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In an age where sustainable living and reducing our carbon footprint are paramount, harnessing the power of the sun has emerged as a beacon of hope for environmentally-conscious homeowners. Solar energy has rapidly gained popularity as an efficient and clean source of power, allowing homeowners to reduce their reliance on conventional electricity sources and take a step towards a more sustainable future. In this guide, we will explore the world of solar energy for homes and the benefits it brings to both your pocket and the planet. Solar panels for sale at Shed the load.

Understanding Solar Energy

At its core, solar energy is harnessed from the sun's radiant light and heat. This energy can be converted into electricity or used directly for heating and cooling purposes in residential properties. Solar panels, or photovoltaic cells, are the primary technology behind this process, capturing sunlight and converting it into usable electricity.

Why Go Solar?

1. Reduced Energy Bills: Solar panels can significantly reduce your monthly electricity bills, providing you with clean, free energy from the sun. Check here.

2. Environmental Benefits: Solar energy is a renewable and sustainable energy source, producing no greenhouse gas emissions, which helps combat climate change and reduce air pollution.

3. Energy Independence: Solar power reduces your reliance on traditional energy sources, giving you greater control over your energy consumption and costs.

4. Increased Property Value: Homes equipped with solar panels often have a higher resale value and tend to sell more quickly in the real estate market.

5. Government Incentives: Many governments and regions offer tax incentives, rebates, and other benefits to homeowners who invest in solar energy.

6. Low Maintenance: Solar panels require minimal maintenance, making them a hassle-free, long-term investment. Shed the load’s solar panels for sale.

Getting Started with Solar Energy

To embrace solar energy for your home, follow these key steps:

1. Assess Your Energy Needs: Determine your energy consumption and needs to size your solar system correctly.

2. Site Assessment: Evaluate your property to identify the best location for solar panel installation. Factors like shading, roof orientation, and available space are essential.

3. Select a Solar Installer: Choose a reputable solar installation company that can design and install the right system for your needs.

4. Financing and Incentives: Explore financing options and available incentives, ensuring you take full advantage of potential savings.

5. Installation: Once you've selected a solar installer and financing plan, it's time to install your solar panels and connect them to your home's electrical system.

6. Monitoring and Maintenance: Regularly monitor your system's performance and address any necessary maintenance or repairs. Learn more.

The Future of Solar Energy

As technology advances and the world shifts towards sustainable energy sources, solar energy is expected to play an increasingly significant role in the future. Innovations such as solar roof tiles and more efficient solar panel designs are making solar energy accessible to a broader range of homeowners.

By embracing solar energy for your home, you're not only making a smart financial investment but also contributing to a more sustainable planet. The power of the sun is at your fingertips, offering an environmentally-friendly and cost-effective solution for your energy needs. Join the solar energy revolution, reduce your carbon footprint, and enjoy the benefits of a cleaner, greener future for your home and the world. More info at https://shedtheload.co.za/collections/solar-panels 

Published in Energy and Environment

In today's fast-paced world, staying connected and powered up while on the move is more critical than ever. With the ever-increasing reliance on smartphones, laptops, and other portable electronic devices, access to a reliable power source can make a significant difference, especially during travel or outdoor adventures. Car inverters, often referred to as power inverters for vehicles, have emerged as a versatile solution to this need. Let's explore how car inverters for sale can be your trusted power source on the go. Car inverters from shed the load.

Understanding Car Inverters

A car inverter is a compact electronic device designed to convert the direct current (DC) from your vehicle's battery into alternating current (AC), which is the type of electricity used to power most consumer electronics. These inverters allow you to plug in and charge your devices while on the road, providing a valuable and convenient power source.

Why Car Inverters Are Essential

On-the-Go Charging: Whether you're on a road trip, camping, or simply commuting, a car inverter allows you to charge your electronic devices conveniently. It's a versatile solution for keeping your smartphone, laptop, tablet, or any other gadget powered up.

Emergency Preparedness: Car inverters can serve as a backup power source during emergencies. If your car battery is charged, you can use your inverter to run essential appliances or recharge critical devices.

Entertainment and Convenience: Car inverters enable you to use small appliances and entertainment devices on the go. You can power a mini fridge for snacks or beverages, a portable DVD player for entertainment on long trips, or even a coffee maker for a fresh brew during your journey.

Remote Work: As remote work becomes increasingly common, car inverters are essential for professionals who need to work while travelling. You can transform your vehicle into a mobile office with a reliable power source.

Choosing the Right Car Inverter

When selecting a car inverter, check here, there are a few key factors to consider:

Power Rating: Car inverters come in various power ratings, typically measured in watts. Determine your power needs based on the devices you plan to use. Make sure the inverter's capacity matches or exceeds your requirements.

