Supporting existing work to make its operations 'sustainable in a generation', Mars has joined Ceres' BICEP coalition to advocate for innovative climate and clean energy policies.

BICEP (Business for Innovative Climate & Energy Policy) is an advocacy coalition of businesses committed to working with policy makers to address climate change.

In addition to joining BICEP, Mars is among the signatories of its Climate Declaration, which brings together U.S. business and citizens in a commitment to ensuring the country leads the world in a coordinated effort to combat climate change.

Brad Figel, vice president of public affairs in Mars North America said,
'Mars is committed to reducing and eventually eliminating our greenhouse gas emissions, in absolute terms, because this is the right thing to do. Climate change has implications for the production of agricultural ingredients from corn to cocoa, and addressing it requires changes to the way we source materials and manufacture our products,'

'Therefore it is imperative we continue to improve sustainability in our approach to business, as well as the way we create policy, which is why it is important for us to make our voice heard through BICEP in encouraging policymakers to take action now.'

This latest collaboration with BICEP underlines Mars' ongoing commitment to reducing the company's environmental impacts through its 'Sustainable in a Generation' program. The goal of this program is to eliminate fossil fuel energy use and greenhouse gas emissions from its operations by 2040 along with similar commitments for water and waste.

Mars is committed to setting ambitious targets and goals which are informed by robust scientific data. Commenting on a new analysis from the WWF and CPD which has revealed that companies can innovate to solve global challenges whilst profiting along the way, Kevin Rabinovitch, Mars Global Sustainability Director said:

"Mars welcomes this compelling report, the findings of which echo our own belief in climate science based targets and approach to sustainability'

'In 2010, Mars committed to become Sustainable in a Generation by eliminating fossil fuel energy use and greenhouse gas emissions in our Operations by 2040 with a 25% reduction by 2015 – in line with the 3% annual goals. A sustainable approach to business is profitable and this report demonstrates we're not alone in that belief, or the approaches outlined here. We hope businesses will join this movement toward a more sustainable and productive future for all.'

The report, entitled 'The 3% Solution: Driving Profits Through Carbon Reduction', provides an assessment of how companies can reap big profits from cutting their carbon emissions, simultaneously helping the world avoid runaway climate change.

About Mars, Incorporated

In 1911, Frank C. Mars made the first Mars candies in his Tacoma, Washington kitchen and established Mars' first roots as a confectionery company. In the 1920s, Forrest E. Mars, Sr. joined his father in business and together they launched the MILKY WAY® bar. In 1932, Forrest, Sr. moved to the United Kingdom with a dream of building a business based on the objective of creating a 'mutuality of benefits for all stakeholders' – this objective serves as the foundation of Mars, Incorporated today. Based in McLean, Virginia, Mars has net sales of more than $33 billion, six business segments including Petcare, Chocolate, Wrigley, Food, Drinks, Symbioscience, and more than 72,000 Associates worldwide that are putting its Principles into action to make a difference for people and the planet through its performance.

Mars brands include: Petcare – Pedigree®, Royal Canin®, Whiskas®, Kitekat®, Banfield® Pet Hospital, Nutro®, Sheba®, Dreamies® and Cesar®; Chocolate – M&M'S®, Snickers®, Dove®, Galaxy®, Mars®, Milky Way® and Twix®; Wrigley – Doublemint®, Extra®, Orbit® and 5™ chewing gums, Skittles® and Starburst® candies, and Altoids® And Lifesavers® mints. Food –Uncle Ben's®, Dolmio®, Ebly®, Masterfoods®, Seeds Of Change® and Royco®; Drinks – Alterra ® Coffee Roasters coffee, The Bright Tea CO.® tea, Dove®/Galaxy® Hot Chocolate, and Flavia® brewer; Symbioscience – Cocoavia™, Wisdom Panel™ and Seramis®.

For more information, please visit www.mars.com. Follow us: facebook.com/mars, twitter.com/marsglobal, youtube.com/mars.

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'The ability to accept checks via a mobile device is a great way to streamline billing and payments for service based businesses,' says Will Harovas, CEO of ACHcheck.  'You can now enter and verify checks at the customer location with any smart phone or tablet.  It eliminates lost checks, improves cash flow, and reduces the problems associated with bounced checks.  We now have a full suite of payment acceptance tools that helps merchants process credit cards , ACH payments, and paper checks more easily…for whatever payment method a customer wants to use.'
 
Contact ACHcheck.com for more information about ACH payments or call 1-855-302-4325
 
For Videos visit our YouTube channel  http://www.youtube.com/user/Payments101

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The new projects will be supported by £8.3 million from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) through the Manufacturing and RCUK Energy Programme themes, with matched resources from India's Department of Science and Technology (DST). There will be seven projects in Advanced Manufacturing and five in Smart Energy Grids and Energy Storage.

Announcing the funding, during UK Trade and Investment's (UKTI) India Business Day Conference at Edgbaston Cricket Ground, Birmingham, David Willetts, the UK Minister for Universities and Science said:

'Since 2008 the value of co-funded research between the UK and India has rocketed from £1 million to over £100 million. These projects will build on this already strong relationship, boosting collaboration between researchers and industry in advanced manufacturing and energy infrastructure. These are priority areas for both our countries.'

'We are on track to double our trade with India by 2015 and The India Business Day is a great showcase for UKTI's commitment to supporting and encouraging a range of companies, both large and small, to do business there in the future.'

