ET May 2024 by Purple Media Solutions Ltd

Win prizes for your business with Acti9 Active!

Calling all contractors! When you purchase an Acti9 Active PhN distribution board from your local participating electrical wholesaler, you’ll have the chance to win some fantastic prizes!

Every entrant will receive a £10 Greggs e-gift card and be entered into June’s raffle for some big prizes!

Scan the QR code below for full details.

What could your business win?

8 Shelly: The future of smart automation for electricians

10 Jon Theis - TheisCraft

& MEASUREMENT

16 Getting PAT testing right

18 Testing times for solar installations

19 New partnership on test equipment

20 Powering a sustainable future for electric vehicles

21 Why electric vans are the smart choice for UK ﬂeet owners now

22 Failure to equalise VAT on public charging a missed opportunity

23 BG sync EV launches new balancer for multi-charger management

“It’s like having an energy bank at home!”

Why electricians should be adding solar to their skill set...

We are delighted to announce that entries to the Electrical Industry Awards 2024 are now open! The Electrical Industry Awards – now running for 32 years –showcase the achievements of organisations and individuals within the electrical industry.

Say bye bye to paper

Build a business ﬁt for the future

No more limescale with bare wire

Stacey Howell, Crystal Electronics

Making a change

Is on-site hydrogen production a viable

You may have noticed that we have a brand new logo. This year we wanted to give the awards a fresh and modern look that represents our continued commitment to supporting innovation in the electrical industry.

We have also updated our list of categories, ensuring there is plenty of scope to show off your achievements. There are 15 separate categories, covering three areas: products and services, contracting and wholesalers, and projects and installations, with a particular focus on sustainability.

Becoming a ﬁnalist is a great way to boost morale and gain the recognition that you and your team deserve. These awards will get you noticed. Entry can lead to independent industry recognition, show new and existing clients you are an industry innovator and put your company in the best possible position to win more business. But, you have to be in it to win it! To enter the awards, visit: electricaltimes.co.uk/ electrical-industry-awards/enter-awards

The Awards is sponsored by FS Cables, The IET, Wiska, W&ED, and ET

Lisa Peake, EDITOR, lisa.peake@purplems.com @ElectricalTimes

Appointments

Spelsberg UK announces the appointment of Callum Bradwell as its new area sales manager for the Midlands.

With a robust background in electrical wholesale, Callum’s comprehensive knowledge of the Midlands area, coupled with his direct experience in key account development and business management, has given him a unique vantage point to best serve Spelsberg’s client base effectively.

Chorley based Hispec has strengthened its management team with the appointment of a national head of housing.

Bringing over 20 years of industry experience. Gareth will lead the team across the housing sector, covering both social housing and private property developments, to help ensure dwellings have adequate ﬁre detection and emergency lighting.

Lucy Zodion announces the addition of Justin Worth to its Street Lighting and Highways sales team. Justin joins as area sales manager, for the London and South East region, bringing a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in driving sales growth and fostering strong client relationships.

NVC Lighting is pleased to announce the appointment of James Townshend as head of Major Projects. James has been given a remit to expand the NVC Lighting name, working with customers old and new across a wide range of sectors and to utilise the brand’s extensive portfolio of products.

The Heating & Hotwater Industry Council has announced the appointment of its new chair, Henrik Juhl Hansen. Managing director of the Vaillant Group UK and Ireland, Henrik takes over the role from previous chair Karen Boswell of Baxi.

BGEN awarded £84million contract at Hinkley Point C by GE Steam Power Systems

BGEN has been awarded a £84million project by GE Steam Power Systems to provide electrical and instrumentation solutions to the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station in Somerset. When complete, Hinkley Point C is expected to deliver 7 per cent of the UK’s CO2-free energy for the next 60 years. The plant is projected to generate 3.2+ GW to the grid – that’s enough to power 6million homes, whilst saving 9million tons of CO2 emissions a year.

GE Steam Power will supply the two conventional power islands for HPC, which include the Arabelle steam turbine, generator and other critical equipment. The Arabelle produces 2 per cent more power output than a traditional conﬁguration, has a 99.96 per cent reliability rate and will be the largest ever

CHH

to be built - and each capable of each producing 1,770 MW of electrical power.

BGEN’s remit includes the design, supply and installation of electrical and instrumentation packages for Unit 1 and Unit 2 Turbine Halls of the nuclear power plant. Standing at 50 metres high, each will house one of the world’s largest Arabelle steam turbines, along with a generator and other critical equipment.

Robin Whitehead, CEO of BGEN said: “This contract that we’ve secured with GE Power Systems is our latest prestigious win within the nuclear energy sector. It’s testament to our proven collaborative approach and ability to deliver turnkey solutions in a highly regulated environment.”

For further information on BGEN visit https://b-gen.co.uk.

launches Sustainability Strategy to support the triple bottom line

Connectivity solutions provider CHH has launched a comprehensive Sustainability Strategy as it strives to drive growth by meeting the needs of people, proﬁt and planet. With a track record of more than three decades manufacturing best-in-class wire and cable solutions, CHH is committed to embedding ESG principles throughout its operations to help secure a more sustainable future. Its Sustainability Plan 2024 (CHH Sustainability Strategy) lays the foundation for boosting competitiveness by being an ethical and responsible business. The document highlights a range of ESG-related activity, including developing an end-to-end value proposition to help keep resources in the value chain and the establishment of a new division based in the Middle East to support sustainable smart city development. A detailed Road Map also incorporates a series of future milestones, such as establishing baseline emissions and developing a Supplier Code of Conduct.

Read the report to learn more about CHH’s ambitious plans. CHH Sustainability Strategy. To learn more about what the business can do for your ESG credentials, call 0121 344 4229 or email enquiry@chhconex.com

Envirovent celebrates double award win!

EnviroVent is celebrating winning two prestigious regional business awards: The Yorkshire Post Excellence in Business –and the Insider Media Made in Yorkshire awards. For both awards, EnviroVent won the prestigious ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ category, demonstrating its commitment to excellence in design and innovation.

Judges praised EnviroVent for the company’s dynamic approach to increasing manufacturing capacity, after the business recognised moved to its own purpose-built expanded factory in Harrogate. This enabled the company to ramp up production by 31 per cent within six months and output continues to rise.

Judges also recognised EnviroVent’s commitment to innovation, which led to it

extending its product range to meet market demand, expanding its staff numbers signiﬁcantly and investing in its employees.

Andy Makin, managing director of EnviroVent, said: “We are delighted to have won two prestigious manufacturing awards! We have made major investments in our manufacturing facility in the past two years and now with much more capacity, we are conﬁdent we can continue to meet future requirements in the new build and social housing sectors. It’s all down to excellent teamwork and I cannot thank our employees enough – these awards are testament to their dedication and expertise.”

In addition to these award wins, EnviroVent is a Finalist in the ASCP Safety & Compliance Awards for Best Supplier to the Social

Housing Sector. The company was also a ﬁnalist in two categories at the Stray Ferret Business Awards in Harrogate for Rising Star (Elise Mckeown) and for the Business Growth award. Finally, EnviroVent recently celebrated being shortlisted in the prestigious Building Communities Awards.

For more details of EnviroVent’s ventilation products, visit: www.envirovent.com.

Appointments

BGEN, one of the UK’s largest engineering ﬁrms driving the energy transition, has appointed Ron Ellis as head of business development. In his new role, Ron is tasked with building on the company’s recent success and securing additional contracts in sectors including power and energy, pharmaceuticals, utilities, industrial and food and beverage.

Schneider Electric has appointed Rhonda Doyle as the new vice president of customer operations in the UK and Ireland. This follows the appointment of Kristin Hanley, who previously held the post, to vice president of sales excellence and marketing for the UK and Ireland business. The new role will see Rhonda take the lead on customer care, satisfaction and quality, business systems, business tendering and project management, alongside developing new strategies to transform end-toend customer digital experiences.

Looking forward to the future, award winning InstaVolt is gearing up for a new phase of growth to deliver on its commitment to install 11,000 ultra rapid chargers in the UK and Ireland. Having announced that chief executive Adrian Keen is stepping down after more than seven years at the helm, the board has appointed Delvin Lane as the new CEO to take InstaVolt through the next phase of sustained growth.

Powercor has appointed Iain Woodhams as its new sales lead, and a key member of the executive team.

Woodhams brings a wealth of experience to Powercor, having enjoyed a successful career in sales leadership across diverse industries. Most recently, he served as regional sales manager at Stannah Group. Prior to that, he held sales and account management roles at AkzoNobel and PepsiCo.

InstaVolt named UK’s fastest growing company

InstaVolt, secured top position in the ORESA Growth Index 2024 Top 100. The Hampshire-based organisation secured the prestigious title thanks to a compound annual growth rate of 362.55 per cent. Now in its third year, the ORESA Growth Index is recognised as the definitive ranking of UK companies experiencing rapid sales expansion. It celebrates organisations that have achieved remarkable growth and the inspired leadership behind those businesses. Companies are ranked by compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in sales from the previous two financial accounting years (including filings up to February 2024). The ranking recognises rapid growth across all industries and shines a spotlight on the most successful sectors and companies in the UK.

As the largest owner and operator of rapid public chargers in the UK, InstaVolt boasts 1,500 strategically located chargers across the country, commanding approximately 15 per cent of the market. Its revenue soared to £18.6 million in the 2022-2023 ﬁnancial year, representing a more than 20-fold increase since 2020-2021.

The growth of InstaVolt received a signiﬁcant boost in early 2022 when it was acquired by EQT Partners, one of the largest global private equity ﬁrms. InstaVolt aims to build on its recent successes with an ambitious growth plan to install 11,000 ultra-rapid chargers in the UK and Ireland, 5,000 in Spain and Portugal, and over 300 in Iceland, setting the standard for reliable and contactless EV charging worldwide.

Panasonic drives towards net zero

Panasonic is applying sustainable solutions beyond the operation of its products through various collaborative projects and partnerships. In alignment with governmental net zero targets by 2050, Panasonic is implementing its Green Impact Plan, solidifying ambitious objectives to reduce CO2 emissions stemming from its business operations and logistics. One example of the company’s commitment is its programme to incorporate more eco-friendly supply chain solutions; this can be seen in its UK logistics provider, PGV Global Logistics, and its drive to reduce transport emissions. Based in the Midlands, the company has invested in a ﬂeet of 10 electric vehicles strategically deployed within its warehouse facilities and on the road. Its newest addition, an

electric Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV), can be seen delivering Panasonic stock in overnight trunking operations across the Pallet-Track network and APC Overnight parcel network. Charged exclusively from solar-generated energy, this HGV epitomises both companies’ commitment to harnessing renewable resources.

In addition, Panasonic has initiated this green transition by expanding its warehouse capacity nationwide. Its newest facility, an 80,000 sqft warehouse located in Burtonon-Trent, Staffordshire has a storage capacity of over 5000m3, expanding the capacity of its nationwide warehouses. Cutting down on mileage needed, the central base provides strategic access to the Midlands and the North of England, reducing transport emissions.

Teepee Electrical wired for growth after signing RBW deal

Teepee Electrical has extended its working relationship with RBW Electric Cars to become its ofﬁcial harness and wiring loom partner and a critical member of its Midlands dominated supply chain.

The deal will see it supply up to 40 different systems – featuring both low voltage complex wiring harnesses and HV cable assembliesand 700 plus wires for each classic car built at the state-of-the-art production facility opened in Lichﬁeld last year.

Engineers from the two companies have worked together to reverse engineer prototype systems and create detailed harness drawings, reducing manufacturing costs and developing components that are now ready

for series production. This has given RBW Electric Cars the conﬁdence to scale up, with 334 of its unique Roadster and GT models already sold to global customers and dealers who want the features of a classic British hand-built car with all the modern comforts.

RBW Electric Cars was inspired by Peter Swain’s love of classic British cars. The entrepreneur decided to see if he could ﬁnd a way of putting electric drivetrains into these much-loved models.

A European patent was secured in 2019 which was a big moment for the business, and this was followed by the start of production, a test drive by Top Gear’s James May and delivery of the ﬁrst car to a UK client in January 2022.

RBW is currently launching of its ﬁrst international operation in the US. The facility, which is in the heart of Virgina, could also house a dedicated wiring harness and cable assembly cell for Teepee Electrical.

Willows project disproves myths surrounding heat pumps in older buildings

A 180-year-old home’s heating system has been revolutionised with the introduction of an air source heat pump, combating concerns that heat pumps are unsuitable for older buildings.

Stiebel Eltron UK provided its knowledge, support and heat pump hardware to transform the building’s heating system.

The project saw The Willows, which was built in 1840 in Leominster as a former farm workers cottage, renovated so it could adopt sustainable heating technologies successfully. A new underﬂoor heating system was implemented, powered by Stiebel Eltron’s WPL 25 air source heat pump.

The installation was led by underfloor heating specialist, Roth UK, who set about changing the building’s infrastructure to maximise the efficiency of the heat pump. The team dug up the home’s earth floors and relayed them,

installed modern insulation into the building, replaced the original windows and installed a new roof.

Following this, Roth UK introduced underﬂoor heating as a single heating system for the property, with the modiﬁcations to the building reducing the potential for heat loss.

The successful implementation of the new system to accommodate Stiebel Eltron’s heat pump ensures the building will be powered by renewable energy, while at the same time maintaining the aesthetics of the building which make it unique.

With Stiebel Eltron galvanising the UK heat pump market, the team at Roth chose the WPL 25 air source product based on the company’s longstanding reputation in the renewable heating technology sector.

For more information visit: stiebeleltron.co.uk or roth-uk.com.

Oxford Flow partners with nZero Group to deliver zero-carbon fuels for domestic heating

H100 Fife is a ﬁrst of its kind project to employ a direct supply of clean power to produce hydrogen in Buckhaven and Denbeath that will bring renewable hydrogen into homes, providing zero-carbon fuel for domestic heating. In the project’s ﬁrst phase, the network is expected to heat hundreds of local homes using clean gas produced by a dedicated electrolysis plant, powered by a nearby offshore wind turbine.

