circuit protection & switchgear
23-24 SEPTEMBER 2026
NEC BIRMINGHAM, UK
A GAME CHANGING EVENT FOR THE ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING INDUSTRY
Covering everything from Lighting and Wiring Accessories to EV and Renewables.
ECN Live! 2026 is an industry game changing trade show for electrical contractors, electricians, buyers, specifiers, and key stakeholders in the electrical contracting sector. Gain valuable insights into the most valuable aspects of electrical contracting, such as lighting, circuit protection, cable management, HVAC, fire safety, EV, renewables, solar and more! ECN Live! will be co-locating with EI Live!, the UK’s only dedicated smart home show, an already established show, now in its 15th year. Given the synergy between these two markets, electrical contractors and electricians will gain valuable knowledge about the world of smart home integration and add another string to their bow as an installer. Don’t miss this innovative co-located event that defines the standard for connection, knowledge sharing, and solutions tailored for today’s electrical professionals.
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to ECN’s latest supplement, which this time around is focused on all things circuit protection and switchgear!
An area of the industry that has evolved rapidly over the past several years, it’s no exaggeration to say that many of the product developments detailed across the following pages have been transformative, to say the least –with many of the innovations offering electrical contractors enhanced levels of safety and efficiency while providing many new opportunities and perhaps additional revenue streams in the process.
Of particular note is a growing trend in bespoke capabilities – not least those offered by Niglon, as
detailed in our cover story – which are offering contractors products that fit their exact installation requirements, without forcing them into costly site modifications or awkward workarounds. It’s precisely these types of forwardthinking developments that are altering the circuit protection landscape, and each and every one of our articles in this special supplement highlights companies with their own, unique offering. I’d very much urge you to read through all of the content in this latest supplement to see exactly what’s on offer as we head into the new year.
Thank you once again for all your support throughout 2025, and stay tuned for our next supplement in February next year – which will be celebrating all things Smart Buildings.
Our next supplement will be published alongside the February 2026 issue and will focus on Smart Buildings. To get involved, or for more information, please contact Kelly Byne at kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com.
Simon Rowley, Group Editor
4 Ash Bown of Niglon looks at how the company is driving reliability and value in industrial switchgear
8 ECN explores the innovations recently launched by Proteus Switchgear, including its new Solar PV consumer units
10 A look at Proteus Switchgear’s brand new 10kA Double Pole Single Module Type A RCBO
12 Contactum explains why circuit protection must evolve for today’s electrical installations
14 Insight into the recently launched Dual Row Consumer Units from BG Electrical, part of the Luceco Group
16 ECN looks at why Starbreaker from Electrium stands out from all other consumer units
GROUP EDITOR: SIMON ROWLEY
T: 01634 673163
E: simon@allthingsmedialtd.com
ASSISTANT EDITOR: JOE PECK
T: 01634 673163
E: joe@allthingsmedialtd.com
SALES DIRECTOR: KELLY BYNE
T: 01634 673163
E: kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com
STUDIO: MARK WELLER
T: 01634 673163
E: mark@allthingsmedialtd.com
18 Details of how and why the Manual Transfer Switch from Kraus & Naimer puts the user firmly in control
19 An overview of the custom consumer unit branding service offered by Elucian, part of the Scolmore Group
CEO: DAVID KITCHENER
T: 01634 673163
E: david@allthingsmedialtd.com
MANAGING DIRECTOR: IAN KITCHENER
T: 01634 673163
E: ian@allthingsmedialtd.com
ACCOUNTS
T: 01634 673163
E: susan@allthingsmedialtd.com
NIGLON’S INDUSTRIAL SWITCHGEAR RANGE: AVAILABILITY, PRACTICALITY, AND FLEXIBILITY
Ash Bown, Control & Automation Industrial Sales Manager at Niglon, looks at how the company is driving reliability and value in industrial switchgear.
When I’m supporting our UK-wide network of stockists and collaborating with contractors, I hear the same thing over and over: people want reliability, good value, and products that are always available when needed. At Niglon, we’ve shaped our entire industrial switchgear range around those expectations. And today, I’d like to highlight what that means for wholesalers, installers, specifiers and end-users alike, from the core product lines right through to our growing bespoke capabilities.
