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XCHG Limited Reports Second Quarter 2024 Unaudited Financial ResultsUsing recreational boats that are simply taking up space for many months of the year to help back up the grid makes practical sense and provides a method to redirect leisure time to a productive asset for the grid. On the path to decarbonize at sea, Volvo Penta is employing a multifaceted strategy in which innovation is crucial. Volvo Penta is working with Varberg Energi and Ferroamp to test Boat-to-Grid (B2G) technology, which enables hybrid and electric vessel batteries to assist the electrical grid and be compensated for it. Varberg Energi, an energy business, created an app to ease grid connection in order to test this B2G technology. Once the boat is on shore and linked to a charger, Varberg Energi can control the energy flow by charging, discharging, and connecting the battery to various energy markets during the winter season, when the boat would normally be parked on land. Six years ago, Volvo started pushing forward in marine electrification, which is fast nearing a critical point. “The cost of ownership is reaching a point where it is more profitable to operate an electric application rather than a diesel engine, and that is when the market will really take off,” explained Niklas Thulin , Director Electromobility at Volvo Penta. It’s reassuring to see the application of V2G in this sector, the awakening of boat-to-grid technology. Volvo Penta also benefits from Volvo Group’s tried-and-true electromobility platform, which has already been successfully industrialized for buses, heavy-duty trucks, and construction machines. Volvo Penta has also unveiled hybrid-electric propulsion for yachts and commercial vessels. Volvo Penta says it aims to dominate the marine sector with exceptional solutions today and tomorrow. Beginning at the end of 2025, Volvo Penta will commence limited-scale manufacturing of its fully integrated, sophisticated, hybrid-electric propulsion across its heavy-duty range, including yachts and commercial ships. With features like almost silent cruising and less noise in electric mode, the hybrid-electric propulsion package improves the working environment for crew members while also fostering a stronger relationship with the environment. The technology onboard uses battery power rather than a generator to provide quiet nights. Docking, departure, and operation are made easy and seamless by features like Joystick Driving, Joystick Docking, and Assisted Docking in Pure Electric Mode. The system also makes it possible to enter emission-free zones, which gives operators a major competitive edge and makes it easier to conduct business in places subject to environmental regulations. It satisfies all EPA Tier 3 and IMO II/III requirements. “If we can turn that boat into an asset and use its battery for the grid, it’s a significant opportunity for both boat owners and the grid,” says Niklas Lundin , Project Manager for Technology Exploration at Volvo Penta. “The challenges of grid stability and environmental impact are universal, and this technology has worldwide potential,” says Mats Balkö, Business Area Manager of Innovation & Sustainability at Varberg Energi. The charger technology used in this demo — a bidirectional DC charger that allows power to flow in two directions — is provided by greentech company Ferroamp. “One of the unique features is that the charger is connected to a DC grid. We are also reusing some of the complex components, like the inverter, required to feed energy into the grid. So far, we’ve learned that this is a viable technology,” says Björn Jernström, Founder and Chief Technology & Innovations Officer at Ferroamp. The final goal of this collaboration is to continue testing and exploring the boat-to-grid technology while identifying the business models that would be needed for it to become an offer in the future. “This collaboration helps us build a fundamental understanding of the technology and its ecosystem. It also offers insights into the business models required. Ultimately, our aim is to explore solutions on the path toward decarbonization at sea,” concludes Niklas Lundin. Even though I enjoy stories like the one above, what really strikes me is the complete electrification approach. Demonstrating the financial savings and absolute lack of emissions possible across more sectors is important. As noted in a previous story, compared to 750€ to refuel a gas boat, an electric boat costs 40–50€ to cross the Baltic Sea . If you want to explore more electric boat fun, Evoy Vita has introduced the most powerful electric outboard motor in the world. Source: Volvo Penta CleanTechnica's Comment Policy LinkedIn WhatsApp Facebook Bluesky Email Reddit