Oxford Flow will supply IM-S gas regulators equipped with PRX2L pilots and PB1 balancers to nZero Group, which will make up part of its twin stream active-monitor station. IM-S offers an increased ﬂow capacity and has been designed and veriﬁed for use with up to 100 per cent hydrogen, comfortably exceeding the UK government’s target for Britain’s gas networks to be ready to deliver a 20 per cent hydrogen blend. Furthermore, Oxford Flow has engineered the regulator to eliminate the diaphragm, the most common failure and wear point in conventional gas regulators.

Faris Churcher, Oxford Flow, commented: “Our partnership with nZero Group is another step in an exciting direction toward our ongoing support of the energy transition of our gas networks here in the UK. We’re thrilled to be supporting another hydrogen to grid project, and it’s positive to see gas networks and suppliers getting behind innovative technology as we transition from natural gas to hydrogen.”

Energy transition built on 100-year safety legacy

ABB’s resettable Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) reaches a milestone 100-year anniversary of saving lives by protecting electrical circuits and evolves to meet the sustainability needs of the future. With nearly a quarter of all ﬁres occurring in residential buildings, the MCB not only revolutionised the way we live by enabling safe homes, but brought electrical safety throughout society, from rail infrastructure through to factories, commercial buildings, and data centres.

MCBs detect electrical faults like short circuits and overcurrents, disconnecting the circuit within 10 milliseconds, 10 times faster than the blink of an eye. It can then be quickly and easily reset without the need for it to be replaced.

As we transition towards a net zero future, it is essential to increase electriﬁcation and integrate diversiﬁed, renewable energy sources. This means protection devices have even greater electrical loads to manage along with variations in power supply and demand. ABB provides electrical safety to everything from solar panels and heat pumps to EVs and brings additional protection against faults like residual currents, surges, earth fault currents, or arc faults.

100 years of comfort

We offer electric room heating, water heating and decentralised ventilation

Try our bare wire instantaneous water heater range - no more limescale

Wide range of robust, elegant and advanced Lot 20 ready room heaters

WRAS approved small water heaters and electric cylinders – over and under sink, vented and non-vented

Available from major wholesalers

sales@stiebel-eltron.co.uk | 0151 346 2300

Shelly: The future of smart automation for electricians

In recent years, the smart home industry has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity, driven by soaring demand from both consumers and businesses for smart automation. From homes featuring voice-controlled lights, heating, and blinds to offices equipped with smart lighting, security, and energy management systems, the appeal of smart technology extends far beyond residential settings. Homeowners want the convenience of Alexa-controlled lighting, while businesses seek to boost efficiency, cut operational costs and manage energy usage - all through a user-friendly app, and all at an affordable price point. This often proves easier said than done: installing and maintaining a comprehensive smart home network can quickly become costly and complex - especially when working with a number of different manufacturers. Shelly is forging a path through the wilderness of smart home installations. Reputed for their tiny size and lightning-fast installation, Shelly offers complete control over lighting, power, heating - almost any electrical device! Commonly installed behind existing switches and sockets, or integrated into smart home design with the DIN mountable Pro range, the Shelly portfolio is comprehensive and complete with power management, sensors, buttons and switch controls. With over 200 native integrations, Shelly can easily interface with voiceactivated assistants like Alexa and Google Home through to smart home controllers like Lutron and Control 4, for hassle free control over your entire smart ecosystem.

Plus Series

Shelly’s Plus series stands top of the flagship lineup, with relays to control 16A per channel and sporting both one and two channel models. With dry contacts, and both low and high voltage support, the Shelly Plus series is designed to control a broad range of power-hungry home appliances and office equipment (including lights, power lines, security systems and LED strips) from anywhere. The two-channel model, Shelly Plus 2, is also perfect for two separate lighting circuits or a bi-directional motor as found in automated blinds or garage doors.

Mini Series

The Shelly Mini Series are the smallest relay switches in the world; yet still containing a powerful 8 Amp relay. They’re even

more compact than the 16 Amp Plus models while still offering the same ease of installation and breadth of functionality. While the Plus series is able to control a broader range of more power-hungry appliances like space heaters, fans and pool systems, a Shelly Mini is compact enough to fit inside even the most tightly packed spaces and switch boxes, and still grant complete remote control over anything from a single lamp to the valves of an irrigation system.

Pro Series

The Pro Series is designed to be mounted directly onto the DIN rail in a standard DIN enclosure fuse style box, making them a perfect choice for integration into sophisticated smart setups or new instals.

The Pro series also include a LAN port for local network connections, offering increased flexibility, tighter security, and wifi free connections. Depending on the model, a Shelly Pro can include anywhere from one to four 16 Amp channels - that means control of up to four separate lighting circuits, two bi-directional motors, or an entire HVAC array, from a single Shelly device.

Power Monitoring Series

Each series, including the Plus, Mini, and Pro, not only offers seamless smarthome control, but also incorporates relays equipped with power metering capabilities.

These relays accurately record power consumption data for any connected device, with precision up to 1 per cent. They seamlessly sync this information to the cloud in real time,

The Pro series extends this functionality beyond individual appliances, able to gauge the power energy usage of the entire house, as well as gauging energy production from multiple renewable sources like solar panels or wind turbines. These power-metering models can notify you if lights have been left on or rooms heated unnecessarilygreat for the planet, and for saving money on your energy bills.

Shelly also produces a range of dedicated power monitors, from compact devices installed inside appliances like the relays to DIN-mountable 3-phase energy metres capable of measuring up to 400 Amps per phase, offering a uniquely detailed bird’seye view over your commercial energy use.

The future of smart home installations

With a new device installed every 6.5 seconds, Shelly breaks the barriers of costly, complex smart home installations. By prioritising accessibility and versatility, and operating entirely on a pre-existing electrical and WiFi infrastructure. A Shelly device can effortlessly smarten your surroundings in minutes, transforming the landscape of home and office automation.

netxl.com/brands/shelly

JON THEIS - THEISCRAFT

Jon Theis, director at TheisCraft Lighting Controls, talks to editor Lisa Peake about his role and the company’s win at The Electrical Industry Awards 2023.

Tell me more about your role… My role as director encompasses many functions, including the day-to-day running of the business, ensuring the company runs as a smooth well-oiled machine to allow us to deliver best in industry products and service.

My absolute favourite aspect is the R&D. The past fi ve years has been a real roller coaster ride with the development of the Multiload Spectrum product range. What started as a few simple DALI devices has turned into a whole range of simple confi gurable lighting control products. The DALI PSU giving a 250mA supply to a whole range of simple, confi gurable lighting control devices. DALI Relays, Phase dimmers, the rotary “ColourDim” module, the DALI Switch Interface 2 way and 8 way, 4 channel relay, 10 channel relay controller and the Room Controller are just the start.

Seeing a conceptual idea on paper turning into a real working product gives me a huge buzz. The constant advancement in technology and component availability means we are able to move quickly in an industry that is constantly evolving.

The Multiload ColourDim won Lighting Product of the Year last year, what do you think sets this product apart?

We have not found another product that can achieve what ColourDim is able to do. The USP of the product is its size and functionality, small

enough to it to most manufacturers single gang plate or grid range, conﬁ gurable by the installer for “fade rate and minimum capping,” DT8 type drivers for colour tuning make the product very attractive in the DALI world of control without the need to have specialist engineers.

How did it feel to win this award?

Accepting this award was such a great experience, but its team at TheisCraft must take a bow. I merely orchestrate the process and it give the whole team a pat on the back in recognition for what is a lot of effort and hard work.

What would your advice be for others thinking of entering the awards?

If you think you have a great product or project then you should be shouting about it - the media and your peers in the industry want to hear your news. Otherwise, the efforts made by that company’s team goes un-heard which would be a great shame.

What’s

next for TheisCraft?

The constant progress of DALI as a control protocol is what we are focusing on and the DALI2 standards dictate we meet the needs of it. Wiremesh and the general acceleration of wireless technology seems to be the latest technology and we are ideally placed to accommodate the technology with our Cosmicnode product range. Next we will be focussing on the adaptation of our wireless integration and communication for the Multiload range of products.

For more information, visit: www.theiscraft.co.uk

REWARDING EXCELLENCE FOR 32 YEARS

FINALIST HIGHLY COMMENDED WINNER

The industry’s largest and most respected event, the Electrical Industry Awards is back.

Brought to you by Electrical Times, the Awardscelebrating its 32nd year - recognise outstanding product innovation as well as individual talents. The winner of each category receives a coveted Electrical Industry Award.

So if you, or your company have something to shout about, these awards will get you noticed.

Some incentives for entry....

a Gain independent industry recognition for the excellent work delivered by you, highlighted across the range of categories.

a Promote your excellence, demonstrate a competitive edge and position your company alongside the best in the business.

a Put yourself in the best possible position to win more work.

a Being a finalist is proof of excellence in your business and proves to clients new and existing you are in industry innovator.

a Receive recognition from the electrical industry.

CATEGORIES ANNOUNCED:

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Commercial Product of the Year

Industrial Product of the Year

Residential/Domestic Product of the Year

Lighting Product of the Year (Lamps and Luminaries)

Lighting Product of the Year (Controls)

Trade Tool of the Year (Inc. Test & Measurement)

Training Resource/Provider of the Year

CONTRACTORS AND WHOLESALERS

Electrical Wholesaler of the Year

Contractor of the Year (Under £2m)

Contractor of the Year (£2-£10m)

Contractor of the Year (Over £10m)

Contractor of the Year Sustainability Award

SUSTAINABILITY: PROJECTS AND INSTALLATIONS

Renewable Installation of the Year

EV Charging Installation of the Year

Electrical Project of the Year

SPONSORS:

Say bye bye to paper

Technology has transformed our world. In a new series, Benjamin Dyer at Powered Now looks at the impact of going digital on the trade

I’ve been running my business for a long time and it annoyingly means I’ve collected a lot of paperwork. Sadly, while I’m not the most organised person, this is inevitable for those working in the trades. Keeping up with all the red tape is a real nightmare. Legally HMRC require you to keep records for up to seven years. But you never know whether your records are complete or where to ﬁnd them. And do you chuck the stuff that’s more than seven years old?

One of the reasons for starting Powered

Now - software that helps electricians and trades companies to run their businesses - was my absolute hatred of paperwork. And I am not alone in this. When we were starting the business, we recorded a few videos with electricians and the ﬁrst question we asked them was: “What do you think about paperwork?” Pretty much the universal response was “Paperwork! I HATE paperwork.”

The truth is that most people first getting into the electrical business want to avoid going into an office role and prefer working with their hands. But with quotes, invoices, tax, Part P, CIS, VAT, payroll, DRC, employment records and a mountain of different certificates, paperwork is impossible to avoid. Or is it? Well, the aim of all app developers for the trade is to eliminate paperwork. I would not be telling the truth if I said we have completely succeeded, but we are all working very hard to get there.

Once the initial learning has been endured, technology does make life a lot easier.

One of the reasons for starting Powered Now - software that helps electricians and trades companies to run their businesses - was my absolute hatred of paperwork. And I am not alone in this.

Firstly, with a job management app there is fundamentally less work to do. In the best systems, it’s really quick to set up new customers. The name and contact details are taken from the phone’s address book and the address looked up from the postcode. Once details of a customer or an address have been entered, they will never need to be keyed in again. They can always be selected with a click.

The second beneﬁt is that an app can come with a lot of help to complete statutory paperwork. If you tell it that you’re VAT registered, VAT will always be added to your invoices. It will prompt you to input all the ﬁelds for your EICR or calculate Max Zs. You just tell it which lines are for materials and which for labour and it will calculate CIS. And there’s much more.

Communication with prospects and customers is quicker and cheaper by email and text than through the post. Of course, post can still be used for customers that don’t use email. Reminders can then be sent when repeat work is due or to make special offers during slack periods. You get told when your customer

opens their email, so you always know exactly what’s got through. If you think administration is a pain when you’re a sole trader, try it when you are in charge of a team. When using an app, there are a variety of ways to manage a team. This varies from a torrent of texts, a big whiteboard on the wall or using the free calendar on your phone or laptop. But nothing gets rid of overhead like having an integrated system that combines an all-staff diary with knowledge of where they are, where the jobs are, the status of the work and how much time is spent at each location. The savings in effort, eliminating wasted time and confusion can be huge.

Using an app, everything is stored electronically. You don’t have to worry about losing your black book, having it stolen or any other ways that paperwork can get mislaid. And if you lose your smartphone, the data can still be retrieved. Everything is available to be searched and easily found, automatically stored to meet HMRC and other requirements.

So, with less hassle, getting things done, faster and more complete communication with customers, time saved and no boxes to shift when you move house, what’s not to like about going digital?

Getting PAT testing right

Steve Dunning, managing director of Martindale Electric explains how getting portable appliance testing (PAT) right can prevent accidents and potentially save lives

Every year, many accidents involving electricity are reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). A significant percentage of these involve portable appliances. It’s no surprise then, that in accordance with the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989), any electrical equipment that has the potential to cause injury must be maintained in a safe condition. While the Fifth Edition of the IET Code of Practice emphasises the need for risk assessment, partly to reduce unnecessary testing, it still requires that a competent person carry out portable appliance testing (PAT).

Designed to help raise the standards of electrical safety in the workplace, portable appliance testing ensures that electrical appliances and equipment which have been classified as “portable,” are safe to use. Organisations that neglect the inspection and testing of appliances, or fail to nominate a competent appropriately trained individual, could risk invalidating their insurance policies and endangering lives. If a fault arises in an appliance left unchecked or undetected by an underqualified individual, the consequences could prove fatal.

To enable minimal disruption when testing the latest range of portable appliances testers such as the Martindale HPAT range are small handheld devices. These testers are highly portable so the appliances can be tested on site rather than back at a central workshop.

For the purposes of PAT regulations, portable appliances are defined as those that use a flexible cable or plug and socket. This means if an appliance has a plug connected to a wall socket or generator, it should be PAT tested. This definition includes either hand-held or hand-operated equipment, intended or likely to be moved.

