Tag: Parking

Cork Airport to deliver Ireland’s largest solar-powered carport

Cork Airport has announced that it will deliver Ireland’s largest solar-powered carport, in conjunction with Greenvolt Next. A solar carport is a dual-purpose structure, where a canopy is being constructed and fitted with a roof of photovoltaic (PV) panels. The solar carport will provide shelter for parked cars in the Holiday Blue car park while also generating up to 20% of the airport’s electricity needs into the future.

The landmark project, which is expected to be completed in August 2027, has been grant supported by the Department of Transport and Department of Climate, Environment and Energy. Minister Darragh O’Brien TD and Minister of State, Jerry Buttimer TD attended the contract signing by Niall MacCarthy, Managing Director, Cork Airport and John Carty, Chief Commercial Officer, Greenvolt Next.

The 1.7 MW carport, which is being constructed over the existing Holiday Blue car park, shall be rolled out in two phases – the first of which will start in early summer, with the second stage to commence in October. Once completed in late summer 2027, it is envisaged that the 3,696 solar panels and 5 inverters will generate 1.5 GWh of renewable energy each year for the airport

As well as delivering renewable energy and lowering CO₂ emissions at the airport by 355,056 KG based on Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) data, the carport will reduce annual electricity costs and boost operational efficiency by enabling on-site energy generation.

In 2025, Cork Airport experienced its busiest year ever for passenger traffic, with a total of 3.46 million passengers. It was also named as Europe’s Best Regional Airport by Airports Council International (ACI) Europe, acknowledging its efforts in promoting inbound tourism, adding new routes and its commitment to sustainable business. Cork Airport was also named as the “Best Performing Commercial Semi-State” for energy reduction by SEAI for two years running (2021, 2022).

This new solar carport will further strengthen Cork Airport’s sustainability credentials and forms a key part of the airport’s overall sustainability strategy.

The works on the construction of the new solar carport will be swiftly followed by an extension to the existing Holiday Blue Car Park, with 669 more long-term car parking spaces. Of those new spaces, 32 will be dedicated spaces for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM). The car park extension will also include new internal roadways, more trolley bays, attenuation and drainage work, along with tasteful landscaping works with a focus on native Irish plant species.

Speaking at Cork Airport, Minister for Transport and Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy Darragh O’Brien TD said: “The project was supported with over €2 million in Exchequer funding under the Regional State Airports Sustainability Programme. This programme was developed in 2024 to support regional state airports to reach their carbon emission reduction targets and build resilience against climate change.

Cork Airport was named as the “Best Performing Commercial Semi-State” for energy reduction by Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) for two years running (2021, 2022). This new solar carport will strengthen Cork Airport’s sustainability credentials and forms a key part of the airport’s overall sustainability strategy. The solar carport will generate up to 20% of the airport’s electricity needs into the future.”

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Jerry Buttimer TD, added: “Government recognises the important role regional airports play in their areas and in regional development. Cork Airport recorded its busiest year on record in 2025 with 3.46 million passengers choosing to use the airport which plays an important role in connecting the region to global markets, attracting investment and boosting inbound tourism. This targeted support is an indication of the importance Government attaches to regional State airports developing sustainable energy practices.”

Niall MacCarthy Managing Director, Cork Airport, said: “We understand the need for more sustainable operations at airports, which is why Cork Airport is investing in Ireland’s largest solar carport today. We acknowledge the support of daa Group, the Department of Transport and the Department of Climate, Environment and Energy for making this exciting project happen. We will meet our 2030 energy reduction targets and we are proud to confirm that.”

Owen Power, CEO, Greenvolt Next Ireland, added: “Our aim is to make renewable energy easy, and this solar carport does exactly that by enabling Cork Airport to be more resourceful, have more control, and use more reliable infrastructure. It will also deliver tangible benefits from both a financial and environmental perspective. We look forward to working with Cork Airport to both creating the largest solar carport in Ireland and future-proofing the aviation sector.”

