London– Module-T, a leading prefabricated container manufacturer that builds multipurpose portable cabins, has launched its first warehouse in southern France. The Turkish company aims to amplify its foothold in the French region and expedite monobloc road shipments throughout Europe through this venture.

Having expanded its operations to countries including Germany, France, England, the Netherlands, Ireland, Belgium, Greece, Malta and Iceland, Module-T exports its portable cabins—ranging from prefabricated offices to residences, schools, hospitals, changing rooms, WCs, canteens, and residences—to over 120 countries. Established a decade and a half ago, it takes pride in crafting aesthetic, robust, secure, and enduring turnkey structures for local and international clientele. With an annual output of 12.000 potable cabins and prefabricated modular containers, Module-T also specializes in designing and outfitting standalone prefabricated homes, housing bungalows and vacation residences, aiming to reach a turnover of US$ 45 million by 2025.

Exports to more than 120 countries by sea and land

Market Research Future forecasts that the global prefabricated buildings market will reach US$ 231 bn by 2030. According to Mordor Intelligence, the prefabricated construction market in Europe is expected to reach US$ 71.43 billion in 2028, while the market in the UK will grow at a CAGR of 4.5%.

Module-T’s Regional Sales Executive Yiğit Özdemir commented on their new investment: “We export our products to more than 120 countries by sea and land. Our new warehouse in Southern France is the perfect location to help us deploy our preassembled portable cabin shipments to Europe by road.”

Positioning ahead of the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics

Preparations for the 2024 Summer Olympics have begun in Paris, preparing to host the Olympics again after 100 years. Offering a diverse array of cost-effective modular construction solutions, Module-T is set to contribute to the Olympic preparations, providing living quarters, WC-shower facilities, and office containers for worker accommodations. Furthermore, the Turkish company has its sights on the North American market, planning to offer distributorships by the close of 2023.

Module-T is a premier supplier of modular containers and turnkey portable, modular buildings. With a track record of successful projects across global markets—particularly in Europe, Africa, and Caribbean countries —its reputation is anchored in its expertise in designing, manufacturing, and installing fully-equipped prefabricated and modular buildings. These are prominently utilized on the construction sites of firms engaged in public infrastructure development, mining, and the oil and gas industry.

Contact: Yiğit Özdemir, info@module-t.com

According to the report, European natural gas futures have surged above €39 per megawatt-hour, marking a substantial 9% increase for the week. This rise is primarily attributed to mounting supply concerns exacerbated by strikes in Australia and outages in Norway. TELF AG highlights that traders are closely monitoring several risk factors, including potential U.S. outages and disruptions in Russian gas exports.

In the chrome ore sector, TELF AG notes that UG2/MG Cr ore prices have experienced a modest increase, driven by market sentiment and pre-holiday restocking activities in anticipation of China’s Golden Week holiday. Delays in shipments from South Africa are further adding to supply concerns.

Regarding FeCr, TELF AG reports that Chinese production of HC FeCr has increased by 3.5% month-over-month in August, reaching 641 kt. Meanwhile, European and U.S. spot prices dipped by 2% and 5% during August but are expected to rebound due to heightened demand.

Manganese market activity has slowed ahead of China’s week-long holiday, according to TELF AG. Traders have reduced offers for 44% lump in an effort to secure deals, with looming concerns about demand for the fourth quarter.

The commodities trading firm also notes that Chinese FeSi prices have risen this week, reaching their highest level since April at RMB7,628 per tonne. This increase is attributed to strong futures prices and escalated production costs.

TELF AG predicts that China is set to produce 3.2 Mt in August and 3.25 Mt in September in the stainless-steel sector. In contrast, production in Europe and the U.S. has declined, primarily due to weak downstream demand and elevated inflation levels.

Shifting focus to base metals, the report anticipates a decline in copper cathode premiums in 2024. Factors contributing to this decline include waning interest in long-term contracts and increased domestic output in China.