Portable equipment also includes appliances that may have been fixed for security purposes,

such as those in hotels or changing rooms, including kettles, hairdryers and hand dryers, for instance. As truly fixed appliances, such as wallmounted hand dryers, appeared to fall between the code of practice for PAT testing in its older editions and the wiring regulations, it is clear there is a responsibility to test these appliances.

So, given the importance of PAT testing and the wide variation in operating environments and equipment to be tested, how can you ensure that you are choosing the right equipment for the job and that the person undertaking the work has the correct skill set?

The Code describes competence for the person undertaking the tests as “a person possessing sufficient technical knowledge or experience to be capable of ensuring that risk is prevented.” The Code further describes “technical knowledge” as “adequate knowledge of electricity and electrical work and adequate understanding of the equipment to be worked on. An awareness of the hazards that may arise and the precautions to be taken.”

To help companies with their portable appliance testing strategy there are many commercially available PAT training courses available. These are invaluable to help provide the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge regarding testing and inspecting different electrical appliances; thereby assuring the safety of the people handling them. A PAT course will also give an understanding of procedures, establish the required frequency of testing and ensure there is a trained competent individual to carry out the testing.

When undertaking combined inspection and testing, a high level of knowledge and experience is needed. Furthermore, the person will need the right equipment to carry out the tests, the ability to use the test equipment properly, and the ability to properly understand the test results.

Often overlooked but vitally important when choosing a tester is ensuring all bases are covered with the capability to test not only appliances but also mains extension leads. It is also important to consider accessories early in the selection process such as labels for appliances etc. Ideally, a unit will have a good range of readily available accessories for use across a wide range of applications.

When it comes to testing portable appliances, the portability of the test equipment is also important to enable testing at the location of the unit under test. The latest ranges of PAT testers, such as the Martindale HPAT Series, enable both contractors and competent in-house personnel to quickly and safely verify the electrical safety of all types of appliances. Designed to perform safety checks in accordance with the IET Code of Practice, these lightweight rechargeable handheld testers are designed for ease of use, with one-button automatic testing and clear connection details shown on the tester. The small, lightweight design and one-button operation make the HPATs ideal for testing in all locations, whether under a desk or behind a monitor.

For more information, visit: https://martindaleelectric.co.uk/pat-testing/

Testing times for solar installations

The safe operation of solar PV installations under both normal and fault conditions is an essential consideration at the system design stage to ensure that proper energy outputs and safety levels are achieved. And once in operation, it is important to ensure that the long-term performance of the system is not compromised by sub-standard installation or poor maintenance. In this respect, there are some key solar PV system features that rely on adequate and appropriate electrical testing and inspection being undertaken on a regular basis.

Compliance

IEC 62446 recommends that periodic verification of an existing installation shall be performed. The standard defines the minimum requirements for system documentation, commissioning tests and inspection for PV systems. Where appropriate, the results and recommendations of previous periodic verifications shall be taken into account. A report on the condition of the installation shall be provided. We must as with all electrical equipment, maintain our solar PV installations in a safe condition. BS7671 covers electrical design, installation and testing of electrical installations and includes a section on Solar PV that may need to be considered differently to other installations. This section makes note of BS EN 62446 for the inspection and testing of the systems.

Ground faults

PV systems, in particular large-scale systems, have many metres of cabling, much of which is buried underground. Poor levels of insulation will allow energy generated by the PV system to leak to earth. This can be particularly problematic during damp or wet conditions where the insulation monitoring or residual current monitoring function within an inverter prevents the inverter from starting up which in turn can significantly reduce the operational efficiency of the PV installation.

Environmental degradation

PV systems by their very nature are exposed to the elements. Damage or corrosion to cabling and connectors caused by moisture ingress can result in degradation in performance or

By Darren Bakewell, applications engineer at Seaward

increased risk of fire. Regular inspections and electrical testing will enable system performance to be monitored and any necessary repairs or remedial actions to be taken.

Surface contamination and physical damage

PV modules can become dirty or contaminated over time and this can reduce the operational efficiency and system performance. Similarly, exposure to the elements can result in physical damage to the component parts of a PV installation. Objects dropped by birds can result in physical damage to PV modules which may result in reduced output performance. Periodic inspection and electrical testing as part of regular maintenance will enable any problems to be identified and diagnosed.

Damage to wiring

The most obvious example of bad wiring is when wires hang below the panels and touch

the roof or underlying vegetation. Eventually the wire coating will wear or be damaged by rodent attack and potentially expose the copper wires, presenting a shock and fire hazard. Any deterioration of cable connections and wiring can be identified by applying regular electrical testing to identify potential faults.

Verification of system performance

The installation of solar PV systems is only undertaken after careful consideration of the costs involved and the potential return on investment provided by lower energy bills and generation payments. As a result, the verification of system performance and energy output from the panels is particularly important. In many cases simple electrical faults or wiring failures can cause a serious inefficiency in the ability of the system to produce power.

Although proper metering will give an indication of system performance, periodic electrical inspection and testing is vital to

“PV systems by their very nature are exposed to the elements. Damage or corrosion to cabling and connectors caused by moisture ingress can result in degradation in performance or increased risk of fire. Regular inspections and electrical testing will enable system performance to be monitored and any necessary repairs or remedial actions to be taken. ”

verify ongoing functional performance over extended periods.

Warranty fulfilment

Periodic electrical inspection and testing to identify and confirm continued safe operation and maximum energy output performance can be required as part of product warranties and PV system component guarantees.

Avoiding fire risks

As the number of rooftop solar installation systems have grown over the years, so have the number of reported incidents of fires. Household fires started by electrical faults in rooftop solar PV systems have been reported in the UK, Australia, the USA and France – among others. The periodic inspection and testing of the electrical wiring and components associated with solar PV systems

will ensure the safe operation of the system and reduce the potential fire risk associated with any electrical faults.

Customer documentation

All solar PV installations require the provision of various documentation and forms to the customer. System documentation usually includes system data, installer details, electrical diagrams, operation and maintenance instructions and other information that may be required by certain standards or regulatory bodies. Copies of all test and commissioning data should also be provided and as a minimum this should include the results from the electrical safety and verification tests undertaken as part of the system installation procedures.

Fore more information, visit: www.seaward. com/gb/products/solar

New partnership on test equipment

Niglon is pleased to announce it has entered into a partnership agreement with KPS UK, a Spanish manufacturer of test and measuring instruments. The agreement means Niglon will exclusively support the sale and distribution of KPS test equipment to the UK and Irish Electrical Wholesale marketplace.

This development will allow Niglon to offer its existing customer base a wide range of high-quality test equipment, at an affordable price, backed with the company’s high levels of customer service. KPS will also work with Niglon to ensure the two companies are able to offer the correct level of technical guidance and support; something deemed essential on such a product range.

Speaking about the deal, Oliver Hinley Director at Niglon said: “This partnership is something completely new and is an exciting step forward in our range offering. We are thrilled to be working with a company like KPS and hope to make significant strides into this marketplace by working in partnership with them.” Argy Kay will support Niglon as KPS’s UK Country Manager, in the effort to roll the product range out to wholesalers across the country in the next 12 months.

be our customers’ (and indeed by association the installers’) one stop shop for electrical goods. Our product categories cover domestic, commercial and industrial installations and we are proud to be an affiliate member of the Electrical Distributors Association.

Niglon is a family owned and run electrical distributor to the wholesale trade. Established in the 1940s, Niglon has built a sound reputation on service over the last 70 years. With over 4,500 products available for same day despatch to anywhere in the UK, we pride ourselves on offering the electrical wholesaler high quality products, at a competitive price point. Our strapline, ‘For All your Electrical Essentials,’ really does say it all; we are keen to

Powering a sustainable future for electric vehicles

by David Klanecky, CEO, Cirba Solutions

The electric vehicle (EV) market is on the rise, with experts predicting EVs could make up up to 86 per cent of global vehicle sales in 2030. However, critical mineral resources to power electriﬁcation are strained. The surging demand for batteries to power our everyday devices makes it increasingly difﬁcult to secure a reliable source of the crucial materials. With demand outpacing supply for critical minerals (lithium, cobalt, nickel, etc.), needed to support widespread adoption, immediate attention is needed to source these materials.

EV growth is contingent on a circular battery economy

With a deep focus on sustainability through clean energy and electriﬁcation, countries like the United States have set ambitious climate goals that EV adoption can help push forward. With the expected growth of the EV industry, challenges in sourcing the minerals necessary to produce the batteries that power them could threaten to derail the progress made by automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in the EV space. The price of EVs has become a hurdle holding back automotive manufacturers from scaling their production of EVs and the uncertainty of charging infrastructure has kept consumers from swapping out their gas-powered vehicles for one with a charger.

Necessary minerals like lithium and cobalt are ﬁnite resources and mining them for battery use comes at a large economic and environmental cost. What many don’t realise is that an EV battery’s life does not end when it can no longer power a car. The minerals inside batteries can be recycled for continued use. In fact, approximately 95 per cent of the critical minerals in an end-of-life battery can be extracted and reﬁned to produce a new battery. Creating systems and solutions to properly dispose of, collect and sort batteries allows us to reuse these critical minerals again to create a closed-loop battery supply chain. Battery recycling is key to achieving a circularity that is not only more sustainable but also reliable.

Building secure supply of minerals through robust battery supply chain

In addition to building a circular battery economy, a secure and reliable domestic supply chain for these critical minerals is crucial.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy,

transportation accounts for 29 per cent of CO2 emissions and is the number one contributor to greenhouse gases. By providing regional sustainable content, we can potentially reduce over 48,000 miles that critical materials have to travel to create cathode active materials.

Domestic collection and processing eliminate logistical costs and turnaround time for critical minerals needed to create new batteries from these materials.

The demand for essential minerals like lithium and nickel is outpacing supply and recycled content will play an increasingly important part of the mineral supply chain. Recycled material is anticipated to make up 34 per cent of lithium, 12 per cent of nickel and 40 per cent of cobalt’s global supply by 2040. Establishing transparent sourcing practices and investing in robust circular supply chains including domestic recycling initiatives, can help remove the reliance on mining for virgin materials. Additionally, fostering partnerships earlier between battery manufacturers and recycling facilities can help enhance a more resilient supply chain, increase reach to sustainable goals, and reduce the environmental impacts.

Embracing innovation in battery chemistry, material recovery, and production processes further enhances efﬁciency and affordability, making electric vehicles more accessible to a broader consumer market. Prioritising resiliency,

sustainability and domestic sourcing will allow the industry to pave the way for a cleaner, greener and expanded transportation future.

Closing the loop: how battery recycling increases capacity

Battery recycling offers a win-win situation that increases the capacity and accessibility of critical minerals in a way that sustainably powers EVs. Recycling is a critical component to reaching climate goals through its impact on the EV industry, but also by diverting batteries from landﬁlls, which is both dangerous and unsustainable. When batteries are thrown away, toxic chemicals can potentially leach into and pollute our environment and waterways. Not only that, but improper disposal can lead to thermal events. Several automotive OEMs like Toyota, Honda, and General Motors have already started to secure their battery supply chains by partnering with battery recycling companies like Cirba Solutions.

A closed-loop battery system and robust recycling infrastructure present a solution to ensure we can power a sustainable future with EVs. By embracing more sustainable metal sourcing and investing in recycling technologies and partnerships, we can better support the critical material needs of the EV industry while at the same time doing good for the planet and protecting our resources.

LIGHTING

Life’s a beach as spanish hotels ‘go green’ with ‘automated’ building systems - Turn to page 6

UPDATE

3 DALI Alliance launch test and certification specifications for DALI+

SWITCHED

4. CU Phosco Lighting announces winner of 100th anniversary competition

5. Mackwell plays a part in the Children in Need DIY SOS project

CASE STUDIES

6 Life’s a beach!

CIRCULAR ECONOMY

8. New opportunities in upgrade and remanufacture of existing lighting

PRODUCTS

10. The future of LED strip lighting

A welcome from the LIA //

Through 2024, the lighting industry continues to innovate, often driven by the challenges and opportunities of sustainability as well as in response to user preferences, but one thing has not changed. LED lighting is still the poster child of net zero technologies, but it is worth examining why that is. Back in 2007, the global consultancy firm McKinsey teamed up with the Swedish energy giant Vattenfall to analyse pathways to Net Zero, essentially comparing which carbon saving technologies gave you the best ‘bang for your buck.’ Updated in 2009, the report showed the best carbon reduction return on your investment was replacing incandescent lighting with LED.

The race to net zero will be won by refurbishing existing buildings. Replacing fluorescent, high intensity discharge, the remaining incandescent lamps and early LED schemes with latest generation, smart, digital LED lighting is simply the most deliverable, most cost-effective carbon saving technology.

Light-emitting diode (LED) technology remains the dominant force in the lighting industry. Its energy efficiency, long lifespan, and decreasing costs have made it the preferred choice for residential, commercial, industrial, and exterior applications.

Manufacturers continue to refine LED products, improving efficacy, enhancing colour rendering, on site user friendliness, and the continued adoption of smart lighting controls.

Sustainability concerns are influencing product design and manufacturing processes within the lighting industry, there is a growing emphasis on embodied carbon, life cycle analysis and on circular economy through improved repairability of LED luminaires and improved manufacturer support to keep products useful as long as possible.

But lighting is not all about sustainability, light delivers sight – it’s as simple and as powerful as that. Office and care homes are switching on to human centric lighting, delivering wellbeing, whilst in exterior our

towns and cities are innovating with adaptive lighting systems that adjust brightness based on pedestrian or vehicular activity, as well as artistic lighting installations that enhance public spaces.

The lighting industry in 2024 is characterised by technological innovation, a focus on sustainability and human-centric design, and the integration of smart technologies. Continued collaboration between manufacturers, designers, policymakers, and consumers will drive further evolution and transformation in the years to come.