Inverter Type: There are two main types of car inverters: modified sine wave and pure sine wave. Modified sine wave inverters are cost-effective and suitable for most devices. Pure sine wave inverters are pricier but offer a cleaner and more stable power output, making them ideal for sensitive electronics. Choose the perfect inverter for you.

Number of Outlets: Consider the number of outlets or USB ports you need for simultaneous device charging. Some inverters come with multiple outlets to accommodate various devices.

Safety Features: Look for safety features such as overload protection, short-circuit protection, and temperature control to prevent overheating.

Brand and Warranty: Opt for reputable brands that offer good warranty terms and reliable customer support.

Installation and Usage Tips

Installing and using a car inverter is relatively straightforward:

1. Connect the inverter to your vehicle's power source (usually the 12V DC socket).

2. Plug in your electronic devices.

3. Power on the inverter.

4. Use your devices as you would at home.

5. Make sure not to overload the inverter, and always follow safety guidelines.

Conclusion

Car inverters for sale have become indispensable for individuals constantly on the move. Whether you need to stay connected, work remotely, or enjoy the comforts of home while traveling, a car inverter can be your reliable power source. By selecting the right inverter to suit your needs, you can ensure that your devices remain charged and functional, no matter where your adventures take you. More info at https://shedtheload.co.za/collections/inverters 

Published in Tourism, Cars, Traffic

Amidst the modern world's incredible technological advancements, power supply issues continue to challenge our daily lives. One such challenge, experienced in many regions, is load shedding. As power grids strain under increased demand and fluctuating supply, finding efficient power management solutions during load shedding has become a necessity.

Load shedding refers to the deliberate shutdown of electricity supply to prevent an overload on the power grid. While it's a crucial mechanism to protect the grid from complete failure, it often leads to power outages that can disrupt our lives. To combat these interruptions, individuals and businesses alike are turning to innovative solutions for efficient power management. Load shedding solutions at shed the load.

The Role of Inverters and UPS Systems

One of the most common approaches to mitigating the impact of load shedding is investing in backup power solutions such as inverters and Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems. Here's a closer look at these options:

Inverters: Inverters are devices that convert direct current (DC) power from sources like solar panels or batteries into alternating current (AC) power that can be used to run household or business appliances. They are a versatile solution for managing power during load shedding. By integrating inverters into your system, you can seamlessly switch to backup power when the main grid goes down. This ensures uninterrupted power for critical appliances, making them essential for homes and businesses. Find Inverters at shed the load.

UPS Systems: UPS systems, on the other hand, are designed to provide a seamless transition to battery power when the main grid fails. These systems offer a short-term power source to keep critical devices running until a generator or alternative power source takes over. They are particularly useful for protecting sensitive electronics and ensuring uninterrupted power to essential equipment during load shedding events. Find UPS systems at shed the load.

Efficient Power Management

Efficient power management during load shedding involves careful planning and choosing the right equipment. Here are some key considerations:

Load Assessment: Identifying critical appliances and equipment is essential. Understanding your energy needs helps you determine the right size of inverter or UPS system to meet your requirements.

Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): An ATS is a crucial component for efficient power management. It automatically switches your power source from the main grid to the backup system when load shedding occurs.

Solar Power Integration: For sustainable and eco-friendly power management, consider integrating solar power into your system. Solar panels combined with inverters and batteries can provide a consistent power supply while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Maintenance: Regular maintenance of your backup power systems is vital to ensure they function optimally during load shedding events. UPS systems, for instance, require regular checks of battery health and overall system functionality. Learn more.

The Way Forward

Efficient power management during load shedding is not just about surviving the outage but thriving during it. Whether it's powering your home or keeping your business running, choosing the right solutions and planning ahead can make all the difference. Inverters and UPS systems play their part in ensuring that load shedding does not disrupt your life or work.

In a world where energy is at the heart of every aspect of life, managing power efficiently is not just a choice; it's a necessity. As technology continues to advance, these solutions will only become more reliable, allowing us to navigate the challenges of load shedding with ease. So, embrace these innovations and take control of your power management, ensuring that your life stays bright even during the darkest times of load shedding. Contact https://shedtheload.co.za/ for more

In today's world, where clean and sustainable energy solutions are at the forefront, solar power has emerged as a beacon of hope. Solar panels have become increasingly popular for harnessing the sun's energy and reducing carbon footprints. However, to truly maximize the benefits of your solar system, it's essential to explore the world of solar batteries. Shed the loads solar batteries.

The Need for Solar Batteries

Solar panels are an excellent source of renewable energy. They generate electricity when the sun is shining and are eco-friendly, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. However, they have a limitation: they generate power only during daylight hours. This limitation can be addressed with solar batteries.

Solar batteries, also known as solar energy storage systems, are rechargeable devices that store excess electricity generated by your solar panels. They essentially allow you to save the energy produced during the day for use during the night or when your energy needs exceed what your solar panels can provide. Learn more. Here's why they're becoming essential for solar system owners:

Energy Independence: Solar batteries enable you to become more energy independent. You rely less on the grid and have a source of electricity even during power outages.

