Niglon is a trusted name in the electrical industry, supplying a wide range of high-quality components to wholesalers across the UK. As a fourth-generation family-run business, Niglon combines decades of experience with a forward-thinking approach, striving to provide customers with reliable, innovative products. The company’s extensive range
includes over 4,500 items, from circuit protection to wiring accessories, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of the electrical market.
Niglon’s commitment to excellence doesn’t stop at products. With continuous investment in stock management systems and customer service improvements, the company guarantees on-time order
fulfilment at rates exceeding 98%. Safety is at the heart of Niglon’s mission, with many products undergoing rigorous third-party testing to ensure they meet the highest standards.
The company’s dedication to the industry extends beyond business. As a supporter of the Electrical Industries Charity, Niglon is proud to support those in need within
the electrical sector. Combining family values with a relentless pursuit of quality and innovation, Niglon remains a reliable partner for wholesalers, contractors and end-users alike.
Turn to page 14 for the full story.
ALWAYS FIRST WITH SAFETY AND INNOVATION
Single Module 10kA AFDD-RCBOs
ALWAYS FIRST WITH SAFETY AND INNOVATION
Siemens single module, miniature AFDD-RCBOs, are now available with a 10kA short-circuit breaking capacity, they have a switched neutral and are compatible with all current Siemens Alpha BSII MCB Distribution Boards.
10kA AFDD-RCBOs
Siemens S4 Switchboards, MCCB Panelboards and MCB Distribution Boards are now available through selected Electrium
Authorised Distributors, find out more: electrium.co.uk
Siemens single module, miniature AFDD-RCBOs, now come with 10kA short-circuit breaking capacity as standard, and are compatible with all current Siemens Alpha BSII MCB Distribution Boards.
Siemens S4 Switchboards, MCCB Panelboards and MCB Distribution Boards are now available through selected Electrium
Authorised Distributors, find out more:
GOVERNMENT’S HOUSING PLANS
Hello and welcome to the November issue of ECN!
As I write this, Chancellor Rachael Reeves has just delivered the Autumn Budget. She announced £500 million in new funding for the Affordable Homes Programme, increasing it to £3.1 billion, the biggest annual budget for affordable housing in over a decade. This brings total investment in housing supply to over £5 billion and supports the Government’s journey to delivering 1.5 million new homes.
A recent Checkatrade report states that the UK needs to find 1.3 million new skilled tradespeople and 350,000 new apprentices in order to deliver the Government’s housing and net zero targets.
Clive Holland, broadcaster on Fix Radio, made the point that the Budget did not outline how the country will address the skills deficit and the hiring of new apprentices to our industry.
He said, “The government will try the ‘fast-track’ approach to get inexperienced people to get qualified just so they can show off their ability to meet a housing target that no previous government has achieved. Over the upcoming five-year term, I believe we will look back and will have to ‘wake-up and smell the debris’ of the poorest house builds ever!”
Clive further commented, “The government has chosen to keep the freeze on fuel duty which
is appreciated, but we would’ve liked to have seen more on topics of mental health support, and recruitment in the industry.”
Another notable point from the Budget is that the rate of employer National Insurance will increase by 1.2 percentage points, to 15% from 6 April 2025.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), expressed his concerns on this, saying, “The Chancellor’s decision to significantly increase employers’ National Insurance contributions will create major headaches for firms looking to take on staff at a time when the building industry is in desperate need of new workers.”
And on the topic of renewable energy, some industry experts said that there was not enough specific detail on net zero goals in the Budget.
Christophe Williams, CEO of Naked Energy, said, “Our net zero goals haven’t been properly addressed in the Autumn Budget, and heat decarbonisation has been woefully neglected. Heat demand is something that takes up nearly 40% of the UK’s total emissions, so it’s critical to our climate goals that we tackle it.”
In this issue, we bring you the latest on Cables & Connections; Power & Renewables; Smart Buildings; and Wholesalers & Distributors, along with the latest news from the industry. Plus, in this month’s interview, I speak to the ECA’s Darren Crannis about life at the ECA, Amendment 4 and the future of the electrical industry.
I hope you enjoy the issue – see you next month!
GROUP EDITOR: CARLY WELLER
T: 01634 673163
E: carly@allthingsmedialtd.com
DEPUTY EDITOR: SIMON ROWLEY
T: 01634 673163
E: simon@allthingsmedialtd.com
SALES DIRECTOR: KELLY BYNE
T: 01634 673163
E: kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com
STUDIO: MARK WELLER
T: 01634 673163
E: mark@allthingsmedialtd.com
CEO: DAVID KITCHENER
T: 01634 673163
E: david@allthingsmedialtd.com
MANAGING DIRECTOR: IAN KITCHENER
T: 01634 673163
E: ian@allthingsmedialtd.com
ACCOUNTS
T: 01634 673163
E: susan@allthingsmedialtd.com
Carly Weller, Group Editor
OCTOPUS ENERGY UNVEILS ‘PROJECT MERCURY’
Octopus Energy Group has launched ‘Project Mercury’, a new alliance to set global standards for the integration of clean tech with smart energy systems.
First announced at the WIRED x Octopus Energy Tech Summit, Octopus aims to establish a global consortium of hardware manufacturers to simplify the integration of the 200 million clean tech devices that are predicted to be in use by 2030.
Known as ‘Mercury Enabled’, the new technical guidelines will certify device interoperability and functionality to support energy grids by balancing supply and demand.
DIGITAL TOOL TRAINING PACKAGES NOW AVAILABLE FROM LOGIC4TRAINING
The new standard will simplify the switch to clean tech devices such as heat pumps, batteries, solar panels and EV chargers for millions of customers – and most importantly, give them the confidence that their clean tech will work with other established brands.
‘Project Mercury’ will also foster collaboration across the industry to drive broad adoption, promoting consumer participation in global demand flexibility schemes, such as Octopus Energy’s ‘Saving Sessions’ and the uptake of smart energy tariffs.
Octopus Energy Group, octopus.energy
LIGHTING INDUSTRY BACKS ITS ENVIRONMENTAL CLAIMS WITH DATA
Logic4training has expanded its training packages to include essential digital tools for the trades, designed to kickstart business success for new and existing candidates.
Logic4training’s new entrant packages –including its gas Managed Learning Programme (MLP) and Domestic Electric Installer programme – will now include free website design and hosting with Aim High Websites, and more than six months’ free access to Gas Engineer Software, a business management tool that can be used to schedule jobs, reduce paperwork and issue gas safety certificates. Existing candidates can also benefit from huge discounts.
The exclusive website offer includes mobile-friendly professional design tailored to meet business needs, SEO set up for improved online visibility and secure hosting with email accounts and domain registration. Logo design and branding are also available, making it easy for engineers to establish and maintain an online presence.
Mark Krull, Managing Director at Logic4training, says, “Logic4training is delighted to partner with Aim High Websites and Gas Engineer Software to ensure newly qualified building services engineers have all the tools they need to succeed – including the digital ones. Millions of people search for local businesses online every day, so having a well-designed website that showcases your skills and ranks high on Google is essential to winning work.”
Logic4training, logic4training.co.uk
The lighting sector is embracing verified data on its sustainability claims, including Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). That was a key message from Circular Lighting Live 2024, a conference and exhibition held in London on 9 October that was packed with new information, initiatives and updates on all issues related to sustainability and lighting.
A theme throughout the day was the growing need for lighting manufacturers to provide credible third-party certified environmental metrics such as Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) and EPDs. Recolight used the event to unveil its partnership with One Click LCA, which provides lighting manufacturers with a luminaire-specific online tool to generate LCAs and EPDs.
The impact of AI on lighting product design and manufacture also featured strongly, as did the benefits of using additive manufacturing (3D printing) and newer, non-fossil fuel based bioplastics.
NVC LIGHTING PARTNERS WITH PACKAGING SUPPLIER
The importance of establishing an organisational baseline carbon footprint and setting carbon reduction targets was also covered in detail, supported by the availability of a new Recolight/ Auditel carbon assessment service.
NVC Lighting has boosted its environmental credentials by teaming up with packaging solutions provider, Springpack –saving costs and reducing plastic usage in the process.
Since implementing Springpack’s Armour Wrap 12 months ago, the NVC Lighting team has achieved an expected cost saving of £4,000, while saving 47kg of plastic compared with previous wrap mechanics.
Armour Wrap is a high performance, multi-layered pallet wrap that provides strong puncture resistance, that can be stretched more than a regular wrap and will increase load stability.
The partnership is another step in NVC Lighting’s continued attempts towards a more sustainable operation, with the company achieving Carbon Neutral status in 2022.
Chris Reilly, Warehouse Manager at NVC Lighting, says, “Working with Springpack and using Armour Wrap has had a really positive impact on day-to-day operations in the
The event was organised by Recolight and the 300 attendees, sponsors and speakers hailed the event as a resounding success.
Recolight, recolight.co.uk
warehouse. It’s a reliable, trusted service, helping us to increase efficiency and save plastic”.
The switch to working with Springpack has also helped to improve NVC Lighting’s ability to make reliable and accurate forecasts regarding packaging in line with customer demands.
NVC Lighting, nvcuk.com
IP65 From Dust to Downpour
B
Performs indoors, outdoors, and everywhere in between.
Engineered for robust environmental protection, FuseBox IP65 consumer units excel in challenging commercial, industrial, and domestic installations.
• 6 Module Aluminium Enclosures
• Sealable base and front cover with wire tag for security, drop-down lid to maintain IP65 rating
• Extra height enclosure ideal for standard RCBOs and AFDDs
• Includes a tail clamp and a removable DIN rail
• Empty enclosures come with a neutral cable and busbar
• Available: White (RAL9002) or Grey (RAL7021)
NEW
2024 SETS RECORD FOR CERTIFIED HEAT PUMP INSTALLATIONS
MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) has announced that 2024 is now officially the best year on record for certified heat pump installations in the UK.
In 2023, the UK saw 40,426 certified heat pump installations between January and December – a record at the time. However, as of early October 2024, the UK already reached that figure, with over 42,000 installations completed from January to the end of September.
Average monthly heat pump installations have risen by 39% compared to 2023, bringing the current number of certified heat pump installations in the UK to nearly 260,000. It is a milestone that underscores the growing
adoption of low carbon heating, with increasing consumer confidence in the benefits of heat pumps for warming homes.
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) continues to play a key part in the rollout of heat pumps across England and Wales, and applications to the BUS in 2024 have surged, with August 2024 seeing 2,890 applications – more than double the number in August 2023.
In Scotland, the Home Energy Scotland (HES) Grant and Loan offers similar support, with grants up to £7,500 for certified heat pump installations, and up to £9,000 for households that qualify for a rural uplift.
Online supplier, IronmongeryDirect, has launched its new TradeXtra Account, offering a range of benefits including up to £10,000 instant credit and the chance to opt into its TradeXtra Rewards loyalty programme.
To mark the occasion, the online supplier has launched a prize draw to win 150,000 loyalty points, which can be redeemed against a huge choice of rewards such as an exotic holiday for two, smart televisions and games consoles.
Along with instant interest-free credit for up to 60 days, the exclusive TradeXtra Account provides a host of other benefits including easy online account management where customers can pay off their account online, exclusive discounts and offers, and early access to promotions and prize draws, all with no annual fee.
By opening a TradeXtra Account, customers also have access to the company’s rewards programme, TradeXtra Rewards, whereby registered members receive one loyalty point for every £2 spent on products from IronmongeryDirect. These loyalty points can then be redeemed against a catalogue of rewards with thousands to choose from, including holidays, experience days, gift cards and more.
IronmongeryDirect, ironmongerydirect.co.uk
BRINGING ENGINEERING TO LIFE IN THE PRIMARY CLASSROOM
For the fourth year running, heating and hot water solutions provider, Baxi, is partnering with Primary Engineer to bring STEM into classrooms in the Preston area and inspire a new generation of engineers.
A group of the company’s engineers will be spending the next few months working with teachers in participating primary schools as they deliver the Primary Engineer Construction project to the children.
The programme kicked off in October as local teachers, supported by Baxi engineers and the Primary Engineer team, were introduced to this year’s construction projects: a shoebox tipper truck for the lower primary years and a lighthouse tower with an electrical circuit for the upper primary school children.
Primary Engineer is an educational not-for-profit organisation connecting engineering and technology professionals like Baxi with schools to provide a real-world link to engineering. This unique programme provides a unique opportunity to engage with engineering,
SCREWFIX LAUNCHES LEXCO RANGE WITH OVER 50 NEW PRODUCTS
Screwfix is offering the nation’s electricians even greater choice after launching its new Lexco commercial lighting range.
Available in-store and online, the new Lexco range includes more than 50 commercial lighting products, all supported by a seven-year guarantee. Lexco products are designed specifically for electricians and are easy to install and connect. Key products in the range include Pegasi LED bulkheads, which offer features such as microwave sensors, emergency battery and photocell sensors. In addition, the Lexco LED Alari battens feature a multi-entry exit point system with loop in/loop out functionality for easy wiring.
Matt Compton, Commercial Director at Screwfix, says, “The launch of our new Lexco commercial lighting range
further increases product choice and convenience for our customers. For professional electricians, Lexco’s wide range of solutions provides them with the high-quality products
they demand, enabling them to get electrical jobs done quickly, affordably and right first time.”
Screwfix, screwfix.com
meet and work with engineering professionals and develop vital skills.
Baxi, baxi.co.uk
TRADE
• View your account including quotes, orders and statements
• Create ‘Favourite’ lists for your different projects
• Ability to make a payment on your trade account
• View your saved pricing
Log in with your trade account to access these online features:
• Request a quote
• View your most frequently purchased products
• View your local store stock
• Multi-quote ordering
• Access to nationwide stock
• Click & Collect (within 1 hour)
Do you have multiple engineers working for you? Ask your local store about a more customised experience
SOLAR LEADER WELCOMES INDUSTRIAL STRATEGY
Following the release of the Government’s Industrial Strategy, lightweight solar expert, Solivus, believes that although sharpened focus on the progress of clean energy provides a positive step in the right direction, it’s crucial that this ambition is met with decisive, progressive action.
The Government’s new Industrial Strategy aims to set out a credible 10-year plan to reignite the UK’s major industries and kickstart economic growth.
Among the eight growth-driving sectors, the green paper identifies clean growth as a major pillar of the strategy, with substantial investments planned in renewable energy and green technologies.
With this in mind, Solivus believes the new strategy will come as welcome news for companies looking to build better sustainability into their operations who may have faced a myriad of obstacles such as an insufficiency of available support, educational deficits and lack of governmental stimuli.
BREATHING BUILDINGS OFFERS NEW CIBSE-APPROVED CPD
Jo Parker-Swift, CEO and Founder of Solivus, comments, “We’re pleased to see the publication of the Industry Strategy Green Paper. In particular, the recognition of the clean energy sector as a key enabler of economic growth is hugely welcome and reflective of our sector’s strategic importance in the journey to energy independence and economic security.
“But it must deliver on the promises made with decisive, progressive action. This means placing green in everything, using infrastructure to unlock net zero, backing businesses to go green, and introducing green policy and stimulus that leverage the insight and ambition clearly evident within the sector to drive change.
“With the right policy action, support and investment, we still have a chance for the UK to enhance its standing as a leader in the global race to net zero – but we must act now.”
Solivus, solivus.com
Breathing Buildings has announced that its ‘Ventilation for Education and Commercial Buildings’ Continuing Professional Development (CPD) course is now approved by CIBSE (Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers).
The course is designed to give attendees a better understanding of the different ventilation strategies that can be used in education and commercial buildings, with a focus on natural, hybrid and hybrid heat recovery technology, and why these systems are needed under current building regulations.
Breathing Buildings’ aim is to help construction professionals widen their knowledge regarding the different ventilation strategies available to ensure buildings have energy efficient ventilation that improves indoor air quality (IAQ) and thermal comfort.
The Breathing Buildings ‘Ventilation for Education and Commercial Buildings’ CPD provides delegates with a greater understanding of the basics of natural ventilation; mixing ventilation; new hybrid heat recovery and mixing systems; current requirements and legislation affecting buildings; ventilation strategies; and examples of natural ventilation applications.
Breathing Buildings, breathingbuildings.com
ELLIS ACHIEVES A WORLD-FIRST IN SUSTAINABLE CABLE MANAGEMENT
Ellis Patents has announced that it has become the first company to achieve an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for stainless steel cable cleats.
Ellis says that this achievement highlights the company’s dedication to sustainability, providing customers with verified environmental impact data for its products across their lifecycle, including metrics such as global warming potential and resource depletion.
The EPD certification provides a strong level of environmental transparency in the cable management industry. By offering clear, comparable information about the ecological footprint of its products, Ellis supports its customers in making informed, eco-conscious decisions, furthering global decarbonisation efforts.
In a strategic move to strengthen its commitment to environmental responsibility, Ellis has also appointed Sonia Villalobos (pictured right) as its new Environmental Engineer. Sonia’s role will focus on monitoring and reducing Ellis’ environmental impact, with the goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions. Her work will involve optimising
processes, developing sustainable materials, and embedding sustainability practices across the company.
Ellis Patents, ellispatents.co.uk
SCOLMORE COUNTERFEIT PRODUCT DISPUTE SETTLED
Scolmore has settled a dispute with Dean Electrical Wholesale, Premspec Group and Dennis Boseley, the founder of Dean Electrical.
