The Association of Electrical Equipment and Medical Imaging Manufacturers n www.nema.org n April 2012 n Vol. 17 No.

Probing the
Fundamentals of
High Performance Buildings
ALSO INSIDE

n Baselining Energy Consumption

n Smart Grid, Cybersecurity, Electric Vehicles, & HPBs
n HPB and Energy Efficiency Legislation
n NEMA Scores Big Win in IgCC
HINDSIGHT
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 FEATURES: Electroindustry News...................................18
IDEA—Climbing the eBiz Mountain...........................18
It’s alive!........................................................9 Board of Governors Welcomes Senator Bingaman
and Former Homeland Security Secretary
How to Save Money and Resources—
Chertoff at Quarterly Meeting......................................20
Baselining Electrical Energy Consumption......10

CONTENTS
Solar Lanterns—Saving Lives and Being Green ........21
Smart Grid Technology— ESFI Takes Action against Counterfeit Electrical Products
Science Fiction As Fact...................................13 Seeking Visionary Industry Leaders to Participate.........22
Cybersecurity Protects Today’s HPBs...............14 Osram Sylvania Lights up National Mall......................22
CMS Covers CT Colonography, Saves Lives...................23
NEMA and ASHRAE Collaboration Continues
on FSGIM Standard.......................................15 Get the Low Down on New York City
Lighting Mandates........................................................23
EVSE Section Supports LEED Proposal ............16 Welcoming New Members...........................................24
Historic Thayer Hotel Enters New Century ......17 Global Transportation and Logistics Addresses
NMFC Issues..................................................................24
Small Business Council Forum—
NOTES: Increasing Profitability in Small Businesses ..................24
Remembering the Legacy of Bill Boehm.....................25
NEMA Officers.................................................................2
Arc Welding Section Recognizes Wayne Hoffman.......25
Comments from the C-Suite...........................................2
Correction......................................................................25
Views from the Top.........................................................4
ARPA-E Summit Brings Vanguard Technologies
Learn More...................................................................IBC to Washington...............................................................26

DEPARTMENTS: Code Actions/Standardization Trends.............27

NEMA Scores Big Win in IgCC.......................................27
Government Relations Update.........................6 Whitepaper Documents Requirements
Smart Energy Act Promises Energy Savings, for Receptacles in Wet Locations..................................28
Economic Growth...........................................................6 State of Idaho: Electrical Code Adoption
Congress Considers Many Approaches Effectively Killed............................................................28
to Cybersecurity..............................................................6 IEC TC 23 Strategic Plan Addresses Issues
New Provisions on Lithium Battery Transportation of Responsible Standards ............................................29
Become Law...................................................................7
International Roundup.................................30
Panel Tightens Regulations on Shipping
Lithium Batteries, Accedes to NEMA Request................7 Green Buildings Offer Growing Business
Opportunities in Asia Pacific Region............................30
NEMA, Allied Associations and Federal Agencies
Collaborating on FBPTA Implementation.......................8 WTO Appellate Body Affirms 2011 Ruling
Condemning China’s Export Restrictions .....................31
Congress Directs DOD to Set Policy on
Installation Energy Managers.........................................8 Economic Spotlight.......................................32
Commercial Construction Remains in the Doldrums...32
EBCI, Indices Online ....................................................32

ECO BOX
NEMA electroindustry text and cover pages are printed using SFI certified Anthem
paper using soy ink.
• SFI certified products come from North American forests
managed to rigorous environmental standards.
• SFI standards conserve biodiversity and protect soil and
water quality, as well as wildlife habitats.
• SFI forests are audited by independent experts to ensure
proper adherence to the SFI Standard.
• SFI participants also plant more than 650 million trees each year to keep these forests thriving.

electroindustry electroindustry (ISSN 1066-2464) is published monthly by NEMA, the Association of Electrical Equipment and Medical Imaging
Publisher | Joseph Higbee Manufacturers, 1300 N. 17th Street, Suite 1752, Rosslyn, VA 22209; 703.841.3200. FAX: 703.841.5900. Periodicals postage paid at
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Chrissy L. Skudera or any of its subdivisions.

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 COMMENTS FROM
Officers THE C-SUITE
These are exciting times at NEMA. This month, I’d like to discuss with you three
Chairman
specific topics.
Dominic J. Pileggi
Chairman of the Board & CEO High Performance Buildings
Thomas & Betts Corporation Whether the project is industrial or commercial, the role of NEMA members in buildings
is not simply to provide products for the construction of the building. Our products make
First Vice Chairman buildings smarter, safer, more functional, and more efficient. In other words, we put
John Selldorff high performance into buildings. Long after the hard hats and caution tape are removed,
President & CEO NEMA member products are still at work, providing savings for building owners over the
Legrand North America lifetime of the building.

Second Vice Chairman NEMA is the foundation of building the future. The NEMA High Performance Buildings
Christopher Curtis Council brings together manufacturers for joint ventures, identifying practical use and
President & CEO application of building metrics, labeling, and energy-efficiency incentive mechanisms.
As buildings link into the Smart Grid, NEMA leads in standards development for
Schneider Electric
interoperability. The High Performance Buildings Council is a 2012 strategic initiative
Treasurer and is now open to all NEMA members. I urge you to take a seat at the table.
Thomas Gross ESFI Counterfeiting Campaign
Vice Chairman & COO Electrical Safety Foundation International has begun an anti-counterfeiting campaign.
Eaton Corporation This is an important activity for our industry. I direct you to page 22 for more
information concerning this effort to eliminate electrical counterfeit products and
Immediate Past Chairman save lives.
David J. FitzGibbon
Vice Chairman & CEO IDEA
ILSCO Corporation The Industry Data Exchange Association (IDEA) is an e-commerce organization started
through a partnership between NEMA and NAED. The goal is to drive down costs
President & CEO within the supply chain and provide real-time sales data to serve the customer better.
Evan R. Gaddis IDEA membership is growing at a record pace. If you want to remain relevant as a
manufacturer, you should be actively engaged with IDEA.
Secretary
Clark R. Silcox In vigorously seeking new paths for success, we continue to set the standard for
excellence. ei

Evan R. Gaddis
President and CEO

2 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

38,0 A gift
00 s to ou
ubs r
crib
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 Views from the Top
ŰŰClass Action: Building Automation’s New Role for Buildings
Daryl Dulaney, CEO, Infrastructure & Cities Sector, United States, Siemens Industry, Inc.

As an asset class, managing all the devices that drive But building automation is ready to serve
buildings are performance. Building automation’s role a higher calling. Familiar to many is the
earning a new has been expanding exponentially while fact that in the U.S., commercial buildings
respect, creating integrating system after building system consume more than 40 percent of all
strategic value so that information can be channeled, energy. It’s an eye-opening metric and
and delivering analyzed, and centrally managed. commercial building owners, the federal
bottom-line government, and energy utilities have
One of building automation’s biggest
business benefits to been actively pursuing ways to balance
contributions involves controlling
public and private this demand while supporting higher
and managing the amount of energy a
enterprise. Certainly the traditional societal goals related to sustainability,
building consumes. According to the
functions associated with buildings energy security, and reliability.
Environmental Protection Agency,
remain, but now business leaders are
as much as 30 percent of it is wasted. Active Participant
calling on them to earn their keep
Fortunately, in Siemens’s experience, For the first time as a class, buildings
financially while supporting business
consumption can be reduced by a similar no longer have to be passive consumers
and social responsibility goals.
percentage in virtually any commercial-
of energy. Now, through building
From the CFO to the facility manager, scale building through application of
automation and the Smart Grid,
organizations are constantly looking mature, efficient building technologies.
individual and groups of buildings
for ways to make their buildings Cost Controller can interact with the existing power
smart, efficient, and sustainable—high When one considers that energy is the grid without manual intervention,
performers ready to drive business results. single largest and most controllable automatically aggregating load on a level
operating cost, the relative importance of and scale utilities can wield to manage
High Performer
What makes a building a high performer optimizing an individual building’s energy peak demand.
to a federal housing agency may not be performance becomes hard to contest.
Lofty societal goals aside, what’s in it for
the same as the business that develops The connectivity building automation building owners?
and manufactures electronic systems supports and the resulting building
for the Department of Defense. Every performance monitoring and As active participants, building owners
enterprise has unique requirements interoperability capabilities it creates, can take advantage of utility rate
and special demands, but at the heart brings new strategic asset management discounts and financial incentives while
of a high performance building are a opportunities to the enterprise. directly influencing local grid stability.
few primary, common denominators: A stable grid leads to bottom-line
interior environmental quality, occupant Organizations that deploy smart benefits like longer-term rate pricing
safety, and energy efficiency. building automation technologies stability, as well as power quality and
and energy control and management reliability, especially around large urban
Supporting these common functional (ECM) platforms to multiple buildings centers. Power outages are costly—some
imperatives is building automation across their real estate portfolios will estimates are as high as $11,000 a minute
technology—the connective glue that be rewarded with cascading benefits for data centers—and the more critical
integrates disparate building mechanics including energy use transparency, the environment the higher the price tag.
and systems to create comfortable, safe, lower consumption, and reduced energy
and energy-efficient buildings. operating costs. Siemens is helping the Through building automation, smart,
state of Mississippi with this strategy efficient, and sustainable buildings will
Top Integrator right now, implementing ECM statewide make an even greater contribution to
No discussion of building performance across its 900-building portfolio. profitable commerce and society.
can be divorced from monitoring
and automated control functionality. Society’s Benefactor Whether managing one or one
Building automation still does very In the context of a for-profit business or thousand buildings, the technology is
traditional things—controlling a public entity preserving tax dollars, ready. It’s never been a better time to
mechanical systems, transferring heated building automation’s role in managing leverage building automation to shape
or cooled air to interior spaces, and energy and related costs is well established. the future. ei

4 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

ŰŰMeeting Electrification Demands of High Performance Facilities
Luis M. Ramírez, CEO, GE Energy, Industrial Solutions

The electrical gymnasiums. Besides efficiency, we also Balanced Footprint

distribution consider safety. We help protect children In today’s world, we are studying energy
industry today and faculty inside the buildings, which loads—where energy goes and when
is working to can be used as community shelters in energy is needed. This is similar to an
improve systems, emergency situations. Moreover, schools IT data system model that focuses on
equipment, can be where the green movement maximizing efficiency. Analysts use
facilities, and begins, by teaching children about the same type of models to help us
safety while ecologically sound use of energy. understand how energy ecosystems work
simultaneously and how we can optimize them.
helping customers solve energy’s In healthcare facilities, the concern is
toughest challenges and reduce their not just energy consumption. How we At GE Energy, we’re developing end-
electrical energy costs. A key element design buildings to manage critical to-end solutions for high performance
of this effort is the development of power is essential to the operation of green buildings. We are also developing
high performance buildings that use ICUs, surgery suites, radiology, HVAC/ a new generation of designers, electrical
integrated solutions and green building refrigeration, etc. To address critical engineers, and specifiers to take a
designs, either during new construction power needs, we help customers design big-picture approach to the electrical
or a retrofit. better performing buildings—new ecosystem. They are employing
and existing—by pre-planning and new interactive technologies and
From a financial perspective, 75 percent re-factoring the way entire electrical digitalization tools to improve building
of a building’s lifecycle costs occur distribution systems work. information modeling. This approach
after construction and are subject to focuses on how energy is used, stored,
the same inflationary and economic For data centers which have high networked, and consumed by the
pressures as any other business so it is demand for energy, we also see the entire ecosystem.
easy to see how important integrated potential for sizable savings that can
solutions are to managing future energy The GE approach to the future of
be achieved through the use of smart
costs and variances in occupancy electrification is parallel to that of the
metering and monitoring solutions,
usage. As technology leaders, we have Industrial Energy Efficiency Coalition
along with sustainable system
to develop solutions that meet both (IEEC) and the High Performance
adjustments. These kinds of retrofits and
the short-term (capital) and long-term Buildings Council initiatives, which are
replacements also provide green benefits among NEMA’s important efforts in the
(operational) objectives. that improve the interior environment, past few years.
GE Energy develops products and including equipment and people.
services that enable increased efficiencies GE Energy’s Industrial Solutions
Transferring electrical energy to the right business, a founding member of IEEC,
within a building’s ecosystem. We design
place at the right time has become an is dedicated to the coalition’s focus on
products that enable us to collect and
analytical, predictive process that relies promoting the adoption of industrial
analyze data that building owners and
on examining the “who, what, where, and manufacturing processes that save
operator customers need to run their
when, and how” of assets. Indiscriminate energy and reduce costs. IEEC has
facilities more efficiently.
energy distribution, as was customary been recognized in Congress and at the
We often think of the industrial and in the past, is just that—in the past. The Department of Energy for its significant
manufacturing sectors when we new electrification ecosystem enables input into S 1000, the proposed Energy
consider high performance buildings, operators and building owners to make Savings and Industrial Competitiveness
but today’s technology also enables smarter choices. Act of 2011.
commercial institutions, such as schools
and hospitals, to improve energy With an increased focus on green A comprehensive overview is necessary
performance. building technologies, both energy to ensure the most efficient use of
users and providers will achieve higher electrical energy. That means not only
Many schools that are trying to save efficiencies. This is imperative to sound engineering, but also sound
money, for instance, have shifted to industrial and commercial operations solutions. These are the ingredients for
retrofits, especially in areas such as and environmental compliance. creating high performance buildings. ei

