DNV has released its 'Energy Transition Outlook', which notes that 2024 will go down as the year of peak energy emissions

Energy-related emissions are at the cusp of a prolonged period of decline for the first time since the industrial revolution. Emissions are set to almost halve by 2050, but this is a long way short of requirements of the Paris Agreement. The Outlook forecasts the planet will warm by 2.2 °C by end of the century.

The peaking of emissions is largely due to plunging costs of solar and batteries which are accelerating the exit of coal from the energy mix and stunting the growth of oil. Annual solar installations increased 80% last year as it beat coal on cost in many regions. Cheaper batteries, which dropped 14% in cost last year, are also making the 24-hour delivery of solar power and electric vehicles more affordable. The uptake of oil was limited as electrical vehicles sales grew by 50%. In China, where both of these trends were especially pronounced, peak gasoline is now in the past.

China is dominating much of the global action on decarbonisation at present, particularly in the production and export of clean technology. It accounted for 58% of global solar installations and 63% of new electrical vehicle purchases last year. And whilst it remains the world’s largest consumer of coal and emitter of CO2, its dependence on fossil fuels is set to fall rapidly as it continues to install solar and wind. China is the dominating exporter of green technologies although international tariffs are making their goods more expensive in some territories.

“Solar PV and batteries are driving the energy transition, growing even faster than we previously forecasted,” said Remi Eriksen, group president and CEO of DNV. “Emissions peaking is a milestone for humanity. But we must now focus on how quickly emissions decline and use the available tools to accelerate the energy transition. Worryingly, our forecasted decline is very far from the trajectory required to meet the Paris Agreement targets. In particular, the hard-to-electrify sectors need a renewed policy push.”

Striking shifts in energy mix

The success of solar and batteries is not replicated in the hard-to-abate sectors, where essential technologies are scaling slowly. DNV has revised the long-term forecast for hydrogen and its derivatives down by 20% (from 5% to 4% of final energy demand in 2050) since last year. And although DNV has revised up its carbon capture and storage forecast, only 2% of global emissions will be captured by CCS in 2040 and 6% in 2050. A global carbon price would accelerate the uptake of these technologies.

Wind remains an important driver of the energy transition, contributing to 28% of electricity generation by 2050. In the same timeframe, offshore wind will experience 12% annual growth rate although the current headwinds impacting the industry are weighing on growth.

Despite these challenges, the peaking of emissions is a sign that the energy transition is progressing. The energy mix is moving from a roughly 80/20 mix in favour of fossil fuels today, to one which is split equally between fossil and non-fossil fuels by 2050. In the same timeframe, electricity use will double, which is also at the driver of energy demand only increasing 10%.

“There is a growing mismatch between short term geopolitical and economic priorities versus the need to accelerate the energy transition. There is a compelling green dividend on offer which should give policymakers the courage to not only double down on renewable technologies, but to tackle the expensive and difficult hard-to-electrify sectors with firm resolve,” added Eriksen

The Outlook also examines the impact of artificial intelligence on the energy transition. AI will have a profound impact on many aspects of the energy system, particularly for the transmission and distribution of power. And although data points are currently sparse, DNV does not forecast that the energy footprint of AI will alter the overall direction of the transition. It will account for 2% of electricity demand by 2050.

*CO2 emissions from the combustion of coal, oil and gas

Leading motor, drive, and gearbox manufacturer WEG is set to play a key role in one of the largest water transmission projects in the Middle East.

WEG will provide a complete package of motors, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and transformers to support the new water infrastructure, which will deliver water between two of the region’s biggest cities.

The large-scale water transmission system presents significant challenges, with extreme temperatures and environmental conditions. The customer required a holistic solution that includes transformers, water-cooled VFDs, and motors with power ratings up to 9.1 MW to power the pumps within the system.

The MVW01 VFDs with water cooling, a specific requirement for this project, are equipped with an electric panel featuring a new thermal dissipation design that allows for greater power output. The VFDs also include a user-friendly 10-inch touchscreen HMI, simplifying programming and monitoring of key operational parameters. By controlling the process speed efficiently, the VFDs reduce energy consumption, operation and maintenance costs, and the overall total cost of ownership (TCO).

The phase-shifting transformers in the package offer complete isolation, reducing common-mode voltage stress on the motor and lowering harmonics on the power supply. Oil-type transformers were selected to meet the project’s outdoor installation needs. Designed with a step-lap-type magnetic core, the transformers optimise noise levels and keep exciting current low, while their rugged construction can handle short circuit stresses. In addition, the external coatings protect the transformers against harsh environmental conditions.

