Latest news with #NEXT
Business Wire
7 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
NEXT Energy Installs First-Ever Large Format Building Integrated Organic Photovoltaic (BIPV) Façade
SANTA BARBARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- NEXT Energy Technologies, Inc. has accomplished another significant milestone toward commercialization of NEXT's BIPV solution, with the first installation of a commercial facade Powered by NEXT transparent OPV coatings at its headquarters in Santa Barbara, California. The groundbreaking installation features six transparent photovoltaic (PV) windows, each measuring 40 by 60 inches, for a total of 100 square feet of NEXT's proprietary energy-generating glass. This marks the world's first installation of its kind: a Building Integrated PV (BIPV) facade featuring organic photovoltaic (OPV) coatings developed by NEXT. Each insulating glass unit (IGU) incorporates NEXT's OPV coating on the outboard lite and runs cables through the framing system. The high-performance windows were fabricated with Low-e coated inboard lites and spacers supplied by Viracon. Walters & Wolf designed, supplied, and installed the framing system as part of the facade integration, showcasing NEXT's seamless integration into the window fabrication supply chain. 'The successful scaling of NEXT's OPV technology, both on glass and in facades, takes NEXT and the industry closer to a future of sustainable building design,' said Daniel Emmett, CEO, Executive Chairman, and Co-Founder of NEXT. 'We're incredibly proud of the quality of the coating, the seamless installation, and the power generation performance we're already seeing from this first facade installation.' Installed at the company's Santa Barbara headquarters, the windows now offer architects, developers, and industry stakeholders a real-world demonstration of NEXT's aesthetic, energy-producing glass in action. Visitors can see the seamless integration of solar technology into a standard commercial facade and observe firsthand how the system generates power while maintaining transparency and design flexibility. 'This is the first of many,' added Jonathan Hafemann, NEXT's VP, Commercialization & Growth. 'We're thrilled to share this tangible demonstration of our vision for energy-generating facades, and to invite the industry to imagine what's possible when windows do more than just manage heat gain and U-Value.' NEXT's transparent organic photovoltaic (OPV) technology enables commercial windows to generate solar energy, turning building facades into on-site power sources. This innovation supports greater energy efficiency, generates clean power at the point of use, enhances building resilience, and helps improve grid efficiency. When integrated into a building, a NEXT OPV facade can generate enough electricity to offset approximately 20–25% of the energy consumption typical of commercial properties while leveraging the existing infrastructure of a commercial facade. By capturing and converting infrared light, the windows also help lower indoor cooling demands, easing the load on HVAC systems. Track our commercialization progress and explore NEXT's OPV solution and partnership opportunities at About NEXT Energy Technologies NEXT Energy Technologies, a Santa Barbara, California company, is revolutionizing the clean energy and building industries with its innovations in organic photovoltaic (OPV) technology. The NEXT solution empowers architects and building owners to transform traditional windows and glass facades into producers of low-cost, on-site, renewable energy for buildings, a practical and inspiring solution for a sustainable future. NEXT's OPV is born out of Nobel Prize-winning work at UC Santa Barbara and is funded in part by the California Energy Commission. NEXT's proprietary organic semiconducting materials are earth-abundant, low-cost, and processed using a high-speed, scalable, and low-energy process. For more information, visit Follow us on LinkedIn.
