Energy Storage Technology Created in Europe

Rimac Technology announces its entry into the stationary energy storage systems (ESS) market with a new brand, Rimac Energy.

This marks a major milestone for the company, as it expands beyond its market-leading EV technology and introduces innovative stationary energy storage systems. These stationary solutions are essential in realizing the full potential of renewable power generation and driving the decarbonization of our energy networks.

The Rimac Energy team has been steadily built as a specialized team within Rimac Technology over the last 18 months and now consists of 60 dedicated employees - all of whom currently work on its first generation of stationary ESS and pilot applications with select customers.

Leveraging Rimac's renowned expertise in EV technology, Rimac Energy applies the same engineering philosophy and design know-how to stationary energy storage applications. As a result, Rimac Energy has created a novel battery architecture that reduces efficiency losses by up to 50% whilst decreasing the system footprint by up to 40% compared to current state-of-the-art solutions. Additional technological benefits include improved cycle life, built-in redundancy for increased availability, as well as competitive material and installation cost.

Rimac Energy's Director, Wasim Sarwar, commented:

"At Rimac we have always been driven by innovation and a passion for pushing the limits of what is possible in the automotive industry. However, we recognize the importance of stationary storage solutions to power our planet sustainably. Given our track record in innovative battery technology, we believe we will play a vital role in building Europe's future energy ecosystems, elevating it on the global stage."

Initially, Rimac Energy will provide solutions for large commercial, industrial, and utility-scale applications, with battery-buffered solutions for fast and mega-watt charging already underway. The company currently has several customer projects in discussion, including a pilot with a leading renewable energy company to provide battery storage solutions for their solar and wind power plants. These pilot systems are expected to be produced by the end of this year, and commissioned in 2024. Mass manufacturing is set to start in 2025, with manufacturing capacities continuously scaling up into the double-digit GWh-scale.

Rimac Group founder and CEO, Mate Rimac stated:

"There is an urgent need for clean energy infrastructure to support the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid by providing storage and balancing capabilities. Given our head start in EV technology and dedication to sustainability, this path feels like a seamless progression for us. Our team is truly excited about creating solutions that make clean energy more accessible, as we strive to decrease our dependence on fossil fuels and foster a greener future."

Rimac Energy's unique technology is being developed and manufactured at Rimac's facilities on the outskirts of Zagreb, Croatia and will be revealed later this year.

The Rimac Group, led by CEO Mate Rimac, is a majority shareholder of Bugatti Rimac and the sole stakeholder of Rimac Technology. The Group brings together the most advanced hypercars in the world with a globally renowned team developing high performance electrification, software solutions for the world's largest OEMs, and next generation energy storage solutions for a sustainable future. Rimac is based on the outskirts of Zagreb, Croatia, with locations around Europe, and currently employs more than 2,000 people. From 2023, the Rimac Group will be headquartered at a new state-of-the-art 100,000 m² Rimac Campus, large enough to accommodate over 2,500 people.

Tips for Stress Reduction and Wellness

This April, the United Kingdom comes together to observe Stress Awareness Month, recognising the need to address stress and its adverse effects on mental and physical health. DH Lifelabs, an innovator in air purification and non-toxic home goods technology, is committed to improving indoor air by combining the power of nature, science, and cutting-edge technology through their air purifiers, humidifiers and surface cleaners.

Initiated by the Stress Management Society, Stress Awareness Month aims to raise public awareness and promote strategies for managing stress. As people spend a considerable amount of time indoors, the quality of indoor air plays a crucial role in influencing stress levels and overall wellbeing. Pollutants, allergens and viruses can worsen respiratory issues, leading to increased stress, anxiety and discomfort.

"Stress affects people in different ways, and one of the most effective approaches to mitigating its impact is by harnessing the power of nature, science, and technology. At DH Lifelabs, we understand the importance of this synergy and are excited to bring our innovative air purification solutions to the UK market," shares Chris Coleman, Global Vice President of Marketing. "By seamlessly integrating elements of nature, science, and technology into our products, we're addressing a very common but significant challenge for many."

As part of Stress Awareness Month, DH Lifelabs shares nine natural, alternative ways to reduce stress:

- Forest bathing: Also known as Shinrin-yoku, this Japanese practice involves immersing oneself in nature and mindfully absorbing the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest. Research has shown that forest bathing can lower cortisol levels, improve mood and boost the immune system.

- Biofeedback therapy: This technique involves using sensors to monitor bodily functions, such as heart rate, muscle tension, and brain waves. By understanding these physiological responses, individuals can learn to consciously control them, promoting relaxation.

