28 9 月, 2022

NEC Launches North American Innovation Hub for Open RAN

TOKYO, Sep 28, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - NEC Corporation (TSE: 6701) has created a North American 5G innovation unit in New Providence, New Jersey, to expand product development and cater to the growing global demand for Open RAN solutions. The new entity, NEC Advanced Networks, was born out of the company's recent acquisition of Blue Danube Systems, Inc., and provides a critical base of operations for the company's product innovations and solutions delivery activities.NEC Advanced Networks is led by Rahul Chandra, a longtime technology and business development leader in the telecommunications industry. "We know that the demand for Open RAN-compliant networks and solutions is going to continue growing," Chandra said. "We have aggressive plans to deliver Open RAN solutions all over the world - and bulking up our presence in North America helps customers by increasing our footprint in the Western Hemisphere and expanding our reach by leveraging the robust talent pool at our disposal."Using the former Blue Danube resources to create a center of innovation and product development is an important advancement as NEC continues its push for Open RAN 5G solutions built on multi-vendor ecosystems. NEC Advanced Networks will drive developments in the Radio Unit business, at first, with a focus on spectrum optimization and AI/ML-based massive MIMO products. These are areas of significant expertise within the existing team. This hub expands NEC's capabilities and will be a focal point for future expansion as the market matures.Chandra continued, "Adding resources in the Eastern US helps us serve our customers better and work closely with our ecosystem partners. It also provides us a stable platform to build from as demand for Open RAN-compliant products and solutions grows exponentially over the coming years."Mayuko Tatewaki, NEC's senior vice president for 5G strategy and business, said, "NEC aims to be a global leader in Open RAN 5G and we've recently made significant progress, building off several important project wins with Tier 1 operators in Europe, including key achievements with Orange and VMO2."Tatewaki continued, "As the Open RAN market rapidly grows, we need to expand our presence to achieve global goals. The industry shift to Open RAN is a large undertaking - given our focus on providing solutions and system integration services, creating a home base for Open RAN 5G resources in the US will help us better serve the global market."About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of "Orchestrating a brighter world." NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at www.nec.com. Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

