Danfoss, a global leader in climate and energy solutions, has joined forces with Enersponse, a leading distributed energy resource (DER) management company based in California, to introduce cutting-edge services for American supermarkets. This collaboration aims to enhance energy flexibility in HVAC and refrigeration systems by unlocking benefits for the food retail sector with the Automated Read more
HVACR
Danfoss, a global leader in climate and energy solutions, has joined forces with Enersponse, a leading distributed energy resource (DER) management company based in California, to introduce cutting-edge services for American supermarkets.
This collaboration aims to enhance energy flexibility in HVAC and refrigeration systems by unlocking benefits for the food retail sector with the Automated Demand Response (Auto-DR) solution.
Providing Demand Flexibility and Energy Efficiency
The food retail industry is transforming through digitalization and sustainability is a key phase of this journey. To foster the green transition, Danfoss and Enersponse will collaborate to ensure food retailers achieve grid stability, while reaping financial rewards automatically, via Auto-DR. By reducing energy usage when electricity demand exceeds supply, Auto-DR helps ensure the lights stay on and the food stays fresh, all while reducing energy use during peak periods which often correlates with high emission periods.
Enersponse’s DERMS Platform will be seamlessly integrated into Danfoss Alsense®, an Internet of Things (IoT) food retail services cloud solution that tracks refrigeration asset performance, allowing retail managers to easily respond to alarms, ensure 24/7 monitoring of food conditions, and reduce energy consumption.
“We maintain an unwavering commitment to seeking out premier building control partners, enhancing the impact of our energy initiatives,” explained James McPhail, the visionary CEO and founder of Enersponse. “Being at the forefront of our industry with unmatched technology, collaborating with a company like Danfoss was an obvious choice. This partnership marks a significant milestone for both organizations, delivering not only excitement but also substantial benefits to their customers such as tailored demand response events, the generation of a passive income all while maintaining adherence to safety standards to ensure perishable foods remain well within the designated safe temperature zones and a multitude of other advantages.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Enersponse to expand our offerings to food retail customers in the United States,” says Natalie Schnippering, Danfoss Head of Digital Services. “With digital innovation, we can capture supermarket data and gain the insight needed to optimize energy use, automate corrective actions, and prevent peak loads and energy waste.”
Tangible Impact of Automatic Demand Response Measures
Electricity consumption varies throughout the day and year. Uncontrolled demand-side consumption will, therefore, often lead to critical congestion in the grid during peak hours. Demand-side flexibility and energy efficiency measures shift the energy consumption to times when demand is lower. This proactive Smart Demand Response approach from Danfoss and Enersponse enables supermarkets to reduce electricity costs by lowering cooling loads during peak hours.
According to the International Energy Agency, Smart Demand Response could provide 185 gigawatts (GW) of system flexibility, equivalent to the currently installed electricity supply capacity of Australia and Italy combined.
Are we beyond using the COVID pandemic years of 2020-2021 as a benchmark for anything moving forward? Ok, this will be my last but I felt that AHR 2024 knocked it out of the park, with attendance numbers equaling that of shows past, pre-pandemic. I actually heard, and this hasn’t been verified as of yet Read more
Are we beyond using the COVID pandemic years of 2020-2021 as a benchmark for anything moving forward? Ok, this will be my last but I felt that AHR 2024 knocked it out of the park, with attendance numbers equaling that of shows past, pre-pandemic. I actually heard, and this hasn’t been verified as of yet, but the day one on-site registration was nearing record levels. And day two crowds were still buzzing as traffic on the floor filled the aisles. (THIS JUST IN FROM AHR: It was clear to anyone filling the halls on Monday morning of the show that attendance was strong, welcoming 48,034 attendees there to interact with the 1,875 exhibitors spread across North and South Halls. )
To a booth, everyone was satisfied with the turnout and conversations during the show. The show marked a return to business as usual, at a much more accelerated pace. And to think, this is during mid-January, polar vortex temps, no less. (Don’t miss next year’s show February 10-12 in Orlando.)