The dispute arose after Scolmore became aware that Dean had been selling counterfeit accessory products in the UK, which it was mixing with, and selling alongside, genuine Scolmore products. The counterfeits had been purchased in China by Premspec, under the instructions of Dennis Boseley.
In a statement published on its website, Dean said that Premspec, Dean and Mr Boseley accepted that this amounted to trademark infringement, which they regret and for which they have paid compensation to Scolmore.
As soon as Scolmore became aware of the counterfeits, it took action to recover any remaining stock from Dean. The defendants have now paid Scolmore substantial damages and costs and given strict undertakings.
Managing Director of Scolmore, Kevin Beech, says, “The lesson here is clear – if you sell counterfeit Scolmore products, we will take action against you.”
Scolmore, scolmore.com
NICEIC ANNOUNCES THREE NEW TRAINING LOCATIONS
NICEIC has announced three new training locations in Birmingham, Ipswich and Bromley. This expansion signifies NICEIC’s dedication to providing businesses across the UK with convenient access to high-quality training programmes.
Available at JTL Training Centre, Birmingham:
• Level 3 Award in Initial and Periodic Inspection and Testing of Electrical Installations (2391-52) – available from 18 November
• Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations BS 7671:2018 (2382-22) – available from 27 November
Available at RT Training Solutions, Ipswich:
• Le vel 3 Award in Initial and Periodic Inspection and Testing of Electrical Installations (2391-52) – available on 11 November
Available at Bromley Campus, Bromley:
• Level 3 Award in the Design, Installation and Commissioning of Electrical Energy Storage Systems –available on 2-3 December
• Level 3 Award in the Requirements of Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems for Buildings BS 5839-1:2017 – available on 9-12 December
With the addition of Birmingham, Ipswich, and Bromley, NICEIC now offers training in a total of 16 locations across the UK.
Earlier this year, the certification and training body expanded its network with new locations in Penkridge, Telford, Bristol, London Gatwick, Dartford, Manchester and Maidstone.
NICEIC, niceic.com
NG BAILEY NET ZERO TARGET VALIDATED BY ENVIRONMENTAL BODY
NG Bailey, which includes NG Bailey’s IT Services, has become one of the first construction and engineering companies in the UK to have its long-term target to achieve net zero emissions by 2045 approved by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTI).
As part of its long-term target, NG Bailey has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions for sources it owns or controls directly (Scope 1 and 2) by 90%, as well as reducing emissions from its wider supply chain (Scope 3) by 90% by 2045.
The new target is in addition to its existing near-term targets, approved in 2022, which include a commitment to reduce absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2031, and that 75% of its suppliers will have science-based targets in place themselves by financial year 2027.
As well as setting future targets, NG Bailey has already taken significant steps to reduce its own emissions as part of its Net Positive responsibility strategy.
All the electricity at sites where NG Bailey has operational control is now from renewable sources. It is phasing out diesel and petrol cars within its fleet by 2025 and is also undertaking a trial of electric vans within its fleet.
Natalie Wilkinson, Head of Responsibility at NG Bailey, says, “Receiving this latest validation from the Science Based Targets Initiative for the company’s long-term net zero target demonstrates just how seriously NG Bailey is taking this as a business and its ongoing commitment to put more into society, the environment and the global economy than it takes out.”
NG Bailey, ngbailey.com
JOHN NOBLE RECEIVES LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
A business owner who has been devoted to the electrical industry for more than five decades has been recognised for his remarkable contribution with the Lifetime Achievement Award by SELECT, Scotland’s largest construction trade association.
John has run his own business, John Noble Electrical Contractors, in Bonnyrigg, Midlothian, for the past 45 years after starting out as an apprentice in the early 1970s.
Along the way he has encouraged a whole new generation of electricians into the industry by helping to train more than 50 apprentices – many of whom have gone on to set up their own businesses.
After receiving his award, John said, “We operate in an industry which is constantly changing as we stay at the forefront of the transition to net zero, and it is a great honour for me to be recognised by my peers with this award.
“I would like to express my gratitude to my family for their ongoing support as I couldn’t have done anything without them. I would also like to thank everyone at SELECT for their guidance over the years and I am still proud to be a member.”
SELECT, select.org.uk
MOVERS & SHAKERS…
Scolmore Group has appointed Dan Ellams as the Elucian National Sales Manager. Dan will be responsible for overseeing the recruitment of a newly formed external sales team, with a view to building on and developing the company’s sales growth business strategy.
Hanwha Vision has appointed Rolf Didion as Country Manager for the DACH region. Rolf will lead the region’s sales strategy, team operations and spearhead the company’s growth across this important market.
GTEC has appointed a Business Development Manager, Stacey Youatt, who has joined the UK renewables training provider following its part acquisition by the United Living Group (ULG).
Definity™ Complete Matt Bronze
A perfect blend of elegance and modern appeal. This new refined Matt Bronze finish adds a touch of timeless sophistication to any interior, making it an ideal choice for both domestic and commercial spaces.
INTERCHANGEABLE MODULES
All Definity™ Complete switch plates are modular as standard, allowing you to create virtually any switch plate you require. The modules are all easily and quickly exchanged or mounted onto unfurnished plates by means of a simple single screw fixing.
NO COMPROMISE — NIGLON PRIORITISES QUALITY AND SAFETY
Niglon is a family-run company with over 80 years of experience in supplying components to electrical wholesalers. It strives to be a convenient one stop shop for a range of electrical items, whilst continued investment ensures the customer gets the right product, on time, at a competitive price.
Originally known as S D Hinley, the company started life in the early 1940s as a sales agency by John Hinley’s father, Stanley. After the Second World War, John joined him and the two split up the UK and would compete each week for how much commission they could earn. As times changed there was a need to develop an own brand business, and this was incorporated as Niglon Limited in 1966. To begin with, business was tough and John – as the company’s only salesperson – would travel all over the UK. However, his affable personality and plain-dealing business ethics (his word was very much his bond), combined with connections within the industry, meant that over the next three decades (with the help of his son Simon and business colleague Jeremy Wilson) they built the business into a strong independent company.
With day-to-day operations now handled by the fourth-generation, Oliver and Jake, Niglon’s team is fuelled by that same desire to constantly innovate and improve its offering; be that in product or the service offered. That’s why Niglon has committed itself to highlighting the need for better safety standards across the industry. In addition, the company regularly updates its product ranges, and has invested a great deal of time and money into new ways of working which ensure a smoother customer journey and better stock availability. Coupled with the wealth of experience held by the company’s staff, it is these traits which have established a sterling reputation as a trusted supplier to the electrical wholesale market.
Investment
Over the years, Niglon has invested in stock and systems to improve customer service and product availability, positioning and maintaining itself as a key partner to the electrical industry. The company offers over 4500 SKUs covering a wide range of products, including circuit protection, wiring accessories and industrial accessories.
A huge investment in the amount of stock held at the company’s Midlands headquarters, along with new purchasing systems put in place to monitor and order stock, has seen product availability vastly improve. Long-standing customers will have seen a big difference in the company’s ‘On Time In Full’ order fulfilment rates, which are now consistently recorded in excess of 98% each month. The company
guarantees a level of availability which is among the best in the industry, making Niglon a reliable bet when it comes to securing the products you need, when you need them. This is especially pertinent given the sourcing issues encountered worldwide over the past few years.
Quality
Niglon prioritises quality and safety across all its products. The company believes that no product should compromise on these aspects and, with this in mind, offers robust product guarantees. To ensure high standards, for example, Niglon wiring accessories and circuit protection products undergo third-party testing. The company is dedicated to maintaining these practices and advocates for industry-wide adoption of third-party testing to enhance safety across the board. Niglon has also recently introduced Kitemark-approved switched sockets in its Median and Arctic ranges. This certification provides customers with extra assurance about the quality control processes in place and will help expand the company’s presence in larger projects.
For several years, the electrical accessories market has been characterised by a race to the bottom, as oversupply and an increasing lack of product knowledge within the market leads to lower and lower prices being offered.
While everyone likes a bargain, there are several issues with this price-driven approach to the market for the supply chain, for installers and for end users. For the supplier and wholesaler, it means increasingly low margins on commodity products.
Meanwhile, for the installer, lower prices are usually delivered at the expense of design innovation, quality of materials and safety features, and, for the end user, a cheap electrical accessory screwed to the wall results in a compromise of the overall look of their interior, at a time when people are more focused on style and design than ever before.
It’s not all business
Niglon became the first corporate partner of the Electrical Industries Charity in 2021 and has since become a regular benefactor. The EIC has been established for more than 100 years, and its aim is to support anyone in need within the electrical industry (including former workers) through a wealth of practical, emotional and financial support – as well as signposting towards specialised services.
Niglon’s shareholders agreed they wanted to give something back to the industry, as a show of appreciation and to give support to a much-valued lifeline to many working within the electrical industry and their families. The company has also worked to highlight and spread awareness of the fantastic work of the charity in the industry through traditional media, company marketing materials, and on social media.
Niglon is not – and never wishes to be – a faceless organisation where its customers become nothing more than a number on an order sheet. The company is proud to be a fourth-generation family business – that’s part of the reason why personal service is so important to Niglon, and why the quality of each interaction it has with wholesalers and contractors matters most. It’s not just about how much wholesalers value Niglon, it’s about the entire supply chain including contractors and the end-users too.
Acrospire was appointed by Mark Bailey Associates to manage the design, survey and supply of an LED handrail solution to increase safety and kerb appeal of one of the UK’s top restaurants.
The exclusive Smiths restaurant on Wapping High Street stands out among its many attractions. Featured in OpenTable’s top 100 UK restaurants, it offers fine dining with breathtaking views of Tower Bridge and The Shard. The restaurant’s entryway, including access to the houseboat pier, required a significant safety upgrade, prompting a lighting project to illuminate the steps with an integrated LED handrail solution.
Installation was carried out by a council-appointed contractor. The solution centred around Acrospire’s Rail Light Eco, featuring 70° lenses in 3000K; which, integrated into a grade 316 stainless steel handrail, provides an average of 50 lux and is compliant with DDA regulations.
This system enhances visual acuity while reducing light pollution, protecting
GREEN LIGHT FOR 48MW STAFFORDSHIRE SOLAR FARM
local riverside habitats and ensuring low glare for users. Its beam spread and orientation flexibility, combined with its vandal resistance (rated >IK10), provide high performance and durability.
Anesco has received planning permission from South Staffordshire Council for the development of a 48MW solar farm in Coven, Staffordshire.
The 143-acre site will generate enough green electricity to power around 13,000 homes and save approximately 10,000 tonnes of carbon from being produced annually. Its construction is expected to get underway in early 2025.
The site will benefit from advanced biodiversity improvements designed to support local wildlife and some of the country’s most at-risk species. These improvements go beyond planning requirements and will provide an estimated biodiversity net gain of upwards of 200%.
Once complete, the solar farm will be operational for 40 years, after which time the panels and infrastructure will be removed and the land returned to agricultural use.
Anesco CEO, Hildagarde McCarville, comments, “We’re delighted to have secured approval to move ahead with this project. The solar farm at Coven will generate significant benefits for the environment and form part of the renewable infrastructure and security of supply that the country so vitally needs, if we are to achieve net zero and the government’s target of 70GW of solar by 2035.”
Anesco, anesco.com
Installing the illuminated handrails at Smiths restaurant has significantly enhanced the safety of patrons’ access to the restaurant and houseboat pier. The project demonstrates a commitment to
combining safety with aesthetic appeal, ensuring the lighting solution is effective and environmentally friendly.
Acrospire, acrospire.co
ADVANCED’S FIRE PROTECTION INSTALLED IN THE HEART OF ALDERSHOT
The newly revitalised Union Yard development in Aldershot now boasts a cutting-edge Advanced MxPro 5 fire safety system, installed by Integrated Fire Safety Systems (IFSS) to provide robust protection for this scheme in the heart of Aldershot town centre.
The Union Yard development is a transformative project that has revamped a key area of the town centre. It includes 82 private apartments, 18 affordable rent apartments, 128 studio units for UCA student accommodation, 13 commercial units, lower ground-level parking, and a landscaped public realm.
To ensure the safety of residents, students and visitors, the development has been equipped with a comprehensive fire safety system. The project included the
installation of an Advanced MxPro 5 fire panel, which provides robust fire detection and alarm coverage for the common corridors throughout the complex.
Iain Clenaghan, Commercial Manager at IFSS, highlights the importance of the integration, saying, “The complexity of this project required a fire safety solution that could seamlessly integrate with various systems while providing reliable protection across the development. The Advanced MxPro 5 panel was the ideal choice for its versatility and ease of integration, allowing us to deliver a comprehensive fire safety system that meets regulatory standards.”
Advanced, advancedco.com
INTEGRAL LED LIGHTS UP THE MINI GOLF EXPERIENCE
Integral LED, in partnership with installer Anytronics, has successfully transformed the atmosphere at The Putt Hutt, Clarence Pier, with state-of-the-art LED lighting.
The mini-golf course now boasts vibrant, dynamic lighting solutions that enhance the visitor experience.
The solution utilises Integral LED Neon Flex Bendable Strip with Top Bend, providing seamless RGB illumination for stunning visual effects and IP67 ingress protection, helping to simplify cleaning and maintenance. The strips’ silicone extrusion allowed flexibility for the course’s curves, reducing the need for cutting and connections, resulting in quicker, easier installation and a cleaner end effect.
BGEN OPENS SOUTH WEST MANUFACTURING AND OFFICE FACILITY
Anytronics says, “The end result was absolutely loved… after only seeing a 5m test section in one area, they couldn’t
BGEN has opened a 5,545ft2 office and manufacturing facility in Bridgwater, Somerset. The move, in conjunction with plans to recruit 150 people to help drive the economy and support the local community, is to help deliver a major electrical and instrumentation project at the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station.
“In recent times, the business has expanded significantly as we continue to help deliver major energy security and transition projects across the UK,” says David Blackburn, Senior Project Manager at BGEN. “We’re looking for 150 candidates at all levels to help deliver an £84 million project at Hinkley Point C, including office-based professionals and skilled craftspeople.”
BGEN’s new purpose-built facility will initially see 40 people based at the Bridgwater site. The manufacturing unit will be used to pre-assemble materials for the Hinkley Point C project, which is set to commence in April 2025. As part of this project, BGEN will design, supply and install the electrical and instrumentation packages for the Unit 1 and Unit 2 Turbine Halls of the nuclear power plant.
150 job opportunities will become available across health and safety, planning, project management and quality control. The business will also be looking for experienced site supervisors, site managers, electricians, welders and scaffolders. BGEN is also looking to the future and will train up to 10 apprentices during the project – local candidates are encouraged to apply.
BGEN, b-gen.co.uk
have imagined it would look this good. The tape provided a perfectly homogenous display with cascading colours that were incredibly smooth.”
The project highlights Integral LED’s ability to blend creativity with performance for unique, engaging spaces.
Integral LED, integral-led.com
QUEST ELECTRICAL SOLVES POWER CHALLENGES FOR SOLIDUS
International packaging specialist, Solidus, has expanded its Yorkshire production site after seeking specialist help from QUEST Electrical to overcome challenges with power supply.
The manufacturer was expanding part of its UK operation, Solidus Packaging Solutions, and required a mains upgrade and a full suite of high quality cables, cabinets and section boards.
The three-month, £260,000 project allowed the Skipton factory to increase productivity without impacting on its ongoing operations as QUEST installed thermosetting cables, distribution equipment, earths and isolators to allow mains power to safely branch out to new locations.
QUEST’s specialists installed:
• 2 x 4c – 185mm SWA XLPE in parallel to the 630A distribution equipment with separate earths
• 1 x 4c – 185mm SWA XLPE to the 400A distribution equipment with separate earth
• 1 x 4c – 150mm SWA XLPE for the 315a section board with separate earth
• 1 x 4c – 95mm SWA XLPE with separate earth for the 250A distribution board
These are run in on the 600mm heavy duty containment and then branch off to the locations required. The installation allowed Solidus to harness a new production area within the factory and with sufficient power requirements.
QUEST Electrical, electrical-contracting.co.uk
SPOTLIGHT ON TALENT
In October, ECN had the privilege of attending NET’s annual Celebration of Skills, an event dedicated to honouring the remarkable efforts and accomplishments of emerging talents in the industry.
NET organises SkillELECTRIC, a leading skills competition for the electrical sector in the UK. Each year, top electrical apprentices from all over the country compete in regional heats for an opportunity to secure a spot in the grand final.
This year’s SkillELECTRIC UK Final will take place at Oldham College during the week of 18 November. Competitors will face a two-day electrical installation challenge, judged by renowned industry professionals who will determine the gold medallist and the titleholder of the UK’s best young electrician. Medals will also be awarded for second and third places.
This year’s panel of judges includes Neil McManus from Scolmore, Simon (Sam) Donaghy from Certsure/NICEIC, Alex Robinson from NICEIC, and Craig Johnston from SECTT. Following the success of last year’s solar PV task, this year’s event will introduce an electric vehicle charging task.
SkillELECTRIC is uniquely aligned with the WorldSkills network, meaning that those who excel and meet the age criteria will have a chance to represent the UK in the Electrical Installation competition at WorldSkills 2026 in Shanghai, China.