For decades, Niglon has built a reputation for supplying the trade with well-engineered, dependable products backed by strong stockholding and honest pricing. Our industrial switchgear offering is one of the best examples of that commitment – covering 4-pole switch disconnectors, enclosed switch fuses, and our increasingly popular busbar chambers.
So let me take a few minutes to talk you through the range, why it’s been so well received, and how we’re evolving it further with custom solutions for the real-world challenges installers face.
Niglon has taken the deliberate decision to hold strong stock levels across its industrial switchgear range
4-pole switch disconnectors: built for real-world demands
Starting with our 4-pole switch disconnectors, these are designed for the tough conditions and demanding expectations of modern industrial installations.
We supply them from 100A right up to 1250A, giving the flexibility needed for everything from commercial buildings to industrial plants and large-scale infrastructure.
Enclosed switchfuses: protection, isolation, and practicality
Our enclosed switch fuse range is another key part of the offer, combining the safety of fuse protection with the convenience of a switch disconnector.
Covering sizes from 32A to 800A, and available in polycarbonate or mild steel enclosures, the range is suitable for a huge variety of industrial and commercial applications.
The PC160MC, Niglon’s 160 Amp, 4-pole, polycarbonateenclosed manual changeover switch
And because every environment is different, we offer these units in polycarbonate, mild steel, and stainless-steel enclosures, allowing installers to choose the right level of protection for the job:
• Polycarbonate for lightweight, corrosion-proof performance
• Mild steel for reliable general industrial use
• Stainless steel when the installation demands exceptional durability
Contractors appreciate the solid feel, the positive switching action, and the clean, installer-friendly layout inside the enclosures. In addition, wholesalers repeatedly highlight an equally important point: these products should be readily available and at Niglon, they most certainly are. Good stockholding is a core part of our strategy, ensuring you can fulfil orders without delays including those last-minute and emergency purchases.
We put a real emphasis on practicality here – strong handles, secure hinged doors, generous termination space, and robust construction. These are details installers notice, especially when they’re working in tight plant rooms or dealing with larger cables on a busy project.
Like the switch disconnectors, these products are heavily stocked so wholesalers can keep shelves full, and contractors can complete installations without disruption.
Bespoke
options: because not every project fits a catalogue
One of the things I’m most proud of – and something that often surprises wholesalers – is how flexible we can be when it comes to bespoke configurations.
We understand that not every installation is standard. Sometimes a contractor needs
a particular switch size housed in an enclosure we don’t list in the catalogue. Or they need an industrial unit adapted to fit a specific site constraint. In situations like that, many suppliers simply say “no”.
But at Niglon, we’ve invested in the ability to say, “Yes, we can do that.”
Whether it’s a switch disconnector or an enclosed switch fuse, we can often house different switch sizes in alternative enclosure types or footprints that aren’t shown in our catalogue. This gives contractors a solution that fits their specific installation requirements without forcing them into costly site modifications or awkward workarounds.
It’s something our customers really appreciate, and it’s an area we continue to expand because the demand for tailored industrial solutions is only growing.
Busbar Chambers: designed with installers in mind
Who would’ve thought that this most simple-but-effective product rooted in our industrial heritage all those decades ago is still seen as a go-to solution on so many projects!
This is one of the most installer-focused ranges we offer: our busbar chambers, available in 200A, 400A, 630A, and 800A ratings, and in widths from 600mm up to 2100mm.
These units are engineered around one clear goal: to make the electrician’s job quicker, cleaner, and more cost-effective.
No cable clamps required –an instant cost saver
One of the standout features is the use of pre-punched holes in the copper bars, allowing cables to be terminated directly using a standard cable lug.
That means:
• No cable clamps
• No additional components
• No fiddly extras to order or install
• Reduced labour time
• Clear cost savings for the contractor
On a busy job, this makes a real difference – and installers tell us they won’t go back to systems that require clamps once they’ve used ours.
45-degree stepped copper bars –more space where it matters
We’ve also designed the copper bars with a 45-degree stepped layout, giving much more working room inside the chamber.
This improves access for tools, reduces strain on larger cables, and genuinely makes the termination process easier and cleaner. Anyone who’s worked in a cramped plant room knows how valuable that extra bit of space can be.
Availability and value: the foundations of our offer
I’ve mentioned availability repeatedly and am confident to do so, and that’s because it’s absolutely the cornerstone of what we do.
