In this insight, we compare and contrast the Windows 10 and 11 operating systems, focusing on how they perform in key areas like user interface, performance, security, compatibility, and cost.

Rolled Out 2021 

Since Microsoft’s rolled out Windows 11 in October 2021, many businesses have been deciding whether to upgrade or remain on Windows 10 even longer. For example, for some businesses, not yet upgrading to Windows 11 may have been due to concerns about hardware compatibility, the need for training on the new interface, potential software compatibility issues with legacy applications, and the costs associated with upgrading hardware and licences. Also, some may be waiting until closer to Windows 10’s end-of-support in 2025 to avoid any early adoption issues.

With this in mind, we’ll now shine a light on how both Windows 10 and 11 match up in terms of 9 key factors – user interface changes, performance improvements, security features, compatibility, deployment, productivity enhancements, customisation options, cost implications, and future-proofing, thereby helping you to get a more informed view of Windows 11 which could help OS decision making for your business.

1. User Interface and Usability 

Aspects of the user interface and usability are crucial as they directly impact how employees interact with the operating system on a daily basis.

Start Menu and Taskbar 

Windows 11 introduced a significant change in the Start Menu and Taskbar design. The Start Menu is now centred on the screen, a departure from the traditional left-aligned menu in Windows 10. This shift may initially have seemed disorienting to those who upgraded to Windows 11, but ultimately many have found that it provides a cleaner and more intuitive user experience. The centred Taskbar in Windows 11 complements this design by grouping app icons in the middle, which can improve accessibility for users working across wide-screen monitors. Although this change was intended to enhance user efficiency, it requires a brief adjustment period for users, i.e. employees familiar with Windows 10’s layout.

Snap Layouts and Multitasking 

One of the standout features in Windows 11 is the enhanced multitasking capabilities, particularly with the introduction of Snap Layouts and Snap Groups. These tools allow users to quickly organise multiple windows on their screen, maintaining an efficient workflow across various tasks. In contrast, Windows 10 offers basic snapping features that, while functional, lack the sophistication of Windows 11’s system. For businesses, this improvement in Windows 11 can translate into better productivity, especially for employees who need to manage several applications simultaneously.

Accessibility Features 

Windows 11 builds upon the accessibility features of Windows 10 by introducing enhancements such as improved screen readers, voice typing, and an updated dark mode. Microsoft designed these tools to make its operating system more inclusive, catering to users with different needs and preferences. The refinements in accessibility in Windows 11 could, therefore, be particularly beneficial for businesses that are more conscious of the need for inclusivity and seek to provide a flexible working environment for all employees.

2. Performance and Efficiency 

Performance and efficiency are important considerations because these factors determine how smoothly the operating system runs on business hardware.

System Requirements 

Windows 11 comes with more stringent system requirements than Windows 10, including the need for TPM 2.0, specific CPUs, and UEFI Secure Boot. These requirements mean that businesses using older hardware, for example, may need to upgrade their systems to support Windows 11, potentially leading to significant capital expenditure. However, for companies with newer hardware, the transition may be smoother, plus they could benefit from the optimised performance that Windows 11 offers.

Speed and Responsiveness 

All businesses are likely to want to work faster as well as smarter, and Windows 11 does offer faster boot times, better memory management, and overall improved responsiveness compared to Windows 10. These performance enhancements were designed to reduce downtime and improve efficiency, which is, of course, crucial in a business environment where time is money. For mobile users, Windows 11’s optimisation also offers a smoother experience when working on the go.

Battery Life (for Laptops) 

As most business laptop users will know, battery life is another critical factor. Windows 11 has battery optimisations that can extend the life of a laptop between charges, an improvement over Windows 10’s already decent performance in this area. For businesses, this could mean fewer interruptions and a more reliable mobile working environment.

3. Security Features 

Security is, of course, a top priority for businesses, as it protects sensitive data and ensures compliance with regulations.

Built-in Security Tools

Considering the level and evolving nature of cyber threats in today’s environment, security must be a top priority for businesses, and Windows 11 delivers several enhancements over Windows 10. Although both versions include robust tools like Windows Defender, Windows Hello and BitLocker, Windows 11 integrates these more deeply into the operating system. Also, Windows 11 supports more advanced security protocols, making it a better fit for businesses that need to protect sensitive data.

