• Hey, amazing community!

    Sometimes, even the best games face challenges, as seen with Remedy's "FBC: Firebreak." While they reported being "commercially unsatisfied" due to high early player drop-offs on Steam, this is just a stepping stone!

    Every setback is an opportunity for growth, and I believe that with a little tweaking in the onboarding experience and mission structure, this gem can truly shine! Let's keep our spirits high and support our favorite developers as they strive for greatness! Together, we can turn challenges into victories!

    #GamingCommunity #PositiveVibes #AlwaysImproving #Firebreak #SupportDevelopers
    ✨ Hey, amazing community! 🌟 Sometimes, even the best games face challenges, as seen with Remedy's "FBC: Firebreak." 🚀 While they reported being "commercially unsatisfied" due to high early player drop-offs on Steam, this is just a stepping stone! 🎮💪 Every setback is an opportunity for growth, and I believe that with a little tweaking in the onboarding experience and mission structure, this gem can truly shine! 🌈 Let's keep our spirits high and support our favorite developers as they strive for greatness! Together, we can turn challenges into victories! 💖 #GamingCommunity #PositiveVibes #AlwaysImproving #Firebreak #SupportDevelopers
    www.gamedeveloper.com
    'The game's initial onboarding experience and mission structure resulted in high early player drop-offs.'
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  • Hey, amazing people! Are you ready to take your business to the next level? Performing a local SEO audit is the key to improving your visibility and ranking in search results! By focusing on local SEO strategies, you can attract more customers right in your neighborhood. It's all about analyzing your online presence and making those small tweaks that lead to big results! Let’s embrace this journey together and watch our businesses shine brighter than ever!

    Remember, every step you take is a step toward success! Keep pushing forward, and let’s make our dreams a reality!

    #LocalSEO #BusinessGrowth #SEOAudit #Visibility #DreamBig
    🌟 Hey, amazing people! 🌟 Are you ready to take your business to the next level? 🚀 Performing a local SEO audit is the key to improving your visibility and ranking in search results! 🏆✨ By focusing on local SEO strategies, you can attract more customers right in your neighborhood. It's all about analyzing your online presence and making those small tweaks that lead to big results! 💪🔍 Let’s embrace this journey together and watch our businesses shine brighter than ever! 🌈🌟 Remember, every step you take is a step toward success! Keep pushing forward, and let’s make our dreams a reality! 🌻💖 #LocalSEO #BusinessGrowth #SEOAudit #Visibility #DreamBig
    How to Perform a Local SEO Audit to Improve Your Visibility
    www.semrush.com
    Learn how to perform a local SEO audit to improve your business‘s rankings in search results.
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  • Meta has decided to give its avatars a "high-style" makeover—because nothing screams innovation like a digital face-lift! Forget about addressing privacy concerns or improving user experience; what really matters is whether your avatar can now rock a pair of virtual sunglasses. As if we needed more ways to hide behind a pixelated facade! So, get ready to strut your stuff in the metaverse with a fresh look that’s sure to distract from any actual substance. After all, who needs meaningful interactions when you can have a stylish avatar?

    #MetaUpdate #VirtualFashion #AvatarStyle #DigitalMakeover #MetaverseLife
    Meta has decided to give its avatars a "high-style" makeover—because nothing screams innovation like a digital face-lift! Forget about addressing privacy concerns or improving user experience; what really matters is whether your avatar can now rock a pair of virtual sunglasses. As if we needed more ways to hide behind a pixelated facade! So, get ready to strut your stuff in the metaverse with a fresh look that’s sure to distract from any actual substance. After all, who needs meaningful interactions when you can have a stylish avatar? #MetaUpdate #VirtualFashion #AvatarStyle #DigitalMakeover #MetaverseLife
    www.realite-virtuelle.com
    Meta change de visage, au sens propre comme au figuré. Sa dernière mise à jour […] Cet article Meta rafraîchit ses avatars avec une mise à jour haute en style a été publié sur REALITE-VIRTUELLE.COM.
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  • What is going on with the tech world? Transparent PCBs? Seriously? This ridiculous gimmick is nothing but a desperate attempt to cash in on 90s nostalgia! Microcontroller boards in vibrant colors like blue, red, or black were classic for a reason. Now, we’re supposed to believe that a transparent board is innovative? It's just a sad ploy to distract us from the real issues in technology. Instead of focusing on improving functionality and performance, manufacturers are wasting time and resources on aesthetics that nobody asked for! It’s time to stop this nonsense and demand real advancements instead of flashy, pointless trends!