- Plant-assisted therapy: Integrating plants into living spaces not only purifies the air but can also have a calming effect on the mind. Exposure to indoor plants can improve concentration and boost overall wellbeing.

- Aromatherapy: Using essential oils derived from plants, aromatherapy taps into the natural healing properties of various botanicals to help reduce stress and anxiety. Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile and bergamot can be added to a warm bath, or applied topically to promote relaxation.

- Sound therapy: Listening to natural sounds, such as waves crashing on a beach or birdsongs in a forest, has been shown to have a positive, calming effect. Incorporating these sounds into daily life, either through recordings or apps, can create a sense of calm and balance.

- Light therapy: Exposure to natural light, or specially designed light boxes that mimic sunlight, can help regulate the body's circadian rhythm and improve mood.

- Ecotherapy: Engaging in nature-based activities, such as gardening, hiking, or wildlife observation, can provide numerous mental health benefits.

- Grounding: Also known as earthing, grounding involves direct contact with the Earth's surface, either by walking barefoot on grass or sand or using grounding mats and sheets indoors. This practice is believed to transfer the Earth's natural energy to the body, thereby reducing stress, inflammation and promoting relaxation.

- Bio-inspired design: Incorporating elements of nature into the design of living and working spaces, known as biophilic design, can have a significant impact on overall wellbeing. This approach might include installing green walls, using natural materials, and creating spaces that mimic natural environments, such as indoor water features or rock gardens.

For those unable to immerse themselves in a forest, DH Lifelabs' Sciaire line of air purifiers brings the benefits of nature's air indoors. Sciaire technology releases plasma ions into the air, actively removing 99.95% of airborne pollutants and creating a cleaner, fresher environment reminiscent of a forest or waterfall, aiding in stress reduction. Essentially speaking, using DH Lifelabs' air purification products helps maintain a cleaner indoor environment with benefits for all.

"Nature and science, working together, can play a vital role in enhancing our overall wellbeing," continues Coleman. "Our products demonstrate our commitment to improving indoor air quality and promoting healthier environments in homes and businesses across the UK."

DH Lifelabs is a leading provider of innovative air quality purification solutions, merging nature and technology to create healthier and happier lifestyles for people everywhere. The company's air purification technology uses science and natural ingredients to combat indoor air pollution and allergens, providing a safe and healthy living environment for individuals and families. DH Lifelabs' products include air purifiers, surface cleaners, and other household items that are gentle yet powerful, providing an effective and practical solution for households and workplaces alike. The company is committed to making the world a better place by providing eco-friendly products that promote health and wellness while minimizing environmental impact.

Britainss National Trust Restoring Bath Assembly

Bath, one of the most beautiful cities in England, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987—the only entire city in Britain to hold such a title. More recently, in 2021, it joined 10 other major European spa towns named, "The Great Spas of Europe"—towns that bear witness to the international spa culture that developed in the early 18th century. Today, many of these places still retain unique spa buildings as well as related facilities gardens, theatres, hotels and assembly rooms. A destination since Roman times, the city's neoclassical Palladian crescents, terraces and squares spread out majestically over the green surrounding hills. Set in this verdant valley, the city is an exemplar of a pleasing integration of architecture, urban design and landscape setting.

During the Georgian era, Bath's famous and prestigious Assembly Rooms were at the heart of fashionable society. They were built for the delight of the polite society that developed during the 18th century, when the ceremonials of rank were broken down, the nobility mixed with the gentry and people passed their time together in agreeable conversation against a backdrop of strolling, dancing, playing cards and taking tea. It was a place where marriages were made, fortunes won and lost, society's stories were shared, and politics debated. Jane Austen, Dickens, Gainsborough, Haydn, Strauss, Sheridan, Linley, Herschel, Liszt, and Wilberforce are just a few of the notable individuals who frequented the Rooms.

The devastating loss of Bath Assembly Room's original 18th-century interiors during the World Wars and the subsequent restoration, often in simplified or more frugal methods, has led to the building as it is today. The Grade I-listed Assembly Rooms have been owned by Britain's National Trust since 1931 and managed by the local authority since 1937. The council's lease ends in 2023, creating the perfect moment for the National Trust to create a new future for this special place and restore the historical integrity of the Assembly Rooms.

As the American partner of the National Trust of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the Royal Oak community supports the Trust's efforts to preserve and protect historic places across Britain like the Bath Assembly Rooms forever for everyone.