Daily Record
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Kids favourite ball pit extended after thousands enjoy colourful summer event
Braehead's giant ball pit, filled with over 100,000 colourful balls, will now stay open for longer than expected A popular summer attraction at Braehead Shopping Centre has been given an extended run after thousands of families flocked to enjoy the giant indoor ball pit. The free experience, originally scheduled to end in mid-July, will now remain open daily until Sunday, August 3, allowing even more visitors to enjoy one of Scotland's most colourful summer events. Located in the centre's Central Atrium, the 64 square metre ball pit is packed with more than 100,000 bright plastic balls and has proven a huge draw for children and adults alike. Since opening, it has welcomed thousands of people through its gates, and now promises even more fun over the next two weeks. In addition to providing hours of entertainment, the ball pit is also helping to raise funds for Cash for Kids, a charity which supports vulnerable children and young people across Scotland. 'We've been blown away by the response so far, so we're thrilled to extend the event for even longer,' said Ashley Bisland, Centre Director at Braehead. 'A visit to Braehead this summer is a great day out for all the family, and we love seeing people enjoying spending time together in the centre.' The extension means more chances to take part in interactive games and family-friendly challenges being organised at the site, while helping a worthwhile cause at the same time. Entry remains completely free, though donations to Cash for Kids are encouraged. Alongside the ball pit, families can make the most of the centre's wide range of shops and dining options. Retail favourites include NEXT, Smiggle, Flying Tiger, MINISO, Primark, Apple, M&S, and H&M, while recent additions such as Popeyes, Remus Uomo and Phase Eight continue to expand Braehead's offering. Visitors can also enjoy a bite to eat at YO! Sushi, Five Guys, Nando's, Prezzo, Pizza Hut and Starbucks, among many others. Free parking is available on site, along with shopmobility services to ensure accessibility for all. Established in 1999, Braehead Shopping Centre has grown into one of Scotland's top destinations for retail, food and leisure. Conveniently positioned between Glasgow city centre and Glasgow Airport, it now hosts over 100 well-known brands under one roof. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. The venue is also home to Braehead Arena, a 5,200-seat events and sports facility that serves as the home of the Glasgow Clan ice hockey team and regularly hosts concerts, exhibitions and family shows. With its extended summer event, Braehead aims to give families a reason to stay local and enjoy a fun, free day out without breaking the bank. The giant ball pit remains open until Sunday, August 3, in the Central Atrium. Entry is free and no booking is required.
Miami Herald
14-07-2025
- Business
- Miami Herald
How to reduce business energy costs (without cutting corners)
U.S. small businesses spend an average of $1,500 per month (or $18,000 a year) for business energy costs like electricity and natural gas, according to EnergyBot. The good news? You could save on the cost of electricity for any business by up to 30% (or $5,400 annually) through smart energy-saving strategies, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Over time, these savings can add up to tens of thousands of dollars - freeing up budget for business investments that can help fuel your growth. Some upgrades might even help lower your business insurance costs. And you don't have to sacrifice comfort to make it happen. NEXT shares 14 energy-saving tips to cut your electricity costs - with ideas for every budget and timeline. Quick wins: No-cost ways to lower your energy bill You don't have to spend a dime to start saving. These low-effort changes can begin reducing your business energy bills right away - and every little bit adds up. "Getting people on board helped," says Danilo Coviello, CEO of Espresso Translations. "Now it's second nature to shut off all unused equipment before the end of the day." That slight shift reduced their electricity bill by 5% over time. Here are a few more quick wins, recommended by the Department of Energy, that can immediately impact your business's energy costs. 1. Encourage energy-saving habits to reduce business energy costs Encourage your team to turn off lights, shut down unused equipment and put computers in sleep mode when unused. Small reminders near light switches or shared workstations can help reinforce the habit - and turn it into a routine. These small behavior shifts can reduce energy usage and lower electricity bills without new equipment. 2. Go paperless where you can Shifting to digital systems can reduce paper, ink and electricity usage, making your business more efficient. If you're not ready to go fully paperless, simple changes like double-sided printing or using digital forms for internal processes can still cut costs. 3. Shift energy use to off-peak hours Many electricity providers and local utility companies offer better energy rates during off-peak times. Running high-energy equipment - like industrial printers, kitchen appliances or production machines - outside peak hours can help you save on business electricity without cutting productivity. 4. Adjust your thermostat seasonally Adjusting settings based on the square footage of your workspace and your actual energy needs can improve efficiency. According to the DOE, turning your thermostat down by 7 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit for just eight hours a day during colder months can save you up to 10% per year on heating. Program it to ease up overnight or while your space is empty to save without feeling the chill. 