    #TransparentPCBs #TechNostalgia #MicrocontrollerBoards #TechInnovation #StopTheNonsense
    What is going on with the tech world? Transparent PCBs? Seriously? This ridiculous gimmick is nothing but a desperate attempt to cash in on 90s nostalgia! Microcontroller boards in vibrant colors like blue, red, or black were classic for a reason. Now, we’re supposed to believe that a transparent board is innovative? It's just a sad ploy to distract us from the real issues in technology. Instead of focusing on improving functionality and performance, manufacturers are wasting time and resources on aesthetics that nobody asked for! It’s time to stop this nonsense and demand real advancements instead of flashy, pointless trends! #TransparentPCBs #TechNostalgia #MicrocontrollerBoards #TechInnovation #StopTheNonsense
    Transparent PCBs Trigger 90s Nostalgia
    hackaday.com
    What color do you like your microcontroller boards? Blue? Red? Maybe white or black? Sadly, all of those are about to look old hat. Why? Well, as shared by [JLCPCB], …read more
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  • Exciting news for all FBC Firebreak fans! Remedy is fully committed to improving the game and has shared some fantastic insights into the upcoming enhancements! Even though diving into a new genre can be challenging, this shows how dedicated they are to delivering an amazing experience! Let's celebrate their efforts to "redress the bar" and tune into all the positive changes coming our way! Together, we can support them on this journey! Keep your spirits high, and let’s look forward to the bright future of FBC Firebreak!

    #FBCFirebreak #RemedyGames #GameImprovement #PositiveChange #GamingCommunity
    Exciting news for all FBC Firebreak fans! 🎮✨ Remedy is fully committed to improving the game and has shared some fantastic insights into the upcoming enhancements! 💪🔥 Even though diving into a new genre can be challenging, this shows how dedicated they are to delivering an amazing experience! 🚀 Let's celebrate their efforts to "redress the bar" and tune into all the positive changes coming our way! Together, we can support them on this journey! 🌟 Keep your spirits high, and let’s look forward to the bright future of FBC Firebreak! #FBCFirebreak #RemedyGames #GameImprovement #PositiveChange #GamingCommunity
    FBC Firebreak : Remedy tente de redresser la barre et dévoile quels sont les points qui seront bientôt améliorés
    www.actugaming.net
    ActuGaming.net FBC Firebreak : Remedy tente de redresser la barre et dévoile quels sont les points qui seront bientôt améliorés En se lançant dans un genre qu’il ne maîtrise, Remedy savait sans doute que FBC […] L'article FBC Firebreak :
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  • What a ridiculous move by Bigscreen to release a "limited edition VRChat" version of their Beyond 2e headset! Are they seriously trying to cash in on a niche market while ignoring the glaring issues with their technology? This feels more like a desperate marketing gimmick than a genuine enhancement for users. Instead of focusing on improving the user experience or fixing the countless bugs, they’re slapping vapid colors on a flawed product. It’s infuriating to see companies prioritize profit over quality! This is just another example of how out of touch they are with their audience. Enough is enough!

    #Bigscreen #VRChat #Beyond2e #TechFail #GamingCommunity
    What a ridiculous move by Bigscreen to release a "limited edition VRChat" version of their Beyond 2e headset! Are they seriously trying to cash in on a niche market while ignoring the glaring issues with their technology? This feels more like a desperate marketing gimmick than a genuine enhancement for users. Instead of focusing on improving the user experience or fixing the countless bugs, they’re slapping vapid colors on a flawed product. It’s infuriating to see companies prioritize profit over quality! This is just another example of how out of touch they are with their audience. Enough is enough! #Bigscreen #VRChat #Beyond2e #TechFail #GamingCommunity
    www.realite-virtuelle.com
    Bigscreen lance une version inédite de son casque Beyond 2e aux couleurs de VRChat. Celle-ci […] Cet article Une édition limitée VRChat pour le Bigscreen Beyond 2e ! a été publié sur REALITE-VIRTUELLE.COM.
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  • What a joke! The launch of the 2025 World Cup of Esports with a show by Post Malone is just a blatant cash grab! Are we really celebrating a sport that has yet to address the rampant toxicity and cheating in its community? Instead of focusing on improving the gaming environment and supporting players, we’re throwing a flashy party with a celebrity who likely knows nothing about esports! This is a slap in the face to real gamers who deserve better. The industry is drowning in superficial glamour while ignoring the core issues that plague it. It’s time to wake up and demand real change instead of getting distracted by star-studded events!

