ECN October 2025

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CHUMPFix can be used for all types of electrical fittings, such as most light fittings, surface boxes, and fire alarm equipment, as well as CCTV cameras and pull cords. It can also be used for plasterboard repairs and reinforcing plasterboard to secure anything, such as consumer units and isolators, to a wall or ceiling.

The CHUMPFix is designed to spread the weight or load across a large section of the plasterboard while simultaneously reinforcing the ceiling or wall by applying opposing pressure to the surface. There is no requirement for drilling holes for single-screw fixings like plugs or anchors. CHUMPFix simply spreads the weight of the fitting across a large area of plasterboard, ensuring there is no risk of the plasterboard failure caused by the drilling or fixings near the edge of the board.

Faster, stronger and tougher –CHUMPFix gives faster installation times, stronger fixing with the ability to hold 50kg, and is tougher with no risk of the failure of the edge of the plasterboard.

CHUMPFix is the obvious solution to improve new installation and maintenance work.

Every Evofire downlight is independently fire tested and powered by UK patented technology, exclusive to Integral LED.

From large-scale architectural builds to compact residential spaces, Evofire delivers fire protection with a premium, seamless look. Choose from a complete range of fire-rated glass downlights, with colour and tilt options to suit any interior design. Evofire. Engineered for protection. Designed for perfection.

CONTENTS…

Regulars

4Editorial

Lighting up the autumn skies

6Industry News

The latest news from the electrical contracting industry

14Cover Story

A comprehensive look at CHUMPFix, a new product helping contractors to finish their jobs faster and easier than ever before

16Contract News

The latest industry projects in brief

20 Training

A round-up of the latest training and apprenticeship initiatives across the industry

22Key Issue

David Martini of CleanTech Wholesale argues that adapting to a decentralised world will help businesses succeed

24Project Focus

A look at how umtobel and Thorn have breathed new life into the historic Templemore Town Hall

26Smart Homes

James Galloway of Segen explains why installers are perfectly positioned to lead the move to smarter home energy use

28Sustainability

eal Herbert of GTC looks at the best ways of delivering low carbon heat while solving the energy trilemma for UK housebuilders

32Competition

A chance to win a Round Pattern Time Switch courtesy of ESP

91 Company Showcase

Sponsored content from across the sector

Special Features

Who’s Who

34 A look at BG Electrical’s range of circuit protection innovations and the ways it is meeting today’s market needs

36 An overview of how Sync Energy has established itself as a brand at the forefront of E charging and renewable energy integration

38 An in-depth look at the latest lighting projects and innovations developed by lighting specialist Luceco

40 Cucumber Lighting Controls explains how the company is making lighting control easier, faster, and more cost-effective at every stage

42 An overview of Di-Log’s journey to date, along with the recent launch of the company’s innovative ALVA series

52 A look at the new COMBI 310 from WISKA UK, the latest addition to its iconic COMBI Junction Box range

76 Micha Cichon of Sonel S.A. introduces the company’s modern measurement software, MeasureEffect

EV Charging

57 A look at Sync Energy Link, the brand new E charger from Sync

60 Lee Sutton of myenergi explores the Government’s Electric Car Grant and outlines the opportunities

Paul Winchester of Mer UK asks if broken E chargers are driving your business backwards 68 Tom Jennings of Ratio EV assesses the ROI of EV charging, detailing revenue opportunities and the role of management systems 70 Urban Fox has team with Plymouth City Council to deliver EV charging infrastructure across the city

Rolec looks at how contractors can balance E installation efficiency and compliance 78 A look at how the Siena charger from Lewden is making EV charging safer and more reliable than ever before

80 Mark Krull of Logic4training explains how electrically powered HVAC is taking centre stage and creating new opportunities for electricians

84 Katie Mairs of Vent-Axia explains how Positive Input Ventilation can overcome damp and mould

86 Rointe assesses the heating of the future and explains the shift to smarter comfort

88 Matt Parton of Scolmore Group examines the role of heating controls in the drive for energy efficiency

90 Paul Williams of Domus Ventilation explains how to get the best out of MVHR systems

LIGHTING UP THE AUTUMN SKIES

Hello, and welcome to the October issue of ECN

Despite a rich and varied array of content throughout this month’s issue, it’s once again the Future Homes Standards that’s making headlines – and despite the encouraging premise, the construction and cost challenges, skills gap, and regulatory and planning uncertainties still seem to be generating more questions than answers. Furthermore, the FMB is reporting that the number of new homes being built in Britain is falling short of the 300,000 required every year, so there are definitely challenges ahead. Each of the stories covering this topic in this month’s issue are well worth exploring.

I enjoyed a particularly busy September where I had the pleasure of attending not one but two fantastic lighting events – namely, the annual Circular Lighting Live conference, followed by a special evening hosted by Zumtobel in London’s Kensington Gardens. With these earlier autumnal nights drifting into view, now seems the perfect time to once again think about how we’re going to light up these gloomy evenings – and this month’s

Lighting supplement provides a comprehensive overview of how to achieve exactly that.

We’re also less than two months away from this year’s ECN Awards, and we’d like to thank those of you who submitted your entries for this year’s awards. Our dozen judges are working tirelessly to determine this year’s winners, and we’re looking forward to another entertainmentpacked evening honouring the industry’s very best. The awards will also include a live performance from Rule The World, the UK’s number one Take That tribute band! A limited number of tickets for this highly-anticipated evening are available, so head to electricalcontractingnews.com/awards for all the information you need.

And last, but by no means least, this month’s issue also features EC ’s first ever Who’s Who company profile section – providing a comprehensive overview of key players from across their respective fields within the electrical contracting sector. This feature is set to become a mainstay across future issues, with the next Who’s Who scheduled for February. If you wish for your company to be involved, email kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com who can provide further details.

Thank you as always for your continued support, and enjoy the issue!

GROUP EDITOR:SIMON ROWLEY

T:01634 673163

E:simon@allthingsmedialtd.com

DEPUTY EDITOR:JOE PECK

T:01634 673163

E:joe@allthingsmedialtd.com

SALES DIRECTOR:KELLY BYNE

T:01634 673163

E:kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com

STUDIO:MARK

T:01634 673163

E:mark@allthingsmedialtd.com

We recently had the pleasure of being a part of Zumtobel’s 75th anniversary celebrations during its event at the Serpentine Gallery in London’s Kensington Gardens

Simon Rowley, GroupEditor

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

HEAT PUMP TRAINING SURGES BUT DISPARITIES RISK FUTURE SKILLS GAP

During Heat Pump Week, which took place during the week commencing 29 September, new research from City Plumbing revealed that plumbers and heating installers across the UK are stepping up to meet the demand for low-carbon heating.

Across the UK, 58% of professionals have already trained or upskilled in heat pumps, with a further 34% planning to do so within the next 12 months, according to findings in City Plumbing’s new Taking the Temperature report. Only 8% say they have not been trained and do not plan to train in heat pumps.

Exploring the research in more detail, several regions are leading the way, with Wales (75%), the East Midlands (74%) and both the North West and Scotland (72%) reporting the highest levels of trained

installers. Northern Ireland, despite having the lowest training uptake today (21%), shows the highest growth potential – with more than seven in 10 professionals (71%) planning to upskill in the next 12 months.

Confidence in the heat pump market is growing, with installers citing expected customer demand (37%), the chance to gain a competitive advantage (34%) and personal interest in renewable technologies (38%) as key motivators for training.

However, there remain barriers to upskilling in renewables. Some respondents cited the cost (28%), lack of local offering 24 , difficulty in taking time off work (24%), not enough customer demand (24%) and too much competition (20%) as reasons against training in renewables. A fifth 20 said they haven’t trained or plan to train as they will retire soon.

EDF LAUNCHES HPIN DIRECT TO BOOST HEAT PUMP INSTALLATIONS

EDF Heat Pumps, a UK installer of air source heat pumps owned by EDF Energy, has launched HPIN Direct, a new umbrella scheme designed to widen access to heat pump installation for smaller firms and independent installers.

Developed in partnership with manufacturer Daikin UK, HPIN Direct aims to reduce barriers to entry for small businesses, particularly those unable to access Government funding due to the cost and complexity of gaining MCS certification.

The UK Government has set a target of 600,000 heat pump installations a year by 2028. However, a shortage of qualified installers has led to doubts over whether that goal can be met.

One of the main obstacles is that many smaller businesses cannot access the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, as it requires MCS certification. This certification is both time consuming and costly, making it less feasible for smaller firms.

Clayton Browne (pictured above, right), Managing Director at EDF Heat Pumps, says, “We often hear there are not enough installers for the demand in heat pumps.

“With HPIN Direct, we are changing this – opening the door so that we can get thousands more installers trained and installing heat pumps. It’s an exciting opportunity for the industry.”

Through HPIN Direct, EDF Heat Pumps will manage the design, commissioning, and MCS certification of projects, as well as Boiler Upgrade Scheme funding applications. Installers will therefore be able to fit heat pumps in their local areas without needing MCS certification themselves.

The scheme also offers training for installers and provides bundled pricing options, covering the heat pump, cylinder, and controls.

EDF says the arrangement will reduce paperwork and administrative costs, while giving installers greater flexibility in pricing and job management.

EDF Energy, edfenergy.com

Nearly three-quarters (73%) of respondents said there are still not enough qualified heat pump installers to meet demand – raising concerns about meeting

KNIPEX RAISES £1K FOR BAND OF BUILDERS

UK team members from hand tools manufacturer KNIPEX have raised over £1,000 for construction charity Band of Builders, lacing up their boots throughout the month of July for a series of sponsored walks.

The initiative, driven by staff from across the UK business, saw colleagues walking individually, with their dogs, or during office lunch breaks, with the aim to hit the overall target of 450 miles (the distance from the UK office to K IPE ’s head office in Wuppertal, Germany) to raise funds and awareness for a cause close to the heart of the construction sector.

The highlight of the campaign was a group walk, bringing together K IPE UK team members for a collective effort, and was rounded off with a picnic that gave the team time to reflect on the cause they were supporting.

Laura Broadbent, Marketing Executive for K IPE UK, comments, “Our main event was the group walk, which gave us

a chance to come together as a team and show our support in person.

“But a lot of the effort happened in people’s own time. Whether it was a lunchtime loop near the office, a longer weekend walk with the dog, or time spent walking while on holiday, everyone found a way to contribute and we’re proud of what we raised.”

Band of Builders, the chosen charity for this fundraiser, supports tradespeople and their families who are battling illness, injury, or financial hardship.

With a growing number of project builds and support initiatives across the UK, the charity has become a widespread support network for the construction community.

The 1,000 raised by K IPE will go directly to Band of Builders to support their ongoing projects, from home adaptations for injured tradespeople to wellbeing support and financial assistance for those facing tough times.

KNIPEX, knipex.com

the Government’s target of 600,000 heat pump installations per year by 2028.
City Plumbing, cityplumbing.co.uk

available in the Deco Plus, Deco and Definity Ranges...

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC OPENS NEW MANUFACTURING FACTORY

Energy management and industrial automation company Schneider Electric has begun production at its new manufacturing site in Scarborough, orth orkshire. Full commissioning of the facility is expected by the end of the year.

The plant is designed to produce equipment needed for the UK’s transition to cleaner energy. Britain’s electricity demand is projected to rise by up to 40 by 2035, and the facility aims to support this long-term growth.

Schneider Electric has operated in Scarborough since the 1930s, with generations of product development and manufacturing experience embedded in the local workforce.

By producing in the UK for UK projects, the company aims to strengthen resilience in the nation’s critical infrastructure. Local production reduces reliance on global supply chains, cuts carbon emissions through shorter

transport routes, and enables faster delivery of tailored equipment.

Customers will be able to collaborate directly with engineers at the site, ensuring equipment is designed to British standards and export-ready for Commonwealth markets.

The facility will also contribute to the region’s electric vehicle infrastructure. A total of 30 new chargers are being installed on site, increasing local availability by more than 110 .

The Scarborough plant is net zero in Scope 1 and 2 emissions. It uses energy-saving technologies, renewable power, and a solar energy system that will supply 30 of its needs.

Kelly Becker, President at Schneider Electric UK Ireland, Belgium etherlands, says, “UK manufacturing is the backbone of the nation’s infrastructure drive.

“With electricity demand set to hit new heights, our Scarborough site –

rooted in orkshire expertise – gives us the scale and agility to respond quickly to market changes and support the UK’s energy transition and beyond.”

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS FUNDRAISE FOR MILTON KEYNES HOSPITAL

C&B Electrical Contractors has provided financial and practical support to Milton Keynes University Hospital, with fundraising efforts, volunteer work, and event sponsorship.

Callum Biscoe, Company Owner, and Ben Wilson, Director, first completed a 55-mile charity bike ride from Clapham Common to Brighton’s Madeira Drive, raising 1,775 for the hospital’s Radiotherapy Appeal.

The business then donated its services to improve the hospital environment, installing decorative skylights and replacing ceiling tiles in the cardiology waiting room.

Callum says, “We believe strongly that if you can give back to your local community, you should. C B Electrical has a strong

connection with the hospital so when we can help, we do.”

C B Electrical is also the main sponsor of Milton Keynes Hospital Charity’s annual gala ball, taking place on 17 October at the Doubletree by Hilton in Bletchley. Proceeds will fund projects across the hospital.

Last year’s event raised 56,000 for the Radiotherapy Appeal. This year’s ball will feature a masquerade theme, food and entertainment, and fundraising activities.

Ben Wilson comments, “Money raised at the ball helps not only Milton Keynes University Hospital, but also benefits the wider community. It’s an honour to play our part.”

C&B Electrical Contractors, candb-electrical.co.uk

The company’s investment in Scarborough follows a major expansion in Leeds in 2023.

Schneider Electric, se.com

LIMITED EDITION TAPE MEASURE FOR CHARITY

Electrical distributor CEF has partnered with Klein Tools to launch a limited edition five metre tape measure in support of Macmillan Cancer Support.

For every unit sold, 5 will be donated to Macmillan, with a fundraising target of 25,000 to help provide vital services for people living with cancer across the UK.

Designed with electricians in mind, the co-branded tape measure is intended to combine professional performance with a meaningful cause. Key features include a magnetic double hook for hands-free measuring, a heavy-duty nylon coated blade for durability, and a retraction brake for safe speed control.

Additionally, it also offers a 4m standout, 3m drop protection, and a metal belt clip for everyday convenience.

The launch builds on the success of previous fundraising campaigns, which raised 45,000 for Macmillan through previous CEF and Klein Tools’ co-branded products.

This time around, the collaboration hopes to raise another 25,000, bringing the overall fundraising total to 70,000 in support of Macmillan’s work.

Andrew Moseley, Commercial Director at CEF, says, “At CEF, we are proud to support causes that matter to our customers and colleagues.

“Partnering with Klein Tools on this initiative allows us to provide a high-quality product for the trade and also make a meaningful contribution to Macmillan Cancer Support, a charity that touches so many lives.”

The limited edition tape measure has been available from 1 September, exclusively through CEF, and customers can purchase it at any of CEF’s branches across the UK or on the company’s website.

CEF, cef.co.uk

• Create ‘Favourite’ lists for your different projects

• Ability to make a payment on your trade account

• View your saved pricing

• View your account including quotes, orders and statements

• Multi-quote ordering

Creating a YESSS trade account for online use gives you access to a range of features and benefits:

• Request a quote

• View your most frequently purchased products

• View your local store stock

• Access to nationwide stock

• Click & Collect (within 1 hour)

Do you have multiple engineers working for you? Ask your local store about a more customised experience

SELECT WELCOMES HOUSING ACTION PLAN BUT WARNS OF SKILLS GAP

SELECT, Scotland’s largest construction trade association, has welcomed the Scottish Government’s Housing Emergency Action Plan but stressed the need for a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals to deliver it.

The plan, announced on 2 September by Cabinet Secretary for Housing Mairi McAllan, sets out measures to tackle homelessness and deliver more housing, including 4.9 billion of investment in social and affordable homes over the next four years.

SELECT, which represents around 18,000 electrotechnical operatives and apprentices across Scotland, says a renewed focus on training and apprenticeships will be vital to meeting the plan’s goals.

NICEIC INTRODUCES TECHLIVE

Certification and training body NICEIC will hold its in-person CPD event, TechLive, at Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedford on 22 October.

The event is designed for ICEIC-certified businesses to connect with technical experts, gain continued professional development CPD , and keep up to date with the latest industry developments.

The programme will feature 12 sessions across four themes

Electrotechnical and renewables fundamentals – covering skills in electrotechnical work, solar P systems, and E charging Regulatory updates – including the redevelopment of the MCS Scheme, Amendment 4, and the Future Home Standards

Mental health and wellbeing –sessions on recognising signs of stress, supporting team members, and opening conversations about wellbeing Business tools – guidance on managing the challenges of running an electrical business

Sessions will be delivered by ICEIC’s Technical Director, Paul Collins Learning and Wellbeing Manager, Danny Mouskovias and guest speakers from across the industry.

Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT, says, “The Action Plan recognises the immediacy of the housing crisis in Scotland, but in order for it to be successfully delivered, the construction sector will need a pool of trained and skilled professionals that includes electricians.

“I know that many of our members are concerned about skills shortages we may face as this ambitious programme develops, and it is absolutely vital that the Scottish Government continues to support the training of electrical installation apprentices.”

The Housing Emergency Action Plan also includes proposals to mitigate rent increases, introduce rent controls, and

Attendees can choose sessions most relevant to their business using the TechLive app, and the event will also include a live technical A.

Paul Collins, Technical Director at ICEIC, comments, “We are committed to sharing our expertise with ICEIC-certified businesses to help them stay ahead of the competition.

“We are incredibly excited to launch ICEIC TechLive, where we will gather some of the most insightful people in the industry in one place.

“ ICEIC TechLive will provide every attendee with a highly tailored programme, to maximise the value they receive from the sessions. It is also an opportunity to achieve five hours of CPD, helping meet ICEIC scheme requirements.”

With only one TechLive event scheduled for 2025 and 250 places available, attendees are encouraged to register early.

NICEIC, niceic.com

adopt Awaab’s Law from next year, which requires social landlords to address hazards such as damp and mould.

It further sets out a new, all-tenure housing delivery ambition, working with the

housebuilding sector to increase delivery across all sectors by at least 10 each year for the next three years.

SELECT, select.org.uk

VENT-AXIA EXPANDS PRODUCTION FACILITIES IN DUDLEY

British ventilation manufacturer Vent-Axia has expanded its Dudley Manufacturing centre, located on the Blackbrook alley Industrial Estate, arrowboat Way.

The expansion increases capacity to support the anticipated uptick in demand for low-carbon ventilation.

This significant investment provides ent-Axia with a dedicated factory for its commercial and industrial ventilation range, alongside new equipment, additional warehouse space, and new members of staff, adding to its production team. These improvements will enhance production times and allow customers to benefit from shorter lead times.

As part of the expansion, ent-Axia has increased production line capacity for its commercial and industrial ventilation products to meet increased demand for commercial products, including the award-winning Sentinel Apex.

A new production flow line now provides a streamlined production sequence moving products step-by-step through each stage of manufacture, boosting efficiency and increasing output at the Dudley site.

Meanwhile, the additional warehouse space allows for greater stockholding of both finished units and parts. ent-Axia will now hold stock of all models in the Sentinel Apex, Heat Recovery range, in addition to other commercial products.

The investment is designed to improve its customers’ experience, enabling orders to be fulfilled directly from stock for rapid delivery and project completion. With the Future Homes Standard on the horizon and an increase in the demand for low-carbon and zero-carbon buildings, energy-efficient commercial ventilation with heat recovery is in particular demand.

Vent-Axia, vent-axia.com

FMB URGES HOUSING SECRETARY TO FOCUS ON DELIVERY

The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) says that the appointment of Steve Reed MP as Secretary of State for Housing, Communities, and Local Government – following the resignation of Angela Rayner MP – must signal the start of a new drive for delivery of the Government’s stated target to build 1.5 million new homes.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, comments, ”The former Housing Secretary made several high-profile announcements aimed at getting Britain building again, but the sad fact is that the number of new homes has fallen short of the 300,000 that are needed each year.

“Support for first time buyers is non-existent and the proposed planning reforms to speed up development have yet to materialise.

“There are now added fears that proposed reforms to the landfill tax could add even more cost to building homes, thereby hampering attempts to grow the housing market.

“Any additional cost on delivering new homes would be a backwards step when we need more, not fewer, homes to be built.” FMB, fmb.org.uk

EUROPA ACHIEVES GOLD STANDARD FOR ITS PRODUCT INFORMATION

Europa, one of the UK’s leading distributors of electrical components and smart solutions, has demonstrated its continued commitment to providing the highest-quality product information and images for its wholesaler customers by achieving the EDATA data pool’s Gold Standard.

The award-winning data pool was launched by the Electrical Distributors’ Association (EDA) in 2020 to drive higher standards of product data across the UK’s electrotechnical supply chain.

Manufacturers subscribe to EDATA, sharing their product information with EDA wholesalers and distributors, all of whom benefit from free access to the data pool.

Europa joined the EDA as an Affiliate Member in 2019, and in 2021 subscribed to the EDATA data pool.

Reaching Gold Standard means that Europa’s product information has passed rigorous quality checks, making it easier for wholesalers to list products online, and for contractors and electricians to filter, find and specify products quickly and accurately.

The journey to gold began in earnest in anuary this year, led by Project Manager Brett Shepherd, who oversaw a dedicated team focused on refining and enhancing the quality, structure and completeness of Europa’s product data.

“For the company, it was imperative we got Gold,” Brett says. “Our wholesalers and distributors will be told we are Gold, and it means we and our products are more visible.

“For customers searching for our products, they will have everything they need to know about them, giving them more confidence that they are buying exactly what they are asking for.”

Currently, Europa has nearly 4,000 products in the EDATA pool, with 66% of its products now recognised as Gold Standard. Europa, europa-plc.com

POWERSTAR APPOINTS NEW CEO

Powerstar, a provider of smart power solutions for the energy transition, has announced the appointment of David Seabridge pictured as Chief Executive Officer.

The move comes at a pivotal time for the company, Powerstar tells us, as it focuses on driving growth and accelerating innovation across its portfolio of energy-saving technologies.

Formerly Chief Financial Officer of Powerstar, David first joined the company in 2022 and has played an instrumental role in shaping strategy and improving operational performance across the business.

Joining him on the executive board, Solon Mardapittas returns to Powerstar as Chief Technical Officer to lead product development across Powerstar’s technologies, which cover Voltage Optimisation (VO), Low Loss Transformers, and Battery Energy Storage Systems BESS .

“Having served as Chief Financial Officer and more recently as Interim CEO, it’s been a privilege to work alongside such a talented and dedicated team during this period of transformation,” says David Seabridge.

“I’m looking forward to continuing this journey with our colleagues, partners, and customers across both Powerstar and the wider D2Zero group as we shape the future of energy resilience and smart power solutions.”

The appointments come as demand for Powerstar’s technology grows across the breadth of UK manufacturing, the public sector, and the hotel and hospitality industries. Particular demand comes from the food and drink sector, driven by the ongoing energy crisis and a need for energy reliance and resilience, efficiency, and carbon reduction.

Powerstar, powerstar.com

ROLEC AND CONNEKT SECURE FUNDING TO EXPAND EV CHARGING

Rolec, a UK manufacturer of EV charging points, and Connekt, a commercial EV charging installer, have announced plans to accelerate deployment of destination electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the UK, backed by multi-millionpound funding from the GF1 Growth Fund.

The companies say the partnership is aimed at addressing one of the most underserved parts of the UK EV market. Of an estimated 70,000 potential sites for destination charging, fewer than 1% currently have charge points installed.

Connekt, a Scotland-based EV charging funder, will provide financial support and site assessments, while Rolec will deliver UK-manufactured charging hardware and manage installation through its network of installers.

The partnership is targeting locations such as hotels, universities, marinas, and leisure sites.

Johnny Manning, Founder of Connekt, says, “At Connekt, we see a real synergy with Rolec. Over the past three to four years, we’ve been on an incredible journey building the foundations of a leading charge point operator. Rolec has been on a parallel journey, and they’ve emerged as one of the true market leaders in the EV charging industry.

“Together, we’re bringing something unique to the market with our funded solutions, giving Rolec clients an opportunity to unlock EV charging infrastructure in a way that is both commercially viable and future-proof.”