NEMA electroindustry • April 2012   5

 Government Relations Update
ŰŰSmart Energy Act Promises Energy Savings, Economic Growth
On February 14, Rep. Charlie Bass generation in buildings could potentially DOE’s Advanced Manufacturing Office
(R-NH) introduced bi-partisan energy benefit from this program. will develop greater collaboration
efficiency legislation, the Smart Energy across programs to support innovative
The bill would require federal agencies manufacturing processes and
Act (HR 4017).
to participate in demand response applied research for development,
NEMA has played a significant role in programs where such programs are demonstration, and commercialization
the development and introduction of available and the agency’s mission is of new technologies and processes to
not compromised. Demand response improve efficiency.
this legislation. The focus of the bill is
programs, in their many forms, are tools
to promote simple yet effective ways to
to ease the strain on the grid during peak Next up for HR 4017 is committee action
achieve greater energy savings in the U.S.
weather events and under other urgent in the House of Representatives. NEMA
while promoting economic growth.
grid conditions. will continue to promote its passage. ei
One of the act’s key components is Federal agencies will also be required Jim Creevy, Director of Government
expanding the eligibility of an existing to report on best practices for the use of Relations | jim.creevy@nema.org
loan program at the Department of advanced metering in federal facilities,
Energy (DOE) to establish the Building an effort that will demonstrate the Justin Neumann,
Retrofit Financing Program. NEMA benefits of these technologies in the Government Relations Manager |
member companies involved in efficiency, federal government specifically, and in justin.neumann@nema.org
advanced metering, and distribution similar facilities more broadly.

ŰŰCongress Considers Many Approaches to Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity means different things to The secretary would be given the Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity:
different people. For the electroindustry, authority to determine and enforce critical Assessments of Smart Grid Security
its significance is ensuring the security infrastructure cybersecurity performance was held on February 28. Witnesses
and reliability of the electric grid. requirements based on risk assessments. included experts from the Government
Accountability Office and the
Many view cybersecurity as an area Sens. McCain and Hutchison Congressional Research Service.
ripe for bipartisan cooperation in 2012. Counter with SECURE IT Act
However, sharply different perspectives of 2012 From the perspective of the electric
on how to address these issues have S 2151, the Strengthening and grid’s technology providers and device
Enhancing Cybersecurity by Using manufacturers, NEMA recommends that
already emerged on Capitol Hill.
Research, Education, Information, Congress, federal agencies, and states
Sens. Lieberman and Collins and Technology Act, would facilitate undertake a common approach across
Introduce Cybersecurity information sharing between the federal utility areas of control as well as state
Act of 2012 government and the private sector on boundaries. Without a common approach,
cybersecurity threats. The bill would implementation of enhanced cybersecurity
The hallmark of this legislation, S
enhance the criminal statutes for strategies will be very difficult for utilities,
2105, is the provision of authority to
cybercrimes and promote research and manufacturers, the National Institute of
the secretary of the Department of
development in cybersecurity. Reps. Standards and Technology, and standards
Homeland Security, in consultation development organizations. ei
Rogers and Ruppersberger introduced
with the private sector, other similar legislation in the House: HR
departments, and the intelligence 3523, the Cyber Intelligence Sharing Jim Creevy, Director of Government
community, to identify critical and Protection Act of 2011. Relations | jim.creevy@nema.org
infrastructure whose incapacitation
would lead to degradation in national House Energy and Commerce
security, catastrophic economic Subcommittee Holds Hearing
damage, or interruption of A House Energy and Commerce
life-sustaining services. Subcommittee hearing entitled

6 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

ŰŰNew Provisions on Lithium Battery Transportation Become Law
Under a new law signed in February, However, under the new law DOT
the U.S. Department of Transportation is granted explicit authority to issue
(DOT) is prohibited from putting in and enforce more stringent rules on
place rules for the air transportation a temporary basis if regulators are
of lithium cells and batteries that are given credible evidence that an aircraft
more restrictive than rules adopted by incident was related to carriage of
the inter-governmental organization these products.
governing air transportation.
The provision is included in the Federal
The provision also applies to the air
Aviation Administration Modernization
shipment of products packed with or
and Reform Act of 2012, signed into law
containing lithium cells or batteries,
by President Obama on February 14.
which include lithium ion and lithium
Under the new law, DOT is expected to
polymer rechargeable batteries, as well as
lithium metal primary batteries. set aside many of the widely-criticized
proposals from January 2010 on lithium
NEMA, PRBA (the Rechargeable Battery batteries and equipment and to issue for
Association), and a broad coalition of comment a new supplemental notice of
industries worked since March 2011 for proposed rulemaking and cost-benefit
passage of the provision and supported analysis this spring. ei
the intent of Congress to require DOT Photo by Craig Updyke
to bring U.S. regulations into line with Craig Updyke, Manager,
rules written by the International Civil Trade and Commercial Affairs |
Aviation Organization. (See below.) cra_updyke@nema.org

ŰŰPanel Tightens Regulations on Shipping Lithium Batteries, Accedes to NEMA Request

NEMA staff and members participated the meeting, which took place February requirements is available at
recently in a special meeting of 6–10, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. www.nema.org/gov/env_conscious_
the International Civil Aviation design/drybat under Transportation
In recommending new requirements that (Lithium Batteries).
Organization (ICAO) Dangerous Goods
require bulk air shipments of batteries to
Panel to set model regulations for
meet most, and in some cases, all of these As of press time, higher level ICAO
the safe air transportation of lithium
regulations, the panel agreed to honor councils were expected to approve
batteries and equipment that contain or
NEMA’s request and allow packages the panel’s recommendations. Many
are packed with lithium batteries.
of no more than 8 AA-type or smaller countries (but not the U.S.) adopt
NEMA advised the panel of the battery batteries each to be shipped without a the ICAO regulations, known as the
industry’s need for continuation of an limit on the gross weight of the package. Technical Instructions for the Safe
allowance for air shipment of a small Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air,
Lithium “button”- and “coin”-size cells directly and immediately by reference.
quantity of lithium batteries, such as four may be shipped together, but a per-
or eight consumer-type AA batteries, package weight limit of 2.5 kilograms The requirements agreed upon in
outside the full regulatory scheme applies. Both package types must carry February will take effect for the
applied to cargo classified as hazardous. a special ICAO label for lithium battery January 2013 edition of the Technical
shipments. The panel also set new Instructions. ei
Michael Babiak of Energizer, chair of the
requirements for bulk shipments of
Dry Battery Section; Charles Monahan Craig Updyke, Manager,
batteries and equipment.
of Panasonic; Marc Boolish, also of Trade and Commercial Affairs |
Energizer; and Craig Updyke of NEMA A detailed fact sheet on the results of the cra_updyke@nema.org
Government Relations participated in ICAO meetings and the new regulatory

NEMA electroindustry • April 2012   7

 Government Relations Update
ŰŰNEMA, Allied Associations and Federal Agencies Collaborating on FBPTA Implementation
Making sure federal facility managers NEMA joined the Electrical Safety are properly trained in optimum
and contractors know how to operate Foundation International (ESFI), the building performance with respect
their buildings as safely and efficiently International Association of Plumbing to core competencies such as energy
as possible is a shared goal of NEMA’s and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), management and safety. NEMA members
High Performance Buildings Council, and the National Fire Protection are uniquely positioned to take advantage
the General Services Administration Association (NFPA) to work on a web- of a strong and timely opportunity
(GSA), and the Department of Energy based tool to present training resources to establish the design and content
(DOE). These entities are working with for employees and contractors covered of relevant training programs and
additional partners to implement the by FBPTA. GSA is leading construction certifications to meet this requirement.”
Federal Buildings Personnel Training Act of a facilities management institute with
of 2010 (FBPTA). a web-based knowledge portal including In coordination with GSA, DOE is
links to industry best practices, expected to finalize later this year the
FBPTA tasks GSA to identify core programs, and training opportunities. listings of job knowledge and abilities
competencies involved in building GSA’s hub will link to NEMA-ESFI- required for each facility manager,
operations, energy management, safety, IAPMO-NFPA materials. energy/sustainability manager, and
and design; identify or establish ways for operating building engineer in a
Additionally, the Occupational Health
personnel to get training in these areas federally owned or commercial building.
and Safety Administration (OSHA)
and demonstrate knowledge; and develop is mobilizing to help federal workers
curriculum and continuing education on NEMA provided comments on the
covered by the FBPTA. NEMA staff is
high performance buildings (HPBs). draft “Job Task Analyses” in November
involved in that effort.
2011, and remains in touch with DOE
Since GSA and other agencies lease space According to Steve Rood, senior product and GSA since required knowledge and
in non-government-owned buildings, line manager for Electrical Wiring abilities determine needs for training. ei
managers for those buildings are also Systems Division at Legrand North
covered by FBPTA. America, the upcoming enforcement Steve Molitor, Manager,
deadline of FBPTA is the time to High Performance Buildings |
In February, NEMA met with Kevin establish a collaborative training steve.molitor@nema.org
Kampschroer, GSA director of Federal program for HPBs.
High Performance Green Buildings, to Craig Updyke, Manager, Trade and
coordinate complementary approaches to “GSA will be mandated to ensure Commercial Affairs |
accessing training resources. that facility management personnel cra_updyke@nema.org

ŰŰCongress Directs DOD to Set Policy on Installation Energy Managers

In the National Defense Authorization security and portfolio management forums for managers to exchange ideas
Act for 2012, Congress directed the of all buildings in an installation. and experiences.
Department of Defense (DOD) to Under legislation (including the Energy
establish by June of this year a training Independence and Security Act of 2007) DOD will collaborate with DOE
policy for energy managers at military and executive orders, federal agencies are on training energy managers for
installations. The new law comes one required to assess their facilities’ energy installations. The requirement
year after Congress approved the Federal performance and find ways to improve overlaps and dovetails with FBPTA,
Buildings Personnel Training energy efficiency. The Army has launched which covers energy and water efficiency
Act (FBPTA). a major effort to achieve net-zero as well as electrical and life safety. It is
energy installations through energy-use to be implemented by mid-summer by
A NEMA-led collaborative is building
a new website now to ease DOD reductions and integration of renewable the General Services Administration
and other federal agencies’ access to energy generation. with assistance from DOE and the
training resources offered by the high- NEMA-led collaborative. ei
performance building industries. The new DOD policy should improve
energy managers’ knowledge, skills, Craig Updyke, Manager, Trade and
Key aspects of DOD-installation and abilities; improve consistency Commercial Affairs |
energy management include energy in their performance; and create cra_updyke@nema.org

8 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

 Probing the Fundamentals of HPBs

It’s alive!
The SciFi Nature of High Performance Buildings
Paul A. Molitor, Assistant Vice President, Strategic Initiatives and Special Projects

Imagine using mold spores to optimize transportation systems, comparing a whale’s fins and the blades on
a wind turbine, and designing a heat-resistant apartment building based on an African anthill.
At a meeting of the Smart Grid Digestive Track
Interoperability Panel in 2010, a speaker When you look into many building
from Biomimicry Guilde did just that. The rating systems, water use is as much of an
premise was that if you believe in evolution, efficiency factor as electrical efficiency in
then you have to assume that natural systems high performance buildings. An inefficient
will adapt to optimize their performance building will consume water at a greater rate
in the world around them. It’s amusing to than a comparable efficient neighbor. In this
compare the elements of a high performance context, plumbing is representative of the
building (HPB) to a biological system: digestive track.