15 7 月, 2022

Malaysia Witnesses 31% YoY Hiring Growth

Retail and Tourism roles drive high demand: Monster Employment Index Overall hiring improved by 31 per cent on a year-on-year basis Retail led with triple-digit growth of 321% annually in the Malaysian job market Demand for professionals across Hospitality and Travel roles surged as tourism bounces back in the country KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA, July 15, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The Malaysian job market has recorded a 31% growth in job demand this June indicating a spree in hiring activity on an annual basis. A number of segments hit hardest by Covid-19 have shown promising signs of resurgence, as per the Monster Employment Index (MEI). An upsurge of 15% was registered for hiring activity over the last six months, while month-on-month growth improved at 5% projecting a continuous demand in the job market. Despite two years of restriction on public activities, rising prices, and the current labour crisis, the retail industry in Malaysia has moved towards recovery with a 321% year-on-year growth in job activity in June 2022. Moreover, retail sales in the country are projected to grow at the rate of 25.7% in the current quarter as per Malaysian retail associations. While the country has seen a number of retail closures over the pandemic, consumer sentiments soar high showcasing a positive outlook for this segment in the months to come. Commenting on job trends for June 2022, Sekhar Garisa, CEO, Monster.com - APAC & Gulf said, "Companies today are ramping up their demand for a digital-first future-ready workforce amidst the ongoing talent crunch we see globally. Jobs in Malaysia have come back and several industries have begun to almost reflect pre-pandemic business functioning with steadfast recovery especially across deeply impacted segments like Tourism, Hospitality, and Retail. With flexible work arrangements gaining popularity in the job market, we are optimistic to see continued growth and resilience in the coming months." Following retail, the Hospitality segment (up 65 percent) has also seen a huge inflow of demand for professionals in tourism and travel related industries with the user penetration rate nearing the pre-pandemic levels. With improved business sentiments and airline travel ramping up, tourism in the country has certainly picked up accompanied by the consequent rise in demand for skilled talent. Logistic, Courier/ Freight/ Transportation, Shipping/ Marine (up 51 percent) also noted a huge jump in hiring activity being next in the rung, followed by rapid digitization in BFSI (up 32 percent). Other sectors that noted promising growth in June include Production/Manufacturing, Automotive and Ancillary (up 4 percent), IT, Telecom/ISP, BPO/ITES (up 5 percent), Advertising, Market Research, Public Relations, Media and Entertainment (up 16 percent) and Engineering, Construction and Real Estate (up 19 percent). Across roles, the Malaysian job market exhibited maximum demand for professionals in Hospitality & Travel (up 162 percent) driven by travel resumption from neighbouring countries coupled with strong domestic tourism. Interestingly, all 9 functions monitored by the Index saw positive growth over the course of June 2022 projecting a great demand influx for the market. Given the impressive performance of retail, roles in Customer Service (up 79 percent) increased, followed by Software, Hardware, Telecom (up 58 percent). Finance & Accounts (up 52 percent) and Sales & Business Development (up 41 percent) also observed a rise. The Monster Employment Index is a broad monthly analysis of online job posting activity conducted by Monster India. Based on a real-time review of millions of employer job opportunities culled from a large, representative selection of online career outlets, the Monster Employment Index presents a snapshot of employer online recruitment activity nationwide. Period for the report The period considered for the MEI data is 1st to 30th June 2022. About Monster APAC & Middle East Monster (a Quess Company), the leading online career and recruitment resource, with its cutting-edge technology provides relevant profiles to employers and jobs to jobseekers across industry verticals, experience levels, and geographies. More than 200 million people have registered on the Monster Worldwide network. Today, with operations in more than 40 countries, Monster provides the widest and most sophisticated job seeking, career management, recruitment, and talent management capabilities globally. Monster continues its pioneering work of transforming the recruiting industry with advanced technology using intelligent digital, social and mobile solutions, and a vast array of products and services. To learn more about Monster in APAC & Gulf, visit: www.monsterindia.com | www.monstergulf.com | www.monster.com.sg | www.monster.com.my | www.monster.com.ph | www.monster.com.hk Contact: Yatharth Sharma yatharth.sharma@monsterindia.com Silky Sharma silky.sharma@adfactorspr.com Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

30 5 月, 2022

Hitachi Astemo Miyagi Plant commences mass production of EV inverters to meet increasing demand

TOKYO, May 30, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Hitachi Astemo, Ltd. today announced the start of mass production of electric vehicle inverters at its Miyagi No.4 Plant, located in Murata, Miyagi Prefecture, to meet the increasing demand for electrification products.Hitachi Astemo Miyagi No.4 PlantThere is increasing demand for electric vehicles globally due to the eminent role they play in achieving carbon neutral and carbon emissions reduction targets set by governments. To meet this increasing demand, Hitachi Astemo has expanded its production capabilities and product line-up of core components for electric vehicles, such as motors and inverters, through the establishment of manufacturing subsidiaries and the four company integration which was completed in January 2021. To date, Hitachi Astemo had manufactured electric vehicle motors and inverters, a core component that controls the operation of the power generator, at its plant in Kakuda, Miyagi Prefecture. However, to further expand production capabilities, Hitachi Astemo has decided to commence mass production of these products at its Miyagi No.4 Plant in Murata, Miyagi Prefecture, which was newly built in March 2021.Hitachi Astemo is committed to providing advanced mobility solutions that contribute to improving safety and comfort, and environmental conservation. By doing so, we contribute to creating a more sustainable society and value for our OEM customers.About Hitachi Astemo, Ltd.Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Hitachi Astemo is a joint venture between Hitachi, Ltd. and Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Hitachi Astemo is a technology company that develops, manufactures, sells and services automotive and transportation components, as well as industrial machinery and systems. For more information, visit the company's website at https://www.hitachiastemo.com/en/. Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