WEG also provided water-cooled W60 MV motors, which are built to deliver excellent performance under aggressive operating conditions, including extreme ambient temperatures. These motors are designed for industrial applications such as compressors, pumps, and fans. They are both efficient and modular, allowing for different cooling configurations.

“Water transmission systems are a crucial part of critical infrastructure and require specialised equipment that is both robust and reliable to ensure that they run effectively and safely. This can be a particular challenge in harsh outdoor environments,” said Alla Aldrras, HVS development sales manager for HVS Motors & Drives. “We’ve drawn on our experience of developing solutions for the water industry globally to offer a holistic package to meet the customer’s needs, and thanks to our facilities in Brazil, we are able to deliver this well within the project schedule.”

According to a recent State of Technology in Manufacturing survey by global technology intelligence firm ABI Research, Extended Reality (XR) technologies, such as smart glasses and VR headsets, are at a similar stage of development as digital twins, machine vision, and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enhanced devices among industrial and manufacturing operators.

Of the over 460 respondents from various roles in discrete and process manufacturing, 68% indicated some level of XR consideration, while 32% were at different stages of actual implementation.

“The value of XR to organizations has been known for years, especially in areas like training, remote workforce enablement, and collaboration. However, the barriers to that value have also been well-known and remain. Device cost, integration concerns, and confusion around offerings are most common,” says Eric Abbruzzese, research director with ABI Research.

The survey revealed that many companies are currently evaluating XR suppliers, with 30% already at some stage of deployment, ranging from creating implementation programs (10%) to having completed XR integration across all relevant areas (2%). This pattern mirrors other digital transformation technologies, particularly during the evaluation stages. However, XR is more frequently considered for adoption over the next 12-24 months rather than being actively implemented in Proofs of Concept (PoC) or undergoing supplier evaluation compared to other technologies.

Challenges

Improving equipment performance and quality levels was another key priority for respondents. While XR is still in the early stages of adoption, it has demonstrated benefits in areas such as remote maintenance, interactive training, and knowledge capture and sharing. Nevertheless, significant barriers around people and processes remain. The survey identified a lack of time for planning and a general lack of expertise in XR as key obstacles, alongside difficulties in articulating needs from solutions and a lack of clear Return on Investment (ROI). These issues are further complicated by fragmented platform offerings and a rapidly changing XR landscape.

“The XR market has seen plenty of ups and downs over the past decade, which has hindered trust and understanding in the market despite proven value. A lack of clarity among available platforms and paths to market hold back potential adoption. However, the growth of related digital transformation technologies, especially digital twins and machine vision, is a boon for XR and vice versa. Over time, a more holistic view of visual workforce enablement will take hold, rather than a focus on individual technologies, and XR will be an increasing portion of that offering,” concludes Abbruzzese.

These insights come from ABI Research’s Industrial and Manufacturing Survey 1H 2024: Extended Reality (XR) report, which is part of the company’s Extended Reality (XR) Technologies research service, including research, data, and ABI Insights.

Bentley Systems, a leading provider of infrastructure engineering software, has announced the winners of its 2024 Going Digital Awards.

These annual awards recognise outstanding achievements by infrastructure professionals who are utilising Bentley software to enhance the design, construction, and operation of infrastructure projects.

This year saw 250 projects submitted by organisations from 36 countries. A panel of independent judges selected the winners from 36 finalists across 12 categories during Bentley’s Year in Infrastructure event, held on October 8-9 in Vancouver, Canada.

“This year, we received an impressive variety of submissions for the Going Digital Awards from users across the globe, showcasing groundbreaking projects that exemplify the future of infrastructure,” said Kristin Fallon, chief marketing officer at Bentley Systems. “Today, we celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our finalists and winners. These visionary teams demonstrate the power of going digital across the infrastructure lifecycle to improve project delivery and asset performance.”

The winners

Bridges and Tunnels
JMT – Digital Experience for I-95 Rappahannock River Crossing Construction Project

Construction
Proicere Ltd. – SPRS Retreatment (SRP) Sellafield

Enterprise Engineering
Mott MacDonald and HDR – Ontario Line

Facilities, Campuses, and Cities
China ENFI Engineering Co., Ltd. – Digital Construction Project of Comprehensive Waste Management Facilities in Xiong’an New Area

Process and Power Generation
PowerChina Zhongnan Engineering Corporation Limited – Shandong Energy Group Bozhong Offshore Wind Farm Site A Project

Rail and Transit
SPL Powerlines UK – Midland Main Line Electrification

Roads and Highways
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) – Digital Twin Implementation for NLEX-SLEX Connector Road Project

Structural Engineering
Hyundai Engineering – New Physical Modeling Method for Plant Steel Structures Using STAAD API

Surveying and Monitoring
Water Supplies Department – Digital Twin of the Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir

Subsurface Modeling and Analysis
Spark and WSP – North East Link Central Package

Transmission and Distribution
Southwest Electric Power Design Institute Co., Ltd. of China Power Engineering Consulting Group – Butuo ±800-kV Converter Station

Water and Wastewater
Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de São Paulo – Sabesp – Integra 4.0

Niftylift is at the forefront in the mobile elevated work platform (MEWP) sector, offering some of the most fuel-efficient diesel-powered equipment, as well as hybrid and fully electric models.