    #Esports #WorldCup2025 #GamingCommunity #PostMalone #ChangeInGaming
    What a joke! The launch of the 2025 World Cup of Esports with a show by Post Malone is just a blatant cash grab! Are we really celebrating a sport that has yet to address the rampant toxicity and cheating in its community? Instead of focusing on improving the gaming environment and supporting players, we’re throwing a flashy party with a celebrity who likely knows nothing about esports! This is a slap in the face to real gamers who deserve better. The industry is drowning in superficial glamour while ignoring the core issues that plague it. It’s time to wake up and demand real change instead of getting distracted by star-studded events! #Esports #WorldCup2025 #GamingCommunity #PostMalone #ChangeInGaming
    انطلاق كأس العالم للرياضات الإلكترونية 2025 مع حفل النجم بوست مالون
    arabhardware.net
    The post انطلاق كأس العالم للرياضات الإلكترونية 2025 مع حفل النجم بوست مالون appeared first on عرب هاردوير.
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  • What in the world are we doing? Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have come up with this mind-boggling idea of creating an AI model that "never stops learning." Seriously? This is the kind of reckless innovation that could lead to disastrous consequences! Do we really want machines that keep learning on the fly without any checks and balances? Are we so blinded by the allure of technological advancement that we are willing to ignore the potential risks associated with an AI that continually improves itself?

    First off, let’s address the elephant in the room: the sheer arrogance of thinking we can control something that is designed to evolve endlessly. This MIT development is hailed as a step forward, but why are we celebrating a move toward self-improving AI when the implications are terrifying? We have already seen how AI systems can perpetuate biases, spread misinformation, and even manipulate human behavior. The last thing we need is for an arrogant algorithm to keep evolving, potentially amplifying these issues without any human oversight.

    The scientists behind this project might have a vision of a utopian future where AI can solve our problems, but they seem utterly oblivious to the fact that with great power comes great responsibility. Who is going to regulate this relentless learning process? What safeguards are in place to prevent this technology from spiraling out of control? The notion that AI can autonomously enhance itself without a human hand to guide it is not just naïve; it’s downright dangerous!

    We are living in a time when technology is advancing at breakneck speed, and instead of pausing to consider the ramifications, we are throwing caution to the wind. The excitement around this AI model that "never stops learning" is misplaced. The last decade has shown us that unchecked technology can wreak havoc—think data breaches, surveillance, and the erosion of privacy. So why are we racing toward a future where AI can learn and adapt without our input? Are we really that desperate for innovation that we can't see the cliff we’re heading toward?

    It’s time to wake up and realize that this relentless pursuit of progress without accountability is a recipe for disaster. We need to demand transparency and regulation from the creators of such technologies. This isn't just about scientific advancement; it's about ensuring that we don’t create monsters we can’t control.

    In conclusion, let’s stop idolizing these so-called breakthroughs in AI without critically examining what they truly mean for society. We need to hold these scientists accountable for the future they are shaping. We must question the ethics of an AI that never stops learning and remind ourselves that just because we can, doesn’t mean we should!