Zero Trust Security Model

Crucially, Windows 11 supports the Zero Trust security model more robustly than Windows 10. This model, which assumes that threats could be both external and internal, is becoming the standard for modern businesses. With features like hardware-based isolation, encryption, and malware prevention, Windows 11 is, therefore, designed to help businesses adopt a more comprehensive security posture.

End of Support for Windows 10 

One major factor in forcing the final switching decision will naturally be the fact that Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 10 will end in October 2025. This means that businesses still using Windows 10 after this date will be vulnerable to security threats due to the lack of updates and patches. This could be a compelling reason for many to plan an upgrade to Windows 11 sooner rather than later.

4. Compatibility and Application Support 

Compatibility with existing software and hardware is a vital consideration for a seamless transition.

Legacy Software Support 

One of the concerns when upgrading to a new OS is compatibility with legacy software. Windows 10 has been praised for its compatibility with a wide range of applications, including older ones. Windows 11, while designed to be compatible with most software that runs on Windows 10, may present some challenges with very old or niche applications. Businesses may, therefore, prefer to test their critical software on Windows 11 before committing to a full upgrade.

Virtualisation and Cloud Integration 

The cloud now plays a major role in the digital infrastructure of most businesses. Windows 11, for example, offers improved integration with cloud services and virtualisation technologies, such as Microsoft Azure. These enhancements support hybrid work environments, allowing businesses to leverage cloud computing more effectively. Windows 10 also supports these technologies, but Windows 11 is considered to be more streamlined in this regard, perhaps offering a more cohesive experience for businesses moving towards cloud-based operations.

Driver and Peripheral Compatibility 

One concern about upgrading to Windows 11 has been about driver and peripheral compatibility, particularly for older hardware. While Windows 11 is designed to support a wide range of devices, businesses using older peripherals may want to verify compatibility to avoid disruptions. Windows 10’s mature ecosystem, on the other hand, is likely to offer broader compatibility out of the box.

5. Deployment and Management

Deployment and management tools affect how easily businesses can upgrade, configure, and maintain their operating systems.

Upgrade Path

Obviously, it’s in Microsoft’s interest to make the upgrade path from Windows 10 to Windows 11 as smooth as possible (reducing support for older systems, boosting new hardware and software sales, and for Microsoft’s long-term revenue growth), with Microsoft providing tools to streamline the process. However, businesses may want to consider the logistics of deploying Windows 11 across their organisation, including the need for potential hardware upgrades and employee training. Windows 10 users may find the in-place upgrade process straightforward, but it’s still important to plan for any potential hiccups.

Device Management 

Windows 11 offers enhanced device management tools, including updates to Group Policy, Windows Update for Business, and Mobile Device Management (MDM). These tools are more advanced than those in Windows 10, offering businesses greater control over their devices and better alignment with modern IT management practices.

Windows Update and Servicing Model 

The update and servicing model for Windows 11 differs from Windows 10, with the former moving to annual feature updates. This change reduces the frequency of disruptive updates, allowing businesses to focus on stability. In contrast, Windows 10’s twice-yearly updates have been a source of frustration for some users due to the potential for unexpected issues.

6. Productivity and Collaboration 

Productivity and collaboration features are central to modern business operations, especially in remote and hybrid work settings.

Microsoft Teams Integration

Particularly since the pandemic, Microsoft Teams has become increasingly central to business communication, and Windows 11 features deeper integration with this tool (and the enhancements provided by AI). Many businesses have found that this integration has enhanced collaboration within businesses, making it easier for teams to stay connected and work efficiently, particularly in remote or hybrid work environments.

Microsoft 365 Enhancements 

Windows 11 is optimised for Microsoft 365 applications, offering performance improvements and new features that enhance productivity. These enhancements could make a noticeable difference in day-to-day operations for businesses that rely heavily on Microsoft’s productivity suite.

Widgets and Information Access 

The introduction of Widgets in Windows 11 has offered a new way to access information quickly. These customisable panels provide real-time updates on various topics, which are useful for business users needing quick access to data. While Windows 10’s Live Tiles offered a similar concept, Widgets in Windows 11 may be considered to be more refined and better able to serve a business context.

7. Customisation and Flexibility 

Customisation and flexibility are important considerations because they allow businesses to tailor the operating system to meet specific needs.

Personalisation Options 

Windows 11 offers a broader range of personalisation options compared to Windows 10, allowing users to customise the desktop experience to their liking. For businesses, this flexibility can help improve employee satisfaction by enabling a more tailored user experience.

