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Friday, January 21, 2011
Notes From the Power-Gen Conference
Power generation, transmission and storage are emerging as key construction sectors not only in the United States, but also worldwide, thanks to the bustling economies of China, India, and other emerging nations. This increased global demand, expanding interest in environmental stewardship placing greater emphasis on renewable energy, and the willingness of governments and companies to reconsider nuclear power created significant buzz at the Power-Gen International conference in Orlando, Fla. in mid-December.
A diverse panel kicked off the conference, exploring the necessity of stable energy supplies to ensure the United States’ security and quality of life through realistic and thoughtful policy. These challenges will be made even more difficult, they agreed, as America works to balance its need to remain economically competitive in an expanding global marketplace with its desire to demonstrate cooperation and a worldwide view on issues such as carbon emissions and other environmental issues.
Dr. René Umlauft, CEO of Siemens AG’s renewable energy division, noted in his portion of the keynote panel discussion that power generation from renewable sources is expected to increase nearly six-fold from 2009 levels to account for 17 percent of all energy sources by 2030. China and India will lead the way, he said, with wind generation accounting for most of the increase, followed by solar and biomass production. Geothermal and other sources will be important fuel sources as well, he said.
While much of his discussion centered on the boon these initiatives will be to manufacturers, contractors skilled in construction of renewable energy facilities and installation of wind turbines, geothermal wells and other components of generation and transmission infrastructure also will find themselves in enviable positions in the coming decades. As more companies enter the manufacturing arena, supply will increase, economies of scale will increase, competition will become more intense, and costs will drop, making green energy more affordable and increasing demand for contractors competent in this niche.
Power transmission, a tricky proposition regardless of the source of power generation, becomes an even more crucial aspect when generation from renewable sources is brought into the mix, according to Susan Tomasky, president of American Electric Power’s transmission subsidiary. “We are beginning to see the market of transmission as a business for building transmission,” she said, in opening statements sure to warm the hearts of contractors able to fill the need.
Since renewable energy resources are often located in remote areas such as the rural Kansas plains or sparsely populated Arizona deserts, transmission is a key component. Longer lines, better maintenance, and the ability to monitor facilities remotely, along with the potential to retrofit fossil-fuel generation plants make for potentially greener pastures for construction companies. “Our present system is … ill-equipped to integrate large-scale renewable resources,” she said. “Getting wind into the system requires a much more robust transmission system.”
Dr. Terry Michalske, director of the Savannah River National Laboratory, spoke to the country’s reliance on foreign oil and the resulting importance of developing domestic power sources, specifically nuclear reactors. Nuclear power is cheap compared to oil and even coal, which is mined domestically, mitigating the national security concerns. Michalske stressed that the cost of nation’s fuel costs and overall economy. Finally, in keeping with one of the conference’s major themes, he noted that nuclear energy’s carbon footprint is lower than coal’s, and innovations in the industry allow it to reduce waste, even by using other generators’ waste product as fuel in metal reactors. He was especially optimistic about the use of small modular reactors, calling them a potential “game changer” because of their efficiency and extended fuel life.
On the other hand, David Fiorelli, president and CEO for Tenaska Energy’s business development group isn’t ready to forsake fossil fuel. He said vast natural gas deposits in the U.S. and technological breakthroughs that will lead to cleaner coal will extend generation plants that use these fuels to produce electricity. With greenhouse gas emissions popping up in headlines every day, the time is quickly approaching when utilities will have to retrofit their facilities – more good news for contractors. And many utilities’ strategies include moving sooner rather than later to take advantage of tax concessions and other allowances; it behooves builders to join the ranks of first movers as well.
Rick Miller, senior vice president of the Hydropower Division at HDR/DTA stressed the importance of building additional pumped-storage hydro capacity projects to maintain a reliable grid and stabilize the fluctuations in generation capacity as less reliable sources, such as wind and solar, gain additional footholds in the country’s matrix.
A diverse panel kicked off the conference, exploring the necessity of stable energy supplies to ensure the United States’ security and quality of life through realistic and thoughtful policy. These challenges will be made even more difficult, they agreed, as America works to balance its need to remain economically competitive in an expanding global marketplace with its desire to demonstrate cooperation and a worldwide view on issues such as carbon emissions and other environmental issues.
Dr. René Umlauft, CEO of Siemens AG’s renewable energy division, noted in his portion of the keynote panel discussion that power generation from renewable sources is expected to increase nearly six-fold from 2009 levels to account for 17 percent of all energy sources by 2030. China and India will lead the way, he said, with wind generation accounting for most of the increase, followed by solar and biomass production. Geothermal and other sources will be important fuel sources as well, he said.
While much of his discussion centered on the boon these initiatives will be to manufacturers, contractors skilled in construction of renewable energy facilities and installation of wind turbines, geothermal wells and other components of generation and transmission infrastructure also will find themselves in enviable positions in the coming decades. As more companies enter the manufacturing arena, supply will increase, economies of scale will increase, competition will become more intense, and costs will drop, making green energy more affordable and increasing demand for contractors competent in this niche.
