Sun Power: £600 million contracts to build fusion energy plant

 

Bidding to begin building the world’s first nuclear fusion energy plant in Nottinghamshire will begin within weeks.

The pioneering work at the decommissioned West Burton A power station near Retford will be constructed by 2040, using the same clean energy process which powers the sun.

The Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) could produce large amounts of clean energy and reduce reliance on oil and gas.

The bidding process to find a company to handle construction and another to handle engineering – collectively worth around £600m – will formally open on May 22.

The initial contracts will be awarded in late 2025 and will last until 2029.

The STEP project is being led by UK Industrial Fusion Solutions, which is owned by the UK Atomic Energy Authority.

A new government policy issued May 8th also proposes declaring all fusion energy facilities as Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects.

This means they would be given approval by a Secretary of State rather than local authorities, which it says removes the risk for first-of-its-kind facilities.

It is hoped that the STEP project would bring hundreds of highly skilled jobs to the region and significant investment.

Paul Methven, CEO of UK Industrial Fusion Solutions, said:

“We are looking towards a very significant milestone for STEP in the next two weeks as we are set to launch our search for industrial partners in engineering and construction who will join us in designing and delivering the STEP prototype plant at West Burton.

“This will demonstrate that fusion energy can work, and through that endeavour, we will develop an industry that can deliver commercial fusion for decades beyond.

“The launch of formal consultation on a National Policy Statement for fusion energy is very welcome and an important milestone in the journey towards a new energy source, deployed in the right way.

“It reflects the UK’s proactive leadership in fusion energy by putting in place the critical enablers that all fusion developments will need, and in a way that will bring communities and the public along.”

Minister for Nuclear and Renewables, Andrew Bowie, said:

“Fusion could provide a near limitless source of energy and the UK is leading the way in trying to harness this power and deliver long-term energy independence.

“Building STEP is a major opportunity for the sector and will provide investment and jobs in a former industrial area of Nottinghamshire.”

 

Source: West Bridgeford Wire

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UK Expert given worldwide media coverage on Baltimore Bridge Collapse

Bridge Image Sky News

 

Yorkshire structural engineer Julian Carter has achieved international prominence, following media appearances, as an expert commentator, on the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, USA.

 

Julian says:

“This was a tragic incident which caused the deaths of six construction workers on the bridge, after a fully loaded container ship apparently lost power and collided with one of the concrete bridge supports. Being invited to comment on it was a sobering experience.”

 

The scale of the incident quickly attracted international media attention. At this point Julian became involved.

 

He explains:

“I’m on a database of expert witnesses in structural engineering, and it appears that’s how the initial contact was made. I was first called by Sky News who quickly arranged an online video interview.”

Julian adds: “Being an expert witness is normally a relatively sedate affair, requiring the assembly of facts and copious preparation. On this occasion it was much different. I was reliant on the latest intelligence about the unfolding events, provided by the media sources.

“I’ve worked on extensive bridge structures including the mile long Thelwall Viaduct on the M6, near Warrington, and was able to provide an insight into the nature of the Baltimore Bridge design.

“They were keen to understand how the bridge could have collapsed in such a catastrophic manner. I explained the nature of continuous span bridges, in terms of both their strength and their vulnerabilities.

“The design basis of the bridge meant that it was a continuous structure. The unforeseen collision with the concrete pillar created a catastrophic collapse.”

 

Julian soon discovered that the news media industry is a kind of eco system where each outlet monitors the coverage of others.

 

He says:

“Following the Sky News TV piece, the pace was off the scale. I was invited by media outlets worldwide to comment on the event, as we best understood the facts. News agencies including the BBC, ITN and others from America, Canada, Singapore and Europe were amongst those who called me to arrange TV, radio and newspaper interviews.”

 

At the latest count Julian is credited with about 350 media mentions.

 

Julian concludes:

“In this case, the extraordinary circumstances of a container ship which lost power created a tragic outcome. The only good news is that the accident happened at night. The crew of the ship were able to notify the authorities of the likely collision and they closed the bridge to traffic, preventing further loss of life.”

 

The press and TV coverage has prompted colleagues old and new to get in touch. Julian says:

“Expert witness work is often done on my regional or county ‘patch’ but in this case my comments had global reach and re-ignited friendships from colleagues, worldwide.”

 

Enquiries into the exact cause of the collision are ongoing, and authorities in Baltimore are continuing with contingency plans to enable the harbour to continue trading.

 

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The London Eye to Keep Spinning

 

Photo credit: Merlin Entertainments

The London Eye’s long-term future secured

 

One of the UK’s most iconic visitor attractions – the lastminute.com London Eye – has had its long-term future secured, after Lambeth Council confirmed that it could remain on London’s South Bank.

 

At the meeting of the Council’s Planning Applications Committee on Tuesday 7th May, Lambeth Councillors voted unanimously to support a recommendation from officers to discharge a condition attached to the 2003 planning permission that required the local planning authority to decide whether the attraction could be retained beyond 2028.

 

This followed the submission of a report for Merlin Entertainments co-ordinated by Lichfields which assessed the continued acceptability of the Eye in this location. The comprehensive assessment included Further Environmental Information assessing a range of topic areas, with assessments from Lichfields on planning, heritage, townscape and socio-economic impacts.   Lichfields identified the wide ranging benefits of the London Eye, including £143 million GVA per annum within London and over 200 direct jobs, as well as the benefits that elevated views of heritage assets such as the adjacent world Grade II* County Hall and the World Heritage site at The Palace of Westminster has to users of the London Eye.