Optimized Energy Use: With a solar battery, you can utilize the energy you generate efficiently, reducing the amount of electricity you pull from the grid and saving on your utility bills.

Environmental Impact: Solar batteries contribute to a greener planet by reducing your carbon footprint. You're using more of the clean energy your solar panels generate, thereby decreasing your dependence on fossil fuels.

Grid Support: Some solar batteries are designed to support the grid. This can help stabilize the grid during peak demand times, making your community's energy supply more robust.

Long-Term Savings: While there is an initial cost associated with installing a solar battery, the long-term savings on your energy bills and the increased value of your solar system make it a worthwhile investment.

Choosing the Right Solar Battery

When exploring solar batteries, it's important to consider your energy needs and goals. Here are some factors to take into account:

Capacity: Determine how much energy storage capacity you require. This will depend on your household's energy consumption and how much excess energy your solar panels generate.

Type of Battery: There are various types of solar batteries available, including lithium-ion, lead-acid, and saltwater batteries. Each has its own pros and cons, so research them carefully. Lithium solar batteries from shed the load.

Inverter Compatibility: Ensure that the solar battery you choose is compatible with your existing solar inverter and panel system.

Warranty: Look for a solar battery with a good warranty to protect your investment.

Budget: Consider your budget, as the cost of solar batteries can vary widely.

Empowering the Future with Solar Batteries

Solar batteries are not just a backup solution; they're an integral part of a cleaner and more sustainable future. By harnessing the power of the sun, storing excess energy, and reducing our reliance on conventional energy sources, we empower ourselves and future generations to make a positive impact on the planet.

When you explore solar batteries, you're not just investing in your own energy security; you're contributing to a cleaner world and a more sustainable future. As the technology continues to evolve and become more accessible, now is the perfect time to explore the world of solar batteries and maximize the potential of your solar system. More info at https://shedtheload.co.za/collections/solar-batteries 

Published in Energy and Environment

In today's fast-paced world, staying connected and powered up on the go is essential. Whether you're a business professional in need of your smartphone throughout the day or an adventure enthusiast capturing every moment on your action camera, a reliable power source is a must. That's where Romoss, a leading name in the world of power banks, comes into play. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Romoss power banks and explore how they empower individuals to stay charged and connected wherever they are. Learn more here.

The Rise of Portable Power Banks

Power banks, also known as portable chargers or external battery packs, have become indispensable in our daily lives. These compact devices store electrical energy that can be used to charge our smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other gadgets when conventional power sources are unavailable. Romoss has emerged as a frontrunner in this technology, delivering innovative solutions to ensure you never run out of power when you need it most.

Why Romoss Stands Out

Romoss has earned a reputation for providing reliable, efficient, and stylish power banks that cater to a wide range of needs. Find out more about Romoss power banks.Here are some key reasons why Romoss is a standout choice:

Diverse Product Range: Romoss offers a diverse lineup of power banks, ranging from pocket-sized options for emergency charges to high-capacity models capable of powering multiple devices over extended periods.

Cutting-Edge Technology: Romoss integrates the latest battery technologies, such as lithium-polymer and lithium-ion, into their power banks, ensuring faster charging, longer life cycles, and enhanced safety features.

Intelligent Charging: Many Romoss power banks come equipped with smart charging technology that automatically detects the connected device's power requirements and delivers the optimal charge, protecting your gadgets from overcharging or overheating.

High Capacity: Romoss offers power banks with capacities ranging from 5,000mAh to a whopping 30,000mAh or more, providing ample power for various needs, from a quick smartphone top-up to extended trips without access to power outlets.

Stylish Design: Romoss pays attention to aesthetics, offering power banks with sleek and modern designs that make them a fashionable accessory along with their functionality.

Romoss Power Banks in Action

Imagine you're on a cross-country road trip, capturing breathtaking landscapes with your DSLR camera and sharing the moments on your smartphone. As the day progresses, you realize both your camera and phone batteries are running low. This is where Romoss power banks shine. With their high capacity and multiple USB ports, you can charge your devices simultaneously and keep your adventure documented without interruptions.

For the busy urban professional, Romoss offers pocket-sized power banks that easily slip into a briefcase or purse. When your smartphone's battery is dwindling during a crucial meeting or conference call, you can discreetly connect your Romoss power bank to ensure you stay connected and maintain productivity. Shed the load’s Romoss power banks.

The Future of Mobile Power

The demand for portable power solutions like Romoss power banks is expected to continue growing as our reliance on mobile devices deepens. Romoss, with its commitment to quality, innovation, and user-centric design, is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of mobile power.