In the realm of battery materials, the report highlights that Glencore and Li-Cycle of Canada have conditionally agreed to expedite the development of a battery recycling centre in Italy. A definitive feasibility study for the project’s second phase is expected to be completed by mid-2024.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the insights presented in TELF AG’s 2023 Week 39 Market Roundup, readers are encouraged to explore the full article. For more insights and content, visit TELF AG’s Media Page.

The article commences by highlighting the critical role of cobalt in improving both the stability and energy density of lithium-ion batteries, which are widely used in electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems. It then explores lithium’s pivotal role as the cornerstone of energy storage and electric vehicles, particularly in lithium-ion batteries.

Nickel is recognised for its contribution to the capacity and durability of lithium-ion batteries. Copper plays a vital role in electrical wiring for renewable energy infrastructures, including its use in wind turbines and solar panels. Aluminum is lauded for its lightweight and anti-corrosive properties, making it an ideal material for wind turbine blades and solar panel frames.

As the world moves closer to achieving net-zero emissions goals by 2050, TELF AG anticipates a substantial surge in the demand for these green metals. The article calls for a strategic approach to diversify global mining activities and emphasises the importance of investing in efficient recycling technologies. It also acknowledges ongoing research aimed at finding alternatives to these metals to reduce dependency on scarce resources.

TELF AG concludes by underscoring the necessity of concerted efforts in sustainable mining, effective recycling, and technological innovation. It asserts that the tasks at hand are not only substantial but crucial steps toward a more sustainable global future.

For a deeper understanding of TELF AG’s insights into the Stainless Steel market in early September, readers are encouraged to refer to the full article. For more insights and content, visit TELF AG’s Media Page.

Installing solar systems at home provides several financial and environmental benefits. Despite this, many homeowners still need clarification about purchasing structures. The main reason is solar financing, which involves fairly high one-time costs. Suppliers offer designs that cost approximately $16,000 to $20,000.

To this amount, you need to add the payment for the installation, which increases the costs to 30-40 thousand dollars. The sum also affects the number of panels. According to SaveOnEnergy, the average home needs approximately 15-20 solar panels. However, do not be afraid of these numbers and amounts of money. After all, there are several different methods of acquisition and some of them involve significant financial savings.

What Budget Should Be Allocated for the Purchase of Solar Panels?

Homeowners, who are considering the possibility of purchasing structures, are advised by experts to first study the available offers on the market and compare the conditions. It’s very easy to do. You need to find solar companies near me on the Internet and view the packages that are offered to customers. The type of solar panels must be a significant factor affecting the formation of the price. After all, productivity and financial benefit depend on this indicator. Let’s consider the peculiarities of pricing for the 3 main types of structures offered for sale:

Having learned how solar finance is formed, it is worth considering the main options for purchasing systems.

Source: American Solar Energy Society

https://ases.org/monocrystalline-vs-polycrystalline-solar-panels/

What Are the Financing Solutions for Solar Panels?

In the past, buyers were offered fairly limited options for purchasing solar systems, but now the situation has changed. The transition to the use of renewable energy sources is more actively supported by the government and various financial institutions, so there are now more options for purchase. Moreover, among them, some offers help to significantly reduce the costs of purchasing and installing solar systems.

Mortgage Loans

Modern solar panel financing programs include two types of mortgage loans. These are Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation and FHA 203(k). Both proposals are complex. They help to obtain funds for the purchase of a house and the installation of solar structures. In addition, these mortgage loans apply to modernization and various types of repair work.

Among the key advantages, you can highlight the possibility of using one of the presented programs to pay for solar modernization by refinancing the current mortgage. Additionally, it is worth pointing out the benefit of Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation. Under the terms of this loan, it has a value-to-value ratio of up to 97. This significantly increases the chances of receiving it.

As for the disadvantages of solar panel loans, these offers may have higher interest rates. In the process of applying, there may also be bureaucratic red tape, and the period of execution of reconstruction works needs to be improved. They must be completed within 1 year (12 months). Considering these characteristics, we can conclude that mortgage loans will be a profitable solution for those who have decided to buy a house and want to equip it with solar panels. In addition, loans can be used by homeowners who are not eligible for personal loans with lower rates.