Darren North, National Sales Manager at Rolec, adds, “We are thrilled to be

OCTOPUS ENERGY AND LG PARTNER ON HEAT PUMPS

Octopus Energy, the UK’s largest energy supplier, has announced a partnership with South Korean electronics manufacturer LG Electronics to expand the use of heat pumps and air conditioning systems across Europe.

The agreement will see LG’s heating and cooling technology integrated with Octopus’s Kraken platform, which can automatically run devices when energy is cheapest and has a low carbon footprint. The companies say this will help households reduce energy costs and cut reliance on fossil fuels.

Heating is responsible for around 20% of Europe’s carbon emissions. Governments are promoting heat pumps as a replacement for gas boilers, with the UK aiming for 600,000 installations per year by 2028.

Octopus Energy is one of Europe’s largest heat pump installers and has invested more than £50 million in factories, training centres, and research and development.

The partnership will launch in the UK and Germany before expanding into other European markets. Over time, it will also cover a wider range of household appliances.

“Heat pumps are the lynchpin of clean, affordable heating, and LG makes some of the best on the market,” says Greg Jackson, founder and CEO of Octopus Energy.

“By plugging them and their air conditioning units into our Kraken tech, we can make them even cheaper to run, giving households an easy way to cut their bills while helping the planet.”

Thomas Yoon, President of LG’s Overseas Sales & Marketing Company, adds, “This partnership with Octopus Energy Group represents a significant milestone in our European growth strategy.

“We will continue to explore new opportunities that create differentiated customer value and secure sustainable growth drivers in the global market.” Octopus Energy, octopus.energy

partnering with such a forward-thinking company to take on a major rollout of EV infrastructure across the UK.

“By working closely with the Connekt team, we will be able to bring our combined expertise to a sector with immense potential.”

The companies say installations are already under way, with several charging networks deployed and more sites scheduled for rollout in the coming year.

Rolec, rolecserv.com

WISKA PARTNERS WITH RR TRANSPORT ON BRANDED TRAILERS

WISKA UK , a manufacturer of electrical installation products, has partnered with Redruth-based RR Transport & Storage to launch two branded trailers that will operate across the UK and Europe.

The collaboration connects WISKA, a supplier to the electrical industry, with RR Transport & Storage, a logistics provider with more than 50 years of experience in haulage, warehousing, and distribution.

The trailers, branded with WISKA’s logo, will be used within RR’s transport network.

Rhiannon Wilson, Commercial Manager at WISKA UK, says, “At WISKA UK, we’re always looking for new ways to promote our brand while supporting local businesses.

“Working with RR Transport & Storage – a company that shares our Cornish roots and commitment to quality – made perfect sense.”

Caroline Green, Director at RR Transport & Storage, adds, “We are delighted to work with WISKA on this project.

“It’s always special to collaborate with a company like WISKA and we look forward to seeing the branded trailers out on the road.”

The partnership highlights the role of local businesses in Cornwall working together while extending their visibility across national and European routes.

WISKA UK, wiska.co.uk

Our award-winning microwave sensors offer precision, reliability, and effortless integration, delivering market-leading detection across a wide range of applications.

Cucumber Microwave (or radar/HF) sensors work on the reliable 24GHz (K frequency band) and feature a learning capability to reduce false triggers. They are ideal for large open spaces, such as corridors and halls. IP65 versions also available.

Reliable performance

Our Microwave sensors use 24GHz to prevent Wi-Fi interference and offer superior reliability.

Learning mode

Sensor adapts to its environment, optimising detection and reducing false triggers.

Market-leading detection

Utilising intelligent signal analysis, the sensor has a detection range of up to 34m in corridor applications.

Bluetooth® built-in

Bluetooth allows device communication, networking, and simple programming via our free app.

INTRODUCING CHUMPFix

For this month’s cover story, ECN looks

at

CHUMPFix, a new product that is helping electrical contractors to finish their jobs faster and easier than ever before.

CHUMPFix is the new way to complete your installation and maintenance work faster and easier.

The installation of a light fitting can now be as simple as:

1. Insert the CHUMPFix above the ceiling while holding onto the handle

• No drilling, no plugs and no risk of working close to the edge of the hole.

2. Screw the base of the light fitting to the ceiling and through the CHUMPFix

• o need to find a joist or install more timber above a ceiling.

3. Second fix

• CHUMPFix can hold 50kg based on two screws gently tightened, with the limit of the weight now applying to the strength of the plasterboard.

If you need extra hands to work with your fitting, such as a heavier or awkwardly shaped fitting, just run a screw though the ceiling and into the CHUMPFix to secure it to the ceiling. It is now possible to work below the ceiling perfecting the alignment of the light fitting, or other such task, as the CHUMPFix is held fast ready for the screws for the light fitting base. This also makes the fixing reusable, as it is now held in place above the ceiling.

Additionally, as the plate is designed with two square holes, one can be used for the handle and the second can be to provide a temporary hanging solution for the light fitting. The method is to thread a conductor, string or even a cable tie through the second square hole before installation through the ceiling. It is possible to put this after installation, but it can be fiddly this way. ou will now have somewhere to hang your light fitting while you second fix with two free hands.

CHUMPFix comes in a pa of five

The large area and

In terms of appearance, the CHUMPFix is sturdily built in the form a large green plastic toggle. There is a plate and a handle. The handle fits through one of the square holes in the centre of the plate. The two holes are identical. Installation above the ceiling, or behind a wall, is as simple as flexing the handle and inserting the plate through the same hole as the cables. Then pull on the handle and the plate should be sitting comfortably on the top of the plasterboard (behind the board in the case of wall-mounted use . ow it is as simple as just screwing your fitting to the ceiling or wall. There is no pre-marking or pre-drilling of the screw holes. This makes the installation faster and more accurate. The improved accuracy comes from the ability to make small adjustments to the location of screws without compromise on security. This can be essential when aligning a number of light fittings on a ceiling.

CHUMPFix can be used for the installation of pendants, smoke alarms, chandeliers, wall lights, pull cords, surface-mounted sockets and switches, fire call points and detectors and much, much more within the electrical industry. CHUMPFix is not limited to use by electricians, however. For example, plumbers are finding they are fitting radiators faster by using CHUMPFix

The large area and the design of the fixing plate with two wings means that the screws are not secured to the plasterboard. This allows for screw fixings to be close to the edge of the board. This makes it ideal for use in plasterboard where the board is damaged. The screw does not even need to pass through the board, as the wings will transfer the weight beyond the area of the screw.

The CHUMPFix is sturdily built in the form of a large green plastic toggle

Working with lath and plaster may never be the same again. CHUMPFix does not rely on fixings securing to the laths, as it rests above the ceiling. By positioning the CHUMPFix across the laths it can spread the weight over three or four laths. The screws, as with the plasterboard ceiling, do not need to secure into the laths, but into the plate of the CHUMPFix above the laths. This reduces further damage to the ceiling or dealing with a ceiling that is already damaged by previous use.

CHUMPFix is currently available in packs of five, and comes complete with ten 4mm pozi-drive screws. CHUMPFix is stocked by all the large wholesalers as well as medium sized and independent wholesalers – just ask at your local trade counter. If it is not on the shelf, it is most likely to be available the next day.

CHUMPFix is a high-quality fixing with exacting specifications for precision installation and maintenance processes. Manufacturing is in the UK with ISO9001 quality assurance.

CHUMPTools, chumptools.com

the design of the fi ing plate with two wings means that the s rews are not secured to the plasterboard

PHAROS SUPPORTS NIAGARA CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS

Pharos Architectural Controls , a British manufacturer of dynamic lighting controls, played a central role in the centenary celebrations of nightly illuminations at iagara Falls, providing additional control technology for a special series of light and sound shows between 12-14 September 2025.

Since 2020, Pharos systems have managed the landmark’s lighting. For the anniversary, the iagara Falls Illumination Board FIB introduced a new element a son et lumière presentation combining synchronised lighting and audio for the first time.

For the celebrations, Pharos lent a Designer LPC X controller to complement the existing system. The LPC X enabled audio playback alongside lighting, allowing the programming of music and effects on shared timelines for precise synchronisation.

The shows began with the national anthems of Canada and the USA, followed by a short history of the FIB and the evolution of illumination technology.

A 20-minute musical sequence then combined LED lighting with laser projections on Goat Island.

The Pharos controller also managed four laser projectors integrated with the Pangolin Beyond Laser system, supported by ruggedised fibre connections and extended networking infrastructure.

A 2,000-foot PA system carried sound across the park, with monitoring provided via the SixEye cloud platform. Meanwhile, a large video screen and PA system on the US side ensured audiences could also follow the event.

Pathway Connectivity, specialists in DM network systems, coordinated installation and integration, while lighting

MYENERGI PARTNERS WITH BT AND OPENREACH TO ELECTRIFY FLEETS

British smart home energy technology manufacturer myenergi has partnered with BT and Openreach to support the electrification of their commercial van and company car fleets.

The agreement, which aims to accelerate national progress towards sustainability targets, will see thousands of eco-smart zappi E chargers supplied to engineers, giving them a way to charge vehicles at home overnight.

With Openreach operating the UK’s second-largest commercial fleet, the partnership seeks to deliver a step forward in nationwide fleet electrification. Installations will be carried out by O O Energy.

Part of myenergi’s home energy management system HEMS , the company says its zappi device gives households total control over their energy use, alongside the flexibility to switch to the best smart tariff.

Andrew Clint, CEO of myenergi, says, “We’re delighted that BT and Openreach staff will soon be charging their plug-in vehicles with zappi chargers at home. Transitioning such an extensive fleet is no mean feat, but developing the necessary infrastructure to ensure drivers can charge up at home is a huge step forward.

“With zappi, staff will benefit from one of the world’s smartest E chargers. Thanks to the myenergi app, you can control zappi, and the wider HEMS, with the touch of a button.

“It’s another important part of our mission to accelerate the UK’s transition to sustainable transport and our commitment to powering the future of fleet electrification.”

As part of the agreement, myenergi will provide zappi chargers for all eligible BT and Openreach staff. myenergi, myenergi.com

programming of the events.

NEWPORT’S FIRST ON-STREET EV CHARGEPOINTS GO LIVE

Urban Fox, a partnership between Balfour Beatty Investments and Urban Electric etworks, will be introducing the first wave of new, on-street electric vehicle E chargers across ewport, with the full network due to be operational by 30 September 2025.

This follows the contract awarded to Urban Fox earlier this year by Newport City Council to deliver Wales’ first lamp-post-based E charging networks – a milestone in ewport’s journey to becoming a cleaner, greener, more sustainable city.

A total of 120 chargepoints will be installed on residential streets across Newport, with many located directly on existing streetlamps.

This approach maximises pavement space, enhances accessibility, and preserves the character of local neighbourhoods while providing essential charging options for E drivers, particularly those without off-street parking.

Two types of chargers will be introduced as part of the rollout. Both chargepoints are designed for reliability and ease of use,

providing a 5kW fast charging option which is suitable for overnight charging.

Both types of chargers aim to be easily located and accessed via the Urban Fox app, giving residents a simple way to find available chargers, start charging sessions, and manage payments.

Oli Freeling-Wilkinson, CEO of Urban Fox, comments, “By integrating chargepoints into existing infrastructure, we’re making E charging convenient, accessible, and discreet, without adding street clutter.

“We’re proud to support ewport’s leadership in making the switch to electric vehicles easier for everyone.”

The rollout forms part of ewport City Council’s broader efforts to support residents and businesses in making low-carbon transport choices, in line with the council’s climate change commitments and Wales’ national net zero targets.

Balfour Beatty, balfourbeatty.com

consultant Linus MacDonald supported the
Pharos Architectural Controls, pharoscontrols.com

Aldous Systems(Europe) Ltd distribute over 30 brands of audio, networking, control, and video equipment exclusively to trade.

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KEW AND SCHNEIDER ESTABLISH PARTNERSHIP OF SUSTAINABILITY

Schneider Electric has announced a partnership with Royal Botanic Gardens RBG , Kew.

As Kew’s official Energy Sustainability Partner, Schneider Electric will play a core role in helping the world-famous botanic gardens meet its goal to become climate positive by 2030.

As a U ESCO World Heritage site with a sizeable footprint, Grade 1 and 2 listed buildings, and high visitor numbers, Kew Gardens faces unique challenges in achieving its sustainability plans and targets.

The partnership will see Schneider Electric take a hands-on role, advising Kew on how to develop and deliver its sustainability plan – which includes transitioning away from fossil fuels, reducing carbon emissions, and optimising

energy use across its historic and complex estate at both Kew Gardens and Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden based in Sussex.

As part of the agreement, Schneider Electric will provide a dedicated energy optimisation engineer, located onsite and on long-term secondment to Kew, helping to

• Support Kew in evaluating the impact, cost, and priority of energy efficiency, controls, and monitoring projects

• Identify, assess, and implement energy-saving opportunities within Kew’s Building Management Systems BMS and Heating entilation and Air Conditioning H AC plant

• Explore available solutions – such as cost-effective electricity use, battery storage, and microgrid opportunities – at both Kew Gardens and Wakehurst.

BRITAIN’S LARGEST ELECTRICITY AND GAS NETWORKS JOIN FORCES

Three of Britain’s’ leading energy networks – UK Power Networks, Cadent and SG – have joined forces to launch a first-of-its-kind Common Ask Template’ to cut admin and speed up delivery of local net zero projects.

For the first time, local authorities can provide the information networks need once, in a simple format.

The three networks serve more than 25 million people across the country. By agreeing one shared format, they are reducing paperwork, avoiding repeated requests and freeing up council staff time – making it easier to plan the upgrades needed for a low-carbon future, and helping local authorities’ resources go further.

Hounslow Council is already using the template, with a further five local authorities adopting it through the Greater London Authority GLA ’s Outer East London LAEP Local Area Energy Planning , which covers both SG and Cadent customers.

The template means the right infrastructure – from Electric ehicle E chargers to low-carbon heating – can be planned and built sooner. What it means for communities

• A single format where all networks and councils share information just once – streamlining both gas and electricity planning

• Faster action – fewer delays and faster investment decisions

• Smarter targeting – utilities can invest where local communities need it.

UK Power etworks’ DSO has created a blueprint for others to use both in and outside of its licence area.

It’s designed to work for every council – whether just starting their climate plans to those with advanced modelling in place – and to support projects right through to 2050.

UK Power Networks, ukpowernetworks.co.uk

WAEV JOINS FORCES WITH VOLTA CHARGE POINTS

waEV Charge , a new generation of E chargers designed for housebuilders, developers and homeowners, has announced a partnership with E chargers distributor olta Charge Points, reinforcing its product line-up to give contractors access to one of the UK’s fastest-growing E charging brands.

The partnership will see manufacturer waE supply its charge point solutions through olta’s wholesale network and online channels for homes, businesses, and fleets across the UK.

By bringing waE into its portfolio, it enhances olta’s offering with a brand that has quickly established a reputation for reliability, installer-friendly design, and scalability for large projects, and in doing so strengthens its commitment to offering installers and resellers high-quality, reliable equipment from trusted manufacturers.

While olta is the leading distributor for a wide selection of E charging brands, it cites its affiliation with waE as a preferred partnership grounded in mutual trust, one that

reinforces its reputation as a one-stop supplier for the electrical trade.

Chris Chevalier-Moniz, CEO of olta, explains, “Reliability is absolutely critical for our customers, and waE has become our go-to brand for that reason. Their chargers deliver consistent performance, smart features, and flexible installation options. Whether it’s a single home install or a bulk development project, we know our wholesalers and trade partners can trust waE to deliver.”

oe Fogel, CEO of waE , adds, “With the UK’s demand for charging infrastructure accelerating, our partnership with olta ensures we can offer customers greater access to our smart, compliant and future-ready solutions that meet the requirements of fast-evolving E infrastructure and smart charging regulations.”

This collaboration comes at a time when demand for electric vehicle charging infrastructure continues to rise, with the electrical trade playing a crucial role in meeting the UK’s net zero ambitions.

waEV Charge, waevcharge.co.uk

The partnership’s projects were due to begin in earnest with the arrival of Schneider Electric’s
consultant on site at Kew Gardens in September.
Schneider Electric, se.com

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TRAINING

GTEC TRAINING EXPANDS INTO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES SECTOR

GTEC Training, a UK-based renewable energy training provider that’s part of the United Living Group, is expanding into the professional services sector.

The company will now offer expert-led nationwide training courses in first aid, mental health awareness, business improvement and management, strengthening its commitment to professional development across the UK.

Having built a reputation in specialist and technical training for utilities, GTEC is intent on bringing the same high standards, frameworks, and learner-first approach to a new suite of courses designed for businesses and organisations of all sizes.

Courses will include lean organisation management, first aid for mental and physical health, business improvement techniques, safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, and suicide awareness.

CITY PLUMBING LAUNCHES SUBSIDISED SOLAR TRAINING

While some of the interactive courses will be hosted online, others with more physical requirements will take place at a selection of GTEC’s UK training locations.

“Expanding into professional services training is a natural progression for us,” says Griff Thomas, Managing Director of GTEC Training. “We’ve established a reputation for high-quality technical training, and now we’re applying that same standard to essential workplace training in areas like first aid, mental health, and leadership.

“It’s about helping businesses invest in their people, which is ultimately their greatest asset. Offering [these] courses allows us to support teams and employers in creating safer, healthier, and more effective workplaces.”

Established over 15 years ago in West Yorkshire, GTEC Training specialises in upskilling tradespeople to meet

City Plumbing, a national plumbing, heating, and electrical supplier, has introduced subsidised solar PV training for installers in partnership with renewable energy training provider GTEC Training.

The programme builds on the company’s existing air source heat pump courses. With 60% of the cost covered by Government funding, the training is offered at a reduced price of £264. The first 50 installers to complete the course will also receive a 264 credit towards their first City Plumbing solar kit order.

Hemal Morjaria, Managing Director of Heating and Renewables at City Plumbing, says, “We know solar installations are a growing area for our customers, with our research showing that more than 40% of installers are already trained in solar and a further 44% looking to be in the next 12 months.

“Our subsidised – or even free – courses make upskilling in solar a practical reality for trades who often don’t have the spare cash to invest in their growth and business development.

“This training, combined with specialist products, tools, and service, will help installers take advantage of the massive increase in solar in the UK.”

To access the free training and more details of City Plumbing’s support for solar, visit gtec.co.uk/courses/ renewable-energy-training/solar-pv-training. City Plumbing, cityplumbing.co.uk

the demands of the green revolution, offering a comprehensive range of courses. Its courses are delivered at 19

JTL CELEBRATES APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR 2025 WIN

JTL apprentice Jack Hawkins has been crowned the winner of the prestigious ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year Award 2025, with fellow JTL apprentice Gary Hall also recognised among the top three in the country. The award, now in its 50th year, recognises the country’s top electrotechnical and engineering services apprentices, celebrating their skill, dedication and contribution to the future of the industry.

Jack, employed by Camelot Electrical, impressed judges with exceptional technical ability, professionalism and ambition, earning the top prize of £3,000, a state-of-the-art toolkit and an overseas study trip. Gary, employed by Dalkia, was also highly commended as one of the three outstanding apprentices to reach the final stage of the award, receiving £2,000 and a toolkit.

JTL says that this double achievement highlights the calibre of its apprentices and the support of their employers, as well as JTL’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality apprenticeships that equip learners with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to excel in their careers.

Jack Hawkins comments, “It’s an incredible honour to have won this award, and I want to thank my employers at

Camelot Electrical for their continued support, mentorship and always believing in me. Working with such a skilled and forward-thinking team has shaped my journey in ways I’ll always value.

“I’d also like to thank my Training Officer, Rhys Regan at JTL, for providing the guidance and encouragement that helped me grow both technically and professionally. I’m truly grateful for this recognition – and excited for what’s next.”

JTL, jtltraining.com

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR SPARKS LEARNER OF THE YEAR 2026

SPARKS, a UK magazine for student and apprentice electricians, has announced that applications are now open for the 17th annual SPARKS Learner of the Year competition, a national event that celebrates emerging talent in the electrical industry.

For the first time ever, the competition expands to include a Scottish Regional Heat, bringing the total to seven regional events across England, Scotland, and Wales.

This development reflects the growing enthusiasm from colleges and learners in Scotland and hopes to ensure even more aspiring electricians have the opportunity to shine.

Open to Level 2 and 3 electrical students and apprentices, the competition challenges participants with a series of hands-on tasks, judged by a panel of industry experts and led by judging partner NAPIT.

Regional winners will advance to the Grand Final in May 2026, where they’ll compete for national recognition and prizes donated by leading sponsors.

SPARKS, sparks-magazine.co.uk

training sites nationwide and led by a team of industry experts.
GTEC Training, gtec.co.uk

ADAPTING TO A DECENTRALISED WORLD

David Martini, Managing Director of CleanTech Wholesale, explains how transitioning to decentralised energy, systems and money will help businesses succeed in these changing times.

The world is changing. Our industry is shifting. For hard proof, just look at these numbers this year. The UK saw a record 170,000 solar installations in the first half of 2025. Home battery storage installs reached 20,000. Only the businesses that understand the true meaning of these changes are the ones that are seizing the opportunity in front of them and winning.

So what is holding so many businesses back? Well, for too long, the energy sector has operated on an outdated model of central control. This old way is governed by complexity and friction. And it’s created a system that burdens installers with administrative tasks and inefficient supply chains. The result is a clear disconnect between the incredible promise of clean energy and the frustrating reality of bringing it to life.

But a fundamental paradigm shift is underway. And it’s being driven by a convergence of three decentralising forces. For installers to succeed, they must understand that these forces are the very foundation of the industry’s future.

These three pillars give you a new way to win

1. Decentralised energy = more margin

The most visible pillar is the shift from large, centralised power plants to distributed, renewable energy sources. With home battery installs skyrocketing and EV infrastructure growing 27% year-on-year, customers now want integrated solutions. Professionals who empower individuals by offering solar, storage, and EV charging as a single system will win more jobs and generate higher margins.

2. Decentralised systems = less friction

This is the move from central, human-led processes to intelligent, automated networks. AI and machine learning enable automated logistics, smart project management, and frictionless processes that remove resistance from the system. This means businesses can streamline processes to spend less time doing paperwork and admin tasks.

3. Decentralised money = faster closes Digital currencies are challenging traditional finance. For installers, this translates into faster-closed deals.

Mix that with the ability to empower customers with the zero-VAT policy on installs until 2027 and the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) to strengthen their ROI, and you’re presenting a financial no-brainer.

Five moves you need to make this quarter

But this strategic shift only benefits the businesses that seize the opportunity now. Here’s how you can do it today

1. Design bundled offers

Create standard, pre-priced specs for common jobs, like a 4-6kWp PV plus a 5-10kWh battery for terraced houses. This shortens surveys, simplifies quoting, and raises your conversion rate. The growing market demand needs this.

uo

e i fin nci l cl ri y

Make a zero-VAT line item and a SEG illustration a standard part of every proposal. You can even include the supplier’s SEG link as proof. This builds customer trust and speeds up their sign-off process.

3.

Get ‘connection-ready’

For larger commercial jobs, you need to act fast. That means preparing planning documents and site studies early so you’re rewarded by the grid’s new first-ready’ queue management rules.

4. Design ‘EV-ready’ as default

Even if you’re not installing the charger today, show your customers that you’re forward-thinking. Specify spare capacity, CT clamps for load balancing, a labelled isolator, and containment to the parking spot. Private installs will follow the public EV infrastructure growth.

5. Sell the outcome, not the kit

Frame your proposals around the benefits of bill stability, energy independence, and resilience. This resonates with customers and helps you close the deal faster.

Those five moves solidify your place as a winning business in these changing times. But there’s one final ingredient that makes all the difference.

A distribution partner today must embrace the three pillars and build their operations around them. It must use technology to remove complexity, not to create it.

Our business, now known as CleanTech Wholesale, has aligned itself with this vision to become a partner that gives you a new way to win. We are a business that believes in speed, simplicity, and sovereignty. We are not just talking about the future. We are building it.

In this new era, true foresight is understanding that the future of the energy industry is built not on fighting the old way, but on building a smarter one.

CleanTech Wholesale, cleantechwholesale.co.uk

These pillars of the future will give businesses a new way to win, David believes

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A LIGHTING SCHEME TO CELEBRATE COMMUNITY AND CULTURE

Zumtobel and its sister brand Thorn, both lighting brands of the umtobel Group, have helped breathe new life into the historic Templemore Town Hall with a tailored lighting solution for the newly opened Templemore Library and Enterprise Centre. ECN looks at how the project transpired.