'As we move towards greater use of low carbon energy generation, there will be significant differences in supply and demand patterns and management. Smart energy grids and energy storage are areas of significant potential for providing ways of managing future energy needs.'

UKTI has organised The India Business Day to demonstrate to Indian technology companies that the UK has world class R&D and innovation capabilities across all key technology sectors. A number of UK universities and technology companies are also taking part in the event. Speaking from New Delhi, Dr T Ramasami, Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Science and Technology added:

'DST welcomes these additions to the growing portfolio of high quality research collaborations between the UK and India. These projects include some of the best researchers from the UK and India working alongside industry partners. We look forward to continuing collaboration with the UK in key strategic priorities such as these.'

The new research grants involve over 30 industry partners from the UK and India, contributing over £1 million to the research projects. Partners include: Rolls-Royce, Bharat Heavy Electricals, E.ON, National Grid and Mott Macdonald.

The work of RCUK is supported in India by RCUK India, which is based at the British High Commission, New Delhi. It plays a key role in the facilitation of UK-India research opportunities.

The UK-India Advanced Manufacturing projects are:

• Improvements in Gas Turbine Performance via Novel Plasma Spray coatings offering Protection against ingested species – led by Prof T Clyne, University of Cambridge and Dr S Joshi, ARCI
• Engineering Driven Sustainability Supply Networks – led by Prof Sir Mike Gregory, University of Cambridge and Prof Harpreet Singh, IIT Ropar and Prof Samir Srivastava, IIM Lucknow
• Modelling of Advanced Materials for Simulation of Transformative Manufacturing Processes (MAST) – led by Prof V Siberschmidt, Loughborough University and Dr Pulak Mohan Pandey and Dr Sunil Jha, IIT Delhi
• Development of On-Line, High Temperature, Non-Destructive Measurement/Sensing Techniques During Manufacturing of Power Plant Components – led by Prof Simon Dixon, University of Warwick and Prof Krishnan Balasubramanian, Dr Prabhu Rajagopal and Prof C.V. Krishnamurthy, IIT Madras
• High Deposition Rate Additive Manufacture of Complex Metal Parts (HiDepAM) – led by Prof S Williams, Cranfield University and Dr. K.P. Karunakaran, IIT Bombay
• Creation of a Process Understanding of Chromatographic Performance Loss During Biotherapeutic Manufacture – led by Dr Daniel Bracewell, UCL and Prof Anurag S. Rathore, IIT Delhi
• High-Performance Spinning Disc Atomisation Process – led by Prof Y Shikhmurzaev, University of Birmingham and Dr Pankaj Doshi, NCL.

The UK-India Smart Energy Grids and Energy Storage projects are:

• Reconfigurable Distribution Networks – led by Prof Tim Green and Dr Prabodh Bajpai, Prof Avinash Sinha and Prof Debaprasad Kastha, IIT Kharagpur
• Advanced Communication and Control for the Prevention of Blackouts (ACCEPT) – led by Prof Vladimir Terzija, University of Manchester and Dr Nilanjan Senroy, IIT Delhi
• Reliable and Efficient Systems for Community Energy Solution (RESCUES) – led by Dr B Pal, Imperial College and Dr Chandan Chakraborty, IIT Kharagpur
• High Energy and Power Density (HEAPD) Solutions to Large Energy Deficits – led by Prof F Li, University of Bath and Prof NP Padhy, IIT Rourkee
• Intelligent Microgrids with Appropriate Storage for Energy (IMASE) – led by Prof Gavin Walker, Nottingham and Dr Prakash C Ghosh, IIT Bombay

Notes to Editors:

• The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) is the UK's main agency for funding research in engineering and the physical sciences. EPSRC invests around £800 million a year in research and postgraduate training, to help the nation handle the next generation of technological change. The areas covered range from information technology to structural engineering, and mathematics to materials science. This research forms the basis for future economic development in the UK and improvements for everyone's health, lifestyle and culture. EPSRC works alongside other Research Councils with responsibility for other areas of research. The Research Councils work collectively on issues of common concern via Research Councils UK.
• India's Department of Science and Technology plays a pivotal role in promotion of science & technology in the country. The department has wide ranging activities including the promotion of high end basic research and development of cutting edge technologies.
• The Research Councils UK Energy Programme led by EPSRC aims to position the UK to meet its energy and environmental targets and policy goals through world-class research and training. The Energy programme is investing more than £625 million in research and skills to pioneer a low carbon future. This builds on an investment of £839 million over the past eight years. The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) grants funding as part of the Research Councils' UK Energy Programme.
• The Energy Programme brings together the work of EPSRC and that of the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), and the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).
• Research Councils UK are represented in India by RCUK India, based at the British High Commission. This initiative was co-hosted by RCUK India. RCUK India was established in 2008 with an aim to facilitate research partnerships and enable the best researchers in the UK and India to develop high-quality, high impact collaborations.
• Research Councils UK (RCUK) is the strategic partnership of the UK's seven Research Councils who annually invest around £3 billion in research. We support excellent research, as judged by peer review that has an impact on the growth, prosperity and wellbeing of the UK. To maintain the UK's global research position we offer a diverse range of funding opportunities, foster international collaborations and provide access to the best facilities and infrastructure around the world. We also support the training and career development of researchers and work with them to inspire young people and engage the wider public with research. To maximise the impact of research on economic growth and societal wellbeing we work in partnership with other research funders including the Technology Strategy Board, the UK Higher Education Funding Councils, business, government, and charitable organisations.
• The seven UK Research Councils are:
* Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC)
* Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)
* Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)
* Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
* Medical Research Council (MRC)
Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)
Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
• The Government's economic policy objective is to achieve 'strong, sustainable and balanced growth that is more evenly shared across the country and between industries.' It set four ambitions in the 'Plan for Growth' (PDF 1.7MB)
, published at Budget 2011:
* To create the most competitive tax system in the G20
* To make the UK the best place in Europe to start, finance and grow a business
* To encourage investment and exports as a route to a more balanced economy
* To create a more educated workforce that is the most flexible in Europe.
• Work is underway across Government to achieve these ambitions, including progress on more than 250 measures as part of the Growth Review. Developing an Industrial Strategy gives new impetus to this work by providing businesses, investors and the public with more clarity about the long-term direction in which the Government wants the economy to travel.
• UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) is the Government Department that helps UK-based companies succeed in the global economy. We also help overseas companies bring their high quality investment to the UK's economy – acknowledged as Europe's best place from which to succeed in global business. UKTI offers expertise and contacts through its extensive network of specialists in the UK, and in British embassies and other diplomatic offices around the world. We provide companies with the tools they require to be competitive on the world stage.