Power transmission, a tricky proposition regardless of the source of power generation, becomes an even more crucial aspect when generation from renewable sources is brought into the mix, according to Susan Tomasky, president of American Electric Power’s transmission subsidiary. “We are beginning to see the market of transmission as a business for building transmission,” she said, in opening statements sure to warm the hearts of contractors able to fill the need.
Since renewable energy resources are often located in remote areas such as the rural Kansas plains or sparsely populated Arizona deserts, transmission is a key component. Longer lines, better maintenance, and the ability to monitor facilities remotely, along with the potential to retrofit fossil-fuel generation plants make for potentially greener pastures for construction companies. “Our present system is … ill-equipped to integrate large-scale renewable resources,” she said. “Getting wind into the system requires a much more robust transmission system.”
Dr. Terry Michalske, director of the Savannah River National Laboratory, spoke to the country’s reliance on foreign oil and the resulting importance of developing domestic power sources, specifically nuclear reactors. Nuclear power is cheap compared to oil and even coal, which is mined domestically, mitigating the national security concerns. Michalske stressed that the cost of nation’s fuel costs and overall economy. Finally, in keeping with one of the conference’s major themes, he noted that nuclear energy’s carbon footprint is lower than coal’s, and innovations in the industry allow it to reduce waste, even by using other generators’ waste product as fuel in metal reactors. He was especially optimistic about the use of small modular reactors, calling them a potential “game changer” because of their efficiency and extended fuel life.
On the other hand, David Fiorelli, president and CEO for Tenaska Energy’s business development group isn’t ready to forsake fossil fuel. He said vast natural gas deposits in the U.S. and technological breakthroughs that will lead to cleaner coal will extend generation plants that use these fuels to produce electricity. With greenhouse gas emissions popping up in headlines every day, the time is quickly approaching when utilities will have to retrofit their facilities – more good news for contractors. And many utilities’ strategies include moving sooner rather than later to take advantage of tax concessions and other allowances; it behooves builders to join the ranks of first movers as well.
Rick Miller, senior vice president of the Hydropower Division at HDR/DTA stressed the importance of building additional pumped-storage hydro capacity projects to maintain a reliable grid and stabilize the fluctuations in generation capacity as less reliable sources, such as wind and solar, gain additional footholds in the country’s matrix.
Labels: Coal Energy, Commercial, Construction Industry, Industrial, Nuclear Energy, Wind Energy
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Working in Cold Weather
This time of year reminds us of the precious people in our lives: family, friends, and employees. This time of year also brings colder weather and reminds us to take special precautions to keep those precious field employees safe. On the jobsite, that means redoubling our efforts to identify hazards, ensure preventative measures are in place and that protective equipment is used and safety procedures are followed.
Winter temperatures bring special safety and health concerns to the construction site, so take the time to make sure your workers are aware of the added dangers and that your supervisors take the steps necessary to mitigate the dangers. Experts say workers in areas not necessarily known for frigid weather are more susceptible to cold-weather hazards than workers in places where such weather is commonplace. Carpenters in Grand Rapids, in other words, are more adept at taking the correct steps to meet inclement weather than are electricians in Dallas. Be especially alert to problems during the first few days of a cold spell.
Hypothermia and frost bite are the most obvious and among the most dangerous risks for workers when the mercury falls. Hypothermia can strike even at fairly mild temperatures, especially when workers are exposed to chilling winds or wet working conditions. Workers exhibiting signs of hypothermia - shivering, tingling or numbness in the extremities, etc. - should be moved to a warm, dry location, be made to exercise their arms and legs, and have warm packs applied. Frostbite victims should submerge the affected area in warm water. Once normal feeling and color returns, dry and wrap the affected body part.
While the cold itself presents plenty of health and safety risks for workers, winter work also brings additional hazards. Here are some other factors to consider:
• Even with daylight savings time in effect, many projects require workers to awaken in the dark hours of the morning in order to get to the jobsite on time. And shorter days mean the workday may extend until dusk or later. This takes a psychological toll on workers, making fatigue a real threat. When people are tired, their minds can wander, making them forget to properly use their protective gear and observe approved safety procedures. Cold weather also slows reaction time and limits dexterity. Schedule regular rest periods and make sure workers don’t become complacent because they perform routine tasks for hours on end. Keep everyone alert!
• Eating and drinking habits take on added importance during cold weather. Gatorade, flavored water, and other sweet drinks provide energy and the hydration workers’ bodies require for proper blood flow and warmth. Consider providing workers hot apple cider on the jobsite to keep body temperatures regulated. But beware of other hot drinks. Coffee, tea, and cocoa, as well as carbonated beverages contain caffeine that can be detrimental to safety and job performance in cold weather. The body also needs extra fuel to combat the cold, so slow-release energy foods such as pasta and starches should be encouraged. Consider offering energy foods such as raisins and nuts on the jobsite.