Located in the heart of Templemore, County Tipperary, the revitalised Library and Enterprise Centre is a symbol of civic pride and creativity. The project, led by EML Architects and specified by MWP M E Consultants, transformed the town’s historic hall into a contemporary library and enterprise hub. LeeTherm served as the main contractor, with Tom Kennedy Electrical as the electrical contractor, helping bring the vision to life through close collaboration with the wider team.

The new facility includes a dedicated Makerspace, extensive book stock, quiet reading zones, and a glazed extension that floods the space with natural light.

Officiated by the Minister for Rural and Community Development, the centre is the first in Tipperary to offer advanced public technology, including robotics and 3D printing. With over 15,000 new books, the space is as much a tribute to the past as it is a platform for future innovation.

The lighting challenge

John Sexton, Electrical Design Engineer at MWP, comments, “We needed a flexible solution that could adapt to the unique ceiling conditions of the building.”

Designing a lighting scheme that aligned with the architect’s vision for this historic refurbishment posed unique challenges. Ceiling constraints on the first floor and changing ceiling types in the reception area required bespoke lighting responses. The scheme had to deliver not only functionality and efficiency, but also elevate the architectural experience.

The lighting design not only met the functional requirements of the various zones, but elevated the entire architectural experience

Lighting the way forward

Zumtobel and Thorn responded with a lighting solution that balanced technical performance, visual harmony, and architectural sensitivity.

ohn continues, “The SLOTLIGHT range offered everything we needed in terms of performance and aesthetics. It made a complex design challenge feel seamless.”

At the heart of the interior scheme was umtobel’s SLOTLIGHT infinity II family, used in both surface and pendant versions. The linear SLOTLIGHT luminaires were deployed creatively, including a stunning configuration around the void area – a concept proposed by the lighting team – that enhances the visual depth and flow of the space. The SLOTLIGHT’s flexible modularity, reduced glare, and the 10 indirect ceiling illumination helped open up the interiors and establish a calming, balanced atmosphere.

Other Zumtobel luminaires, including SLOTLIGHT round and TECTON, were used to support a variety of interior functions, from offices and reading zones.

Lighting for a showcase destination

The lighting design not only met the functional requirements of the various zones but elevated the entire architectural experience, the companies involved tell us. The products were chosen as part of a conscious decision to work with a premium lighting supplier, ensuring that the lighting solution would serve as a benchmark for future public sector projects.

Philip Dewey, Key Account Manager at umtobel Group, remarks, “Templemore is a great example of what’s possible when community investment meets thoughtful design. The lighting complements the architecture and purpose of the space, and it’s exciting to see the SLOTLIGHT infinity II range used so creatively in a heritage setting.”

A beacon for the future

Templemore Library now benefits from new lighting which enhances its usability, safety, and aesthetic quality

Thorn’s extensive portfolio also came into play with solutions such as Omega, Equaline Mini, Chalice, College, Katona, Graffiti, and oyager for the emergency lighting, each selected to suit specific environments within the centre. The exterior areas were illuminated with weatherproof and aesthetically robust luminaires including D-CO LED Bollards, Urba, Caelon, Eroa and Eyekon, delivering safe, welcoming surrounds for visitors after dark.

The Templemore Library and Enterprise Centre is now considered a powerful symbol of regeneration, community focus, and sustainable design. With lighting that enhances its usability, safety, and aesthetic quality, the centre will continue to inspire generations to come – courtesy of a fusion of past and future, brought to light by Zumtobel and Thorn.

Michael Heffernan, Project Manager LeeTherm, the main contractor on the project, says, “From day one, this project was about delivering quality. Working with Zumtobel and Thorn ensured we had lighting that not only performs well, but also looks exceptional. It’s a scheme that really enhances the finished environment.”

Zumtobel, z.lighting/en/zumtobel Thorn Lighting, thornlighting.co.uk

TRANSITIONING TO THE RENEWABLE ENERGY SMART HOME

James Galloway, Global Product and Supply Chain Director at Segen, explains why installers are perfectly positioned to lead the move to smarter home energy use.

As smart meters become more widespread and awareness of renewable technologies continues to grow, homeowners are increasingly realising they are not merely passive energy consumers, but can play a meaningful role in the clean energy transition.

This shift is giving rise to a new kind of home energy setup: the renewable energy smart home – a connected energy ecosystem where solar panels, battery storage, EV chargers, and heat pumps work together, intelligently coordinated by a Home Energy Management System (HEMS) to deliver greater comfort, control, sustainability, and cost savings.

All of these technologies are available today, and demand is continuing to grow. For example, since adding heat pumps to the Segen portfolio last year, we’ve seen a consistent increase in demand. However, the true value of these technologies doesn’t come from individual performance – it comes from integration.

Imagine a solar system powering the home during the day, while simultaneously charging a battery that stores excess energy for later use. As evening falls, that stored energy helps run a heat pump to keep the home warm and efficient – all seamlessly managed by a central HEMS that intelligently balances generation, storage, and demand in real time.

The

renewable energy smart home isn’t a future concept – it’s already becoming a reality

For homeowners, this setup ensures optimal comfort, lower energy bills, and greater control over their energy use. For installers, it creates opportunities for higher-value projects, enables them to build longer-term customer relationships, and offers a competitive advantage over providers of standalone installations.

Policy is on your side

It’s not just consumer demand driving the adoption of renewable energy technologies in the home. Momentum is building through UK government initiatives aimed at making clean energy more affordable and accessible, especially for lower-income households.

A flagship policy is the Warm Homes Plan, which aims to lift over one million households out of fuel poverty by 2030 through measures such as installing renewable energy systems and low-carbon heating technologies.

Complementing this are initiatives like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which provides upfront grants for installing heat pumps and biomass boilers. Another is the EV ChargePoint Grant, part of the wider ‘Plan for Change’ initiative, which covers up to 75% of the cost (up to £350) for home EV charger installation – supporting cleaner energy use and transport in tandem.

This public investment is helping to expand the customer base for renewable energy technologies far beyond early adopters and into the mainstream –and that means more opportunities for installers to grow their business.

The interoperability roadblock

As any new technology emerges, so too do new challenges. Companies already installing integrated renewable energy ecosystems consistently highlight a common issue: ensuring that devices from different manufacturers work seamlessly together.

For a renewable energy smart home to function smoothly, its various components must communicate effectively. This hinges on interoperability – enabled by open protocols, or standardised communication languages, that allow devices from different manufacturers to ‘speak’ the same language. When this happens, homeowners benefit from a truly integrated experience.

Historically, many manufacturers focused on developing closed protocols that locked customers into proprietary ecosystems. Fortunately, that’s starting to change. Momentum is building behind open protocols like Matter and Modbus, which enable cross-brand compatibility and foster greater industry collaboration.

For installers, this shift means simpler commissioning, fewer support issues, and improved long-term reliability for their customers.

A skills gap that needs closing

Even with better device compatibility, integrated renewable energy ecosystems won’t work without the right people to install them. Traditionally, renewables installers have specialised in a single technology – such as solar PV, heat pumps, or EV chargers. But renewable energy smart homes demand a more integrated approach. This is one of the reasons we created the Segen Academy. It’s designed to equip professionals with the real-world skills needed to move beyond single-technology installations and into whole-home system design. Whether you’re an experienced renewables installer or coming into the industry from a plumbing or electrical background, the Academy delivers training that matches the realities of today’s evolving energy landscape.

Smart integration in action

When all the pieces of the puzzle are put in place, the benefits of a renewable energy smart home are clear.

Take the recent retrofit of a 1960s semi-detached home we’ve been following. The upgrade included a 12.3kWp rooftop solar P system, an 11.7kWh battery, and a smart-ready 13.9kW heat pump – all coordinated through a central HEMS. The system is programmed to prioritise solar use: powering appliances and the heat pump first, then charging the battery, and finally exporting any excess to the grid. When solar production drops, the battery supplies power before the grid is tapped. The home now uses 43% less energy from the grid, significantly reducing energy costs. In addition, running the heat pump on solar energy has improved its seasonal performance factor SPF from 4.2 to 6.7 – a 60 efficiency gain. This translates into £430 in annual savings compared to a traditional gas boiler.

The future is bright

As this example shows, the renewable energy smart home isn’t a future concept – it’s already becoming a reality. But to unlock its full potential, we must continue advancing interoperability through open protocols and close the skills gap with forward-thinking training. Encouragingly, the pieces are starting to fall into place.

Segen, segen.co.uk

TACKLING THE ENERGY TRILEMMA

Neal Herbert, Managing Director of GTC – a provider of multi-utility networks for new-build developments across England, Scotland and Wales – looks at the best ways of delivering low carbon heat and solving the energy trilemma for UK housebuilders.

As the UK transitions towards net zero, the pressure on housebuilders to deliver homes that are efficient, future-ready, and compliant with evolving regulation has never been greater.

Heating accounts for nearly one-third of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions, making it a critical area for intervention. With the Future Homes Standard banning the use of gas boilers in new-build homes imminently, housebuilders and developers must find sustainable alternatives that are not only environmentally sound, but also commercially viable and operationally scalable.

Enter the funded, utility-grade networked ground source heat pump. These systems are redefining what’s possible in residential heating, addressing the threefold demands of the UK’s energy trilemma ensuring long-term security of supply, keeping heating affordable for both developers and residents, and supporting the urgent goal of environmental sustainability.

A robust and resilient heat infrastructure

At the heart of this solution is a robust and resilient heat infrastructure that extracts warmth from the stable temperatures found beneath the ground. Unlike traditional gas-based systems or more weather dependent air source alternatives, networked ground source heat pumps

In shaping the homes of tomorrow, developers are also shaping the communities of the future

provide consistent and reliable heating and hot water all year round.

This reliability is especially valuable in the face of increasing strain on national energy systems and ongoing volatility in international gas markets. Decoupling heat supply from these risks ensures that both developers and homeowners benefit from secure, predictable performance.

Affordability is also central to decarbonisation. Rather than burdening developers with upfront capital costs, GTC designs, installs, owns, and operates the solution, covering the entire underground heat network on a regulated utility basis. This model removes technical and financial risk from site delivery and provides developers with a single, accountable partner across all utility services. For residents, the result is access to a low-carbon heating system that delivers consistent comfort at a lower operational cost, without the need to understand or manage complex technology.

Ground source heat pumps

From an environmental perspective, networked ground source heat pumps represent a clear path to zero-carbon heating. These systems use electricity to power heat pumps that draw energy from the ground, offering up to five times the efficiency of gas and a 30 increase in efficiency compared to an individual air source heat pump.

A ground source heat pump is powered through electricity, delivering 3-4kW of renewable energy for every 1kW of electricity used. They are the most energy efficient heating technology available.

As the UK grid continues to decarbonise, these systems become progressively cleaner over time. Because the infrastructure is installed underground, it is protected from the elements, requires less maintenance than surface-level systems, and has a lifespan exceeding 50 years, making them a long-term, low-impact investment in a sustainable future.

Although air source heat pumps have gained traction in recent years, they are often less suitable for dense residential developments or sites with ambitious sustainability goals. etworked ground source heat pumps outperform air source heat pumps in almost every category. They operate at higher efficiency levels throughout the year, particularly during winter months when air temperatures fall and demand for heat is at its peak. This higher efficiency translates directly into

consistent running costs for residents and reduced grid demand during peak periods.

Unlike air source heat pumps, which require outdoor fan units that can be visually intrusive and produce noise, networked ground source heat pumps are quieter and hidden away once installed. This makes them particularly valuable in high-density or planning-sensitive environments, where aesthetic and acoustic considerations are paramount.

Achieving compliance

This brings us to the question of compliance. With the recent updates to Part L and Part O of the Building Regulations, achieving regulatory approval is a key part of a home’s value proposition. Part L requires a 31 reduction in carbon emissions compared to previous standards. etworked ground source heat pumps contribute significantly to this target by reducing carbon emissions by 75-80 from day one. Part O, which focuses on reducing overheating risk, is also more easily met with ground source heat pumps, which avoid the need for indoor or roof-mounted units that generate excess heat within the home.

Looking ahead to the Future Homes Standard, networked ground source heat pumps are already fully compliant. Their low-carbon credentials and high efficiency ensure that homes built today can meet tomorrow’s expectations without retrofitting or technical compromise.

In shaping the homes of tomorrow, developers are also shaping the communities of the future. This approach embeds low-carbon heat into the fabric of a development, transforming heating from a technical afterthought into a core element of place-making and environmental stewardship. This infrastructure-first philosophy supports neighbourhood-wide carbon savings, lowers cumulative energy demand, and helps developers tell a credible sustainability story to local authorities, investors, and buyers alike.

Low-carbon heat is no longer optional, it is essential. As regulation tightens, consumer expectations evolve, and climate pressures intensify, the need for scalable, high-performance solutions becomes ever more urgent. etworked ground source heat pumps meet that need head-on. They provide a future-ready answer to the UK’s energy trilemma ensuring homes that are secure, affordable, and sustainable by design.

GTC, gtc-uk.co.uk

IP66 Steel Enclosures

Tested to IEC 62208

IP66, highest ingress protection & Tested as per IEC 60529

IK10, highest mechanical impact protection & Tested as per IEC 62262

Galvanised steel

Material thickness 1.2mm - 1.5mm

Corrosion resistance = 1000 hours salt spray test ASTM B117

Powder coated - RAL 7032

Special profiled lip

Providing waterproo ing and protection o contents

Double bent panel Increases rigidity

Anti-vibration flange nuts

Supplied mounting plate

Mounting plate thickness 2mm.

Availa le in three types

Door rails Increase rigidity and add mounting capa ility

Bottom gland plate

Injected polyurethane gasket

Earth Strap Anti-vi ration hardware included

Earthing studs Provided on oth the enclosure and the door

THE FUTURE OF FIRE DETECTION IS HERE

PROTECTION FROM FIRE LIKE NEVER BEFORE PROVEN FALSE ALARM REDUCTION

FULLY CERTIFIED TO EN 54 Parts 3, 5,7,13,17, 23, 29 & 31

HEAT DETECTION SMOKEMULTIDETECTIONSENSOR DETECTION

C-3-9.4 WHITE VAD 92DB(A) SOUNDER VOICE SOUNDER CO FIRE DETECTION ALL IN ONE DEVICE !

O-C-1.9-4 RED VAD

ENABLED

WIN A SANGAMO ROUND PATTERN TIME SWITCH COURTESY OF ESP

Sangamo has been manufacturing its Round Pattern Time Switches for over 65 years, and in that time has sold more than 11 million units. ow, ESP – Sangamo’s official distributor in the UK – is offering the chance for one lucky reader to win their very own Round Pattern Time Switch.

The Round Pattern Time Switch is trusted by installers for a wide variety of applications, not just because of its reliability but its ease of use. Typical applications include lighting, heating, ventilation, and general switched loads where you want fixed daily or weekly on/off control.

The installation of a Round Pattern Time Switch

RPTS used to be a regular job for many electricians and, despite the electro-mechanical time switches being less common today, Sangamo still sells over a thousand units each month, both as replacements and as brand new installations.

The simple dial and levers make setting the switch up for daily fixed timings a breeze, with no complicated menu options to navigate through. All Round Pattern Time Switches are also 20 Amp rated, providing a more robust switch than most other products on the market.

The switches are split into four categories

a Basic black dial’ 24-hour time clock for simple on and off switching of up to 20A

b Standard 24-hour red dial’ switch with added 100 hour battery reserve

c Solar Range - specially designed for lighting applications

d Digital Range - the newest addition combines the high capacity and reliability of the electro-mechanical models but provides full seven-day programming.

The Sangamo range of specialist time switches and heating controls is distributed through Scolmore Group company, ESP.

ESP, espuk.com

To be in with a chance of winning a Sangamo Round Pattern Time Switch, simply answer the following questions correctly:

1. What is the Amp rating on Sangamo’s Round Pattern Time Switches?

2. For how many years has Sangamo been manufacturing its Round Pattern Time Switches?

a Over 50 years

b Over 40 years

c Over 65 years

3. The Sangamo range of controls and time switches is distributed through which Scolmore Group company?

a ESP

b Ovia

c Unicrimp

August Competition

The winner of the August competition – ceiling speakers and a wireless subwoofer from Lithe Audio – is Peter Hazell of Arcus FM..

Closing date

All entries must be returned by 31 October 2025. 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 December issue of EC . Prize note exchangeable.

WHO’S WHO

IN THE ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING INDUSTRY

Circuit Protection

EV & Renewables

Lighting

Lighting Controls

Test Equipment

BG ELECTRICAL: CIRCUIT PROTECTION YOU CAN TRUST

BG Electrical has long been recognised as one of the most trusted names in the UK’s wiring accessories and circuit protection market. ECN looks at the company’s range of innovations and the ways it is meeting today’s market needs.

With a history dating back over 80 years, BG Electrical has built its reputation on delivering products that balance safety, reliability, and ease of installation – qualities that electrical contractors, wholesalers, and homeowners alike continue to value.

Today, BG Electrical’s circuit protection range plays a vital role in ensuring homes and businesses are safe, compliant, and ready for the future. From modern consumer units to a comprehensive selection of devices, the brand continues to combine innovation with contractor-focused design.

Circuit protection for today’s installations

The UK’s electrical landscape is evolving fast. Rising energy demands, more circuits, and the growth of EV and renewables place new pressures on household and commercial installations.

Design, compliance, and safety

Every BG Electrical consumer unit is engineered to meet the latest 18th Edition Wiring Regulations, giving contractors confidence that their projects will be fully compliant. Safety is key and considered in every stage of the design process with a wide range of devices available to suit all applications.

In addition to compliance, BG Electrical products are tested to rigorous standards to ensure they deliver consistent, long-term performance, offering both contractors and end users the reassurance of quality.

Contractor-friendly features

BG Electrical’s circuit protection range plays a vital role in ensuring homes and businesses are safe and compliant

BG Electrical offers a complete consumer unit portfolio, designed to meet the needs of new builds, refurbishments, and retrofit projects. With options including single row, dual row, high-integrity, dual RCD, main switch, and garage units, the range provides contractors with the flexibility to specify the right solution for every job.

Ease of installation sits at the core of the BG Electrical offer, shaped by working closely with contractors to design products that truly meet their needs. The latest consumer units include practical details that save valuable time on site. Spacious enclosures give plenty of wiring room, while raised DI rails make fitting and removing devices straightforward. Greater flexibility comes from increased knockouts for quicker cable entry, with captive screws and secure fixings adding extra convenience.

Individually, these details may seem small, but together they make a real difference to everyday work. Contractors gain faster installation, fewer call-backs, and the confidence that every job is completed efficiently and to a high standard.

Meeting market needs

With the growing focus on sustainability and renewable integration, circuit protection is no longer just about meeting basic safety requirements. BG Electrical recognises this shift and has developed solutions that adapt to new technologies, such as solar PV systems, EV chargers, and home energy storage.

The latest range includes bidirectional devices, specifically designed to support solar and PV installations, giving contractors the confidence that systems are protected no matter the energy flow. Combined with consumer units featuring built-in surge protection and flexible device configurations, these solutions help future-proof installations, while giving homeowners peace of mind that their investment is protected both now and in the years ahead.

Support for contractors and wholesalers

BG Electrical’s commitment extends beyond the products themselves. The brand works closely with electrical wholesalers to ensure availability and convenience for contractors.

By keeping a close relationship with installers, BG Electrical ensures that new product developments are shaped by real-world feedback. This principle has been central to the brand’s ongoing success and is one of the reasons it remains a trusted choice in the market.

As part of the wider Luceco Group, BG Electrical benefits from the backing of a global manufacturer with expertise across power, lighting, and energy solutions. At the same time, the brand has retained its strong UK heritage and reputation for reliability. For contractors, this combination means every BG Electrical product is backed by proven quality and continuous innovation.

Looking ahead

Circuit protection continues to sit at the centre of safe, efficient, and future-ready electrical installations. With its comprehensive product portfolio, installer-friendly designs, and commitment to compliance, BG Electrical is proud to be one of the key names in UK circuit protection today.

From consumer units to the devices that power them, the brand’s ethos remains consistent: to deliver products that contractors trust, wholesalers recommend, and homeowners can depend on.

Find out more about BG Electrical and the full product range at bgelectrical.uk.

BG Electrical, bgelectrical.uk

BG’s dual row, single phase consumer unit

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

SYNC ENERGY: CHARGED UP SUSTAINABILITY EVERY DAY

As the UK transitions to a cleaner, smarter energy future, Sync Energy has quickly established itself as a brand at the forefront of E charging and renewable energy integration.

With a growing range of residential and commercial charging solutions, complemented by its intelligent home energy management system, Sync Energy is helping households and businesses take control of their energy usage while supporting the wider push toward decarbonisation.

Sync Energy has a simple but powerful goal to make the benefits of E charging and renewable energy accessible for everyone. From installers fitting a domestic E charger at a family home to businesses managing a commercial car park, Sync Energy products are designed to balance advanced technology with practical installation and everyday usability. This comes from working closely with electrical contractors to ensure that every new development genuinely meets the needs of the market.

Say goodbye to bulky and unsightly EV charging

One of Sync Energy’s most notable innovations this year is the Link E Charger. Unlike many traditional E chargers, Link uses a two-part design. The compact, attractive-looking socket can be fitted in the most convenient location on the outside of the property, while the control box can be hidden out of sight at a range of up to 50m from the socket.

For contractors, this design brings installation flexibility. It allows them to overcome common challenges such as limited wall space or homeowner concerns about aesthetics. Whether recessed into the wall, with a slim 37mm profile or surface-mounted for speed of installation, Link provides contractors with a product that looks good, performs reliably, and is easy to commission.

Link integrates seamlessly into residential environments, offering a discreet, architectural design that appeals to style conscious homeowners. But, despite its slim size, it delivers robust charging performance, supported by the Sync Energy app, ensuring that once installed, homeowners can manage charging schedules and monitor energy usage quickly and easily.

Home energy management with Sync Energy Flow

Sync Energy isn’t stopping at E charging. The new Sync Energy | Flow system has been designed to take the complexity out of whole-home energy systems. By combining hybrid inverters, 5.12kWh modular batteries, power diverters, and E charging into one connected solution, Flow makes installation straightforward and reduces the need for multiple, disconnected products. Commissioning is handled quickly through the Sync Energy app, giving contractors a clear and efficient process that ensures a smooth handover every time.

Scalability is built into the design. With modular 5.12kWh batteries, contractors can offer end users a system that can grow as their energy needs change. This flexibility not only future-proofs the installation, but also creates opportunities for contractors to return and expand the system over time.

For end users, the biggest advantage is simplicity. Instead of switching between different apps to monitor solar generation, manage storage, and control their E charger, everything is managed through one platform. The Sync Energy app gives a clear view of energy use across the home, with features like Tariff Sense to automatically make use of off-peak rates, and the ability to divert excess solar directly into the E charger.

The result is a system that is easy for contractors to fit, easy to hand over, and easy for end users to control from day one.

Commercial charging with the Pro Charger Range

Sync Energy’s offer extends well beyond the domestic market, with the Pro Charger Range providing durable and scalable solutions for commercial environments such as workplaces, retail parks, public car parks, and fleet depots. Available in both single and three-phase wall-mounted units and floor-mounted twin chargers, the range is designed with contractors in mind, offering straightforward installation, integrated safety features, and easy future expansion possibilities with the loop in loop out design.

End user focused features include intuitive touchscreens, multiple payment options, and accessibility-compliant layouts in line with PAS 1899 2022. Built with galvanised steel housings, integrated MID metering, and PE fault protection, Pro Charger products are engineered to withstand heavy use in demanding environments while giving contractors peace of mind about reliability and compliance. From compact, design-led solutions for the home to powerful, scalable systems for commercial projects, Sync Energy is committed to maintaining its ongoing innovation, supporting contractors with products that are easy to install.

The ethos remains unchanged: listen to contractors, understand customer needs, and deliver products that make renewable energy adoption easier.

Find out more about Sync Energy and the full product range via the website below.

Home Energy Management

A flexible and reliable solution for managing home energy needs

• Stackable or wall-mountable hybrid inverters (3.6kW or 6kW)

• Expandable, stackable battery storage

• Solar power diverters to reduce waste and boost efficiency

• Full eco system home energy, battery storage and EV charging all seamlessly controlled to maximise savings

Engineered for quick installation, and reliable performance.

