressing up for Children in Need and sporting moustaches for prostate cancer charity Movember.

The Harvard ‘Movember’ team.

It is estimated that by the end of November the staff will have raised well over £1000 for the two charities.

Over 100 members of staff donned fancy dress outfits for Children in Need on Friday 18th November, with people dressing up as members of rock band Kiss and a variety of animals from the Lion King, amongst others.

Nine members of staff also grew moustaches to raise awareness of mens health, specifically prostate and testicular cancer. Movember is all about growing a moustache to spark conversations, and generate laughs; all in the name of raising vital awareness and funds for cancers affecting men.

The Harvard Children In Need fund raising team.

Michael McDonnell, sales and marketing director at Harvard Engineering, commented:

“It was a wonderful day, everyone had a great time dressing up supporting a great cause.”

Harvard Engineering, based in Normanton, Wakefield, is a world leader in the design, development and manufacture of drivers, ballasts and control products for the lighting industry.

Harvard Engineering

Established in 1993, Harvard has grown to be a leading player in the LED lighting and wireless street lighting industries. Harvard’s innovative range of products includes the CoolLED range of switchable drivers and LeafNut, the revolutionary wireless remote monitoring system for street lighting. For further information visit www.harvardeng.co.uk

Awards

2011 – Winner of th e Orange Innovation Award at the National Business Awards
2011 – Winner Insider’s Growth 100 (Yorkshire) Innovation Award
2011 – Winner of the Innovation Award at the Wakefield Express Business Awards
2011 – Winner of a Queen’s Award for Enterprise, within the Innovation category
2010 – Winner of the Light Sources & Controls Award at the Lighting Design Awards
2010 – Winner of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10 Innovation in Action Award
2009 – Winner of the Yorkshire Post Business in Excellence

EMS establishes dedicated new build team

2011-11-18T14:18:00.001Z

The advantage of a new building – whether residential or commercial – is that every measure can be taken to ensure optimal energy efficiency; buildings are insulated and double glazed, solar energy is utilised and efficient lighting is installed. However, one area that is often overlooked is the amount of energy consumed by the electronic equipment used in new buildings.

To address this, the worldwide market leading voltage optimisation company EMSc (UK) Ltd has established a new division, headed up by market development coordinator, Nathan Stewart, to focus specifically on highlighting the contribution voltage optimisation can make to cutting energy costs within new builds.

EMS manufactures Powerstar, a UK manufactured voltage optimisation system with a patented design, which can actively reduce electrical energy consumption by an average of 12-15% of consumed electricity. Powerstar has an acclaimed approach to voltage optimisation, manufacturing to match site speciﬁcation and characteristics, an approach which is particularly suited to new build projects.

Mr Stewart said:

“While significant work is being done to reduce emissions from new build projects, some improvements, such as installing a voltage optimisation systems, are simple and inexpensive to make, and will enable you to start realising savings immediately. Not only is it commonly recognised as a proven and reliable way to reduce energy consumption, but is also very simple to integrate at the planning stage. Voltage optimisation provides a vital solution for new builds, enabling high accreditation ratings in the ever important LEED and BREEAM sustainable measurement systems.”

The reason voltage optimisation can have such a significant impact on energy used is because on the whole, the National Grid supplies a higher voltage than is generally required. Although the nominal voltage in the UK is 230V, the average delivered is actually 242V. This ‘over-voltage’ means that energy consumption is significantly greater, the result of which is higher energy bills.

Mr Stewart added:

“Powerstar provides instant savings upon installation and has no affect on the operations, facilities or services offered at a site. This coupled with the level of energy and financial savings is leading to Powerstar becoming an increasingly popular solution for new build projects. Due to sustained upsurge in enquiries, workload and the resulting success with new build projects we feel it is important that a new build division is established at this stage to allow enquiries to be handled by a team who understand the requirements and challenges facing such projects.”

About EMSc UK

EMS is renowned for designing and manufacturing the Star® range of energy saving products. In addition to the market leading Powerstar voltage optimisation solution, the company also manufactures Airstar and Hotelstar, products that allow companies, organisations and hotels to reduce their energy costs as well as reduce their carbon emissions.

2011 - Winner Innovation of the Year Award Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Awards
2010 - Winner of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 - Winner of the CARE4AIR AWARD
2006 & 2004 SMART Award for Innovation

About Powerstar

Powerstar:

Can save an average of 12-15% (up to 26.1% savings recorded) of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK (on the same load and same voltage reduction).

This has been proven in independent tests by the electricity supplier RWE npower.

RWE npower commented: We did a trial with Powerstar and one other supplier. Powerstar showed a larger overall saving compared to the other supplier. In addition, it improved the power quality more. Powerstar was the better system in all aspects, including the technical design and capabilities.

www.powerstar.co.uk
Powerstar® is the registered trademark of EMSc (UK) Ltd.

Free CPD course for NHS and Council employees

2011-11-18T14:06:00.001Z

EMSc (UK) Ltd, manufacturer of the market leading, energy saving, voltage optimisation product Powerstar is holding a free Continuing Professional/Personal Development (CPD) course aimed specifically at local authorities and the NHS on Tuesday the 6th December 2011 at The Eastpoint Centre, Southampton.

With the public sector directly responsible for a significant amount of the UK’s carbon emissions, many public sector facilities managers are seeking effective initiatives to ensure that their organisations effectively reduce their carbon emissions.

The free seminar will cover topics such as energy legislation, approaches to energy reduction for local authorities, and energy management for public services. In addition, the event will highlight how low voltage optimisation can improve energy efficiency, reduce energy bills, and help organisations attain their emissions targets whilst raising their green credentials.

Mr Terry Shemwell, voltage optimisation consultant for local authorities and Mr Duncan Agnew, voltage optimisation consultant for the NHS will both be presenting. EMS technical engineer Mr Gary Mills will be delivering the CPD presentation.

Proven Results

Tower Hamlets Council, one of the five host boroughs for the 2012 London Olympic Games, commissioned Powerstar to survey its facilities at Albert Jacob House – the offices for Homeless and Housing Advices Services. The survey identified that a minimum of 12% in electricity could be achieved through voltage optimisation, which equates to £6,411 on the annual electricity charge and a reduction of 30 tonnes per annum in carbon emissions.

Powerstar installations for Mersey Care NHS Trust at Rathbone Hospital and Scott Clinic have delivered electricity savings averaging 18% on annual energy consumption. At Rathbone Hospital, annual KwH savings are 67,796, the equivalent of £6,974, whilst Scott Clinic has benefitted from annual KwH savings of 51,573 or £5,446.

Alex Mardapittas, managing director at EMSc (UK) Ltd commented

“As the UK faces worsening power quality issues with harmonic, transient, power factor and phase balancing issues; voltage optimisation offers one of the most secure technologies for public sector organisations to adopt as part of their sustainability strategies.”

The free to attend seminar will take place at the Eastpoint Centre in Southampton from 9.30 am until 1.00 pm. It will include a free buffet lunch and all attendees will be awarded with training certificates and self-assessment forms on completion of the seminar. There will also be an opportunity for networking.

CPD, Continuing Personal or Professional Development is the term that describes a commitment to structured skills enhancement and personal or professional competence.

For more information or to reserve a place at the seminar, please contact Nick Lee by emailing or calling 01709 836200. Places can also be booked online at www.powerstar.co.uk/events.

About EMSc UK

EMS is renowned for designing and manufacturing the Star® range of energy saving products. In addition to the market leading Powerstar voltage optimisation solution, the company also manufactures Airstar and Hotelstar, products that allow companies, organisations and hotels to reduce their energy costs as well as reduce their carbon emissions.

2011 - Winner Innovation of the Year Award Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Awards
2010 - Winner of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 - Winner of the CARE4AIR AWARD
2006 & 2004 SMART Award for Innovation

About Powerstar

Powerstar:

Can save an average of 12-15% (up to 26.1% savings recorded) of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK (on the same load and same voltage reduction).

Historic landmark re-opens on time and on budget

2011-11-17T15:33:00.001Z

Baths Hall Entertainment Venue in Scunthorpe

Clugston Construction, one of the North’s leading privately owned building and civil engineering contractors, has handed over the new £15.3 million Baths Hall Entertainment Venue in Scunthorpe to North Lincolnshire Council and operator SMG UK Limited.

Clugston was awarded the contract in April 2010 and following a demanding timetable delivered the new state-of-the-art concert and entertainment venue, which boasts a 1024-seater auditorium, conference and break-out facilities, as well as a café and bar, on time.

Built on the site of the original Scunthorpe Baths, the building, which partially retained the façade of the original 1930s built Baths Hall, has been designed to incorporate a number of sustainable energy-reducing features.

Clugston Construction’s managing director Steve Radcliffe said: “The original Baths Hall was part of the town’s history. As a Scunthorpe based company, we were proud to be selected to rebuild such a landmark. We believe that our completion of this prestigious project, which offers the people of Scunthorpe a venue where they can enjoy top quality live music, comedy and theatre, serves as confirmation of Clugston Construction’s growing reputation for being a company that delivers projects on time and on budget.”

The first act to perform at the modern multi-use venue was the alternative comedian Bill Bailey, who dropped in to Scunthorpe on 11th November as part of his national Dandelion Mind (Gently Modified) UK Tour.

About Clugston Construction
Clugston Construction is one of the largest privately owned regional building and civil engineering contractors in the UK and a member of the Clugston Group which was established over 70 years ago by the current chairman’s father. Operating from four regional offices across the North of England the company has built a reputation for safely delivering a wide variety of services and projects. For further information about Clugston visit www.clugston.co.uk

Motoring ahead with leading vehicle manufacturers

2011-11-10T15:00:00.001Z

Chris Kirby, Managing Director, Magnomatics.

Magnomatics, the Yorkshire based high technology company specialising in the development of innovative electrical motors, generators and magnetic transmissions, is pleased to announce it has secured contracts to work on projects with world-leading vehicle and engine Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) Ford and Caterpillar. The projects will advance Magnomatics’ revolutionary magnetic power-split technology which can efficiently blend the mechanical and electrical power in a Hybrid Electric Vehicle.

The project with Ford Motor Car Company, which is supported by the Technology Strategy Development Board Low Carbon Vehicles Innovation Platform, will develop the technology for use in hybrid passenger vehicles. It is one of sixteen collaborative research and development projects recently selected for funding after The Technology Strategy Board and the Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) jointly agreed to invest a further £10 million in grants to projects that focus on achieving significant cuts in CO2 emissions for vehicle-centric technologies in low carbon vehicles.
The work with Caterpillar is also assisted through the Technology Strategy Board in its recent investment to support innovation and growth for businesses looking to keep the UK at the forefront of high value manufacturing. A particular emphasis has been placed on the development of ‘enabling technologies’, which can lead to the creation of other products or processes able to support future development. Magnomatics will collaborate with Caterpillar Engines, and Sheffield based magnetic material and magnet assembly supplier Arnold Magnet Technologies, to scale-up the magnetic power-split technology for larger Hybrid vehicles

Iain Gray, chief executive of the Technology Strategy Board, said: “Through investments such as these the Technology Strategy Board is helping to deliver economic growth and create competitive advantage for the UK in the global marketplace for leading edge technologies. This drive by leading British companies to innovate and to overcome significant technical hurdles to develop new technologies, products and processes is inspirational. We look forward with interest and excitement to seeing the results of these important research and development projects”.

Chris Kirby, Managing Director at Magnomatics, commented: “We are experiencing sustained rising demand for our products, as industries across the world seek to introduce new technologies to enhance their own solutions and to meet growing worldwide expectations for more efficient and sustainable products.”

Magnomatics, continues to experience significant growth despite the current recession, having recently recruited an additional six new members of staff to help the company meet the growing demand for its revolutionary products.

www.magnomatics.com

Czech mate for Redhead

2011-11-10T14:50:00.000Z

Redhead Freight trailer

A new exclusive partnership with leading Czech freight company AWT Čechofracht will provide leading logistics company Redhead International’s existing and new customers with an increasingly flexible and reliable direct service into and out of Eastern Europe, Russia and the CIS. Redhead International have worked with AWT Čechofracht for many years in Northern England; this new agreement now makes Redhead AWT Čechofracht’s sole UK partner.

The new business relationship was driven by a mutual desire to expand and build upon both companies well established, and successful, distribution networks.

“We are constantly looking to improve both our services and client support, and having established a significant footprint in Eastern Europe, Russia and the CIS, we were keen to work with a partner that would enable us to enhance not only the quality of service, but the frequency and system flexibility our clients already experience. It is an exciting situation that will bring benefits for both our clientele and each organisation,” said Austin Duffy, Redhead’s marketing manager.

AWT Čechofracht is one of the Czech transport market brand leaders - having, since its inception in 1952, developed a worldwide reputation. The company currently secures freight transport to and from an ever increasing number of countries.

About Redhead
Redhead International, established in 1978, has depots in Bradford, Burton-on-Trent, Basildon, Bathgate, Belfast and Dublin. Employing over 200 staff internationally, the company has regular scheduled services to over 40 countries in Western, Eastern and Southern Europe, Scandinavia, North Africa, the Middle East and the CIS countries. Current turnover is more than £30 million a year.

www.redhead-int.com

Higher sales mean lower prices for VO4HOME products

2011-11-08T15:54:00.003Z

VO4HOME the leading, Yorkshire based, voltage optimisation company has seen a recent upsurge in orders and attendant manufacturing levels, which have allowed it to pass on a significant price reduction in the devices’ trade cost.

“The economies of scale associated with production costs means that we are now able to pass on a significant reduction in the product’s trade price. We see this as an exciting development, and one that will continue as the simply installed devices become more widely used. It is a trend that is being driven by councils, social housing providers, energy companies and domestic energy users who are all looking for proven technologies that deliver cost effective solutions to rising energy costs, whilst simultaneously lowering their carbon footprint. It’s very much a win-win situation for the customer”, said Geoff Clifton, business development manager for VO4HOME.

The company is keen to support recent government initiatives and schemes to help the country reduce its CO2 emissions and this price reduction is one way in which it is showing support.

VO4HOME’s voltage optimisation system is based upon innovative, but established, technology which can, both lower energy use and CO2 output – resulting in an appreciably reduced electricity bill for the customer. As was demonstrated in a current installation, where, prior to installation of the VO4HOME unit, the clients’ voltage was supplied as high as 250V, which caused frequent light bulb failure.

Following installation, the VO4HOME unit has eliminated significant damage to electrical equipment including the correcting of failing light bulbs as well as saving the client 18% on kWH’s since 2009 and 14% since 2010.

Mr. Clifton added,

“VO4HOME is a cost effective solution that delivers concrete savings on energy consumption. Payback is usually within 4 - 5 years, although this time scale lowers with each increase in energy prices - all of which means that it is, and continues to be, a commercially sound investment. Plus it also comes with a 5 year product guarantee.”

VO4Home:

    •    Can save 330-500lbs of CO2 emissions each year

    •    Can save money on power bills by around £90 to £150 a year

    •    Comes with guaranteed savings

    •    Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment

    •    Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor)

    •    Easy installation – no need to change electricity provider, no rewiring required, no maintenance required, no moving parts

    •    Comes with a 5-year warranty

    •    Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All VO4Home components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers

The VO4Home team has over 150 years combined experience in designing and manufacturing special transformers and the VO4Home design is a direct result of this experience.

www.vo4home.com

Voltage optimisation – Energy reducing Technology

2011-10-25T11:23:00.004+01:00

Dr Alex Mardapittas

As a company dedicated to reducing energy consumption, at EMSc we are particularly encouraged to read that over half of the UK’s top 250 companies have introduced energy efficiency measures. What is a little surprising however, is a recent report has highlighted that many companies have concerns about the costs associated with installing carbon reducing equipment.

The report specifically highlights voltage optimisation as being one of the energy reducing technologies that companies are a little wary of. As the managing director of EMSc, manufacturer of the UK’s leading voltage optimisation system, Powerstar, I feel it is important I clarify this misconception.

Savings from the installation of voltage optimisation systems can be achieved very quickly, with ROI achievable in many cases in only two and a half years. When you also consider the number of funding opportunities that are available to companies interested in installing a voltage optimisation system, it becomes an exciting energy reducing, CO2 and money saving proposition.   So convinced are we at EMSc that companies will make at least a 12% saving on their annual energy consumption by installing a Powerstar system, that should it fall short, we will pay customers the difference - for added piece of mind.

Despite having installed over 3,500 Powerstar systems in many locations and businesses across the world, including Local Authorities, the NHS, public services, manufacturing sites, hotels and retail premises, we have only ever had to pay the difference to customers on two occasions. Further demonstrating the confidence we have in our approach to reducing energy costs and CO2 in a cost effective and timely manner.

Company Profile

Market leaders in design and manufacture of energy management solutions 
At the forefront of technological advances in energy management.
Engineering company formed in 2001.
More than 150 years combined experience in design and manufacturing.
We export overseas to 15 countries, including Australia, South Africa and UAE.  
Project-led approach fully supported by our team of professional engineers.
We source components locally.

Profile: Dr Alex Mardapittas

Alex studied at Kings College London and then at Brunel University. On completing his research fellowship for Manufacturing Metrology in 1993, he went on to work in professional computer software training and development. As an experienced Chartered Engineer, with a research doctorate, he possesses an extensive knowledge of software programming and innovative engineering design, which has allowed him to provide award-winning solutions to the marketplace

Harvard unveils new CoolLED drivers

2011-10-25T10:58:00.001+01:00

The new CoolLED Kompact and CoolLED 40W drivers

Harvard, a leading player in the LED and wireless street lighting industries, is pleased to announce that two new products to its innovative range of CoolLED drivers will be officially launched at Lux Live.

The new CoolLED Kompact and CoolLED 40W drivers form part of the company’s extensive LED Driver portfolio and, aimed at the professional lighting sector, provide a high performance solution for powering high-brightness LEDs from a mains supply. In addition, these high efficiency designed drivers ensure cool operation and long life.

Michael McDonnell, sales and marketing director at Harvard, commented

“It is important to continue to innovate and continuously develop our LED Driver portfolio to stay ahead of our competition. It’s an exciting time to be involved in the lighting industry and we’re investing heavily to create in the research and development of our CoolLED Drivers.”

The fully-isolated SELV output Kompact Driver boasts all the features of Harvard’s standard CoolLED drivers with the added benefit of being in a compact footprint, which makes it ideal for installing in track mounted spotlights, while the CoolLED 40W driver comes with a 5V auxiliary fan output as standard. The latter has fully-isolated SELV output delivering up to 40W of power and is compatible with all major LED modules including Xicato 2000 Lumen XSM and Osram PrevaLED, making it the ideal LED retrofit solution for track mounted spotlights. 
As a leading manufacturer of drivers, and as an experienced partner to the world’s leading lighting companies, Harvard delivers perfectly engineered products for bespoke lighting solutions.