14 3 月, 2022

Stay Ahead in LNG Business with Infocus International

Singapore, Mar 14, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Infocus International Group has relaunched the best rated LNG Supply, Demand, Pricing & Trading online training and it will be commencing live on the 1st June 2022. 2021 has been a year of recovery for LNG demand as governments of importing countries have relaxed some of the restrictions imposed in response to the Covid-19 pandemic and economic recovery has started. However, the growth in LNG supply has been curtailed by unscheduled maintenance at some of the world's liquefaction plants and by shortfalls in feedgas supply at others. The result has been a tightening of the supply demand balance causing LNG and natural gas prices to surge reaching over $25/MMBtu in September 2021. It is a very different market to 2020, when demand fell because of the pandemic and supply increased as output built up from liquefaction trains commissioned in 2019 and the first half of 2020, which led to LNG and natural gas prices in Asia and Europe declining to $2/MMBtu in the middle of the year. At this level, prices were below the short-run marginal cost of US LNG exports and around 180 US cargoes were cancelled.Energy transition has brought increased demands for the LNG business to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in all parts of the LNG chain from natural gas production through to the combustion of regasified LNG in downstream markets. It raises questions over LNG's role in the long-term energy supply. Will demand increase as natural gas replaces coal in power generation and is used as a back-up fuel for renewables or will natural gas be seen as a fossil fuel whose consumption has to be reduced if targets of net zero carbon emissions are to be met?The online course will, over six sessions, provide an overview of the LNG business in 2022 with a commercial focus but technology and shipping will also be covered. It will consider the outlook for the business over the period to 2040 in terms of markets, sources of supply, pricing and trading and the response to energy transition. It is designed not only for newcomers to LNG but also those who want to refresh their knowledge or who have experience in one part of the business or one region and want to widen their knowledge.Past attendee from the Ministry of Petroleum shared, "Good, interesting and useful for my work. Taking into account an LNG plant that is being built in my country.""Thank you for the fruitful training course which I really appreciated. Everything was excellent. Training materials were well prepared and up to date," said the past attendee from Petroleum Institute of Thailand.Check out the LNG online course new agenda at www.infocusinternational.com/lng-online. Course Sessions:- LNG value chain in 2022- Safety, shipping and current status of the LNG business- LNG markets and terminals- LNG shipping and supply- Acquiring LNG supply and LNG pricing- LNG contracts and LNG spot and short-term tradingBenefits of Attending:- Understand LNG chain technologies, costs, economics and safety- Appreciate how the LNG business is changing and the implications for those working in the business- Gain insights into LNG pricing and how it is evolving- Acquire in-depth knowledge of world LNG markets and supply sources- Assess the increasing role of spot and short-term tradingWant to learn more?Simply email emilia@infocusevent.com or call +65 6325 0210 to obtain your FREE COPY of the event brochure. For more information, please visit www.infocusinternational.com/lng-online.About Infocus International GroupInfocus International is a global business intelligence provider of strategic information and professional services for diverse business communities.Infocus International recognises clients' needs and responds with innovative and result oriented programmes. All products are founded on high value content in diverse subject areas, and the highest level of quality is ensured through intensive and in-depth market research from local and international insights.Emilia MokTel: +65 6325 0210Email: emilia@infocusevent.comWebsite: www.infocusinternational.com Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