U.S. Boiler Co.’s Ambient Heat Pump
Technology, innovation and new products dazzled, with heat pumps and the push toward electrification still dominating the topics of conversation. We heard more of VR and simulation training as a trending topic as well, with Artificial Intelligence, Workforce Development, Decarbonization all playing big parts at the show.
The Mechanical Hub team had a busy three days shooting videos in-booth, recording both Make Trades Great Again and Appetite for Construction podcasts, and we were even asked to emcee—and be a part of—a Coffee with Caleffi panel in the Caleffi booth on Monday morning. There, hosts John Mesenbrink and Tim Ward talked with industry bigs John Siegenthaler, Bob “Hot Rod” Rohr, Eric Aune and Andy Mickelson.
The discussion revolved around lifelong learning in the trades: where do these legends go to learn? Forgetting more than most of us will ever learn, Siegenthaler and Rohr talked about outlets for learning and continued training. Aune and Mickelson gave the point of view from a current business owner and working contractor, and the impact of social media in today’s PHVAC trades.
We can’t forget about the after-parties and the go-to for us has always been the Taco event Monday evening. It’s a chance to meet up with old and new friends alike.
From l to r: Eric Aune, John Mesenbrink, Ben White, Tim Ward, Mike Prencavage, Jr.
One event I had the pleasure of attending—and it was my first time—was the HVAC Tactical Awards extravaganza held at the Planetarium downtown Chicago. I believe this was the fourth annual event, and the tagline, “It’s a mindset” is turning into “It’s a movement.” This was another great event to see good friends, and the idea of night of “Blue Collar Goes Black Tie” can’t be overstated.
Ben Poole, HVAC Tactical
The industry needs events like this to showcase the trades in the best, shining light there is. And this event, with the red-carpet entry, exclusive red-carpet interviews, cocktail parties pre and post, and the awards ceremony, give this a gala-type feel, with everyone dressed to the nines, and I think everyone digs that vibe, at least for one night.
Links to AHR Expo Videos:
The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors–National Association (PHCC) welcomed PHCC members, chapter executives, and corporate partners to Washington, D.C., May 16-17, to meet with lawmakers and educate them on energy, economic, and workforce policies that are important to the industry and consumers. Before heading to Capitol Hill as industry experts, members first heard from political expert Charlie Cook, who was the keynote speaker Read more
The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors–National Association (PHCC) welcomed PHCC members, chapter executives, and corporate partners to Washington, D.C., May 16-17, to meet with lawmakers and educate them on energy, economic, and workforce policies that are important to the industry and consumers.
Before heading to Capitol Hill as industry experts, members first heard from political expert Charlie Cook, who was the keynote speaker for the event. Cook spoke on the current political landscape, lessons from the 2022 midterms, and predictions for 2024.
After hearing from Cook, the group was briefed by PHCC Legislative Affairs Director Mark Valentini, PHCC Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Chuck White, and a panel of other industry lobbyists. Panelists included Jim Collura, vice president and director of government affairs for the National Energy & Fuels Institute (NEFI); Steve Rossi, vice president of advocacy for the American Supply Association (ASA); and Robert Wolfer, manager of government relations for Bradford White Corp (PHCC Strategic Partner). That evening, the group attended a reception in the historic Caucus Room of the Cannon House Office Building. This reception was held in conjunction with the Heating Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) and the Air-conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI). Members of Congress stopped by to network with members of PHCC and these other industry groups.
The next morning during breakfast, attendees heard insights from a second Washington Insider panel consisting of Craig Brightup, chief executive officer of the Brightup Group LLC; Matt Kiessling, senior director of state affairs for the American Gas Association (AGA); and Christopher Lindsay, vice president of government relations for the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO – PHCC Supporting Sponsor). After a quick stop for a picture on the Capitol steps, they headed to their respective meetings. In total, 71 PHCC members from 27 different states had 111 meetings with elected officials and their staffs. At a closing roof-top reception that evening, members spoke in-depth about how much they valued the in-person meetings on Capitol Hill, in addition to getting to participate in the rest of the sessions as a part of this two-day event.
