ECN Skills – Regulation, Legislation & Training Supplement 2024
Skills Regulations, Legislation & Training
Hello and welcome to ECN’s Skills –Regulation, Legislation & Training Supplement.
In his July speech, King Charles pledged that his ministers will “get Britain building” and upgrade the electrical system –something that will require more solar panels, heat pumps and EV chargers.
To meet net zero targets and expand the use of renewable technologies, the UK needs more skilled electrical workers. This is something the King also emphasised in his speech by acknowledging the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable growth by encouraging investment in skills.
To help with this, it is encouraging to see that new data from Trade Fix Direct has shown that electrician is the most popular trade and construction apprenticeship in the UK.
The distributor examined 50 trade apprenticeships to determine the most commonly searched trade across major cities in the UK. Electrician apprenticeships took the top spot, with an average of 3,510 monthly searches in cities including London, Manchester and Liverpool.
However, it is estimated that 12,000 newly qualified electricians are needed each year, so something needs to be done to encourage more electricians into the industry.
Upskilling and inspiring more people to complete an electrical apprenticeship will be vital. In this supplement, you will find out more about what leading companies and organisations are doing to educate the industry, such as adding KNX integration to your skillset and increasing knowledge through CEF TechTalks.
I hope you find this supplement informative – look out for our next supplement in the November issue.
be published alongside the November issue and will focus on Lighting. To get involved, or for more information, please contact Kelly Byne at kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com.
CEF LAUNCHES NEW TECHTALKS SERIES
CEF, a leading multi-channel electrical wholesaler, has launched its fourth series of the award winning TechTalks, taking place from 3 September to 21 November 2024. For the last two years, these innovative free talks have been a source of inspiration, knowledge and a way to bring members of the industry together.
TechTalks have continued to develop in line with changes to the electrical industry. In 2022, there was a massive change to BS 7671:2018 IET Wiring Regulations. CEF’s focus was, therefore, on those changes and keeping the industry informed.
A keen focus on renewables has also happened more recently, and this is a result of more sustainable and greener manufacturing options. CEF has looked more at the innovation that comes from manufacturers and how those changes can help contractors stay ahead of the curve. It is important for TechTalks to be revised in accordance with the current landscape, staying updated with trends and regulatory changes.
The upcoming series, centred around the theme ‘Have Your Say’ will provide a platform for electricians to collaborate with CEF and event partner, the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). Attendees will be given the chance to expand their knowledge about the industry, help shape future IET Wiring Regulations, gain 3.5 hours’ worth of CPD, and network with over 20 leading brands and industry professionals.
Attendees can expect some exciting changes in Series 4, as CEF recently saw, an urgent need to introduce a change to BS 7671:2018, a 3rd Amendment, which has just been published and is available as a free-to-download PDF ‘bolt-on’ to Amendment 2 (2022) the ‘brown book’ from the IET and BSI websites. This looks at the problems associated with power flowing through devices in two directions. The IET will join in on the day to advise on proposed changes coming up in the near future, as well as answering any questions contractors may have.
The schedule for the day will include discussion on changes to BS 5839 for fire alarms (non-domestic) and explanation of the BAFE scheme – particularly as the second Grenfell report will be released in September 2024, so it will highlight the schemes available, as well as changes to BS 5266 the emergency lighting standard. After complimentary refreshments, further discussion will be had around protection against fire in battery energy storage systems for use in dwellings, changes to BS 7671:2018 including the 3rd and proposed 4th Amendments, as well as plenty of time for Q&As.
As the expert in supplying electrical products and services to small contractors right through to blue-chip businesses all over the UK, CEF offers the largest range of products including leading brands and value alternatives, alongside specialist expertise, friendly advice and support that’s the best in the industry. CEF’s TechTalks series is the cornerstone of the brand’s commitment to enhancing electrical professionals’ experience, through helping to expand their knowledge, giving them their say within the industry, or bringing them together with other like-minded tradespeople.