Bob Bohannon, LIA

DALI Alliance launch test and certification specifications for DALI+

The DALI Alliance has unveiled much-anticipated certification details for its wireless specification: DALI+ over Thread. As lighting specifications increasingly seek smarter, sustainable, and interoperable solutions, DALI+ emerges as a crucial enabler of standardised wireless or IP-based lighting systems. The alliance’s collaboration with partners such as Thread Group has resulted in the integration of enhanced security and encryption solutions, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of data transmission within DALI+ networks.

Key features of DALI+ with Thread include:

Wireless Mesh Network: Thread creates an Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) based wireless mesh network. Off-the-shelf Thread border routers can also be used to connect multiple Thread networks through IP technologies such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi, allowing a highly scalable lighting control system.

Extended Addressing: In addition to the standard 64 control gear and 64 control device addresses, DALI+ with Thread IPv6 routing allows almost unlimited addressing capability. The usual DALI broadcast, group and short-addressing methods are included together with IP unicast and multicast capability.

Interoperability: DALI+ certification includes all the benefits of the existing DALI-2 and D4i certification programs with extensive testing, independent verification, and listing of every certified product in a publicly searchable product database to ensure a high level of product interoperability. Furthermore, DALI+ bridge

devices will allow DALI-2 wired devices or systems to connect with and operate with the products in a DALI+ wireless system.

Device Support: DALI+ supports a wide array of control devices, including occupancy sensors, light sensors, switches, sliders, rotaries, and pushbuttons. Control gear support currently includes LED drivers with the three optional data parts: luminaire data, power and energy, and diagnostics data.

Paul Drosihn, general manager of the DALI Alliance, expressing enthusiasm about the launch, stated: “This represents a significant advancement in DALI-enabled technology. Our members and users will experience the benefits of enhanced wireless interoperability and strengthened sustainability credentials.” Drosihn continued: “Moreover, this milestone underscores our steadfast commitment to driving innovation and nurturing eco-conscious solutions within the industry. By leveraging the potential of DALI technology, we are not only revolutionizing lighting controls but also laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future for generations to come.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Klaus Waechter, VP Commercial Buildings at Thread, said: “We are proud to collaborate with the DALI Alliance in utilising Thread technology in the DALI+ specification. This partnership underscores our commitment to advancing wireless connectivity and interoperability for commercial grade markets and the lighting industry in general.”

CU Phosco Lighting announces winner of 100th anniversary competition

CU Phosco Lighting is thrilled to announce the lucky winner of its 100th-anniversary competition.

Ben Humphrys, operations director at Electrical Testing Ltd., won an unforgettable two-week vacation to Sydney, Australia as part of the manufacturer’s centenary celebrations which took place last year.

Entrants had to answer the following question: Name a film set to which CU Phosco Lighting has supplied lighting products. The answer was hidden in a recent 100 facts blog available on cuphosco.com.

Ben stated: “It doesn’t feel quite real yet. I never win anything and never really expect to. I am extremely excited to win this and look forward to the experience.” His initial reaction was confusion, as he had forgotten entering the competition via a LinkedIn post, but he quickly embraced the excitement of his unexpected win.

Ben, who has been in the industry for over 20 years, is incredibly excited to share the experience with his family. He looks forward to exploring iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House, immersing himself in the city’s vibrant culture.

Reflecting on his long-standing relationship with CU Phosco Lighting, Ben commented on the company’s approachability, flexibility, and commitment to excellent service. Having been a customer for over two decades, he highlighted CU Phosco lighting’s consistency in treating every order with equal importance, regardless of size, and their willingness to go above and beyond to meet urgent requests.

Matt Murray, sales and marketing director at CU Phosco Lighting, said: “We congratulate Ben again on winning his trip to Australia and thank everyone who entered and participated in our centenary celebrations.”

For more information about CU Phosco Lighting and upcoming events, visit cuphosco.com.

Chorley-based business grows five-fold

Under the leadership of Chris Loughlin, Hispec has achieved substantial growth, attributing its success to strategic diversification, infusion of expertise, and a string of impressive client acquisitions. Situated in Chorley, the company has seen an increase in turnover from £4 million to £20 million, expanded its product portfolio from 200 items to 400, and doubled its workforce from 13 to 26 employees since 2019.

The managing director, Chris Loughlin, says: “The transformation of Hispec has been a collective achievement, with many talented industry leaders joining the team and bringing their skills, enthusiasm and dedication that’s ultimately resulted in Hispec’s growth.

“Acknowledging the need for evolution, we consciously decided to diversify our business into three core areas: wholesale, social housing, and our upcoming venture into the retail sector. As part of our commitment to maintaining momentum, we welcome new team members in the coming weeks. This expansion reinforces our presence and highlights our dedication to delivering exceptional service and upholding the highest standards of quality.”

Chris continued: “It may sound cliché, but we’ve never been in a better place here at Hispec. As we approach the end of yet another financial year, the figures speak for themselves – they look remarkably robust. However, it’s about more than just the financials. The team has an excitable energy, alongside a motivational drive to deliver excellence that sits within our everexpanding team.

“I am very proud of where we have come and where we are going… so watch this space!”

More information can be found at: www.hispec.co.uk

Ansell Lighting Presented with King’s Award For Enterprise

The Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Diane Hawkins visited Warrington-based lighting manufacturer Ansell Lighting to present it with its King’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation.

Ansell, based in Warrington, was recognised for its patented Panel Pod product in the first King’s Award for Enterprise honours in 2023.

The award was presented to Ansell’s managing director, Mark Abbott, at a ceremony at the company’s headquarters, which was also attended by the MP for Leigh, James Grundy, the Mayor of Wigan, Councillor Kevin Anderson, the Deputy Mayor of Warrington, Councillor Carol Benson, and local Warrington Councillors, alongside key members of staff.

The Panel Pod was created in response to an identified industry need, and converts an LED panel light into an emergency light in less than sixty seconds, without needing a conversion kit or additional ceiling fixture to install. Emergency lighting is required by British law and workplace health and safety guidance, so if the lights go out in the case of fire or other incident it stays on for up to three hours. Since its launch in 2014 almost 500,000 Panel Pods have been sold worldwide.

The King’s Awards for Enterprise recognises outstanding UK businesses, with recipients being able to use the esteemed King’s Awards Emblem for five years.

Mark Abbott, managing director of Ansell Lighting, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Lord-Lieutenant, Deputy Mayor and our local politicians to Ansell. Achieving this award, especially in the first year of the King’s Awards, was testament to the hard work and dedication of our innovation team and everyone involved in the business.

“Ansell is an ambitious and growing business, and the launch of Panel Pod was genuinely transformative for us, and it continues to contribute significantly to our ongoing success. It is fantastic to have been able to celebrate that success with our staff and the business community in the North West.”

Established in Belfast in 1992 before expanding North West England in 2001, Ansell Lighting is a recognised market leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality luminaires for the commercial, domestic, industrial and architectural markets. Headquartered in Warrington, where it has a state-of-the-art showroom, Ansell operates across Europe, with showrooms in Belfast, Dublin and Madrid and employs more than 200 people.

Mackwell plays a part in the Children in

Need DIY SOS Project

Emergency lighting, systems and solutions expert Mackwell recently played a key role in the creation of a bespoke counselling and therapy centre for bereaved young people in Derbyshire. The project, which was made possible through a special airing of the popular BBC programme DIY SOS for Children in Need, will help hundreds of children and families experiencing traumatic loss. The vital service was made possible thanks to funding through Children in Need.

Presenter Nick Knowles, a team of volunteer tradespeople, and the suppliers including Mackwell, headed to Treetops Hospice in Risley, Derbyshire, where the new build has expanded the capacity and services of the existing centre. Mackwell’s N-Light EC test and monitoring system was supplied through their Smart Building Partner Scenariio to add crucial testing systems to the new building. Mackwell luminaire products were also featured in the build, the XYLUX LRX downlight, XYVEX semi-recessed exit signs and TEMPUS EXB2 signs all played their part in ensuring discrete yet highly effective emergency lighting solutions. All of these solutions had RJ45 connections to interface with Cat 6 structured cabling with the entire lighting installation being connected via a low voltage grid, perfectly illuminating escape routes.

Making the DIY SOS project even more special was the cadre of celebrities on hand to assist. As Radio 2 was in nearby Leicester for the Radio 2 in the Park event, there was no shortage of helpers. Scott Mills, Zoe Ball and even Sam Ryder pitched in to support the construction. Richie Anderson and Owain Wyn Evans met some of the brilliant young people who have sadly lost loved ones and will benefit from the new centre.

For the DIY SOS team, the build was a monumental challenge, creating a brand-new child-friendly counselling centre in what was once just a meadow. The sound-proofed counselling rooms will help children and young adults across a range of ages. It will also be a welcoming multifunctional space for the charity’s group therapy projects, a complementary therapy room and an outdoor seating area. All of the new centre celebrates the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

To officially open the building, Sophie Ellis-Bextor visited the centre for a special kitchen disco.

For more information on Mackwell, visit www.mackwell.com.

ICEL emergency lighting conference is back for 2024

The Industry Committee for Emergency Lighting (ICEL) is delighted to host, after an incredibly successful event in 2023, the highly anticipated ICEL Emergency Lighting Conference 2024, set to take place on September 12. As the key event for the emergency lighting industry, this gathering will bring together key stakeholders from across the supply chain, providing a platform for industry collaboration and knowledge exchange.

The Emergency Lighting Conference has been carefully curated by ICEL to deliver insights and expertise in emergency lighting. By joining us you will have access to speakers, experts in their respective fields, who will address your questions, what your responsibilities are, any legislative changes, and strategies to drive change in the future. Presentations delivered throughout the day will enhance your knowledge and give you the tools to form a better understanding in the latest advancements.

With networking opportunities to interact and collaborate with industry professionals, emergency lighting manufacturers, and other influential stakeholders so you can forge partnerships, exchange ideas, and explore new business opportunities that will drive success in your business endeavours.

Admission to the ICEL Emergency Lighting Conference 2024 is free of charge for all attendees, thanks to the generous sponsorship of emergency lighting manufacturers. However, due to the overwhelming interest and venue constraints, registering does not guarantee immediate attendance. A selection process will be implemented to accommodate as many guests as possible while ensuring a balanced mix of representation across all functions of Emergency Lighting.

To register your interest, complete this form: https://forms. office.com/e/KGHs8utAUL

Tamlite welcomes BCO’s new research agenda for sustainable offices

Tamlite Lighting has welcomed the British Council for Offices (BCO’s) new research agenda for sustainable offices which highlights the importance of efficient lighting.

The BCO has published its new research agenda in a 58-page working document that sets out a vision for the office as a sustainable part of the built environment. This vision is explored across four themed ‘Pillars’ - Economy, Business, Technology and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) - to shape a framework for a new research agenda. Each pillar topic re-evaluates the notion of offices as capital assets, in light of the broader role of offices as a source of community and sustainable place-making in the UK. The document states: “An integral part of the brief for each research pillar was the need to consider change, not only in terms of the detailed issues being faced today but, critically, to take a longer-term perspective in order to anticipate challenges and turn them into opportunities.”

to reduce energy consumption, lower the carbon footprint, and promote environmental sustainability in the office sector. Lighting is identified as a key feature in the following technology-themed research topics: Occupant wellness, Smart building systems, Integrated building solutions.

Commenting on the BCO’s new research agenda, Richard Wharrad, Group Manager & Head of SSV at Tamlite, says: “The direction of travel for the BCO is clear; sustainability and ESG will frame the BCO’s research focus for years to come, influencing the decision-making processes of its members.

The ESG Pillar of the research agenda proposes a series of recommendations including the need for the BCO to create a ‘2030 Vision for the Office’, which embrace the principles of ESG.This Pillar also calls for a focus on the full life cycle of a development and its impact, including design, planning, operation and asset management.

The research agenda calls for a focus on how to incorporate sustainable features, including efficient lighting, and technologies

Download the BCO’s new research agenda at: https://www.bco.org. uk/Research/Publications/PillarResearch2024.aspx

Life’s a beach!

Spanish hotels ‘go green’ with ‘automated’ building systems, commissioning B.E.G. to integrate occupancy sensors and KNX technology in their buildings

Two luxury holiday resorts in Spain have made a massive step forward by decarbonising thanks to installing a new ‘automated’ building management system solution across their buildings to make them ‘green’. Club Med Magna Marbella in Andalusia and Golden Bahía de Tossa & Spa in Catalonia were looking to update their four-star hotels with the latest modern building technology. Spain is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world with around 70 million tourists visiting the country every year thanks to its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery and fabulous food.

The travel industry contributes to more than 60 per cent of Spain’s GDP, however, the sector’s energy consumption worldwide is high. Research has shown that eight per cent of global CO2 emissions are attributable to transport, accommodation, catering and leisure activities during holidays. With plans to decarbonise the entire European Union, the challenges in Spain’s tourism centres are also increasing. Greater energy efficiency for cities, holiday resorts and even zero emissions for new construction projects are crucial to success.

“Air conditioning, lighting, and hot water account for around 80 per cent of the energy consumption of tourist accommodation. On average, a hotel consumes between 100 and 200 kWh of electricity per square metre per year.

By networking components such as photovoltaics, heating, air conditioning, ventilation, lighting, emergency and access systems, all building functions are interlinked and form

an automated, coordinated units.”

Paul Jones, sales director of UK & Ireland at B.E.G. UK Ltd

Sacrificing comfort to save energy is not an option for hotels so many now are now turning to technology to help make their buildings more energy efficient so their carbon footprint can be reduced.

Club Med Magna Marbella and Golden Bahía de Tossa & Spa commissioned building automation and lighting controls specialist B.E.G. to work with the hotels on integrating occupancy sensors and KNX technology in their buildings.

Paul Jones, sales director of UK & Ireland at B.E.G. UK Ltd, said: “By networking components such as photovoltaics, heating, air conditioning, ventilation, lighting, emergency and access systems, all building functions are interlinked and form an automated, coordinated unit.

