Analysis

SANY Empowers Intelligent Port Construction to Achieve Major Breakthrough

SHANGHAI – Sany Marine Heavy Industry Co., Ltd., the port machinery subsidiary of SANY Group, has achieved a significant breakthrough with its H-Move2.0 intelligent system in the tire crane automation project at the Port of Tianjin. The system has improved the operational efficiency of tire cranes to 20 moves per hour, setting a new standard in the development of green, digital, and intelligent ports. With the upcoming COP29 and the manufacturing industries calling for net-zero development, SANY is firmly taking the path of industrial transformation with concrete actions to reach the carbon goals. SANY Marine is committed to becoming the technology leader of logistics equipment, providing electric, intelligent, unmanned and integrated solutions for intelligent ports and supporting the green transformation of the global port machinery industry. Faced with challenges such as energy saving carbon reduction, and intelligent development, the need for anti-shaking and anti-twisting capabilities, and labor shortages, SANY Marine’s intelligent port solutions have provided significant advancements. These include real-time anti-shaking and anti-twisting technologies to ensure automated and safe operations, pushing operational efficiency beyond traditional manual methods. Leveraging digital twin technologies, the team can predict and simulate the trajectory and position of the containers and adding the spreader lowering action to essential technical functions to achieve exceptional results. The automation efficiency of a traditional tire crane is about 15 to 16 cycles per hour, while the new version integrating GPS, AI visualisation, and 3D scanning imaging technologies can significantly improve the signal’s reliability. After four months of test trials, the No.45 machine has improved the automated working efficiency to 20 cycles per hour, surpassing manual labor for the first time in the industry. By predicting and simulating the trajectory and position of the landing box, the action of lowering the spreader is added to the technical essentials of manual work, […]

Founder Group secures multiple contracts worth approximately US$5.5 million

KUALA LUMPUR – Founder Group Limited, a pure play, end to end engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning (EPCC) solutions provider for solar photovoltaic systems in Malaysia, is pleased to announce the receipt of several Letters of Award (LOAs) for multiple large-scale solar projects, with a combined contract value of approximately US$5.5 million (equivalent to approximately RM22.5 million). Under the terms of these LOAs, Founder Energy will assume various responsibilities across the projects, including full EPCC services, the supply and installation of DC and AC electrical systems, Instrumentation & Control (I&C) systems, and civil works. These responsibilities encompass projects within the Corporate Green Power Programme (CGPP) as well as a utility-scale solar project. This demonstrates the Company’s flexibility in addressing the diverse needs of large-scale solar initiatives. Malaysia’s solar EPCC services industry is projected to reach approximately US$350 million (about RM1.5 billion) by 2026, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.5%, driven by the country’s strong commitment to renewable energy. As part of this effort, Malaysia aims to achieve a 20% renewable energy mix by 2025, up from just 2% in 2018, supported by initiatives like the Green Technology Financing Scheme, according to the ASEAN Energy Database System. In 2024, the government introduced the Solar for Rakyat Incentive Scheme (SolaRIS) to further accelerate residential solar adoption, complemented by tax exemptions and green technology investment allowances. “We are pleased to have received these Letters of Award, which are a testament to the trust placed in us by various project owners and highlight our commitment to supporting Malaysia’s transition to renewable energy. We look forward to leveraging our expertise in EPCC solar PV projects as we continue to deliver large-scale solar initiatives moving forward,” said Lee Seng Chi, Chief Executive Officer of Founder Group Limited. The company’s primary focus is on […]

Malaysia’s nearshoring edge: A gateway to Southeast Asia

From electronics to aerospace, Malaysia’s growth potential is unmatched, offering strategic benefits across multiple industries. Strategically positioned in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia is a veritable gateway to the region. Its major shipping routes and international airports connect businesses to key Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. The nation’s locational advantage enables it to offer faster delivery times and reduced transportation costs for efficient regional operations. It comes as little wonder that Malaysia’s capital city, Greater Kuala Lumpur, is globally recognised as an ideal nearshoring hub. It serves as a conduit for businesses to bring their operations closer to their partners and customers in Southeast Asia. This is especially important in today’s global economic climate, where rising labor costs and inflation have pushed businesses to explore alternatives like nearshoring, or outsourcing business processes to a nearby country or location to trim their overheads. Malaysia boleh: The Malaysian advantage It is easy to see why Malaysia is a prime hub for nearshoring in Southeast Asia. Besides its favorable geographic location, Malaysia boasts abundant natural resources vital for producing advanced materials. In its New Industrial Master Plan 2030, the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry identified graphene, nitinol, rare earth, and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) polymers as Malaysia’s core advanced materials. These materials support the country’s electric vehicle (EV), aerospace, and healthcare industries. Its culturally diverse population complements Malaysia’s geographical and natural resources. Predominantly comprising Malay, Chinese, and Indian ethnic groups, Malaysians are proficient in speaking at least two languages, with a high level of proficiency in English. Thus, its workforce is well-equipped to bridge language and cultural barriers, connecting Malaysian businesses to the rest of Southeast Asia. To solidify this advantage, the Malaysian government has proactively developed technical education. In March 2024, the government expanded its Technical and Vocational Education and […]