In conclusion, Romoss power banks have emerged as dependable companions for modern life, ensuring that you can stay charged and connected no matter where your adventures take you. With a Romoss power bank in your bag or pocket, you're not just carrying a power source; you're carrying peace of mind in a world that never stops moving. Find out more here https://shedtheload.co.za/collections/power-banks

In a world where investing in the future is paramount, no investment is more crucial than that in early childhood development. Research¹ has shown that the first one thousand days in a child's life could hold the key to unlocking their lifelong potential. By age five, almost 90% of a child's brain is developed, making these formative years pivotal in shaping their future.

Ursula Assis, Country Director, Dibber International Preschools comments.

South Africa's Alarming Literacy Statistic

“Like many nations, South Africa faces the challenge of ensuring quality early education for its youngest citizens. Shockingly, an international report² reveals that 81% of Grade 4 learners in the country cannot read for meaning in any of the official languages. This stark statistic underscores the urgency of addressing early childhood development.

The Impact of Quality Early Education

“Early childhood programmes that are sustained and of high quality can have long-lasting impacts on children. These programmes prepare them for formal schooling and set them on a path to lifelong success.

Benefits include:

Improved Academic Performance: Quality early education lays a solid academic foundation, allowing children to excel in reading, math, and language skills throughout their school years.

Enhanced Social and Emotional Development: These programs focus on building crucial social and emotional skills, such as cooperation, communication, and empathy, which are vital for positive relationships and emotional well-being.

Long-Term Educational Attainment: Children who receive quality early education are more likely to graduate from high school and pursue higher education, leading to better career opportunities and economic stability.

Reduced Special Education Placements: Early childhood education identifies and addresses developmental delays or learning difficulties early on, reducing the need for special education services later in a child's school years.

Economic and Social Benefits: Quality early childhood education programs contribute to a more skilled and productive workforce, lower crime rates, and decreased reliance on social welfare programs, benefiting society as a whole.

A Unique Approach to Nurturing Children's Potential

“Our approach goes beyond traditional education. The Dibber Childhood places an emphasis on not only a child's learning achievements but also their future health, happiness, and growth. Through the Dibber Heart Culture and customised approaches to learning, children become keen explorers who love to learn and develop the competencies needed for everyday life. The emphasis is placed on developing all aspects of a child, from the cognitive and physical to the emotional and social.

“A warm and inclusive atmosphere fostering positive and supportive relationships is also vital in early childhood development. Jack Shonkoff, Director of the Centre on the Developing Child at Harvard, highlights the importance of these relationships, which are the roots that allow all children to thrive. Children need to feel valued, know how to form relationships and understand their role in a greater community and the world.

Everyday Moments are Golden Opportunities

“There is great importance in tiny everyday moments that leave lasting traces, influence relationships, and shape culture, so we strive to make every everyday moment "golden" by actively building trust with the children and nurturing their sense of self-worth.

“Investing in early childhood development not only sets children on a path to success but also contributes to the overall well-being of society.”

Published in Health and Medicine

Douglas, Isle of Man, October 2023 - The Isle of Man Indaba is proud to announce its fourth bi-annual roadshow, set to take place from 31 October to 8 November 2023, in South Africa. Organised by a collective of Isle of Man companies with an interest in fostering synergies and bolstering ties between South Africa and the Isle of Man, this edition of the roadshow will focus on "Growing tech and intellectual property companies in order to accumulate wealth in the Isle of Man".

Building on the success of previous roadshows, which primarily focused on finance and investment, the upcoming conferences and workshops in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and George will delve into critical topics, including economic substance, funding South African tech companies, the advantages of choosing the Isle of Man for your tech company, IP management (brands, trademarks) from the Isle of Man, general wealth management, types of corporate vehicles, family governance, succession planning, available advisors, and employment issues.

Distinguished authorities on intellectual property will join the delegation of Isle of Man companies at the roadshow. The keynote speakers include Sara-Jane Pluke of Eversheds in Durban, Stephan Spamer of CDH in Johannesburg, and André Maré of Von Seidels in Cape Town. Isle of Man companies participating in the panel will provide valuable insights into the investment market and recent developments in the country. The panel includes representatives from the Isle of Man government through its agency, Finance Isle of Man; Antony Kelsey from Capital International Group; Alex Toohey from Canaccord Genuity; Basil Bielich and Lyle Krause from Atla Group; Simon Fearnhead from Stonewell; Christopher Kinley from Kinley Legal; Stephen Wilson from Boston Multi Family Office; and Roelf Odendaal.

The events will be held on the following dates and locations:

  • 31 October: Mount Edgecombe Country Club, Umhlanga
  • 2 November: Seven Villa Hotel & Spa, Sandton
  • 6 November: Fancourt, George
  • 8 November: The Forum Embassy Hill, Cape Town

Recent media reports by Bloomberg and the BBC highlight a growing interest in the Isle of Man as an ambitious and vibrant economy with a goal of doubling its economy to £10 billion by 2032. The Isle of Man has set its sights on increasing its population to 100,000 by 2027 while creating 5,000 jobs in the process. Addressing the theme of tech and intellectual property, Digital Isle of Man, the government's executive agency, reports that the digital industry has witnessed substantial growth on the Isle of Man, now contributing to 30% of the Island's economy. This sector spans various domains, including eGaming, esports, Fintech, blockchain, IoT, technology, payments, media, and film.