The eight top performers from the recent national qualifying heats, acknowledged at the movie-themed Celebration of Skills, include:
• Charlie Moore – Bramham Electrical/College of West Anglia
• Ewan Thomas – JGM Services Electricians/SECTT
• Fabien Maciejewski – Former T Level Learner at Leicester College
• John-Ross Campbell – A Campbell Electrical Services/SECTT
• Jonathan Gough – MD Electrics/Southern Regional College
• Kalum Low – MS Electrical and Renewables/SECTT
• Milly Smith – CS McKerlie Electrical Services/SECTT
• Richard Westwood – Dudley College
The event also highlighted Daniel Knox’s exceptional performance at WorldSkills 2024. Competing in Lyon, France, Daniel stood out among 30 international electricians, achieving a commendable fifth place. Additionally, several ‘Industry Champions’ were recognised at the event, including Arena Training Centre, Beau Associates, Birmingham Electrical Training, Craig Wiltshire Assessment Services and SparkyNinja, for their support of learners during the recent collapse of Options Skills.
Options Skills was a training provider that offered costly qualification packages – most of which were unnecessary for achieving qualified status. The company’s downfall left many learners in a difficult situation, lacking access to their records, uncertain about the fate of their submitted evidence, and feeling hopeless about getting their money back. The highlighted companies played a crucial role in supporting learners throughout this difficult time.
ECN wishes all finalists the best of luck in this year’s SkillELECTRIC UK Final!
NET, netservices.co.uk
The SkillELECTRIC finalists
PPE WITH STYLE!
Working in challenging environments is all part of the job for electricians and electrical contractors, but the right workwear will keep you comfortable, protected and safe.
You’ve likely faced every working condition imaginable – navigating cramped lofts, trudging through building sites or handling tasks in the cold, heat and rain. These demanding environments make the right workwear essential, ensuring not just comfort but, most importantly, safety. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) isn’t just a requirement, it’s the foundation of a safe and productive day on the job.
For electricians, safety boots are always the first line of defence. Your boots or shoes should comply with established industry safety benchmarks, each of which signifies the degree of protection offered. The basic safety level is SB, which guarantees toe protection against impacts up to 200 joules. S1-rated boots also have anti-static protection, resistance to fuel oil and energy absorption in the heel area, making them suitable for indoor work away from moisture. For outdoor work or conditions where water is present, S2 boots are advisable as they offer the same protection as S1 with added benefits of preventing water penetration and absorption in the upper part of the boot. S3 boots take it a step further by providing resistance to midsole penetration, which is essential if you’re working outdoors in wet conditions and where there’s a possibility that sharp objects might pierce the sole.
All safety footwear must feature a protective toe cap. Steel toe boots are known for their rugged strength, protecting against heavy impacts, but they are not always breathable and can be heavy. Composite toe boots, made from materials like plastic or fibreglass, are lighter, offer non-conductive protection against electricity and are more comfortable in extreme weather. Whether you’re rewiring
a home in the heat of summer or repairing outdoor lighting in the middle of winter, composite boots provide reliable protection without the added weight. If you’re working near electrical hazards, potential fires or under extreme weather conditions, composite safety boots tick all the boxes. When selecting footwear, it’s also important to choose boots and shoes that will stay comfortable all day. Safety boots that offer cushioning and shock absorption, such as padded insoles and midsoles, will naturally minimise foot strain. Arch support helps too. Moisture-wicking linings will keep your feet dry and comfortable under any conditions and some boots even come with antibacterial and temperature-regulating footbeds for optimal freshness and hygiene. Consider the construction materials of the footwear too; for example, Carhartt’s Rugged Flex material is tough yet flexible, providing necessary give in key areas to allow your ankles and feet to move and bend easily.
Eye essentials
Electrical work frequently involves cutting, grinding or drilling, all of which can create flying debris. Safety glasses therefore are an absolute must in your toolkit and should meet EN 166, the European standard covering the requirements for protective eyewear. Polycarbonate is the ideal choice when choosing safety glasses as it is almost unbreakable; it is 250 times more resistant to impact than glass and 10 times more resistant than standard plastic. Polycarbonate lenses are also thinner and lighter than other materials and naturally block out 100% of the sun’s UV rays – one of the biggest risks to eyes. It might be colder now, but a low winter
sun is just as dangerous to eyes as the sun in the heat of summer.
Knee pad protection
Bending, crouching and kneeling are all part of an electrician’s daily routine, whether you’re installing sockets, running wires under floors or connecting circuits in tight spaces. But repeated strain on your knees can lead to long-term injuries, making knee protection essential. It’s no surprise that with all that goes on in the construction industry, it has some of the highest incidents of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) reported to the HSE.
Knee pads provide a crucial cushion against hard surfaces, reducing the risk of impact injuries, helping to maintain proper alignment and reducing strain on the knee joints. Consistent use of knee protection can also prevent chronic conditions such as bursitis and arthritis, which can occur among tradespeople who do not use proper knee protection. Work trousers with integrated knee pad pockets offer electricians the protection they need without restricting movement. Whether you’re working on hard surfaces or squeezing into confined areas, knee pads can reduce strain and help maintain proper joint alignment, keeping you injury-free in the long run.
For electricians, investing in the right workwear isn’t just a precaution, it’s a long-term commitment to health, safety and job performance. Proper gear ensures that you can work confidently in any environment. By prioritising your safety today, you’re not only safeguarding yourself but also ensuring your ability to keep working effectively for years to come.
Carhartt, carhartt.com
Repeated strain on your knees can lead to long-term injuries
5 FINISH OPTIONS SOLID CONSTRUCTION - The Juno is constructed from Aluminium making for a robust track head.
IDEAL HEATING OPENS ITS FIRST NET ZERO BUILDING
Ideal Heating recently unveiled its first ever net zero building, heated by one of its own air source heat pumps.
The new £2m, 3,700ft 2 office building is now home to Ideal Heating’s logistics and administrative teams in Hull.
It is the first of the company’s buildings to be net zero for carbon emissions, thanks, in part, to 92KW of clean electricity generated by rooftop solar panels. Around 800 people are currently employed at the site.
The single-storey office building is equipped with a commercial Ecomod air source heat pump, providing reliable, low carbon heating in all seasons.
Ideal Heating is part way through a £60m investment programme at its Hull site, including new manufacturing,
distribution and research and development facilities to support heat pumps and other renewable technologies.
Engineering Director, Helen Villamuera, says, “The opening of our new office building is the latest significant milestone in our 100-year-plus history in Hull.
“As the first net zero building opened at National Avenue, it reflects our commitment to sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint across all of our operations.
“The transition to net zero is a journey every business must embark on. At Ideal Heating, we’re very proud to be at the forefront of our industry’s transition to renewable technologies like heat pumps, as well as our focus on sustainability in all our operations.”
Ideal Heating is part way through a £60m investment programme
The 18kW Ecomod heat pump is accompanied by 10 Nanto water heaters from Atlantic, a sister brand within parent company Groupe Atlantic’s product portfolio. Nanto water heaters are designed to be compact and modern, fitting into small spaces and providing a small quantity of water locally to where it is needed.
The new office building features an open-plan working space, a kitchen area and private meeting rooms.
It also provides employees with an outdoor seating area and a welfare space to relax and unwind in.
Work on the building began in September 2023, when Hull-based Johnson Construction was appointed as the contractor to build the facility.
Andrew Johnson, Managing Director of Johnson Construction, says, “We’re really proud to be handing over this building, which we hope will make a real difference to the team at Ideal Heating.
“As one of our company’s flagship buildings for the year, it’s a showcase of the truly sustainable and environmentally friendly projects we have the capability and expertise to deliver.”
UK Technology Centre
Another significant investment being made on site includes a £19m research and development facility to support low carbon technologies.
The UK Technology Centre will support the development of low carbon technologies, including heat pumps, and drive further innovation in the way homes can be heated sustainably.
The facility is set to be operational in early 2025 and will house a range of simulators, test rigs and environmental chambers, all of which will advance the efficiency and performance of Ideal Heating’s product portfolio.
The UK Technology Centre will provide a purpose-designed new home for the company’s R&D team, which has an increasing range of engineering roles related to design, development, electronics, simulation and product testing.
Laboratory facilities within the 3,500m2 building will enable R&D teams to simulate a range of scenarios and conditions to test new innovations and advancements.
The centre will also house a heat pump testing area, workshop spaces and a training room.
Ideal Heating, idealheating.com
STAY AHEAD OF THE CURVE: GET INVOLVED AND KEEP LEARNING
In this month’s interview, Carly Weller and Darren Crannis, ECA Technical Manager, discuss life at the ECA, Amendment 4 and the future of the electrical industry.
CW: Hi Darren, please tell us about yourself and how you got into the sector.
DC: I owe this to my Dad. He started his early career as an electrician before he moved into the waste and recycling industry. I was forever at his side from an early age when it came to wiring or other DIY projects.
From that, I started my early electrical career with Motorola, mainly building research, development and testing laboratories. I was very fortunate that they spotted I had further interests, and they sponsored me through university to study Electronic and Electrical Engineering. I later became a design engineer focusing on digital telecommunications.
After a 10-year period in digital design and telecommunication infrastructure, I missed electrical work, so I started my own electrical and technical contracting company. The first few years were spent mostly on domestic properties to build up the business. I then spent 10 years designing, installing, maintaining and periodically inspecting predominantly critical power systems and installations such as national telecommunication infrastructure, data centres, schools and educational establishments, and temporary power solutions for events.
CW: Tell us about your current role – what are you responsible for and what does the normal working day consist of?
DC: No two days are the same. They never have been throughout my career, which is why I’m so passionate about it!
At ECA, much of my time is spent helping to develop and write British Standards, such as BS 7671, and making our Members’ voices heard in front of national committees, stakeholders and the wider industry.
I produce written guidance to help address industry concerns and promote best industry practice, including writing and delivering CPD presentations, where I’m most at home and often found in a stripy pink jacket standing on a stage giving helpful information and guidance to Members all over England and Wales.
One of the most important parts of my role is directly speaking with Members on our ECA technical helpline, where Members can call in or email us with any technical issues or challenges they may have.
CW: What are the best parts of your role? What are the most challenging?
DC: The best part is definitely sharing knowledge, presenting and engaging with Members and industry. I’m really
passionate about this industry and helping those within it to grow.
The most challenging part of my job is ‘reaching consensus’ for our Members at some of the committees I represent them on. A camel is a horse designed by committee, as they say, and reaching agreement with the wider industry can occasionally take a lot longer than expected.
Ranked #1
CW: What in your career are you most proud of?
DC: I’ve enjoyed a successful career from starting and growing a business, including bringing new talent into the industry to progression into Standards Development. The move to ECA as a Technical Manager is definitely a highlight for me, where I feel I make a difference each day helping over 3,000 Member companies and 27,000 electrical operatives, designers and inspectors, as well as helping to improve Standards and guidance for the wider industry.
CW: What’s next for you and ECA?
DC: It’s been a busy past few months engaging with Members on the Amendment 4 DPC. ECA will now be preparing to represent its Members’ views on the JPEL committees whist the new Amendment is finalised ahead of release in 2026.
One of ECA’s priorities is the safe transition to net zero. The future of electrification in the UK is moving rapidly. For some, the importance of safety and skills gets forgotten when the speed of travel is so fast. To combat this, ECA is launching a digital series aimed at policy makers and other stakeholders to engage them with the opportunities of net zero journey, and emphasise the importance of safety.
The transition to net zero relies on adherence to Building Safety Regulations and competent, qualified electricians to provide safe and effective solutions for consumers and the whole country.
The new series, called Electrifying Our Future, will launch in February 2025.
CW: What do you make of the proposed changes to the Wiring Regulations, Amendment 4?
DC: I welcome this proposed amendment, which crucially considers fast evolving technologies supporting a safe transition to net zero. The amendment will further equip our sector with new requirements to safely design and install stationary secondary batteries, low voltage generation sets, power over Ethernet (PoE) and functional earthing and bonding for communication technology equipment (ICT).
CW: Do you have any career advice for people starting out in the industry?
DC: It’s a wonderful industry, and hugely varied. The days of an electrician only installing lights and sockets are long gone. There are opportunities for work everywhere. Don’t be left behind, get involved and never stop learning. Vast amounts of credible information and CPD is available everywhere too: the old mantra of ‘learn once and practice forever’ no longer applies.
DC: What do you think should be made a priority for the electrical sector?
DC: Addressing the industry skills shortage. ECA Members are telling us that this remains their single biggest challenge. Given the electrical industry’s importance to delivering net zero, new housing and other government missions, this isn’t just our problem, but the whole nation’s. Electrical apprentice start numbers are already at record highs, both in England and Wales – but these still aren’t enough. We need at least 10,000 new starts a year
in England, compared to 7,000 currently; and 700 a year in Wales, where last year we reached 600. Declining apprentice completion rates are also a cause for concern. Then, of course, there is the age-old issue around college courses, where in England typically only 10% of full-time learners ever progress into an apprenticeship at all.
CW: Where do you see the industry in five to 10 years?
DC: I see the role of the electrical contractor changing into more of a systems integrator role. Of course, equipment will still require connecting together safely, however, the smart money will be in system engineering and integration, software and service contracts, where one-off construction projects become lifetime revenue generators for the industry. We are already seeing this with small prosumer installations, and this is only set to continue and grow.
CW: What are your interests away from work?
DC: As a Dad, it’s spent with my family, usually as the family taxi driver to and from various sporting interests with our two boys, from swimming to rugby. I also volunteer as a first-aider and undertake other voluntary work with my local Rotary Club.
I have a very understanding wife, who is also in the electrical business, and she gives me time off every couple of weeks as I’m a fan of the egg-shaped ball and can be found at ‘The Rec’ wearing a cherry and whites shirt (yes, a Gloucester supporter with a Bath season ticket!).
ECA, eca.co.uk
Third Party Type Tested
Retained screws
Fitted on the enclosure lid for ease of fixing and convenience, no more lost cover screws
Optional lock device 4
Lid can be latched open for convenience during installation tests and circuit identification 3
Unique hinge lid design
Finger operated mechanical lid clip
Safety feature. Needs to be pressed to be opened 2
The Defender 2.0 range of Consumer Units has been stylishly designed to seamlessly blend in with today’s modern living environments whilst at the same time offering enhanced safety and complete compliance with the 18th Edition wiring regulations BS7671:2018.
Surface & Flush Mount Consumer Units
Snappable copper floating busbar with easy secure clip-in busbar cover (For faster installation and maximum flexibility)
STANDING THE TEST OF TIME — WIN A SANGAMO ROUND PATTERN TIME SWITCH
Sangamo has been manufacturing its renowned Round Pattern Time Switches for more than 65 years, with over 11 million units sold to date. Now, the company is giving one lucky reader the chance to win one!
The Round Pattern Time Switch is trusted by installers for a wide variety of applications – not just because of its reliability but also its ease of use. The simple dial and levers make setting the switch up for daily fixed timings a breeze with no complicated menu options to navigate through. All Round Pattern Time Switches are also 20A rated, providing a more robust switch than most other products on the market.
The switches are split into four categories:
• Basic ‘black dial’ 24-hour time clock for simple on and off switching of up to 20A
• Standard 24-hour ‘red dial’ switch with added 100-hour battery reserve
• Solar Range – specially designed for lighting applications
• Digital Range – the newest addition combines the high capacity and reliability of the electro-mechanical models but provides full seven-day programming.
Sangamo regularly hears that its Round Pattern Time Switches are still going strong after 40 and 50 years. When people eventually need a new switch, they reasonably assume, because of its age, that it might not be possible to get a direct like for like replacement. However, because the original design has never needed to be updated, an RPTS you buy today is completely interchangeable with one bought decades ago.
The Sangamo range of specialist time switches and heating controls is distributed through Scolmore Group company, ESP.
ESP, espuk.com
To be in with a chance of winning a Sangamo Round Pattern Time Switch, simply answer the following questions correctly:
1. How long has Sangamo been producing its Round Pattern Time Switches?
a) More than 65 years
b) More than 80 years
c) More than 100 years
2. What is the Amp rating on all Sangamo Round Pattern Time Switches?
a) 20A
b) 5A
c) 15A
3. Which Scolmore Group company distributes the Sangamo range of specialist time switches and heating controls?
a) Unicrimp
b) Ovia
c) ESP
Contact Preferences
September Competition
The winner of the September competition – a Sangamo Three Channel Programmable Thermostat, courtesy of ESP –was Mick Loftus.
Closing date
All entries must be returned by 30 November 2024. The editor’s decision is final. For the full terms and conditions, visit electricalcontractingnews.com/ competition-terms.
The name of the winner will be published in the January issue of ECN.
*Prize not exchangeable.
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All plans are created by our fully qualified design engineers PROJECT DESIGNS
We have the experience & capability to cover some of the UK’s biggest sites LARGE COMMERCIAL PROJECTS
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Range of 2mp, 5mp and 8mp cameras to capture every required detail CAPTURE EVERYTHING
Full site specifications and detailed drawings sent out with every design SPECIFICATIONS
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Site visits available to determine requirements of our customers SITE VISITS
IT’S IMPORTANT TO HAVE THE RIGHT SUPPORT
Jake Green, Head of Technical Engagement with Scolmore Group, takes a look at some of the ways to avoid undue strain on cables, as well as delving deeper into the requirements of BS 7671.