Think Before You Scan: That QR Code May Be a Scam

In quishing attacks, cybercriminals place QR codes containing malicious links in public places, such as parking meters or restaurants, or send these QR codes via email. Such attacks can result in financial losses, stolen personal data, or compromised device, cybersecurity experts warn.

January XX, 2026. At the start of January, the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) issued a warning against cyber attacks organised by North Korean cybercriminals who used fake QR codes to trick users into obtaining personal information. According to cybersecurity experts, similar attacks, also known as “quishing”, are on the rise not only in the US but in other countries, as cybercriminals look for new ways to profit.

Quishg (QR code phishing) is a phishing technique where cybercriminals try to trick users into scanning QR codes that lead to malicious websites. Organisations in several countries have issued warnings that bad actors place these QR codes on top of legitimate ones in public places such as kiosks, restaurants, or parking meters.

For example, last year, UK government institutions have warned users of fake QR stickers on parking machines, with victims being sent to spoofed payment pages. Meanwhile, the US Federal Trade Commission issued a similar warning about unexpected packages containing QR codes that led to phishing websites.

Such fake QR codes can also be shared online. For example, the FBI said that a North Korean state-sponsored cybercriminal group, called Kimusky, targeted employees of organizations by embedding malicious QR codes in an email. In one such instance, a QR code was presented as a way to download additional information.

According to cybersecurity experts at Planet VPN, a free virtual private network (VPN) provider, no matter where a fake QR code is placed, the scheme is similar. After scanning it, a user is often forwarded to a fake phishing website mimicking a legitimate one, such as a restaurant’s website, where cybercriminals may try to charge a user’s credit card.

According to Konstantin Levinzon, co-founder of Planet VPN, such scams can lead not only to financial losses but also to compromised devices.

“Quishing is phishing–just in a different wrapper. A QR code can lower people’s guard because this technology became ubiquitous only during the pandemic, and the threat still isn’t as widely recognized. It also shifts the “risky click” from a visible link to a quick scan, making the danger easier to miss. Attackers are refining these tactics every year and constantly finding new ways to trick users,” he says.

According to Levinzon, one reason why cybercriminals may favour QR codes in emails instead of regular phishing emails is that QR codes often bypass anti-phishing and scam filters, because these often analyze only text and links, but don’t analyze images.

And even if anti-spam filters in emails are equipped with QR code detection, cybercriminals often find new ways to bypass them, for example, by making QR codes in different colors.

Cybersecurity researchers at Proofpoint estimate that during the first half of last year, there were 4,2 million QR code-related threats. However, Levinzon says that the number is likely higher because many QR code scams are undetected.

When it comes to protecting against the growing threat, users are advised to be more deliberate about when and why they scan a QR code. If after scanning a QR code, a person is forwarded to a website that asks for payment or log-in details, this is a real warning sign.

Meanwhile, if a QR code is sent from an unknown sender via email, Levinzon advises contacting the sender directly before entering login credentials or downloading files.

“We recommend applying the same logic everywhere: stay skeptical whether you receive a message from a coworker or on your personal social media account. However, vigilance is only part of the story. To maximize security, users also need basic safeguards – use a VPN on public Wi-Fi, install updates promptly, use strong passwords, and enable multi-factor authentication on all accounts,” he says.

 

 

OSRAM reveals new wireless reversing camera system!

Original equipment (OE) manufacturer and renowned automotive specialist, OSRAM, has introduced another reversing camera to its extensive range, the ROADsight 4.3” Wireless Reversing Camera Kit (OWRCS4).

To improve visibility and safety for the driver and pedestrians in the vicinity, OSRAM has launched a new reversing camera OWRCS4, to complement its popular ROADsight 7” Wireless Reverseing Camera Kit (OWRCS7) launched earlier this year.

Being able to have access to a good quality rear camera allows drivers to thoroughly check the area behind them to ensure it’s clear and also show them what space is available when reversing. While a rearview mirror can give drivers a view of what is behind the vehicle, it lacks total visibility, which reversing cameras provide.