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• Escalating heat in your attic
• Damage of personal belonging stored in extreme heat
• The early break down of your roof due to being 'baked'
• Extra moisture causing mold in improperly vented homes

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Air Liquide's contribution as official supporter involves providing its teams expertise and designing/producing technological equipment. Air Liquide will provide, among other things, an on-board oxygen generating system that produces an unlimited supply of oxygen-enriched air directly on the airplane.

In order to carry out its round-the-world trip with stopovers – planned for 2015 – Solar Impulse must be able to make repeated day / night cycles where the airplane climbs to an altitude of 8,500 metres during the day. As the airplane's cockpit is not pressurised, the pilot must have a continuous oxygen supply for the duration of the flight phase that is above 3,000 metres. The need for oxygen is, therefore, critical to the success of this adventure. Generating oxygen on board has the advantage of providing a solution that optimises the mass of the oxygen system, while guaranteeing an unlimited oxygen supply.

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With the expanded selection of products, combined with its industry-leading, cutting-edge LED lighting technology cultivated in Japan, Panasonic aims to achieve 15 billion yen in sales from its LED lighting business in Europe, including lamps and devices, in the fiscal year from April 2015 to March 2016.

In Europe, where people take pride in being environmentally conscious, the shift towards energy-efficient LED lighting is well underway. The German business-to-consumer LED lighting market, for example, doubled in size in 2012 compared to the previous year(*2).

Since introducing a 20W equivalent clear-type LED lamp in Europe in 2011, which was followed by a 40W version in 2012, Panasonic has seen steady sales growth in the European LED lighting market. The company is now strengthening the lineup with more offerings in an affordable price range as well as a wide variety of styles, from clear-type bulbs to conventional bulb-shaped lights, candle-shaped lamps and halogen-type lamps.

Panasonic is also expanding its sales channels. The company, which had focused on the business-to-business market until now, is adding DIY shops and mass retailers of home appliances to its sales network. The expansion is currently under way, mostly in Germany, Italy, Austria, Benelux and France, with an aim to further expand the sales network throughout Europe in fiscal year 2015, ending March 2015.

10,000 Panasonic LED light bulbs installed at Prague Castle
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQUHJagNLok

Panasonic's LED light bulbs have been highly appraised in eco-conscious Europe for their excellence in energy efficiency, long lifespan as well as outstanding design. They were chosen to replace around 10,000 incandescent light bulbs used to light up chandeliers and under the eaves of Prague Castle, helping make the UNESCO World Heritage site in the Czech Republic environmentally friendly and easy to maintain with its historic atmosphere kept intact. The replacement of the incandescent bulbs with energy efficient LED bulbs has led to energy savings of around 77%(*3).

Clear-type LED lamp receives the 2013 Japanese Invention and Innovation Award

In the 2013 Japanese Invention and Innovation Awards organized by the Japan Institute of Invention and Innovation, Panasonic's clear-type LED lamp received the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award for the "design of a light emitting diode lamp that cultivates an eco-friendly culture in the world." This product has also received many other coveted design awards, such as the iF Design Award, the Red Dot Design Award and the Universal Design Award in Germany, the IDEA Award in the United States and the Good Design Award in Japan.

Notes:
*1: Some models are on sale already.
*2: Source: "Gfk Consumer Choice report Jan - Dec, 2012".
*3: Comparison of the power consumption of the replaced 10,000 light bulbs and newly installed LED bulbs. (Research carried out by Panasonic)

- The nostalgic glow of LEDs shines at the Prague Castle, a World Heritage site
- Panasonic casts a warm glow over World Heritage sites - Prague Castle -
(Updated a of June 6,2013)

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The recent signing of the In-Kingdom engineering, procurement and construction contract (IK-EPC) with Dammam-based Larsen and Toubro Arabia (L&T) signaled the official start of a project that is expected to see the Midyan Gas Plant fully operational by 2016.

Fahad Al-Helal, the executive director of Project Management at Saudi Aramco, stated that the project supports the company's corporate strategy of efficiently meeting the Kingdom's energy demands while providing grassroots facilities that help create career opportunities in the region.