11 11 月, 2021

Infocus Announces Online Training on LNG Supply, Demand, Pricing & Trading

Singapore, Nov 11, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Infocus International Group, a global business intelligence provider, has confirmed the new date for its highly recommended LNG Supply, Demand, Pricing & Trading online training. The online training is back with a new agenda and it will be commencing live on 19 January 2022. 2021 has been a year of recovery for LNG demand as governments of importing countries have relaxed some of the restrictions imposed in response to the Covid-19 pandemic and economic recovery has started. However, the growth in LNG supply has been curtailed by unscheduled maintenance at some of the world's liquefaction plants and by shortfalls in feedgas supply at others. The result has been a tightening of the supply demand balance causing LNG and natural gas prices to surge reaching over $25/MMBtu in September 2021. It is a very different market to 2020, when demand fell because of the pandemic and supply increased as output built up from liquefaction trains commissioned in 2019 and the first half of 2020, which led to LNG and natural gas prices in Asia and Europe declining to $2/MMBtu in the middle of the year. At this level, prices were below the short-run marginal cost of US LNG exports and around 180 US cargoes were cancelled.Energy transition has brought increased demands for the LNG business to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in all parts of the LNG chain from natural gas production through to the combustion of regasified LNG in downstream markets. It raises questions over LNG's role in the long-term energy supply. Will demand increase as natural gas replaces coal in power generation and is used as a back-up fuel for renewables or will natural gas be seen as a fossil fuel whose consumption has to be reduced if targets of net zero carbon emissions are to be met?The online course will, over six sessions, provide an overview of the LNG business in 2022 with a commercial focus but technology and shipping will also be covered. It will consider the outlook for the business over the period to 2040 in terms of markets, sources of supply, pricing and trading and the response to energy transition. It is designed not only for newcomers to LNG but also those who want to refresh their knowledge or who have experience in one part of the business or one region and want to widen their knowledge.Head of Department of Aqualectra shared, "The presenter was very clear and the content was communicated very well with many examples and was really very topical. I learned a lot during these sessions and will pass this on. Thanks again.""Excellent overview of the LNG industry end-to-end. I would highly recommend it to anyone wanting to learn about the industry," said Senior Business Analyst of Murphy Exploration and Production.Check out the LNG online course new agenda at www.infocusinternational.com/lng-online. Course Sessions- LNG value chain in 2021-2022- Safety, shipping and current status of the LNG business- LNG markets and terminals- LNG shipping and supply- Acquiring LNG supply and LNG pricing- LNG contracts and LNG spot and short-term tradingBenefits of Attending- Understand LNG chain technologies, costs, economics and safety- Appreciate how the LNG business is changing and the implications for those working in the business- Gain insights into LNG pricing and how it is evolving- Acquire in-depth knowledge of world LNG markets and supply sources- Assess the increasing role of spot and short-term tradingWant to learn more?Simply email emilia[at]infocusevent.com or call +65 6325 0210 to obtain your FREE COPY of the event brochure. For more information, please visit www.infocusinternational.com/lng-online.About Infocus International GroupInfocus International is a global business intelligence provider of strategic information and professional services for diverse business communities.Infocus International recognises clients' needs and responds with innovative and result oriented programmes. All products are founded on high value content in diverse subject areas, and the highest level of quality is ensured through intensive and in-depth market research from local and international insights.Emilia MokTel: +65 6325 0210 | Email: emilia[at]infocusevent.com | Website: www.infocusinternational.com Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

