14 Ask the expert 16-18 BS EN IEC 61439 compliance
Features
Data centres
20-21 Circuit protection for the AI era
Who should be installing solar PV panels – roofers or electricians?
Ask the expert Energy-efficient
Solar PV
22-25 Measurement of I-V characteristics 26-28 A growing safety challenge
Low-carbon technology 30-31 Future Homes Standard
EVs 32-33 Charging installation and maintenance 34-36 The EV charging opportunity
Safety 38-40 Test before touch
Lighting
Embracing a circular economy 44 Lighting logic 46-47 School lighting upgrade 48-49 Improved lighting for sports facility
Aberdeen Sports Village has embarked on a mission to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
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From the Editor
As per our cover story, this issue looks at the opportunities presented by the Future Homes Standard, which aims to ensure all new homes are modern and energy efficient. Due to be published this Autumn, we await the full technical detail of the standard, however, the Government confirmed earlier this year that new build homes will have solar panels by default, unleashing what it called a “rooftop revolution”.
The proposed standard will see building regulations amended to explicitly promote solar for the first time. Together with a push on the likes of EV charging, battery storage, heat pumps and smart controls, the plans should be viewed as “a serious commercial opportunity,” says myenergi’s Lee Sutton on pages 30-31.
The growth of solar PV installations on new-build developments has, however, brought with it “a grey area of responsibility,” explains CEF’s Darren Staniforth on page 14, as he considers the question: Who should install solar PV panels – roofers or electricians? Darren calls for clearer guidance to balance roof integrity with electrical safety, and this is further highlighted by Europa’s Rob Aitken and Joanne Jones on pages 26-28 as they explore the new and under-recognised risks of solar PV systems.
The Future Homes Standard will also see the phasing out of gas boilers in new homes in favour of low-carbon heating, such as heat pumps. In this issue’s ‘The Interview’ (pages 10-13), Blakemore Renewables’ Damon Blakemore speaks about the huge demand for heat pumps, saying it’s the busiest – and happiest career-wise – he’s ever been: “I’ve never loved my job as much as I do right now; the opportunities in this sector are endless.” Recently elected as the Heat Pump Association’s first ever Installer Representative, Damon discusses his plans for his two-year term to ensure the voices of heat pump installers are heard in this fast-evolving sector.
Editorial Director Carly Woodhead
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New ECS revalidation requirements from 2027
From 1 January 2027, there will be significant changes for those at operative level or above who are renewing their Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) cards for occupations in FESS, Network Infrastructure and LV Cabling and Jointing.
New revalidation requirements will be introduced, in line with major sector reforms enacted following the Grenfell Tower tragedy. The Building Safety Act and accompanying regulations redefine accountability and place renewed emphasis on both individual and organisational responsibility.
The Industry Competence Committee (ICC), which advises the Building Safety Regulator, has outlined principles and developed guidelines to raise standards and maintain safety-critical competence. It has set clear expectations about ongoing learning, individual accountability and formal revalidation. To meet these aims, more than 1,000 organisations have been working together in Sector Lead Groups to
develop competence frameworks. The recommendations and standards developed for each relevant industry group are now being embedded into ECS, through updated renewal criteria.
From 1 January 2027, when renewing your ECS card you will need to have either:
a) Completed a recognised qualification in your occupational area within the past five years. or
b) Completed a role-specific knowledge and technical assessment, e.g., Fire, Emergency and Security Systems (FESS); Network Infrastructure; or LV Cabling and Jointing.
Completing the qualification or assessment ensures that each professional demonstrates current, practical competence and has undertaken CPD to keep up to date with regulation changes and new technologies.
ecscard.org.uk
Government announces latest EV initiatives
Drivers can now enjoy £3,750 off two new Ford electric cars, as the Ford Puma Gen-E and Ford e-Tourneo Courier become eligible for the Government’s Electric Car Grant (ECG) scheme. The models are the first to offer the maximum savings available, with 28 EVs now eligible for grants of either £3,750 or £1,500.
Meanwhile, the Government has also confirmed vital funding to support the uptake of electric vans and trucks. The plug-in van and truck grant currently offers discounts up to £2,500 for small vans, £5,000 for large vans, £16,000 for small trucks, and £25,000 for large trucks. Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood has confirmed the grant will continue to at least 2027.
gov.uk
Record number of renewables for UK homes
There were a record 170,000 certified renewable installations in the first six months of 2025, according to MCS data. This is a 37% increase on the equivalent period last year, and a 33% increase on the previous highest start to a year in 2023.
The record number of installations is fuelled by three technologies – solar panels, battery storage and heat pumps:
• There were 120,000 certified solar panel installations in the first six months of 2025, a 36% increase on the same period for last year and 13% higher than the previous January-June record which was set in 2012.
• Battery storage saw almost 20,000 installations, a 130% increase on the same period last year.
• There were 30,000 certified heat pump installations, a 12% increase on last year’s record start to a year.
mcscertified.com
Technical Excellence Colleges unveiled
State-of-the-art Technical Excellence Colleges have been unveiled to support more than 40,000 future electricians, plumbers, builders, bricklayers and carpenters to gain cutting-edge skills to get Britain building.
The specialist colleges will be in every region of England to deliver the workforce needed to turbocharge the building of new homes, schools and hospitals. The move will allow the industry to draw on homegrown, British talent in the years to come, supporting the British working class with wellpaid, high-skilled job opportunities.
Backed by a £100 million investment, the colleges will support the construction sector and deliver the Government’s commitment to build 1.5 million homes through its Plan for Change.
gov.uk
Upskilling route for Domestic Electricians
Domestic Electricians who have qualified via the Domestic Electrician apprenticeship or Experienced Worker Assessment will soon have a new training route to broaden their skillset and become recognised as an Installation/Maintenance Electrician.
TESP is currently working with awarding organisations and NET on a process that will involve Domestic Electricians completing a series of bridging units covering knowledge and practical assessments, involving robust workplace experience to develop occupational competence across the full scope of installation and maintenance activity, before undertaking a NET end assessment of competence.
There will be industry consultation on this new bridging process during the last quarter of 2025, with delivery planned from early 2026.
the-esp.org.uk
ECA welcomes Skills England assessment
ECA has welcomed the publication of Skills England’s Assessment of priority skills to 2030 report, which confirms that electricians and electrical engineers are two of the careers expected to see the most growth in the next five years.
The assessment also states that electrotechnical occupations are key to multiple sectors, including clean energy, advanced manufacturing, defence and digital technologies. This aligns with ECA’s own Blueprint for Electrification report evidencing how vital the electrotechnical industry is to the whole economy.
According to Skills England, employment demand in priority occupations is expected to increase by 15% by 2030, from 5.9 million in 2025 to 6.7 million in 2030. This is 1.6 times faster than other employment in these sectors, which is expected to increase by 0.8 million, a 9% increase from 8.9 million in 2025.
eca.co.uk
Arena Training Centre set to expand
Having just celebrated 21 years in business, Arena Training Centre in Sheffield is set to expand further following the announcement of a new AM2 Assessment Centre opening in York, along with a small training provision which will see a variety of electrical courses being delivered.
Directors Ian Gall and Peter (Monty) Monfort deliver apprenticeship training in partnership with JTL and The Sheffield College, as well as private courses for beginners and experienced qualified electricians.
The company is inviting applications from candidates interested in becoming an AM2 assessor, or those wishing to deliver training for accredited electrical courses such as Inspection and Testing, Solar, Battery, Electric Vehicle Charging and Regulations.
arenatraining.co.uk
ECA achieves further transparency on payment performance data
In January 2025 new reporting requirements, designed by Government with support from ECA, were introduced. As a result, large companies are now required to report on both the value and number of invoices paid within 0 to 30 days, 31 to 60 days and more than 60 days. This change will provide even greater transparency for the supply chain around payment performance.
Results for all large firms are likely to be available in May 2026 when the remaining large firms have submitted their first reports.
Following ECA’s ideas and expertise, Government has also laid draft legislation to require companies to include their payment results in their directors’ reports from 1 January 2026 and is consulting on further measures to improve payment practices as part of its Small Business Plan.
eca.co.uk
interview The
Meet Damon
Damon Blakemore is the Director and Lead Engineer of Blakemore Renewables, an award-winning plumbing, heating and renewables specialist based in Sheffield. Having spent more than 16 years in the industry, Damon has an NVQ Level 2 and 3 in plumbing and heating studies and completed his apprenticeship with the local council. He is a WaterSafe registered plumber and a Gas Safe registered engineer and holds his G3 qualification, also known as an Unvented Hot Water qualification. He is a Heat Geek Elite and a member of the Gas Safety SuperHeroes, and was recently elected as the first ever Installer Representative of the Heat Pump Association.