In an industry where supply chain issues have caused real frustration over the past few years, we’ve taken the deliberate decision to hold strong stock levels across our industrial switchgear range. When a contractor needs equipment the same day, or a wholesaler needs to respond quickly to a project requirement, we want to be the supplier they can rely on.
To support our robust service proposition, we are rightly proud to work closely with UK manufacturing partners that hold similar values to ourselves and underpin availability, flexibility and quality. Niglon industrial products are all verified and certified by world-leading test and approvals authorities for total peace of mind.
And of course, we focus heavily on ensuring all these products are competitively priced – not by cutting corners, but by investing wisely, maintaining our supply chain, and keeping efficiency at the heart of our operation.
A heritage of supporting the UK trade
Niglon has served the UK electrical industry for generations. What’s allowed us to stay relevant is simple: we listen. We listen to installers, we listen to wholesalers, and we evolve our range based on real-world needs.
Our industrial switchgear range, with its combination of strong availability, practical features, competitive pricing, and now bespoke options, is indicative of that ongoing commitment.
The BBCKIT-35MIO 35mm cable connection for busbars
Industrial switchgear ready for our exacting market today and tomorrow
The electrical industry relies on dependable products and dependable suppliers. With our 4-pole switch disconnectors, enclosed switch fuses, busbar chambers, and our growing bespoke assembly capability, Niglon is proud to offer solutions that work for the people who use them every day.
The depth and breadth of ranging will continue to expand as we explore new technologies and how they will impact changing and challenging switchgear applications well into the 21st century.
Look out for the latest dedicated catalogue to be published in January with over 120 pages of products!
Niglon’s busbar enclosures are designed to make the electrician’s job quicker, cleaner, and more cost-effective
So next time you need industrial switchgear that’s reliable, in stock, and built with the installer in mind – whether it’s straight from the catalogue or tailored to the needs of a specific site – I’d encourage you to speak with us at Niglon. We’re ready to support you.
Niglon, niglon.co.uk
CONTROL & AUTOMATION
Not only do we offer standard ranges of isolators, switch fuses and changeover switches, up to 3150A, but also the possibility of customer specific sizing, switch positions, and laser-cut holes. Smaller plastic and metal clad switches, up to 125A, are offered. Automatic changeover switches, in steel and GRP, complete the range.
PROTEUS SWITCHES IT UP
ECN looks at the range of innovations recently launched by Proteus Switchgear, which includes Solar PV consumer units and an innovative new EV distribution board.
Solar PV Consumer Units
As the UK continues to accelerate towards a renewable future, Proteus Switchgear has expanded its product range to support the continuously growing solar PV sector. Designed specifically for domestic installations, the new Solar PV consumer units simplify the switchgear side of solar projects by incorporating all key components into a single, compact enclosure.
Traditionally, Solar PV installations require separate consumer units, isolators, meters, and protection devices. Proteus has now streamlined this process by integrating all elements within one prepopulated board. Each enclosure features a 100A patented dual screw isolator, a DIN-rail mounted single module Type 2 SPD (no MCB back-up required), a bidirectional RCBO, an MCB for secondary metering on hybrid systems, an AC rotary isolator for inverter connection, and an MCS accredited MID generation meter for recording energy generation and export.
Available with 25A, 32A, or 40A rotary isolators, these units are factory assembled, ensuring quick and hasslefree installation on site. This preconfigured approach delivers three key advantages for contractors and housing authorities/associations alike:
• Time saving: Factory pre-populated boards reduce wiring and installation time.
• Labour saving: Lower on-site labour costs and fewer separate components to purchase.
• Space saving: All essential equipment neatly contained within one consumer unit.
• Ideal for domestic properties, housing developments, and local authority projects.
Proteus Solar PV consumer units represent a smarter, more efficient solution for renewable installations. Combining British engineering with innovation, they provide installers with a one-stop solution that ensures compliance, reliability, and ease of installation.
Compact 5 Way EV Distribution Board
As a leading UK manufacturer of switchgear and specialists within the renewables market, Proteus Switchgear has also introduced the latest addition to its comprehensive range of domestic EV distribution boards – the compact 5 way 40A EV metalclad distribution board.
Designed with installers and end users in mind, this board combines industry-leading technology in a spacesaving enclosure that delivers a neat, professional finish.
