LA Parks Foundation receives FireAid donation to rebuild Pacific Palisades playground

by Featured NewsProjectsSafetyWildland Fire

FireAid donation supports wildfire recovery at Los Angeles playground

The Los Angeles Parks Foundation has received a $1 million donation from FireAid to support the restoration of the Pacific Palisades Playground, which was damaged by wildfires in Southern California in January 2025.

According to the Los Angeles Parks Foundation, the funds will be used to expedite reconstruction and modernisation work at the Palisades Park and Recreation Center, located at 851 Alma Real Drive in Pacific Palisades.

The LA Parks Foundation, which will oversee the project, has also secured a $300,000 in-kind donation from GameTime, which is supplying all playground equipment.

An additional contribution has been made by Banc of California’s Wildfire Relief & Recovery Fund.

Over $1.3 million allocated to restore Palisades Park and Recreation Center

Combined support for the playground restoration now exceeds $1.3 million.

The full project is scheduled for completion in time for the 4 July holiday.

The funding has been designated for urgent restoration needs at Palisades Park, which has served the local community for over 35 years.

Tony Budrovich, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Parks Foundation, said: “We express our deep gratitude to FireAid, GameTime, and Banc of California for their generous donations.”

Design to include accessible equipment and tribute to first responders

Two adjacent playgrounds for children aged five to 14 will be constructed, both featuring rubber surfacing and integrated shade structures.

The playground will be fully accessible and include updated safety features.

A fire truck-themed play structure will be added in recognition of first responders who fought the Palisades fire.

Budrovich said: “This support comes out of a successful private and public partnership aimed at revitalising the playground within the Palisades community.”

Public-private partnership helps advance park restoration goals

The LA Parks Foundation’s role is to support the Los Angeles City Department of Recreation and Parks and promote access to the city’s more than 500 public parks.

Budrovich said: “The Palisades Park plays a vital role in the community, providing families with opportunities for recreation and fostering a sense of togetherness, which is more important than ever.”

The donations are part of wider efforts to rebuild damaged public infrastructure following the wildfires that impacted Southern California earlier this year.

LA Parks Foundation receives FireAid donation to rebuild Pacific Palisades playground: Summary

The Los Angeles Parks Foundation has received a $1 million donation from FireAid to support the rebuilding of the Pacific Palisades Playground, damaged in January 2025 by wildfires.

The Foundation has also received a $300,000 in-kind equipment donation from GameTime and additional support from Banc of California’s Wildfire Relief & Recovery Fund.

The project, managed by the LA Parks Foundation, will include two new accessible playgrounds for children aged five to 14 and a fire truck-themed play structure.

Construction is expected to be completed before 4 July.

The restoration addresses immediate needs at the Palisades Park and Recreation Center, located at 851 Alma Real Drive, which has been in operation for over 35 years.

All contributions have been publicly confirmed by the LA Parks Foundation.

Comelit-PAC wireless fire alarm installed at listed Bradford building

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Listed Bradford building receives fire safety upgrade

Comelit-PAC has reported that its LogiFire wireless system has been installed at Guardian House, a listed building in Bradford.

The installation was part of a refurbishment project led by Inspired Neighbourhoods in collaboration with Centurion Fire & Security Ltd, aimed at redeveloping the former Bradford City Registry Office for modern office use and community services.

Guardian House had been unused and was at risk of falling into disrepair. Inspired Neighbourhoods is refurbishing the building as part of a wider regeneration initiative in Bradford city centre.

Wireless system installed to preserve historical structure

Centurion Fire & Security Ltd recommended upgrading the fire detection and alarm system due to issues with the existing infrastructure.

The wireless version of Comelit-PAC’s LogiFire system was selected for installation in the building’s graded areas to avoid the need for additional cabling, which would have impacted the structure.

Nathan Douglas-Smith, Director of Centurion Fire & Security Ltd, said: “The installation at Guardian House was a unique challenge due to its listed status and historical significance.

“Comelit-PAC’s LogiFire wireless system provided the perfect solution, allowing us to enhance fire safety without compromising the building’s structure and aesthetics.”

Project forms part of community regeneration plan

Inspired Neighbourhoods is overseeing the redevelopment, which aims to attract daily footfall and contribute to local economic growth.

