Month: June 2023

Schneider Electric

Company will unveil new technologies to tackle energy demand and help industries meet net-zero commitmentsWill showcase new and integrated electrical digital twin platform from ETAP, and cutting-edge industrial software from AVEVA

Hannover, GERMANY /3BL Media/ – Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, will unveil an array of new technologies and software solutions at Hannover Messe 2023 to help industries address the global priorities of energy security, resource efficiency, and sustainability.

“We are at a unique moment in history, where the global goal of carbon neutrality is meeting the short-term need to mitigate the energy crisis,” said Barbara Frei, Executive Vice President, Industrial Automation at Schneider Electric. “We have an unprecedented opportunity to tackle these issues, but it requires a mindset shift and the right tools. We must take a holistic view of energy investment, addressing both efficiency and the move to clean-energy generation. The digitalization, automation, and electrification technologies we will showcase at Hannover Messe are proof that solutions to the challenges we face exist here and now.”

Hannover Messe is the world’s premier trade fair for industry, and it takes place in Hannover, Germany, from April 17 to 21 this year. The innovations Schneider Electric is announcing at the event span its IoT-enabled, plug-and-play, open, interoperable architecture and platform, EcoStruxure, to drive efficiency in industries. They include:

Edge control

EcoStruxure Automation Expert V23.0: The world’s first software-centric industrial automation system now delivers software-based redundant automation solutions for the water desalination market. This extends the EcoStruxure Automation Expert portfolio to become the single control software platform that brings convergence across machine, hybrid, and process industrial operations. New features in V23.0 include enhanced integration with AVEVA System Platform to reuse graphics from existing applications for faster system design, and a new graphical editor for procedural automation which improves operational effectiveness. The new release brings multi-OS compatibility with the EcoStruxure Automation Expert HMI and archive now available on Linux, in addition to Windows, which allows users to develop similar objects across all compatible operating systems.

“The combination of EcoStruxure Automation Expert and a PC-based high-availability solution continues the trend of automation becoming more software-based and more hardware-agnostic,” said Alicia Pérez Ballester, Manager of Automation, Systems & Process Optimization at Acciona Water Solutions, a long-term customer and partner of Schneider Electric in this space. “Such an approach can bring concrete benefits to our projects both in the design phase and during operations.”

Connected products

Motor management: The latest release of Schneider Electric’s motor management offers is delivered with new Spacial SFN enclosures that protect equipment in any conditions and enable faster and more flexible panel assembly with more than 1,000 possible configurations. The new enclosures are built with 35% less CO2 emissions than previous iterations, thanks in part to the use of decarbonized steel materials. The new Altivar ATV320 solar drives ensure reliable power supply for the motor management solutions with on- and off-grid compatibility and provide environmentally friendly pumping solutions without producing any CO2 emissions. The updated solution is more robust and can handle more than 50% added static weight to accommodate solutions from across the TeSys range of motor starters and equipment.GM AirSeT Performance: With the new AirSeT, Schneider Electric extends and strengthens its sustainable SF6-free portfolio, which avoids the use of this potent and harmful greenhouse gas[1]. The gas-insulated switchgear helps industrial customers better manage tightening F-gas regulations and eliminates the requirement for gas recycling from their installations. Based on pure air and natively digital connectivity with integrated services, the GM AirSeT Performance is the most powerful and resilient SF6-free medium voltage switchgear in the Schneider Electric portfolio and is suitable for most energy-intensive and critical infrastructure projects.Easy UPS 3-Phase Modular (50-250kW/400V) – Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): This new solution helps to optimize capital expenditure with a pay-as-you-grow model and features that lower the cost of site acceptance testing by eliminating the need for an expensive load bank. The solution is an IEC-certified modular UPS with live swap modules that deliver Class-1 power protection and availability in a compact design, making it ideal for small and medium data centers, as well as business-critical commercial and industrial applications.PowerLogic™ P7 Protection Relay: This next-generation power protection and control platform is designed for the most complex, demanding, and advanced industrial applications to maximize operational efficiency, power availability, and electricity security. It provides an improved digital experience to reduce complexity at all stages of the product lifecycle. Performance and flexibility have been increased to deliver a modular, cybersecure, and future-proof platform which is fully prepared for virtualization. It is adaptable for specific requirements with new application-oriented firmware and added Ethernet communication modules and I/O boards.