One of the key benefits of this new board is its compact size, making it ideal for domestic EV charging installations where space can often be limited. Supplied pre-populated, the board is quick to install, saving valuable time on-site while ensuring consistent quality.
The unit comes complete with:
• 100A Dual Screw Isolator Incomer – this patented design provides a superior and stronger connection of mains meter tails with a circular clamp, ensuring reliability and durability.
• 40A Compact Bidirectional RCBO (Type A) – accepts power from both directions, making it the perfect choice for EV and renewable installations, while also offering a more compact height and additional internal space for easier cable termination.
• Single Module Type 2 Surge Protection Device – busbar mounted for simple installation, requiring no MCB back-up, saving even more space within the compact enclosure.
• Proteus Branded DIN Rail Blank –providing flexibility and a professional finish to the board.
This product demonstrates how much advanced technology Proteus can deliver in a small, installer friendly enclosure. By integrating a dual screw isolator, RCBO, surge protection and blank within a compact metalclad design, the company is providing electricians with a board that is not only efficient and robust, but also designed to meet the growing demands of EV and renewable energy installations, as well as aiding compliance to the latest wiring regulations. With this launch, Proteus is continuing to expand its trusted switchgear range, supporting the UK’s transition to cleaner, smarter energy.
Proteus Switchgear, proteusswitchgear.com
• Pre-configurated boards for domestic PV installations.
• Included din rail mounted 32A 3 pole rotary isolator.
• 45A bidirectional generation meter.
• 6A meter supply for hybrid inverter system (meters not provided).
• A choice of 16, 20 or 32A outgoing RCBO.
• Patented dual screw isolator.
INNOVATIONS DESIGNED WITH ELECTRICIANS IN MIND
In this story, ECN looks at Proteus Switchgear’s established 3 Module 4 Pole RCBO and its brand new 10kA Double Pole Single Module Type A RCBO.
3 Module 4 Pole RCBO
Proteus Switchgear’s award winning, innovative 3 module 4 pole RCBO was launched in 2023, designed specifically for compatibility with the company’s existing busbar system. This compact device combines functionality, safety, and convenience, delivering full four pole switching in a space saving design that occupies just one triple pole space within a standard three phase Proteus distribution board.
The 4 pole RCBO switches all conductors – L1, L2, L3, and neutral – providing true switched neutral protection. This makes it ideal for commercial and industrial applications where neutral disconnection is critical for safety and maintenance, such as in data centres, manufacturing facilities, and the renewables market. For installations requiring enhanced protection and compliance with modern standards, the RCBO is available in 30mA, 100mA, and 300mA trip sensitivities and meets BS EN 61009-1 and BS EN 61009-2-2.
With a 10kA short circuit rating and Type A tripping characteristics, it offers reliable protection against overloads, short circuits, and residual current faults, including pulsating DC components from modern electronic equipment. Both the RCBO and matching 4 pole MCBs are C curve devices, available in ratings from 6A to 63A.
The Proteus 3, module 4 pole RCBO is designed for ease of installation. The neutral connection is made via a flying lead that terminates to the board’s neutral
block, and all load cables, including the neutral, connect directly to the device. It can be used on a three phase only load, with the supply side neutral connected to the neutral bar (for internal PCB supply).
10kA Double Pole Single Module RCBO
As a proud leading British manufacturer of switchgear, Proteus is also pleased to announce the launch of its brand new 10kA Double Pole Single Module Type A RCBO. Designed with electricians in mind, this innovative device combines space saving design with enhanced safety and ease of installation.
Unlike conventional options, the new RCBO occupies only a single module width yet switches both live and neutral poles. This ensures full disconnection under fault conditions, giving contractors and end users complete confidence in protection. Importantly, it offers a higher fault level of 10kA compared with the previous 6kA version, making it suitable for a broader range of installations.
For electricians, the benefits are clear. Previously, providing RCBO protection often meant fitting a single pole MCB inside the distribution board, then mounting a separate enclosure with an RCD, cabling between the two, and taking up valuable time and space on-site. The new single module
RCBO removes this hassle entirely. It simply slots into any current Proteus board due to its consistent busbar, offering straightforward installation without the need for separate RCDs or additional enclosures. The device is also bidirectional, allowing supply from either direction for maximum flexibility.
This RCBO is particularly well suited for applications where BS 7671 requires additional protection, such as socket outlets. It is also ideal for use in distribution, control, and EV charging circuits, providing 30mA personnel protection with reliability and efficiency.