Brain Skin
Clearly the brain is analogous to a building The pigmentation in our skin, which affects
control system. Just as the brain controls our tolerance to sunlight, is controlled by a
all of the voluntary and involuntary substance called melanin. Those who’ve had
contractions of our muscles, the building a case of frostbite understand that they are
control system provides this function more vulnerable to repeated exposure to the
for every other system that is tied to it. cold after they’ve been affected. As our skin
Standards such as the ASHRAE/NEMA goes, so goes the building envelope. Not only
Smart Building Information Model, being is it our first line of defense against the forces
developed by the ASHRAE Standard Project of nature, but any damage to the envelope
Committee (SPC) 201, will further enable makes its performance more susceptible in
this functionality. the future.

Central Nervous System The High Performance Building

When you touch a hot stove, in a fraction The advent of microcomputing—the ability
of a second the nerves in your hand send a to embed computing power on a single
signal to your brain that in turn, causes you chip—has led to a great deal of advancement
to pull away before you are directly aware in our society. Microcomputers embedded
of the danger. Similarly, in the modern high in HPBs will provide the same kinds of
performance building, a network of sensors functions that take place in our bodies.
and wiring carry the important status Visualize lighting systems that brighten and
messages to the building control system. dim themselves based on available light,
just like the iris of your eye. Or imagine a
Cardio-Pulmonary System thermostat that senses both temperature
If building occupants represent the fragile and humidity, and then engages the HVAC
cells needing sustenance, then it’s the system to recirculate the air and make
heating, ventilation, and air conditioning everyone more comfortable.
(HVAC) system that carries much-needed
blood and oxygen to keep us alive and It’s almost to the point where the building
comfortable. will start to behave like it’s human… ei

NEMA electroindustry • April 2012   9

 How to Save Money and Resources—
Baselining Electrical Energy Consumption
Steve Montgomery, P.E, COO, 2D2C, Inc.

V ariable electricity pricing has long been the norm for commercial and
industrial buildings. Now, many utilities are using variable pricing for
residential customers, too. In North America, the most common variable
High Efficiency Design of New Buildings
Building codes from ASHRAE1 and ICC2 now define energy
efficiency requirements for new and existing buildings. Key
pricing model consists of higher prices at higher demand times. Usually the standards include ASHRAE 90.1 Energy Standard for Buildings
Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings, ASHRAE 90.2 Energy
utility company objective from variable electricity pricing is to better align
Efficient Design of Low-Rise Residential Buildings, ASHRAE
demand with grid supply. 189.1 Standard for the Design of High-Performance Green
Buildings, the International Green Construction Code (IgCC),
Many customers think the change from fixed electricity pricing
and the International Energy Construction Code (IeCC).
to variable pricing results in higher electricity bills. Smart
conservation in conjunction with variable electricity pricing, Architects and engineers can reduce electrical energy
however, can result in lower bills without modifying lifestyle, consumption in high performance buildings by 30 percent
comfort, or building function. Shifting consumption to non- with proper design; high efficiency motors, transformers,
peak demand periods may impact lifestyle, comfort, or function,
and lighting systems; use of natural resources, such as earth
but may also result in utility bill savings.
insulation and natural daylight; and even building location.

Variable Electricity Pricing All transformers have core and conductor losses that result in
heat. If the transformer is placed in an occupied area, extra
As our population grows and we use more electronic devices,
heat may need to be removed. New transformers that meet the
our gross demand for electricity increases. This increased load
stresses the ability for utility companies to produce adequate national efficiency standard use heavier gauge wires and better
electricity. The problem is amplified by dynamic grid load at quality steel—thus they cost more.
different hours of the day and at different times of the year. Turning off devices when not needed, regulating heating / air
In winter, peak demand usually occurs in early morning and at conditioning, and optimizing motor controls can save 5 to 15
dinner when lights are on and food is cooking. In summer, the percent of total energy consumption in an existing building.
use of air conditioning creates a large cumulative demand on Key components to reduce energy consumption include:
the power grid, usually peaking between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.
• energy monitoring of electrical loads
Peak load may exceed the supply capacity of generation. Extra • on-off control of individual load devices
capacity may be needed on super-hot days. One solution is to
• programmable HVAC controls
temporarily fire up legacy coal-fired generators. This short-
term generation of extra supply capacity may result in extra • efficient modern lighting components
carbon production (greenhouse gas, or GHG). To meet the extra • renewable energy sources
demand without extra GHG output, utility companies need to
add renewable generation resources, such as solar conversion • replacement or optimization of low-efficiency motors, motor
panels, wind turbines, or hydroelectric generators. controls, and transformers
• skinning buildings with thermal insulation
As an alternative to installing more generation capacity,
most utility companies are encouraging customers to shift
consumption to non-peak demand periods. One method Getting the Facts
is to charge more for electricity during peak periods. The first step in reducing building energy consumption is to
Utility companies have spent millions on advanced meter measure and profile actual consumption. You cannot manage
infrastructure (AMI) by replacing manually-read electric what you do not measure.
meters with communicating smart meters, wide area network
infrastructure, back-office computer systems, and associated Gross energy consumption and data must be collected by
software to support usage data collection and billing. AMI reviewing historical energy bills. Data can be logged directly
enables utilities to measure consumption more frequently, such from most modern electrical meters. Many offer standard
as once every 15 minutes, for time-of-use billing. 1
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers
2
International Code Council

10 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

 Probing the Fundamentals of HPBs
wireless communication, such as ZigBee Smart Energy Profile. load. These retrofit submeters use non-contacting CTs, CT
Dataloggers that communicate with these protocols can report digitizers (analog to digital converters), local datalogging, and
consumption trends for up-to-date usage in regular intervals. a wireless communication system for data transfers. Ideally, the
submeter should also measure the actual voltage to determine
A few older analog power meters contain wireless true power consumption. Some special circuit breakers can also
communication. After-market electronic meter reader devices meter and report power consumption.
can convert visual meter usage indications into digital data
with wireless communications. To identify problems and take
accurate corrective action, however, building energy managers
need more granular energy consumption data than what is
provided by the premise power meter.

For easy analysis, types of energy consumption within a

building should be categorized. Residential energy categories
include HVAC, lighting, cooking, IT, and entertainment.
Figure 2. CTs can either be placed
Submetering and Plug Loads over wires or clamped around
Submeters should be installed to monitor energy consumed wires. Image courtesy of Itron
by individual branch circuits or loads. Granular data from
submeters can be sorted by category to identify baseline To install the submeters on electrical panel branch circuits, a CT
consumption. Generally, this data does not need to be “revenue must be attached around each branch line wire. CT sense wires
grade” accurate. Total measurement accuracy of two percent is feed from the panel to a data acquisition and communication
adequate and keeps the system costs much lower. box. Each CT has a full-scale range (e.g., 40A, 100A, 400A,
1000A) and must by matched to the load size to ensure the best
Some loads can be monitored at the electrical panel by installing measurement accuracy.
current transformers (CTs) with dataloggers on each branch
circuit. In a residential structure, branch circuits with a single
load would include HVAC, window air conditioners, lighting, You cannot manage what you do not measure.
appliances, and water heaters. Most residential electric codes
require each of these loads to have a dedicated circuit. In
commercial and industrial applications, every heavy load should Snap-on or clamp-type CTs have two halves to the ferrous
be supplied by a dedicated circuit. toroid. Although they cost more and are not as accurate as
continuous toroid CTs, they can be installed faster. Additionally,
Submetering kits can be applied where the load is a subsection voltage sense lines must be attached from each phase leg on the
of a building, a sub-panel, a branch circuit, or an individual protected side of a fuse or breaker to the data acquisition voltage
inputs. The voltage and current signals together allow the
acquisition box to measure power and power factor.

Almost all other loads must be monitored at the plug or

receptacle to isolate consumption. One problem associated
with accurate plug-load monitoring is the inherent portability
of a plug load. It can be moved easily for user convenience.
Most energy monitoring receptacles cannot track this
movement. Thus, a central database that collects data from
these energy monitoring receptacles will be inaccurately
associating energy consumption with appliances that are
moved to meet user requirements.

One vendor has developed a creative plug-based energy

monitoring solution under the brand name SafePlug Energy.
Its energy monitoring receptacle identifies each appliance by
Figure 1. “Always On Plug-Loads” include refrigerator, internet means of radio-frequency identification (RFID). The RFID tag
router, printers, computer monitors, etc. “Sometimes On Plug- uses architecture and data structure specified by the RightPlug
Loads” include stove, TV, lights, washer/dryer, kitchen counter Alliance (www.rightplug.org) communication standard. When
appliances, vacuum cleaner, etc. Graph courtesy of 2D2C, Inc. a tagged plug is inserted into a receptacle, a RightPlug reader

NEMA electroindustry • April 2012   11

 receptacle or hard-wired load controllers can shut off loads
during certain hours. Common applications for load controllers
are on water heaters, space heaters, pumps, and lighting.

Programmable HVAC controls enable automatic adjustment

of temperature set-points to match occupancy and weather
conditions. These controls are almost identical to those needed
for demand response events.

One example of energy waste is heating and cooling the same

space simultaneously, as in IT centers where banks of computers
produce heat while the operator area needs to stay cool. A
simple solution is to isolate the warm area with thermal walls.

Another example involves lighting efficiency advances that can

Figure 3. Most smart energy receptacles contain energy
measurement and on-off controls plus ZigBee radio provide the same lumens with much lower power consumption.
communication. Image courtesy of 2D2C, Inc. Even in existing buildings, lighting upgrades can pay for
themselves in just months. Occupancy sensors and timers
can further reduce unnecessary consumption. Best of all, new
detects its presence, reads the unique tag address, and reports it
building designs can leverage natural sunlight to reduce the
via ZigBee to a central database.
need for electrical lighting during daylight hours.
All energy data is associated with the unique tag
For many dynamic load applications, electronically commutated
address. This approach sets a new standard for ease
motors operate 15 percent to 20 percent more efficiently than
of use and maintainability.
ac constant speed motors. Although cost may not justify some
retrofit applications, new building designs can have lower
kilowatt/square foot consumption rates because of smarter
installation decisions.

Once changes are made, a maintenance program is needed.

Without permanent monitoring and improvement, buildings
will typically lose up to eight percent of the energy efficiency
improvements each year. Without automated monitoring and
control of HVAC, lighting, and other loads, the loss can increase
to 12 percent.

Figure 4. RightPlug RFID tags add a unique address to each Building energy managers need an energy consumption
appliance plug. Smart energy receptacles read the tags to dashboard to create quick and easy visibility of programs and
identify what appliance is plugged in, even if appliances are operating status. The dashboards should automatically flag
moved. Image courtesy of 2D2C, Inc. excess consumption issues for quick corrective action.

Many building owners and managers are beginning to upgrade

Cut Your Losses existing buildings to IeCC and ASHRAE standards while
The data collected from submeters and receptacle monitors often many architects and engineers are upgrading new construction
exposes some easy ways to cut back excess energy consumption. designs to meet IgCC.
Exposed energy problems may include:
Why spend the extra money? Because buildings that meet these
• damaged or worn equipment requirements consume less energy, are more pleasant to live
• unnecessary 24/7 usage or work in, and have less negative impact on the environment.
They also rent at higher rates, increase in asset value, and
• usage during peak electricity pricing periods provide public relations opportunities.
• low-efficiency transformers, HVAC, IT, and other equipment
The investment pays back. ei
• phantom loads
• unauthorized equipment usage Mr. Montgomery serves on the Smart Grid Interoperability Panel,
NEMA High Performance Buildings Council, NEMA Smart
Unnecessary 24/7 usage, peak pricing usage, and phantom Grid Council, NEMA Wiring Devices Section (5WD), and the
load waste can be slashed by installing load controllers. These International Association of Electrical Inspectors.