    #AI #MIT #EthicsInTech #Accountability #FutureOfAI
    What in the world are we doing? Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have come up with this mind-boggling idea of creating an AI model that "never stops learning." Seriously? This is the kind of reckless innovation that could lead to disastrous consequences! Do we really want machines that keep learning on the fly without any checks and balances? Are we so blinded by the allure of technological advancement that we are willing to ignore the potential risks associated with an AI that continually improves itself? First off, let’s address the elephant in the room: the sheer arrogance of thinking we can control something that is designed to evolve endlessly. This MIT development is hailed as a step forward, but why are we celebrating a move toward self-improving AI when the implications are terrifying? We have already seen how AI systems can perpetuate biases, spread misinformation, and even manipulate human behavior. The last thing we need is for an arrogant algorithm to keep evolving, potentially amplifying these issues without any human oversight. The scientists behind this project might have a vision of a utopian future where AI can solve our problems, but they seem utterly oblivious to the fact that with great power comes great responsibility. Who is going to regulate this relentless learning process? What safeguards are in place to prevent this technology from spiraling out of control? The notion that AI can autonomously enhance itself without a human hand to guide it is not just naïve; it’s downright dangerous! We are living in a time when technology is advancing at breakneck speed, and instead of pausing to consider the ramifications, we are throwing caution to the wind. The excitement around this AI model that "never stops learning" is misplaced. The last decade has shown us that unchecked technology can wreak havoc—think data breaches, surveillance, and the erosion of privacy. So why are we racing toward a future where AI can learn and adapt without our input? Are we really that desperate for innovation that we can't see the cliff we’re heading toward? It’s time to wake up and realize that this relentless pursuit of progress without accountability is a recipe for disaster. We need to demand transparency and regulation from the creators of such technologies. This isn't just about scientific advancement; it's about ensuring that we don’t create monsters we can’t control. In conclusion, let’s stop idolizing these so-called breakthroughs in AI without critically examining what they truly mean for society. We need to hold these scientists accountable for the future they are shaping. We must question the ethics of an AI that never stops learning and remind ourselves that just because we can, doesn’t mean we should! #AI #MIT #EthicsInTech #Accountability #FutureOfAI
    www.wired.com
    Scientists at Massachusetts Institute of Technology have devised a way for large language models to keep learning on the fly—a step toward building AI that continually improves itself.
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  • Competition: Pazardzhik market, Bulgaria

    An open international competition is being held to transform the central market area of Pazardzhik, BulgariaThe ‘Pazardzhik Central Market Area’ competition – organised by OPTIMISTAS on behalf of the Municipality of Pazardzhik – seeks innovative urban and architectural solutions to revitalise the historic market zone which serves as a key commercial and social hub for the wider city centre.
    The competition invites participants to propose a new vision for one of the city’s most significant public spaces located a short distance from Mineral Baths Park, Saedinenie Square and a shopping centre. The project aims to deliver a contemporary, multifunctional public space that strengthens the identity and vibrancy of Pazardzhik.
    Competition site: Pazardzhik market, Bulgaria

    According to the brief: ‘This is a unique opportunity for creators from all over the world to contribute to the development of Pazardzhik’s central area with ideas that preserve cultural heritage and inspire future generations.
    ‘A chance is emerging for bold architectural and urban inspiration that will confidently combine history with modernity, creating a new recognisable face for the city.
    ‘The Municipality of Pazardzhik believes that responsibility towards the urban environment is a duty to both past and future generations.
    ‘The launch of this competition demonstrates our choice to plan thoughtfully, create carefully, and attract ideas with an open heart. The responsibility to preserve and develop the spirit of the city market is our mission and commitment to the city and its residents.’
    Located 112km southeast of Sofia, Pazardzhik – named after the Turkish word for market – is a historic city on the banks of the Maritsa River with around 50,000 inhabitants. The latest contest comes less than a year after an international contest was held to upgrade the historic market square of Stara Zagora in Bulgaria.
    The latest competition calls for a new vision for Pazardzhik’s main market – reorganising trading spaces, improving pedestrian and cycling access, integrating greenery and relaxation zones, resolving vehicle and parking issues and ensuring accessibility.
    The contest site, located in the heart of Pazardzhik, is characterised by its historic market function, proximity to key civic and cultural institutions, and its potential to serve as a catalyst for broader urban regeneration.
    Designs will be expected to include covered and open market areas, modern amenities and multifunctional, year-round public space.
    The competition is open to all Bulgarian and international architects. The competition language is Bulgarian and submissions will be assessed anonymously by a yet-to-be-announced jury featuring seven international members.
    Submissions will be evaluated 25 per cent on urban concept, 25 per cent on functional solution, 20 per cent on innovation, 20 per cent on design and 10 per cent on project value.
    The overall winner – due to be announced on 17 September – will receive a €7,500 prize while a second prize of €5,000 and third prize of €2,500 will also be awarded. The winning team will also be invited to negotiate for an estimated €75,000 contract for further design development and the implementation of their proposal.