Wiring systems must be selected and erected to avoid damage to the sheath or insulation of cables and their terminations
(Regulation 522.8.1) during installation, use and maintenance. To ensure the requirements of this regulation are met, cables not installed in conduit or trunking are typically supported using a range of clips, saddles, band, glands and ties.
Requirements
All cables and conductors must be supported in such a way that the level of mechanical strain which naturally exists will not cause either the cable/conductor or the terminations to be compromised (522.8.5). Furthermore, all cable supports
FIRE FIXTURES THAT CAN HANDLE THE HEAT
Prevent cables from falling and becoming an obstruction during a fire
Cable Clips
Stainless Steel Mounts Saddle Bar Spacers Masonry Screws
Metal Cable Cleats All-Round Banding
Fire Safe Cable Clips
and enclosures shall not have sharp edges liable to damage the wiring system, and cable/conductors are not to be damaged by the means of fixing (522.8.11 and 522.8.12). It is important, therefore, that care is taken when selecting supports that are appropriate for the cable/conductors.
Types of support
There is a wide range of options available for the contractor when selecting cable supports. These include, amongst other things:
• Cable ties
• Cable cleats
• Cable clips
• Cable tie accessories
• Cable glands
The type of fixing will depend on the nature of the surface to which the support is fixed. For example, cable ties would be suitable for fixing cables installed on basket tray or cable tray, whereas cable clips would be suitable for wooden surfaces.
Similarly, the type of support will depend on the type of cable being installed, e.g. cable cleats will be suitable for steel-wire armoured cables.
Guidance
The guidance issued within the On-Site Guide (OSG) published by the IET is helpful in deciding on the nature of cable support and the distances recommended between clips. Appendix D covers cables generally, specific applications such as caravans and the like, overhead wiring, as well as conduit and trunking support.
Table D1 details the spacings of supports for cables in accessible positions. Fig 1 gives an example of the recommended distance between clips for a cable having a diameter not exceeding 9mm based on Table D1. As the cable diameter increases, the distance between clips is permitted to grow.
While the support distances are important, it remains the case that the purpose of cable supports is to ensure there is no undue strain on the cable or its terminations.
Similarly, when cables are bent it is important that there is no undue strain on the internal conductors caused when the bend is too tight (522.8.3). Fig 2 shows an example of the recommended bending radius for 1.5mm2 insulated and sheathed ‘twin and earth’ (Table D5 OSG).
Cable entry
Two issues must be addressed when cables enter an accessory – the risk of damage to the sheath or insulation at the point of entry, and any potential strain on connections.
Where a cable enters a metallic accessory box having no protection from sharp edges, there is a risk that the insulation surrounding conductors may become damaged, leading to arc and shock risk. Where cables enter a metallic accessory box, it is important that protection is provided, such as with rubber grommets or similar.
Even where cables entering an accessory box or other metallic enclosure are protected from damage, terminations may still be impacted by strain as cables are left unsupported. In such circumstances, it is necessary for suitable support to be provided and compression glands provided to ensure the electrical and mechanical strength of terminations (522.8.5 and Note).
Conclusion
All cables and conductors must be suitably supported to ensure that no undue strain exists on the cable or the terminations (522.8). Care should be taken to select appropriate support (e.g. clips, glands and the like) for cables. Unicrimp has a range of products to help the contractor in carrying out their duties.
Unicrimp, unicrimp.com
Fig 1 Cable supports example – image courtesy of T.J. Bratley
Fig 2 Bending radius example –image courtesy of T.J. Bratley
PUTTING FIRE SAFETY IN FOCUS
Lee Frizzell, Technical Director at CMP Products, gives an overview of the current state of the fire performance (FP)/fire-rated (FR) cable and cable cleat market in the UK and provides some thoughts on what steps need to be taken to ensure safety always comes first.
Fire safety is critical in any electrical installation – and when it comes to cables and support equipment, it’s imperative that it comes first. The risk of underspecified or incorrectly secured cables coming loose in a fire is not just a cause for concern; it poses a very real threat to life.
The use of fire-rated cables has certainly come to prominence in the UK in recent years, which can only be a good thing for everyone – from installers to end users and on to emergency service responders. They can be seen in use virtually anywhere, but are most commonly installed in commercial, residential and public spaces like universities, hospitals and schools, where the risk of fire poses a big threat to life. Their purpose is simple – to maintain critical electrical functionality during a fire to enable safe evacuation.
Fire-rated cables – also referred to as fire performance or fire resistant cables –are specifically engineered for deployment in environments where the cable’s functionality should remain unaffected in the event of a fire. Typically crafted from materials capable of withstanding high temperatures and flames, these cables boast extreme resilience, sometimes up to 1,100°C.
When installing such cables there are two key considerations:
• Maximum normal operating temperature of the cable – most cables, including fire-rated ones, have normal operating temperatures ranging from +70 to +90°C.
years
• Fire resistance temperature of the cable –fire-rated cables undergo testing and are rated for a duration of typically one to two hours, withstanding temperatures of up to 1,100°C. Despite potential destruction of the cable insulation during a fire, the essential conductors inside the cable (protected by a metallic layer and/or mica tape) remain intact, enabling the provision of emergency/essential power supply.
Damaged cables can pose hazards, including tripping or, more critically, electrocution. Therefore, comprehensive fire safety planning should integrate measures to protect firefighters from cable-related dangers.
Therefore, in scenarios where fire-rated cables are in use, cable cleats play a pivotal role in providing support and securing cables during fires or short circuits. Installers and specifiers must ensure that the cable cleats they select have a service temperature equal to or higher than the cable’s maximum operating temperature and have been tested to safely restrain cables in extreme high temperature conditions.
The fire performance of these cable management systems needs to take into account fire survival, fire resistance, flame retardancy, flame propagation, smoke toxicity, and emissions in exactly the
same way the cables they are supporting do. This can only be proven by thorough testing prior to bringing them to market. In CMP’s case, every fire resistant cleat has undergone testing to temperatures of 1,200°C, while also enduring periodic water spray and shock testing.
The British Standard BS 5839, which today governs fire detection and alarm systems in buildings, now stipulates that cable supports – including cable cleats –must endure fire, maintain circuit integrity, endure the same temperature as the cable, and provide adequate support.
This small reference to the fire resistance of cable supports in the standard has made a world of difference when it comes to addressing the safety of emergency responders, especially firefighters operating in challenging conditions.
Prior to its introduction, fire-rated cables didn’t need to be secured and supported by fire-rated products such as cable cleats, which in one tragic case led to the death of firefighter Jeff Wornham in 2005, who passed away having become entangled in cables in the lobby of a 14th floor flat in Stevenage.
Products that comply with the requirements of BS 5839 go beyond their previous role in simply helping to maintain electrical functionality during fires; they
The use of fire-rated cables has come to prominence in the UK in recent
Helios fire-rated cable cleat
It is critical to ensure wiring does not prematurely collapse before the public and firefighting personnel evacuate the building
now play an essential role in effectively securing fire-rated cables during fires.
Even for non-fire critical cable installations, where the systems will not be required to function in a fire, wiring and cables must still be adequately supported. It is critical to ensure wiring does not prematurely collapse before the public and firefighting personnel evacuate the building.
Therefore, when selecting cable cleats for fire-rated cable installations, the key performance considerations should be as follows:
• Cleats must safely support and restrain cables for means of escape, while maintaining circuit integrity.
• Cleats must safely support and restrain cables for firefighting purposes, while maintaining circuit integrity.
• Any composite materials used in manufacture are produced in Low Smoke and Fume (LSF) as standard.
Fire-rated cables will only perform during a fire if they are secured using properly fire-rated cable cleats
• Any composite materials used in manufacture are flame retardant and ideally rated V0 in accordance with UL94 as standard.
Where possible, London Underground (LUL) approved and certified polymers are used for some of the most stringent smoke toxicity and smoke emission requirements.
It’s also vital to understand that all typical polymeric materials will melt and burn away in a fire, which means standard liners will no longer be in position to help grip the cables during a fire. Therefore, fully metallic fire-rated cable cleats will likely be the best solution.
What it boils down to is common sense during the specification and installation process. In the same way that regular electrical cables won’t continue operating during a short circuit scenario if secured by underspecified cable cleats, then fire-rated cables will only perform during
a fire if they are secured using properly fire-rated cable cleats.
By following that simple rule, electrical supplies will continue during a fire and the lives of building users and emergency responders will not be put in unnecessary risk.
In response to market demands, and as the use of fire-resistant power cable and control cable systems for life safety and fire-fighting applications has become more prevalent in everyday use, CMP has introduced a comprehensive range of fire-rated cable cleats: Themis, Solace and Helios. All three have been subjected to rigorous fire testing to comply with EN 50200, BS 5839, BS 8491 and BS 8434.
The fire-rated range, which is available in cast and fabricated 316L stainless steel, demonstrates resilience by withstanding temperatures of more than 1,000°C, while providing excellent corrosion resistance. Suitable for indoor, outdoor and corrosive environments, these cable cleats exemplify a commitment to ensuring both the integrity of fire safety systems and the safety of emergency responders.
It is also suitable for non-fire safety applications, including highly corrosive environments where high-grade stainless steel products should be used and applications where high axia /lateral loads are required; such as the vertical installation of large high voltage cables (Themis only). And the product capabilities don’t just stop there. Both Themis and Solace are designed with a unique twin arc internal design profile, offering extreme axial and lateral load retention.
CMP, cmp-products.com
CHARGE LIKE A PRO WITH SYNC ENERGY’S NEW PRO CHARGER RANGE
With demand for EV charging solutions ever increasing, installers need to offer products that deliver on all fronts, especially in commercial environments. Advanced technology, ease of use, reliable performance and ease of installation are essential product features for a successful job. Designed by experts, the new Pro Charger range from Sync Energy delivers on all the above, making it quick, easy and convenient to set up commercial EV charging infrastructure for customers.
Ticks all the boxes
The New Pro Charger range features Twin Bollard EV Chargers, available with or without amenity lighting option, and Twin Wall-mounted Chargers. Both the wall-mounted and bollard options come with PEN fault protection, touchscreen, RFID technology (adding an extra layer of security to enable authorised access to the charger), 4G connectivity, and an MID meter as standard. This comprehensive suite of features ensures that the chargers are not only user-friendly but also future proof, catering to a wide array of commercial applications.
The range features socketed charge points, making them compatible with all
electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. This universal compatibility ensures that no matter what type of EV car users drive, it can be charged at a Sync Energy charge station.
Accessibility features include height and screen angles, complying with PAS 1899:2022. This outlines guidelines for accessible electric vehicle charge points to meet the needs of individuals with diverse accessibility requirements. It covers physical environment, placement, information provision, and design. PAS 1899 helps to foster innovation and efficiency in the deployment of EV charge points and it contributes to building confidence in the accessibility and inclusivity of EV infrastructure.
How to Enter
Buy any BG Consumer Unit, then upload your receipt at www.BGWIN.co.uk, and you could snag incredible prizes!
The more BG Consumer Units you buy, the more entries you’ll get.
The promotion will close at 11:59pm on 10.12.2024. For full terms and conditions, visit www.bgwin.co.uk Sync Energy’s new Pro Charger range is an easy to install, easy to use solution for commercial EV charging.
Additionally, a sensor-controlled light-up infographics area and an amenity light option on the Bollard ensure usability at all times of day.
Payment terminal options enable tap-and-go control for easy use and all units come with 4G as standard, ensuring reliable internet connectivity. The Pro Charger range provides end-users with flexible payment options designed for convenience, as well as Monta QR code charging and Monta in-app charging solutions.
Premium charging experience
For end-users, the Pro Charger range has superior user features to provide a seamless charging experience, while ongoing management of Sync Energy Charging infrastructure is designed to be comprehensive and easy to use.
This means that once installed, customers can easily manage their chargers without additional support from contractors. Chargers can be set up with flexible payment solutions, multi-tariffs, sponsored charging, and businesses can even simplify charging with configurable RFID keys for employees and regular users.
With full compatibility with the Monta App, end-users can enjoy a variety of smart charging options tailored to their requirements, including smart charging to optimise charging for cost-efficiency and eco-friendliness; charger customisation so settings, access and tariffs can fit all needs; and dedicated support through the app’s customer support team.
Compatibility across the Sync Energy range
The New Pro Charger range can be used with other commercial Sync Energy products. This includes the full range of 7kW and 22kW single and dual outlets, and the Sync Energy Balancer.
The Sync Energy Balancer load management system, with IP20 metal enclosure, is engineered to integrate with existing building wiring and supports up to 16 single or dual chargers, equalling up to 32 charging bays. An easily scalable, future-proof design, the Balancer automatically detects and accommodates up to 16 connected EV chargers effortlessly. It dynamically adjusts available power according to the building’s demands and ensures that each connected EV charger receives some level of power, even during peak demand periods.
The Sync Energy Balancer operates locally, without requiring a yearly subscription or ongoing network connection, to provide a cost-effective solution for commercial EV charging, especially when paired with the Sync Energy Pro Charger range.
Versatile installation
The versatility of the Pro Charger range means it can be installed in a wide variety of locations, including educational, hospitality and leisure facilities, businesses, and public council car parks.
From start to finish, Sync Energy will provide support every step of the way and the in-person or remote site setup support ensures a seamless installation process.
Commissioning is straightforward. All chargers can be set up using a smartphone and the dedicated installer app, with comprehensive help, guidance and training materials available in the installer portal.
Internally, the true PEN fault protection eliminates the need for costly earth rods or other PEN fault devices upstream. The Loop in/Loop out input connections accommodate up to 35mm² cables, allowing daisy chaining of multiple EV chargers from a single supply cable. This reduces installation time and costs while maintaining correct overcurrent protection for each charge point.
All products are covered by a five-year on-site warranty, supported by a dedicated UK helpline.
Gareth Yeomans, Technical Manager in Electric Vehicle Charging for Sync Energy, says, “The consistent focus of all Sync Energy product solutions is providing ease of installation. With extensive experience in manufacturing and designing electrical products, we know ease and speed of
installation is key and have therefore designed our range to be super easy to install, with support from the very beginning right to the very end.
“By addressing the current gaps in the market and focusing on innovation and inclusivity, Sync EV’s Pro Charger range sets a new standard in commercial EV charging.
Whether you are looking to upgrade your existing infrastructure or install new charging stations, Sync EV provides the solutions and support you need to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles.
“As part of the Luceco Group, a multinational public company, we have unique opportunities to branch into other markets and include some of the group’s other successful brands that provide electrical and lighting products to almost every corner of the industry. For example, the amenity lighting on the Pro Charger was inspired by some of the group’s lighting columns. As the EV and renewables technology sector continues to develop, we aim to be at the forefront with brand new concepts and product development.”
With 80 years of experience in the electrical industry, Sync Energy, part of the Luceco Group, is a name that can be trusted. The range of EV charging products for home, commercial or fleet operators is smart, powerful, safe and packed full of technology to future-proof any investment. Customers are confident in the company’s dedication to safety, innovation and sustainability.
The Sync Energy Pro Charger range is available online and can be purchased through any electrical wholesaler.
The Luceco Group, which includes the Sync Energy, Luceco Lighting, BG Electrical, and Masterplug brands, has over 80 years of industry experience and is internationally recognised as one of the market leaders across all key electrical products.
Sync Energy, sync.energy/commercial
HAYNES MOTOR MUSEUM PUTS SOLAR IN THE DRIVING SEAT
Award-winning Haynes Motor Museum in Yeovil, Somerset, has installed a DC-optimised rooftop solar system to provide renewable energy to the museum, shop, café, conference centre and hospitality facilities.
The system meets the site’s high energy demands during daylight hours when the majority of energy is consumed, averaging 50% of total daily energy requirements and exceeding 90% on sunnier days.
Haynes Motor Museum has installed a DC-optimised rooftop solar system to provide renewable energy to the museum
Installed by Sunlit Solar, the project comprises 648 high-efficiency 370W panels arranged in 18 sets of 36 panels, with two SolarEdge Synergy 82.2kW inverters. To overcome the challenge posed by the museum’s north-facing roof, the installation team digitally modelled the optimum rooftop layout and solar array utilisation for maximum energy generation and associated cost savings. Due to the north-facing roof, SolarEdge Power Optimisers played a pivotal role in maximising the system’s overall efficiency, coupled with continuous monitoring at the panel level to ensure seamless operation.
Mike Rogers, Managing Director at Sunlit Solar, says, “We’re thrilled to have completed this installation at such an iconic location. Overcoming the challenges of the roof design, the system can provide over 90% of the museum’s energy needs on sunny days. The safety of visitors, staff and the priceless collection of classic
vehicles was central to the project, and we’re particularly pleased to have successfully placed safety, sustainability and cost-effectiveness at the forefront of this project.”
With the museum home to a multi-million-pound classic vehicle collection and welcoming tens of thousands of visitors annually, safety was a key factor in selecting the system. The integrated safety technology is designed to ensure that the power optimisers on the modules rapidly reduce voltage across the entire array to a touch-safe 1V in the unlikely event of an emergency.
To further enhance safety, a firefighter gateway provides centralised control over the entire solar system, allowing manual or automatic shutdown to safe voltages. Additionally, integrated arc fault protection is designed to efficiently detect and interrupt potential arc faults.
SolarEdge, solaredge.com
How to Enter
Buy any BG Consumer Unit, then upload your receipt at www.BGWIN.co.uk, and you could snag incredible prizes!
The more BG Consumer Units you buy, the more entries you’ll get.