The OSRAM wireless reversing cameras, ROADsight REVERSE, can be fitted to 12V and 24V vehicles, including cars, light commercial vehicles, caravans, motorhomes, horse boxes – anything that may require a reversing camera.

The cameras are IP67 rated (dust and waterproof) and suitable for on and off road use. They are easy to install, and have a wireless connection of up to 100 metres in an open environment.

ROADsight 4.3” REVERSE – OWRCS4

The OSRAM ROADsight 4.3” REVERSE wireless camera kit (OWRCS4) has a 4.3 inch digital monitor (as the name suggests) and an adjustable suction cup mount. This product can support two different cameras, and the screen will split in two, so the driver can see both. Similar to the OWRCS7, it has on screen parking guidelines to assist the driver.

ROADsight REVERSE – OWRCS7

The OWRCS7, which is a ROADsight 7” REVERSE wireless camera has a seven inch compact AHD monitor and the ability to view a four way split screen for optional additional cameras. It comes with a wireless 1080p camera and also has night vision, giving drivers the ability to see clearly in dark situations as well as on screen parking guidelines. Further, it comes with an adjustable sunshade for the monitor so the driver can also see the screen clearly.

Both products are available now and include the monitor, camera and the correlating wires needed to install.

For more information visit: www.osram.co.uk/dashcameras

RRP:

  • OWRCS4: £119.00
  • OWRCS7: £169.00

English Spoken Everywhere: How Language Makes Dubai an Easy Destination for Brits

Suddenly arriving in a foreign country and feeling at home straight away isn’t always to be expected—but in Dubai, it’s nearly the standard for British tourists. The moment you arrive at the airport, English is everywhere: on signboards, on menus, spoken effortlessly by hotel staff, restaurant staff, shop staff, and even by the fellow who helps you with your Tesla rental Dubai at the airport. Add modernized infrastructure and technology-driven travel amenities, and it’s little wonder that Brits are going ga-ga for this Middle Eastern holiday spot.

No Language Barrier, No Stress

One of the biggest faffs of travelling overseas is trying to figure out a language which you don’t understand. Getting a road sign incorrect or accidentally ordering sheep brains for your dinner instead of, say, cabbage and potatoes, not being able to speak the lingo can be proper stressful. But in Dubai? No problem.

English is widely spoken across all sectors—tourism, retail, business, and even government services. The majority of Dubai’s population is made up of expats, and English is the default language for communication between people from all over the globe. That means asking for directions, sorting a SIM card, or booking a desert safari is smooth sailing.

Tech Meets Travel: Modern Mobility with a British-Friendly Twist

Let’s have a word about how Dubai’s modern tech scene pairs perfectly with its welcoming vibe. The city’s gone full throttle into the future with smart services at every turn—automated metro systems, app-based hotel check-ins, and digital payment options literally everywhere. For Brits used to tapping their card or mobile for everything, it’s like being back home, just sunnier.

And then there’s the cars. Tesla rentals Dubai are a thing now, so you can see this modern city in a car that matches the vibe. You want to glide past the Burj Khalifa quietly or pull up to Dubai Mall in a model X? Done—and save the planet, as well. It has plenty of charging points, sat-nav roads, and huge free parking areas, so EV travel not only becomes feasible but convenient.

Navigating the City Like a Local

Because of the ubiquity of English use, it’s easy to get around Dubai. GPS software works just as well and defaults to using English instructions. There are both English and Arabic street signs, and you can even recognize the street names—so you won’t be making that wrong turn into the camel market unless you really want to do it.

Want to pull over at a gas station (yes, even for your Tesla to get a snack)? Employees speak English. Reserving a valet service through your hotel? English. Posing a question to a local regarding the best shawarma place? Nine out of ten times, they will answer back in flawless English—perhaps even with a British accent!