Nexif Ratch Energy Secures Financial Close 145MWp Bacolod Solar Power Project in the Philippines

Nexif Ratch Energy, a leading independent power producer focused on renewable energy solutions, is thrilled to announce the financial close of its 145MWp Bacolod Solar Power Project, its second solar power project in the Philippines. The Bacolod Solar Power Project, developed by Negros PH Solar Inc, is located across Bacolod City and Bago City in the Negros Occidental province. It is a 145 MWp ground-mounted solar photovoltaic project that will connect to NGCP’s Bacolod Substation and can potentially power to up to 52,600 households. Majority of its output will be sold through a 10-year Power Supply Agreement to a subsidiary of Aboitiz Power Corporation, with the remainder to the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market. The project investment of more than US$100m is funded by equity from Nexif Ratch Energy and project finance facilities from Security Bank Corporation and Philippine National Bank on a limited recourse basis, with SB Capital Investment Corporation acting as the Mandated Lead Arranger and Bookrunner and PNB Capital and Investment Corporation acting as Arranger. Construction is set to begin in October 2024, with the goal of achieving commercial operations by Q4 2025. Focus is now on an expansion on the existing site, through increased solar PV capacity of up to 20 MW and a Battery Energy Storage System. Beyond its Calabanga and Bacolod solar projects, Nexif Ratch Energy is developing wind energy projects including the San Miguel Bay Project, a nearshore wind project with a capacity of up to 500 MW and the Lucena Project, an offshore wind project with a capacity of up to 475 MW. Mr Surender Singh, Chairman of Nexif Ratch Energy, said “The successful financial close of our 145MWp Bacolod Solar Farm highlights the exceptional collaboration with our partners and the dedication of our local development team. We are excited to bring this […]

Policy Address by Hong Kong SAR’s Chief Executive John Lee: New Initiatives to Propel Economic Growth

John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region unveiled a range of measures in his 2024 Policy Address (October 16) to inject greater vitality into the economy, focusing on both established and emerging industries. In terms of existing businesses, Mr Lee said the Government would explore new growth areas, specifically by creating a commodity trading ecosystem to attract relevant enterprises to Hong Kong, turning Hong Kong into an operation centre for international commodity trading, storage and delivery, shipping and logistics, risk management, and more. Hong Kong SAR’s Chief Executive John Lee attended a joint radio phone-in programme to answer questions about the 2024 Policy Address. “This will help develop the markets in international gold, non‑ferrous metal, green transportation, and others, further promoting the integrated development of Hong Kong as an international financial, shipping and trade centre,” Mr Lee said. Part of this strategy is to promote the development of world‑class gold storage facilities, facilitating the storage and delivery of spot gold by users and investors in Hong Kong, and driving demand for related services such as collateral and loan businesses, opening up new growth areas of the financial sector. Also, to further support Hong Kong’s role as a global financial centre, the Government will continue to enhance the mutual market access regime and reinforce the city’s status as the world’s largest offshore Renminbi (RMB) business hub, contributing to the internationalisation of RMB. The Government will also look to enhance the Cross‑boundary Wealth Management Connect Scheme. Tourism is another growth sector with the Chief Executive proposing to develop Hong Kong into a premier tourism destination through innovative thinking and making better use of rich and unique resources such as the Victoria Harbour, outlying islands, rural areas, cultures, cuisines, lifestyles and historic buildings. “These elements, combined with our edges […]

DigiTech ASEAN Thailand and AI Connect 2024 – Gathering of Global Tech & Digital Community in Bangkok this November

