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PowerHouse Data Centers and DPR Construction Celebrate 50 Percent Completion Milestone for ABX-1 Data Center

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Entering the market this Fall, the ABX-1 data center in Loudoun County features a two-story, 265,000 SF building with an on-site 300MW electrical substation delivering up to 80 MW of power

MCLEAN, Va., Feb. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — PowerHouse Data Centers, a joint venture between  American Real Estate Partners (AREP) and Harrison Street that offers turnkey site selection, powered shell, and build-to-suit data center solutions, and DPR Construction, one of the nation’s top five data center builders, announce they have placed the final steel beam at PowerHouse Data Center’s ABX-1 facility. A Topping Out celebration on Friday, February 17th marked the milestone event. Turnover to tenants is expected in July, and final completion is scheduled for October.

PowerHouse Data Centers and DPR Construction placed final steel beam at ABX-1 data center at Topping Out celebration.

ABX-1 is the first of PowerHouse’s six data center projects representing 2.1 million square feet of data center space in Northern Virginia. The 10-acre property features a two-story, 265,000 SF building, with an on-site 300 MW substation delivering up to 80 MW of power to the facility. The substation, built in partnership with Dominion Energy, commences construction soon, with completion expected by 2026.

“Because of our deep relationships in the real estate community, PowerHouse Data Centers is identifying and building state-of-the-art data centers in prime Northern Virginia locations, with capabilities that meet the needs of today and tomorrow’s digital business ecosystem,” says Doug Fleit, Co-founder and CEO of AREP and PowerHouse Data Centers. “We are thrilled to meet the rising demand of hyperscalers and operators in this market and to disrupt the landscape of Data Center Alley.”

Buddy Rizer, Executive Director of the Department of Economic Development in Loudoun County, Virginia, said the positive impact that ABX-1 will have on this region from an economic standpoint is immeasurable. “ABX-1 is infusing additional tax revenue into Loudoun County, creating construction and tech-related jobs and driving economic growth for our neighbors while generating excitement and revitalization in this region while transforming our economy,” says Rizer.

ABX-1 sits directly on the core Ashburn Fiber ring and national fiber backbone, offering zero mile, low latency access to multiple interconnection hubs, key internet exchanges, all major cloud platforms, and hundreds of network providers. The site is surrounded by more than 100,000 strands of fiber at the corner of Loudoun County Parkway and Beaumeade Circle, one of the world’s densest fiber intersections. There are no less than 25 fiber providers beneath and adjacent to this site, offering easy connections to one of the densest communications networks in North America.

The ABX-1 project highlights PowerHouse’s sustainable construction focus. Approximately 10,780 tons of the former building’s concrete was crushed on-site and reused in the ABX-1 development, while 387 tons of other building metals were recycled. PowerHouse and DPR Construction recently became two of 170 companies to join the Infrastructure Masons (iMasons) Climate Accord (ICA).

“The ABX-1 project celebrates teamwork at its highest level, partnering with PowerHouse to bring this project to fruition and phasing work to meet their business objectives. With the support of eight trade partners and DPR’s self-perform team, the rigor and discipline in the execution of their safety planning and work have amounted to 40,000 work hours in four months with zero  lost time incidents. The alignment of the team, from owner to trade partner, behind a common goal has helped us achieve today’s milestone,” says DPR Construction’s Project Executive Karim Farouki.

Examples of ABX-1’s project magnitude include:

39,235 cubic yards of soil moved1,200 geo piers drilled to support the foundation and gross weight of the building8,415 cubic yards of concrete poured to date, with 11,000 cubic yards at completion2,359 tons of steel used91,286 square feet of 10″ precast building skin panels needed11,700 feet of communications conduit used27,800 feet of power conduits installed40,000 work hours to date, 100,000 work hours expected upon completion

The ABX-1 construction trade partners include Cooper Steel, Pro-Air, Hercules Fence, Advanced Caulking, DPR Construction’s self-perform concrete crews, Rosendin Electric, Independence Excavating, Christopher Consultants, and GeoConstructors.