Control over Updates 

One of the persistent issues with Windows 10 has been the control over when and how updates are installed. Windows 11, however, offers more refined options for managing updates, which can reduce downtime and disruption in a business setting. This improvement can be particularly valuable for businesses that need to maintain consistent uptime.

Support for Multiple Monitors 

Windows 11 provides better support for multiple monitors, a feature that is increasingly important in modern business environments. The improved handling of multi-monitor setups in Windows 11 can enhance productivity for employees who rely on complex screen arrangements, e.g. those in design or finance roles.

8. Cost and Licensing 

Cost and licensing considerations are essential for budgeting and long-term financial planning.

Licensing Requirements 

The cost implications of licensing Windows 11 versus Windows 10 are, of course, an important consideration for businesses. While Windows 11 may introduce new licensing models, the overall cost will depend on factors like hardware upgrades and training. Businesses should weigh these costs against the potential benefits of the new OS.

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) 

The total cost of ownership for Windows 11 may be higher initially due to the need for hardware upgrades and potential training. However, the long-term benefits, such as improved security, performance, and productivity, could justify the investment.

Enterprise vs. Pro Versions 

Differences between the Pro and Enterprise versions of Windows 11 could influence the decision for businesses. The Enterprise version typically offers more advanced features, such as better security and device management tools, which could be particularly beneficial for larger organisations.

9. Future-Proofing and Innovation 

Future-proofing and innovation are important for ensuring that an operating system remains viable as technology evolves.

Long-Term Support and Updates 

Windows 11 offers a longer support timeline than Windows 10, which will reach end-of-support in 2025. For businesses looking to future-proof their operations, Windows 11’s extended support could be a decisive factor.

Emerging Technologies

Windows 11 is designed with emerging technologies in mind, such as AI, AR/VR, and 5G. For businesses looking to stay ahead of the curve, adopting Windows 11, therefore, may provide a competitive edge by enabling the integration of these technologies into their operations.

Integration with Next-Gen Hardware

Windows 11 is optimised for the latest hardware, including new CPUs, GPUs, and SSDs. This optimisation could influence business purchasing decisions, especially for companies planning to invest in new equipment to support future growth.

What Does This Mean For Your Business?

All things considered, the decision to stick with Windows 10 a bit longer or upgrade to Windows 11 is likely to be guided by your business’s specific needs and future goals. Windows 11 undoubtedly offers several improvements that can enhance productivity, security, and user experience, which make it an attractive option for businesses ready to invest in newer hardware and capitalise on emerging technologies.

However, with so much at stake in businesses, the upgrade process can’t be taken lightly. Businesses need to consider the implications for legacy software compatibility, potential costs associated with hardware upgrades, and the training required for employees to adapt to the new interface. For organisations that are looking for stability and have well-established workflows on Windows 10, there may be a case for delaying the upgrade until closer to Windows 10’s end-of-support date in 2025.

Ultimately, Windows 11 represents a relatively forward-looking operating system that aligns with the future of work, particularly for businesses embracing hybrid work models, advanced security postures, and cloud-based operations.

AI-driven automated dental technology company Perceptive has announced the completion of the world’s first fully automated dental procedure on a human using its robotic dentistry system.

Perceptive 

Boston-based Perceptive is an innovative dental technology company that has developed an AI powered dental robotics system to complete restorative dental procedures (e.g. crown replacements) faster and more accurately than any human dentist.

For example, Perceptive says the target for its AI dental robot is for it to be able to “complete a restorative dental procedure, such as a crown, with only one visit” of 15 minutes, which is “down from two visits of one hour each with traditional methods.” 

Interestingly, in addition to being partnered with the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and American Dental Association’s Forsyth Institute, one of the company’s backers is dentist Edward Zuckerberg, the father of Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg.

Not Enough Dentists 

Perceptive’s founder and CEO, Canadian-born Dr. Chris Ciriello said that while working in rural Canada after completing dental school, he noticed that there weren’t enough dentists in the area to treat all available patients. Therefore, to tackle this challenge, he initially built his own Dental Support Organization (DSO) but found that he still had more patients than he could treat, hence the idea to find a technological solution.

How Perceptive’s Dental Robot Works 

To meet the challenge initially identified by Ciriello, his company (Perceptive) developed an advanced dental robot system to carry out surgeries.  To begin a procedure, Perseptive’s AI robotics system uses optical coherence technology (OCT) to make a detailed 3D scan of the patient’s tooth and mouth (including below the gum line, through fluids, and under the tooth surface) using Perceptive’s handheld intraoral scanner. These 3D images are then analysed by AI algorithms to plan and execute the dental procedure efficiently. The actual surgery is then carried out by the system’s robot arm.