Hosted by Darren Staniforth, Head of Electrotechnical Solutions, and Dave Austin, Technical Presenter, the TechTalks will be returning across 21 locations over 11 weeks up and down the UK and Northern Ireland.
Darren says, “TechTalks were created in response to the continual industry changes we’ve seen over the past few years – either through new innovations or
the development of standards. We wanted to create a platform that supported all contractors with the information and updates they need to keep up with the evolving industry. Having the ability to understand the reasons behind changing industry regulations is important for designers of electrical systems and allows them to future-proof their next set of projects. We want to use TechTalks as a way for trade professionals to communicate what changes they’d like to see implemented and have hands-on involvement in shaping the industry.
“CEF aims to be more than a wholesaler when it comes to connecting with our customers, and TechTalks serve as a great opportunity to connect with not only our existing customers but to also engage new audiences and inform them on current electrical knowledge. We’ve received such great feedback from past attendees, with over 10,000 people taking part in the last two years.”
Alongside the events, digital certificates marking attendance will be emailed to all attendees post-event. Additionally, CEF will offer exclusive discounts and giveaways to all event participants, along with a pack of TechCards which act as a handy reference to the topics covered at each talk. Complimentary breakfast and refreshments are served at all events.
For more information and to secure a place, visit your local CEF branch or register for free at cef.co.uk/tech-talks.
CEF, cef.co.uk
More tech, more talk
September - November 2024
Get industry updates, network with 20+ leading brands and have the chance to influence IET regs.
Have your say Influence IET regulation changes
Earn CPD credits
3.5 hours of CPD per event
Exclusive benefits
£50 voucher*, TechCards, and more
Latest innovations
Over 20 brand showcases
Free perks Breakfast, refreshments, and parking
Plus much more…
Ask in-branch or visit cef.co.uk/tech-talks
STORING ENERGY
looks at why you should upskill to install electrical energy storage systems.
Electrical energy storage systems (battery storage) can work alongside a solar PV system, whether retrofitted to an existing installation or fitted as part of a new installation, and allow you to make the most of electricity that you generate by storing it. It can also be used to draw power from the grid when it is especially cheap.
Batteries and battery systems can vary considerably in shape, size and weight
The two types of batteries most commonly offered for solar PV storage in the home are lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries. Batteries and battery systems can vary considerably in shape, size and weight. The greater the battery capacity, the greater the battery size and weight.
Battery storage allows users to:
• Use more of the electricity generated by the PV system
• Store excess electricity in readiness for when it’s needed
• Reduce electricity bills
• Cut carbon footprint
• Invest in the future and reduce reliance on the National Grid
• Earn money on the electricity that is produced by selling excess energy back to the grid using the Smart Export Guarantee
Why upskill to install electrical energy storage systems?
The NAPIT Training course is aimed at practising electricians, electrical technicians and engineers with experience of electrical installations, including associated inspection and testing.
The course covers the design, installation and commissioning of dedicated electrical energy storage systems (EESS) in accordance with the IET Code of Practice for Electrical Energy Storage Systems.
During the course about electrical energy storage systems, you will learn how to:
• Understand the preparation of design and installation of these systems
• Determine the key requirements for their installation
• Identify the systems’ equipment, arrangements and operating modes
• Be able to prepare for the installation of the systems
• Install the systems
• Understand requirements for the systems’ initial verification and handover
The course is primarily created utilising the following documents:
• IET Code of Practice for Electrical Energy Storage Systems (3rd Edition)
• IET Wiring Regulations BS 7671
• IET On-Site Guide
• IET Standards Technical Briefing: Practical Considerations for d.c. Installations
• MCS Guidance Document: MGD 003
• MCS Standards Document: MIS 3012 Issue 0.1
To find out more or book this course, please call 0345 543 0330 or visit https://buff.ly/3r8hVrt NAPIT, napit.org.uk
NAPIT
HOW TO GET STARTED WITH KNX
Whether you want to expand your business to offer your clients the very best in smart home technology, or you’ve seen KNX on project specifications and want to learn more, this is your guide to getting started with KNX.