About ABX-1

ABX-1 is the first of PowerHouse’s six data center projects representing 2.1 million square feet of data center space in Northern Virginia. For more information about unique data center opportunities in the region, click here to contact the PowerHouse team or visit www.powerhousedata.com

About PowerHouse Data Centers

PowerHouse Data Centers, a division of AREP, is a developer and owner of next-generation data centers and technical real estate solutions for hyperscalers in Northern Virginia. The company owns its land sites, offering unique fully entitled tracts and fast-track approvals right in the heart of the world’s largest data center market. As a disruptor, PowerHouse Data Centers provides flexible ‘Powered Shell’ next-generation data center models with the quickest speed to market of any Ashburn project while meeting hyperscalers’ growing market, data, and space demands. PowerHouse Data Centers is committed to building six powered shell data centers representing 2.1 million square feet of data center space in Northern Virginia. For more information, visit www.powerhousedata.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

About DPR Construction 

DPR Construction is a forward-thinking, self-performing general contractor and construction manager specializing in technically complex and sustainable projects for the advanced technology, life sciences, healthcare, higher education and commercial markets. DPR consistently ranks as a top data center builder, completing more than 4.27 million square feet of data center space in Northern Virginia’s Data Center Alley in the last five years. The company is strategically focused on delivering more predictable outcomes through applications of virtual design & construction, prefabrication, its corps of self-perform craft, and leveraging data to learn and improve from. For more information about general contracting services from site selection and cost modeling to design integration, construction and day-2 support, click here to contact DPR or visit https://www.dpr.com/construction/mission-critical

 

 

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SOURCE PowerHouse Data Centers

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Trinasolar Debuts Advanced Energy Storage Solution at Solar & Storage Live Philippines

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MANILA, Philippines, May 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Trina Storage, the energy storage division of global solar leader Trinasolar, will introduce its next-generation Elementa 2 Pro 5MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to Philippines at Solar & Storage Live Philippines 2025, on 19–20 May at the SMX Convention Center in Manila.

As Philippines targets 35% renewable energy by 2030, it faces growing challenges in maintaining grid stability, energy security, and cost efficiency. With increasing integration of solar and wind, the need for advanced, reliable energy storage becomes critical to balance supply fluctuations and deliver consistent, clean power. The Elementa 2 Pro builds on the success of Elementa 2, is purpose-built to address these evolving demands, offering even greater efficiency, flexibility, and safety.

Elementa 2 Pro features:

Improved Lifespan: In-house developed and manufactured 314Ah Trina Cell supports up to 15,000 cycles, up from 12,000 in Elementa 2, offering lower lifecycle costs and longer-term value.Enhanced Durability: C5 corrosion resistance and IP67 protection, ensuring even greater reliability in harsh environments.Smarter Cooling: An upgraded hybrid air-liquid cooling system reduces auxiliary power consumption by 30%. It operates efficiently in ambient temperatures up to 55°C, significantly enhancing energy utilization.Advanced Safety: Fire mitigation systems and sandwich cabin structure, providing up to two hours of fire protection.

Trinasolar will also showcase its latest innovations: the Shield Extreme Climate Module (NED19RC.20) and the high-power Vertex N i-TOPCon Ultra 740W Module (NEG21C.20). The 630W n-type i-TOPCon Ultra Shield module is built with ultra-durable glass that is 25% thicker than standard designs, delivering 2.5 times greater impact resistance. Engineered to endure harsh conditions, it withstands up to 8000 Pa downforce and 6000 Pa uplift when installed with a three-beam system, making it one of the strongest solutions available for typhoon-prone regions like the Philippines. The module is also rated to resist hail impact up to 55 mm in diameter and carries a Class A fire rating, ensuring dependable performance across a wide range of extreme environments.

The i-TOPCon Ultra Vertex N modules boost cell efficiency by up to 1%, with enhanced power output of up to 40W. The bifacial Vertex N 740W offers an efficiency of 23.8%.

As a global leader in smart PV and energy storage solutions, Trinasolar is committed to enhancing the Philippines’ energy landscape. Trinasolar supplied its high-performance modules to PetroGreen Energy Corporation’s 27MW Dagohoy Solar Power Project in Bohol which powers around 18,000 homes and key tourist areas. The 40MW Limbauan Solar Power Project in Isabela, also powered by Trinasolar modules, produces approximately 59 GWh per year, powering nearly 33,000 households. These projects highlight Trinasolar’s dedication to delivering advanced solar solutions to support Philippines’ clean energy transition.

Visit Trinasolar’s booth at 1-Q03.

 

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SOURCE Trina Solar Energy Development Pte. Ltd.

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Singapore EXPO is pioneer awardee of Platinum Certification for MICE Sustainability, setting a new industry benchmark

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SINGAPORE, May 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Singapore EXPO, managed by Constellar, has become a pioneer awardee of the prestigious Platinum Certification under the MICE Sustainability Certification (MSC) framework developed by the Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers (SACEOS). This certification at the Platinum level has attained Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Recognised status, aligning with the GSTC MICE Criteria Version 1.0 supported by Singapore Tourism Board (STB) with Singapore EXPO being part of the Early Adopter Program of the GSTC MICE Criteria.

