Achieving a net zero power grid by 2030 is a key priority for the government’s energy strategy. While accelerating the development of renewable energy sources is essential, it’s equally critical to highlight the role of battery storage in this nationwide plan.
A coalition of battery storage operators in the UK, including Zenobē, Harmony Energy, EelPower and Field Energy, are urging the government to recognise battery storage as an indispensable element of the country’s national energy infrastructure. Representing a substantial portion of battery storage projects across Great Britain, the coalition is calling for swift action to resolve systemic issues that are stifling investment and driving up energy costs for consumers.
Currently, when the grid experiences an excess of wind energy that cannot be efficiently redistributed, the Electricity System Operator (ESO) either switches off the wind turbines or stores the surplus energy in batteries. The latter is often the more affordable and efficient option. Yet, despite this, the coalition claims that the ESO consistently underutilises batteries – choosing more expensive alternatives even when battery storage is the fastest and most cost-effective solution.
The impact of this results in consumers being faced with higher energy bills, renewable energy being wasted, and fossil fuel generation unnecessarily filling the gap. If this inefficiency continues, the coalition claims that the cost of these constraints could surpass £2 billion annually by 2030.
Fortunately, the solutions to these challenges are both available and cost-effective and the coalition says it is eager to collaborate to resolve these issues. It says that investment in battery storage doesn’t require government funding, but it does need a properly functioning market. It says that it stands ready to work alongside the government, ESO and Ofgem to address the problem and that by reducing the unnecessary skipping of batteries, energy costs for consumers can be lowered and investor confidence can be restored, accelerating the UK’s transition to a sustainable energy future.
Commercial Lighting; EV Charging; Fire, Safety & Security; and HVAC are the main focus of this month’s issue, with insight brought to you by the industry’s leading experts. I also speak with CEF’s Darren Staniforth for our monthly interview, where we discuss the latest series of TechTalks, the importance of safe isolation and Amendment 4. Plus, don’t forget to enter the competition to be in with a chance of winning one of three Cable Clips Trade Tubs, courtesy of Unicrimp.
I hope you enjoy the issue – see you next month!
GROUP EDITOR: CARLY WELLER
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E: carly@allthingsmedialtd.com
DEPUTY EDITOR: SIMON ROWLEY
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SALES DIRECTOR: KELLY BYNE
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STUDIO: MARK WELLER
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E: mark@allthingsmedialtd.com
CEO: DAVID KITCHENER
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Carly Weller, Group Editor
INDUSTRY NEWS
DRIVERS TO CHARGE AHEAD WITH LAMP POST POWER
An electric vehicle charging revolution could be underway after UK Power Networks revises guidance to give the green light to use lamp posts to power up.
A series of studies undertaken by the distribution network operator has proven 5kW charge points can be installed even on older lamp posts which have thinner cabling than more modern installations.
UK Power Networks worked closely with Shell ubitricity to undertake technical assessments and has now updated its technical guidance to give confidence to the energy industry to deliver a large-scale roll-out of lamp post charging.
NEW QUALIFICATION FOR EXPERIENCED WORKERS IN PANEL WIRING
In a significant development for the electrotechnical industry, the EAL Level 3 Panel Wiring for Engineering Applications route has been approved by the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) as a pathway to obtaining the prestigious Panel Builder and Wireman Gold card for experienced workers.
This new qualification aims to address the long-standing demand for recognising experienced workers in the Specialist Control and Distribution Panel Manufacture and Installation subsector.
The study came after some local authorities on the South Coast of England were ordered to stop installing lamp post chargers on older legacy columns with different wiring. Local authorities own and operate streetlights, with distribution network operators like UK Power Networks delivering the power to them.
The revised guidance is expected to help electric vehicle owners in towns and cities, where it is estimated that up to 60% of people do not have access to off-street parking. It will give all 133 local authorities operating in the area UK Power Networks serves the green light to
connect faster 5kW charge points to their lamp posts.
SELECT BACKS GRENFELL INQUIRY’S CALL FOR REGULATION
Scotland’s largest trade association, SELECT, has echoed the Grenfell Inquiry’s call for regulation and a shake-up of the construction industry – and has urged the Scottish Government to “step up and act on regulation” before tragedy strikes again.
The campaigning body says it agrees with inquiry chair Sir Martin Moore-Bick that the sector needs “fundamental change” to avoid a repeat of the tragic blaze in which 72 people lost their lives in June 2017.
Among the many recommendations in the damning report, Sir Martin said the sector should appoint a construction regulator to oversee all aspects of the industry.
While traditional apprenticeship routes are well-suited for new entrants, leading to recognition and eligibility for a Wireman/Panel Builder Gold card, there has been a clear need for an alternative pathway for experienced workers. These individuals, who have been contributing to the field for years, often find apprenticeships unsuitable but still wish to align with the latest ECS and competence requirements.
To address this, the Joint Industry Board (JIB) led a task and finish group to explore potential solutions. The result is the Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA), which offers a structured and standardised way for experienced workers to have their skills formally recognised.
“This is a significant step forward for our industry,” says Andy Reakes, Director of Growth and Development at the JIB & ECS. “It ensures that the valuable skills of experienced workers are recognised and rewarded, aligning with our commitment to raising standards and providing clear career pathways.”
ECS, ecscard.org.uk
SELECT Managing Director, Alan Wilson, says such a suggestion underlines the urgent need for regulation of the electrical industry, which it has been tirelessly campaigning for over the past 10 years.
SELECT’s long-running campaign had attracted support from MPs and MSPs of all parties, who all agreed about the importance of professionalism, transparency and safety in construction procedures.
Alan says, “We have a draft Bill ready to go, and now’s the chance for the Scottish Parliament to use its powers and be a leader in the changes which we need. There can’t be short cuts or quick fixes. This report reinforces the importance of always using suitably qualified professionals in safety-critical work and SELECT will continue to work hard
behind the scenes to ensure working conditions are safe for contractors.”
SELECT, select.org.uk
TRAVIS PERKINS SPONSORS NEW DECARBONISATION CENTRE
Travis Perkins Managed Services has announced its sponsorship of the ground-breaking Tŷ Gwyrddfai decarbonisation hub, the first facility of its kind in the UK.
The centre will provide skills training for decarbonisation and retrofitting homes. The 120,000ft2 warehouse space, which is situated in a semi-rural area of Gwynedd, has been transformed into a training facility for demonstrating, installing and maintaining products and materials associated with retrofitting homes.
The centre is a collaboration between Travis Perkins Managed Services, Adra Housing Association, the Busnes@ LlandrilloMenai and Bangor University. The decarbonisation hub will support the development of skills to install and maintain small solar photovoltaic, domestic heat pump and solar thermal hot water systems. There will also be a dedicated Travis Perkins branch on site to provide Adra and its contractors with materials and supplies.
Ben Todd, Managing Director of Travis Perkins Managed Services, says, “We are so proud to be collaborating with our customer and partners to bring this decarbonisation hub to Penygroes. The hub will provide a centre of excellence for the
future development of low carbon solutions across retrofitting, repairs and maintenance.”
Travis Perkins, travisperkins.co.uk
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INDUSTRY NEWS
EV CHARGERS ACCEPTED INTO UK CAPACITY MARKET
British smart home energy technology manufacturer, myenergi, has achieved what it believes to be an industry first in having electric vehicle (EV) chargers accepted into the Capacity Market in the UK without relying on smart meter data.
The Capacity Market, an important feature of the UK’s evolving energy system, was introduced by the government approximately 10 years ago to act as an insurance policy for the electricity grid, providing protection against shortages in supply during peak demand periods.
Historically, the Capacity Market has been dominated by large-scale generation – typically fossil fuels, such as
gas – with renewable generation not able to participate. Flexible capacity in the past has typically been commercial and industrial, such as grid-scale batteries or a steel plant that can pause production if energy demand is too high.
While domestic EV charge points have more recently been able to be aggregated to participate in the Capacity Market, they have been entered by energy suppliers using smart meter data held by these parties.
However, myenergi has now achieved an industry first by having thousands of its zappi EV chargers accepted into the Capacity Market using the metering from the EV chargers themselves.
WMC CALLS FOR A NEW FIRE-RESISTANT CABLE STANDARD
Wrexham Mineral Cables (WMC) is calling for the establishment of a new fire-resistant cable standard to improve building safety and potentially save lives.
WMC’s call to action comes as the industry reflects on the 1,700-page Grenfell Inquiry report, which sets out how “decades of failure” across government and the construction sector led to Grenfell Tower becoming a site of tragic loss of life.
WMC says the industry reform must include a new standard that enables architects and specifiers to identify true fire survival cables which are proven to perform to safety standards in real-world scenarios. The company warns the current regulatory framework allows for inferior cables to be used in safety-critical applications, putting lives and property at risk.
Currently, specifiers are presented with a choice between polymeric ‘soft skin’ cables and mineral insulated copper clad (MICC) cables. Due to the existing testing regime, both cable types are classed as fire-resistant, creating a misleading impression of equivalence. However, MICC cables have consistently demonstrated superior performance and are proven to perform to measurably higher safety standards in ‘real fire’ scenarios.
Colin Hughes, Group Manager at WMC, says, “We need a new standard that allows specifiers to identify true fire survival cables – and potentially help save lives.”
WMC has long advocated for stricter testing standards and better fire-resistant cable specifications. In 2023, WMC published a white paper outlining how cables directly impact building safety. The paper advocates for the introduction of a higher classification of fire survival cable, which can continue to power critical circuits in the event of a fire. The white paper can be downloaded from the company’s website.
Wrexham Mineral Cables, wrexhammineralcables.com
Lee Sutton, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer of myenergi, says, “This is a really important and exciting milestone in creating a truly flexible and distributed energy system in the UK. We firmly believe that flexibility markets must be open to a wider
TESP CALLS ON INDUSTRY TO OFFER T LEVEL PLACEMENTS
The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP) is asking electrical contractors across England to offer a T Level ‘industry placement’ to help support the next generation of electricians.
T Levels, the new technical training route for 16-18 year olds, are a Level 3 qualification taken over two years, where the learner spends 80% of their time at college and the other 20% in the workplace.
Learners need on-site experience over 315 hours (around 45 days) via an industry placement, working with an electrical contractor to gain on-site skills and knowledge.
Once they complete their T Level, learners can progress onto an ‘accelerated apprenticeship’ already with skills and knowledge under their belt, making for a shorter apprenticeship training programme.
With minimal financial outlay (as there is no obligation to pay wages), the benefits of offering a placement include increased productivity and efficiency, as well as giving something back to the industry’s future workforce.
“We all remember that first opportunity we got in the industry when we first started out; this is now your
UK HOME HEATING COULD BE SET FOR REVOLUTIONARY CHANGE
Millions of UK homes could successfully switch to low carbon electrified heating whilst easing pressure on the electricity grid by using innovative heat battery technology.
The landmark innovation trial ‘Neat Heat’, led by UK Power Networks in partnership with OVO and tepeo, found the switch would significantly help the UK meet its net zero targets by 2050.
Neat Heat ran for 18 months until June, and involved installing tepeo’s Zero Emission Boiler (ZEB) which uses heat battery technology in 30 homes across the South East and East of England. The findings demonstrated that heat batteries, as an all-electric low carbon alternative to fossil fuel boilers, can shift peak energy demand for heating to off-peak times by up to 95%. This means that homes could be efficiently heated even in the depths of winter, whilst providing substantial carbon savings of 15,600kg CO2 compared to if these homes were using gas boilers instead.
By leveraging thermal storage, homes could ‘charge’ their heating systems outside the most expensive hours of the day, with heat being released on demand when needed.
As well as showing 95% of a trialist’s yearly heating demand could be moved outside of peak hours, where
variety of players, and myenergi has proven that this is possible through the high-quality technology in our products and our innovative approach, in partnership with Axle Energy.”
Myenergi, myenergi.com
chance to give that same opportunity to someone else,” says Nathan Smith, TESP Skills Ambassador. “It’s not just the feel-good factor that comes with passing your skills and knowledge onto a young learner, it’s the business benefits that come with it as well: increased productivity and efficiency, an extra pair of hands, plus an all-important extended interview period if you’re considering someone for an apprenticeship.”
The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership, the-esp.org.uk
demand on the grid was highest, over 90% could be moved in the coldest weeks in winter. All participants experienced no noticeable change to their heating, with the ZEB providing a similar experience as a traditional boiler but powered entirely by electricity.
UK Power Networks, ukpowernetworks.co.uk
NICEIC LAUNCHES FRESH NEW SERIES OF THE WIRE
NICEIC has announced new episodes of its webinar series, THE WIRE.
The webinars are free and exclusive to NICEIC-certified businesses and their employees. They cover a wide range of topics relevant to the electrical industry, such as regulations, standards, best practices and technical skills. The webinars provide an excellent opportunity to keep up to date with hot topics in the sector, as well as delivering a valuable source of continuing professional development (CPD), a requirement for NICEIC-certified businesses.
NICEIC Technical Director, Paul Collins, comments, “We’re committed to supporting our certified businesses towards success. Our webinar series, THE WIRE, delivers essential industry insights and Q&A sessions. We continually expand topics to maximise value and support continuing professional development, a crucial aspect of NICEIC certification.”
Each webinar will feature talks from NICEIC’s technical experts. Viewers will have the opportunity to learn from these professionals and ask any questions they may have.
BAXI INTRODUCES HEAT PUMP CASHBACK SCHEME
Baxi is welcoming the return of heating season by announcing its first ever Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) cashback promotion, which is reportedly the biggest yet by a UK manufacturer.
Running from the start of September until 6 January 2025, Baxi Heat Pump installers can receive £600 cashback for their first three Baxi ASHP installations – up to £1,800 in total.
The scheme is part of Baxi’s ongoing drive to support the UK’s switch to low carbon heat. The company hopes to incentivise more installers to develop the skills and knowledge that will ensure homeowners benefit from quality heat pump installations, helping the UK meet its net zero targets.
All installers who qualify as a Baxi heat pump installer and complete an assisted commissioning with a Baxi commissioning engineer on their first heat pump installation will be eligible to claim the cashback.
To receive the cashback, a Baxi HP-40 ASHP must be installed, commissioned and registered on Baxi Works. At the end of the promotion, Baxi will send the money directly to the installer’s chosen account. Full terms and conditions for the promotion along with FAQ’s are available on Baxi’s website.
Baxi, baxi.co.uk
Topics covered:
• Uncover the process behind the UK’s key electrical standard BS 7671 (3 October)
• Essential preparation for your NICEIC MCS assessment (17 October)
• Essential update on Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS) (14 November)
• Your NICEIC assessment: Common mistakes and how to avoid them (28 November)
The series will conclude with NICEIC’s annual end of the year quiz.
NICEIC, niceic.com
EIC SEEKS VOLUNTEERS TO BECOME CHARITY AMBASSADORS
The Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) is looking for volunteers to help raise awareness.
The EIC’s mission is to provide the best outcome for every person in the industry who needs the charity’s help.
It aims to ensure that the whole industry knows the support available to them. In these challenging times, the charity believes there are more people suffering in silence than ever.
The charity is looking for a minimum of two people per company and hopes to get 20 Ambassadors.
EIC Ambassadors raise awareness of the EIC. They will support the charity in various areas, such as inspiring more people to fundraise, getting
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more people signed up for the powerLottery and encouraging companies to choose EIC as their ‘Charity of the Year’.
Ambassadors will commit as much time as they can to the role. In return, they will receive knowledge of the EIC’s vital work, resources, monthly newsletters and quarterly catch-ups with the EIC team.
Volunteers will have the opportunity to meet new people across the industry, enhance professional development and last but by no means least, will be helping give colleagues in need a helping hand.
The SPARKS Learner of the Year and SPARKS Female Skills competitions are back for 2025, the former marking its 15th year of celebrating the brightest young talent in the electrical industry.
The SPARKS Learner of the Year competition offers apprentice and student electricians an opportunity to showcase their skills, build confidence and win fantastic prizes to support them at the very start of their careers.
Level 2 and 3 students from across England and Wales will compete in six regional heats throughout January and February. The winners of each regional heat will then compete in the Grand Final, which will be held in April 2025.
Building on the success of its first two years, the SPARKS Female Skills Competition is also returning in 2025, with even more excitement and opportunities for emerging industry professionals.
In February and March 2025, SPARKS will travel across three regions nationwide, seeking the best up-and-coming professionals in the electrical industry. Level 2 and 3 learners from colleges across the country will compete in a live, practical installation test. Each regional winner and runner-up will then advance to the Grand Final, where they will compete for this prestigious award.
The Meet the Manufacturer series will run alongside both competitions, offering manufacturers an opportunity to network with and update lecturers on the latest industry and product innovations.
The deadline for entries for both competitions is 29 November 2024.
SPARKS, sparks-magazine.co.uk
EV GIANTS LAUNCH ‘ELECTRIC VEHICLES UK’
Octopus Electric Vehicles and the Fully Charged Show have teamed up to launch ‘Electric Vehicles UK’, a new organisation designed to educate consumers about EVs.
Speaking at the launch event at Octopus HQ in London, Greg Jackson, Founder of Octopus Energy Group, urged the industry to help drivers discover the very clear advantages of EVs.
Electric
Vehicles UK will be spearheaded by Interim CEO, Dan Caesar, for the first year, after which a full-time CEO will be appointed.
Dan says, “Electric vehicles have become something of a lightning rod for headline writers, guaranteeing as they do, a significant number of hits. Through multiple surveys on the subject, we know that nine out of 10 battery EV drivers won’t go back to combustion engine vehicles.
“Meanwhile, almost 50% of ICE drivers are considering switching to electric, so there’s a clear disconnect between the headlines and lived experience. By uniting under the Electric Vehicles UK brand, we believe we can be much more effective in communicating information and factual evidence of the good, and the bad, aspects of EV ownership.”
Octopus Electric Vehicles, octopusev.com
MOVERS & SHAKERS…
Hispec has announced the appointment of Kate Hughes as its new Head of Compliance & Sustainability. This newly created position reflects Hispec’s growing focus on meeting evolving regulatory requirements and integrating sustainable practices across all operations.
Aggreko has strengthened its provision of energy transition solutions with the appointment of a new Managing Director for the UK and Ireland. Aiming to address specific-sector and regional challenges for customers, Alan Dunne has been appointed to spearhead Aggreko’s growth strategy and innovation in the region.
Phenna Group has appointed Jon Harrison as the Group Head of Corporate Development. Jon brings a wealth of experience to his new role at Phenna Group and joins the company from the Global Investment Bank, Houlihan Lokey (HL), where he successfully built and led HL’s sector-leading European Business Services.
LITE has welcomed team member, Lawrence Hayes, in his new role as UK Specification Manager. Lawrence will be collaborating with a wide range of LITE’s clients including lighting designers, engineers, architects and contractors to meet the needs and requirements of each individual project.
As part of works to install new safety railings to the famed Whispering Gallery at St Paul’s Cathedral, CBG Light Perceptions was appointed to devise a new lighting scheme to align with the new design.
The Whispering Gallery sits 30m above the crossing of the nave. It is a circular walkway along the base of the cathedral’s dome structure, with views to the floor below and along the entire length of the Cathedral.
The original lighting design was the work of Speirs Major Light Architecture. Dating back 25 years, the scheme was a combination of cold cathode tubes, dimmed halogen lighting and metal halide fixtures, which were common technologies of their time. The re-engineering of the design by CBG is part of a larger programme to upgrade the interior lighting of St Paul’s to more energy efficient light sources.