 

The Council agreed with the conclusions of the report and that the benefits of the London Eye weighed significantly in their decision. In approving the report the Committee has confirmed that the Eye can remain in place – with current arrangements continuing beyond 2028. This includes a requirement for 1% of the attraction’s annual turnover to be paid towards the maintenance and management of the public area surrounding the site. These monies are invested in partnership with South Bank Employers’ Group and South Bank Business Improvement District.

 

Last night’s decision builds on the planning and EIA advice Lichfields has provided on the London Eye since 1999 when Lichfields secured the temporary planning permission for the 32 capsule London Eye and subsequently a separate planning permission and listed building consent for its retention in 2003.

 

Nick Thompson and Hannah Whitney, who led Lichfields’ work, said

“We are very pleased with the decision and having advised on this project for 25 years seen it become such a popular feature providing many benefits for the local area, London and the UK.  We are delighted that it will be in place for future generations to enjoy.”

 

Speaking following the decision, Merlin’s Chief Executive Officer, Scott O’Neil, said:

“A landmark decision for a landmark attraction. The London Eye is both the centrepiece of Merlin’s central London offering and visitors’ itineraries, drawing millions to the South Bank each year to enjoy unrivalled views of the capital.”

 “It is impossible to imagine the London skyline without the iconic structure of the London Eye, and with its long-term future secure, we will continue to invest and expand Merlin’s presence in this great city, which is one of our key gateway clusters. We will work closely with key partners locally, including the re-elected Mayor Sadiq Khan, to further boost London’s attractiveness to both international and domestic visitors, offering them experiences that bring joy and everlasting memories.”

 

Merlin’s Divisional Director of Gateway UK, Sunny Jouhal added: “It was clear from the council meeting that there is strong and enthusiastic support for the Eye – and a recognition of the immensely positive contribution it makes to the vibrancy of this part of London and the businesses and communities it works with on a daily basis.

 

“When the Eye first opened at the turn of the century, no-one could have envisaged it would become synonymous with all that is great about our capital city. Following this decision by Lambeth Council, we can now confirm that this attraction will continue to play its part, long beyond 2028, in attracting visitors to the South Bank. We look forward to continuing to work constructively with others to further boost footfall in the surrounding area – whilst also ensuring that our contributions help make this area a safe, sustainable and welcoming place to visit.”

 

 

 

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Planning Rejections as Housing Crisis Deepens 

 

Despite the ongoing housing crisis in the UK, London and the Southeast of England have the highest proportion of developer planning applications in the country, according to new data. Councils have warned they run the risk of going bankrupt in the next year. 

Property data provider Search Acumen has found that at least one in two planning submissions for major housing developments are disproportionately in London, the Southeast and the East of England amid reports of homelessness on the rise. As property prices soar, working Brits are struggling to get on the property ladder due to housing shortages and lack of affordability. Search Acumen has analysed planning application records from the Department of Levelling Up Housing and Communities (DLUHC) for 2023.

A total of 15 local planning authorities refused half of planning submissions for residential development last year, 80% of which are based in the capital and surrounding areas. Liberal Democrat run Mole Valley in Surrey had the highest amount of refusals for housing out of any local authority in the UK, with 77% of decisions refused. Mole Valley neighbours the Surrey Hills, which is a designated Area of Outstanding Beauty – with an average house price of £565,00o. Building on areas such as the Surrey Hills requires an order from Natural England under section 82 of the CROW Act for the purpose of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty of the landscape.

12 out of 15 local authorities who refused applications were based in London and the East, meaning housebuilders based in those areas have the lowest chance of obtaining a successful planning application. The analysis also points to councils were no one party has a majority to have a 60% higher likelihood of refusal due to political instability. There is a greater need to ‘protect the land due to its scarcity’, according to Andrew Lloyd, Director of Search Acumen.

The ONS have released stats showing that the UK population may increase by 6.6million people by the year 2036, with a prediction of a further 5.7million homes needed over the next 15 years to make up for the deficit. Meeting this target would require building an average of 382,000 homes per year – which is above the current rate of 240,000.

Lloyd said:

 “Where the housing pressure is the greatest is where opposition to new housing is the highest. This research shows that overwhelmingly the wealthier parts of the country, in particular the commuter belts in the Southeast, is where the greatest amount of opposition comes from to new housing. With more land being used for development, voters and politicians alike are becoming more protective of land due to its scarcity.”

“Councils where no one party is in control can mean planning applications can take a more political lens when considered for approval, ultimately finding consent harder to achieve. Local elections on May 2nd for these areas up and down the UK will be key to removing political stalemates through majority wins, creating a better chance for local authorities to be able to commit to new housing projects and the associated town investment that often goes hand in hand.”

The news comes as nearly one in 10 councils in England have warned they will go bankrupt in the next 12 months as authorities are having to plan widespread services cuts, above-inflation council tax rises and across-the-board increases to resident charges.

For larger developers, the places where they are most likely to be greeted with YIMBYs (Yes In My Back Yard) and get planning permission granted reside broadly in the Midlands and the North.