Ordinary Personal Loans

Buyers who do not have the full amount to secure the full one-time financing for solar panels can choose a personal loan. Such offers involve the formation of fixed monthly payments and fixed interest rates. According to the terms of the contract, these indicators will not change during the entire period of the loan.

Financial institutions provide several types of personal loans. They may differ in limits, terms, and payment terms. Due to the availability of such a variety, everyone who has the right to a loan can choose the best option for himself. Among the advantages, it is worth highlighting a faster procedure for providing cash is worth highlighting. Buyers usually have access to the money in 1-2 days. Most institutions also do not add to the amount of commission for providing money to the client.

An additional advantage is the lack of a deposit. This means that the buyer receives a loan without the requirement of a large amount of equity and the need for a home mortgage. Along with advantages, personal loans have disadvantages.

For example, you need to have excellent or good credit to qualify for low rates. Otherwise, high rates can cause serious overpayments. Given the specifics, personal loans will be the optimal solution for those who need money quickly to purchase solar systems.

Contracts With Companies for the Use of Solar Energy

You don’t have to buy structures to experience the benefits of using solar energy. Solar companies offer 2 alternative usage options: solar lease or PPA (power purchase agreement). Each of these solutions can help you save on your electricity bill. However, in these two cases, there are different objects for payment.

In the case of solar rental, users are offered to pay monthly rates. They are fixed and specified in the contract. If a sales contract is selected, the tariff is calculated depending on the electricity produced. That is, the user pays for each kWh generated by solar structures. To choose one of these solutions, you need to compare your electricity needs and financial capabilities.

In any case, both solutions offer several advantages. Among them are the absence of large one-time costs, unimpeded access to solar electricity, and the avoidance of maintenance costs. Responsibilities regarding repairs and carrying out other important works fall directly on the supplier company.

Collateral Loans

This category includes two options for getting money to buy solar systems: a HELOC (home equity line of credit) and a home equity loan. These solutions have a scheme similar to conventional personal loans. However, the difference is that real estate loans require the presence of an object for collateral. Otherwise, the solutions are similar.

The customer is offered constant monthly payments, a fixed repayment schedule, and fixed interest rates. The main advantage is the possibility of obtaining low-interest rates and fair terms. However, it can be obtained if you have a good credit history and equity.

Conclusions

Experts and engineers are constantly improving solar systems, but so far they have not found solutions to significantly reduce the cost of structures. Under these conditions, homeowners are actively looking for the most profitable financial solution to pay for solar panels for their homes. Fortunately, solar companies and financial institutions offer several purchasing options.

You can pay for solar systems with your own money. If the payment amount is too large, then you can consider credit options. Financing in this case can be provided by mortgage loans, personal loans, or secured loans. In addition, you can choose a contract for the purchase and sale of electricity or the rental of solar energy.

Following its acquisition by multinational corporation Spacewell in 2020, Spacewell Energy aims to solidify its position as a leader in efficient energy management in Europe while pursuing expansion into new international markets.

Spacewell Energy offers a data-driven energy intelligence management tool. Its software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution empowers facility and property managers, energy service providers, and consultants to monitor energy consumption, analyze usage patterns and inefficiencies, and detect real-time anomalies. This innovative tool enables businesses to optimize the energy efficiency of their buildings, ultimately leading to reduced carbon emissions.

Automated energy data management solutions play a crucial role in minimizing the environmental impact of organizations and building portfolios. Leveraging artificial intelligence, these tools generate data that can predict building behavior, enabling cost reduction, resource monitoring, and overall improvement in building performance.

Spacewell Energy: Addressing the Challenges of Today’s Organizations

The rebranding to Spacewell Energy marks the culmination of the integration process that commenced in 2020 when Dexma merged with Spacewell, a technology company under the Nemetschek multinational. Xavi Novella, appointed as the company’s Managing Director, stated, “The world, technology, and organizational needs are evolving, and at Spacewell Energy, we strive to address these new challenges while respecting our achievements to date and looking forward with optimism and a commitment to continued growth.”