12 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

 Probing the Fundamentals of HPBs
Smart Grid Technology—
Science Fiction As Fact
Jeff Meyers, President, Mr. Electric Corporation

T here is always something new. Every year, a buzz emerges about the
newest phone, the newest car, or the newest service. Things come and
go, rarely leaving a lasting impression. It’s easy to get tired of the constant
Increased monitoring and analysis capabilities on the grid
will allow electric companies to improve efficiency and reduce
carbon footprints. Computers will communicate with power
suppliers and electricians to pinpoint the location of a real
evolution and begin to filter things out. or potential problem. With such a wealth of information, it
will be easy to make real time changes to improve our overall
The same goes for the electroindustry—it almost seems as if electricians interaction with electricity.
and electrical contractors have been working with the same technology Power companies and electricians aren’t the only ones reaping
for years. Now, however, something new has finally come along that the benefits of the Smart Grids. Consumers will be able to access
a wealth of information about their electricity consumption and
promises to leave a lasting impact on the way people interact with electricity
make changes as needed.
and their environments.
The days of trying to curb electricity usage by yourself will soon
Changing Dynamics of Efficiency be a thing of the past. As smart meters become the industry
standard, homeowners will be able to control how they use
Currently, most power companies produce electricity in a their electricity in a way that minimizes the impact it has on the
relatively inefficient manner. Power generated at dams, wind environment and their wallets.
farms, with coal, or by other means is often required to travel
great distances before it can be used by the consumer. In order Smart grids bring peace of mind to consumers through
to traverse these long distances, voltages are often increased to careful regulation. A homeowner with a smart phone could
500,000V and higher. These voltages are then reduced to 120V control lights and appliances, such as the hot water heater,
to power electric equipment inside homes and businesses. If from the palm of his or her hand. A clothes dryer could be
generation resources, such as solar and wind, are located closer turned on when electricity demand—and rates—are at their
to the load centers, the overall efficiency can be increased. lowest, or the air conditioner could cycle on and off based on
peak electricity times.
Power suppliers aren’t the only ones operating inefficiently.
Homeowners unknowingly waste energy with appliances and Implementing Smart Grid technology at home also opens up the
other home devices. Hot water heaters and other appliances are possibility of installing a charging outlet for an electrical car.
left on during the day drawing power. When some appliances
are used, it’s often at a high electrical rate time. In a way, Smart Grid technologies almost sound like science
fiction—but they aren’t. Companies are actively investing in and
Currently, consumers pay their power supplier based on the producing them. In 2014, projections indicate the U.S. smart
amount of electricity they use in a billing cycle. When bills start grid industry will be worth a total of $42 billion, while world
to increase, people play a guessing game to determine where markets are expected to be around $171 billion.
to cut power usage and costs. When the savings are minimal,
consumers are left scratching their heads. This technology is revolutionizing how companies and
people interact with electricity. These technological
This is where Smart Grid technology steps in. Quickly gaining advancements are opening the door for consumers, and
momentum, it is being touted as the future of electricity smart grid technologies are a big contributor. This is no
management for power suppliers and homeowners. longer science fiction—it’s reality. ei

How do these technologies affect power suppliers? The ability Mr. Meyers is the recipient of the 2011 ESFI SAFE Award.
to monitor and control electricity closely will give electric
companies the ability to manage their grids like never before.

NEMA electroindustry • April 2012   13

 Cybersecurity Protects
Today’s HPBs
Steve Molitor, Manager, NEMA High Performance Buildings Council

It will also allow utilities to gauge more quickly where

infrastructure improvements are needed to compensate for
growing demand. Demand/response needs dictate that the
high performance building has interfaces to the external world

I f a high performance building (HPB) is the body and the systems are the
organs, then cybersecurity is the immune system that thwarts viruses and
bacteria represented by cyber attacks. As our need for communication and
to exchange real-time and archived information. But every
information pathway is a potential source of exploit where an
attacker can seek to do real harm.

information sharing grows, so do the openings for potential harm. Devising a Plan
Therefore, it is essential to protect systems within a building.
It seems that cybersecurity concerns are everywhere. Hacker Protection begins with a cybersecurity plan based on best
groups make headlines with attempts and successes at practices tailored to the unique structure. A comprehensive
infiltrating remote computers and systems, disrupting business, audit should identify potential points of entry, potential targets,
and causing economic—if not physical—harm to people and what will be monitored and by whom, and what actions would
systems. According to FBI Director Robert Mueller, cyber be taken when intrusions are detected in order to minimize
attacks rival terrorism as a national security concern.1 potential risk or damage through rapid response.
This is a natural result of the incorporation of computer systems Cybersecurity should be considered as a design parameter
and computer intelligence in nearly every aspect of our daily in any new construction or retrofit of existing buildings.
lives. It includes a growing number of systems used to monitor Intelligent devices and systems change the landscape of design
and control the operation of the utilities—lights, heating, air and add a new level of complexity to the process of design and
conditioning, and plumbing for example—in many of our construction. They also create new opportunities for exploit if
commercial and residential buildings. It also includes computer they are not deployed in such a way as to minimize exposure
intelligence built directly into components of those utilities, as to outside influence. Once installed, any new systems must be
well as an increasing number of appliances that are the end- added to the cybersecurity plan.
users of the utilities such as clothes washers and dryers, light
fixtures, temperature monitors, and many others. Compliance with existing cybersecurity standards should be
considered whenever they are applicable. The ISO 27000 series,
The reason for the increase in intelligent systems and NERC 1300, ISA-99 documents released through ANSI, and
components is simple: energy efficiency hinges on knowing the several NIST 800-series publications are examples of existing
usage and performance of all components of a smart building at information security standards that are readily adaptable
any given moment as well as over time. to systems used in HPBs. Some standards already contain
valuable information about best practices that can be
Role of Data implemented immediately.
Without information, we can only guess at energy efficiency.
With data, energy management systems can be an invaluable Congress is moving toward legislation that would impose
way to augment a building manager’s efforts to maximize cybersecurity standards on industry and services that are
occupant safety and comfort while minimizing the energy critical to our national infrastructure2, but the effort should not
required to operate the facility. end there. Cybersecurity in any enterprise, large or small, and
critical or not by federal definition, is essential to “keeping the
Data also gives a smart building the ability to report its energy lights on” both literally and figuratively.
use. In the case of electrical systems, providing the grid with
building systems data allows a utility provider to most efficiently The impact of cyber attacks could cripple many businesses with
send power where it is needed most, resulting in less burden on devastating economic effect. The time is now to plan for those
the infrastructure and, ultimately, lower rates. attacks and proactively implement measures to mitigate the risk. ei
1
www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5gIRfWz6-nqzxSvZ2i-tO_ErRqk9g?docId=CNG.62942 2
www.homelandsecuritynewswire.com/srinfrastructure20120206-bill-would-allow-dhs-to-impose-
70dd5f26542527b791472efef0c.c1 cybersecurity-standards

14 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

 Probing the Fundamentals of HPBs

NEMA and ASHRAE Collaboration Continues

on FSGIM Standard
Steve Molitor, Manager, High Performance Buildings and Industrial Energy Efficiency Coalition

A s reported in last April’s ei magazine, NEMA and the American Society

of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
are developing a national facility smart grid information model (FSGIM)
• on-site generation
• demand response
• electrical storage
standard. Standard Project Committee 201P (SPC 201P), established by NEMA • peak demand management
and ASHRAE, was commissioned to create an information model for smart • forward power usage estimation
building communication. • load shedding capability estimation
• end load monitoring (submetering)
In working terms for the standard, a facility is defined as any
structure that uses electricity, making the standard applicable to • power quality of service monitoring
commercial, industrial, institutional, and residential buildings. • utilization of historical energy consumption data
The standard breaks down the electrical components inside the • direct load control
facility into four broad categories:
The information model defines the types of information to
• load—any device or system that consumes electricity be exchanged and the values associated with each piece of
• generator—any device or system that creates or information. It incorporates elements of IEC 61850 series and
saves electricity North American Energy Standards Board standards to ensure
as much compatibility as possible with existing information
• meter—any device or system that measures electrical models. When complete, the information will be compatible
consumption with a number of existing communications protocols including
• manager—any device or system that monitors or controls BACnet, Zigbee Smart Energy, session initiation protocol (SIP),
electrical loads and generators and others.
Working groups were established to perform detailed analysis
The intent is to create a theoretical model of each piece of
of the functions of devices in each category with respect to
information that could be exchanged between devices in the
the energy management applications and interactions above.
four categories, plus information that must be exchanged with The working groups are now finalizing drafts of each modular
the external Smart Grid to optimize power distribution and use. section of the standard, which will be made available for first
public comments in April.
The model defines a comprehensive set of data objects and
actions that support a wide range of energy management Public review and comment is a major milestone toward the
applications and electrical service provider interactions, completion of the standard. The goal is to publish the standard
including but not limited to: in June 2012. ei

NEMA electroindustry • April 2012   15

 EVSE Section Supports LEED Proposal
Harry Massey, Industry Director

W ith the Obama administration’s goal of placing one million electric

vehicles (EVs) on America’s roads by 2015, the Department of Energy
(DOE) has announced projects to support community planning for plug-in EVs
we live, work, and learn. As an internationally recognized mark
of excellence, LEED provides building owners and operators
with a framework for identifying and implementing practical
and measurable green building design, construction, operations
and electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) charging infrastructure. and maintenance solutions.

This has prompted NEMA’s EVSE Section to support DOE funding recipients range from communities with
recommendations to the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) extensive EV planning experience to those eager to begin.
and its LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental These projects will help communities address specific needs,
Design) program to include EVSEs in its green building which include updating permitting processes, revising codes,
certification system. training municipal personnel, promoting public awareness, or
developing incentives, all in support of LEED.
The proposal encourages USGBC to add EVSEs back into
LEED by: More than $8.5 million will be available through DOE’s Clean
Cities initiative to facilitate local public-private partnerships
• providing EVSE for three percent of full-time equivalent
that will develop EV deployment strategies. Each plan will be
occupants, and
publicly available so that other stakeholders can learn
• encouraging EV-ready buildings that will facilitate the best practices.
deployment of EVs by lowering installation and EVSE
infrastructure costs. President Obama continued his commitment to EVs in his FY
2013 budget by proposing in January that the existing $7,500
NEMA and the section will work with others concerned tax credit for EVs be available to all consumers immediately
about EVs and green buildings to support the addition of at the point of sale and by investing $588 million for vehicle
EVSEs to LEED. technologies at DOE—an increase of 80 percent.

With these NEMA-sponsored requirements, LEED will For more information about the EVSE proposals and the EVSE
continue to redefine the way we think about the places where Section, contact Harry Massey. ei

16 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

 Probing the Fundamentals of HPBs
Historic Thayer Hotel
Enters New Century
Anthony DiCarlo, Lutron MidAtlantic
Account Sales Manager, Government

W hen Hudson River Partners 1, LP, acquired the historic

Thayer Hotel in 1999, the majestic property had lost
much of its stately appeal.
The property was originally established to accommodate
personnel and guests of the U.S. Military Academy at West
Point. Rick Minicozzi, managing general partner at Hudson
river Partners, was determined to reestablish Thayer’s proper
place as a world-class hotel and conference center.

Paying tribute to the hotel’s historical beauty was critical, but Thayer Hotel lobby.
Mr. Minicozzi also understood the importance of twenty-first Photo courtesy of Lutron
century amenities and sustainable operation. One major aspect
of the renovation focused on efficient upgrades that reduce
energy costs without compromising historic features or the Automatic shading systems, daylight and occupancy sensors,
overall guest experience. preset lighting control, and digital fluorescent ballasts help make
the most of the facility’s location. Lutron shade controls in the
Guest Room Lighting Saves Energy conference facilities generate energy savings while ensuring that
Guest rooms are notorious energy hogs. Before room guests are never isolated from one of the hotel’s most impressive
renovations, lights, televisions, and air conditioners were assets—its prime location on the grounds of West Point and the
typically left on whether guests were in the room or not. Not banks of the Hudson River.
only did this compromise the development’s group commitment
to environmental responsibilities, but it played havoc with Banks of floor-to-ceiling windows invite daylight into the space.
energy bills. Sensors allow electric light to be dimmed when daylight is
sufficient. Blackout shades ensure maximum visibility during
Now, lighting and TVs automatically respond to AV presentations. Shading and light control systems preserve
occupancy sensors. the view while eliminating unpleasant glare and heat gain.
Preset controls allow speakers to adjust lights and shades
“Wireless technology allowed us to install lighting controls in without disrupting their presentations.
each guest room without rewiring,” said Mr. Minicozzi.
These same strategies are also widely used in the bar and
Wireless solutions made installation easy and operation fitness center.
automatic. When guests leave their rooms, lights turn off. Each
television also responds to the sensor. Wireless bedside controls Results
allow guests to adjust lighting right from the comfort of their The owners already see a significant reduction in energy use.
bed, and again, no rewiring was necessary. The seamless integration of the new controls has not been
noticed by guests at all.
The HVAC system is linked by Ethernet to the front desk.
When guests check in, they can adjust temperature controls to According to Minicozzi, “The setting is a major advantage for
their own preferences. When they check out, air conditioning our conference center and a wonderful attraction for our guests.
levels are automatically raised to ensure that energy is not spent The entire hotel renovation was planned and executed to pay
heating or cooling an unoccupied room. tribute to the hotel’s history and sustain its place as an iconic
part of this venerable institution for the future.” ei
Efficient Control Solutions Throughout
The hotel is also home to the Thayer Leader Development Mr. DiCarlo, a West Point graduate, focuses on lighting control
Group, which provides leadership and ethics training. solutions for historical and government products.