To fulfil the requirements of the project and refresh the outdated lighting in the gallery, CBG specified iGuzzini’s Linealuce linear fixtures. This contemporary,
CWAC ROLLS OUT AICO ALARMS
Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) has embraced new technologies by recently adopting a revised specification to ensure the safety of its residents. This involves fitting Aico’s flagship Ei3030 Multi-Sensor Alarm across its housing stock on upgrade programmes and where replacements are required.
PAUL’S
CATHEDRAL
high-performance miniaturised luminaire has replaced 64m of cold cathode fittings, to provide uplight to the beautifully gilded, heritage Tijou railings. A warm white colour temperature has been specified.
To offer improved illumination to the Thornhill frescoes, which adorn the dome above the gallery, CBG Light Perceptions specified iGuzzini Palco luminaires with a variety of carefully selected optics. These are controlled in a series of zones to highlight the most important elements of the painting and replace the older metal halide and halogen spotlights.
An additional safety feature added to the gallery is a series of miniature, hidden emergency lights that can be used to provide low-level lighting to the floor of the gallery and also highlight the exit doors in the event of an emergency.
The installation was carried out by a team of electricians from the cathedral’s Works Department.
CBG Light Perceptions, lightperceptions.co.uk
The combined optical, heat and Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm was launched in summer 2023 and is quickly being adopted across social housing as the ‘go-to’ device due to its reliability and ease of use. With three proven, reliable sensors in one unit to ensure accurate fire and CO detection, the Ei3030 eliminates the need for multiple alarms, simplifying installation and maintenance. Furthermore, the multi-sensor alarm is equipped with additional features, such as Intelligent Dust Compensation, whilst integrated software allows the sensors to work together for the extraction and monitoring of real-time data to allow for proactive safety measures to be taken.
Additionally, if CWAC was to make future improvements to its housing portfolio, it would have the ability to easily implement Aico’s HomeLINK Technology to monitor issues such as damp and mould, indoor air quality and compliance. The Connected Home Solution features the Ei1000G Gateway as the hub of the solution, collating data via Aico’s HomeLINK Environmental Sensors and creating actionable insights for landlords to view on the HomeLINK Portal.
Fitted in Ellesmere Port properties, the multi-sensor alarms were installed by the Liberty Group. The team attended Aico’s Expert Installer Training earlier this year, ensuring they have all the information they need to efficiently install domestic fire and carbon monoxide alarm systems for effective protection. Aico, aico.co.uk
BREATHING BUILDINGS HELPS PROVIDE GOOD INDOOR AIR QUALITY TO SEN SCHOOL
Breathing Buildings, a leading provider of controlled hybrid ventilation systems, has supplied ventilation to High Point Academy, a secondary school for students with complex learning difficulties in Wednesbury, West Midlands.
The 90-pupil school features classrooms that are designed to be safe and calming for autistic pupils, including a range of specialist rooms that enhance the children’s experience. In addition to this specialist learning environment, the two-storey school benefits from Breathing Buildings’ NVHR (Natural Ventilation with Heat Recycling) hybrid ventilation units that help provide good indoor air quality and keep the school warm in winter and cool in summer.
M&E contractor David Paradine specified and installed the Breathing Buildings ventilation units to provide cost effective, energy efficient and comfortable, draught-free ventilation. Eleven pairs of NVHR+ 900 units with heating coils were
installed in the school’s classrooms, while three roof-mounted S1500 E-stack units were installed in the main hall. The NVHR+ 900 was ideal for the project since it incorporates a heater into the NVHR system allowing room pre-heating, and enhanced control over the temperature of air being delivered to the space during occupancy. This meant that radiators were not required in the classrooms. As a SEN school it was also very important to ensure that noise levels were low and so attenuation was vital in this project.
Breathing Buildings’ NVHR hybrid ventilation system is designed specifically to meet the robust ventilation criteria set out for schools in BB101. Its ultra-efficient facade-based mixing ventilation allows single-sided, enhanced natural ventilation in deep plan spaces whilst making the most of internal heat gains to deliver superb thermal comfort and indoor air quality.
Breathing Buildings, breathingbuildings.com
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Every day we see more and more new and emerging technologies in our industry and we need to keep abreast of these changes. To keep you and your customers safe and to keep on top of recent changes, make sure you have the very latest edition of the IET Wiring Regulations.
Use our handy timeline to quickly and easily check that you’re up to date at theiet.org/regs-checker-ECN
To buy copies of the book and expert guidance publications or to find out more about a solution for your company including books and multi-access digital subscriptions visit theiet.org/amendment2-ECN
UK POWER NETWORKS WINS FUNDING FOR TRIO OF INNOVATION TRIALS
A roadmap for UK Power Networks’ innovation programme has been set following Ofgem’s awarding of nearly £25 million for Strategic Innovation Fund projects.
After nine months of successful research and development, three projects have been selected to start large-scale trials which could both increase the reliability of power supplies and accelerate customers’ journeys to net zero.
The projects receiving £24,951,881 of additional Beta phase funding are:
• SHIELD: An innovative look into how new technologies can work together to support low-income households in the net zero transition. The trial will install a combination of solar panels and battery storage solutions, as well as capture heat from mini data centres installed at participants’ homes.
• CReDo+: Establishing a ‘digital twin’ and enabling secure data sharing for both networks and asset owners to build resilience against climate change and identify areas of risk between assets in extreme weather events.
• Heatropolis: A decarbonisation trial focused on the whole system planning between the electricity network and local heat networks. The project will demonstrate how community heat networks can support the operation of electricity networks.
“It’s incredibly exciting, not only to be dramatically scaling up the scope of these projects, but to be working alongside some of the brightest minds in our sector to bring them to life.”
UK Power Networks, ukpowernetworks.co.uk
MARSHALL-TUFFLEX PROVIDES CABLE MANAGEMENT FOR LUTON & DUNSTABLE HOSPITAL
Electrical engineering contractor, Meckel, has installed Marshall-Tufflex’s MT Supertube and Wire Basket to ensure an efficient, compliant and durable cable management system as part of the £105 million major redevelopment works at Luton & Dunstable University Hospital. The substantial project started in 2022 and is due for completion by summer 2025.
Working in collaboration with Kier Mechanical Electrical Division (KME), Meckel was contracted to carry out all the electrical installation works, including cable containment. As the specification of the right cable management solution for the extensive project was critical, Meckel approached Marshall-Tufflex to discuss the requirements and the suitability of MT Supertube and Wire Basket solutions.
Meckel used MT Supertube and Wire Basket extensively throughout the project. MT Supertube is a unique, three-layer heavy gauge conduit comprising polyethylene internal and external layers over a continuous aluminium tube that provides additional mechanical strength.
Meckel specified the Wire Basket for cable routing at Luton & Dunstable Hospital as the company had used it on a previous job and was impressed with its performance. As a result, it is now Meckel’s preferred product and is being installed in several other healthcare projects.
Signify is supporting Milton Keynes City Council in its long-term vision to create a world-leading sustainable city. Signify was selected to upgrade 18,000 existing streetlights to LED – enabling the city to introduce innovation in terms of performance, quality of light, and connectivity to its lighting assets –and contribute to its climate action goals.
The phased programme will be completed this year and is expected save the council over five million kWh in energy usage, and £2 million in energy costs per year, following completion (based on average and estimated prices 2021-2025). The reduction in ongoing energy costs is expected to pay for the project in full within eight years. The LED upgrade will also increase visibility for motorists and pedestrians, and improve the quality of security camera footage, helping to improve the feeling of safety and deter criminal activity.
“Marshall-Tufflex’s Wire Basket is a great product. It is quick and easy to install and cost-effective,” says Mark Turnbull, Director at Meckel. “We’re pleased with the overall cable management installation. The products are quick to install and provide a long-lasting, robust solution that meets the demanding requirements of the hospital environment.” Marshall-Tufflex, marshall-tufflex.com SIGNIFY SUPPORTS MILTON KEYNES’ SUSTAINABLE CITY
Signify was selected as the lighting partner of choice based on several parameters: the technical specification of the proposed lighting solutions, the projected operational and energy cost savings, and carbon emission reductions. Throughout February and March this year and forming the main part of the roll-out of the project, a combination of approximately 18,000 Philips LumiStreet Gen2 and LumiStreet ECO LED lanterns were installed along roads and footpaths across the city – replacing the old, energy-inefficient HID lanterns. The Philips LumiStreet ECO was designed to specifically meet the needs of the UK market, and this project sees the first large roll-out across a city. In addition, 1,800 Philips TownTune urban decorative LED luminaires have been installed to improve the lighting across car parks, pedestrian walkways and cycle paths. Signify, signify.com
Head of Innovation at UK Power Networks, Luca Grella, says, “We’ve been a big supporter of the Strategic Innovation Fund over the past 12 months, and now is where the fun really begins.
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TRADESPEOPLE CALL FOR GREATER GOVERNMENT SUPPORT IN REGULATION, SKILLS AND APPRENTICESHIPS
UK tradespeople are calling for the new government to make a clearer plan aimed at supporting more people into the construction industry and upskilling existing staff, following a recent survey conducted by Screwfix
More than 1,000 UK tradespeople were surveyed about life in the trade, their key challenges and opportunities as the construction industry faces its ongoing skills shortage.
While 75% of those surveyed said they have work planned for the next six months, only 3.7% of sole traders and 19% of SME firms (those with two to five staff) were able to take on an apprentice in the last year.
Meanwhile, tradespeople are struggling to keep up with demand. Most will spend four months of the year working more than five days a week, and 69% feel they have no one to hand their business over to after retirement. 42% of those over 65 say they will never retire or do not know when they’ll be able to.
Almost two-thirds (60%) stated that the pressures of increased tax and business regulations were their primary concern and a key barrier to achieving their businesses’ objectives. A further 58% highlighted the lack of skilled labour available in construction as a key challenge and necessary policy area for the new government to focus on, as it seeks to propel the UK’s economic growth.
On the topic of skills, the majority (92%) believe more needs to be done within schools to encourage young people into the trades, while a further 30% responded that there are no significant initiatives in their region to promote trade careers.
To communicate the thoughts and feelings of UK tradespeople, Screwfix has launched its Voice of The Trade report which outlines the key challenges of those currently working in the industry, including those they face around attracting new talent.
Considering the views captured from across the industry, the report sets out five key areas of suggested focus for the new government, to best support the trade:
• Make business tax and regulation small business-friendly
• Provide direct grants to SMEs to support recruitment
• Encourage flexibility in apprentice hiring to reflect the work tradespeople have planned via T-level placements and flexi-apprenticeships
• Make upskilling flexible and focused on when trades have time to train
• Celebrate trade apprenticeships as having the same value as a university education
John Mewett, CEO at Screwfix, says, “We are passionate about supporting tradespeople and we know from speaking with them just how rewarding a career in the trade can be. As a supplier to the trade, we wanted to understand and be a voice for what tradespeople are seeking from the new government to support their businesses, and to help more people enter the construction industry.
“The construction sector and the tradespeople within it are crucial for the upkeep of our homes, workplaces, infrastructure and, ultimately, our economy, and we need to make sure it remains strong. With the UK on course to face a shortfall of 250,000 tradespeople by 2030 and the new government’s emphasis on driving economic growth, now is the time to support our current trade workforce as well as educate and inspire the younger generation on the significant career opportunities available.”
The Voice of The Trade report can be downloaded from the Screwfix website. Screwfix, screwfix.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
PLAYING WITH FIRE — A LOOK AT SUBSTANDARD FIRE DESIGN SCHEMES
ESP reveals some worrying evidence that not all fire design schemes are up to the standard required to ensure the safety of buildings and their inhabitants.
In the same way that diligence needs to be adhered to when procuring electrical products to ensure their compliance with the latest regulations, it is also essential that projects which require fire protection are also designed, installed and commissioned to the correct standard, BS5839. We are all too aware of the issue with counterfeit products and products that are uncertified (and potentially unsafe) making their way onto the marketplace. Now, having reviewed completed fire system designs from various sources, it has come to ESP’s attention that not all designs are equal. The company would like to offer wholesalers and installers some advice on the types of issues to be aware of, after finding substandard work as a result of potentially inexperienced and/or underqualified designers. ESP has seen:
• Fire system design drawings marked up without sufficient AFD (Automatic Fire Detection) coverage
• Incorrect products specified
• Fire designs ‘completed’ and quoted within 30 minutes
• Supporting technical documentation and proposals missing
The last two points are ones that are easily identifiable for the installer and wholesaler. Fire designs ‘completed’ in minutes are unlikely to have had the enquiry documentation evaluated correctly. Fire designs should always come with additional technical documentation such as a ‘Fire System Proposal’. This will tell any ‘responsible person’ or installer how their fire alarm system should work and, ultimately, how it should be installed. If
this is not provided as part of a design, how sure can we be that the design has been executed successfully?
Those who install a poorly designed system and sign it off are also liable for any damages or death that may arise from any subsequent fires.
Expert guidance
Already providing wholesalers and contractors with free fire training programmes, ESP took the decision to further enhance its commitment to helping the sector with a dedicated design service which allows contractors access to a free of charge fire system design facility.
The service is available to any size of business, from local electricians to national contracting companies. The aim is to provide expertise in choosing the right products and solutions to create a scheme that meets all the requirements and objectives of the project in question, and to ensure that it is compliant with all the relevant regulations and standards.
From an initial enquiry to discuss the requirements, the next stage will be one of information and measurement gathering. For larger and more complex design schemes, a visit to the site will be carried out for a detailed survey. With all the relevant information gathered, including drawings and specifications, a suitable design proposal for an appropriate fire system will be created and supplied to the client, along with a quotation. Two-way interaction between customer and the ESP design team throughout the process will be of paramount importance to ensure the design scheme meets all the necessary requirements.
ESP has produced a handy, pocket-size guide to highlight the key points of the
latest version of BS5389 Part 1: 2017. This standard deals with the code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in non-domestic premises. The new guide is designed for designers and installers that need simple guidance to help with the selection, spacing and location of fire devices.
The 24-page colour booklet is highly visual and very straightforward to follow. It covers the different categories of fire alarm and fire detection systems, plus the coverage and positioning for smoke detectors, heat detectors, manual call points, visual indication devices (VIDs) such as strobes, and visual alarm devices (VADs).
Details of ESP’s three fire alarm systems are also briefly explained – 2-Wire, Addressable and Conventional fire alarm systems – including the requisite cabling for each.
The guide can be downloaded from the ESP website. It can also be accessed via the Scolmore Group app, under the ESP Catalogues section.
ESP, espuk.com
SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC INVESTS £42M IN NORTH YORKSHIRE MANUFACTURING FACILITY
Schneider Electric is investing £42 million in a new manufacturing facility in Scarborough, North Yorkshire.
More than 200 jobs will be created to meet the increased demand for electrical equipment to drive the UK’s move to cleaner energy, including renewable energy sources, electric vehicles and intelligent, energy-efficient buildings.
The site, which is almost triple the size of Schneider Electric’s existing Scarborough facility, is a blueprint for sustainable design and operations in the manufacturing industry. It is poised to become a net zero plant and will use modern technology to reduce energy waste and maximise the use of renewable energy. It is expected to be net zero in Scope 1 and 2 emissions when it opens in early 2025.
A state-of-the art solar energy system will produce 30% of the facility’s energy, with solar panels covering 50% of the roof, to ensure the building harnesses solar energy efficiently. Any energy consumed on site from the national grid will be ‘renewable certified’.
An intelligent Building Management System, based on Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure platform, will ensure energy-efficient operations, including light sensors, automated heating and cooling.
The facility will feature one of the first fully electric paint lines in Europe to support decarbonised operations and is targeting a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, setting it apart in terms of sustainable construction standards.
The site is designed to be environmentally friendly, with sustainable transport options for employees.
• Employees will have access to 30 EV chargers on site
• There will be dedicated cycling racks, shelters and showers on site for bike riders
• Work is underway with Natural England to create a habitat for protected species
• It will promote biodiversity by retaining as many of the existing trees and natural features as possible
Scarborough is a long-established manufacturing base for Schneider Electric, currently employing 450 people. It specialises in the manufacture of low voltage switchgear which protects and distributes electricity and is crucial to the rollout of sustainable and energy-efficient operations such as EV charging infrastructure and net zero buildings.
Kelly Becker, President at Schneider Electric, UK & Ireland, Belgium & Netherlands, says, “Sustainability is at the core of our purpose, culture and business. We’re proud to be investing in and developing innovative solutions which will deliver immediate and lasting decarbonisation in the UK, while bolstering the creation of local, green jobs in Yorkshire.
“The region has long been part of our operational presence in the UK, and we’re excited to expand this as part of our commitment to investing in the UK’s green economy. The new facility in Scarborough
represents a pillar of innovation in net zero, and one which will be an industry benchmark for the transition to sustainable, energy-efficient buildings.”
Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, says, “This huge investment from Schneider Electric will not only safeguard existing jobs but create 200 new ones.
Increasing investment is a mission at the heart of this government, and our modern Industrial Strategy will help us deliver long-term, stable growth that supports skilled jobs.
“Our commitment to becoming a clean energy superpower is steadfast, and investments like these in North Yorkshire make a huge contribution to bolstering the UK as a leader in energy management and automation. We’re showing investors that Britain is back as a stable place to do business, helping to secure the investment needed to make every part of our country better off.”
Operations will relocate to the new facility at Scarborough Business Park, less than 500m from Schneider Electric’s existing premises. Schneider Electric will be its anchor tenant, which will be managed by principal contractor, Caddick Developments.
The investment in Scarborough is in addition to a £7.2 million facility upgrade to Schneider Electric’s site in Leeds, announced in October 2023, meaning the company will create more than 300 jobs in Yorkshire over the next 10 years.
Schneider Electric, se.com
DON’T JUST TALK ABOUT SAFE ISOLATION — DO IT
Carly Weller and Darren Staniforth, Head of Electrotechnical Solutions at CEF and ECN Awards Judge, discuss the latest series of TechTalks,
CW: Hi Darren, Series 4 of CEF’s TechTalks has just kicked off – how is it going?
DS: I’m thrilled to say we’ve had a great start. The engagement from the people who have turned up has been brilliant and it’s nice to see so many electricians care about the future of electrical installations. Everyone who attended has agreed that they need to be part of the decision-making process and our TechTalks allow them to be included without the need to go to the BSI website on their own.
CW: What’s new for Series 4?
DS: This time around, Dave and I are looking at the proposed changes to fire alarm and emergency lighting standards. We also consider the outcomes of the second Grenfell report, before moving on to looking at a newly introduced standard for battery storage systems in domestic installations. We finish off by looking at the 3rd Amendment to the Wiring Regulations and the proposed 4th Amendment, which will see all of us needing a brand new regs book in 2026.
the importance of safe isolation and Amendment 4.
CW: What do you make of the proposed changes to the Wiring Regulations, 4th Amendment?
DS: It’s clear that a good dose of common sense has been used when the proposed changes were pulled together. The installer community needs to take stock of what’s being proposed and make sure we can implement it practically and safely on site. If we don’t think that’s possible, we must take this opportunity to pass comment back to both the BSI and the IET.
CW: CEF is supporting Super Rod’s safe isolation campaign – why is this so important and what advice would you give to electrical contractors?