The Isle of Man is recognised as a leading international business centre, celebrated for its innovation, professionalism, and commitment to international initiatives and standards. It is a self-governing crown dependency with its own parliament, laws, and economy, independent of the UK or EU. The country’s economy is growing and has a Moody’s government rating of Aa3. This rating indicates the Island’s high level of wealth and economic resilience. Moody’s comment: “The IoM’s economy is more diversified than are most entities of its size, having moved away from a reliance on offshore banking towards information and communication technology (ICT), insurance and e-gaming.” 

Roelf Odendaal, representing one of the participating Isle of Man companies, expressed excitement about the upcoming roadshow and the success of past Indabas. He highlighted the expansion of the event to include the Eastern Cape with a stop in George, inviting interested parties across the Garden Route and surrounding regions to attend. This marks the second roadshow in 2023, showcasing the commitment of both South African and Isle of Man companies to fostering fruitful collaborations. “This Indaba will be of particular interest to tech companies wishing to take their products international, tech entrepreneurs wishing to understand how to establish a tech company globally, individuals and companies who wish to register trademarks and intellectual property internationally, and individuals who want to secure their wealth outside of South Africa.”

The Isle of Man Indaba is a testament to the commitment of Isle of Man companies to promoting economic growth, collaboration, and investment opportunities between South Africa and the Isle of Man. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into tech, intellectual property, and wealth creation. Register now to secure your place at this prestigious event.

For more information, registration, and updates about the Isle of Man Indaba, please visit https://iom-za.org/.

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Media contact
Vanessa Naude
Strategic Public Relations
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
+447624 332404 or WhatsApp on +2783 271 6000

About Isle of Man Indaba

The Isle of Man Indaba is a bi-annual roadshow organised by a collective of Isle of Man companies with the aim of strengthening economic ties and promoting synergies between South Africa and the Isle of Man. Each roadshow focuses on key themes and topics relevant to both regions, offering a platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration. For more information, please visit https://iom-za.org/.

Johannesburg, 28th September 2023 - Angela Yeung, the visionary founder of the Impilo Collection Foundation and the ambassador of brand South Africa – play your part, has achieved a remarkable feat by summiting Manaslu at 8,136 meters. Angela's triumphant ascent took place on Monday, September 25th, 2023, at 6:50 am Nepal time, marking a historic moment in her daring expedition. This achievement surpasses her previous triumph on the Island Peak at 6,200 meters last year.

Manaslu, known as the "mountain of the spirit," stands as the eighth-highest peak globally, nestled within Nepal's majestic Himalayas. The mountain's name is rooted in the Sanskrit term "manasa," signifying "intellect" or "soul."

The driving force behind Angela's ascent is a compelling mission - to spotlight and combat the harrowing issue of gender-based violence (GBV). Angela's daring expedition aims to channel funds towards an educational sanctuary that will empower and uplift young women who have faced the brunt of GBV.

"Angela declares, "We face a mountain to climb, one that symbolizes the path to women's empowerment through education. This journey is the stepping stone to independence and self-reliance."

Partnering with The Sherpa Legends, including the illustrious Mingma Chhiri Sherpa, who has conquered Everest six times and Manaslu thrice, Angela sought to leverage her climb's impact and inspire change.

Impilo Collection Foundation has already demonstrated its prowess in addressing GBV through its #EmpowerHer campaign, a testament to its dedication. The campaign's impactful display of 6,200 bras at Johannesburg's Constitution Hill and subsequent distribution to GBV shelters during International Women’s Month 2022 has left a lasting impact.

Intriguingly, the collection of 8,848 bras - representing the height of Mount Everest - is a novel pursuit of social warriors who stand resolute against GBV.

Angela's philanthropic accomplishments are noteworthy, with this marking her fourth fundraising climb. Her vision transcends personal achievements, aiming to establish an annual drive for essentials like bras and sanitary pads. Collaborating with fellow mountaineers, Angela endeavors to cast awareness amidst the clouds.

The ascent is scheduled from September 1st to October 5th, held in collaboration with esteemed international brands such as Cathay Pacific, GoPro, Sisley Paris, and Zara Wellness. A thrilling revelation is Angela's plan to carry their logos and the South African flag to the summit of Manaslu, elevating them beyond the reach of ordinary planes.

Most notably, Angela's determination and courage could lead to a historic achievement. Should Angela summit at the highest point on Manaslu, she will become the first woman from South Africa to achieve this feat. In recent times, many climbers have chosen to ascend only after the confirmation of the summit by the renowned Mingma G.

