Latest news with #Modular
The Herald Scotland
14 hours ago
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
We must ensure Scotland doesn't miss this moment
The Small Modular Reactor (SMR) concept is elegantly simple: take proven reactor designs, standardise components, and fabricate them on a smaller scale in factories before assembling them on-site. This innovative method eliminates the complexity and immense cost of previous nuclear plants, dramatically reducing commercial risks. Though still emerging, the leap from prototype to commercial viability are considerably reduced for Rolls Royce, the UK firm chosen by the government to build a demonstration SMR. With a heritage dating back to the 1950s at Dounreay and the launch of their first naval reactor in 1966, Rolls Royce is uniquely placed to position Britain as a global leader in SMR technology. Read More: But why do we need nuclear and particularly SMRs? Holyrood often insists nuclear power might suit England but is unnecessary in Scotland, given our exceptional renewable resources. Yet this argument conveniently overlooks our current reliance on Torness and the undeniable truth: renewables alone can't consistently provide baseload power. The wind doesn't always blow; the sun doesn't always shine. Scotland needs reliable, round-the-clock energy sources. Joani Reid (Image: PA) The Scottish Government promotes floating tidal power as their preferred alternative, despite it being unproven and vastly more expensive than established solutions. Without major technological leaps, floating generation—tidal or solar—remains economically unrealistic, likely never drawing the necessary investment. Traditional nuclear has long been vital, but SMRs offer something revolutionary. Consider hyperscale computing. Future data centres could demand around 400 megawatts—the equivalent of Glasgow's entire electricity needs and nearly matching Rolls Royce's 440 MW SMR target. These colossal data hubs powering AI, streaming services, and cloud computing require extraordinary reliability—so-called "seven nines" availability, with downtime restricted to just three seconds a year. Recent blackouts, such as Spain's near day-long outage, highlight that reliance solely on public grids is precarious. Currently, companies rely on costly, polluting diesel generators for backup. SMRs elegantly sidestep this problem, providing continuous clean electricity with built-in redundancy. Surplus power can even create green hydrogen or feed back into the national grid. Beyond computing, SMRs could transform district heating and cut transmission costs in remote areas through localised power generation. Yet, under the SNP's entrenched anti-nuclear stance, Scotland risks forfeiting these advantages, wasting its natural benefits like available development land. Missing this opportunity would be a profound error and demonstrates why a change at Holyrood is essential. Anas Sarwar has unequivocally stated nuclear energy will form part of Scotland's clean energy future under his leadership. Even if a ban persists, Scotland can still prosper through its existing clusters of engineering and technical expertise in areas such as Greater Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Faslane, and Dounreay, supporting the nuclear supply chain even if direct nuclear projects remain blocked by the SNP. As someone without commercial interests in nuclear power, it's essential to acknowledge potential challenges. Safety is always paramount, but modern nuclear designs, including SMRs, no longer produce weapons-grade material, leading to better fuel efficiency and reduced waste. Secondly, innovative designs must demonstrate commercial scalability. Previous UK nuclear innovations often failed commercially, proving costly in maintenance. We cannot afford a repeat. However, Rolls Royce's SMRs, based on proven global PWR designs, significantly reduce risks while offering enormous opportunities to spearhead global industrial innovation. Scotland stands on the brink of something transformative. High-quality jobs and a cleaner, sustainable future are within our grasp. We must ensure we don't miss the moment. Joani Reid is the Labour MP for East Kilbride and Strathaven
The Hindu
4 days ago
- Business
- The Hindu
Centre ready to set up nuclear power plant in Bihar: Manohar Lal Khattar