Assim Hussain, Chief Executive Officer of Inspired Neighbourhoods, said: “We are committed to revitalising the building, maximising community benefit, and contributing to the economic regeneration of Bradford’s city centre. The redevelopment plan anticipates hosting a range of services that will attract up to 300 people to the city centre daily.”

He added: “With such a responsibility to the community, we have to ensure their complete safety. Centurion Fire & Security Ltd supported us to deliver on total fire protection, recommending Comelit-PAC’s LogiFire wireless system to perfectly suit the building’s intended needs while preserving its historical integrity.”

System features remote monitoring and modular installation

Comelit-PAC stated that the LogiFire range includes wireless addressable and conventional translators with remote and cloud-based monitoring capability.

The company explained that these translators reduce installation time and remove the need for extensive wiring, which is beneficial in heritage properties.

Mandy Bowden, Comelit-PAC Fire Manager, said: “The demand for wireless fire detection systems is growing significantly, and our LogiFire solution is at the forefront of this innovation.

“By offering a system that combines ease of installation with advanced monitoring capabilities, we can ensure listed buildings like Guardian House are protected.

“At the same time, we demonstrate how heritage and modern technology can work hand in hand to create safer communities.”

Wireless fire alarm system fitted at Guardian House in Bradford: Summary

Comelit-PAC has announced the installation of its LogiFire wireless system at Guardian House in Bradford.

The listed building, formerly the Bradford City Registry Office, is undergoing refurbishment by Inspired Neighbourhoods.

The LogiFire system was installed by Centurion Fire & Security Ltd to address deficiencies in the previous alarm system.

The wireless solution avoids the need for cabling, helping preserve the building’s historic structure.

The project supports Inspired Neighbourhoods’ goal of community and economic regeneration in Bradford city centre.

LogiFire devices include addressable translators with cloud and remote monitoring features.

The system reduces installation time and enables fault detection and alarm reporting via the panel and cloud.

The project is expected to support up to 300 visitors per day once services open at Guardian House.

Harmony Fire joins Kensington and Chelsea fire safety framework

by ConstructionFeatured NewsProjectsSafety

Four-year agreement includes active protection and smoke ventilation systems

Harmony Fire has been selected to deliver fire safety works on a framework agreement valued at approximately £25 million for the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC), according to Harmony Fire.

The agreement covers a four-year period and includes an option for a two-year extension.

Harmony Fire has been appointed to the Active Fire Protection Systems and Means of Escape, Fire Detection and Smoke Ventilation lots of the framework.

Scope includes installation and maintenance of fire protection measures

According to Harmony Fire, the framework’s scope includes planned maintenance, refurbishment and improvement works across RBKC’s residential properties.

Workstreams will involve the supply, installation, repair and maintenance of fire stopping, fire compartmentation and fire doors.

The company will also deliver services relating to fire detection and smoke ventilation systems.

Ongoing involvement in multiple frameworks across the UK

This appointment follows Harmony Fire’s reappointment to the CHIC Fire & Building Safety Framework and its selection for the NHS Shared Business Services framework.

Harmony Fire is also listed as a framework partner with housing providers including the Guinness Partnership, Notting Hill Genesis, Places for People and Hyde.

Harmony Fire responds to RBKC partnership

Giles Holley, Partnership Director at Harmony Fire, said: “RBKC has made a public commitment to build trust and confidence for residents in the safety of their homes, and this major long-term investment plan is a key element of this prioritisation.

“We look forward to working collaboratively with RBKC and our fellow framework contractors to share knowledge and innovation that directly benefits and enhanced the lives of residents across the borough.”

Harmony Fire joins Kensington and Chelsea fire safety framework: Summary

Harmony Fire has been appointed to a £25 million capital works framework for fire safety by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

The framework spans four years with a possible two-year extension.

Harmony Fire’s role covers two key areas: Active Fire Protection Systems and Means of Escape, Fire Detection and Smoke Ventilation.

The company will deliver supply, installation, repair and maintenance works, including fire stopping, compartmentation, fire doors and smoke ventilation systems.

The appointment adds to Harmony Fire’s existing framework agreements, including CHIC, NHS Shared Business Services, and partnerships with housing organisations such as the Guinness Partnership and Notting Hill Genesis.

Hochiki ESP system installed at KL Logistic warehouse in Slovakia

by Fire DetectionProjects

Fire detection system installed at 17,000m² Slovakian facility

Hochiki has reported that its ESP intelligent fire detection system has been installed at a new logistics facility in Slovakia.