Recently, it introduced the world’s first hydrogen-electric-powered access platforms – the HR15 H₂E and HR17 H₂E – marking a breakthrough in zero-emission construction in the Middle East.

"When powered by renewable energy, Niftylift’s fully electric platforms provide a dependable zero-emission solution for a wide range of urban jobsites. However, we recognise that not all projects, especially those in remote locations, have access to grid power for charging. This is where the hydrogen fuel cell comes into play. By adding it on top of the electric system, we offer a versatile and practical solution that’s viable for virtually any jobsite," explains Thomas Hadden, global technical sales manager at Niftylift.

The HR15 H₂E and HR17 H₂E can run for up to five days on batteries alone, with the hydrogen system doubling this range. Even with daily use, the hydrogen cylinder only needs replacing every two to three weeks. These boom lifts integrate hydrogen technology seamlessly, maintaining Niftylift's renowned low weight and compact design while emitting only water vapour and heat as by-products. This makes them ideal for both urban and remote sites, aligning with the region’s sustainability goals.

Johnson Arabia became the first rental company in the region to acquire a Niftylift HR15 H₂E, impressed by its performance during a demonstration. The company also added 19 fully electric units to its fleet. The HR15 H₂E is now operational on a high-profile UAE construction site, delivering zero emissions without downtime for refuelling or recharging.

Growth in the Middle East

Niftylift sees strong potential in the Middle East, driven by the focus on sustainability and safety in construction. “We’ve seen an ever-increasing growth for Niftylift products in the region even given the fierce market competition,” says Thomas. “This surge in demand is largely due to the heightened awareness of safety standards in the region and we are internationally renowned at Niftylift for our advanced safety features, such as SiOPS (sustained involuntary operation prevention system), load-sensing, and tilt-sensing technologies.”

To support growing demand, Niftylift is establishing a regional office in Dubai, serving as a hub for direct sales and support for key account rental companies. This will strengthen its partnerships in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, and expand its customer base in Saudi Arabia, a key growth market.

Niftylift also maintains close relationships with customers through regular face-to-face meetings and participation in industry events, including sponsorship of the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) Middle East Conference 2024 in Riyadh.

“The Middle East’s transition to a sustainable future hinges on innovative technologies, such as hydrogen-electric equipment,” Thomas concludes. “As a leader in this field, we at Niftylift are committed to empowering the region’s construction industry to achieve ambitious decarbonisation goals.

Alkhorayef Water and Power Technologies Company has secured a US$10.5mn contract from the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA) for the operation and maintenance (O&M) of water and sewage treatment plants at land ports.

The contract covers the operation, maintenance, and cleaning of water stations, wastewater treatment plants, and their related accessories, the company announced in a statement to the Saudi stock exchange on Tuesday.

Zawya Projects reported that the positive financial impact of the contract will begin reflecting in Alkhorayef's results in the first quarter of 2025.

Earlier this month, ZATCA and the National Centre for Privatisation & PPP (NCP) also launched the tendering process for customs warehouses through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has released its latest white paper on green hydrogen, produced in collaboration with key industry stakeholders such as KROHNE.

The document highlights the importance of measurement and standards in successfully integrating green hydrogen as a sustainable fuel source.

The white paper outlines several key areas:

Measurement and Standards: The report stresses that robust measurement and standardisation are crucial for ensuring the reliability and efficiency of green hydrogen production and usage. Accurate metrics are necessary for optimising processes and building trust among stakeholders.

Industry Collaboration: Input from companies like KROHNE underscores the need for collaboration across industries to establish a comprehensive framework for green hydrogen, addressing the unique challenges each sector faces in adopting this fuel source.

Decarbonisation Goals: Green hydrogen is poised to play a pivotal role in the global energy transition, particularly in sectors that are harder to decarbonise. The white paper details strategies for overcoming technological and policy barriers to widespread adoption, discussed during New York Climate Week in September 2024.