The ZSE suspended the trading of Meikles Limited shares until the governance issues are resolved. This development has cast a shadow over the company’s plans to dispose of certain assets, which could have a material impact on its shares. The company has issued a further cautionary announcement advising shareholders to continue exercising caution when dealing in the company’s securities until a full announcement is made regarding the disposal of its assets. The uncertainty surrounding Meikles Limited’s assets disposal has raised concerns among investors and stakeholders, who are waiting for clarity on the company’s future direction. “Further to the cautionary announcement dated 21 November 2024, the Directors of Meikles Limited wish to advise shareholders that discussions on the disposal of certain of its assets are still in progress which, if successfully concluded, may have a material effect on the Company’s shares. “Accordingly, shareholders are advised to continue exercising caution when dealing in the Company’s securities until a full announcement is made,” Meikles Limited company secretary Thabani Vusa Mpofu said in a notice to shareholders. Mashonaland Turf Club, a minority shareholder in Meikles Limited, has since filed a court application seeking relief over alleged corporate governance issues and oppressive conduct by the company’s majority shareholder, Meikles Consolidated Holdings Private Limited. The club alleges that Meikles Limited’s affairs are being conducted in a manner that is prejudicial to the interests of minority shareholders. The court documents reveal that the club is contesting several decisions made by the company, including the sale of Meikles Hotel to ASB Hospitality for US$20 million. It has further emerged that Meikles Limited’s majority shareholder, Meikles Consolidated Holdings Private Limited, allegedly disposed of the company’s shareholding in Victoria Falls Hotel without obtaining the necessary approval from the board. The directors of Meikles Limited have also issued a statement denying allegations of corporate governance failures and setting the record straight regarding the events surrounding the board meeting of October 1, 2024, which fired CEO Malcolm Mycroft.Opinion: The rage and glee that followed a CEO’s killing should ring all alarmsWhat Juan Soto’s contract says about the MetsO’Shea stands by decision to keep playing Collaros after QB was hurt in Grey Cup
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By JOE APU Chairman of the Mercury Maritime Concession Company Limited (MMCC), Rear Admiral Andrew Okoja (Rtd), has urged the newly appointed Chairman of the Ondo State Rowing, Canoeing, and Sailing Association, Tunde Giwa-Daramola, to prioritize the growth of water sports in the state. Admiral Okoja made the call on Thursday during a courtesy visit by Giwa-Daramola to the MMCC corporate headquarters. He emphasized the importance of developing water sports as part of broader marine sector initiatives. While discussing the proposed $30 billion Escravos Seaport Industrial Complex in the Gbamaratou Kingdom, Admiral Okoja, a former president of the Nigeria Rowing, Canoeing, and Sailing Federation, highlighted the inclusion of recreational facilities to promote water sports. “Eighty-five percent of Nigeria’s trade depends on the marine sector, and integrating sports into this ecosystem will engage youth in host communities, provide employment, and enhance recreation,” Okoja stated. Expressing confidence in Giwa-Daramola’s capabilities, he added, “With your experience as a two-time Commodore of the Navy Sailing Club, I am certain you will drive water sports development in Ondo State. The MMCC is ready to support your efforts to ensure athletes from riverine communities are actively involved in these sports.” Admiral Okoja also congratulated Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on his electoral victory, noting it reflected the people’s approval of his development agenda. In response, Giwa-Daramola outlined his vision for advancing water sports in the state. He stressed the need to popularize the sports, particularly among riverine communities that have historically produced medal-winning athletes but lack proper facilities. “My appointment by Governor Aiyedatiwa is a call to action. I intend to collaborate with stakeholders to make water sports prominent in Ondo State,” he said. He also sought MMCC’s partnership to establish an International Aquatic Centre in Igbokoda, which would train athletes in Nigeria and across West Africa. Present at the meeting were MMCC General Manager Mr. Patrick Wodah Odey and PR/Marketing Officer Miss Magdalene Amedu, as well as Giwa-Daramola’s technical team. The Ondo State government recently restructured its sports associations, appointing Giwa-Daramola as chairman of the Rowing, Canoeing, and Sailing Association, as part of efforts to revitalize sports in the state.Friday the 13th might be unlucky for many people, but Mega Millions players could be lucky in tonight’s $695 million jackpot. As the countdown begins to tonight’s drawing, if someone wins the $695 million jackpot, they can take home $322.0 million after taxes, according to the lottery. The lottery said in its news release on Wednesday that a jackpot has been won seven times on the infamous day. The previous Friday the 13th Mega Millions winner was just last year, the lottery said. The lottery said the Maine winner won the $1.348 billion prize on Jan. 13, 2023. The month of December and the number 13 have history, too, with 13 jackpots won in December since Mega Millions began in 2002, the lottery said in a news release . "A $648 million jackpot was shared by winners in California and Georgia on Dec. 17, 2013." Here is what you need to know ahead of the Friday, Dec. 13 drawing and the Mega Millions. Holiday deals: Shop this season’s top products and sales curated by our editors. Lottery Winner: Man can't find second winning lottery ticket, sues over $394 million jackpot, lawsuit says When is the next Mega Millions drawing? The next Mega Millions drawing is on