“The 2023 PHCC Legislative Conference was an extremely valuable event for all who attended,” said PHCC—National Association President Dave Frame. “Besides the very beneficial one-on-one meetings with legislators, the conference was a great opportunity for PHCC members to connect with each other and with others in the industry supply chain. Together, we are able to accomplish so much more on behalf of our members, the industry, and society.”
The conference was sponsored by PHCC Corporate Partner Federated Insurance. Next year’s event will be May 21-22, 2024.
Rebrand to Copeland Reflects 100-Year Legacy of Leadership in HVAC and Refrigeration Technology and Solutions Sustainable Climate Solutions Leader Positioned for Next Phase of Growth with Enhanced Focus on Innovation to Transform How People Live and Work Emerson Receives Approximately $9.7 Billion in Upfront, Pre-Tax Cash Proceeds and $2.25 Billion Seller’s Note; Retains 40% Common Read more
Rebrand to Copeland Reflects 100-Year Legacy of Leadership in HVAC and
Refrigeration Technology and Solutions
Sustainable Climate Solutions Leader Positioned for Next Phase of Growth with Enhanced Focus on Innovation to Transform How People Live and Work
Emerson Receives Approximately $9.7 Billion in Upfront, Pre-Tax Cash Proceeds and $2.25 Billion Seller’s Note; Retains 40% Common Equity Ownership
Blackstone (NYSE: BX) and Emerson (NYSE: EMR) announced that private equity funds managed by Blackstone (“Blackstone”) have completed the previously announced acquisition of a majority stake in Emerson’s Climate Technologies business in a transaction valuing the business at $14.0 billion. This closing marks a significant milestone in the HVAC and refrigeration (HVACR) industry leader’s journey to advance the next generation of climate technologies.
The new standalone business will be named Copeland – building on the brand’s 100-year legacy, global recognition and influence across the HVACR industry. As a standalone company focused on serving the global HVACR market, Copeland’s product portfolio includes market-leading compressors, controls, thermostats, valves, software and monitoring solutions for residential, commercial and industrial customers. Copeland had fiscal 2022 net sales of $5.0 billion.
“Copeland has long been a pioneer in the HVAC and refrigeration industries with unmatched capabilities in engineering, design and innovation,” said Ross B. Shuster, Chief Executive Officer of Copeland. “With the focus that comes from being a standalone company, and the support of our shareholders, Blackstone and Emerson, we plan to extend the company’s leadership position in the industry and develop new and integrated climate technology solutions. The Copeland business is made up of over 18,000 talented team members, who are aligned and committed to developing technologies and solutions that drive decarbonization at scale, accelerate the global trend of electrification and deliver greater value for our customers and end users.”
Copeland is poised to build on its iconic brand and trusted expertise to shape the future of climate technology. The company’s products, expertise and innovation play a key role in improving the energy efficiency of heating and cooling solutions – including the rapidly growing market for electric heat pumps and climate-friendly refrigerants, which are seeing strong demand and global adoption given their potential to reduce the environmental impact and carbon emissions of HVAC systems.
“Copeland has grown into the market leader in supplying critical components for residential, commercial and industrial climate control solutions, and we are thrilled to support its next phase of growth as a world-class standalone company,” said Joe Baratta, Global Head of Blackstone Private Equity. “Leveraging Blackstone’s long track-record of successful large-scale corporate partnerships, we look forward to working with the Copeland and Emerson teams to accelerate the company’s profitable, long-term growth. We’re confident in the runway ahead to advance Copeland’s industry leading position by delivering even more innovative, energy-efficient solutions to support its customers’ carbon reduction efforts.”
“We are pleased to complete this significant transaction, an important milestone in Emerson’s portfolio transformation into a cohesive global automation leader,” said Lal Karsanbhai, President and Chief Executive Officer of Emerson. “The upfront proceeds from this transaction allow Emerson to advance our portfolio in attractive, higher-growth automation markets, while our remaining non-controlling investment enables Emerson to benefit from Copeland’s future upside under Blackstone’s ownership, until we exit the business. With our focused portfolio, we are bringing comprehensive automation products, software and solutions to a diverse set of end markets, driving operational excellence and enhancing value creation for Emerson shareholders.”