• Encourage susceptible workers to monitor and control diabetes, high blood pressure, breathing problems, etc., which the cold can exacerbate.
• Nearly every winter, the news reports the sad case of a family that loses its home due to an accident with a space heater. Fire is a very real possibility on winter construction sites as well. Make sure portable heaters are used solely for their intended purpose. Do not use them to dry gloves or tools, or to keep coffee warm! And, of course, make sure a fire extinguisher is handy.
• Speaking of fire extinguishers, remember to stock up all the things you’ll need on the site for dealing with cold, snow, and wind. These items include sand or salt to melt ice on foot traffic areas, generators, and food and water for crews who may not be able to leave the site for extended periods due to road conditions.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration offers several tips to help construction companies develop a cold-weather plan. Its Cold Stress card is available in both English and Spanish for free to all employers and workers. The card suggests employers take a proactive role in recognizing and pointing out to workers potentially dangerous conditions around the site and scheduling outdoor work during the warmest part of the day.
Field supervisors also can help workers avoid the worst of cold-weather working conditions by instituting warm-up exercises before the job starts and at frequent intervals during the day. Supervisors, foremen, and project managers also should ensure no one works in isolation. Workers in the same project area often can identify when a colleague is experiencing cold-induced stress and can take action.
Winter temperatures bring special safety and health concerns to the construction site, so take the time to make sure your workers are aware of the added dangers and that your supervisors take the steps necessary to mitigate the dangers. Experts say workers in areas not necessarily known for frigid weather are more susceptible to cold-weather hazards than workers in places where such weather is commonplace. Carpenters in Grand Rapids, in other words, are more adept at taking the correct steps to meet inclement weather than are electricians in Dallas. Be especially alert to problems during the first few days of a cold spell.
Hypothermia and frost bite are the most obvious and among the most dangerous risks for workers when the mercury falls. Hypothermia can strike even at fairly mild temperatures, especially when workers are exposed to chilling winds or wet working conditions. Workers exhibiting signs of hypothermia - shivering, tingling or numbness in the extremities, etc. - should be moved to a warm, dry location, be made to exercise their arms and legs, and have warm packs applied. Frostbite victims should submerge the affected area in warm water. Once normal feeling and color returns, dry and wrap the affected body part.
While the cold itself presents plenty of health and safety risks for workers, winter work also brings additional hazards. Here are some other factors to consider:
• Even with daylight savings time in effect, many projects require workers to awaken in the dark hours of the morning in order to get to the jobsite on time. And shorter days mean the workday may extend until dusk or later. This takes a psychological toll on workers, making fatigue a real threat. When people are tired, their minds can wander, making them forget to properly use their protective gear and observe approved safety procedures. Cold weather also slows reaction time and limits dexterity. Schedule regular rest periods and make sure workers don’t become complacent because they perform routine tasks for hours on end. Keep everyone alert!
• Eating and drinking habits take on added importance during cold weather. Gatorade, flavored water, and other sweet drinks provide energy and the hydration workers’ bodies require for proper blood flow and warmth. Consider providing workers hot apple cider on the jobsite to keep body temperatures regulated. But beware of other hot drinks. Coffee, tea, and cocoa, as well as carbonated beverages contain caffeine that can be detrimental to safety and job performance in cold weather. The body also needs extra fuel to combat the cold, so slow-release energy foods such as pasta and starches should be encouraged. Consider offering energy foods such as raisins and nuts on the jobsite.
• Encourage susceptible workers to monitor and control diabetes, high blood pressure, breathing problems, etc., which the cold can exacerbate.
• Nearly every winter, the news reports the sad case of a family that loses its home due to an accident with a space heater. Fire is a very real possibility on winter construction sites as well. Make sure portable heaters are used solely for their intended purpose. Do not use them to dry gloves or tools, or to keep coffee warm! And, of course, make sure a fire extinguisher is handy.
• Speaking of fire extinguishers, remember to stock up all the things you’ll need on the site for dealing with cold, snow, and wind. These items include sand or salt to melt ice on foot traffic areas, generators, and food and water for crews who may not be able to leave the site for extended periods due to road conditions.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration offers several tips to help construction companies develop a cold-weather plan. Its Cold Stress card is available in both English and Spanish for free to all employers and workers. The card suggests employers take a proactive role in recognizing and pointing out to workers potentially dangerous conditions around the site and scheduling outdoor work during the warmest part of the day.
Field supervisors also can help workers avoid the worst of cold-weather working conditions by instituting warm-up exercises before the job starts and at frequent intervals during the day. Supervisors, foremen, and project managers also should ensure no one works in isolation. Workers in the same project area often can identify when a colleague is experiencing cold-induced stress and can take action.
Labels: Commercial, Construction Industry, Industrial