Lloyd has said:

“YIMBY areas are places that either want or need the investment, marking them as high growth areas for the future. If we take Bexley, for example, this area has been opened up thanks to Elizabeth Line, actively looking for more investment and being pro-development as a result. Whilst there is no hard and fast rule, Brent is also an area for London that has had a housing boom. Located close to Wembley it has seen a plethora of investment pour in with a high need for more affordable housing, making planning approvals more likely.”

Source: Todays Conveyancer

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House Building Declines but Construction Output Increases

S&P Global UK Construction PMI® for April 2024

 

Business activity growth gained momentum across the UK construction sector in April, largely due to solid rates of expansion in the commercial and civil engineering segments. Near-term prospects remained relatively positive, as new work increased for the third month running amid reports of a boost to sales from improving domestic economic conditions.

Supplier lead times meanwhile shortened to the greatest extent in 2024 so far, which survey respondents linked to rising materials availability and relatively soft demand for construction inputs.

At 53.0 in April, up from 50.2 in March, the headline S&P Global UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index™ (PMI®) – a seasonally adjusted index tracking changes in total industry activity – registered in positive territory for the second month running and signalled the strongest pace of expansion since February 2023.

Commercial building (index at 53.9) increased for the first time since August 2023 and was the fastest-growing area of construction activity in April. Survey respondents commented on rising workloads and a turnaround in customer demand, in part driven by refurbishment projects. Civil engineering activity (index at 53.6) meanwhile expanded again in April and at the strongest pace for nine months.

The latest survey signalled a setback for house building activity (index at 47.6). April data pointed to a moderate fall in residential building work, although the rate of decline was the steepest since January. Construction companies again noted sluggish market conditions and the impact of elevated borrowing costs.

New business volumes increased for the third successive month in April, although the rate of expansion eased since March and was only modest. Those reporting higher new order intakes typically cited improved client confidence, particularly in the commercial segment.

 

COMMENT

Tim Moore, Economics Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, which compiles the survey said:

“The construction sector consolidated its recent return to growth in April, with total industry activity rising at the fastest pace for 14 months amid an ongoing recovery in order books. Demand was boosted by greater confidence regarding the broader UK economic outlook. Commercial construction outperformed in April and civil engineering also provided a solid contribution to overall growth.

“Lacklustre market conditions in the house building segment continued to weigh on activity. The latest survey pointed to the fastest reduction in residential building work since January, although the speed of the downturn remained much softer than in the second half of 2023.

“Hiring trends were subdued in April despite a recovery in workloads, which mirrored trends seen in other part of the UK economy, as construction firms sought to maintain a tight focus on costs against a backdrop of strong wage pressures. Purchasing prices nonetheless increased only modestly in April. An improved balance between supply and demand helped to contain overall input cost inflation, as suggested by the fastest improvement in vendor performance so far in 2024.

“Business activity expectations for the year ahead picked up slightly in April, supported by a sustained recovery in new orders, positive signals for sales pipelines, and anticipated interest rate cuts in the second half of 2024.”

 

 

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Beating the Heat

 

Many years ago, on a blisteringly hot day in Granada, Spain I visited the 12th century Alhambra and

noted that when inside the buildings the heat, which was quite overpowering in the very beautiful gardens that

surrounded them, dropped to a comfortable temperature.  At the time I presumed that something about

the architectural layout had been incorporated to give them a natural cooling.

Given our recent report about ‘Adapting to Heatwaves’ and my experience at the Alhambra,

I thought this article by Dr Pandiri Harsha Bhargavi of the Hans News Service in India might be of interest to our readers.

 

How Bharat’s ancient architecture can cool us down today.

(Bharat, or, in the English language, India)

Contemporary architecture faces several challenges when it comes to dealing with heatwaves. Concrete structures, with their high thermal mass, tend to retain heat, making indoor spaces uncomfortably hot. Limited natural ventilation and the urban heat island effect further exacerbate the problem. Cooling these structures consumes a lot of energy, contributing to environmental degradation and climate change. Additionally, elevated indoor temperatures pose health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. By harnessing nature’s power, ancient architecture can create homes that naturally cool themselves.

Key elements include the courtyard, high ceilings, and strategically placed windcatchers (jalis) that channel cool air into the building. Water plays a vital role in cooling the surrounding air through evaporation, and buildings often use thick walls made of local materials like brick and terracotta.

Previously, houses with rainwater soak pits were designed to collect rainwater efficiently and recharge groundwater. These houses had sloping roofs to collect rainwater, and adjacent soak pits lined with permeable materials to store and infiltrate the water into the ground. This provided a sustainable source of water for communities in water-scarce environments.

Contemporary Bharat’s architecture is a blend of modern design principles and traditional elements, drawing inspiration from ancient Indian architecture. However, there are notable differences between ancient and contemporary architecture. Ancient architecture used materials like stone, brick, and wood, while contemporary architecture often uses concrete, glass, and steel due to their availability, strength, and ease of construction. The design philosophy of ancient architecture focused on harmony with nature, spiritual symbolism, and community integration, while contemporary architecture leans towards functionality, sustainability, and individualism.

