Marina
Face to Face with Tim Butler: Insights from the Field
24 October 2024 at 15:13:42
What Tim Doesn’t Know About Marinas Services Isn’t Worth Knowing
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Q: What are the key services and solutions that Rolec's Marina Department offers to its clients?
At Rolec, we offer a comprehensive range of services, starting from pre-project planning, which includes utility services advisory, budget planning assistance, and tender/project scope surveys. We also handle M&E designs, calculations, and installation drawings. Our CAD design, product range, and no-obligation quotations cover essentials like electrical, water, sanitation, lighting, and emergency/SOS systems. Rolec also provides advanced cloud-based smart management solutions, integrating with existing marina management systems.
When it comes to installation and maintenance, we offer full turnkey solutions, covering everything from supply and installation to commissioning and project management. We also provide remote product support and after-sales services for replacement components, if required. Working closely with a dedicated team of experienced engineers to ensure seamless operations.
Q: What are some built-in features customers expect from modern marina service pedestals?
Safety and durability remain top priorities, given the challenging waterfront environments. In recent years, customers increasingly expect smart metering solutions for managing electricity and water usage across their entire site. At Rolec, we offer a blend of both traditional robustness and modern metering systems, catering to the growing demand for efficient marina services and utility management.
Q: How does Rolec ensure the quality and reliability of its marina utility products?
We use tried-and-tested materials and components that have withstood decades of use. Our Classic pedestal, for example, has evolved over the past 34 years while maintaining its core quality. I regularly visit installations that are over 21 years old, and they continue to perform reliably, a testament to our products’ durability.
Q: What are some recent technological advancements Rolec has adopted in marina services?
Rolec is a pioneer in developing computer-controlled marina management services. We first launched our Berth Services Management (BSM) system, which quickly evolved into BM Online, a cloud-based solution with enhanced features. Our latest innovation includes the BerthVend Network, and a ‘Long Range Wide Area Network’ technology. This new wireless solution offers greater flexibility and efficiency in managing marina utilities remotely, allowing for continuous communication and control over essential services.
Q: How can marinas stay up to speed with the developments in electric boat charging technology and get more involved in the electric vehicle charging market?
As the demand for electric boating and vehicles rises, marinas must adapt to stay competitive. Investing in a variety of charging solutions, such as AC fast chargers for overnight usage and DC rapid chargers for quicker sessions, like those needed for water taxis, is essential. Rolec, with 16 years of experience in electric vehicle infrastructure, offers the largest range of charging options to meet diverse marina needs. Integrating smart charging technology will optimise power management, use while promoting these facilities on public apps will attract more visitors.
Additionally, exploring fully funded partnerships will help offset upfront costs to purchase and install the latest infrastructure. By improving the overall visitor experience with modern technologies, marinas can future-proof their operations and position themselves as leaders in the electrification movement.
Q: How do you work with clients to create bespoke solutions for their specific marina needs?
Customisation can range from branding the hardware with logos and colours, unique products for specific projects, to developing bespoke software solutions, APIs, and more. Our in-house R&D team in Nottingham is equipped to handle special requests, ensuring that each marina gets a tailored solution that perfectly meets its specific requirements.
In my new role as Key Client Engineer, I’ll be focusing on closer client engagement. After 21 years with Rolec, I’ve contributed to hundreds of projects across marinas in the UK and globally. From planning and execution to post-installation support, I’m here to ensure that our clients' marina developments run smoothly from start to finish.
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