28 10 月, 2021

Fujitsu and Israeli Startup Autofleet Embark on Global Strategic Cooperation

TOKYO, Oct 28, 2021 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Fujitsu Limited and Autofleet, Ltd., providing an optimization platform for fleets, leveraging AI for demand prediction and vehicle dispatching technology, have agreed to embark on global strategic cooperation to develop sustainable logistics solutions and contribute to the resolution of issues including labor shortages in the logistics industry and environmental problems. To kick-start co-creation activities, Fujitsu has made a strategic investment in Autofleet through a corporate venture capital fund managed by its subsidiary Fujitsu Ventures Limited (1).Logistics represents a critical element in the infrastructure of society, and enriches peoples' lives by supporting economic development within a complex ecosystem. Changes in peoples' lifestyles with the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has upended existing consumer business models, highlighting the importance of logistics as demand for shipping and e-commerce services increase dramatically.These trends have exposed fundamental weaknesses in the global supply chain, as the logistics industry confronts new challenges posed by labor shortages and environmental issues due to increased CO2 emissions. With this latest move, Fujitsu and Autofleet recognize the urgent need to develop more dynamic and resilient models for logistics to ultimately deliver more efficient and environmentally sustainable approaches.By combining Autofleet's platform, with Fujitsu's know-how in systems development and industry expertise in logistics, the two companies aim to leverage their joint activities to develop and bring to market sustainable global logistics solutions.The two companies envision use cases including solutions for the dynamic allocation of trucks for last-mile transport for home delivery, where demand for logistics fluctuates widely, as well as vehicle matching (2) for emergency transport, the coordination of mixed vehicles transporting passengers, and freight with public transport. The companies will also explore the possibilities of route optimization solutions based on the location of charging points for electric vehicles, which are being introduced in the logistics industry with the aim of achieving decarbonization targets.This partnership will be introduced during a virtual session during Fujitsu's flagship digital experience, "Fujitsu ActivateNow 2021" Session 2 (https://event.jp.fujitsu.com/activatenow/), during the "Green DX Accelerated Through Sustainable and Resilient Logistics" part of the "Trusted Society Day" scheduled for Friday, October 29 for audiences in Japan (available on demand from October 29 until November 30).(1) Fujitsu Ventures Limited:Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President and CEO: Hideaki Yajima https://www.fujitsu.com/jp/group/fjv/en/#about(2) Matching of vehicles:matching of truck operators with cosigners for freight transportationAbout FujitsuFujitsu is the leading Japanese information and communication technology (ICT) company offering a full range of technology products, solutions and services. Approximately 126,000 Fujitsu people support customers in more than 100 countries. We use our experience and the power of ICT to shape the future of society with our customers. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.6 trillion yen (US$34 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2021. For more information, please see www.fujitsu.com.About AutofleetAutofleet provides the leading Vehicle-as-a-Service platform for fleets to optimize existing operations and to seamlessly launch new business models from existing assets. The platform leverages advanced machine-learning algorithms for demand prediction, optimized placement and matching, automated pit-stop management and in/de-fleeting, and more. To date, Autofleet is optimizing tens of thousands of vehicles, and has partnered with some of the largest fleets on the planet. More information is available at https://www.autofleet.io/. Copyright 2021 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

14 6 月, 2021

Infocus International Announces Online Training on LNG Supply, Demand, Pricing & Trading

Singapore, Jun 14, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The best rated LNG Supply, Demand, Pricing & Trading online training is back by popular demand with updated agenda and it will be commencing live on 8 September 2021. At the beginning of 2020, the LNG business was looking forward to another year of expansion after a successful 2019 during which production increased by 42.5 mt and final investment decisions (FIDs) were taken on 71 mtpa of liquefaction capacity. COVID-19 has radically changed those expectations. LNG production continued to increase rapidly in the first quarter of 2020 as output from LNG trains that started up in 2019 built up to full capacity. However, demand weakened in the second quarter as lockdowns in many LNG importing countries to control the spread of COVID-19 slowed economic activity. Increased supply and declining demand have led to an over-supplied market, with spot prices for LNG falling to levels not seen before in the second quarter and the cancellation of US LNG cargoes. However, prices began to recover during the third quarter with demand expected to strengthen in the winter months. The construction of new liquefaction trains has been delayed and final investment decisions (FIDs) on new capacity have been deferred. However, the long-term outlook for LNG remains robust as lower prices increase the competitivity of natural gas with coal and oil in the power generation and industrial sectors.This course will be over six sessions, providing an overview of the LNG business in 2021 with a commercial focus but technical and shipping will also be covered. It will consider the outlook for the business over the period to 2035 in terms of markets, sources of supply, pricing and trading. It is designed for newcomers to LNG and those who want to refresh their knowledge or have experience in one part of the business or one region and want to widen their knowledge.Benefits of Attending- Understand LNG chain technologies, costs, economics and safety- Appreciate how the LNG business is changing and the implications for those working in the business- Gain insights into LNG pricing and how it is evolving- Acquire in-depth knowledge of world LNG markets and supply sources- Assess the increasing role of spot and short-term tradingWant to learn more?Simply email to emilia@infocusinternational.com or call +65 6325 0210 to obtain your FREE COPY of event brochure. For more information, please visit https://www.infocusinternational.com/lng-online.About Infocus International GroupInfocus International is a global business intelligence provider of strategic information and professional services for diverse business communities.Infocus International recognises clients' needs and responds with innovative and result oriented programmes. All products are founded on high value content in diverse subject areas, and the highest level of quality is ensured through intensive and in-depth market research from local and international insights.Emilia MokTel: +65 6325 0210 | Email: emilia@infocusinternational.comWebsite: www.infocusinternational.com Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