Modern architects can integrate these principles into contemporary designs, such as reimagining courtyards as light wells or atriums in multi-story buildings, mimicking the function of jalis with louvers and operable windows. Water features can be incorporated for aesthetics and cooling effects. The benefits of these techniques extend beyond just beating the heat. By relying less on air conditioning, we can significantly reduce our energy consumption, lowering our carbon footprint and saving on electricity bills.

These designs often promote natural lighting and improved air quality, contributing to a healthier and more comfortable living environment. In a world grappling with climate change and rising energy demands, ancient Indian architecture offers a beacon of hope. By embracing the wisdom of the past and adapting it for the present, we can create buildings that are not only comfortable but also sustainable. In terms of scale and function, ancient architecture emphasized grandeur and religious significance, while contemporary architecture focuses on more versatile spaces catering to diverse functions and user needs. Technology and innovation in contemporary architecture allows for innovative structural designs, sustainable practices, and efficient construction methods.

As urbanization and globalization continue, contemporary Indian architecture faces challenges related to urban sprawl, environmental degradation, and cultural homogenization. Balancing modernization with preservation of cultural identity and heritage is a key concern. Some potential issues in contemporary architecture include loss of identity, overemphasis on commercialization, neglect of sustainability, lack of integration with context, and inadequate planning and infrastructure. To address these challenges, a holistic approach that balances modernity with tradition, prioritizes sustainability and cultural heritage, involves community participation, and promotes responsible urban development practices is needed. Auroville, a township in Tamil Nadu, uses stabilized compressed earth blocks (SCEBs) for affordable single-family homes, showcasing the beauty and practicality of earthen construction. These blocks provide excellent thermal insulation, keeping interiors cool naturally. Bamboo, abundant in India’s north-eastern states, is a game-changer in housing projects due to its strength, lightweight, and quick growth, making it a sustainable and affordable alternative to traditional building materials.

Ancient architectural features and structures have proven to be resilient to natural disasters. These include earthquake resistance, flood management, heat and sun protection, and fire resistance. The Konark Sun Temple in Odisha, known for its intricately carved stone wheels and interlocking joints, provides stability during earthquakes. The Chennakesava Temple in Karnataka, known for its Hoysala architecture, is renowned for its flexibility and structural elements. The Harappan city of Mohenjo-Daro uses advanced urban planning and drainage systems to mitigate flooding from the Indus River. Stepwells in Gujarat and Rajasthan, like the Rani ki Vav in Patan, store water during the monsoon season and prevent flooding. The 800-year-old Ramappa temple of Telangana state with wet sand technology and floating bricks with marvellous architectural expertise. The Shore Temple in Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu, uses Pallava architecture with sturdy stone construction and sloping roofs to withstand coastal winds and cyclones. Chhatris in Rajasthan feature domed pavilions and wind-catching structures that provide shelter from strong winds while allowing natural ventilation. Kerala architecture features steep sloping roofs, extended eaves, and ventilated courtyards to promote airflow and mitigate heat in the humid tropical climate. Monsoon management involves deep stepwells like Chand Baori in Abhaneri, Rajasthan, and traditional wooden houses in Assam using lightweight and easily replaceable roofing materials.  Fire resistance is also evident in temples like Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, built using durable sandstone and granite. Ancient architecture offers passive cooling techniques for a more comfortable living experience. By leveraging these principles, affordable housing can be made more achievable.

Ancient Indian construction relied on local and natural materials like earth, bamboo, and stone, which eliminates high costs associated with long-distance transportation and requires less processing than modern materials like steel and concrete. Earthen construction offers excellent thermal regulation and can be surprisingly durable. Traditional building techniques in India often relied on skilled labour, minimizing the need for complex construction methods and specialized equipment. This approach can benefit affordable housing projects by reducing overall labour costs. Smart space planning and modular design can be used in ancient Indian architecture, maximizing usable space and minimizing unnecessary square footage. Courtyards can also serve as multifunctional spaces, reducing the need for dedicated rooms. Prefabricated components can streamline construction and reduce waste, particularly beneficial for large-scale affordable housing projects. Passive cooling techniques in buildings require less reliance on energy-intensive air conditioning, leading to significant savings on utility bills for residents.

The use of durable and locally sourced materials also translates to lower maintenance costs. By combining ancient architecture principles with modern technology, affordable housing solutions can be created that are not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly and comfortable, contributing to a more sustainable future for cities.

 

Source: Hans India

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SFS Highfix handles challenges of PV install on low pitch roofs

 

SFS Group Fastening Technology Ltd has drawn on its expertise in the field of fall protection to offer specifiers a foolproof and cost effective solution to mounting photo-voltaic (PV) systems on flat or low pitched roofs.  Importantly the Highfix product not only features the manufacturer’s  tried and trusted SOTER®II Horizontal Lifeline System base plate, but is fully adaptable to a variety of roof constructions.

 

As set out in a very visual installation guide, these include reinforced concrete decks, composites, standing seam systems, all the popular types of trapezoidal roof profiles and even green roofs and historic buildings.  The installation work is recommended to be undertaken by an experienced roofing contractor, drilling down into the deck to use the appropriate fixing, such as concrete screws, stainless steel gravity toggles, chemical resin anchors or special rivets; but specifiers and building owners can be reassured that each base plate is rendered weatherproof as soon as it is secured in place.