Union Energy Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Tuesday (June 24, 2025) announced in Patna that the Centre was ready to set up a nuclear power plant in Bihar as part of its plan to establish six Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) across the country. 'If the Bihar government wants to set up a nuclear power plant, the central government is fully prepared to provide support,' assured Mr. Khattar while speaking to media persons. He presided over the fifth meeting of Energy Ministers of eastern States such as Bihar, West Bengal, Orissa, Jharkhand and others in Patna on Tuesday. Later, he said, 'While agreeing to the demand of Bihar government to set up a nuclear power plant in the State, we also agreed on a proposal to provide additional 500 MW power to the State for three months.' 'At the meeting we reviewed the power situation in eastern States, their problems and also discussed the vision for power sector in the country till 2035,' said the Union Minister. Mr. Khattar praised the installation of a record number of smart meters in Bihar. 'The State was said to be backward in power sector, but today it has come forward. Today, Bihar has demanded that a nuclear power plant be set up in the State,1 and the central government has agreed to support Bihar in setting up the plant,' asserted the Minister. 'Earlier, the country was known as a power deficit one…in the year 2013-14 there was power deficit of 4.50% in the country, but today we're not only fulfilling our power needs by generating it but also exporting it to the countries such as Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Nepal,' he added. 'The country is becoming self-sufficient in power sector,' asserted Mr. Khattar. The Union Minister further said that in the coming days, India would need more power to meet its growing demand and 'we aim to set up a nuclear power plant in every State to ensure the country's energy security'. If set up, this will be the first nuclear power plant in the State and it is expected to provide 'not only stable energy source but also to boost investment, employment and technological advancement in the region'. This is a historic opportunity for Bihar. With the central government's green signal, a revolutionary shift is expected in the State's energy sector. Now all eyes are on how quickly the Bihar government implements this proposal, the Minister added. Compared to traditional large nuclear reactors, the Small Modular Reactors of nuclear power can be set up in a short duration at a lower cost with enhanced safety. The SMRs are suitable for regions with moderate power demand where setting up large scale nuclear plants may not be feasible.
Cision Canada
19-06-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Modular Solutions Closes Financing Round to Drive Innovation in the Insurance Industry
CALGARY, AB, June 19, 2025 /CNW/ - Tailwind Ventures is pleased to announce that their Calgary-based client Modular Solutions ("Modular" or the "Company") has successfully closed a financing round from a strategic industry partner and a syndicate of private investors, facilitated by Tailwind Ventures. Modular Solutions, a leading provider of configurable insurance software, will use the funding to optimize and streamline client onboarding and implementation, advance platform enhancements, and invest in artificial intelligence to deliver even greater value to customers across the insurance industry. Modular Solutions provides next-gen insurance SaaS technology that enables providers to break free from archaic, siloed legacy software, enabling improved operational efficiency, financial performance, and customer experience. Modular's platform is purpose-built to empower insurers and brokers with technology that is responsive to a competitive industry, transforming workflows and automating critical and time-consuming operations. "This capital raise marks a pivotal moment for Modular," said Braden Bosch, Founder and CEO of Modular Solutions. "We have brought an innovative software solution to the market, and with this investment, we can ensure low total cost of ownership and affordability while continuing to optimize and enhance our offering even further." "Tailwind is delighted to have supported Modular in securing this financing. Braden and the team at Modular are building transformative solutions for an industry in desperate need of innovation, and our capital partners share our conviction that Modular will deliver," said Darren Engels, Tailwind Ventures CEO. Engels added "Tailwind is committed to its purpose of diligently preparing companies to scale and attract capital so they can create impact and value. Tailwind applies a proprietary, holistic and structured approach that we call diligent preparedness to build a better business. Better businesses go on to withstand the scrutiny of due diligence, secure capital, and generate returns for shareholders." Cody Church, Director of Clear North Capital, shared his enthusiasm regarding the investment, stating, "We were honoured to invest in Modular and are excited to watch the evolution of the Company. Braden was very strategic in his investment partners, all of which are local high net worth individuals and venture firms that bring a lot of strategic value to the business." This network of investors not only reinforces the Company's vision but ensures a collaborative approach to driving growth and innovation in the insurance industry. Modular's capital raise represented the fifth largest seed stage financing for Insurtech companies in North America, while also achieving the second highest pre-money valuation. 