DS: Two years ago, I used the Super Rod report as the basis of the research into one of the topics we delivered at TechTalks. It’s horrific to think that we were losing around 13 electricians a year, all because safe isolation wasn’t deployed. We wanted to know what could be done to bring that number down, and one of the big things everybody in the industry can do is raise awareness of the need to complete safe isolation every time.
CW: We are delighted that you are returning to the ECN Awards judging panel this year – why did you want to get involved?
DS: It’s a privilege to be part of the judging panel and hear the remarkable stories of exceptional individuals, businesses and innovations.
It’s an amazing opportunity to recognise and celebrate all the great work within our industry, together with a great opportunity to identify future trends and innovations. Last year’s entrants really showcased the best of British engineering and I’m looking forward to seeing the same again this year.
CW: What’s next for you and CEF?
DS: CEF are always looking to make things easier for our customers. Over the coming months you will see CEF offer our own renewable training. This will start small initially, with workshops dedicated to solar PV battery storage systems and maintenance of existing renewable installations. After this we’ll provide customers with a national solution to the skills gap by helping upskill electrical contractors to help take advantage of the increased activity in the renewables sector.
CW: Do you have any career advice for people starting out in the industry?
DS: Without a doubt, I believe one thing that everybody can do to help them get on in this industry is to improve their communication. Effectively communicating with people irrespective of age and background will help everyone progress. It will help customers understand what’s going on, it will help colleagues understand some of the problems that you’re facing, and it will allow you to find solutions and collaborate when you’re trying to solve problems.
CW: What do you think should be made a priority for the electrical sector?
DS: We’ve already spoken about safe isolation and it’s a topic we can’t talk about enough. However, just talking about it isn’t enough – we actually have to make it happen. A challenge to everybody reading this is to show somebody you’re working with, be that a supervisor or an apprentice, how to safely isolate the equipment or installation you’re working on. I believe all scheme providers should include this as part of their annual assessment and every qualification should include an assessment of safe isolation as standard. My hope is that in doing this we will see a reduction in the number of fatalities and injuries we see each year.
CW: Where do you see the industry in five years?
DS: With the introduction of Part P of the Building Regulations we saw a split in the industry. There were installers who only carried out domestic work and those that would take on all types of work. In the next five years I feel we will start to see them come together more, with electricians being asked to work in different environments as companies diversify.
CW: What are your interests away from work?
DS: I’m a father to three girls, so my interests are wherever I’m told they are! As my job takes me all over the UK, it’s important that I spend as much time as possible with my family when the opportunity presents itself. Five years ago, we moved into a house that was clearly a ‘doer-upper’ and it’s a project which is still ongoing. My wife thinks the project is going to take a lifetime – I just hope that it’s in my lifetime!
CEF, cef.co.uk
DECORATIVE GRID RANGE
UNICRIMP CABLE CLIPS — THE NUMBER
ONE CHOICE FOR PROFESSIONALS
Unicrimp is offering three lucky readers the chance to win one of its Cable Clips Trade Tubs worth £80! Enter today to be in with a chance of winning this handy prize.
Unicrimp, part of the Scolmore Group of companies, offers a comprehensive portfolio of cable accessory products which includes an extensive range of cable clips – indispensable elements in any professional electrician’s toolkit.
Unicrimp’s cable clips offer falls within two categories. There is 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 – one containing 400 x 1mm T&E Clips and 400 x 2.5mm T&E Clips, and the other containing 200 x 1-2.5mm Metal
Clips, 400 x 1.5mm T&E Clips and 400 x 2.5mm T&E Clips. These robust tradesman tubs feature a resealable plastic lid and carry handle, and the tub itself is manufactured from recycled material.
Unicrimp’s Q-Fire range of fire-rated T&E cable clips are made from zinc-plated carbon steel and come in two sizes – 1-2.5mm and 4-6mm. They are available in red, white, grey and galvanised steel and in a choice of uncoated or with a grey PPA LSF coating. This offers long-term protection for the metal clips and additional safeguarding for the cable during and after the installation. They come supplied in packs of 100.
The Q-Crimp and Q-Fire cable clips both feature a hook design that provides a stronger grip on the cable, ensuring a more secure and seamless installation. With such an extensive offer available, installers have access to the widest possible range of fixing solutions that are suitable for a variety of applications and environments and will help them comply with the latest wiring regulations.
The Unicrimp catalogue – which showcases the entire range of Q-Crimp and Q-Fire accessories – can be downloaded from the Unicrimp website and the Scolmore Group app.
Unicrimp, unicrimp.com
For your chance to win one of three Cable Clips Trade Tubs, simply answer the following questions correctly:
1. Which category do Unicrimp’s cable clips come under?
In which
What are Unicrimp’s Q-Fire fire-rated T&E cable clips made from?
Zinc-plated carbon steel
August Competition
The winners of the August competition – a £250 LumXpert voucher, courtesy of Signify – was David Wilmott.
Closing date
All entries must be returned by 31 October 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 Cecember issue of ECN.
*Prize not exchangeable.
GLOBAL LED PANEL MARKET SET TO REACH
£42.7 BILLION
According to global managing consulting firm, IMARC Group, the global LED panel light market size reached £18.4 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach £42.7 billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 9.5% during 2024-2032.
Energy efficiency regulations, significant advancements in LED technology, rising global awareness of sustainability, and widespread adoption of LED technology in commercial, industrial and residential sectors represent some of the key factors driving the growth of the market.
LED panel light applications are widely used in retrofit projects because of their
higher efficiency and better luminance. Replacing old lighting systems with powerful LED technologies will not only reduce energy consumption, but will improve the quality of the light output. This is particularly applicable in places such as schools, offices and hospitals where better lighting can impact productivity and health. Installation of LED panels into the existing frames is simple, making them an ideal choice for retrofitting. This offers an economic solution for upgrading older systems and simultaneously supports environmental sustainability goals.
The LED panel market has come a long way since the fittings were first introduced in the UK more than 10 years ago, when a 45W panel cost more than £200. Today the LED panel market in the UK is huge and, in recent years, LED panels have been used as the main replacement for fluorescent tubes as a means of saving on energy consumption.
140 lumen per watt LED panels from Ovia
With energy efficiency remaining a key priority for the lighting sector, Ovia’s latest product development has focused on the company’s range of LED panels, with the launch of new and improved versions which now feature lower wattages and produce higher lumen outputs.
Now offering a new 140 lumen panel range within its commercial lighting offer, Ovia is creating the opportunity for the replacement of existing higher wattage panels for these more energy-efficient versions to create even further energy savings.
Ovia’s premium Inceptor Slate Backlit LED panels, as well as the regular Slate Backlit panels, are now available in 22W versions that produce an impressive 140 lumens per watt output to maximise energy efficiency.
Ovia’s Inceptor Slate Backlit is a premium TP(a) rated LED panel with a low <19 UGR diffuser. The range has been upgraded to reduce the wattage from 30W and 40W to 22W and 30W, to achieve a higher lumen output whilst consuming much less power. As well as being power switchable, these new backlit panels feature selectable CCT (4000K, 5000K and 6500K) options as standard, to offer completely customisable lighting solutions. There are three sizes available: 22-30W 600mm x 600mm, 22-30W 1200mm x 300mm and 37-50W 1200mm x 600mm.
INCEPTOR SLATE BACKLIT PANEL ENERGY SAVINGS
In this example, Ovia looks at the overall cost savings for replacing 80 x 36W LED panels, with 80 of Ovia’s 22W LED panels.
The cost of electricity to run 80 x 36W LED panels for 10 hours per day, five days per week over a 52-week period – at an electricity cost of .12p (£/kWh) – would be £898.56, compared to just £549.12 for the equivalent usage for Ovia’s 22W LED panel. That’s an impressive annual saving of £349.44, which equates to an overall saving of approx. 38.9%.
At the same time as introducing the improved Inceptor Slate LED Panel range, the company has upgraded its standard Slate Backlit Panels which are now available in a reduced wattage of 22W, producing a 140 lumen per watt output. These 4000K low glare 600 x 600, 22W panels are available in a TP(a) or TP(b) option. These ratings relate to the fire rating of thermoplastic diffuser materials. Thermoplastic materials undergo specific
tests to certify their ability to withstand the application of heat and fire. The requirements are established by Building Regulations Approved Document B, which sets out the fire safety of buildings. Section B2 covers internal fire spread. The difference between TP(a) and TP(b) rated materials is in their composition and thickness or how they react under test conditions when a flame is applied to them.
Ovia, oviauk.com
LIGHTING SCHEME PRIORITISES
EMPLOYEE WELLBEING AND COMFORT
Bright Source has supported the NAPIT Offices in Mansfield to improve its lighting scheme, making the environment more comfortable for office staff while maximising a sustainable solution.
Founded in 1992, NAPIT is one of the leading government-approved and UKAS-accredited membership scheme operators in the building services and fabric sectors.
There are currently more than 20,000 NAPIT-registered businesses in the and are low maintenance, long-life and eco-friendly in design.
THE BEST JUST EVOLVED
WINNING OFFICE LIGHTING SPECIFICATIONS
With the manufacture of fluorescents banned last September, there is a huge opportunity for contractors to specify and install new lighting schemes for offices as we move towards winter. Andrew Fairhurst, Sales Director at Collingwood Lighting advises on how to get it right.
Stocks of fluorescents will be dwindling a year on from their manufacturing ban. This means that there will be a huge number of offices looking to upgrade their lighting this winter.
According to a report by Cluttons, there is almost 1.3 billion square feet of office space in the UK and most of this is in smaller or medium sized buildings for which an owner would turn to a contractor for advice.
Financially it makes sense for them to switch to LED luminaires, which will save 60 to 70% of their current lighting energy use. A typical payback for many offices would be two years or less.
Lighting specification
Beyond the energy saving arguments, LED luminaires will also help create a more productive and comfortable working environment.
It’s worth remembering that these buildings will have a number of different areas, and the needs of an open plan office are different to those of a meeting room, break out area or kitchen.
Good lighting design
A good lighting design combines ambient, accent and task lighting.
Ambient lighting will come from both natural lighting and ceiling fixtures, with the latter normally spread at even intervals to disperse light over a general area. Wall and spotlights create both accent lighting for features and signage and task related lighting. Remember though that some task lighting will come from portable plug-in lamps.
According to CIBSE guidelines, the recommended illuminance level for general office tasks is between 300 lux for screen-based work and 500 lux for paper-based activities. You can achieve this this by combining natural light, overhead lighting fixtures and task lighting.
But we also need to light a person’s face for business and video meetings, which means that we must consider the vertical element of lighting, particularly at face height. This is between 1.2m for sitting and 1.8m. You need a minimum of 150 lux in this area.
Luminaire selection
Most people working in an office will be working on a PC, so for these areas you need to select luminaires with a unified glare rating (UGR) of less than 19.
Other factors to consider are the colour temperature, which can vary from a warm light of 2,000K to a cool white of 4,000-5,000K. For productivity and concentration, Collingwood Lighting recommends 4,000K for where people work.
Lighting control
While LED lighting will yield significant energy savings, installing lighting control can reduce this further.
Consider daylight linking sensors for the luminaires nearest the windows. These will dim the lights up and down in response to natural light levels to save energy.
You might also install presence detection sensors for each work area to save energy when specific areas of the office are vacant. For cellular offices and meeting rooms, absence detectors are recommended, which will turn the lights off when there is no further movement.
Other rooms
Other areas in a commercial office such as toilets, kitchens, corridors and stairways require different lighting.
A kitchen still needs bright uniform lighting to reduce the chance of accidents. Toilets, though, only need a level of 100 lux at floor level and 200 lux at sink level and surrounding surfaces. It’s worth installing presence detectors in both rooms.
Similarly, for stairs and corridors you need to provide light for safety. CIBSE recommends an illuminance of at least 100 lux at floor level. Again, think about presence detectors to save energy but allow a reasonable amount of time before the lighting switches off, or consider linking a presence detector to multiple fittings to light the entire area simultaneously.
You should aim to create something a bit special for a reception area and a meeting room where there are likely to be visitors. Think about lighting features, pictures or signage for the former and remember to provide lighting at 200 lux for reading in a seated area.
For a meeting room, you need to provide lighting for different tasks, so dimming control would be wise. And a pendant over a table and some wall lights create a positive impression.
Good office lighting will save energy but also create a productive work environment. It pays to spend a bit of time thinking about a design and ensuring you specify the right luminaires and control. Get it right and both the building owner and the people working there will thank you.
PS-DALI-LINK-FC Part no. 92846
PS-DALI-LINK-FC
PD4N-DALI-LINK Part no. 93377
PD4N-DALI-LINK Part no. 93377
■ Ideal for re trofitting
Super flat multisensor available ■ Simple, intuitive operation ■ Fre e Bluetooth app with 2 functions:
Scene control for end customer
Commissioning tool for installers
INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE AND LIFE EXPECTANCY OF A CENTRALISED BATTERY SYSTEM
Kohler Uninterruptible Power looks at the benefits of installing a centralised battery system in large buildings.
All organisations operating large buildings or other facilities must have an emergency lighting system. In the UK, this is a requirement as part of the Workplace Directive (89/654) and there are various elements of legislation and BS and EN standards that apply. In many cases, organisations choose a centralised battery system, which helps to provide a robust power protection solution when required, along with reducing lifetime costs.
There are several elements to consider when planning a centralised battery emergency lighting system, depending on the building, its use and whether its operations are governed by particular regulations – such as those on public safety.
There are several elements to consider when planning a centralised battery emergency lighting system
When the lighting fails in buildings and premises, emergency lighting needs to be in place. This lighting will need to be immediately activated in key areas, supporting either an evacuation of the building or the ability to continue operations, depending on the circumstances.
It’s perfectly possible to have individual battery installations for each of these areas of lighting, but a centralised battery
system is often the better choice for the following reasons.
Firstly, a centralised battery system is normally sited in a single location in the building, providing consistent and immediate back-up power when a mains failure occurs to all emergency lighting. The other main benefit is that there is only one battery system to maintain, rather than many individual ones. In a centralised battery system, the regular maintenance and checks can be done at one source whilst being ready to provide protection to a range of lighting around the building when required.
Design and installation considerations for a centralised battery system
There are several things to consider when specifying, designing and planning the installation of a central battery system. In particular, the following need to be considered:
• The placement and lighting of emergency exit signs
• The clear illumination of exit routes and points of emphasis on the route
• Lighting defined areas such as lifts, escalators, stairs, toilets, car parks, kitchens, fire-fighting equipment points and first aid points
• Lighting in critical areas such as server rooms, plant rooms or anywhere storing hazardous materials
External lighting for safe meeting points
For each of these considerations, the lighting quantities and levels need to be defined to ensure the safety of everyone in the building and to meet the most up-todate regulations and standards. This approach will result in a detailed lighting scheme, including the placement and operation of a central battery system to provide power back-up when required.
If you already have an emergency lighting plan in place, and are operating it on an individual battery basis, you can work with a professional team to replace those batteries integral to the luminaires with a centralised battery system, helping to reduce costs and maintenance requirements.
Centralised battery maintenance and lifespan
Installing a central battery for emergency lighting may have a larger up-front cost than individual batteries integral to the luminaires, but centralisation provides a more consistent approach to reliable lighting, and reduces maintenance over time, usually resulting in a lower total cost of ownership.
Some of these operational and maintenance benefits include:
• A central battery system can provide a 230v or 400v supply in a mains failure so emergency lighting luminaires can operate at their maximum output
• The batteries have a 10-year design life, sized to provide their specified back-up time at end of life
• The system can be activated locally or remotely
• The system can be inhibited from discharging if the building is empty
• Local Control Switch Devices can be used to light specific areas of the building if lighting failure is not total
• Maintenance only needs to be carried out on one battery, so it is faster, cost-effective and more reliable.
For more information on how to design a centralised battery system for emergency lighting please contact Kohler Uninterruptible Power at uksales.ups@kohler.com or visit kohler-ups.co.uk.
Kohler Uninterruptible Power, kohler-ups.co.uk
Recolight is the leading UK WEEE compliance scheme for lighting, taking on responsibility for its members’ WEEE compliance. O ering free integrated Lamp and Luminaire collection and recycling and the biggest UK-wide network of collection points for all WEEE lighting.
equipment,
Recolight go beyond recycling, by o ering circular economy services, facilitating the reuse of lighting equipment, and helping to avoid unnecessary recycling of surplus new lighting.
Working with the lighting industry, Recolight o er support and services to help their Producer Members transition to a Circular Economy.
WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER A TURNKEY LIGHTING MANUFACTURER
Cost is always a concern for any installation, whether it’s the added pressures for companies to embrace sustainable decision-making and cost reduction throughout the value chain or balancing cost efficiencies to remain competitive. In the lighting industry, this shift is spurring the growth of new purchasing models that treat lighting as a service (LaaS), providing more efficient, predictable costs for businesses. We spoke with Andy Brooks, Head of Delivery Services at Zumtobel Group, to understand the benefits of turnkey lighting solutions.
Turnkey lighting services offer a one-stop solution for managing all aspects of a lighting project, including design, procurement, installation and maintenance. This streamlined approach simplifies the project process, ensuring a cohesive and well-executed solution without the hassle and potential delays that come with managing multiple stakeholders.
Opting for a turnkey solution often translates into significant time and cost savings. These providers leverage established relationships with third-party suppliers, resulting in better pricing and faster project delivery. For businesses focused on core operations, this all-in-one solution can be a game changer.
Choosing a turnkey lighting manufacturer means working with experienced professionals. Companies like Thorn and Zumtobel have a proven track record of
Opting for a turnkey solution often translates into significant time and cost savings
providing reliable, high-quality solutions. Whether designing energy-efficient lighting systems or ensuring compliance with strict safety regulations, these providers have the expertise to deliver exceptional results.
Turnkey services are not a one-size-fits-all solution. They offer a high degree of customisation, allowing you to tailor the lighting system to your specific needs. This flexibility is crucial for businesses with unique operational requirements. For example, pharmaceutical companies might need specific lighting to reduce product degradation, while manufacturing plants may require precise lighting for quality control. Additionally, turnkey providers incorporate future-proofing measures, ensuring systems can evolve with technological advancements, minimising the need for substantial future investments.
Turnkey lighting manufacturers offer a wide range of services beyond the initial installation, including:
• Emergency lighting: Compliance with legal requirements and advanced luminaires for power outages.
• After-sales services: Ongoing maintenance and support.
• Connectivity services: Installation and management of lighting control systems.
• Digital services: Support for Internet of Things (IoT) applications to enhance operational efficiency.
• Light as a Service (LaaS): A subscription model that covers system costs, installation, maintenance and future upgrades, allowing businesses to avoid large capital expenditures while keeping up with the latest technology.
Turnkey lighting providers such as Thorn and Zumtobel have completed successful projects across multiple industries, including large warehouses, office buildings and town centre regeneration. Their commitment to quality and innovation has established them as trusted partners for lighting projects.
Bleckmann, a supply chain management provider for fashion and lifestyle brands, expanded its UK operations with two new facilities. It enlisted Zumtobel for a turnkey lighting solution, having previously partnered with the company across its European sites. Zumtobel’s TECTON continuous row LED systems and LITECOM lighting controls were chosen for their energy efficiency and flexibility.