Damon describes his path into the plumbing and heating sector as “a little different, with a few false starts in various jobs and sectors”. At 20, he’d decided against studying law and was making gas fires for caravans. “I was questioning my life choices and struggling to see a future career path for myself,” he says. “But then I saw
Sit down with: Blakemore Renewables’ Damon Blakemore
Damon Blakemore, Director and Lead Engineer of Blakemore Renewables, was recently elected as the first ever Installer Representative of the Heat Pump Association (HPA). Electrotechnical News caught up with Damon to find out more about his career, the opportunities and challenges presented by renewable energy, and the significance of his role with the HPA as we journey to net zero.
an advert in the paper for the local council offering apprenticeships. I applied for plumbing and gas, and electrical, and ended up with the plumbing one.”
From there, he spent 15 years with Rotherham Council followed by Willmott Dixon. Whilst gradually building his own business during evenings and weekends, a period of furlough during the Covid pandemic gave Damon the push he needed to go self-employed. “I got straight into low-temperature heating fitting Viessmann boilers, and my work just evolved from there.” Today, he delivers fully bespoke heating systems, heat loss calculations, water treatment and complex renewable retrofits. “I have a thirst for learning now and love the design aspect of the job.”
“This is my third year offering heat pumps. My first year was around 90% gas to 10% renewable work, and this year has been about 95% renewables to 5% gas.”
Changing consumer behaviour
With the shift towards renewables, Damon says it’s the busiest he’s ever been. “The demand and market
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currently are huge. I’ve seen demand for heat pumps grow massively. This is now my third year offering them and it’s grown year on year. My first year was around 90% gas to 10% renewable work, and this year has been about 95% renewables to 5% gas.
“We are fully booked for the rest of this year and already booking into 2026 with more enquiries coming through every week.” Damon believes there are numerous reasons why, including the increase in the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grant to £7,500, as well as more positivity and success stories about heat pumps.
But it’s not just the way we consume energy that’s changing; Damon has witnessed a significant shift in customers’ attitudes towards their energy use, too. “For the first time ever, it feels like we as a trade are appreciated, and that the heating system is finally becoming a crucial part of the home rather than just something you have repaired when it breaks down.
“Customers seem invested in us now – the relationship has changed and they are engaging on a level they
“It feels like we as a trade are appreciated, and the heating system is finally becoming a crucial part of the home rather than just something you have repaired when it breaks down.”
never did before. They actually care about how they heat their homes, they are conscious about energy usage – for cost, obviously, but also for the reduction in carbon and doing their bit. They now come along on the journey with you, which is part of my job that I really enjoy.”
As customers become more energy
conscious, Damon believes that offering a renewable option is “essential for business”. He says, “Customers are now actively asking about low-carbon options for their households – being able to have these conversations will only benefit you.
“With the Future Homes Standard coming in, gas boilers will be phased out of new builds. Combined with incentives for renewables ramping up, offering this option to your customers shows you understand current systems and the market, and that you’re not just selling boilers. Offering renewables is about guiding customers to what suits their home – it will open more doors and generate more work.”
Government and certification challenges
As with any fast-evolving technology, however, there are challenges facing heat pump installers as well as barriers to greater uptake of heat pumps. “From the view of an installer entering the industry, the MCS process can be unclear, and it’s often not an easy transition,” Damon explains. “From an existing installer’s point of view, the ongoing process with MCS and the auditing from your
certification body can be challenging – the amount of unnecessary paperwork and emails you must respond to.
“Training is a big issue too – the courses that you take to get your MCS aren’t beneficial. We need to look at restructuring the entire learning platform if we want uptake to increase. As someone who runs a business, there just aren’t enough installers out there who want to do this work or who are capable.”
Another major issue Damon highlights is a lack of clear direction from the Government. “They need to come out and say, ‘we are going this way with heat pumps and gas central heating is all but dead’, but currently they aren’t. We need clear direction to drive uptake, and currently we don’t have this.”
The price of electricity relative to gas is also a challenge, he says. “If it was more competitively priced, then more customers would be enticed to make the switch. With cheaper electric pricing, you’re able to relax your designs slightly, use that extra bit of pump power, use a higher flow temperature perhaps, and existing radiators. We are stuck at the moment as we have to hit the best install on every job to provide the best outcome for the customer in terms of performance.”
“We need clear direction from the Government. They need to say, ‘we are going this way with heat pumps and gas central heating is all but dead’, but currently they aren’t.”
Heat Pump Association involvement
Having recently been elected the first ever Installer Representative of the Heat Pump Association (HPA) – something he calls “an absolute honour, a very proud moment in my life” – Damon says he has been speaking to fellow installers to get their points of view when it comes to challenges, “but it seems my experiences are shared among the masses”.
The newly created role marks a significant step in continuing to ensure that the voices of heat pump installers are heard and reflected in the HPA’s work. During his two-year term, Damon hopes to address some of the difficulties mentioned above.
“There are a few nuances within MCS and the certification bodies that I’d like to sort out and help to make improvements to the process. I would also love to develop a clear pathway for a plumbing or gas engineer to transition into the renewable world while still running their own day-today business.”
Damon also hopes to tackle the challenge of keeping up to date with legislation. “It doesn’t get channelled down to installers very well. We need to find a way to communicate better with installers and bridge the gap,” he comments. “I’m hoping I can help with that as part of my role with the HPA.”
Beyond the ‘early adopters’
When it comes to his predictions for the sector in the near future, Damon says, “I think over the next two years we will see the same steady growth in the retrofit market, but heat pumps in the new build sector should accelerate quickly. Skilled installers will be in high demand, but still in low supply.
“In five years’ time, hopefully we’ll have some clarity on the gas boiler ban which could accelerate the retrofit market, but I also expect to see changes to the BUS grant, which can’t be sustained forever. I also think we’ll start to see more smart grid integration – many heat pumps are already suited to this but it’s just becoming live. Hybrid systems will become more widely spread, while companies offering the full package – solar PV, batteries and heat pumps – will be preferred.”
Looking 10 years ahead, Damon believes heat pumps will be the norm for retrofit and commercial applications. “We will hopefully have passed the ‘early adopters’ stage and will hit mass market. I can also see heat as a service becoming a big player and a mainstream option for many.”
As for his words of wisdom for installers branching out into the world of renewables, “I would tell them I’ve never loved my job as much as I do right now, and the opportunities in this sector are endless.”
heatpumps.org.uk
blakemoreplumbingandheating.co.uk
Ask the expert
Who should install solar PV panels?
Darren Staniforth Head of Electrotechnical Solutions, CEF
Whether you’re navigating complex installations, troubleshooting challenging systems, or looking for guidance on the latest industry standards and technologies, Darren Staniforth, Head of Electrotechnical Solutions at CEF, is here to help.
Get the answers you need to complete your projects with confidence and precision. Ask away, and let our expert support you in delivering top-notch electrical solutions!
Need some technical advice?
Darren is here to help! Send your questions to: info@electrotechnicalnews.com
The growth of solar PV installations on new build developments has brought with it a grey area of responsibility –who should be fitting the panels to the roof?
Many developers require roofing contractors to install solar panels to ensure warranties and insurance cover for water ingress under NHBC rules. Electrical contractors, meanwhile, connect, test and certify the complete system. On the surface, this arrangement appears efficient – the roof remains warrantied, and the electrical installation is tested and signed off by a qualified person. However, concerns arise when roofers, who are not electrically trained, find themselves working with equipment that may present significant electrical hazards.
Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, Regulation 14 is clear: no person shall be engaged in any work activity on or near live conductors unless it is unreasonable for it to be otherwise, and then only if suitable precautions are taken. While solar panels are delivered with pre-fitted connectors that may seem simple to handle, they can produce dangerous voltages when connected in series. A string of modern panels, typically rated at around 450W each, can generate 14-15A at 40-50V DC, quickly
adding up to system voltages in excess of 400V.
This presents a real safety risk. Without training, roofers may underestimate the danger of working with live DC systems. The ‘plug-and-play’ appearance of PV connectors can give a false sense of security, but the potential consequences of a short circuit, arcing or contact with live parts are serious.
So, should roofers be electrically qualified and competent? I believe, at the very least, roofers handling PV modules should undergo appropriate safety training to understand the risks of working with electrical equipment. However, there is a strong argument that the full installation of solar PV systems should fall under the scope of trained electrical contractors, ensuring compliance with BS 7671 and workplace safety regulations.