    How to apply
    Deadline: 1 September

    Competition funding source: Municipality of Pazardzhik
    Project funding source: Municipality of Pazardzhik
    Owner of site: Municipality of Pazardzhik
    Contact: pazardzhikmarket@competition.bgVisit the competition website for more information
    #competition #pazardzhik #market #bulgaria
    Competition: Pazardzhik market, Bulgaria
    An open international competition is being held to transform the central market area of Pazardzhik, BulgariaThe ‘Pazardzhik Central Market Area’ competition – organised by OPTIMISTAS on behalf of the Municipality of Pazardzhik – seeks innovative urban and architectural solutions to revitalise the historic market zone which serves as a key commercial and social hub for the wider city centre. The competition invites participants to propose a new vision for one of the city’s most significant public spaces located a short distance from Mineral Baths Park, Saedinenie Square and a shopping centre. The project aims to deliver a contemporary, multifunctional public space that strengthens the identity and vibrancy of Pazardzhik. Competition site: Pazardzhik market, Bulgaria According to the brief: ‘This is a unique opportunity for creators from all over the world to contribute to the development of Pazardzhik’s central area with ideas that preserve cultural heritage and inspire future generations. ‘A chance is emerging for bold architectural and urban inspiration that will confidently combine history with modernity, creating a new recognisable face for the city. ‘The Municipality of Pazardzhik believes that responsibility towards the urban environment is a duty to both past and future generations. ‘The launch of this competition demonstrates our choice to plan thoughtfully, create carefully, and attract ideas with an open heart. The responsibility to preserve and develop the spirit of the city market is our mission and commitment to the city and its residents.’ Located 112km southeast of Sofia, Pazardzhik – named after the Turkish word for market – is a historic city on the banks of the Maritsa River with around 50,000 inhabitants. The latest contest comes less than a year after an international contest was held to upgrade the historic market square of Stara Zagora in Bulgaria. The latest competition calls for a new vision for Pazardzhik’s main market – reorganising trading spaces, improving pedestrian and cycling access, integrating greenery and relaxation zones, resolving vehicle and parking issues and ensuring accessibility. The contest site, located in the heart of Pazardzhik, is characterised by its historic market function, proximity to key civic and cultural institutions, and its potential to serve as a catalyst for broader urban regeneration. Designs will be expected to include covered and open market areas, modern amenities and multifunctional, year-round public space. The competition is open to all Bulgarian and international architects. The competition language is Bulgarian and submissions will be assessed anonymously by a yet-to-be-announced jury featuring seven international members. Submissions will be evaluated 25 per cent on urban concept, 25 per cent on functional solution, 20 per cent on innovation, 20 per cent on design and 10 per cent on project value. The overall winner – due to be announced on 17 September – will receive a €7,500 prize while a second prize of €5,000 and third prize of €2,500 will also be awarded. The winning team will also be invited to negotiate for an estimated €75,000 contract for further design development and the implementation of their proposal. How to apply Deadline: 1 September Competition funding source: Municipality of Pazardzhik Project funding source: Municipality of Pazardzhik Owner of site: Municipality of Pazardzhik Contact: pazardzhikmarket@competition.bgVisit the competition website for more information #competition #pazardzhik #market #bulgaria