The global tech and digital community is gathering again at its annual DigiTech ASEAN Thailand & AI Connect 2024, to take place at IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Centre, Bangkok, Thailand from 20th to 22nd November 2024. Hosted by two Thai Ministries, namely the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society and Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, DigiTech ASEAN Thailand & AI Connect 2024 is an all-important international face-to-face exhibition and marketing platform to connect and do business with the global tech and digital community and markets. In an ever-evolving digital market landscape, innovation, networking, business collaboration and knowledge sharing shall take centre stage at DigiTech ASEAN Thailand & AI Connect 2024, which is regarded as an annual international gathering place for the global tech and digital community in Thailand. Southeast Asia is expected to be one of the world’s top five regions for digital applications by 2025. Its digital market is projected to reach US$500 billion, with an internet penetration of over 400 million users. At the heart of this is Thailand, with its digital economy expecting to contribute to 30 percent of its GDP by 2030, driven the country’s ongoing industry 4.0 digital transformation policies. It is against this market backdrop that DigiTech ASEAN Thailand & AI Connect 2024 is organized to connect with the regional digital market in a physical setting, to forge new partnerships and collaborations in this rapid digital transformation market environment. The importance of DigiTech ASEAN Thailand & AI Connect 2024 is underscored by the fact that apart from being hosted by two ministries, the event also has the supports of 28 government organizations and industry associations, and 21 local and international media partners. The event will feature over 350 digital brands who will showcase their latest technology, solutions and applications across 8 […]

Delta Electronics showcases integrated solutions at ITAP 2024

Delta, a global leader in power management and provider of IoT-based smart green solutions, is highlighting the importance of integrated solutions at the seventh edition of Industrial Transformation ASIA-PACIFIC (ITAP 2024). Showcasing its modular and integrated portfolio designed to optimise processes and space, address labor shortages, and enhance power dispatch and renewable energy smoothing, Delta will feature key products such as the DIATwin Virtual Machine Development Platform, intuitive building management systems, and its Energy Storage System (ESS). “Delta is at the forefront of developing integrated solutions that drive energy efficiency and sustainability. Our focus on advanced technologies ensures we deliver smarter systems for a greener future, addressing the growing demand for clean energy and intelligent infrastructure,” said Mr. PS Tang, General Manager, Delta Electronics, Singapore. “ITAP 2024 provides a strategic avenue for Delta to collaborate with industry leaders and explore new opportunities for industrial efficiency and sustainability across the Asia Pacific region. By showcasing our technologies, we aim to help companies optimize operations while reducing their environmental footprint, building a smarter, more sustainable industrial future,” said Mr. David Leal, Regional Vice President of SEA Business, Delta Electronics. Core Technologies Focus: Virtual Simulation, Building Automation, and Energy Storage Solutions As the market shifts towards low-volume, large-variety production, Delta’s smart manufacturing solutions tackle challenges in production efficiency and sustainability. The Digital Twin Solution, featuring the DIATwin Virtual Machine Development Platform and the Reconfigurable Transformer Machine, enables engineers to optimize production virtually, enhancing coating quality and reducing programming time. Similarly, Delta’s building automation systems ensure easy solutions for energy management and smart workspaces. These include programmable controllers, touch panels, and IoT interfaces that make offices more integrated. For example, the Delta Intelligent Meeting Room Control allows the activation of a single button to lower the blinds, adjust the temperature, dim the lights, and […]

Mitsubishi Power Completes Landmark 5,300MW Combined Cycle Power Plant Project in Thailand

Final Eighth M701JAC Unit Begins Operation at Gulf Group and Mitsui & Co., Ltd., Joint Venture Plant This marks Mitsubishi Power’s largest-ever completed order by capacity, contributing to Thailand’s energy security and decarbonisation – The project’s previous seven M701JAC gas turbine units installed across two GTCC plants in Rayong and Chonburi Provinces have collectively operated for 100,000 hours Mitsubishi Power, a power solutions brand of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), has completed construction of the eighth and final M701JAC unit of a 5,300MW natural gas-fired power plant project in Thailand. The project, a joint venture between Gulf Energy Development Public Company Limited, one of Thailand’s largest independent power producers (IPP), and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. (Mitsui & Co.), a Japanese trading company, successfully commenced full commercial operations on October 1, 2024. GTCC Power Plant in Rayong The milestone marks the on-time completion of a multi-phase project awarded in 2018, featuring two gas turbine combined cycle (GTCC) plants in Chonburi and Rayong Provinces, key hubs for technological manufacturing and services, with a total installed capacity of 5,300 MW. Each plant is equipped with four M701JAC gas turbines, steam turbines, and heat recovery steam generators, ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy supply critical for Thailand’s energy security and economic growth. On October 1, the first seven units installed in Chonburi and Rayong have collectively logged 100,000 actual operating hours (AOH), reinforcing their proven reliability. The project’s first phase at the Chonburi power plant* marked a significant milestone as the site of Mitsubishi Power’s inaugural J-Series Air-Cooled (JAC) gas turbine installation in Southeast Asia in 2021. The plant was fully completed in October 2022 and received the prestigious “Power Plant of the Year”‘ award at the Power and Energy Awards, presented during the annual Enlit Asia 2023 conference and exhibition. The units were delivered […]