NEMA electroindustry • April 2012   17

 Electroindustry News
ŰŰIDEA—Climbing the eBiz Mountain
Sonia Coleman, Marketing and Web Consultant
It’s one thing to gaze at a mountain range Cooper automated 17 EDI and EDIFACT
and marvel at its magnificence, but it’s (the international EDI standard
another thing to put on your hiking developed under the United Nations)
boots and start climbing. Where do you transactions with 550 trading partners,
start? Who do you partner with? What IDEA is the official technology service provider
all integrated into its SAP business
and eCommerce standards body of the electrical
equipment do you need? How long will system, using EDIPro standards. Cooper industry. It was founded in 1998 through a
it take? How can you ensure you reach also recently audited its product data partnership rooted in the collective leadership,
your destination? with IDEA, boosting its clean, certified vision, wisdom, and expertise of NEMA and the
data in the Industry Data Warehouse National Association of Electrical Distributors.
Many feel the same way when they tackle
mountainous eBusiness initiatives— (IDW) to more than 90 percent.
overwhelmed. Yet, with customers Cooper initiated weekly conference calls
Likewise, BSE is approaching 100,000
demanding easier ways to do business, to discuss the big picture, collaborate,
items in its product information
rich rewards await those companies who and standardize processes.
management (PIM) system, which can
can scale the eBiz mountains.
then be rendered out to various print or “It was key to have all the pieces of the
Any company can purchase the latest online catalogs. The company has worked puzzle in the beginning stages, not just IT,
and greatest technology, but that alone with more than 100 manufacturers to but also product development, marketing,
doesn’t equal success. Rather, excellence automate the process of receiving up-to- and leadership,” said Samer Shehadeh,
belongs to those who can prioritize, date product information through IDW. Cooper Industries EDI manager.
commit resources, take action, motivate
change, and see tangible results. It’s a Grasp the Big Picture One of the best things Cooper discovered
mysterious mix that only an elite few So how did they do it? Both companies from collaboration was enhanced
have mastered. started by brainstorming. Cooper’s communication and cross-pollination
vision was to ramp up its eBiz initiatives of ideas.
View from Top to unite its divisions to operate as “one
To discover the keys to success, we company—one face.” “We’re leveraging good ideas better
approached the recent winners of across the entire organization, which
IDEA’s Richard Buzun Award— “Before putting together an action plan, benefits our customers even more,” said
Cooper Industries and Border States you’ve got to start at the very beginning: Mr. Feldbush.
Electric (BSE). Why am I doing this? What are the
ultimate customer needs? Understand Lorraine Mott, project leader of
The electrical industry’s top eBiz electronic commerce for Cooper Crouse-
achievers are not only pioneers; they are your end game first. Then, once you
know where you want to go, you can Hinds, provided an example of how all
also committed to sharing best practices. the divisions worked together to make
But they weren’t always on top. A decade take a realistic assessment of where
you’re at today and determine how to get it easier to do business with the company.
ago, Cooper received just one electronic
document interchange (EDI) transaction from point A to Z,” said Scott Feldbush, “Now everything has the same look and
from eight partners. Likewise, just a few director of Enterprise Business Systems feel: products on CooperIndustries.com,
years ago, BSE staff was painstakingly Shared Services, Cooper Industries. IDW downloads, even EDI mapping. As
piecing together product information a result, customers who were doing EDI
for its catalog by scouring websites and BSE envisioned a faster, more centralized
transactions with only with one division,
calling manufacturers. way for staff to access product
such as Crouse-Hinds, can now be
information internally as well as adding
brought live much more efficiently with
Now, after intense multi-year crucial product information to make
other Cooper divisions,” Ms. Mott said.
initiatives—and a lot of learning and ordering easier for customers.
collaborating with trading partners— BSE first set up a PIM system to
both companies developed internal “Don’t try to boil the ocean right away,” centralize product data, then developed a
processes and standards, improved data said Greg Thrall, senior vice president content plan.
synchronization with trading partners, of operations and IT, BSE. “Establish
and made significant strides in their consistency and then start building “Whether you are a manufacturer or
eCommerce capabilities. the base.” distributor building content, start out

18 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

with an idea of what information you Involve Customers future conversations, tightening up the
are looking for. For us, we’re looking Both companies have also discovered relationship from a technical standpoint,
for a name, description, features, image, how important it is to involve customers. and driving toward realistic solutions,”
manufacturer catalog page, and so forth. said Mr. Feldbush.
Determining key elements creates long- “You really have to expand your vision
term consistency,” said Jason Archbold, on what you are trying to build and Commit, Communicate, Innovate
BSE marketing catalog supervisor. satisfy the customer needs,” said Mr. Another key to each company’s long-
Thrall. “With our first catalog, we got the term eBiz success was committing
It’s also helpful to think of creating customer involved. We asked, ‘What do to the goal, measuring efforts, and
product content like writing a book. you want to see?’ and ‘How can we cut communicating with leadership.
“If there are too many authors and time out of the ordering process?’ The
“Our leadership was supportive, but we
everyone is writing a different chapter, demand is out there.”
still presented our vision, communicated
then when you put it together as a As a result, BSE has 14 different customer our current status, and provided a
book, the need for consistency becomes catalogs in the works. Customers are competitive cost and trend analysis,” said
pretty obvious,” said Todd Kadry, BSE intimately involved in the catalog Mr. Feldbush. “Our upper management
marketing solutions manager. product selection process, which brings team looked at the landscape and
Determine Priorities a whole new level of interaction and understood what resources we needed.”
It’s always a challenge to determine visibility to the customer relationship.
BSE’s staff also recognizes that every
what to tackle first. Cooper’s Ms. Mott Likewise, a well-timed conversation with project is part of a larger journey.
also recommends focusing efforts with customers can save time and headache.
manageable milestones. When one customer requested punch- “I don’t think you can overstate that
out ordering and BSE’s technical staff got it takes commitment, executive level
“How do you eat an elephant? One bite
involved, they discovered the customer’s involvement, and support; this isn’t
at a time. We send a huge amount of
system didn’t have the capability. What instant gratification,” said Mr. Kadry.
product data to the IDW, but we tried
not to look at how big it was. Instead, we it really needed was a flat file that could
Even though Cooper and BSE reached
broke it up into small chunks: let’s clean be uploaded with pricing, delivery, and
the top of one eBiz mountain, they know
up this product group, then the next one. descriptions.
that they must continue to innovate to
We concentrated on the products that “If we hadn’t sent the right people to climb those still on the horizon.
customers absolutely needed to run their the meeting, we would be down a path
business first,” she said. “We’re always looking at ways to make it
designing a system that wouldn’t work.
easier for customers to do business with
“Start small,” said BSE’s Mr. Thrall. As a result of asking the right questions,
us,” said Mr. Feldbush.
“Begin building your most important ‘A we were able to turnaround our
items,’ then build out the other items in customer’s request with a faster solution,” “Improving eBusiness is an ongoing
the same product families.” said Mr. Thrall. effort; you’re never really done,” said
Mr. Archbold. “But once the data is
It also helps to focus on output. Cooper has also discovered the value in
populated well, it’s an asset and a really
partnering technical and sales staff on
“It’s helpful to start with a small project, powerful tool.” ei
visits to customers.
such as a mini-catalog, decide the Sonia Coleman is a digital
handful of SKUs that you’re going to “By including people who understand
marketing strategist.
feature, build the content for those, and both the technical and business process,
then see it through to a deliverable. It’s a it helps ensure that we are in sync with
visible win to leadership and customers,” our partners on the capabilities that we
said Mr. Kadry. provide. That connection then leads to

ŰŰJumpstart eBusiness Initiatives

Register for IDEA’s new webinar series that covers: Register at www.idea-esolutions.com/webinars.
• populating and standardizing marketing content Also, the 14th Annual IDEA E-Biz Forum, “Reunite. Rethink. Recharge,” will be held
• enhancing productivity with the next generation of data synchronization September 25–27 in Dallas, Texas. Stay current and nominate your company for
• increasing sales with richly-populated web storefronts the 2012 Richard Buzun Award for Leadership and Innovation in eCommerce at
• automating order management with partners that aren’t EDI-capable www.idea-ebizforum.com. ei

NEMA electroindustry • April 2012   19

 Electroindustry News
ŰŰBoard of Governors Welcomes Senator Bingaman and
Former Homeland Security Secretary Chertoff at Quarterly Meeting

The NEMA Board of Governors heard

comments from Senator Jeff
Bingaman (D-NM) and former Secretary of Homeland Security
Michael Chertoff at its March 14–15 meeting in Washington, D.C.

Introduced by Chairman Dominic J. Pileggi as “our industry’s

best friend on The Hill,” Sen. Bingaman used the opportunity
to discuss energy, energy legislation, and forecasts of probable
versus doable legislation in Congress. He also took time to speak
one-on-one with individual members about the value NEMA can
offer Congress by providing education, expertise, and industry
consensus positions.

Mr. Chertoff briefed the NEMA board and members of NEMA’s

medical division on the issues, perimeters, and growing threats
Senator Jeff Bingaman. associated with cybersecurity. The event gave NEMA leaders a
Photo by Pat Walsh better understanding and focus on future strategies to counter
unwanted cyber invasion. ei

Former Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff.

Photo by Gene Eckhart

20 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

ŰŰSolar Lanterns—Saving Lives and Being Green
In the U.S., energy policy debate takes knocked over, causing unnecessary loss
place every day. But simply becoming of life and property.
electrified is still the focus for much of
the world. Greenlight Planet is one of a handful
of companies offering off-grid lighting
solutions to remedy these problems.
Approximately one fourth of Its Sun King series of solar-powered
lanterns, for example, is a “brilliant”
the world’s population lives idea, but one that comes with many
off the grid. design and marketing challenges because
of the rural and poverty-stricken areas
where it is intended for use.
Estimates vary, but approximately
one fourth of the world’s population The Sun King uses LED (light-emitting
lives off the grid—primarily in South diode) bulbs that increase efficiency
and lifetime, eliminating the need to
Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Much of
keep replacement bulbs on hand. The
this population relies on petroleum- Greenlight Planet founder Patrick Walsh
lamp is housed in an especially durable demonstrates a solar-powered lantern.
consuming devices, primarily kerosene
polycarbonate/acrylonitrile butadiene
lamps, to provide light after the sun
styrene (ABS) housing that provides
goes down. commerce, which is rapidly emerging in
resistance to water, dust, and physical
remote areas.
Aside from being a very dirty source stress. This makes it likely that villagers
of light, emitting 200 billion kilograms will only need to purchase one device “All the effort of engineering would be
of carbon dioxide per year, these lamps that will last for many years. for naught if the lanterns were not being
pose a serious health risk. Entire families sold,” said Greenlight Planet founder
are exposed to long periods of poor air Entire families are exposed to Patrick Walsh.
quality, for instance, when they are used
by children studying. It is also all too
long periods of poor air quality. The company employs a unique
and personal marketing strategy: it
common for open-flame lamps to be recruits and trains villagers to become
The lamp connects via detachable cord direct sales agents in their home
to a solar photovoltaic module and after communities. Once trained, villagers
charging during the daytime, provides educate consumers on the benefits of
up to 15 hours of 44 lumen light or replacing traditional kerosene lamps
six hours of 110 lumen light. Energy with modern LED lighting. Nearly 1,000
collected from the solar cell is stored in of these saathis, or partners, are now
a lithium-ion battery using lithium iron changing their neighbors’ lives as well as
phosphate cathodes. generating additional income for their
own families.
The battery technology used in the
product drastically extends the lifetime More information about
of the battery over more conventional Greenlight Planet can be found
lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery at www.greenlightplanet.com. ei
chemistries by providing more charge
cycles. Ultimately, this is what makes the Ryan Franks, Program Manager |
purchase of the lantern cost effective. ryan.franks@nema.org

In addition to providing light, the

Solar LEDs are changing the lives of more than
product includes common cell phone
100,000 villagers in South Asia and sub-Saharan adaptors. These enable communication,
Africa. Photos courtesy of Greenlight Planet especially cell phone-based banking and