With solar technology now a standard feature of many new homes, it’s time for organisations such as NHBC and main contractors to revisit their policies. Clearer guidance is needed to balance roof integrity with electrical safety, ensuring that both trades work together effectively without exposing operatives to unnecessary risks.
cef.co.uk
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Why compliance with BS EN IEC 61439 matters
Sean Smith, Chair of the Engineered Systems Product Group at BEAMA, looks at how the BS EN IEC 61439 series provides essential guidance for ensuring safety, and why compliance is not just best practice, but a critical safeguard.
Sean Smith Chair of the Engineered Systems Product Group at BEAMA
Low-voltage switchgear assemblies are central to most electricity distribution networks and typically operate without issue, often because they’re rarely fully loaded or tested to their design limits. However, when failures occur, sometimes years after installation, the consequences can be severe, including fire, electric shock, service disruption and even loss of life.
Redefining the safety, performance and testing requirements for lowvoltage switchgear and control gear assemblies in industrial, commercial and residential environments, the BS EN IEC 61439 series was introduced in the UK in 2009 as a replacement for EN 60439. Providing a stepby-step guide to requirements for construction, testing and verification of bespoke and standard assemblies, BS EN IEC 61439 outlines the minimum standard for designing assemblies. It offers clarity on requirements for low-voltage assemblies.
Adherence to BS EN IEC 61439 Parts 1 and 2 enables manufacturers to assure customers that every lowvoltage switchgear assembly meets the latest safety requirements, demonstrates conformity and performs to a high standard. As the
series also covers distribution boards, usage on construction sites, in public networks and busbar trunking, it’s a reliable guide for both manufacturers and installers.
Clear definitions
BS 7671 defines a low-voltage switchgear and control gear assembly as a combination of one or more low-voltage switching devices with associated control, measuring, signalling, protective and regulating equipment, including all internal interconnections and structural components. Installing an assembly
“One significant change in BS EN IEC 61439 Part 2 compared to its predecessor was the removal of Partially Type Tested Assemblies (PTTAs).”
that does not fully conform with BS EN IEC 61439 breaches BS 7671, which could lead to significant legal and safety consequences. Failure to comply can result in fines, criminal charges, civil liability and insurance issues.
BS EN IEC 61439 Parts 1 and 2 provide clarity for those designing, manufacturing and installing lowvoltage switchgear assemblies within the wider electrical system. Technical understanding is critical to ensure assemblies meet the essential safety requirements of the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016. Applying the relevant parts reduces the likelihood of legal and operational failures, providing a defensible framework for compliance and quality assurance.
In an evolving electrical landscape, one-size-fits-all solutions rarely suffice, and BS EN IEC 61439 Part 2 recognises that no two assemblies are identical and provides flexibility for bespoke solutions.
To ensure manufacturers and installers can provide fully conforming solutions, the standards offer a framework for all scenarios, including bespoke designs tailored to specific requirements. Applied consistently, they ensure that assemblies will protect the electrical
system, whether in a small commercial premises or a large data centre.
Consistent conformity
Failures in lowvoltage switchgear assemblies are uncommon but can have catastrophic consequences if systems are poorly specified, designed or manufactured. Over time, increased load, environmental factors and material ageing can stress assemblies. Under-rated components or poor construction can lead to overheating, insulation breakdown and, in extreme cases, fires and explosion.
These risks highlight the importance of specifying, testing and ensuring assemblies fully conform to relevant standards and regulations from the outset.
One significant change in BS EN IEC 61439 Part 2 compared to its predecessor was the removal of Partially Type Tested Assemblies (PTTAs). Under the old standard, assemblies could be classified as Type Tested Assemblies (TTAs) or PTTAs, allowing flexibility but also creating loopholes and inconsistencies, especially for bespoke assemblies. The revised standard removes this classification and introduces a mandatory framework for ‘Design Verification’ and ‘Routine Verification’ of all low-voltage switchgear and control gear assemblies, whether standard, modified or custom built.
While the BS EN IEC 61439 series sets out best practice, consistent safety, reliability and conformity can only be achieved through rigorous adherence across every project.
Specifying for safety
In procurement, conformance with BS EN IEC 61439 is often assumed rather than specified. Formally requiring adherence at the specification stage is an effective way to avoid disputes over performance, safety or legal accountability.
Given the extensive verifications
mandated by the standards, procurement teams or end users should confirm full conformance as part of due diligence. Compliance is central to fulfilling statutory obligations relating to electrical safety and reducing the risk of future liability.
Once an assembly is operational, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 may apply. Any incident involving injury or fatality could trigger an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). If non-conformance, poor design or substandard workmanship is found to be a factor, the designer, manufacturer or installer may face significant fines or custodial sentences.
Such liability is not limited by time and, from a commercial perspective, manufacturers making unsubstantiated or misleading claims about assembly performance risk breaching consumer protection and trade laws, with issues potentially emerging years after installation.
In summary, strict adherence to BS EN IEC 61439 Parts 1 and 2 provides manufacturers with the assurance and evidence to demonstrate that every low-voltage switchgear assembly is engineered to the latest safety requirements and capable of delivering consistent, highlevel performance throughout its operational life.
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Rethinking data centre circuit protection for the AI era
Power continuity is non-negotiable in today’s always-on digital economy. The data centres that underpin practically every digital service we use, including AI, must operate without interruption, says Russell Wood, Product Marketing Director at ABB Electrification.
MRussell Wood
Product Marketing Director at ABB Electrification
aintaining 24/7 uptime is becoming more challenging as a combination of new power demands and evolving grid conditions conspire to destabilise our energy supply.
As data centre operators look to tackle this complex challenge, one thing is clear – traditional approaches to power continuity won’t
do. To preserve the gold standard of ‘always on’, there is a growing need for circuit protection that is intelligent, adaptive, resilient, and does more than simply react. Enter the next generation of air circuit breakers (ACBs).
Pushed to our limits
Today’s electricity grid is being pushed to its limits. On one end, the proliferation of high-performance computing driven by AI is turbocharging demand. Bloomberg projects that the electricity required to run AI models will more than double in the next few years.
On the other end, energy supply is becoming less predictable. Ageing grid infrastructure, volatility introduced by
intermittent renewables, and projects like the UK’s Great Grid Upgrade can inject instability. There’s also the rising risk of extreme weather. According to Uptime Institute, it’s now the fourth leading cause of data centre outages globally.
And then there is the cyber threat. As infrastructure gets more connected, attack surfaces expand, and a successful breach could now shut down power at the press of a key. According to the Uptime Institute’s 2024 annual survey, more than half of significant outages exceed $100,000 in cost, and one in five surpass $1 million. But the true cost isn’t only financial; reputational damage can be catastrophic. To avoid it, prevention as well as reaction are key.
Why ACBs matter ACBs protect essential equipment from failure by disconnecting power when dangerous electrical conditions, like overcurrent and short circuits, are detected. It’s a deceptively simple but critical concept. Unlike other circuit breaking technologies that rely on oil or gas for arc quenching, ACBs use air, a cleaner and more sustainable medium. But their role no longer stops at protection; they must now serve as intelligent guardians of uptime.
The modern data centre no longer has the luxury of passive upkeep. Static protection systems leave facilities vulnerable to both evolving cyber threats and energy inefficiency. An agile system, by contrast, adapts in real time to redispatch energy, diagnose faults, and manage load harmonics caused by power electronics common in serverintensive environments.
Today’s most advanced ACBs are equipped with the intelligence to manage these challenges. ABB’s latest SACE Emax 3 is a prime example of this evolution. It brings together protection, monitoring, diagnostics, communications and cybersecurity as core, integrated functions.
It’s the first ACB to achieve IEC 62443 Security Level 2 cybersecurity certification. It pairs this with predictive maintenance capabilities driven by internal sensors, which monitor parameters like temperature, contact wear and environmental conditions, flagging intervention needs before faults occur. This isn’t
just for data centres, but also other energy-intensive buildings like advanced manufacturing sites and critical infrastructure, including hospitals and airports. In these environments, the Emax 3’s power management capabilities give operators the ability to keep systems stable and coordinate alternative electrical supply using its embedded control logic.
Active arc flash detection further safeguards personnel and assets by shutting down circuits faster than human response would allow, mitigating the risk of catastrophic fires and electrocution.
Set-and-forget protection is over Flexibility is a must – what makes this ACB next generation is its field upgradeability. As facility needs expand, protection, measurement and communication features can be easily enhanced without downtime. It’s engineered for both new builds and retrofit projects, ensuring backward compatibility.