The plant will be producing and processing 75 million standard cubic feet per day of nonassociated gas and 4,500 barrels per day of condensate.

Al-Helal noted that 'the project will include the establishment of two pipelines stretching a length of 98 kilometers to deliver sales gas and stabilized hydrocarbon liquids to a sophisticated power plant near Duba to generate electricity with high efficiency and to avoid burning high value diesel.'

The plant site is situated about 195 kilometers west of Tabuk and 135 kilometers north of Duba.

The Midyan field was discovered in 1992 during the Red Sea coastal plain exploration, and a study was conducted in mid-2009 to evaluate various alternatives for the development of the field and identify ways to optimize economic production.

Based on Saudi Electric Co.'s plans for the development of regional power generation and distribution, and the potential for developing a future regional industrial cluster, the option to utilize Midyan production as fuel to generate power in Duba was presented and accepted by the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (MinPet) in 2010 for further development.

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* Siemens presents Three-Point Plan for implementing the energy transition
* Revisions of energy transition concept urgently needed
* Climate protection to have priority over maximizing renewables
* Restructuring of Germany's energy system too costly
* High energy costs burden industry and consumers
* Germany's competitiveness as a business location threatened

The costs of restructuring Germany's energy system are too high. With the present energy transition concept, it will not be possible to achieve security of supply while also ensuring sustainability and affordability. The current approach also establishes false incentives for investment and innovation. According to Siemens' calculations, Germany could save more than €150 billion by 2030 and limit further increases in the price of electricity by revising the energy transition concept without any negative impacts on its climate targets. At the Siemens Energiewende-Dialog (Energy Transition Dialogue) taking place in Berlin on June 3-11, 2013, the company presented a Three-Point Plan with concrete proposals for the cost-efficient implementation of the energy transition. "Siemens stands behind the energy transition. However, the project is currently at a critical stage. We need decisions that will maintain our country's competitiveness over the long term. Our aim is to achieve a sustainable energy system with secure supplies and affordable electricity," said Peter Löscher, President and CEO of Siemens AG.

The Three-Point Plan is based on an analysis of the status quo relating to the energy transition. High electricity rates are burdening private households and industry alike and threatening Germany's competitiveness. For private households, electricity rates were nearly 40 percent higher than the European Union average in 2012; for industrial facilities, 20 percent. Levies for renewable energies will reach a new high of roughly €16 billion this year. These costs are primarily borne by consumers.

Despite the rigorous development of renewables, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are increasing, because the energy mix increasingly includes coal-fired power plants that emit large quantities of CO2 to compensate for weather-related fluctuations in power generation from renewables and the closing of nuclear plants.

Many companies in Germany take a similar view of the problems. According to a survey of more than 250 German customers in various industries conducted by Siemens, over 80 percent of the respondents believe the current Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) needs revision. Over 90 percent cite affordability and security of supply as the biggest challenges to a successful energy transition.

Siemens proposes giving up a fixed target for renewables and instead focusing on reducing CO2 emissions in the future. The country should give greater priority to high-efficiency combined cycle power plants and wind power. With efficiency ratings of more than 60 percent, a state-of-the-art combined cycle power plant emits less than half the CO2 produced by a new coal-fired power plant, and wind power is well on its way to be able to deliver electricity as cost-effectively as conventional energy sources.

This scenario would ensure that Germany meets its climate targets. At the same time, the investment and operating costs for the energy transition could be cut by more than €150 billion by 2030 than with an unchecked expansion of renewables.

Peter Löscher: "The climate goal can be reached by 2030 with fewer renewable energy sources at substantially lower costs! An energy mix with 40 percent green energy – rather than the planned 50 percent by 2030 – is both ecologically as well as economically sensible."

The Three-Point Plan
Siemens has developed a Three-Point Plan for a more cost-efficient energy transition. The pillars of the plan are a restructuring of the electricity market, increasing energy efficiency, and a European coordination of the energy transition.

1. Restructure the electricity market
Five measures for restructuring the electricity market are geared to enhancing investment security and transparency in the energy market.

The first two measures entail a fundamental revision of the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG). Renewable energies should prevail on the market in the future without levies. The regulations for plants that are already in operation, however, would remain unchanged to guarantee investment security and legal certainty. To date, renewables have had feed-in priority over conventionally generated power from combined cycle and coal-fired power plants. As a first measure, this "feed-in priority" should be replaced by a "feed-in responsibility". In the future, providers of renewable energies would have to market their electricity just as reliably as other suppliers. To guarantee their supply commitments, they must secure their capacity with flexible power plants or with storage. This would create an energy market in which only the amount of electricity actually in demand is fed into the grid.

The second measure aims at making the support of renewable energies more dependent on the rules of competition and thus more cost-effective. One possibility here is auctions. For instance, the investor offering the lowest feed-in tariff would be awarded the contract to build a new wind farm.

As a third measure, Siemens is proposing a European regulation for reducing CO2 emissions, such as by strengthening trade in CO2 emissions certificates in Europe. In addition, a fleet regulation for power plant fleets modeled after the automobile industry would be an effective way to limit the average CO2 emissions of the power utilities and further reduce emissions. Utilities with a fleet of aging power plants would then be forced to improve their CO2 balance step-by-step. The advantage: Long-term and binding emissions targets and regulations for emission certificate trading up to 2030 would give power plant operators leeway to optimize their fleets and invest in new technologies.