The quick installation, despite operational constraints, showcased the benefits of turnkey services. TECTON’s modular design allowed for rapid setup with minimal disruption to Bleckmann’s operations. The combination of open area, rack and mezzanine lighting met the company’s needs, reducing energy costs and providing a comfortable working environment. Additionally, Zumtobel’s RESCLITE PRO emergency lighting ensured compliance with safety standards.
In today’s business landscape, turnkey lighting services offer a compelling solution for companies looking to modernise, reduce costs and enhance operational efficiency. By partnering with a reputable provider, businesses can benefit from expert management, reliable performance and long-term sustainability. This allows companies to focus on growth, confident that their lighting needs are in capable hands.
Zumtobel Group, zumtobel.com
FLOODLIGHT GEN 4 SERIES FROM LEDVANCE
LEDVANCE has launched the FLOODLIGHT GEN 4 series onto the market. Impressive efficiency, a range of innovative features and a wide range of new Sensor and Photocell versions make the robust luminaires a reliable and easy-to-install choice for a variety of outdoor applications.
WLEDVANCE has launched the FLOODLIGHT GEN 4 series
ith an efficiency of up to 150lm/W and an average service life of up to 75,000 hours (L80/B10), the FLOODLIGHT GEN 4 series keeps energy and maintenance costs low. Innovative features also make the new outdoor luminaires even more flexible and reliable. For example, their Multi Lumen Function allows the brightness to be adjusted to requirements in two stages via a switch on the luminaire.
For installers, this means less complexity and advantages in terms of storage. FLOODLIGHT GEN 4 is also ideally equipped for operation in the harshest conditions, even in coastal environments, thanks to its robust design (up to IP66/IK08), waterproof cable gland, C4 corrosion resistance and a breather membrane that prevents the accumulation of water inside the luminaire.
Wide range with new sensor variants
FLOODLIGHT GEN 4 luminaires are available with a light output of between 780lm and 25,000lm, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Versions with a higher wattage are now also available with a white housing colour. The new Floodlight Sensor with automatic dimming (toggle function) is now available for even more economical and environmentally conscious operation. If their individually adjustable sensor detects no movement, the light output is reduced by either 20% or 40%. This reduces light pollution and energy consumption, while at the same time guaranteeing the required level of safety. Photocell versions with a daylight sensor complete the range.
The FLOODLIGHT GEN 4 series keeps energy and maintenance costs low
Simple installation and comprehensive guarantee
As is customary with LEDVANCE, the new FLOODLIGHT GEN 4 series fulfils the needs of users and installers alike. This is not least due to their simple installation with a bracket and a five-year guarantee.
LEDVANCE, ledvance.com
CORROSION RESISTANCE UP TO 150 lm/W
ENHANCED FEATURES, ENDURING PERFORMANCE: THE NEXT GENERATION OF FLOODLIGHTS 75 000 h LIFETIME
BUILT TO LAS T, LIGHTING THE WAY FLOODLIGHT GEN 4
THE NE W, ROBU ST OUTDOOR FLOODLIGHTS FOR ANY WE ATHER
The new standard for demanding outdoor applications: The FLOODLIGHT GEN 4 range is extremely efficient and very durable. Thanks to MULTI LUMEN, the brightness can be adapted to requirements. Sensor and Photocell versions add a further layer of versatility. Reliable even in the harshest conditions thanks to the waterproof cable gland, breather membrane, C4 corrosion resistance and up to IP66 and IK08. FLOODLIGHT GEN 4 are easy to install and come with a comprehensive 5-year guarantee.
TRILUX COMPLETES LIGHTING UPGRADE AT UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH’S USHER BUILDING
The University of Edinburgh’s Usher Building at Edinburgh BioQuarter’s health innovation district provided TRILUX with the perfect opportunity to showcase its lighting and control solutions.
Located within The University of Edinburgh’s College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, the Usher Institute aims to transform health in society by working with people, populations and data. The Usher Building houses the Usher Institute with its four core research centres and the Edinburgh Clinical Trials Unit –alongside partners from public, private and third sector organisations.
Funded as part of the Data-Driven Innovation Initiative of the Edinburgh and Southeast Scotland City Region Deal, the facility has been designed by international design practice, Hassell Studio, to be a welcoming space for focus, collaboration and engagement, with space for around 1,000 occupants.
The lighting has improved the overall atmosphere of the facility
The lighting project was crucial to this mission. The objective was to create an environment conducive to health research and collaboration, utilising as few manufacturers as possible.
The lighting solutions significantly enhance the Usher Building’s usability and aesthetic appeal
The challenge
Designing a lighting system for the Usher Building, a complex and multifunctional facility, posed significant challenges. The aim was to install efficient lighting throughout the building, ensuring that office lighting worked with ceiling raft details and that communal lighting matched the architectural finishes. The project demanded a seamless integration of lighting controls to provide efficiency, flexibility and additional functionality.
The solution
Delivered by Leon Gray, a TRILUX distributor, and installed by EMTEC Group with lighting design by Ainsley Cramer, the lighting scheme consisted of 400 custom-designed Sonnos downlights featuring a bronze and black RAL finish. These downlights blended perfectly with the building’s architectural metal finishes. Over 600 Solvan Flows, 300 Amatris and numerous LED linear runs were installed, providing uniform and efficient lighting throughout the facility.
maximum energy savings, multiple lighting scenes for dramatic effects in event spaces, push-button controls for on/off and dimming, simplified partition controls for flexible space usage, remote access for modifications and service checks, daylight controls with window row dimming to optimise energy efficiency, and extensive DALI networks across the building for comprehensive lighting management.
The impact
The new lighting solutions provided by TRILUX significantly enhance the Usher Building’s usability and aesthetic appeal. The efficient and well-integrated lighting systems support the facility’s goal of fostering interdisciplinary research and collaboration. The reflective spaces, such as the reading room and cellular meeting spaces, benefit from the custom lighting, creating an ideal environment for focused work and engagement. The lighting has also improved the overall atmosphere of the facility, making it a more inviting and productive space for its users.
“As a research and innovation institute focused on health and social care, we wanted our Usher Building to be designed with wellbeing and efficiency at its heart –and for it to be a space that draws our team and collaborators together,” says Susan Buckingham, Head of Communications, Marketing and Engagement at the Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh.
“Lots of natural light is complemented by flexible lighting from the TRILUX team to ensure we can work most effectively, whatever the weather!
“TRILUX’s lighting solutions have enhanced the Usher Building’s environment and contributed to a brighter, more connected and healthier future for the researchers and partners working within this leading medical campus. This creates good prospects for the future!”
EV CHARGING
DRIVING THE EV FUTURE
In this article, Paul Barringer, Gewiss UK’s UK Sales Manager (E-Mobility), discusses the company’s collaboration with industry professionals, enabling them to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.
The future is electric.
Especially so with a growing number of businesses seeking ways to further enhance their CSR objectives, upcoming legislation that’s set to govern this arena next decade, and a whole host of commercial benefits – including infrastructure grants, tax benefits, workplace charge schemes and discounts for trucks (to name a few).
In fact, the International Energy Agency predicts that by 2030, electric vehicles (EVs) will represent more than 60% of vehicles sold globally. But, in order to successfully achieve this, it identifies the need for a significant surge in chargers installed worldwide.
With the spotlight on the sector, there’s much to be done to implement appropriate infrastructure to achieve and accommodate these exciting and ambitious goals. While EV technology certainly boasts a wide range of benefits, there are still many questions industry-wide about how these charger requirements can be fulfilled ahead of the deadline, to ensure a smooth, seamless and successful switch to electric.
Proud to provide the complete charging solution for all-electric vehicles, Gewiss UK offers a fully turnkey solution, gifting contractors total peace of mind that they’re installing reliable, robust and quality products to offer the ultimate solution for customers. Here, Paul explains why and how Gewiss is partnering with professionals across the sector, helping them to stay ahead of the EV curve:
“Since 1970, Gewiss has been committed to providing leading-edge solutions that boast integrity, excellence and sustainability.
Over the past 40 years, we’ve been supporting contractors by helping them to install safe, compliant and reliable products.
“Importantly, we also recognise the core challenges contractors regularly face, including the accessibility of products, the ease of installation (and ongoing maintenance), and the levels of support available. That’s why we designed JOINON – the charging solution
for all new-generation electric vehicles, boasting tried-and-tested technological infrastructure, and benefitting from Gewiss’ holistic management service and ongoing technical assistance.
Peace of mind
“Thanks to the fast-paced nature of the industry, we understand the value and importance of being able to completely trust in the reliability and robustness of the technology. Nobody wants to be left vulnerable to faulty or flawed components that could result in potential complaints, fines or delays (and, in turn, cause detrimental damage to your reputation). Plus, multiple call-outs and regular downtime is no good for business – for you or your customer.
“Being able to depend upon the equipment and software, and its longevity, is key when installing the latest products for your customers. So, it’s vital that you partner with a reputable EV provider who can offer you total peace of mind, as well as always uphold the overall excellence that your business prides itself on.
“At Gewiss, our whole team of individuals bring exceptional experience of the EV sector and they can provide up-to-the-minute advice and guidance (such as grant support or technical advice) to help you find the most appropriate choice for your customer.
Turnkey solution
“Due to the nature of the products, there are, naturally, occasions when things might go wrong and additional assistance is needed – which is why we offer a fully turnkey solution. From initial installation through to ongoing maintenance and management, our team of experts are always accessible via a dedicated helpdesk and 24-hour technical support.
“As part of this holistic offering, we also offer remote monitoring, and – where necessary – will introduce proactive preventative measures to guarantee uptime and ensure a smooth electrical supply at all times. You can wholly rely upon our team as an extension of your project, able to support you in always providing a swift, seamless and superior service.
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Fit-for-future
“Not only does the entire JOINON range help to enhance sustainability credentials of projects, but it is also incredibly future-proof in itself too. All components are modular and interchangeable, meaning that should a part need to be replaced, there’s minimal waste, less resources required, and decreased downtime.
“Also, all JOINON items are Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) compliant, meaning they communicate with central management systems. And they possess IP55 rating and IK11 rating, as well as the maximum resistance against shock, stress, vandalism and weather conditions – ensuring they remain in top condition no matter where they’re located.
I-FAST
“I-FAST is our dedicated solution for fast DC charging (mode 4) – ideal for all types of electric vehicles in private or public high-rotation car parks, motorways, highways and service areas. The range consists of 30kW wallboxes, 60kW compact stations and 90-180kW modular charging stations.
“We know that – still – many sites don’t have the required power network available to install sufficient chargers. But with legislation making this a mandatory requirement in five years, it’s no longer just a ‘nice-to-have’. Despite best efforts from local authorities and governments, it’s highly unlikely that the appropriate infrastructure will be in place ahead of 2030, so businesses need to be proactive in powering their fleet.
“I-FAST is able to completely overcome this challenge. Controlled via a master slave system, it has the ability to charge
your electric vehicles – even in situations where the power requirement isn’t currently available. And it can also significantly scale up as requirements change, meaning it’s totally fit for the future. Plus, its flexible charging capabilities are installed as standard, allowing it to schedule optimised sessions, making it a convenient and cost-effective choice.
Introducing the AC solution
“As part of our ongoing commitment to offering the EV solution, we’re continually looking into ways to evolve and develop our product choice.
“Over the past six years, we’ve proudly been working with businesses across the UK, supplying them with AC charging solutions. But, as part of this ongoing devotion to stay ahead of the changing needs of companies (and the sector as a whole) and address the challenges they’re facing, we’re confident that our tried-and-tested third-generation products – I-CON and I-ON – are the perfect EV accompaniment for any organisation.
“AC technology is mature, making it a great choice for those seeking a secure, reliable and robust solution. It also possesses a whole range of benefits and features, such as: traditionally being more affordable to install and maintain, boasting greater compatibility with other components, and thanks to its slower charging system it (often) prolongs the lifespan of the battery.
“As well as this, all of our AC EV products are installed with Gewiss internal items. Responsible for manufacturing the entire component, we ensure that it brings all of the benefits to our customers – from the internal hardware through to the specialist software. Combined with our holistic support, contractors can truly rest assured that they’re in the safest of hands.
I-CON EVO
“Our latest product to add to our extensive offering is the I-CON EVO – an AC charging unit (mode 3), which is ideal for private and semi-public use. The wallbox is available in either free or controlled access, and it features a special one-hand recharge mode and numerous smart functions.
“The I-CON EVO was designed with a firm focus on sustainability and environmental impact – from using recycled technopolymer to create the charging unit casing, through to installing a dedicated DC leakage device (which also provides ultimate protection to people and property, and ensures economic savings).
I-ON EVO
“Our alternative AC product range is the I-ON EVO. Boasting a chameleon-effect, its innovative design is able to be completely customised in your company branding.
“Manufactured to simplify maintenance and servicing, the I-ON EVO has all electronic and electromechanical Gewiss circuit protection components positioned in the front for ease of access – with tidy and logical internal wiring. And thanks to being OCPP-compliant, diagnostics of the charging station are available remotely. Not only can this help to decrease downtime for your customer, it also streamlines the process, better utilises your time, and can allow you to find the solution swiftly.
The EV journey
“The next few years will undoubtedly see a greater focus on the world of EV, ahead of the legislation set to come into effect from 2030 – as well as more and more individuals and organisations wanting to make proactive decisions to better align with their personal eco-friendly objectives. We’re proud to be leading the way and making significant strides to provide the solution for contractors across the UK.”
Gewiss UK, part of the global Gewiss Group, is a leader in the distribution of electrical solutions. The company’s OCPP-compliant JOINON solution for charging all electric vehicles combines the technological infrastructure of the product and its complete management, including technical support and maintenance. From charging stations to apps or smartphones and tablets, and intelligent charging unit management, it’s the comprehensive system that makes environmental sustainability a competitive success factor. For more information, visit gewiss.com/uk/en/mobility.
Gewiss UK, gewiss.com
Gewiss UK is continually looking into ways to evolve and develop its product choice
Gewiss UK has been supporting contractors for 40 years
THE NEED FOR SPEED
There needs to be more than conversation around accelerating EV charging infrastructure. Ben Croxford, Delivery Director at Eclipse Power Networks looks at the opportunities that fresh-thinking IDNOs are applying to bring EV transition closer.
The recent change of government in the UK has put the spotlight on clean energy and the decarbonisation of our economy. It has also put the transition to electric vehicles back on track by reinstating the 2030 timeline for phasing out sales of new petrol and diesel vehicles. EVs are a key part of the decarbonisation solution, but they can also be seen as part of the problem. As demand for EVs grows, there’s a related growth to an equal demand for EV charging infrastructure.
The growth in EV numbers has seen a disproportionate increase in demand for power. Driver behaviour has sparked demand for rapid (50-149kW) and ultra-rapid (150kW) chargers on public networks. This puts more pressure on grid connections as Charge Point Operators (CPOs) and commercial and industrial fleet operators want to ensure their applications for power connections from Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) and National Energy System Operator (NESO) are granted quickly so their projects can be up and running, returning value in a timely fashion.
The result of the demand for the electrification of transport in the UK is, inevitably, a lengthy queue for connections. DNOs and NESO do not currently prioritise or discriminate by projects – so EV connections are in the same queue as new residential, commercial and industrial connections, and renewable generation projects. Connection dates of 10-15 years in the future are not uncommon with the connection queue approaching terawatt territory.
Investment in the UK’s EV charging infrastructure is currently high. A public EV charging hub presents an attractive revenue opportunity for landowners and retail/business site operators. It’s also an operational necessity for industrial and commercial business fleets. However, when the timeframe is extended due to delays in accessing power from the grid, the investment looks a lot less attractive.
We need an innovative way to address the connection challenge; one that means stepping away from the traditional way of working with a DNO – with all its limitations – and working with an Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO) to get EV connections for new residential and commercial developments, and for fleet and depot charging for electric last-mile deliveries, LCVs, HGVs, taxis, buses and emergency vehicles.
Introduced in 2004 to increase competition in connections for electricity distribution, IDNOs, like DNOs, design, own, operate and maintain electricity networks in the UK. Also, like DNOs, they are licensed by Ofgem. However, their ‘independence’ differentiates IDNOs from DNOs as they aren’t restricted to a geographical part of the UK. They can operate nationwide and be more flexible about how they interpret the standards set by DNOs, which vary from region to region. Operating in a competitive market means that IDNOs can adapt and adjust to market challenges in a way that DNOs aren’t incentivised to do. The right IDNO partner works with charging infrastructure developers to reduce the risk for investors that are looking for a three to five-year payback, by enabling faster and more cost-effective grid connections for installations.
Importantly, IDNOs understand the complexity and work that goes into meeting EV regulations. For any EV charging infrastructure project, there are a lot of moving parts, a lot of obstacles to overcome and a lot of stakeholders to engage with.
Dealing with the DNO to get a connection involves liaising with the right person and in the right way. It requires an understanding of the processes involved and the timescales for network reinforcement where it’s needed. It also means handling the likelihood and scale of unexpected costs, without throwing enormous curveballs at the project.
Similarly, with project delivery, legals and streetworks, the IDNO takes away the complexity of sometimes unclear process requirements, again often by knowing who
to speak to. They help make large power connection agreements accessible and handle MPAN data flow issues on behalf of the customer. Importantly, they can assist with the timescales for design reviews and legal completion – handling the legal changes that arise from design changes as ‘as-built’ sometimes doesn’t match approved designs. This leads on to adding value to the project’s build assurance –getting completion certificates for phased projects can be complex.
Land rights are a massive bottleneck. These and planning barriers are hopefully being addressed by the new government.
Discussions around land rights, ownership and wayleaves involve multiple parties, and not everyone understands the language that is being used. You have to cut through a lot of technical electrical jargon when dealing with DNOs, which is why it pays to work with an IDNO that can help translate and put it in simple language.
Ultimately, accelerating the build out of the UK’s EV charging infrastructure comes down to putting people at the centre of what you want to achieve, which is what transforming the sector should be all about. There needs to be more conversation and more action around accelerating EV charging infrastructure. With a fresh government looking to unblock planning restrictions and investment in the green transition, the most transformative time is now.
Eclipse Power Networks, eclipsepower.co.uk
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CHARGING ALLWAYS
The complete charging solution for all electric vehicles
The JOINON range from GEWISS offers versatile EV charging solutions for private homes, semi-public and public areas.
With a strong commitment to eco-sustainability, our durable charging solutions support all electric vehicles and feature IP55 rating and high impact resistance on all our AC charging. They provide seamless integration with the JoinOn CMS or any OCPP 1.6 compliant system, ensuring flexibility and reliability in demanding environments.
• Available in 7.4kW and 22kW wallbox or pedestals
• Built for the most demanding environments
• Integrated O-PEN detection device for enhanced safety
• Amplify your brand with impactful custom advertising
• Ideal for semi-public & public environments
• High-definition GUI for intuitive and user-friendly charging experience
• Available from 30kW to 180kW ultra rapid
• Ideal for high-traffic private and public installations
• Built for durability with IP55 rating and IK10 impact resistance
• Modular 30kW design allows for easy upgrades as demand grows
• Sleek units with a high-definition GUI for a smooth charging experience
• OCPP 1.6 ensuring seamless communication
JOINON solutions from GEWISS combine innovative patented technology, energy-efficient management, and aesthetically pleasing design, contributing to the evolution of future mobility in both urban and extra-urban environments. Scan the QR code for more information.