1 It is a credit to Braden Bosch and the Modular Solutions team for their dedication to being diligently prepared and to creating impact and value for their investors. Bosch remains the majority shareholder of Modular Solutions and remains committed to the Company's vision: enabling the best insurance experience in the world. About Modular Solutions Founded in 2015, Modular Solutions has been delivering innovative technology to the insurance industry. Their modular, fully integrated platform enables insurers, mutuals, MGAs and brokers with programs with the ability to manage their entire operations seamlessly through a single software solution. Designed to be affordable and configurable, their platform empowers businesses to innovate, adapt and thrive in an evolving and competitive market. Modular Solutions is based in Calgary, Canada. For more information about Modular Solutions, visit About Tailwind Ventures Tailwind Ventures empowers early- and growth-stage companies to withstand the scrutiny of due diligence and secure capital. Tailwind's diligent preparedness process enables ventures to build stronger businesses and improve the risk-reward relationship for ventures and investors. Tailwind Ventures has raised over C$370 million for clients since 2022. Tailwind is based in Calgary, Canada. For more information about Tailwind Ventures, visit Forward-looking statements Certain statements contained in this press release relate to future events, conditions, or outcomes with respect to Modular's business, its customers, technology, and the broader tech industry. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements and are often, but not always, identified using words such as "believes", "seek", "plan", "expect" and similar expressions.
The Citizen
17-06-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Metro to revive power stations, explore nuclear and improve economic growth
The metro has ambitious plans to rejuvenate its two dormant power stations to achieve energy independence and improve economic growth. Energy experts, policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders gathered at the second annual Tshwane Energy Summit 2025, themed 'Energy is a Catalyst for Economic Development' on June 13 . The event at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) International Convention Centre focused on strategies to transform the metro's energy landscape and achieve energy security for its residents. Plans to rejuvenate the 300MW Rooiwal and 180MW Pretoria West power stations were one of the subjects central to the discussions. The two city-owned power stations have been inactive and non-operational for over a decade, with Pretoria West in poor condition and not producing electricity and Rooiwal operating below intended capacity. According to COO Vuyo Zitumane, funding and strategies to reactivate the Pretoria West power station are in progress, with a new operational strategy for the plant. 'The Gauteng Infrastructure Funding Agency has come forward with due diligence and is looking at core funding for transaction advisors' service so that we know the potential that can be leveraged from that power station.' She said the city plans to convert the plant and adopt a green approach, utilising the process of producing energy from gas to operate the facility. 'A similar process [of potential leverage] is going to be undertaken with the Rooiwal power station, however, it will probably continue to be a coal-powered station,' she said. Zitumane emphasised the importance of building resilient energy systems that will enable the metro to keep the lights burning for its residents. Energy experts shared insight and advice on more ways to produce sustainable and efficient energy for the metro and also create more employment. Dr Kelvin Kemm, chairman of Stratek Global, pointed out the potential the metro has to explore nuclear energy. He proposed it should start planning to build Small Modular Reactors (SMR) around the municipal region. 'SMR could supply reliable and stable electricity by being sited around the metro or clustered together in groups of two or four.' Kemm said the area required for each group is only the size of a football field. He added that not only will the building of such reactors supply reliable electricity for decades to come, but also provide many high-grade jobs. The metro's revitalisation efforts are aimed at creating numerous job opportunities in various sectors, including construction, operations, and maintenance. MMC for Economic Development and Spatial Planning Sarah Mabotsa emphasised that a consistent and dependable energy supply is essential for economic growth. 