Whole Home Connectivity

From setup to daily use, the Sync Energy App unifies the entire home energy system in one intuitive platform

Scan the QR code to view the complete range

LUCECO: LIGHTING THE WAY WITH INNOVATION

EC provides a full overview of the latest lighting projects and innovations developed by Luceco, which has established itself as one of the most recognisable and trusted names in the UK lighting market.

FT pe Elite a high-performing downlight with ClipFit connector, QuickView window, and selectable power/colour

Known for delivering solutions that combine cutting-edge product development with a practical, contractor-first approach, Luceco continues to set benchmarks in an industry where performance, reliability, and ease of installation are non-negotiable.

With a portfolio that spans everything from domestic lighting to commercial projects, Luceco has become the go-to brand for professionals looking for quality they can trust and end users searching for products that deliver both efficiency and style.

Lighting for every environment

One of Luceco’s biggest strengths is the breadth of its offering. The brand covers the full spectrum of applications, ensuring there is a Luceco solution for almost every environment.

In residential settings, Luceco provides lighting that combines style with efficiency, catering to homeowners who want their spaces illuminated by products that are both attractive and energy-saving.

For tradespeople, the extensive range of work and inspection lights has become a staple. Built for the rigours of daily use, these portable solutions provide durability and functionality, ensuring contractors can always rely on their lighting, whether on site, in a workshop, or during inspection tasks.

At the other end of the scale, Luceco’s commercial lighting range delivers high-performance luminaires designed for offices, schools, warehouses, retail spaces, and public buildings. With a strong emphasis on compliance, efficiency, and

The Luceco design team works to provide tailored solutions that ma imise effi ien performance, and compliance

modern design, these products provide contractors and consultants with solutions that meet the needs of demanding projects while also helping organisations reduce energy consumption and costs.

Shaped by contractor insight

At the heart of Luceco’s philosophy is a commitment to listening to those who install and specify its products. The brand works closely with contractors, gathering feedback and insight to ensure every new launch addresses real-world challenges faced on site.

This collaborative approach has become a defining feature of Luceco’s development process. By involving installers early in the design cycle, the brand is able to incorporate features that make products faster and easier to fit, while also ensuring they deliver long-term reliability for the end user. For contractors, this translates into less time spent on installations, reduced call-backs, and the confidence that every fitting is backed by a brand that understands their day-to-day pressures.

In-house projects and lighting design expertise

Luceco’s support extends far beyond its product catalogue. The brand offers an in-house projects and lighting design service that helps contractors, consultants, and end clients deliver the best possible outcomes.

Whether it’s a new-build development, or a large-scale commercial project, the Luceco design team works to provide tailored solutions that maximise efficiency, performance, and compliance. By offering detailed lighting calculations, layouts, and guidance on product selection, Luceco gives contractors the tools they need to deliver projects that perform from day one.

This capability reinforces Luceco’s position as more than just a manufacturer. It makes the brand a true partner to the electrical industry, supporting projects from concept through to commissioning and beyond.

Innovation and sustainability

Innovation has always been a cornerstone of Luceco’s success. The brand continues to invest heavily in research and development, embracing the latest LED and smart lighting technologies to create solutions that meet evolving market demands.

As sustainability climbs higher on the agenda for both contractors and end

users, Luceco is committed to delivering products that not only provide outstanding performance but also help reduce carbon footprints. From energy-efficient luminaires that lower running costs to Europe’s first LC Bluetooth smart controls that optimise usage, the brand is ensuring its innovations contribute to a more sustainable future.

This focus on energy efficiency is not just about regulatory compliance; it reflects a broader responsibility to support the UK’s journey toward lower emissions and more environmentally conscious building practices. For contractors, it means being able to specify products that are both future-proof and aligned with customer expectations around sustainability.

A brand contractors trust

What sets Luceco apart is the brand’s reputation that has been built on delivering solutions that balance innovation with practicality, ensuring that every product launched into the market is designed with both installers and end users in mind.

From homeowners requiring stylish, energy-efficient lighting to contractors managing complex commercial projects, Luceco has proven itself to be a trusted partner across the board. Its combination of breadth, innovation, and real-world insight has made it a name that wholesalers recommend, installers rely on, and customers can depend on for quality and performance.

The UK lighting market continues to evolve at pace, with new technologies and expectations reshaping how contractors and end users approach projects. Luceco is well-positioned to remain at the forefront of this change. By maintaining its commitment to innovation, strengthening its contractor-first approach, and expanding its design expertise, the brand is set to play a key role in shaping the future of lighting.

For those looking for a lighting partner that offers it all, residential fittings, award winning trade essentials, commercial luminaires, and design expertise, Luceco stands out as the complete package.

Find out more about Luceco’s full product range at www.luceco.com/uk

Luceco, luceco.com/uk

Reliable, High-Quality, Innovative Lighting

Durable & Tough:

Built with robust materials and IP-rated to withstand the toughest work environments.

Versatile Lighting:

Bright, consistent coverage for any task, ensuring no area is left in the dark.

Long-lasting Performance:

Extended working hours at full output without compromising battery life.

Innovative Solutions:

From versatile mounting for hands-free use to a built-in USB power bank, Luceco Inspection Lights are designed to make your work easier.

LIGHTING CONTROL THAT’S AS COOL AS A CUCUMBER

Cucumber Lighting Controls, a lighting specialist that simplifies control, promotes sustainability, and enhances user experiences, explains how the company makes lighting control easier, faster, and more cost-effective at every stage.

Lighting controls systems have become increasingly complex and overloaded with options. At Cucumber Lighting Controls, we’re doing something different as our goal is to offer simple, innovative, scalable products that allow our customers to feel completely empowered. We are selling lighting control solutions that give the customer full control.

Unlike systems burdened with excessive SKUs and redundant components, the Cucumber Lighting Controls range is deliberately lean. A single, universal LCM works across all applications, and many products share interchangeable parts, making specification and stocking straightforward.

Cutting back time and costs on installation

Cu-Connect Lighting Control Modules cover every lighting control application – from basic marshalling boxes to fully addressable, connected ecosystems

Installation has also been rethought from the ground up. By removing the need for data cabling between devices and incorporating push-fit terminals, modular design, and large, installer-friendly connectors, Cucumber Lighting Controls drastically reduces on-site wiring time and material costs. Every design detail is focused on simplicity, speed, and reliability – making installation easier, more efficient, and less error-prone. Whether you’re a specifier, wholesaler, or installer, working with us means less confusion, fewer errors, and faster project delivery from start to finish.

Every product in our range comes Bluetooth Mesh-enabled as standard, making wireless networking simple and accessible. For installers and building managers, this unlocks seamless communication between devices without the need for additional gateways or infrastructure. From small standalone setups to fully networked, multi-zone systems, everything connects easily – out of the box.

Power in the user’s hands

At Cucumber Lighting Controls we know one of the most significant cost drivers in lighting control projects has traditionally been commissioning, often requiring specialist engineers, scheduled site visits, and costly support. We have worked to turn this model on its head. With an intuitive, feature-rich app, systems can be configured directly by the installer or end user – without external intervention. Quick-start tools make setup fast and straightforward, and while remote support is available, and our team will always be on hand to help if needed, the system is designed to be self-sufficient. The result is a smarter, more efficient commissioning process that reduces costs and gives users genuine ownership over their own installations.

Our products are designed to support a wide range of applications, including warehouses, offices, accommodation, educational environments, and more. They address common challenges found in modern lighting control systems.

For example, our award-winning Microwave Sensors are ideal for student accommodation, where high Wi-Fi traffic can interfere with typical sensors. Operating at 24GHz, a higher frequency than other manufacturers, our sensors avoid Wi-Fi interference, ensuring stable and reliable performance. Whether in high-traffic areas or demanding environments, our solutions are engineered to deliver consistent operation, energy efficiency, and easy integration across various settings.

Industry standards

For us, quality and reliability are built into everything we do. We are proud members of the Lighting Industry Association and the DALI Alliance. We are also Bluetooth SIG listed, with our products meeting global standards for open protocols and wireless connectivity independently verified by one of only two approved Bluetooth consultants in the UK).

All our products are manufactured under the Made in Britain mark, and they are all independently tested in the UK – including IP ratings – to ensure performance and durability. All these factors are evidence of our commitment to selling products we believe in and you can trust. This is why our products come with a seven-year warranty as standard, giving our customers long-term peace of mind. What we offer at Cucumber Lighting Controls is a superior way to work. From our focused product range to our wireless networking and installer-first design, the entire system is built to make lighting control easier, faster, and more cost-effective at every stage. For those tired of overcomplicated, expensive solutions, Cucumber Lighting Controls is just what you’re looking for. We want to put the power in your hands and we’re offering you the products to do it.

Cucumber Lighting Controls, cucumberlc.co.uk

Cucumber’s Microwave Sensors are ideal for student accommodation, where high Wi-Fi traffi an interfere with typical sensors

Motion sensors & lighting control

DI-LOG GROUP — YOUR ULTIMATE PARTNER IN TEST AND MEASUREMENT

For over 40 years, Di-LOG has been providing “measurably better” solutions to electrical professionals. In this Who’s Who feature, ECN looks at the company’s journey to date along with the recent launch of the company’s highly innovative ALVA series.

The Di-LOG Group is proud to announce a new chapter in its leadership journey with the appointment of David Sweetman as Managing Director of Commercial and Paul Broad as Managing Director of Operations. With over 60 years of combined experience in the Test & Measurement sector, their leadership reinforces Di-LOG’s commitment to innovation, customer service, and operational excellence. This strategic evolution aligns the group’s divisions under a unified vision of delivering “measurably better” solutions to electrical professionals across the UK and beyond.

For more than four decades, Di-LOG has been a trusted name in electrical test equipment. Since its independent management buyout in 1998, the company has grown into a multi-division organisation, renowned for its innovation, customer service, and dedication to quality. At the heart of Di-LOG’s success is a deeply embedded ethos of excellence, supported by a senior management team with over 110 years of combined industry experience. This depth of knowledge, paired with a dynamic and proactive sales force, ensures Di-LOG remains at the forefront of technological advancement.

Innovation has always been a cornerstone of Di-LOG’s identity. In 2000, the company was among the first to introduce auto-switching voltage and continuity testers, which evolved into the award-winning CombiVolt range. This was followed by one of the earliest handheld multifunction testers featuring low-current ‘Non-Trip’ loop testing technology.

A next-generation multifunction tester

Most recently, Di-LOG launched the ALVA Series Multifunction Tester (MFT) in August 2025 – a next-generation solution designed for modern electrical professionals. The ALVA Series combines advanced diagnostics with intuitive usability, offering full 18th Edition compliance, high-resolution colour displays, and smart loop testing capabilities.

To support the growing demand for Electric Vehicle (EV) infrastructure testing, the ALVA Series is fully compatible with Di-LOG’s EVSE adaptors and test kits, including the DLEV1 EVSE Charge Station

Adaptor Kit. These tools simulate PP and CP states, enabling safe and accurate testing of EV charge points. This integration ensures electricians and installers can confidently verify E installations with precision and compliance.

Di-LOG Ltd, the group’s flagship division, is a leading UK-based manufacturer and supplier of precision electrical test equipment. Its instruments are engineered for accuracy, safety, and durability across industrial, commercial, and domestic applications. All products are manufactured to the highest standards, complying with both UK and international regulations. The AL A Series MFT exemplifies Di-LOG’s commitment to cutting-edge design, while the DLPK6700 Series CombiVolt Proving Unit kits reinforce the company’s dedication to safe isolation and electrical safety, offering full GS38 and BS 61243-3:2014 compliance.

Re-CAL Calibration

In 2005, Di-LOG expanded its capabilities with the launch of Re-CAL Calibration Services, led by Paul Broad. Paul and the team have built Re-CAL into one of the UK’s largest calibration specialists. Operating from Manchester, Re-CAL offers nationwide service with free collection and delivery, and is an approved service centre for leading brands such as Fluke, Megger, and Seaward. The division also features a mobile laboratory – ‘The Lab on Wheels’ – providing onsite calibration and repair services. Re-CAL’s client portfolio includes prestigious names such as Buckingham Palace, McLaren UK, and a national tool hire company, reflecting the trust placed in Di-LOG’s service excellence.

In 2016, Di-LOG introduced Instrument Hire UK IHUK , a division offering flexible access to specialist test equipment through the electrical wholesale market. The hire fleet includes power quality analysers, thermal imagers, 18th Edition installation testers, and PAT testers. IHUK continues to expand its inventory to meet the growing demands of the industry, providing cost-effective solutions for professionals who need high-performance tools on demand. The newest addition to the group, Di-LOG Energy, was created to help clients achieve energy efficiency and cost savings. Backed by over 30 years of experience in test equipment hire, calibration, and sales, Di-LOG Energy offers the UK’s most comprehensive range of solar test equipment, thermal imaging tools, and energy assessment devices.

In response to the growing demand for renewable energy solutions, Di-LOG Energy has recently launched the SL350 and SL520 1000V DC Solar Test Kits. These kits are designed to meet the rigorous demands of Solar PV installation and maintenance, offering high-voltage testing capabilities, robust safety features, and intuitive operation. Supported by a team of in-house energy experts, the division provides guidance on procurement, training, and data analysis, with deep expertise in technologies from FLIR, Chauvin Arnoux, Seaward Electronic, and Sonel.

Di-LOG’s success is further strengthened by strategic partnerships with world-class brands. As a premium partner of Seaward Electronic, Di-LOG delivers complete electrical safety solutions, including Solar Installation Testers, PAT testers, and high-voltage indicators. Its collaboration with Teledyne FLIR brings advanced thermal imaging and diagnostic technologies to the market, while its partnerships with Chauvin Arnoux and Sonel support compliance with Part 8 of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations through power energy loggers and analysers.

Whether you’re an electrical contractor, installer, or maintenance engineer, Di-LOG offers a complete solution for your testing needs – from cutting-edge instruments to calibration, hire services, and energy efficiency tools. Trusted by industry leaders and backed by decades of expertise, Di-LOG Group is your ultimate partner in test and measurement.

To learn more about Di-LOG’s products, services, and divisions, visit www.diloggroup. com to start your new Test & Measurement journey. For direct support, contact us via email at sales@dilog.co.uk or call 0161 877 0322. Di-LOG looks forward to helping you achieve measurably better results.

Di-Log Group, diloggroup.com

The DLEV1 EVSE Charge Station Adaptor Kit enables safe and accurate testing of EV charge points

The ALVA Series Multifunction Tester was released back in the summer
David Sweetman (top) and Paul Broad (bottom), two key fig res in Di L G s journey to date

CABLE CONNECTIONS — THE BACKBONE OF EVERY ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION

To kick off our cables and connections feature, Unicrimp – part of the Scolmore Group – provides an in-depth look at the challenges of cable connections, along with the ways its extensive product offering can overcome nearly every challenge imaginable.

In every electrical system, it’s easy to focus on the cables themselves. Cables are the lifeblood of modern infrastructure, carrying energy and data across industries, commercial buildings, and homes. Yet, their performance hinges not just on their design, but on how they are connected and safeguarded. Poor connections can lead to overheating, short circuits, or even catastrophic system failures.

The hidden challenge of cable connections

Modern electrical systems are under more pressure than ever. Higher load capacities, driven by electric vehicle chargers, renewable energy technologies, and smart building controls, are becoming commonplace. At the same time, the Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) and standards such as BS EN 60670-22 place strict requirements on how connections are made and protected.

The challenge for installers is twofold: to meet these standards consistently, while also keeping projects on time and on budget. Junction boxes are often the overlooked part of this equation – but in practice, they are one of the most critical points in any circuit. A well-designed junction box does more than conceal wiring – it ensures connection integrity, mechanical protection, and long-term reliability. As well as providing mechanical safety – shielding sensitive cable joints from impact and stress – high quality boxes provide environmental protection against dust and moisture.

As the demand for safer, smarter, and faster installations grows and cabling systems become more complex, the way we house, route, and protect cables has never been more critical. Contractors

need solutions that not only comply with regulations, but also make their work more efficient. This is where Unicrimp’s range of Q-Nect junction boxes and connectors comes into its own – providing secure and efficient connections in residential, commercial, and industrial environments.

Unicrimp Q-Nect IP Weatherproof Junction Box

Available in black and anthracite grey, the Q-Nect junction box is designed to make installations quicker and more efficient. It can house four of the 3 Port Lever Connectors using the 360° detachable cradle. The IP Box also utilises a curved lid which provides additional space for wires. The lid is locked using quarter turn fasteners, which allows for quick opening and closing.

Other benefits include

• Enhanced protection – the IP66 rating and self-sealing membranes offer superior protection for electrical components from dust, dirt, and water.

• 10 membrane entry points – the junction box features 10 membrane entry points. Protection against moisture and dust is enhanced with the self-sealing membranes which provide a faster and more secure cable entry whilst at the same time maintaining the IP66 rating.

• Up to eight M20 glands – installers have the option of using up to eight M20 cable glands with the junction box. The M20 threaded entries with membrane ensure that the IP rating is maintained without needing to use any tools or locknuts.

• M ltiple fi ing options – the IP Box gives you the option to fix directly to a wall using four screws into the pre-moulded holes in the base or utilise the detachable wall clip which requires just two screws.

Our range of 2 way inline and 3 way ‘T’ connectors are perfect for multiple installations.

Q-Nect junction bo es an connectors provide se re an effi ient connections

• Semi-transparent lids – the option of the semi-transparent lid takes the IP Box to the next level, allowing installers to see the inside connections without compromising the integrity of the enclosure. The boxes with semi-transparent lids are available in a black or anthracite grey finish.

• Aesthetics – the anthracite grey finish is designed to match the Click Scolmore Aquip66 weatherproof socket and switch enclosures, which are also available with the same semi-transparent lids.

The slimline Q-Nect IP junction box

Measuring 85mm x 55mm x 52mm, Unicrimp’s slimline Q-Nect IP junction box is designed for maximum efficiency to ease installation in places where space is limited. It comes furnished with four 3 Way Lever Connectors with a curved lid which provides the installer with additional space for wiring. The lid is also locked using quarter turn fasteners making the job quicker and easier.

The junction box includes eight membrane entry points and offers installers the option of using up to six M20 cable glands. The M20 threaded entries with membrane ensure that the IP66 rating is maintained without needing to use any tools or locknuts. It also offers fixing directly to a wall using four screws into the pre-moulded holes in the base.

2 and 3 Way IP Connection Boxes

There are three products within the IP connection boxes range – 4 Pole 2 Way 24A IP68 Inline Connection Box 4 Pole 3 Way 24A IP68 M16 M20 Connection Box and 3 Pole 2 Way 16A IP66 Connection Box. Both IP68 rated boxes come pre-installed with IP68 rated nylon glands. The nylon glands provide a dust and watertight seal, as well as excellent strain relief and cable protection. To aid installation, the hinged lid enables quick and easy access with suitable fixing points provided. This allows the connection box to be fixed wherever it is suited.

The IP68 Connection Box prevents exposure with a strong sealing performance. It can withstand dust, dirt and sand, and is also resistant to

submersion up to a maximum depth of 1m for up to 60 minutes. The more compact IP66 Connection Box is also protected against direct high pressure jets.

5 Pole, 3 Way IP68 ‘T’ & Inline Connectors

High quality and robust materials produce a tough nylon body which helps ensure that the connectors can withstand the harshest of environments. Whatever the installation conditions, the cables will be fully secure.

The ‘T’ and Inline Connectors are supplied with 5 pole terminals. This provides the installer with a variety of wiring options, covering a large range of installations. The ‘T’ shape of the IP68 ‘T’ connector facilitates the install of an inline switch or additional powered output whilst also offering IP68 weatherproof protection, making it perfect for multiple installations.

The IP68 Inline Connector provides a quick and simple solution for outdoor fixtures. It can be used to extend or repair existing cables while maintaining its IP68 weatherproof protection.

2, 3 and 5 Way Lever Connectors

Suitable for solid, stranded and flexible cable types, these lever operated connectors use screwless spring clamp technology, which means there is no need for any tools. They feature an inspection window, which is located at the top of the lever connector and allows for quick and easy testing while the lever connector is installed.

They offer a strong and reliable connection, with a conductor range of

0.2-4mm. Because they are reusable, they are the perfect solution for temporary or mobile installations.

The housing on all Unicrimp Q-NECT lever connectors are transparent which means that installers can easily see if the wires inside are positioned correctly to ensure the best possible connection.

Adding value for contractors and end-users

For contractors, Unicrimp’s Q-Nect range means quicker installs, reduced likelihood of callbacks, and peace of mind that each connection is properly protected. For end users, it translates into long-term reliability and safety, with connections that won’t fail under pressure.

In the race to design smarter buildings and greener infrastructure, reliable cable connections will remain the foundation – and junction boxes will remain their unsung champions.

Unicrimp, unicrimp.com

Unicrimp’s range of Q-Nect junction boxes and connectors

UNDERSTANDING HIGHER-CLASS CPR CABLES

In the event of a fire, cables can either be silent heroes that help save lives or unwitting contributors to tragedy. This is precisely why the Construction Products Regulation CPR exists – and why choosing the right cable classification is critical. Chris Mellor-Dolman, Head of Marketing at Webro, explains further.

What you need to know about C c le cl ssific ions

Since July 2017, all cables permanently installed in buildings across the UK and EU must comply with CPR standards, which assess their reaction to fire performance.

The regulation establishes seven distinct classes: Aca, B1ca, B2ca, Cca, Dca, Eca, and Fca, ranked by their fire spread rate and heat release characteristics.

Here’s what each classification means

• Aca and B1ca: The premium tier with advanced materials for the most demanding applications.

• B2ca: The superior choice for high-risk environments. This should be your minimum standard for hospitals, schools and nurseries, airports, and locations where evacuation may be challenging.

• Cca: The UK’s minimum standard for internal telecommunications cables, suitable for commercial office environments.

• Dca and Eca: Basic compliance levels meeting regulatory requirements.

• Fca: Entry-level classification with minimal fire resistance.

Why higher-class CPR cables matter more than you think

The difference between cable classes isn’t just technical jargon – it’s about real-world consequences.

• Fire spread prevention. Higher-classification cables like B2ca and Cca provide maximum protection against fire spread. In a fire emergency, these extra minutes of protection can mean the difference between successful evacuation and disaster.

• Smoke and toxicity control. Higher-class cables are tested for smoke density, flaming droplets, and acid gas emission.

A cable rated B2ca s1a d1 a1 offers minimal smoke production and reduced acid emissions – critical for maintaining visibility and air quality during evacuation.

• Reg lator onfi en e B2ca and Cca cables undergo rigorous testing and regular factory audits, ensuring consistent quality and performance.

Choosing a supplier that leads in higher-class CPR solutions

When it comes to finding the right cable supplier, you need a trusted partner that can deliver the right solution in every application.

• Extensive range. Seek out a cable supplier that offers a comprehensive selection of higher-class CPR cables. Ideally, the range should span all options from B2ca through to Eca classifications, covering every application from critical infrastructure to commercial installations.

Our range of 2 way inline and 3 way ‘T’ connectors are perfect for multiple installations.

• Technical expertise. It’s vital to work with a cable supplier with the right industry knowledge to advise you on every project. Effectively, you’re looking for a team of problem solvers with the technical specialism to guide you through the selection process, ensuring that you specify exactly the right cable for your application.

• Quality that goes beyond compliance. It’s also advantageous to work with a cable partner that not only meets but consistently exceeds minimum requirements. This commitment is best demonstrated through ISO accreditations, along with memberships with leading industry bodies such as the CAI, SCTE, FIA, CEDIA, K , and HDBaseT.

There’s increasing adoption of higher-class CPR cables even where not mandated, as spe ifiers re ognise the value of superior fire performan e

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• Capable sourcing solutions. Projects can sometimes be delayed when a CPR cable is required that isn’t a stock item. Established cable suppliers with extensive manufacturing partnerships will have the ability to source even the most obscure higher-class CPR cables for unique applications. If there’s a solution available, they’ll be able to find it, saving you precious time and potential fines for delays.

• Service that delivers. Dependable cable suppliers will provide you with round the clock access to a fully stocked warehouse, customised call-off capability, and cut-to-length flexibility to reduce waste and optimise project costs.

Next-day delivery to get products where you need them fast should be standard practice.

Making the right choice: a practical guide

In terms of selecting the correct CPR cable for each application, the process should include the following aspects:

• Ris assessment first Evaluate the building’s evacuation challenges. High-rise buildings, hospitals, schools, and underground facilities demand higher-class cables due to limited escape routes and vulnerable occupants.