5. Use natural light and window treatments In warmer months, use blinds or curtains to block out heat from direct sunlight and reduce your need for air conditioning. In colder weather, do the opposite - open the shades during the day to let sunlight naturally warm your space. Smart upgrades: Low-cost fixes with a high return on investment Implementing these upgrades takes more time and money but can deliver significant returns. A professional energy audit, for example, costs around $440, according to Angi. But it can help cut your small business's energy costs by up to 30% a year, says the DOE. That kind of upfront investment can lead to long-term savings that benefit your bottom line. 6. Bring in a professional energy auditor to reduce energy costs A certified energy auditor can uncover where you're losing efficiency, how much energy consumption each system contributes and whether you're overpaying based on your rate plan. While you can start with a DIY energy audit, hiring a pro gives you access to specialized tools and recommendations that can uncover hidden inefficiencies. 7. Maintain and inspect equipment When machines or systems wear down, they often use more energy - this is especially concerning if you're on a fixed-rate electricity plan, where waste leads directly to higher costs. Scheduling regular inspections helps ensure everything is running efficiently and safely. Not sure where to start? Your equipment manual can usually guide you on recommended maintenance timelines. 8. Seal air leaks to reduce heating and cooling waste This is one of the most cost-effective energy solutions for older buildings. Even small gaps around windows, doors or walls can force your HVAC system to work overtime. Add weatherstripping to seal drafty doors and windows and use caulk to fill cracks in walls, floors or ceilings. These simple fixes can help keep warm or cool air inside - and energy bills down. 9. Swap in smart power strips Smart power strips help cut "phantom" energy usage - the electricity your devices still draw even when turned off. Unlike standard strips, these automatically stop power flow to idle equipment, helping you reduce waste and lower your monthly energy bills. 10. Upgrade to LED lighting to reduce commercial energy use LEDs use up to 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, according to the Small Business Administration. That switch offers both cost savings and measurable reductions in your business's carbon footprint. Danilo Coviello of Espresso Translations saw the impact firsthand: "Our electricity bill has dropped about 12% within two months. It's the kind of immediate savings that accumulate, and the installation was prompt." High-impact investments: Long-term energy efficiency Some energy-saving improvements take more time and money upfront - but they can unlock major long-term savings. With today's changing energy market, locking in long-term energy savings through upgrades can offer more predictability and control. Many of these upgrades may also qualify for tax credits, rebates or local incentives, depending on your business location. If you're ready to make bigger moves, these ideas can help lower your energy bill for years to come. 11. Improve insulation to maintain indoor comfort Poor insulation drives up energy consumption, so this step is especially important for businesses on commercial electricity rates. Good insulation keeps warm or cool air inside - so your HVAC system doesn't have to work as hard. That means lower energy use, better temperature control and potential savings year-round. If you're renovating, consider upgrading insulation while replacing siding or roofing. Choosing the right type for your building and climate can make a big difference. 12. Upgrade outdated appliances and systems Old or inefficient equipment often uses more electricity, gas or water to get the job done. Replacing equipment with Energy Star-certified models can improve energy efficiency by up to 20%, reports the DOE. 13. Explore renewable energy options like solar If your business electricity rates are high due to usage or energy supplier pricing, solar can offer a long-term way to stabilize your costs. Many states offer tax credits or rebates to help offset the upfront investment. Not ready for a full install? Explore green energy options through community or shared energy sources. 14. Use smart technology to automate energy savings Smart thermostats, lighting systems and plugs can automatically adjust based on occupancy, time of day and your selected electricity plan - so you're not wasting power when it's not needed. Many also allow for remote control from a phone or laptop, making it easy to manage energy use even when you're off-site. For example, a smart thermostat can reduce heating or cooling when no one's around, while occupancy sensors can turn lights off in empty rooms. These small upgrades take the guesswork out of saving - and help you avoid waste without lifting a finger. How energy upgrades may help lower insurance costs Energy-efficient upgrades don't just reduce your utility bills - they can also help lower risk, which may influence your business insurance costs. By optimizing your energy supply and reducing peak demand, you're not just saving on energy - you're lowering business risks, too. Many improvements that cut energy use also make your building safer, more secure or less prone to damage. For example: Upgraded HVAC systems are less likely to overheat or fail, reducing fire risk or insulation and weatherproofing can protect against water damage, fire exposure or temperature-related technology, such as leak detectors, smoke alarms or motion-activated lighting, can help detect problems early and prevent costly incidents. From an insurance perspective, these changes can reduce the likelihood of commercial claims and operational downtime - potentially leading to better rates on commercial property insurance. While these upgrades don't guarantee lower premiums, they may help improve your overall risk profile in the eyes of insurers. This story was produced by NEXT and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. © Stacker Media, LLC.