Friday, Dec. 13 at 11 p.m. ET. What jackpots were won in 2024? There have been three jackpot wins so far in 2024, the lottery said. Here are the dates that the jackpots have been won: What are the top Mega Millions jackpots? According to the lottery, the following jackpots are the top 10 jackpots that have been won as of Dec. 13: How to play the Mega Millions In order to buy a ticket, you'll have to visit your local convenience store, gas station or grocery store − and in a handful of states, you can purchase tickets online. To play, you will need to pick six numbers. Five numbers will be white balls ranging from 1 to 70. The gold Mega Ball is one number between 1 and 25. If you believe the odds are against you, ask for a "Quick Pick" or an "Easy Pick," the computer will randomly generate the numbers for you. Players can add the "Megaplier" for $1, which can increase non-grand prize winnings by two, three, four or five times. The Megaplier is drawn before the Mega Millions numbers on Tuesday and Friday. There are 15 Megapiler balls in all: Where can you buy lottery tickets? Tickets can be purchased in person at gas stations, convenience stores and grocery stores. Some airport terminals may also sell lottery tickets. You can also order tickets online through Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network , in these U.S. states and territories: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Texas, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. The Jackpocket app allows you to pick your lottery game and numbers, place your order, see your ticket and collect your winnings all using your phone or home computer. Jackpocket is the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. Gannett may earn revenue for audience referrals to Jackpocket services. Must be 18+, 21+ in AZ and 19+ in NE. Not affiliated with any State Lottery. Gambling Problem? Call 1-877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY); 1-800-327-5050 (MA); 1-877-MYLIMIT (OR); 1-800-981-0023 (PR); 1-800-GAMBLER (all others). Visit jackpocket.com/tos for full terms .NoneWe had a mixture of experiences while reviewing the National Geographic Ultimate Dual. Stereo microscopes can be tricky to use, so it was a challenge for young novices to fathom. However, what started off as quite a frustrating experience went on to give a wealth of excitement, adventure and discovery. This microscope kit has the right balance of education and fun to provide kids with engaging tasks that they can carry out independently. The name of this microscope, Ultimate Dual, describes the two different LED placements, upper and lower. But it could also be a nod to its multitude of paired functions: for solid and transparent objects, lab and outdoor use, living and non-living specimens, or because of the two separate images needed for stereo 3D viewing. The activities possible with the National Geographic Ultimate Dual stereo microscope kit are numerous and varied and will give children a good introduction to the world of microscopy. Kids who are a little older might benefit from one of the best microscopes for students , while younger children who are just getting interested in science will love the best microscopes for kids . National Geographic Dual LED Student Microscope at Amazon for $79.97 National Geographic Ultimate Dual Stereo Microscope review National Geographic Ultimate Dual Stereo Microscope: Design Attractive as a gift Scientific accessories kit Ideal for younger children The National Geographic Ultimate Dual Stereo Microscope has been designed as a complete, versatile starter kit for children. By layering two separate images, one from each of the binocular tubes, its stereo design creates a three-dimensional image. The lower LED allows light to be shone through specimens, which is ideal for translucent or very thin objects, especially slides of cells and tissues. The upper LED shines onto solid objects from above and allows their shape and texture to be visualized. With multiple accessories, we found that this design has hit the right balance between being fun and educational, having almost everything needed to provide hours of 3D exploring. Designed as a gift, the outer packaging is attractive. The box is glossy yet textured, coupled with some enticing images that give this product shelf appeal and make you want to delve inside. Children enjoyed finding multiple packages within: this created excitement and added to the unwrapping pleasure. Adults enjoyed the complete package concept so that no extra components were necessary. But it was frustrating that the microscope needed batteries, which were not supplied. It would have been useful if this information was printed on the box — we could have been more prepared. There is nothing worse than a gift that cannot be immediately enjoyed! We were pleased that the accessories included were convincingly “scientific.” Having a pipette and tweezers to transfer solids and liquids made the whole experience more realistic. The petri dish was also brilliant for holding pond water, rather than having to prepare slides. The accessories enabled instant gratification in the form of prepared slides and the rock sample. Yet both prompted further investigation through scientific enquiry. Blank slides were included, for the preparation of children’s own slides. Seeing the form and textures of the rock stimulated the kids’ imaginations and they were soon