Harvard Engineering

Established in 1993, Harvard has grown to be a leading player in the LED lighting and wireless street lighting industries. Harvard’s innovative range of products includes the CoolLED range of switchable drivers and LeafNut, the revolutionary wireless remote monitoring system for street lighting.

Awards
2010 - Winners of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2010 - Winners of the Light Sources & Controls Award at the Lighting Design Awards
2011 - Winner of a Queen’s Award for Enterprise, within the Innovation category
2011 – Winner of the Innovation award at the Wakefield Express Business Awards
2011 – Shortlisted for the Orange Innovation Award at the National Business Awards

www.harvardeng.com

Innovation Award for MAX

2011-10-20T10:46:00.004+01:00

Dr. Alex Mardapittas, managing director EMS receiving the Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Innovation of the Year Award for Powerstar MAX from Nick Clegg, deputy prime minister and Jon Culshaw comedian.

Powerstar MAX , the innovative new voltage optimisation solution from the UK’s leading manufacturer of energy saving solutions EMS, has won the Innovation of the Year award at the Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Awards.

Powerstar MAX, which is specifically designed for sites with high levels of voltage fluctuation and volatility, won the prestigious award ahead of entries from fellow finalists Q8 Oils and Premier Farnell.

In addition to the energy savings, carbon reduction, phase balancing, harmonic filtration and transient protection offered by EMS’s standard Powerstar system, the Powerstar MAX offers electronic-dynamic optimisation to ensure the optimum voltage is always supplied to a site.

Additional features include, the capability to change the voltage remotely at any time, constant voltage output - regardless of the incoming voltage - no moving parts, which means no maintenance costs, protection against voltage spikes, independent three phase control - to provide voltage phase balancing - and an intelligent interface to track product and site performance in real time.  
Manufactured in the UK, all the components for the system are sourced in the UK. Powerstar MAX is also the only voltage optimisation system in the world to be granted a patent on its design.

The new technology does not supersede the original Powerstar system but offers an alternative solution to businesses whose site characteristics are unsuited to fixed voltage optimisation.

Powerstar MAX can help companies save up to 26.1% on electricity consumption, as the dynamic new solution features advanced technology to automatically adjust voltage output and maintain it at the optimum level. This makes Powerstar MAX ideal for sites with critical equipment, such as hospitals or data centres, and sites which suffer from an unstable supply.
In such cases businesses can achieve up to 50% more savings through the electronic Powerstar MAX system than any standard fixed voltage optimisation solution.

With worsening power quality issues nationwide and the average power supplied by the National Grid exceeding the recommended operating voltages - for much of the plant, as well as machinery and equipment used - the launch of Powerstar MAX is particularly relevant in

the UK as it optimises the voltage in line with the characteristics and loading of each specific site through electronic-dynamic variable reduction.

EMS is the UK’s most experienced manufacturer of voltage optimisation systems, having already successfully installed solutions for Whitbread, Asda, the NHS, Transport for London, Holiday Inn and Mothercare, amongst others.

Alex Mardapittas, managing director at EMS commented, “As a Yorkshire based company, we are delighted to have won the Innovation Award at the Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business Awards. Powerstar MAX represents the next generation of voltage optimisation systems. Not only does it provide companies with a quick, easy to install solution for reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions, but our acclaimed, project led approach ensures that the optimum solution is always installed for every customer.”

Powerstar MAX® is the registered trademark of EMSc (UK) Ltd.
Powerstar MAX:

Can save up to 26.1% of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Is an approved energy savings system and may qualify for an interest-free Energy Efficiency Loan from the Carbon Trust.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK. This has been proven in independent tests (on the same load and same voltage reduction), head to head with similar competitive systems. In these tests Powerstar achieved:
Significantly higher energy savings (up to 13% more)
Reduced harmonics by 88% more than competitive systems
Running significantly cooler than competitive systems. (While Powerstar operated at normal ambient temperatures, competitive systems were operating at nearly 70°C).

The EMS team has over 150 years combined experience in designing and manufacturing special transformers and the Powerstar design is a direct result of this experience.

2010 - Winners of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 - Winners of the CARE4AIR AWARD
2006 & 2004 SMART Award for Innovation

www.powerstar.co.uk

Energy reduction trial shows significant financial savings

2011-10-13T11:15:00.004+01:00

Geoff Clifton, Business Development Manager for VO4HOME

VO4HOME the leading, Yorkshire based, voltage optimisation company’s recent product trial, in conjunction with not-for-profit business support consultancy CO2Sense, and MJ Energy Services, sees significantly reduced bills, lowered carbon footprint and decreased energy usage for those involved.

CO2Sense is a not for profit environmental consultancy that helps businesses to cut costs and carbon emissions. They offer businesses in Yorkshire and Humber the chance to trial environmental products and services that can substantially reduce environmental impacts and costs.

VO4HOME’s voltage optimisation system is one of the key products selected for the Targeted Market Development programme. This innovative technology can both lower energy use and CO2 output – resulting in a reduced electricity bill for the customer.

“Mike Jackson of MJ Energy Services kindly located the trial site - a small business with a significant electricity requirement due to its use of numerous fridges and freezers. The voltage optimization device was fitted and energy usage monitored and then measured against previous levels, and the results have been incredibly encouraging. The project demonstrates the tangible financial benefits for those involved in the project, whilst simultaneously lowering their carbon footprint. It’s very much a win-win situation for the customer”, said Geoff Clifton, business development manager for VO4HOME.

Mr. Clifton added,

“VO4HOME is a cost effective solution that delivers tangible savings on energy consumption. Payback is usually within 4-5 years, although this time frame lowers with each energy price hike, which means that it is an increasingly commercially sound investment, Plus it also comes with a 5 year product guarantee.”

VO4Home:

Can save 330-500lbs of CO2 emissions each year
Can save money on power bills by around £90 to £150 a year
Comes with guaranteed savings
Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment
Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor)
Easy installation – no need to change electricity provider, no rewiring required, no maintenance required, no moving partsComes with a 5-year warranty
Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK.
All VO4Home components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers

The VO4Home team has over 150 years combined experience in designing and manufacturing special transformers and the VO4Home design is a direct result of this experience.

http://vo4home.com/

Leading ‘green’ company shortlisted for innovation award

2011-10-13T10:56:00.001+01:00

Sheffield based EMSc is pleased to announce it has been shortlisted for the prestigious Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business awards 2011, in the Innovation category. The nomination is for the company’s innovative Powerstar voltage optimisation product.

EMS has always been at the forefront of the latest energy saving technologies and is constantly looking to launch new products that will allow organisations to reduce not only their electricity bills, but their carbon emissions as well.

The solution is popular with both the private and public sector because of the tangible energy saving benefits it provides, not only helping organisations to meet carbon reduction commitments, but also cutting electricity costs at a time when surging energy prices are having a major impact on budgets.

EMS also recently announced another successful 12 months trading, with turnover increasing by 50%, to £12.4m. During the course of the last twelve months the company also doubled its workforce, to 70 people and has moved into new premises to accommodate the growth it has been experiencing.

Alex Mardapittas, managing director EMSc said, “We are extremely excited to be shortlisted for the award. We have developed a product for the 21st century, one which organisations large and small can install to reduce their carbon footprint and cut energy costs.”

The company is accredited with the Made in Sheffield accolade in acknowledgement of the quality of its manufacturing process, its expansion into international markets and the international success of Powerstar. It has also recently launched a new website which showcases Powerstar www.powerstar.co.uk.

About EMSc UK
EMS is renowned for designing and manufacturing the Star® range of energy saving products. In addition to the market leading Powerstar voltage optimisation solution, the company also manufactures Airstar and Hotelstar, products that allow companies, organisations and hotels to reduce their energy costs as well as reduce their carbon emissions.

2010 - Winners of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 - Winners of the CARE4AIR AWARD
2001 - Winners of the DTI Smart Award for Innovation

About Powerstar

Powerstar:

Can save an average of 12-15% (up to 26.1% savings recorded) of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK. This has been proven in independent tests (on the same load and same voltage reduction) by the electricity supplier RWE npower. RWE npower commented: We did a trial with Powerstar and one other supplier. Powerstar showed a larger overall saving compared to the other supplier. In addition, it improved the power quality more. Powerstar was the better system in all aspects, including the technical design and capabilities.

Powerstar® is the registered trademark of EMSc (UK) Ltd.

Voltage optimisation and the Brighton Eco Energy Fair

2011-10-11T09:35:00.003+01:00

Prominent voltage optimisation company, VO4HOME, will be a primary exhibitor at the 2011 Brighton Eco Energy Fair, which will be running between 10am and 4.30pm on the 15th October, at the Brighthelm centre.

Having recently been a key exhibitor at the recent National Home Improvements Exhibition Eco Home Zone, VO4HOME will now form a principle element of the Eco Energy Fair. The event is designed to raise awareness of the issues surrounding energy use and to help the people of Brighton & Hove better manage their energy needs, saving money as well as the environment.

The fair will play an important role in demonstrating how scientific advances and strategies can help homeowners reduce their carbon footprint through the adoption of energy efficiency technologies - technologies that lower energy consumption and household bills. VO4HOME’s voltage optimization device will be on show with a host of other energy innovators.

As part of their involvement in the exhibition Geoff Clifton, Business Development Manager at VO4HOME, will be delivering a talk on, minimising your carbon footprint and exposure to the escalating financial costs associated with recent energy price rises.

Mr. Geoff Clifton, business development manager for VO4HOME commented,

“We jumped at the chance to be involved in the Eco Energy Fair, especially because it is in a city that understands the language of sustainability,” adding that “the show will provide a significant platform for those in Brighton and Hove who wish to become familiar with energy efficiency technologies and strategies that can be simply and easily integrated into the home. Innovations that save the consumer money, lower energy use and reduce their carbon footprint.”

Can save 330-500lbs of CO2 emissions each year
Can save money on power bills by around £90 to £150 a year
Comes with guaranteed savings
Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment
Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor)
Easy installation – no need to change electricity provider, no rewiring required, no maintenance required, no moving partsComes with a 5-year warranty
Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All VO4Home components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers

The VO4Home team has over 150 years combined experience in designing and manufacturing special transformers and the VO4Home design is a direct result of this experience.

www.vo4home.com

MORE THAN JUST STREET LIGHTING CONTROL

2011-10-11T09:11:00.001+01:00

Christmas lighting can be remotely managed by Harvard’s LeafNut system

Harvard Engineering’s multi award winning wireless street lighting monitoring and control system LeafNut, has been proven to manage more than just street lights by successfully controlling Merthyr Tydfil’s Christmas street lights.

The solution for Merthyr’s Christmas Lighting uses a MagNode - a miniature wireless radio control system - attached to groups of Christmas lights. This allows the system’s central server to communicate with each group of lights, ensuring they can be accurately synchronised at times of switch on and off.

By using LeafNut to manage and control festive lighting a significant number of man hours to install and maintain the festive lighting can be reduced, as lights and fuses do not need to be checked individually.

LeafNut provides Local Authorities with the ability to increase the reliability of Christmas lighting, also allowing for greater maintenance accuracy, as operators can identify light problems in advance, accurately predicting failures.

Michael McDonnell, sales and marketing director at Harvard Engineering, commented,

“We first intended for LeafNut to be used solely for street lighting, but the potential for the system to manage and control a variety of outdoor lighting quickly became apparent. The solution can not only help Councils with different outdoor lighting requirements, but also many companies that manage large outdoor lighting systems to save energy, reduce CO2 emissions as well as maintenance costs.”

LeafNut was chosen to power the Christmas lights in Merthyr Tydfil after the solution was successfully being rolled out across the council’s street lights.

Free IT & telecoms EXPO 2011 only days away

2011-10-04T15:16:00.003+01:00

Businesses from across the Yorkshire & Humber region are encouraged to attend the second annual IT & Telecoms EXPO being held on Thursday 13th October 2011 at the Royal Armouries in Leeds. The free to attend event will have over 40 IT and Telecoms businesses from the region showcasing their products and solutions.

This year the EXPO - organised by the Yorkshire & Humber region’s only IT & Telecoms B2B network techmesh - will incorporate some exciting new areas, including the Techpanel, which will provide visitors to the EXPO with an opportunity to quiz seven industry leaders about hot topics and issues. There will also be an Interactive Zone, where companies will be demonstrating their products, and visitors will be able to watch, listen and play with some of the latest technologies.

As last year, there will also be a topical seminar programme with industry leaders providing updates and insights on the future of IT and Telecoms, explaining what it means for businesses today. James Akrigg, Head of Technology for Partners at Microsoft, will be the keynote speaker on the day, with presenters including techmesh gold sponsors Agenci and KC Business. Ajaz Ahmed, entrepreneur and founder of Freeserve and more recently www.legal365.com will also be speaking.

Helen Silverman, membership development manager at techmesh, commented, “We are really excited about the event this year. EXPO 2011 provides the perfect opportunity for people to collaborate and learn about new technologies. It is not only for those people with a focus on technology, but for managers and individuals that need to be aware of what’s happening in the sector, for the benefit of their respective businesses. We believe this will be one of the most successful events in the sector’s calendar.”

techmesh has recently become part of the Leeds, York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.

To register please visit www.techmesh.org.uk/EXPO2011

About techmesh:

Techmesh is the B2B network for Yorkshire and Humber's IT & Telecommunications sector. It provides both a platform and services for the regional advancement of sector companies, raising the industry's profile through an ongoing creative events and seminars programme allied to a key selection of support service opportunities. It is an approach that creates an inspired and compelling industry narrative and encourages the development and nurturing of profitable business relationships.
For further information about techmesh please contact the team on 0113 384 5641 or visit mailto:info@techmesh.org

Hiley Engineering Hand Krafted conveyor system....

2011-10-04T15:03:00.001+01:00

Design work at Hiley Engineering plc

Leading Yorkshire based engineering firm Hiley Engineering Ltd has secured a contract, in excess of half a million dollars, to design and supply a large scale bespoke conveyor system to Saudi Arabia for food production giant Kraft Foods. The project is proving to be another exciting overseas development for the company, building on their recent Russian contract.
Although the export market has always been a key element of the company’s business strategy, notably the North and South American markets - this is their first undertaking in Saudi Arabia. Whilst the project has thrown up a number of design and logistical challenges – these have been swiftly surmounted as a result of recent investments in cutting edge computer aided design technologies, allied to a single point of management project responsibility.
Mark Hiley, the company’s managing director, stated

“The project is proving to be an exciting and demanding piece of work – however, the level of experience within the company has ensured that everything is running to agreed timescales and budgets, even though elements of the job have required answers that demanded innovative and inspired design work."

manufacturing work at Hiley Engineering pic

The system has been manufactured and assembled for the factory acceptance test, which was recently successfully completed. The conveyor system will now be shipped to Saudi Arabia where, on arrival, it will be installed and commissioned under the supervision of Hiley Engineering.

About Hiley Engineering
Hiley Engineering is a global provider and fabricator of bespoke capital plant equipment for the food industry – specialising in conveyor systems. The company’s ability to take a project from concept to commissioning has seen them work with most major food producers – working either as project leaders or in tandem with other original equipment manufacturers (OEM’s) throughout the world.

Hiley’s significant heritage means that whilst all their work is implemented utilising the most modern techniques, resulting in world class design and innovation, the inspiration and values are drawn from the entrepreneurial history of the company.

www.hileyeng.co.uk

Powerstar Cuts Whitbread’s Energy Consumption

2011-09-30T15:51:00.000+01:00

Rotherham based EMSc is pleased to announce it has successfully installed 25 of the company’s market leading voltage optimisation products, Powerstar, for the UK’s leading hospitality company Whitbread.

The products have been installed in a number of different Whitbread hotels and restaurants across the country. The locations were chosen for their different energy consumption and profiles.

EMS worked closely with Whitbread not only to understand the company’s energy and carbon reduction strategy, but also the specific requirements of each individual location. The tailored products will provide Whitbread with a zero maintenance solution and a payback period that is second to none.

The installation of Powerstar provided a no maintenance solution with a payback period that met Whitbread’s expectations. The savings from the Powerstar systems supported the company in reducing its direct electricity consumption and associated CO2 emissions – key goals in Whitbread’s ‘Good Together’ corporate responsibility policy.

Early results from the hotels and restaurants have proved impressive, with a number of large hotel installations outperforming the guaranteed minimum levels of cost savings set by EMS - energy savings were estimated to be as high as 18% a year.

Chris George, Head of Energy and Environment at Whitbread Hotels and Restaurants said: “We’re serious about sustainability at Whitbread because we know it’s the right thing to do for the planet and it’s what our customers and our teams want. Smart investment in new technologies is a key part of our “Good Together”, strategy. It helps us to reduce the amount of energy we consume, cut carbon emissions and conserve natural resources to make sure we are doing more for less”

He added: “As a responsible hotel and restaurant business, we need to ensure our customers enjoy a good night’s sleep and great tasting menus served in a relaxed atmosphere. We found Powerstar to be both professional and proactive in their awareness of the installation requirements during business operational hours, which ensured minimum disturbance for our guests.

Alex Mardapittas, managing director EMSc said, “We are very much looking forward to developing a long term relationship with Whitbread. The company operates some of the UK’s most successful, much-loved hospitality brands including Premier Inn, Beefeater Grill, Brewers Fayre, Table Table, Taybarns.”

Dr. Alex Mardapittas

EMS recently announced another successful 12 months trading, with turnover increasing by 50%, to £12.4m. During the course of the last twelve months the company also doubled its workforce, to 70 people and has moved into new premises to accommodate the growth it has been experiencing.

The company is accredited with the Made in Sheffield accolade in acknowledgement of the quality of its manufacturing process, its expansion into international markets and the international success of Powerstar. It has also recently launched a new website which showcases Powerstar. www.powerstar.co.uk

Ends
About EMSc UK
EMS is renowned for designing and manufacturing the Star® range of energy saving products. In addition to the market leading Powerstar voltage optimisation solution, the company also manufactures Airstar and Hotelstar, products that allow companies, organisations and hotels to reduce their energy costs as well as reduce their carbon emissions.

2010 - Winner of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 – Winner of the CARE4AIR AWARD
2001 – Winner of the DTI Smart Award for Innovation

About Powerstar

Powerstar:

Can save an average of 12-15% (up to 26.1% savings recorded) of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK (on the same load and same voltage reduction).

This has been proven in independent tests by the electricity supplier RWE npower.

RWE npower commented: We did a trial with Powerstar and one other supplier. Powerstar showed a larger overall saving compared to the other supplier. In addition, it improved the power quality more. Powerstar was the better system in all aspects, including the technical design and capabilities.

Powerstar® is the registered trademark of EMSc (UK) Ltd.