 

The Highfix range was originally launched with a choice of either 30mm or 50mm diameter supports, but this has now been extended to include the 100 mm alternative, while the corrosion resistant base plates are also available in several formats, including with a PVC coated version.

 

Product Manager Scott Kelly commented:

“We have been able to design the Highfix support column to interface with the same multi-hole SOTER II base plate we use for our fall prevention systems.  And because of the engineering that went into ensuring it can withstand high, dynamic loads, it means the supports for solar panels can be spaced further apart; therefore requiring fewer components and bringing down the total cost across a project.

“Also, importantly, the multi-hole base plate has been designed so that the fixings will align perfectly with the crowns to 90% of the roofing profiles currently used in the UK.  This means they are likely to be the right fit for the majority of retrofit contracts.  Then the Highfix support is designed to connect directly with typical PV bracketry.”

 

As well as Focus document for the product SFS Group Fastening Technology Ltd is able to provide specifiers with full details on the technical standards the Highfix system complies with, as well as its suitability for different, project specific applications.  Thanks to the fixing specialist’s long experience of working with OEMs, the Highfix system also carries approvals from the UK’s leading membrane manufacturers including Sika, Protum and Bauder.

CLICK. HERE for further information from SFS

 

OR CALL 0330 0555888

 

 

 

 

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Gove receives warning letter from Steel Giant

 

By Mark Kleinman City editor of Sky News

 

ArcelorMittal has told Michael Gove it may be forced to “cease operations in Britain” unless he blocks the redevelopment of Chatham Docks in a letter obtained by Sky News.

The world’s second-largest steel company has warned the government that a planning verdict due this week could lead to a key division quitting the UK.

Sky News has seen a letter sent by ArcelorMittal to Michael Gove, the levelling-up secretary, in which it says that a decision to allow the closure and redevelopment of part of Chatham Docks would have “seismic adverse consequences… [for] the British economy and multiple strategic industries”.

In the letter from Matthew Brooks, who runs ArcelorMittal’s construction solutions arm in the UK, the company urges Mr Gove to issue an urgent order to allow fuller government scrutiny of the redevelopment proposals ahead of Wednesday’s decision by Medway Council.

“This is highly time-sensitive – calling in the application after next Wednesday will not be possible,” Mr Brooks wrote.

He warned that if the proposals were approved, ArcelorMittal would “regrettably be left with no alternative but to leave Chatham Docks and, more than likely, cease operations in Britain, given the lack of suitable alternative sites”.

“This, too, would likely be the case for the majority of businesses at the Docks,” Mr Brooks wrote.

“This would have a significant impact on Britain’s manufacturing and construction industries, delay countless critical national infrastructure projects, come at a significant cost to the economy, and leave Britain vulnerable and exposed to the volatility of international supply chain shocks.”

The application, submitted by Peel Waters, part of the industrial conglomerate Peel Group, would see the site used to build housing and commercial facilities in place of part of the docks.

It has already been recommended for approval by local planning officers, according to reports last week.

ArcelorMittal uses the site in Kent to transport materials produced by its construction materials arm.

If the application was approved, it warned, it would

“spell the end of Chatham Docks and have a significant impact on the UK reinforcement industry, leading to serious, potentially irreversible long-term harm, with immediate consequences for the resilience and carbon intensity of the sector”.

ArcelorMittal, which has operations in more than 60 countries, is an integrated steel and mining company, serving the automotive, construction, household appliances and packaging industries.

The company, which is based in Luxembourg, is chaired by Lakshmi Mittal, the Indian businessman.

It is a significant supplier of steels in Britain, and has been involved in construction projects such as Wembley Stadium, Crossrail and the O2 arena in southeast London.

“Our concern is that Peel’s application to redevelop Chatham Docks is not only wrong for Britain but has proceeded with little scrutiny and a lack of public awareness,” Mr Gove was told in the letter.

“Many key stakeholders are therefore unaware of the consequences if it were to proceed.

“As the largest operator in the Docks, we of course believe that the application should be rejected.

“However, our sole request today is for an Article 31 holding direction so you can secure the time to assess whether to call in this application for consideration at the national level.”

According to ArcelorMittal, Chatham Docks – which it described as “a 400-year-old thriving commercial port with a proud naval heritage” – employs nearly 800 people and generates economic value equivalent to £112,000 per worker, which it argued was “considerably higher than the Medway average of £63,900”.

“This is in direct contrast to proposals put forward by Peel, whose economic proposition is unclear,” Mr Brooks wrote.

He added that the redevelopment plan would spell the end for £20m of new investment with the potential to create nearly 2,000 jobs.

“However, none of this can be realised while there is uncertainty about the future of our lease on Chatham Docks,” Mr Brooks warned, adding that £5m of investment had “already been delayed by Peel’s application”.

Source: Sky News

 

 

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PREDICTING THE POWER OF TIDAL ENERGY

 

Tidal and wave energy may be the largest untapped resources of renewable energy on the planet. But will they work?

By a quirk of geography, the Orkney Islands, located off the northern tip of Scotland, are unusually well-positioned to bear witness to the ocean’s might. On the archipelago’s western shores, waves crash relentlessly against the rocks. And within its numerous channels, the tides push an enormous volume of water from the North Atlantic to the North Sea and back again, twice every day, squeezing between and around the islands of Rousay, Westray, Eday, and a myriad of other ones.