• F t re proofing o r investment Building regulations continue evolving towards higher safety standards. Specifying higher-class CPR cables today protects against future regulatory changes and retrofitting costs.

• Total cost of ownership. The additional investment in superior fire safety often represents less than 1% of total construction costs but provides immeasurable value in risk mitigation.

Making your decision: key questions

When evaluating higher-class CPR cables, consider:

• What is the building’s evacuation profile and occupant vulnerability?

• Are there specific regulatory requirements beyond minimum compliance?

• What are the long-term implications of your cable choice?

• How does cable performance align with overall project risk management?

Where higher-class CPR cables excel

There are specific industry applications where higher-class cables come into their own:

• Healthcare facilities: B2ca cables provide superior protection where patient safety is paramount.

• Educational institutions: Enhanced fire performance provides crucial additional evacuation time.

• Commercial high-rise: Higher-class CPR cables reduce fire risk in challenging environments.

• Transportation infrastructure: Airports and railway stations require robust performance for mission-critical applications.

Installation and compliance considerations

All CPR-compliant cables must carry clear identification including CE/UKCA marking and Declaration of Performance (DoP) reference. You should insist on full traceability with comprehensive documentation for every cable supplied.

Higher-class cables often incorporate advanced materials requiring careful handling. Cable suppliers’ technical teams should be able to provide installation guidance to ensure optimal performance and warranty compliance.

e fu ure of fire s fe y

The construction industry continues evolving towards enhanced fire safety standards. There’s increasing adoption of higher-class CPR cables even where not mandated, as specifiers recognise the value of superior fire performance. Several European countries now require B2ca as minimum standard for certain applications. By choosing higher-class CPR cables today, you’re future-proofing against evolving requirements.

Working with your cable r ner in fire s fe y e cellence

First and foremost, the best approach is to find a cable partner that combines technical expertise with practical solutions:

• Consultation and specification support from the technical team

• Customised supply solutions from bulk supply to cut-to-length orders

• Technical training and support on selection, installation, and compliance

• Quality assurance with comprehensive documentation and warranty support

A commitment to excellence in every cable

Choosing the right CPR classification is about protecting people and property. This responsibility should drive every decision. Ensure that you work with a dependable partner with a higher-class CPR cable range that demonstrates experience, continuous innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality that delivers peace of mind.

The bottom line is that your reputation and livelihood are on the line when you’re specifying higher-class CPR cables, so make sure that you choose a partner who understands that behind every technical specification is a fundamental commitment to safety.

If you need technical help and advice to choose the right CPR cable for your project, talk to Webro’s dedicated team for expert advice. Email sales@webro.com or call 0115 972 4483 for more.

Webro, webro.com

Industrial Plugs & Sockets

A MASTERPIECE IN THE MAKING

WISKA UK has introduced the COMBI 310, the latest addition to its iconic COMBI unction Box range –designed directly from customer feedback and engineered for performance, protection, and durability.

At the heart of WISKA’s COMBI 310 innovation is a unique configuration of three M20 threaded membrane side entries, giving electricians greater flexibility for looping connections and cable management than ever before. Combined with IP66/67 protection, robust materials, and time-saving features, the COMBI 310 sets a new benchmark for junction box design.

Installer-driven innovation

The COMBI 310 was born from a conversation between WISKA and the electrical community. Customers told WISKA they needed a box that could handle looping connections more efficiently –specifically, a three-sided junction box for outdoor lighting installation— so the company designed exactly that.

With 10 x M20 threaded membrane entries and four rear membrane entries, the COMBI 310 gives electricians the flexibility they need across a wide range of applications – from outdoor lighting systems, H AC systems and industrial control panels to solar and renewable energy installations.

An instant classic, built to last

The COMBI 310 is designed for both indoor and outdoor use, delivering reliable performance in industrial, commercial or domestic environments. Whether it’s part of a larger installation or used as a standalone solution, the COMBI 310 offers versatility and resilience in equal measure.

Will Rich, WISKA UK’s Managing Director, comments, “We see the COMBI 310 as a masterpiece – a product that blends installer-focused innovation with the highest standards of engineering. It’s the perfect addition to the COMBI range and destined to be an instant classic.”

Part of the trusted COMBI Junction Box range

The COMBI 310 carries forward the trusted reputation of the COMBI unction Box Series – a range celebrated for quality, reliability, and installer-friendly features. Like its predecessors, it combines a rugged, IP-rated solution with quarter-turn, self-retaining lid screws for faster, frustration-free installs. This is a product that not only meets the standards set by the COMBI name – it builds upon them. It is a unique junction box that no other manufacturer can offer.

Earth bar capability for SWA installations

For installations using Steel Wired Armoured SWA cables, the COMBI 310 can be fitted with a unique COMBI 310 earth bar mounted to the three M20 side entries, or WISKA’s E-SPRI G earthing springs, allowing secure and compliant earthing directly within the enclosure. When paired with WISKA’s IP68-rated ShieldGLA D, this creates a robust solution that’s ideal for challenging environments and outdoor applications. This combination provides both mechanical protection and electrical safety, making it the perfect choice for outdoor installation.

Gel-ready for maximum protection

The COMBI 310 is also fully compatible with the WISKA Gel Range, including the MP One 300ml, which is the perfect quantity to fill the enclosure. Using the gel increases the protection rating from IP66/67 to IP68, making the enclosure suitable for underground or direct burial applications. This added capability ensures even greater longevity and reliability, especially in demanding or exposed environments.

Compact size, big capability

Measuring just 118 85 51mm, the COMBI 310 delivers generous internal space for connections, including an additional 10 belly space compared to similar enclosures. It’s made from halogen-free, flame-retardant polypropylene with a twin-shot TPE seal for maximum durability. Its quarter-turn, self-retaining lid screws make installation quick and frustration-free, while its corrosion resistance ensures long life in the harshest environments. It is available empty or with three 3-Pole WAGO 221 Lever Connectors and in a choice of black, grey or white to suit contractors’ projects or requirements.

The COMBI 310 gives electricians the e ibilit the nee a ross a wi e range of applications

Key features:

• IP66/67 protection rating

• 10 M20 threaded membrane entries

• Three x M20 threaded membrane entries on the sides

• Four rear membrane entries

• Flame retardant, corrosion resistant, halogen-free materials

• uarter-turn, self-retaining lid screws

• 10 additional space thanks to the belly design

• Available with three x 3-Pole WAGO 221 Lever Connectors

• 3-way unique earth bar available for SWA

• Available in grey, white, and black

• Gel Filler Guide 300ml

A true masterpiece

The COMBI 310 is available in three istin t olo rs gre bla an white

The COMBI 310 is more than just a junction box – it’s the perfect harmony of form, function, and feedback. Every curve, every feature, and every entry point has been carefully considered to meet the needs of modern installers while upholding the proud heritage of the WISKA and COMBI unction Box name. It is the culmination of decades of design expertise, rigorous testing, and an unwavering commitment to quality. WISKA reports that just like a timeless work of art, the COMBI 310 is built to be admired, trusted, and used for generations to come – and that it’s a masterpiece that is engineered for those who demand the very best.

WISKA UK, wiska.co.uk

A Masterpiece.

The NEW COMBI 310 from WISKA

The COMBI 310 is more than just a junction box — it’s the perfect harmony of form, function, and feedback. Every curve, every feature, and every entry point has been carefully considered to meet the needs of modern installers while upholding the proud heritage of the WISKA and COMBI Junction Box name. It is the culmination of decades of design expertise, rigorous testing, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Just like a timeless work of art, the COMBI 310 is built to be admired, trusted, and used for generations to come.

A masterpiece — engineered for those who demand the very best.

®

WISKA, make power smile

FIRE CABLES THAT SAVE LIVES

In this article, leading cable supplier Securi-Flex discusses the vital importance of fire-resistant cables and explains how it worked to secure key BASEC and LPCB approvals for its enhanced 120 fire cable.

When it comes to fire safety, cables are not the first thing most people think about. Alarms, sprinklers, and smoke detectors usually take centre stage. But behind all those systems is a network of cabling that keeps them alive. If that cabling fails in a fire, the entire system collapses. In an emergency, failure is not an option.

This is why fire-resistant cables are so vital. They are the hidden lifelines of fire safety infrastructure, ensuring that alarms, emergency lights, evacuation communications, and detection systems continue to function even under the most punishing conditions. And it is why Securi-Flex’s recent success – achieving both BASEC and LPCB approval for its enhanced 120 fire cable – is so significant.

At a time when legislation is evolving and expectations for resilience have never been higher, Securi-Flex has positioned itself as not only a cable supplier, but as a trusted partner in safeguarding lives.

Securi-Flex’s Flame-Flex range allows essential systems to operate as usual in the event of a fire

y fire c les er ore n e er

In the past, building projects often treated cables as commodity items. The cheapest option was good enough. Today, that approach is unthinkable. Fire safety failures in high-profile tragedies have reshaped public opinion, tightened regulations, and shifted responsibility firmly onto building owners, contractors, and decision makers.

Legislation such as BS 8519 2010, which sets out requirements for cables used in life safety and firefighting systems, reflects this shift. It demands that cabling maintain functionality during fire for extended periods, withstanding not only flames but also shock and water.

Meanwhile, BS 7629-1 2015, BS 6387 2013 CW , and BS E 50200 PH120 all provide the technical frameworks by which fire cables are measured.

These standards exist because the stakes are high. Consider a hospital where patients cannot be evacuated quickly, or a high-rise where phased evacuation requires systems to stay operational for hours. In such environments, every minute of circuit integrity counts. Without reliable fire cables, even the most sophisticated safety systems fail at the precise moment they are needed most.

e rs of rus

Founded in 1998, Securi-Flex has built a strong reputation as a supplier of specialist cables to the UK wholesale market. For more than 25 years, it has been recognised for quality, range, and reliability. Working closely with its manufacturing partners, the company has continually invested in innovation to stay ahead of industry needs.

The decision to develop an enhanced fire cable was born from this ethos. As expectations rose, Securi-Flex saw a clear need for a cable that could meet the toughest standards while remaining practical for installers. Achieving BASEC and LPCB approval became the natural next step, reinforcing not just product performance, but the company’s wider commitment to safety.

3

e ro o u l ro l

Achieving approval from both BASEC and LPCB is no simple task. Each certification body has its own rigorous processes designed to test cables to their limits. For Securi-Flex, this meant a multi-year journey of development, testing, and refinement.

From selecting advanced polymer compounds to balance flame resistance with flexibility, to ensuring the cable could withstand both mechanical shock and water spray, the engineering challenge was complex. Extensive R D investment and countless rounds of testing were required before the cable could meet the strict benchmarks set out in standards like BS 7629-1 2015.

“As a business, we recognised that fire safety and the reliability of critical circuits are fundamental to safeguarding lives,” says Grant Dixon, Managing Director at Securi-Flex. “Securing both BASEC and LPCB Product Approval was a top priority. It not only confirms compliance but reinforces our position as a trusted provider of technically robust, commercially competitive, and service-driven solutions.”

y C n C ro l ers

The BASEC mark is widely regarded as the gold standard of third-party cable testing. Its approval proves that a product has been independently verified to perform exactly as claimed, not just in theory but in practice. For many large-scale projects, BASEC approval is explicitly specified in documents.

The LPCB mark carries similar weight in fire safety. Recognised internationally by regulators, insurers, and specifiers, LPCB certification is synonymous with trust. Its involvement signals that the cable has passed some of the most stringent fire safety tests available. By achieving both, Securi-Flex offers customers a dual guarantee of trust.

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A cable built for modern challenges

The enhanced 120 fire cable is part of Securi-Flex’s Flame-Flex range. At its heart is a bare copper conductor, surrounded by mica tape and extruded LS H Low Smoke ero Halogen insulation. This combination prevents flames from breaching the conductor while reducing smoke and toxic emissions, improving safety during evacuation.

An aluminium-polyester screen ensures signal clarity for voice communication systems, while the robust LS H sheath provides durability during installation and long-term use. Available in red, white, or black, the cable is designed with versatility in mind.

Crucially, it is tested to survive 120 minutes of fire, impact, and water spray – conditions that replicate the real-world challenges safety systems may face.

Rated at 300/500 , it meets or exceeds all key standards required for life safety and firefighting applications.

Designed for installers

Certification alone does not guarantee success on site. Securi-Flex has also ensured the cable supports the realities of installation. Its flexible design makes it easier to route through containment systems. Cut-to-length services reduce waste and cost. Large stockholdings mean urgent projects are not delayed. And competitive warranties provide confidence long after the installation is complete.

This installer-first approach ensures the cable is not only compliant, but also practical – delivering value at every stage of a project.

Changing legislation, growing accountability

The timing of Securi-Flex’s approvals is significant. In the wake of tragedies that exposed weaknesses in building safety, legislation and regulatory expectations are evolving. Governments are pushing for stricter compliance, insurers are scrutinising risk more closely, and the public is demanding accountability.

Fire cables are now at the centre of this discussion. Standards like BS 8519 2010 Category 3 mandate extended functionality for life safety and firefighting systems. Meanwhile, new regulatory frameworks emphasise independent certification over self-declaration.

Against this backdrop, Securi-Flex’s BASEC and LPCB approved cable is exactly what the industry needs, the company states – a product that not only meets the letter of the law but also embodies the spirit of resilience and responsibility.

Applications where it matters most

The enhanced 120 fire cable is already being specified across sectors where failure is not an option, including

• Hospitals, where evacuations are complex and emergency systems must remain operational throughout.

• Airports and transport hubs, where the safe movement of thousands depends on reliable communications and lighting.

• High-rise buildings, where phased evacuation requires systems to function long after a fire begins.

• Industrial facilities, where protecting staff and critical infrastructure demands proven resilience.

In each case, the cable provides the assurance that safety systems will continue to operate under the harshest conditions.

Beyond compliance: shaping industry standards

Securi-Flex says that achievement is not just about meeting current standards, but that it is about shaping expectations for the industry. By investing in BASEC and LPCB certification, the company is sending a clear message that fire cables should not be treated as commodities, but as critical safety systems in their own right. As legislation continues to evolve, this mindset will only become more

important. Securi-Flex is already leading that conversation, demonstrating that cables can be both technically advanced and installer-friendly, while carrying the independent marks of trust that regulators, insurers, and building owners demand.

Looking ahead

Securi-Flex does not see BASEC and LPCB approval as the end of the journey. Rather, it is a foundation on which to build. The company is committed to ongoing investment in R D, compliance partnerships, and customer support, as part of its efforts to remain ahead of both legislation and market demand.

As buildings become more complex and safety expectations rise, Securi-Flex’s role as a partner in resilience will only grow. Its enhanced 120 fire cable is not just a product it is a symbol of the company’s dedication to safeguarding lives.

Cer ifie o ro ec

In fire safety, there are no second chances. Systems must work under the worst conditions imaginable, and cables are the lifelines that keep them alive.

By achieving BASEC and LPCB approval for its enhanced 120 fire cable, Securi-Flex says it has delivered more than just compliance – as it has also delivered confidence to specifiers, installers, building owners, and most importantly, to the people who rely on these systems in times of crisis.

For an industry under pressure from changing legislation, stricter standards, and rising public expectations, Securi-Flex has provided a cable that is tested, proven, certified, and trusted. And in the process, it is helping to safeguard lives, raise standards, and shape the future of fire safety.

e ri Fle se ri e o

Fire-resistant cables are the hidden lifelines of fire safet infrastructure, as Securi-Flex explains

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EV CHARGERS BUILT FOR MODERN LIVING

Sync Energy, part of the Luceco Group, has officially launched Sync Energy Link, its smallest, most design-forward EV charger to date. ECN looks at the key features and benefits of this pivotal new release.

Engineered to blend seamlessly into modern living environments, the new Sync Energy Link features a unique, patent-approved two-part design, combining smart connectivity, ease of installation, and sleek aesthetics into one intelligent charging solution.

With the continued shift toward home EV charging and increased demand for discreet, high-performance solutions, Sync Energy Link arrives as a game-changing addition to the installer’s toolkit.

Building on the brand’s mission to make sustainable technologies smarter and more accessible, Sync Energy Link represents a new benchmark in design-led EV charging, delivering a premium, minimalist finish without compromise on performance.

“Less is more,” says Gareth Yeomans, Product Manager at Sync Energy. “The Link takes AC chargers to the next level with its innovative two-part design. The outlet and control box are supplied as one kit but can be installed up to 50m apart, allowing the outlet to blend seamlessly into the building while the control box remains out of sight. Available recessed or surface mounted, the Sync Energy Link delivers advanced technology with a sleek, architectural finish which customers love.”

Link is built for durability with IP65 and IK10 ratings, making it suitable for exposed installations

Design-led aesthetics, installer-focused engineering

Available in both Wi-Fi and 4G variants, Link is built for durability with IP65 and IK10 ratings, making it suitable for exposed installations. At just 37mm deep when recessed, it achieves a clean, low-profile finish ideal for new builds and design-conscious retrofits.

Installers can choose between two versions: recessed (in-wall) for an ultra-minimalist appearance, or surface-mounted (on-wall) for a quicker option. Both versions can be retrofitted with ease and require no specialist tools. Each unit is supplied as a complete kit with everything needed for installation.

Thanks to its modular two-part design, the compact socket outlet and larger control unit can be positioned separately, with a range of up to 50 metres between them. This gives installers the flexibility to place the visible charging outlet exactly where it looks best, while housing the control unit discreetly in a garage, utility room, or inside the home.

Smart, safe and seamlessly connected

Sync Energy Link delivers on more than just looks; it’s packed with features to meet today’s technical expectations. Delivering 7.4 kW dynamic charging via a Type 2 socket, Link is fully compatible with the Sync Energy app and supports OCPP 1.6J for seamless monitoring and control.

Onboard safety features include a built-in Type A RCD and integrated SPD, ensuring compliance with the latest regulations without the need for upstream devices or additional earth rods. This results in a simplified installation that saves time and reduces material costs.

Wall Charger 2 – A proven smart charging solution

While Link marks Sync Energy’s boldest step in design-led EV charging, the established Wall Charger 2 range continues to provide a reliable, feature-rich solution for both installers and homeowners.

The Sync Energy App

From setup to daily use, the Sync Energy App unifies the entire home energy system in one intuitive platform

With integrated PEN conductor protection that eliminates the need for an earth rod, a built-in Type A 30mA RCD with 6mA DC detection for safety, and dynamic charging up to 7.4kW, the Wall Charger 2 is designed for fast, dependable installations.

Combining sleek aesthetics and practical functionality, Wall Charger 2 is available in tethered and untethered versions to suit individual needs.

The tethered option includes a 7.5m wraparound cable with an ergonomically designed charging gun, offering a neat, safe, and convenient solution. The untethered version is ideal for homeowners who already own a cable or wish to use commercial chargers outside the home, providing maximum flexibility.

Available in eight interchangeable colours, the Wall Charger 2 lets homeowners coordinate their charger with their EV and surroundings.

Like Link, Wall Charger 2 is backed by a three-year warranty and is compatible with the Sync Energy app.

The Sync Energy app for seamless charging

The Sync Energy app delivers a seamless EV charging experience for both homeowners and installers. From installation to daily use, it ensures a smooth handover, making commissioning quick and hassle-free.

Homeowners can start, stop, or schedule charging sessions from their smartphone, prioritise home-generated solar energy with Auto Solar Charging, and manage energy costs using Tariff Sense, which connects to most UK tariffs for real-time insights.

Both Link and Wall Charger 2 are fully compatible with the app, enabling smarter, greener home energy management and future-proof connectivity.

Part of a connected ecosystem

With the launch of Link alongside the continuing success of Wall Charger 2, Sync Energy now offers a complementary suite of charging solutions to meet the diverse needs of homeowners, installers, and specifiers.

Both chargers form part of the wider Sync Energy Flow ecosystem, which includes hybrid inverters, modular stackable battery storage, and solar power diverters. Whether specified as standalone products or integrated into a complete system, Sync Energy’s EV chargers are designed to support a smarter, more sustainable approach to home energy management.

Become a registered Sync Energy installer

To maintain this high standard of installation and customer satisfaction, Sync Energy offers a streamlined process for installers to become registered through an online portal. By registering, installers gain access to a range of benefits designed to enhance their service offerings and professional development.

ey enefi s

• Increased visibility: Registered installers are featured on the “Find an Installer” page, accessible to homeowners via postcode search.

• Access to training: Gain entry to dedicated online product training courses, ensuring you stay updated with the latest Sync Energy technologies.

• Warranty work opportunities: Eligible to apply for warranty work, with potential earnings of £100 per warranty call-out upon approval and completion of Sync Energy training courses.

• Priority access: Receive early notifications about new product launches, events, and promotional materials.

• Enhan e stomer onfi en e Being a trained and approved installer provides customers with peace of mind, knowing their installations are handled by qualified professionals.

To become a registered installer, visit the Sync Energy website below.

Energy, www.sync.energy

EXPLORING THE ELECTRIC CAR GRANT

In this article, Lee Sutton, co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer at myenergi, explores the Government’s £650m Electric Car Grant (ECG) and outlines the resulting opportunities for electrical installers.

In July, the Department for Transport (DfT) announced a new grant for electric vehicles (EVs), offering up to £3,750 off the outright purchase price of a new model. With funding confirmed until the end of September 2029, the ECG will apply to a wide range of electric cars priced up to £37,000.

A direct response to the ZEV Mandate consultation, which brought together leading industry voices to identify the biggest hurdles impacting EV adoption, the grant aims to improve the affordability of plug-in vehicles by bringing outright purchase prices more closely in-line with petrol and diesel cars.

The opportunity for installers

The ECG provides installers with a significant opportunity. With the UK’s E transition already driving high demand for home charging solutions, the grant will further accelerate this momentum.

Rather than just a short-term trend, millions of EVs hitting the roads over the next decade mean that almost every home in the UK will need access to the latest charging capability. It’s therefore a workstream that’s here to stay, meaning investing in staff training, knowledge and capability will pay dividends in the future.

Installers should prepare themselves for an uplift in EV enquiries, Lee says

Alongside the ECG, further funding has also been announced to improve national EV charging infrastructure. Alongside a £63m package to install 100,000 more public chargers in strategic locations, this includes a £25m fund to improve the at-home car charging experience for those without a driveway. While details are yet to be confirmed, this is likely to see cables run under pavements in domestic areas to enable widespread street charging connectivity.

With that in mind, installers should act fast to prepare themselves for an uplift in enquiries. Alongside having the technical capability to install and commission smart chargers, an in-depth knowledge of the latest and best models – as well as commercial relationships with these brands – is key to providing customers with the best solutions.

At myenergi, we’re known for designing some of the market’s most advanced smart chargers, including the latest addition to our range – zappi GLO.

Featuring eco-smart functionality, including out-of-the-box energy tariff integration and solar compatibility as standard, the screenless, buttonless, single-phase device offers complete charging control. Users have the option to simply plug-and-go, or explore toggle options to adjust settings, set timers, monitor performance and optimise device performance in real-time for greener, cheaper, smarter charging.

GLO has been expertly engineered for rapid installation and simple commissioning. Thanks to myenergi’s Installer Assistant app, installers benefit from a step-by-step solution to optimise fitting speed and guarantee replicability, which streamlines workflow efficiencies and maximises operational productivity.

With the patented myenergi harvi wireless sensor, installers can fit zappi GLO without a wired CT clamp. This eliminates the need for batteries or external power supplies, further simplifying the installation and reducing clutter.

Unique in the marketplace, zappi GLO is part of myenergi’s home energy management system (HEMS) – an integrated network of eco-smart solutions that collectively offer total control over home energy use, alongside the flexibility to switch to the best smart tariff. Comprising the libbi home battery, eddi power diverter and zappi EV changer suite, HEMS provides installers with an immediate upsell opportunity, enabling customers to access fully-connected, future-proof smart energy solutions.

Looking to the future

As the UK market for E s and E chargers continues to grow, installers have a significant opportunity to keep motorists moving. With a small investment in time and training, you can play a driving role in the zero-emission transition.

For long-term success, partnering with a respected hardware provider is the critical first step. With myenergi, we offer the added benefit of full access to our Installer Centre, which features numerous tools including automatic lead generation. Simply apply for the Product Champion Scheme to be put on the Find an Installer’ map and receive customer enquiries directly to your inbox.