Hiley Engineering Yorkshire company receives nomination for the Government’s ‘Made by Britain’ initiative

2011-09-29T16:46:00.005+01:00

Mark Hiley with Labour MP Linda Riorden

Yorkshire firm Hiley Engineering - a world leading designer and fabricator of bespoke integrated conveyor systems for the food industry - receives significant recognition of its manufacturing abilities through nomination for the government's high profile 'Made by Britain' initiative, by Halifax Labour MP Linda Riordan.
Recently launched by Business Secretary Vince Cable, the 'Made by Britain' project takes its inspiration from the hugely successful Great Exhibition of 1851 - which was a celebration of modern industrial technology. Each of the UK's 650 MP's have been challenged to search for examples of manufacturing ingenuity and innovation in their constituencies, decide upon the leading candidate and nominate them for the scheme - which is what has happened in Hiley's case.
Initially MP's nominations will be shown on an online interactive map, with a view to expanding the project, possibly with a major exhibition, to coincide with next year's Olympics and Diamond Jubilee.
The nomination is the culmination of what has been an exciting 12 months for the company, which has seen its longstanding national and international profile significantly heightened on the back of a number of major overseas orders.

"We feel incredibly proud to have been nominated as Linda Riordan's choice for the 'Made by Britain' project" said Mark Hiley, Managing Director of Hiley Engineering, adding, "Whilst this is tremendous news for Hiley, the scheme also highlights the positive reality of British manufacturing, which represents 13 per cent of Britain’s GDP and provides half of all UK exports.”

A recent visit by Linda Riordan MP to Hiley Engineering's Halifax base provided an opportunity for her to learn more about the company's operation and sector expertise.

"One of this country’s greatest strengths is its pool of skilled designers, makers and engineers and Hiley are a fine example of British manufacturing excellence. And therefore provide a perfect candidate for the 'Made by Britain' project. Not only are their innovative design and manufacturing skills seeing ongoing success within the UK and international markets, but, importantly, they have also had a positive local impact on the Halifax economy. Through both job creation and an active apprenticeship scheme."

About Hiley Engineering
Hiley Engineering is a global provider and fabricator of bespoke capital plant equipment for the food industry – specialising in conveyor systems. The company’s ability to take a project from concept to commissioning has seen them work with most major food producers – working either as project leaders or in tandem with other original equipment manufacturers (OEM’s) throughout the world.
Hiley’s significant heritage means that whilst all their work is implemented utilising the most modern techniques, resulting in world class design and innovation, the inspiration and values are drawn from the entrepreneurial history of the company.
For more information about Hiley:
Visit www.hileyeng.co.uk

£25,000 Sustainable Funding for Farmers

2011-09-16T16:48:00.001+01:00

EMSc UK Ltd, the market leading manufacturer of the world’s most efficient voltage optimisation system, Powerstar, is working together with farmers across the Yorkshire and Humber region to help them benefit from grants of up to £25,000.

Farmers within the Yorkshire and Humber region can apply for the grants to invest in energy efficient equipment - including energy saving voltage optimisation units - which will assist in the reduction of electricity costs and their carbon footprint.

Voltage optimisation is a recognised technology that is particularly relevant in the UK, as power supplied by the National Grid exceeds the recommended operating voltages for much of the plant, machinery and equipment used. The Powerstar voltage optimisation system reduces energy use by controlling the incoming voltage so that it more accurately meets the specifications of equipment on site.

The second round of funding, which was launched on the 26th August, comes from the Rural Development Programme for England, and is jointly funded by Defra and the European Union. Farmers can apply through CO2Sense, the not-for-profit environmental consultancy that helps businesses, including farms, cut their carbon emissions and grow.  
Dr Alex Mardapittas, managing director at EMSc UK Ltd, commented,

“The funding provides a great investment opportunity for farmers. Voltage optimisation is a cost effective solution that allows users to quickly make tangible savings on energy consumption. With payback from Powerstar typically between 0.8 and 3 years it is also a commercially sound investment.”

In the first round of funding, launched in June 2011, thirteen farms received funding, and are now saving around £80,500 and over 300 tonnes of CO2 from the new equipment. For further information about Powerstar voltage optimisation systems visit www.powerstar.co.uk

About EMSc UK
EMS is renowned for designing and manufacturing the Star® range of energy saving products. In addition to the market leading Powerstar voltage optimisation solution, the company also manufactures Airstar and Hotelstar, products that allow companies, organisations and hotels to reduce their energy costs as well as reduce their carbon emissions.

2010 - Winners of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 - Winners of the CARE4AIR AWARD
2001 – Winners of the DTI Smart Award for Innovation

About Powerstar

Powerstar:

Can save an average of 12-15% (up to 26.1% savings recorded) of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK. This has been proven in independent tests (on the same load and same voltage reduction) by the electricity supplier RWE npower. RWE npower commented: We did a trial with Powerstar and one other supplier. Powerstar showed a larger overall saving compared to the other supplier. In addition, it improved the power quality more. Powerstar was the better system in all aspects, including the technical design and capabilities.

Powerstar® is the registered trademark of EMSc (UK) Ltd.

Partners lay foundations for savings

2011-09-16T09:19:00.001+01:00

From left to right, Stephen Martin chief executive Clugston Group, Tom Spaul chief operating officer and chief executive director Veolia Environmental Services (UK) PLC., Philip Atkins Council Leader Staffordshire County Council, Christophe Riegert project manager CNIM.

Clugston Construction, part of the privately owned Clugston Group, along with technology partner CNIM, has recently commenced construction of a state-of-the-art 300,000 tonne Energy Recovery Facility for waste management company Veolia Environmental Services. The facility will be for Staffordshire County Council.

The facility is being developed at a site in Four Ashes, South Staffordshire, to meet the County Council’s ambitious plans to deliver up to £250m of savings for Staffordshire residents over the next 25 years, whilst at the same time delivering on its commitments to divert waste away from landfill. The operation will generate enough energy to power 32,000 homes from the residual waste left over after recycling has been undertaken.

Stephen Martin, Clugston Group chief executive, said:

“This is a really exciting project to be involved with, one of the most challenging and exciting projects of its kind in the UK today. We are really looking forward to working on the facility with our technology partner CNIM and our local supply chain. It will bring real benefits in terms of both jobs and boosting the county’s economy.”

Staffordshire County council leader Philip Atkins said:

“This plant will help neighbouring councils in Walsall, Sandwell and Warwickshire to handle their non-recyclable residual waste, and ensure that the Staffordshire plant can operate at maximum efficiency, minimising costs for residents.”

Tom Spaul, chief operating officer and executive director of Veolia Environmental Services (UK) Plc, said: “The start of work on site was an exciting moment for the company.

“We have dedicated significant resources to developing the most efficient, cost effective, sustainable and environmentally sophisticated solution to Staffordshire’s residual waste problems. Backed by our local team this project is very important to us and we are now looking forward to bringing this technology on stream as soon as possible.”

About Clugston Construction
Clugston Construction is one of the largest privately owned regional building and civil engineering contractors in the UK and a member of the Clugston Group which was established over 70 years ago by the current chairman’s father. Operating from four regional offices across the North of England the company has built a reputation for safely delivering a wide variety of services and projects. For further information about Clugston visit www.clugston.co.uk.

Veolia Environmental Services
Veolia Environmental Services, part of the Veolia Environnement Group, is the UK’s leading waste management company. With a sizeable presence throughout the UK, mainland Europe and the world, Veolia Environmental Services employs 85,600 people worldwide, servicing more than 73 million customers in 33 countries. (Source: Human Resources data 2009)

Veolia Environmental Services is the only global provider of a full range of services for handling hazardous and non-hazardous solid and liquid waste. It provides waste management and logistics services as well as materials recovery and recycling. Veolia Environmental Services generated revenue of €9.3 billion in 2010.

Veolia Environnement (Paris Euronext: VIE and NYSE: VE) is the worldwide reference in environmental services. The company has operations all around the world and provides tailored solutions to meet the needs of municipal and industrial customers in four complementary segments: water management, waste management, energy management and freight and passenger transportation. Veolia Environnement recorded revenue of €34.8 billion in 2010.

Further information can be obtained by visiting the websites:
www.veolia.co.uk
www.veoliaenvironnement.com

Voltage optimisation and the National Home Improvement Exhibition 2011

2011-09-15T12:52:00.001+01:00

Leading Yorkshire based voltage optimisation company, VO4HOME, will be a primary exhibitor at the 2011 National Home Improvement Exhibition (NHI) at Earls Court, which will be running between the 30th September and 2nd October.

VO4HOME will be based in the Eco Home Zone, a key element of the NHI Exhibition. The Zone plays an important role in highlighting and promoting how scientific advances can help homeowners reduce their carbon footprint through the adoption of energy efficiency technologies. Technologies that both lower household bills and energy consumption. VO4HOME’s voltage optimization device will be on show with all the latest energy efficient innovations and sustainable products.

The NHI Exhibition is the UK's leading home improvement show - bringing together leading, designers, suppliers and experts under one roof. Allowing anyone planning a project the opportunity to find out all they need to know to bring it to fruition.

Mr. Geoff Clifton, business development manager for VO4HOME commented,

“We jumped at the chance to be involved in the Eco Zone at the NHI exhibition, as it provides an important visible platform for those who wish to become familiar with energy efficiency technologies that can be simply and easily integrated into the home. Innovations that save the consumer money, lower energy use and reduce their carbon footprint.”

VO4HOME is a cost effective solution that delivers tangible savings on energy consumption. Not only can it be quickly and simply installed but pay-back is usually within 4-5 years, which means that not only is it a sound investment, but it also comes with a 5 year product guarantee.

VO4Home:

    •    Can save 330-500lbs of CO2 emissions each year

    •    Can save money on power bills by around £90 to £150 a year

    •    Comes with guaranteed savings.

    •    Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

    •    Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

    •    Easy installation – no need to change electricity provider, no rewiring require, no maintenance required, no moving parts

    •    Comes with a 5-year warranty

    •    Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All VO4Home components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers.

The VO4Home team has over 150 years combined experience in designing and manufacturing special transformers and the VO4Home design is a direct result of this experience.

www.vo4home.com

The Agenci goes for Gold with techmesh

2011-09-14T10:26:00.002+01:00

Photo Caption: Stuart Baker, director, The Agenci.

techmesh, Yorkshire’s only IT & Telecoms B2B network, is pleased to announce that The Agenci Ltd, the information security and technology risk management consultancy, has recently become a gold sponsor. The company which recently opened an office in Yorkshire has its head-office in London

The Agenci specialises in protecting the business assets of its customers from implementing controls and control frameworks, to auditing and assessing compliance with legal and regulatory compliance. The company has worked with some of the world’s largest companies ensuring that proprietary data as well as their customers’ data and reputation are protected.

Stuart Barker, director at The Agenci, commented,

“We are very excited to be a gold sponsor of techmesh. The Yorkshire region has a thriving economy with exciting companies that need the services we can provide. techmesh provides us with an excellent platform from which we can not only promote ourselves, but also to meet, share, collaborate and exchange knowledge with other members of the network.”

The company has recently started collaborating with Yorkshire based Central Technology.

Helen Silverman, membership development manager at techmesh, said,

“We are pleased to welcome The Agenci to the techmesh network. As a risk and security management company with significant experience delivering solutions for companies large and small, their expertise will be invaluable to businesses across the Yorkshire and Humber region as a whole. I’m looking forward to working with them and to help them grow their business.”

The Agenci is also a main sponsor at the upcoming techmesh EXPO at Royal Armouries on 13th October Museum. The stands at the exhibition, which will showcase some of the regions leading IT & Telecoms companies, are completely sold out.

About techmesh
At the heart of the region’s IT & Telecoms sector, techmesh works with organisations and individuals to help them exploit new opportunities and tackle any challenges they may encounter. techmesh enables them to form profitable relationships, expand opportunities to win new business and strengthen their existing in-house expertise. The organisation also provides a forum for IT & Telecoms leaders and professionals to keep abreast of the latest sector trends by providing access to a wide variety of external resources and support expertise.

For further information about techmesh please contact the team on 0113 384 5641 or email

Voltage optimisation and the ‘House of the Future’

2011-09-06T15:09:00.002+01:00

Geoff Clifton of VO4HOME with the Voltage Optimisation product

An exciting development for leading Yorkshire based voltage optimisation company VO4HOME sees them involved in creating the ‘House of the Future’ a key element in the 2011 British Science Festival taking place in Bradford between 10th to 15th September.

The ‘House of the Future’ is an important part of the festival in which the latest energy efficient innovations and technologies are assembled during the exhibition with the aim of promoting how an existing home can be made energy efficient and economically viable. The house will provide a realistic view of how housing could potentially develop, with sustainability and accessibility being the primary focus of the project.

VO4HOME’s role in the venture is being undertaken in conjunction with business support consultancy CO2Sense

CO2Sense, a not for profit environmental consultancy, that helps businesses in Yorkshire and Humber to cut costs, carbon emissions and profit from the opportunities in the low-carbon sector.

Mr. Geoff Clifton, business development manager for VO4HOME commented,

“We jumped at the chance to be involved in the ‘House of the Future’ exhibition, as it provides an important platform for the public to become familiar with energy efficiency technologies that can be easily integrated into the home. Innovations that save the user money, limit energy use and reduces their carbon footprint.”

VO4HOME is a cost effective solution that delivers concrete savings on energy consumption. Not only can it be quickly and simply installed but payback is usually within 4-5 years, which means that not only is it a sound investment, but it also comes with a 5 year product guarantee.

www.vo4home.com

Celebrating a decade of electrifying growth

2011-09-01T09:28:00.002+01:00

Dr. Alex Mardapittas

YORKSHIRE (ROTHERHAM) based company EMSc (UK) Limited is celebrating 10 years of continued success having recently reported on another year of outstanding growth.

In the last 12 months the company has seen turnover increase by 50%, to £12.4m and has doubled its workforce to 70 people. To accommodate the growth the company has also moved into larger premises.

EMS has come a long way since its early days when founder and designer of the company’s market leading product Powerstar, Dr. Alex Mardapittas, set up the company in his study at home.

EMS has always been at the forefront of the latest energy saving technologies and is constantly looking to launch new products that will allow companies to reduce not only their electricity bills, but their carbon emissions as well. It is this vision which has allowed the company to grow at the rate it has.

The company, which manufactures all its products in the UK includes ASDA, Coop, Punch Taverns, London Stock Exchange, Metropolitan Police, Transport for London, Sheffield University, Bristol University and a large number of other Blue Chip clients, alongside government departments, Local Authorities and the NHS as its customers.

Internationally the EMS is also expanding its presence with distribution agreements to supply Powerstar in Australia, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bahrain and Holland as well as the development of its own operation in Cyprus.

Dr Alex Mardapittas commented about the continued success of the company:

“We have grown a lot over the last few years to meet the growing market demand for our products. Excitingly, and despite the current recession, we are anticipating our growth to continue at an even faster pace than we have over the last few years.”

The company was also recently accredited with the Made in Sheffield accolade in acknowledgement of the quality of its manufacturing process, its expansion into international markets and the international success of Powerstar. It has also recently launched a new website which showcases Powerstar www.powerstar.co.uk.

About EMSc UK
EMS is renowned for designing and manufacturing the Star® range of energy saving products. In addition to the market leading Powerstar voltage optimisation solution, the company also manufactures Airstar and Hotelstar, products that allow companies, organisations and hotels to reduce their energy costs as well as reduce their carbon emissions.

2010 - Winners of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 - Winners of the CARE4AIR AWARD
2001 – Winners of the DTI Smart Award for Innovation

About Powerstar

Powerstar:

Can save an average of 12-15% (up to 26.1% savings recorded) of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK. This has been proven in independent tests (on the same load and same voltage reduction) by the electricity supplier RWE npower. RWE npower commented: We did a trial with Powerstar and one other supplier. Powerstar showed a larger overall saving compared to the other supplier. In addition, it improved the power quality more. Powerstar was the better system in all aspects, including the technical design and capabilities.

Powerstar® is the registered trademark of EMSc (UK) Ltd.

Overseas markets open up for UK manufactured energy saving solution

2011-08-23T14:24:00.001+01:00

Geoff Clifton, business development manager for VO4HOME

Leading Yorkshire based voltage optimisation company VO4HOME, has seen its sales footprint increase within Europe on the back of an expansion into the Maltese market in conjunction with the leading Maltese environmental solutions company CD Power Saving Co. Ltd

CD Power Saving were established in Malta in 2005 with the aim of providing environmental products and services that can substantially reduce energy usage, environmental impacts and costs to both the consumer and business market. Allied to product sales they also provide customer sector support and services up to and including project management and business development work.

“We are constantly looking at new products and technologies that will be of benefit to our customers, and we were very excited when we came across VO4HOME’s voltage optimisation product. To ensure the device worked as well as we believed it would we had it independently tested at the Malta Institute of Sustainable Energy. The test established the minimum potential savings available by utilising the technology, and is undertaken by 2 professors from the University of Malta,” said Martin de Bono, Managing Director of CD Power Saving.

The savings, which turned out to be a minimum of 8% were in line with expectations, but will improve in respect of consumer air conditioning systems, which are very common in Malta. The company purchased a significant number of units and see the product becoming one of, if not the, company’s flagship product.

“This is an exciting development for VO4HOME that will provide tangible cost benefits for those using the technology in Malta. Saving them money whilst
simultaneously lowering their carbon footprint. It’s very much a win-win situation for the customer”, said Geoff Clifton, business development manager for VO4HOME.

VO4HOME is a cost effective solution that delivers tangible savings on energy consumption. Not only is payback usually within 3 - 5 years, which means that it is a commercially sound investment but it also comes with a 5 year product guarantee.”

vo4home.com

Contrac’s green lighting helps reduce Stagecoach energy bills by 40%

2011-08-23T12:58:00.000+01:00

Stagecoach buses at the company’s Tayside depot

Contrac Lighting, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of lighting solutions for the retail, industrial, commercial and leisure industries, is pleased to announce it has recently completed the manufacture and delivery of its intelligent energy saving lighting systems to Stagecoach UK Bus. The systems, which were trialled by Stagecoach at six depots including Glasgow, Ayr, Nuneaton, Chichester, Gloucester and Leamington, are part of the company’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions.

It is estimated that the new intelligent lighting systems could reduce Stagecoach’s lighting energy consumption by as much 40% at the six depots, which could result in the company also reducing its C02 emissions by 230 tonnes per year.

The successful trial, has resulted in Stagecoach rolling-out the programme to a significant number of its depots across the UK, with Contrac Lighting being asked to look at a further 32 sites.