“Building automation helps to lower energy consumption, reduce operating costs, and manage buildings sustainably. Automation is, therefore, the basis for every ‘green’ building. It is estimated that the hotel sector alone could reduce its energy costs by up to 40 per cent.”

For holiday accommodation providers overall, investing in climate protection measures can be considered an investment in their own future. Experts say tourism is more dependent on an intact ecological and social feelgood environment than almost any other industry.

Mr Jones added: “Guests continue to enjoy the already luxurious holiday pleasures at both hotel resorts. The management can count on consumption savings thanks to the proven, stable, and secure KNX bus system. Many functions that previously could only be set up by rewiring can now be changed easily and digitally. This opens up new flexibility in room utilisation and a wide range of setting options.”

Club Med Magna Marbella and Golden Bahía de Tossa & Spa are hoping that their projects can act as a positive example for the entire tourism industry - not only in terms of economic efficiency and increased comfort, but also for the environmental balance of holidays.

https://www.beg-luxomat.com/en/

CHOOSE LITHIUM BATTERY CHOOSE

LiFe. A range of emergency lighting from NVC all powered by the latest lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery technology. The brighter choice for your business. The brighter choice for your customer.

To find out more about NVC Lighting’s LiFe emergency range and for a chance to claim your limited edition ‘CHOOSE LiFe’ t-shirt, scan the QR code or visit: nvc-choose-life.com

New opportunities in upgrade and remanufacture of existing lighting

by Nigel Harvey, chief executive at Recolight

With the recent implementation of the ban on many fluorescent lamps, many organisations are accelerating the move away from fluorescent to LED lighting. But at the same time, a new trend is emerging: businesses that ask for the existing lighting products to be upgraded or remanufactured to LED. This approach keeps the original light, its housing and mountings, and simply substitutes the fluorescent light source with an LED light source.

Better environmental outcomes

This trend is driven in part by the need to reduce the embodied carbon footprint of a building. Keeping the original luminaire, rather than replacing it, typically results in an embodied carbon saving of at least 50 per cent. With an increasing number of building owners and users now looking for net zero buildings, that saving has big impact. And as more organisations seek to put in place tangible plans to address their contribution to the climate crisis, reducing embodied carbon will become an ever more important element in purchasing criteria.

Remanufacture is also a great example of how to put circular economy principles into practice. Reusing the housing keeps all those materials in use. It also avoids unnecessary recycling, which is itself an energy intensive process.

Remanufacturers

An increasing number of UK companies have set up a remanufacturing operation to provide custom upgrades for their own brand lighting. Typically, this will involve the design of a new gear tray that can be easily installed in place of the ﬂuorescent tube and ballast. But other companies are now offering a service for any manufacturer’s ﬁttings – not just their own. Examples include Future Designs, The Regen Initiative (pictured), Egg Lighting and Llumarlite.

On-site or in-facility

Such upgrades can take place on the customer’s site, typically with upgrade light sources being installed one ﬂoor at a time throughout the building. This minimises the inconvenience to the customer. Some, however, prefer to undertake the upgrade at the remanufacturer’s premises.

Testing, compliance and warranties

The remanufactured products will normally be regarded as being placed on the market, and so all the usual compliance requirements will apply, including the application of the UKCA or CE mark as appropriate. The customer should also expect to receive a warranty for the upgraded ﬁxtures.

A new standard is being developed that will aid in the compliance assessment of remanufactured lighting, and will also give customers the conﬁdence that the remanufacture has been undertaken in an appropriate and consistent manner. BS8887:221 has been written by a group of stakeholders already involved in remanufacture and recycling, drawn from across the lighting supply chain. It is scheduled to be issued for public comment in the coming weeks, and with a fair wind may be published before the end of 2024.

Lighting remanufacture workshops

To help organisations learn how to set up a remanufacturing service, Recolight will be running in-person training workshops during 2024. Presented by lighting product designer Simon Fisher, who also sits on the BS8887:221 committee, the workshop will guide attendees through all aspects of setting up a remanufacturing service, including key design principles for the LED light source, compliance testing, and the use of BS8887:221. Further details are available at https://www. recolight.co.uk/training-workshops/

…

and where remanufacture is not possible

If the remanufacture of existing lighting is not possible for the intended purpose, but the ﬁttings are suitable for reuse, then there is an option to make the used ﬁttings available to another company that may be willing to remanufacture them. The Recolight Reuse Hub has been set up to match donors of used, but reusable product, with potential recipients. The online hub, which is free to use, is located at https://www. recolight.co.uk/reuse-hub/ and any organisation may register as either a donor, or as a recipient. The hub also includes details of new unsold surplus lighting stock, made available to suitable recipients. Over 100 product lines with a total of over 16,000 individual units have already been added to the hub.

The future of LED strip lighting

Fuelled by the ever-increasing popularity of strip lighting, Ansell Lighting recently launched its brand-new LED-Cell Strip range – thought to be THE most comprehensive offering on the market.

The result of significant investment, Ansell’s LED-Cell Strip range offers solutions for a diverse range of applications and consists of eight unique product collections, as well as smart options, an LED Strip Calculator and multiple sizes –enabling it to address every project need.

Colour choices are also well catered for with RGBW, RGB, RGBTW and single colour options available across the ranges as well as IP20, IP65 and IP67 durability ratings. All of Ansell’s LED-Cell Strip products are supplied with a self-adhesive back which makes them easy to install without the need for additional adhesive or fixings.

Many of the range also feature fast-fit ‘plug and play’ connectors to remove the need for time consuming soldering. For the ultimate in functionality, all LED-Cell strip lights are also OCTO compatible, so can be Bluetooth and WiFi enabled, and WiZ or Casambi enabled, as well as offering voice activated compatibility. The whole range also comes with either three or five-year warranties.

• The first collection in the strip range is C-CELL – a COB continuous output strip that delivers an enhanced aesthetic appearance. Unlike many strip lights, C-CELL gives out seamless continuous light, so it is dot free, ideal for residential, hospitality and retail applications.

• D-CELL is a range of dim to warm strip lights providing applications with great versatility. When undimmed the 3,000K colour temperature is ideal for task lighting but when dimmed the 1,800K output provides a more relaxed and intimate aesthetic.

• Providing an economical option E-CELL is a traditional LED strip ideal for general use.

• H-CELL is a high efficiency option delivering strong levels of illumination whilst providing great energy saving benefits.

• K-CELL., suitable for high end residential, hospitality and retail applications, it features extremely small cutting points enabling users to get an exact cut to the length required.

• Designed for peak performance, P-CELL is a professional LED strip with super high efficacy helping to reduce overall energy consumption in large scale installations. It also features the most extensive range of colour temperature options and power options of all Ansell strip products for the ultimate in flexibility and versatility.

• Ideal for internal and external installations where power supply locations are few and far between, U–CELL is an ultra-long LED strip available in lengths of up to 50 metres.

• Z-CELL is a flexible LED strip that bends, so it can be used on installations featuring corners or bends without breaking or being damaged.

Helping to simplify the process of choosing the correct strip and accessories, Ansell has also developed an online Calculator to help navigate the vast array of products there is to choose from. Users will simply enter their specification requirements into the LED Strip Calculator, hosted on the Ansell website, and all the necessary parts required will be worked out automatically, even calculating what drivers and accessories you need. This information can then be downloaded for use.

A full product brochure, complete with step-by-step guide on how to select the right products for your project is also available for download on the website.

Mark Abbott, managing director at Ansell Lighting said: “Strip lighting is an incredibly versatile and popular source of lighting. Ideal for use in almost any setting – both commercially and in residential properties - we are thrilled to be able to offer our customers the most comprehensive choice of products on the market. From functionality to colour temperature, length and efficacy, our strip lighting range meets every objective required and we’re really looking forward to seeing how it is utilised in projects in the coming weeks and months.”

https://ansell-lighting.com/en

8 UNIQUE RANGES SMART OPTIONS PRODUCT CODE CONFIGURATOR MULTIPLE SIZES

The industry’s largest and most respected event, the Electrical Industry Awards is back.

So if you, or your company have something to shout about, these awards will get you noticed.

SPONSORS:

Some incentives for entry....

a Gain independent industry recognition for the excellent work delivered by you, highlighted across the range of categories.

a Promote your excellence, demonstrate a competitive edge and position your company alongside the best in the business.

a Put yourself in the best possible position to win more work.

a Being a finalist is proof of excellence in your business and proves to clients new and existing you are in industry innovator.

a Receive recognition from the electrical industry.

Why electric vans are the smart choice for UK fleet owners now

With the government laying out its Net Zero Strategy to decarbonise all sectors of the UK economy by 2050, ﬂeet owners and van drivers are feeling the pressure to make the switch to EVs. In fact, Vansdirect has spotted searches for ‘how much are electric vans’ are up by 100 per cent over the last three months, while searches for ‘best electric vans’ have increased by 24 per cent in the same period. However, despite the growing interest in EVs, there are still lots of misconceptions about making the switch to electric vans. Sam Ward, managing director at Vansdirect said: “Electric vans are an increasingly attractive option for those considering a shift from traditional fuel models, aligning government regulations, the evolving demand for vehicle efﬁciency, and environmental consciousness. However, there are still some reservations from drivers around switching to an EV. And given the multitude of myths circulating, this may not be much of a surprise.

“It’s important to separate the facts from ﬁction to fully understand whether the switch to an EV is for you.”

To address these concerns, experts at Vansdirect have shed light on the increasing popularity of electric vans and debunked ﬁve of the most common misconceptions:

Myth one: Electric vans can’t travel far enough

The range of an electric van depends on the make and model, with most offering 100 to 200 miles on a full charge. And considering that half of vans travel less than 15 miles from their base per day, electric vans are well suited to most business needs.

There are also things you can do to optimise your electric van’s range. For example, by minimising the weight in your van, you can maximise its range. Similarly, optimal tyre pressure can also ensure your electric van can travel further. Some EVs even come with regenerative braking, which uses kinetic energy from braking to recharge your battery.

Myth two: There aren’t enough public charge points available

The UK boasts over 53,000 public charging

Myth 4: Electric vans still produce lots of emissions

There are still some reservations from drivers around switching to an EV. And given the multitude of myths circulating, this may not be much of a surprise. It’s important to separate the facts from ﬁction to fully understand whether the switch to an EV is for you.

stations, as well as private charge points at homes and workplaces, with this ﬁgure only increasing. Modern electric vans typically have built-in navigation systems to help locate nearby public charging stations in real-time. What’s more, smartphone apps like Zap Map can show the status of charging stations, letting you know if they’re available before you get there.

Myth 3: EVs are too expensive

Although electric vans generally come with a higher initial investment due to their innovative technology, prices are expected to fall as they are adopted more widely.

However, the long-term running costs for EVs are notably lower. For example, owners beneﬁt from tax exemptions, free entry to Low and Zero Emission Zones, and less frequent maintenance needs because of fewer moving parts, resulting in ﬁnancial savings over time.

The charging costs for electric vans compared to their petrol and diesel counterparts can be signiﬁcantly cheaper, meaning you can save money on your business’ day to day costs.

Electric vans offer the advantage of producing zero tailpipe emissions, setting them apart from petrol and diesel vans. And while charging electric vehicles does produce some carbon dioxide emissions, these are substantially lower than those from fossil fuel-based vehicles.

Furthermore, the electricity for charging is increasingly sourced from renewables, and as the United Kingdom moves toward further decarbonisation, the environmental impact of charging EVs will continue to decrease.

Myth 5: An electric van will take too long to charge

Rapid chargers can boost many electric van batteries to 80 per cent in around 30 minutes, which, despite being longer than a traditional fuel stop, offers a good opportunity for a break or to tackle some work tasks.

If you can charge your van overnight, you avoid the issue of charging time affecting your day. Simply plug in at the end of the day and, by morning, your van will be fully charged and ready for action.

So, there you have it, everything you need to know about the myths behind electric vans and why the switch to an electric van could be a viable option for you.

Considering making the switch? You can visit www.vansdirect.co.uk to shop for small, medium, and large vans.

Vansdirect debunk ﬁve of the most common misconceptions surrounding electric vans

Failure to equalise VAT on public charging a missed opportunity

By Jordan Brompton at myenergi

Last month (19 April), the Government ruled-out recommendations from the House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee to equalise VAT on public charging. Proposed as part of a new report aiming to further accelerate the transition to electriﬁcation, the move would have seen public charging VAT rates fall from 20 per cent to 5 per cent, bringing them in line with home charging.

Sighting concerns surrounding ‘additional pressure on public ﬁnances’ and ‘limitations surrounding legal and ﬁscal considerations’, ministers also rejected calls to reinstate EV purchase grants – a scheme that proved vital in supporting the growth of the electric car market before its closure in June 2022. Plug-in grants will continue until at least 2025, however, for motorcycles, vans, taxis, trucks and wheelchair accessible vehicles.

Commenting on the announcement, Jordan Brompton, co-founder and CMO of myenergi, said: “It’s deeply frustrating to hear that the Government has once again turned a blind eye to positive, proactive incentives to further accelerate UK EV adoption.

“More importantly still, it means that those reliant on public charging, with no access to off-street parking and no opportunity to charge at home (an estimated 24.6 per cent of Brits), will experience far higher costs when it comes to running an electric car. This will clearly play a key part in consumer decision making when it comes to buying an EV, and has the real possibility of slowing the transition to electriﬁcation.

“Despite faltering Government support, there is still work underway to tackle the issue head on. One such area is the development of

It’s deeply frustrating to hear that the Government has once again turned a blind eye to positive, proactive incentives to further accelerate UK EV adoption.

through-street charging solutions, which use pavement channels to provide access to a home charger, despite being parked on-street.

“If the Government will not take action on the cost of public charging, it should throw its full support behind state-of-the-art through-street charging solutions, as offered by companies including Kerbo Charge. This includes removing the barriers to the technology’s widespread deployment (including any objections from local authorities).

“After all, this will help EV drivers without access to driveways enjoy the financial, practical and sustainable benefits of charging at home. If we’re serious about meeting targets and transitioning towards an all-electric car parc, this is sensible, pragmatic and beneficial step.