A fourth measure relates to the fixed costs of the electricity system, such as the grid or EEG levy. Siemens proposes that these costs would no longer be included in the electricity price but covered via a fixed-cost, flat-rate payment for the grid connection. All consumers who use the power grid would thus pay an equal share of the costs – regardless if they produce electricity and how much, or what they consume. To date, homeowners with solar collectors have the advantage that they contribute only a small share toward maintaining the power grid since they consume less grid electricity.

The fifth measure aims at maintaining the so-called winter reserve for electricity to guarantee year-round security of supply – even when renewables feed less electricity into the grid. Germany's Federal Network Agency and the grid operators would define a specific amount of electricity to be maintained as reserve capacity for peak demand. In the medium term, however, it must be decided politically whether Germany introduces a capacity mechanism like other countries in order to compensate for the provision of power plants.

2. Increase energy efficiency
A successful and economical energy transition also involves energy saving. Rising electricity costs can be partly offset by systems that use less energy. Siemens strongly advocates speedy implementation of the European Energy Efficiency Directive in Germany, because there is huge potential in energy efficiency. Buildings with energy-efficient technology could, for example, generate savings of up to 40 percent, while efficient electric drives in industry could reduce consumption by up to 70 percent.

Increasing energy efficiency, however, often requires up-front investments. With intelligent financing models, modernization can be undertaken with no preliminary investment costs for the customer. Instead, these costs are paid entirely from the energy savings.

Along with energy efficiency measures, Siemens recommends the selective regulation of consumption. This means, for example, that consumers voluntarily disconnect themselves from the grid for short times during peak load periods and are rewarded with special compensation.

3. European coordination of the energy transition
The energy transition should be understood as a project that must be coordinated on a European level and driven by close cooperation among the individual countries. Separate regional and national solutions increase the costs for all countries moving to sustainable energy systems.

A study carried out by Siemens and the business consulting firm of McKinsey also shows that we can learn a great deal from one another when shaping the energy system. It presents 20 international solutions along the entire energy value chain, from power generation and distribution to improving the energy efficiency of buildings, industry and transportation. The U.S., for example, leads the way in the selective regulation of power consumption through the temporarily reduction of demand. And in the process of modernizing their energy systems, Denmark and the Netherlands are already successfully auctioning wind farms.

Further information and press pictures are available at www.siemens.com/press/energiewende-dialog

Follow us on Twitter at: www.twitter.com/siemens_press

Siemens AG (Berlin and Munich) is a global powerhouse in electronics and electrical engineering, operating in the fields of industry, energy and healthcare as well as providing infrastructure solutions, primarily for cities and metropolitan areas. For over 165 years, Siemens has stood for technological excellence, innovation, quality, reliability and internationality. The company is the world's largest provider of environmental technologies. Around 40 percent of its total revenue stems from green products and solutions. In fiscal 2012, which ended on September 30, 2012, revenue from continuing operations totaled €78.5 billion and income from continuing operations €4.7 billion (incl. IAS 19R and reclassification of the solar business into continuing operations). At the end of September 2012, Siemens had around 370,000 employees worldwide on the basis of continuing operations. Further information is available on the Internet at: http://www.siemens.com.

Reference Number: AXX20130635e

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China is facing a severe water shortage caused by its fast-growing economy, large population, and rapid urbanization. The Chinese government has adopted a multifaceted approach that combines economic and environmental regulations at the national and provincial levels to reduce water pollution and improve efficiency over the years. These measures have resulted in improved wastewater treatment and led to the emergence of several internationally competitive Chinese water companies that have started expanding overseas.

Everbright International will use IFC's financing to expand environmental water business by building a wastewater treatment plant, a pioneering wastewater reuse plant and a ground water plant. Upon completion, the first plant can treat 150,000 cubic meter of wastewater every day, while the second plant can recycle 20,000 cubic meter of water a day.

'IFC's financing and global network in the water industry will help us better integrate our businesses across the supply chain,' said Everbright International Chief Executive Officer Chen Xiaoping. 'With IFC's help, we will adopt global best practices that are important for making our company more international.'

Listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange, Everbright International invests, builds and operates 24 water-related projects, 22 waste-to-energy plants, six hazardous solid waste landfill projects, and 18 alternative energy projects in China.

"In a world where almost 800 million people don't have access to clean water, IFC is helping China and other countries improve water security,' said IFC Executive Vice President and CEO Jin-Yong Cai. "This investment will support the establishment of state-of-the-art water facilities, help make the China's water sector more efficient, and promote global best practices

In China, IFC has financed four water projects, with two on wastewater treatment, one on water supply, and the remaining one on seawater desalination.

About IFC
IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is the largest global development institution focused exclusively on the private sector. We help developing countries achieve sustainable growth by financing investment, mobilizing capital in international financial markets, and providing advisory services to businesses and governments. In FY12, our investments reached an all-time high of more than $20 billion, leveraging the power of the private sector to create jobs, spark innovation, and tackle the world's most pressing development challenges. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.

Stay Connected
www.ifc.org/eastasia
www.twitter.com/IFC_EAP
www.facebook.com/IFCindonesia
www.facebook.com/IFCwbg
www.youtube.com/IFCvideocasts
www.ifc.org/SocialMediaIndex

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The two other products to be showcased are the Watermiser Waterbroom and the 5-Second Toilet & Urinal Leak Detector.  The innovative patented Waterbroom uses the 'Venturi Effect', incorporating both water and air, to clean surfaces faster using less than one-third the water while reducing puddles, runoff, and drying times compared to others on the market.  The 5-Second Leak Detector for toilets and urinals is the only product that can be used in both tank and tankless toilets and urinals in commercial or residential settings, and is a biodegradable, hypoallergenic and non-toxic gel.