Contrac Lighting was chosen by Stagecoach because of the bespoke nature of the energy saving lighting solutions recommended. All of the depots had their own specific requirements, being different in size, which resulted in Contrac Lighting visiting each depot to carry out a site specific survey of the lighting system. Once completed, Contrac Lighting proposed tailored solutions that not only deliver excellent levels of light uniformity, but reduce energy consumption as well.

Contrac Lighting recommended motion detectors that identify light and movement, setting the lighting levels accordingly. When no motion is detected the lights switch off and dim down to the correct levels. The lighting also takes into account the daylight available, cleverly dimming to the appropriate level.

Anne Shone, managing director at Contrac Lighting, commented,

“We are extremely pleased with the results at all six Stagecoach depots. We pride ourselves on manufacturing and delivering tailored solutions that allow companies to maximise their energy savings and maintain excellent lighting levels. The Stagecoach applications are perfect examples of this and we look forward to working with Stagecoach on further depots.”

Graham Whitelocks, director of health, safety and environment for Stagecoach UK Bus, commented:

“We chose Contrac Lighting because they demonstrated at all times, a willingness to work with us proactively and to consider all the options, recommending not only a new modern lighting solution but an energy saving one as well.”

www.contrac-lighting.co.uk

About Contrac Lighting
Established in 1986, Contrac Lighting based in Goole, East Yorkshire, has established a reputation for designing and manufacturing bespoke lighting solutions for the retail, industrial, commercial and leisure industries. The company maintains an in-house policy in all areas of operation resulting in a flexible team of thirty people, capable of managing highly technical projects within achievable deadlines.

About Stagecoach Group
Stagecoach Group is a leading international public transport group, with extensive operations in the UK, United States and Canada. The company employs around 35,000 people, and operates bus, coach, rail, and tram services
Stagecoach is one of UK’s biggest bus and coach operators. Around 2.5 million passengers travel on Stagecoach's 8,100 buses every day on a network stretching from south-west England to the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. The company's business includes major city bus operations in London, Liverpool, Newcastle, Hull, Manchester, Oxford, Sheffield and Cambridge
Stagecoach is a major UK rail operator, running the South West Trains, Island Line and East Midlands Trains networks. It has a 49% shareholding in Virgin Rail Group, which operates the West Coast inter-city rail franchise
Stagecoach also runs the Supertram light rail network in Sheffield

Free CPD courses on Energy saving device

2011-08-09T16:15:00.001+01:00

Alex Mardapittas

EMS (UK) Ltd. manufacturer of the market leading, energy saving, carbon reducing voltage optimisation product Powerstar, is holding a number of Continuing Professional/Personal Development (CPD) seminars across the UK after recently becoming CPD certified.

CPD – Continuing Personal or Professional Development - is the term that describes a commitment to structured skills enhancement and personal or professional competence.

The first three seminars will be held in Durham, Swansea and Aberdeen, the fourth - an NHS and council specific seminar - will be held in Southampton.

The Durham seminar will take place on Tuesday 20th September at Allergate House with Bill Mahoney from CTC Energy as a guest speaker. The seminar in Swansea will take place at the Ramada Jarvis Hotel on Wednesday 19th October.

The seminar in Aberdeen will be at the University of Aberdeen on Wednesday 16th November, with guest speaker Mark Hobbins from the Energy Institute. The Southampton seminar will be on Wednesday 6th December at the Eastpoint Centre.

The seminars will start at 10:00am and finish at 1:00pm. They will include a free buffet lunch and all attendees will be awarded CPD certification on completion of the seminar.

EMS’ voltage optimisation system Powerstar is recognised as being the most efficient voltage solution in the world and can save up to 26.1% of total electricity consumption and related CO² emissions, all without compromising the supply to electrical equipment. The payback period after installing the product is typically between 0.8 and 2.5 years.

Alex Mardapittas, managing director at EMS (UK) Ltd, commented

“We are extremely proud that our seminars are now CPD certified, it is important that businesses know how to save energy and electricity, particularly with energy prices rising so much recently.”

For more information, or to reserve a place at one of the events, please contact Nick Lee, by emailing nick,lee@ems-uk.org or calling on 01709 836200. Places can also be booked online at www.powerstar.co.uk/events

Leading Lighting Company Nominated for National Innovation Award

2011-08-09T10:38:00.001+01:00

John McDonnell, managing director at Harvard Engineering, showing HRH The Duke of Kent a LeafNut enabled street light at the recent Queen’s Awards presentation

Harvard Engineering shortlisted for the Orange Innovation gong at the National Business Awards

One of the UK’s leading lighting manufacturers has today been named as one of the most innovative businesses in the country. Harvard Engineering has been shortlisted for the coveted Orange Innovation Award, in the 10th annual National Business Awards.

The firm has been shortlisted because of its innovative carbon emission saving LeafNut wireless street lighting monitoring and control solution. Harvard also manufactures LED and HID lighting controls offering efficiency for commercial, retail, emergency and street lighting applications. With over 60 LeafNut installations worldwide the company employs approximately 210 people in Normanton and is projected to reach a turnover of over £20 million, a 44.4 per cent increase on sales in the previous 12 months.

The Orange Innovation Award recognises businesses that have gone beyond the ordinary in their development and implemented cutting edge innovation in terms of products, services or company culture. Harvard Engineering will now prepare to make its presentation in person before an independent, expert judging panel in October before the winners are announced at an awards ceremony in November.

John McDonnell, Managing Director Harvard Engineering commented, “We are extremely proud that LeafNut, our energy saving street lighting control system, has been shortlisted for the Orange Innovation category, it’s a credit to the whole company. For the first time ever Local Authorities are able to manage their energy consumption and maintenance schedules by wirelessly controlling each street light via the internet. It helps to reduce CO2 emissions too. LeafNut makes it easy for the local authority engineer to save money from the outset since we provide the user interface web software, the wireless networks and the dimming units, together with a financial package that gives an immediate payback.” The system, which is entirely developed and manufactured in the UK is now being rolled out by Local Authorities across the UK and the world.

In total, over 152 of Britain’s top public and private sector businesses have been announced as finalists across all categories in the National Business Awards, in partnership with Orange.

Announcing the Orange Innovation finalists, Martin Stiven, Vice President of Business at Orange, part of Everything Everywhere, said:

“Orange believes that innovation is central to all business growth and we support businesses to achieve this goal. If the UK is to regain its role as a world leader of innovation, we firmly believe that British companies must embrace a new way of thinking and invest time and resource into doing this. This year’s finalists demonstrate exceptional innovation and are a testament to pioneering UK business.”

Sherry Coutu, Investment Committee, NESTA, who sat on this year’s National Business Awards shorlisting panel, said:

“Harvard Engineering scored highly for its innovative wireless street-lighting system which saved their customers 322m per annum and reduced their carbon emissions by 700m kg pa. A triumph of customer led entrepreneurship”.

The National Business Awards are organised by UBM plc. Winners will be honoured at the National Business Awards gala dinner at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London, Tuesday 8th November, where George Osborne, the Chancellor of the Exchequer will deliver this year’s welcome address.
Visit www.nationalbusinessawards.co.uk for a full list of all 2011 finalists.

CO2 reduction through Voltage Optimisation

2011-07-29T16:47:00.001+01:00

Geoff Clifton of VO4HOME with the Voltage Optimisation product

Leading Yorkshire based voltage optimisation company VO4HOME has entered into an exciting new venture with not-for-profit business support consultancy CO2Sense.

CO2Sense is a not for profit environmental consultancy that helps businesses to cut costs and carbon emissions. They offer businesses in Yorkshire and Humber the chance to trial environmental products and services that can substantially reduce environmental impacts and costs. VO4HOME’s voltage optimisation system is one of the products selected for the trials. This innovative technology can reduce energy use, CO2 and as a result has a direct impact on lowering the end user’s electricity bill.

CO2Sense has invested in a number of VO4HOME units and both organisations are jointly working on identifying sites that will derive maximum benefit from an installation. The projects will also be monitored and used as case studies to demonstrate what CO2 and financial savings can be achieved by utilising the technology.

“This is an exciting project that will provide tangible cost benefits for those involved in the project, whilst simultaneously lowering their carbon footprint. It’s very much a win-win situation for the customer”

said Geoff Clifton, business development manager for VO4HOME.

Mr. Clifton also commented,

“VO4HOME is a cost effective solution that delivers tangible savings on energy consumption. Not only is payback usually within 4-5 years, which means that it is a commercially sound investment but it also comes with a 5 year product guarantee.”

A social housing project in Durham has already been identified as a test site, with both companies also looking at other potential test site application opportunities within both Small and Medium Sized Enterprise’s (SMEs) and university accommodation.

Any business interested in participating in this free trial should contact either Geoff Clifton of VO4HOME at 07769 212051 or Jeanine Willoughby of CO2Sense at 0113 237 8452.

www.vo4home.com

Bradford Samaritans fun day Sunday 24th July

2011-07-26T15:35:00.000+01:00

The Bradford branch of the Samaritans will have a stand in Centenary Square from 10am to 5pm on Sunday 24th July as a way of bringing attention to the Samaritan’s service being available 24-7, 365 days of the year.

At the Bradford Samaritans ‘fun day’ stand, a variety of art and craft activities will be taking place, including kite making and a chance to meet with and talk to Samaritan volunteers.

Austin, a Samaritans volunteer, commented, “We want more people to be aware of our services and how we work, and the best way to do this is for us to get out and meet people. We want to dispel the myth that we are some kind of secretive organisation that only exists at the end of a telephone. We are also keen that people who may be thinking about becoming Samaritan volunteers come along and take the opportunity to chat to active volunteers at the stand to find out more about what we do as listening volunteers.”

Samaritans is a confidential emotional support service for anyone in the UK and Ireland. The service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which may lead to suicide.

www.samaritans.org/bradford

Response to Committee on Climate Change’s 3rd Annual Report

2011-07-26T15:20:00.000+01:00

Geoff Clifton from VO4HOME

Leading Yorkshire based voltage optimisation company VO4HOME have been vocally supportive of the government’s legislation and initiatives linked to the sustainability agenda. However, the recently released Committee on Climate Change’s (CCC)3rd Annual Report, which highlights the fact that the UK is failing to act fast enough to cut greenhouse gas emissions and may have to purchase carbon offsets to meet its 2025 targets, gives some cause for concern.

Allied to this is the report that in 2010 the carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere has risen by 2.60 parts per million – more than the average annual increase over the course of the previous 30 years.

“While we agree with the need to address the issues of global warming through carbon and energy reduction and applaud schemes such as the Green Deal – the CCC’s report raises serious questions about the pace of change. Many of the funding streams available to homeowners and businesses often involve complex and costly technologies, perhaps the time has come to incorporate simple, but effective approaches to energy reduction, such as voltage optimisation devices, into the equation. A proven technology that takes some 60 minutes to install, but can reduce electricity bills by £90 - £150 per annum.

It is estimated that £3 billion of energy is wasted annually. If voltage optimisation products were fitted to the estimated 27 million homes in Britain – the UK as a whole would save between £2.7 and £4 billion a year on energy costs and reduce carbon emissions by 9 to 13.5 million lbs a year.

Perhaps the simplicity of a 60 minute voltage optimisation makeover can help provide a swift, significant and cost effective way of denting the government’s carbon budget targets and countering the CCC’s concerns,” said Geoff Clifton, Business Development Manager at VO4HOME.

VO4Home

VO4Home achieves savings by ensuring the delivery of energy into the home does not exceed 220/230V. The voltage supplied to homes by UK energy companies averages 242V, while electrical equipment is designed to operate on 220/230V. The consumer pays for the excess electricity supplied.

www.vo4home.com

Green Yorkshire company powers ahead in Greece

2011-07-26T14:59:00.001+01:00

Despite the current economic crisis in Greece, Yorkshire based company EMSc (UK) Limited is pleased to announce it has recently completed the successful installation of a Powerstar voltage optimisation system at one of Greece’s leading fast food chains Goody’s.

The Powerstar installation which was at a Goody’s Sykies store in Thessaloniki, Greece’s second largest city, was the first for both the retail chain and EMS.

The voltage supplied in Greece is generally lower than in the UK - 232V in the Goody’s store – which means that an equivalent store in the UK could achieve even greater savings in energy costs and improved savings in carbon emissions, as the voltage supplied is closer to 242V. With double figure increases in energy prices being announced this could result in significant savings for UK based fast food chains.

EMS Cyprus division was initially commissioned to assess the Goody’s Sykies store for the suitability of a Powerstar voltage optimisation system. The test highlighted that the average daily electricity consumption at the site was determined to be running at 790kWh. EMS quickly identified the level of voltage reduction and optimisation that could be achieved and the resulting level of savings in electricity consumption. Following the installation of the Powerstar system 7.87% reduction on total electricity consumption was achieved resulting in a significant annual cost saving. The savings data was independently measured and verified by the Greek Electricity Authority.

EMS’ market leading solution Powerstar, also delivers savings in the maintenance and replacement costs of site based equipment as a result of matching the voltage more closely to the original design characteristics. The fast food chain has also reduced its carbon footprint by using less energy.

Kyriacos Michael, EMS Cyprus business development manager said,

“The savings at Goody’s Sykies have provided the restaurant with lowered electricity bills and reduced the store’s impact on the environment. It is becoming increasingly important for large companies to use technologies like Powerstar voltage optimisation systems
as a part of their overall carbon reduction strategy in order to lead the way to a greener future.”

Powerstar® is the registered trademark of EMSc (UK) Ltd.

Powerstar:

Can save up to 26.1% of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Is an approved energy savings system and may qualify for an interest-free Energy Efficiency Loan from the Carbon Trust.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK. This has been proven in independent tests

www.powerstar.co.uk

Green Company Growth Sees Further Recruitment

2011-07-26T11:23:00.001+01:00

Mr. Michael Greensmith, VO4HOME.

Recent growth has seen VO4HOME Ltd, the developer and manufacturer of the innovative VO4HOME domestic voltage optimisation system, appoint Mr. Michael Greensmith as sales representative.

Mr. Greensmith, from Wakefield, has worked in the electrical wholesale sector for over 22 years and brings with him a wealth of current industry experience and understanding, working 15 years at Newey and Eyre most recently as area margin development manager

Based at VO4HOME’s head office in Rotherham, Mr. Greensmith’s role will primarily involve developing the company’s UK distributor network, with particular emphasis on Northern England and Scotland.

The appointment reflects VO4HOME’s rapid growth since its launch in November 2010.
In conjunction with the ongoing domestic success, the company has been experiencing an analogous rise in sales and interest for VO4HOME products in markets across Europe.

Geoff Clifton, business development manager at VO4HOME, commented,

“We are all extremely pleased and excited about welcoming Michael to the team. Having recently invested in the development of our manufacturing systems and resources, so as to increase output, the next logical step was to increase our sales resources, with a particular focus on distributor networks. We look forward to seeing the value Michael will no doubt bring” 

“I am really enjoying the fact that I am selling a product that allows homes to reduce both their energy consumption and carbon footprint, which in turn benefits the environment, as I am a bit of a ‘Greenie’ myself,” said Mr. Greensmith.

www.vo4home.com

Clugston appoints new Distribution Services General Manager

2011-07-19T14:19:00.002+01:00

Mr. Heath, general manager, Clugston Distribution Services.

Clugston Group, one of the North’s leading privately owned companies, with interests in construction, logistics and property, has recently appointed David Heath as general manager at Clugston Distribution Services, the logistics arm of the group.

In his new role Mr. Heath will be looking to develop new business opportunities whilst also consolidating and strengthening the company’s existing revenue streams.
Mr. Heath has extensive transport, distribution and logistics expertise, as well as significant experience gained from working for leading operators in a variety of business sectors. This includes most recently, two senior roles with TDG leading their hazardous and bulk operations and five years undertaking roles in separate areas of Wincanton’s industrial operations. Earlier career experience includes working with major retailers, fuel, drink and food industries - all were within haulage, distribution and logistics operations.

Stephen Martin, chief executive at Clugston Group, commented

“I am extremely pleased to welcome David to the position of general manager at Clugston Distribution Services and I look forward to working with him to develop the business.”

Mr. Heath commented,

“I am delighted to be joining Clugston Distribution Services. I am excited by the challenges that lay ahead and to developing this important part of the Clugston Group.”

About Clugston Group:

Clugston Group was established over 70 years ago by the current chairman’s father. The Group, which has offices in Scunthorpe, Leeds, Hebburn and Market Weighton, has activities in construction, logistics and property development and has built a reputation for safely delivering a wide variety of services and projects for customers in the public and private sectors. For further information about Clugston visit www.clugston.co.uk

About Clugston Distribution Services:

Clugston Distribution Services offers both total and partial supply chain solutions, including specialist distribution, storage and inventory management for general haulage, cementitious powder and bulk food ingredients. Based near the Humber, and close to the motorway network, the company is able to offer a full or part load delivery service within 24 hours to all destinations on the United Kingdom mainland. For further information about Clugston Distribution Services visit www.clusgton.co.uk.

Free Emerging Technologies Seminar in Leeds

2011-07-12T10:12:00.000+01:00

Business owners and managers in the Yorkshire and Humber region will be able to learn more about emerging digital technologies at a free breakfast seminar being held by the region’s only dedicated Telecoms and IT B2B support network, techmesh. The seminar is being held on Tuesday 19th July at the Rose Bowl, lecture theatre D, Leeds Metropolitan University.

The event, which runs from 8.00 am to 10.30 am, will provide an opportunity for companies to hear from industry experts about advancements in technologies that will impact on the way companies do business, from sales boosting technology in the retail sector, to the positive effects of going green.
Presenting at the seminar will be Trevor Higgins, BT partnership director GB regions, Leeds based Digital Media Projects with their innovative low cost solution for digital signage - the solution can create up to the minute special offers in store within minutes - Very PC with their green technology solutions and the impact they are having on business processes. The University of York IT Academy will also be presenting an overview of Microsoft Office 365 and why the future of computing will be based on a combination of tablets and cloud based services.

There will also be a networking opportunity for attendees after the event.
The seminar is free of charge to attend for members, associates, sponsors and Chartered Management Institute members. Non-member attendees will receive their first event free of charge.
To register or for further information, please contact the techmesh team on 0113 384 5641 or visit info@techmesh.org.

Innovative roadside service hits 500,000 members

2011-07-12T10:04:00.001+01:00

As the cost of motoring continues its rapid rise – the result of significant insurance premium hikes and fuel price increases – Road To Recovery (RTR) Accident Management announces it has reached its 500,000th member of its pay-as-you-go roadside assistance and recovery service.
The free to join service ensures the cost of recovery is 50-60% cheaper than contacting a local recovery operator direct, because all RTR providers sign up to a fair pricing commitment which keeps cost for the motorist down to a minimum.

It is a development that has seen not only an increasing number of motorists, but interestingly, fleet operators moving from traditional breakdown services to RTR’s service. The company’s 500,000 members include individuals, many sports clubs, utility companies, contract hire firms, Severn Trent Water and the majority of Manchester’s 3000 black cabs.