I-ON Evo AC Chargers
I-FAST DC Ultra Rapid Chargers
THE LATEST INNOVATION IN EV CHARGING ‘HYPER-SPEED’
The latest electric vehicle (EV) charging station by Project EV has been making waves in the industry, turning heads for one key reason – it is now the fastest in the UK, delivering a remarkable charging output of up to 480kW.
The Park Garage Group teamed up with Helix Renewables to install the first hyper-speed EV charging solution, offering unmatched charging speeds that will drastically reduce downtime for its EV drivers. Whilst most chargers on the UK market can take anywhere between 30 minutes to several hours to fully charge a vehicle, this one takes just 17 minutes.
In total, three 480kW EV charging stations were installed at the Blackpool location, enabling up to six vehicles to recharge simultaneously. This game-changing product overcomes the criticism that EVs take too long to charge and is especially beneficial for long-distance drivers, those who need a quick turnaround, and fleet operators.
However, the appeal of this EV charge point goes beyond speed. It has been designed to accommodate all types of electric vehicles and drivers with a main focus on user-friendly features. This makes it inclusive, versatile and future-proof as more high-capacity and wheelchair-accessible EVs come to the market. This ensures that the 480kW charging station remains a valuable investment for many years to come.
Inclusivity
EV charging cables can often be heavy and awkward to manoeuvre for anyone, especially for those with mobility issues or disabilities. Project EV’s latest DC charge point has built-in cable holders, which support the weight of the cable. This thoughtful detail makes it much easier for users to manage and significantly enhances accessibility.
For EV drivers with limited mobility, this innovation ensures that they can charge their vehicles with ease, removing one of the common barriers that can make public charging a daunting task. Project EV’s attention to detail in designing a more accessible charging experience sets a new standard for inclusivity in the EV charging market.
User-friendly features
A common frustration among EV drivers when it comes to public charging is that different charge points operate differently and can require different software applications. To simplify things, the 480kW charging station supports multiple payment options, including contactless payments via a built-in terminal and mobile apps, ensuring convenience for all users. Additionally, it features a 7in LED touchscreen interface, enabling drivers to track their charging status and energy consumption, providing transparency and peace of mind.
17 minutes to recharge
What makes the Project EV charging station truly stand out is not just its speed but its versatility. Like any charging unit, it is compatible with all types of electrified vehicles, including cars, vans and lorries. With a maximum output of an impressive 480kW, it was the first charger in the UK to receive a ‘Hyper-Speed’ label. This sets a new benchmark for opening the door to even faster solutions down the road. Moreover, its modular design allows for a tailored approach to meet your customers’ specific needs and requirements. Whether you’re operating a fleet of delivery vans or managing a service station, the flexibility of the 480kW EV charging station ensures it can be customised to deliver the best possible performance. Equipped with two CCS connectors, it can simultaneously deliver 240kW to two vehicles, ensuring faster and more efficient charging.
A mega what?
Even though the 480kW has not long been launched into the market, Project EV is rapidly taking the next step of innovation in the industry that could push the boundaries even further. With the talks of a 1MW coming very soon, it could reshape the way we view EVs, catering for high-capacity vehicles as well as lorries and trucks. This next charger will cut charging times even further, perhaps even from 17 minutes down to 10. It’s exciting stuff and the future looks promising. As demand for electric vehicles grows, Project EV continues to lead the charge, setting new standards for efficiency, sustainability and convenience.
Project EV, projectev.co.uk
If you’re interested in learning more or exploring how Project EV can meet your customer’s charging needs, get in touch with Project EV today to see how the team can tailor their solutions to fit your requirements by emailing enquiries@projectev.co.uk or calling 0333 733 0333.
INSTAVOLT UNVEILS LATEST RAPID EV CHARGING SITE AT CAMPHILL VILLAGE TRUST
Lucy Electric and Lucy Zodion have collaborated with InstaVolt on the latest rapid EV charging site at Camphill Village Trust’s Taurus Crafts location.
InstaVolt’s dedication to excellence requires that any new site meets its stringent standards. To ensure seamless project execution from inception to completion, Lucy Electric and Lucy Zodion meticulously integrated essential service elements into their end-to-end solution for InstaVolt. This involved noting ducting positions in design drawings, sending root sections in advance to accelerate civil progress, and including cable clamps to streamline installation processes.
A key innovation in this project is the design of a back-to-back main supply pillar to minimise the footprint and optimise space, enabling the site to accommodate six 160kW chargers. The pillar features earth leakage protection, residual current protection, provisions for metering, surge protection, anti-condensation heaters, and service lights for enhanced safety and user experience. It is finished in black paint to visually integrate seamlessly with the rest of the site.
Additionally, a comprehensive package substation solution was tailored to seamlessly integrate medium and low voltage power distribution while ensuring efficiency and compliance with industry standards. This solution’s centrepiece is a 500kVA package substation featuring a National Grid Ring Main Unit (RMU), engineered to DNO specifications, enhancing connectivity to the grid. The integration of the Lucy Sabre VRN2a TLF unit ensures adherence to NGED specifications, guaranteeing reliable performance and interoperability and including a Lucy AcuLok LV cabinet equipped with an 800A ACB that aligns with IDNO standards, providing flexibility and choice in transformer-mounted LV equipment.
Lucy Zodion and Lucy Electric are committed to a holistic approach, offering end-to-end solutions from initial specification to on-site delivery. This
includes the flexibility to accommodate various transformer manufacturers and third-party equipment requests, ensuring compliance with all DNO, IDNO and general industrial specifications.
Through this collaboration, InstaVolt continues to set the benchmark for user-friendly, reliable and sustainable charging solutions. Initial installations at Cliff Court and Taurus Crafts will provide communities across the UK with convenient access to rapid charging facilities, driving the widespread adoption of electric vehicles and contributing to a greener, more sustainable future.
Tim Douglas, Head of Delivery at InstaVolt, says, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Lucy Electric and Lucy Zodion to advance EV charging infrastructure in the UK. Our partnership signifies a shared commitment to driving the electric mobility revolution forward, making EV charging an integral part of everyday life for communities nationwide.
“Lucy Electric’s expertise in crafting
specialised charging solutions perfectly complements InstaVolt’s dedication to delivering top-tier charging experiences. Together with Lucy Zodion, we are pioneering innovative solutions that meet and exceed the evolving needs of EV drivers and site owners.
“Our collaboration ensures that our charging units are not only future-proofed but also optimised for future scalability, allowing us to continue to meet increasing demand for rapid charging. Just as reliability is paramount in our commitment to delivering 24/7 service, the robust solutions provided by Lucy Electric and Lucy Zodion help us guarantee dependable performance and user satisfaction.
“Through our collective efforts, we are driving towards a greener, more sustainable future, where electric vehicles play a central role in reducing emissions and shaping a cleaner, brighter tomorrow.”
Lucy Electric, lucyelectric.com
Lucy Zodion, lucyzodion.com
HISTORIC COMPLEX TRANSITIONS INTO THE MODERN ERA WITH MER
Mer has partnered with Dean Clough to install ultra-rapid EV chargers at its historical, mixed-use mill complex in Halifax.
Dean Clough already had EV charge points prior to this partnership, however, Mer’s installation marks the venue’s first ultra-rapid charging offering. Eight charging sockets will soon be live for public use.
Alex Hinchcliffe, Managing Director at Mer UK says, “Our partnership with Dean Clough highlights how historical sites can be revolutionised whilst maintaining their authentic legacy. Working with us to install EV charge points highlights the company’s forward-thinking ethos. We hope that the addition of Mer chargers at this vibrant community hub will help empower a choice for change and enable local drivers to switch to EV.”
The multi-award-winning destination is home to 16 Grade II listed Victorian mills, constructed between 1840-1870. Crossley Carpets, once the largest carpet manufacturer in the world, occupied the mills until its closure in 1982. One year later, Dean Clough took on the challenge of bringing the buildings back to life.
The estate’s listed status meant the planning and installation process for
the charging infrastructure was more challenging. Working on heritage sites requires a more diligent approach, ensuring that all parts of the planned installation do not cause any damage to the ageing property whilst the look of the installation is in keeping with its surroundings.
Mer worked closely with the owners to carry out the project efficiently whilst protecting important heritage. During the installation, Mer came across multiple issues, including underground streams and mines, but was able to successfully overcome these challenges and deliver a fast and reliable charging service.
Jeremy Hall, Chairman and Managing Director of Dean Clough says, “We are thrilled to partner with Mer who has embraced and engaged with the qualities and core values of Dean Clough. The
installation of Mer’s ultra-rapid charging is a great addition to the Dean Clough offer, providing for and supporting our fantastically diverse customer base and visitors to the site.
“Based on personal experience, I’m aware of the scarcity of ultra-rapid chargers in our locality, so this provision will be a great addition for the Dean Clough community and for Halifax and Calderdale also. There are some really exciting developments taking place at Dean Clough and this brings even more value and appeal to the site. The load balancing technology of the charge points enables the power to be fairly distributed between vehicles whilst charging, ensuring a more efficient and sustainable use of power.”
Mer, uk.mer.eco
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7.3kW & 22
Fast AC, Single Outlet, EV Chargers Available As Tethered Or Untethered
In the world of electric vehicle charging, Project EV’s APEX stands as the pinnacle of innovation, ingenuity, and dedication. Embodying the ultimate achievement in EV charging technology.
Project EV’s APEX charger, comes in both 7.3kW and 22kW variants, and is available as both tethered and untethered. Packed full of features, the APEX from Project EV, is perfect for domestic environments.
Welcome to the next generation of DC fast charging. Project EV’s range of DC EV chargers deliver revolutionary charging times, making them the perfect solution for high-traffic locations, commercial fleets, and businesses looking to provide their customers with quick, convenient EV charging.
YOU’RE THE KEY TO EV CHARGING EXCELLENCE
Sultana Rahman from Sevadis, EV charging solutions provider, delves into the role of electricians in the evolving EV charge point landscape and their importance in contributing towards a reliable nationwide EV charging network.
The demand for EV charging infrastructure has grown exponentially, with governments, businesses and customers alike recognising the importance of a robust and accessible charging network. But behind every EV charging station is a skilled workforce of electricians, whose expertise is vital for the installation, maintenance and operation of these systems.
The evolution of the EV charging industry has created new opportunities for electrical contractors, but it has also introduced complexities that require specialised training and education. Electricians are not only the backbone of the EV charging journey, but their workmanship and knowledge are critical to the success and scalability of the entire infrastructure. For them to truly prevail in this rapidly expanding market, a commitment to continuous learning and collaboration with the right EV charging solutions providers is essential.
The role of electricians in the deployment of EV charging infrastructure cannot be understated. From commercial parking locations and service stations to private homes and apartment complexes, electricians are responsible for the installation, wiring and testing of charging equipment to ensure it operates safely and efficiently. They are also tasked with meeting various regulatory and safety standards, which are increasingly becoming more stringent as the industry grows.
What makes this role even more critical is the fact that the quality of an EV charging point’s installation can directly impact its performance and longevity. Poorly installed EV chargers can lead to issues such as slow charging times, electrical faults or even fire hazards. Therefore, electricians need to be trained not just in basic electrical wiring, but in the specific requirements of EV charging
systems, which often include complex power management, load balancing and smart grid integration.
In this context, education and training become vital. Electrical contractors who wish to thrive in the EV charging industry must stay updated on the latest technology, installation techniques and regulatory changes. This not only enhances their skill set but also ensures they are equipped to handle the demands of the market as it continues to evolve.
For electrical contractors to succeed in the EV charging industry, choosing the right partner is crucial. Contractors do need to work with companies that are reliable, attentive to their needs and provide ongoing support. The right partner should offer high-quality EV charging products but, more importantly, they should be able to collaborate closely with electricians throughout the entire installation process, whether that be online, physical or telephone support.
A good EV charging solutions provider will offer training programs, resources and technical support to ensure that electricians are confident and capable of delivering flawless installations. This partnership should also extend beyond installation. Electricians should have access to troubleshooting assistance, software updates and maintenance guidance from the provider, ensuring that the EV charging stations they install continue to function at their best long after deployment.
In addition, the provider’s reliability is essential for building trust with customers. Electricians who work with reputable EV charging companies can ensure that their clients are satisfied with the product, which, in turn, enhances the contractor’s own reputation. This is particularly important in an industry where customer satisfaction can lead to repeat business and referrals. Beyond installation, the role of electricians in the EV charging industry extends into service and maintenance. EV charging points require
regular upkeep to ensure they remain functional and efficient. Wear and tear, software updates and the potential for electrical faults all necessitate ongoing attention from skilled electricians.
By providing exceptional service and maintenance, electricians can build long-term relationships with their customers. Businesses and property owners who invest in EV charging infrastructure will want the assurance that their systems are well-maintained and reliable. Contractors who offer timely, expert maintenance services can not only secure repeat business but also benefit from word-of-mouth referrals, which are invaluable in this industry.
The importance of doing a good job cannot be overstated in the EV industry.
An electrician who delivers a high-quality installation, backed by reliable service and maintenance, is more likely to be recommended to other businesses, homeowners, or property developers looking to install EV chargers. In this way, electricians have the potential to generate substantial revenue from referrals and repeat customers, creating a virtuous cycle of success.
As the EV charging industry continues to grow and evolve, so too must the electricians who power its infrastructure. Electrical contractors need to remain agile and open to continuous learning to keep up with technological advancements and changing market demands. Training programs, certifications and partnerships with leading EV charging providers are all essential tools in staying ahead of the curve.
Electricians really are at the heart of making the future of electrified transport a reality. Their skill and craftsmanship lay the foundation for a reliable, efficient and scalable EV charging network. But to thrive in this industry, they need the right education, the right partners and a commitment to providing excellent service and maintenance. By doing so, they will not only help drive the transition to cleaner energy but also secure a profitable and sustainable future for their businesses.
Sevadis, sevadis.com
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SSE OPENS ITS FIRST IRISH PUBLIC EV CHARGING HUB
Peter Burke TD, Irish Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, has officially opened SSE’s first ultra-rapid electric vehicle charging hub in Ireland.
The launch of the 10-bay facility located just off the M4 at Lough Sheever Corporate Park in Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, is part of SSE’s plans to build 300 ultra-rapid EV charging hubs powered by traceable, renewable energy in the UK and Ireland in the next five years, with several sites already open and more under construction.
Each ultra-rapid bay has charging capabilities of up to 150kW, sufficient to deliver 7.77 miles of range per minute of charging.
The site has been specifically designed to accommodate eHGVs, as well as standard EVs
The site has been specifically designed to accommodate electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs), as well as standard EVs. The hub boasts four long wheelbase drive-through bays purpose built for eHGVs, making it the first site of its kind in Ireland.
Customers will be able to use Tap’n’Go payments, maximising convenience of access and simplicity of use. Users will also benefit from SSE’s relationships with its roaming payment partner, Octopus Electroverse, to pay for their charging easily and quickly.
There is growing demand for EV charging infrastructure in Ireland, as evidenced by the publication of the National EV Charging Infrastructure Strategy in January 2023,
and recent publication of the draft National En-Route EV Charging Plan. SSE’s plans will help Ireland accelerate action to meet government targets, while building consumer confidence in EV charging.
Over the coming months, SSE will open further hubs at various Irish locations including Blanchardstown Business Park, Greenogue Industrial Estate (both County Dublin) and Ashbourne Retail Park (County Meath).
The company recently announced a joint venture with TotalEnergies under the brand Source to establish a new major player in EV charging infrastructure in the UK and Ireland. The new business will deploy up to 3,000 ultra-rapid charge points over the next five years and all existing SSE charging hubs will be rebranded as Source in due course.
“With the number of EVs on Irish roads growing quickly, the deployment of fast and reliable EV charging infrastructure is essential,” says Sean O’Callaghan, SSE, EV Operations Director.
“The launch of our first ultra-rapid charging hub in Ireland is proof that SSE will support the Irish Government’s ambitions to meet the demand for this infrastructure, and this is just the beginning of our ambitions. We are working to build a network of easy-to-reach charging points that will serve communities across Ireland.”
“To reduce transport emissions and meet our climate targets, the government is committed to promoting and incentivising the use of EVs,” says Peter Burke, Irish Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
“Private investment like this is essential to grow the network with the pace and scale required to meet Ireland’s ambitious targets. I am delighted SSE has selected Mullingar as the location of its first EV charging hub in Ireland. I have no doubt that businesses in the region with eHGVs, as well as members of the public, will benefit from this innovative site.”
SSE, sseenergysolutions.co.uk
Electricians
• Disabled Refuge
• Compliant to BS5839-9:2021 and BS8300
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR DISABLED REFUGE AREAS
Jake Green, Head of Technical Engagement with Scolmore Group, which includes ESP, looks at the specific recommendation for refuge areas to be provided with an emergency voice communication (EVC) system conforming to BS 5839-9 and the provision of such an EVC system.
It is essential that persons can escape from a building should a fire occur. The building regulations in all parts of the United Kingdom have similar requirements. For example, Standard 2.9 of the Technical Handbook states:
“Every building must be designed and constructed in such a way that in the event of an outbreak of fire within the buildings, the occupants, once alerted to the outbreak of the fire, are provided with the opportunity to escape from the building, before being affected by fire or smoke.”
It is always necessary for all persons to escape; this will include those with disabilities which precludes rapid and safe evacuation. There will, therefore, be times when it will be necessary for persons escaping to have access to
areas where it is safe to wait for a short period; such areas are called ‘refuges’.
Clause 2.9.30 Temporary waiting spaces in the Technical Handbook gives guidance on the recommendations for waiting spaces (refuges) to ensure compliance with legislation. Further guidance is also given in BS 9999: 2017 Fire safety in the design, management and use of buildings – Code of practice
This article briefly considers the specific recommendation for refuges to be provided with an emergency voice communication (EVC) system conforming to BS 5839-9 and the provision of such an EVC system, such as those produced by ESP under the Beacon Range.
Temporary waiting space
The presence and nature of a temporary waiting space will need to be
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considered on a case-by-case basis. A temporary waiting space should have an unobstructed clear space capable of accommodating a wheelchair and measuring at least 700mm x 1200mm and located in a protected lobby, a protected zone, an external escape stair or an adjacent compartment.
Although not specifically applicable in Scotland, Approved Document B2 (ADB2) in England and Wales provides guidance on refuges which readers may find helpful. Fig 1 is based on Diagram 3.1 and Fig 2 on Diagram 3.2 of ADB2. These detail examples of refuges formed in a protected stairway.
There may be instances where a refuge extends into rooms which are near those exemplar areas detailed in DB2. Annex G of BS 9999 details other examples of refuge areas.
Fig 1. Diagram 3.1 Refuge formed by compartmentation ADB2
Technical Handbook (2.9.30)
In the waiting space, the Handbook recommends that the EVC system consists of Type B outstations communicating with a master station in the building control room (should one exist) or next to the fire detection and alarm panel. It is permitted for the EVC system to be wireless. In some buildings, it may also be appropriate to use alternative two-way communication that can be readily operated by occupants in the waiting space.
BS 9999
Clause 45.8 of BS 9999 recognises that refuges are places of relative safety and references the normative Annex G in the Standard.
Once the number and locations of refuges have been decided by the key stakeholders (see Clause 5 BS 5839-9), Annex G recommends that procedures are established for independent communication between the occupants and evacuation management personnel.
The recommendations detailed in clause 45.8 and Annex G of BS 9999 will require an emergency voice communication system to be installed.