The promotion will close at 11:59pm on 10.12.2024. For full terms and conditions, visit www.bgwin.co.uk
Introducing the Pro Charger range from Sync Energy
Delivering advanced technology, ease of use, and reliable performance for all public and commercial environments.
As part of our evolution into Sync Energy, we’re launching the Pro Charger range –expanding our energy-efficient solutions for public and commercial use.
Designed for ease of installation with intuitive touchscreens and flexible payment options for a seamless user experience and reliable performance.
Discover more at www.sync.energy/commercial or scan the QR code
POWERING THE FUTURE
The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) and Innovate UK have announced the awarding of a further £9.7 million of Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) funding to address the biggest challenges facing Britain’s energy networks.
The 21 successful round three alpha projects will be addressing challenges from network planning and connecting renewable energy sources to the grid, to managing demand and long-term energy storage.
All of the projects aim to provide consumers with a cost-effective, fair and flexible low carbon future, as the transition to net zero is made by 2030.
Marzia Zafar, Deputy Director of Digitalisation & Innovation at Ofgem, says, “This money will drive innovation in our energy system to decarbonise, reduce bills and protect consumers, and Ofgem is excited to see these projects develop.
“We’re at a critical moment when it comes to our energy system, but by supporting fresh ideas and bold thinking, I’m confident we can reach net zero in the most equitable way possible, offering benefits for people all over the country.
“The Strategic Innovation Fund is an important part of reaching net zero, supporting people and organisations with great ideas to solve the major challenge of our time.”
Pathways to funding
HeatNet is one of the successful alpha phase projects building on its previous discovery phase findings. The project is looking at how to improve the process of network planning and connecting renewable energy sources to the grid.
The HeatNet project tackles the challenge of managing rising heat pump demand. As the adoption of heat pumps accelerates, the need for smarter solutions to tackle costly voltage drops and network strain is growing.
The project will refine smart coordination tools that will support more heat pumps without the need for expensive network reinforcement and upgrades. This will ensure a reliable network that meets consumer needs and keeps them comfortable.
Straight to alpha
Most projects follow the SIF three-phase process – discovery, alpha and beta –competing for higher levels of funding at each phase, with fewer projects going through each time. But the flexibility of funding provided by SIF means that not all projects must follow that same path.
Projects that align with a challenge and meet the necessary requirements can submit an application straight to alpha or beta. Projects that meet this criterion include those funded by SIF in a previous round or those funded from an energy innovation fund such as the Network Innovation Allowance (NIA).
The HyScale Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carrier (LOHC) Phase 2b project is a great example of this – meeting the SIF straight to alpha criterion through NIA funding of HyScale LOHC Phase 2a.
The Hyscale LOHC project aims to demonstrate how an LOHC system can be used for capturing, storing and releasing hydrogen into a gas network to manage long-duration storage requirements.
The use of LOHCs connected to an electrolyser and a hydrogen gas network will enable it to run flexibly and take advantage of low electricity prices. This will reduce the cost of producing hydrogen for consumers, accelerating the uptake of hydrogen for industrial needs, power generation and domestic heating. This coordination between different funding mechanisms allows the SIF to support building the right partnerships to share knowledge and nurture the ideas with the highest potential in the drive to decarbonise.
Some of the successful projects include:
• Cross Vector Energy Hub: Design and implementation of a multi-vector (gas and electricity) Energy Hub to optimise devices across a whole system, to increase resilience, operating efficiency and hosting coordination.
• Look NortH2: Exploring potential benefits and associated costs of developing offshore energy hubs (OEHs) in the UK, developing scenarios that quantify benefits such as curtailment reduction, grid losses reduction and infrastructure optimisation. OEHs could stimulate integration of offshore electricity/ hydrogen production between the UK and European countries.
• Road to Power: Developing specific tools to forecast future energy consumption and infrastructural impact of works, to support the street and road works sector as it decarbonises 7.8TWh of energy demand across 700,000 major works in the sector’s pivotal transition to net zero by 2030.
• Rural Energy And Community Heat (REACH): Working with rural community energy groups to develop a modular rural energy centre that will help communities make cost effective decarbonisation plans. The solution will offer shared low carbon heating, rapid EV charging, and renewable generation in areas not served by commercial markets, and where there is limited electricity network capacity.
• LV Optimiser (LVOE): Focusing on an innovative low voltage (LV) power electronic device (LV Optimiser), with its novel control algorithm to address LV voltage quality and imbalance, to support the growing demand and adoption of low carbon technologies (LCTs) such as solar panels, electric vehicles and heat pumps.
• Assessment of Superconducting Technologies for Standards Development: Superconducting systems have five to 10 times higher power density than the equivalent voltage conductor, meaning they deliver higher capacity at lower voltage levels and via a lower number of routes. This will allow faster network capacity increase, delivering time, cost and carbon savings. Superconducting systems can also deliver a reduction in energy losses to virtually zero and ultimately realise greater environmental and health benefits.
• Fuel Cell Renewable Energy Equity (FREE): Exploring how fuel cell micro combined heat and power (CHP) systems can provide uninterruptable power supply (UPS) functionality for individual homes, as well as support other nearby homes which depend on direct electrification to provide heat, power and mobility.
• Equiflex: Focusing on equal access to financial and environmental benefits for hard to engage and vulnerable customers, ensuring no consumers are unfairly left behind and enabling a just transition to net zero.
• Flex Direct: Transforming the roll-out of energy efficiency upgrades, by developing novel commercial models and coordinated market approaches that enable local authorities and social housing providers to work with DSOs to incentivise and facilitate participation for hard-to-reach customers.
• CoolDown: Despite modelling suggesting increasing cooling demand in office, retail and domestic spaces as the UK warms, cooling demand is currently poorly accounted for in distribution network planning. Additionally, its potential to offer flexibility during periods of network stress has not been considered. Cool Down will be the first project to consider cooling’s potential as a flexible load.
Paul Padaruth, Head of Commercial, Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund at Innovate UK, says, “The Strategic innovation fund continues to find and fund ambitious innovation that can deliver meaningful change in the drive to decarbonise our energy system.
“Congratulations to the successful projects. It is great to see the evolution of existing partnerships and the creation of new ones in the projects that have been successful in securing funding.
“Through the creativity and ambition of the partners and these projects, I am confident we will see successful innovation that will support our net zero objective.”
Ofgem, ofgem.gov.uk
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BRITISH LIBRARY INSTALLS INNOVATIVE SOLAR TECH TO DECARBONISE HEAT
The British Library and CBRE Global Workplace Solutions (GWS) have commissioned Naked Energy to deliver the UK’s largest solar heat project to accelerate the public building’s transition to renewable energy.
The installation comprises 950 solar collectors across 712.5m2 of the library’s roof space. It is expected to reduce the building’s CO2 emissions by 55 tonnes and generate 216MWh of energy annually – the equivalent of powering and heating a community centre or swimming pool for a year.
Naked Energy’s solar heat and electricity Virtu product range is said to be the world’s highest energy density solar technology. The Virtu product range converts the sun’s energy into heat and electricity from the same collector.
Naked Energy’s Virtu product range saves up to four times the amount of carbon as standard solar PV panels and is a key advancement in decarbonising heat in sectors from manufacturing to hotels and leisure centres.
The technology will supply sanitary hot water and space heating for the British Library, benefitting staff and visitors alike.
Also, in a rare application of solar technology, the collectors will also be used to help to maintain the precise temperature and humidity conditions needed to preserve the national collection cared for by the British Library.
The British Library is custodian of over 170 million items, ranging from newspapers and maps to sound recordings and patents, and is a living collection that gets bigger every day.
During the planning phase of the installation, Virtu solar technology secured planning permission on the Grade 1 listed building, as its unique low-profile design does not disrupt the Library’s architecture and remains invisible from street level.
The British design and engineering business recently received investment from E.ON Energy Infrastructure Solutions and Barclays in the first close of its Series B capital raise, totalling £17m.
The funding builds momentum for Naked Energy as the company begins to accelerate the international rollout of its innovative solar heat technology in the face of rising global demand for renewable heat.
Christophe Williams, Founder and CEO of Naked Energy, says, “It’s an honour to partner with such an iconic British
institution and be a part of their journey to meet their net zero goals.
“The urgent need to decarbonise heat has long been under-recognised in the discussions over the UK’s move toward net zero. We hope that this project can serve as a catalyst to inspire others in the public sector to join the energy transition and move away from fossil fuels once and for all.
“This project has been an immense undertaking and is an exciting step forward for the solar thermal industry in the UK.”
Jon Benford, Managing Director at CBRE GWS, says, “We’re incredibly excited to be delivering the largest solar heat installation project in the UK for our client, the British Library, and supporting such an iconic British institution on their net zero journey.
“Working towards net zero emissions in a Grade 1 listed English Heritage building comes with its own unique challenges, and we’re proud of the role this project will play in both preserving the past and protecting the future.”
The ULTRACHARGE 30 is an ideal compact, minimal investment solution for businesses implementing rapid EV charging for customers, sta , and fleets. It can easily integrate into most commercial premises with a low-grid connection requirement of only 55A on a Three Phase
INSURANCE COMPANY PUTS SAFETY FIRST
Rural insurer, NFU Mutual, has taken a significant step forward in its mission to achieve net zero operation by 2050 courtesy of a successful solar PV (photovoltaic) installation at its headquarters in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Designed and installed by Warwickshire-based renewable energy specialist, Ineco Energy, the 249.20kWp rooftop system is comprised of 560 bi-facial solar panels and will generate almost 200,000kWh of clean, renewable energy each year. This will power around 20% of the building’s annual electricity needs at an equivalent rate of 5p per kWh, delivering a favourable financial return for NFU Mutual while also reducing carbon emissions by around 45 tonnes each year.
Mutual has completed a series of energy improvement initiatives across its office sites
Since 2021, NFU Mutual has completed a series of energy improvement initiatives across its owned office sites, from upgrading heating and cooling systems to the installation of 36 electric car charging points. In 2023, it delivered a 33% reduction in carbon emissions across its occupied premises, compared to a 2019 base year.
Building on the success of these initiatives, NFU Mutual began to explore the potential of solar PV systems to meet its operational needs sustainably and safely. PV systems offer numerous advantages for commercial buildings, including significant energy cost savings, a reduced carbon footprint, and enhanced energy security. However, like any form of energy generation, it is essential to understand and mitigate any associated risks to ensure the long-term success and safety of the installation.
In 2023, the insurance and solar industries collaborated to publish a joint code of practice with a focus on commercial rooftop mounted systems, entitled ‘RC62: recommendations for fire safety with PV panel installations’. As a contributor to the code, Ineco Energy’s in-depth knowledge of solar system safety and installation best practice made it the ideal partner to help NFU Mutual to realise its vision for greener, safer buildings.
Planning is essential for successful project delivery, and Ineco’s mantra of ‘measure twice, cut once’ was key to delivering a seamless service for NFU Mutual. Grid and planning permission were sought from the relevant authorities while an independent structural assessment was commissioned as part of a comprehensive survey with detailed designs undertaken, specifying best-in-class products to mitigate potential project risks.
To enhance the safety of both people and property, SolarEdge DC-optimised inverters and Power Optimisers were selected. The SolarEdge system provides several embedded safety features, including SafeDC and arc fault detection and interruption, to reduce the risk of electrocution and
fires. The system is complemented by a SolarEdge Firefighter Gateway which will automatically turn off the PV system if the building’s fire alarm is triggered to provide safe roof access to firefighters.
Bi-facial, dual glass modules from JA Solar were installed to provide enhanced performance, safety and longevity. These were mounted on a Van der Valk Valkpro+ L10 flat roof mounting system with elevated blocks to raise the system above the pebbled roof.
The project team at Ineco Energy delivered the rooftop installation safely, to quality, on time and on budget. However, this is just the start of the partnership as the solar PV system has a 30+ year lifespan. To ensure its continued safety and performance, Ineco Energy will monitor and maintain the system under contract throughout its lifetime.
Ed Bannister, Facilities and ESG Manager at NFU Mutual, comments, “At NFU Mutual, we take the environmental impact of our operations very seriously. Buildings are significant contributors to carbon emissions, accounting for approximately 40% in the UK. Therefore, ensuring energy efficiency across the built environment is crucial for reaching our net zero target.
“We have been fortunate to benefit from Ineco’s extensive experience in designing and building safe, reliable solar installations. The performance of the solar system at our head office has exceeded our expectations, and we are already exploring opportunities to install additional projects in the near future.”
Angus Rose, Director at Ineco Energy, says, “It has been a pleasure to partner with the team at NFU Mutual. As insurance providers and their stakeholders increasingly turn to solar PV for significant energy cost savings and carbon reduction benefits, we are proud to demonstrate that solar is a safe, sustainable and financially sound investment.”
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DRIVING SAFETY AND QUALITY FOR SOLAR AND STORAGE
As more consumers invest in renewable technologies – such as solar PV and battery storage –to power their homes, maintaining safety and quality through standards is more important than ever. Here, Lucy McKenzie, Technical Manager at MCS, shares a glimpse behind the scenes at the latest technical developments in the MCS Solar PV and Battery Storage Standards.
MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) is the UK’s quality mark for small-scale renewable energy systems. The organisation sets standards that allow for the certification of products, installers and their installations – giving everyone the confidence to invest in renewable technologies.
Solar and storage in numbers
Data from the MCS Data Dashboard shows that solar PV continues to be installed at a steady pace, with 135,624 solar PV installations installed from January to September 2024, bringing the all-time installation count to over 1.5 million. Battery storage is seeing a record number of installations, with more than 18,000 certified systems installed to date, 13,263 of which were installed from January to September 2024 alone. Currently, 77% of MCS contractors are certified for solar PV, and 34% certified for battery storage. In fact, the number of contractors certified for battery storage has more than tripled between September 2023 and September 2024, reflecting the rising demand for this technology over the last 12 months.
Battery storage developments
The battery storage technology landscape is continuously developing. We’ve recently seen the consultation of the new Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET) Electrician’s Guide to Domestic Electrical Energy Storage Systems, which offers practical, hands-on advice for installing domestic electrical energy storage systems. We’ve also seen the publication of PAS 63100, and an update to the IET Code of Practice (3rd Edition) – all of which MCS has been involved with.
MCS sets standards that allow for the certification of products, installers and their installations
While the growing demand for battery storage is encouraging, maintaining high standards and delivering quality is essential as the market grows. This is where MCS certification becomes so important – it is a mark of quality that ensures certified installers are delivering installations in line with the relevant industry-backed technical standards, and that the products they are using are reliable and have undergone the relevant testing procedures.
This is why MCS is developing the Battery Storage Product Standard to sit alongside its existing Battery Storage Installation Standard (MIS 3012). This type of standard is currently absent in the UK and will give both consumers and installers greater confidence in the quality of battery storage products.
Solar PV safety
When investing in solar PV, consumers want peace of mind that their installation is as efficient, durable and as safe as possible. Because of this, despite already having design, installation and product standards for solar PV systems, MCS has recognised the need for further
research into fire prevention. This includes determining recommendations for the minimum clear roof area required on either side of a fire compartment when building regulations can’t be met with fire stopping materials, as well as developing a methodology to categorise solar panels into family groups to safely allow extended application of fire tests.
Both research projects will inform requirements which can be incorporated to MIS 3002 (The Solar PV Installation Standard) and MCS 012 (The Solar Mounting Product Standard). Although MCS Standards are technically robust, it’s essential they are regularly updated to reflect changes in technological advancements to ensure ongoing relevance.
Technologies in tandem
As renewable energy technologies continue to increase in popularity across the UK, there has been a rise in multi-tech installations. For example, a solar PV system being installed with a battery storage system or alongside a heat pump to allow homeowners to become more self-sufficient. Currently, there is no MCS standard for how these technologies should work together, which is why the organisation is reviewing methods for collaboration across all of its Technical Working Groups to see how it can set requirements for these types of installations.
With the adoption of solar PV and battery storage technologies rising across the UK, safety and quality remain paramount. MCS’ Solar PV and Battery Storage Technical Working Groups work hard to maintain the technical accuracy, fairness, relevance, rigour and currency of MCS Standards, while also staying up to date with the latest technological advancements across the industry. MCS Standards build confidence in renewables by ensuring quality installations as the UK moves towards cleaner and greener energy.
MCS, mcscertified.com
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ASSESSING THE LONG-TERM PROFITABILITY OF PV SYSTEMS
More and more households are considering investing in a battery to complement their solar system, or have already done so. Hybrid inverters that offer the possibility of adding a battery any time, at no extra cost, are becoming increasingly popular. But when is battery storage efficient and what are the considerations to take into account?
In recent years, residential solar panel installations have surged globally, initially spurred by government incentives like grants and tax cuts. Geopolitical factors such as the war in Ukraine driving up energy prices have further accelerated solar adoption. Consequently, many governments have scaled back financial support for PV installations.
A new challenge has arisen – the existing grid struggles to handle the increasing influx of renewable energy. In regions facing this challenge, inverters are switched off on sunny days to prevent grid overload. To alleviate this strain, governments now promote self-consumption of solar energy within households. However, incentivisation methods vary by region. In some areas, purchasing grid electricity is more expensive than feeding solar energy into the grid. In others, energy suppliers impose charges on PV owners to fund grid updates. These measures encourage households to maximise self-consumption, but organising one’s life around the availability of sunshine isn’t practical. This is where PV storage solutions become crucial and are real profitability boosters.