For circularity purposes, instead of replacing older systems, operators can retrofit switchgear with modern intelligence. This cuts carbon emissions while extending asset life, decreasing total cost of ownership. Modular data centres paired with modular power protection like the Emax 3 allow for targeted upgrades and minimised impact zones during maintenance.
Mission critical starts with protection In a world dependent on always-on
“ACBs protect essential equipment from failure by disconnecting power when dangerous electrical conditions, like overcurrent and short circuits, are detected.”
digital services, resilient and adaptive power infrastructure should be standard. Circuit breakers form the bedrock of system safety and uptime. In the face of new power realities, they too must evolve.
With AI workloads intensifying, cyber risks growing, and grid volatility increasing, air circuit breakers like the SACE Emax 3 are stepping up to be the vanguard of smarter, more resilient data centres, factories and hospitals. Because in the end, the future of digital infrastructure doesn’t just depend on more power; it depends on better power.
new.abb.com/uk
Measurement of the I-V characteristics of PV panels
The measurement of current-voltage (I-V) characteristics of photovoltaic (PV) panels plays a key role in evaluating system efficiency and detecting potential issues within a PV installation. Rob Barker, Director of Power Quality Expert, explains how to perform accurate measurements in compliance with IEC 61829, and explores the impact of environmental factors such as irradiance and temperature on the measurement results, as well as the importance of correcting these to standard test conditions (STC).
Rob Barker Director of Power Quality Expert
The I-V characteristic is a graph that presents the panel’s power output as a function of current and voltage. According to the IEC 62446-1 standard, this is one of the two measurements defined in the category 2 tests.
Why is the I-V characteristic so important?
I-V curves are very useful in evaluating PV installations in terms of performance and potential issues. The meter records the relationship between current and voltage by adjusting the load from open-circuit voltage (Uoc) to short-circuit current (Isc).
To understand what a current-voltage characteristic is, a typical I-V curve is shown below.
Although seemingly simple, this type of measurement can often yield results that differ significantly from expected values. This article describes how to perform these measurements using the Sonel PVM-1530 Max so that the results accurately reflect the actual condition of the tested PV panels, based on the IEC standard 61829:2015 photovoltaic (PV) array – on-site measurement of current-voltage characteristics.
Impact of irradiance and temperature on results
The Sonel PVM-1530 is capable of measuring connected panels and generating an I-V curve within a few seconds. However, just connecting the panels to the meter is not enough, as such a curve is usually difficult to compare with the reference curve provided by the PV panel manufacturer under STC.
STC conditions assume:
• Irradiance E = 1000 W/m²
• PV module temperature TPV = 25°
• Air mass AM = 1.5
In practice, it is rare for field measurements to be conducted under STC conditions. That is why it is necessary to correct measured values to STC to assess whether the I-V curve is correct. This requires recording irradiance and temperature so the meter can recalculate the results accordingly. Only then can the results be reliably compared to the manufacturer’s data.
Why are irradiance and temperature measurements so important?
Current and voltage values generated by PV panels are highly dependent on these parameters, which in turn directly affects power output.
Figure 1: Typical I-V characteristic
Figure 2: I-V and P-V curves displayed on the Sonel PVM-1530 meter screen
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Figure 3 shows how irradiance impacts generation. As irradiance increases, current and power increase linearly (assuming constant panel temperature), while voltage changes only slightly. For this reason, irradiance should be measured using the external Sonel IRM-1 sensor at the same tilt angle and orientation as the panel string being tested.
IEC 61829: the PV measurement standard
IEC 61829 specifies that to perform I-V curve measurements with STC correction, irradiance should be at least E = 700 W/m². The Sonel PVM1530 checks the irradiance value using the primary irradiance sensor (IRM-1) before starting the I-V curve measurement. If the value is too low,
the device will display a warning (see Figure 4).
Because a string can contain dozens of panels installed over a wide area, it is important that all the panels are mounted in the same direction, on a level surface, and exposed to a uniform level of sunlight. If a PV installation consists of strings with different tilt angles, orientations, technologies or electrical configurations, the measurements should be performed separately for each string.
Two irradiance sensors: the key to compliance
The IEC 61829 standard requires irradiance to be measured in at least two points along the string, and the
“I-V curves are very useful in evaluating PV installations in terms of performance and potential issues.”
difference between them should not exceed 2%. This is why the PVM-1530 Max comes equipped with two Sonel IRM-1 irradiance sensors as standard – one main and one auxiliary (see Figure 5).
To comply with the standard, the irradiance should be checked at both ends of the string. If the PVM-1530 detects a difference greater than 2%, it will display a warning (see Figure 6).
It is crucial that the Sonel PVM-1530 measures and records irradiance values from both sensors during the entire I-V curve scan (100 points). These values are displayed as graphs on the screen, allowing the user to verify the stability of lighting conditions during the measurement.
Measurement stability: how to avoid errors
As explained earlier, controlling irradiance stability is essential –but temperature stability is also important. Large differences in panel temperature across the string can cause unreliable I-V results.
Figure 5: Two irradiance sensors at both ends of the PV string
Figure 3: Impact of irradiance on the I-V characteristic
Figure 4: Warning about low irradiance level
7: Irradiance and temperature graphs during I-V curve measurement using both irradiance sensors
While temperature does not impact power output as significantly as irradiance, it must still not be ignored. As the panel temperature increases,
the current rises slightly while the voltage drops more significantly, resulting in reduced power. These relationships are illustrated in Figure 8.
Figure 8: Impact of temperature on the I-V characteristic
According to IEC 61829, the difference in temperature between panels in the measured string should not exceed 1°C. Once again, the Sonel PVM-1530 uses both sensors to monitor this parameter. If a greater difference than 1°C is detected, the meter displays a warning (see Figure 9). During the I-V measurement, temperature from both sensors is recorded and presented in graphical form, just like the irradiance data (see Figure 7).
Figure 9: Warning about excessive temperature difference
How to ensure the reliability of I-V measurements
In summary, it must always be kept in mind that I-V measurements can produce results that differ from expectations. However, these results should indicate an actual issue within the PV system rather than a mistake in the measurement procedure.
All the functions of the meter described in this article are designed to ensure that the measurements taken with the Sonel PVM-1530 Max and two IRM-1 sensors are reliable and provide the highest possible accuracy, while minimising the risk of user error. The user can then focus on interpreting the results, without having to worry about correctly setting up the meter or the weather conditions affecting the I-V curve.
powerqualityexpert.com
Figure 6: Warning about excessive irradiance difference between sensors
Figure
A growing safety challenge in the renewable era
As we transition towards a cleaner, greener future, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are becoming a cornerstone of renewable energy strategies across the globe. Their rapid adoption in homes, businesses and large-scale infrastructure is a sign of progress – but also a cause for concern, warn Rob Aitken, Technical Director, and Joanne Jones, Sustainability Lead, at Europa Plc.
Rob
Aitken
Technical Director, Europa
WJoanne Jones Sustainability Lead, Europa
hile solar panels offer clear environmental and economic benefits, they also introduce new and under-recognised risks –especially when it comes to electrical safety, emergency response and firefighting.
Unlike traditional grid systems, solar PV panels generate direct current (DC) electricity any time they are exposed to light. This means they remain live – and potentially lethal – throughout the day, regardless of whether the system is connected to the grid. This constant flow of current is known as the ‘DC Danger Zone’. It’s a silent hazard, especially during fires, storms or maintenance operations where responders may unknowingly be working with live equipment.
Why safety hasn’t kept up
Solar PV technology is no longer new; it’s everywhere. But in many cases, safety protocols, training and reporting systems have not evolved at the same pace, and many existing procedures do not account for the complexities of PV systems, putting both people and property at risk.
This misalignment has created a dangerous knowledge and preparedness gap. To close this gap, we need:
• Accurate and consistent incident reporting.
• Specialised training for first responders.
• Innovative tools designed specifically for solar safety.
The scale of the threat
Solar panels may look harmless, but their power output says otherwise:
• A household socket: 230V, 13 amps = 2,990 watts.
• A typical UK residential solar array: up to 4,000 watts, with strings reaching 600 volts.
• Home installations up to 10kW are now common.
• Commercial systems can reach hundreds of kilowatts, with some solar farms producing 100+ megawatts.
“In many cases, safety protocols, training and reporting systems have not evolved at the same pace, and many existing procedures do not account for the complexities of PV systems.”
Electrocution isn’t limited to large commercial setups; even small-scale systems can be deadly under the wrong conditions.
According to the BRE report, Fire and Solar PV Systems, the UK’s national fire incident reporting system does not include a field for solar-related incidents. This is a critical oversight as, without proper tracking, it is impossible to:
• Understand how often solar panels contribute to fires.