“The ongoing rise of both fuel costs and insurance premiums has meant our overheads have shot up in recent times. So we had to look at ways to limit outgoings in relation to our 100 strong vehicle fleet. The reliability of our vehicles meant we were paying out large annual amounts for a recovery service we rarely used, so the comprehensive pay-as-you-go service provided by RTR has saved us significant amounts of money, whilst providing professional cover when required. We have had no requirements in the last 12 months and therefore no costs” said Steve Seamore, Managing Director of Gym-Fix UK.

The RTR’s scheme works by providing a central link between recovery operators, who benefit from higher volumes of business, and motorists who are spared the cost of a service they may never use but have the reassurance that it is available should they need it.
Statistics show that the average motorist will only breakdown once in every 7 years and that 80% of breakdowns are fixed at the roadside. As a result, many motorists are paying hundreds of pounds for a comprehensive recovery service they never use. RTR’s service allows members to access a fully comprehensive service but only pay anything when, and if they, require, it.
The motorist can access the service through the RTR call centre or i-phone app

“When we introduced a breakdown recovery scheme that you only pay for when you need it, our competitors thought we were mad. They trade on people’s fears but the reality is that most modern cars are very reliable and the chances of a breakdown are actually quite small. We decided that people shouldn’t have to take a chance and pay for a service they may not use but, if they did need it, that it should be priced fairly. I think it’s the future of breakdown cover” said Paul Hoyle, MD of RTR (UK).

More information available at www.rtruk.co.uk

BOSS to visit House of Lords

2011-07-06T15:21:00.001+01:00

BOSS Training, the Yorkshire based training provider, is pleased to announce that managing director, Andrew Murphy, has been invited to a reception at the House of Lords by The Baroness Linklater of Butterstone on behalf of SOVA (Supporting Others through Volunteer Action), on 19th July 2011. The invitation is in recognition for the work that BOSS Training does with SOVA.

BOSS Training works with ex-offenders in the Yorkshire & Humber region and across the UK to provide training, helping them achieve qualifications for real job opportunities. Many ex-offenders that have taken part in BOSS training programmes have gone on to find work as a direct result of the support provided by BOSS Training.

Some of the courses the company has provided include PASMA Scaffold Tower Training, IPAF Scissor Lift, Cherry Picker Training and First Aid.

Andrew Murphy, managing director at BOSS Training commented,

“I am extremely proud to have been invited to the House of Lords on behalf of SOVA and I am very much looking forward to what I’m sure will be a memorable day. It is extremely pleasing to know that our training programmes can help reduce re-conviction amongst ex-offenders. Companies providing courses like ours can make a big difference to peoples’ lives and we are glad to be a part of the scheme.”

The speech at the event will be on the subject of ‘better work, better lives’ which will explore the positive and lasting impact of work on the lives of individuals and how employment helps to create strong communities which are safer for everyone.

SOVA is a leading national volunteer mentoring organisation working with those socially and economically disadvantaged in England and Wales. For 35 years SOVA has been supporting some of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in society to help them fulfil their potential and change their lives.

Boss Training
Rimani House
Hall Street
Halifax HX1 5BD
Telephone: 0845 680 0495
Email: info@bosstraining.co.uk
Website: www.bosstraining.co.uk

Harvard appoints new manager to build on sustained growth

2011-06-23T15:33:00.002+01:00

John Charles Andy Jackson

Harvard, a leading player in the LED and wireless street lighting industries, has recently appointed a new business development manager to its growing sales team, John Charles.
John has over 27 years experience working on local authority lighting and communications systems. He has also been responsible for implementing a number of international lighting design projects in the US, South Africa and Australia, as well as the Channel Tunnel Rail Link and Terminal 5 in the UK.
John has gained a thorough understanding of a wide range of lighting applications, including tunnels and high mast installations, and has worked as joint venture manufacturer project manager with Network Rail, BAA and the Highways Agency on several projects, using innovating lighting techniques including Optical Fibre, LED and HID augmented with dimming and control systems.
Working as a senior member of the external sales team John’s role will involve identifying and developing new business opportunities, and securing new contracts for Harvard’s innovative LeafNut street lighting solution from both local authorities and commercial users.

John Charles commented,

“I am thrilled to be joining Harvard at such an exciting time. The opening of the new premises, which strengthens our extensive UK based research, development and manufacturing facilities, will allow us to proactively develop solutions for UK and global customers.”

John’s appointment reflects Harvard’s significant growth over the past two years, increasing employee numbers from 130 to 210. Due to the expanding LED market, Harvard’s LED driver solutions are in great demand. The company’s revolutionary wireless remote street lighting solution, LeafNut, is also very much sought-after with local authorities across the world deploying the system.
Currently more than 40 local authorities worldwide have implemented the system, which allows authorities to not only save carbon emissions - assisting them to meet Carbon Reduction Commitment targets but make energy saving as well.
Michael McDonnell, sales and marketing director at Harvard, commented,

“We are all extremely pleased to welcome John to the team and we are already seeing the value he will bring to the company. We have had a strong couple of years and John’s appointment will provide us with opportunity for further growth.”

Harvard supplies some of the most innovative and efficient products for commercial, retail, emergency and street lighting applications, including HID Indoor and Outdoor ballasts, CoolLED drivers, including its DALI dimmable driver, and a controllable street lighting solution called LeafNut.

Awards

2010 - Winners of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2010 - Winners of the Light Sources & Controls Award at the Lighting Design Awards
2011 - Winner of a Queen’s Award for Enterprise, within the Innovation category
2011 - Shortlisted for the Innovation award at the Wakefield Express Business Awards, winner to be announced at the end of June

www.harvardeng.com

Clugston secures £2 million waterfront contract

2011-06-22T11:12:00.000+01:00

Clugston Construction, one of the North’s leading privately owned building and civil engineering contractors, is pleased to announce it has been awarded a £2 million contract by Kirklees Council to upgrade a section of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal as part of the town’s Waterfront Quarter development scheme.

The project, which was awarded by the Kirklees Contractors Framework, will initially involve the demolition and clearance of three large industrial units, as well as the associated ground remediation works.

The main part of the scheme involves uncovering a 350m culverted section of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal. Once opened up, the canal bed will be raised and a new concrete lock chamber together with a passing point will be developed. In addition, new canal lock gates will be installed into the chamber. A brand new canal boat landing stage and vehicle bridge will also be constructed.

In line with the overall Waterfront development the landscaping will also include installation of a new 80m long section of gabion basket walling to the exiting riverbank.

The work will be timed to coincide with the national canal closure season when the canal itself will be diverted and dewatered by Clugston Construction.

Steve Radcliffe, managing director at Clugston Construction, commented about the project: “The Waterfront Quarter masterplan is an ambitious and exciting development, which will completely transform the local area. We are extremely proud to have been chosen by Kirklees Council to work on such a prestigious project.”

About Clugston Construction:
Clugston Construction is one of the largest privately owned regional building contractors in the UK and a member of the Clugston Group which was established over 70 years ago by the current chairman’s father. Operating from four regional offices across the North of England the company has built a reputation for safely delivering a wide variety of services and projects. For further information about Clugston visit www.clugston.co.uk

KC becomes latest techmesh sponsor

2011-06-22T11:01:00.003+01:00

techmesh the Yorkshire and Humber region’s IT & Telecoms business-to-business network, is pleased to announce that KC (previously Kingston Communications), one of Yorkshire’s and the UK’s leading telecommunications service providers, is the latest high profile company to become a sponsor.
As a gold sponsor KC will be working closely with the network across the Yorkshire & Humber region, sharing and exchanging ideas, working with members to engage with audiences in the region’s wider business community.

KC, which is part of the KCOM Group PLC and provides communication and hosting services for small/medium sized businesses as well as multi-site enterprises, and public sector organisations across Yorkshire. The Group has over 100 years experience understanding and addressing the communication needs of customers throughout the Yorkshire and Humber region.
Mark Conway, director of business services, KC commented. “There are a lot of exciting IT and Telecoms companies in the Yorkshire & Humber region that are not only making a major contribution to the region’s economy, but are also providing invaluable services to the business community as a whole. techmesh is doing a wonderful job bringing all these businesses together to meet, share and exchange ideas.”
Helen Silverman, membership development manager at techmesh commented, “KC is a long established, well recognised company that happens to be based in the Yorkshire & Humber region, and we are extremely pleased to welcome them as a major sponsor.” She added, “As the region’s only dedicated IT and Telecoms network, it is nice to know that KC values the work we are doing in bringing together leading-edge companies that are in the sector. Companies that are able to impart their knowledge to business owners and managers throughout the region.”
KC will also be exhibiting at the techmesh EXPO 2011, which will be taking place at the Royal Armouries in Leeds on 13th October.

About techmesh
At the heart of the region’s IT & Telecoms sector, techmesh works with organisations and individuals to help them exploit new opportunities and tackle any challenges they may encounter. techmesh enables them to form profitable relationships, expand opportunities to win new business and strengthen their existing in-house expertise. The organisation also provides a forum for IT & Telecoms leaders and professionals to keep abreast of the latest sector trends by providing access to a wide variety of external resources and support expertise.

For further information about techmesh please contact the team on 0113 384 5641 or visit http://techmesh.org/

EMSc supporting charities large and small

2011-06-08T14:40:00.001+01:00

EMSc UK Ltd is extremely proud to announce it is one of the main sponsors at an upcoming UNICEF event in Leeds. The event, which is being hosted by Martin Bell, will be held on Monday 13th June at the Queens Hotel in Leeds city centre.

Martin Bell, UNICEF goodwill ambassador, former BBC journalist and a former Independent MP, will talk about his extraordinary experiences around the world, highlighting the important role UNICEF plays in improving children’s’ lives.

EMS has also recently made a donation to a school in Rotherham through the Kidsafe charity. Kidsafe is an organisation that is actively committed to helping keep children safe across the UK and Eire. The money the company has donated will be used to provide a local school with vital safety information free of charge, on topics including ‘Stranger Danger’, vandalism, crime prevention, racism, bullying, drugs, road safety and the Green Cross Code. 

Alex Mardapittas, managing director at EMS commented

“We recognise that future generations will have a large part to play in looking after our planet and environmental sustainability, which is why we are proud to be supporting these children’s charities.” He added, “As a company proud of its Yorkshire roots, and being based in Rotherham, we are particularly keen to demonstrate our support for local schools and children’s charity events.”

EMS’ market leading voltage optimisation system Powerstar, is the most efficient voltage optimisation solution in the world and can save up to 26.1% of total electricity consumption and related CO² emissions, all without compromising the supply to electrical equipment. The payback period after installing the product is typically between 0.8 and 2.5 years.

www.powerstar.co.uk

Ultracoat reinforces its Reputation

2011-06-08T14:30:00.002+01:00

A chamber before and after the application of Ultracoat

Fernco Environmental, a company focusing on environmental drainage solutions, has seen an increase in demand for its Ultracoat structural coating system, with a large number of new project opportunities becoming available.

Ultracoat has recently been used to rehabilitate in excess of fifty badly corroded chambers at a leading UK brewery, and has also been chosen by a soap manufacturer in the Midlands for the repair of several chambers on an effluent line.

Fernco Environmental has also been awarded with the contract for waterproofing the cellar of a privately owned home in Glasgow – a new type of application for Ultracoat - and is continuing discussions with a race course over the use of Ultracoat for its failed GRP storm water tank. The structural rehabilitation of several chambers at a nuclear power station is also coming soon – after an efficient one coat application, the chambers will be stronger, 100% waterproof and have a chemical resistance to materials with a pH of 2-14.

Ed Fairfield, marketing manager at Fernco Environmental, commented,

“We are extremely pleased with the development of the Ultracoat system over the past few months, particularly with the variety of different applications we’re seeing – this is far more than just a manhole rehabilitation system. Ultracoat is reinforcing its proven track record of delivering excellence and reliability”

Fernco Environmental is sister company to Flexseal, global leaders in flexible drainage couplings. The company is based in Barnsley, South Yorkshire.

About Fernco Environmental

Fernco Environmental is a new company within the Fernco group, and focuses on minimising environmental impact within sewerage and drainage industries.

Jon Crean, Managing Director, summarises ‘the team in the UK are working hard to deliver innovation and move into new industries, new markets and new countries. There are a variety of challenges which the industry needs to address such as sustainability, environmental awareness and meeting the demands of new legislation. Fernco Environmental aims to provide the tools the industry needs to succeed’.
For further information about Fernco Environmental visit

www.ferncoenvironmental.com.

Innovative project scoops three CENE awards

2011-06-08T14:21:00.000+01:00

The Hub at Barnard Castle

Clugston Construction, one of the North’s leading privately owned building and civil engineering contractors, is pleased to announce that one of its recently completed projects scooped three awards at the Constructing Excellence North East (CENE) awards 2011. The awards, which included the most prestigious - ‘Project of the Year’ - were all for The Hub, a new multi-purpose facility developed by Teesdale Community Resources and designed by and for young people, at Barnard Castle, Teesdale, County Durham.

In winning the Project of the Year award, the judges acknowledged the team’s commitment to the highest level of technical achievement, innovation and application of best practice, as well as, team working throughout the supply chain.

Clugston Construction also won The Legacy Award, which was presented to the company for demonstrating the principles of sustainable construction during delivery of the project and included social, economic and environmental considerations.
The community facility aimed at 13-19 year olds, also won Achiever of the Year award for Keith “Joe” Jones of Teesdale Community Resources, the driving force behind the development of The Hub.

Winners were selected across 12 categories from more than 80 entrants, including innovation, integration, value and sustainability and will go on to compete in the National Constructing Excellence Awards held every year in the autumn.
Over the last five years the awards have grown to become one of the highlights of the year, with over 500 people regularly attending to witness the cream of the region’s construction projects receiving their well deserved awards.
CENE is a business support organisation for the North East construction industry, dedicated to delivering improved industry performance in order to achieve a better built environment.
Steve Waggett regional manager at Clugston Construction said,

“The Hub is a truly ground breaking scheme, providing a vast array of exciting activities for young people in the local community, also incorporating innovative design features, such a meadow grass roof, which harmoniously blends into the local environment. We are delighted it is receiving the recognition it deserves.”

About Clugston Construction:
Clugston Construction is one of the largest privately owned regional building and civil engineering contractors in the UK and a member of the Clugston Group which was established over 70 years ago by the current chairman’s father. Operating from four regional offices across the North of England the company has built a reputation for safely delivering a wide variety of services and projects. For further information about Clugston visit www.clugston.co.uk.

Propalms becomes latest techmesh sponsor

2011-05-27T16:24:00.003+01:00

Matt Malarkey (left) with Owen Dukes and Kath Dukes all from Propalms, at a recent techmesh event.

techmesh the Yorkshire and Humber region’s IT & Telecoms business-to-business network, is pleased to announce that York based Propalms is the latest company to become a silver sponsor.
Propalms is a global provider of application delivery and secure remote access solutions for Terminal Services and Virtual Desktop Infrastructures. The company offers reliable, scalable and affordable solutions to enterprises of all sizes. Some of its customers include Toyota Motor Group, Price Waterhouse Coopers, Deutsche Bank and San Miguel Corporation.
Helen Silverman, membership development manager at techmesh commented,

“We are building a strong reputation for providing an un-rivaled service to the region’s IT and telecoms professionals by listening and understanding their requirements. At the same time we are imparting knowledge and information about what the region requires from its IT and telecoms professionals. It’s why we are seeing a sharp increase in the number of companies and organisations joining the network.”

Owen Dukes managing director Propalms commented.

“techmesh is exactly what the Yorkshire and Humber region needs, an organisation that can not only represent and support the IT and telecoms industry, but that can bring together all interested parties to meet, share and exchange knowledge.”

Propalms will also be exhibiting at the techmesh EXPO 2011, which will be taking place at the Royal Armouries in Leeds on 13th October.

About techmesh
At the heart of the region’s IT & Telecoms sector, techmesh works with organisations and individuals to help them exploit new opportunities and tackle any challenges they may encounter. techmesh enables them to form profitable relationships, expand opportunities to win new business and strengthen their existing in-house expertise. The organisation also provides a forum for IT & Telecoms leaders and professionals to keep abreast of the latest sector trends by providing access to a wide variety of external resources and support expertise.

www.techmesh.org

Successful free seminar

2011-05-18T16:11:00.001+01:00

Companies in the the North West were able to find out how voltage optimisation could help them cut their energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint at a free training seminar held in Warrington by the market leader in voltage optimisation EMSc (UK) Ltd, manufacturers of the Powerstar voltage optimisation system.  Throughout the UK companies are increasingly turning to voltage optimisation to reduce their energy consumption and lower their carbon emissions to achieve sustainability strategy targets. Voltage optimisation is a simple cost efficient way to control a building’s incoming voltage in order to maximise energy savings.   The North West seminar, which was held in partnership with the Energy Institute, was be presented by Powerstar sales engineer for the North West Ray Booth and EMSc (UK) Ltd UK Sales Manager Peter Newell.  Mark Hobbins, a registered energy engineer with Energy Institute, as well as a Low Carbon Consultant with CIBSE, was the guest speaker at the event, covering topics about energy and environmental projects in business and industry, including legislation, controls, metering and lighting.   Peter Newell, commented,

“Companies are under increasing pressure to spend less whilst at the same time putting in place measures to operate in a more environmentally friendly way. The seminars will provide companies with the opportunity to learn more about how voltage optimisation can help reduce their carbon emissions and save money. More and more companies are embracing voltage optimisation technology.”

Powerstar is the most efficient voltage optimisation system available and can save up to 26.1% of total electricity consumption as well related CO2 emissions, all without compromising the supply to electrical equipment.   Powerstar will be exhibiting at Sustainability Live at the NEC, Birmingham between Tuesday 24th-Thursday 26th May on stand M10.

HRH The Duke of Kent formally opens Harvard’s new premises

2011-05-16T11:24:00.000+01:00

Harvard, a leading manufacturer of wireless street lighting solutions, as well as LED and HID lighting controls, is pleased to announce its impressive new manufacturing facility and offices were officially opened by HRH The Duke of Kent on Thursday 12th May. HRH The Duke of Kent also presented Harvard with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise, within the innovation category.
Harvard was awarded the Queen’s Award for its innovative wireless street lighting management system, LeafNut, which is helping Local Councils and private businesses around the UK cut energy usage and reduce carbon emissions. LeafNut allows Local Authorities to cleverly manage their street lights without having to controversially ‘switch off’.
The company, which has experienced significant growth over the last two years, increasing employee numbers from 100 to 210, grew too large for its previous premises and made the move to Normanton in Wakefield.