The 17,000 square metre warehouse, operated by KL Logistic near Galanta, required a tailored fire safety system due to its large scale and the nature of its high-rack storage.

Fire protection specialist Pro Metheus Slovakia oversaw the design and installation of the detection and evacuation system, which features Hochiki’s ESP range and FIRElink aspirating smoke detection system.

ESP devices and aspirating system support early fire detection

Hundreds of Hochiki ESP optical smoke detectors were installed throughout the warehouse to provide early warning in the event of fire.

Hochiki’s FIRElink aspirating smoke detection system was also installed to cover areas where conventional smoke detectors may be less effective, such as dense storage racks and hard-to-access sections.

These systems are networked using Hochiki’s Enhanced System Protocol (ESP), creating a coordinated detection solution across the entire facility.

Control panels and modules integrated with fire suppression system

Central control and monitoring is managed via Hochiki HFP control panels connected through the ESP protocol.

Input and output modules from Hochiki were also installed to integrate the fire detection system with the building’s sprinkler infrastructure.

This configuration enables automated responses in case of a fire, linking detection and suppression through a single coordinated system.

Voice evacuation included for personnel safety

In addition to detection and suppression systems, a voice evacuation solution was implemented across the site.

This enables timely communication with on-site personnel and supports safe evacuation procedures during an emergency.

Tibor Lelkes, CEO of Pro Metheus Fire, said: “The scale and complexity of the KL Logistic warehouse demanded a fire detection system that was both powerful and dependable.

“Hochiki’s comprehensive product portfolio, coupled with their sophisticated networking capabilities, enabled us to design a solution that precisely met the client’s specific requirements.

“The inclusion of the voice evacuation system was a key factor in providing KL Logistic with complete peace of mind.

“We are proud to have delivered a system that significantly enhances the safety of their employees and protects their valuable assets.”

Hochiki ESP system installed at KL Logistic warehouse in Slovakia: Summary

Hochiki has confirmed that its ESP intelligent fire detection system has been deployed at a 17,000 square metre KL Logistic warehouse near Galanta, Slovakia.

Fire safety contractor Pro Metheus Slovakia managed the design and installation.

The system includes hundreds of ESP optical smoke detectors and a FIRElink aspirating smoke detection system for inaccessible areas.

Hochiki’s HFP control panels and ESP modules have been used to link the detection and sprinkler systems.

A voice evacuation system has also been integrated.

All components are networked using Hochiki’s ESP protocol.

Collaboration enhances fire safety in UK’s Queens Drive housing development

by ConstructionFeatured NewsProjects

Passive fire safety focus in Swindon housing scheme

Quelfire has reported its involvement in the Queens Drive regeneration project in Swindon, which has delivered 149 affordable homes.

The £36 million project, led by Swindon Borough Council, aimed to address the town’s social housing needs while incorporating sustainable and safety-led design elements.

A key example of collaboration

The Queens Drive regeneration project has been a welcomed initiative of Swindon Borough Council.

Addressing the town’s social housing needs, this project has created 149 affordable homes that will act as a gateway to the town, providing a more welcoming drive into the town centre.

This £36 million project has been designed to reflect Swindon’s railway heritage.

The houses have solar panels, triple-glazed windows, dozens of bird boxes, and trees planted to encourage wildlife growth.

The LABC (Local Authority Building Control) recognised Queens Drive in the National Building Excellence Awards as the best large social housing development.

As the chosen passive fire protection system manufacturer, Quelfire worked alongside Willmott Dixon and Fire Shield to deliver this project.

The main objective was to design and build the homes around the tested details available, creating a safe community for residents to reside in.

During this project, what was the main challenge?

Queens Drive’s main challenge was utilising service penetration types that had limited industry-wide testing, such as electrical socket boxes in conjunction with the innovative Beadmaster product.

What solutions did quelfire reach to resolve any issues?

The key to Queens Drive’s smooth completion was the involvement of the Willmott Dixon design team, which proactively designed and planned the build, ensuring service penetration sealing was a priority.

Acknowledging that early engagement has been crucial in past projects, Willmott Dixon and Fire Shield initiated this approach right from the early stages.

This ensured that Quelfire addressed any service penetration sealing concerns during the design process, guaranteeing that relevant, tested solutions were identified, and grey areas were avoided.