on the hunt for feathers, shells, moss, seeds and flowers to put under scrutiny. Although we were unsuccessful in hatching any brine shrimp, we could see the benefit in getting kids to gain experience in following a method and patiently awaiting the results. Head: Adjustable stereo with 10X and 25X eyepiece lenses Magnification: 20X or 50X Light source: Dual, bottom and upper LEDs Focusing: Coarse focusing only Power: Two AA batteries Ready for use?: No. Needs two AA batteries Slide accessories: Prepared and blank slides, cover slips and box Extras: Pipette, tweezers, brine shrimp eggs and hatchery, petri dish, booklet Add-ons: National Geographic 200-piece rocks, crystals, fossils and gemstones set, National Geographic break-open geodes Another nice touch was the educational booklet. Not only did it contain information about how to use the microscope, there was also a section on the history of the microscope and suggestions for experiments that could be carried out using it. Sadly, the booklet contained several errors (we identified three with just a quick scan). The most obvious was in a duplicated illustration title — three different images asked, "What are fossils?" but this was relevant to only one of them. Designed with younger children in mind, there were a number of features that made the Ultimate Dual a safer product. Powered entirely by batteries, kids would not need to plug it into the mains electricity. Additionally, although still made of glass, we noticed that the corners of the slides had been rounded off, minimizing the chance of cuts. The microscope was also light, so it could be carried easily. Unfortunately, we identified one hazard that does need addressing. The glass cover above the lower LED is not fixed in position. When turning the microscope upside down to insert the batteries, the glass fell out. This could have broken and been a cutting hazard. It also exposed the bulb beneath. Moreover, the eyepiece lenses fell out as well! National Geographic Ultimate Dual Stereo Microscope: Performance Great for 3D viewing, once binoculars are set up correctly Good for solid objects Low magnification is not ideal for cell microscopy When judging the performance of the National Geographic Ultimate Dual stereo microscope it is important to recognize that, although we found the performance poor when observing cells, this microscope was a brilliant tool for magnifying solid objects and seeing their three-dimensional structure and surface textures. If your primary use for a microscope is to observe cells, the Ultimate Dual is probably not the right choice for you. There are more robust, higher-quality microscopes available with a much higher magnification. The highest magnification is achieved when using the 25X eyepieces. The overall magnification becomes 50X, because of the 2X objective lens. However, this is the equivalent of the minimum magnification on other, similarly priced compound microscopes. Cells need to be greatly enlarged to observe the structures within them. Ergo, the Ultimate Dual falls short in this area. Fortunately, the viewing of solid objects in 3D is where the National Geographic Ultimate Dual shines. Although tricky to set up initially, once the binocular distance is correctly set up for the viewer, specimens can be swapped and interchanged with ease. Objects observed in stereo have a surreal quality. The image pops out towards you and can give the effect of floating as you move your head. This can feel a little strange, but it is also really exciting, especially with larger objects like whole insects, shells and rocks. Although fiddly, it was worth persevering with as the thrilling 3D imagery was new to the children — even those who had used a microscope before. A further benefit of the Ultimate Dual is that the top LED illuminates objects from above, bouncing light from the surface up through the phototubes. This is what makes observing solid objects possible. As the light reflects, color and texture are retained. Beautiful patterns were seen on flowers, butterfly wings and feathers. The Ultimate Dual was used in this way to dissect flowers and examine water from the pond. Pond water was pipetted into the petri dish and inspected with the top light. Some small creatures were enlarged to 50X magnification. However, 25X magnification was more useful here so that a wider field of view could capture more activity. Flowers were dissected with tweezers, to remove the stamen and petals and in some cases expose the seeds within the ovaries. Although small, all the accessories performed well during our investigations. In summary, the National Geographic Ultimate Dual Stereo Microscope performed brilliantly when viewing solid specimens in 3D, but poorly when magnifying most cells. However, the younger children who would enjoy using this tool to magnify objects of interest around their house and garden probably haven’t begun learning about the structure of cells yet anyway. So in reality, this may not be a huge problem at all. National Geographic Ultimate Dual Stereo Microscope: Functionality Capable of viewing solid objects in 3D Deep viewing platform for larger objects Choice of eyepiece lenses The National Geographic Ultimate Dual had four different functions that needed to be set up correctly before being rewarded with an image. But once explained and demonstrated, children could confidently and independently switch between specimens