Angela's unwavering dedication is evident, having invested 630 hours in rigorous training and traversed a staggering 540 kilometres in preparation for the climb. While Angela has already injected substantial funding, the centre’s construction necessitates further contributions.

Angela emphasizes, "Our quest for an anti-GBV education centre demands the collective efforts of supporters, followers, climbers, and allies. Together, we will make this vision a reality."

Generous benefactors will be commemorated with a keepsake symbolizing the metaphorical mountains scaled together.

Donations can be made at https://www.givengain.com/ap/angela-yeung-raising-funds-for-impilo-collection-foundation-63526/#updates.

Stay connected and join Angela's journey on Facebook and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/impilo

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About Impilo Collection Foundation:

Impilo Collection Foundation is a philanthropic organization dedicated to supporting humanity through awareness #EmpowerHer #EmpowerHim and #EmpowerThem campaigns, fundraising events, and community engagement.

With a commitment to effecting positive change through education and the foundation endeavours to create a world free from violence.

By Pieter Nienaber (Compliance Africa at Crown Records Management South Africa)

Crown Records Management, a global leader in information management, proudly marked the recent National Recycling Day by underlining its commitment to helping businesses embrace digitisation and reduce their reliance on paper-based records. With over 30 years of experience in the field, Crown Records Management has become synonymous with document storage, document digitisation, secure disposal, and document shredding services that empower organisations to manage their corporate memory efficiently.

The business landscape is a fast-paced, data-driven world today. One where efficient records management is a fundamental requirement for businesses of all sizes. As we continue our journey into the digital age, where information flows seamlessly, and remote work becomes increasingly prevalent, it's crucial for organisations to adopt practices that not only enhance efficiency but also align with environmental sustainability. Let’s explore the environmental benefits of digitising company records and how this shift can make a significant impact on our planet.

Reducing Paper Usage

One of the most obvious environmental advantages of digitising company records is the substantial reduction in paper consumption. Traditional record-keeping often involves printing countless documents, resulting in significant paper waste. By going digital, companies can dramatically decrease their reliance on paper, conserving trees and reducing the carbon footprint associated with paper production.

Minimising Energy Consumption

Storing physical records in expansive filing systems or off-site storage facilities consumes considerable energy for climate control and lighting. In contrast, digital records require minimal physical space and energy for storage. Cloud-based solutions and energy-efficient data centres further reduce the environmental impact of digital record-keeping.

Cutting Transportation Emissions

Physical records often necessitate transportation for filing, retrieval, and secure destruction. These transportation activities contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. By digitising records and implementing secure, remote access systems, companies can significantly reduce the need for physical record transportation, thereby lowering their carbon footprint.

Enhancing Recycling Opportunities

While the move to digital reduces the need for paper, it also opens up opportunities for recycling and responsible disposal of outdated electronic equipment. Proper recycling practices for old laptops, scanners, and other electronic devices can prevent harmful e-waste from ending up in landfills and promote the reuse of valuable materials.

Supporting Remote Work and Reduced Commuting

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work, reducing the need for employees to commute to offices daily. Digitised records enable remote access, further encouraging this eco-friendly trend. Less commuting means fewer carbon emissions from vehicles, leading to cleaner air and a reduced environmental footprint.

Promoting a Culture of Sustainability

Going digital with records management isn’t just about environmental benefits; it’s also a step toward fostering a culture of sustainability within your organisation. By leading the way in sustainable practices, businesses can inspire employees, clients, and partners to embrace eco-friendly initiatives, both in and out of the workplace.

Most companies are mindful that managing information effectively is valuable, but it can also be a costly headache. Fuelled by the exponential growth of data, advances in technology, changes in regulation, cost efficiency drives, risk management and the need for competitive advantage, staying in control of ever-growing information is impossible without help. Similarly, while the knowledge and experience locked in company archives is an asset that can underpin core business, extracting value from this asset can appear complex and daunting.

Crown Records Management boasts a rich legacy of serving over 20,000 clients worldwide across 40 industry sectors. With a remarkable storage capacity of 33.2 million cubic feet and 24.7 million cartons stored globally, the company is dedicated to safeguarding the invaluable information that fuels businesses. What sets Crown Records Management apart is its unwavering focus on providing local solutions, with 98% of its business being locally procured and contracted.

The environmental advantages of digitising company records are significant and cannot be overlooked. Beyond the clear operational benefits, such as improved efficiency and accessibility, companies that make the transition to digital records also play a role in reducing their environmental impact. By minimising paper usage, cutting energy consumption, reducing transportation emissions, and supporting remote work, organisations can contribute to a more sustainable future while reaping the rewards of streamlined, eco-conscious records management.

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For more information about Crown Records Management and its comprehensive information management solutions, please visit their website.