Europe Smart Farming Market in 2027

The Europe smart farming market was valued at $3,993.7 million in 2022 and is expected to reach $8,420.6 million in 2027, following a CAGR of 16.09% during 2022-2027. The growth in the Europe Smart Farming Market is expected to be driven by increase in adoption of IoT and artificial intelligence, digitalization of agriculture operations, rise in dependence on advanced technologies to enhance production across the region.

Market Lifecycle Stage

The Smart Farming Market is in a growing phase owing to different advanced technologies in the market. As increase in adoption of automated machineries and equipment, sensors and navigation systems, robots, autonomous vehicles, guidance and steering systems, and others.

Sensors and guidance and steering systems are the most important hardware components used in the modern agriculture operations.

Impact

- Smart farming is about using the new technologies that emerged in agriculture and livestock at the beginning of the fourth industrial revolution to increase production volume and quality by making maximum use of resources and minimizing environmental impact. Also, the implementation of technology in agriculture and livestock will make it possible to improve food security around the world.

- The use of smart farming can assist farmers in reducing waste and increasing efficiency by integrating them into their operations. Trends such as increasing requirements for crop yield and increasing demand to combat climate change further contribute to the growth of the Europe smart farming market. Varying weather circumstances influence soil quality and crop yields. Therefore, farmers in Europe are adopting innovations and technologies that can optimize production costs and lessen the harmful effects of greenhouse gases, such as methane, on the environment.

- The use of smart farming technologies has positive impact of agriculture operations and livestock farming. These technologies offer benefits such as increased efficiency & productivity, water saving, reduced costs, pest detection and animal health, better sustainability, and others. In addition, smart farming helps farmers better understand the important factors such as water, topography, orientation, vegetation, and soil types.

The outbreak of COVID-19, followed by the European country's lockdown in 2020-2021, disrupted the function of the Europe smart farming market.It affected the production process and supply chain networks and resulted in losses for the manufacturers in the Europe smart farming market.

The unavailability of labour and lack of raw materials such as sensors, semiconductors, and other components were the key factors that limited production. However, production activities gradually started by the end of 2020 as the governments of different countries provided some relief from the lockdown.

Market Segmentation:

Segmentation 1: by Application

Precision Farming

Livestock Monitoring & Management

Aquaculture

Others

The Europe Smart Farming Market in the application segment is expected to be dominated by precision farming applications.Rise in use of precision farming applications such as precision irrigation, yield monitoring & forecasting, precision spraying, precision planting, and others are expected to drive the growth of this segment in the region.

This is followed by the livestock monitoring and management segment which accounts for the second-largest share in the smart farming market due to increase in awareness and demand towards tracking and monitoring of health of livestock across the Europe.

Hardware

Software

Services

The hardware segment is estimated to capture highest market share during the period 2022 to 2027.The hardware equipment is increasingly used in the various farming operations.

In addition, the increasing adoption of intelligent or autonomous vehicles integrated with sensors and navigation systems, computer vision is expected to drive the growth of the smart farming market in the region. Moreover, increase in penetration of integrated hardware and software technologies are expected to increase the production and efficiency of farms which in turn is projected to drive the market growth in the coming years.

Segmentation 3: by Country

Europe - U.K., Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Ukraine, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic, and Rest-of-Europe

U.K. generated the highest revenue of $540.2 million in 2021. The country is experiencing an increase in adoption of smart farming technologies such as autonomous vehicles, software systems, and other automation and control systems. In addition, increase adoption of digital technologies for modern farm machineries in efficient crop production in the country along with rise in popularity of indoor farming owing to urbanization. Germany registered the 2nd highest revenue in the Europe smart farming market.

- In October 2022, Trimble Inc. launched new agriculture displays, such as Trimble GFX-1060 and GFX-1260, for precision agriculture applications. These displays provide next-generation performance and connectivity for in-field operations.

- In January 2022, Hexagon Agriculture launched a new technology named HxGN AgrOn planting assistant. This new technology is aimed at improving accuracy in shovel planting. This item can also be adopted by other types of crops, such as palm oil, coffee, banana, and citrus.

- In June 2022, BASF acquired Horta S.r.l., an Italian company specialized in digital farming solutions. Horta is an established player for the development of highly innovative agronomic Decision Support Systems (DSS) for crops such as grapes, tomatoes, cereals and olives.

- In August 2022, CropX inc. launched a continuous nitrogen leaching monitoring capability for its farm management system. This new development would track the nitrogen movement and salts in the soil.