No wonder the European Marine Energy Center, one of the world’s leading agencies for developing and testing wave and tidal power technologies, chose to set up shop here; the nonprofit agency hosts both wave and tidal power testing facilities on Orkney.

EMEC’s wave-energy testing site is at Billia Croo, located on the western shore of Orkney’s largest island. On a relatively calm day last spring, Lisa MacKenzie, EMEC’s marketing and communications manager, surveyed the gray waters from the Billia Croo site. “We get an average of 2-to-3-meter wave height,” she said, or roughly 6.5 to 10 feet. “But we’ve had waves of over 20 meters” — more than 65 feet — during “really extreme conditions over the winter.”

The surrounding landscape is windswept and nearly treeless. Were one to sail directly west from this spot, “the first bit of land that you would hit is Canada,” MacKenzie said.

EMEC was founded in 2003 following a recommendation by the U.K. House of Commons Science and Technology Committee (now known as the Science, Innovation, and Technology Committee). To date, it has received about $53 million in public investment; its funders include the European Union, the U.K. government, the Scottish government, and the Orkney Islands Council. More than 20 corporate clients have used EMEC’s facilities, and more ocean energy converters have been tested at the center than at any other site in the world.

The Billia Croo facility opened in 2004 on land rented from a local farmer. An array of transformers, housed in green bins, each the size of a compact car, lines the perimeter of the site’s small parking lot. A modest stone-wall hut, which blends into the landscape, houses the facility’s control center and is filled with electronic switching equipment. The testing berths are offshore, where EMEC’s clients can test all manner of wave-energy conversion devices, with cables running along the seabed to the control hut. Any electricity produced can also be fed directly into the U.K. national grid.

Waves, like the wind that produces them, are not a constant; both are inherently variable. And they are linked: Wind imparts energy to the ocean, which then dissipates as waves over a longer time scale. As MacKenzie puts it, waves are the aftermath of wind.

Harnessing the energy of waves is one way to draw power from the oceans; another is to exploit the energy of the tides. Of the two energy sources, tidal is more constant, given the tides’ regular-as-clockwork response to the push and pull of the moon and sun.

EMEC runs a grid-connected tidal energy test facility located off the southern tip of Eday. “We get a peak tidal flow over 4 meters per second, which is about 8 knots,” MacKenzie said. “So about half a billion tons of water passes through there, every hour, at peak tide.”

As MacKenzie puts it, waves are the aftermath of wind.

And that flow is comparatively predictable — far more so than, say, wind or solar, which are stymied by calm or cloudy conditions.

“We can predict the tides 200 years into the future,” MacKenzie said. “Which means that we can predict how much power can be derived from the tides, 200 years into the future.”

There is no question that the planet’s oceans contain enormous amounts of energy. According to a 2021 study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society A, tidal stream energy alone could provide the equivalent of 11 percent of the U.K.’s annual electricity needs. Power from the oceans is “the largest untapped resource of renewable energy on the planet right now,” said Rémi Gruet, CEO of Ocean Energy Europe, the world’s largest network of ocean energy professionals.

The question is, can that energy be harnessed economically — or is the idea of pulling watts from the water doomed to be a mere sideshow in the quest for green energy? After decades of testing at tidal energy facilities like EMEC and other smaller-scale facilities around the globe, only a handful of commercial wave and tidal power facilities are online, and they contribute a minuscule amount to the world’s energy production. Even in Orkney, a leader in the quest to extract energy from the ocean, wave and tidal power account for just a fraction of the islands’ energy consumption.

“We can predict how much power can be derived from the tides, 200 years into the future.”

Notably, wave and tidal lag behind other forms of renewable energy. “It’s fair to say that we’re nowhere near a wind or solar industry at this point,” says Carrie Schmaus, a marine energy technology manager at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Water Power Technologies Office.

Still, for the technology’s supporters, the ocean is seen as a virtually limitless source of energy waiting to be tapped if only governments step up with the public investment needed to kick the industry into high gear. “There’s an energy resource there,” says Andrew Scott, CEO of Edinburgh-based Orbital Marine Power Ltd. “The question is, what are you prepared to pay to extract that energy?”

On paper, the power of the world’s oceans is indisputable: Tidal stream energy is estimated to represent a global resource of some 1,200 terawatt-hours (a terawatt is one trillion watts) per year, while wave power is even more abundant, adding up to almost 30,000 terawatt-hours per year — enough, in theory, to meet all of humanity’s energy needs 10 times over.

As promising as tidal and wave energy may seem, the list of obstacles to widespread adoption is significant: the formidable cost of scaling up the technology; bureaucratic hurdles; environmental concerns, including possible effects on fish and sea mammals; and, in the case of tidal power, geographical restrictions. There are also fears that rising sea levels could substantially alter ocean movements in a way that could impact current or planned tidal power facilities. In a 2022 paper published in the journal Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Danial Khojasteh and his co-authors noted that “long-term management decisions associated with harnessing the potential of tidal energy schemes within estuaries should be made with caution.”

The question of cost is paramount. Even though the cost of tidal and wave energy may be dropping, the cost of wind and solar are dropping even faster, said Brian Polagye, a University of Washington mechanical engineer who studies marine renewable energy. That means tidal and wave energy can be seen as succeeding and failing at the same time.