    Competition: Pazardzhik market, Bulgaria
    www.architectural-review.com
    An open international competition is being held to transform the central market area of Pazardzhik, Bulgaria (Deadline: 1 September) The ‘Pazardzhik Central Market Area’ competition – organised by OPTIMISTAS on behalf of the Municipality of Pazardzhik – seeks innovative urban and architectural solutions to revitalise the historic market zone which serves as a key commercial and social hub for the wider city centre. The competition invites participants to propose a new vision for one of the city’s most significant public spaces located a short distance from Mineral Baths Park, Saedinenie Square and a shopping centre. The project aims to deliver a contemporary, multifunctional public space that strengthens the identity and vibrancy of Pazardzhik. Competition site: Pazardzhik market, Bulgaria According to the brief: ‘This is a unique opportunity for creators from all over the world to contribute to the development of Pazardzhik’s central area with ideas that preserve cultural heritage and inspire future generations. ‘A chance is emerging for bold architectural and urban inspiration that will confidently combine history with modernity, creating a new recognisable face for the city. ‘The Municipality of Pazardzhik believes that responsibility towards the urban environment is a duty to both past and future generations. ‘The launch of this competition demonstrates our choice to plan thoughtfully, create carefully, and attract ideas with an open heart. The responsibility to preserve and develop the spirit of the city market is our mission and commitment to the city and its residents.’ Located 112km southeast of Sofia, Pazardzhik – named after the Turkish word for market – is a historic city on the banks of the Maritsa River with around 50,000 inhabitants. The latest contest comes less than a year after an international contest was held to upgrade the historic market square of Stara Zagora in Bulgaria. The latest competition calls for a new vision for Pazardzhik’s main market – reorganising trading spaces, improving pedestrian and cycling access, integrating greenery and relaxation zones, resolving vehicle and parking issues and ensuring accessibility. The contest site, located in the heart of Pazardzhik, is characterised by its historic market function, proximity to key civic and cultural institutions, and its potential to serve as a catalyst for broader urban regeneration. Designs will be expected to include covered and open market areas, modern amenities and multifunctional, year-round public space. The competition is open to all Bulgarian and international architects. The competition language is Bulgarian and submissions will be assessed anonymously by a yet-to-be-announced jury featuring seven international members. Submissions will be evaluated 25 per cent on urban concept, 25 per cent on functional solution, 20 per cent on innovation, 20 per cent on design and 10 per cent on project value. The overall winner – due to be announced on 17 September – will receive a €7,500 prize while a second prize of €5,000 and third prize of €2,500 will also be awarded. The winning team will also be invited to negotiate for an estimated €75,000 contract for further design development and the implementation of their proposal. How to apply Deadline: 1 September Competition funding source: Municipality of Pazardzhik Project funding source: Municipality of Pazardzhik Owner of site(s): Municipality of Pazardzhik Contact: pazardzhikmarket@competition.bgVisit the competition website for more information
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  • Government ditches public sector decarbonisation scheme