“At myenergi, we support safe and accessible through-street charging that does not impinge the use of pavements by pedestrians. Indeed, we’re working in close partnership with Kerbo Charge to help roll-out its innovative solution nationwide.

“Thanks to home chargers such as the eco-smart myenergi zappi, EV drivers who park on-street can beneﬁt from 5 per cent VAT on charging costs, as well as the added beneﬁts of leveraging time-of-use tariffs to further reduce expenditure, and the opportunity to harness 100 per cent renewable energy generated from domestic microgeneration –such as solar, wind or hydro.

“The Government’s rejection of valuable, science-based recommendations is hugely disappointing, but it’s inspiring to see the EV supply chain working together to offer gamechanging solutions that will further improve the affordability of electric vehicles for millions of motorists worldwide.”

For more information about myenergi, or its pioneering range of eco-smart home energy technologies, visit www.myenergi.com.

BG sync EV launches new balancer for multi-charger management

Anew expansion of the BG SyncEV range, Balancer introduces multi-charger load management for commercial properties using BG SyncEV chargers with no additional subscription cost.

The BG SyncEV Balancer load management system is engineered to integrate with existing building wiring and support up to 16 chargers. The device dynamically monitors available power and communicates with connected chargers to ensure each receives equal power, allowing for easy expansion with additional chargers in the future.

Optimising power usage, it provides dynamic load management, to allocate available power from the building to connected vehicles. This ensures efﬁcient charging without the need for complex queuing systems and allows for more vehicles to be charged simultaneously without exceeding a building’s safe power limits.

The Balancer operates locally without requiring an ongoing network connection or

costly subscription, providing a cost-effective solution for commercial EV charging.

Future-proof

The BG SyncEV Balancer detects and accommodates the number of chargers connected, handling up to 16 chargers with ease. This future-proofs EV installations by ensuring businesses can easily install and expand their EV charging capacity as charging

needs evolve, and prevents the need for complex set ups and costly modiﬁcations.

Easy to install and expand

Easy to install, without having to upgrade the building’s existing power supply, the Balancer can be easily connected to existing and future EV chargers (up to 16) and balances the available power automatically, creating a smooth experience for the client.

Three different versions of the Balancer, including Single and Three phase options, are available to suit each client and their infrastructure’s needs.

The new BG SyncEV Balancers are available to purchase from local electrical wholesalers. To ﬁnd out more, visit: https://syncev.co.uk/ products/ev-balancer.

The Luceco Group, which includes SyncEV, Luceco Lighting, BG Electrical, and Masterplug brands has over 80 years of industry experience and is internationally recognised as one of the market leaders across all key electrical products.

Ten steps to encourage electric car conversions

CTEK has issued a ten point plan to make converting from internal combustion engine (ICE) cars to EV simpler and more affordable

The switch to electric vehicles (EV) on UK roads could be speeded up by encouraging and enabling widescale conversion of petrol and diesel cars, says the EV charge point manufacturer CTEK. Daniel Forsberg, CTEK’s marketing manager EVSE, said: “Converting older ICE vehicles to electric power makes environmental sense – the millions of ICE cars on the road embody a huge amount of material resources and manufacturing manpower and energy costs.

“A future in which tens of millions of ICE cars are all scrapped would be a tremendous waste of money, materials and the carbon dioxide already emitted during their making. And manufacturing a new EV involves a large carbon cost.

“Converting ICE cars to electric is entirely feasible, indeed the UK is already home to a growing number of boutique automotive businesses focused on these transformations. They are often turning classic cars and vans into EVs, yet the principles are the same for more modern vehicles.

“Currently conversions are expensive, which is one reason classic car owners are the main

customer base. They often have the ﬁnances to pay for it and the incentive of wanting to give a cherished vehicle a fossil fuel free future.

“To bring this option to the masses, drivers need incentivising and auto businesses need to be attracted to offer an affordable conversion service by making the process simpler.

“The UK has a strong automotive industry with many skilled employees who can develop methods and processes to implement electric conversion in a cost-effective and environmentally conscious way.”

CTEK’s ten point plan for enabling ICE to EV conversions

1. Simplify retyping: Create a simpliﬁed process for retyping vehicles that have been converted to electric power, including a speciﬁc registration category for electrically converted vehicles.

2. Standardise requirements: Introduce standardised requirements for electric vehicle conversion that are clear and easy to follow.

3. Subsidise: Offer ﬁnancial incentives or

subsidies to individuals and companies that choose to electrify their vehicles. This can reduce initial costs and make it more attractive to convert.

4. Training: Offer training courses for mechanics who want to specialise in EV conversion.

5. Simplify inspection: Create a speciﬁc inspection process for electrically converted vehicles.

6. Provide technical support: Establish a national technical support centre where individuals and businesses can get advice and guidance.

7. Support R&D: Invest in the development of conversion technologies to reduce costs and improve efﬁciency.

8. Publicise: Run information campaigns to raise awareness of the beneﬁts of electric vehicle conversion and how the process works.

9. Co-operate: Encourage co-operation between authorities, the automotive industry and third-party suppliers to develop and promote conversion solutions.

10. Eco-friendly loans: Work with ﬁnancial institutions to offer special low-interest loans for those who want to electrify their vehicles.

Daniel said: “The UK has many reasons to incentivise the conversion of older cars to electric power - environmental, economic and employment. In Sweden, the Government is looking seriously at this and in France there are already subsidies and a supportive regulatory framework, which has encouraged French multinational automobile manufacturer Renault to become active in conversion.

“Imagine if some of the most numerous petrol and diesel cars on UK roads, such as Ford Fiestas and VW Golfs, could be cheaply converted to electric. That would be a real gamechanger on the UK’s drive to its EV future.”

For more insights into how CTEK supports your transition to EVs, visit ctek.com.

KEWEVA

Where innovation meets simplicity

● Enables testing of EV charge points

● Single dial operation

● Automatic CP check

● No awkward adapter cable

● Compact - smallest in class

BS 7671 Amendment 2: Ch. 82V2G Circuit Protection

Octopus energy have announced the first commercially available Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) tariff, offering free home charging, for compatible vehicles. Although the jury’s still out on the economic viability of disparate domestic V2G technology, installers should be able to answer basic customer questions. The possibilities associated with V2G and V2H (Home), raises questions about existing switchgear and RCD requirements.

V2* Circuit Protection / Switchgear general points

Basic V2G technology is only marginally more complex than smart charging, allowing for bi-directional current flow (see below) and the existing power export agreement process. However V2H adds a degree of complexity to individual domestic installations, when included with PV and battery storage. The associated IET Codes of Practice (CoP) covering V2* Charging Ch.10 offer an authoritative guide to this subject. Be extremely wary of YouTube so called “experts” unless you have sufficient knowledge to critic the information provided, or the person has previous industry standing e.g. independent John Ward, ECA or similar technical support team, established Manufacturer, member of a Standards Working Group.

Functionality: The switchgear design must encompass the required operating modes, direct supply, reverse supply and or Island mode. Customers can assume incorrectly that V2G automatically encompasses island mode facilities. BS7671 Annex B82 gives pictorial overview of PEI functionality. The CoP for EV charging 5th edition section 10 & 11 gives detailed requirements for V2*.

Functionality (within the CP) must include a method of limiting the customers export capacity to under 16A (ENA G98), or the DNO may specify that the installation complies with G100 – see section 10 point 2. In the medium term widespread (all DNOs) automatic asset registration (AAR), is a prerequisite to mass market adoption of V2G technology and other small scale energy assets.

Rating: Conventional domestic units (BS61439-3) may be continuously rated <100A within a daily average maximum temperature range - refer to manufacturers documentation. Adding additional generation in parallel with existing supply capacity may result in the conventional switchgear being overloaded, leading to permanent damage / deterioration of insulation properties. Additional heat (temperature rise) can be transferred

By Chaz Andrews, technical manager at Doepke

into adjacent or connected components, manifesting in unexpected tripping events and or premature failure. Consequently, the rating of the switchgear, physical layout and method of controlling the maximum loading on any individual unit must take account of BS7671 551.7.2 (v). See examples given in CoP for EV charging 5th edition section 10 point 1 & 2. Where island mode operation is required, the maintained (essential) loads must be isolated from the non-essential loads based on available battery capacity – see CoP scheme Fig 10.4 and note 6 relating to the OCPD device.

V2* RCD selection

Reference: BS 7671 clause 826.1.1.1, 551.4.3.3.2. IET CoP EV Charging 5th Ed. 10.6, 10.7.3. IET CoP EES Systems 9.12

Bi-directional current flow Fig 1: EV or fixed batteries associated with an inverter operating as a load or source, resulting in current flowing in both directions. Associated RCDs must be suitable for bi-directional current flow i.e. the RCD must function correctly when the supply is connected to the top or bottom terminals,

refer to the manufacturer for verification*.

Supply cables requiring RCD protection at the DNO supply end, will have two RCDs in series, discrimination is not applicable. For single phase circuits, two pole switching required on the inverter AC input/output.

Type of RCD: Compatible with the inverters mounted in the associated chargers (EV and Battery). EES Systems Table 9.4 illustrates the selection process / Type of RCD e.g. if the inverter equipment does not include simple separation (preventing the flow of dc fault current), Type B required. RCDs providing automatic disconnection on the output of the inverters** must operate reliably with any DC components flowing in circuit.

* Single module RCBOs are not suitable for bi-directional use. Before carrying out any insulation tests, disconnect RCDs containing electronic components.

**10.7.3 “It is likely, particularly for dwellings and smaller commercial/industrial premises, that disconnection times can only be achieved using RCDs at the output of the inverter(s)”. www.doepke.co.uk

Order your copy of the Code of

3rd Edition from the IET Bookshop

This Code of Practice looks at electrical energy storage systems applications and provides information for practitioners to safely and eﬀectively specify, design, install, commission, operate and maintain a system.

Changes in this edition include:

– an update to the requirements for island mode isolators

– further guidance on the safety and the location of batteries within an installation

– updates to schematics for domestic use

– update to the requirements for sizing of generator connecting circuits, and coordination of assemblies through which generators connect

Find out more and order your copy today at theiet.org/cop-eess3-et

Build a business fit for the future

Stay

ahead of the curve and unearth opportunities for growth with Schneider Electric

The role of electricians and the nature of their work is evolving rapidly. Smart home technology, sustainable retroﬁts, and the rise of ‘energy prosumers’ (who both produce and consume energy) alongside shifting regulations and standards have made working in the industry more complex.

Opportunities for growth

Opportunities for electricians continue to grow at an unprecedented pace, not least due to the greater focus on sustainability. The digitisation of energy will continue to be a focus as consumers and businesses demand more visibility of their energy consumption to reduce costs and greenhouse gas emissions. The electrical industry underpins a move to a greener future, less reliant on fossil fuels as a source of energy. From the installation of smart home technology, EV charging and electric heat pumps to the rise of energy prosumers and renewable energy at home, electricians are a key part of creating more energyefﬁcient homes.

Upselling

Simple enquiries can often turn into great opportunities. For instance, installing a circuit to supply an external socket may require upgrading of earthing and bonding, perhaps even a new consumer unit. However, it is possible to go even further and upsell new products or services to customers that could be of benefit. Educating customers on new technology available to them, including energy efficiency solutions, is a great way to upsell. For instance, a customer ordering an EV charger may not have considered the benefits

The boom in work for electricians has only just begun. Business opportunities for electricians are set to grow even further alongside initiatives for a smarter and more sustainable future.

of onsite battery storage to make use of cheap rate electricity through the night. Also, they may not be aware that the addition of a solar PV system could provide them with further long-term economic beneﬁts.

Expanding business proﬁle

The cornerstone of marketing success is a business’ website. Adapting landing pages to optimise search engine results should take priority. Approximately 90 per cent of people only look at the ﬁrst page of online search results, so it is vital to rank highly in local searches. Google Ads offers an easy way to target advertising, using chosen keywords and location information to appear at the top of local Google search pages, yet improving your website’s ‘organic’ search results is invaluable.

Tips for boosting online visibility

Keywords can be used to boost search rankings. If the website has multiple pages, use different keywords so that the pages are not competing against one another in rankings. Professional site optimisation can be a good

investment to ensure: a great user experience and easy website navigation are vital. A business’ website should be mobile-friendly, informative, and useful; encouraging customers to leave Google reviews helps to show credibility; and linking the website with social media accounts helps to increase trafﬁc.

Social media

Social media is a great tool to connect with customers. By sharing experiences and showing the work of the business, electricians can highlight successful projects, answer questions publicly, and showcase customer reviews. For instance, Facebook allows businesses to target audiences, with posts helping them to appear higher in Google search results.

Conclusion

The boom in work for electricians has only just begun. Business opportunities for electricians are set to grow even further alongside initiatives for a smarter and more sustainable future. The time is now to capitalise on these opportunities, but businesses must ensure that they are ready and able to go above and beyond the competition to win new projects. Want to learn more? Discover the insightful ebook from Schneider Electric, offering practical strategies to future-proof your electrical business and helping you navigate challenges and stay ahead. Download Becoming the Electrician of Tomorrow here: https://bit. ly/3VXKBnu

No more limescale with bare wire

Stiebel Eltron has been making water heaters since Dr. Stiebel invented the coil immersion heater in 1924. Today, its cutting-edge instantaneous water heaters feature bare wire technology, which equals longer product life and better sustained performance even in hard water areas.

Bare wire the beneﬁts:

• Faster heat up time

• Can take pre-heated water

• Resistant to limescale = better sustained performance and longer product life

• Faster to react to changes in water pressure and voltage to maintain constant water temperatures

• More efﬁcient

How bare wire heating works Unlike traditional water heaters where the heating element is enclosed in a heat exchanger, in bare wire products the live heating conductors are in direct contact with the water being heated. This means much greater efﬁciency and speed in heat transfer.

Bare wire heating elements are especially suitable for use in hard water. The very small amount of water inside the appliance and the low-mass heating system means there is hardly any post-heating after the appliance has been switched off – a major reason for the reduction in scale build-up.