Calculating the profitability of a home battery is a crucial step for anyone considering investing in storage solutions. Additionally, what battery storage size is optimal, both now and in the future?
In order to answer these questions, the minimum number of annual battery cycles (value 1) the battery must attain in order
Calculating the profitability of a home battery is a crucial step for anyone considering investing in storage solutions
to be profitable has to be compared to the estimated number of battery cycles in the household (value 2).
One of the primary challenges in calculating value 1 lies in quantifying grid costs and incentives, because they vary significantly, depending on the country or region. Grid costs are charged differently by power suppliers, making it essential to calculate this parameter accurately.
In countries or regions where grants or financial incentives are still available, these should also be integrated into the calculation. To assess the profitability of the efficiency of a home battery storage, the following parameters must be considered:
i: Total investment in storage – This includes the cost of the battery itself along with installation expenses. If applicable, tax cuts or other financial incentives have to be taken into account.
bs: Battery storage size in kWh – this represents the amount of energy stored in one cycle of the battery.
gc: Grid cost – in some regions, this can be calculated based on the difference between the cost of electricity and the feed-in tariff. However, if power suppliers employ alternative charging mechanisms for grid usage by PV owners, the calculation may involve considerations such as fixed charges or peak demand charges. This cost has then to be divided by the amount of kWh bought from the grid.
w: Number of years’ warranty – while a high-quality battery may well outlast its warranty period, it’s prudent to consider this warranty duration as a benchmark for longevity.
The formula below is the calculation for the minimum number of annual battery cycles (value 1) the battery must attain in order to be profitable (value n):
n=(i/gc*bs)/w
Based on the composition of the household, the existing loads and the estimated
annual yield of the PV installation, Sunny Design, SMA’s free software, calculates the necessary parameters and provides an accurate estimate of the annual battery cycle count (value 2).
If value 2 exceeds the minimum number of annual battery cycles (value 1), investing in a battery becomes a lucrative option. Moreover, if the number of expected annual battery cycles is exceeded considerably, it is worth considering increasing the battery capacity by adding more modules. This adjustment could potentially enhance the profitability of the investment by enabling greater energy storage and utilisation, thus optimising the benefits of the home battery system.
In contrast, if value 2 falls below the number of annual battery cycles that make even a battery of 10kWh profitable, then installing a battery may not be profitable in the current scenario. In that case, sticking with the grid might be a more economical choice. However, this situation is subject to change. Leveraging dynamic tariffs or participating in Virtual Power Plants significantly influences the number of battery cycles.
By carefully evaluating the evolution of the local energy market along with changes in grid costs, energy prices, and the household’s own consumption on a regular basis, homeowners can make an informed decision about investing in home battery storage, ensuring both economic viability and sustainable energy usage. It’s therefore important to plan for the installation of a battery right from the beginning and to allocate space for the battery modules and plan for the necessary cabling.
Using storage along with an inverter that features a backup capability, like the hybrid inverters from SMA for instance, ensures that critical appliances, such as the household’s freezer, continue to receive electricity during a power outage. This functionality can also be included in the overall system calculations.
SMA, sma-sunny.com
Written by Mila Druwe, Freelance Content Marketer
How to Enter
Buy any BG Consumer Unit, then upload your receipt at www.BGWIN.co.uk, and you could snag incredible prizes!
The more BG Consumer Units you buy, the more entries you’ll get.
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VISION ENGINEERING MOVES TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY AND CARBON NET ZERO
Powercor has installed a solar photovoltaic system for Vision Engineering to help the company reduce its carbon footprint.
Vision Engineering is a world leader in ergonomic microscopy, digital 3D visualisation and metrology solutions. The company’s stereo inspection microscopes and non-contact measuring systems are used in a wide range of industries – anywhere that high-performance magnification or precision measurement is required. With more than 60 years of industry experience, the company understands the specific challenges of highly specialised applications in a wide range of industries.
The company first approached Powercor to assist in understanding its energy usage for future power requirements via Powercor’s advanced metering and measurement systems.
With Powercor being a leader in sustainability and energy efficiency programmes and an expert in renewables, the company wanted to be part of Vision Engineering’s Carbon Net Zero Journey and the first recommendation it made was to utilise solar power to ensure that Vision Engineering was using green energy to power the business.
Vision Engineering’s energy requirements were increasing rapidly, with additional machinery required on-site, so a solution was required to assist in ensuring that this could be accommodated.
Measurement and verification are key elements in understanding the client’s energy usage, requirements and needs. This process assists Powercor in designing a system that best suits the current and future requirements of the site.
Powercor specialises in an array of client requirements – from small domestic to large commercial systems – by delivering bespoke energy saving solutions to not only maximise the client’s savings, but also to reduce their carbon footprint by utilising the best available equipment and technology on the market. Creating an energy efficient building to future-proof the route to carbon reduction is essential in this fast-paced journey to net zero.
Having an existing solar array, Vision Engineering knew of the benefits of green energy, so Powercor looked at providing a larger system to reduce the company’s reliance on the grid at peak operational times whilst maximising savings.
Powercor designed a 372KWp system utilising three 100KW inverters integrated with the original 54KWp system over two MPANs.
Powercor will continue to monitor the system to see where it can further improve savings and will be designing an Electrical Energy Storage System (EESS) in the very near future at the client’s request.
Testimonial
“My company, Vision Engineering had a solar photovoltaic system installed by Powercor and I couldn’t be more pleased with the results,” says Greg Smith, Property Manager at Vision Engineering.
“From start to finish, their team demonstrated a level of expertise and professionalism that truly sets them apart.
“Their knowledgeable staff walked me through every step of the process, ensuring I understood all the options available and the benefits of each. They were incredibly
helpful, addressing all my questions and concerns promptly and thoroughly.
“The installation itself was executed flawlessly. The team worked efficiently and meticulously – clearly experts in their field. They took care to ensure everything was done to the highest standards, leaving me with a system that performs beautifully and looks great too.
“Thanks to Powercor, I’m now enjoying the benefits of clean, renewable energy and it’s a positive step to help us reduce our carbon footprint immediately. I highly recommend their services to anyone considering a solar installation. Fantastic work!”
Powercor, powercor.co.uk
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HOW AI AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES OFFER THE FASTEST PATH TO NET ZERO
Kas Mohammed, VP of Digital Energy at Schneider Electric UK&I looks at how we can level up our building stock to accelerate the conservation of energy.
Building owners, facilities managers, and engineering and maintenance teams are getting smart to their energy requirements –literally. New digital technologies have paved the way for smart buildings, accelerating the path to net zero and future-proofing buildings to battle the climate change challenges ahead.
And with 80% of building stock that will exist in 2050 already constructed, it’s up to these real estate leaders to transform existing property portfolios into the smart, sustainable buildings of tomorrow.
So, why should we be focusing on buildings on the route to net zero? Which technologies will accelerate this energy transition? And what does this look like in the world today?
When we look at global emissions, the built environment comes out on top as one of the world’s biggest polluters. In fact, buildings are responsible for 39% of global energy-related carbon emissions.
There is no doubt that this sector is the key to decarbonisation at the pace needed to reach ambitious net zero targets. While buildings are a vital part of any urban environment and must continue to expand to accommodate our growing population, we need to act now to ensure that our built environment does not have a lasting negative impact on our natural one.
But how do we power this transition to net zero buildings? Ultimately, the climate challenge is an energy challenge. Building energy management will play a vital role in limiting building emissions and reducing this sector’s carbon footprint for good.
New digital technologies have paved the way for smart buildings
New, intelligent management systems are improving the performance of buildings, while also providing the critical data analysis building owners need to power their decarbonisation programmes.
One of the prime ways that buildings are getting future-ready is by becoming smarter. This means adding real-time facilities monitoring and intelligent automation to building infrastructure to optimise facilities management and building operations. As buildings become more connected and more electrified, this enables the implementation of smart grids and the introduction of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind – vital for a greener future.
The technology behind smart buildings hinges on the IoT (Internet of Things). IoT sensors seamlessly integrate into existing building systems to cost-effectively enhance their capabilities and improve overall building adaptability, safety and regulatory compliance. 24/7 cloud-based data intelligence enables real-time monitoring of environmental conditions, providing insights into space and energy usage and occupant preference patterns, all able to be controlled remotely. This data intelligence helps building owners reduce their carbon footprint, boost operational efficiencies and minimise energy costs.
New, innovative technologies such as AI and digital twins are playing an integral role in accelerating the path to net zero, from the design stages to the rollout of facilities to smart infrastructure.
When AI is weaved into smart building setups, building managers can dynamically adjust environmental conditions such as lighting, temperature and air quality based on occupancy patterns and external environmental conditions. Data analytics and machine learning enable predictive analytics to anticipate demands, powering proactive adjustments to system settings and airflow distribution. AI opens the door to automation, allowing building owners to improve asset performance and drive significant cost savings by limiting energy consumption where it is not needed.
AI algorithms also continuously fine-tune operations and are able to efficiently analyse extensive volumes of facilities and asset data – a task impossible through manual methods alone. This not only captures crucial asset knowledge but also extracts and processes information and insights, enhancing knowledge management and overall efficiency. This results in energy and emissions savings without compromising on comfort levels. Not only can AI be used
to promote well-being and make buildings more efficient, but this proactive action can also increase productivity when applied to office spaces.
As for digital twins, this technology allows building owners to streamline the design and implementation process of electrical infrastructure. When preparing for power digitalisation, digital twins help by creating a virtual replica of a building’s power system, enabling designers to simulate and perfect performance before installation begins. They also support the concept of a ‘live digital twin’, where the digital model keeps up to date with real-time data from the building’s systems, enabling continuous optimisation and scalability. This helps building managers plan for future infrastructure additions such as EV charging points and onsite energy production.
Far from a futuristic prospect, these technologies are already being put to good use in the UK. 150 Holborn, the London headquarters of Sidara, the international design, engineering and consulting group, is already equipped with smart building controls. The site uses a sophisticated network of over 650 IoT sensors and controls to collect, analyse and manage over 60,000 data points. These provide vital information into energy usage, occupancy patterns and environmental conditions in near real time.
Using this data, Sidara can tailor building conditions to meet the specific needs and preferences of occupants. Whether it’s adjusting lighting levels, modifying temperatures or boosting air quality, the system ensures that workspaces are not just habitable but are optimised to promote well-being and productivity. It is also helping the company to reduce energy waste and is integral to the organisation’s ambition to decarbonise by 2030, under the World Green Building Council’s Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment. By adjusting facilities based on occupancy, Sidara can ensure comfort and cut energy waste.
Smart buildings like this will be a vital tool in the path towards decarbonisation. As we move towards an all-digital and all-electric future, smart buildings, AI and digital twins will accelerate our progress towards net zero goals and tackle emissions in this sector for good. The future can be sustainable, resilient and hyper-efficient – without compromising on comfort and well-being.
Schneider Electric, se.com
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HOW INNOVATING IN PRODUCT DESIGN CAN HELP CLOSE THE NET ZERO SKILLS GAP
Adam Mease,
ABB
’s
Business
Line
Leader Energy Distribution
NEMA, Smart Buildings, explores how advancements in product design can help bridge the skills gap necessary for achieving net zero goals.
Energy used for heating, cooling and lighting homes and businesses, along with the appliances and equipment installed in them and the emissions released during construction, accounts for more than a third of global energy consumption and emissions.
Decarbonising infrastructure is now a priority in the fight against global warming, giving rise to a new generation of ‘smart’, sustainable buildings, where everything from the heating and air conditioning to electricity and lighting is controlled by an automated, centralised system.
Meeting carbon reduction targets is arguably the most vital – and complex – challenge of our time. While industry, governments and individuals around the world may be united in committing to making reductions, there’s still a further stumbling block to achieving it, and that’s a shortage of skills.
There’s an urgent need to decarbonise the built environment in line with climate change targets, yet skilled labour shortages on both sides of the Atlantic are standing in the way of progress. The industry is looking more closely at how advancements in technology and engineering can help plug the skills gap. The onus is now on specialist companies like ABB to innovate labour-saving engineering and technology products that can bridge the skills gap and maximise labour efficiency, saving time and money for engineers and electricians.
Better by design
ABB’s R&D focus in light of the skills shortage has been on designing labour-saving products, primarily aimed at benefitting electrical contractors. From product enhancements that speed up the work of electricians and contractors, to larger prefabrication designs, the company is constantly rethinking and reimagining product lines for quicker and easier installation.
One such innovation is in load centres – another name for electrical panels that distribute electricity from the utility throughout a home. ABB’s new ReliaHome Load Centers, widely available across the Americas, are designed to facilitate quick and easy installation. They feature a plug-on neutral design and a common circuit breaker platform, simplifying stocking for electrical distributors and reducing installation time for contractors.
Universal compatibility and modularity are key factors in accelerating, since electrical panels can be upgraded or made ‘smart’ with minimal impact on the existing installation. ABB’s ReliaHome Smart Panel, for example, enables energy optimisation, circuit scheduling, and real-time control in one universally compatible package that can be installed seamlessly next to any new or existing load centre.
It’s important to stress that, with the construction industry under pressure to reduce costs, simple modifications can have a significant impact in terms of CAPEX, labour and inventory cost savings.
Digital tools like scannable QR codes on products providing installation details, troubleshooting guides that enable contractors to identify and address issues faster, and software that helps installers and homeowners interact with electrical systems, can all be used to support ease of use.
Small wonders
While there’s no silver bullet to decarbonising our built environment, through energy management, a combination of efficiency measures, renewable energy generation, and cutting-edge design and technology, it is possible to reduce building energy use by around 40%.
Making both retrofits and new buildings ‘smart’, involves the mass installation of vast numbers of small items, and finding ways to simplify to help workers, as well as using fewer materials to help the environment, is a top priority.
Global energy transition is a long game, and we need to stay on the offence in terms of investing in the development and deployment of both new and available technology. Collaborative innovation and knowledge-sharing are critical in helping the construction industry navigate the energy transition and build its capacity to achieve it.
For many businesses, demonstrating circularity will also become increasingly important in protecting their license to operate and ensuring they attract a new generation of digitally skilled construction workers. This emphasis on talent attraction and retention, coupled with technology innovation, can help us reimagine the built environment and ensure a cleaner, safer society for all.
In summary, businesses must ensure that investment in technology is matched by that in human capital, and realise that upskilling personnel today is an investment in tomorrow. In the rush to decarbonise the built environment, we must not overlook the role of our most valuable – and underrated – asset: people.
ABB, global.abb
THE BEST JUST EVOLVED
CALEIDO TOWER SCALES NEW HEIGHTS WITH ‘GOLD’ FOR SUSTAINABILITY
One of the tallest skyscrapers in Spain has been denoted as having excelled in its sustainable design after installing a globally proven KNX building automation system.
Caleido Tower is a 181m (594ft) high, 36-storey tower in Madrid, and the seventh tallest building in Spain. The building has met Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification – a framework which consists of various rating systems tailored to different types of buildings, spaces and communities to assessing the sustainability of a project.
Caleido Tower achieved GOLD which means it ‘serves as exemplary models of sustainability, showcasing the potential for significant environmental impact reduction through thoughtful design and operation’.
The building achieved this by using natural light with the help of an advanced lighting control system by German manufacturer, B.E.G., whose UK headquarters are based in Surrey. Caleido Tower also has facial recognition, intelligently controlled lifts, and air filtration and ventilation systems are incorporated. It is expected that more than three million visitors will visit the 70,000m2 Caleido complex annually. The project, in the shape of an inverted T, has been divided into four areas: an educational area with 35 floors used by a business school, a wellness clinic, an underground car park, and restaurants and shops.
Founded in 1973, IE Business School offers up to 6,000 students from 131 nations a place to learn in 64 flexible classrooms and 50,000m2 of state-of-
the-art technology. The institution is one of the leading business schools in the world. In addition to classrooms, there are sports facilities, meditation corners and exhibition areas.
The technology protocol used in the Caleido Tower is KNX, a globally proven bus system within building automation, which brings together multiple systems enabling the uniform networking and visualisation of intelligent devices.
B.E.G. predominately used the PICO sensor – one of the smallest KNX detectors in the world – for this project due to its size. Despite its diameter of only 33mm, it has a range for motion detection of 10m transversely, 6m frontally and 4m for seated activities. This means that it detects even the smallest movements, such as the operation of a computer mouse.
Introducing Metway’s Wiring Systems Division:
Industry-Leading Prefabricated Wiring and Lighting Control Solutions
Since 1999, Metway’s Wiring Systems division has been delivering innovative, prefabricated wiring and lighting control systems tailored to the specific needs of the industrial and commercial sectors. Whether it's a simple lighting lead or a fully bespoke wiring system, Metway offers a comprehensive range of products that can be custom-designed and manufactured for any project. Our solutions support a wide variety of applications, ensuring compliance with industry standards and project-specific requirements.
Metway Connection Centre (MCC): Simplifying Lighting Control with Precision Engineering
The Metway Connection Centre (MCC) is engineered to streamline lighting control in stand-alone systems. This distribution centre features up to 10 luminaire ports and 2 PIR (Passive Infrared) ports for reliable motion detection. Available in both single and dual-channel configurations, the MCC range supports both switching and dimming applications to enhance system flexibility.
MCC5S:
A basic single channel switching unit, perfect for straightforward lighting control.