Works In A Fraction Of The Time 

Perspective says that its system can prepare teeth “in a fraction of the time” compared to traditional procedures carried out by human dentists. This is because its robot system simulates the preparation geometry prior to prepping the tooth, enabling it to manufacture the restoration (a filling or crown) even before prepping the tooth. The company says this improvement in workflow should allow for a 15-minute restoration visit (unverified and based on their pre-clinical in-house testing).

Accurate & Enhanced Patient Care and Safety

German Galluicci, DMD, Ph.D., Chairman of Restorative Dentistry at Harvard School of Dental Medicine, has been quoted as saying that Perceptive’s technology “achieves over a 90 per cent accuracy rate for detecting caries without the ionising radiation associated with traditional X-rays and CBCT scanners”, noting that this is a “significant improvement over the approximately 40 per cent accuracy of 2D X-rays”. Galluicci says this results in “safer and more precise diagnoses” thereby “enhancing patient care and safety.” 

First Procedure 

The company recently announced that in a world-first, its robot dental arm successfully completed a dental procedure (restoration – a crown replacement) on a human. Perspective’s founder and CEO, Dr. Chris Ciriello, said: “We’re excited to successfully complete the world’s first fully automated robotic dental procedure,” and that “This medical breakthrough enhances precision and efficiency of dental procedures, and democratises access to better dental care, for improved patient experience and clinical outcomes. We look forward to advancing our system and pioneering scalable, fully automated dental healthcare solutions for patients.”

The Benefits 

Although this is only the first dental procedure by the Perspective system on a human, it’s anticipated that the system has the potential to enable dentists to diagnose and treat more patients with higher quality care in less time, thereby reducing the need for manual labour while minimising the chances of human error. As highlighted by Perspective’s CEO, it may also provide the benefit of democratising access to better dental care, bringing about improved patient experience and clinical outcomes.

What Does This Mean For Your Business? 

The successful completion of the world’s first fully automated dental procedure by Perceptive’s robotic system may mark a significant milestone in the evolution of dental care. For businesses in the dental and healthcare sectors, this breakthrough could present both opportunities and challenges that should not be overlooked. Doubtless, there will be fear to be overcome as well as a societal shift in accepting robots of this kind for intimate work.

For example, the introduction of AI-driven robotic dentistry highlights the growing trend toward automation in healthcare, a trend that is likely to reshape how services are delivered. For dental practices, this could mean the need to reassess traditional workflows and consider integrating advanced technologies to remain competitive. The potential to reduce procedure times from hours to just 15 minutes could revolutionise patient throughput, allowing practices to treat more patients with greater efficiency, thereby increasing revenue and enhancing patient satisfaction.

However, with these advancements comes the need for investment in new technologies and training. Dental businesses will need to weigh the costs of adopting such systems against the benefits they offer. Early adopters could gain a competitive edge by positioning themselves as leaders in cutting-edge dental care, attracting tech-savvy patients who value speed and precision in their treatment. Also, the promise of higher accuracy in diagnostics and procedures, as evidenced by Perceptive’s system, could lead to better clinical outcomes, further enhancing the reputation of practices that embrace this technology.

This development may also prompt a shift in the role of dental professionals. As automated systems take on more routine tasks, for example, the role of the dentist could evolve toward more complex decision-making and patient interaction, areas where human skills remain irreplaceable. This could lead to a redefinition of the profession, requiring continuous education and adaptation to new technologies.

The advent of robotic dentistry, therefore, could signify the beginning of a transformative period for the dental industry. Those who proactively adapt to these changes, by investing in technology and upskilling, may be more likely to thrive in this new landscape. Those who fail to do so may find themselves at a disadvantage as the industry moves toward faster, more precise, and more accessible dental care.

A provisional £6m fine has been imposed on an NHS software provider Advanced Computer Software Group following a 2022 data breach that affected more than 80,000 people.

Advanced Software Group 

Founded in 2008, Advanced Computer Software Group, often referred to as “Advanced,” is a UK-based software and IT services company that provides a range of digital solutions primarily to the public sector, healthcare, and private sector organisations. As an IT and software services provider to organisations including the NHS and other healthcare providers, in the eyes of the law, it handles people’s personal information on behalf of these organisations as their ‘data processor’.