Apps, analytics, and services

ETAP: A new and integrated electrical digital twin platform to manage the complete electrical system lifecycle, from design and engineering to operations and maintenance. It empowers users to increase productivity, collaboration, and efficiency, and enables their energy transition journey.AVEVA: Now fully owned by Schneider Electric and operated as an independent and autonomous business, AVEVA will present its new vision for industrial software: an agnostic and cloud-enabled platform where companies can collaborate, innovate, and share data through the connected industrial economy. Visitors will be able to see how AVEVA’s digital twin (the foundation of the industrial metaverse) will bring this vision to life. From asset design to asset optimization, AVEVA will demonstrate the value of well-managed industrial information to drive efficiency and sustainability.Services: Schneider Electric’s experts and consultants will be on hand to share details about the company’s refreshed services portfolio, including the newly-launched Industrial Digital Transformation Service which helps industrial companies accelerate their digital transformation. They will also discuss strategies for reaching sustainability goals, demonstrate how the company can help industrial customers tackle their key challenges, and showcase the benefits of diverse energy portfolios with greener energy sources.

Schneider Electric sessions for media include:

Monday April 17

1:00 pm CET – Media and analysts conference: Actions to address the energy crisis

Schneider Electric stand (hall 11, stand C46) in the theater

Focusing on both sides of the energy equation – demand and supply – this session will highlight the opportunities created by digitalization, electrification, and automation. Together with AVEVA, Schneider Electric will set out its vision for the Industries of the Future, delving into the industrial metaverse and software-defined solutions.

Tuesday April 18

10:00 am CET – Media and analysts breakfast: Innovation and technology

Schneider Electric stand (hall 11, stand C46) in the hospitality area

The session focuses on the impact of automation on industry: from design and engineering efficiency and automated data continuity leveraging AI to reliable, safe, and cybersecure operations. It will take attendees through EcoStruxure Automation Expert V23.0 and new AVEVA software.

To view the materials for media, please click here.

Schneider Electric sessions for customers and event attendees include:

Monday April 17

1:00 pm CET – Presentation: The real value of AI in industrial automation

Philippe Rambach, Chief AI Officer, will discuss strategies for successful AI at scale and demonstrate key AI use cases for the industrial automation sector from Schneider Electric’s customers and its own operations. Learn how data-based insights can lead to greater efficiency and sustainability.

Throughout the event:

Innovation talks: Subject experts and leading industrial companies discuss the latest trends and technologies that are impacting the industrial market.Smart factory experiences: Tours through Schneider Electric Smart Factories and supply chain with live streams direct from the factory floors.Guided tours: 45-minute sessions that demonstrate how to ensure effective digital transformation, increase energy efficiency, reduce waste, and achieve sustainability and profitability goals. Tours include hands-on demonstrations of the next generation of automation and energy management technologies, software, and IIoT integration.

To view the full event agenda, please click here.

Related resources:

Read Barbara Frei’s views on embracing the power of industrial transformationFollow Industries of the Future on LinkedInLearn more about industrial sustainabilityWatch: EcoStruxure Automation Expert Reinvents Your Industrial Automation SystemUse the new energy savings calculator to get instant insights into CO2 savings and possible ROI for high power industrial motor applications: EcoStruxure Motor Management DesignWatch: Discover the new GM AirSeT Green and Digital Primary MV GISWatch: Discover the new Easy UPS-Phase 3 ModularWatch: Discover the new PowerLogic™ P7 Protection Relay

Footnotes

^[1] Typical primary electrical equipment holds between three and six kilograms of SF6 gas per cubicle, which has a global warming potential (GWP) 25,200 times more than CO2. A typical single industrial installation has upwards of 15 cubicles.

CLEVELAND, June 2, 2023 /3BL Media/ – Lendistry Core SPV I, LLC a newly formed Special Purpose Entity (SPE) established by B.S.D. Capital, Inc. dba Lendistry (Lendistry) to purchase eligible loans originated and sold by Lendistry, has obtained $20 million line of credit (LOC) from KeyBank Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Group.

Lendistry offers small business owners who do not meet traditional lending standards with respect to credit, cash flow, or collateral requirements, a chance to access responsible, affordable capital. The company is headquartered in an Opportunity Zone in downtown Los Angeles.

As a certified Community Development Financial Institution, Lendistry provides credit and other financial services to small businesses throughout the U.S. To minimize risk and help overcome common shortfalls that cause underserved business owners to struggle to access traditional financing, the company participates in several loan guarantee programs and credit enhancements, including State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) programs.

Everett K. Sands, CEO and founder of Lendistry, has leveraged his more than 20 years of experience in banking to change the game for traditionally underserved small business owners who need access to responsible capital to reach the next level.

“We’re grateful for KeyBank’s support as we work to eradicate the word ‘underserved,’” says Everett K. Sands, CEO of Lendistry. “KeyBank’s leadership recognized in us a CDFI partner that shares an intentional desire to deploy capital equitably to entrepreneurs who need it most. Their commitment will increase our impact in small business communities, including those that have lacked access to the responsible funds they need and deserve.”