Expanding International Presence

With a customer base exceeding 10,000 across 35 countries, notably the UK, Spain, France, Benelux, and Italy, Spacewell Energy is experiencing substantial growth in 2022, with a 24% increase in software license sales. To enhance relationships with international customers and drive further expansion, the company will maintain its headquarters in Barcelona while extending its global reach into Europe and beyond. This expansion plan includes the establishment of new teams in the Benelux countries, the United States, France, Germany, India, and the Nordic countries.

Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Energy Efficiency

In an environment marked by inflation and escalating energy prices, Spacewell Energy’s solutions enable real-time monitoring of energy consumption data, facilitating detailed reports on anomalies, inefficiencies, usage patterns, and more. By leveraging this information, businesses can achieve energy savings of up to 20%.

Over 40% of Spacewell Energy’s workforce specializes in the design and development of energy management solutions. The company is dedicated to supporting businesses and organizations in adopting responsible energy consumption practices, resulting in cost savings and reduced carbon footprint.

Access denied
WBPS’s existing management agreement with a major water company saw them tasked with overseeing and servicing a number of biogas CHP engines. When the engines were first installed, the original service provider retained full control over them, meaning they were the only ones who could reset the engine in the event of a shutdown, or to complete high level system integration. This also meant that routine operations, such as emissions testing, could only be carried out in the presence of someone with the appropriate passwords and access.
This caused regular delays and process interruptions, with staff on-site forced to wait excessive periods before the engines could be restarted or maintained despite having the technical ability to do so themselves.

When WBPS were asked to take on a further six MWM engines, they realised that the existing control panels would need to be upgraded to modern open-access versions to allow their engineers to efficiently manage the CHPs without delay, so they turned to Gen-C for support.

24/7 remote control
Phil Hamblett, Renewables Operations Director at WBPS explains: “As the exclusive supplier and installer of Motortech open-access control panels, Gen-C were the natural choice for this project. The previous closed protocol control system was very restrictive in terms of maintenance abilities and operation. The new open-access system installed by Gen-C allows us to collect data and build information, as well giving us remote access. We are using software that is linked to the hardware, which means that out-of-hours engineers don’t need to leave their house and can login remotely and even restart an engine themselves within seconds. That’s something that wasn’t available under the old, closed protocol system. What’s more, being able to access the engines remotely has reduced travelling time and manhours, providing cost savings and helping to reduce our carbon footprint.” Industry first The contract that WBPS signed with Gen-C covers six MWM CHP engines across four WWTW sites, with a total capacity of 9.5 MWe. The heat from the engines is used on site as part of the sludge treatment process and the electricity produced is exported to the grid. The heat forms a critical part of the sludge treatment process, so if the engines are off for even a short period, the effects can be significant. Three of the engines have already been upgraded, with the other three scheduled to be completed early in 2023. And in an industry first, Gen-C believes this project to be the first time an MWM TCG2020-V20 engine has been upgraded in this way.

Monitor and manage
The Motortech control panel upgrade from Gen-C allows WBPS engineers to fully access and manage the engines themselves, including remote access so they can dial in to check or change
operating parameters, adjust the engine or even stop or start it if required. The system also comes with the IGS-LOG monitoring system as standard.

“There are a lot of things you can tell about an engine from its behaviour, such as deviations in the power curve,” says James Thompson, Managing Director of Gen-C. “Being able to monitor it regularly means that you can manage it more efficiently, improving operation and getting early warning of minor issues, such as valve clearances or spark plug failures. Being proactive in this way really increases engine uptime.”

Bespoke innovations
As well as new control panels, a number of other upgrades are being carried out on the suite of engines, including improvements to the fuel mixers, ignitions and throttles. The throttle upgrade has been particularly successful and includes Gen-C’s latest innovation; a heat-dissipating collar which protects the motor on the waste gate from overheating.