28 5 月, 2021

Hitachi Selected as System Vendor for Demand Response Demonstration Project for the Optimization of Thai Power Supply and Demand Balance

TOKYO, May 28, 2021 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501) and Hitachi Asia (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a local corporation in the Kingdom of Thailand (Thailand) today announced that they have been selected for participation in a demand response(1) (DR) demonstration project driven by the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), as system vendors of the EGAT-adapted DR management system (DRMS)(2)..The project aims for system design and implementation to optimize power supply and demand balance in accordance with the comprehensive energy policy plan, Smart Grid Development Master Plan(3) that is led by the Thai government.This demonstration project centers around the DR system design of Chulalongkorn University, which is Thailand's oldest national university, and is part of efforts to build a smart grid(4) system that can expand renewable energy system capacity through the efficient operation of power distribution facilities.At present, thermal power stations are the principal domestic energy source in Thailand. Considering global warming, the Thai Ministry of Energy aims in the Thai Power Development Plan 2018(5) (PDP), which was issued in 2019 and applies to the 2018-2037 period, to realize an energy source balance that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and otherwise lightens the environmental load. It lays out a policy of more or less keeping current natural gas dependence, lowering thermal power dependence to about 10%, and adopting actively solar energy and other renewable energy sources.With the expansion of renewable energy, the difficulties of operating systems will become apparent in adjusting power demand in response to sudden changes in weather or other factors. Then, it is expected to increase the importance of measures to stabilize systems that maintain the demand and supply balance. This new DR system is an example of such measures.For many years, Hitachi has accumulated technologies, insights, and know-how by engaging in demonstration projects in Japan and abroad, going back to the early days of DR technology. Hitachi has been involved in a smart grid demonstration project(6) for introducing renewable energy in Hawaii, USA as well as Japanese demonstration projects for building virtual power plants(7) (VPP) (2016-2020)(8), which were led by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), in cooperation with Waseda University and power distribution departments of power companies that promote the standardization of DR and VPP technologies and systems in response to Japanese institutional design.On this occasion, Hitachi will deploy its DR and VPP solutions in the Thai project, with all the technologies and knowledge that we have, to provide a system that comprehensively manages multiple decentralized sources of renewable energy as if they were a single VPP.From May 2021, Hitachi Asia (Thailand) will start this project by building and trialing the system. This will lead into system verification conducted by EGAT with support from Chulalongkorn University between December 2021 and December 2022. In addition to providing Hitachi DR and VPP solutions, which have an excellent track record in Japan, and facilitating rapid system-building, Hitachi Asia (Thailand) will also conduct technical support and training to help Chulalongkorn University and EGAT with operations. By setting up a system for continuous support in Thailand, this will contribute to the further sophistication of the Thai smart grid system in the future.Building on the results of this project, Hitachi will expand from Thailand to other Southeast Asia countries by applying Japanese system stabilization technology and related solutions and know-how to the development of smart grid-centered DR and VPP projects as well as contribute to initiatives for stable energy supply and promote renewable energy use and decarbonization.(1) Demand response (DR): This refers to when power companies and other power suppliers suppress and control power consumption through power charges and incentive criteria, thereby keeping down power consumed by users (households and companies) to match supply capacity. It is called "demand response" because the users respond to the needs of the suppliers. (2) DRMS (demand response management system): a system that manages the issuance of demand responses.(3) Smart Grid Development Master Plan: This defines the planned policies and measures for smart grid development in Thailand as four steps. The concrete activities described in the plan include countermeasures to output fluctuations for solar power, wind power, and other forms of renewable energy, such as energy management systems, demand response, energy storage, and weather forecasting.(4) Smart grid: Advanced power grid that matches power demand and power supply in real time by using IT and control technology.(5) Power Development Plan 2018: Plan relating to power generation, including diversification of procurement fuels and predicting power demand in line with predictions for national economic growth.(6) News release from December 17, 2013: "Hitachi Commences Demonstration Site for Japan-U.S. Island Grid Project in Hawaii"(7) Virtual power plant (VPP): Technology that uses IoT technologies to control solar power and other forms of renewable energy as well as energy resources from storage batteries and electric vehicles (EV) as if they were a single power plant.(8) An initiative where METI partly funds demonstration projects relating to VPP building.About Hitachi, Ltd.Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is focused on its Social Innovation Business that combines information technology (IT), operational technology (OT) and products. The company's consolidated revenues for fiscal year 2020 (ended March 31, 2021) totaled 8,729.1 billion yen ($78.6 billion), with 871 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 350,000 employees worldwide. Hitachi is working to increase social, environmental and economic value for its customers across six domains; IT, Energy, Industry, Mobility, Smart Life and Automotive Systems through Lumada, Hitachi's advanced digital solutions, services, and technologies for turning data into insights to drive digital innovation. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website https://www.hitachi.com.About Hitachi Asia (Thailand) Co., Ltd.Incorporated in 1992, Hitachi Asia (Thailand) Co., Ltd. provides expert solutions in meeting the needs of customers in Thailand, Laos and Cambodia. Hitachi Asia (Thailand) is focusing on the business areas of Smart Cities, Smart Manufacturing and Smart Public Services, with the aim of contributing to the community as a responsible corporate citizen. Copyright 2021 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