KNX is an open control protocol and is the only worldwide standard for home and building control. One of its defining characteristics and key benefits is interoperability.
KNX has been around since 1990 and there are over 500 manufacturers making KNX-compatible products. KNX may have been ‘born’ in Europe but it is now used in over 190 countries worldwide.
Why choose KNX?
There are many control systems, platforms and protocols in the market, so why choose KNX?
For a homeowner, choosing to upgrade to an intelligent home instead of standard 230V wiring is a big decision, so it is important they choose what is right for their lifestyle and budget. Homeowners will be looking to you to advise them, especially if their project is a self-build or an extensive renovation.
The interoperability of KNX has a positive impact on system design, product specification, cost and functionality. For installers this means greater flexibility on projects – the ability to mix brands supports earning healthier margins on projects, overcomes supply chain issues often felt with proprietary systems and makes dealing with any product failures much more straightforward.
What can you do with KNX?
Integrators naturally rely on what they know and often use specific protocols or systems for designated functions, e.g., Lutron for lighting, Control4 for audio, etc. This can result in more complex systems that don’t talk to each other or require multiple user interfaces for the client.
The beauty of KNX is that it can integrate all these aspects of a home and give the homeowner the fully connected intelligent home experience they imagined. KNX is so flexible you really can do anything. Some of the most popular smart home uses for KNX are lighting control, heating and cooling, and more recently energy monitoring and management.
How to start working with KNX
To work with KNX professionally it is important to undertake training. Because KNX is so flexible, having a framework to support you with adopting it and using it with clients is key. Ivory Egg’s recommended training framework is as follows:
• Learn how KNX works, its benefits and how to talk about it and sell it to clients.
• Learn how to design a KNX system and specify the right products for your projects.
• Learn how to program KNX devices and commission your project.
When getting started with KNX it’s vitally important to understand the fundamentals and not jump straight ahead to learning the programming. One of the biggest mistakes is to bypass the foundational knowledge but this is crucial as it’s this information that will help you explain KNX to your clients and confidently design projects.
Once you’re clear and confident on the fundamentals, if you plan to be on-site installing KNX yourself then you need to become a KNX Partner. This involves attending and passing the KNX Basic Certification Course which is the ‘engineering’ course that teaches you how to program and commission a project.
What is the best first step to take to work with KNX?
Understanding the potential of KNX and whether it fits with your business is the first step. If you like what you see, then follow Ivory Egg’s suggested framework and start by taking a KNX sales course to help you learn how to sell KNX to your clients.
If you have any questions about KNX training or KNX in general, contact Ivory Egg by email at training@ivoryegg.co.uk or call the office on 03333 079 100 and quote ‘ECN SKILLS SUPPLEMENT’ for a discount on the KNX Online Training platform.
Ivory Egg, ivoryegg.co.uk
EXPANDING HORIZONS: ELEVATE YOUR BUILDING CONTROL EXPERTISE WITH KNX
In the dynamic world of building automation, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. As a system integrator, the tools and technologies you choose define not only the quality of your offerings but also your capability to meet diverse client needs. KNX, a globally recognised standard for building automation, presents a compelling opportunity to expand your skill set and elevate your business. Here’s why integrating KNX into your portfolio is a game-changer.
KNX stands out for its unparalleled interoperability. As an open standard, KNX ensures seamless integration of devices from different manufacturers. This eliminates the usual headaches associated with compatibility issues, enabling you to offer flexible and scalable solutions tailored to each project.
Solution scalability
Whether your company focuses on single dwelling residential projects, large scale commercial complexes, or you sit somewhere in the middle, KNX has you covered. By utilising a scalable infrastructure KNX can be tailored to suit any scale, ensuring that a cost-effective system is provided on every occasion. This scalability translates into the versatility of your service offerings with every system benefiting from the same robust technology regardless of the project size.