• Assess how they affect firefighter safety.
• Quantify property damage, business disruption or public health costs.
As the saying goes, ‘if it can’t be measured, it can’t be managed’. The absence of data forces decisionmakers to rely on assumptions instead of facts. That needs to change.
More than just electrical risk
When solar panels catch fire, they don’t just spark electrical danger –they also release toxic chemicals. Burned panels can expose responders to cadmium telluride, gallium arsenide and phosphorus.
Many solar panel-related incidents don’t start with the PV system. Fires from other sources can spread to rooftops or areas where panels are
installed, creating complex, highrisk situations. In these scenarios, it’s critical to isolate power – not just from the grid, but from the PV system as well. Unfortunately, this is often easier said than done. Because solar systems cannot be reliably shut down during daylight, many fire crews are forced to take defensive tactics. The result? More property damage, higher insurance claims and longer incident times.
A widening training gap
One major contributor to this problem is the lack of standardised training. The speed at which solar technology
has been adopted far exceeds the development of safety regulations and responder education.
At Europa Plc, we recognise the growing safety challenges posed by the widespread adoption of solar PV systems. In response to these emerging risks, our team has developed Solar Guardian, a purpose-built, innovative safety solution designed to help emergency personnel safely manage incidents involving PV technology. Solar Guardian has been engineered to address the unique hazards associated with live DC electricity and compromised solar panels, especially in high-stress scenarios such as fires, structural damage and extreme weather events.
By combining cutting-edge technology with practical, field-tested functionality, our system enables responders to isolate, control and mitigate solar-related risks with greater confidence and efficiency. Through the development and deployment of Solar Guardian, we are helping to close the critical safety gap, empowering those on the front lines and setting a new standard for PV system risk management.
Don’t let progress outpace preparedness
The future of energy is here and it’s bringing exciting advances like battery storage systems, electric vehicles and charging infrastructure, and built-in PV systems. But with every new innovation comes new risks. If safety, training and regulation do not keep pace, we risk repeating past mistakes and walking into preventable tragedies.
We need reliable, data-driven reporting systems, comprehensive responder training programmes, and regulations and guidance for the use of purpose-built safety tools for solar environments and correct installation of PV panels.
Solar power is clean, efficient and essential for a sustainable future. Let’s make sure it’s safe, too.
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What does the Future Homes Standard mean for installers?
Lee Sutton, Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer at myenergi, delves deeper into impending Government policy surrounding the energy performance of new build properties, and explains why installers should see the change as a serious commercial opportunity.
TLee Sutton Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer at myenergi
he way new homes are built and powered is about to fundamentally change, thanks to the Future Homes Standard (FHS) – a Government policy that will apply to all new homes built in England from Autumn 2025. Its main aim is to significantly reduce carbon emissions from housing by ensuring that all developments are energy-efficient,
low-carbon and future-ready.
Bringing together EV charging, solar generation, battery storage, heat pumps and smart controls into a seamless, efficient and future-ready system, the FHS has the potential to unlock significant opportunities for electrical installers.
What you need to know
The FHS will soon be written into UK law, after which point there will be a transition period until December 2026, with compliance required for all new build homes from 2027 onwards. From this point, every new home in England must meet a stringent new benchmark for carbon emissions and energy performance. This
includes a ban on gas boilers, with air and ground source heat pumps now becoming standard, as well as mandatory solar panel installations for approximately 90% of new homes.
This supplements existing legislation from 2022 which says that all single dwellings with a driveway must have a fully-functioning, smart-enabled EV charger installed that’s capable of responding to time-of-use tariffs and managing grid load. zappi GLO, the latest solar-compatible EV charger from myenergi, is the perfect solution for meeting these new requirements. The eco-smart device offers out-ofthe-box energy tariff integration and automated solar compatibility as standard.
zappi GLO
Why does the FHS matter?
With the removal of gas as a primary heating fuel, new homes will rely almost entirely on electricity for their heating and hot water. When you add in the new requirements for EV charging, there will be more demand, more complexity and more opportunity for the skilled electrical installer.
The future of smart technology surrounds integration, with the ambition of heat pumps, solar PV, battery storage and EV charging all working together as an interconnected energy ecosystem. As such, housebuilders will rely on installers that can understand and deliver systems that balance the electrical load from heat pumps and EVs; optimise solar generation and self-consumption; integrate smart controls, sensors, and tariff-based automation; and can future-proof homes for bi-directional energy flows, such as vehicle-to-grid (V2G).
Success for the savvy installer may sound complex, but the opportunity is clear.
Preparing for the FHS
Step 1: Think big – Future-ready homes won’t just have an EV charger or solar inverter, but a fully integrated energy system. For installers, that means going beyond singlepoint installations and thinking holistically. Whether it’s combining heat pumps with solar PV, linking EV chargers with battery storage or configuring smart controls that respond to off-peak tariffs, these systems must now work together.
Understanding how different technologies interact both physically
“Future-ready homes won’t just have an EV charger or solar inverter, but a fully integrated energy system.”
and digitally is critical. At myenergi, for example, we’ve developed an ecosystem where products like our zappi EV chargers, eddi power diverter and libbi home battery integrate seamlessly through our app.
Step 2: Know the regulations inside out – Being FHS-ready isn’t just about knowing the technologies available; it’s about understanding the rules that shape the build. Key sections of Building Regulations underpinning the FHS include Part L (energy performance), Part S (EV charging provision), Part O (overheating mitigation) and Part F (ventilation).
These regulations are interlinked and a misstep in one area can cause problems in another. For example, the placement of equipment affects not only performance but also a building’s ability to meet overheating standards.
Step 3: Train, upskill and partner –The technologies that underpin the FHS are evolving fast and installers
who are well-prepared will be able to take full advantage of the opportunities afforded. That’s why ongoing training and manufacturer engagement are more important than ever.
Whether it’s learning the latest in heat pump installation, understanding battery storage management or getting to grips with smart energy automation, upskilling is a direct investment into the business. At myenergi, we offer training courses and hands-on technical support to give installers complete confidence, while also supporting with marketing and lead generation.
Step 4: Look to the long-term –Modern eco-smart systems can generate valuable performance data to help homeowners track their usage and optimise energy habits. By adopting smart-enabled, datacompatible technologies now, energy consumers can better prepare their homes for an increasingly connected and interoperable future.
For installers, this also presents an opportunity to offer long-term value through monitoring, aftercare and system optimisation services. By helping clients understand how to maximise self-consumption, time-of-use savings or EV charging efficiencies, installers can build trust and open the door to recurring revenue – whether through callouts, upgrades or service contracts.
Looking ahead to 2027
The FHS is a bold step forward towards decarbonising UK housing. While certainly presenting challenges to housing developers, it presents a huge opportunity for installers. As every new home becomes a virtual power station – generating, storing and consuming its own clean energy – electrical expertise will quickly become more important than ever.
2027 will roll around in the blink of an eye, so getting ahead of the curve now is key to reaping the biggest and best rewards.
EV installation on the charge
As the number of electric vehicles (EVs) increases, so does the demand for charging station installation and maintenance, explains Steve Dunning, MD of Martindale Electric.
The UK Government has a target to increase the number of chargepoints from 82,000 to 300,000 by 2030, so a major upgrade of the associated infrastructure is now planned. Additionally, over 50% of UK households now have access to a driveway or parking space which could accommodate an EV chargepoint.
This rapid increase in demand for both commercial and domestic chargers is a challenge though, specifically because any work/ test carried out on a new electrical installation – which includes EV chargers – must be performed by an electrician or competent person, as required by BS 7671.
Electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) ready test equipment is required to install and verify the installation. While many manufacturers have already introduced appropriate kit and break out boxes, more varied EV test equipment is needed going forward, including simple-to-use tools for basic safety testing.
EV chargepoint installation testing
The multifunction installation tester has become a must-have tool because it covers most of the basic tests needed for EVSE and is the solution for both initial installation testing and periodic inspection. Key tests on the EV charger include earth loop impedance measurement, RCD testing and, for three phase systems, a phase sequence test.
More recent introductions to the market – such as the Martindale ET6500 and ET6300 – are EV ready and able to perform installation tests on EV chargers. The ET6500 is the complete kit, ready to test out of the box and includes a Type-2 adapter.
The ET6300 is ideal for installers who are not currently testing EVSE but may need this option in the future. This can be achieved by simply adding the EV adapter accessory at a later date.
Adapters and connectors
These are also becoming more plentiful, with varying built-in test capabilities including simulation of a connected vehicle, basic CP testing and the ability to be used to connect from the EVSE chargepoint to standard test instrumentation.