The emergency voice communication system should conform to the recommendations of BS 5839-9: 2021 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings. Part 9: Code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of emergency voice communication systems
BS 5839-9
The purpose of BS 5839-9 is not to provide a justification for the installation of EVC systems, rather to provide recommendations for the planning, design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of such systems.
The scope to the Standard makes it clear that, other than in exceptional circumstances, EVC systems are not intended as a means of raising a fire alarm instead of manual call points (MCPs).
The designer of the EVC system should adequately consult with key stakeholders at the design stage. Such key stakeholders are:
• User or purchaser
• Supplier of the system
• Installer of the system
• Consultants, including architects, M&E, fire safety, access, acoustic and risk assessment – clause 5.
To the extent necessary, the installer of the system should consult with the designer, supplier and consultants.
Beacon EVC system
An EVC system is typically required in the following situations:
• In any building or sports or similar venue where there are disabled people or people who may have difficulty negotiating the evacuation route.
• In buildings with phased evacuation and/or firefighting lifts where it facilitates secure communications for building managers, fire wardens and attending fire officers.
• At sports venues and similar complexes, where it will assist stewards in controlling the evacuation of the area in an emergency.
The Beacon Emergency Voice Communications (EVC) system is designed to fully comply with BS 5839-9:2021 for use as a Fire Telephone system, Disabled Refuge Call system or as a combined system when both Fire Telephones and Disabled Refuge Points are required. The Beacon EVC system comprises of a Master Station and one or more outstations. Additionally, the ‘Assist Call’ emergency assistance alarm system can either be connected to the same line as a Type B outstation or connected to a dedicated line. Neither the outstations nor the Assist Call emergency alarm system requires a separate power supply unit as each line is powered from the Master Station. This has the additional benefit of
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each line being fully monitored and battery backed up.
Each Beacon Master Station can also perform as a Beacon Repeater Station. A Beacon Repeater Station mimics the Beacon Master Station, both in operation and indication.
The Beacon Master Station has been designed for radial star topology. In most cases, this will reduce the cable requirements for all ring-based systems. The topology consists of spurs formed of one two-core 1.5mm2 CSA cable (soft skin enhanced up to 500m per leg, MICC 200m per leg) to each outstation.
If the Beacon Master Station and the Beacon Repeater Station are distributed around a site, it is essential that both Beacon Stations are on the same mains phase. Powering from different phases can mean a 400V potential can be present in a Beacon Station during a major fault incident.
Conclusion
The provision of an EVC system is essential in those premises where it is likely that the less able-bodied are present and where the nature of the people on the premises is likely to create problems for evacuation. The EVC system will enable those responsible for managing evacuation to safely manage, insofar as they are able, the evacuation.
espuk.com
Fig 2 Diagram 3.2 Refuge formed in a stairwell]
ELECTRICAL RISK MITIGATION IN MANUFACTURING FACILITIES
Simon Concar, Managing Director of adi Electrical, shares key steps that must be taken in manufacturing facilities to minimise risks.
The UK’s manufacturing industry is now eighth in the world by value of output, with the sector contributing £224 billion of annual output and creating 2.6 million jobs, according to Make UK.
Manufacturing facilities rely heavily on electrical systems to operate efficiently and are home to a range of electrically powered equipment and installations.
When it comes to electrical systems, ensuring that risks are managed effectively is imperative: every year, around 1,000 workplace accidents and 30 employee fatalities are reported to the Health and Safety Executive involving electric shocks or burns.
Building an in-depth understanding of the risks
The first step is to gain a thorough understanding of the electrical hazards that can occur in manufacturing facilities.
This can be achieved by conducting a full risk assessment focusing on the industrial electrical safety elements.
The primary purpose of risk assessment and hazard identification is to explore the dangers of electric shock, identifying hazardous areas, factors affecting its severity, and potential consequences. They identify common electrical hazards in the workplace, including faulty wiring, overloaded circuits and inadequate grounding.
Risk assessments are pivotal in assessing electrical hazards and implementing risk management strategies in response.
One specific area that should be assessed is electric arc flash. An arc flash risk assessment determines the incident energy found at each location, in turn helping establish what actions are required to reduce this and what level of personal protective equipment (PPE) must be used by the employee.
Be compliant
Compliance is a key area to consider. Facility owners should maintain compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations, BS 7671, as well as have regular checks and inspections of electrical wiring, often through an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
This provides evidence that systems have been checked and are considered safe. For industrial applications, this can often be done whilst systems are energised if you work with the right experts.
Conduct regular testing
It’s also vital to ensure that electrical circuits and systems are tested regularly, as this can help to identify faults that could become bigger problems in the future.
Crucially, testing should be carried out by a ‘competent person’. Normally this implies a qualified and experienced electrical engineer, accredited by a recognised trade body and familiar with applicable codes of practice.
Proper earthing and bonding
Ensuring proper earthing and bonding of electrical systems is equally essential. Earthing is intended to limit the duration of touch voltages, such as if someone were to make contact with an exposed conductive part. The earth creates a safe route for the current to flow instead of causing electric shock.
The purpose of bonding is to reduce the risk of electric shock if someone were to touch separate metallic parts when there is a fault somewhere within the electrical installation.
Both elements are required to ensure a safe environment and, in certain production facilities such as electronics, they need to be enhanced to ensure static electric shocks do not harm people or products.
Standardise procedures
Standardising procedures is another important piece of the puzzle.
In most manufacturing facilities, there are often changes being made to processes or equipment, but every time a change is implemented – even if it’s a retrofit – a new evaluation of risk should be carried out.
This includes looking for loose connectors or cables, potentially damaged plugs and adapters, unsteady fastenings, bare wiring and more.
Human error is what most commonly causes accidents, meaning standardising safety procedures can significantly help mitigate the risk of electrical hazards.
Standard procedures should also dictate that electrical equipment is de-energised and ‘locked out’ to prevent re-energisation during maintenance work.
What are other elements to consider?
There are, of course, other factors that come into play which should be carefully considered. For instance, electrical panels, switches and equipment should be clearly labelled with appropriate warning signs.
Workers should always use the correctly rated, non-conductive tools specifically designed for electrical work when working on or near live electrical components.
In any facility, it’s also important to make sure that any electrical panels and equipment are easily accessible and not obstructed by other process machinery, conveyors or materials.
Additionally, implementing a lockout/tagout procedure if any work is conducted on electrical systems or equipment can verify they are safe to work on.
And, although this is the last line of defence, appropriate PPE should always be provided to workers where needed.
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NAVIGATING STANDARDS, REGULATIONS AND LEGISLATION
There is often confusion among contractors and landlords regarding which regulations they should adhere to when installing smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. Aico outlines the key documents and the relationships between them, providing guidance on how to navigate these standards effectively.
Legislation (law)
The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2022
In October 2022, the government introduced new regulations governing smoke and CO alarms in the social and private rented sectors. These regulations provide landlords with guidance on the installation of compliant alarms but do not specify the type of alarms (mains or battery-powered). Instead, landlords must assess the needs of their properties and tenants. The alarms must meet British Standards:
• CO alarms must comply with BS EN 50291-1
• Smoke alarms must comply with BS EN 14604
Landlords must follow manufacturers’ installation instructions. To aid compliance, Aico offers free, award-winning Expert Installer Training for electrical contractors to ensure proper installation of fire and CO alarm systems.
The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018
Effective from 20 March 2019, this legislation mandates that rented homes must be “fit for human habitation”, meaning they must be safe, healthy and free from hazards, including fire and CO risks. Failure by landlords to meet these safety obligations allows tenants to take legal action.
Building regulations
Building regulations are mandatory for most construction work, including minor alterations, renovations or extensions. These regulations work in tandem with legislation, directing professionals to BS 5839-6 for fire safety standards, as outlined in Approved Document B. For CO alarms, Approved Document J refers to BS EN 50292:2013, detailing standards for combustion appliances and fuel storage systems.
British Standards
BS 5839-6:2019+A1:2020 is the key document for fire safety in residential properties. It outlines various system grades and categories based on the type and tenure of a property. Fire risk assessments should be sought where practical, but in most cases, particularly in single-owner or rental properties, the British Standards should serve as the minimum protection guideline.
A competent person installing fire alarms is defined as someone with relevant training, experience and access to the right tools and information, who is capable of performing the task to BS 5839 standards. Contractors should be
familiar with Table 1 in BS 5839-6, which specifies installation grades. For rental properties (new, materially altered or existing), the standard calls for Grade D1, Category LD2 installations.
However, many electricians may not be well-versed in these requirements, as standard training programs often exclude BS 5839-6. While electricians may have completed courses like the 18th Edition or AM2, BS 5839-6 training is typically not covered. Despite this, Clause 560.10 in the wiring regulations (BS 7671) mandates that fire alarm systems must comply with relevant parts of BS 5839.
Therefore, it is crucial for electrical contractors to pursue proper training and qualifications to ensure competence in fire alarm installation. Aico’s CPD-certified Expert Installer Training provides the necessary knowledge, with further progression possible through the Aico City & Guilds (2426) course, which is a global benchmark for excellence in fire and CO alarm system training.
For more information on Aico’s award-winning training programs, visit aico. co.uk/our-services/additional-training.
Aico, aico.co.uk
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DEFENDING THE DEN: ADVANCED FIRE SYSTEM SAFEGUARDS MILLWALL FC STADIUM
The Den, home to Millwall Football Club, has been enhanced with an upgraded fire safety system courtesy of Trustee Fire & Security’s installation of Advanced panels, providing thorough protection and reassurance for fans, staff and players.
Located in Bermondsey, London, The Den has been home to Millwall Football Club since 1993. With a seating capacity of 20,146, the stadium is a cornerstone of football heritage and community pride, and renowned for hosting memorable matches and major events.
The project involved replacing the existing fire system with Advanced’s MxPro 5 panels, meticulously installed across four separate stands. This upgrade not only modernised fire safety capabilities but also integrated seamlessly with the stadium’s existing infrastructure, providing continuous protection.
Kristina Matthews, Project Administrator for Trustee Fire & Security,
notes the project’s success, “The seamless installation at The Den is a testament to our team’s skills and the versatility of Advanced products. Working closely with Millwall FC, we were able to deliver a state-of-the-art fire safety solution and enhanced protection for all users of the stadium.”
Salvy Vittozzi, Advanced’s Regional Sales Manager for the South East, emphasises Advanced’s role in safeguarding The Den, “We’re proud to have contributed to the safety enhancements at Millwall FC’s historic home ground. The MxPro 5 offers unparalleled reliability and adaptability, making it perfectly suited to the dynamic environment of The Den. This successful collaboration underscores our commitment to protecting iconic buildings and ensuring the fire safety of their users.”
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The implementation of Advanced’s fire safety solutions at The Den exemplifies a blend of cutting-edge technology and expert installation, providing peace of mind for Millwall FC and its supporters.
MxPro 5 is a leading multiprotocol fire panel and is certified by FM Approvals to the EN 54 standard. It offers customers a choice of detector protocols and a completely open installer network, backed up by free training and support. MxPro 5 can be used in single-loop, single-panel format, or easily configured into high-speed networks of up to 200 panels covering huge areas. Ease of installation and configuration, as well as its wide range of peripheral options, make MxPro 5 customisable to almost any application.
Advanced, advancedco.com
We predict we’ll be able to save almost 40 times the energy with FIREscape Nepto, this equates to just less than £900 in savings a year
Unity Theatre, Liverpool
• Fully compliant system including BS EN ISO 7010 exit signs
• Save energy with extra-low operating voltage
• Quick and easy installation
• Reduce maintenance costs with self-testing and reporting technology
• Adaptable to any sized project with networkable panels and multiple lines
www.hochikieurope.com/firescapenepto
www.hochikieurope.com/firescapenepto
THE SYMPHONY OF SAFETY
Amit Ravat, Managing Director of Lithe Audio, offers his advice on ensuring electrical compliance in audio and ceiling speaker installations.
Meeting UK building regulations is a fundamental aspect of any ceiling speaker installation. These regulations ensure that audio systems are safe, reliable and efficient. This includes ensuring fire resistance, energy efficiency, structural integrity and acoustic performance.
Fire and acoustic hoods play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of ceiling speaker installations. They provide a protective barrier that helps maintain the fire resistance of ceilings, which is essential in adhering to UK building regulations. By containing potential fire hazards within the speaker enclosure, they limit the spread of flames, offering critical time for evacuation and emergency response.
Additionally, acoustic hoods enhance sound quality by minimising sound leakage and improving acoustics within a room.
Brands such as Lithe Audio set the standard for safety and performance in in-ceiling speaker installations with its range of fire and acoustic hoods. These essential components are designed to meet the stringent UK building and electrical regulations, providing unparalleled protection and peace of mind. They are designed with compliance in mind, incorporating features that preserve fire resistance for up to 90 minutes while being compliant with Parts B, L, C, and E regulations.
Electricians can now install ceiling speakers as they would install a downlight. Power is added from any permanent live feed through the included power driver, which is also designed to be used in ceilings. They come with comprehensive installation guidelines and video guides, ensuring that electricians can achieve flawless setups.
The guidelines cover all aspects of installation, from wiring and positioning to securing the fire and acoustic hoods. By following these instructions, users can ensure that the installations meet necessary electrical compliance and safety standards.
For the many other different types of audio installations within a home, advice to electricians would be:
• BS 7671 compliance: Ensure all electrical work complies with the latest edition of BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations). This includes requirements for safe earthing, protective devices and cable sizing.
• Audio-specific standards: Be aware of standards specific to audio installations, such as those set by the Audio Engineering Society (AES) and British Standards (BS). These standards offer guidance on signal integrity, grounding and shielding techniques to prevent interference.
• Assess existing electrical infrastructure: Inspect the site’s existing electrical infrastructure to determine if it meets the requirements for the new audio installation. Check for issues like outdated wiring, insufficient circuit capacity or improper grounding.
• Identify potential hazards: Look for any potential electrical hazards, such as exposed wiring, faulty outlets or moisture-prone areas. Address these issues before proceeding with the installation.
• Dedicated circuits for audio equipment: Use dedicated circuits for audio equipment to prevent electrical noise and interference from other devices. Ensure these circuits are appropriately rated and installed with RCDs to provide additional protection.
• Proper earthing and grounding: Implement a robust grounding scheme to prevent electrical shocks and minimise hum and noise. Ensure all audio equipment is connected to a common ground and avoid ground loops by using star grounding techniques.
• Correct cable selection: Choose cables that meet both the electrical and audio requirements of the installation. Use high-quality, shielded cables to prevent interference and ensure cables are rated for the current they will carry.
• Secure cable routing: Route cables away from high-power electrical lines to avoid interference. Use trunking or conduit to protect cables and ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.
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• Minimise cable lengths: Keep cable lengths as short as possible to reduce resistance and minimise signal loss. Proper cable management also helps prevent tripping hazards and accidental disconnections.
• Use surge protectors: Install surge protection devices to safeguard audio equipment from voltage spikes and surges. Consider whole-house surge protection for comprehensive safety.
• Power conditioners for clean power: Employ power conditioners to provide stable and clean power to audio equipment, reducing the risk of damage from electrical noise and ensuring consistent performance.
• Certified components: Use electrical components and audio equipment that have been tested and certified by recognised standards bodies such as BSI (British Standards Institution) or CE marking.
Quality audio such as Lithe Audio ceiling speakers provides peace of mind through the company’s commitment to safety, quality and performance. Each speaker is designed with meticulous attention to compliance with UK building regulations, ensuring both safety and reliability in any installation. The incorporation of fire and acoustic hoods further enhances safety by preventing the spread of fire and optimising sound quality. With multiple products to suit different environments and robust quality certifications, these speakers are built to withstand diverse environmental conditions, making them a durable choice for any space.
Lithe Audio, litheaudio.com
Switch Disconnectors
• 20 to 1250 Amp AC Switches
• Plastic & Metal Enclosures
• Door interlocked Handles
• 3, 4, 6 & 8 Pole versions
• IP65 Weatherproof
• 32A 1000VDC True DC
• Conforms to IEC 60947-3
• Earth & Neutral terminals
Fused Switch Disconnectors Changeover Switches
• 32 to 800 Amp AC Switches
• Plastic & Metal Enclosures
• Door interlocked Handles
• 2, 3 & 4 Pole versions
• IP65 Weatherproof
• Supplied with Fuses
• Conforms to IEC 60947-3
• Earth & Neutral terminals
• 20 to 1250 Amp AC Switches
• Plastic & Metal Enclosures
• Door interlocked Handles
• 2, 3, & 4 Pole versions
• IP65 Weatherproof
• Auto Transfer Switches
• Conforms to IEC 60947-3
• Earth & Neutral terminals
THE ROLE OF AI IN SMART HOME SECURITY
Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is transforming home security and surveillance. This technology revolution is creating a proactive and intelligent environment, increasing the effectiveness of home security and surveillance systems and making them more accessible and user-friendly for homeowners. AI is also increasing the capabilities of smart home services that electricians can provide, generating new business opportunities across a broad range of devices.
One of the most significant changes brought about by AI is the ability to recognise patterns and make predictions.
AI-powered cameras can now differentiate between ordinary and suspicious activity, alerting homeowners in real time to potential threats. They can identify and make distinctions between multiple different scenarios and potential threats, minimising false alarms and ensuring timely responses to genuine threats.
For example, Luma IP cameras from Snap One include a feature called Smart AI events to monitor and create alerts for the detection of people, intrusion, line-crossing, loitering and people gathering. AI-powered cameras can also provide useful AI analytics with human, vehicle and non-motor vehicle detection and notifications.
When used in conjunction with a control system, a series of automated events can be triggered. For example, when a car enters the driveway it can activate the pathway lights to turn on. This integration with other smart home sub-systems allows for a more cohesive and comprehensive solution, with AI serving as a core intelligence that coordinates various elements, such as lighting, locks and sensors.
AI is also making home security systems smarter through machine learning algorithms that continuously learn and adapt from the data they collect. This means surveillance and security systems can optimise their performance over time, adjusting to the specific needs and patterns of a homeowner’s lifestyle.
Snap One has fully embraced AI and its potential to deliver powerful new security and surveillance benefits for electricians and their customers. This year, the company introduced Luma Insights, a new AI-based surveillance solution for Control4 customers that leverages artificial intelligence to enhance Luma Cameras, as well as the Control4 Chime inside a customer’s Control4 System.
Luma Insights is easy to install using OvrC to configure and deploy directly into a Control4 OS 3.4+ system in about three or four steps, with no additional programming. Luma Insights is the perfect solution for professional electricians who want to offer
their customers a cutting-edge security solution for new or existing systems. Any event-triggered snapshots and video clips are cloud-based and can be easily played back through the Control4 touchscreens and apps.
Snap One also launched Luma Bridge, a hardware device that utilises the Hailo-8 AI processor to enable Luma Insights. The Luma Bridge device comes bundled with a three-year subscription to the Luma Insights service, which allows Snap One Partners to integrate powerful new AI and machine learning features that
BECOME A CONTROL4 DEALER
To access the full range of possibilities that Luma Insights and the Control4 ecosystem can offer, you can become a certified Control4 dealer. Control4 is a premium control solution and has consistently been voted the number one home automation brand by dealers*, offering a wide scope of business opportunities – including security services – for partners and excellent smart home experiences for customers.
far exceed the capabilities of their IP cameras and NVRs alone. The Insights service is compatible at launch with Luma x10 and x20 IP cameras, as well as the Control4 Chime Video Doorbell, and is integration-friendly, requiring very minimal setup.
