tekmar Control Systems has joined the ranks of BACnet International as part of its strategy to support system integration. As a silver member, tekmar joins over 80 leading building automation vendors and integrators in pursuing the advancement of BACnet as a standardized communication protocol for interoperable systems.

Aggreko, a leader in providing temporary power, temperature control, and oil-free compressed air services, has introduced a new line of portable cooling towers into its fleet. The units provide an additional option for companies needing a temporary cooling tower solution.

A collaboration of researchers, manufacturers, and economic development officials are launching a new demonstration project for smart grid, net zero energy buildings called the GridSTAR Center at The Navy Yard in Philadelphia.

Officials from Dominion, one of the nation’s largest energy companies, and FuelCell Energy Inc. have broken ground at what is believed to be the largest fuel cell power project in North America.

Atlas Sales & Rentals Inc., a leading distributor of portable air conditioning equipment for the nonresidential market, has announced the opening of new full-service offices in Miami and Oklahoma City. A third office in Austin, Texas, opened by Atlas last year, has relocated to a larger facility.

Section 102.1.4.12 of the RESNET home energy rating standards requires all home energy rating providers to collect and upload the energy simulation file for each home rated by each certified rater to the RESNET Buildings Registry. RESNET is proposing an amendment that will spell out what information is to be uploaded.

The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) has introduced a new logo and vision for the association. The new logo includes a tagline, which is also the association’s vision: “We Make Life Better.”

Telkonet Inc., developer of the EcoSmart energy management system, has signed a strategic partnership with Islandaire, one of the nation’s largest packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC) manufacturers for the hospitality industry. 

Over the last year, the stationary fuel cells sector has seen a sharp increase in market demand created by government policy initiatives, according to a report from Navigant Research. The firm forecasts that annual revenue from stationary fuel cells will grow from $1.7 billion in 2013 to $9 billion in 2022.

Early indications are that the 2014 AHR Expo, set for New York City next Jan. 21-23, is on pace to be a record-breaking show, according to Clay Stevens, president of International Exposition Co., which produces and manages the expo.