By combining a slimline design with double pole switching and a 10kA fault rating, Proteus has delivered a genuine upgrade to traditional methods, saving electricians time, space, and cost on every project.
For more information on this launch, or to discuss your next solar PV project, contact Proteus directly for sales or technical enquiries. The company’s experienced technical and design teams can support bespoke configurations to meet specific installation requirements, while its UK-wide field sales team is available to provide on-site assistance and tailored product advice.
Proteus Switchgear, proteusswitchgear.com
VERTICAL OPTIONS
REMOVABLE ENTRY PLATES
100A FACTORY FITTED ISOLATOR
• Quick release top entry plate.
• Raised keyhole fixings.
• Removable cover.
• Factory fitted 100A 4 pole isolator (RCD options).
• Robust IP3X steel construction.
• Available in 2, 4, 6, 8 & 12 triple pole outgoing ways.
• 80A continuous, 100A intermittent rated busbar.
• Incorporating a half dinrail system.
01527 517117
CONTACTUM: RAISING THE BAR IN CIRCUIT PROTECTION
Contactum, one of the UK’s most comprehensive suppliers of electrical solutions, explains why circuit protection must evolve for today’s electrical installations.
Circuit protection remains one of the most scrutinised and safety-critical aspects of any electrical installation. Yet as the demands placed on modern systems continue to grow, many products on the market have hardly changed for years. The same designs, the same limitations, and the same outdated assumptions still linger, even as installation environments and customer expectations move on.
Safety, quality, and compliance
Today’s contractors, wholesalers, and end users expect more – greater safety, easier installation, improved performance, and reliable availability. These expectations are not unreasonable; they are what a forward-thinking industry deserves. One of Contactum’s greatest strengths is the close, ongoing relationship it maintains with its customers and partners. The company speaks directly with contractors and wholesalers, listening to their experiences on-site, understanding the challenges they face in tight risers, small service cupboards, and increasingly complex installations. This feedback directly influences how Contactum refines its products.
Enclosures built for real-world conditions
The Defender B Board – 125A Distribution Board ensures safe containment and reduces the risk of tampering or accidental damage
Quality is everything in circuit protection. It is not an area where the industry can afford complacency. Yet too often, manufacturers continue producing the same products for years without meaningful improvement. Contactum takes a different approach. The company manufactures in-house, giving it complete control over design quality, product development, and manufacturing standards. This allows Contactum to innovate quickly while ensuring the company’s products exceed not only its own rigorous in-house tests, but also the stringent third-party approvals required for full market confidence.
Compliance with standards such as BS EN 61439-3 for consumer units and equivalent switchgear assemblies ensures that contractors, wholesalers, and end users have absolute confidence that Contactum products are third-party tested, proven, and compliant.
This attention to quality and durability is clearly demonstrated in Contactum’s IP66 Steel Wall Mount Enclosures. These enclosures are engineered for harsh environments and are tested to IEC 62208, delivering long-lasting resilience and dependable performance. Manufactured from galvanised steel with material thicknesses between 1.2mm and 1.5mm, powder-coated to RAL 7032, and tested to withstand 1,000 hours of salt spray corrosion, these enclosures are built for real-world conditions. The CNC-formed polyurethane gasket ensures superior sealing, while the corner-formed door and removable hinges enable installers to adjust door orientation with ease. With IP66 ingress protection and IK10 mechanical impact resistance, they meet the highest standards for weatherproofing and robustness.
The Defender B Board: installer-focused innovation
Another strong example of Contactum’s installer-focused innovation is the Defender B Board – 125A Distribution Board, engineered for versatility across a wide range of applications. Designed with the realities of modern projects in mind, it offers a compact footprint ideal for service cupboards and areas where space is at
a premium. The Split Load Power and Lighting Boards help contractors manage installations more efficiently, while thoughtful touches such as the lockable front cover, metallic key-operated door latch, and brass tin-plated earth terminals enhance usability and security. Installers can configure the system to suit the exact requirements of each project thanks to the availability of surge arrestor kits, MID-approved metering kits, and optional extension enclosures.