Copeland will continue to operate from St. Louis, while maintaining a global footprint to serve customers in Europe, Latin America, Asia, Middle East and Africa.
Learn more about Copeland’s sustainable solutions at Copeland.com.
As we move into the first quarter of 2023, the trade show circuit is in full effect, and the Mechanical Hub team will be present at all of the events, starting with World of Concrete next week. The buzz is strong moving from the post-COVID drag to in-person connection again that includes all shows from Read more
As we move into the first quarter of 2023, the trade show circuit is in full effect, and the Mechanical Hub team will be present at all of the events, starting with World of Concrete next week. The buzz is strong moving from the post-COVID drag to in-person connection again that includes all shows from January through March.
World of Concrete (January 17-19, Las Vegas) — This show has been serving the concrete and masonry construction industries for nearly 50 years. Why does Mechanical Hub attend? Tools baby! The leaders in the tool industry—that delve into the concrete side of things—are all there and great conversations and connections can be made there. And, it’s Vegas. I’m sure you can find something fun to do there, right?
KBIS/IBS (January 31-February 2, Las Vegas) — Since co-locating back in 2014, this really is a can’t-miss show. Combing the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) and The International Builders’ Show (IBS) was a huge boon to both of these prior individual shows. Combing forces is like watching Hanna-Barbara’s Wonder Twins “activate” in the form of a leading national trade show every year. Finding the latest in kitchen and bath trends with the latest and greatest from the building world? Um, yes please.
AHR Expo (February 6-8, Atlanta) — If I could count the amount of steps I have amassed over the years walking this show floor, I probably would have worn more comfortable shoes from the beginning. This is the largest annual U.S. HVACR trade show and you will not be disappointed with how much there is to see and do at this event—from seeing the latest technology and products visiting with manufacturers at their booths to the educational tracks offered. BTW, Mechanical Hub’s two podcasts will be broadcasting from the AHR Podcast Pavilions, so if you’re at the show, be sure to stop by and say hello. (Appetite for Construction Podcast Monday, Feb. 6 at 5:00 pm, pavilion 2; Tuesday, Feb. 7 at 4:00 pm, pavilion 1. Make Trades Great Again Podcast Monday, Feb. 6 at 2:00 pm, pavilion 2; Tuesday, Feb. 7 at 11:00 am, pavilion 1; Tuesday, Feb. 7 at 1:00 pm, pavilion 2.)
WWETT Show (February 20-23, Indianapolis) — Man, we love going to this show as well. So many connections made, such a great time. The Water & Wastewater Equipment, Treatment & Transport Show—a mouthful so let’s just call it WWETT—is the world’s largest annual trade show for wastewater and environmental service professionals. This show offers educational programs, live demos, the latest in drain cleaning technology, and the opportunity to connect with fellow industry showgoers. For those that can remember that far back, this was the old pumper and dumper show.
ISH Messe Frankfurt (March 13-17, Frankfurt, Germany)—Guten tag from Deutschland! The Mechanical Hub team will be making the jump over the pond to attend one of the world’s largest biennial (every two years) PHVACR trade show. The focus of this year’s ISH is marketable solutions for a sustainable future. Currently, the organizers are expecting around 2,000 companies to present their solutions for renewable sources of energy, sustainable water usage and clean air at the leading international trade event for the HVAC and water sector.
ISH 2023 will offer the ISH digital extension, a virtual presence that will open in parallel to the live event in Frankfurt and will also remain open for one week longer until March 24, 2023.
Pre-COVID, ISH was so popular, more space was allotted to the already mammoth 12 building campus. According to the ISH website, the show is the largest exhibition venue in the world for product innovations, and it occupies an area equal to approximately 39 football pitches. Thank goodness for Ted Lasso, because we now know that pitches mean soccer fields. We’ll need to brush up on our German for sure as the MH team will be traveling the countryside after the show, visiting with some key clients.
Hope to see you on the road!