ABB has appointed Steve Ruddell as its first UK spokesperson on energy:
"Our products are based around the use of energy - some of them use significant amounts. Better use of energy is, therefore, the most effective contribution we can make towards reducing the environmental impact of our business," Ruddell explains.
"Energy efficiency is normally seen as the end user's concern, however we think we can make a valuable contribution as a manufacturer. While energy is one of today's burning issues, it does not always get the proper attention at all levels in the companies we deal with. Normally, companies are concerned with buying energy more cheaply, or reducing the running hours of that process. While a lot of good comes from this, it is even more important that plant is designed for energy efficiency in the first place. We want to encourage industry to look at the whole life cycle cost, starting when equipment is bought and new plant designed."
ABB energy efficiency policy explained:
Ruddell will explain ABB's policy on energy efficiency across all products and divisions in the UK. Until now, each division has commented on its own issues. Ruddell will be the first spokesperson on a specific issue with a cross-division brief. This is an addition to two additional European/Global roles he performs. He is a member of the Low Voltage Motors Global Management Team as well as the Global Key Account Manager, Sulzer.
Steve Ruddell has been general manager for drives and motors in the UK since 2004. He started his working life as a Technician Apprentice with GEC Industrial Controls in 1983, progressing to Sales Engineer Drives Division in 1988. In 1989, he left GEC, joining Brush Electrical Machines as Sales Engineer Drive Systems, progressing to Sales Manager Drive Systems. Ruddell joined ABB in 1994 as Senior Sales Engineer - Drive Systems, becoming Manager, Drives and Motors Division in 1998, Manager, OEM, Drives and Motors in 2001 and Manager, Motors and Machines in 2002.
The picture shows Steve Ruddell.