One advanced example is the Martindale TL326-EV electric vehicle test adapter. This accessory enables connection to an EVSE charging point Type-2 connector to relevant test equipment, using standard 4mm jack plugs. When used with a suitable multifunction tester it will allow the tester to support all relevant measurements via the standard measurement inputs.
Ideal for both single- and threephase applications, the TL326-EV gives access to L1, L2, L3, N and PE. The CP mode slider switch means vehicle states can also be simulated – namely no vehicle connected; vehicle connected but not ready to charge; vehicle connected and ready to charge. Additionally, the unit has an error position simulating failure of the CP signal, which should cause the charger to inhibit charging.
EV chargepoint checking
A multifunction tester is not usually the first line tool for very basic functional checks of commercial and domestic outlets – this would generally be performed by equipment such as a simple socket tester. Subsequently, the arsenal of tools for EVSE checking has improved with the likes of dedicated EV socket testers such as the Martindale BZ820-EV.
Steve Dunning MD of Martindale Electric
BZ820-EV
The BZ820-EV is a first-line checker for EV chargers fitted with Type-2 connectors. While it cannot test RCDs or measure earth loop impedance, it can detect up to 28 wiring fault conditions and can confirm the voltage supply level is within limits. Correct polarity connection of the EV charger is indicated by three flashing green LEDs and a continuous audible tone.
Socket polarity and earth wiring faults, meanwhile, are identified by a combination of three red LEDs. The integral slider switch on the connector allows vehicle states to be simulated – no vehicle; vehicle connected and ready to charge. As with the TL326-EV, the additional error setting simulates failure of the CP signal causing the charger to inhibit charging.
Just as socket testers are widely used in standard residential and commercial outlet checks, it is expected that these low-cost tools will be widely used for EVSE checks alongside the more capable multifunction tester solutions.
The UK EV market is expected to continue growing rapidly, driven by Government policies, increasing consumer awareness and technological advancements. The comprehensive set of tools offered by test equipment suppliers such as Martindale are built to help to support the march towards cleaner and greener transportation.
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The EV charging opportunity
When you first think of EVs, your mind might initially jump to homeowners and individuals, and although this is a demographic that has really championed the EV movement, there is an even bigger industry driving the transition to net zero, says Allan Ross, Head of Training & Culture at Rolec.
Allan Ross Head of Training & Culture at Rolec
By increasing your portfolio to include EV chargepoint installation you open your business up to a larger customer base, and the fleet industry is where real growth will be seen. According to data produced by
Samsara in 2023, more than half of fleets operating 150-plus vehicles expect to have a hybrid or fully electric fleet by 2025. And with the increased adoption of ultra-rapid charging networks, this seems to be the case.
This growth is being further catapulted by supportive Government grants (such as the Workplace Charging Scheme for statefunded education institutions, the Infrastructure Grant for staff and fleets, and the Depot Charging
Scheme), progressive regulations (for example, Part S), and the growing demand for public charging infrastructure to support the EV driver on-the-go.
Increased demand for EVs makes it a reliable source of income now and in the future, with the benefit of offering annual maintenance packages with installations. There are currently over one million EVs registered in the UK, and this isn’t showing any sign of slowing down. As these numbers continue to rise, charging infrastructure must grow to meet demand and installers are needed to make it happen.
Smaller companies may be hesitant due to the initial costs, but thanks to Rolec’s funding partners, fully funded, part funded and subscription solutions are available to businesses that are looking to introduce EV charging but don’t have the upfront capital to implement it.
Being aware of these opportunities as an installer means you can offer fully funded and managed EV chargepoints to clients who are unsure about the cost of installing chargepoint infrastructure and unsure of chargepoint management.
Of course, there are also the environmental benefits of becoming an EV chargepoint installer. Not only will you be growing your business and championing environmental change as an individual, but you
“Research shows that over 70% of new EV chargepoint installations in the first four months of 2025 were ultra-rapid.”
are also making it possible for other businesses to meet their sustainability goals – something that has become increasingly more important over the last 10 years.
Become a Rolec Approved Installation Partner
If you’re interested in adding EV chargepoint installation to your repertoire, Rolec offers training courses to contractors at our custom-built training academy in Boston, Lincolnshire. We have created three courses to get you set up and ready to provide better EV charging installations for your customers. Each course provides you with vital information on a different element of the EV industry.
Course
1
–
EV
Chargepoint Installer:
Industry & Product – Rolec’s first course provides statistics and analytical data to equip you with the knowledge needed to become a beacon of information for prospective clients, as well as four CPD accredited training hours. Learn how to tailor recommendations to homeowners looking to include EV charging for their own personal vehicle, as well as businesses of all sizes looking to introduce or reinforce their charging networks.
Course 2 – On the Tools: Installation & Maintenance – Receive practical training in our custom-built product training area, giving you hands-on experience installing and configuring
our range of chargepoints. Through this course you will fine tune your expertise in site surveying, groundworks, prelims, equipment installation, software considerations and installation testing.
Creating a reliable charging network means more than just installation. The key to keeping an electrified fleet on the road is by ensuring all charging infrastructure is technically competent and well-functioning, as operating issues can cause operational delays. With that in mind, this course has been created to prepare you for common concerns post-installation, equipping you with everything you need to know about maintenance after installation.
You’ll develop practical skills to aid you with reactive call-outs, troubleshooting for repair, fault finding and general maintenance.
Course 3 – DC Training Masterclass
– One of the largest growing sectors in the EV industry, rapid DC charging has proved instrumental in driving the charge to widespread EV adoption, with research showing that over 70% of new EV chargepoint installations in the first four months of 2025 were ultra-rapid. However, thanks to its highly charged nature, its installation introduces more considerations than lower-speed alternatives.
Our dedicated DC chargepoint training is designed for electrical contractors looking to master these rapid charging solutions. Through hands-on training, we cover everything from product knowledge to practical installation and maintenance. Get confident working with Rolec’s UltraCharge range, including our 40kW and 80kW models, and gain the technical knowhow to diagnose faults and replace key components.
Through the combination of all three of these courses you can enter the world of EV charging well prepared for whatever it presents. We also offer businesses the opportunity to book on to an intensive all-day company training session that will cover all our courses.
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Test before touch
In recent years, there has been increasing concern regarding PEN faults – a specific type of network fault with potentially lethal consequences. While the rise in PEN faults is being acknowledged and investigated, it’s important to note that these are not the only way that hazardous situations, including touch voltage and diverted current flow, are created, warns Andy Griffiths of GCS Doncaster, in conjunction with Kewtech
Griffiths GCS Doncaster
Touch voltages occur when there is a fault in the system that results in no return path for current, i.e., due to a broken or disconnected earth or neutral, combined with other faulty wiring. As a result, metallic parts –such as a distribution board, boilers or control panel – that are connected to the electrical earth could be raised to a dangerous potential.
Diverted current is a more complex fault, where the current may flow through unintended paths, e.g., through earth or neutral conductors.
Even though the circuit might appear to be functioning normally, diverted current can present serious dangers. Let’s have a look at some potential scenarios you may come across.
Scenario one: The fault is hidden, and the current appears to be flowing correctly in the system as everything is working. However, when measured, it is found that the current is flowing through earth conductors. This can be detected only by measuring multiple points across the earthing and neutral conductors in the installation (current will always follow the path of least resistance). If not detected, disconnecting cables could break the return path and present a touch voltage hazard.
Scenario two: When we isolate a circuit and prove it dead, everything should measure as being at zero potential; however, where we have multiple cables under terminals within that isolated circuit, we may also have current still flowing through the return path or via the neutral, either through cross circuits or faulty wiring. If proper checks are not performed, engineers could potentially break these return paths when disconnecting cables, creating dangerous touch voltages in the system.
“The current safe isolation procedures in place often do not specifically account for, or test for, touch voltages and diverted current.”
Prevention tip: Use a clamp meter to check current flow, especially when multiple cables are connected to the same terminal. This can help prevent introducing a new hazard when disconnecting cables.
Kewtech’s KT5 open jaw current and voltage tester is an ideal safe isolation tool equipping you with non-contact voltage indication, single- and two-pole voltage indication and current measurement all-in-one.
Andy
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Test before touch: the missing step
The current safe isolation procedures in place often do not specifically account for, or test for, touch voltages and diverted current. Even though the best industry practices for safe isolation and proving dead are followed, these two specific hazards are often overlooked.
The proving dead process usually involves opening enclosures or testing electrical terminals to confirm that the equipment is not live. However, this step can be potentially lethal if there is already a touch voltage present.