Prioritising energy efficiency
In today’s environmentally conscious world, energy efficiency is a top priority. KNX provides precise control over lighting, blinds, HVAC and other critical systems optimising energy consumption without compromising comfort. As a system integrator, your expertise in KNX can help your clients achieve energy and operational savings while enhancing the comfort of each room, zone or building.
Flexible installation
KNX’s ability to operate across various communication media including wired, RF and IP offers unmatched flexibility. This adaptability means you can confidently approach both new construction projects and retrofits, ensuring that KNX solutions can be seamlessly integrated into any environment.
Comprehensive functionality
With KNX, you can offer your clients a holistic control platform for all building functions, resulting in your clients benefiting from a cohesive system that addresses all their automation needs in one streamlined platform and also your company being able to maximise your project package.
Enhancing your professional credibilit y
Becoming proficient in KNX opens doors to numerous accreditation opportunities. This not only enhances your technical skills but also boosts your credibility as a trusted expert in building automation. As a certified KNX partner, you join a global network of professionals gaining access to cutting-edge resources and support. Additional company exposure is also available specifically in the UK via membership with the KNX UK community.
Staying future-proof
The building automation landscape is constantly evolving. KNX, as a future-proof technology, evolves with it, incorporating the latest advancements and ensuring compatibility with emerging trends. By integrating KNX into your skill set, you position yourself to offer solutions that are not only relevant today but also adaptable to future innovations. This future-proofing ensures long-term value for your clients and sustained growth for your business.
Catering to market demand
The demand for smart buildings and intelligent control systems is on the rise. Clients are increasingly seeking advanced, efficient and scalable automation solutions. By utilising KNX you tap into this growing market, offering cutting-edge solutions that meet and exceed client expectations.
Interested in seeing how KNX can unlock new possibilities for your business? My KNX Store is here to help. For over 10 years My KNX Store has been a market leader in KNX distribution, training and support. With a vast product portfolio, various specialist services, and an in-house academy (that offers a cost-neutral training programming), My KNX Store can support both every stage of your skill development and all your project requirements.
My KNX Store, myknxstore.co.uk
Specialists in KNX Control Solutions
Distribution | Training | Support
Founded in 2012, My KNX Store is a market leader in specialist distribution, training and support of KNX control solutions throughout the UK.
KNX is a global leader in the home/building control market offering personalised and holistic solutions of all building functions across residential, commercial and industrial sectors.
FREE* KNX Training Programme
Are you looking to take your first steps in the building control sector or expand the control solutions you offer in your projects?
From initial taster sessions to advanced certification our training programme provides our clients with the best knowledge base to design, install and maintain cost-effective and tailored KNX solutions.
Course options:
Taster Basic Certification Refresher HVAC Advanced Certification * See website for T&Cs
Speak to a member of the My KNX team to see how we can help your projects
SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC LAUNCHES NEW DIGITAL TRAINING PROGRAMME
Schneider Electric has launched a new holistic training programme in the UK and Ireland to upskill engineers, support digital transformation, automation and manufacturing. Here, ECN presents a complete overview of exactly what the new programme entails.
Schneider Electric has announced the launch of its Schneider Electric Training programme in the UK and Ireland (UK&I).
Schneider Electric’s vision in the UK&I is to create a best-inclass approach to training, unifying specialist academies, courses, and digital campuses into a holistic offering named Schneider Electric Training.
The move is in response to the chronic skills gap in engineering and the vital role that training plays in addressing the growing complexities associated with digital transformation.
The extensive programme covers everything from AI, the automation of machinery and equipment, to innovations in power and energy management, and safety standards and regulations.
Schneider Electric Training will provide customers, partners, and engineers with a single point of access to the vast array of training options and resources available, covering Schneider Electric solutions, industry focused courses, and professional accreditations.
It will be delivered via several specialist academies for in-person courses and a digital campus offering on-demand courses for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) via the mySchneider portal.
Two academies are already up and running, with three more due to be launched by the end of the year.
