ECN Skills Regulations, Legislation & Training 2025
Skills Regulations, Legislation & Training
XS Training Ltd have been delivering NVQs, 18th Edition and AM2 preparation training throughout the UK since 2011 and are now the UK’s number one online training provider for the NVQ 3 Electrical Installation.
Upon successful completion of your NVQ 2357, 2346 or 2347 qualification you become eligible to apply for the highly prized and industry-recognised ECS Gold Card & JIB grading.
As well as providing ePortfolio based assessor assisted courses in all NVQ Level 3 Electrical
additional online training courses including the C&G 2365 Level 2 & 3 Diplomas for new entrants.
Welcome to the latest ECN supplement. Shortly before the publication of this special supplement, the industry celebrated this year’s World Youth Skills Day, an occasion which was created to empower young people with the skills they need to step into the working world. Organisations such as NICEIC and NAPIT expressed vocal support for the day, encouraging the next generation to consider a career in the electrical contracting sector – and in the midst of an ongoing skills shortage across the industry, initiatives such as these will prove so important and likely have a real impact in the years to come.
It’s not just about the future, of course, and the value of upskilling existing contractors is an exciting prospect in its own right. Whether it’s to keep up to date with the latest regulation and legislation changes (which can be a minefield to navigate, at the best of
times), or to develop skills to expand their capabilities and offerings as contractors, training has the potential to be a true game-changer for many individuals plying their trade in the electrical sector.
Keeping abreast of regulation and legislation changes that may have an impact on your day-to-day operations can help avoid potentially disastrous consequences – ranging from fines for non-compliance, to safety risks, and potentially worse – so refreshing your knowledge on these latest amendments can make all the difference in terms of compliance and ensuring best practice.
Training in order to add new skillsets to your arsenal is perhaps a slightly more attractive proposition, and the supplement you currently have in your hands presents a round-up of many of the opportunities available, with a detailed overview of the many courses and opportunities changing contractors’ lives and careers for the better.
Our next supplement will be published alongside the October issue and will focus on Lighting. To get involved, or for more information, contact Kelly Byne at kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com
4 Our cover story looks at how Aico is providing apprentice and carbon monoxide training
8 An overview of what ADI|Snap One has in store for visitors at the upcoming EI Live! event
10 NAPIT discusses the forthcoming changes to Solar PV and Battery Storage certification
12 A look inside a new eBook from Schneider Electric that offers a guide to business success
14
CEF PowerPro is keeping contractors equipped, efficient and one step ahead
15 Details of how training courses from XS Training can help with Level 3 qualifications
16 Cris Chapman of Sevadis addresses the increasing need for skilled EV charge point installers
18 Manage workplace stress with training courses from the Electrical Industries Charity
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 WELLER
T: 01634 673163
E: mark@allthingsmedialtd.com
CEO: DAVID KITCHENER
T: 01634 673163
E: david@allthingsmedialtd.com
MANAGING DIRECTOR: IAN KITCHENER
T: 01634 673163
E: ian@allthingsmedialtd.com
ACCOUNTS
T: 01634 673163
E: susan@allthingsmedialtd.com
Simon Rowley, Group Editor
PLAYING IT SAFE
At Inspire Education Group’s colleges in Peterborough and Stamford, the focus is always on delivering high-quality, industry-relevant education to students. With a wide array of courses, including electrical, plumbing, and T-Level qualifications, the college works tirelessly to ensure students are fully prepared to enter the workforce.
Aico, a leading provider of intelligent fire and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, is proud to be one of the key partners that has significantly benefitted these students. Robert Avery, Aico’s Relationship Manager for East Anglia West, has played an essential role in enhancing the training experience for students, empowering them with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Over 100 students have participated in a series of Aico’s Expert Apprentice and Expert CO training sessions, led by Robert, which provide students with a comprehensive understanding of fire and CO safety systems. Both training programmes are specifically tailored to meet the needs of those in the electrical, plumbing, and T-Level sectors, with a focus on real-world applications and up-to-date industry standards for their future careers.