MCC10B:
A dual-channel unit offering both switching and dimming control for more sophisticated systems.
MDCC12B:
For wireless applications or those requiring an integrated PSU, this unit is compatible with multiple communication protocols and accommodates up to 12 luminaires and two sensor ports.
Advanced Connectivity and Standards Compliance
Metway provides robust wiring solutions utilising 166 G Type connectors in blue/black configurations, with side or centre latching for secure, compliant connections. All connectors meet rigorous industry standards, and cables range from 1.00mm² with 3 or 6 cores, insulated with LSOH or CCA to meet the latest safety and regulatory requirements.
Customisable Sensor Solutions
Our comprehensive range of sensors ensures optimal lighting performance. Metway offers project-specific sensor designs, which can be integrated into luminaires like the batten sensor or as standalone units with 360° detection patterns for both presence and absence detection. As DALI dimming systems become increasingly common, Metway's sensors are engineered to support adjustable light levels, enhancing energy efficiency and workforce productivity. For added convenience, all sensors are available in pre-wired configurations, ready to plug directly into MCC or MDCC units.
In addition to a light output (controllable or switchable) and a slave output for extending the detection range, the B.E.G. PICO also has three HVAC outputs with which energy-intensive systems such as air-conditioning units can be controlled. The light output can be used both as an occupancy detector and as a twilight detector (motion-independent control/switching).
The B.E.G. PICO also has functions such as a temperature sensor, presence simulation, corridor function, orientation light function, short presence and selfadjustment of the follow-up time. The short presence, for example, can save additional energy as the follow-up time is reduced to an adjustable percentage if a room is only entered briefly to fetch an item, for example.
Paul Jones, Sales Director of UK & Ireland at B.E.G, says, “Since very large ceiling panels were used, it had to be ensured that the respective panel would not sag over time due to the weight of a detector. Weighing only 14g, the B.E.G. PICO proved ideal and was integrated in all rooms where detectors were planned.
“With the help of BIM, the building was digitally modelled in advance - a planning method that is increasingly becoming the standard in the planning of large projects worldwide. In the process, all alphanumeric properties of the planned building are
represented. This data is automatically kept up-to-date and gives all parties involved access to the status of the project to ensure the different services combine effectively.
“The combination of bus systems can help to save energy costs. In the Caleido Tower, over 15,000 DALI luminaires were installed in addition to KNX, while a gateway was used to control these with KNX. This connected the KNX bus with the DALI bus designed for lighting control.
“Each B.E.G. gateway was able to switch and dim up to 64 ECGs in 16 groups, while scene control of individual ECGs is also possible. In addition to RGB and Tuneable White, the gateway also supported DALILINK multi-sensors.
“In the corridors of the tower, the light is controlled by the B.E.G. PICO depending on daylight and presence. If no more movement is detected, the orientation light switches on. The lighting is dimmed down to a value of 10% as soon as the room is no longer occupied.
“This state remains permanently until the next movement or until the light is switched off after a preset time without detecting movement again. A calendar function can also be used to implement a night mode.
“Especially in large projects such as the Caleido Tower, an orientation light is often used to visually illuminate the building. The lighting of the IE logo on
the facade is automatically switched on in the evening by the B.E.G. KNX switching actuator with a calendar function. Individual luminaires are also switched on and off with switching actuators. This is achieved, for example, when illuminating screens for presentations.
“With the calendar function, the light is automatically switched off at a preset time in the evenings when there are no more classes and, in addition, no movement is detected in the surrounding areas. This affects the refectory, for example, where the B.E.G. PICO only functions as a twilight detector and only regulates the light to the desired brightness depending on the natural daylight.”
The offices and meeting rooms are also equipped with KNX versions of the B.E.G. PICO with push-button interfaces. The advantage of a push-button interface compared to KNX push-buttons is the ‘free choice of switch programme’. This means that the desired design and an interface with four channels for several rooms can be used.
“The detector can be operated in full automatic or semi-automatic mode,” says Paul. “In the full automatic mode, the light switches on when there is movement, and the brightness falls below the desired value.
“The user can manually switch the light on or off or dim it by means of a push-button. In semi-automatic mode, the lighting is always switched on via the push-button. Then, as in full automatic mode, the follow-up time is restarted with each movement and the lighting is switched off after the follow-up time has elapsed.
“For the IE Business School, it was decided to use the semi-automatic mode and the regular mode so that the lighting was regulated to the desired brightness value depending on the daylight. If the amount of daylight increases, the amount of artificial light decreases accordingly and vice versa. If there is enough daylight, the artificial light is switched off in spite of movement and possibly switched on again later if the level falls below the set value. In addition, the air-conditioning systems are also controlled according to movement in order to additionally save energy.”
B.E.G., beg-luxomat.com
The technology protocol used in the Caleido Tower is KNX
SMART BUILDINGS AND THE OPPORTUNITY FOR ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
Smart building technology can fundamentally change the way we manage and experience the spaces in which we work and study, spend our leisure time and reside. Just as technology is revolutionising processes in many industries, it’s changing the way buildings are designed, built and operated.
Also referred to as intelligent buildings or digital buildings, smart buildings utilise technology to realise enhanced user comfort, improve safety, security and space utilisation, optimise maintenance and underpin sustainability. They also support data-driven decision-making for continuous optimisation.
How do they work?
They achieve such benefits, and more, via connected technologies, ranging from digital and artificial intelligence to augmented reality and the Internet of Things (IoT).
In the office environment, for example, sensors and analytics can be used to dynamically allocate workspaces based on real-time data about who is in the office, and preferences can be predicted for wellbeing and comfort. Meanwhile, unoccupied spaces can be automatically powered down for efficiency, with systems such as HVAC and lighting reduced to cut costs and improve sustainability.
Connected building systems can also enhance safety and security. The use of lighting control presence detectors can be used to inform security teams that a space is unexpectedly occupied out of hours, whilst security cameras onboard analytics and can monitor space utilisation.
The technology and implications are far-reaching, scalable and adaptable, catering to organisations of all sizes. While larger companies may have more extensive systems and deployments, small to medium-sized businesses can also benefit from solutions that are tailored to their needs and budgets.
The Digital Buildings Council
In response to the emergence of this fast-growing sector, the Digital Buildings Council (DBC) was established this year in the UK. It is a not-for-profit group made up of industry specialists from varying backgrounds who are focused on driving best practice and providing clarity and assurance to help fulfil the potential of digital buildings.
Two initial Working Groups were immediately formed. As part of its remit, the Council is planning a series of Best Practice Guide publications on specific
practice areas to enhance professional understanding through knowledge sharing.
Kevin Brownell, CPP, is Director of independent smart consultancy NuXform, a founding member, and Secretary of the DBC. He comments, “There is so much potential, and it’s a very exciting sector to be in. It’s in its infancy but it’s fast-growing and relatively complex.
“The digital buildings industry is quite siloed and there can be a tendency for focus on specific areas or stacks when in fact digital technology cuts through everything. So, for many, it’s quite confusing initially. I think there’s even a perception that it’s all a bit futuristic, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
“Smart technology is here, now, and there’s a real opportunity for electrical contractors, facilities managers and the likes to add value and get on the front foot.”
The successful delivery of smart buildings hinges on early collaboration, not just with fellow designers but across the trades. Electrical contractors are ideally placed to play a wider role beyond the electrical infrastructure of the building. For example, numerous forms of smart sensors make up a typical deployment, such as indoor air quality and people counting to name just two.
These sensor solutions can be quite large, often forming a project within a project.
Just as electrical installation progressed from traditional wiring to ethernet and data cables, the integration of IoT and connected buildings marks the next phase in the evolution of electrical contracting. Over the next five, 10 to 15 years, we will see the installation of electrical components that can communicate with each other and potentially influence one another becoming a standard feature in building designs.
As smart buildings evolve, so must the capability of contractors to meet demand. There is a huge opportunity for electrical contractors to partner with Master Systems Integrators (MSIs) to provide a joined-up approach across the hardware and software elements of smart building installation and commissioning.
NuXform’s smart building consultancy helps organisations design and implement these intelligent solutions. The company sets vision and strategy, procures the right partners and solutions, and manages implementation and optimisation to provide an end-to-end service, or consulting on part of the journey.
Digital Buildings Council, thedbc.io NuXform, nuxform.com
The Baker & McKenzie LLP office in London benefits from smart technology implemented by NuXform
Hufton & Crow
■ Addressable multi-master Lighting Control System
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- Commissioning tool for installers
BRINGING CONTRACTORS AND WHOLESALERS CLOSER TOGETHER
As the trade association representing electrical wholesalers, the Electrical Distributors’ Association (EDA) has a role to play in helping its members continually meet the needs of their contractor and installer customers.
One way the EDA does this is to invite contractors to join panel discussions at its Regional Business Forums, mini-conferences for EDA businesses.
During 2024, contractor panels have featured at the association’s Forums in Reading in June and Coventry in September, and the EDA plans to introduce the panel format as a regular feature during its 2025 event programme. Keeping the green technologies topic high on the agenda and to help the supply chain take full advantage of the opportunity, this year’s contractor panellists gave their valuable time to provide insight and take questions from the audience on the topic of ‘Enabling net zero
and more: What contractors will need and how you can help’. The feedback received both from contractors and EDA members has been extremely positive.
The EDA has also added to its contractor insight through Paul Reeve, former Director of CSR at the ECA, who has recently taken on the role of Special Advisor to the EDA. Paul hosts the panel discussions, bringing his valuable insight and expertise to the topics.
Speaking the same professional language
There are many reasons why contractors choose their wholesale suppliers but speaking the same technical language is an essential part of the customer/supplier relationship. Wholesaler teams need a
Paul Reeve, Special Advisor to the EDA
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level of technical expertise to enable them to offer the highest levels of professional service and it is why Education and Training is a long-standing benefit to EDA member businesses.
Winner of a Princess Royal Training Award, the suite of 12 Product Knowledge Modules is a hugely popular part of the EDA’s ever-expanding training offer, alongside an established apprenticeship service, a programme of bespoke classroom training courses, and virtual 30 Minute Masterclasses.
The 12 Product Knowledge Modules are City & Guilds Accredited training courses, 10 of which cover the products sold through the supply chain, with two further training courses covering the principles of electricity and customer service.
The training is mix-and-match and businesses choose the order and combination of study based on their customer profile. Everyone on the training course has to complete a final assessment to earn a pass, credit or distinction grade.
The e-learning training hub for the sector
Originally created as textbooks, thanks to significant investment from the EDA, the product knowledge training has evolved into an e-learning programme, supported by thousands of videos and interactive exercises. The training is hosted in The EDA Academy – an online Learning Management System to which every EDA business has access. The EDA is adding more and more training courses to its Academy portal, and it is evolving into the go-to hub for high quality training in the sector. The EDA Academy also offers clever technical links so it can be seamlessly connected to the in-house e-learning platforms within wholesaler businesses.
Interestingly, the EDA also receives enquiries from contractor businesses wanting access to the training for their teams, which is of course most welcome.
Apprentices on both sides of the trade counter
Apprenticeship training is a well-established entry route for electricians, and the same is true for electrotechnical wholesaling. The EDA was instrumental in leading a group of senior wholesalers in the creation of a new apprenticeship standard. Trade Supplier Level 2 launched in 2018 and has become the gold-standard training option for those wanting a solid grounding in running a merchant business.
Frequently, these Trade Supplier apprentices also study the EDA modules, so they qualify with excellent B2B expertise backed-up by sound product know-how.
The 12 Product Knowledge Modules are City & Guilds Accredited training courses
Special bond
In 2024, the EDA celebrated 110 years of service to the sector. So much has changed in that time but what still holds true is that every contractor needs a knowledgeable wholesaler backing them up, anticipating their needs and giving excellent customer service. This will never change.
Electrical Distributors’ Association, eda.org.uk
The EDA’s e-training programme is hosted in The EDA Academy – an online Learning Management System
WHOLESALERS & DISTRIBUTORS
ELECTRICAL WHOLESALER CHAMPIONS INTEGRITY, QUALITY AND COMMITMENT
Carly Weller speaks to Marc Redfern, Managing Director of Service Electrical Distributors, to find out more about the history of the company and its plans for the future.
Marc began his career in the electrical wholesale industry at 16 as an electrical contracting apprentice working for his Mum’s boyfriend. For one reason or another, this didn’t work out, so his first job in electrical wholesaling was with Smith and Cookson (now Eyre and Elliston) as a warehouse operative.
At the age of 18, he was offered a role with another wholesaler as a sales representative for Edmundson Liverpool. Over the next four to five years, Marc swapped roles working for both CEF and a number of small independent wholesalers. In October 2003, he took on a role as a sales representative for a start-up independent wholesaler and stayed with that company for 15 years, working his way up to Sales Director. In February 2019, Marc left that position to set up Service Electrical Distributors.
Service Electrical’s ethos, ‘Service by Name – Service by Nature’, is something the company stands by
Service Electrical won the Independent Wholesaler/ Distributor of the Year Award at the ECN Awards 2023
When Marc started the company, his aim was to deliver a comprehensive service. This led to rapid growth and made Service Electrical the fastest-growing electrical wholesaler in Merseyside. This is due to the company’s commitment to pride itself not only on the quality of the products it supplies but also its professional approach and service delivery provided to each and every customer.
Service Electrical focuses on building strong, trusted relationships via honesty/transparency, quality of service, the products the company provides, and by supporting its customers by delivering to agreed timescales and budgets to further strengthen their projects.
Throughout its journey, the company has remained dedicated to nurturing the growth and development of its diverse team. This commitment to teamwork is what defines Service Electrical’s exceptional service today.
Service Electrical’s ethos, ‘Service by Name – Service by Nature’, is something the company stands by and promotes at every opportunity. With a combined total
of over 100 years of experience within the electrical wholesale industry, Service Electrical promotes integrity, quality and commitment, whilst understanding the importance of building long-term relationships, as it strives to deliver exceptional service and value at every stage of the buying process.
In addition, the company focuses on sustainability and social responsibility by being committed to reducing its environmental impact, via the promotion of energy efficient products and the reduction of waste. Service Electrical also believes in supporting its local communities through charitable donations and product supply.
Service Electrical Distributors Ltd are an award-winning electrical distributor from Liverpool.
At Service Electrical Distributors Ltd, we are proud to support and provide ongoing assistance to various charitable organizations. We believe in giving back to the community and making a positive impact on the lives of others. Some of the charities we have supported include:
WHOLESALERS & DISTRIBUTORS
In the five and a half years that Marc has owned Service Electrical, his role has changed significantly. He took on every role that he could within the business to try to save money, but as the business grew and roles were filled, the business became a lot more compartmentalised. Thanks to his amazing staff, he is now in a position to oversee the overall running of the company and stay in contact with all of Service Electrical’s main client base. This also allows him to concentrate on expanding the Service Electrical brand, with several new branches set to open in the next year.
When asked what the best and most challenging parts of his job are, Marc says, “This is a fantastic question because I don’t actually see the job I do as a job – I see it more as a hobby because you’re not supposed to enjoy your job as much as I enjoy mine. Obviously owning your business comes with its own challenges, including managing staff and their various personalities and making sure that my clients are serviced as they need to be.”
Marc says there have been many stand-out moments in his career that he is proud of, Service Electrical’s core values being one of them, especially social value.
He says that being able to help the people of Sefton, and the wider Liverpool area, is very satisfying.
“It also goes without saying that I am extremely proud of Service Electrical Distributors for going from nothing to what it is now – a nationally recognised independent electrical wholesaler,” says Marc.
“Also, the national recognition through the various awards we’ve won over the past few years shows that people recognise the charity work we do and the amazing model we work to, setting our service bar much higher than our competition.”
Service Electrical won an ECN Award in 2023 and an Aico Community Award this year. Marc says that he is incredibly proud of both wins.
“I’ll be completely honest with you, I didn’t think we’d have a cat in hell’s chance of winning the ECN Award last year! So when we actually won it was absolutely amazing! Then, not long after winning the ECN Award, we won the AICO Community Award which was another massively proud moment for me and my staff. Then, another couple of weeks after winning the AiCO award, I won the SMA Managing Director 2024 Award.”
Service Electrical took home the Independent Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year Award at the ECN Awards 20023. The judges were impressed by the company’s impressive work in the local area and its support for charities, which they described as a great example of social and economic value.
Marc says that winning these awards has made a huge difference to the company’s name and reputation. Service Electrical makes a point of utilising its social media account to show off the awards it has won and Marc says that the amount of phone calls and emails from well-wishers was phenomenal. He says that it also opened doors that, prior to winning the awards, were firmly shut.
Over the next five years, the plan for Service Electrical is to expand
to become a regionally recognised wholesaler and, following that, to become a national wholesaler.
When asked if he has any advice for those starting out in the industry, Marc says, “The best bit of advice I can give anybody is to work harder than your competition. I am not the brightest spark, but what I lack upstairs I more than make up for with the amount of hours that I put into the business. Without a doubt, the hardest thing I have achieved was getting this business set up but, seeing now how it has turned out, I could not be any prouder.”
Service Electrical Distributors, sedltd.co.uk
The company has a combined total of over 100 years of experience within the electrical wholesale industry
Service Electrical plans to become a national wholesaler
Winning awards has opened up doors for Service Electrical
NEW ‘EMERGENCY PACK’ FROM LUCECO SAVES THE DAY IN CASE OF POWER OUTAGE
Luceco has launched an ‘emergency pack’ to maintain illumination for FType downlighter end users in the event of a power outage.