The Safety Academy in Telford offers a range of Schneider Electric and professional training courses to ensure the safe operation of electrical equipment and site safety, including Competent Person certification and City & Guilds assured Authorised Person training.
The Automation Academy in Coventry offers a comprehensive curriculum covering Schneider Electric’s automation portfolio. It is designed to take students from basic product understanding through to advanced
programming of both legacy and current technology, including Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Variable Speed Drives (VSD), Human Machine Interfaces (HMI), Motion Control and Robotics.
David Pownall, VP Services at Schneider Electric UK and Ireland, comments, “Organisations are becoming more dependent on their electrical backbone to support operations, digital transformation, automation, and manufacturing. Electrical engineers and their specialist expertise are critical to the installation, safety, and maintenance of this electrical infrastructure.
“There is an urgent need to build skills to embrace new technologies, drive modernisation, improve performance, reduce downtime, and comply with changing safety regulations. Not only that, but training is critical to career enhancement and a key foundation of a positive employee experience, attracting and retaining people when we’re facing a significant skills gap crisis.
“Smarter engineers, equipped with the skills needed today and a clear development path to build expertise for the future, make for smarter businesses.”
Schneider Electric Training Academy, se.com
IET URGES INDUSTRY TO HAVE ITS SAY ON WIRING REGULATIONS
The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and BSI are calling on the electrical industry to have its say on an amendment to the current BS 7671:2018 Amendment 2 (2022) and Amendment 3 (2024), which will go to DPC (Draft for Public Consultation) on 7 August 2024. BS 7671 is the Requirements for Electrical Installations: IET Wiring Regulations.
The amendment, known as Amendment 4, has been long-scheduled and will incorporate changes to harmonised standards at European level which the UK has to adopt within a certain time period.
The DPC for Amendment 4 comes shortly after the release of Amendment 3, which has just been published and is available as a free-to-download PDF ‘bolt-on’ to Amendment 2 from the IET and BSI websites.
Amendment 4 is expected to be published in 2026. Until that time, electrical installers need to have a copy of Amendment 2 (2022) – the ‘brown book’ – and Amendment 3 (2024), the free PDF bolt-on, to be up to date.
Join The IET for a live webinar at midday on Wednesday 7 August 2024 as it announces the proposed changes and how they may affect electrical contractors.
Comments on the DPC for Amendment 4 can be submitted through BSI’s Standards Development portal between 7 August 2024 and 3 November 2024.
Mark Coles, The IET’s Head of Technical Regulations, comments, “The days of the ‘evergreen electrician’ are gone. Changes in technology, installation practices and developments in standardisation are happening so quickly. It’s therefore so important that installers and designers stay well-informed of what’s happening in the industry. The IET is the authority for electrical installations in the UK and ensures that the wiring regulations committee, JPEL/64, carefully considers all necessary updates to the Regulations to ensure they best meet the needs of industry.
“It is intended that this Amendment will include requirements for Stationary Secondary Batteries, low voltage generating sets, power over ethernet, energy efficiency and functional earthing and functional-equipotential-bonding for Information and Communication Technology Equipment and Systems (ICT). Each area of change is a response to fast evolving technologies.”
Dan Palmer, BSI’s Associate Director, Committees, adds, “BSI is proud to have been partners with the IET for over 30
years. As electrification increases in the UK, we can all benefit from supporting high standards of safety. Keeping this critical standard on electrical installations updated is vital to ensure continued safety. We urge people with an interest to look at the suggested changes made in the draft and provide your comments.”
Graham Kenyon, the Chair of JPEL/64, adds, “The members and officers of JPEL/64 invite anyone involved in the industry to contribute to the standard by providing comments on the Draft. We will initially focus on addressing comments related to the intent of technical changes put forward.
“Comments made on other parts of the standard will be considered in future work of JPEL/64, both for BS 7671 and international work. I extend personal thanks to all the organisations and individuals that have contributed to this Draft so far, both at national and international level.”
The IET and BSI jointly manage JPEL/64, the committee responsible for BS 7671.