The MSC rewards excellence in event sustainability across environmental, social, and governance pillars. The Platinum certification, introduced in November 2024, represents the highest tier of sustainability recognition through a rigorous evaluation of the sustainability practices of venues and event organisers against global standards. This recognition underscores Singapore EXPO’s commitment to being a leading venue in spearheading sustainability in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry and its leadership in sustainable operations.

Raising the Bar in Sustainability Excellence

From clean energy and smart buildings to zero-waste solutions and responsible food practices, Singapore EXPO’s sustainability journey across 26 years reflects its core values of innovation, collaboration, and community engagement. Key achievements and best practices include transitioning to renewable energy sources, the implementation of advanced waste management systems, and adopting energy-efficient technologies.

Solar-powered Sustainability: Home to Singapore’s current largest single-site solar rooftop installation, at an estimated size of eight football fields, the solar panels generate clean renewable energy that power 100% of the MICE activities that take place at Singapore EXPO.Comprehensive Waste Management: Singapore EXPO has a comprehensive waste management program, supported by an on-site sorting facility, food digester and partnerships with recycling vendors to maximise landfill diversion rates.Energy Efficiency: The implementation of energy-efficient lighting systems, including the use of LED lighting throughout the venue and advanced HVAC systems, have reduced energy consumption by 25%.Water Conservation: Water-saving fixtures and the completion of a rainwater harvesting system by 2025 will reduce Singapore EXPO’s water efficiency index by 10% by 2026.Community Engagement: Ongoing collaborations with local organisations such as BlueAcres and NTUC LearningHub, and Institutes of Higher Learning such as Singapore University of Technology and Design and Nanyang Polytechnic, to drive skills training, social sustainability programs and community outreach initiatives.Sustainable Event Solutions: Rooftop urban farm to augment event catering with up to one ton of produce per month, as well as eco-friendly options to event organisers such as biodegradable materials, digital ticketing, and carbon offset programs.

“Exhibitions bring global communities together, fostering new connections, ideas, businesses, and partnerships that can shape the future. Constellar has a unique opportunity and responsibility to be a force for good, driving collaboration and galvanising collective action for sustainable growth and positive impact.” said Chua Wee Phong, Group Chief Executive Officer, Constellar. In the past 25 years, Singapore EXPO has hosted over 100 million visitors and approximately 12,000 events. It hosted about 400 events last year.

He added: “Being a sustainable venue is a key differentiator for events and can significantly scale impact across the industry. Singapore EXPO is proud to continue pioneering continuous innovation in sustainable venue operations and fostering active collaboration with partners across the MICE industry, as Asia’s Most Sustainable MICE Venue powered by renewable energy.”

Pioneering a Green Future for Events

With this certification, Singapore EXPO reaffirms its commitment to being a hub for sustainable innovation. As the global MICE industry continues to evolve, the venue remains steadfast in its mission to provide world-class facilities while prioritising environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

“Congratulations to Constellar on achieving the Platinum tier under the Singapore MICE Sustainability Certification (MSC),” said Richard Ireland, President, SACEOS. “This is the highest accolade that sets a new benchmark for the industry—paving the way for deeper sustainability integration and elevating best practices across the MICE landscape. We commend Constellar’s continued commitment to raising the bar and shaping a more responsible, future-ready industry. I hope this milestone encourages more organisations to embark on their own sustainability journey and collectively uplift the standards of excellence in our industry.”

Looking ahead, Singapore EXPO continues to contribute to Singapore’s Green Plan 2030 by expanding renewable energy sources, enhancing green infrastructure, and promoting sustainable tourism. In particular, the installation of additional solar panels before the end of the year will enable power 75% of Singapore EXPO’s overall consumption to be powered by renewable energy, as well as a corresponding 75% reduction of Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 2025, when compared to pre-COVID baselines.

Learn more about Singapore EXPO’s sustainability initiatives and how it’s Going Green here

About Singapore EXPO

Home to some of the greatest leading events in the world, Singapore EXPO is the country’s largest purpose-built meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE) venue. We are your playground of possibilities, where ideas collide, business leaders unite and connections flow. With interconnected event spaces spanning 10 halls and 32 meeting rooms across 123,000 sqm, indoors to outdoors, our versatile venue is ready for events of any proportions. 

As a trusted venue partner with over twenty years of exhibition and event experience, Singapore EXPO challenges the norm and pioneers ground-breaking solutions that elevate your event experience to greater heights. Visit singaporeexpo.com.sg for more information.