NEMA electroindustry • April 2012   21

 Electroindustry News
ŰŰESFI Takes Action against Counterfeit Electrical Products
Seeking Visionary Industry Leaders to Participate
Brett Brenner, President, ESFI
Product counterfeiting is plaguing the The Electrical Safety Foundation
electrical industry. International (ESFI) is spearheading
the fight against this growing epidemic
When the word “counterfeit” is heard, and is enlisting the support of industry electrical industry’s most influential
it is usually associated with seemingly stakeholders to help champion this and visionary leaders. Your company
harmless items, such as footwear, important cause with Operation: ACT. has the unique opportunity to join this
clothing, and accessories. Although not important crusade to not only protect the
as commonly known, electrical product The campaign is ESFI’s groundbreaking industry, but to save lives.
counterfeiting is extremely prevalent. anti-counterfeiting initiative. It focuses
A recent report released jointly by U.S. on the health and safety concerns related United in our efforts, the electrical
Customs and Border Protection and U.S. to counterfeit electrical products by industry can successfully combat the
Immigration and Customs Enforcement drawing the correlation between genuine growing menace of counterfeit electrical
states that consumer electronics and products, safety, and reliability. It will products worldwide.
devices were the top commodity seized educate and inform customers in the
in 2011, with the value increasing by 16 electrical supply chain about the dangers Founded in 1994 as a joint venture by
percent over 2010. and prevalence of counterfeit electrical NEMA, the U.S. Consumer Product
devices, while insulating individual Safety Commission, and Underwriters
Counterfeit electrical products can be brands and marks from being negatively Laboratories, ESFI is a vehicle for
difficult to identify, even for those within associated with these unsafe products. promoting electrical safety across North
the electrical industry. Unsubstantiated America through education, awareness,
products could be a knock-off version The campaign will have a global reach, and advocacy. With a true international
of a name-brand item, one that bears achieved through the cultivation of presence and vast experience in
an unauthorized certification mark, or relationships with international partners, deploying effective safety awareness
a product that displays visible defects. including law enforcement, industry, and programs, ESFI is well-equipped to
These illicit, substandard products not government stakeholders. Supporters of lead the charge in the battle against
only cost the electrical industry millions this multifaceted, three-year awareness counterfeit electrical products.
of dollars each year, they also pose a campaign will protect the electrical
Detailed information about Operation:
serious threat to consumers by being industry while positioning themselves as
ACT’s strategy, program objectives,
dangerous and, in some cases, deadly. leading advocates for safety.
and benefits can be found at
The severity and magnitude of this Operation: ACT cannot succeed without www.esfi.org/OperationACT. ei
problem necessitate immediate action. the financial commitment of the

ŰŰOsram Sylvania Lights up National Mall

On January 30, Osram Sylvania, in discrepancy, creating a splotchy and
partnership with the National Park mismatched appearance. The retrofit
Service, the Trust for the National Mall, of existing system will increase energy
and Pepco (the electric utility that serves efficiency and reduce maintenance costs
Washington, D.C.), lit up the National while increasing brightness and safety.
Mall with 174 D6 Area Lighting LED
Retrofit Kits. Secretary of the Interior “We are honored to light our nation’s
Ken Salazar and Secretary of Energy front lawn with innovative and
Steven Chu flipped the switch that cutting-edge LED technology developed
will reduce lighting energy use on the and assembled here on U.S. soil,”
National Mall by up to 65 percent. said Rick Leaman, president and CEO,
Osram Sylvania. ei
The light given off by the previous
mix of HIDs and CFLs had wide color Photo courtesy Osram Sylvania

22 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

ŰŰCMS Covers CT Colonography, Saves Lives
New data from the ACRIN trial, the second leading cause of cancer death
largest study to date examining the in both men and women in the U.S.,
efficacy of computed tomographic despite having a 90 percent cure rate
colonography (CTC), proves that “virtual when detected early. Moreover, data have
colonoscopy” is comparably effective found that African Americans are far
to standard colonoscopy in detecting less likely to get colonoscopies than other
colorectal cancer and precancerous populations and have a 48 percent higher
polyps in Medicare beneficiaries. mortality rate from colon cancer than
white Americans.
Published online in Radiology, the
study found CTC is comparable to Evidence from the National Naval
conventional optical colonography for Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland,
Americans ages 65 years and older and is demonstrates that access to CTC
consistent with data from similar studies. raises screening levels. According to
In light of new data, combined with the Brooks Cash, MD, Integrated Chief of Courtesy Philips Healthcare
findings of the landmark 2008 CTC Medicine and Staff Gastroenterologist
trial, Medicare should expand seniors’ virtual colonoscopy. Even President
at the National Naval Medical Center/
access to this lifesaving screening tool by Obama chose a CTC over a traditional
Walter Reed Army Medical Center, when
reimbursing physicians for CTC exams. colonoscopy for his colorectal cancer
given the option, 40 percent of patients
screening exam two years ago.
chose to undergo virtual colonoscopy.
CMS has indicated it was waiting for data
Moreover, 37 percent of patients who CT colonography uses high-tech,
proving CTC is as effective as traditional
underwent colon cancer screening said lose-dose X-rays to produce three-
colonoscopy for Medicare beneficiaries.
they would not have been screened dimensional images of the colon. CTC
Now that there is definitive proof that a
without virtual colonoscopy. is far less invasive than the optical exam
virtual colonoscopy is as effective as the
optical exam for Medicare beneficiaries and does not require sedation.
A similar effect has been seen at the
and that it reduces barriers to colorectal University of Wisconsin, where overall The ACRIN trial is the largest multi-
cancer screenings, CMS should open a screening rates for colorectal cancer center study to compare accuracy of
national coverage decision for CTC. have more than doubled per quarter CT colonography to conventional
MITA supports the American College of over a five-year period, following the colonoscopy in patients 50 years
Radiology’s request for CMS to open a introduction of virtual colonoscopy as of age and older. The National CT
CTC national coverage decision. an additional screening option. Colonography Trial recruited 2,600
participants ages 50 and over from
The Centers for Disease Control and The American Cancer Society 15 U.S. medical centers. The secondary
Prevention (CDC) estimates that up to recommends CT colonography as analysis of the 65 years of age and
30,000 colorectal cancer deaths each year a screening test. The Blue Cross over cohort compared data of 477
could be prevented if all those aged 50 Blue Shield Association Technology study participants. ei
and older were screened regularly. Evaluation Center named CTC an
effective screening tool. CIGNA, United Gail M. Rodriguez, PhD, Executive
Colorectal cancer is the third most Healthcare, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Director of MITA and Vice President of
frequently diagnosed cancer and the Shield, and other insurers all cover NEMA | grodriguez@medicalimaging.org

ŰŰGet the Low Down on New York City Lighting Mandates

Attend NEMA’s presentation at the TFM Forum in New York
City, April 17, 11 a.m., if you have an interest in New York
City lighting renovation opportunities.

Seats are limited. Contact Erik.Sorenson@nema.org to

reserve your spot today. ei

NEMA electroindustry • April 2012   23

 Electroindustry News
ŰŰWelcoming New Members
The NEMA Board of Governors has en-Gauge Inc. Mainsafe Corporation
approved the following members: engaugeinc.net www.mainsafe.com
Signaling Protection & Communication Ground Fault Personnel Protection
Regular Membership (05PP)
(03SB), Health Care Communications &
Applied Information, Inc.
Emergency Call Systems Group (03SB-2) Seven10 Storage Software, LLC
www.appinfoinc.com
Transportation Management Systems & www.seven10storage.com
HSI Fire & Safety Group
Associated Control Devices (03TS) Medical Imaging Informatics (09MII)
www.homesafeguard.com
Bioscan, Inc. Signaling Protection & Communication TVR Communications, LLC
www.bioscan.com (03SB) www.tvrc.com
Molecular Imaging (09MO) Health Care Communications &
John Thomas, Inc. Emergency Call Systems Group (03SB-2)
Bison ProFab Inc. www.crashcushions.com
www.bisonprofab.com Transportation Management Systems & Associate Membership
Transportation Management Systems Associated Control Devices (03TS) Budde Marketing Systems, Inc.
& Associated Control Devices (03TS), www.buddemarketing.com
Enclosures (05EN)

ŰŰGlobal Transportation and Logistics Addresses NMFC Issues

NEMA’s Global Transportation and The use of lift truck skids or pallets During its March 1, 2012, meeting
Logistics Committee is developing an requires that: in Sarasota, Florida, the Global
industry response to National Motor Transportation and Logistics Committee
• articles be bolted to stringers and agreed to provide information to the
Freight Classification (NMFC) issues
banded to deck; classification board on both issues.
concerning Package 2345. NMFC
• they extend not less than six inches
is a standard of the National Motor Chaired by Mike Brewer (Cooper
beyond side of article; and
Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). It Industries), the committee also
provides a comparison of commodities • top-heavy articles be on double- considered a proposal to develop
moving in interstate, intrastate, and faced pallets. a classification strategy for new
foreign commerce. products, including electric vehicle
Erin Topper and Joel Ringer of NMFTA supply equipment, and a number
requested input on issues related to of environmental/“green” issues in
The proposed classification provision
cable-in-conduit. NMFTA established a transportation, including the use of
calls for disallowing use of skid runners; research project and survey requesting reusable packaging. ei
requirements for use of lift truck skids information from the cable/wire and
or pallets; and removal of reference to tubing/conduit industries in an effort to Harry Massey, Industry Director |
“standoff” pads. determine transportation characteristics. harry.massey@nema.org

ŰŰSmall Business Council Forum—Increasing Profitability in Small Businesses

NEMA’s Small Business Council will • An economic update tailored for small and the Export/Import Bank will
focus on profitability at its summer business by Don Leavens, NEMA vice emphasize international opportunities.
forum June 12 in Alexandria, Virginia. president and chief economist, and
Tim Gill, director, economics. NEMA’s • Tom Fazekas, an industry expert,
economic forecasting team recently will present “Using Lean Six Sigma to
Although focused on small businesses,
topped the Wall Street Journal’s Grow Your Bottom Line.”
Increasing Profitability in Small
economic forecasting survey.
Businesses also applies to small units or For more information, or to register,
divisions within large companies. The • Speakers from Department of contact Shlyneice.Davis@nema.org
agenda includes: Commerce, Department of State, (703-841-3257) by May 15. ei

24 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

ŰŰRemembering the Legacy of Bill Boehm
Everyone knew that Bill Boehm was a good man. But when it came to
NEMA, he was an icon.

Beyond being an absolute leader in the sections that dealt with his industry,
Bill was instrumental as a founder and original contributor of ESFI, which
was established exclusively as a consumer-oriented organization.

Bill also started and drove the NEMA PAC. For many years, he was the
catalyst and drive behind getting members to support business-friendly
legislators.

Personally, I was most affected by his heritage and willingness to mentor me

and tell me stories going back 50 years about the longest serving members,
like himself and Harold Leviton. In my last conversation with Bill, he told
me he had not missed a single annual meeting in 53 years.

Our board meetings won’t be the same without him. ei

Evan R. Gaddis, NEMA President & CEO

William Boehm

ŰŰArc Welding Section Recognizes Wayne Hoffman

On January 31, John Miller, Industry and power sources as well as engine- He has traveled to many parts of the
Director for the 1EW Arc Welding driven power sources, he has been a world representing ESAB and NEMA’s
Section, presented Wayne Hoffman of significant contributor to 1EW. Arc Welding Section. Today, his
ESAB Welding and Cutting Products pioneering work in the arc welding
with a lifetime achievement award from As an early advocate and champion industry has established an ease in
the section. for harmonized standards, he has commerce from continent to continent
participated solidly in the IEC as a via harmonized standards. ei
Mr. Hoffman has worked in the welding delegate and expert to TC26. Over the
industry since 1960 in various roles decades, Mr. Hoffman has been involved John Miller, Industry Manager |
including an engineer, an engineering in various section committees and has john.miller@nema.org
manager, and a general manager”. With provided wisdom, friendly guidance,
experience in utility-powered converters and mentorship.