At their headquarters in Encinitas, CA, Rick Skinker told us,' Watermiser's focus is on bringing sustainable cost savings to our customers while helping to reduce their environmental footprints'.  The Cities of Scottsdale, AZ and Fresno and Santa Barbara, CA, as well as Napa and Marin Counties, presently offer rebates or credits for utilizing the water-saving products.  Also, there are incentives in most of Southern California and Nevada available through the water authorities.

National Apartment Association conference information - http://educonf.naahq.org/

Booth # 2838

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The 122,000- square-foot PV array consists of a 1,015-kW system, built with 4,228 panels. IKEA Charlotte's program will produce approximately 1,330,000 kWh of clean electricity annually, the equivalent of reducing 938 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2), eliminating the emissions of 195 cars or powering 140 homes yearly (calculating clean energy equivalents at www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energyresources/calculator.html).

This installation represents the 39TH completed solar project for IKEA in the U.S., the lastone that had been planned and underway, making the total U.S. solar presence of IKEA nearly 90% of its locations (39 of 44 buildings), with a total generation goal of 38 MW. IKEA owns and operates each of its solar PV energy systems atop its buildings – as opposed to a solar lease or PPA (power purchase agreement) – and globally has allocated $1.8 billion to invest in renewable energy through 2015. This investment reinforces the long-term commitment of IKEA to sustainability and confidence in photovoltaic (PV) technology. Consistent with the company's goal of being energy independent by 2020, IKEA has installed more than 250,000 solar panels on buildings across the world and owns/operates approximately 110 wind turbines in Europe.

For the development, design and installation of the Charlotte store's customized solarpower system, IKEA contracted with Gehrlicher Solar America Corp., part of Gehrlicher AG, one of the world's ten largest independent PV project developers and system integrators.

'The installation of solar panels at IKEA Charlotte is another way we can build upon ourongoing commitment to sustainability,' said Richard Castanon, IKEA Charlotte store manager. 'At IKEA, we believe in creating a better every life for the many people, so investing in renewable energy accomplishes helps contributes to that goal. We appreciate the support of the City of Charlotte, Duke Energy, and Gehrlicher Solar, our partners in this project.'

IKEA, drawing from its Swedish heritage and respect of nature, believes it can be a goodbusiness while doing good business and aims to minimize impacts on the environment. Globally, IKEA evaluates locations regularly for conservation opportunities, integrates innovative materials into product design, works to maintain sustainable resources, and flat-packs goods for efficient distribution. Specific U.S. sustainable efforts include: recycling waste material; incorporating environmental measures into the actual buildings with energy-efficient HVAC and lighting systems, recycled construction materials, skylights in warehouse areas, and water-conserving restrooms; and operationally, eliminating plastic bags from the check-out process, phasing-out the sale of incandescent light bulbs, facilitating recycling of customers' compact fluorescent bulbs, and by 2016 selling and using only L.E.D. bulbs. IKEA also has installed electric vehicle charging stations at nine stores in the Western U.S.

Located on 25 acres in the University City area at the northeast corner of I-85 and CityBoulevard, the 356,000-s.f. IKEA Charlotte opened February 2009. In addition to 10,000exclusively designed items, this IKEA store presents 48 different room-settings, three modelhome interiors, a supervised children's play area, and a 450-seat restaurant serving Swedishspecialties as well as American dishes. Other family-friendly features include a 'Children's IKEA' area in the Showroom, baby care rooms, play areas throughout the store, and preferred parking.

Since its 1943 founding in Sweden, IKEA has offered home furnishings of good design andfunction, at low prices so the majority of people can afford them. There are currently more than 340 IKEA stores in 41 countries, including 38 in the U.S. IKEA incorporates sustainability into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. For more information, see IKEA-USA.com, facebook.com/IKEAUSA, @DesignByIKEA, and http://pinterest.com/IKEAUSA/.

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'The CG-300 significantly increases Check-It's ability to reliably monitor and control almost anything,'  as stated by Jami Manastyrski, President and CEO of Check-It Solutions Inc; 'In combination with the Check-It Solutions Platform the entire system is very powerful.'

The CG-300 is designed to operate as a stand-alone controller in commercial or residential solutions.  In larger building installations, the CG-300 has the ability to communicate with existing building automation systems to centralize monitoring information or control functions.  The Check-It Solutions Platform and CG-300 are designed to work seamlessly to retrieve data from multiple locations for powerful reporting and data analysis of remote sensor information. 

Check-It Solutions provides a full service energy management solution aimed at improving overall building performance.  This includes detailed energy and water monitoring to measure usage and benchmark building performance.  The solution is then designed to pinpoint potential savings and easily extend the monitoring to control and automation of lighting, HVAC and electrical loads.   

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The conversion of power distribution networks into smart grids places enormous demands on suppliers. Only companies that can seamlessly integrate sensors and actuators as well as communication and IT systems into the infrastructure can create genuine added value for their customers. Solutions from a single source not only equip power distribution grids to address challenges like the increasing integration of renewable energy sources: They also enable utility companies to operate their infrastructure more efficiently in an increasingly price-sensitive environment.