Find out more and where to buy

The bare wire range is available at all major wholesalers, including: Mini instant water heaters – DEM single phase units from 3-6kW ideal for supplying single basins; Compact instant water heaters – DCE-X Premium and DCE-S Plus single phase units from 6-12kW for one or several outlets, ideal for such applications as a shower and basin; and Convenience instant water heaters – DHE and DHB-E 3 phase units

NEW AXIOM 1500DC

ROTARY ISOLATORS

from 18-27kW. Supply a whole home from a unit just 46 x22x 11 cm. Planning a development for 3 phase water heating can mean reclaiming enough space from DHW storage to ﬁt in whole extra apartments in a building!

Stiebel Eltron offers a free speciﬁcation service if you want help choosing the right products for your project. Request a consultation today at www.stiebel-eltron.co.uk/etbarewire

NEW DC RANGE INCLUDES

16Amp, 25Amp and 32Amp 1500v 4 Pole DC Units

ABS Moulded Enclosures with lockable pads

Door interlock systems - cover opens in OFF position

Excellent switching & high short circuit capacity

Compact, reliable & easy to install

CURRENT AC RANGE INCLUDES

25Amp to 125Amp 415v 4 Pole Units

ABS Moulded or Sheet Steel Enclosures

Plus 32 & 63Amp cast aluminium options

Surge protection and solar PV

Kirsty Johnson, technical director at Surge Protection Devices, discusses the importance of surge protection and adhering to the relevant regulations when installing solar PV

The number of solar PV installations is on the rise, with consumers wanting to reduce energy prices and the industry moving towards more of a prosumer approach to energy use. One of the aspects of PV system design, that is often overlooked, is surge protection.

BS7671:2018 regulation 712.443.101 states that where protection against transient overvoltage is required by section 443, such protection shall also be applied to the DC side of the PV installation. So, if the solar installation as on the roof of a building where the regulations in section 443 require SPD’s to be installed, SPDs would now also need to be installed on the DC side of the installation to protect the inverter.

Some inverters state that they include overvoltage protection. For an incorporated SPD to fulﬁl the requirements of the wiring regulations, the manufacturer must specify that it is installed on the DC side of the inverter, as this ensures that it is providing protection on the correct side of the inverter. There are quite a few inverters on the market which say they have overvoltage protection included, when in actual fact, it is only providing protection on the AC side of the system. It must also state the type of SPD, the reason it is important for the type of SPD to be mentioned is that once a device is speciﬁed as a type it must conform to the product standard BS EN 61643-31 as some manufacturers incorporate individual varistors, which are not considered to be a complete surge protection device.

Another consideration is that the inverter will only ever include a Type 2 surge protection device, so if the building has an external lightning protection system, then the installation

will always require the use of external Type 1 SPDs to conform to BS EN 62305.

When a PV system is installed on a building with an external lightning protection system (LPS) the PV system should be separated from all parts of the LPS in accordance with BS EN 62305-3, this is referred to as the separation distance. This is the distance that must be adhered too between the LPS and any metal work to ensure that no dangerous arcing can occur. If the separation distance is not met, then the metal work must be bonded to the LPS, therefore becoming part of the lightning protection system. More information on separation distances can be found in BS EN 62305, but it is important to note that the separation distance depends on different parts of the lightning protection risk assessment carried out for each individual building, and therefore will be included in the LPS paperwork, if available. This calculation should only be carried out by someone with experience in the lightning protection ﬁeld. If the separation distance is not met and therefore the PV system has become part of the LPS then the SPD required will need to be a Type 1, as mentioned above, this will always be external from the inverter.

From experience, there are not many installations that correctly conform to these separation distances, so as a general rule, if the building has an LPS a Type 1 SPD should be installed on the DC side of the installation. For all other PV systems, a Type 2 SPD will provide adequate protection.

Although the SPDs are still deﬁned as Type 1 and Type 2 devices, they are different to the SPDs we see used on the AC electrical systems and only SPDs that are designed for the speciﬁc use on the DC side of a solar PV installation

should be used. This is due to the continual loading and higher voltages of PV systems. The devices designed for the use on the DC side of PV systems are clearly marked with the PV symbol, as per the requirements in BS EN 6164331. Also, they obviously look slightly different, with the live and neutral terminals being replaced by a positive and negative terminal. Selection of a PV SPD is quite simple. From the above, you should know what type of SPD you need. The only other information needed is the operating capacity of the inverter, which is usually 600V or 1,000V. There are some specialist systems which are different, and there are devices available for those too, but for simplicity we will stick with the 600V & 1,000V options. That gives four options of devices.

Now we have the correct device selected, we can move on to installation. As with our AC SPDs, our DC SPDs are installed in parallel with the string, usually a DC isolator would be used. DC SPDs should be installed one per string to provide protection, although in some situations, it may be possible to protect multiple strings with one SPD, depending on the installation design.

For more information on the use of surge protection devices contact the surge protection experts on 01484 851747, or email us at info@ surgedevices.co.uk.

“It’s like having an energy bank at home!”

Stephen and Zoe upgraded their Telford home in March 2023 by installing MCS certified solar panels and a battery storage system. One year on, MCS caught up with Stephen to find out the impact their new installations have had on their home and lifestyle.

Why did you install solar panels and battery storage on your home?

Making the move to renewable energy has been a longstanding goal for us. We wanted to ‘grow’ our own energy, partly to cut down on our energy bills, but also to show our grandchildren that we’re doing our bit for the planet.

How was your first year of living with solar panels and battery storage?

Our experience has been really positive! Both systems have operated smoothly without any issues, and they’ve provided us with around two-thirds of our electricity. This has significantly decreased our energy bills, and we’ve also been able to earn money by selling the surplus electricity generated from our solar panels (and stored through the battery storage) back to the national grid through our supplier.

Your systems were installed at the start of spring. How did they perform during spring and summer?

We were very impressed. In spring and summer almost all of our electricity came from our solar panels – in fact, within the first six months we generated more electricity (around 3,000 kWhrs) than we use in an entire year. We also noticed that, apart from just a handful of days, the battery system was providing us with all our energy at night during those months, which was really encouraging to see.

What about during the cold months?

I was a bit worried about how well our system would hold up in the colder weather. But when I checked the numbers, I was happy to see that even though we didn’t make as much solar power as in the sunnier months – only about a third as much – we still generated over half of what we needed, and even, at times, sold extra electricity back to the grid.

What made you install battery storage alongside your solar panels?

Installing battery storage with our solar panels has been a real game-changer. It lets us use more of the renewable energy we generate by storing it, meaning we don’t need to buy as much electricity from the grid. This not only saves us money on our electricity bills, but also

helps us do our bit for the environment and reduces stress on the grid.

The best part is the flexibility that the battery gives us, allowing us to sell our extra electricity back to the grid. In the future, with the new electricity tariffs that are set to be introduced, we can sell more power when prices are high and (even if it isn’t sunny) we can charge the battery up when electricity rates are lower. It’s like having a little energy bank at home, helping us get the most out of our system while keeping costs down.

What’s been most surprising about the technology?

I think the most surprising – and welcome – part of our experience has been the electricity generated by our solar panels during the colder and darker months. In that six month period we were still able to produce more than half of the electricity we used. The other, equally pleasant surprise, has been just how many nights we have run without taking any power from the grid.

One of our favourite things is how low maintenance they are – quietly doing their job in the background without needing much attention. It’s easy to monitor performance, as the app on my phone has a simple dashboard that shows how much solar energy we’re producing, how much energy we’re using as a household, and the battery charge percentage. While you don’t have to check it all the time (although we often do!), it’s really rewarding to see the positive impact we’re having on the environment and our energy bills. And it’s always a nice feeling to receive payments for the extra power we sell back to the grid.

Has your lifestyle or behaviours at home changed in any way since living with the technologies?

Our electricity usage hasn’t really changed, but we’ve definitely become more aware of how we use power, making little tweaks here and there to get the most out of the technologies. For example, if our battery charge is running low – around 15 per cent or less – but the weather is sunny, we might hold off putting on the washing machine to give the battery a chance to recharge a bit more.

We’re also more careful about using devices that use a lot of power at the same time, as this can overload the system and we might end up needing to buy extra power from the grid. For example, we try not to do the ironing whilst the electric oven is on for dinner! It’s not always easy to coordinate perfectly, but most of the time our battery handles our power needs.

If you’re thinking about getting a battery storage system for your home or business, there’s lots of helpful information out there to guide you. The likes of Solar Energy UK, Energy Savings Trust, and your energy provider can offer great advice. MCS certified contractors can also advise you on what technology may be right for your home, helping you make an informed decision. In our case, Craig and Bernie, from MCS certified contractor Craig Michael Renewables, were brilliant. They carried out a full home survey and discussed options with Zoe and I about which technologies would be most suitable for our home. Three months later work commenced, and our solar and battery installations were completed within a few days. Visit the MCS ‘Find a Contractor’ tool https:// mcscertified.com/find-an-installer.

Why electricians should be adding solar to their skill set...

Chris Sadler, CEO and founder of Kimble Solar, explores the six reasons why adding solar installation to electricians’ skill sets can be beneﬁcial

As the world is making a transition towards a more sustainable future, there is a signiﬁcant increase in the demand for solar energy solutions. This shift presents a lucrative opportunity for electricians who choose to incorporate solar installation into their skill set. By doing so, they can tap into a rapidly growing market and establish themselves as proactive professionals who are well-prepared for the evolving energy landscape.

Growing market

The demand for solar panel installations is rapidly increasing as consumers become more environmentally conscious and seek ways to reduce their carbon footprint. This presents a signiﬁcant opportunity for businesses in the solar industry. As the market continues to expand, companies need to recognise the potential growth and adapt their offerings to meet the needs of their customers.

By incorporating solar installation services into your business, you can stay ahead of the curve and meet the growing expectations of environmentally conscious consumers. Failing to do so could result in missed opportunities and potential loss of market share to competitors who have embraced solar technology already. As the industry evolves, businesses must recognise the shifting demands of consumers and position themselves as leaders in sustainable energy solutions. Offering solar panel installations not only meets the current needs of consumers but also demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility, setting your business apart from competitors.

Easy to start

Adding solar installations to an electrician’s services is a relatively straightforward process. Typically, a four-day training course is all that’s needed for a qualiﬁed electrician to become a qualiﬁed solar installer.

Public liability insurance (PLI) will need updating to include solar installations, and we believe that all contractors should work towards obtaining Microgeneration Certiﬁcation Scheme (MCS) accreditation. These steps not only enhance credibility but also open up further opportunities for electricians.

Customers can only claim Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments if their installation was done by an MCS-accredited installer,

making this certification essential. Choosing an installer backed by organisations like RECC or HIES safeguards consumer rights and deposits through insurance-backed guarantees, protecting both parties in case the company faces financial difficulties.

Adhering to standards ensures electricians are properly qualiﬁed, protected, and able to provide their customers with the full range of beneﬁts associated with solar installations.

Free marketing message

The government’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050 has led to a signiﬁcant increase in the demand for solar energy as a means to combat climate change. Both homeowners and businesses are actively seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint, and solar panels have emerged as an appealing solution. By providing solar installation services, businesses have the opportunity to capitalise on this growing interest in sustainability and position themselves as valuable allies in the global effort to address climate change.

Opens up other eco-technology opportunities

Diversifying your business to include solar installation can be a strategic move that opens up opportunities to incorporate a range of complementary eco-friendly technologies. In addition to solar energy systems, you can also venture into offering electric vehicle (EV) charge points, smart heating controls, heat pumps, energy-efﬁcient LED lighting, and battery storage solutions. By positioning your business as a one-stop shop for eco-technologies, you can cater to customers who are seeking a

comprehensive sustainable living experience, and establish yourself as a trusted and valuable partner in the green technology sector.

Maintenance opportunities

During the period of the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) program around 2011, a multitude of solar companies entered the market. However, over time, a signiﬁcant number of these companies have folded, leaving numerous homeowners in a state of uncertainty when it comes to locating professionals who can provide maintenance services for their solar systems.

As an electrician specialising in solar installation, you have the opportunity to address this unmet need by offering comprehensive maintenance services, including tasks like inverter swaps. These services can provide a reliable source of recurring revenue, while also ensuring that homeowners have access to the necessary expertise to keep their solar systems operating efﬁciently.

Highly proﬁtable

Profitability should not be a dirty word, it’s a fact that we all work to earn a living. Solar installation services can be highly profitable, especially with the added benefit of zero VAT on sales, making the proposition more appealing to customers. And, let’s also not forget that the homeowners will also benefit from solar panels over the lifetime of the property. So, it’s a win-win for both business and homeowner.

The surging demand for sustainable energy solutions, particularly solar power, presents a compelling opportunity for electricians to diversify their service offerings and future-proof their businesses. By acquiring the expertise to design, install, and maintain solar energy systems, electricians can position themselves at the forefront of the renewable energy industry. This strategic expansion enables electricians to capitalise on a rapidly growing market, take advantage of government incentives for renewable energy installations, and cater to environmentally conscious customers seeking eco-friendly solutions for their energy needs.

Additionally, by embracing solar energy, electricians can contribute to reducing carbon emissions and mitigating the impact of climate change, while simultaneously enhancing their professional reputation as forward-thinking and environmentally responsible service providers.

Q: A:

AQStacey Howell, Crystal Electronics

Can you tell us more about yourself, and your role?

I possess a City and Guilds from years ago at college and I also passed my PRINCE2 practitioner for project management a few years ago. However, I have been with Crystal for 11 years now and everything I’ve learnt throughout my career has been through hands-on experience and mentoring from my incredible colleagues. My role focuses on the compliance of Crystal, HR, legal and accreditations of the business whilst overseeing the recruitment, and contract management for some of our most prestigious contracts. At Crystal we have a vast majority of accreditations from NICEIC, ISO 9001, 27001 and 14001, as well as Constructionline Gold, CHAS, SMAS and Safe Contractor to name a few. They are extremely critical to the business driving it forward to continuously improve and making Crystal the most accredited installer in the UK. Day to day, I oversee the running of our headquarters ensuring efficiencies and delivery is to a high standard.