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Get social by following Crown Records Management on:

 

DISTRIBUTED ON BEHALF OF CROWN RECORDS MANAGEMENT by ANGELFISH PR & EVENTS.
All media queries can be directed to Annie Hodes on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

ABOUT CROWN RECORDS MANAGEMENT

Crown Records Management is the corporate information management business of Crown Worldwide, serving large and small corporations around the world.

As an established global player, Crown Records Management is well positioned to help organizations meet the challenges of good information management in a fast-changing world. Its combination of facilities, knowledge and insight into the opportunities of effective records management can bring order to a complex environment and create advantage.

The company manages over 20,000,000 cubic feet of business records and has grown to become the number one private company in this field. Its services include:

  • Business information storage
  • Imaging, data conversion & data hosting
  • Escrow services and destruction services
Published in Energy and Environment
  • In its new report, ‘A turning point for offshore wind’, Allianz Commercial highlights growth opportunities, tech innovations, risk trends, and loss patterns for the global industry.
  • Damage to cables is the top cause of insurance claims, followed by turbine failure.
  • Speed of build-out is creating pressure on materials and supply chains, port infrastructure, and available construction and maintenance vessels.
  • Bigger turbines and new technology drive bigger exposures for insurers which need to be understood in partnership with developers.
  • Weather and natural catastrophe risks are increasing as sector expands into new territories.

Munich, 21 September 2023

The potential of offshore wind as a viable source of clean power for the energy transition is indisputable. Investment in the sector is growing rapidly around the world, the power capacity of installations is ramping up, and technological innovations are proliferating – from multi-purpose windfarms and floating installations to next-generation connectivity and drone-based maintenance. Developers and their insurers need to manage a range of risks to successfully scale offshore wind globally, among them prototypical technology, economic pressures, more extreme weather conditions, cable damage, and collision perils, as well as environmental concerns.

In its new report, A turning point for offshore wind, Allianz Commercial, as a leading insurer of renewable energy and low-carbon technology solutions, highlights growth opportunities, tech innovations, risk trends, and loss patterns for the offshore wind industry as the sector prepares for global growth.

“Offshore wind farms are highly complex projects,” says Anthony Vassallo, Global Head of Natural Resources, Allianz Commercial.The lessons learned from past losses – which are primarily damage to cables and turbines – are essential for the industry to continue to grow sustainably. Emerging risks need to be explored, too, as developers prepare for widescale deployment of offshore wind around the globe. The size of turbines is ever increasing, wind farms are moving further out into harsher marine environments where they are more exposed to extreme weather, and technological innovation is constantly progressing. Navigating biodiversity issues in coastal communities will also become more important as demand for ocean space is set to increase fivefold by 2050.”

China has overtaken Europe as biggest market

More than 99% of the total global offshore wind installation is in Europe and Asia-Pacific today, but the US is investing heavily in this sector and China has overtaken Europe as the world’s biggest market, with half of the world’s offshore wind installations in 2023 expected to be in the country. In 2022, 8.8GW of new offshore wind capacity was added to the grid with global installed capacity reaching 64.3GW. Around 380GW of offshore capacity is expected to be added across 32 markets over the next 10 years. While no offshore wind farms exist in Africa and the Middle East at present, several countries such as Morocco, Egypt, South Africa, and Kenya are exploring the potential to harness offshore wind into their energy mixes. South Africa’s high demand for energy, advanced infrastructure and progressive policies have positioned it as a key player in the continent’s renewable energy scene, with potential for offshore wind projects along its vast coastline, according to the Global Wind Energy Council.

While growth ambitions are huge, all is not plain sailing for developers, according to the report. Spiraling costs have halted major wind projects recently and the industry is impacted by inflation, capital expenses, rising interest rates, and geopolitical instability. The cost of materials and vessel hire have risen, while the supply of materials and access to contractors remains challenging. Supply chain bottlenecks, lengthy permitting procedures and delays to grid connections are also exerting pressure.

The scale and scope of the global offshore wind roll-out is epic. It requires the expansion of manufacturing footprint, port facilities, and infrastructure. And it needs to be fast-tracked by all stakeholders in a joint effort – financial institutions, corporates, and governments,” says Adam Reed, Global Leader Offshore Renewables and Upstream Energy, Allianz Commercial.

Cables top cause of claims

Both the energy sector and the insurance industry have considerable expertise when it comes to managing the perils of offshore wind activities. In one of its largest offshore wind insurance markets, Germany and Central Eastern Europe, Allianz Commercial has seen 53% of offshore wind claims by value from 2014 to 2020 relate to cable damage, followed by turbine failure as the second major cause (20%). From the loss of entire cables during transport to the bending of cables during installation, cable losses have incurred multi-million-dollar losses in offshore wind as cable failure can potentially put a whole network of turbines out of commission.