What Happened? 

In 2022, hackers accessed a number of Advanced’s health and care systems via a customer account that did not have multi-factor authentication. The personal information belonging to 82,946 people was stolen following the attack. This information included phone numbers and the medical records, as well as details of how to gain entry to the homes of 890 people who were receiving care at home.

Serious Failings 

John Edwards, UK Information Commissioner, has highlighted how the ICO, which has investigated the incident, provisionally found “serious failings” in Advanced’s “approach to information security prior to this incident”. Mr Edwards noted how Advanced “failed to keep its healthcare systems secure” when it should have been taking steps to secure its systems, such as “regularly checking for vulnerabilities, implementing multi-factor authentication and keeping systems up to date with the latest security patches.” 

The Obligations of Data Processors 

In his online statement, Mr Edwards noted that although data processors act on the instructions of their clients, the data controllers, data processors, such as Advanced, “still have their own obligations to implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure personal information is kept secure” and this includes “taking steps to assess and mitigate risks”. 

Health Service Disruption Also Caused 

In his online statement, Mr Edwards also noted that in addition to the theft of personal information, the hack caused disruption to some health services, i.e. disrupting their ability to deliver patient care. Mr Edwards said this meant that “a sector already under pressure was put under further strain due to this incident”. 

Provisional Fine 

The ICO has stated that on the grounds that Advanced failed to implement measures to protect the personal (and some sensitive) information of the 80,000+ people, it has “provisionally decided” to impose a £6.09m fine on Advanced.

However, despite choosing to issue the statement about it, the ICO’s findings and fine are “provisional”. This means that conclusions shouldn’t be drawn at this stage about whether there’s actually been any breach of data protection law or that a financial penalty will ultimately be imposed.

The Commissioner says that any representations from Advanced will now be carefully considered before any final decision is made “with the fine amount also subject to change.” 

Illustrates The Importance of Prioritising Information Security 

UK Information Commissioner, said in his statement about the provisional fine: “This incident shows just how important it is to prioritise information security. Losing control of sensitive personal information will have been distressing for people who had no choice but to put their trust in health and care organisations.” 

What Does This Mean For Your Business? 

The provisional £6 million fine imposed on Advanced Computer Software Group serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of businesses and organisations prioritising information security. This incident highlights how even well-established companies with significant responsibilities (such as handling sensitive healthcare data) are not immune to severe consequences when security measures are insufficient. The breach at Advanced not only compromised the personal and medical information of over 80,000 individuals but also disrupted essential health services, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of inadequate data protection.

For your business, this underscores the need to rigorously assess and enhance your cybersecurity practices, particularly if you are a data processor or handle sensitive information on behalf of clients. The ICO’s findings point to specific failings, such as the lack of multi-factor authentication and the failure to regularly update systems, which could have prevented the breach. Implementing robust security protocols, including regular vulnerability assessments, system updates, and comprehensive risk mitigation strategies, is not just a legal obligation but a business imperative.

Also, the incident shows how the failure to prioritise information security can lead to significant financial and reputational damage. While the ICO’s decision and fine are currently provisional, the potential for such penalties should serve as a wake-up call for businesses and organisations to take proactive steps in safeguarding personal data. As the Information Commissioner noted, this case demonstrates the distress caused to individuals who trust organisations with their sensitive information, making it clear that maintaining this trust should be a top priority.

Here are 10 top iPhone tips / tricks you may not know about that could make your life easier and help you to be more productive:

1. Digitally Sign Documents

Gone are the days when you needed a printer or scanner to sign important documents. With your iPhone, you can quickly add your signature to any document. Simply take a screenshot of the document, tap the preview thumbnail that appears, and select the Plus icon on the bottom right. From there, choose “Signature” and either draw a new signature or use a stored one. Once you’ve positioned and resized your signature, save the document to share it digitally.

2. Set Up Keyboard Shortcuts for Frequently Used Phrases

If you find yourself repeatedly typing the same phrases, save time by setting up keyboard shortcuts. Navigate to Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement. Tap the plus icon to create a new shortcut, then enter the phrase and a corresponding abbreviation. Now, when you type the abbreviation, your iPhone will automatically expand it to the full phrase. This is especially useful for commonly used business phrases or contact information.