Under the motto "Complete power grid competence in a constantly changing world," Siemens Infrastructure & Cities will present its components and grid automation solutions for power distribution networks and smart grids in Stockholm at CIRED, international conference for power distribution systems. The exhibits (in Booth D:04) will range from grid planning solutions to intelligent transformer substations with compact switchgear and regulated transformers, energy storage devices, network control systems, and energy automation systems for distribution networks. It will also feature decentralized energy management systems and systems for network monitoring.

The fluctuating infeed of renewable energy sources is making it increasingly difficult to operate power distribution grids that are already under enormously stress. Aging infrastructures, non-technical losses, and capacity bottlenecks are additional challenges in power distribution worldwide. Siemens offers a portfolio of solutions to address these challenges as well as to convert traditional distribution networks into smart grids.

But these future grids need to be planned before the conversion can take place. At CIRED, Siemens grid planning experts bring their many years of experience and technical expertise to show how customized smart grid solutions can be developed in collaboration with network operators. We will also utilize the Smart Grid Compass grid planning and consulting tool and the PSS Sincal network planning system, a tool for the calculation and design of utility and industrial networks. Following the analysis and planning phase, these tools provide an implementation plan for future smart grids. In addition, the Smart Grid Compass can be used to develop appropriate business strategies.

At CIRED, Siemens will clearly demonstrate that the implementation of smart grids relies on sophisticated IT and communications solutions operating in conjunction with the requisite hardware. These include intelligent transformer substations with a regulated distribution transformer and communications-capable medium-voltage switchgear that control the load flow in a smart grid.

With 8DJH Compact, for the first time Siemens is showing a new gas-insulated medium-voltage switchgear for secondary distribution grids up to 24 kV. Type-tested in accordance with IEC 62271-200, the switchgear is one-third smaller than a comparable model. Thanks to the 8DJH Compact's smaller footprint, new urban transformer substations, for example, can be built on a smaller scale, which makes them even more cost-effective. This communications-capable switchgear is especially well suited for modernizing existing compact stations and converting into intelligent transformer substations as part of a smart grid. Also on exhibit at the booth, the Siestorage modular battery storage system from Siemens is an additional tool for controlling the fluctuating infeed of renewable energy sources. This storage system optimizes grid stability and increases the voltage and supply quality in the distribution network.

At CIRED, Siemens will also present Sicam energy automation solutions that make it possible for smaller substations and distribution stations to connect to the central automation system while also facilitating safe, reliable network operations management. The Sicam FCM (feeder condition monitor) network condition-monitoring system – with integrated short-circuit indication as well as network condition and load-flow monitoring – ensures transparency in the cable network. As part of a platform, the new Sicam P850/P855 multifunctional devices record measurement values and then evaluate, document, and archive the data. The Sicam CMIC compact telecontrol unit can be used to monitor distribution networks and control their load flows. This device is suitable for use in power and gas distribution stations, hydroelectric plants, pipelines, railway power supplies, and for the control of regulated transformer substations. Among the highlights of the energy automation exhibit are the Siprotec 5 digital protection devices, with their intelligent grid automation and communications functions as central parts of the system architecture.

Siemens will use its Linux-based Spectrum Power system platform for network control centers as an example of efficient energy management in power distribution networks. Demonstrations will include how components can be integrated for specific applications according to a modular concept, and how it is easier than ever to connect other IT systems. At CIRED, Siemens will illustrate how the DEMS decentralized energy management system can be used to control distributed power plants and loads: for example, in a virtual power plant. In addition, Siemens will introduce a demand response management system (DRMS) that can be used to manage numerous loads.

Siemens will round out this year's range of smart grid exhibits with the Siguard PSA (protection security assessment). Using this technical solution along with the corresponding service from Siemens, network operators can improve and further develop their protection systems in a grid. This assessment tool makes it possible for the first time to systematically evaluate the selectivity of the protection system in larger grid areas with decentralized energy sources and different operating conditions. This technology is yet another technique for adjusting distribution network automation that will help get the grid ready for the future.

Energy-efficient, eco-friendly solutions for setting up intelligent power supply networks (Smart Grids) are part of Siemens' Environmental Portfolio. In fiscal 2012, revenue from the Portfolio totaled about 33 billion euros, making Siemens one of the world's largest suppliers of eco-friendly technologies. In the same period, our products and solutions enabled customers to reduce their carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by more than 330 million tons, an amount equal to the total annual CO2 emissions of Berlin, Delhi, Hong Kong, Istanbul, London, New York, Singapore and Tokyo.

For further information on Siemens at CIRED, please see www.siemens.com/cired2013

Follow us on Twitter at: www.twitter.com/siemens_press

The Siemens Infrastructure & Cities Sector (Munich, Germany), with approximately 90,000 employees, focuses on sustainable technologies for metropolitan areas and their infrastructures. Its offering includes products, systems and solutions for intelligent traffic management, rail-bound transportation, smart grids, energy efficient buildings, and safety and security. The Sector comprises the divisions Building Technologies, Low and Medium Voltage, Mobility and Logistics, Rail Systems and Smart Grid. For more information, visit http://www.siemens.com/infrastructure-cities

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In the context of this project, the hydrogen filling station will supply around twenty forklift trucks powered by hydrogen fuel cells produced by HyPulsion (a joint venture 80%-owned by Air Liquide's subsidiary Axane and 20%-owned by Plug Power). These electric forklift trucks are hydrogen-powered, they reject only water and offer extended run time for 8 hours.