The industry leading facility includes a world class research and development centre, which would be the envy of any Silicon Valley company, where all the company’s innovative ideas will be realised into new products and solutions. The premises also include a manufacturing facility with the most advanced automated assembly equipment in the industry.
Harvard develops innovative and efficient lighting solutions for commercial, retail, emergency and street lighting applications. Products include LED drivers, which efficiently control LED lights as well as the innovative LeafNut remote wireless street lighting solution.
The popular LeafNut Central Management System (CMS) was fully manufactured in the UK and is currently adopted by more than 40 Local Authorities worldwide, with 400,000 LeafNut controlled street lights being deployed and 100,000 already in operation.
Michael McDonnell, sales and marketing director at Harvard commented,
“It is an honour to have HRH The Duke of Kent open our new premises and present our Queen’s Award. As a growing company, it is very exciting to have such a high profile guest marking the occasion with us. Despite the current recession, we are anticipating our growth will continue in 2011 and 2012, at an even faster pace.
Most Local Authorities are now aware of the undoubted benefits of using innovative applications like LeafNut to manage their street lights and we have combined this technology with our new LeafNut Enabled LED Driver to offer a LeafNut LED solution.”
www.HarvardEng.com

Free mobile IT seminar from techmesh

2011-05-11T10:23:00.000+01:00

Business owners and managers in Hull and the Humber region will be able to learn more about how to exploit remote and mobile technology to manage their business more efficiently at an event to be held on Wednesday 11th May 2011 by the region’s IT & Telecoms business-to-business network techmesh.
The event, which is in collaboration with the Chartered Management Institute, is from 5:30pm to 8:30pm in the Circle Room at KC Stadium in Hull. Guest speakers will include Iqbal Robun, solutions specialist for Research in Motion (RIM), a global leader in wireless innovation, giving a fascinating overview of how they expect their latest product, the Blackberry Playbook, the world’s first professional tablet, to change the way we do business.
Andy Lake, editor of flexibility.co.uk, the online journal of flexible working, will provide an insight into realising the benefits of flexible working, including looking at the proposed benefits of flexible working, reducing business costs and meeting staff aspirations. The presentation will examine people, property and technology issues and highlight where things go wrong as well as where they achieve the benefits, with findings from case studies and the latest research.
The Director of Propalms, Owen Dukes, will be showcasing a suite of software products that allow mobile and home workers to access data in a secure manner. He will also show how they enable the external delivery of centrally managed applications and Windows desktops, to any type of device.
Helen Silverman, membership development manager at techmesh, commented,

“We are extremely excited about the mobile IT event. It will provide companies with a good perspective of how today’s business world is developing to meet the demands of its workforce.”

The seminar, sponsored by techmesh member The Weston Group, is free of charge to attend for members, associates, sponsors and Chartered Management Institute members. Non-member attendees will receive their first event free of charge.

To register or for further information, please contact the techmesh team on 0113 384 5641 or email info@techmesh.org

About techmesh
At the heart of the region’s IT & Telecoms sector, techmesh works with organisations and individuals to help them exploit new opportunities and tackle any challenges they may encounter. techmesh enables them to form profitable relationships, expand opportunities to win new business and strengthen their existing in-house expertise. The organisation also provides a forum for IT & Telecoms leaders and professionals to keep abreast of the latest sector trends by providing access to a wide variety of external resources and support expertise.

Successful exhibition for Redhead International

2011-05-04T14:29:00.005+01:00

Redhead International exhibition stand at Multimodal

Redhead International one of the UK’s leading logistics companies has returned from a successful Multimodal 2011, the UK’s premier event for the freight industry.

At the exhibition, the Bradford based company established many new leads with companies across a variety of market sectors including engineering, print and consumer electronics and textiles. The company’s success at the exhibition highlights the growing level of interest in its services, as it continues to develop a reputation for delivering tailored bespoke solutions.

To further emphaise the company’s approach and ethos to satisfying its customers individual and specific requirements, it displayed the gallery of artwork from its successful The Art of Smartfreight campaign.

The artwork evolved out of the company’s desire to create a marketing campaign that communicated the company’s recognition of the individual nature of its customers’ needs, and its ability to tailor solutions to match. There is nothing more unique than an individual’s perception of art.

Austin Duffy, marketing manager at the company said,

“The show was a resounding success. Our stand was very well received with visitor numbers greater than anticipated. We are very much looking forward to following-up all the leads.”

www.redhead-int.com

Clugston Construction wins contract to build £8M waste treatment plant

2011-05-04T11:53:00.003+01:00

Artist’s impression of the recycling facility.

Clugston Construction, one of the North’s leading privately owned building and civil engineering contractors, with offices in Leeds and Scunthorpe, is pleased to announce it has won a £8M contract to build a waste treatment and recycling facility in North Lincolnshire.

The plant which is part of a £250M North Lincolnshire Council contract, will involve building a mechanical biological treatment plant on a ten acre site at the Normanby Enterprise Park in Flixborough. At the height of the project Clugston anticipate a workforce of approximately 40 people.

The landmark project, which will reduce the amount of waste North Lincolnshire sends to landfill by as much as 87 per cent, avoiding 11,800 tonnes of carbon dioxide being produced, will see Clugston Construction working along side its partner Waste Recycling Group (WRG), part of the FCC Group.

Once built the plant will be operational 7 days a week, handling 69,000 tonnes of rubbish per year and will process residual waste, turning it into Climafuel, an alternative fuel originally developed by CEMEX for use at its kilns at South Ferriby, Lincolnshire. Climafuel has been used successfully at the South Ferriby site as an alternative to traditional fossil fuels for almost five years.

Steve Radcliffe, managing director Clugston Construction said,

“We are delighted to be part of the successful team as Design and Build Contractor for the facility in North Lincolnshire. We have worked closely with our partners WRG and North Lincolnshire County Council for some time, to deliver what will be a sustainable waste management solution.”

The company continues to build on its already strong track record in the Waste and Energy sectors having also recently been awarded a £40M contract to build an Energy from Waste (EfW) facility for neighbouring Lincolnshire County Council. The work represents a further milestone in the company’s involvement with projects delivering a sustainable environment for the UK.

John Plant, Director of FCC Projects, commented,

“We are delighted to have been selected as the Council’s preferred bidder and look forward to working in partnership with the Council and Clugston Construction in delivering a sustainable and value for money solution. Reducing reliance on landfill means we can recover valuable secondary resources, and also reduce methane emissions – a powerful greenhouse gas.”

A North Lincolnshire Council spokesperson said,

“Diverting waste from landfill is one of our key aims and it will save money. We are delighted to have reached this crucial phase in the procurement.”

CEMEX’s technical director Neville Roberts said,

“We have been steadily increasing the use of Climafuel at our south Ferriby plant and to be able to source more of it locally is a win-win situation. Securing this contract to deal with North Lincolnshire’s waste represents a local solution to a local problem”

www.clugston.co.uk

Harvard wins Queen’s Award for Street Lighting Innovation

2011-04-21T14:55:00.003+01:00

Surrey installation

Harvard Engineering is pleased to announce it has won a prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise, within the Innovation Category. Harvard have been awarded the Queen’s Award for their innovative wireless street light management system, LeafNut, which is helping local councils around the UK cut energy usage and reduce carbon emissions.
LeafNut allows Local Authorities to cleverly manage their street lights without having to controversially ‘switch off’. There has been much adverse publicity about Local Authorities deciding to switch off street lights due to expenditure cutbacks, particularly following last October’s Chancellor’s Spending Review. The system has proved to be a popular, sensible and safe option for councils trying to reduce their carbon footprint whilst ensuring there is adequate lighting on roads and public areas.

Each individual street light can now, for the first time ever, be securely managed over the Internet with appropriate lighting levels set for specific times of day. However, should lighting levels need to be increased, this can be done in an instant, through the use of the solution’s Central Management System (CMS), which remotely and pro-actively manages the output of each individual street light.
LeafNut will also help ensure Local Councils are well placed to meet government carbon reduction targets as the system will reduce carbon emissions by as much as 100kg of carbon per year, for every street light - the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency states that Councils need to reduce their carbon emissions by 34% by 2020, based on 1990 levels, or they will have to pay tax credits to central government.

The innovative system has already been deployed by over 40 Local Authorities worldwide, including most recently across Surrey County Council’s, which will deploy the solution across its entire stock of 89,000 street lights.
Surrey County Council leader, Dr. Andrew Povey, said,

“This will be the largest scale introduction of this type of street lighting technology in Britain.” Surrey County Council Cabinet Member for Transport, Ian Lake, also commented, “The new technology is a lot more energy efficient than our current street lights, leading to both financial and energy savings, which are good for the pocket and the environment.”

The Queen’s Award marks a period of real growth and success at Harvard, who also develop innovative and efficient lighting solutions for commercial, retail and emergency applications. At a difficult economic time, Harvard’s success is a refreshing story of British Manufacturing at its best. With significant growth over the last two years, Harvard employee numbers have doubled from 100 to over 200. And despite the current recession, is anticipating growth to continue at an even faster pace in 2011.

John McDonnell, managing director Harvard Engineering commented,

“We are extremely proud to have received such a prestigious award. It is a credit to the entire team and their dedication to developing, manufacturing and delivering an innovative market leading solution that will have a truly global impact.”

www.HarvardEng.com

Free Training Seminar for Companies across N. West

2011-04-21T14:45:00.000+01:00

Powerstar system

Companies in Manchester, Liverpool, Warrington and surrounding areas in the North West will be able to find out how voltage optimisation can help them cut their energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint at a free training seminar to be held on Tuesday 10th May in Warrington by market leading voltage optimisation manufacturer EMSc (UK) Limited.

Companies throughout the UK are increasingly turning to voltage optimisation to reduce their energy consumption and lower their carbon emissions to achieve sustainability strategy targets. Voltage optimisation is a simple cost efficient way to control a building’s incoming voltage in order to maximise energy savings.

The free training seminar, which is in partnership with the Energy Institute, will be presented by Powerstar sales engineer for the North West Ray Booth.

Mark Hobbins, Head of Engineering, Energy & Consultancy at Barron Evers, who is also a Chartered Energy Engineer with Energy Institute and a Low Carbon Consultant with CIBSE, will speak about energy and environmental projects in business and industry including legislation, controls, metering and lighting.

Ray Booth of Powerstar commented, “Companies are under increasing pressure to spend less whilst at the same time putting in place measures to operate in a more environmentally friendly way. The training will provide companies with the opportunity to learn more about how voltage optimisation can help reduce their carbon emissions and save money. An increasing number of companies are embracing voltage optimisation technology.”

Voltage optimisation is a cost efficient way to control a buildings incoming voltage in order to maximise energy savings. Powerstar can save up to 26.1% of total electricity consumption and related CO2 emissions, all without compromising the supply to electrical equipment.

The free to attend seminar will take place at the Centre in Birchwood, Warrington from 9.30am to 12.30pm on 10th May. There will also be a free buffet lunch and an opportunity for networking. All attendees will also receive a CPD certificate.

People interested in attending should contact Nick Lee on 01709 836 200

There is also an opportunity to register online at: www.powerstar.co.uk/seminarbooking.html

EMSc shortlisted at Made in Sheffield awards

2011-04-06T15:10:00.000+01:00

Alex Mardapittas (right), managing director of EMSc (UK)

EMSc (UK) Limited, manufacturer of the innovative Powerstar voltage optimisation system, is pleased to announce it was recently shortlisted for the Innovation Award at the Made in Sheffield Awards 2011.

The Innovation Award, sponsored by Sheffield Hallam University, recognises businesses, which through intellectual property, generated a substantial commercial benefit from an innovative product or process that is designed and manufactured in the Sheffield city region.

Many Yorkshire based companies, and Made in Sheffield mark companies, already benefit from the Powerstar technology, including the actual winner of the innovation Award, AESSEAL.
AESSEAL has seen an energy saving of nearly 8% since the installation of Powerstar and has also seen a reduction in carbon emissions.

Other Powerstar clients include Pegler Yorkshire, ISG Totty Construction, RWE Npower and ASDA, amongst others.
Alex Mardapittas, managing director, at EMSc (UK) Ltd, commented,

“We are proud to have been shortlisted for another Innovation Award. It is not too disappointing to have been beaten to second place by AESSEAL, the world’s 4th largest seal manufacturer. Like us AESSEAL has Innovation at the heart of its business. Well done AESSEAL.”

The event, which took place in late March at Cutlers Hall in Sheffield, celebrated both manufacturers and manufacturing in the Sheffield city region.
Made in Sheffield is one of the world’s great brands, made famous internationally as a mark of origin and quality on the city’s manufactured products. In order to be awarded the Mark, a company must demonstrate their commitment to producing high-quality goods.

Free Seminar and Full English for local businesses

2011-04-06T14:55:00.002+01:00

Photo voltaic installers and electrical installers will be able to learn about a new innovative solution for the home that can help them make money with every installation at free breakfast seminars to be held at locations across the UK in May, June and July, by VO4HOME.

VO4HOME is a voltage optimisation system, which is designed for use in homes and small businesses. The solution optimises incoming voltage to a constant 220V giving households immediate and significant energy savings of between 330lbs and 500lbs on CO2 emissions each year and £90 to £150 a year in electricity costs.

The product which is easy to install for both photo voltaic installers and electrical installers simply requires 2 wires in and 2 wires out to make it fully operational, adding only 30 minutes to a job. All installers will receive free training from VO4HOME to ensure ease of installation as well as supporting sales and marketing literature for customers.

In the current economic climate installing VO4HOME systems will provide a welcome added revenue stream for installers as well as competitor advantage.

Geoff Clifton, business development manager at VO4HOME, commented,

“With ever rising energy prices households are under increasing pressure to find ways to make savings. VO4HOME is a great solution, which can quickly and cost effectively deliver savings to home owners and a new revenue stream for photo voltaic and electrical installers.”

The first seminar is being at Reigate Hill Golf Club in Reigate, Surrey on 25th May. This will be followed by an event on 8th June at the Jesmond Dene Conference Centre in Newcastle. An event at the University of Wales Institute in Cardiff is taking place on 22nd June, followed by York Pavillion Hotel in York on 6th July. The final breakfast meeting will take place in Norwich at the Ramada Jarvis on 20th July.

All the meetings will take place from 8:30am and will include a free breakfast.
Places can be reserved at any of the events by emailing marketing@vo4home.com or calling 08448 248 338.

www.vo4home.com

PAY AS YOU GO RECOVERY NOW AVAILABLE ON THE GO

2011-03-31T10:05:00.007+01:00

Successful Yorkshire business, RTR UK Ltd, who developed ‘pay as you go’ accident and breakdown cover, adds an iPhone App to their service. The Road To Recovery iPhone App now allows its members to rapidly access the service at the touch of a screen.

The App uses the member’s phone’s GPS to locate their position and then puts them through to RTR’s call centre who despatch local recovery to the scene. The RTR (Road To Recovery) scheme, which is free to join, ensures the cost of recovery is 50-60% cheaper than contacting a local recovery operator direct - because all RTR providers sign up to a fair pricing commitment. A development that has seen increasing numbers of motorists and fleet operators moving from traditional breakdown cover and taking the Road To Recovery option.

“When we introduced a breakdown recovery scheme that you only pay for when you need it, our competitors thought we were mad. They trade on people’s fears but the reality is that most modern cars are very reliable and the chances of a breakdown are actually quite small. We decided that people shouldn’t have to take a chance and pay for a service they may not use but, if they did need it, that it should be priced fairly. We have now taken an innovative service and created an innovative way to access it through the App. We think it’s the future of breakdown cover!”

Paul Hoyle, MD of RTR (UK).

The Road To Recovery scheme works by providing a central link between recovery operators, who benefit from higher volumes of business, and motorists who are spared the cost of a service they may never use but have the reassurance that it is available should they need it.
Currently the App is available for the iPhone and will be available on the App store shortly. It is also in the process of being developed for Android phones.

More information available at www.rtruk.co.uk.

Contact: 0870 474 0148 or send an
email to enquiries@rtruk.co.uk

A World Where Art & Freight Collide

2011-03-31T09:53:00.003+01:00

Bringing the world of culture into the world of work may appear to be an uncommon marriage, but for Redhead International it has proven to be a perfect metaphor for their working practices. And to this end, they will be exhibiting the gallery of artwork from their successful The Art of Smartfreight campaign at one of the UK’s leading freight and transport conferences Multimodal 2011.

The artwork evolved out of Redhead’s desire to create a campaign that articulated their recognition of the individual nature of customer needs, and their ability to tailor solutions to match. There is nothing more unique than an individual’s perception of art.

The Art of Smartfreight campaign saw the reworking of some of art’s most iconic images to express a facet of the Redhead ethos and operation.

“We are happy to create customer specific solutions and the campaign expresses this approach completely,”

Austin Duffy, Redhead’s marketing manager.

Multimodal 2011 is one of the most significant conference events in the freight and transport calendar - and involves all the significant players in the sector. The event gives the UK & Irish cargo-owning community a forum to compare supplier routes, modes and information crucial to efficient business practices. It runs from April 5th- 7th at the Birmingham NEC.

About Redhead
Redhead International, established in 1978, has depots in Bradford, Burton-on-Trent, Basildon, Bathgate, Belfast, Dublin and Paris. Employing over 180 staff internationally, the company has regular scheduled services to over 40 countries every week in Western, Eastern and Southern Europe, Scandinavia, North Africa, the Middle East and the CIS countries, turning over more than £27 million a year.

www.redhead-int.com

Market leader announces best ever month

2011-03-31T09:44:00.003+01:00

Voltage optimisation solutions provider EMSc (UK) has cemented its position as market leader with confirmation that it has won all the contracts it tendered for in February 2011, as demand for Powerstar, the company’s system, continues to grow.
The tenders and proposals secured were for more than 110 units and for customers across a wide selection of sectors including, local authority, government, public services, retail, education and manufacturing. Each Powerstar system, which is entirely manufactured in the UK, will be engineered to the customer’s specific requirements.
Powerstar provides an instant solution for businesses and organisations that are not only interested in saving money on their energy consumption, but also reducing their carbon emissions.
A proven, secure, reliable solution to energy management, voltage optimisation systems are being deployed by a growing number of companies as a cost efficient way to control a building’s incoming voltage, at the same time maximising energy savings.
EMSc’s managing director

“February 2011 has been one of our best months to date. Not only have we been successful in securing all the work we tendered for, but Powerstar has become the market leading solution in the UK and worldwide.”

Dr. Alex Mardapittas

Powerstar:
Can save up to 26.1% of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Is an approved energy savings system and may qualify for an interest-free Energy Efficiency Loan from the Carbon Trust.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK. This has been proven in independent tests (on the same load and same voltage reduction), head to head with similar competitive systems. In these tests Powerstar achieved:
Significantly higher energy savings (up to 13% more)
Reduced harmonics by 88% more than competitive systems
Running significantly cooler than competitive systems. (While Powerstar operated at normal ambient temperatures, competitive systems were operating at nearly 70°C).