Aico’s Expert Apprentice training
The Expert Apprentice programme has been particularly beneficial for electrical students, as it focuses on providing them with hands-on experience working with Aico’s range of alarms. This training covers essential areas such as installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting alarm systems, ensuring students gain the necessary skills to work with the latest technologies. Through interactive training sessions, electrical students have been able to learn how to integrate these life safety systems into various building setups, giving them a comprehensive understanding of modern electrical work.
Aico’s Expert CO training
While Aico’s primary focus has been on electrical safety systems, plumbing and T-Level students have also greatly benefitted from Aico’s training sessions. Expert CO focuses on the safe installation and maintenance of carbon monoxide alarms, a crucial skill for any professional in the plumbing and heating sectors. This training ensures that students are well-versed in the importance of safety in homes, particularly in relation to gas heating and the importance carbon monoxide alarms plays in safeguarding residents.
T-Level students who are preparing for careers in construction and building services gained invaluable knowledge on how alarm systems and other safety measures integrate with building design. The training ensured these students understood the broader picture of safety systems, providing them with a more holistic approach to their studies and future careers.
Aico’s partnership with Inspire Education Group
Aico’s collaboration with Inspire Education Group is more than just a one-off training session; it represents a long-term commitment to the college and its students. Over the years, Aico has built a strong partnership with the college,
working closely with faculty and staff to ensure that training is tailored to the needs of students and aligns with industry standards. Robert’s ongoing support is a testament to Aico’s dedication to helping students succeed in their chosen careers.
As part of this partnership, Aico has generously provided five demonstration boards to Inspire Education Group. These boards, which are now stationed in each of the classrooms, offer students the chance to work directly with Aico’s products. These boards serve as valuable resources for students to practice their skills in a safe and controlled environment, ensuring they gain confidence and competence with the technology before they enter the workforce. This ongoing collaboration demonstrates the importance of strong relationships between industry leaders like Aico and educational institutions. It ensures that students are prepared for their exams and equipped with the practical skills and experience that will set them apart in the competitive job market. With Aico’s continued support, Inspire Education Group is empowering the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
Mason Roach, Assistant Head of Faculty Apprenticeships at Inspire Education Group, comments, “The collaboration between the college and market-leading manufacturers such as Aico plays a crucial role in providing young learners with hands-on experience in the industry.
ECN looks at how Aico is providing expert apprentice and carbon monoxide training to Inspire Education Group.
Demonstration boards offer students the chance to work directly with Aico’s products
Aico’s Centre of Excellence in Oswestry plays host to bespoke training sessions
“The training presented by Robert was outstanding, and truly effective in engaging our students. Unlike traditional, lecture-style sessions, their approach was highly interactive, allowing students to actively participate in the learning process. The delivery was engaging, ensuring the students were not just passive listeners, but were encouraged to ask questions, share ideas, and practice hands-on skills. This level of interaction kept the students actively involved and fostered a deeper understanding of the material. It was an excellent training session that truly catered to the students’ needs and learning styles.
“Our students gained invaluable insight into domestic fire and CO safety, allowing them to understand not only the technical skills required, but also the critical reasoning behind their actions. The practical, real-world training delivered ensures students don’t just learn how to perform tasks, but also why they should perform them in a certain way, creating a deeper understanding and greater competence in their future careers. This approach is essential for bridging the gap between classroom learning and industry demands, ultimately shaping the next generation of highly skilled professionals. The demonstration boards supplied by Aico are vital to the support the students on their journeys from classroom to the workplace”.
Robert Avery, Relationship Manager for East Anglia West at Aico, says, “It was truly a rewarding experience to deliver training to the students at Inspire Education Group. The level of engagement from the students was exceptional, with many asking thoughtful questions throughout the sessions. This demonstrated their interest and growing understanding of the crucial legislations, regulations, and standards that underpin the industry. It’s clear that the training has provided them with a solid foundation, equipping them with the knowledge needed to excel in their future careers. Long may our partnership continue, as it is evident that together, we are making a positive and lasting impact on the next generation of skilled professionals.”