The concept of ‘test before touch’ is well established and often taught to engineers. However, it’s usually focused on high-voltage equipment, and not before entering or touching low-voltage equipment like distribution boards, control panels, pipework and appliance casings (e.g., boilers or motor casings). In practice, engineers may not always adhere to this guideline, especially when handling parts of the installation that seem to be disconnected or ‘dead’. They may neglect to check if there is a touch voltage or diverted current present.
Non-contact voltage indicators, such as the KEWSTICK DUO, and single-pole voltage detectors, such as Kewtech’s KT1700, are often used as tools to check for the presence of dangerous voltages, though these only give us an indication that
a lethal voltage may be present.
Crucially, in the case of a PEN fault or similar, all conductors may be at the same potential, so when measured using a two-pole BS EN 61243-3 voltage indicator, these tools might not effectively identify the risk. In such a scenario, a single-pole device would at least give us that potentially life-saving indication.
Will industry adapt?
Industry guidance on safe isolation and proving dead circuits does not typically account for checking for these hidden hazards as part of the safe isolation process. There is an urgent need, therefore, to improve safety standards and include testing protocols specifically for touch voltages and diverted current, as part of the standard safe isolation protocol.
“Deadly electrical hazards like touch voltages and diverted current are present in many installations without PEN faults.”
It is critical that electricians and engineers are equipped with the correct tools designed to detect these issues. The need for a BS EN 61243-3 voltage indicator and proving unit should be accompanied by a single-pole detection device and an amp meter as a minimum.
Hazard detection
The industry’s focus on PEN faults is undoubtedly important; however, it shouldn’t overshadow the fact that deadly electrical hazards like touch voltages and diverted current are present in many installations without PEN faults. These types of faults are often not checked during routine isolation procedures, leaving engineers at risk.
By updating safety protocols, ensuring proper training and using the right test equipment, these risks can be minimised, leading to safer practices in the field. Remember: test before touch!
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Embracing a circular economy in lighting
Climate change is accelerating and there’s no time to waste. The lighting sector plays a significant role in global energy consumption and material waste, often overlooked in the quest for sustainable solutions. Traditionally, lighting products follow a ‘take-make-waste’ path that puts pressure on the planet’s resources, but there’s a powerful alternative – the circular economy, says Kristina Allison, Lead for Environmental & Net-Zero Lighting at WSP and President of the Society of Light and Lighting (SLL).
Kristina Allison Lead for Environmental & Net-Zero Lighting at WSP and President of the Society of Light and Lighting (SLL)
By focusing on reuse, repair, remanufacturing and recycling, incorporating circular lighting principles into practice can drastically cut energy use and carbon emissions while also conserving valuable materials.
UK legislation is already tightening, with new regulations pushing for more sustainable product design and waste reduction. This isn’t just a sustainability upgrade; it is a critical strategy we must embrace now to tackle climate change effectively and at scale. Simply put, you have no choice but to act.
Why is it critical?
The urgency to act and embrace circular economy principles in the lighting industry and lighting design specification is critical. Legislated deadlines for climate targets are rapidly approaching and meeting them is essential to limit global warming to below 1.5°C, as outlined in the Paris Agreement. To achieve this, we must make immediate and measurable emissions cuts across all sectors, including lighting, which remains a major consumer of electricity and contributor to carbon emissions.
Figure 1: TM66 – Linear production model (Ref. CIBSE – TM66 ‘Creating a Circular Economy in the Lighting Industry’)
The current linear model (Figure 1), where products are made, used and finally discarded, is environmentally unsustainable and generates vast amounts of waste and pollution. Each day we continue in this cycle, we lock ourselves further into a high-carbon, high-waste future.
At the same time, governments are introducing stricter regulations focused on sustainability, from ecodesign requirements to extended producer responsibility laws. Those who fail to adapt face not only legal and financial risks, but also reputational damage. The good news is that there are solutions that already exist – modular lighting designs, service-based models, reuse and remanufacturing systems, all of which can drastically reduce environmental impact. This is the circular economy model (Figure 2).
A strategic opportunity
For electrical contractors, the shift towards a circular economy model in lighting presents not just
Figure 2: TM66 – The circular economy model (Ref. CIBSE – TM66 ‘Creating a Circular Economy in the Lighting Industry’)
a responsibility, but a strategic opportunity. Specifying and using products that have been assessed using the CIBSE TM66 ‘Circular Economy Assessment Method’ (CEAM) process can easily be made part of business as usual. Products that have been assessed and scored have a CEAM rating which ensures that material choices, manufacturing
techniques and sustainability are product design considerations that are a core part of the product’s design.
Figure 3 shows the final scoring process, and the overall score helps identify if and how ‘circular’ the product’s attributes are. Products that have been verified by the Lighting Industry Association (LIA), the thirdparty verifier, will show a logo (Figure 4).
Contractors can specify products with a CEAM rating and be confident that the light fitting’s attributes are modular, upgradeable lighting
systems that are easier to repair or adapt, reducing the need for full replacements and minimising environmental impact.
Working with manufacturers that offer take-back schemes or remanufactured products, and advising clients on long-term, energy-efficient solutions such as lighting-as-a-service, aligns perfectly with the TM66, circular economy approach. These practices lower total costs for clients, opening doors to repeat business and stronger relationships. Additionally, contractors can differentiate themselves by offering value-added services like maintenance contracts and energy audits.
Circular economy practices support green building certifications and corporate ESG goals, which can support contractors to secure large, sustainability-driven projects. Ultimately, embracing circularity and TM66 principles future-proofs your business against evolving regulations and rising material costs, and meets
Top 5 ways to keep on top of change:
1. Apply TM66 principles to plan and justify sustainable lighting investments.
2. Source modular, upgradeable lighting from circular economy-focused manufacturers.
3. Partner with suppliers offering take-back and remanufacturing schemes.
4. Create ongoing service packages like maintenance and energy management to boost client value and retention.
5. Train your team and educate clients on the benefits of using products with TM66 assessment certificates.
growing demands for environmental accountability.
A chance to lead
Embracing a circular economy in lighting, supported by CIBSE TM66: CEAM lifecycle principles, is a powerful commercial opportunity for electrical contractors. By adopting modular, upgradeable systems and using TM66 to demonstrate long-term cost and environmental benefits, contractors can reduce client lifecycle expenses and create recurring revenue through maintenance and energy services and gain a competitive edge in winning green building projects, driving profitability and market leadership.
This is a chance to lead not just in installation, but in innovation and delivering smarter, more sustainable lighting solutions that benefit both the planet and the bottom line.
For more information about CIBSE TM66, visit cibse.org/policy-insight/ news/tm66-creating-a-circulareconomy-in-the-lighting-industrynow-available
Kristina is co-author of CIBSE TM66 and the Lead for the Environmental & Net-Zero Lighting team at WSP. The use of TM66 and other sustainability strategies are a core part of the team’s approach to lighting design.
If you would like to know more, please contact Kristina at kristina.allison@wsp.com
Figure 4: TM66 – Accreditation by the LIA (Ref. Lighting Industry Association)
Brown, Product & Marketing Director at NVC Lighting, explores how lighting
can contribute to lower costs and higher energy savings.
Phil Brown Product & Marketing Director at NVC Lighting
Q1. What’s a cost-effective way to use lighting to make a quick impact towards hitting sustainability goals?
Energy-efficient lighting is one of the cheapest ways for a company to tackle sustainability targets at pace, and LED lighting is a great option for commercial spaces thanks to wider benefits including long lifespan, low maintenance and user control.
The cost of an LED lighting upgrade is low when compared to some more big-ticket energy-saving focused investments, but the ROI is speedy and meaningful.
Q2. How do smart lighting systems contribute to sustainability beyond simple energy savings?
Smart lighting controls can be used with LED lighting, boosting savings even further.
Electricians can work with building and facility managers to create a bespoke plan, so whether they are looking for a complete lighting fit-out or just an upgrade, there is a host of technology that can be integrated to help them go even further in their sustainability journey.
Q3. What’s a common oversight in lighting projects that limits their sustainability potential?
One of the biggest oversights in lighting projects is failing to integrate lighting design with building performance objectives early in the
planning process. This can lead to over specifying light levels, which can lead to higher energy consumption and more fittings. It can also mean that you underutilise lighting controls, missing easy opportunities to go even greener with the overall installation.
By thinking long-term and taking the building performance goals into consideration at the beginning of the planning process, it is easier for engineers to design a comprehensive lighting plan that will perform optimally to achieve long-term sustainability goals.
Q4. How can professionals find out more about the sustainability potential of lighting products?