Water-Energy Efficiencies: The Catalyst to Semiconductor Sustainability

–Eric Lai, Senior Regional Sales Director for Industry APAC Fuelled by the explosive growth of emerging markets like AI and electric vehicles, the semiconductor industry – which manufactures the essential materials that power these technologies – is poised to grow into a massive trillion-dollar industry by 2030[1]. At the very heart of this growth lies Southeast Asia, as markets in the region actively pursue opportunities to capture higher value-add positions within the burgeoning global industry. In fact, Singapore’s Minister of State of Trade and Industry called for efforts for the state to sharpen its competitive edge in the semiconductor industry as it aims to double its manufacturing sector’s value by 2030[2]. However, despite the semiconductor industry’s immense potential for economic growth, its notorious thirst for water and energy stand at direct odds with Southeast Asia’s climate ambitions, wherein most countries across the region have committed to carbon neutrality by 2050. How can the growth of semiconductor manufacturing be reconciled with these climate targets to achieve balanced and sustainable long-term development? The Water-Energy Nexus in Semiconductor Manufacturing Intensifying climate events around the globe have brought the semiconductor industry’s immense resource consumption to the fore. Growing concerns about global water shortages have placed the sector’s water usage under scrutiny, while its substantial electricity consumption remains a focal point of concern. However, discussions about these resources tend to occur in silos, with limited focus on the water-energy nexus – which refers to the interdependent relationship between both resources. For instance, considerable energy is required to treat and move water in semiconductor fabrication plants (fabs); conversely, water is critical for the energy generation processes that power these facilities. To truly drive sustainability in this sector, there needs to be a concerted effort to move beyond traditional energy reduction to target the energy-intensive water processes […]

Accuron Technologies & Hyundai CRADLE Co-Invest in Xnergy

Singapore-based Precision Engineering Group Incubates Contactless Charging Start-Up Accuron Technologies (Accuron), in partnership with Hyundai CRADLE—Hyundai Motor’s corporate venturing and open innovation business, is pleased to announce a strategic investment in Xnergy Autonomous Power Technologies (Xnergy), a Singapore-headquartered start-up developing contactless charging solutions for autonomous electrified mobility. This investment also heralds the formal launch of Accuron’s New Ventures pillar—dedicated to fostering innovative technologies through targeted venture investments. Accuron New Ventures marks a pivotal expansion of the Group’s strategic vision, and this new pillar will focus on ventures into high-potential start-ups that are well-aligned with global megatrends and sustainability imperatives, further positioning Accuron as a leader in driving industry transformation. It will continue to identify and invest in groundbreaking technologies, with a view to strengthen the Group’s position in emerging markets and sectors. Empowering Progress in Pivotal Megatrends Accuron has consistently nurtured innovation across its core business groups of Aerospace, Industrial Technologies, and Advanced Manufacturing, and is now broadening its coverage with the introduction of New Ventures. The Group’s investment philosophy is to facilitate the growth of high-potential businesses, and through which, to enhance its portfolio. The capital injection into Xnergy exemplifies this approach and showcases Accuron’s commitment to foster emerging companies—not only through financial backing, but also complemented by strategic support with corporate management and expert oversight. Xnergy was chosen for its strong positioning in the AMR charging market, as well as its ability to seize opportunities in the burgeoning EV charging segment, particularly in China. The start-up’s robust management team, proprietary technology, and strategic partnerships at present further solidify its potential as a transformative player in this space. “We’re pleased to welcome Xnergy into the Accuron New Ventures portfolio,” expressed Edwin Chow, Vice President for Industrials & New Ventures at Accuron Technologies. “Their innovative solutions in contactless charging are […]

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