Aico’s commitment to training
Aico is committed to training installers to the highest standard. In addition to the Expert Apprentice and Expert CO training, installers can further their knowledge with Aico’s free Expert Installer programme. The FIA CPD accredited programme is designed for electrical installers to have all the information they need to correctly install domestic home safety systems to ensure the most effective protection for residents.
On completion of Expert Installer programme, attendees will be invited to Aico’s Installer Community; an online platform where they can join discussions, complete challenges, redeem rewards, and register for the Domestic Fire and CO Alarm Systems City & Guilds assured training. Once complete, installers can become Gold Standard, which means they are a recommended installer on Aico’s website. Aico has also launched its Platinum Partner Initiative; a prestigious recognition programme designed to elevate industry standards and reinforce a commitment to excellence across its installer network.
Building upon the foundation of the Gold Standard Installer requirements, the Platinum Partner status is awarded to elite organisations that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to professional development, safety compliance, and collaborative best practices. Aico has recently named Sureserve as its first-ever Platinum Partner, recognising the company’s outstanding commitment to raising standards in home life safety.
Aico’s Centre of Excellence
Aico’s Centre of Excellence, located in Oswestry, is a state-of-the-art training, meeting and education facility that first opened in 2015. Hundreds of housing associations, local authorities, electrical and gas contractors, and electrical distributors have each benefitted from the bespoke training sessions offered at the centre, with numerous electrical associations also using the meeting rooms to hold their regional meetings.
The Centre of Excellence houses a range of rooms and demonstration areas designed to support customers from across the industry. The technical workshop seats up to 64 people and is a hands-on area for training on installation and wiring. The fully equipped workshop allows visitors to get up close with Aico’s products and is the setting for their ever-growing training programmes.
The workshop includes a specially made smoke chamber allowing for live fire demonstrations, providing an innovative way to understand the dangers of fire and how the alarm sensors work to detect the incidents. Within the training rooms, there is a fully furnished bungalow (Ember Place), comprising of a 1960s style living room, 1990s kitchen, and a modern bedroom. All areas demonstrate Aico alarms in-situ, to help educate visitors on fire and carbon monoxide risks within properties. Since opening, over 2,000 visitors have received training at the centre.
Conclusion
Aico aims to offer all the support professionals need, whatever role they have in domestic alarm selection, distribution and installation. From guidance on standards and regulations to installation advice, Aico’s technical team can answer installation-based queries, available by phone, email, live chat or video call.
The company’s dedicated team of relationship managers are based across the country to provide personal service to clients to offer help, support and guidance. Aico also has several new Mobile Training & Demonstration units that travel across the UK, providing an exceptional level of bespoke training, development and technical guidance.
To contact your local relationship manager, visit aico.co.uk/contact.
Aico, aico.co.uk
Numerous electrical contractors have benefitted from the bespoke training sessions offered at the centre
Aico is committed to supporting students on their journeys from classroom to the workplace
BECOME AN AICO EXPERT INSTALLER
Aico’s free, award-winning Expert Installer training scheme is FIA CPD accredited and is designed to make sure installers have all the information they need to correctly install domestic home life safety systems, including fire and carbon monoxide alarms and environmental Sensors.
Join our connected community built to support Expert Installers
Connect with fellow professionals
Learn new skills to earn points and receive prizes
Rewards for members every month
Members of the community are eligible to participate in Aico’s free-of-charge City & Guilds Assured Training - Domestic Fire & CO Alarm Systems.
BECOME AN AICO GOLD STANDARD INSTALLER
At Aico, we understand what a huge responsibility it is to provide home life safety devices into UK homes, which is why we hold both ourselves and the partners we work with to such a high standard. Gold Standard Installers are another way to ensure the safety of UK homes and their residents.
How can I become Gold Standard?
Complete our free FIA accredited Expert Installer Training
Join thousands of others in our rewards-based Installer Community
Expand your knowledge with our free City & Guilds Training
Be a member of NICEIC, NAPIT, Select or FIA
To find out more about Aico’s training programmes, scan here:
ADI SNAP ONE TO HOST SKILLS STATION AT EI LIVE! 2025
Ahead of EI Live!, the UK’s premier AV and smart home exhibition taking place on 17-18 September at the Farnborough Exhibition Centre, ADI | Snap One – one of the show’s most prominent exhibitors – provides an overview of what visitors can expect.