Because of the time Quelfire gained from the early collaboration, in the case of no tested solutions for electrical socket boxes with Beadmaster, they were able to add this to their testing programme upon request from Willmott Dixon.

Because of this scenario-specific testing, Quelfire were able to provide Queens Drive and the wider industry with primary test evidence, as opposed to an engineered judgement.

What kind of success did the client enjoy with quelfire’s services/products?

Queens Drive is proof of the success collaboration and communication between all stakeholders can bring.

Through Quelfire’s early engagement and shared commitment to the project’s success, the project was able to reach a robust and compliant design, resulting in minimal issues and rework during the build stage and, ultimately, no extra costs.

The approach of those involved in the project not only streamlined its progress but also demonstrated their adherence to industry regulations, making each party a vital part of this success story.

Robert England, Senior Project Manager at Fire Shield, said: “Quelfire has been an ally to Fire Shield for many years, specifically myself, regarding the enormous support we receive.

“We appreciate this ongoing support from the training, CPDs, and videos Quelfire offers to ensure we can find suitable answers from project to project. Queens Drive is a testament to this.”

Energy Vault closes $28 million in funding for wildfire-resilient microgrid in California

by Featured NewsProjectsSafetySustainabilityWildland Fire

Calistoga Resiliency Center receives $28 million project financing

Energy Vault Holdings has secured $28 million in project financing for the Calistoga Resiliency Center (CRC) in California, according to a press release published by Energy Vault Holdings.

The financing includes the completed sale of an Investment Tax Credit (ITC) tied to the project.

This facility has been developed to support Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) through a tolling agreement.

The hybrid microgrid combines green hydrogen fuel cells with lithium-ion batteries to provide continuous energy during Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events, which are used to reduce wildfire ignition risk during extreme weather.

Energy Vault confirmed that mechanical completion has been achieved and that the system is currently in commissioning.

Full commercial operation is expected in the second quarter of 2025.

Wildfire risk drives need for grid-resilient systems in California

The CRC was designed to address wildfire-related power shutoffs, which have become more common in California due to climate-related conditions.

The system supports isolated operation during PSPS events, supplying power to the Calistoga community without emissions.

The 293 MWh facility delivers approximately 48 hours of energy supply with 8.5 MW of peak power.

When disconnected from the grid, the system uses green hydrogen for generation and battery storage for stability and response.

System integrates hydrogen and battery storage technologies

Energy Vault stated that its CRC is the first ultra-long duration hybrid microgrid combining hydrogen and battery technology for utility-scale use.

Its proprietary B-VAULT DC battery technology works alongside hydrogen fuel cells to ensure uninterrupted power and system stability.

The facility is managed by Energy Vault’s VaultOS energy management platform, which provides black-start capability and grid forming control.

This platform communicates directly with PG&E’s Distribution Control Center during operation.

Commercial operation to begin in 2025 under Energy Vault ownership model

The CRC is part of Energy Vault’s shift to owning and operating its storage assets, first detailed in May 2024.

The company aims to create recurring revenue through tolling agreements with utilities.

Robert Piconi, Energy Vault’s CEO, said: “The successful financing of the Calistoga Resiliency Center represents our team’s focus and execution in beginning 2025 by replenishing cash to our balance sheet from the prior year capex spent building the system.”

Piconi added: “As California faces increasing wildfire risks, the CRC demonstrates how advanced energy storage technology can help communities maintain critical services and safety during necessary power shutoffs.”

The company has also announced agreements to monetise tax credits and secure funding for other projects in Texas, including the Cross Trails and Customer R&D Center microgrid.

Energy Vault closes $28 million in funding for wildfire-resilient microgrid in California: Summary

Energy Vault Holdings has confirmed $28 million in financing for its Calistoga Resiliency Center, which includes the sale of an Investment Tax Credit.

The CRC is a microgrid in California that combines hydrogen fuel cells with lithium-ion batteries.

It is designed to support PG&E during Public Safety Power Shutoff events.

The system provides 293 MWh of energy and delivers 8.5 MW of peak power.

It operates without emissions and allows the Calistoga community to maintain power during wildfire-related outages.

The facility uses Energy Vault’s B-VAULT battery technology and VaultOS energy management platform.

It achieved mechanical completion and is under commissioning.

Commercial operation is planned for the second quarter of 2025.