For more information about myenergi, or to enquire about becoming a registered myenergi installer, visit the website below.

myenergi, myenergi.com

GLO,

zappi
the latest addition to myenergi’s range of advanced smart chargers

Our Smallest EV Charger

Say goodbye to bulky, unsightly EV chargers with our latest in-wall EV charging solution which combines a slim, aesthetically pleasing design with robust and reliable functionality.

• Only 37mm deep when recessed

• Retrofittable & Easy to install

• Integrated circuit protection, no need for extra upstream devices

• Available recessed or surface-mounted

Scan the QR code to view the complete range

The Sync Energy App Designed for effortless commissioning, smooth handover, and easy everyday use

ARE BROKEN CHARGERS DRIVING YOUR BUSINESS BACKWARDS?

In this article, Paul Winchester, Director of Fleet at Mer UK, explores how EV charging reliability underpins fleet productivity, protects margins, and ensures businesses meet both commercial and environmental targets.

Electric vehicle (EV) charger uptime isn’t just a maintenance concern; it’s a critical business issue. For fleet operators, the ability to keep vehicles on the road directly impacts service delivery, revenue generation, and customer satisfaction. Downtime from unreliable or broken chargers can grind operations to a halt, disrupt tight schedules, and risk damage to your brand.

Downtime doesn’t just el y your ee it costs your business

Running a fleet today means facing a constant balancing act: maintaining high vehicle utilisation while keeping operational costs under control. Whether your business depends on moving goods, supporting a mobile workforce, or delivering last-mile logistics, your vehicles are a key driver of value and revenue.

While many organisations focus on fuel, maintenance, and staffing, the reliability of EV charging infrastructure is often underestimated. And yet, for businesses transitioning to electric fleets, broken or unreliable chargers don’t just cause inconvenience, they create operational risk. A charger fault can delay deliveries, breach SLAs, increase costs from backup vehicles or compensation, and negatively impact customer experience.

Reputational damage is also a growing risk. In an age where customer

Half day in person course

Ready, Set, Charge!

• Practical, hands-on learning with charge points

• Commercial EVCP installations focus

• Hardware installation & software configuration

• Load balancing and connectivity

• Back-office management

expectations are higher than ever, and where feedback spreads fast, businesses that fail to deliver can quickly lose trust. With the increasing importance of sustainability credentials, an E fleet that underperforms due to downtime could undermine carefully built brand values.

The cost of failure: from sustainability targets to missed revenue

While regulatory pressure is a primary driver for fleet electrification, many businesses are also responding to the market. Research shows that 78% of consumers consider sustainability when making purchasing decisions, and over half are willing to pay more for eco-conscious brands.

The total cost of operation (TCO) for EVs is now on par with ICE vehicles, as shown in data from the Arval Mobility Observatory. But these benefits can only be realised if the charging infrastructure supports consistent fleet availability.

Whether you’re at the start of your E journey or scaling an existing fleet, the ability to charge efficiently, reliably, and cost-effectively is essential. Downtime isn’t just inconvenient, it’s a direct threat to revenue, reputation, and operational performance.

lec rific ion rings lue u only if reliability comes with it

Moving to an E fleet creates real business value, from lower emissions to stronger customer appeal, but it also introduces new challenges. Without

a dependable charging ecosystem, businesses risk increased costs, missed KPIs, and dissatisfied customers.

The bottom line? Charger uptime is no longer a ‘nice to have’. It’s mission-critical.

Proactive approaches for successful EV charging

In companies that are successfully navigating the move to E fleets, or further electrification of their existing E fleet, we’re seeing a number of commonalities.

Planning before investment.

Successful E fleets plan their charging infrastructure from the start, looking at the biggest risks to fleet uptime and how a charging installation can mitigate them. For example, there’s a huge variation in the quality and reliability of different charging units, so you need to make the right charging partner decision up front.

The right partner will investigate how and where you use your fleet, e.g. short local hops or longer single journeys, urban vs rural routes, to help you decide where your chargers should be, or whether you should even set up multiple charging depots in different locations.

They can also advise on technical aspects, such as splitting chargers onto separate supplies so that they don’t all go offline in the event of a localised supply failure.

Agreeing the right SLA for your business

Charging problems have to be solved quickly. Depending on how you use your fleet, you might need your chargers fixed within four hours, or 24 hours, or two days.

n E eet that underperforms due to owntime o l n ermine bran val e a l e plains

But no matter what you decide, you need an engineer to be with you within that timeframe.

All charging suppliers provide a service level agreement (SLA), but when you look beyond the cover, these are often very generic. The reality is that no two businesses are the same: each one is a unique combination of types of EVs, infrastructure and locations, operations and processes –and customer expectations.

Successful E fleet managers work closely with charging partners to understand the impact of EV downtime, and to create a tailored SLA that ensures business continuity.

Looking beyond the marketing

A charging supplier might say they’ll do 24/7 callouts and a four-hour response time, but how many engineers have they got in your location? Can they realistically deliver?

In the early days of EV charging, the main focus for businesses was getting the lowest price. Today, many organisations recognise that access to upfront consultancy and reliable ongoing support are just as critical.

Prevention over cure

The overlooked hero of EV infrastructure, tasks such as proactive servicing can keep your charging networks healthy and working. But not all charging providers can deliver chargers with the technology needed or include proactive maintenance in their SLAs.

Performance metrics are also important. The right software makes it quick and easy to see the performance and efficiency across your whole fleet of vehicles and chargers, helping you to spot anomalies and address them before they become operational issues.

Running an E fleet can significantly enhance the environmental status of your business, supporting whole segments of environmentally conscious customers. But if you’re unable to keep them charged and on the road, then your alternative options won’t meet your customers’ expectations. Early planning, the right SLAs, proactive maintenance and predictive analytics can all help ensure your vehicles are available when needed. Find out more about Mer Fleet Charging Solutions and why 99% of our customers renew their SLAs with us.

Mer UK, uk.mer.eco

I-FAST

JOINON Fast Charging Stations - Scalable,

Reliable, E cient

The I-FAST Station range o ers modular, scalable charging solutions in four power sizes: 90 kW, 120 kW, 150 kW, and 180 kW. Designed for fast charging with minimal downtime, these units are ideal for high-tra c areas such as urban and suburban parking, highways, and service areas. Their high reliability, robustness, and sleek design make them a perfect fit for both private and public spaces.

Key Features & Benefits

A 7” display clearly guides users through the charging process.

JOINON solutions from GEWISS blend innovative, patented technology with energy-e cient management and striking designs, driving the rural and urban evolution of EV mobility. Scan the QR code to learn more about the full I-FAST range.

UNDERSTANDING THE ROI OF EV CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE

Tom Jennings, General Manager of Ratio EV, assesses the Return on Investment ROI of electric vehicle charging, detailing revenue opportunities, the role of management systems, the path to success, and more.

The return on investment for EV charging isn’t a simple figure. It’s shaped by a mix of factors: installation choices, hardware design, management systems, customer behaviour and the broader business model. For charge point operators, installers and site hosts, thinking strategically about these elements is the key to maximising value.

Smarter installs, stronger returns

The io8’s built-in lighting head transforms ordinary charging bays into welcoming, well-lit environments

Installation decisions can make or break the business case. Positioning charge points too far from the electrical supply often incurs unnecessary costs, while poor site planning can lead to ongoing inefficiencies. The most effective installs balance driver convenience with electrical practicality.

Hardware choice also has a major impact. Flexible, maintainable chargers, where components can be replaced rather than whole units scrapped, extend the lifetime of the investment and reduce operating costs. By contrast, fully sealed units are more likely to become expensive liabilities over time.

Revenue opportunities

Revenue generation depends on more than simple usage fees. Operators are experimenting with smart tariffs, loyalty schemes and subscription models to encourage drivers onto their networks. Initiatives such as free charging days or discounted app-only rates can drive uptake and build customer loyalty.

For sites with on-site solar, there’s also a chance to monetise surplus generation. Electricity that might otherwise be exported for minimal return can instead be sold directly to E drivers, improving both the financial and environmental ROI.

Beyond charger reliability, additional on-site amenities can significantly influence a driver’s choice of charging location.

Facilities such as caf s, rest areas,

children’s play areas, or retail options allow drivers to make productive or enjoyable use of their waiting time. These features not only enhance the overall charging experience, but also create opportunities for site hosts to capture secondary revenue from visiting E customers.

Customer experience and utilisation

Reliable uptime, ease of access and site amenities all play a role in utilisation – the real driver of ROI. Drivers quickly learn which locations are dependable and which to avoid, and they naturally favour sites that make charging part of a seamless experience.

Lower-speed AC charging also plays an important role in utilisation, particularly at long-stay destinations such as hotels, workplace campuses or train station car parks. By installing multiple AC sockets, operators can cater to more vehicles simultaneously, while providing charging at a pace that matches the dwell time of drivers. For many E owners, the assurance of being able to plug in during an extended stop makes these locations more attractive when planning longer journeys.

Overstay fees are becoming an important tool to keep chargers available. By discouraging vehicles from occupying a bay once charging has finished, operators can increase throughput and ensure assets are generating revenue rather than sitting idle.

The role of management systems

Charge point management systems underpin the long-term viability of infrastructure. Remote diagnostics, live monitoring and proactive maintenance keep chargers online and earning. They also reduce the need for site visits and make it possible to resolve issues quickly and efficiently.

Data collected through these systems is increasingly valuable. Over time, it will allow operators to predict when components need servicing or replacing, further reducing downtime and extending asset life.

Payback periods and business models

The path to ROI varies depending on the technology and ownership model. For AC chargers, payback periods of under three years are achievable when utilisation is healthy, especially if renewable generation is available on-site. For DC charging, while capital costs are higher, the throughput model – faster charging and higher turnover – creates strong potential for returns in the right locations.

Ownership models also shape outcomes. Site hosts who fund installations directly retain full control and revenue, while third-party operators can provide infrastructure at no upfront cost in exchange for a revenue share. Each approach has advantages depending on the host’s capital, appetite for risk, and long-term goals.

Looking ahead

The future of ROI in E charging will be influenced by a combination of factors growing adoption, smarter management systems, integration with renewable energy, and new commercial models such as subscriptions or site advertising.

What’s clear is that EV charging is more than just a utility. It’s a service that can attract customers, support sustainability goals and open new revenue streams. For businesses investing now, success lies in careful planning, flexible technology and a focus on the customer experience.

Ratio EV, ratioev.uk

Positioning charge points too far from the electrical supply often incurs unnecessary costs, Tom explains

SMARTER CHARGING FOR A CHANGING MARKET

With the UK’s move away from petrol and diesel being one of the biggest shifts the automotive and energy sectors have faced, success will depend on making EV charging safe, reliable, and accessible. Here, Lewden provides an overview of how its Siena charger can achieve exactly this.

The UK’s transport landscape is changing fast. With the ban on new petrol and diesel cars set for 2030, and a full shift to zero-emission new vehicles by 2035, the pressure is on to build an infrastructure that makes the switch to electric not just possible, but practical. This is more than a matter of policy – it’s about consumer confidence. Drivers need to know they can charge quickly, safely, and cost-effectively, whether at home, at work, or on the road. For electricians, that means demand for reliable, easy-to-install charge points is only going one way: up.

Why EVs matter

Electric vehicles are not simply greener alternatives – they are central to the UK’s net zero ambitions. By August 2025, more than 1.6 million EVs were registered in the UK, with nearly 22% of all new car sales this year being battery electric. E s deliver clear benefits

• Lower running costs, especially when paired with off-peak tariffs.

Siena features a detachable backplate that allows wiring and mounting to be completed before docking the unit

• Cleaner air and reduced emissions, helping meet climate targets.

• Integration with solar energy, allowing homes to generate and use their own power.

But none of these benefits can be realised without a dependable charging solution. That’s where the role of the installer and the technology they fit becomes critical.

The installer’s advantage

For electricians, the rise of EVs represents a huge business opportunity. But to capitalise on it, installations need to be efficient, safe, and compliant with current standards.

This is where Lewden’s Siena smart charger stands out. Designed around the principle of Easy Fit, Siena features a detachable backplate that allows wiring and mounting to be completed before docking the unit. This not only reduces installation time, but also ensures a neat, professional finish.

The Sync Energy App

Commissioning is just as straightforward. Using the Lewden Connect app, installers can complete setup in minutes, with built-in test modes that make checks quick and reliable. For electricians juggling multiple jobs in a day, that efficiency can make all the difference.

enefi s for o eo ners

While installers need a product that saves time and avoids complications, homeowners want a charger that’s safe, smart, and simple to use.

Siena delivers on all fronts. Through its integration with the Monta app, users can:

• Schedule charging to align with cheaper, off-peak energy tariffs.

• Prioritise greener energy usage by charging when renewables are abundant.

• Track costs and consumption in real time.

For families or shared households, the included RFID fobs make app-free charging easy, simply tap and charge. And for homes with solar panels, the 7.4kW model’s solar compatibility means EVs can be charged directly from renewable energy sources.

Safety is built in, with PEN fault protection (eliminating the need for an earth rod , RCD protection, and weather-resistant design. This provides homeowners with the peace of mind that their charger is robust, compliant, and designed for the long term.

eyon single c rger e ecosys e

Siena is part of Lewden’s wider EV ecosystem, which connects every stage of the installation – from the grid to the vehicle. This includes:

• EV consumer units with surge protection and RCDs for compliant installations.

• Feeder pillars for managing multi-charger applications in commercial or public spaces.

• Distribution boards and RCBOs, engineered in the UK to ensure system-wide safety and compatibility.

Siena is part of Lewden’s wider EV ecosystem, which connects every stage of the installation –from the grid to the vehicle

For installers, this means confidence that components will integrate seamlessly. For end users, it ensures that every link in the chain is designed with safety, reliability, and durability in mind.

oo ing e

With EVs predicted to make up a quarter of new car sales by 2026, the need for chargers like Siena will only grow. Home charging in particular is set to dominate, as most EV drivers prefer the convenience of plugging in overnight.

For the trade, this means a steady pipeline of work, provided installations are fast, compliant, and supported by strong aftersales. For homeowners, it means investing in a system that won’t just meet today’s needs, but adapt to tomorrow’s.

Conclusion

The UK’s move away from petrol and diesel is one of the most significant shifts the automotive and energy sectors have ever faced. Success will depend on making EV charging safe, reliable, and accessible.

Siena represents exactly that: a charger designed for installers who need speed and simplicity, and for homeowners who want control, safety, and long-term value. Backed by Lewden’s full EV ecosystem, it shows how the industry can deliver solutions that are both technically advanced and practical in the real world.

Reliable, forward-thinking, and made for installers, Siena is not just another charger –it’s a vital part of the UK’s EV transition.

Lewden, lewden.com

From setup to daily use, the Sync Energy App unifies the entire home energy system in one intuitive platform

COMMERCIAL EV CHARGING NETWORKS: A COMPLETE GUIDE

When it comes to installing EV charging for businesses, contractors are expected to balance installation efficiency, compliance, futureproofing, and cost. Here, Rolec breaks down the key considerations and highlights the opportunities for growth.

EV chargepoint installations open the door to commercial opportunities and rising demand, serving fleets, hospitality, parking operators, developers, and local authorities – sites with long-term revenue potential. With regulations, available funding, and government net zero targets, this isn’t a short-term trend.

e i le r nge

As one of the longest-standing chargepoint manufacturers in the UK, Rolec has delivered thousands of projects worldwide, and the company’s partner network has helped shape products that are more installer-friendly than ever before.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to EV charging, which is why Rolec’s portfolio includes solutions for every type of commercial site.

Units are divided into two groups: pedestals and wall-mounted units. Each of which has benefits for different use cases. Pedestals are ideal for shared locations, like workspaces and retail outlets. Models such as BasicCharge, Quantum, and HEX are designed to optimise available floor space by charging up to four vehicles simultaneously. With integrated LED amenity lighting and durable design, they

Some 90% of EV drivers prefer destinations with chargepoints, yet of the 70,000-plus potential destination sites in the UK, fewer than 1% have installed them stand out in busy environments.

ns ll ion consi er ions

2025 saw the launch of HEX, a major new addition to Rolec’s AC lineup. HEX is a robust steel pedestal available in dual or quad outlet versions, engineered to minimise groundworks and streamline installation. The quad is particularly effective in centrally positioned parking bays, maximising accessibility and capacity where it’s needed most.

Wall-mounted chargers, like Rolec’s SecuriCharge and Zura units, are ideal for locations with less available floor space, such as underground car parks. Something that can also be a major consideration when installing hardware in more confined areas.

Additionally, this year Rolec introduced four new additions to the UltraCharge range, creating a more versatile and future-proof package for commercial and public sector applications. With power outputs from 40kW up to 1.6MW, it now covers a broader spectrum of requirements. Standard specifications have been upgraded, including cable management, while retaining Rolec’s position as the UK’s most competitively priced DC offering.

Thanks to extensive stockholding, Rolec can deliver AC units next day and stocked DC models within three to five days.

When a business asks you to install commercial EV infrastructure, here’s what to prioritise:

• Site electrical capacity: Assess existing cabling, supply strength, and groundworks. If capacity is limited, advise on dynamic load management, often required in the UK.

• Socket options: Dual or quad socketed units minimise groundworks and cabling while maximising available outlets.

• Connectivity challenges: Addressing connectivity, particularly in underground or communal parking spaces, to ensure reliable operation via 4G, Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

• Charging speeds: Choosing units with varying speeds ranging from 7.4kW up to 650kW to accommodate different requirements and consider the operational efficiencies of each site, including vehicle downtime and charging session turnaround times.

• Installer-friendly hardware: Rolec units are built with contractors in mind, utilising modular components and flexible mounting options to simplify installation and maintenance.

• Contactless payment: Recent public charging regulations mandate contactless payments at all new chargepoints above 8kW, and existing units above 50kW must also support debit and credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc. Rolec’s strategic partnership with PAYTER ensures full compliance, providing operators with simplified payment methods that increase utilisation, improve driver experience, and future-proof infrastructure.

• PAS 1899 accessibility standard: Essential for sites serving diverse users. Caravan parks, holiday parks, theme parks, hotels, resorts, shopping centres, sports stadiums, and more should prioritise meeting accessibility regulations. All Rolec units are fully compliant.

Destination charging

Some 90% of EV drivers prefer destinations with chargepoints, yet of the 70,000-plus potential destination sites in the UK, fewer than 1% have installed them. According to recent SMMT data, “By the end of July 2025, almost 2.5 million plug-in cars were registered on UK roads, with one in five new cars sold being electric. By 2030, ~80% of new cars sold will be electric. Public charging is expanding, with more than 80,000 charge points across the UK, but hotels, attractions, and other destinations, the very places where people want to charge, are underserved.”

This creates clear opportunity. Many EV drivers won’t book accommodation without charging, and retail, leisure, and hospitality businesses risk falling behind. For contractors, this means steady work: new builds, retrofits, network extensions, and ongoing maintenance.

Inform clients how destination charging boosts business, creating longer customer dwell times, higher spend in cafés, shops, and restaurants, stronger loyalty, and

new revenue streams via pay-to-charge solutions. Be ready to advise on software and payment options, with support from Rolec’s dedicated team of advisors and partners every step of the way.

Funding options

Installers should bear in mind that they can offer their customers fully-funded electric vehicle chargepoints, installation and management.

Initial cost is often the biggest barrier for businesses considering EV charging, which is why Rolec works with a range of funding partners to provide fully funded, part-funded, and subscription models. These options remove upfront costs and operational concerns, making implementation of EV infrastructure more accessible to companies of all sizes.

Through strategic partnerships such as Connekt and Go Zero, backed by multimillion-pound investments, Rolec is accelerating the wide-scale deployment of EV charging across the UK hospitality sector, giving hotels and leisure destinations the confidence to prioritise implementing reliable charging solutions.

Contractor support

Rolec’s commitment to supporting contractors and simplifying the EV landscape has never wavered. From faster charging technology to enhanced technical facilities and dedicated training, the company is intent on continuing to raise the bar.

In September, Rolec hosted a three-day training workshop. From internal refreshers for its team to installer-focused sessions, the company is committed to continuous learning and development. With deep dives, live demos, Q&As, and specialist sessions with its partners Monta, Fuuse, Clenergy E , PA TER, and Perific, the workshop covered everything from payment solutions and software capabilities to dynamic load balancing, giving contractors practical expertise they can apply on-site.

Security, compliance, convenience, AI, energy management, and solar integration are all part of the mix, ensuring Rolec’s people and contractors know the company’s products and services inside out and continue to deliver projects with confidence.

Training programmes

By partnering with Rolec as an Approved Installer, contractors can tap into 18 years of EV industry expertise, UK-based manufacturing, dedicated project support, and better access to technical resources.

Rolec also offers the following free CPD-accredited training courses designed specifically for contractors.

• EV Chargepoint Installer: Industry & Product: Packed with data and insight, giving you the knowledge to confidently advise both homeowners and businesses and position yourself as a trusted source of expertise.

• On the Tools Installation & Maintenance: A practical, hands-on programme led by senior engineers in Rolec’s custom-built training facility. This covers site surveys, groundworks, equipment installation, software setup, testing, and develop skills in callouts, fault finding, and network maintenance.

• DC Training Masterclass: With DC charging making up more than 70% of new installs in early 2025, this course covers installation and maintenance of Rolec’s UltraCharge range, including the 40kW and 80kW models. You’ll build confidence in component replacement, fault diagnosis, and service delivery.

Courses can be taken individually or combined into a focused one-day company session. Backed by Rolec’s UK manufacturing expertise, this training leads to Rolec Approved Installer status – and clients often want that certification.

Loyalty rewards

Rolec firmly believes that great work deserves great rewards, which is why the company has launched its EVO Loyalty Incentive. With this, members can get rewarded for every 15 EVO chargers installed and receive a free EVO worth £449. The more members install, the more EVOs they earn.

The scheme has been created to celebrate the rapid success of the EVO while rewarding the contractors behind it. Projects will be automatically tracked via the RolecConnect app during configuration, ensuring a seamless process, and Rolec sends a free EVO straight to contractors. Rolec states that this is a fantastic opportunity for its installer network to not only deliver the latest in EV charging technology, but also be recognised for their hard work. The company is proud to provide its partners with the resources and training to grow their businesses, strengthening relationships and powering the future together.

To find out more about the support Rolec offers to installers, contact Allan Ross, Head of Training & Culture at allan.ross@ rolecserv.co.uk or call 01205 724754. Rolec, rolecserv.com

Protect Monitor Control

Environmental monitoring experts and the AKCP partner for the UK & Eire.

How hot is your Server Room?

Contact us for a FREEsite survey or online demo to learn more about our industry leading environmental monitoring solutions with Ethernet and WiFi connectivity, over 20 sensor options for temperature, humidity, water leakage, airflow, AC and DC power, a 5 year warranty and automated email and SMS text alerts.

TEST. SYNC. REPORT.

The new MeasureEffect platform by Sonel is modern measurement software that sets a new standard for working with data. Integrated with selected Sonel devices, it enables users to complete tasks efficiently – regardless of the device they’re working on. Mi ha i hoń of onel explains further.

A new quality in handling measurement data

Sonel MeasureEffect is a measurement platform that creates an integrated work environment for professionals performing tests in energy, industrial, commercial, or residential facilities.

It is designed for both small electrical service companies and large industrial organisations. It ensures full control over data, streamlines information flow, and increases measurement efficiency. Communication between the measuring device and the cloud – in real-time or asynchronously – plays a key role.

As a result, the user can manage the entire process: from creating measurement structures facilities , defining procedures, carrying out measurements, to data analysis and reporting.

Integration of meters with cloud software

The core of the system is Sonel meters, which can synchronise data directly with the server through an internet connection.

Users can:

• Download pre-configured structures and measurement procedures

• Upload measurement results directly into predefined structures

• Flexibly modify or expand measurement structures on site – for example, if installations are relocated or changed.

The second component of the MeasureEffect platform is a mobile application, which supports users in the field. It enables remote control of measuring devices, settings adjustment, memory management, as well as adding notes and photos to measurements. Collected data is synchronised with the cloud in real time or once network access is restored.

The third element, serving as the central management hub, is a web application accessible through any browser. It allows users to define object hierarchies (e.g., company → distribution board → circuit , configure procedures, manage teams, analyse data, and generate documentation. Thanks to a unified database, all information is always up-todate and accessible to authorised users –regardless of their location.

MeasureEffect also allows for the creation of dedicated technical asset databases such as photovoltaic panels, miniature circuit breakers, fuses, and RCDs. Maintaining such a resource database allows for evaluation and diagnostics of installation components during later testing.

fficien l nning e ecu ion rc i ing n re or ing

Users of MeasureEffect can create their own measurement procedures tailored to specific tasks or use ready-made templates. Each procedure consists of several sequential steps, which can be edited, reordered, removed, or added.