ADI | Snap One serves as the ultimate resource for integrators looking to delve deeply into smart home integration. The company offers a diverse range of products, making it the go-to supplier for every smart home installation need.
By tailoring its approach to the specific experience, skills and expertise of each integrator, ADI | Snap One continually enhances its solutions and services. The company aims to become the most valued and trusted partner for its customers, prioritising simplicity in all its operations. This vision is centred on saving time, reducing costs and minimising hassle in product selection, system design, installation, integration and after-care.
Training is a cornerstone of the company’s success, as well as that of its customers and the broader industry. ADI | Snap One is committed to developing training programmes that not only support technical product integration, but also elevate professional standards. The company understands the necessity of evolving its training support to align with new product innovations, industry practices and customer needs.
Skills Station at EI Live!
ADI | Snap One is expanding its training offering to make it an even better experience for visitors this year
The ADI | Snap One Skills Station will be returning to EI Live! 2025. Following a great response at last year’s event, the team have expanded the offering to make it an even better experience for visitors this year.
The dedicated area allows visitors to attend hands-on training and develop their skills in the smart home sector. It provides a unique opportunity for integrators to deepen their knowledge, explore new products and enhance their expertise through expert-led workshops.
The training on offer covers the following key ADI | Snap One brands: OvrC; Luma; Control4 and X4; and Wattbox.
• Session 1 – Evolving & Optimising using OvrC
For integrators who want to know what’s new with OvrC, then this is the course to attend. The session will look at how the platform is evolving and optimising through categories. The presenter will start by looking at the network for configuring Control4 and exploring how integrators should make use of all the available tools to keep them in front of their installations.
• Session 2 – Surveillance that Works for You – Luma
This session is dedicated to Luma and will delve into camera range and Luma Bridge features, set-up processes and demonstrations. Working with a secure surveillance solution that works for you, the presenter will explain how Luma via OvrC speeds up the install and commissioning time to deliver the most involved Control4 Surveillance platform.
• Session 3 – Take Customisation to the Next Level using Control4 & X4
This course will be the first opportunity for integrators to explore X4. The presenter will walk attendees through the all-new home screen, explain working with widgets and discover how they can take customisation to the next level. All of this will allow integrators to enhance the Control4 experience for their Control4 customers.
• Session 4 – Remote Management & Automation with WattBox
This 30-minute training session is designed for integrators and technicians seeking to master the installation, configuration and management of WattBox products using the OvrC platform. Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of the WattBox product range and hands-on experience with setup, outlet configuration, host management, self-healing functionality, scheduled actions and auxiliary connections. By the end of the session, attendees will be equipped to deploy WattBox solutions effectively, minimise service calls and enhance system reliability through remote management and automation.
These training courses are a great opportunity for EI Live! visitors to get a concise update or introduction into ADI | Snap One solutions. The EI Live! Trainings registration page will be live closer to the show.
ADI | Snap One, snapav.com
The Skills Station allows visitors to attend hands-on training sessions
All Your Project Needs in One Dependable Partner
Come meet our team at EI Live 2025 and discover how our leading brands —including Control4, OvrC, Araknis, WattBox, and more—can elevate your next project. Let’s connect, talk solutions, and explore what’s new!
17th - 18th September
Installers of battery storage systems will need to be aware of the upcoming legislation changes
EXPIRY TO EVERGREEN
NAPIT discusses the major changes to Solar PV and Battery Storage certification coming towards the end of August. Installers face stricter entry requirements and lose the option to use Recognised Prior Learning, so act now to certify under current rules and secure a lifetime qualification without future retraining costs.
If you’re planning to gain or update your qualifications in Solar PV or Electrical Energy Storage Systems (Battery Storage), a major change is coming that will see all Awarding Bodies apply standardised entry requirements, and the removal of the opportunity to use Recognised Prior Learning.