Cable risk is critical and therefore the quality of service is vital. Contractors need to provide assurance they havethe required expertise to remedy incidents and that they can source replacement components quickly in order to contain losses incurred during downtime,” explains Reed. “From an underwriting perspective, with subsea cabling work insurers pay close attention to the type of cabling used, the kind of vessels involved, the communication between client and contractor, and how often qualified risk engineers will make site visits to oversee proceedings.”

Tech innovations breaking the mold

The sector has to carefully manage the deployment of emerging technologies at scale. Novel approaches include so-called ‘energy islands’ which share power between grids and nations and multi-purpose wind farms that produce green hydrogen or house battery storage facilities. Pilot projects such as the Offshore Logistics Drones from German utility company EnBW explore the deployment of drones for the maintenance and repairs of turbines, reducing the reliance on helicopters and humans. While most offshore wind power is currently ‘fixed-bottom’, the development of leading-edge floating wind technologies in deeper ocean waters is poised for commercialization.

Managing the increasing size of wind turbines is another key challenge. In the last 20 years they have nearly quadrupled in height – from around 70m to 260m – almost three times taller than the Statue of Liberty in New York. Rotor diameters have increased fivefold in the past 30 years. Wind turbines with capacities of 8 or 9MW are common, but newer models reach 14 to 18MW with a wind farm project in Australia recently announcing plans to use 20MW turbines.

“With new technological approaches and an increase in turbine size comes a corresponding increase in risk. We are closely monitoring the many innovations in the offshore wind industry which include prototypical technologies, pilot projects, and evolving standardization. These new and unproven technologies often come with a lack of technical maturity and data available. By partnering with clients in the early stages of projects, and exchanging knowledge and learnings, all parties will gain a greater understanding of the exposures involved,” says Dr Wei Zhang, Senior Risk Consultant, Natural Resources, Allianz Commercial.

Availability of specialist vessels and collision incidents also pose challenges

Another pressing problem identified in the report is the availability of specialist vessels. A bigger fleet globally is needed that goes beyond Europe as a current primary location including installation, jack-up and support vessels. Meanwhile, vessel collision with turbines and offshore infrastructure can also result in significant losses, with an uptick in incidents seen in recent years, the report also notes. Although, to date, these have typically involved smaller vessels, often as a result of human error, there have also been a number of incidents involving larger vessels, an increasing concern given 2,500 wind turbines are due to be installed in the North Sea alone before 2030.

Navigating harsher environments

Although the offshore sector in Europe has significant expertise in managing operations in hazardous marine environments, as it expands around the world, there will be new developments further from shore in territories prone to different types of weather conditions and natural catastrophes. “On the East Coast of the United States or Taiwan, for example, wind speeds and wave action will be much more significant. It remains to be seen whether climate change will heighten the risk, as rising sea surface temperatures can intensify the strength of hurricanes,” explains Reed.

Despite its invaluable contribution to the net-zero transition, the offshore wind industry needs to be mindful of responsible development and environmental stewardship, the Allianz report points out. This includes managing its impact on biodiversity and marine wildlife or the sourcing of required raw materials such as rare earth elements or lithium.

Allianz is supporting some of the most exciting offshore developments, whether as an investor or insurer. In its recently launched Net-Zero Transition Plan, Allianz Commercial committed to a revenue growth of 150% for renewable energy and low-carbon technology by 2030. In addition, Allianz committed to €20 billion in additional investments for climate and clean-tech solutions. As an investor, the company is contributing to about 100 wind farm and green energy projects such as Hollandse Kust Zuid in the Netherlands, He Dreiht (Germany), or NeuConnect (UK/Germany). Allianz Commercial provides insurance coverage solutions across all stages of offshore wind development, construction and operations and is the insurer of many developments, among them Revolution Wind (US), Dogger Bank Wind Farm (UK), NeuConnect (UK/Germany) and Jeonnam 1 (South Korea).

For further information please contact:

Global: Hugo Kidston

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About Allianz Commercial

Allianz Commercial is the center of expertise and global line of Allianz Group for insuring mid-sized businesses, large enterprises and specialist risks. Among our customers are the world’s largest consumer brands, financial institutions and industry players, the global aviation and shipping industry as well as family-owned and medium enterprises which are the backbone of the economy. We also cover unique risks such as offshore wind parks, infrastructure projects or Hollywood film productions. Powered by the employees, financial strength, and network of the world’s #1 insurance brand, we work together to help our customers prepare for what’s ahead: They trust on us for providing a wide range of traditional and alternative risk transfer solutions, outstanding risk consulting and Multinational services as well as seamless claims handling. Allianz Commercial brings together the large corporate insurance business of Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) and the commercial insurance business of national Allianz Property & Casualty entities serving mid-sized companies. We are present in over 200 countries and territories either though our own teams or the Allianz Group network and partners. In 2022, the integrated business of Allianz Commercial generated more than €19 billion gross premium globally.

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Published in Energy and Environment