“Lendistry plays an important role in delivering small business capital from coast to coast. We are excited to use our capital to promote small businesses growth and expansion in marginalized communities,” said Brian Maddox, National Team Leader for KeyBank Community Development Financial Institutions group. “Our $20 million investment is part of the bank’s commitment to increase access to capital and bring greater equity for marginalized communities.”

About Lendistry

B.S.D. Capital, Inc. dba Lendistry (lendistry.com) is a minority-led fintech that provides innovative lending products and access to grant programs for small businesses nationwide. Headquartered in a Los Angeles Opportunity Zone, Lendistry uses technology and community partnerships to overcome systemic gaps that inhibit access to capital, and to empower its customers with responsible financing options. Based on its reputation for deploying funds efficiently and equitably, Lendistry’s leadership is often called upon to share their expertise with both government and private organizations. Lendistry has both Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and Community Development Entity (CDE) certifications and is a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco. Lendistry SBLC, LLC is the nation’s only African American-led SBA designated Small Business Lending Company. In collaboration with The Center by Lendistry, a nonprofit business education organization, Lendistry dedicates itself to providing economic opportunities and progressive growth for underserved urban and rural small business borrowers and their communities.

About KeyBank Community Development Lending and Investment

KeyBank Community Development Lending and Investment (CDLI) finances projects that stabilize and revitalize communities across all 50 states. As one of the top affordable housing capital providers in the country, KeyBank’s platform brings together construction, acquisition, bridge-to-re-syndication, and preservation loans, as well as lines of credit, Agency and HUD permanent mortgage executions, and equity investments for low-income housing projects, especially Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) financing. KeyBank has earned 10 consecutive “Outstanding” ratings on the Community Reinvestment Act exam, from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, making it the first U.S. national bank among the 25 largest to do so since the Act’s passage in 1977.

About KeyCorp

KeyCorp’s roots trace back nearly 200 years to Albany, New York. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation’s largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $198 billion at March 31, 2023. Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,300 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications, and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit https://www.key.com/. KeyBank is Member FDIC.

Originally published on DICK’S Sporting Goods Sideline Report

It’s hard to get excited for a new baseball season when your field is described as “awful” and “neglected.” Unfortunately, that was the reality for Jefferson County Little League in New Market, Tennessee, about 25 miles outside of Knoxville.

DICK’S Sporting Goods Community Marketing Manager Brian Johnson first connected with Jefferson County Little League after the organization submitted a donation request for balls and catchers’ equipment ahead of the 2023 season. As discussions continued, Brian realized that the group needed help with something much bigger.

“There was a huge drainage issue on one of their fields which caused water to funnel rocks into the infield and made playing conditions unsafe,” Brian said. “Over the years, kids left the league to play elsewhere because the field was in such bad shape.”

The program, which once touted nearly 500 players, dwindled down to just a third of that. The league didn’t have the money to make the repairs itself, and New Market is a small, rural town with limited funds; however, Brian knew the group met all the requirements to receive a grant from The DICK’S Foundation. Both stores and community marketing managers receive an annual budget for Sports Matter Community Grants.

“I knew our support would go a long way for the future of this program,” Brian said. He presented a proposal to The DICK’S Foundation approval committee, and the committee approved the $25,000 grant.

Brian told the league it was approved for the grant, but the amount was a surprise for all the players, families and coaches. It was announced during a ceremony on the ballfield in March. Brian invited local store manager Suzanne Long and other DICK’S teammates to help present the check. Suzanne called the donation the proudest moment of her 34-year career in retail.

The league immediately went to work on renovations and added a French Drain System around the infield and in front of the dugouts, expanded the dugouts, added new turf and the grading of home plate, the batter’s box and the dirt infield.

Not only did the grant give the kids a safe place to play, but it gave them pride in their field for the first time in their young lives and ultimately, more confidence in themselves.

Over the last several weeks, many of the players and their families have come into the store to thank the DICK’S team. “Parents have thanked me and hugged me,” Suzanne said. “I think it’s beautiful what we do, and I’m just grateful to be a part of DICK’S Sporting Goods.”

Looking forward, Jefferson County Little League hopes to one day add another ballpark or two, but for right now, it’s taking things one swing at a time and enjoying the brand-new field.

Contact: Hilary Totin, DICK’S Sporting Goods

Allyson Anderson Book, chief sustainability officer at Baker Hughes, joins Mandi McReynolds to share how her team has transformed the company’s annual sustainability report and advocated for transparency over perfection. They explore how acknowledging shortcomings, engaging the board, and navigating regulatory change contribute to ESG.

Listen Now

Looking for more? Subscribe to the ESG Talk podcast on Apple, Spotify, Google, and YouTube.