From the end of August 2025, LCL Awards will introduce new entry requirements for its Level 3 Solar PV and EESS qualifications. As a result, installers who don’t meet the new criteria may need to undertake additional training to qualify.
Right now, there’s a window of opportunity to secure your certification under current, more accessible requirements, and benefit from the long-term advantages of an evergreen qualification – meaning you won’t need to retrain or pay for additional qualifications in the future.
Why certify now?
LCL Awards certifications are fully recognised by MCS, and unlike other industry qualifications, they never expire. Once you’re certified, that’s it: there’s no
need to retrain every five years, no hidden renewal costs, and no risk of slipping out of compliance.
From the end of August, the updated criteria will require installers to take a full Experienced Worker Route NVQ and AM2 pathway if they don’t already hold specific prerequisite qualifications.
Certifying before the change means you:
• Avoid the upcoming entry barriers
• Save thousands on retraining
• Stay certified for life with no expiry
Whether you’re expanding your services or maintaining compliance, now is the time to act. By certifying ahead of the deadline, you’ll avoid future roadblocks and lock in a qualification that lasts a lifetime.
Don’t leave it too late
Spaces are limited and demand will only grow as the deadline at the end of August approaches. Secure your spot today and protect your future in the renewables sector. Call 0345 543 0330 to speak to NAPIT’s training team, or book online at napit.org. uk/napit-training/renewables-training.
NAPIT, napit.org.uk
Secure your place on a Level 3 LCL Awarded Solar PV or Battery Storage Course before end of August!
From August 2025, entry requirements will change.
Avoid the pre-requisite changes or you may have to undertake the NVQ/AM2 in order to access the course.
3 Award: Installation and Maintenance of
Solar Photovoltaic Systems
Course (SPV) Level 3 Award: Design, Installation and Commissioning of Electrical Energy Storage Systems Update Course (EESS)
EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF ELECTRICIANS
To help electrical contractors maximise the business opportunities available to them, Schneider Electric has published Build My Business, a brand new eBook that offers a practical guide to business success.
The electrical industry is full of opportunity. Whether you’re a newcomer eager to launch your career or a seasoned electrician ready to take the next step, building a successful business requires more than technical expertise – it demands strategic planning, financial insight, and strong leadership. That’s where the free Build My Business eBook from Schneider Electric can help.
Designed as a flexible and practical resource, the eBook offers a comprehensive eLearning programme built around five essential modules: Start My Business, Finance My Business, Promote My Business, Run and Grow My Business, and Lead My Business. Each module is packed with actionable insights, from marketing strategies and budgeting tips to leadership development and customer engagement techniques. You can explore the content at your own pace, in any order, and focus on the areas most relevant to your goals.
Here’s what each module covers:
Start My Business
Laying the groundwork for a successful business begins with understanding your market. This module guides you through identifying your target audience, crafting a solid business plan, and managing your budget effectively. It also covers essential topics like choosing the right insurance, staying current with industry trends – especially in smart automation – and developing a competitive marketing strategy.
Finance My Business
Financial stability is key to any thriving business. This module helps you build a realistic budget, price your services strategically, and maintain healthy profit margins. You’ll learn how to control costs, monitor spending, and use digital tools to streamline operations and improve financial oversight.
Promote My Business
In today’s digital world, visibility is everything. This module focuses on building a strong online presence through a professional website, effective SEO practices, and consistent social media engagement. It also highlights the importance of customer reviews and digital communication, helping you build trust and credibility with potential clients.
Run and Grow My Business
Success isn’t just about getting the job done – it’s about delivering an exceptional customer experience. This module emphasises the importance of soft skills, from communication to relationship-building. You’ll also explore sales strategies, learn how to stay ahead of emerging technologies, and discover how upgrading your services can boost profitability and set you apart from the competition.
Lead My Business
As your business grows, so does your role as a leader. This final module explores the fundamentals of team management and leadership. It offers guidance on how to inspire and motivate your team, foster a collaborative work environment, and align your business goals with your team’s strengths. Leadership in the electrical field isn’t just about technical know-how –it’s about vision, communication, and the ability to drive your business forward. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your existing business, this eBook can help you on your roadmap to success. With its flexible structure, practical tools, and expert insights, it empowers electricians to take control of their careers and thrive in a competitive industry. Download the eBook today and join Schneider Electric to discover the essential knowledge that will help you drive your success!
