A recent report from Ovum Research analysing the current status, as well as the future, of optical fibre stated that, at the end of 2007, nearly 29 million subscribers worldwide were connected with fibre infrastructure, mostly via FTTH (fibre-to-the-home) or FTTB (fibre-to-the-building).

SAI Global has released the latest intruder alarm and CCTV Australian Standards — AS/NZS 2201.5:2008 'Intruder alarm systems — Alarm transmission systems’ and AS 4806.4 — 2008 ‘Closed circuit television (CCTV) — Remote video’.

Israeli energy company SDE has signed an agreement to sell sea-wave power plants throughout China, with construction being financed by investors from Hong Kong and China.

Belden recently announced plans to acquire Trapeze Networks, a provider of wireless local area networking (WLAN) equipment, for US$133 million in cash. The acquisition is intended to build on Belden's position as a complete signal transmission solutions provider.

At the 25th NECA Victoria Apprentice Awards, held on 9 July 2008, a talented group of electrical apprentices were recognised for their outstanding academic and technical skills working in industrial, commercial and domestic markets.

Major projects have begun to meet the growing need for power in south-east Queensland, according to Mines and Energy Minister, Geoff Wilson.

SAI Global has announced a new standard to help lighting designers, engineers and manufacturers design, manufacture and install road lighting for the increased safety of pedestrians and vehicles.

The Electrical Trade Union has expressed concern over the way soft wiring is being performed by workers not holding electrician’s licenses.

A Campbellfield company has pleaded guilty to seven workplace health and safety charges after two Chinese workers in Australia on section 457 visas suffered serious injuries in 2006.

Professor Vic Gosbell was honoured by being awarded the M A Sargent Medal for the electrical engineer of the year for 2007, by the Board of Colleges of Electrical Engineers of Engineers Australia, in Melbourne on Friday 6 June.

Lighting manufacturer Philips calls on the government to help prepare Australians for the plan to phase out inefficient incandescent lighting products in November 2008.

According to Sensis, searches for electricians were up 24% nationally in the first four months of 2008, compared to the same time last year.

Lighting Council Australia, the leading voice for the nation’s lighting industry, has welcomed the announcement by the government to proceed with the phasing out of inefficient lamps.

The Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts has announced three new initiatives to save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The Slide Connect G2 emergency exit sign was presented the Award for Excellence in Sustainable Design at the 2008 Australian International Design Awards on Friday 30 May.