The EMS team has over 150 years combined experience in designing and manufacturing special transformers and the Powerstar design is a direct result of this experience.

2010 - Winners of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 - Winners of the CARE4AIR AWARD

www.powerstar.co.uk

Successful Ecobuild 2011 for VO4HOME

2011-03-22T14:34:00.003Z

VO4HOME or Voltage Optimisation 4 Home, developers of the new energy saving carbon reducing solution for the home, has returned from a successful Ecobuild 2011.

At the internationally recognised event the Rotherham based company managed to establish many new leads, with housing associations, local authorities, house-builders photovoltaic installers, electrical engineers and end users. All of which are becoming ever more keen to identify easy to implement solutions for reducing energy consumption in the home.

The company’s success at the exhibition also represents the growing level of interest in the company and the VO4HOME system, following the company’s launch in November 2010. The company also used the opportunity to expand its network of partnerships with national and international organisations across a variety of different sectors. 
Ecobuild 2011 was the first in a series of exhibitions that VO4HOME will be attending throughout the UK in the coming months including Greenbuild and VO4HOME seminars across the UK.

Geoff Clifton business development manager at VO4HOME said,

“We are noticing a great deal of interest in our system, which was evidenced not only by the number of people that visited our stand, but also by the number of telephone calls we have been receiving since returning to the office.”

For more information about VO4HOME visit www.vo4home.com.

VO4HOME is looking to develop its base of Photovoltaic and Microgeneration Installers and Energy Advisor partners. Companies interested in marketing the system as part of their range of solutions should contact
Geoff on 08448 248 338.

VO4Home:

Can save 330-500lbs of CO2 emissions each year
Can save money on power bills by around £90 to £150 a year
Comes with guaranteed savings.
Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.
Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).
Easy installation – no need to change electricity provider, no rewiring require, no maintenance required, no moving parts
Comes with a 5-year warranty
Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All VO4Home components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers.
The VO4Home team has over 150 years combined experience in designing and manufacturing special transformers and the VO4Home design is a direct result of this experience.

Clugston Construction to start work on Lincolnshire’s first Energy from Waste plant

2011-03-16T16:44:00.003Z

Clugston Construction, one of the North’s leading privately owned building and civil engineering contractors, with offices in Leeds and Scunthorpe, is pleased to announce it is to start work on a major Energy from Waste (EfW) plant in Lincolnshire. The facility, which is part of a £145M investment plan, will treat up to 150,000 tonnes of household waste per year.

The landmark project, which will dramatically reduce the amount of waste Lincolnshire sends to landfill and will see Clugston Construction working along side its process partner CNIM, to build the EfW plant for Waste Recycling Group (WRG), who were appointed by Lincolnshire County Council. WRG will operate the facility once completed.

Lincolnshire’s first EfW facility will produce enough electricity to power over 10,000 homes and businesses. The Local Authority is also planning to further exploit the potential of the facility to develop a district heating scheme to heat thousands of local homes and businesses.

Steve Radcliffe, managing director of Clugston Construction said:

“Together with our JV partner CNIM, we are delighted to have finalised the contract to design and build the EfW plant for WRG and Lincolnshire County Council.  Mr. Radcliffe added, “We have worked closely with our partner CNIM, WRG and Lincolnshire County Council for some time now on the development of this plant and it is exciting that we will be commencing construction very soon.”

 Clugston Construction has a strong track record in the Waste and Energy sectors and the project represents a further milestone in the company’s involvement with projects delivering a sustainable environment for the UK.

Work to build the plant on 3.1 hectares of land is expected to begin in April.

www.clugston.co.uk/construction

Npower report confirms VO4HOME credentials

2011-03-08T10:47:00.004Z

A recent research report carried out by RWE Npower has concluded that an installation of VO4HOME, the innovative energy saving voltage optimisation solution for the home, resulted in a 12% reduction in kWh electricity consumption*. The reduction equates to an annual electricity saving of approximately 600kWh, resulting in cost saving of £90 per annum and a CO2 emissions saving of 330kg per annum.

Designed to maximise the delivery of energy into the home to 220V/230V - currently the voltage supplied to homes by UK energy companies averages 242V, while electrical equipment in the home is designed to operate on 220V/230V - VO4HOME is the only domestic voltage optimisation system that is capable of optimising the entire home, not just selected circuits.

An innovative energy saving device VO4HOME, which relies on magnetic interaction, has no moving parts and requires no maintenance. In addition, it delivers low impedance, high efficiency and comes with a 5 year warranty and guaranteed savings.

Although a growing number of commercial properties have been benefitting from the installation of voltage optimisation solutions, the technology has not yet been widely extended to the domestic market.

There are an estimated 27 million households in Britain, if each household were to be installed with a VO4HOME system, the UK as a whole would save between £2.7 billion and £4 billion each year on energy costs and reduce its carbon emissions by 9 - 13.5 billion lbs per year.

Geoff Clifton, business development manager at VO4HOME, commented,

“We have developed a product that will have a huge impact on the amount of carbon emitted by households across the UK. With a VO4HOME installed households can make tangible savings on their annual electricity bill, whilst helping to save the environment.”

Price is available by Email
or calling 08448 248 338

www.vo4home.com

Prestigious Award for Clugston Construction

2011-03-04T14:04:00.004Z

Clugston Construction, the leading privately owned building and civil engineering contractor is pleased to announce it was recently presented with a prestigious award by Lichfield District Council, for a refurbishment project undertaken for Morrison Supermarkets PLC, at Bruntwood, in Staffordshire.

The project, which was nominated by the building control officer, was for the commercial and partnering approach achieved in delivering the scheme. As a winner in its category, the project was also automatically put forward for the Staffordshire County annual BUILT IN EXCELLENCE awards.

The industry and its customers value the awards, because local authority Building Control, which is entirely independent and unbiased, awards them. ‘Highly Commended’ the project was chosen from over 9,000 projects assessed.

Clugston Construction was presented with the award at a luncheon sponsored by Lichfield District Council and was accepted by Russ Pask on behalf of the Clugston team, which also included Steve Siddall and Neil Bird.

Paul Gouland marketing director at Clugston Construction commented:

“For the project to be chosen from such a large number, is testament to the hard work and commitment the entire team put into the refurbishment.”

Sheffield's Magnomatics appoints new Chairman

2011-02-22T14:33:00.003Z

Magnomatics, the Sheffield based high technology company specialising in the development of innovative electro mechanical solutions, is pleased to announce it has appointed the former President of Rolls Royce Gas Turbine Operations, Dr. Michael Lloyd, as Chairman, with immediate effect.

Michael Lloyd has extensive knowledge of the industrial sector, as well as considerable experience in the defence, nuclear and aerospace sectors, all of which are important markets for Magnomatics.

As well as leading complex, global multi-functional organisations, he has also driven through technologically innovative global projects to budget, whilst championing modern lean manufacturing, project management and global supply chain programmes. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Engineering & Technology; Fellow of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers; Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society and Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineers.

He is also an industrial adviser to Unipart and a Non Executive Director of the Office of Rail Regulation.

Chris Kirby, Chief Executive Officer of Magnomatics said:

“We are delighted to welcome Michael to the team. He brings with him a wealth of experience and contacts and I am confident he will be able to help us grow our business further, securing strategic contracts and advising us on how to best exploit our capabilities internationally. He will be a great asset to the board.”

Dr. Michael Lloyd commented:

“I am delighted to be taking on this role. Magnomatics has already made some excellent progress and I am very much looking forward to working with the team to build on these achievements.”

About Magnomatics

Magnomatics Limited is a high-technology spin-out company formed in 2006 from the internationally leading research group in Electrical Machines and Drives at the University of Sheffield.

Magnomatics develops and delivers novel proprietary magnetic transmissions and ultra compact and efficient motors and generators for some of the world’s largest multinationals and is active in a range of industries, including renewable energy, automotive, aerospace and defence.

Magnomatics has specialist electromechanical capabilities and provides design services to world leading companies for motors, generators, actuators and eddy current couplings and dampers. It has particular skills in designing machines for high torque, high speed, high temperature and fault tolerant applications.

www.magomatics.com

Mersey Care NHS makes 18% energy savings with Powerstar

2011-02-18T16:36:00.005Z

Energy saving, voltage optimisation solutions provider EMSc Powerstar, is pleased to announce that Mersey Care NHS Trust is amongst the latest Care Trusts to have installed Powerstar, with installations including Ashworth, Mossley and Rathbone Hospitals along with Scott Clinic. 
Total savings across the sites have reached an average 18% on annual energy consumption. At Rathbone Hospital annual kWh savings are 65,796, the equivalent of £6,974, whilst Scott Clinic has benefited from annual kWh savings of 51,573 kWh, or £5,446. 

With limited budgets and the impending launch of the Carbon Reduction Commitment, combined with new emerging healthcare policies, NHS executives are seeking reliable, proven energy saving technologies that can not only help reduce carbon emissions, but can also make significant savings on energy consumption. As a result a growing number of NHS Trusts are turning to Powerstar, an entirely British made voltage optimisation system, not only for it’s ability to reduce energy consumption, but also to improve the life expectancy of on-site equipment as well as reduce maintenance costs. 

Voltage optimisation is a recognised technology that is particularly relevant in the UK, as power supplied by the National Grid exceeds the recommended operating voltages for much of the plant, machinery and equipment used. The Powerstar voltage optimisation system cuts energy use by controlling the incoming voltage so that it more accurately meets the specifications of equipment on site.

Mark O’Grady, managing director of MITIE Engineering Maintenance, the facility management company used by Mersey Care NHS trust for the Powerstar installations commented:

“We would highly recommend Powerstar voltage optimisation systems. The Powerstar installations at the Mersey Care NHS Trust have achieved an 18% saving on total electricity consumption.”

As the UK faces worsening power quality issues with harmonic, transient, power factor and phase balancing issues, voltage optimising is emerging as one of the most secure technologies for NHS sites to adopt as part of their sustainability strategies.

Terry Shemwell, Powerstar Consultant to Local Authorities and the NHS commented:

“The NHS has highlighted its commitment to cutting carbon emissions and meeting the government’s targets to cutting emissions by 80%, by 2050. Solutions such as Powerstar are allowing trusts to not only achieve these targets but plough back money saved into improved patient care and services.”

Powerstar® is the registered trademark of EMSc (UK) Ltd.

About Powerstar:

Payback period is typically between 0.8 and 2.5 years

Can save up to 26.1% of electricity consumption

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty

Is an approved energy savings system and may qualify for an interest-free Energy Efficiency Loan from the Carbon Trust

Comes with guaranteed savings

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor)

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK. This has been proven in independent tests (on the same load and same voltage reduction), head to head with similar competitive systems. In these tests Powerstar achieved:
Significantly higher energy savings (up to 13% more)
Reduced harmonics by 88% more than competitive systems
Running significantly cooler than competitive systems. (While Powerstar operated at normal ambient temperatures, competitive systems were operating at nearly 70°C).

The EMS team has over 150 years combined experience in designing and manufacturing special transformers and the Powerstar design is a direct result of this experience.

2010 - Winners of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 - Winners of the CARE4AIR AWARD

www.powerstar.co.uk

Harvard lights up Surrey

2011-02-18T09:23:00.007Z

Harvard is pleased to announce that Surrey County has recently started to install the company’s revolutionary wireless street lighting solution LeafNut, across its 89,000 street lights.

The project, which is due to take five years to complete, will help Surrey County Council to reduce its carbon emissions to comply with the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency (CRCEE) scheme. The CRCEE states that councils need to reduce their carbon emissions by 34% by 2020, based on 1990 levels, or they will have to pay tax credits to central government. The LeafNut system helps to reduce carbon emissions by 100kg of carbon per year, for every street light, which will ensure councils are well placed to meet targets.

There has been much adverse publicity recently about Local Authorities deciding to switch off street lights to due expenditure cutbacks, particularly following last October’s Chancellor’s Spending Review. LeafNut allows Local Authorities to manage street lighting without having to controversially switch off street lights.

The innovative solution allows Authorities to dim street lights instead of switching them off. Each individual street light can now, for the first time ever, be securely managed over the Internet and appropriate lighting levels set for specific times of day. However, should lighting levels need to be raised, this can be done in an instant. This is done through the use of the solution’s Central Management System (CMS) WiMAC, which remotely and pro-actively manages the output of each individual street light.

Surrey County Council leader, Dr. Andrew Povey, said, “This will be the largest scale introduction of this type of street lighting technology in Britain.” Surrey County Council Cabinet Member for Transport, Ian Lake, also commented, “The new technology is a lot more energy efficient than our current street lights, leading to both financial and energy savings, which are good for the pocket and the environment.”

Michael McDonnell, sales & marketing director at Harvard, commented,

“We are extremely proud that LeafNut has been chosen for another large scale project. The system will help Surrey Council to reduce its carbon emissions, which will in turn help it to meet its carbon reduction targets, as part of the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme.”

About Harvard:
Established in 1993, Harvard has grown to be a leading player in the LED lighting and wireless street lighting industries. Harvard’s innovative range of products includes the CoolLED range of switchable drivers and LeafNut, the revolutionary wireless remote monitoring system for street lighting.

About LeafNut:
The LeafNut system has already been deployed in nearly 30 locations across the world.
UK: Hertfordshire, Blackpool, Luton, Suffolk, Westminster, Durham, Sheffield, Monmouthshire, North Somerset, Hartlepool, Plymouth, Warrington, Medway, Nottingham, Surrey, Neath Port Talbot, Blaneau Gwent, Merthyr Tedfil, Kirklees
World: Heerlen (Netherlands), Lech (Austria), Madrid (Spain), Budapest (Hungary), Poitiers (France), Cork (Ireland), Hobart (Tasmania), Canberra (Australia)

The system can save up to £46 a light per year and up to 100kg of carbon emissions per year on each street light

LeafNut uses the WiMAC wireless Central Management System to remotely monitor and control the output of each individual street light

The innovative technology reduces maintenance costs by identifying lamp problems in advance and accurately predicting lamp failure

LeafNut helps Councils meet Carbon Reduction targets

Awards
2010 - Winners of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award

www.HarvardEng.com

New recruit to support international growth plans

2011-02-15T10:32:00.004Z

EMSc (UK) Ltd developer and manufacturer of the innovative Powerstar voltage optimisation system, has recently appointed Steve Curtis as international business development manager.

Steve, who has worked in the energy industry for over 22 years, brings with him a wealth of experience and a thorough understanding of the sector. Most recently, Steve worked for 6 years as business development manager for MeterPlus, npower’s metering business. A role that required him to negotiate, secure and manage new contracts.

Based at EMSc’s head office in Sheffield, Steve’s role will involve him managing the company’s existing international distribution partnerships in Australia, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, Greece, Malta and Ireland. He is also tasked with finding new distribution partners in Scandinavia, Benelux, Germany, France and Iberia.

Steve’s appointment reflects EMSc’s significant growth over the last twelve months, increasing turnover by 166% to almost £8m. In line with the success the company has been experiencing in the UK, it has also seen sales and interest for Powerstar grow in markets across Europe.
Dr. Alex Mardapittas, managing director at EMSc, commented,

“We are all extremely pleased to welcome Steve to the team and we look forward to seeing the value he will no doubt bring. The company has had a strong twelve months and Steve’s appointment gives opportunity for further expansion internationally.”

Steve commented,

“I really enjoy the fact that I am selling a product that allows companies to reduce their energy consumption and their carbon footprint, which in turn benefits the environment, as I am a bit of a ‘Greenie’ myself.”

Powerstar is the most efficient voltage optimisation system in the world and can save up to 26.1% of total electricity consumption and related CO² emissions, all without compromising the supply to electrical equipment. The payback period is typically between 0.8 and 2.5 years.

Powerstar:

Can save up to 26.1% of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Is an approved energy savings system and may qualify for an interest-free Energy Efficiency Loan from the Carbon Trust.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK. This has been proven in independent tests (on the same load and same voltage reduction), head to head with similar competitive systems. In these tests Powerstar achieved:
Significantly higher energy savings (up to 13% more)
Reduced harmonics by 88% more than competitive systems
Running significantly cooler than competitive systems. (While Powerstar operated at normal ambient temperatures, competitive systems were operating at nearly 70°C).

The EMSc team has over 150 years combined experience in designing and manufacturing special transformers and the Powerstar design is a direct result of this experience.

2010 - Winners of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 - Winners of the CARE4AIR AWARD

www.powerstar.co.uk

Fripp Design works on the famous Comic Relief Red Nose for 2011

2011-02-07T15:19:00.006Z

Sheffield based company Fripp Design & Research is pleased to announce it had the pleasure of working on Comic Relief’s most visible dimension, the Red Nose.

During the design development of the Red Nose for 2011, Comic Relief required photorealistic images of the proposed concept as a crucial aid to the sign-off process. With a very technically difficult brief, no 3D CAD and with a tight deadline, Fripp Design and Research used unique CAD technology, turning the work around and fulfilling the brief in very quick time. The project was a crucial stage in the process from the 2D hand-rendered creative idea into a tangible product enabling the lead design to be signed-off and the creation of a master mould.

Comic Relief is a major charity based in the UK which strives to create a just world free from poverty, by driving positive change through the power of entertainment. Since its foundation in 1985, it has raised over £650m and worked in 76 countries around the world. Its major fundraising campaign, Red Nose Day, is held every two years and culminates with a night of comedy and entertainment on the BBC. A key piece of merchandise for the campaign is the famous Red Nose, which has sold over 60m units over the past 25 years.

Working on this project was to prove as exciting as it was exacting for the project team at Fripp as Tom Fripp said,

“Although the process was demanding and required a high level of skill, all executed within a limited time frame, being able to contribute to Red Nose day in some small way was not a prospect we would have wanted to miss out on. And in keeping with the spirit of the event the team was happy to give their time to working on this project for free. We are just hoping the public take the new noses to heart and buy them in large numbers.”

About Fripp Design and Research

Fripp Design and Research is a dynamic product design, research and business consultancy, providing innovative solutions for its clients. Its team of talented experts has many years experience in all aspects of product and industrial design, working with many of the UK’s household brands in the process. Fripp Design and Research is able to apply its knowledge to any stage of the product development process from blue sky concept to the fine details of highly complex engineered products.

Fripp Design and Research was the first private sector knowledge base company to be awarded supplier status for Innovation Vouchers in the Yorkshire and Humber region, and the company has also been appointed suppliers to the North East region.

www.frippdesign.co.uk

Sheffield's Magnomatics motors ahead

2011-02-04T12:04:00.003Z

Magnomatics, the Yorkshire based high technology company specialising in the development of innovative electro mechanical solutions, is pleased to announce it has been working on contracts worth in excess of $25M. These include two key EU Framework 7 projects with some of the most prestigious companies in the world including, Siemens AG, Volkswagen and Fiat.