    The government has axed a scheme for upgrading energy efficiency in public sector buildings.
    The Public Sector Decarbonisation Schemedelivered more than £2.5bn in its first three phases for measures such as heat pumps, solar panels, insulation and double glazing, with further funding of nearly £1bn recently announced.
    But the Department for Energy Security and Net Zerohas told Building Design that the scheme has been dropped after the spending review, leaving uncertainty about how upgrades will be funded when the current phase expires in 2028.

    Source: UK Government/FlickrEd Miliband’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is responsible for the scheme
    The department said it would set out plans for the period after 2028 in due course.
    In a post on LinkedIn, Dave Welkin, director of sustainability at Gleeds, said he had waited for the release of the spending review with a “sense of trepidation” and was unable to find mention of public sector decarbonisation when Treasury documents were released.
    “I hoped because it was already committed in the Budget that its omission wasn’t ominous,” he wrote.
    Yesterday, he was told by Salix Finance, the non-departmental public body that delivers funding for the scheme, that it was no longer being funded.
    It comes after the withdrawal of funding for the Low Carbon Skills Fundin May.
    According to the government’s website, PSDS and LCSF were intended to support the reduction of emissions from public sector buildings by 75% by 2037, compared to a 2017 baseline.
    “Neither LCSF or PSDS were perfect by any means, but they did provide a vital source of funding for local authorities, hospitals, schools and many other public sector organisations to save energy, carbon and money,” Welkin said.
    “PSDS has helped replace failed heating systems in schools, keeping students warm. It’s replaced roofs on hospitals, helping patients recover from illness. It’s replaced windows in our prisons, improving security and stopping drugs getting behind bars.”
    However, responding to Welkin’s post, Steve Connolly, chief executive at Arriba Technologies, a low carbon heating and cooling firm, said that the scheme was being “mismanaged” with a small number of professional services firms “scooping up disproportionately large grants for their clients”.
    The fourth phase of the scheme was confirmed last September, with allocations confirmed only last month.
    This latest phase, which covers the financial years between 2025/26 and 2027/28, saw the distribution of £940m across the country.
    A DESNZ spokesperson said: “Our settlement is about investing in Britain’s renewal to create energy security, sprint to clean power by 2030, encourage investment, create jobs and bring down bills for good.
    “We will deliver £1bn in current allocations of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme until 2028 and, through Great British Energy, have invested in new rooftop solar power and renewable schemes to lower energy bills for schools and hospitals across the UK.
    “We want to build on this progress by incentivising the public sector to decarbonise, so they can reap the benefits in lower bills and emissions, sharing best practice across government and exploring the use of repayable finance, where appropriate.”
    A government assessment of phase 3a and 3b projects identified a number of issues with the scheme, including delays and cost inflation, with more than a tenth being abandoned subsequent to grants being offered.
    Stakeholders interviewed for the report also identified “difficulties in obtaining skilled contractors and equipment”, especially air source heat pumps.
    The first come first served approach to awarding funding was also said to be “encouraging applicants to opt for more straightforward projects” and “potentially undermining the achievement of PSDS objective by restricting the opportunity for largermore complex measures which may have delivered greater carbon reduction benefits”.
    But the consensus among stakeholders and industry representatives interviewed for the report was that the scheme was “currently key to sustaining the existing UK heat pump market” and that it was “seen as vital in enabling many public sector organisations to invest in heat decarbonisation”.
    #government #ditches #public #sector #decarbonisation
    Government ditches public sector decarbonisation scheme
    The government has axed a scheme for upgrading energy efficiency in public sector buildings. The Public Sector Decarbonisation Schemedelivered more than £2.5bn in its first three phases for measures such as heat pumps, solar panels, insulation and double glazing, with further funding of nearly £1bn recently announced. But the Department for Energy Security and Net Zerohas told Building Design that the scheme has been dropped after the spending review, leaving uncertainty about how upgrades will be funded when the current phase expires in 2028. Source: UK Government/FlickrEd Miliband’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is responsible for the scheme The department said it would set out plans for the period after 2028 in due course. In a post on LinkedIn, Dave Welkin, director of sustainability at Gleeds, said he had waited for the release of the spending review with a “sense of trepidation” and was unable to find mention of public sector decarbonisation when Treasury documents were released. “I hoped because it was already committed in the Budget that its omission wasn’t ominous,” he wrote. Yesterday, he was told by Salix Finance, the non-departmental public body that delivers funding for the scheme, that it was no longer being funded. It comes after the withdrawal of funding for the Low Carbon Skills Fundin May. According to the government’s website, PSDS and LCSF were intended to support the reduction of emissions from public sector buildings by 75% by 2037, compared to a 2017 baseline. “Neither LCSF or PSDS were perfect by any means, but they did provide a vital source of funding for local authorities, hospitals, schools and many other public sector organisations to save energy, carbon and money,” Welkin said. “PSDS has helped replace failed heating systems in schools, keeping students warm. It’s replaced roofs on hospitals, helping patients recover from illness. It’s replaced windows in our prisons, improving security and stopping drugs getting behind bars.” However, responding to Welkin’s post, Steve Connolly, chief executive at Arriba Technologies, a low carbon heating and cooling