'A stable [and] reliable energy supply creates an environment where economic activities can thrive and investors can confidently grow in their businesses. 'Transformation of the energy landscape will create jobs that will bring dignity to the residents of Tshwane,' she said. She added that increased energy capacity is also anticipated to stimulate local industries and attract further investments, contributing to the metro's economic growth. Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to bennittb@ or phone us on 083 625 4114. For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord's websites: Rekord East For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading! Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App here
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Soft Robotics Market Size to Hit USD 14.64 Billion by 2032, at 30.89% CAGR
Soft Robotics Market growth is driven by automation demand, advancements in AI, flexible grippers, and rising adoption across food and medical industries. Austin, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Soft Robotics Market Size & Growth Insights: According to the SNS Insider Report, 'The Soft Robotics Market was valued at USD 1.30 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 14.64 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 30.89% over the forecast period 2024-2032.' Factors Propelling the Growth of the Soft Robotics Market Increase demand of automation in e-commerce, food processing, and automotive sectors are mainly drive the growth of soft robotics market. Low cost, flexibility and accuracy are the giant advantages of the soft robots as compared to its hard counter part highly valuable for SMEs, for delicate applications like pick and place, packing and assembly with high reconfigure ability. Sizable growth is attributed to worldwide adoption of Industry 4.0, which requires scalable, safe and efficient robotic systems. Furthermore a range of products and forces are pushing the frontiers of soft robotics, such as development of novel materials, actuation systems, Instrumentation and control (I&C), artificial intelligence (AI), Bio-inspiration, soft robots that can self-heal and sensor technologies which are increasing the soft robotics system capabilities and precision, flexibility and safety. These technological breakthroughs push forward the penetration of soft robotics into multiple fields such as medical, industrial, and logistics applications. Get a Sample Report of Soft Robotics Market @ Leading Market Players with their Product Listed in this Report are: Soft Robotics Inc. (mGrip Modular Gripper) Festo (BionicSoftHand) ABB (YuMi with Soft Gripper) Shadow Robot Company (Shadow Dexterous Hand) RightHand Robotics (RightPick) Grabit Inc. (Electroadhesion Gripper) ROBOTIQ (Adaptive Gripper) Empire Robotics (Versaball Gripper) ReWalk Robotics (ReStore Soft Exo-Suit) XACT Robotics (XACT ACE Robot) Vicarious Surgical (Soft Robotic Arm System) Ekso Bionics (EksoNR with Soft Actuation) Smart Robotics (Smart Palletizer with Soft Gripper) Pliant Energy Systems (Velox Amphibious Robot) Kawasaki Robotics (duAro with Soft Gripper). Soft Robotics Market Report Scope: Report Attributes Details Market Size in 2023 USD 1.30 Billion Market Size by 2032 USD 14.64 Billion CAGR CAGR of 30.89% From 2024 to 2032 Report Scope & Coverage Market Size, Segments Analysis, Competitive Landscape, Regional Analysis, DROC & SWOT Analysis, Forecast Outlook Key Segments • By Type (Soft Grippers, Cobots, Inflated Robots, Exoskeleton)• By Component (Hardware, Software)• By End User (Healthcare, Advanced Manufacturing, Food & Beverages, Logistics, Others) Key Drivers • Growing Demand for Soft Robotics in Healthcare Food Processing and Manufacturing Driven by Technological Advancements.• Emerging Economies and Technological Innovations Driving Soft Robotics Growth in Healthcare and Industrial Automation. Purchase Single User PDF of Soft Robotics Market Report (20% Discount) @ Soft Robotics Market: Segment Insights Driving the Future of Flexible Automation By Type Soft grippers accounted for the largest segment in the soft robotics market, holding a 37.4% share in 2023, and due to their high precision and versatility the handling of fragile, irregular, or delicate shapes such as food & beverages processing, electronics, and packaging materials of all sizes. They are being used more and more in place of rigid grippers in automated assembly and quality control systems. The cobot segment is expected to experience the highest growth from 2024 to 2032, due to the increase in demand for human-robot collaboration in manufacturing, logistics and healthcare. Cobots, they