Once all measurements are completed, the results are automatically saved in the specified location within the object structure. Thanks to synchronisation and data sharing, field workers can see what others are doing. While managers can monitor progress and generate final documentation after team tasks are completed, with reports that can be customised and exported as a PDF.

le i le su scri ion l ns

The MeasureEffect platform is available in two subscription plans: Starter (free for all users) and Pro, tailored to the needs of both individual users and distributed teams.

For large organisations, Sonel offers a customised Enterprise package with extended features, ERP system integration, advanced analytics, and an ‘on-premise’ option – fully autonomous, running within the client’s own IT infrastructure.

For details or to tailor a solution to your organisation’s needs, visit sonel.me/en/#form.

Consistent interface across all devices

The entire system – meters, the mobile app and the web app – uses a unified and visually consistent interface. This allows users to work in a familiar layout regardless of the device, using the same icons, labels, and logic. This standard interface minimises training time and simplifies onboarding of new team members.

In addition, meters integrated with MeasureEffect are compatible with a unified R code system, enabling quick device identification and execution of saved procedures.

Quick start with MeasureEffect

To get started, simply log in to the Sonel website and activate the MeasureEffect service via the Customer Panel. Step-bystep instructions are included in the system’s user manual.

MeasureEffect is a platform that standardises measurement processes, automates reporting, and facilitates team collaboration. It’s a solution created for

professionals who want to measure faster, more accurately, and more effectively.

For detailed information about the MeasureEffect platform, including subscription plans and a list of compatible meters, visit sonel.me or contact Sonel’s UK representative Power uality Expert, Tel 0333 733 1337, Email info powerqualityexpert.com.

Sonel, sonel.me

Full data synchronisation across all devices and remote control via the mobile app
User benefits of the Meas reEffe t platform

ENHANCED EV CHARGING FOR THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH

ECN looks at a new partnership between Urban Fox and Plymouth City Council that will see the deployment of low impact, on-street electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the city.

Urban Fox, a partnership between Balfour Beatty, the international infrastructure group, and Urban Electric Network, a British EV charge point operator, was formed in March 2023 – and during the two and a half years of its existence, the organisation has provided local authorities with end-to-end solutions for the EV charging needs of near-home customers.

This has ranged from financing, planning, and design to installation, operation, and maintenance, ensuring a seamless, hassle-free experience. Urban Fox also offers a comprehensive range of near-home and car park charging solutions, including its award-winning retractable UEone charge point.

Charging infrastructure rolled out in Plymouth

This September, Plymouth City Council and Urban Fox announced the official launch of a new partnership to deploy low impact, on-street electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in the city of Plymouth. This comes after a highly successful two and a half year pilot, which saw Urban Fox installing 26 dual socket UEone chargepoints – serving 53 charging bays across 10 hubs – and supporting the annual charging needs of up to 650 EV drivers.

The next phase of the partnership will see the reinstatement of 24 dual socket UEone chargepoints, creating 48 charging bays, underlining the Council’s commitment to expanding near home charging for residents, especially those without off street parking options.

ur ey fin ings

Prior to this new deployment, a comprehensive survey revealed that 38% of respondents were more likely to consider purchasing an EV if local charging was readily available.

Furthermore, 80% of survey respondents stated they would travel no more than 250 metres to access a charger; 90% supported the expansion of on street EV charging; 80% valued clutter free streetscapes; and 67% placed high importance on aesthetically pleasing charging infrastructure.

Urban Fox’s UEone, a retractable, kerbside fast chargepoint, was chosen to address these priorities, offering a discreet design which is flush to the ground when not in use.

Importantly, insights from the trial led to further design enhancements, including:

• Single handed operation of the chargepoint

• Socket height adjustment to meet industry standards

• Features to support ease of use for disabled motorists and users with additional needs.

The original pilot demonstrated the feasibility and accessibility of the UEone chargepoints and was met with a positive reception. The latest rollout will expand Plymouth’s EV infrastructure, offering safe, reliable, and scalable charging solutions.

A cleaner, sustainable urban future

Oli Freeling-Wilkinson, CEO of Urban Fox, explains, “We are proud to build on the success of our pilot and expand this vital infrastructure in Plymouth. The UEone perfectly combines design, functionality, reliability and accessibility. We’re delighted to partner with the council in accelerating the city’s transition towards cleaner transport.”

Councillor John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, adds, “Ensuring equitable access to EV charging has never been more important. Our joint pilot with Urban Fox clearly demonstrated not only the demand but also the effectiveness of on-street charging in making meaningful progress towards our sustainability targets.”

This EV charging initiative is a key component of Plymouth City Council’s strategy to reduce emissions and facilitate a cleaner, sustainable urban future.

Urban Fox, urbanfox.network

Powering an EV-ready future accessible by all

Cllr John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport; Rachel Knibbs, Regional Sales Director (UrbanFox); David Walker, Net Zero Delivery ffi er l mo th City Council

Urban Fox is a British EV chargepoint operator with the capacity and capability to deliver EV charging networks at scale. It seeks to empower local councils and property developers with a comprehensive range of innovative, low impact, near-home EV charging solutions, including its award-winning, fully retractable, flush-fitting UEone chargepoint.

Urban Fox leverages Balfour Beatty’s wealth of experience delivering complex, multi-site projects in the infrastructure and energy sectors. It states that it has the expertise and financial strength to deliver the right chargepoint, in the right place, at the right time.

Furthermore, Urban Fox believes that everyone should be given the opportunity to transition to EVs, no matter where they park their cars at night. Its near-home charging solutions are empowering communities and ensuring no one is left behind on the road to net zero.

The UEone combines design, functionality, reliability and accessibility

3 Years Warranty & 3 Years Free Calibration

Full Auto Sequence For EVSE Chargers Or Build Your Own Sequence

RDC-DD at 6mA

Remote Firmware Upgradable

Communication Lead To Record The Various Test States Of The Charger

Volt Drop Measurements*

Power Harmonic Measurements*

AC Leakage Measurements*

RCD Type AC, A, F, B & RDC-DD

Two & Single Pole Phase Rotation

Downloadable Report Software Included

Accurate Non-Trip Loop Test

EVSE Testing Adapter Supplied Which Allows You To Simulate Various Fault Conditions *

ELECTRIFYING OPPORTUNITIES: HOW HVAC TRENDS ARE OPENING NEW DOORS FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLERS

Mark Krull, Director of Logic4training, explains how electrically powered HVAC is taking centre stage, creating new opportunities for electricians – and why now is the right time to train.

The building services engineering industry is being re-shaped by net zero targets. Domestic heating produces around 18% of the UK’s total carbon emissions and is therefore a key target for decarbonisation. As gas and oil central heating is gradually phased out in favour of low-carbon alternatives, the share of heating delivered by electricity is set to increase – providing opportunities for those with electrical skills to expand into HVAC. When it comes to home heating, heat pumps are leading the charge, supported by government incentives and tightening building standards. Demand for solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage is also growing as homeowners look for ways to increase energy efficiency and reduce running costs. As the HVAC market continues to evolve, it is opening exciting new doors for multi-skilled engineers looking to embrace the low carbon future.

Rising demand for electrical skills

The latest data from MCS and the Heat Pump Association (HPA) shows a strong start to 2025 for low-carbon technologies. More than 120,000 homes added solar PV – a 36% year-on-year rise – while battery storage set new records, with monthly installations doubling against 2024 figures.

Heat pumps are also gathering pace this year. HPA figures show that 61,021 heat pumps have been sold up to June 2025, compared to a total of 98,345 for the whole of 2024. There were 24,535 government funded installations in the first half of 2025 – up 16 on last year’s record start. Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) year-to-date activity is running 58 above 2024, and MCS certified installations are up 10.4% year-on-year to July 2025. These promising figures indicate a growing appetite among homeowners

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for low carbon heating and energy efficient technology, while reflecting the acceleration of national targets, including

• Heat pump installation targets – the government plans to scale up heat pump installations to 600,000 per year by 2028.

• Solar Roadmap – including a commitment to triple solar capacity by 2030. According to the report, the majority of the solar workforce needed to deliver this growth will come from those already working in the industry, positioning existing electricians at the heart of the UK’s clean energy transition.

• Future Homes Standard – the long awaited update to the Building Regulations is due to be published any day now. Ahead of publication, the Government has confirmed that solar PV will be mandated on the vast majority of new builds together with low-carbon heating systems.

• EV charging infrastructure – since 2022, all new homes with parking must have an electric vehicle E charge point, embedding electrification into daily life.

Where homes previously relied almost exclusively on gas for heating, hot water, electricity and travel, the integration of heat pumps, solar panels, battery storage and EV charging into the domestic sector means that building services installers now require a broader electrical skillset. While traditional heating – including gas – is still central to the role, engineers need to be multi-skilled with a focus on electrics to deliver the energy efficient homes of the future.

Future Homes Standard (FHS)

The Future Homes Standard is a government initiative aimed at reforming the construction of new homes in the UK, to meet stringent energy efficiency and low-carbon heating requirements. Compliance will come into effect from 2027 onwards, following a transition period until December 2026.

The new standard will ban the installation of fossil fuel boilers, requiring either air source heat pumps or ground source heat pumps instead, with solar P becoming mandatory on most builds. Electrical engineers are central to installing, integrating, and commissioning these systems, ensuring homes are energy-efficient, compliant, and future-ready.

What’s changing? A new look at heat pumps

The BUS offers households up to 7,500 towards installation costs on hydronic systems air-to-water and ground source heat pumps GSHP . A consultation on scheme expansion is now under way, which could bring air-to-air A2A heat pumps into scope.

Already widely used across Europe, A2A units are wholly electrical, relatively compact and cheaper for consumers to install than traditional systems. They provide both heating and cooling – a valuable feature as climate extremes and more airtight construction heighten summertime overheating risks.

A2A heat pumps are suitable for smaller properties, flats and new builds where hydronic systems may be less practical. Even without subsidy support, their lower upfront costs and dual heating-and-cooling capability make them an attractive choice for many households. When paired with P and storage, A2A systems also give consumers more control over their bills.

New rules for solar PV

The entry route into solar P and battery has tightened – an industry move to ensure installers are starting from a position of proven competence. From 1 September 2025, electricians looking to take specialist solar P or Electrical Energy Storage EESS will now need to formally evidence they have the right baseline qualifications.

This means holding a Level 3 certificate in BS 7671 plus a recognised Level 3 electrotechnical , apprenticeship, or equivalent as detailed in the EAS ualification Guide . Installers who already hold a current ECS Gold Card will also meet the requirement.

Bridging the gap – training to real-world practice

For electrical installers interested in becoming truly multi-skilled, there is currently an amazing opportunity thanks to esta’s Start at Home initiative. We are working with Grant and Alto Energy so installers on our LCL Awards Level 3 ASHP course can access a free heat pump for their own home, plus specific product training, technical and MCS certification support. Both providers also offer a financial contribution back to the installer for time spent on labour. A unique opportunity for installers looking to diversify and gain real-world practical experience, living with the system day-to-day builds understanding of performance, controls and user experience – insights that improve installer confidence and can then be shared with customers.

Helping homeowners ‘go green’

Apart from incentives like BUS, once installed, renewable energy generation and use can offer ongoing cost-saving benefits. For P and/or battery owners, the Smart Export Guarantee SEG pays for power sent

Start at home with Logic4training

Logic4training-qualified heat pump installers can access tailored versions of the Start at Home initiative via two manufacturer-led schemes Start with Grant – installers receive a free Grant air source heat pump to install in their own property and gain eligibility for the Grant UK G1 Scheme, offering extended warranties and technical support.

Alto Assured Start at Home – installers choose from a range of manufacturers’ heat pumps. Recipients become Alto Assured Partners, with access to Alto’s MCS Umbrella scheme to support certification and compliance.

Both options provide valuable first-hand experience while opening doors to wider installer networks and support packages.

back to the grid, and an expanding range of time-of-use tariffs reward customers for using electricity more flexibly, with special tariffs, including domestic E charging. As a front-facing installer, you need to be able to explain these options clearly, which will enable your customer to make an informed decision about low-carbon technology and the benefits of going green’.

What to watch

Policy updates and evolving standards will shape exactly where the biggest opportunities land. The Solar Roadmap and Future Homes Standard signal sustained demand for P and low-carbon heating in new build and retrofit markets MCS consultations and BUS developments will determine exactly which products and installers are eligible for grant work and electricity market mechanisms (dynamic tariffs and export arrangements) are redefining the benefits for customers investing in P , batteries and heat pumps.

Staying current with these shifts enables installers to compete more effectively – not just on price, but by offering complete, integrated solutions.

Big picture

Solar and storage have firmly established themselves as key parts of the installer’s renewables toolkit the electrification of heating and renewed attention on A2A systems add a second, contributing to a rapidly growing market that demands electrical competence.

With the right combination of up-to-date qualifications, practical experience and systems knowledge, installers can offer full electrification packages that housebuilders, landlords and homeowners increasingly prefer. In the future, almost everything in the home will be electric.

Logic4training, logic4training.co.uk

The Future Homes Standard is a government initiative aimed at reforming the construction of new homes in the UK

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TACKLING CONDENSATION AND MOULD WITH POSITIVE INPUT VENTILATION

Awaab’s Law, coming into force this month, is set to impose strict requirements on social housing landlords to investigate and resolve issues of damp and mould. Katie Mairs, Channel Marketing Manager at Vent-Axia, explains how Positive Input Ventilation –which removes mould and improves indoor air quality – can be of assistance.

Condensation, damp, and mould can damage properties, lead to extensive repairs, and harm health. The last English Housing Survey revealed that in 2023, 5% of dwellings in England had a problem with damp, higher than in any of the last five years 3-4 . But serious condensation was more prevalent in homes 3 than rising damp 2 and penetrating damp 2 .

An ongoing issue for many households, Awaab’s Law has brought the risks of living in a mouldy home into sharp focus following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak. As a result, households are asking electricians for help in tackling condensation and mould, as well as indoor air pollution. Positive Input entilation PI is a very effective solution that removes persistent mould and improves IAQ.

Ideal for existing properties, PIV offers a whole house ventilation solution that can be installed in the loft. The technology gives electricians a highly effective option to help their customers control condensation

and mould in their homes. Designed to remove stale, moist air from the home and replace it with filtered, drier air, PI prevents moisture buildup that can cause condensation and mould, improving IAQ. Operating by drawing in warm, fresh air from the loft, PI units, such as ent-Axia’s PureAir Home, filter all incoming air via high-grade ISO ePM10 or ePM2.5 filters before gently introducing it into habitable areas of a property via a ceiling-mounted diffuser. The diffuser directs the airflow upwards, where the incoming drier air mixes with the warm, moist air that gathers at ceiling height. Providing filtered, tempered air heater model only into the home, which is drier than the inside air, the PureAir Home creates an indoor environment where condensation and mould find it hard to exist. This improves IAQ and quickly eradicates conditions that lead to mould growth and associated health issues, and avoids building damage.

Happy households

PI units, like ent-Axia’s Lo-Carbon PureAir Home, are highly energy efficient, unobtrusive, near silent, and help provide a healthy environment. Once installed in a loft, a PIV unit will operate without the household even noticing it is running due to its quiet operation. PIV units such as the PureAir Home are near silent, continuously ventilating in the background whilst in ‘Trickle’ mode.

PIV units won’t cause irritating cool draughts either. Many units come with an energy-efficient comfort heater which tempers the incoming air. However, every home is different. This makes fine control of air velocity and heat temperature essential to eliminate cold draughts. ent-Axia’s PureAir Home, therefore, features Smart Sense technology, which allows for 1l/s or 1 C adjustments to ensure a home’s ideal thermal comfort. Plus, once the unit automatically senses excess heat being lost into the loft, the airflow will increase to Energy Recovery’ mode to recover heat that would otherwise be lost through the roof.

Finally, households will be happy to know that the PureAir Home features a quiet-running Lo-Carbon motor and ultra-low power consumption, which works out typically less than a traditional lightbulb to run.

Happy installers

PIV also offers a simple install. ent-Axia’s PureAir home is uniquely flexible, offering two installation methods, high-sided anti-vibration legs and a hanging set come as standard, allowing it to be installed quickly in any size loft. If installed on the floor, ent-Axia’s PureAir Home features unique anti-vibration legs and mounts that eliminate the vibration caused when PI units are fixed to the joists in the loft, reducing any noise.

Easy to fit, installer safety was a key driver when designing ent-Axia’s Lo-Carbon PureAir Home, which is sized to fit all standard loft hatches, is a lightweight one-man-lift, with an easy-grip top-mounted handle moulded into the main body, so transporting the unit is simple and safer.

ent-Axia’s PureAir Home is also supplied with a purpose-designed diffuser. The four-point contact easy-fit technology allows fast and repeatable drill-free’ installation. Once installed using Smart Sense Technology, the unit is easily set to the appropriate speed at installation based on dwelling size.

Helping provide a healthier indoor environment for households, PIV proactively prevents condensation and mould while combating a wider range of indoor air pollutants. It ticks all the right boxes for electricians who can be confident PI will tackle condensation and mould, offer easy install, and ensure homeowner satisfaction – resulting in fewer callbacks.

Vent-Axia, vent-axia.com

Vent Axia’s PIV, a whole house ventilation solution which helps to control condensation and mould

HEATING THE FUTURE: THE SHIFT TO SMARTER COMFORT

Rointe, one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of electric heating, explores the heating of the future and explains why the industry is moving towards a future where efficiency, connectivity, and design are inseparable.

Across the UK, the way we heat our buildings is changing faster than at any point in recent memory.

Rising energy costs, public concern about carbon emissions, and the government’s legally binding Net Zero 2050 target are reshaping expectations across the construction and electrical sectors. For contractors and specifiers, the pressure is mounting to deliver heating solutions that are efficient, future-proof, and compliant with the tightening framework of building regulations.

The most immediate driver is the Future Homes Standard, set to take effect in 2025. Designed to ensure new homes are “zero carbon-ready,” the standard will all but eliminate the use of fossil-fuel heating in new builds. Complementing this are updates to Part L of the Building Regulations, which came into force in 2022, mandating a significant uplift in energy efficiency. The latest SAP 10.2 methodology also plays a crucial role, better reflecting the true carbon factors of electricity and placing electric heating in a more favourable position than in previous assessments.

Together, these measures are steering the market firmly towards electrification. For electrical contractors, that represents both challenge and opportunity. The challenge lies in navigating new compliance rules, integrating smart technologies, and explaining benefits to clients. The opportunity lies in becoming the trusted professional who can deliver systems that not only meet regulations, but also provide long-term comfort and affordability.

It is in this shifting landscape that companies such as Rointe are positioning themselves. Founded more than 40 years ago in Spain, the firm has evolved from a manufacturer of electric radiators to a developer of connected heating solutions. Its latest work – centred on Inverter Smart Adaptive Technology – offers an instructive case study of how the heating sector is responding to regulatory pressure, digitalisation, and consumer expectations.

To better understand these dynamics, ECN spoke with José Guillermo Dengra, Rointe’s Technical Director. Having overseen years of research and development, and with deep insight into regulatory trends across Europe, José provides a valuable perspective on what the future of heating looks like for UK professionals.

Rointe’s Eoniq range offers multiple finishes an ontrol metho s to s it ifferent rooms an lifest les

From compliance to comfort: why the market is changing

For José, the current moment marks a fundamental turning point. “Efficiency is no longer optional,” he says. “When Rointe started four decades ago, energy efficiency was considered a bonus feature. Today, it is the baseline requirement – driven by regulation, rising bills, and environmental targets.”

The numbers bear this out. Under Part L, new homes must now deliver a 31% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to previous standards. By 2025, under the Future Homes Standard, that figure will rise to 75–80%. For contractors, this means the solutions of yesterday simply cannot be specified tomorrow.

But compliance is only part of the story. As José points out, comfort and design have also become non-negotiable. “Once upon a time, radiators were bulky, white boxes that people tolerated. Now, homeowners and developers expect them to be part of the interior design. Minimalist aesthetics, multiple finishes, slim profiles –these are as important as performance.”

Smart technology has added another dimension. “Homes today expect connectivity,” he continues. “From app control to energy monitoring, the ability to schedule, automate, and track consumption is no longer a luxury. It is standard.”

The long road to smarter heating

Against this backdrop, R&D teams across the sector have been racing to innovate. At Rointe, that journey culminated in the launch of Inverter Smart Adaptive Technology in 2025. Unlike traditional radiators, which cycle between full power and standby, this system continuously modulates energy output to match the precise heating needs of the room. It was not an easy path. “From the outset, there was scepticism,” recalls José. “Some consultants even discarded the idea of applying inverter modulation to electric radiators. They thought it couldn’t be done.”

Over five years, Rointe’s engineers produced countless prototypes, refined firmware, and invested more than €5 million in research. The result was a breakthrough: the first electric radiator capable of adjusting its nominal power in real time, learning the thermal inertia of the room, and adapting to occupancy patterns.

The benefits, os explains, go beyond numbers. “Instead of sudden swings in temperature, users enjoy a steady, comfortable environment. Instead of drawing full power in peaks, the system runs smoothly in the background. It means lower bills, longer product lifespan, and less strain on the grid.”

Tackling misconceptions

Despite such advances, misconceptions remain widespread – and installers often encounter them at the point of sale.

“The biggest myth is that all new systems are efficient just because they are new,” says José. “That’s not true. Real performance depends on proper sizing, good insulation, and, critically, how intelligent the system is.”

Another misconception is around cost. “Electric heating is often dismissed as expensive. That may have been the case with older technologies. But with modern modulation and app-based control, running costs can be significantly lower than many people expect – and certainly competitive with fossil alternatives.”

Finally, aesthetics. “We still meet homeowners who assume radiators are ugly. But the market has moved on. Radiators today can be sleek, minimalist design elements that contribute to a room’s character rather than detract from it.”

Guidance for homeowners and professionals

For customers uncertain about which way to turn, José has straightforward advice: look beyond upfront costs.

“Consider insulation, layout, and lifestyle. Don’t just replace like-for-like. Prioritise products that provide real consumption data, app control, and adaptability. The cheapest unit on day one may cost the most over its lifetime.”

He also emphasises the role of the installer. “A good installer is not just a fitter. They are an energy advisor. Their guidance ensures that systems are not

omeowners in reasingl want personalisation from olo r finishes to sage profiles

only correctly sized but also used to their full potential. Without that, even the best technology underperforms.”

For contractors, this advisory role represents both responsibility and opportunity. By positioning themselves as trusted experts, they can differentiate their services in a crowded market.

Lessons from 40 years of change

Looking back, os identifies five shifts that define the trajectory of heating over the past four decades:

• Effi ien as man ate – driven by regulation and economics

• Design as ifferentiator – radiators as interior elements, not afterthoughts

• onne tivit as stan ar – app control, automation, and monitoring as baseline

• stainabilit b esign – recyclability, lightweight materials, and longer product life

• The ele tri f t re – as transport, appliances, and industry electrify, heating follows.

“All around us, the industry has moved from just heat the house’ to heat intelligently, sustainably, and stylishly’,” he reflects.

Empowering professionals in the digital era

For José, one of the most important shifts is how digitalisation is reshaping the installer’s role. “The journey no longer ends when the product is mounted. Customers expect training, app guidance, energy reports, and ongoing support.”

To meet this demand, manufacturers are investing in tools that go beyond hardware. Platforms such as RointePro – offering training modules, extended warranties, cashback schemes, and digital documentation – represent one way companies are seeking to support the trade.

“This is about empowerment,” os says. “Installers today are on the front line of the energy transition. They need the right tools, knowledge, and confidence to recommend and commission smarter systems. If they succeed, the industry succeeds.”

Regulation as a driver, not a barrier

Some in the sector view regulation as a burden. José takes the opposite stance. “Legislation is what drives us forward,” he argues. “Ecodesign Lot20, Part L, SAP, and the upcoming Future Homes Standard all create the environment for innovation. Without these, the industry would not move at the speed required to meet net zero.”

placing modern electric systems in a stronger position.

“Far from resisting change, we should embrace it,” says os . “The companies and contractors who adapt early will be the ones best positioned when the market shifts further.”

Customisation and the consumer voice

The final driver of change is consumer expectation. Homeowners increasingly want personalisation – from colour finishes to usage profiles. Products such as Rointe’s Eoniq range illustrate this, offering multiple finishes and control methods to suit different rooms and lifestyles.