The project aligns with California’s Renewable Portfolio Standard.

It is the first in a series of Energy Vault assets being launched under its ownership and operation model.

Additional financing and tax credit monetisation have been announced for projects in Texas.

Trail Group appointed to Kensington and Chelsea fire safety framework

by Featured NewsProjectsSafety

Framework covers supply and maintenance of passive fire protection

Trail Group has been awarded a place on The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea’s new fire safety framework.

According to Trail Group, the contract relates to fire safety across the borough’s social housing portfolio, including multiple occupancy buildings and individual homes.

Trail Group has secured a position in Lot 1 of the framework, which includes the supply, installation, repair and maintenance of fire stopping, fire compartmentation, fire doors and fire safety signage.

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea operates more than 7,000 social housing properties.

The new framework will run for four years, with the option to extend for up to an additional two years.

Contractor selection assessed on delivery, safety and resident engagement

The framework is designed to ensure consistent compliance with fire safety legislation across the borough’s housing portfolio.

Trail Group said the appointment follows a competitive selection process in which contractor bids were assessed on the quality of delivery, approach to health and safety, commitment to social value and resident engagement.

Key performance indicators have been built into the framework to allow for audit and review of contractor performance throughout the agreement period.

Trail Group continues public sector housing work

Jon Crosby, Managing Director of Trail Group, said: “We are absolutely delighted that our expertise and long track record of delivering passive fire safety services have been recognised with our appointment as one of the successful contractors on this important framework agreement.

“It represents a planned investment by the Council in its housing assets.”

He added: “We continue to be a trusted contractor of choice across the public sector for fire safety as well as for building maintenance and construction works.

“We have a client-focused approach and a reputation for consistent service delivery to the highest standards and in compliance with the latest Building Safety regulations.”

Trail Group appointed on multiple fire safety frameworks

Trail Group has been appointed to several national and regional fire safety framework agreements.

These include those operated by South East Consortium, Pretium, CHIC, NHMF and Fusion21.

Trail Group is also part of client-specific frameworks for organisations including Riverside Group, Guinness Partnership and Notting Hill Genesis.

The company’s work in the social housing sector spans passive and active fire protection, electrical testing and installations, refurbishments and minor works.

Trail Group stated its aim is to help social landlords manage risk, comply with changing regulations and improve housing stock.

Trail Group appointed to Kensington and Chelsea fire safety framework: Summary

Trail Group has been awarded a place on The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea’s fire safety framework.

The framework applies to the borough’s social housing stock.

Trail Group was appointed to Lot 1, covering passive fire safety measures.

The framework runs for four years with an option to extend by up to two more years.

Key assessment criteria included quality of delivery, health and safety, social value and resident engagement.

The Council owns more than 7,000 social housing properties.

Trail Group provides both passive and active fire protection, as well as other housing maintenance services.

The company is also part of other frameworks including South East Consortium, Pretium, CHIC, NHMF, Fusion21, Riverside Group, Guinness Partnership and Notting Hill Genesis.

Trail Group said the appointment reflects the Council’s investment in housing asset safety and its own ongoing work in the public sector.

Custom fire safety system implemented in major UK warehouse by Siemens and EDSB

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Large-scale fire system installed at Warrington logistics site

Siemens has reported that a collaborative project with EDSB has led to the installation of a fire detection and air sampling system at a warehouse facility in Warrington, operated by a major UK retailer.

The warehouse spans 81,570 square metres and includes multiple mezzanine levels, offices and storage areas for items such as aerosols and batteries.

The scale and complexity of the site required a multi-technology approach tailored to the building’s layout and environmental conditions.

Over 1,000 devices were installed across the facility.

EDSB’s design team developed a BS:5839 Part 1 system aligned to Category L1/P1 standards.

This included low-level test points, pipe runs of over 200 metres, infrared linear beam detectors and triple infrared flame detectors.

Addressing false alarms and ceiling height detection

A key consideration was preventing false alarms, which could lead to costly four-hour halts in operations.

Siemens and EDSB designed a hybrid fire detection system capable of distinguishing between dust, smoke and exhaust fumes, reducing the risk of unnecessary shutdowns.

High ceilings reaching up to 43 metres presented detection challenges due to stratification.

This was addressed using Siemens’ aspirating smoke detection (ASD) technology.

Pipework and air sampling units were strategically placed at height, with installation beginning once the roof structure was completed.