Schneider Electric, se.com/uk
Introducing the New On-Demand CPD Library from Schneider Electric!
We’re excited to share our enhanced On-Demand CPD Library with you – the essential resource for industry knowledge and continuous professional development.
We’re passionate about empowering professionals across the electrical industry with the insights and tools needed to thrive in a fast-changing world.
What’s New? Our updated CPD Library now features a broader range of expertly designed sessions, including:
• HV Distribution Networks
• Selectivity and Cascading
• IoT Power Management
• eMobility
• Busbar Fundamentals
…and so much more!
Why Explore the CPD Library?
• Stay ahead and up to date with the latest technologies
• Learn at your own pace, anytime, anywhere
• Earn valuable CPD credits while you grow
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills or expand your expertise, our CPD Library is your go-to resource for staying ahead in the electrical industry.
Start learning and power up your professional journey!
Find out more
CEF POWERPRO — ENGINEERED FOR POWER, BUILT FOR PROS
Whatever the job, whatever the challenge, CEF PowerPro keeps contractors equipped, efficient and one step ahead. ECN looks at exactly what the electric wholesaler is able to offer.
CEF POWERPRO is setting a new benchmark in the world of professional power tools, and is the ultimate destination for professional tradespeople who demand quality, reliability, and expert advice they can trust.
Showcasing an unbeatable range of market-leading brands, like DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee and more, CEF POWERPRO brings everything together in one place. Whether you’re on-site or planning your next job, CEF POWERPRO makes it easy to find the right tools –when and where you need them.
With access to over 400 branches nationwide and online for next day delivery, CEF POWERPRO supports professionals across diverse trades and
industries. Whatever the job, the electric wholesaler has got the kit to match –backed by a team that understands what it means to work in the trade.
From replacements, upgrades and accessories to the latest in power tool innovation, CEF POWERPRO is your go-to for professional tools that are engineered for performance and built to last.
And to keep you informed and ahead of the curve, the CEF POWERPRO magazine – which is available in branch and online –delivers in-depth product reviews, expert advice, and efficiency boosting insights.
So, whether you’re working to a tight deadline or powering through your next big project, choose CEF POWERPRO – the name the trade trusts.
CEF, cef.co.uk
ONLINE LEVEL 3 ELECTRICAL TRAINING
Details on how electrical training courses from XS Training can help tradespeople attain the Level 3 Electrical qualification in a convenient and cost-effective manner.
Since 2011, XS Training has delivered C&G Level 3 Electrotechnical Experienced Worker, NVQ Diplomas in Electrotechnical Technology, 18th Edition and AM2 Preparation training throughout the UK, and it is now the UK’s number one online training provider for the Level 3 Electrical Installation.
To be eligible to undertake these practical assessments you must already have prior experience and qualifications and be currently working in the industry.
XS Training has a unique system to help you attain your chosen Level 3 Electrical qualification in the most cost-effective way possible.
• Experienced assessors. You are supported from start to finish by a team of highly professional trainers and assessors who will provide you with support, advice and guidance on how to successfully complete your qualification.
• Online portfolio. These qualifications are completed almost entirely online with their efficient and easy to use e-Portfolio system. No paperwork is required because you simply upload your evidence and then have a professional discussion with your assessor based on the evidence you’ve collected.
• Remote assessments. We offer remote assessment, via the internet on your mobile phone whilst you’re
working, meaning you don’t have to take time out to come to a training centre to be assessed.
Successful completion of the Level 3 qualification will be counted toward meeting the major eligibility requirement to apply for the highly prized and industry-recognised ECS Gold Card from the JIB.
Take the first step on getting your ECS/JIB Gold Card and moving forward in your electrical career by contacting XS Training today! Visit the company’s website below, email enquiries@ xstraining.com, or call 0800 170 0294 for further information.