“It’s no longer one-size-fits-all,” says José. “People expect systems that fit their environment and adapt to their preferences. That level of choice is not a gimmick – it is part of what makes modern heating viable for the long term.”

Looking ahead

So what does the future hold? For José, the trajectory is clear. “Electrification is inevitable. It is the only path to truly carbon-free comfort because it is the only energy that can be generated cleanly and sustainably.”

The focus, he argues, must now be on ensuring systems are not only efficient but also intuitive. “The more effortless we make it for the end user, the greater the impact. Technology should be invisible. Comfort should be visible.”

As for installers, the opportunity is vast. “ ou are not just technicians anymore. ou are key players in the net zero transition. The systems you specify and install will define not just homes, but the country’s ability to meet its targets.”

closing re ec ion

Rointe’s 40-year history is closely tied to the wider transformation of the heating industry. From its earliest days, the company placed efficiency at the heart of its designs, long before it became a regulatory requirement. Where others offered bulky, purely functional appliances, Rointe sought to combine performance with aesthetics – introducing slimmer, more refined radiators that complemented interior spaces as well as heated them. That pioneering approach continues today. With innovations in smart control, adaptive modulation, and sustainable materials, Rointe’s trajectory mirrors the sector’s broader shift: from simple heat delivery to intelligent, efficient, and design-conscious comfort.

ith mo ern mo lation an app base ontrol ele tri heating osts an be lower than people e pe t

The alignment of regulation and technology, he suggests, is already visible. The improved carbon factor for electricity in SAP 10.2, for example, reflects the decarbonisation of the UK grid. This has immediate consequences for specification,

For UK professionals, the lesson is clear. The industry is moving towards a future where efficiency, connectivity, and design are inseparable. Companies like Rointe illustrate how early investment in these priorities can position manufacturers – and the installers who work with them – at the forefront of the net zero transition.

Rointe rointe om

CONTROL THE HEAT, CUT THE COSTS

Matt Parton, Product Manager with ESP and Sangamo – part of the Scolmore Group – examines the role of heating controls in the drive for energy efficiency.

In recent years, the conversation around energy use has shifted dramatically. Rising energy costs, tightening legislation, and the UK’s net zero commitments are driving change across every sector. For electrical contractors, that means customers – both domestic and commercial – are looking for solutions that deliver efficiency without compromising comfort. Modern heating controls are at the heart of that shift, offering a range of benefits that extend well beyond basic temperature regulation.

Heating accounts for the largest part of the average household’s energy consumption. In commercial buildings, HVAC systems can make up an even larger proportion of operating costs. Yet many systems are either poorly controlled or rely on outdated technologies. The result is wasted energy, higher bills, and unnecessary carbon emissions.

Modern heating controls can solve this problem by matching energy output more closely to actual demand. Whether through zoning, load compensation, or smart scheduling, well-specified controls can reduce consumption significantly.

n nce energy efficiency

Traditional heating systems often operate on fixed schedules or manual adjustments, which can result in unnecessary energy consumption. Modern heating controls, including smart thermostats and zoning systems, allow precise control over heating schedules and temperatures. By adjusting output to actual occupancy patterns and environmental conditions, these systems can reduce energy usage by up to 20–30%, directly translating to lower bills and reduced carbon footprints.

A Sangamo Smart Thermostat allows precise control over heating schedules and temperatures

Improved comfort n erson lis ion

Advanced heating controls enable zoned heating, giving occupants the ability to set different temperatures in different areas of a building. This ensures consistent comfort while avoiding overheating or underheating spaces that are rarely used. Some systems also learn user behaviours, automatically optimising heating schedules for maximum comfort without constant manual input.

A programmable thermostat gives the user an option to schedule at what time and day a call for heat can be made, thus reducing the possibility of wasting energy when the property is empty. This is advantageous when the occupants are at work and therefore do not have to remember to switch the heating O /OFF manually. A programmable thermostat ensures that the heating is not activated longer than required.

Sangamo’s three channel programmable thermostat with RF and Wi-Fi provides the means to operate and control separate heating zones within a residential property. It 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 over two zones and hot water programming, and one receiver complete with three independent channels – two for heating and one for hot water. The system can be programmed and controlled directly or remotely via the ClickSmart+ app.

Smart controls

The evolution of smart technology continues to play a key role in energy efficiency. It provides homeowners with a real opportunity to make conscious decisions about how they heat their homes and what effect this can have on their energy bills.

A smart thermostat is something that installers can easily add to their customers’ home heating, allowing householders to control and monitor the room temperature and thermostat activity from anywhere in the world, via an app on a smartphone or tablet.

The Sangamo Wi-Fi controlled thermostat is controlled through the subscription-free ClickSmart app from Scolmore. It offers energy efficient programming and with remote access via the app, it allows for constant monitoring and control at your fingertips. Key features of the thermostat that will help with the control of energy usage include the optimal start function and the open window/door detection feature.

n egr ion i uil ing n ge en ys e s

For commercial buildings, modern heating controls integrate seamlessly with BMS and IoT-enabled devices. This allows centralised monitoring and management, predictive maintenance alerts, and detailed energy reporting. For contractors, this integration opens opportunities to offer clients smarter, more comprehensive solutions.

Remote access and control

Connectivity is a key advantage of upgraded heating controls. Through mobile apps or web interfaces, users can adjust settings remotely, monitor energy usage, and receive notifications. This is particularly valuable for property managers, landlords, or homeowners with irregular schedules.

u or ing co li nce n sus in ili y

The latest Building Regulations Part L require the use of time and temperature controls in both new and replacement heating systems. For contractors, this means specifying appropriate control solutions is no longer optional – it’s essential for compliance. By fitting compliant timers and thermostats, contractors not only meet regulatory requirements, but also add real value to their installations.

Conclusion

For electrical contractors, advising clients on upgrading heating controls is a chance to enhance energy efficiency, comfort, and long-term savings. For end-users, it’s an opportunity to embrace smarter, greener, and more convenient solutions. In a market increasingly driven by sustainability and digital innovation, modern heating controls are no longer an optional upgrade – they’re a smart investment.

Scolmore Group, scolmore.com

NEW for LiGHT 25 – Introducing the… TECHNICAL ZONE

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MVHR: MAXIMISING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Paul Williams, Domus Ventilation Product Manager, looks at how to get the best out of Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery systems.

Whether it’s turning down the heating a couple of degrees or not using the tumble dryer, consumers can all make small changes to help save energy at home. Yet to have any real impact, we need to change how we build our homes in the first place, making them more thermally efficient.

Changes to Building Regulations have been driving this, making homes more air tight, accompanied by more stringent ventilation requirements to avoid overheating in the summer months and to ensure better quality indoor air.

Building Regulations –ventilation

Changes to Building Regulations ‘Approved Document F, Volume 1: Dwellings’ (ADF1) has considerably increased minimum ventilation rates across all sizes of properties, making whole house mechanical ventilation systems the most proficient option in the case of larger properties with minimum ventilation rates up 43l/s, they really are the only option!

MVHR’s role in saving energy

When installing an MVHR system, Paul suggests using good quality ducting that’s designed to work in harmony as part of that system

These are to be used in place of the more traditional ventilation methods, such as trickle vents and extractor fans, which are not able to deliver the higher air flow rates required and are also responsible for dissipating around 30% of the energy delivered to buildings the International Energy Agency calculates.

Whole house mechanical ventilation systems in the form of Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) largely avoids this scenario by using a heat exchanger to recover the heat in stale air from wetrooms and transferring it to the incoming fresh air, which is then filtered and distributed within the home. The Domus Ventilation HRXE M HR range uses a highly efficient heat exchanger which is capable of recovering up to 95% of the heat from the waste air stream.

Whilst MVHR systems aren’t a replacement for heating systems, they help reduce the heating load required from that system, reducing energy usage. The Centre for Sustainable Energy estimates heating costs can be reduced by around 25%. The cost to run an MVHR system obviously varies depending on the size of the property, building fabric, lifestyle and occupancy, and the energy tariff etc., but they are inexpensive to run.

Maximising MVHR energy efficiency

To ensure maximum energy efficiency is gained from an MVHR system, there are certain aspects that you need to take into account.

Firstly, it’s vital to correctly size the MVHR system for the property, so that it neither under or over ventilates.

The former means it won’t deliver the ventilation required under Building Regulations and will be noisy as the fan works overtime to cope. The latter will not be energy efficient.

When installing the system, be sure to use good quality ducting that has been designed to work in harmony as part of that system and has been third party tested for end-to-end system performance, as has all Domus Ventilation ducting. For maximum efficiency, I recommend M HR systems be used with rigid ducting in larger sizes, and that all duct connections are sealed and taped. This will make for low air resistance, which is important for energy efficiency.

Also on the ducting front, be sure to use ducting insulation where the ducting passes through unheated areas and voids, such as loft spaces and on the intake and the exhaust, as required under Building Regulations. When installation is completed, commission the MVHR system accurately. Any mistakes here will result in over or under ventilating, and all the work you have done could be compromised.

MVHR systems when in operation need very little attention, but the filters do need to be replaced annually to ensure they continue to perform efficiently.

Conclusion

An MVHR system alone isn’t going to mean residents can switch their heating off in the depths of winter, but enabling them to shave up to a quarter off their heating bill will most certainly help. When you combine this with the improved indoor air quality an MVHR system brings, it’s a winning combination.

• Domus Ventilation is a manufacturer of market-leading ventilation systems that save energy and improve indoor air quality.

Domus Ventilation, domusventilation.co.uk

The Domus HRXE-Aura heat recovery unit is designed for wall mounting on solid walls
A contractor carrying out a ventilation valve adjustment

INTRODUCING THE INCEPTOR MILLI ADJUSTABLE

Ovia has added a new adjustable version to its Inceptor Milli downlight family, offering a range of new features and benefits.

Inceptor Milli Adjustable is a compact yet powerful addition to Ovia’s growing Milli family of fire-rated domestic downlights. Designed with the same innovation, fire-rated safety and ease of installation as the standard Milli, the new adjustable version offers a seamless 360° rotation and 20° tilt capability to deliver total directional lighting control.

e feat re of the Inceptor Milli downlight range is the element of control that is offered in this one fitting

Complementing the Inceptor Milli Fixed and Inceptor Milli Baffle versions, the new Inceptor Milli Adjustable brings unparalleled flexibility, performance and aesthetic appeal for domestic applications. Offering 360° rotation and 20° tilt capability, the light output can be positioned exactly where it is needed. The fitting can even be installed tight to ceiling joists without affecting movement, making it easy to adapt to any room layout. Ideal for new installations and retrofit projects, it has been designed with a cut-out range of 68mm to 75mm, ensuring compatibility with a variety of ceiling apertures. The broader range allows easier replacement of existing downlights without the need for additional adjustments.

Ovia’s Inceptor Milli family of downlights have been tested and meet the requirements of TM66 Assured Product erification Scheme, which is developed and fulfilled by the Lighting Industry

Switch it up

A key feature to highlight with the Inceptor Milli downlight range is the element of control that is offered in this one fitting. There is the option to seamlessly switch between 6.4W and 4W power outputs using a single switch to provide users with unprecedented control over their lighting environments.

There is also the ability to easily switch the colour temperatures between 2700K Warm White , 4000K Cool White and 6500K Daylight . This allows for effortless adaptation to varying lighting needs and makes it easy for the end user to tailor their lighting to suit their individual requirements. Whether they are seeking a vibrant, well-lit atmosphere or a more subdued, energy-conscious ambiance, the Inceptor Milli ensures optimal flexibility.

Rotatable insulation cover

One feature that sets the Inceptor Milli range apart from many downlights on the market is the insulation cover which introduces a practical solution for installation challenges. The rotatable insulation cover allows you to install the downlights safely under insulation but also adjust the cover allowing for 5mm extra clearance.

Inceptor Milli Adjustable brings unparalleled e ibilit performance and aesthetic appeal for domestic applications

On the adjustable and standard/fixed Milli downlight, the insulation cover can be twisted to the up and down position and still fit in a 60mm void. The baffle version fits in a 60mm void when the insulation cover is down and the plasterboard is a minimum thickness of 12.5cm.

All three versions – Standard, Baffle and now Adjustable – are IP65-rated. With a broad cut-out range of 64mm to 75mm, the Milli can be installed in a wide range of existing ceiling downlight cut-outs. The fittings are supplied pre-wired with a Fast-Fit, 3-Pole Loop Flow connector, and a loose push-fit Flow connector is also supplied in the box, which ensures a quick and easy installation process.

Five bezel finishes are available, with a choice of White, Black, Chrome, Satin Chrome and Antique Brass finishes offered. With the adjustable and standard version, you simply order the finish of your choice as a fixed finish. The baffle version is supplied with a white bezel, but this can be interchanged with any of the other finishes, and they are purchased separately. Simply twist the existing bezel to remove and replace with the colour finish of your choice.

A brochure featuring the new Adjustable Inceptor Milli can be viewed on the Ovia website – www.oviauk.com – and the Scolmore Group app. It is also available in the new Issue 6 Ovia Catalogue. iew the video at youtu.be/ m9AEHPKhqU.

Ovia, oviauk.com

Offering 360° rotation and 20° tilt apabilit the light output can be positione e a tl where it is needed

Association LIA and endorsed by CIBSE Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers with the aim of advancing circular economy practices within the lighting industry.

THE NEW KYROS: SMARTER, FASTER, MORE EFFICIENT

The Kyros radiator has long been one of Rointe’s most trusted solutions. ow, it returns with a new generation of features that put innovation, efficiency and comfort at the very centre of electric heating. At the heart of this new evolution is Inverter Smart Adaptive Technology, a breakthrough system that redefines how radiators operate. Whereas traditional PID-based systems run at 100 of their rated power until the set temperature is reached – relying on micro-cuts to regulate consumption – the new Kyros goes further. For the first time, an intelligent radiator can use a single heating element at multiple power ratings, cutting stabilisation power by up to 80 . The benefits are immediate and measurable

• 25 faster at reaching the desired temperature

• 35 more stable room temperature

• 10 more efficient in everyday operation

• Constant comfort, intelligently adapted to you

By modulating its output in real time, the Kyros maintains warmth using only 35 of its average rated power, significantly reducing peaks in consumption and extending the lifespan of the product.

Connectivity has also taken a step forward. With Wi-Fi Direct, the Kyros links directly to your router without gateways or hubs, while the upgraded Rointe exa app unlocks a new world of smart control. From predictive scheduling and real-time energy monitoring to Holiday Mode and AI-driven insights, every user has full visibility and control from anywhere.

Design is equally important. A full-colour TFT display provides clear, intuitive navigation, and for the first time the Kyros is available in a sleek black finish as well as classic white. Combined with the Low Surface Temperature LST function, which limits contact heat for added safety, the result is a radiator that blends style, intelligence and peace of mind.

Smarter, faster and more sustainable, the new Kyros confirms Rointe’s leadership in efficient, design-led electric heating.

Rointe, rointe.com

CLICK SCOLMORE ADDS MATT BRONZE TO DECO RANGES

Following the success of the Matt Bronze finish in the Definity range, and in response to growing demand for stylish decorative wiring accessories, Click Scolmore has now expanded this sophisticated finish to its Deco Plus and Deco ranges.

Deco Plus is Click’s premium curved profile decorative wiring accessory range, while Deco offers a high-quality square profile alternative. The new Matt Bronze finish, available with black inserts, enhances the Deco Plus and Deco’s timeless appeal, ideal for both residential and commercial settings. This elegant addition provides electrical contractors with high-end solutions that elevate modern interiors.

All switch plates are modular as standard, allowing installers to create any switch plate required. The Click MiniGrid modules are all easily and quickly exchanged or mounted onto unfurnished plates by means of a simple single screw fixing, allowing endless combinations to suit multiple installations within both domestic and commercial environments.

With this latest addition, the Deco Plus and Deco collections now offer nine distinctive finishes.

Click Scolmore, scolmore.com

Introducing the Inceptor Milli range of fire rated downlights with switchable wattage and colour temperature

ESPIRE DUAL SENSOR SMOKE AND HEAT ALARMS FROM ESP

Advanced fire safety is guaranteed with the Espire innovative dual Smoke and Heat Alarm models from ESP – combining the benefits of both optical and heat detection in one compact unit for maximum safety coverage.

Designed to respond to a wide range of fire types – from fast-flaming to slow-smouldering – the Espire Smoke and Heat Alarms use intelligent monitoring software to analyse input from both sensors and trigger alerts only, when necessary, significantly reducing false alarms.

The addition of ESP exclusive innovations such as auto-dimming LED indicators, dust compensation, and RF-Link capability further elevate performance and installation flexibility.

Installers can choose from two power options to suit varying project requirements

• Powered by mains with a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery

• Powered by a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery

The Espire Dual Smoke and Heat Alarms are to be installed in accordance with BS 5839-6. The alarms are certified to BS E 14604 and BS 5446-2.

ESP, espireuk.com

OVIA INTRODUCES THE INCEPTOR MILLI ADJUSTABLE

Inceptor Milli

Adjustable is a compact yet powerful addition to Ovia’s growing Milli family of fire-rated domestic downlights.

Designed with the same innovation, fire-rated safety and ease of installation as the standard Milli, the new adjustable version offers a seamless 360° rotation and 20° tilt capability to deliver total directional lighting control.

Complementing the Inceptor Milli Fixed and Inceptor Milli Baffle versions, the new Inceptor Milli Adjustable brings unparalleled flexibility, performance and aesthetic appeal for domestic applications.

Offering 360 rotation and 20 tilt capability, the light output can be positioned exactly where it is needed. The fitting can even be installed tight to ceiling joists without affecting movement, making it easy to adapt to any room layout.

Ideal for new installations and retrofit projects, it has been designed with a cut-out range of 68mm to 75mm, ensuring compatibility with a variety of ceiling apertures. The broader range allows easier replacement of existing downlights without the need for additional adjustments. Ovia, oviauk.com

UNICRIMP LAUNCHES Q-NECT IP68 INLINE CONNECTOR

Unicrimp , part of the Scolmore Group, has expanded its robust cable accessories range with launch of the Q-Nect IP68

Inline Connector – a durable, high-performance solution designed to deliver secure, long-lasting electrical connections in even the harshest conditions.

Offering reliable protection against water, dust, and environmental ingress, the Q-Nect IP68 Inline Connector is perfect for both commercial and industrial applications where safety and durability are essential.

Key features include:

• IP68 rated for maximum protection against water, dust, and dirt

• 2 x 3-port lever connectors for fast and secure terminations

• 2 x PG16 cable glands for enhanced sealing and cable retention

• Adjustable cable entry size to accommodate varying installation needs

• Terminal wire capacity hard cable 0.08mm – 4mm and soft cable 0.08mm – 2.5mm

Whether it’s powering outdoor lighting, running outdoor pump systems, or operating outdoor equipment, the Q-Nect connector guarantees peace of mind – even when left exposed to the elements.

Unicrimp, unicrimp.com

AIRMASTER’S NEW RANGE OF SLIMLINE ELECTRIC PANEL HEATERS

Panel Heaters have always been a best seller in the comprehensive Airmaster Space Heating range and now, to retain that top spot, comes an all-new selection of slimline Matt White and Matt Black Panel Heaters. Designed for efficiency and reliability, their slim compact profile ensures a seamless fit into any space without lowering heat performance.

Matt White options include 1kW, 1.5kW and 2kW units with 1.5kW and 2kW available in black. User friendly features include just four soft touch buttons for quick and easy programming, plus back-lit display for low light use. A minimalist vent-free design also ensures even heat distribution, whilst installation is equally quick and hassle-free with the help of pre-mounted wall brackets.

Quality and durability are assured with corrosion resistant powder coated bodies, whilst overheat protection and IP24 rated resistance ensures this new range is suitable for use in bathrooms beyond Zone 2 and rooms between 10 and 20 square metres.

CED, cedelectrical.co.uk

CLICK SCOLMORE LAUNCHES NEW SINGLE PHASE ENERGY METER

Click Scolmore has added a new Single Width, Single Phase Energy Meter to its growing Elucian consumer units and protective devices range, designed to deliver precise energy measurement in a compact, user-friendly format.

Suitable for residential properties, small commercial premises, or energy-conscious retrofits, the new meter combines high accuracy, reliability, full compliance and space-saving design to meet the evolving demands of energy providers and consumers.

MID certified, the 45A rated Single Phase Energy Meter is a smart choice for installations requiring a straightforward yet dependable energy measurement solution.

Key features include:

• Compact, single width design – saves valuable space in distribution boards without compromising performance

• MID approval – ensures compliance with EU regulations

• Accurate measurement – helps users track and manage electricity usage effectively, supporting sustainability and cost control initiatives

• Easy installation and maintenance

• Comprehensive Display – nine measurement parameters including: Total Active Energy kWh , Import Active Energy kWh , Export Active Energy kWh , oltage , Current A , Active Power W , Frequency Hz , Power Factor PF , and Software ersion

• Three-year warranty for assured quality and peace of mind

To view the full range of Single Phase Energy Meters, visit Elucian’s website or download the Scolmore Group app. Elucian, elucianuk.com

EVOFIRE: PREMIUM FIRE-RATED DOWNLIGHTS WITHOUT COMPROMISE

ECN provides an in-depth look at the Evofire, the flagship downlight range from Integral LED, and details the benefits on offer to electricians, wholesalers and end users.

Fire-rated glass technology probably isn’t something you’ve thought much about. But it’s the innovation at the heart of Evofire – Integral LED’s flagship downlight range –and it’s what makes these products stand out. By combining tempered borosilicate glass with precision-engineered steel, Evofire stops fire from passing through the ceiling while maintaining a slim, seamless look. That means no bulky canisters, no reliance on intumescent materials, and complete confidence in 30, 60, and 90-minute fire protection.

The result is a downlight that balances aesthetics, reliability and protection – three qualities that define the Evofire ethos. Installers don’t need to compromise on style to deliver fire safety, and clients don’t need to choose between performance and appearance.

Unlike chunky plastic accessories or thick aluminium bezels, Evofire’s powder-coated steel bezel is less than 1mm thick. This allows the downlight to blend into the ceiling line almost invisibly, achieving a premium finish even in high-end residential or hospitality projects.

Introducing

Daniel Mahdavi, Head of Product Development at Integral LED, explains, “Our goal was to create a downlight that doesn’t force installers or clients to choose between safety and design. Evofire achieves both — absolute fire protection with a premium, seamless look.”

Engineered for versatility

The Evofire range has been engineered for versatility. With bezel sizes including 110mm, 92mm, 85mm, 72mm, 64mm and 55mm, and options for tilt, square, recessed and micro-bezel designs, there’s a solution for every project. Installers can pair Evofire 85 with a GU10 or 50mm module or select the Evofire Mini for GU11/ MR11 lamps. Multiple finishes, including tiltable options, make it easy to match interior styles.

Crucially, Evofire is fully third-party certified for both standard timber and I-joist ceilings, with independent testing on every SKU. This assurance removes doubt at the installation stage and ensures compliance with building regulations. And with a seven-year warranty, wholesalers and installers alike can supply and fit Evofire with complete peace of mind.

Behind the range is Integral’s commitment to advancing its UK-patented fire-rated glass technology. By embedding this innovation across a growing family of downlights, Integral is ensuring that safe, sleek solutions are available to more installers – and more homes – than ever before.

Setting a new benchmark

For wholesalers, Evofire represents a premium product that is simple to stock and explain. For electricians, it delivers a fast, clean installation with lasting reliability. For end customers, it provides the reassurance of fire safety without sacrificing the look of their interiors.

Evofire shows that downlights can be designed around both safety and aesthetics. With a blend of premium materials, slim design, robust certification, and installer-friendly options, it’s quickly becoming the benchmark for fire-rated downlights.

For more information on the Evofire range, visit integral-led.com or contact the regional sales team at sales@integral-led.com.

Integral LED, integral-led.com

The Evofire Fire Rated Downlight is a safe and attractive fitting for a GU10 or MR16 LED lamp
Evofire shows that downlights can be designed around both safety and aesthetics
The Evofire range also includes tiltable options

Three Phase distribution boards and protective devices.

Versatile Configuration (Interchangeable RCCB, 125A or 250A Isolator)

Stacked Boards

Easy Device & Front Cover Alignment

SPD Installation (Housed within Main Board)

Trunking Entry & Ventilation Slots

Quick Release Doors

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