The momentum for grid storage technologies is building. This article discusses technologies under development and attempts to make some predictions about which of these technologies might affect the residential and commercial energy markets in the short term.

As field-based working becomes increasingly complex and time-sensitive, mobile solutions can help businesses make better, more intelligent decisions. [ + ]

AIMIA, the Digitial Industry Association for Australia, has released the independent findings of the Australian Mobile Phone Lifestyle Index (AMPLI). While the report focuses on consumer, rather than business, users, it provides valuable insight into trends regarding overall preferences. The survey is in its 10th iteration and the 2014 'special topic' is mobile phone use compared to tablet and PCs. [ + ]

In times when we shy away from in-person and face-to-face communications and it is extremely difficult for organisations to connect with their customers, a field visit offers a unique opportunity wherein customers provide a window of time and attention to the servicing organisation. [ + ]

Siemens has recently completed the commissioning of a power station consisting of two of the most efficient combined cycle power units - performing at well in excess of 50% efficiency. The owner and operator of the plant is Diamantina Power Station, a joint venture between APA Group and AGL Energy.

Alcatel-Lucent and Ooredoo Algeria have built a high-capacity optical transport network to connect Algeria's main cities of Algiers, Constantine and Oran - as well as smaller cities - with high-speed ultra-broadband mobile access. [ + ]

Statoil, on behalf of Wintershall, has signed a contract with Nexans for the supply of direct electrical heating (DEH) technology. The DEH riser will connect the Kristin and Maria fields in the Norwegian Sea with the Kristin platform, ensuring the constant flow through pipelines. [ + ]

A recent workplace poll conducted by the Australian Drug Foundation (ADF) has prompted a timely reminder about employer responsibilities with respect to the service of alcohol at organised functions. [ + ]

Imagine you're responsible for maintaining the United Kingdom's utility infrastructure. It requires managing several complex, multitask jobs every day, with each job demanding numerous field technicians with various skillsets, specialised vehicles and a range of equipment. You have a full fleet at your disposal, but how do you coordinate these variables to get all the work done, while staying competitive? This was the challenge Andy Carter, head of business process improvement at Morrison Utility Services (MUS), faced. [ + ]

A major industrial project is likely to be at risk due to faulty electrical cables. [ + ]

Modern systems are exponentially increasing the amounts of data being transmitted, requiring ultrahigh transportation speeds while also transmitting over long distances. [ + ]

Electrical contractors, large or small, need to maintain and store their power tools correctly to prevent safety hazards and costly repairs and replacements. With more than a decade's worth of experience in the industry, working alongside tradies with global designer and manufacturer of premium power tools Hilti Australia, Martin Stirling has put together handy hints and tips for storing the tools correctly. [ + ]

The cliché tells us there is safety in numbers, but for many solo workers, travelling in a pack simply isn't an option. [ + ]

With the emergence of new technologies, improvements in quality and lowering costs, the LED lighting and controls market is set to flourish in the next few years. However, the growth is expected to slow down at the end of the decade because of the long life of LEDs and market saturation. [ + ]

The Australian solar industry has transformed from a small collection of highly specialised companies to a booming industry where dedicated 'sales teams' are required to manage the large volume of PV system purchases. A technically proficient sales team that can effectively communicate up-to-date information to customers, designers and installers is essential for the modern solar business.