The system was tested and calibrated following installation to ensure it functioned effectively across the varied conditions within the warehouse.

Project planning integrated with construction schedule

The fire safety installation ran concurrently with the construction of the warehouse.

Siemens and EDSB coordinated with construction managers to align installation with building phases.

Planning meetings were held to evaluate access, space limitations and scheduling.

Geoff Wain, Senior Project Manager at EDSB, said: “This project has been a coordinated effort from the design stage through to installation and commissioning, primarily utilising in-house engineers.

“A dedicated site project engineer handled daily communication with our client to ensure that the phased works were completed on time, delivering the project to the end client.”

Alistair Lyon, Install Leader at EDSB, said: “I believe what we have achieved is something that should be celebrated.

“This has been a long, challenging and complex installation and we have delivered an end product that we can all look back on and say we are proud to have been a part of.”

Centralised system management and integration

The warehouse features a Desigo CC building management head end that integrates fire detection data with HVAC and maintenance systems.

This allows operators to view all building systems through a single interface.

Desigo CC enables the centralised monitoring of fire safety and building operations.

It is connected with the on-site computerised maintenance management system (CMMS), using its open architecture for full integration.

John Fennah from Siemens said: “At Siemens we always strive to work closely with our partners and this application is an excellent example of how such an approach can achieve the best solution.

“By understanding and addressing the specific challenges presented by this warehouse, EDSB were able to match the appropriate technology with the different requirements, arriving at an integrated system which optimises fire safety while effectively managing the HVAC.”

The fire system includes nine networked Siemens fire panels, 34 Siemens aspirator panels and over 30 high-level Siemens beam detectors.

Around 200 interfaces support third-party shutdown controls across the facility.

Custom fire safety system implemented in major UK warehouse by Siemens and EDSB: Summary

Siemens and EDSB have completed a fire detection system installation at a logistics warehouse in Warrington.

The facility covers 81,570 square metres and includes multiple types of storage and work areas.

Over 1,000 detection devices were installed.

EDSB’s system design followed BS:5839 Part 1 and Category L1/P1 standards.

The solution includes infrared beam detectors, aspirating smoke detection and flame detectors.

A hybrid system was implemented to reduce false alarms caused by dust and fumes.

High ceilings were addressed with air sampling systems placed at height.

Installation was coordinated with construction schedules.

Desigo CC was used as the building management system, integrating HVAC, fire safety and maintenance platforms.

Siemens fire panels, beam detectors and aspirator panels were networked throughout the facility.

Around 200 interfaces allow third-party system shutdowns.

The system was tested and calibrated post-installation.

Quelfire and Ark Fire Protection collaborate on fire safety training in London

by Featured NewsPassiveProjects

Fire safety training conducted at Kings Cross construction site

Quelfire and Ark Fire Protection have partnered to provide fire safety training for construction professionals on a Bouygues UK project near Kings Cross, London.

According to Quelfire, the training focused on passive fire protection and was delivered to site staff, site managers, and contracts managers.

The sessions aimed to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations and equip participants with the latest skills and knowledge for installing firestopping products in line with test evidence.

The partnership highlights the importance of collaboration in the construction industry to address evolving fire safety requirements and improve installation standards across projects.

Ongoing fire safety training in the construction industry

Quelfire states that ongoing training is essential for ensuring compliance and supporting workers in making informed decisions regarding firestopping installations.

Service penetration sealing remains a complex aspect of fire protection, requiring up-to-date knowledge of regulations and best practices.

Quelfire’s CPD training covers various topics, including the latest industry standards and installation techniques.

This approach aims to build a culture prioritising fire safety, particularly for high-risk developments where inadequate firestopping could have serious consequences.

The role of collaboration in fire safety compliance

Quelfire and Ark Fire Protection’s collaboration with Bouygues UK demonstrates the benefits of aligning all parties involved in a construction project.

Effective communication and quality assurance help ensure that firestopping solutions are installed correctly from the outset.

Addressing potential challenges during the design stage can also minimise unexpected costs and delays.

Ark Fire Protection relies on Quelfire’s firestopping solutions for its installations, while Bouygues UK, as the client, benefits from a fire safety approach designed to meet regulatory requirements.

Passive fire protection and risk reduction

According to Quelfire, passive fire protection plays a critical role in containing fire and smoke, preventing their spread and allowing occupants time to evacuate safely.