For customers, a fully enclosed and secure low-voltage distribution board like the Defender B Board – 125A Distribution Board offers significant peace of mind. It ensures safe containment, reduces the risk of tampering or accidental damage, and delivers compliance with all relevant standards. For installers, it provides a spacious, organised working area with all key fixings and safety features built in, helping to reduce installation time and on-site complexity.
Across all Contactum products, the message is consistent: the company designs solutions that are built to last, designed for the installer, and engineered to meet the challenges of today’s electrical industry. As electrical installations continue to evolve, so must the tools and systems that protect them. At Contactum, that evolution is not an afterthought; it is at the core of everything it does.
Contactum, contactum.co.uk
The Defender B Board offers a compact footprint that is ideal for service cupboards and areas where space is at a premium
Contactum’s IP66 Steel Wall Mount Enclosures are engineered for harsh environments and deliver long-lasting resilience
Defender 125A B Board
Defender 125A B Board
+Secure
+
+Removable
+Removable
DESIGNED FOR DEMAND — WHY DUAL ROW CONSUMER UNITS ARE THE FUTURE-READY CHOICE
In this story, BG Electrical – part of the Luceco Group – introduces its recently launched Dual Row Consumer Units and explains why they stand out as a practical and forward-thinking solution for both domestic and light commercial environments.
BG’s Dual Row Consumer Units allow electrical contractors to return in the future to add new circuits without having to replace undersized units
With rising energy costs, the UK Government’s net zero commitments and the rapid growth in consumer demand for all-electric living, the electrical installation landscape is being transformed at pace. Electrification offers tangible benefits – for homeowners to reduce bills and cut carbon emissions and for small businesses to meet new sustainability targets. However, for electrical contractors, this shift means rethinking traditional distribution arrangements, with larger, more adaptable consumer units now essential.
The rise of renewables
Future-proof with BG’s Dual Row Consumer Units
Designed not only for now but also for future demands, BG’s recently launched Dual Row Consumer Units – available in 36 and 48 module boards – stand out as a practical and forward-thinking solution for both domestic and light commercial environments. Built for flexibility, efficiency and expansion, BG’s Dual Row Consumer Units offer greater circuit capacity, integrated T2 surge protection and the ability to accommodate renewable energy interfaces, and control modules. They are ideal for installations where future-proofing is a priority.
Capacity where it counts
The Dual Row Consumer Units can house multiple RCBOs and AFDDs along with other modular devices
BG’s Dual Row Consumer Units offer greater circuit capacity and integrated T2 surge protection
Philip Grove, Product Manager for BG Circuit Protection, says, “The electrical demands placed on UK homes and small commercial premises have changed dramatically in just the last decade. Where a traditional domestic installation may once have needed space only for lighting, sockets and a few dedicated loads, today’s consumer units must accommodate renewables like EV chargers, heat pumps, solar PV, battery storage as well as home office equipment and increasingly sophisticated smart-home technologies. As a result, electricians are routinely faced with the challenge of designing installations that aren’t just compliant today but are resilient, adaptable and spacious enough for the technologies their customers will want tomorrow.’
With 31- or 43-way options, BG’s Dual Row Consumer Units – both of which come supplied with a 100A main switch as standard – can house multiple RCBOs and AFDDs along with other modular devices without overcrowding the unit. Being a dual row arrangement means that a higher circuit density is achieved without excessively increasing the size of the unit. This makes it ideal for utility rooms, garages, plant rooms or small commercial settings where wall space may be limited.
Philip states, “This extra capacity is crucial in modern installations. For example, a single EV charger can demand a dedicated 32A circuit, whilst a solar PV inverter requires its own protective devices and battery storage and heat pumps add further loads. Attempting to squeeze these into a traditional single row board often forces installers to bolt on extra enclosures later. This is untidy, inefficient and much harder to maintain. Our dual row solution eliminates this issue from the start.”
Improved flexible installation
With maximum adaptability built in, BG’s Dual Row Consumer Units feature four rows of enlarged oval knock-outs at the rear, complemented by additional versatile 40mm knock-outs on the sides, top, and bottom, whilst a new DIN rail design offers a stronger and more secure device engagement. The offset incomer, larger busbar cover, and updated label sheet provide a seamless installation experience for electricians.
Technical support and guarantee
The BG Circuit Protection range is CE-approved and third-party certified for peace of mind, backed by a 10-year guarantee on the enclosure and devices, and with a UK-based technical support team available via phone or email.