Business Insider
12-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
Analysts Offer Insights on Energy Companies: EQT (EQT) and NextDecade (NEXT)
There's a lot to be optimistic about in the Energy sector as 2 analysts just weighed in on EQT (EQT – Research Report) and NextDecade (NEXT – Research Report) with bullish sentiments. Elevate Your Investing Strategy: Take advantage of TipRanks Premium at 50% off! Unlock powerful investing tools, advanced data, and expert analyst insights to help you invest with confidence. Make smarter investment decisions with TipRanks' Smart Investor Picks, delivered to your inbox every week. EQT (EQT) In a report issued on July 7, Haley Tam from UBS maintained a Buy rating on EQT. The company's shares closed last Friday at $55.33, close to its 52-week high of $56.66. According to Tam is ranked #2571 out of 9861 analysts. The word on The Street in general, suggests a Strong Buy analyst consensus rating for EQT with a $62.94 average price target, a 15.6% upside from current levels. In a report issued on June 24, Roth MKM also initiated coverage with a Buy rating on the stock with a $69.00 price target. NextDecade (NEXT) TD Cowen analyst Jason Gabelman maintained a Buy rating on NextDecade on July 7. The company's shares closed last Friday at $10.77. According to Gabelman is a 4-star analyst with an average return of 8.6% and a 58.6% success rate. Gabelman covers the NA sector, focusing on stocks such as Enterprise Products Partners, Calumet Specialty Products, and HF Sinclair Corporation. The word on The Street in general, suggests a Moderate Buy analyst consensus rating for NextDecade with a $13.00 average price target, implying a 38.0% upside from current levels. In a report released yesterday, Morgan Stanley also maintained a Buy rating on the stock with a $15.00 price target.
Mint
11-07-2025
- Health
- Mint
Transforming NMC: Healthcare providers approach PMO
The Association of Healthcare Providers India (AHPI) has called for a radical transformation of the National Medical Commission (NMC), which regulates medical education and professionals in the country. Despite its founding promise of transparent and outcome-oriented reform in medical education and healthcare delivery, NMC has largely failed to deliver sustained systemic change, the AHPI wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 10 July. AHPI represents hospitals, clinics, diagnostic centres and medical equipment companies. Its appeal comes against the backdrop of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) recently finding alleged instances of corruption involving health ministry officials, intermediaries, NMC assessors, and medical college representatives. According to AHPI, the revelations underscore the persistent influence of 'Inspector Raj' methods and necessitate urgent reform. The prevailing public perception, particularly among healthcare professionals, is that the NMC offers little difference from the erstwhile Medical Council of India which it replaced, it said. In the letter, Dr. Girdhar Gyani, director general, AHPI proposed transforming NMC from being primarily a procedural regulator into a forward-looking, autonomous institution focused on innovation, performance assessment, and continuous improvement in medical education. He suggested implementing NEXT as a nationwide screening mechanism. 'The National Exit Test (NEXT), if executed effectively, is envisioned as a transparent and objective benchmark to evaluate disciplinary outcomes and institutional performance. Colleges that consistently underperform on NEXT should be subjected to targeted remedial action,' Gyani wrote. Dr. Alexandar Thomas, patron, AHPI called for the adoption of digital tools, remote monitoring, and real-time data dashboards to reduce human discretion, prevent collusion, and detect malpractices early. The NMC should guide curriculum design, faculty training, and accreditation accordingly, it said. The AHPI said that with decisive leadership, building upon the administrative track record and policy direction provided in the Health Policy of 2017, the NMC can be transformed into a high-impact institution championing transparency, rigour, and integrity in medical education, especially given the drive to open more medical colleges. The association has offered to present detailed recommendations and to support the Prime Minister's office and the Ministry of Health in implementing these meaningful reforms. Earlier, Mint reported that NMC has an acute manpower shortage, with only two members working against the requirements of 18 more members to look after the functioning of medical colleges and make reforms in medical education.