ŰŰCorrection

Send section news to comm@nema.org

The image of this motor in the January

issue of ei appeared courtesy of Genteq. ei

NEMA electroindustry • April 2012   25

 Electroindustry News
ŰŰARPA-E Summit Brings Vanguard Technologies to Washington
The third annual Department of Arun Majumdar and Secretary of Energy CEO Lee Scott, FedEx CEO Fred Smith,
Energy Advanced Research Projects Steven Chu to the entrepreneurs and and Xerox CEO Ursula Burns.
Agency (ARPA-E) Energy Innovation scientists was simple: Keep the ideas
Summit took place in February near coming, America needs you. The real stars of the summit were
Washington, D.C. Nearly 2,500 attendees seen in the Technology Showcase,
from industry, academia, investment With keynotes by Energy Secretary which featured 240 groundbreaking
Steven Chu, Senate Energy Committee developments from ARPA-E awardees
firms, and government came together
Chairman Jeff Bingaman (D-NM), and other innovators.
for what was an impressive and high-
Senate Energy and Water Appropriations
profile program.
Committee Chairman Lamar Alexander According to Secretary Chu, “Whether
ARPA-E is modeled after its Department (R-TN), Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates, they are developing fuels from electricity,
of Defense counterpart DARPA. and former President Bill Clinton, capturing and storing carbon, or finding
It serves to fund high-risk energy thousands—including a handful of new ways to generate energy from the
and clean technology research that NEMA staff—gathered to network and sun and wind, the projects highlighted
might otherwise go unrealized while discuss the future of energy innovation.
through the summit are helping to push
supporting American ingenuity to solve Mr. Gates best reinforced the attendees’ the boundaries of technology and build
the nation’s energy problems. The agency communal desire for success. “This is a an American economy that lasts.”
provides funding for game-changing very complex set of technologies, and so
ideas including grid-scale storage, power we need literally thousands of companies Director Majumdar’s closing remarks
electronics, electric vehicle batteries, trying these things to increase the odds revealed a $150 million ARPA-E open
building efficiency, advanced carbon that we will have the ten or twenty Funding Opportunity Announcement
capture, and electrofuels. approaches that will get us to the magic “to support transformational research in
solution,” he said. all areas of energy R&D,” which positions
ARPA-E also champions projects that next year’s event to be even better. ei
it is unable to support financially, but Other speakers included MIT President
which still hold great promise. The Susan Hockfield, Deputy Secretary of Ryan Franks, Program Manager |
ultimate message from ARPA-E Director Defense Ashton Carter, former Wal-Mart ryan.franks@nema.org

ŰŰARPA-E Focuses on High-Risk Energy Technologies

ARPA-E is designed to invest in—and attract private • GRIDS (Grid-Scale Rampable Intermittent President Obama has requested $350 million more for
capital to—high-risk, transformational energy Dispatchable Storage) ARPA-E in FY2013. NEMA is encouraging Congress to
technologies. A number of its programs are particularly • Developing storage technologies that can store provide ARPA-E with its full budget request.
relevant to the electroindustry: renewable energy for use at any location on the grid at
In earlier ARPA-E projects, NEMA members were awardees
an investment cost less than $100 per kilowatt hour
• ADEPT (Agile Delivery of Electrical Power Technology) of about $80 million.
• REACT (Rare Earth Alternatives in Critical Technologies)
• Paving the way for more energy-efficient power
• Identifying low-cost and abundant replacement Under the leadership of its first and only director, Arun
conversion and advancing the basic building blocks
materials for rare earths while encouraging existing Majumdar, ARPA-E has quickly become a key part of
of power conversion: circuits, transistors, inductors,
technologies to use them more efficiently the energy conversation. With Dr. Majumdar’s recent
transformers, and capacitors BEEST (Batteries for
Electrical Energy Storage in Transportation) nomination as U.S. Under Secretary of Energy, ARPA-E is
ARPA-E was created in the America COMPETES Act in 2007, a likely to name a new director soon.
• Exploring a variety of potential solutions including radical bill supported by NEMA and one on which it conducted some
improvement of today’s lithium-ion technologies, designs lobbying efforts. ARPA-E received its first funding through For more information, visit http://arpa-e.energy.gov/ ei
using other metals such as magnesium, sodium, and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. In FY2012, it
zinc, and new ways of using lithium in lithium-sulfur and Jim Creevy, Director of Government
received $275 million, a significant increase over FY2011
lithium-air batteries Relations | jim.creevy@nema.org
when most agencies saw substantial budget cuts—a clear
sign of the agency’s bipartisan and bicameral support.

26 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

 Code Actions/Standardization Trends
ŰŰNEMA Scores Big Win in IgCC
In 2012, NEMA’s Board of Governors service life with design life. This could, in new coding environment, NEMA was
approved the High Performance principle, toughen the requirements. quite successful. About 24 of the original
Buildings (HPB) Strategic Initiative 35 NEMA proposals were accepted
and opened the HPB Council (HPBC) NEMA submitted a proposal, developed directly or indirectly.
to all members at no charge. HPBC through HBPC with support from all
had already laid the foundation for the product sections involved, to strike We learned a great deal about the
initiative with its pioneering work in “electrical” from the list of building process. By its participation, NEMA
understanding which applicable codes components requiring a 25-year design had a significant impact and established
and standards were gaining traction life. The rationale included the fact that itself as an important player in the
in the marketplace and could have an most electrical products have never been ICC process. The main lesson NEMA
impact on members’ business. evaluated for that type of performance. members should retain is that what you
Many electrical products are evaluated don’t know could hurt you.
This work showed that NEMA members for operational life performance. For
should get involved early, not only example, operational life performance HPBC CSR TF members invite other
for promoting new technologies can be measured by the number of NEMA sections to join its effort.
and products but also for defending operations for switches and circuit The work to review the recently
against threats that could have major breakers or operating hours for lamps approved IgCC and the energy-related
consequences for their businesses. and smoke detectors. International Energy Efficiency Code
has already started. Comments for
The following story exemplifies NEMA members and field the new cycle are due by January
this concern. representatives also argued these points 2013. More information can be found
during public hearings in Dallas, Texas, at www.iccsafe.org/cs/IGCC/Pages/
In late 2011, the International Code in May 2011. Nevertheless, NEMA’s PublicVersionDevelopment.aspx.
Council (ICC) conducted final action proposal was disapproved by the IgCC
hearings in Phoenix, Arizona, on two committee with the brief statement
new codes: the International Pool and that electrical systems are important …the requirement would have
Spa Code and the International Green components of a building and should be
Construction Code (IgCC). required to have a minimum service life. been tantamount to a mandatory
While both documents had been product life guarantee.
For the final code hearings, NEMA
developed as drafts, the HPBC’s Codes followed up its initial proposal with
and Standards Review Task Force (CSR written comments detailing why a 25-year The task force has also targeted other
TF) was quite involved with IgCC for service life is not practical for electrical potentially relevant documents,
a few reasons. One reason was because components. Other industries with including several ASHRAE standards
the code was new and, as such, offered a whom NEMA had communicated with in that are gaining serious traction in
better chance to be changed should the preparation for this event also weighed in. the marketplace (90.1, 90.2, 108.1, 100,
need arise. The other reason was to avoid Most opposed the concept of service life California Code of Regulations titles 20
establishing precedents that would be for buildings and systems entirely. and 24, and others). These documents
harder to fight once in place.
could be perceived as posing potential
After lengthy discussion, IgCC voted
Establishing Minimum threats to NEMA members, but they
to overturn the committee action from
Guaranteed Service Life are also opportunities to promote new
November and remove the requirement
One item of intense interest was a technologies and products.
altogether. The building service life
section that would establish minimum remained in the code, however, but only This is where the experience of every
guaranteed service life for buildings as a project elective category left to the related NEMA section could make
and their major components, including owner’s and designer’s determination. a difference. ei
electrical systems and products. For all
electrical products used in a compliant While service life was the most Joe Andre, Field Representative |
building, the requirement would have significant and sweeping item of joe.andre@nema.org
been tantamount to a mandatory product concern to NEMA members, there were
life guarantee. The code language was other issues on which the association Andrei Moldoveanu, Technical
also confusing in that it alternated commented. For our first foray into this Director | and_moldoveanu@nema.org

NEMA electroindustry • April 2012   27

 Code Actions/Standardization Trends
ŰŰWhitepaper Documents Requirements for Receptacles in Wet Locations
Last summer, we reported on the marking requirements were adopted in building finishes, there unfortunately is
adoption of new requirements in UL 514D Flush Device Coverplates to no finite set of solutions that will address
Sections 590.4(D) and 406.9(B)(1) of the establish necessary listing requirements all of these concerns.
2011 National Electrical Code® (NEC) for “extra-duty” outlet box hoods.
for a new class of “extra-duty” outlet NEMA members went one step further According to Steve Blais, chairman of the
box hoods, sometimes referred to as in proposing additional performance NEMA Outlet and Switch Box Section
“weatherproof while-in-use covers.” requirements in a future edition of UL Technical Committee, this paper will be
514D for all outlet box hoods to improve a valuable resource for our industry.
This class and related requirements were general durability even in less severe
the result of a proposal from NEMA. “Inspector and installer education on
application environments.
New NEC requirements address reports critical matters of safety is ongoing,
from NEMA field representatives In order to document this evolution in including the subject of receptacle
and their discussions in the electrical receptacle protection requirements for protection. The ability to cite or
inspection community on the general wet location installations, the NEMA download information like this from
lack of durability of outlet box hoods Outlet and Switch Box Section recently an industry as opposed to an individual
that are most often a component of the published Protection of Receptacle manufacturer’s perspective is invaluable
required weatherproof enclosure for Outlets in Wet Locations According to the when interacting with customers and
15- and 20-ampere, 125- and 250-volt National Electrical Code® to summarize inspectors in the field,” Mr. Blais said.
receptacles installed in wet locations. The relevant code changes for these
Protection of Receptacle Outlets in Wet
requirements for “extra-duty” outlet box installations and the drivers behind them.
Locations According to the National
hoods apply to temporary installations,
The paper documents inspection Electrical Code® can be downloaded at no
high-traffic public areas, and other
community concerns about the charge at www.nema.org/WetLocations. ei
places where these products are most
susceptible to damage. effectiveness of sealing a flush-mounted
Mike Leibowitz, Program Manager |
weatherproof enclosure at its interface
mike.leibowitz@nema.org
In concert with the updated NEC, new with a finished building surface. Because
durability performance testing and of the many variables in existing

ŰŰState of Idaho: Electrical Code Adoption Effectively Killed

What appeared to be a positive move by adoption of the 2011 NEC. Previously, immediately calling for a vote. There
the Idaho Electrical Board last August subcommittees from both the Idaho were several individuals in attendance
has turned into a dead end. House and Senate took testimony on the that had signed up to testify on the
proposed adoption, and both voted to issue—mostly in favor of adoption—but
At that meeting, after taking testimony reject the new electrical code. Because were not given the opportunity to be
from several individuals, the board the subcommittees had only the single heard. The vote was overwhelming to
voted to forward a recommendation proposal, it was faced with either reject the board’s recommendation.
to the legislature to adopt the 2011 accepting or rejecting it in its entirety.
National Electrical Code® (NEC) without While it is still possible for the full
amendment. There was a proposal to With testimony in opposition from several legislature to adopt the 2011 NEC, the
send two recommendations, one for full contractors that grossly exaggerated reality is that it is a dead issue for at least
adoption and one deleting the expanded the financial impact of expanded AFCI another year. The board can take this up
requirements for arc-fault circuit protection, as well as stories of “nuisance again later in 2012, but the opposition to
interrupters (AFCI) protection. The tripping,” the subcommittees turned down arc-fault protection will likely not lessen.
intent was to give the elected officials the the entire code. The primary testimony
option of selecting either one. The second was from several electrical contractors and In the meantime, Idaho will be without
option was rejected because the board a few homebuilders. all the additional benefits and safeguards
embodied in the latest and most current
did not want to appear unsupportive of
At the full business committee electrical code available. ei
AFCI protection.
hearing, the chairman asked for the
On January 31, 2012, the Idaho House recommendation of the subcommittee Joe Andre, Field Representative |
Business Committee took up the and the reason for that recommendation, joe.andre@nema.org

28 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

ŰŰIEC TC 23 Strategic Plan Addresses Issues of Responsible Standards
Dennis Oddsen, Director of Engineering, Hubbell Inc.
With adoption of the IEC Technical specifically referenced in SBP, it is clear these differences as “permanent” or
Committee (TC) 23 Electrical that the principle of ensuring that IEC “temporary.” TC 23 Maintenance Team
Accessories Strategic Business Plan (SBP) standards do not address one solution (MT) 61916 has been given the task of
in September 2011 by the Standardization for one market while failing to address defining these terms. MT 61916 has also
Management Board (SMB), TC 23 has solutions for other significant markets been tasked with analyzing IEC basic
committed to addressing the needs of applies to any SC or TC. safety standards and determining which
significant markets in accordance with are relevant to TC 23 standards and what
The new TC 23 SBP responds to SMB the appropriate parameters would be.
the IEC philosophy.
decision 136/6, which requested TC 23
That philosophy states that projecting to develop a plan to address concerns While MT 61916 will determine the most
one solution that accommodates from the IEC U.S. National Committee appropriate tools, SBP makes clear that
one market (but not others) as the and other countries regarding standards this work is not intended to delay the
international standard will not force that do not reflect the needs of significant submittal of proposals from the U.S. or
markets to evolve and coalesce. Instead, markets. TC 23 set a three-to-five-year other countries.
markets and their related industries will objective to publish globally relevant
It is now the responsibility of the U.S. to
look elsewhere for standards that better standards, with the expressed goal that
develop responsible proposals to address
accommodate their needs, resulting in a they meet basic IEC safety standards.
the needs of U.S. and related markets. ei
loss of IEC relevance.
TC 23 SBP points out that it may
While Subcommittees (SC) 23B Plugs, be helpful to identify differences Mr. Oddsen is a nember of IEC TC 23,
socket-outlets and switches, and 23H between existing and proposed MT 61916.
Industrial plugs and socket-outlets, are alternative solutions and to categorize

Is your electrical safety program effective?