Designed specifically for use with its FType range of downlights, the FType Emergency Pack (FT3EP24-01) ensures efficiency but also reliability in emergency situations. The pack, which can be integrated seamlessly with all FType downlights, including the Essence, Mk2 and Ultra, offers a maintained three-hour emergency lighting feature, ensuring continuous illumination during power outages, enhancing safety and security in any environment.
Equipped with an LED indicator, the emergency pack provides a clear visual status, ensuring users are always informed about the operational state of their emergency lighting.
Easy to install – including as a straightforward retrofit – the new FType Emergency Pack has a unique hinged 180° design, which will fit through most ceiling holes.
Luceco FType is fully compliant with building regulations and is IP, Fire, Acoustic and Air leakage tested for complete confidence and peace of mind. It has three-to-seven-year warranties, depending on the model.
Luceco, luceco.com
NITTAN ENHANCES EVOLUTION FIRE DETECTION RANGE WITH NEW MODELS AND UPGRADES
Nittan has announced several exciting developments to its Evolution analogue addressable range, including the launch of new detectors with integral Short Circuit Isolator (SCI), and upgrades to existing devices.
New to the Evolution range are the EV-PY-SCI Photoelectric Optical Detector with SCI, the EV-H2-SCI Heat Detector with SCI, and the EV-PYH-SCI Photoelectric Optical & Heat Multi-Sensor with SCI. Both the EV-H2-SCI and the EV-PYH-SCI offer EN 54:5 Heat Category P programmable to four settings (A1R, A2S, BS & CS), with the latter having an additional setting for combined smoke heat mode certified to EN 54 part 29 for Multisensors.
The integral SCI in the new Evolution devices is bi-directional and, in the event of an external fault, will shut down on one side to protect the system, whilst allowing the device to continue communication with the fire alarm control panel from the opposite side. The isolator has a very low internal resistance (Zcmax) of less than 50mΩ and will self-reset when the fault is cleared.
Nittan, nittan.co.uk
IP65 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, INDOORS AND OUT!
FuseBox has introduced its latest innovation – the IP65 series of consumer units – designed to deliver robust environmental protection in both internal and external applications. These units are ideal for installations where resistance to dust and moisture is crucial, ensuring maximum safety against electrical hazards, such as shocks and equipment damage. The IP65 rating makes these units the perfect solution for high-humidity indoor environments, such as laundrettes or factory workshops, and provides reliable protection in outdoor locations such as residential garages and EV charging installations.
Key features:
• 6 module aluminium enclosures
• Available in white (RAL9002) or grey (RAL7021) finishes
• Sealable base and front cover with wire tag for added security
• Drop-down lid to maintain IP65 rating
• Extra height enclosure, suitable for standard RCBOs and AFDDs
• Includes a tail clamp and removable DIN rail for ease of installation
• Empty enclosures come equipped with neutral cable and busbar
• Available populated and unpopulated
FuseBox’s new IP65 consumer units provide electricians with the ultimate solution for installations requiring reliable environmental protection.
FuseBox, fusebox.co.uk
CKI WELCOMES JOKARI TO ITS PRODUCT PORTFOLIO
Carl Kammerling International (CKI) has partnered with the German brand Jokari, known for its high-quality range of professional tools for stripping wires and cables.
The partnership will see Jokari products available throughout wholesalers and retailers across the UK and Ireland, distributed exclusively by CKI.
The brand is well known for its high quality and ergonomically designed cable knives and strippers – providing electricians, heating engineers and plumbers alike with a reliable and safe way for stripping cables.
Each of the products in the Jokari range have been cleverly designed and rigorously tested to make repetitive installations easier and faster to achieve, adjusting the depth of the strip and providing a clean strip of the desired amount, with ease and less fatigue.
The range includes bestsellers such as the Jokari Cable Knife System (T)70000 which features an intelligent bracket change system to tackle the stripping of all common cable types (from 4-70mm) in one efficient tool.
Carl Kammerling International, carlkammerling.com
DOLD MINITIMER: THE STAIRCASE TIME SWITCH BUILT TO LAST 3X LONGER!
DOLD’s MINITIMER series of staircase time switches are engineered to outperform and outlast, boasting up to 30 million mechanical switch cycles – three times more than standard/cheaper models. These highly durable and efficient switches are ideal for areas requiring intermittent lighting, helping to reduce energy costs while offering a ‘fit-and-forget’ product life.
Load ratings: Available in two powerful options:
• IK8810 series: Supports up to 1200W
• RK8810 series: Handles up to 200W
Time settings: Choose from pre-set periods:
• 30 secs-10 mins
• 3 mins-60 mins
Adjustment methods:
• IK8810 series: Screwdriver-set pre-set for fit and forget applications
• RK8810 series: Rotary dial adjuster for easy changes to time period
CU PHOSCO LAUNCHES FL830
Available in re-triggerable and non-retriggerable versions, some models include a pre-warning function and a continuous lighting mode easily activated via a slide switch.
Compliant with EN 60 669-1 and EN 60 669-2-1 standards, the MINITIMER comes in both 4-wire and 3-wire configurations, with a neutral (N) connection at the push button. Rated at 16 amps.
DOLD Industries, dold.co.uk
CU Phosco has announced the launch of the FL830, a versatile floodlight designed to meet the demanding lighting requirements of airports, ports, car parks, highway conflict areas and bridges.
This revolutionary product, building on the success of the renowned FL820, delivers exceptional illuminance and reduced glare in a smaller, more adaptable package, ensuring it is the ideal lighting solution for a wide range of applications.
Designed for functionality and ease of use, the FL830’s smaller body, designed specifically for airport lighting applications, combines sleek, functional aesthetics with superior performance. Its future-proof and thermally optimised design can be easily upgraded onsite, ensuring long-term service life and efficiency. The FL830 boasts an impressive luminaire efficacy of up to 155 lumens per watt, providing a wide range of optics and lumen packages to tailor lighting solutions to specific needs. Advanced thermal management ensures the longevity of both LEDs and drivers, while its lightweight, low windage construction enhances durability and simplifies installation.
CU Phosco, cuphosco.com
SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY
OVIA ADDS NEW PIN SPOT DALI TO ITS EMERGENCY LIGHTING RANGE
The latest addition to Ovia’s lighting product portfolio is the new Pin Spot DALI – a range of LED DALI emergency conversion modules with self-test that can be integrated into any DALI addressable install.
The DALI Self-test non-maintained Pin Spot emergency luminaire is available in a Corridor Lens option, which features a 155lm output, and also in an Open Area Lens option, with a lumen output of 188.
The self-test function offers installers the option to monitor the emergency system remotely, removing the need for manual function and duration tests. As the luminaires are DALI addressable, the system can quickly detect and manage any faults, providing notifications when a failure occurs, thus eliminating the need for visual inspections. Other features include:
• Intelligent, automatic self-test scheduling for non-DALI applications
• Integral status/identification sounder with user-override
• Built-in charge indicator LED and ‘push to test’ switch on the lamp head
• Incorporates a high temperature LiFePO4 battery as standard
Airmaster by the CED Electrical Group, well known for both cooling and space heating ranges, also boasts a high quality selection of hand dryers, from a 1.1kW ABS option to a 2.5kW diecast aluminium heavy duty version.
The 1.1kW dryer with a white powder-coated ABS body, is an automatic high speed unit with a copper winding and long lasting motor. At an air speed of 90m/s and a noise level of 72dB, this unit’s drying time is just 10-15 seconds.
Moving up to 1.8kW dryers, there are two ranges, both offering dryers in a white or chrome finish. The Compact Turbo stainless steel pair are high speed, automatic and feature a 12+or-3cm sensing distance, whilst the standard Automatic stainless steel units feature a carbon brush motor and an LED sensing indicator.
The Airmaster range is complete with a long lasting, vandal proof, Heavy Duty Automatic 2.5kW dryer, fitted with a non-inductive motor and overheat protection. CED Electrical, cedelectrical.co.uk
POWERSAVER DUAL FLEXI 2 EMERSION CONTROLLER FROM SANGAMO
The Powersaver Dual Flexi 2 from Sangamo is an electronic immersion controller with programmable operation that is suitable for Single, Twin and Dual element immersion heaters. It bridges the gap between the bulky, aged electro-mechanical immersion controllers and the more complicated digital versions.
A table of pre-selectable adjustable programs is offered – covering all of the low rate electricity tariffs, including Economy 7, Economy 10 and Eco 20:20 times. Turn the Installer Switch to the program of choice (refer to Installation and User Instructions). Adjustment is possible to the preset times enabling the program periods to be reduced or cancelled as required. The review button allows ON/OFF times to be checked and there is automatic GMT/BST changeover.
There is a half-hour, one-hour and two-hour boost function with a digital display countdown clock, allowing the user to clearly see boost times. There is also a programmable boost function for further end user convenience; this program is deliberately limited to a maximum of two hours. ESP, espuk.com
ANSELL LAUNCHES LUNA: A NEW STAR IN BULKHEAD LIGHTING
Extending its popular bulkhead range, Ansell Lighting has unveiled Luna, a new internal wall/ceiling bulkhead that delivers exceptional performance and durability across a wide range of applications.
Highly efficient, Luna delivers an impressive 150lm/W and offers a choice of two selectable power outputs – 12W or 22W for optimal brightness and energy savings.
Extremely versatile, Luna’s sleek design complements a wide range of settings, and the choice of four clip-in bezel trims – white, chrome, satin chrome and black –allow it to blend seamlessly into any interior design scheme.
CCT selectable between 3000K, 4000K and 5000K, Luna also offers users more choice in customising their lighting hues to meet individual needs.
Designed with ease of installation in mind, Ansell’s new bulkhead features a clip-in diffuser, bezel and gear tray for a tool-less assembly. Rated IP54, it provides reliable protection against dust and water spray, making it suitable for various indoor environments.
Ansell Lighting, anselluk.com
CLICK SCOLMORE INTRODUCES DEFINITY COMPLETE IN MATT BRONZE
Click Scolmore has expanded its Definity Complete range, a range renowned for its screwless, push-fit face plates, which now features a new sleek Matt Bronze finish.
The Definity Complete range gives installers the ultimate flexibility. As all Click switch plates are modular as standard, this allows for endless combinations to suit multiple installations within both domestic and commercial environments.
The new Matt Bronze finish, available with black inserts, adds a timeless elegance to any interior, making it perfect for both residential and commercial settings.
The popular range now totals nine finishes including Matt Bronze, Antique Brass, Brushed Steel, Stainless Steel, Polished Chrome, White, Metal White, Matt Black and Metal Black finishes.
The full range can be viewed on the Scolmore website. The Definity Complete product brochure can be downloaded from the website as well as from the Scolmore Group app. Scolmore, scolmore.com
LUCECO GROUP LAUNCHES SYNC ENERGY BRAND
The Luceco Group is launching a new brand –Sync Energy – which covers all the key categories in this important market.
Already established in EV charging with its EV Wall Charger 2, launched in March 2024 and now part of the new Sync Energy product family, Luceco is introducing a Sync Energy commercial and workplace EV charging package this autumn, with more exciting developments to support sustainable living – also under the Sync Energy brand – to follow.
Combining all aspects of eco power in one clean and contemporary offer, the new Sync Energy brand will be extensively promoted in 2025 to end user audiences as well as to the trade.
Tania Tams, Marketing Director of The Luceco Group comments, “Sync Energy is all about leading the market on eco power, with an innovative and comprehensive range and long-term back-up for sellers, installers, and end-users. The ‘go-to’ partner in the category, Sync Energy is dedicated to making sustainable energy efficiency achievable for all.”
Luceco, luceco.com
KNIGHTSBRIDGE LED BATTENS PUT FLUORESCENTS IN THE SHADE
Efficient and affordable, Knightsbridge’s range of interior LED battens are the ideal upgrade for obsolete fluorescent lights, bringing up-to-the-minute performance to industrial, commercial and office premises.
Available in three sizes (4’, 5’ and 6’ lengths), the interior LED batten range has three variants: standard; microwave presence sensor; and Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI), a feature that enables it to be connected to networked building control systems. The range offers three colour temperatures: 3000K warm white, 4000K neutral white, and 5700K daylight.
The standard model, BATSCW, has a range of wattage from 18W to 52W according to length: 4’ – 18/32W, 5’ – 22/41W and 6’ – 27/52W. The emergency versions have a self-test feature.
Offering the same features as the BATSCW, the BATSCWM model incorporates a microwave presence sensor that detects movement within a 150° angle when wall-mounted and 360° if ceiling-mounted. Its range is up to 6m when mounted at a height of 3m.
Knightsbridge, mlaccessories.co.uk
UNICRIMP CABLE CLIPS – THE NUMBER ONE CHOICE FOR THE PROFESSIONALS
Unicrimp offers a comprehensive portfolio of cable accessory products which includes an extensive range of cable clips.
Unicrimp’s cable clips offer falls within two categories – the Q-Crimp range of durable and hardwearing plastic cable clips and the Q-Fire range of 18th Edition compliant fire-rated metal cable clips.
The Q-Crimp cable clips are perfect for organising and securing cables to fixed surfaces like walls, floors or ceilings. Constructed from durable and hardwearing plastic, they include a cable-holding element that typically requires a nail or fixing to attach it to the desired surface. Features include low-temperature flexibility, stress crack resistance, long nails for good pull out value and a self-grip design, making them versatile for any wiring project.
They are available in multiple sizes and colours, such as clear, white, grey and black, and are packaged in quantities of 100. Unicrimp’s Q-Crimp cable clips are also supplied in two handy tradesman tub options. Unicrimp, unicrimp.com
METREL INTRODUCES NEW ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION SAFETY TESTER
Metrel has launched the MI 3114 PV Tester, a multifunctional electrical installation safety tester for testing PV systems with a maximum system voltage of up to 1500V and a maximum short circuit current of 40A.
The tester comes with an array of versatile accessories for comprehensive testing, including a remote unit for measuring irradiation and cell temperature (of photovoltaic modules).
Key features include:
• Testing PV strings in parallel with a 40A current (50% faster testing)
• Measurements of insulation in 1500 V PV systems in a single instrument
• An auto test function for IEC/EN 62446 category 1 tests
• Wireless (Wi-Fi) remote unit for measuring (and logging of) irradiation and cell temperature of PV modules
• Calculation of STC values and comparison with nominal data
• PV modules database handler
• Correction of previously wrongly entered parameters of an already executed measurement or a group of measurements Metrel, metrel.co.uk
CHARGE LIKE A PRO WITH SYNC ENERGY’S NEW PRO CHARGER RANGE
Sync Energy’s New Pro Charger range is an easy to install, easy to use solution for commercial EV charging.
The range includes twin bollard EV chargers, available with or without integrated lighting, as well as twin wall-mounted chargers. Both the wall-mounted and bollard options come with PEN fault protection, touchscreen, RFID, 4G connectivity, and an MID meter as standard.
The chargers are ergonomic and PAS 1899:2022 compliant, with upward-angled screens for easy reading and side-illuminated information areas for use in darker environments.
The Pro Charger range provides end-users with flexible payment options designed for convenience. These include contactless card payments with a payment terminal option, as well as Monta QR code charging and Monta in-app charging solutions.
The PEN fault protection eliminated the need for costly earth rods or other PEN fault devices upstream. The Loop in/Loop out input connections accommodate up to 35mm² cables, allowing installers to chain multiple EV chargers from a single supply cable.
Sync Energy, sync.energy
SOLAREDGE UK LAUNCHES NEW SOLAR SOLUTION
SolarEdge Technologies has announed the UK launch of its high-power SolarEdge TerraMax Inverter combined with H1300 Power Optimizers. The new SE330K inverter is available now for pre-order, with shipments expected to start in ~Q1 2025.
Targeting small-to-medium utility scale PV installations, the new versatile solar system is suitable for varied topologies and challenging site conditions, ideal for ground mounted sites on sloped, uneven or irregular shaped terrains, and dual use sites for applications such as floating PV and Agri-PV (Agrivoltaics) with trackers.
The SolarEdge TerraMax solar inverter provides SolarEdge’s benefits of advanced Module Level Power Electronics (MLPE), which include higher energy yields by overcoming module mismatch and shading losses – particularly common in bi-facial modules and vertical PV – advanced built-in safety features, as well as design flexibility. The solution will be powered by the SolarEdge ONE for C&I new energy optimisation platform, with high-precision module-level monitoring and PV fleet management for reduced site visits, increased system uptime and lower O&M costs.
SolarEdge Technologies, solaredge.com
AT LAST! A SMART WALL SWITCH WITH NO FLICKERING
Timeguard’s new smart wall switch is a simple direct two-wire replacement for a standard switch that really does eliminate the flickering that can be a problem when controlling LED lighting with smart switches.
This is because the power is routed through an internal battery, rather than capacitors. The small mains current that has to be maintained to power the switch itself is absorbed by a trickle-charging battery, which can hold onto it, unlike the capacitors used in earlier design concepts. The mains supply is therefore effectively isolated from the switching controls and cannot cause flickering with even the lowest-power LEDs.
The ZV700 offers all the automatic time control options you would expect from Timeguard, including timed and photocell control, as well as acting as a normal switch. Available in wholesalers now.
Timeguard, timeguard.com
FARNBOROUGH INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION & CONFERENCE CENTRE