“One of the engines was only operating at 30% output because the motor on the waste gate had seized,” says James Thompson. “Replacing it with a standard Heinzmann throttle would have cost around £6-7,000. Relocating the waste gate away from the engine and adding a heat-dissipating collar is safer, more reliable, faster acting – and cost just a tenth of the price.”

Another innovation was the way in which the open-access CHP control panel was connected to the existing MWM engines. “We didn’t want to cut any cables on the engines, so we created
bespoke cables to join the existing wiring from the engine to the new control panel,” explains James. “Combined, these solutions have greatly enhanced the original specification.”

“The installations have been seamless,” comments Phil. “The support we’ve received from Gen-C, including training and technical support, has been great, and the difference in the
engines’ performance is impressive.”

For more information on the range of CHP upgrades from Gen-C, including open-access control panels, contact info@gen-c.co.uk

The penny pinching experts at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk have pulled together their tips for families hoping to sell used toys, and buyers hoping to bag a bargain this Christmas.

With money being tight for many this festive season, the experts are expecting parents to find alternative ways to buy their kids the toys they’ve asked for without forking out for brand new items.

Buying second hand is a good option for securing a bargain for the buyer, and raising a little extra cash for the seller.

Rebecca Bebbington, online consumer expert at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk said: “Christmas is an expensive time of year and with the ongoing cost of living crisis, it will put additional pressure on families.

“Selling unwanted toys is a good way for parents to get additional cash together – and is great for those hoping to buy a bargain bundle of second hand toys.

“It’s also better for the environment too. Rather than toys being put into landfill, they’re being cleaned down, repackaged and sold on for another little one to enjoy.

“We’ve put together some helpful tips for toy sellers and buyers to make sure everyone gets a good deal this Christmas.”

Here are NetVoucherCodes.co.uk’s top tips for buying and selling toys this Christmas:

For sellers:

1. Photos

Take plenty of pictures showing the toys at their very best. If they’ve been in the back of a cupboard to up the loft, give them a good wash down so they look as good as new. However, there’s no point trying to hide any imperfections. Ensure your images represent the item in the best way so a buyer knows exactly what they’re getting and the quality it will be in.

2. Description

Write a detailed description, describing the items as accurately as possible to avoid any confusion. Don’t be misleading. It’s always important to be honest in your description, even more so when the item is likely to be a special gift for Christmas.

3. Haggling

Be prepared for a haggle. Lots of buyers will offer you a price lower than you are selling for. Be aware of this and price accordingly.

4. Price comparisons

Have a look online to see what the same items are selling for, you don’t want to miss a sale because you’ve overpriced. Likewise, you don’t want to underprice and not get the amount the items deserve.

5. Delivery

Offer to deliver for a small fee. Sometimes this may make the difference in securing a sale.

6. Hold your nerve

Don’t settle on the first offer. It’s likely that you will receive a few offers after posting your item. Hold out a day or two to be sure you get the best price.

For buyers:

1. Haggle

Don’t be afraid to ask for a few pounds off. If someone really wants a sale they will be happy to negotiate a price.

2. Offer a swap

If you don’t want to pay the full price or can’t afford to, have you got something the seller might want? Ask if they’re happy to do a swap instead of a sale. You never know, you might just have something they’re looking for.

3. Buy local and collect

Try to buy items in your local area and collect them wherever possible. Often, sellers can create their own fees for delivery so it’s always worth saving yourself a few pounds by picking the items up yourself.

4. Photos

If you think the pictures don’t depict the item clearly, ask for more. You want to be sure that you get what you’re paying for and that it’s in the condition they have stated. Particularly important if you’re shopping for the item as a gift and you want it to look as good as new.

5. Ask questions

If you have any doubts about the quality or condition of an item, ask lots of questions. It may be that the seller wasn’t clear enough – it’s always better to err on the side of caution.