Ensuring that firestopping solutions are installed in accordance with manufacturers’ guidance and test evidence is necessary for protecting both people and property.

As fire safety regulations continue to evolve, the collaboration between Quelfire, Ark Fire Protection, and Bouygues UK reflects a proactive approach to compliance and risk management within the construction sector.

Quelfire and Ark Fire Protection collaborate on fire safety training in London: Summary

Quelfire and Ark Fire Protection have partnered to deliver fire safety training on a Bouygues UK project near Kings Cross, London.

The training covered passive fire protection and aimed to ensure compliance by equipping site staff, site managers, and contracts managers with the necessary skills and knowledge for firestopping installations.

Quelfire states that regular CPD training is important for supporting construction professionals in making informed decisions, particularly for service penetration sealing.

The company’s training covers industry regulations and installation techniques to promote a ‘safety first’ culture.

The partnership between Quelfire, Ark Fire Protection, and Bouygues UK demonstrates the role of collaboration in ensuring fire safety compliance.

Effective communication and quality assurance help prevent installation errors, reduce project delays, and support adherence to regulatory standards.

Passive fire protection plays a critical role in containing fire and smoke, allowing safe evacuation and minimising property damage.

Quelfire highlights the importance of proper installation in reducing fire risks across construction projects.

Billion Watts Technologies enhances fire safety in Taiwan’s 64MW energy storage site

by Featured NewsProjectsSafety

Billion Watts Technologies commissions 64MW energy storage site in Taiwan

Billion Watts Technologies, a subsidiary of Billion Electric, has completed a 64MW/262.43MWh energy storage facility in central Taiwan.

The project, developed with Shinshin Credit Corporation, became operational in March and supports Taiwan Power Company’s E-dReg ancillary services market.

The facility contributes to grid stability by providing energy shifting and frequency regulation.

With a response time of 200 milliseconds, it helps manage fluctuations and ensures efficient power supply during peak demand periods.

Fire protection systems integrated into energy storage infrastructure

Billion Watts Technologies has incorporated fire safety measures into the site’s design to meet regulatory and operational safety standards.

The facility features dedicated firewalls, safety distance planning, and on-site water reserves.

A fire suppression system has been installed to detect and mitigate potential fire risks.

Real-time monitoring and anomaly detection further enhance safety by allowing early intervention.

These measures set new benchmarks for fire protection in Taiwan’s energy storage sector.

Energy storage supports Taiwan’s renewable energy transition

The facility can store enough electricity to power approximately 26,000 households daily.

As Taiwan increases its reliance on renewable energy, large-scale battery storage solutions are needed to manage fluctuations in solar and wind power generation.

According to Taiwan’s Energy Administration, renewables accounted for 11.6% of the country’s electricity supply in 2024.

The International Energy Agency has highlighted battery storage as a critical component for ensuring grid stability during Taiwan’s transition to low-carbon energy.

Billion Watts expands energy storage projects in Japan and Australia

Billion Watts Technologies is expanding its operations to Japan and Australia, aiming to meet growing demand for energy storage solutions.

In Japan, the company plans to develop high-voltage storage stations and deploy 1,000 commercial and industrial storage systems over the next three years.

In Australia, Billion Watts is participating in the National Electricity Market, targeting ten sub-5MW site acquisitions by 2026.

The company is also exploring investments in projects exceeding 50MW to capitalise on price volatility driven by renewable energy adoption.

Billion Watts Technologies enhances fire safety in Taiwan’s 64MW energy storage site: Summary

Billion Watts Technologies has commissioned a 64MW/262.43MWh energy storage facility in Taiwan, designed to improve grid stability and support renewable energy integration.

The project, developed with Shinshin Credit Corporation, officially began operations in March.

The site features advanced fire suppression measures, including firewalls, safety distance planning, dedicated water reserves, and real-time monitoring.

These measures enhance operational safety and set new industry standards for fire protection in energy storage facilities.

The facility provides grid flexibility by storing enough electricity to power approximately 26,000 households daily.

Taiwan’s Energy Administration reports that renewable energy accounted for 11.6% of the country’s electricity supply in 2024, increasing the need for stable storage solutions.

Billion Watts Technologies is also expanding its energy storage projects in Japan and Australia, focusing on high-voltage storage stations and participation in Australia’s National Electricity Market.