Electrifying the future
Philip concludes, “The UK’s energy landscape is heading in one clear direction – more electrification, more distributed energy generation and more smart devices – and consumer units must be ready for that migration. BG’s Dual Row Consumer Units will allow electrical contractors to return in the future to add new circuits without having to rip out and replace an undersized unit or bolt together multiple units making for a messy, inefficient installation.
“Future-ready, BG’s 36- and 48-module dual row single unified and spacious boards are ready for whatever comes next and provide electricians with a board that not only meets today’s demands, but also anticipates tomorrow’s.”
BG is part of the Luceco Group, which also includes the Sync Energy and Masterplug brands, as well as commercial and domestic lighting. Luceco has over 80 years of industry experience and is internationally recognised as one of the market leaders across all key electrical products.
BG, bgelectrical.uk
Twice the Space. All the Flexibility.
Designed with Contractors, for Contractors
New Dual Row Boards
For larger domestic and light commercial installs.
Supplied with innovative lid retainers
Available in 36 and 48 module options
Built for standard, dual tariff or bespoke configurations
Versatile knockouts on rear, side, top and bottom
View our full product range at bgelectrical.uk or scan the QR code
THE CRABTREE STARBREAKER: EASIER, SAFER, FASTER
When it comes to domestic electrical installations, the consumer unit is the backbone of safety and reliability. ECN looks at why Starbreaker from Electrium stands out from all other consumer units.
For professionals and homeowners alike, choosing the right unit can make all the difference. Starbreaker is designed to deliver on three critical promises: easier installation, safer operation, and faster installation time.
Easier
Installation challenges can slow down projects and increase costs. Starbreaker tackles this head-on with a design that prioritises simplicity and flexibility. Its plug-in busbar system reduces the risk of loose terminations and saves valuable time. Devices such as RCBOs, AFDDs, and SPDs clip directly into place without removing the busbar, making upgrades and maintenance straightforward.
The unit also offers ample wiring space, multiple knockouts for cable entry, and a self-closing hinged door for a neat finish. Whether you’re working on a compact domestic setup or using a 40 module dual bank board, Starbreaker provides options that fit the job perfectly. For installers, this means less stress and fewer call backs, because everything is designed to work seamlessly.
Safer
Safety isn’t optional – it’s essential. Starbreaker goes beyond compliance to deliver protection features that safeguard lives and property. Fully aligned with the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations, it supports Arc Fault
Detection Devices (AFDDs) to prevent electrical fires, miniature Residual Current Breakers with Overcurrent protection (RCBOs) with switched neutrals for comprehensive circuit protection, and plug-in Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) to guard against transient voltage spikes. Only Starbreaker devices fit into the distribution board, strengthening compliance to BSEN61439-3.
Each component is engineered to the highest standards, delivering consistent performance and lasting reliability. This commitment to quality means peace of mind for homeowners and confidence for professionals. When you choose Starbreaker, you’re choosing a system that puts safety first – without compromise.
Faster
Time is money, and Starbreaker saves on both. Its installer-friendly design translates into faster installations, reducing labour costs and improving productivity. The plug-in design means devices can be added or replaced in seconds, without dismantling the busbar or disturbing existing circuits. This modular approach makes Starbreaker ideal for future expansions, ensuring your longevity of the installation.
For maintenance teams, the benefits are just as clear. Fault indicators on SPDs and AFDDs and easy access to components
simplify troubleshooting, while the system’s compatibility with new device types avoids costly board replacements. In short, Starbreaker doesn’t just save time during installation – it saves time throughout the product’s lifecycle.
Starbreaker isn’t just another consumer unit – it’s a complete solution that delivers on its promises of being easier, safer, and faster. Backed by Siemens manufactured devices, it combines cutting-edge protection with practical design, making it the smart choice for professionals and homeowners alike.
When you need a consumer unit that is deigned to make the installation easier, safer and faster, Starbreaker is the name to trust.
Electrium, electrium.co.uk
The Starbreaker 13 way Main Switch Consumer Unit with SPD, RCBOs and AFDDs
The Starbreaker Consumer Unit’s unique features
The Starbreaker RCBO, showing plug-in connection
Plug-in Busbar System
• Reduced installation time
• Assured busbar connections
• 2 way to 37 way units available
REAPING REWARDS WITH THE MANUAL TRANSFER SWITCH
Designed to tackle power outages and grid issues, the Manual Transfer Switch from Kraus & Naimer is cost-efficient, easy to install, offers easy maintenance, and puts the user firmly in control. ECN looks at exactly how useful these devices can be.