Hospitality That Feels Familiar

Hotel reception, spa bookings, room service—every aspect of your holiday feels more at ease without the embarrassment of a language barrier. Staff are trained to international standards, and British tourists are so common that certain corporations make special efforts to cater to UK sensibilities. You might even be served Marmite on the breakfast buffet or have a “proper English cuppa” asked for you at a café.

This level of ease makes Dubai a top choice for solo travellers, families with kids, and even retirees. Whether you’re out on the town or chilling in your hotel, you’ll always feel understood.

Why Brits Keep Coming Back

No wonder, then, that Dubai is a favorite among British tourists. With English spoken everywhere, there is no guessing, no Google Translate, and no cringe-worthy mistakes. Instead, you get to be fully immersed in the experience—whether that’s shopping in high-end boutiques, basking in the sun on the beach, or tearing through the city’s stunning skyline in a cutting-edge Tesla.

And let’s not forget too the comfort that, if things do go wrong, you can get them sorted in double-quick time because help is only a clear, English-speaking phone call away.

The Verdict on Dubai

Dubai’s high-tech, high-luxury, English-speak environment is one of the easiest—and most exciting—places for Brits to visit. With renting a Tesla Dubai, gourmet room service, or local navigation at your beck and call, you’ll never feel out of place.

So if sun-kissed bliss where everything just works—and sounds familiar—is on your agenda, Dubai should top your list. Job done.

 

Parking Cupid – Now Someone Else Will Pay Your Parking Tickets

A new online service is taking the hassle out of getting a parking fine. https://www.parkingmadeeasy.com.au , an innovative online platform, has launched a new initiative giving drivers the chance to have their parking fines paid for them Australia-wide. Operating as https://www.parkingcupid.com globally and in cities such as New York, Toronto, Singapore, Chennai, Dubai and Christchurch where the service is the same there. This initiative, known as the ‘Parking Fine Protection’, offers a unique solution to the common problem of parking fines and is available exclusively to the platform’s members.

For just $15, members can join Parking Made Easy, gaining access to the ‘Parking Fine Protection’ initiative. This service not only provides the opportunity for fines to be reimbursed but also assists members with putting together appeal letters if they wish to challenge their fines. The platform is designed to alleviate the financial and emotional stress associated with parking fines, providing a supportive and practical solution for drivers.

Through the Parking Made Easy website, members can submit their parking tickets and potentially receive a reimbursement for the full fine amount. The funding to pay off these fines is generated through the crowdsourcing of the website’s membership fees, creating a community-driven approach to solving parking-related issues.

There is, however, a catch. Each day, a draw is held to decide who gets their fine paid off, with only one winner per day. If a member is the only person to have submitted a fine on a given day, their fine will be paid out. If multiple members submit fines, Parking Made Easy will randomly draw a name from the submissions. This element of chance adds a layer of excitement and anticipation, making the process engaging for all members.

Parking Made Easy is not just about parking fine protection ( see here for more info https://www.parkingmadeeasy.com.au/parking-fine-protection ). The platform is dedicated to enhancing the overall parking experience by connecting drivers with available parking spaces across Australia. Whether it’s driveways, garages, or parking lots, Parking Made Easy facilitates the rental process, offering a convenient solution for both parking space owners and drivers in need. This service is particularly beneficial in urban areas where parking is often scarce and expensive.

The platform ensures a seamless process through its user-friendly interface, making it easier than ever to find, book, and manage parking spaces. This ease of use, combined with the innovative ‘Parking Fine Protection’ initiative, positions Parking Made Easy as a leader in the parking solutions market.

About Parking Made Easy

Parking Made Easy is an innovative online platform that connects drivers with available parking spaces across Australia. By facilitating the rental of driveways, garages, and parking lots, Parking Made Easy offers a convenient solution for both parking space owners and drivers in need. The platform’s services include the unique ‘Parking Fine Protection’ initiative, which provides members with the chance to have their parking fines reimbursed. Committed to enhancing the parking experience, Parking Made Easy ensures a seamless process through its user-friendly interface, making it easier than ever to find, book, and manage parking spaces.

Sign up HERE