Air Liquide's filling station will supply hydrogen at a pressure of 350 bar, with refills in 3 minutes. Replacing electric batteries with fuel cells provides greater flexibility and productivity thanks to a longer operating range for users and a shorter down-time for refilling.

With a surface area of 100,000 m2, IKEA's distribution centre in Saint Quentin-Fallavier is a key warehouse for the upstream logistics of IKEA's stores in Southern Europe, organising the receipt and storage of products delivered from all over the world.

The use of hydrogen as an energy carrier for logistic platforms has been developing in the U.S. and Canada, with over 3,000 forklift trucks currently running on hydrogen. The conversion of just 10% of the worldwide fleet of forklift trucks would represent a potential hydrogen market of €7 billion.

Gert Bruggers, General Manager Distribution Service Provider IKEA France, declared: "This project is in line with other innovative energy projects that our Group is conducting. Moreover, this allows us to increase our operational efficiency. It contributes to the evolution of the regulatory environment, which will allow an increase in hydrogen energy applications in France."

François Darchis, Senior Vice-President and a member of Air Liquide's Executive Committee, commented: "After the contracts in North America, the Group is proud to set up this first filling station on a logistic platform for IKEA in France. This project, which is a first in Europe, proves the competitiveness and technical maturity of this solution for electric forklift trucks.
And thanks to the cooperation between public and private partners, it is the opportunity to drive change in the regulations to allow the development of hydrogen energy in France."

This project is the result of work carried out by the partners of the "Horizon Hydrogène Energie" program in France, funded by OSEO, and the fruit of effective cooperation with public authorities.

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ABS Consulting & GenesisSolutions will provide this one‐day, complimentary, Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) and Reliability Strategy Seminar applicable to a wide array of industrial verticals.  Upon conclusion of this seminar, attendees will gain insight in identifying opportunities for improving overall operational
effectiveness.

Agenda & Key Components

8:15am – 4:30pm (Breakfast, Lunch, and Snacks Included)

• EAM Maturity Continuum – Levels of Maintenance Performance Progression
• Current State Assessment – Where are you on the EAM Maturity Continuum?
• Asset Management Master Planning – Developing the path forward towards EAM Excellence
• Implementation Models for Operational Excellence – Proven EAM Business Models
• Maintenance Excellence Governance Model – Measuring and Sustaining Success
• Reliability Based Maintenance
• Maximizing Return on Investment – Maximizing the Return on Investment for your CMMS

• Organizational Readiness
• CMMS Functionality & Utilization (i.e. IBM Maximo, Infor EAM, Oracle EAM, SAP PM)
• MRO Supply Chain
• PM Optimization
• Planning & Scheduling

• Learn how to tee up your improvement plan and gain endorsement

1. Norfolk Waterside Marriott (Tuesday, June 25, 2013)
2. Huntsville Marriott (Thursday, June 27, 2013)

To view the Seminar & Workshop Agenda, please click:

Here for Norfolk, Virginia
Here for Huntsville, Alabama

To register for either event, please click here.

We hope you can join us for these educational and interactive events.

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Theodore Linde, a master electrician, provides what customers want most, namely fast, courteous service done with utmost care of your home by an insured Philadelphia electrician certified in National Electric Codes. 

Linde Electric is more than just a company to contact when you realize, "My power is out." Customers can choose from a full range of services ranging from basic repair of outlets, ground fault interrupters (for outlets near water sources), installation of a wide range of lighting, appliance wiring, installation of ceiling fans and exhaust fans for kitchens and bathrooms, doorbells and similar electrical needs. 

Choosing a reputable electrical service is doubly important when upgrading current installations such as electrical panels or increasing amperage to specified areas of a home or business. Linde Electric also has the expertise to properly install dedicated lines for central air conditioning and heating. 

In addition, customers have come to trust Linde Electric as a reliable Philadelphia electrician able to perform related services such as wiring for telephone, television and Internet that includes setting up localized networks. Installation of security wiring and lighting is also available.

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Essen/Swindon,- - The British Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change has issued approval for the construction of the Galloper offshore wind farm off the south east coast of England. The wind farm has been developed in a joint venture between RWE Innogy and the British electric utility Scottish and Southern Energy plc (SSE). It will have an installed capacity of 504 megawatts. The project is located some 27 kilometres off the coast of the English county of Suffolk.

The plans that have now been approved provide for the construction of 140 wind turbines over an area of 180 square kilometres. It is furthermore intended to build up to three substations together with up to three meteorological masts at sea. The installation of three export cables that carry electricity to the feed-in point to the grid near Sizewell has also received consent.

Paul Cowling, Director of Offshore Wind at RWE Innogy comments, 'Galloper is the first of our four British offshore wind projects at the development stage for which we have now received approval. Building upon the experience we gained during construction of the Greater Gabbard wind farm – located just a few kilometres away – we are now very pleased to drive this project forward together with SSE.' The forecast generating capacity of the wind farm would be sufficient to supply electricity to the equivalent of over 400,000 UK homes per annum.

Development of the Galloper offshore wind farm was put out to tender in 2009 by the Crown Estate – the property business that manages Crown property in Britain – as an extension project to the Greater Gabbard wind farm. In 2010 RWE and SSE were awarded the development contract for the project. The two companies completed the Greater Gabbard wind farm at the end of 2012. It encompasses 140 wind turbines with an installed capacity of 504 megawatts.

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