Transfer switches, often referred to as changeover switches, are essential for smoothly transitioning between various power sources or circuits. Kraus & Naimer’s Manual Transfer Switch allows
users to quickly and safely switch to a backup power source like a generator or photovoltaic system, keeping their operations running smoothly.
Key benefits of opting for a manual changeover switch:
• Cost-efficient. Buying a generator is already costly. Installing a changeover switch that is automatic can add a lot to that. Manual transfer switches cost less and the cost of installing them is
. Users have full control over when and which circuits to power, allowing them to focus on essentials and conserve generator fuel.
• They don’t require complex programming and can be simpler to install. Their simple, mechanical operation also leads to
Transfer switches need to be checked and maintained.
Proper maintenance increases the longevity of your switches. Maintaining a manual transfer switch is a lot easier and less hassle than automatic ones.
Kraus & Naimer’s range of changeover switches are available for mounting in switch panels / on machinery, or ready mounted in either an insulated polycarbonate, GRP, mild steel or stainless steel enclosure. They are available to suit single and three phase applications in 2, 3 or 4 pole variables and cover from 16A up to 160A.
The company’s Technical Department & Workshop based in Newbury enables Kraus & Naimer to design and supply a variety of customised enclosed control switches and mains isolators, tailored to a customer’s specification, and usually on a quick turnaround.
Kraus & Naimer, krausnaimer.com
CUSTOM CONSUMER UNIT BRANDING FROM ELUCIAN
Custom consumer unit branding from Elucian, part of the Scolmore Group, is now available with bespoke in-house laser etching tailored to exact specifications. ECN looks at the many benefits on offer with this unique service.
Launched by the Scolmore Group in 2021, Elucian has become a trusted name in circuit protection and has enhanced its product offering with a bespoke in-house laser etching service. This service is suitable for single phase consumer units in domestic and commercial applications that require personalised branding for electrical systems. This enables businesses to reinforce their brand identity and add a touch of professionalism to their electrical installations.
Elucian’s service stands out as one of the few in the market offering fully customised
For over four years, Elucian has utilised state-of-the-art laser technology to create intricately detailed designs on the covers of consumer units –guaranteeing long-lasting clarity and durability. Once the logo is supplied to the Elucian team, a digital file is then created and uploaded onto the machine ready for etching. As well as producing precise, permanent etching of logos and branding, this service can also etch a variety of custom designs. This can include QR codes, technical specifications, and circuit identification. This specialised service stands out as one of the few in the market offering fully customised consumer units, etched inhouse at Scolmore Group’s headquarters. Since the launch of Elucian, close to 300 bespoke laser etching jobs have been delivered, each tailored to required specifications, proudly featuring company logos and branding. To date, this has included the etching of almost 10,000 consumer unit boards, demonstrating
the strong and growing demand for customised, premium-quality solutions. The system’s flexibility accommodates both high-volume orders and tailored projects, making it an ideal choice for businesses seeking distinctive branding or design integration.
The bespoke laser etching service is also available for the full range of Click Scolmore’s GridPro modules which can be customised to suit the specific requirements of any project. All GridPro module finishes can be etched, offering a wide range of options for customers to create a personalised and professional installation.
Contractors can enquire about Elucian’s bespoke laser etching service by contacting their local Area Sales Manager. For more information on Elucian’s consumer units and circuit protection devices, visit the website below or download the Scolmore Group app.
Elucian, elucianuk.com
23-24 SEPTEMBER 2026
BIG NEWS IN THE AV & SMART HOME SECTOR!
EI Live! the UK’s top trade show, teams up with ECN Live! for an all-new event experience. This unique collaboration promises unparalleled insights and opportunities in a unified venue.
The residential AV and home automation industries have relied on EI Live! as a primary event for 14 years, but as the market grows and overlaps with electrical contracting, there is an opportunity to bridge these industries. To address this, EI Live! is re-locating to the NEC Birmingham for its 2026 event and will run alongside ECN Live! This joint exhibition creates a collaborative space for AV and smart home professionals to engage directly with electricians and electrical contractors, fostering synergy across these interconnected markets.