The first, Integrated Enabling Technologies for Efficient Electrical Personal Mobility (PMOB) will result in a radical new vehicle concept for urban driving, whilst the second CASTOR, Car multi propulSion integraTed pOwer tRain, will develop technology for electric vehicles. Both projects, which will employ Magnomatics’ innovative proprietary technology, are focused on developing eco-friendly, energy efficient vehicles of the future.

To meet the growing demand for its technology and solutions Magnomatics, has had to double it’s staff over the last twelve months, from 7 to 14.

Chris Kirby, managing director at Magnomatics, commented:

“We are extremely pleased and proud to have been chosen to work on two large EU projects with some of the world’s most high profile companies. It’s very exciting to think that our technology, which has been entirely developed in the UK, could help revolutionise next generation vehicles across the globe.”

About Magnomatics

Magnomatics Limited is a high-technology spin-out company formed in 2006 from the internationally leading research group in Electrical Machines and Drives at the University of Sheffield.
Magnomatics develops and delivers novel proprietary magnetic transmissions and ultra compact and efficient motors and generators for some of the world’s largest multinationals and is active in a range of industries, including renewable energy, automotive, aerospace and defence.

Magnomatics has specialist electromechanical capabilities and provides design services to world leading companies for motors, generators, actuators and eddy current couplings and dampers. It has particular skills in designing machines for high torque, high speed, high temperature and fault tolerant applications.

www.magnomatics.com

Powerstar at the SEEC

2011-02-04T11:56:00.003Z

The Powerstar team are very pleased to be exhibiting their voltage optimisation solution at the Scottish Energy and Environment Conference (SEEC) which is being held at the Crowne Plaza in Glasgow on Tuesday 8th February 2011.

The SEEC is the key event for energy management in Scotland, as such it attracts a large number of key decision makers throughout the public and private sector. Voltage optimisation should be considered as an integral part of any energy management strategy, and the event as a whole will cover all aspects of this.

The innovative Powerstar system, which provides companies and organisations with an instant electricity saving opportunity, is proven to be the most efficient available, delivering savings of up to 26.1% on energy consumption and associated carbon emissions.

The Scottish market is extremely important to the growth plans of EMSc (UK) Ltd, developers of the Powerstar system. The company recently announced treble digit growth in 2010 and the appointment of Bryan Divitt as Scottish sales engineer. Bryan is based at the company’s Livingston office.

Bryan said;

“We are looking forward to discussing the capabilities of Powerstar to customers visiting the show. We have already had some great success in Scotland with Perth College, East of Scotland Farmers and Punch Taverns all installing Powerstar.”

EMS’ North West England sales engineer Ray Booth will also be on the stand throughout the exhibition, to provide advice and guidance on how the Powerstar voltage optimisation system can deliver significant carbon savings, as well as reduced energy and maintenance costs.

Powerstar:

Can save up to 26.1% of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Is an approved energy savings system and may qualify for an interest-free Energy Efficiency Loan from the Carbon Trust.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK. This has been proven in independent tests (on the same load and same voltage reduction), head to head with similar competitive systems. In these tests Powerstar achieved:
Significantly higher energy savings (up to 13% more)
Reduced harmonics by 88% more than competitive systems
Running significantly cooler than competitive systems. (While Powerstar operated at normal ambient temperatures, competitive systems were operating at nearly 70°C).

The EMS team has over 150 years combined experience in designing and manufacturing special transformers and the Powerstar design is a direct result of this experience.

2010 - Winners of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 - Winners of the CARE4AIR AWARD

VO4HOME to exhibit at Ecobuild 2011

2011-02-04T11:44:00.005Z

VO4HOME or Voltage Optimisation 4 Home, developers of the new energy saving, carbon reducing solution for the home, will be exhibiting at Ecobuild 2011. The exhibition and conference, which is being held at the ExCeL centre, in the Docklands, London, from 1st to 3rd March, will showcase the latest developments in design, construction and the built environment.

VO4HOME is an innovative new product that allows households to reduce electricity bills by between £90 to £150 per annum and an average 330-500lbs a year on their carbon footprint, as well as preventing wear and tear on household appliances. It is the only system available that will maximise savings across the entire home. Installation us very simple and there is no need to change electricity supplier.

So confident are VO4HOME that the solution can save households a minimum 10% on their electricity consumption over the course of a 12 month period, that they will refund customers £100* if they do not achieve the saving. This is redeemable with a voucher that is provided as part of the product package.

VO4HOME achieves savings by optimising the delivery of energy into the home to 220V/230V. The voltage supplied to homes by UK energy companies averages 242V, while electrical equipment is designed to operate on 220V/230V.

Geoff Clifton business development manager at VO4HOME said,

“VO4HOME provides households with a quick, cost effective way to make tangible savings on energy consumption. Not only does it come with a 5 year product guarantee but payback is usually within 5 years, which means that it is a commercially sound investment.”

VO4HOME is also looking to develop its base of Photovoltaic and Microgeneration Installers and Energy Advisor partners. Companies interested in marketing the system as part of their range of solutions should contact
Geoff on 08448 248 338.

VO4Home

Can save 330-500lbs of CO2 emissions each year

Can save money on power bills by around £90 to £150 a year

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Easy installation – no need to change electricity provider, no rewiring require, no maintenance required, no moving parts

Comes with a 5-year warranty

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All VO4Home components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers.

The VO4Home team has over 150 years combined experience in designing and manufacturing special transformers and the VO4Home design is a direct result of this experience.

www.vo4home.com

Wakefield Acoustics' Quiet Celebrations

2011-01-27T16:36:00.003Z

Wakefield Acoustics one of the UK’s leading industrial noise control solutions specialists is celebrating the award of excellent scores, following the independent assessment of procedures by leading supplier management services organisation, Achilles, under the Verify programme.

The Utility Vendor Data Base (UVDB) Verify audit and assessment service focuses on risk critical issues and provides demonstrable compliance to Safety, Health, Environment and Quality requirements. It is well recognised for providing independent evaluation, benchmarking and industry specific assessments, all of which can lead to a significant reduction in the time and endeavor required for the pre-qualification of contracts.

The scheme is regarded by many as the ‘Gold Standard’ for contracting companies serving utility companies.

Wakefield Acoustics was evaluated on the company’s in house health, safety, quality and environmental systems, and also that of a recently completed site installation, including design and manufacture, of an 80m x 4m acoustic screen at Kingsmill Hospital in Mansfield.

All the company’s scores were high, with the Quality element in both the Onsite Assessment and the Management System Evaluation being above 90%.

Jane Dawson, managing director of Wakefield Acoustics commented,

“We are delighted to have achieved the Achilles UVDB Verify Accreditation. It is a terrific achievement and highlights not only our market leading position, but also underpins our commitment to investing in safety, health, quality and environmental systems, both at our manufacturing plant and also on the end user sites on which we operate.”

About Wakefield Acoustics
Established in 1980, Wakefield Acoustics is a leader in the design, manufacture and installation of a wide range of bespoke industrial and environmental noise control solutions.
www.wakefieldacoustics.co.uk

Weir celebrates 140 years of innovative engineering

2011-01-27T15:56:00.003Z

2011 marks the 140th anniversary of FTSE 100 engineering company, The Weir Group PLC.
It was in 1871 that brothers George and James Weir set up the engineering firm of G & J Weir and joined the booming industrial scene in the west of Scotland at the height of the great Victorian era of industrial innovation.

One of those innovations was the celebrated direct-acting feed pump which was crucial to the development of steam ships – and particularly Clyde-built steam ships –at that time.
Although recognised worldwide as a designer and manufacturer of pumps and valves, Weir has operated in many markets. Over its 140 year history, it has built cars and buses, constructed prefabricated housing, oil pipelines, desalination plants and been involved in the development of the precursor to the helicopter.

Today Weir’s global footprint covers over 70 countries employing over 11,000 people with a focus on the minerals, oil & gas and power sectors with over 40 per cent of its 2009 annual revenue coming from the key emerging markets in Asia Pacific, Africa and South America.

Weir chairman, Lord Smith of Kelvin said:

“Although most of the Group’s profit is now generated from outside of Scotland, we are proud to recognise and celebrate our engineering heritage. Weir is almost the last of a long list of notable companies established in the 19th century to retain its independence.“

Lord Weir, great grandson of founding brother James Weir, said:

“I am delighted that Weir has retained its independence for 140 years. Far too many independent businesses have been lost to Scotland and far too few of significance have been created in recent years.

There is a proud history behind Weir with plenty of examples of what to do and a few of what not to do. The business is in good hands and I hope it continues to flourish for many years to come”

Free Energy Saving Seminar for Hotels

2011-01-11T12:55:00.005Z

Energy saving, voltage optimisation company EMSC Powerstar, is offering Hotel Industry executives the chance to attend a free seminar on how hotels can save up to 26% on their energy bills with the installation of a voltage optimisation solution. The seminar which is being held at the Wellcome Collection Conference Centre, in London, is on 15th February 2011.

The seminar will provide hoteliers the opportunity to learn about the UK manufactured voltage optimisation solution Powerstar, which can help hotels reduce energy costs and lower carbon emissions, with proven results in a range of hotels throughout the UK including Guoman-Thistle, Holiday Inn and Hilton Hotels.

Speakers at the seminar will include Alan Aldridge of Energy Services and Technology Association (ESTA), Dr Mike Page of the EASIER Project and Laurence Burton of Coal Services, a market leader in Sustainable Energy. Mr. Burton will discuss the legislative landscape, energy management good practice through BS EN 16001 and energy management drivers and investment.

Around 35,000 hotels in the UK alone are affected by inflated energy costs due to them being unaware of sustainability measures available to them. Recent reports have indicated that as much as 70% of hotels could be paying too much for their energy, with an average 50 room hotel spending as much as £50,000 per annum on electricity bills.

Powerstar designer and managing director of EMSc Dr Alex Mardapittas commented,

“Hotels are under increasing pressure to make savings without compromising service and to implement long term sustainable measures. Voltage optimisation allows hotels to do both save money and reduce carbon emissions.”

Those interested in attending should contact
Nick Lee, marketing manager on 01709 836 200 or email nick.lee@ems-uk.org.
There is also an opportunity to register online at www.powerstar.co.uk/seminarbooking.html

Clugston senior management meets Baths Hall operations team

2010-12-23T16:27:00.003Z

Clugston Group chairman, John Clugston and chief executive, Stephen Martin, recently joined Cllr Mark Kirk, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, John Sutherland, Vice President SMG Europe, and Nick Reed, Theatres Director SMG Europe, to celebrate the announcement that SMG Europe Holdings Ltd, has been chosen by the Council to operate the famous Baths Hall.

The Baths Hall, a historical landmark in Scunthorpe, is currently being re-built by Clugston Construction, part of the Clugston Group of companies, after being awarded the £14.4million contract by North Lincolnshire Council, to deliver the 2000 capacity state of the art concert and entertainment venue.

Around 70 new jobs will be created at the venue once completed.

SMG, one of the world’s largest entertainment venue operators, is no stranger to stars, having presented a wide variety of internationally acclaimed artists including Madonna, the Vienna Philharmonic, Peter Kay and Kasabian.

Expected to perform at the Baths Hall are the likes of Jamie Cullum, Jack Jones, The Saturdays, Kate Nash, The Streets, Dizzee Rascal and many more top performing acts. It will also become a centre for community events and conferences.

Cllr Mark Kirk, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “In less than a year’s time, people in Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire and beyond will have a brand new state-of-the-art venue where they can enjoy top quality live music, comedy and theatre.

He added: “The Baths Hall will be a wonderful building and it is set to position Scunthorpe as the region’s leading entertainment destination. The scale and flexibility of the Baths Hall will now combine with the established charm of the Plowright Theatre to provide the town with a suite of entertainment facilities un-matched in most cities.

Stephen Martin commented: “As a Scunthorpe based company we were proud to be selected to rebuild such a landmark building. We are pleased North Lincolnshire Council has recognised the economic benefits that projects of this type can bring to a community.”

About Clugston Construction:

Clugston Group was established over 70 years ago by the current chairman’s father. Operating from four regional offices across the North of England, the company, which has activities in construction, logistics and property development, has built a reputation for safely delivering a wide variety of services and projects for customers in the public and private sectors. For further information about Clugston visit www.clugston.co.uk

Yorkshire company powers up to meet global demand

2010-12-15T10:09:00.004Z

Yorkshire based company EMSc (UK) Limited is pleased to announce it has signed exclusive agreements with companies in Australia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to market and install its Powerstar voltage optimisation solution.

In Australia the company has set up a joint venture with Perth based Cockburn Electrical and in the UAE it has signed an exclusive distribution agreement with Wildcatos Oil services. The company carried out in-depth demographic and market research to identify countries in which to market Powerstar.
Like the UK, there is a growing demand in both Australia and the UAE not only for a ‘greener’ approach towards energy consumption, to overcome concerns about the impact on the environment, but also from businesses that are looking to find ways of reducing their costs through a more efficient use of the power they have to buy from energy providers.
In line with the success the company has been experiencing in the UK, it has also seen sales for Powerstar grow in markets across Europe. To meet demand in Cyprus, for example, the company has had to employ a new business development manager.

To further highlight the growing international interest in Powerstar Dr. Alex Mardapittas, designer and managing director of EMSc, recently appeared on national television in South Africa, on CNBC’s Powerlunch, to talk about Powerstar. He was also invited to be a guest speaker at the South African Energy Efficiency Convention.

Dr. Mardapittas commented;

“As international interest in Powerstar increases, we will continue to identify and implement the most appropriate distribution strategy for each market. In Australia and the UAE our partners have long established businesses and know their respective markets very well.”

Powerstar is the most efficient voltage optimisation system in the world and can save up to 26.1% of total electricity consumption and related CO² emissions, all without compromising the supply to electrical equipment. The payback period is typically between 0.8 and 2.5 years.

Powerstar provides an instant solution to businesses and organisations, enabling them to save money by reducing energy consumption, at the same time cutting carbon emissions.

Powerstar:

Can save up to 26.1% of electricity consumption.

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All Powerstar components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers. The Powerstar design and any associated software are designed by EMSc UK Limited.

Requires no maintenance and has a 15 year warranty.

Is an approved energy savings system and may qualify for an interest-free Energy Efficiency Loan from the Carbon Trust.

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Has the highest efficiency and provides better savings than any other voltage optimisation system sold in the UK. This has been proven in independent tests (on the same load and same voltage reduction), head to head with similar competitive systems.

In these tests Powerstar achieved:

Significantly higher energy savings (up to 13% more)
Reduced harmonics by 88% more than competitive systems
Running significantly cooler than competitive systems. (While Powerstar operated at normal ambient temperatures, competitive systems were operating at nearly 70°C).

The EMS team has over 150 years combined experience in designing and manufacturing special transformers and the Powerstar design is a direct result of this experience.

2010 - Winners of the Yorkshire Forward Innovator/10: Innovation in Action Award
2006 - Winners of the CARE4AIR AWARD

Visit Powerstar website

Yorkshire Company’s Success Down-Under

2010-12-10T15:10:00.006Z

Yorkshire based company Fernco Environmental has successfully completed the first phase of a renovation project at the Liawenee Flume in Tasmania using the company’s epoxy coating system Ultracoat.

The main objectives of the project were to improve the hydraulic performance of the flume and to protect the surface from further erosion. By doing so, the water flow rate to the power station would improve, increasing the efficiency of power generation.

The Liawenee Flume, constructed in 1921 in the central highlands of Tasmania, forms a crucial part of the power generation infrastructure on the island, as a 100% of the island’s electricity supply is generated by a 30MW hydroelectric power station.

The flume is also in a ‘World Heritage’ site and home to several endangered species: the Spotted Tailed Quail, the Brown Poa Butterfly and the Tasmanian Devil, therefore any disturbance to the environment had to be kept to an absolute minimum.

Ultracoat is largely used to rehabilitate drainage infrastructure, and it was Ultracoat’s extremely smooth surface, providing virtually no resistance against the flow of water, that proved to be an ideal solution in Tasmania. Over 400 sq. m. of surface was rehabilitated using the product.

Since the upgrade, the flume is now capable of passing 28m3/s of water through the same cross section, an increase of around 55%,

Jon Crean, managing director at Fernco Environmental, commented,

“The project at the Liawenee Flume was extremely successful and shows the advantages and flexibility of the Ultracoat solution. We are looking forward to completing more projects like this in the future.”

About Fernco Environmental
Fernco Environmental is a new company within the Fernco group and focuses on minimising environmental impact within sewerage and drainage industries.  About Ultracoat
Ultracoat solution is a waterproof, chemically resistant and structurally reinforcing 100% solids epoxy spray lining system, providing resistance to high levels of sulphur dioxide, acids and alkalines.

www.ferncoenvironmental.com

VO4HOME launches ‘green’ schools competition in Sheffield

2010-12-02T10:12:00.005Z

South Yorkshire based VO4HOME, or Voltage Optimisation 4 Home, developers of the new energy saving, carbon reducing solution for the home, has launched a ‘green’ schools competition for all the primary schools in the Sheffield area.

The competition will give schools the chance to name the VO4HOME ‘cow mascot’ and win £250 by detailing how they are actively encouraging ‘cleaner and greener’ activities within the school.

The innovative VO4HOME solution allows households to reduce their carbon footprint by an average of 330-500lbs every year, and save on average, between £90 and £150 per annum on electricity bills, as well as preventing wear and tear on household appliances. 
VO4HOME is keen to allow Sheffield’s primary school children to understand the importance of environmental sustainability and the beneficial effects VO4HOME will have on reducing the carbon footprint of homes across the city.  
To enter, schools are required to detail, in the format of their choice, how they will spend the £250 prize to further improve their carbon footprint, as well as suggesting a name for the ‘cow mascot’ and an explanation as to how and why the name was chosen.

The deadline for entries is 12th January 2011, with the winning school being announced on the 14th January 2011.

VO4Home:

Can save 330-500lbs of CO2 emissions each year

Can save money on power bills by around £90 to £150 a year

Comes with guaranteed savings.

Will improve the life expectancy of electrical equipment.

Will improve the power quality (reduce harmonics and improve the power factor).

Easy installation – no need to change electricity provider, no rewiring require, no maintenance required, no moving parts

Comes with a 5-year warranty

Is fully designed and manufactured in the UK. All VO4Home components, including even minor items such as the paint, are sourced from UK manufacturers.

The VO4Home team has over 150 years combined experience in designing and manufacturing special transformers and the VO4Home design is a direct result of this experience.

vo4home website