About Constellar

Constellar is Asia’s preferred partner for convening businesses, curating ideas and creating opportunities for sustainable business growth and global impact. Based in Singapore with a regional footprint in China and Malaysia, we curate and develop influential trade and consumer events for key industries, connecting global marketplaces in sectors such as fintech, industrial transformation and ESG. We also manage the Singapore EXPO, Singapore’s largest purpose-built venue for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE). Our vision is to be a global leader made in Asia, activating impactful networks to enable cross-industry collaboration and innovation through our holistic portfolio of intellectual properties in the MICE industry. Visit constellar.co for more information.

 

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SOURCE Constellar

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Vietnam’s Young Farmers Fly High with XAG Agricultural Drones

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MY THO, Vietnam, May 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Across Vietnam, a generation of digitally fluent farmers is embracing technology to bring fresh life to rural communities. Among the tools reshaping their fields are agricultural drones developed by XAG, which help save labor, boost yields, and create promising careers for young people returning home.

One such returnee is 30-year-old Lưu Văn Đoàn. Slim and tan from years of outdoor work, Đoàn starts his day at 3 a.m., when the village lies silent in darkness. Clad in his company’s green shirt, he readies the XAG P150 agricultural drone for a long day ahead. From early morning to late afternoon, Đoàn travels throughout Tiền Giang province, providing crop protection services to local farmers, including his own rice paddies.

“I used to work at a factory far from home, barely earning enough and missing my family,” he recalls. When his brother introduced him to agricultural drones, Đoàn immediately saw their potential and began learning. “I found my passion for technology. Soon I was piloting drones every day,” he says. After five years in the field, Đoàn now earns a living from work he finds far more rewarding and exciting.

His story reflects Vietnam’s broader farming challenges. According to analysis from the Vietnamese Elderly Population, the country’s farming communities are rapidly aging, with about 7.96 million elderly people living in rural areas. Meanwhile, millions of young Vietnamese have left for city jobs, creating severe labor shortages in agricultural regions.

Đoàn understands why farming has lost its appeal. Traditional farming can be grueling—manual spraying means trudging through rough, muddy fields up to 12 times each season, often with little protection. “Carrying heavy equipment under the hot sun, chemicals burning your skin—sometimes the fields were almost impossible to cross,” Đoàn remembers. Now, with just a smartphone and an autonomous drone, he finishes jobs faster and with far less risk. “It’s much easier,” he says.

For Đoàn, the XAG P150 agricultural drone has been a game-changer. Equipped with a remarkable 70kg payload and route planning using centimeter-accurate RTK positioning, the P150 achieves consistent and even coverage over fields of various shapes and sizes. Unlike manual spraying, which often misses spots or overlaps, the drone delivers thorough application. “When spraying herbicides by hand, weeds sometimes persist,” Đoàn notes. “With drones, fields are often completely weed-free.”

At first, many farmers were hesitant: “The spray uses too little water—how will the rice grow?” they questioned. But seeing is believing. As the P150, with its 70-liter smart liquid tank, hovers over the paddies, its quad-rotor design generates a downdraft that ensures pesticides coat both sides of the leaves. “You can clearly see that drone spraying makes the rice look healthier,” Đoàn says, proud to have convinced the skeptics.

This effectiveness also translates to economic benefits: farmers using Đoàn’s drone service have cut their use of plant protection products by 30%. “The savings on pesticides cover what farmers pay for the drone service!” Đoàn proudly shares. These real-world results also echo findings from the Institute of Agricultural Economics in Vietnam, which reports that agricultural drones can cut pesticide use by up to 30% and increase crop yields by as much as 15%.

Even and precise spraying is especially crucial in Vietnam’s fast-growing fruit export sector. For crops like durian and jackfruit, strict residue limits are enforced by importers throughout Asia and beyond. With the P150, Đoàn can precisely map areas, set exact dosage rates, and guarantee even coverage—helping farmers maintain access to high-value overseas markets and ensuring their fruit meets tough international standards.

Like many young Vietnamese, Đoàn is part of a new wave: tech-savvy, ambitious, and deeply rooted in their hometowns. “Drones have made a huge difference for us,” he says. “As things develop, I hope to expand, add more drones, and help more farmers succeed.”

For Đoàn and his peers, the workday still starts before sunrise and ends late—but now, drone technology has changed what’s possible in the fields. By adopting these tools, a growing community of drone pilots is solving two problems at once: making farming more efficient and creating tech-driven careers that are drawing young Vietnamese back to the land they’ve always known.

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/vietnams-young-farmers-fly-high-with-xag-agricultural-drones-302457416.html

SOURCE XAG

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