XS Training, xstraining.com
EV INSTALLATION SKILLS BEAR THE LOAD
As the UK transitions away from fossil fuels, the need for skilled EV charge point installers has never been greater. Cris Chapman, Managing Director of Sevadis, looks at some of the knowledge requirements, with an emphasis on load balancing.
With bans on petrol and diesel vehicle sales approaching and Government heavily promoting the shift towards electric vehicles, contractors have a golden opportunity to future-proof their businesses and support the UK’s clean transport evolution by upskilling now.
For electricians looking to grow their business, EV installation training is a logical next step. Training at Sevadis, for instance, enables installers to fit a wider range of charger brands and gain confidence, especially around commissioning and software – often cited as a barrier to entry.
As electric vehicle (EV) adoption surges, the need to protect building operations and electrical infrastructure becomes paramount.
Understanding load balancing
Load balancing is a key function, with contracting professionals needing a good awareness of the three load balancing types to keep pace with the sector.
Load balancing is the method of evenly distributing electricity across multiple EV charge points (EVCPs). It ensures the chargers will only ever draw off the amount of power that is allocated to the charger network and effectively prioritises site or building functions over the vehicle. This also improves charging efficiency, and saves on infrastructure upgrades. As such, load balancing has become a critical element within building management and electrical infrastructure planning.
As the demand for EV charging increases, so too does the need for skilled professionals who can install these systems
Static
Static load balancing is best suited for smaller sites with predictable power use – such as workplaces with a small number of chargers – where static systems allocate a fixed power amount to each charger. While simple to install, they adjust power output in real time but only to a fixed pre-set power limit. To master static setups, hardware configuration and usage predictions need to be understood.
Cloud-based
Particularly useful for larger dispersed sites, where chargers might not be on the same internet connection, cloud-based load balancing allows remote modification of power allocations via software platforms like Monta or Fuuse. Cloud-based solutions also enable centralised monitoring and real-time power management, offering more flexibility than static systems.
Installers need to develop skills in cloud system integration and network connectivity, as these platforms optimise charging speeds and prioritise chargers based on real-time data.
Dynamic
For complex or high-demand sites, dynamic load balancing systems are the most effective. These setups involve continuous monitoring using load meters and CT clamps connected to the building’s supply. The meters and clamps work in conjunction to monitor the overall supply to the building.
This information is communicated to the load balancing software system in the chargers which in turn reduces or increases available power capacity to the chargers. This ensures that power to the building is not compromised and its electrical functions can carry on as normal. This requires knowledge of the building’s power supply and how it is being utilised.
As the demand for EV charging increases, so too does the need for skilled professionals who can install, implement, and manage these systems. Investing in skills acquisition is essential to meet the growing needs of the EV market. Technical training programmes will play a pivotal role in ensuring that the industry can handle the transition to greener, more sustainable transportation solutions.
By creating a workforce proficient in these installations, the transition to widespread EV adoption can be both seamless and sustainable, contributing to a cleaner future for all.
Structured training is a must, and Sevadis offers comprehensive, hands-on, and free installation courses. A typical Sevadis course covers EV types, connectors, charging modes, load management, software setup, installation considerations, and legal compliance – including the EV (Smart Charge Points) Regulations 2021 and Public Charge Point Regulations 2023.
For more information about Sevadis’s training offer, visit sevadis.com/installer-training.
Sevadis, sevadis.com
For electricians looking to grow their business, EV installation training is a logical next step
• Practical, hands-on learning with charge points
• Commercial EVCP installations focus
• Hardware installation & software configuration
• Load balancing and connectivity
• Back-office management
Half day in person course Scan
MANAGE WORKPLACE STRESS WITH EIC’S LATEST TRAINING COURSE
With one in nine UK adults feeling stressed every day, managing stress should be your next business priority, the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) writes.
Workplace stress isn’t just an individual problem – it’s a business-critical issue. According to the latest figures (2023/2024), a staggering 33.7 million working days were lost due to work-related ill health and non-fatal workplace injuries, with stress and anxiety sitting firmly at the centre of the problem. With one in nine UK adults feeling stressed every single day (Ciphr) and 74% of employees experiencing moderate-to-high stress levels (MHFA England), particularly among younger employees and women, it’s clear we’re facing a stress crisis at work. Even more concerning, one in four employees report feeling unable to cope with workplace stress – a sharp indicator that current strategies are falling short.
The Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) is seeing more demand than ever before for support around mental wellbeing in the workplace. As part of the EIC’s commitment to providing relevant, impactful services, it has developed a Managing Workplace Stress training course – a practical, people-first solution to help organisations recognise, respond to and reduce workplace stress.
Jess Vailima, Managing Director at EIC, explains, “The industry is changing and so are the pressures our people face. We’re committed to delivering proactive, accessible support that reflects what’s really going on in our workplaces. Our training is more than a box to tick – it’s a step towards lasting, positive change in how we treat wellbeing at work. In 2025, we’ve seen a significant increase in cases where workplace stress is a core issue, and it’s clear the demand for informed, preventative support has never been greater.”
A new approach to stress
Stress manifests differently for every person, and so should the support. EIC’s Managing Workplace Stress course is designed for managers, team leaders and colleagues alike. It offers tools to better understand stress, build resilience and foster a culture where open conversations and early interventions are not only encouraged, but expected.
This isn’t just about preventing burnout; it’s about creating an environment where people feel seen, heard and supported, and where performance can thrive as a result.
What the course covers:
• Understanding stress and burnout – Learn how stress builds, and the difference between healthy pressure and harmful overload
• Spotting the signs early – Recognise emotional, behavioural and physical warning signs in yourself and others
• Identifying triggers and coping strategies – Get practical advice on reducing stressors in your workplace and helping others manage theirs
• Creating a supportive, mentally healthy culture – Embed wellbeing into the day-to-day, from team check-ins to leadership behaviour.
“This course is about creating confidence and compassion in equal measure,” explains Danny Mouskovias, EIC’s lead trainer and wellbeing facilitator. “Whether you manage a team or want to be a better peer, we give you the tools to have better conversations and take meaningful action. So often, people want to help but don’t know where to start – this course bridges that gap. It’s about understanding the signs of stress, knowing how to respond, and ultimately building a culture where people feel seen, heard, and genuinely supported.”
Why it matters
The workplace has evolved – hybrid working, digital overload, rising financial pressures and blurred work-life boundaries have all added new layers to how employees experience stress.
In response, workers today aren’t just asking for support; they’re expecting it. Organisations that don’t step up risk not only higher absence rates, but disengagement, low morale and increased turnover.
This training empowers your team to be proactive, not reactive – to catch stress early, act quickly, and create a culture where wellbeing is valued, not sidelined.
Book your place today
Workplace wellbeing isn’t a luxury, it’s essential. The EIC believes we should work together to make sure no one faces stress alone. If you want to make a real difference in your workplace culture and equip your team with the tools they need to thrive, the EIC’s Managing Workplace Stress training is a must. Get in touch today to book your course or discuss bespoke options tailored to your team by emailing training@eictradingco.org.
Plus, when you take part in EIC’s training, you’ll unlock exclusive wellbeing resources and get access to practical tools designed to help your organisation build resilience and thrive.
The EIC offers a diverse range of training courses covering everything from mental health awareness and stress management to grief support and much more, all designed to help you build a compassionate and resilient workforce.
Source: Mental Health Foundation - Stressed Nation: 74% of UK ‘Overwhelmed or Unable to Cope
Is Your Workplace Supporting Mental Health?
We are supporting more people than ever and are committed to providing services and training that address emerging industry trends. With stress and anxiety levels at an all-time high, it’s crucial to equip organisations with the tools to create healthier work environments. Our tailored training programmes focus on managing stress, building resilience, and promoting mental well-being. By prioritising mental health, we can foster a culture where employees feel valued and empowered.
Join us in making a difference — because a healthier workplace leads to greater productivity.
Managing Workplace Stress Training Course
You
Level up with the Electrician Plus bundle
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What you need to know
• Entry requirements and terms apply.
• Courses must be booked within 12 months of purchase.