HOW DO YOU KNOW?
Are you prepared to deal with the consequences of an
electrical tragedy in your workplace? Take the
Electrical Safety Foundation International’s (ESFI)
FREE electrical safety self-assessment before it’s too
late. Visit ESFI’s website for our assessment tool and a
variety of additional free resources aimed at preventing
electrical fires, injuries, and fatalities.
www.electrical-safety.org
ww

In partnership with

A proud supporter of 2012

National Electrical Safety Month.

NEMA electroindustry • April 2012   29

 International Roundup
ŰŰGreen Buildings Offer Growing Business Opportunities in Asia Pacific Region
The interest in green buildings in the attributes of sustainable building infrastructure, and building an
Asia Pacific region is at an all-time high, materials in codes and standards; understanding on how they can be
including among heads of state. performance targets and rating systems used to advance green buildings.
for sustainable buildings; case studies; • In the development and adoption of
Because buildings generally represent and the future of green buildings.
a third of the energy usage in any mandatory codes and regulations, the
country, improvements in building use of transparent, evidenced-based
Green Building Climate
energy efficiency have the potential analysis and stakeholder consultations
A second conference, Green Buildings and
to significantly reduce costs and as the basis for decision making is
Green Growth: Approaches to Encouraging
environmental impacts. While there is paramount to ensuring efficient and
a Positive Green Building Climate, was
no clear definition of what is a “green effective green building programs.
organized by APEC and ASEAN, the
building,” and ratings and labels can be Association of Southeast Asian Nations, • Greater consistency and precision
subjective, energy use can be evaluated which consists of Brunei, Burma in the use of existing terms and
in financial terms. (Myanmar), Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, definitions in green building schemes
Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and programs is needed.
Last year, two significant events Thailand, and Vietnam. • Redundant or conflicting standards
involving green buildings and green
can cause manufacturers to reengineer
growth took place in the region. One Participants reviewed standards, codes,
products for different markets;
involved the role of standards and trade; regulations, and conformance practices
collaboration on common tools
the other concentrated on encouraging a in place and under development in for assessing and benchmarking
positive green building climate. order to enable a greater understanding green buildings, including models
of their roles in the broader landscape for lifecycle analysis, can avoid
Role of Standards and Trade
of sustainability and conservation in unnecessary costs and increase
APEC, the Asia Pacific Economic
commercial buildings, enable sustainable availability of green products in
Cooperation, consists of 21 different
economic growth, and facilitate trade and support of green building needs.
countries (called economies): Australia,
investment across the Asia-Pacific region.
Brunei, Canada, Chile, Chinese Taipei, • Cooperation, including reference to
Hong Kong, China, Indonesia, Japan, The focus was to increase participation international systems of conformity
Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua in development of codes and standards assessment, on methods and best
New Guinea, People’s Republic of China, that support more efficient, better practices related to conformity
Peru, Philippines, Republic of Korea, aligned policies and to facilitate assessment can result in more
Russia, Singapore, Thailand, United trade and investment; enable greater consistent assessment and enforcement
States, and Vietnam. consistency in evaluation of products of building ratings.
and costs by sharing information, • Continued collaboration in
In 2011, NEMA member companies
including methods of measuring claims; APEC, ASEAN, and international
exported nearly $28 billion worth of
and build communication networks organizations to develop tools and
products to APEC, one of the most
across key stakeholders and relevant best practices on standards, codes, and
promising growth markets in the world
experts in the region. conformity assessment practices in
for the next ten years or more.
support of advancing green buildings.
Areas for Collaboration
NEMA collaborated with several
Participants in both workshops identified With attention assured at the highest
entities on Green Buildings and Green
numerous areas for collaboration: levels, NEMA members are ideally suited
Growth: Enabling Role of Standards and
Trade. It featured speakers from public to launch aggressive business plans that
• Engage policymakers to promote capitalize on growing opportunities.
and private organizations including understanding that standards
standards development organizations, NEMA contacts with standards and
and conformance infrastructure regulatory officials serve as a good
trade associations, professional societies, provide the essential tools to enable
code officials, environment officials, and foundation to pursue market acceptance
achievement of green growth. of members’ world-class products. ei
manufacturing companies.
• Participation in standards
The two-day conference was organized development and engagement of key Gene Eckhart, Senior Director for
around sustainable buildings; building stakeholders is essential in developing International Operations |
codes; managing environmental standards and conformance gen_eckhart@nema.org

30 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

ŰŰWTO Appellate Body Affirms 2011 Ruling Condemning China’s Export Restrictions
On January 30, 2012, the appellate a list of 86 specific products that were
body of the World Trade Organization listed in that agreement and none of
(WTO) upheld a July 2011 panel the raw materials in this case were on
report that China’s export duties and that list. The appellate body affirmed
export quotas violated either China’s that GATT defenses are not applicable
commitments under its WTO Accession to China’s WTO Accession Protocol
Protocol or the 1994 General Agreement commitment to eliminate export
on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) with duties except with respect to 86
respect to certain forms of bauxite, specific products.
coke, fluorspar, magnesium, manganese,
silicon carbide, silicon metal, yellow China’s Conduct Inconsistent
phosphorous, and zinc used in steel, with GATT
As applied to China’s export quotas on ten years, were “temporarily applied.”
aluminum, and chemicals.
these raw materials, the appellate body The panel report and the appellate
This ruling was the result of complaints affirmed that China had not shown body disagreed, and also ruled that the
filed by the U.S., Mexico, and the that its conduct met the requirements prospect that an exhaustible resource
European Union (EU) with the WTO in of GATT defenses for conservation will be depleted in the future was not a
November 2009. In a press release, U.S. of exhaustible natural resources and “critical shortage.”
Trade Representative Ambassador Ron found the export quotas inconsistent
Kirk declared the appellate body’s report with GATT. The appellate body ruled that
“a tremendous victory for the United “temporarily applied” referred to an
States—particularly its manufacturers interim measure to address a passing
and workers.” China had not shown that its need in a limited period of time. It was
not sufficient that China’s quota was
The appellate body rejected China’s conduct met the requirements of “subject to annual review” to make the
efforts to dismiss the case because some GATT defenses for conservation quota temporarily applied.
parts of the legal measures challenged
by the U.S., Mexico, and EU expired of exhaustible natural resources The appellate body’s decision requires
at the end of 2009. It found that China China to bring its legal measures
and found the export quotas pertaining to export duties and export
had enacted “a series of measures” that
had expired at the end of 2009 and were inconsistent with GATT. quotas of these raw materials into
supplanted by a newer set of rates and conformity with China’s obligations
amounts were part of the same series of under its Accession Protocol and GATT,
measures and still reviewable by WTO. China did persuade the appellate “such that the series of measures do
These measures included framework body that it was only necessary that not operate to bring about a WTO-
legislation and implementing regulation export restrictions be applied jointly inconsistent result.”
that had not expired. with restrictions on production or
consumption of the raw materials and On March 13, 2012, the Obama
The appellate body also rejected China’s that it was not necessary, as the panel administration announced that the
claim that certain defenses recognized report held, to also show that the export U.S., EU, and Japan were requesting
by the General Agreement on Tariffs restrictions were necessary to make the WTO to commence consultations
and Trade (GATT)1 applied to its export the production or consumption with China over similar export
duties on certain raw materials. In its restrictions “effective.” restraints of rare earth elements, as well
WTO Accession Protocol, China agreed as molybdenum and tungsten. If the
not to impose export duties except to The appellate body further rejected consultations do not reach an agreed
China’s claim that its export quotas resolution, the U.S., EU, and Japan are
1
An example would be an exception for measures “relating
to the conservation of exhaustible natural resources if such related to refractory grade bauxite expected to ask WTO to establish a panel
measures are made effective in conjunction with restrictions on
domestic production or consumption, provided such measures
were temporarily applied to prevent or to hear their complaints. ei
are not applied in a manner which would constitute a means relieve a critical shortage. China argued
of arbitrary or unjustifiable discrimination between countries
where the same conditions prevail, or a disguised restriction on
that long-term measures, such as the Clark R. Silcox, Legal Counsel |
international trade.” bauxite quota that had been in place for cla_silcox@nema.org

NEMA electroindustry • April 2012   31

 Economic Spotlight
ŰŰCommercial Construction Remains in the Doldrums
More than four years after the start of the financial crisis—
and nearly three years after the dawn of the economic
recovery—commercial construction activity remains
hobbled. While the sharp declines of 2008 and 2009 are
well in the past, the sector has seen precious little forward
momentum even as broader economic conditions have
gradually improved.

Retail, restaurant, and warehouse construction put-in-place

together were only modestly higher in January 2012 than
at their cyclical trough in late 2010. January’s figure was 55
percent below February 2008’s cyclical peak. The smaller
office construction market has followed a similar path.
SAAR: Seasonally adjusted annual rate
The good news is that sustained economic recovery means
employment and income growth are on the rise, leading to
increased demand for office and other types of commercial ŰŰEBCI, Indices Online
space. Still, significant amounts of vacant space remain to NEMA’s Electroindustry Business Confidence Index for
be absorbed and structural changes in housing and other current North American conditions can be found at
industries will keep commercial construction growth to a www.nema.org/Apr12-EBCI.
minimum in the near term. ei Indexes for incandescent and compact fluorescent lamp shipments
are available at www.nema.org/media/pr/20120315a.cfm ei
Tim Gill, Director of Economics | tim_gill@nema.org

Mark your calendar for

NEMA’s 86th ANNUAL MEETING

November 9 & 10

Turnberry Isle Miami

Aventura/Miami, Florida

32 NEMA electroindustry • April 2012

Learn More
• April showers bring May flowers— www.iccsafe.org/cs/IGCC/Pages/
Coming in
November
April
Electrical Safety Month
and often water-damaged electrical PublicVersionDevelopment.aspx. Lightning does strike twice. The first
equipment. Get advice on the safe line of defense is proper grounding.
handling of electrical equipment • New York City lighting renovation
May’s issue of ei explores how
that has been exposed to water at opportunities are subject to new
grounding is as important to power
www.nema.org/stds/ mandates. Reserve your spot at
installations as a goalie is to a team.
water-damaged.cfm NEMA’s TFM presentation by
contacting erik.sorenson@nema.org. At home and at work, electrical
• All electrical products are required safety is just as important. Products
to be marked with manufacturer • Jumpstart your eBusiness made by NEMA members reduce
model, production lot, and electrical initiatives with a series of the likelihood of injury and death.
ratings. The RightPlug standard webinars from IDEA that feature Along with them is the duty to warn.
defines how this information is industry experts and real-life The ANSI Z535 series of safety signs
encoded. Learn more at experiences of manufacturers and colors apply to laws governing
www.rightplug.org and distributors. Go to product liability.
www.idea-esolutions.com/webinars.
• Work to review the recently Finally, new technology demands new
approved IgCC and IEEC • Get ready for 14th Annual awareness. ESFI sponsors National
has already started. More IDEA E-Biz Forum at Electrical Safety Month each May.
information can be found at www.idea-ebizforum.com. This year, “be in the know about the
new” engages the public in the safety
Stock art Credits: 16 ©iStockphoto.com/pagadesign of solar panels, wind power, and
Cover, 1,11,17 ©agsandrew/Shutterstock.com 18 ©iStockphoto.com/Firstsignal electric vehicles.
Cover, 1,11,17 ©Serg64/Shutterstock.com 21 ©iStockphoto.com/twilightproductions Next month’s issue of ei goes beyond
15 ©iStockphoto.com/pictafolio 31 ©iStockphoto.com/Photomorphic plugs and outlets. Don’t miss it. ei
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