firm, said that the scheme was being “mismanaged” with a small number of professional services firms “scooping up disproportionately large grants for their clients”. The fourth phase of the scheme was confirmed last September, with allocations confirmed only last month. This latest phase, which covers the financial years between 2025/26 and 2027/28, saw the distribution of £940m across the country. A DESNZ spokesperson said: “Our settlement is about investing in Britain’s renewal to create energy security, sprint to clean power by 2030, encourage investment, create jobs and bring down bills for good. “We will deliver £1bn in current allocations of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme until 2028 and, through Great British Energy, have invested in new rooftop solar power and renewable schemes to lower energy bills for schools and hospitals across the UK. “We want to build on this progress by incentivising the public sector to decarbonise, so they can reap the benefits in lower bills and emissions, sharing best practice across government and exploring the use of repayable finance, where appropriate.” A government assessment of phase 3a and 3b projects identified a number of issues with the scheme, including delays and cost inflation, with more than a tenth being abandoned subsequent to grants being offered. Stakeholders interviewed for the report also identified “difficulties in obtaining skilled contractors and equipment”, especially air source heat pumps. The first come first served approach to awarding funding was also said to be “encouraging applicants to opt for more straightforward projects” and “potentially undermining the achievement of PSDS objective by restricting the opportunity for largermore complex measures which may have delivered greater carbon reduction benefits”. But the consensus among stakeholders and industry representatives interviewed for the report was that the scheme was “currently key to sustaining the existing UK heat pump market” and that it was “seen as vital in enabling many public sector organisations to invest in heat decarbonisation”. #government #ditches #public #sector #decarbonisation
    Government ditches public sector decarbonisation scheme
    www.bdonline.co.uk
    The government has axed a scheme for upgrading energy efficiency in public sector buildings. The Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) delivered more than £2.5bn in its first three phases for measures such as heat pumps, solar panels, insulation and double glazing, with further funding of nearly £1bn recently announced. But the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has told Building Design that the scheme has been dropped after the spending review, leaving uncertainty about how upgrades will be funded when the current phase expires in 2028. Source: UK Government/FlickrEd Miliband’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is responsible for the scheme The department said it would set out plans for the period after 2028 in due course. In a post on LinkedIn, Dave Welkin, director of sustainability at Gleeds, said he had waited for the release of the spending review with a “sense of trepidation” and was unable to find mention of public sector decarbonisation when Treasury documents were released. “I hoped because it was already committed in the Budget that its omission wasn’t ominous,” he wrote. Yesterday, he was told by Salix Finance, the non-departmental public body that delivers funding for the scheme, that it was no longer being funded. It comes after the withdrawal of funding for the Low Carbon Skills Fund (LCSF) in May. According to the government’s website, PSDS and LCSF were intended to support the reduction of emissions from public sector buildings by 75% by 2037, compared to a 2017 baseline. “Neither LCSF or PSDS were perfect by any means, but they did provide a vital source of funding for local authorities, hospitals, schools and many other public sector organisations to save energy, carbon and money,” Welkin said. “PSDS has helped replace failed heating systems in schools, keeping students warm. It’s replaced roofs on hospitals, helping patients recover from illness. It’s replaced windows in our prisons, improving security and stopping drugs getting behind bars.” However, responding to Welkin’s post, Steve Connolly, chief executive at Arriba Technologies, a low carbon heating and cooling firm, said that the scheme was being “mismanaged” with a small number of professional services firms “scooping up disproportionately large grants for their clients”. The fourth phase of the scheme was confirmed last September, with allocations confirmed only last month. This latest phase, which covers the financial years between 2025/26 and 2027/28, saw the distribution of £940m across the country. A DESNZ spokesperson said: “Our settlement is about investing in Britain’s renewal to create energy security, sprint to clean power by 2030, encourage investment, create jobs and bring down bills for good. “We will deliver £1bn in current allocations of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme until 2028 and, through Great British Energy, have invested in new rooftop solar power and renewable schemes to lower energy bills for schools and hospitals across the UK. “We want to build on this progress by incentivising the public sector to decarbonise, so they can reap the benefits in lower bills and emissions, sharing best practice across government and exploring the use of repayable finance, where appropriate.” A government assessment of phase 3a and 3b projects identified a number of issues with the scheme, including delays and cost inflation, with more than a tenth being abandoned subsequent to grants being offered. Stakeholders interviewed for the report also identified “difficulties in obtaining skilled contractors and equipment”, especially air source heat pumps. The first come first served approach to awarding funding was also said to be “encouraging applicants to opt for more straightforward projects” and “potentially undermining the achievement of PSDS objective by restricting the opportunity for larger [and] more complex measures which may have delivered greater carbon reduction benefits”. But the consensus among stakeholders and industry representatives interviewed for the report was that the scheme was “currently key to sustaining the existing UK heat pump market” and that it was “seen as vital in enabling many public sector organisations to invest in heat decarbonisation”.
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