22 3 月, 2021

Shougang Century Announces 2020 Annual Results

HONG KONG, Mar 22, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Shougang Concord Century Holdings Limited ("Shougang Century", together with its subsidiaries, "the Group"; stock code: 0103.HK) is pleased to announce its audited annual results for the year ended 31 December 2020.During the year under review, the pandemic outbreak caused a halt to manufacturing industries in a number of countries, dealing a heavy blow to the global economy. Fortunately, the Chinese government responded to the pandemic quickly after the outbreak with a series of effective and targeted measures, which underpinned the satisfactory progress in work resumption and production acceleration. On the other hand, the rampant pandemic has not been controlled in the overseas and dragged on manufacturing sectors across other countries, resulting in a shortage of tyres and related products. In view of this, the Group decisively seized the market opportunities by exploring new customers, while optimizing its sales mix to flexibly meet customers' requirements. Meanwhile, in order to actively cater for the market demand, the Group adopted a multi-pronged approach to expand production capacity in order to boost both the supply and its core competitiveness.Leveraging the Group's strict and effective cost control, gross profit margin from continuing operations increased from 17.6% in 2019 to 19.3%, whilst gross profit from continuing operations increased by 4.3% to HK$394,322,000. With the reduction of finance costs, the Group's profit before income tax and profit for the year increased by 26.0% and 36.8% to HK$145,911,000 and HK$148,254,000, respectively. The board of directors recommended the payment of a final dividend of HK1.5 cents per share for the year ended 31 December 2020 (2019: HK1 cent per share), the dividend distribution increased by 50%.Located in Zhejiang Province and Shandong Province, the Group's two large production bases produce approximately 200,000 tonnes of steel cords in total every year. To cope with the increasing demand for tyres in China and abroad fuels a robust market demand for steel cords, the Group expanded its production capacity through further optimizing its plant construction. In 2019, the Group kicked off an expansion plan in its Tengzhou factory and invested in new brass wire production facilities to add an additional 100,000 tonnes of steel cord production capacity. Spurred by the solid construction progress, the Group has continued to make great strides towards its goal to become an enterprise commanding an annual manufacturing capacity in excess of 300,000 tonnes of high-quality steel cords.Mr. SU Fanrong, Chairman and Managing Director of Shougang Century said "Looking forward, the growing demand for domestic large vehicles' tyres, coupled with the growing needs for steel cords driven by the Chinese government's 'domestic circulation' policy and energy conservation and emission reduction requirement, will benefit the development of the domestic steel cord industry. As the photovoltaic, sapphire and magnetic material markets gradually improve, the domestic sawing wire market has witnessed a steady growth. We are fully confident with the Group's business, and will continuously strive to achieve our target in becoming one of the top three independent manufacturers of steel cord industry in China." About Shougang Concord Century Holdings LimitedShougang Concord Century Holdings Limited (0103.HK) is primarily engaged in manufacturing of steel cords for radial tyres, sawing wires and other wire products. The Group possesses two large production bases in Zhejiang Province and Shandong Province, together producing approximately 200,000 tonnes of steel cords annually. Having been delivering products of a consistently premium quality over the years, the Group supplies products to over 20 countries worldwide and has won wide recognition from international tyres manufacturers. Listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong since April 1992, the Group has a strong shareholder base with substantial shareholders including Shougang Group Co., Ltd. (a state-owned enterprise under the direct supervision of the Beijing State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission), a Fortune 500 company, and its controlled corporations, Bekaert Group and Li Ka Shing Foundation Limited. Through its longstanding dedication to purveying premium quality steel cords and wire products, the Group aims to become one of the top three independent manufacturers of steel cord industry in China.For more information, please visit: http://www.shougangcentury.com.hk Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