For more information, visit snapone. com. Existing Partners can learn more at dealer-emea.control4.com. Companies wishing to become Partners should visit c4community.force.com/snapone/s/ newpartnerapplication.
Snap One, snapone.com
Snap One offers different paths for electricians to become dealers – depending on experience level. As a first step, electricians should complete the Professional Certified Network Administrator (PCNA) training course. This interactive six-part curriculum combines hands-on training with online instructional courses, providing a professional standard for the industry and a seal of quality for consumers.
The next stage of development is to take Control4 Automation Programmer training, which is vital in equipping newcomers with the skills they need to start working with the Control4 platform. Control4 Automation Programmer is the only AV and automation-centric certification that combines guided, practical learning with an expertly developed curriculum. It’s a course which offers a collaborative way to gain industry connections and build a rapport with other companies in the smart home industry.
* Voted the number one home automation brand by dealers who participated in the CEPro Brand Analysis survey for the past five years in a row.
EQUIP FOR SAFETY: ACCESSIBLE TRAINING IS KEY TO EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES
David Pownall, VP Services at Schneider Electric UK
& Ireland, looks at the vital importance of electrical safety and gives an overview of the company’s Training Academy courses.
Safety is an industry-wide responsibility – it goes beyond engineers and installers and its importance cannot be understated. In fact, over 1,000 electricity-related workplace accidents are reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) annually, with some leading to fatalities.
‘Authorised Persons’ training and accreditation is critical in combatting such incidents.
An Electrical Authorised Person (EAP) is responsible for the provision of safe working practices across large plants and production facilities, buildings and campuses. EAPs will be authorised by their employer for the completion of safety activities. Typically, EAP roles fall to engineers or facilities managers, but as the workforce expands and becomes more diverse, it will become necessary to appoint and train a wider pool of EAPs. As a result, courses like the City and Guilds Authorised Persons training should be readily available across all organisations.
Between risk management, reputation, trust and accountability; training and accreditations play a critical role in meeting safety standards for several reasons. Most importantly, access to regular training fosters a culture of continuous learning and safety improvement. This can also have the added benefit of bettering staff welfare and retention; 94% of employees say that they would stay longer if their company offered learning and development paths. That’s why Schneider Electric has developed a range of courses that are accessible through its Training Academy.
High voltage (HV) and low voltage (LV) systems require training to teach safe procedures relating to the operation and maintenance of equipment. This training is relevant for anyone with an electrical, instrument or mechanical background, or those who are involved in the installation and testing of HV/LV equipment and safe working practices. Regardless of their industry specialism, EAPs must be able to recognise hazards associated with all electrical equipment.
Training courses should be designed to give an introduction of safe operation techniques for HV and LV systems, with practical applications and examples. For instance, Schneider Electric has a dedicated facility where it offers a flexible range of safety training courses and bespoke training options. With a purpose-built demonstration centre, the company offers a hands-on approach with exposure to real scenarios. This ensures that EAPs gain a robust understanding of how to mitigate risks and implement practical safety strategies.
Another key aspect of the rollout of successful safety strategies is to ensure that EAPs have sufficient knowledge and understanding of mandatory paperwork, legislation and safe isolation procedures. For example, Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) guidelines refer to the best practice and guidance on a variety of public safety issues. In addition, and more specific to EAPs, HSG85 refers to safe working practices for electrical industries and are fundamental in preventing safety breaches.
This type of training empowers EAPs to understand and follow regulations to reduce the likelihood of hazards, accidents, legal penalties and operational disruptions.
In addition to the loss of production and downtime, a lack of maintenance can cause significant safety issues such as exposed live conductors, risk of short circuits, and fires.
Electrical fires cause 22% of workplace fires, making fire prevention a key consideration for EAPs when building a robust safety strategy. Electrical fires are often caused by defects in HV/LV systems, switches and loose or faulty connections. That’s why it’s essential for EAPs to ensure that equipment is fully optimised and procedures are in line with safety regulations. Accredited training will ensure EAPs are best placed to identify and mitigate hazards and implement fire prevention procedures.
Digital technology can also play an integral role in training EAPs and maintaining a safer working environment for all. For instance, remote monitoring can improve response times to help EAPs strengthen workplace safety.
READY TO ASSIST
Specifically, remote monitoring technology enables businesses to manage the performance of their equipment by using sensors to ensure connectivity, monitoring and safety, and is imperative for the industry. For example, it can spot dangerous trends such as rapid changes in temperature. This means that equipment can be managed remotely to check on performance and deliver a condition-based maintenance approach to optimise equipment and safety.
The latest digital monitoring equipment can be used to collect and analyse real-time data to measure usage, assess performance and even spot safety and fire risks early. This allows organisations to take the necessary steps to repair assets, prevent failures and minimise downtime for repairs and maintenance.
Yet, to maximise the utility of such technology, EAPs must be sufficiently trained on how to use them. Therefore, access to the latest technical and safety training, certification and accreditation is an industry imperative.
Ultimately, EAP training and accreditation is critical for maintaining safety in the workplace.
Schneider Electric’s newly refurbished Safety Academy in Telford delivers professional training courses to ensure trainees are competent in safely operating HV and LV systems through understanding the safety requirements, legislation and digital tools.
Schneider Electric, se.com
VENT-AXIA VENTILATES THE TOMORROW HOME PROJECT
Housebuilder Lovell Homes has selected Vent-Axia’s Lo-Carbon Sentinel Kinetic Cooker Hood MVHR and the Lo-Carbon NBR dMEV C as part of its Tomorrow Home project at Cornish Park in Spennymoor, County Durham.
The Tomorrow Home project consists of demonstration homes built to test alternative electric heating systems directly against each other, as well as assessing the effective performance of a range of sustainable technologies, including ventilation.
Tomorrow Home features two identical, three-bedroom, semi-detached homes that have been built to an interpretation of the anticipated Future Homes Standard, with improved building fabric. In one of the three-bedroom homes a Vent-Axia Lo-Carbon Sentinel Kinetic Cooker Hood MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery) has been installed, and the other has been fitted with Lo-Carbon NBR dMEV C (decentralised Mechanical Extract Ventilation). Lovell Homes is working with Teesside University and the Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre to monitor electricity usage, internal temperature, humidity and air quality within the homes.
“Vent-Axia’s Lo-Carbon NBR dMEV C is currently fitted as standard in Lovell open market sales house types, with dMEV recommended as a solution in the Future Homes Standard consultation document. Meanwhile, we chose the Lo-Carbon Sentinel Kinetic Cooker Hood for this trial because we see MVHR as being the most probable ventilation strategy for net zero homes as airtightness is increased. We look forward to monitoring the performance of both these technologies in the two homes,” says Iain Gillies, Divisional Design & Innovation Manager at Lovell Homes.
Data gathered from the demonstration homes will enable Lovell Homes to gauge the various technologies in use and their performance, including ventilation. The project will last 12 months and will give the housebuilder an opportunity to test MVHR and dMEV over an extended period of time and allow the company to gain the knowledge to develop its designs and specifications to meet the forthcoming challenges of the Future Homes Standard and net zero.
The Lo-Carbon NBR dMEV C is a highly efficient dMEV unit designed for kitchen, utility, bathroom and cloakroom applications. It achieves Building Regulations with the quietest sound levels, the lowest number of installed fans required and the most efficient fans on the market. Developed for housebuilders, it is tested to the new SAP 10 performance requirement and listed in the PCDB with its exceedingly low Specific Fan Power (SFP) values as impressively low as 0.08 w/l/s;
The Tomorrow Home project will last 12 months
while also providing near silent operation, independently tested as low as 7.4 dB(A).
The Lo-Carbon NBR dMEV C achieves its low SFPs and low sound power levels through its patent-pending air pathway design, which promotes turbulent airflow, allowing for a predictable performance curve and ensuring performance can be met. High pressure development and the silent mixed flow impeller mean the Lo-Carbon NBR dMEV C can meet the requirements of many domestic installations without the need to use a traditional centrifugal fan. Featuring a single high efficiency EC/DC motor, the fan achieves highest in class efficiency thanks to its axial fan, which consumes a fraction of the energy of the equivalent centrifugal fan – drastically reducing Dwelling Emission Rates (DER).
Providing easy installation and quick commissioning, the easy-to-use speed adjustment dial ensures operational speeds are met as required by Building Regulation Approved Document F, while the IPX5 rating of the NBR dMEV C allows install flexibility without the need for SELV, making it ideal for wet rooms of all sizes since it can be installed in Zone 1.
Meanwhile, the unique Lo-Carbon Sentinel Kinetic Cooker Hood provides all the advantages of MVHR with all the advantages of a cooker hood. Designed to fit in a 600mm wide aperture above a hob, the unit fits inside a kitchen unit for a seamless finish. The telescopic hood is pulled out when required and this triggers the MVHR unit to switch to a pre-defined boost speed and the summer bypass automatically
opens to prevent cooking by-products from entering the heat recovery cell. The hood incorporates removable metal grease filters; low energy lamps to illuminate the hob top; and it is available with a white or brushed aluminium front trim.
With the highest rating on SAP PCDB in its class, the Sentinel Kinetic Cooker Hood is very energy efficient and also incorporates a SELV unit, reducing the distance needed between the hood and the electric hob from 650 to 550mm. The unit also features an integral fire damper in the hood, which creates a seal if a fire is detected, and is connected to the heat recovery unit by a galvanised steel duct with access for cleaning. As an additional safety feature, the duct also contains a thermal cut-out fuse which turns off the MVHR unit in the event of excessive temperature in the airway.
The Sentinel Kinetic Cooker Hood features an integral humidity sensor option that increases speed in proportion to relative humidity levels, saving energy and reducing noise. The sensor also reacts to small but rapid increases in humidity, even if the normal trigger threshold is not reached, ensuring adequate ventilation. The night time relative humidity setback feature suppresses nuisance tripping as humidity gradually increases with falling temperature. It also features a revolutionary programmable 100% summer bypass to ensure year-round thermal comfort avoiding overheating, particularly where windows cannot be opened.
Vent-Axia, vent-axia.com
Smart ISI PIR Sensor Range
♦ A new range of passive infra-red occupancy detectors, switches and dimmers
♦ Ideal for energy-saving automatic lighting control
♦ Quad digital person detector with adjustable photocell and time lag functions
♦ A range of versions for different mounting options, detection areas and mounting heights
♦ Versions for Mains Switching, DALI or 0-10V dimming
♦ All settings and adjustments made via the DANLERS ISI app
♦ Programmable time-outs, setback light levels, fade rates and more
♦ Security settings available to avoid unauthorised programming
♦ Group control function and copy function to replicate settings
♦ Upgradable over-the-air for extra features such as asset tracking
Ceiling flush-mounted versions, ideal for false or plasterboard ceilings.
Versions with mini detector head, ideal for false or plasterboard ceilings, or for fitting into a luminaire. Separate power pack with connector.
A range of surface mounted versions for high bay applications or for regular mounting heights.
Batten-mounted versions, with 20mm threaded spout for fitting onto a luminaire.
For mounting onto a solid ceiling or onto a range of different mounting boxes.
Options for wide area detection and for storage aisles.
PIR occupancy
Time lag
ANLERS D
Smart ISI range
For further details, visit our website or give us a call
STUDENT ACCOMMODATION HALVES HEATING ENERGY LOAD AND SAVES £70K WITH IRUS
The deployment of Prefect Controls’ building energy management system, Irus, has resulted in considerable energy and cost savings for The Refinery.
The Refinery is a purpose-built student accommodation development in Leeds which opened in 2021.
A combination of studio and bedroom cluster flats accommodate 407 residents. Fresh Student Living manages the scheme on behalf of specialist investment company, Curlew Capital.
Kristian Mills, Director of Asset Management at Curlew Capital is responsible for the mobilisation of properties and ensuring they are operated effectively.
He explains, “Over the first two of years of operation we found that we were spending more on utilities than we had expected for a property of this size. Students were able to override the programming on the heaters, turning them up to maximum and leaving them running continuously. To exacerbate the high use of electricity, windows would be opened and closed to regulate temperature. We were witnessing huge wastage. Costly in monetary terms, but as a company fully committed to its 2030 net zero targets we needed to seriously consider this impact. One of the big things we identified, within our capability, is the control of energy for heating”.
Kristian sought to reduce this, stating, “There were several solutions where sensors are placed in the bedrooms. They provide information on humidity, CO2, light, etc. and had PIRs so that occupancy could be monitored. But there weren’t many that controlled what was going on in individual rooms. I’ve been in student accommodation 20 years and have come across many heater panels with boosted control functions. I’d never come across anything where you can centrally control the heating system.”
Kristian discovered Prefect Controls. The company was confident that Irus could sort the problem and return results promptly.
Irus is Prefect’s building energy management system, which was developed specifically for student accommodation. Control units in each room monitor conditions and switch heaters on and off. The control units communicate with a central hub connected to the web-based Irus Portal. Managers monitor and control individual rooms remotely.
Irus doesn’t restrict heating. It avoids unnecessary energy consumption –reducing heat input when rooms are unoccupied, windows are opened, and when occupants leave a room that’s in Boost state.
“There were three distinct factors that decided the deployment of Irus,” Kristian continues, “The availability of data on bedroom usage; lowering of energy costs; and reduction of our carbon footprint.”
The first year’s performance is impressive:
• Heating energy halved: 598,892kWh to 301,910kWh
• Total electricity: 816,064kWh down to 575,420kWh
• Proportion of electricity for heating: 73% down to 52%
• Reduction per bedroom: 50% (1,464kwh to 738kWh)
• Almost £70,000 saved
The Head of Energy and Sustainability at Prefect, Gareth Chaplin, has analysed the data. He explains, “Although first-year figures are impressive, I can see the potential for even greater savings. As operators familiarise themselves with Irus, there are tweaks to settings and profiles that will maximise performance.”
Kristian is clear about residents’ comfort. “It’s important to emphasise there is no restriction in the provision of heating for our guests,” he says. “If residents need more warmth, managers can increase temperature and lengthen boost times etc. It’s essential that residents are comfortable. But to run an efficient property and avoid waste, we must be able to monitor energy input and control delivery.”
He continues, “Going forward, we want to make Irus the standard specification for each property. We don’t want to have to retrofit heating systems, just make sure that the best possible system is installed – one that provides most information and control.
Kristian concludes, “To see a 50% reduction in heating load and close to £70,000 saved is phenomenal! We anticipate a return on investment of just over three years. These results highlight just how effective Irus has been.”
Prefect Controls, prefectcontrols.com
The smarter way to monitor and control energy in multi-occupancy accommodation.
In each room, Irus control units monitor temperature, humidity, light, sound pressure and CO2*. Data is sent to the Irus Portal.
HobSensus monitors cooking surfaces. It cuts power to the hob when dangerous temperatures are approached.
The Irus Portal collates the data which is then viewed on any internet enabled device.
PipeSense monitors water flow and registers water temperature at point of use. It also detects and reports malfunctioning toilet cisterns.
SMART Tank is the only pre-plumbed, pre-wired hot water cylinder with on-board controls to monitor and measure temperature, volume, leaks and wastage.
From here, all settings and profiles are adjusted, and consumption is monitored. Alerts are generated for unusual conditions such as leaks, wastage, hob alarm triggers, supplementary heaters, humidity and CO2* levels etc.
Currently controlling 70,000+ student accommodation and hotel rooms
Scan the QR code to read about Irus saving £70K in the first year at a 407 room student accommodation in Leeds
SIX REASONS YOU SHOULD BE USING MVHR SYSTEMS
Paul Williams, Domus Ventilation’s Product Manager, looks at six important reasons to consider using MVHR systems in new residential developments.
Valued at $106.69m (£81.09m) in 2022, the Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery (MVHR) UK market is predicted to reach $235.34m (£178.87m) by 2030, with an annual growth rate of 10.73% from 2024 to 2030. This extraordinary growth is being driven by increased awareness about the benefits of MVHR, as well as the adoption of these systems to comply with the latest uplift to Building Regulations.
MVHR systems take a whole house approach to ventilation, combining supply and extract ventilation in one system. They extract the stale air from wet rooms (kitchens, bathrooms, utility spaces) within a property via ducting, transferring the heat from that air to the fresh air being drawn into the building via a heat exchanger. Domus Ventilation’s HRXE MVHR range recovers heat with up to 95% efficiency, making it highly effective. The filtered, pre-warmed air is then distributed around the home.
MVHR systems are a modern response to modern building practices. With properties becoming more airtight and energy efficient, it’s vital that good ventilation is designed into properties at the outset. Opening a window or two isn’t going to deliver indoor air that is healthy to breathe and comfortable to live in.
If you are not one of the many people driving the growth of MVHR systems, and are yet to be sold on these ventilation systems, then consider these key benefits:
Health
In the UK, we’re not an outdoors type of nation. In fact, we spend 80-90% of our time indoors. The air that we breathe indoors is therefore just as – if not more –important than the air we breathe outdoors, yet indoor air pollution can be up to five times higher than external air pollution.
Sources of indoor air pollution are widespread and vary dramatically from house to house, but include cooking, cleaning products, furniture and outdoor emissions entering our homes. Then, of course, you have condensation and, in worst case scenarios, mould to contend with in the winter months.
Poor indoor air quality has been linked to an increased risk of respiratory and cardiovascular illness, cognitive impairment and certain cancers. MVHR systems are the most effective ventilation method for our homes as they both extract stale air and supply filtered ‘fresh’ air to key rooms, such as bedrooms.
Comfort
Breathing in poor quality air is not only unhealthy, it’s unpleasant. As stale air is usually the result of a buildup of chemicals and humidity, our homes feel ‘stuffy’ and can have an unpleasant smell. Ironically, using an air freshener to combat this simply adds to the chemical concoction. MVHR systems are continuously on, removing that stale, humid air and its undesirable odours.
Furthermore, during colder months they take the chill out of the supply air by passing it through a heat exchanger where the outgoing air’s energy is extracted and transferred. In the summer months, a 100% thermal bypass automatically activates when the air temperature reaches a pre-set level, allowing in cooler, fresh, filtered air without warming it through the heat exchanger.
Energy efficiency
By reusing the outgoing air’s heat to temper the incoming air, MVHR systems help reduce the home’s heating load. The Centre for Sustainable Energy estimates heating costs can be reduced by around 25%. Whilst MVHR running costs are dependent on the property size, building fabric, occupant lifestyle etc., they are inexpensive to run. To ensure maximum energy efficiency is gained from an MVHR system though, it’s important to correctly size the unit, use good quality ducting designed to work as part of that system, and make sure it is correctly installed and commissioned.
Structural integrity
Whilst volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are unlikely to impact a building’s structure, persistent damp and mould can.
If not dealt with, trapped condensation can lead to timber decay and can have a detrimental effect on insulation. More often though, it leads to mould growth on surfaces of walls and furniture. MVHR systems not only remove pollutants from homes but also the humidity, reducing levels of condensation and preventing mould from forming.
Building Regulations
Changes to Building Regulations Approved Document F, Volume 1: Dwellings (ADF1) came into effect on 15 June 2022. Across all sizes of properties, minimum ventilation rates were increased. In the case of larger properties with five bedrooms, the minimum ventilation rate went from 29 to 43l/s. To achieve these new ventilation rates, mechanical ventilation systems such as MVHRs are the most proficient option.