For more tips on saving on toys this Christmas including buying secondhand, toy swaps and making your own https://www.netvouchercodes.co.uk/blog/save-this-christmas-with-second-hand-toys

During a meeting behind closed doors, the CEO of Vodacom Group, Shameel Joosub, met with DRC Minister of Environment, Eve Bazaiba. The two personalities exchanged on Vodacom’s commitment to work with the government to support environmental protection. VPM Bazaiba expressed an interest to expand on the conversation with Vodacom Congo’s higher management. She has stated that “we all have a common responsibility to address the climate challenge.”

As a leading telecom company with a keen interest to move towards a low emissions economy, Vodacom was pleased with the outcome of their meeting with the Minister of Environment. Vodacom Congo has already committed to several internal initiatives in order to mitigate its own environmental impact. This includes raising awareness within the company culture and promoting e-waste management and sustainable solutions to reduce their carbon footprint.

Additionally, Vodacom Congo has several ongoing pilot projects to provide new technologies to farmers to help them reduce their environmental impact while increasing their revenues. Furthermore, it also began increasing its rural coverage sites, supplying them with solar panels to ensure connectivity for all.

The DRC is not only a solution country because of its minerals, but also the second-largest basin and the highest biodiversity in the world. However, its expansive supply of strategic minerals necessary for renewable energies and helping industries reduce their pollution. With over 20 years in the Congolese market, Vodacom is acutely aware of this, along with the indisputable fact that the private sector and public sector must collaborate to mitigate climate risks. Thus, Vodacom is fully committed to providing new technologies and contributing to the digitalization of the country.

In response to this, Ace Packaging, an eco-friendly packaging company, is urging other businesses to switch to FSC-certified material to store their products in, so that they can avoid facing similar severe financial and reputational damages to their brand.

What Is The FSC?

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an international, non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting responsible management of the world’s forests.

Founded in 1994, FSC has become a world-renowned forest certification system, promoting sustainability by enabling businesses to choose wood, paper, and other materials sourced from forests for their brands in an environmentally friendly way.

Important Consumer Insights

• ¾ of people in the UK agree that healthy forests are of crucial importance in the fight against climate change
• From a study of 1,281 adults*, 6/10 people in the UK assume that most of the wood-based products they buy are from sustainable sources
• 6/10 also reported becoming more sustainability conscious of both products and packaging
• 35% say they keep an eye out for certification labels when shopping for forest-based products
• 76% of people in the UK now recognise the FSC logo
• 63% of people in the UK say they would have a more positive opinion of a brand if they invested in eco friendly products and packaging
• The three most popular products bought in FSC packaging were drinks (21%), food (19%), and online purchases (18%)

Ace Packaging advises that businesses should opt for FSC-sourced packaging for their products; it is more affordable, environmentally friendly, and overall better for your brand as sustainable packaging becomes an increasingly important factor in decision-making for customers.

Using FSC Material In Your Products

The Environment Agency has revealed the three sanctioned companies that failed to comply with packaging waste regulations: Softcat PLC, Sazerac UK Limited, and La-Z-Boy UK Limited.

Specifically, all three failed to comply with the Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 2007, which required businesses to fund the recycling of packaging waste that they place on the UK market.

All three paid money to charities that will help provide and protect local wildlife habitats. As a business, using FSC-sourced, cardboard packaging can help you avoid facing such financial damages in the future.

Where to use FSC-certified material: 

• Custom printed boxes – used in mailing boxes, pillow boxes, pizza boxes, bottle boxes
• Luxury printed bags – used in takeaway bags, gift bags, bottle bags, retail bags
• Printed cardboard tubes – used in butt-joint tubes, telescopic tubes, one piece tubes
• Printed tissue and wrapping paper

As a company that uses FSC material, Ace Packaging strongly suggests businesses begin implementing such eco-friendly packaging into their products to mitigate environmental damage and avoid paying hefty fines and improve their relationship with consumers.

Ace Packaging offers bespoke, FSC-certified packaging with custom sizing and a general lead time of 4-6 weeks. Get a free quote from them on packaging solutions today.