3. Turn Your Keyboard into a Trackpad

Need to edit a text message or email with precision? You can convert your iPhone’s keyboard into a trackpad (like a mousepad on a laptop) by holding down the spacebar. As you press, the keys will disappear, allowing you to move the cursor with your finger. This feature makes it easier to navigate and edit text without having to tap directly on the screen.

4. Extract Text from Photos and Videos

With iPhone’s Live Text feature, you can quickly extract and interact with text found in photos or paused video frames. Simply open the image or video, tap the Live Text icon, and the text will be highlighted. You can then copy, paste, or interact with the text—whether it’s translating a foreign language, dialing a phone number, or visiting a URL. This is a powerful tool for capturing and utilising information on the go.

5. Broadcast Your Screen During Presentations

When you need to share your iPhone screen during a virtual meeting, you can easily do so by using the screen recording feature. Access the Control Centre and long-press the Screen Recording button. You’ll be able to choose an app like Zoom, Google Meet, or Skype to broadcast your screen directly. This is a seamless way to share presentations, demonstrate apps, or provide training sessions remotely.

6. Enhance Audio Quality in Voice Memos

If you often use the Voice Memos app to record meetings, interviews, or notes, you can significantly improve the audio quality by reducing background noise. After recording, tap the equaliser icon and toggle on “Enhance Recording.” This feature filters out ambient noise, ensuring your voice is clear and professional, making your recordings more useful for later reference.

7. Customise Safari Settings for Specific Websites

Not all websites are created equal and some may require different settings for optimal viewing. In Safari, you can tailor the appearance and functionality for individual sites. While browsing, tap the AA icon in the address bar to adjust the font size, enable Reader mode, or choose to always view the desktop version of the site. This feature ensures a consistent and comfortable browsing experience, especially when working with content-heavy websites.

8. Efficiently Move Multiple Apps at Once

Reorganising your home screen doesn’t have to be a tedious process. Instead of moving apps one by one, you can select multiple apps simultaneously. Press and hold one app until it starts to wiggle, then tap additional apps with another finger to create a group. You can then drag this group to a new location or page on your home screen, saving you time and effort.

9. Scan and Save Documents with the Notes App

The Notes app on your iPhone doubles as a portable scanner, making it easy to digitise documents. Open a new note, tap the camera icon, and select “Scan Documents.” The app will automatically detect the edges of the document and capture a clear, high-quality scan. This feature is invaluable for quickly saving and sharing contracts, receipts, or any other important paperwork while on the move.

10. Silence Unknown Callers to Minimise Distractions

If you’re tired of being interrupted by unwanted calls, you can enable the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature. Go to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers, and any number not in your contacts will be automatically directed to voicemail. You’ll still receive a notification of the missed call, and the number will appear in your Recents list. This feature helps you stay focused on important tasks without unnecessary interruptions.

These 10 tips should help you make the most of your iPhone, boost your productivity, and streamline your daily tasks.

It’s been reported that US Security Awareness Training Company ‘KnowBe4’ unknowingly hired a North Korean hacker as a (remote) software engineer. The hacker used stolen identity and AI-generated imagery to circumvent KnowBe4’s due diligence and was even able to make it through four rounds of interviews before being offered the position.

However, KnowBe4 discovered the hacker’s true identity during a routine security audit when they noticed that a series of suspicious actions had been performed by the new employee. Once identified, the hacker’s access was immediately revoked, the breach was reported to authorities, and the incident, described as an “organisational learning moment” prompted an internal review.

KnowBe4 has suggested that this incident may be part of a broader North Korean campaign to infiltrate US organisations by posing as remote IT staff. The advice to businesses is that HR departments should thoroughly scrutinise remote candidates, especially for critical infrastructure roles or positions with access to sensitive data.

New research has concluded that floating solar panels could have the potential to meet the entire electricity needs of certain countries.

Helping To Decarbonise National Economies 

The findings of the research (from Bangor and Lancaster Universities and the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology) suggest that with a conservative 10 per cent surface area coverage, floating solar photovoltaics could produce sufficient energy to contribute a considerable fraction (16 per cent on average) of the electricity demand of some countries. This means that floating solar panels could play an important role in decarbonising national economies.

Why Floating Solar Panels? 

Solar energy is predicted to be the dominant renewable energy source by 2050, especially considering the growth of solar photovoltaics (PVs) been exceeded all projections. This is most likely because of their cost effectiveness, the global nature of the resource, and their flexibility in deployment.