and let their imaginations and wonder take over. Our youngest participant was 7 years old. After following instructions a few times, she became impressively competent in adjusting her binoculars, selecting the correct LED, moving her specimen into view and focusing. The most complicated maneuver was to place the binocular eyepieces at the optimum distance so that the two separate images became layered on top of one another, which is essential for stereo 3D viewing. This measurement is different for each observer. Therefore, binocular placement cannot be set up by an adult as the interpupillary distance will not match the child’s. We found that the best technique for this was to get the child to look through the eyepieces, without a specimen, with the lower LED on. Ask them to bring the phototubes together until they see just one circle, and the machine is then ready to be used. Unfortunately, this interfered with the teaching process somewhat, as shared viewing required binocular adjustment for every new viewer. We compromised by leaving the binoculars set to the child's interpupillary distance and viewing through one eyepiece only. We weren’t seeing the 3D image but were able to join in the excitement. One function that we particularly enjoyed was having the stage in a permanent position with the eyepieces moving up and down while focusing. Keeping the specimens still enabled us to select reasonably large objects. The fixed stage was ideal for supporting a huge moth in order to magnify the tip of its wing without damaging it. The stage-to-objective lens distance was also relatively large, giving us enough room to observe taller objects. We had resin-mounted invertebrates — crabs and a scorpion — as well as shells and rocks. We also had enough room to place our hands under the microscope, to scrutinize all the nooks and crannies in our skin and nails. The Ultimate Dual, as its name suggests, benefits from having two different light sources. The upper and lower LEDs can be changed instantly, at the flick of a switch. Children did this with ease and quickly learned what was necessary for each scenario: upper LED for solid objects, and lower LED for translucent sections of tissues and organisms on slides. Sadly, the brightness on the LEDs was not adjustable, meaning some samples were too bright, and others too dark. To conclude, although there were a number of functions to get right, the children we introduced to it were enthusiastic, quick to learn and proud to show how capable and independent they were. We would recommend the National Geographic Ultimate Dual stereo microscope as a gift for younger family members or friends, as long as you have time to help get them started on their microscopic journey. Should you buy the National Geographic Ultimate Dual Stereo Microscope? ✅ You want to observe specimens in 3D: The Ultimate Dual is a stereo microscope. Seeing two separate, layered images gives them depth and texture. ✅ You want a basic starter kit: The accessories supplied will give young children a taste of being a scientist. ❌ One eye doesn’t work effectively: Stereo images rely on visual information from both eyes. ❌ You need high magnification: The low-power magnification may be frustrating when viewing cells. This would be a good gift for children who are curious about the world around them, as long as you are prepared to spend some time getting them used to the stereo function. It can be tricky to line up separate images, especially when viewing flat objects like cell slides. However, once mastered, the 3D imagery that can be observed is awesome. Kids will find the details and textures of familiar objects and creatures fascinating. Additionally, the accessories allow children to delve into the world of being a scientist as they practice techniques such as dissecting, pipetting and mounting. This stereo microscope sits at the more expensive end of the scale for the functions it provides. But you do get an attractively packaged and presented item — important in a gift — as well as the credibility that comes with the National Geographic name. If this product isn't for you Best microscopes for kids Best microscopes for students Best binoculars Best binoculars for kids Best rock tumblers Best science kits for kids For higher magnification, National Geographic makes a monocular microscope with 400X magnification: the National Geographic STEM kit for kids For more ambitious children, National Geographic makes an entry-level microscope with 800X magnification and a smartphone holder How we test During a neighborhood science afternoon, kids were given free rein with an abundance of 3D objects to view, including vintage invertebrates, resin-mounted invertebrates, flowers, seeds, prepared slides, shells, moss, coins and rocks. Children were guided to use the petri dish and tweezers to handle their specimens and were encouraged to prepare some simple slides of their own. Later, children explored the gardens to find other interesting living and non-living things to examine. In preparation for the science afternoon, we attempted to raise some brine shrimp from the supplied eggs, using the hatchery. Sadly we were unsuccessful, and despite our best efforts, the eggs didn't hatch. Fortunately, because of its portability, we were able to demonstrate the live-viewing capability of the National Geographic Ultimate Dual by observing mini-organisms from the pond instead.