“Until your price comes down to the point where you’re competitive with other forms of generation — either because you’re directly competitive, or you’re being subsidized until you get to that point — the technologies really can’t take off,” Polagye said. Nonetheless, he added, “I do feel these are technologies that have a long-term role to play in our energy systems.”

Schmaus, at the Water Power Technologies Office, describes wave and tidal power as a nascent industry (as did others interviewed for this story). By way of comparison, she pointed out that in the early days of the wind power industry, all manner of turbine designs were tested. “And then, at some point, that technology converged,” she said. “Now we have the three-bladed turbine we all know and love. Marine energy is still in that ideation kind of area. We have not had technology convergence yet.”

For the technology’s supporters, the ocean is seen as a virtually limitless source of energy waiting to be tapped.

One of her department’s goals, she says, is to learn from small-scale demonstration projects, scale up designs, and bring down costs. This scaling-up is just what Scott’s Orbital Marine is trying to achieve in Orkney. They’re the company behind the O2 tidal stream energy generator — the world’s most powerful such device — located in the Fall of Warness, south of Eday, and connected to the grid via EMEC’s tidal energy test site. (MacKenzie described the project as “one of our biggest success stories.”) The O2 is a 240-foot-long structure shaped like a submarine (though it stays on the surface), with two submerged arms, each supporting a twin-bladed turbine. In an interview in a cavernous exhibition hall at the annual All-Energy conference in Glasgow last spring, and later by email, Scott spoke of his vision for the company and the potential of tidal stream power. He said that Orbital Marine hopes to add another six turbines to the Fall of Warness site over the next few years and, in time, perhaps another dozen.

Scott acknowledges the forbidding technical challenges — especially the difficulty of designing machinery that can withstand seawater’s salt and grime for months or years on end. And he has seen his share of unrealistic proposals over the years. At times “it was a bit of a joke,” he recalled. People saw how much traction wind energy was getting, he says and figured wind’s success could be readily duplicated beneath the waves.

“People would say, ‘Just go and ‘marinize’ it, and it will be equally successful in the tidal application,” he continued. “It was as naïve as that.”

But many of those early challenges have been overcome, Scott said. He noted that O2 is currently providing about 10 percent of Orkney’s electricity, enough to power about 2,000 homes. Because the islands are sparsely populated and rich in wind energy, Orkney actually produces more energy than is needed locally, which means the islands are already a net contributor to the U.K. grid — and some of that energy comes from O2. Scott said he foresees Orbital Marine generating about $17.5 million from electricity sales per year over the turbine array’s projected 20-year life.

“We’re effectively at that critical stage where we start to grow commercial revenues and profits,” Scott said.

SOURCE: Inverse

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Olivine Minerals: Making Waves in Concrete

Olivine a primary component of the Earth’s upper mantle, it is a common mineral in Earth’s subsurface

In our ongoing quest for sustainability, innovative solutions like olivine-based cement are making waves in the construction industry. With a unique ability to transform traditional cement into an environmentally friendly material, the use of olivine not only opens a pathway to carbon-negative concrete but also presents a robust approach to global manufacturing and resource sustainability.

Impact of Traditional Cement Production

Before delving into the groundbreaking benefits of olivine in cement production, it’s crucial to grasp the environmental footprint of traditional cement manufacturing. Widely recognized as one of the significant contributors to global carbon dioxide emissions, traditional cement production involves two primary emission sources: burning fossil fuels to heat raw materials and calcinating limestone to produce clinker.

The conventional cement-making process releases substantial amounts of CO2 directly from the energy used in production and indirectly from the chemical processes involved. As global demand for construction materials escalates, the environmental impact of these processes becomes increasingly untenable.

Problems Arising from Traditional Cement Production

The environmental challenges traditional cement production presents are multifaceted, impacting the atmosphere and the broader ecological and human health domains.

Air Quality and Health Concerns

One of the immediate effects of traditional cement production is the degradation of air quality, which results from the release of particulate matter, CO2, and other greenhouse gases during the manufacturing process. These pollutants contribute to respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and other health issues among populations living near cement plants.

Resource Depletion

Traditional cement production is resource-intensive, relying heavily on limestone and other finite natural resources. The extraction of these materials not only depletes natural reserves but also causes significant landscape disruption, biodiversity loss, and soil erosion.

Energy Consumption

Traditional methods of producing cement are energy-intensive, primarily due to the high temperatures required for calcining limestone to form clinker. This not only leads to substantial CO2 emissions but also places a heavy demand on energy resources, compounding the industry’s environmental footprint.

Each of these issues highlights the urgent need for innovations like olivine-based cement, which promises to address these environmental challenges by transforming how cement is produced and reducing its overall ecological impact.

Olivine for Carbon-Negative Concrete

Enter olivine, a naturally abundant mineral that might just hold the key to revolutionizing cement production. Researchers from Imperial College London have discovered that integrating products derived from olivine into cement mixtures can drastically reduce—and even reverse—the carbon footprint of concrete.

The Scientific Breakthrough

In a study published in the journal Royal Society Open Science, the team detailed a novel method where olivine is used to replace clinker, the traditional binder in cement. This substitution is not merely a direct swap; it’s a transformative upgrade. Olivine reacts with carbon dioxide to form nesquehonite during the cement’s curing process, effectively sequestering CO2 and potentially turning the cement mixture carbon-neutral or even carbon-negative.