Value-add
The general public are more aware than ever before of the importance of good air quality. Stories of extreme overheating in properties located in urban heat islands are also making national news. For housebuilders, an MVHR system can therefore be an attractive proposition to home buyers, providing them with good indoor air quality, added comfort and energy efficiency.
These six points all provide a powerful argument for including MVHR systems in new residential developments. So, if you haven’t really considered MVHR systems previously, isn’t it time to think again?
Domus Ventilation, domusventilation.co.uk
with Domus Ventilation’s all new Axial Fan range.
Designed to ventilate kitchens and bathrooms! Crafted to meet current Building Regulation requirements, this single-point fan ticks all the boxes, from regulatory compliance to versatile and flexible installation.
KEY FEATURES
Humidistat and Timer Control
High Performance
Energy efficient
Compact, stylish design
‘The Wave’
MASTERING HVAC CONTROL: A LUCRATIVE SKILL FOR ELECTRICIANS
In today’s smart home era, the demand and opportunities for skilled electricians is higher than ever. To take competitive advantage and remain in tune with customer’s expectations, electricians need to expand their skill sets.
One of the most promising avenues for business growth is in Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) control systems. The benefits of mastering HVAC control include career advancement opportunities, increased earning potential, and the ability to contribute to more sustainable practices to help meet environmental targets.
Expanding career opportunities
The integration of HVAC control systems with building automation and smart home technologies is in high demand from homeowners, especially with the added financial pressure of energy costs. For electricians, this means a wealth of new opportunities.
By learning HVAC control, electricians position themselves as versatile professionals capable of handling integrated energy-saving smart building systems. This expertise is highly valued in both the residential and commercial sectors, opening doors to varying career opportunities, whether employed or self-employed.
The HVAC industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by increased demand for energy-efficient systems and green building practices. Electricians trained in HVAC control can tap into this expanding market, ensuring a steady stream of job opportunities. Companies are constantly on the lookout for professionals who can install, maintain and troubleshoot HVAC systems, making this a strategic career move.
Increased earning potential
With specialised skills come higher wages. Electricians who can work on HVAC systems often command higher salaries than their counterparts with only basic electrical training. This is due to the additional expertise required to understand and work with the intricate controls of HVAC systems.
HVAC control specialists can work on large-scale, high-budget projects, which can be particularly lucrative.
Due to the sometimes complex nature of HVAC systems, and the implications when things need troubleshooting, it’s understandable for there to be some anxiety about getting involved with HVAC. There is a very clear distinction between the responsibilities of an HVAC controls specialist and a heating engineer, and it’s important that both have an open line of communication with each other as they work together on a project
The
field of HVAC control is continuously evolving
Enhancing job satisfaction
HVAC control systems can be intricate and require a deep understanding of both electrical principles and mechanical operations. This complexity, and the satisfaction of delivering a successful project, can be very professionally rewarding.
Working with HVAC control systems allows electricians to engage in problem-solving daily, diagnosing issues and implementing solutions that directly impact building comfort and efficiency. This sense of accomplishment can significantly enhance job satisfaction.
Contributing to sustainability
Sustainability is a major focus in modern construction and building maintenance. HVAC systems play a crucial role in a building’s energy consumption and specialised control can dramatically improve efficiency. Electricians with HVAC control expertise can contribute to creating greener buildings by optimising system performance and reducing energy waste.
By learning how to implement energy-efficient technologies and practices, electricians can help clients achieve significant cost savings and environmental benefits. This not only adds value to their service but also aligns
their work with the global push towards sustainability, enhancing the broader impact of their career.
Keeping up to date with the market
The field of HVAC control is continuously evolving, with new technologies and methodologies emerging regularly.
Electricians who stay abreast of these developments through ongoing training can maintain a competitive edge in their field.
This proactive approach to professional development ensures that they remain able to handle the latest systems and innovations. As new products emerge, manufacturers and distributors provide in-person and online training courses, educational factory tours, visits and webinars to share the most up-to-date information to support electricians.
For electricians seeking to advance their careers, grow their business and enhance their earning potential, training in HVAC control offers a clear opportunity. As a specialist KNX distributor, Ivory Egg works with some of the world’s leading manufacturers of integrated HVAC control technology. For more information on HVAC training email training@ivoryegg.co.uk. Ivory Egg, ivoryegg.co.uk
SAVE ENERGY — GET IN THE ZONE
With the announcement from Ofgem that the energy price cap will rise around 10% for a typical home from 1 October this year, the average annual dual-fuel energy bill for households across Great Britain will rise to £1,717 a year – up £149 from its current level. Matt Parton, Product Development Manager with ESP and Sangamo, looks at zone-controlled heating as a means of conserving energy consumption.
With energy efficiency top of the agenda for homeowners, the ability to operate and control separate heating zones within a residential property is a way of increasing efficiency and reducing energy use and utility costs.
Traditionally, UK heating systems and controls typically mean that the whole property will be heated when a call for heat is made from the system’s thermostat. For a certain size of property, however, heating is only required on one floor of a property or another at a given time, dependent on the occupant’s routines. Therefore, heating the whole property based on one thermostat is not efficient.
Modern day heating systems for certain sizes of properties are now encouraged to have separated heating zones controlled independently in order to increase efficiency and reduce utility costs. For new builds, regulations are set out specifically for system requirements. In essence,
heating systems should have the flexibility to only heat the property when and where it is required. For example, for the ground floor living zone the heating will be on during the day and off at night, whilst for a first floor bedroom zone the heating for the bedrooms will be off during the day but operational at night.
Part L
The Building Regulations which cover the energy performance of new and existing buildings have been subject to change in recent years with the approval of Part L (or Document L). Part L Building Regulations is a set of requirements that focus on the energy efficiency of buildings in the UK. It outlines the minimum standards for insulation, heating systems and overall energy performance. These regulations aim to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings, promote the use of renewable energy, and ultimately enhance the sustainability of the construction industry.
The new regulations officially came into effect on 15 June 2022 and require higher performance targets on all residential
Modern day heating systems for certain sizes of properties are now encouraged to have separated heating zones which are controlled independently
property builds and extensions, with further, more stringent regulations due to follow in 2025 as part of the government’s Future Home Standard. Part L of the Building Regulations states that ‘for wet heating systems in new dwellings with a floor area of 150m2 or greater, a minimum of two independently controlled heating circuits should be provided.’
Programmable thermostat
A programmable thermostat is one way of controlling and operating separate heating zones in a property. The Sangamo three channel programmable thermostat kit is suitable for properties with two-zoned heating systems and is designed to help installers comply with the requirements of Part L Building Regulations where two zone heating is stipulated. The kit comprises two RF programmable room thermostats to control heating for two zones and the control of hot water, and the supplied receiver which is complete with three independent channels – two for heating zones and one for hot water. The system can be programmed and controlled directly or remotely via the ClickSmart+ app.
One of the main features which supports the thermostat’s energy efficiency lies within the scheduling capabilities. When a call for heat or hot water is made, it requires it to be within a specific time and a specific temperature. This is in comparison to a manual thermostat which is left on the set temperature constantly. Up to six on and off periods per day can be programmed. Another key energy efficiency feature is the OWD (Open Window Detection) function. This is enabled in the parameter settings and uses sudden changes in temperature or humidity to detect if a window is open and switches off the heating until the window is closed to save energy.
Easy installation and ease of programming and operation make these an ideal solution for installers. The thermostats control the receiver via radio frequency, so there is no need for cable runs, and they can be powered either by replaceable batteries or USB-C power source.
With energy prices already around 50% higher than they were before the energy crisis began three years ago, this winter will be a challenging time for many households. Zone control is a relatively simple concept and one that installers can advise on and easily create for their customers. ESP, espuk.com
MAKITA LAUNCHES NEW 40VMAX BRUSHLESS MULTI-TOOL
Makita has added a new high-performance cordless multi-tool to its powerful 40VMax XGT platform. The TM001G XGT Multi-Tool is compact and lightweight, making it convenient and flexible to use whilst still delivering on all aspects of performance.
The TM001G is compatible with STARLOCK MAX accessories, a tight-lock interface system with tool-less blade change for fast installation and removal. Users can set the blade at any angle for easy access and the quick release feature allows the user to switch between accessories in a matter of seconds to ensure workflow is not disrupted.
Weighing just 2.1kg, and with a height of 332mm, the TM001G XGT is lightweight and easy to manoeuvre whilst still ensuring impressive results. The multi-tool’s brushless motor delivers higher cutting and sanding efficiency. Combined with the power of Makita’s XGT battery platform, the TM001G offers powerful, versatile performance.
Designed with Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT) to ensure low vibration performance, users can comfortably
TITAN ALL IN ONE HIGHBAY FROM LUCECO
use the multi-tool for long periods of time. The TM001G is also designed with an LED light and afterglow function to illuminate the area, a soft-start feature, a constant and variable speed control and an anti-restart function to prevent accidental start-ups.
Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita, says, “We are thrilled to introduce the TM001G into Makita’s powerful XGT range. The tool has been engineered to fulfil the wide range of professional users’ needs to provide maximum power, speed and run-time without being restricted by a cord.”
Makita, makitauk.com
Luceco has launched a new range of commercial highbay LEDs which are not only easy to install, but which offer the greatest flexibility for the end user currently on the market. Called the Titan All in One, it offers not only colour and wattage choice but also beam angle change all in one unit without the need for added accessories. This is a first for the category, making Titan All In One the perfect solution for warehouses, factories and any other similar industrial or commercial setting.
The Titan All In One can switch seamlessly between three wattage settings to meet the requirements of any project, providing flexibility and efficiency, and equally easily offers three customisable colour temperature settings to achieve the desired functionality and aesthetics for any environment. The innovative beam angle adjustment enables quick and precise changes between narrow and wide beam angles, ensuring optimal lighting for any environment, all without the need for additional accessories or tooling.
Luceco, luceco.com
140 LUMEN PER WATT LED PANELS NOW AVAILABLE FROM OVIA
Ovia’s latest product development focuses on the company’s range of LED panels, with the launch of new and improved versions which now feature lower wattages and produce higher lumen outputs.
Ovia’s premium Inceptor Slate Backlit LED panels, as well as the regular Slate Backlit panels, are now available in 22W versions that produce an impressive 140 lumens per watt output to maximise energy efficiency.
Ovia’s Inceptor Slate Backlit is a premium TP(a) rated LED Panel with a low <19 UGR diffuser. The range has been upgraded to reduce the wattage from 30W and 40W to 22W and 30W, to achieve a higher lumen output whilst consuming much less power. As well as being power switchable these new backlit panels feature selectable CCT (4000K, 5000K and 6500K) options as standard, to offer completely customisable lighting solutions. There are three sizes available.
The company has also upgraded its standard Slate Backlit Panels which are now available in a reduced wattage of 22W, producing a 140 lumen per watt output. Ovia, oviauk.com
LEADING LIGHTS: C.K TOOLS LAUNCHES NEW LIGHTING PRODUCTS
C.K Tools has launched five new IP-rated lighting products, including a brand new range, designed to shine a light onto a multitude of projects for trade professionals, industrial workers and keen DIYers alike.
C.K Tools’ brand new Work Light range features three robust lights with supreme battery life, the latest charging technology and ultimate flexibility whether clipped, hung or attached to any metal surface. Designed for working at both short and medium range, this new product portfolio will provide ample lighting to any work area, creating a well-lit and safe working environment. The three new Work Lights:
• C.K Tools Folding Work Light
• C.K Tools T9751 Mini Work Light 1000lm
• C.K Tools T9752 – Maxi Work Light 2000lm
C.K Tools is also adding two new Head Lights to its popular range, set to be a gamechanger for close and complex work, allowing freedom of movement and convenient hands-free targeted lighting to allow for full concentration on the task at hand. The new Head Lights:
• C.K Tools T9714USB – Magnetic Wide Angle Head Torch 150lm
• C.K Tools T9615USB – Magnetic Dual Lens Headlight 500lm
C. K Tools, ck-tools.com
SNICKERS WORKWEAR’S NEW SOFTSHELL WINDPROOF TROUSERS FOR THE AUTUMN
Long-lasting, innovative fabrics for comfort, sustainability and longevity are the hallmark of Snickers Workwear work trousers – it’s what sets them apart from other brands.
The new AllroundWork Trousers combine four-way stretch and Sorona fabrics to deliver functionality and a street-smart, slim-fit look.
They have integral windproof softshell material and thin, elastic panels working together to provide wind protection, freedom of movement and efficient ventilation.
What’s more, the patented Snickers Workwear KneeGuard system plus stretchable CORDURA reinforcements at the knees and the leg endings deliver extra durability and prevent moisture absorption.
Ideal for active work outside in the autumn, they’re just the ticket for the fast-paced professional who’s always on the go and delivering top-class work on site. Snickers Workwear, snickersworkwear.co.uk
AIRMASTER SPACE HEATING CELEBRATES 30 YEARS WITH A NEW RANGE OF BLACK DIGITAL PANEL HEATERS
Airmaster by the CED Electrical Group has long been established as a major player in the UK space heating market. It now offers over 50 products and continues to innovate year after year. Key introductions over the past couple of years include PTC (positive temperature coefficient) portable heaters, Wi-Fi-enabled panel heaters and bathroom downflow heaters.
2024 follows suit with a new range of 1kW, 1.5kW and 2kW black digital panel heaters.
These sleek, compact designed heaters are easy to install and, once mounted, take up minimal room space. Features include 24/7 LED digital controls, quiet running and overheat protection. Corrosion-resistant with powder-coated bodies, these new heaters have highly efficient sheathed heating elements and aluminium diffusers. IP24 rated, the range is quality assured with CE and UKCA approvals and Lot 20 Compliance.
New innovative additions now sit alongside the company’s long established ranges of 2kW convector and fan heaters, oil-filled radiators, infrared wall, ceiling and patio heaters, tubular heaters and more.
CED Electrical, cedelectrical.co.uk
VENT-AXIA LAUNCHES LO-CARBON SENTINEL ECONIQ FOR NEW BUILD HOMES
Vent-Axia has launched its first Passivhaus-certified Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) system, the Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq. The Sentinel Econiq is designed to provide low carbon heat recovery ventilation for air-tight thermally efficient new build dwellings, making it ideal for Passivhaus projects. The Sentinel Econiq offers exceptional efficiency, near silent operation and complete controllability, providing excellent indoor air quality (IAQ) and occupant comfort.
Boasting excellent heat recovery and a specific electric power as low as 0.22 Wh/m3 , the Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq has been designed and developed in the UK to offer the highest levels of comfort and functionality all year round.
The Sentinel Econiq’s maximised airflows and minimised noise and energy are achieved through cutting edge EC motors and highly sculpted interiors. Providing exceptional IAQ, the new Sentinel-X wireless control platform delivers complete control of the home environment, provided through a full range of wired/wireless sensors and an intelligent smartphone app. To further improve comfort, the Sentinel Econiq also features a built-in preheater as standard with optional duct heaters.
Vent-Axia, vent-axia.com
DOMUS VENTILATION EXPANDS ENERGY EFFICIENT AXIAL FAN RANGE
Domus Ventilation has added new models to its intermittent axial fan range: the DBF100 100mm (4”) fan and the DKF150 150mm (6”) fan. Both fan types are available in versions with timer control, and combined humidistat and timer control which identifies and reacts to a significant change in humidity. The DBF100 is also available with a pull cord control.
The new Domus Ventilation axial fans have been designed for high performance and energy efficiency. The DKF150 provides extract volume rates up to 48.8l/s, with the smaller DBF100 operating up to 18.6l/s, ensuring compliance with Building Regulations Part F Ventilation. Even with these high extraction rates, the new fans operate with a low Specific Fan Power (SFP), down to 0.38W/l/s, saving energy and reducing operating costs. They are also quiet in operation, down to 34dB(A).
Ease of installation has been a fundamental aspect of the product design. The new axial fans are compact so readily fit into small spaces. They come with easy-to-follow installation instructions and flexible mounting options, and compatible ducting kits are available to order.
Domus Ventilation, domusventilation.co.uk
KEEPING IT SECURE WITH UNICRIMP’S NEW PIN WALL PLUGS
Unicrimp continues to expand its Q-Crimp cable accessories range to offer installers a wider selection of solutions, which now includes the newly introduced Pin Wall Plugs.
The new Pin Wall Plugs are an excellent solution for securing cable clips and masonry nails, particularly in cases where the substrate is too dense or hard for conventional masonry nails or clips. With a nail diameter ranging from 1.2mm to 2mm, they provide a reliable and effective alternative for challenging installation conditions. Available in packs of 100, these wall plugs come in white and measure 5.5mm x 18mm.
The Q-Crimp range of cable accessory products from Unicrimp provides everything required to harness cable between the consumer unit and the end accessory. The product offering comprises an extensive range of cable management consumables, including stainless steel cable ties, nylon cable ties, crimp terminals, PVC tape, copper tube terminals, cable clips, and brass and nylon glands. The Q-Crimp range also includes a number of trade tubs, offering a variety of essential fixings and clips in a handy, resealable format.
Unicrimp, unicrimp.com
‘FOUR BY FORT’ SMART SECURITY ALARM KIT
As the market for smart home products enjoys steady growth, ESP is seeing sales of its Fort Smart Security Kits continue to rise. Proving particularly popular is the Fort Smart Alarm Kit 4 which offers installers all the components required for a smart security solution in one, handy boxed unit. The kit includes a smart alarm hub, four PIRs, two door/window contacts and two remote controls. The smart alarm hub can support up to 32 RF devices and provides remote monitoring and alert notifications directly to the Click Smart+ app.
Features include:
• Wi-Fi enabled with GSM back-up facility
• Activations and monitoring supported via app
• No additional subscriptions or fees required
• Supports up to 32 RF devices
• Built-in siren (95dB)
• Built-in backup battery, with up to eight hours standby time
• 80m open field RF transmission (433Mhz)
• 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection required
• Sim card not included
The Fort Smart Security range offers accessibility and simplicity for both the installer and end user and has been designed to bring simple, smart solutions together for a safer and more comfortable home. ESP, espuk.com
CLICK ADDS BIDIRECTIONAL RCBOS TO ITS ELUCIAN RANGE
Click Scolmore continues to develop its growing range of Elucian consumer units and protective devices, and the latest addition is a new bidirectional RCBO.
The launch comes hot on the heels of Amendment 3 of BS 7671 (BS 7671: 2018+A3:2024), which followed the issue of a technical bulletin by BEAMA in 2024 which detailed a concern where, under certain circumstances, protective devices failed to safely operate when required where current flowed in either direction.
The Elucian Bidirectional RCBO is crucial for ensuring user protection in the event of a fault during a loss of supply. These devices are commonly used with generating sets, where the current can flow in both directions, ensuring that the installer is still protected under fault conditions.
The new bidirectional RCBO is Type A rated and available in both B curve and C curve, with 6A, 10A, 16A, 20A, 25A, 32A, 40A and 45A options. It comes with a three-year warranty. Scolmore, scolmore.com
Take your listening experiences to new heights.
Take your listening experiences to new heights.
The all-new 8” ln-Ceiling Speakers by Sonos and Sonance feature completely new acoustic components, offering natural, room-filling sound with discrete installation.
The all-new 8” ln-Ceiling Speakers by Sonos and Sonance feature completely new acoustic components, offering natural, room-filling sound with discrete installation.