bring with them safe and efficient cohabitation, a realization of greater flexibility, improved productivity, and lack of injury through smart manufacturing. By Component In 2023, the soft robotics market was led by the Hardware segment, which accounted for 71.3% of total revenue. The dominance is because of the critical hardware and machine elements (actuators, sensors, control modules, flexible materials and others) that are required to provide motion, gripping, and responsiveness solutions in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, food, among others. Customise application-specific hardware/blades make them unopposed on the market. The Software segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR from 2024 to 2032, due to incorporation of AI, machine learning, and advanced control algorithms for better motion planning, real-time decision making, and adaptability in soft robots. By End User In 2023, the healthcare segment dominated the soft robotics market, accounting for 35.4% of total market share. This is due to the broader use of soft robotics in rehabilitation, surgical assistance, and wearable devices and the improved safety, flexibility, and adaptability for human contact. This direction is being additionally driven by increased investments in healthcare and device development. The Advanced Manufacturing segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR from 2024 to 2032, owing to the adoption of smart automation and cobots in industries. The flexibility of soft robotics in the handling of delicate objects & complex assembly operations is promoting its adoption and in return leading to the transition to industry 4.0 and the need for flexible and safe automation systems. Soft Robotics Market Growth Drivers in Asia Pacific and North America In 2023, the Asia Pacific region held a 35.2% share of the soft robotics market, growing electronics manufacturing, and emerging healthcare infrastructure in China, Japan, and South Korea contributed to its growth. Others have positioned the region already as a center for robotics-innovation with, for example, Japan having its 'Society 5.0' and China staking it claims with 'Made in China 2025'. Soft robotics applications in manufacturing and rehabilitation are being developed in companies such as Soft Robotics Co. Ltd. Japan, and SIASUN Robot & Automation Co., China. It has a well-developed electronics supply chain and a large workforce. North America, on the other hand, is expected to experience the highest CAGR, due to high adoption of technology, investments in healthcare and industrial automation, and the presence of major players such as Soft Robotics Inc., which is expanding its product portfolio, and collaborating with renowned research institutes, to accelerate the growth of surgical robotics and collaborative systems. Do you have any specific queries or need any customized research on Soft Robotics Market? Submit your inquiry here @ Recent Developments: In March 2025, ABB has expanded its robotic Item Picking family with two new AI-powered modules, the Fashion Inductor and Parcel Inductor, to improve item picking and sorter induction in logistics. This development helps address challenges of increasing parcel volumes and workforce shortages by enhancing speed, accuracy, and productivity. April 2025, Kawasaki has unveiled Corleo, a hydrogen-powered robotic horse at the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025, designed for riders to navigate diverse terrains with its four independent robotic legs. Powered by a 150cc hydrogen engine, Corleo combines AI and clean energy for stable movement and eco-friendly off-road mobility. Table of Contents - Major Key Points 1. Introduction 2. Executive Summary 3. Research Methodology 4. Market Dynamics Impact Analysis 5. Statistical Insights and Trends Reporting 5.1 Adoption of Soft Robotics by SMEs 5.2 Technological Advancements 5.3 Global Manufacturing Trends Impacting Soft Robotics 5.4 Soft Robotics Market by Robot Functionality 6. Competitive Landscape 7. Soft Robotics Market, by Type 8. Soft Robotics Market, by Component 9. Soft Robotics Market, by End User 10. Regional Analysis 11. Company Profiles 12. Use Cases and Best Practices 13. Conclusion About Us: SNS Insider is one of the leading market research and consulting agencies that dominates the market research industry globally. Our company's aim is to give clients the knowledge they require in order to function in changing circumstances. In order to give you current, accurate market data, consumer insights, and opinions so that you can make decisions with confidence, we employ a variety of techniques, including surveys, video talks, and focus groups around the world. CONTACT: Contact Us: Jagney Dave - Vice President of Client Engagement Phone: +1-315 636 4242 | +44- 20 3290 5010 (UK)