Practical Applications and Strengths

The added benefits of olivine extend beyond its carbon capture capabilities. The resultant concrete is more durable and stronger than traditional formulations. This enhancement in strength and durability does not compromise the material’s integrity, making it a superior choice for various construction applications.

Olivine in Cement Production: A Path to Worldwide Change

The integration of olivine into global cement production holds promising potential for systemic change in construction practices, leading to significant environmental and structural benefits on a global scale.

Scaling Production and Technological Challenges

For olivine to become a cornerstone of global cement production, several technological and logistical hurdles must be overcome. First, the extraction and processing of olivine must be optimized to meet global demands without compromising the environmental benefits it offers. This involves developing more efficient methods of mining and processing olivine, ensuring that the environmental footprint of these activities is minimized.

Infrastructure Adaptation and Industrial Readiness

Introducing olivine into the cement production process on a global scale requires substantial adjustments in existing manufacturing infrastructures. Cement plants worldwide would need to adapt their operations to incorporate the olivine-based processes, which might include modifications in machinery, personnel training, and the development of new operational guidelines aimed at maximizing the efficiency and environmental benefits of olivine use.

Policy Framework and Incentivization

Governments and international bodies can play a critical role in facilitating the transition to olivine-based cement production through policy measures and incentives. These might include subsidies for research and development in green cement technologies, tax incentives for manufacturers to switch to environmentally friendly practices, and international agreements aimed at reducing carbon emissions from construction materials.

Global Impact and Environmental Benefits

By replacing clinker with olivine in cement production, the industry could significantly cut down on greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to global carbon sequestration efforts. This shift not only helps mitigate climate change but also promotes sustainability in one of the most resource-intensive industries. Additionally, the enhancement in the durability and strength of concrete made with olivine means longer-lasting construction projects, reduced maintenance costs, and lower resource consumption over time.

The successful global adoption of olivine-based cement could mark a pivotal shift towards sustainable development in construction, with profound implications for environmental conservation, economic development, and human well-being worldwide. As the concrete industry evolves, olivine stands out as a beacon of hope, promising a greener, more resilient future for global infrastructure.

China’s Cement and Carbon Neutrality

As the largest producer of cement worldwide, China plays a pivotal role in the potential global impact of olivine-based cement. A study by the Chinese Academy of Sciences documents the country’s significant stride towards carbon neutrality in cement production, highlighting advances in carbon capture within the cement industry.

Carbon Sink Potential

The research emphasizes the carbon sink ability of cement materials—alkaline compounds in the cement that absorb CO2 through mineral carbonation. From 1930 to 2021, China’s cement carbon sink capacity grew substantially, demonstrating a viable method of offsetting a portion of the emissions associated with cement production.

Quantifying China’s Contribution to Global Carbon Sequestration in Cement

Quantifying the impact of China’s contributions towards global cement carbon sequestration reveals that their efforts are significant and set benchmarks in environmental sustainability. According to a comprehensive study by the Chinese Academy of Sciences published in Science China Earth Sciences, from 1930 to 2021, China’s cement industry absorbed a remarkable amount of CO2, amounting to approximately 7.06 gigatons.

A Closer Look at the Numbers

This absorption rate translates to about 426.77 million tons of CO2 per year by 2021, which is equivalent to 2.51%–4.54% of the global terrestrial carbon sink. These figures underline a substantial contribution, considering the global pressures of carbon emissions from various industrial sectors. Furthermore, the cumulative carbon sequestration by China’s cement from historical and ongoing production measures has impressively offset about 50.7% of the total emissions produced by the cement industry over the years.

With such a large share of the global cement output originating from China, their progressive approach to carbon capturing in cement materials not only aids national environmental strategies but also contributes significantly to global efforts in reducing atmospheric CO2. This pivotal role showcases the potential impact that implementing similar measures on a global scale could have, underscoring the vital link between industrial processes and environmental stewardship.

Policy Implications and Future Directions

The integration of olivine into cement offers more than an industrial modification; it requires a strategic shift in both policy and practice. For industries to adopt this revolutionary product, supportive measures such as incentives for low-carbon technologies, enhancements in green production methods, and international cooperation in carbon accounting methodologies are imperative.

Driving Innovation and Sustainability

Encouraging the adoption of olivine-based cement through subsidies, tax incentives, or funding for research and development could accelerate its market entry and acceptance. Moreover, establishing international standards for carbon-negative building materials could facilitate more widespread adoption, propelling the construction industry toward a more sustainable future.

Olivine’s Future of Carbon-Negative Concrete

The advent of olivine in cement production represents a significant leap forward in the quest for environmental sustainability. By transforming one of the most carbon-intensive industries into a leader in carbon capture, this innovation not only promises a greener future but also sets a benchmark in the global shift towards sustainable manufacturing. As we continue to explore and implement these advanced materials, the potential for a truly sustainable construction industry becomes ever more tangible.

Exploring this technologically promising field further will continue to unravel more benefits and possibly pave the way for a global standard in durable and environmentally conscious building materials. As industries and policymakers alike aim for carbon neutrality, the role of innovative materials such as carbon-negative concrete will be crucial in shaping our world’s infrastructure without compromising the health of our planet.

 

Source: Intelligent Living

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