31 10 月, 2020

Firms looking to save water can get more grants under PUB fund

SINGAPORE - Firms can now benefit from more funding to buy water-efficient equipment, along with shorter disbursement periods, as part of a bid to encourage the non-domestic sector to save more water. Firms that use at least 1,000 cubic m or more of water per month can now receive funding of up to $300,000 or up to 50 per cent of the installation cost of such equipment, including commercial dishwashers and washer extractors, under PUB's Water Efficiency Fund. In addition, firms embarking on water recycling initiatives and projects using alternate water sources can now receive higher funding amounts for potable, NEWater and industrial water saved, capped at $1 million per project, said PUB in a statement on Saturday (Oct 31). The grant disbursement period for such initiatives and projects has also been shortened from seven to three years. This means companies undertaking these projects will receive 50 per cent of the grant amount upon commissioning of a full-scale recycling plant to save water, and the remaining 50 per cent upon satisfactory performance in the third year. Pilot projects can also receive full funding of up to 50 per cent of the project cost, capped at $50,000, upon acceptance of their feasibility report for full-scale implementation instead of having to wait until after the recycling plant has been commissioned. These latest enhancements to the fund will take effect from Sunday (Nov 1). They are expected to benefit some 3,200 eligible non-domestic customers, said the national water agency. The non-domestic sector currently accounts for more than half of Singapore's total daily water demand. Mr Ridzuan Ismail, director of the PUB Water Supply (Network) Department, said: "We have enhanced the Water Efficiency Fund to help water-intensive companies defray on-boarding costs and facilitate cash-flow management, ultimately reducing their water consumption, achieve cost savings and greater business sustainability." According to PUB's website, Singapore's non-domestic sector uses about 55 per cent of its current water supply and this is projected to increase to 70 per cent of its future water demand by 2060. The Water Efficiency Fund was introduced in 2007 to encourage companies to manage their water demand by co-funding water efficiency projects that yield at least 10 per cent reduction in water consumption or annual water savings of at least 6,000 cubic metres. More on this topic Related Story $26 million fund for water-intensive companies to adopt on-site water solutions Related Story Work begins on Singapore's first integrated water and solid waste treatment plant in Tuas This includes feasibility studies, water audits, recycling efforts and the use of alternate sources of water. Since then, PUB has facilitated more than 350 projects, with over $24 million in funds awarded. Commercial laundry operator Iwash Laundry is among those seeking to benefit from the enhanced scheme. Its parent company, 800 Super Holdings, was awarded a grant under the Water Efficiency Fund in September to build its first water recycling system. The system, expected to be ready by the third quarter of next year, is meant to recycle used water from its tunnel washer and washer extractors for reuse in its laundry operations. The firm expects to achieve a water recycling rate of up to 49 per cent when the plant is completed, saving around 15 per cent in its monthly water bills. Director of Iwash Laundry Au Chee Cheong said that as a commercial laundry operator, his company uses a lot of water in its business operations. "Water is a scarce resource in Singapore, and we want to do our part as a good corporate citizen to make every drop count."