Future Outlook: IRENA’s white paper offers a roadmap for scaling up green hydrogen production and integrating it into existing energy systems. It calls for immediate action to unlock the potential of this sustainable fuel.

KROHNE, a member of the Alliance for Industry Decarbonisation since 2023, continues to support global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Alliance, facilitated by IRENA, emphasises the importance of reliable measurement and standards in achieving decarbonisation goals. KROHNE’s expertise in measurement technology positions it as a vital contributor to these efforts.

Through strategic partnerships and research initiatives, KROHNE aims to support the transition toward net-zero emissions by driving innovation in green hydrogen solutions.

Dicode Technologies (Dicode) has announced a strategic partnership with Australian Internet of Things (IoT) provider X2M Connect Limited (X2M) at WETEX, with plans to introduce X2M’s advanced utility platform to the Middle East, starting in the UAE.

 The “pay as you go” model offers gas companies a cost-effective way to modernise their infrastructure using IoT technology with zero upfront capital expenditure (Capex).

The partnership aims to transform the UAE's gas sector by offering a complete end-to-end solution, designed to help companies shift from a Capex to an operational expenditure (Opex) model.

Increasing safety

The service is delivered through a “Platform as a Service (PaaS)” model and includes smart gas meters, LoRaWAN communications powered by Digital DEWA’s InfraX, and X2M’s patented IoT software solution.

The X2M software provides key benefits, such as being device-agnostic, allowing compatibility with a variety of smart meters and sensors. It supports multiple utilities, including gas, water, and electricity, facilitating broader integration and operational efficiency.

With compatibility across various communication protocols, such as Zigbee, WISUN, Modbus, LoRaWAN, NBIoT, and LTE, the platform ensures seamless connectivity. It also includes leak detection features, improving safety and reliability by identifying and preventing leaks.

The software offers flexible deployment options, either on the edge, on-premises, or in the cloud, making it adaptable to different business needs. It can easily integrate with any Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system for smooth operational transitions.

Additionally, the platform supports AI-driven analytics, delivering real-time data to help gas companies make smarter, more informed decisions.

X2M CEO and MD Mohan Jesudason, said, “We like the digitisation landscape in the Middle East with the UAE being a very logical entry point. X2M has built a strong working partnership with Dicode over a period of time. We are now looking forward to taking our proprietary utility solutions into this market in collaboration with the Dicode team.”

Dicode co-founder and CEO, Satish Chandran, said, “In line with Dicode’s vision of helping Gas Utilities migrate to smart infrastructure, we are proud to enter into partnership with X2M. X2M’s advanced software is a pivotal piece of our PaaS offering. The versatility of X2M software and its on-ground experience will help us rapidly scale the UAE market.”

Wialon, the global fleet management and IoT platform developed by European software company Gurtam, is set to showcase its capabilities at GITEX Global 2024.

As part of the event, Wialon will host a comprehensive Fleet Management Hub alongside telematics service providers, hardware manufacturers, and connectivity providers. The platform, known for its extensive reach, recently announced that it has connected over 4 million vehicles across 160 countries, further cementing its position as one of the world’s largest platforms in the fleet management sector.

Wialon serves a wide range of industries by connecting, tracking, and monitoring various types of vehicles and assets, from heavy goods and light commercial vehicles to public buses, agricultural machinery, and construction equipment.

The platform works closely with more than 2,700 partner companies globally, most of which are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Wialon provides these companies with cutting-edge fleet management technology and integrations, including support for over 3,500 device models, allowing them to optimise operations without high development costs.

As fleet management evolves, Wialon is positioned at the forefront of major trends reshaping the sector in the Middle East. These trends include the growing use of telematics and IoT to enhance operational efficiency, the shift towards electric vehicle adoption in line with sustainability goals like the UAE Vision 2021 and Saudi Vision 2030, and the increasing role of AI and big data in predictive maintenance and route optimization.

At GITEX 2024, Wialon will introduce its new Task Manager feature, which aims to streamline fleet operations by creating dedicated workflows for alerts and notifications. This new tool will help fleet managers assign tasks, track incidents, and improve response times, ensuring better oversight and accountability for fleet operations.

“GITEX Global is a pivotal platform for Wialon, allowing us to showcase our commitment to innovation and our role in shaping the future of fleet management. With over 4 million vehicles connected worldwide, we’re dedicated to delivering scalable solutions that empower businesses—both large and small—to optimise their operations and meet the demands of a rapidly evolving market. At this year’s event, we’re excited to demonstrate how our technology drives efficiency, sustainability, and growth across diverse industries, ultimately transforming the way fleets operate,” said Aliaksandr Kuushynau, head of Wialon.