There are several ways to assess the sustainability credentials of lighting products, and it’s becoming increasingly important for specifiers, installers and end users alike to understand them. We have recently published Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for our PROe range, which offer transparent data on the environmental impact of a product throughout its lifecycle.
Another valuable resource is engagement with manufacturers directly – many now offer sustainability briefings or technical datasheets that go beyond basic compliance to highlight eco-friendly innovations in design and materials. Keeping an eye on updates to legislation and industry standards around eco design and energy labelling can also help professionals stay ahead of the curve.
Top marks for school lighting upgrade
Having recently undergone a total upgrade of their lighting schemes to LED, two primary schools in Surrey are reaping the benefits, with reduced operational costs and improved lighting levels thanks to new lighting solutions from Ovia.
Kingswood Primary School is a small village primary school occupying extensive grounds in Lower Kingswood in Surrey. Worplesdon Primary School is a much larger school located in Guildford. While they may be very different in terms of size, both are committed to playing their part in the decarbonisation of their schools in partnership with Surrey County Council. The first phase of this work has been the upgrading of the lighting systems throughout the schools, replacing old and inefficient light fittings with LED replacements.
With all areas of the schools to benefit from the lighting upgrade, a selection of Ovia fittings were specified to satisfy the various requirements that the different rooms and areas of the schools called for. All classrooms, corridors, stairwells and cloakroom facilities were included, along with the hall, kitchen, reception areas, offices, staff rooms, storerooms, libraries and IT and music rooms. The provision for emergency lighting and external lighting was also part of the project.
Responsible for specifying and installing fittings for the LED lighting
upgrade was Stuart Gibson, Divisional Manager with Niblock Electrical Services, a specialist electrical division within Niblock Building Contractors. Stuart has worked with Ovia for several years and has installed a variety of the company’s fittings across numerous commercial projects.
Stuart said, “This project aimed to enhance the learning environment for both staff and students through the installation of high-quality, energy-efficient lighting solutions. The collaboration between Niblock Electrical Services, led by me, and
Reg Oldrey from Ovia Lighting was instrumental in ensuring the successful execution of the project.
“Ovia Lighting provided top-tier products that met both functional and aesthetic requirements, with a focus on energy efficiency and long-term performance. Reg Oldrey’s expertise in selecting the right lighting solutions, combined with our seamless installation process, ensured minimal disruption to the school environment during the project.”
Ovia fittings specified
Lighting solutions from across Ovia’s vast collection have been installed, including products from the commercial, utility, emergency and floodlighting ranges. These include:
• Inceptor A-Lite – A range of 4ft and 5ft LED linear battens available in standard, microwave sensor and emergency versions, and in a choice of wattages – 17, 25, 32, 50 and 60W – with a built-in correlated colour temperature (CCT) switch.
• Inceptor U-Lite – A slimline, noncorrosive utility LED luminaire designed to offer protection against the elements. It features a removeable diffuser and gear tray and comes in three different lengths – 1200, 1500 and 1800mm. Each length is available in a single lamp and a twin lamp equivalent output.
“This project aimed to enhance the learning environment for both staff and students through the installation of high-quality, energy-efficient lighting solutions.”
• Inceptor Duo – A sleek, up and down dimmable linear luminaire perfect for accentuating design features both high and low. It is available in two lengths – 1200 and 1500mm – and two wattages – 42 and 56W – and features a dual CCT switch – off, cool white, warm white and day light.
• Inceptor Slate Backlit – A premium range of TP(a) rated backlit LED panel lights with a low, <19 UGR diffuser. They come with a pre-wired, pushfit 3-Pole Flow connector and are designed to fit standard 600mm x 600mm panel sizes. The 30W range includes Standard, 3 in 1 Dimmable, Low-Glare, plus a 3 in 1 Dimmable, Low-Glare option.
• Evo Orb – An LED bulkhead with a distinctive 113mm depth. It features an IP65 rating, adjustable colour temperature controls and a five-year warranty.
• Pathfinder – An extensive range of metal LED floodlights comprising standard floodlights as well as versions with Photocell and PIR sensors. The range offers 40 floodlight options from 10-300W, with fittings up to 50W available in both black and white finishes and in Warm White and Cool White colour temperature options.
Significant improvements
“We are delighted with the results as the new lighting systems have significantly improved the overall brightness and ambiance of both schools, creating a more productive and comfortable atmosphere for all,” said Stuart.
“This project demonstrates the importance of effective coordination between suppliers, designers and installers in delivering high-quality outcomes for public sector clients.”
oviauk.com
Leading the charge towards sustainable sport
Committed to fostering inclusivity and wellbeing, Aberdeen Sports Village aims to inspire individuals of all ages and abilities to embrace an active lifestyle. However, recognising the urgency of the climate crisis, the Village embarked on a mission to mitigate its environmental impact, setting a bold target to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
With its expansive facilities, including an Olympic-sized swimming pool, diving pool, indoor football pitch, sports halls, and running track, the Village faced unique challenges in its quest for sustainability. With a fluorescent lamp ban looming, among
these challenges was the need for an energy-efficient lighting solution to replace outdated T16 fluorescent fixtures nearing the end of their lifespan.
Helen Duffield, Key Account Manager, Zumtobel Group, said, “As the existing installation was approximately 10 years old, the client would start to notice an increase in the frequency of failures, resulting in increased maintenance costs, so this was the optimum time to replace the luminaires.”
Claud Hamilton Electrical (CHES) enlisted the help of Zumtobel for an energy-efficient lighting design on
behalf of Aberdeen Sports Village, a partnership between Aberdeen City Council and the University of Aberdeen.
Zumtobel was entrusted with transitioning the lighting infrastructure across three key areas of the Village: the indoor football pitch, indoor athletics facilities and sports halls. This project was not just about upgrading luminaires, but about embracing a holistic approach to sustainability while enhancing the overall user experience.
Zumtobel provided a comprehensive lighting solution that surpassed the client’s expectations. By extending the
Aberdeen Sports Village has embarked on a mission to combat the climate crisis by striving for carbon neutrality by 2030. A critical aspect of this journey involved implementing energy-efficient lighting from Zumtobel across its facilities.
“This upgrade not only offers immediate energy savings, but also supports long-term environmental goals.”
guarantee to 10 years and addressing every requirement, Zumtobel ensured peace of mind for the Village.
Benefits beyond illumination Zumtobel’s award-winning CRAFT II luminaires, leveraging the Venturi and Coandă effect for self-cooling and cleaning, emerged as the cornerstone of the lighting upgrade. CRAFT II Plus was selected for the running track and indoor football pitch, while CRAFT II Performance was used for the indoor sports halls and square. Paired with RESCLITE PRO emergency luminaires, these fixtures not only met stringent performance criteria but also enhanced the spaces’ aesthetics.
The transition to LED technology delivered many benefits for the Aberdeen Sports Village. Not only did it drastically reduce carbon emissions and operational costs, but it also ensured optimal lighting levels and minimal maintenance requirements. With immediate
Key deliverables by area
Sports hall:
• 57.6% reduction in CO2 emissions & utilised power
• £112,524 saved (over 10 years)
• 1.77 years ROI
Indoor athletics:
• 7.4% reduction in CO2 emissions & utilised power
• £61,451 saved (over 10 years)
• Immediate ROI
Indoor football pitch:
• 69.8% reduction in CO2 emissions & utilised power
• £686,957 saved (over 10 years)
• 1.27 years ROI
returns on investment and substantial long-term savings, the decision to invest in sustainable lighting solutions was a testament to the Village’s commitment to responsible stewardship.
Mike Tweed, Managing Director of CHES, part of the FES Group, commented, “The CRAFT luminaires are looking great. The client is very impressed with the scheme, and it has been nothing but positive feedback from them and their customers.”
A brighter future
As Aberdeen Sports Village continues its journey towards carbon neutrality, the successful implementation of Zumtobel’s lighting solutions demonstrates the power of collaboration, innovation and sustainability. By prioritising environmental responsibility without compromising on quality or performance, the Village sets a leading example for sports facilities.
Danny Costello, Director of Service at Aberdeen Sports Village, said, “We are delighted with the newly installed LED lighting system at Aberdeen Sports Village. It delivers an environment ensuring athletes and spectators experience the highest quality of lighting. The LED lights provide brighter and more consistent lighting compared to our original lighting system, significantly improving visibility and enhancing the overall experience for the customer.
“Aberdeen Sports Village is committed to becoming net zero and reducing its energy consumption. One of the standout features of the new LED lighting system is its remarkable energy efficiency. This upgrade not only offers immediate energy savings, but also supports long-term environmental goals.”
z.lighting/en/zumtobel/
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