In their results (published in nature.com), the researchers noted that the main reasons why floating solar photovoltaics (FPVs), also known as ‘floatovoltaics’, have advantages over conventionally deployed PVs that have enabled them to be deployed rapidly around the world (particularly on artificial bodies of water) include:

– The need for land-use change, where the alternative is a ground-mounted system. This is beneficial in land-scarce countries and regions with high land prices.

– FPV systems have lower temperatures, and thus higher efficiencies, compared to land-based systems.

How Much Electricity Could They Produce? 

Based on the researchers’ idea that they could be deployed in 68,000 lakes and reservoirs worldwide, numerical modelling and calculations indicate that FPVs could generate approximately 1302 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity annually. This equates to four times the total annual electricity demand of the UK!

Where? 

In terms of ideal locations, the researchers identified the best areas for FPV deployment as lakes and reservoirs within 10km of population-centres, away from protected areas, and with no more than six months of freezing a year.

As for which countries FPVs could help meet the energy demands via this renewable energy technology, the researchers highlighted Bolivia, Finland and even China. They also highlighted how FPVs could improve access to electricity in countries such as Chad or Malawi.

Challenges 

Despite the obvious potential benefits of deployment in some countries, the researchers also highlighted some challenges to the deployment of PPVs in some parts of the world and potential negative points, including:

– In many regions (e.g. sub-Saharan Africa), it is not simply a question of electricity supply but also connection, which can be difficult.

– Although globally the deployment of FPVs could lead to a total annual reduction of 0.45 billion tonnes of CO2 (2021 figures), in some countries where the carbon intensity of electricity is already very low, there could be a negative impact of FPV on total CO2 emissions, i.e. they could lead to higher CO2.

– In nations where the energy supply is dominated by hydro and wind, FPVs may increase CO2 emissions given PVsʼ higher carbon intensity.

– The impacts of FPVs on water body carbon cycling and their knock-on impacts on, among other things, CO2 emissions from water bodies are unknown.

– The total reduction in CO2 emissions highlighted by the research were based on water body constraint estimates which could vary depending on the number of water bodies included in any national-scale or global analysis.

Could Reduce Water Evaporation 

One other potential benefit of deploying large numbers of PV modules mounted on (moored) floats covering the surface of a water body noted by the researchers is the potential for reducing water scarcity by mitigating water loss via evaporation. This could be particularly helpful for drought-stricken areas.

Evaporation of water in key reservoirs and lakes has been shown to be accelerating globally under climate change.

What Does This Mean For Your Organisation? 

Covering existing bodies of water with solar floating solar panels to produce clean energy from the sun could, according to this research, represent a significant opportunity in terms of enhancing sustainability while securing a reliable and cost-effective energy source. The findings suggest that covering even a modest portion of water bodies with FPVs could markedly contribute to a whole nation’s electricity supply. This shift towards more sustainable energy practices could reduce costs and dependency on traditional energy sources, thereby benefiting countries, their economies, businesses, and the planet.

Embracing floating solar technology, contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions, and supporting the decarbonisation of national economies, could, it seems, play a pivotal role in combating climate change.

Also, the ancillary benefits of using FPVs at scale, such as reducing water evaporation, may also be particularly relevant for people living and organisations operating in water-scarce regions. This technology offers the dual advantage of generating renewable energy while conserving precious water resources. For organisations and businesses using the (presumably cheaper and abundant) power and benefitting from such initiatives, this could help them demonstrate their commitment to resource efficiency and environmental stewardship. This could be a powerful message in corporate social responsibility reports and sustainability communications.

However, despite the huge potential of FPVs, there are challenges associated with their deployment including potential connectivity issues in regions with underdeveloped electricity infrastructure. For organisations in these areas, it may be necessary to work collaboratively with local authorities and communities to improve grid connections and ensure the effective usage of FPVs. Also, understanding the environmental impact of FPVs on local ecosystems is crucial, but is not yet understood because it hasn’t happened at scale. Comprehensive environmental assessments, therefore, could be conducted to mitigate any negative effects, ensuring that the deployment of FPVs does not inadvertently harm the environment.

Investing in FPVs also appears to offer the promise of long-term financial benefits. The higher efficiency of FPVs compared to traditional land-based systems could result in more stable and predictable energy costs, providing a hedge against volatile energy markets. This stability may prove invaluable for long-term strategic planning and the overall resilience of the organisations operating in areas where FPVs are deployed.