What ﬁrst interested you in being part of the industry and how did you join?

Initially, I had just left college and wanted a job. I attended an

...throw into the mix Net Zero over the next 25 years and there is no way that that is going to be achievable with the number of electricians in the market right now. Especially as electricians are retiring quicker than the apprentices can be trained.

Since I started 11 years ago, the focus from compliancy to revolutionary energy efficiencies has been the biggest change. Due to the legal requirements, compliancy such as EICR testing and smoke alarm installation programs are still critical to the social housing market, but the focus is now also within energy efficiency, including emergency lighting, EV chargers, solar, battery storage etc. The likes of the governing boards such as NICEIC and NAPIT has also positively become more stringent, tightening the belt of compliancy within the industry.

interview at Crystal and was offered the position of junior secretary. Once I joined Crystal and had a few months under my belt, I found it increasingly interesting watching projects evolve from a quote, to mobilisation, through to delivery and end satisfaction for all stakeholders. I really enjoyed being involved at all points and getting involved in the ‘nitty gritty’ to help improve on process and efficiencies.

As well as EV charging, we also complete thousands of fixed wire tests every year. This ensures the safety and compliance in residential housing. After the heartbreak of Grenfell, I feel like it is so critical that we continue to deliver such important and lifesaving tests.

The electrical industry is so exciting to be a part of as it’s forever evolving, there are always new technologies and new products coming on to the market. We are forever learning.

How has the industry changed since you started?

How do you ﬁnd being woman in a predominantly male-dominated industry?

At Crystal it doesn’t feel like a male dominated environment. Our directors and senior management team is a female majority at 55 per cent, we are also pioneering to encourage women into the electrical trade. In 2021, only 3.18 per cent of electricians in the industry were female. I think it’s fair to say many people don’t like being told what to do, and certainly when I was younger and female, I did receive some resistance from men when attempting to direct and request actions be done. I think times have moved on and the electrical industry is a lot more modern, with more forward-thinking players than some other industries/trades. Sometimes you may come across the odd male chauvinist, but they are far and few between. As I have grown older, I have realised it doesn’t matter how people perceive you, as long as you just do your job the best you can and ensure the outcome is as required, then it doesn’t matter what stereotype they taint you with.

What advice would you give to women that are looking or maybe unsure about joining the renewables sector?

What’s stopping you? The EV sector is so important to our future, yet there is such a shortage of electricians in the industry, throw into the mix net zero over the next 25 years and there is no way that that is going to be achievable with the number of electricians in the market right now. Especially as electricians are retiring quicker than the apprentices can be trained. There is such a crying need for female electricians. Some residents we visit request female only electricians because they would feel more comfortable with women on the property, but with it being such a male oriented sector, this is a special request, and it shouldn’t be.

It’s such an exciting industry to be in, and with the energy efficiency provisions, it’s so amazing to be at the forefront of that, really making a difference to our carbon footprint and especially at Crystal, our moto being “a clean air future for our children.”

What’s the biggest challenge facing the industry?

which are putting increasing demand on the existing resources.

A: Q: Q: A:

Resource. Qualified electricians. There are not enough electricians in the industry. It is critical to the industry that more focus is put into apprenticeships and training to sufficiently cover a) the retiring electricians of the trade and b) the new workstreams that are coming,

Non-EV drivers can have a very negative opinion of EV because they don’t think it will work or worry ‘the infrastructure isn’t ready.’ It’s the fear of the unknown, but what a lot of people don’t realise is that this is not a choice and in the interest of the goals for net-zero, it’s inevitable that everyone gets on board.

What are your thoughts on the future of EV?

I think EV will grow from strength to

strength as technologies evolve - it’s not just the EV chargers themselves but the car models and IT infrastructure. As time gets closer to the net-zero deadline, societies opinions on EV will change, people will start to realise the benefits and disregard the negative, misleading opinions which swamp the media right now.

Once public opinion swings, the market will explode. As an example, with the workplace charging scheme for state-funded education institutions, schools, colleges, and universities are starting to realise the benefits. They can benefit from grants and thus generate revenue and this has seen an influx in enquiries for chargers to be installed.

SWITCHING OFF

Making a change

Frankie Greig, who oversees apprentices for the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), talks to Lisa Peake about taking part in the cycling challenge of a lifetime to raise funds for the industry charity that helped him face his own mental health issues

My career started with a week’s work experience with an electrician in Motherwell when I was still at high school in the early 90’s. After that, I knew what I wanted to be. I started my training with the local council and stayed there for about eight years, before moving onto a Glasgow contractor who did a good mix of domestic, commercial, and industrial work. During my time with this company, a new opportunity came up with a company who specialised in wiring up all kind of heating systems - gas, LPG, oil and electric storage. I continued working in this field on and off for just over 10 years, before moving to my last company where I only spent a year and a half. Despite the length of time there, I would say this is where I learned and experienced the most because of the sheer size and versatility of the work. The job also prepared me nicely for what I do now, being a training officer.

I feel very privileged and proud to be a training officer at SECTT. It is such a rewarding job that allows you to experience the progression of young people. I get to play a big part in their electrical journey, overseeing the apprentices both at college and on-site. In a way, I feel as if I have gone full circle because my training officer when I was a boy, Barrie McKay, is now my boss.

The joy of cycling

I have been cycling for as long as I can remember. The earliest picture I have is from primary school on an old BMX. Eventually, I progressed onto mountain biking and I took part in a cross country race, but unfortunately I didn’t win! My obsession with bikes only grew, and as I got older and started making more money, naturally my bikes got a lot more expensive.

My favourite thing about cycling is the freedom of being out on the road with the wind in your face, or on a forest trail covered

in muddy splashes, with not a thought but to pedal. When you have slogged up a nightmare of a hill to go down a nice decent at the other end, you can’t help but smile.

Italian Lakes Cycle 2023

The Italian Lakes Cycle event is a gruelling 324 miles from Venice to Milan. I took part in this challenge to raise money for The Electrical Industries Charity (EIC). The EIC supports so many people, and indeed helped me on my own journey to better health and wellbeing, so I wanted to do something in return and raise awareness of depression, anxiety and suicide in our industry.

Before signing up to do this challenge, I found myself in a really dark place, having let the Covid pandemic get the better of me. I put on weight, as a lot of people did, but I did very little about it when we all come out the other end. I was able to work from home, but longer it went on, the more it took the wind out of my sails. It got to a point where I had to be honest with myself and admit that I needed help before things got even darker for me. I attended an online seminar that the EIC presented to us, and I waited until the end to speak to the people who ran it. They then put me in touch with coaching and counselling expert, Ross Hyslop, who would be my

voice of reason, the man who taught me a different and more positive way of thinking. It’s not an overnight fix and I know that I still have a long way to go, but I will keep on fighting to improve my mental health and wellbeing until I am the role model I truly wish to be.

I took on this cycling challenge because I wanted to make a difference, no matter how small. I’ve been battling mental health issues for a number of years and also lost my best friend to similar issues some years ago, so I know how vital it is vital for people to know that help is out there if you need it. There really are some wonderful, caring people who are more than willing to guide you through the tough times. It’s so important to take that first step and speak to someone –there’s nothing so bad that it can’t be fixed and rather hear someone’s problems than read their obituary.

The Electrical Industries Charity has done so much for a lot of our apprentices, adult trainees and their families through times of struggle and it felt only right to show gratitude. They are a wonderful charity and don’t receive anywhere near the recognition the truly deserve.

A gruelling schedule

The first day of cycle started from Venice and went onto Verona which was around 96 miles, with a monster of a hill that seemed to keep going up and up.

The second day was from Verona to Lovere, past the lakes of Lombardy and stopping at Lake Garda for a water stop. Lake Garda was absolutely stunning.

The third day was from Lovere to Como, which started with two early morning climbs. Very tough on weary legs at 8am in the morning! Then after a water stop at the top, we had a cracking, very fast decent with an angulating afternoon where the hills weren’t just as bad.

The fourth and last day of cycling was from Como to Milan. Firstly, we went to the Madonna del Ghisallo cyclist chapel and the cyclist museum where we stopped for coffee

before starting our days cycle towards Milan. This was easily my favourite day where I felt quite strong and could have pushed a bit more. I wished I could have stayed in Italy a bit longer. When we arrived in Milan we had a few celebratory drinks which tasted like the nectar of the gods, but we were all so tired after two or three drinks! Once we had dinner, we were all ready for bed.

This event was extremely tough for the larger gentleman like myself, but when I was hitting failure, I would stop for a breather and no matter where you were, the view was breathtaking. Sometimes we would just stop for a chat over a coffee to re-energise, and dear oh dear Italian coffee is amazing.

A great sense of achievement

Before I started training for this challenge, I was the heaviest I’d have ever been. I wanted to get my weight down considerably and change my way of life entirely. I knew it would be a tough road ahead, but I had to do it for the sake of my family and to ensure I have a long and healthy life.

I trained about five times a week between spin classes at my local gym, did some weight training, as well as working with a personal trainer. I was also out on my bike, which SECTT helped me to buy for the trip, clocking up the miles. One day I even cycled to work at Paisley College from Hamilton to carry out two classes of college reviews with my first-year students.

I think I underestimated the Italian Lakes challenge a little - some of the hills were absolutely horrendous! In hindsight, I should have done a lot more hill climbing in my training instead of just going for distance.

Easily the biggest highlight of the trip was the amazing scenery, but further to that I met some really great people. I was very lucky to be cycling beside some of the nicest, friendly and funniest people, and also the two guys who were leading us from Discover Adventure, Jamie and Tel, could not have been any better.

The hills were definitely the biggest challenge for me and the heat alongside it didn’t help much that’s for sure. You were cycling all day and when you got to your hotel for the night, it was shower, dinner then bed. Up the next day at 7am to start over again.

After completing the challenge, I was completely elated and quite emotional. I video called my family immediately, celebratory drink in hand and could not stop smiling - I had done it! I also raised well over what I set out to raise.

I cycled 324 miles from Venice to Milan and it’s something I will never forget. I am extremely proud and would definitely do it again or something similar.

Thank you to everyone who supported me on this journey as I could not have done it without you, a big thank you also to SECTT, the SJIB, SELECT and Unite the Union.

Is on-site hydrogen production a viable carbon-cutting energy option?

By Joe Sheehan, technical director, i3 Solutions Group

Using hydrogen as a fuel has mostly been discussed as a combustible solution for grid energy needs.

Much press coverage has been devoted to its potential to provide zero-carbon energy where excess variable renewable power from wind or solar runs electrolysers to produce green hydrogen using clean energy that would otherwise go to waste. But could hydrogen be produced effectively at a data centre scale to achieve carbon savings? What is the potential for on-site production of low-carbon hydrogen (hydrogen produced without associated carbon emissions) for use as an energy carrier in data centres? Could fuel cells powered with clean on-site produced hydrogen replace batteries for back-up or even additional power?

Could the principles of developing such energy storage solutions assist Variable Renewable Energy (VRE) developments in proximity to new data centres and in turn drive greater consumption of low-carbon renewable energy within those facilities?

The fundamental characteristics of a medium to large data centre are high energy demand, energy storage, and power generation. This can be combined with an urgent need to cut Green House Gas (GHG) emissions and a need to use more VRE as primary power sources.

The components of a hydrogen producing system, an energy generation source and an energy storage system already exist within conventional data centres. What are the possible synergies of converting these systems to hydrogen production to achieve carbon savings and drive-up use of VRE?

Where to start?

A new whitepaper from i3 Solutions Group “The Case for On Premise Hydrogen Production in Data Centres for Greenhouse Gas Abatement Beneﬁts” considers an energy regime of the continuous operation of hydrogen-powered

generation equipment during periods of high grid carbon intensity. In such a scenario the principal purpose of on-site hydrogen production and power delivery equipment is to operate as the prime source continuously for extended periods. This is a departure from the current situation where data centre power generation is operated as the prime source of electricity and the grid reverts to a standby source. Of the many ways to produce hydrogen, the electrolytic splitting of water is the focus of the paper.

Due to the low-temperature operation and the established and commercialised status of the technology, alkaline electrolysis is considered for the concept. The VRE energy storage regime studied in the paper requires a method for storage of generated hydrogen between periods of low grid carbon intensity when hydrogen would be produced on-site and periods of high grid carbon intensity when hydrogen would be consumed. Having produced and stored the hydrogen through electrolysis the focus of the paper then turns to turning hydrogen into electricity. The paper says: “The use of fuel cells to achieve... energy extraction is more efﬁcient and avoids due to the combination of any fuel with heat in the presence of air which includes both nitrogen and oxygen. The results show that carbon emissions saving can be achieved by employing on-site hydrogen production coupled with additional consumption of grid energy at times of low carbon intensity. However, the reductions achieved are very low.”

Location, location, location

The concept examines the viability of utilizing additional grid electricity during periods of low grid carbon intensity to produce and store hydrogen. And using that stored on-site hydrogen to offset grid electricity consumption during periods of high carbon intensity.

To explore the possible merits or deﬁciencies of such a concept a mathematical model has

been created to consider the application of this concept to grid carbon variations in a series of different geographical locations that calculates the potential carbon reduction beneﬁts.

The model has used a notional data centre and a selection of applicable hydrogen technologies for hydrogen production, storage, and power generation. Locations modelled include UK (Nationally), Scotland, Ireland, England (South East) which calculate the “Simulated Results for Model of 10MW DC with Matched Hydrogen Production & Power Generation Facilities – 2021 UK National Grid Carbon Intensity.”

The report says: “The optimal solution to maximise electrolyser utilization for green hydrogen production is to site the installation in the geographical location of renewable power generation, with ample hydrogen storage capacity and ability to export surplus hydrogen. In this way, every available hour of surplus renewable energy production can be exploited using electrolyser plant operation.”

The paper states: “The merits of full-scale on-site hydrogen production range from low to medium depending on location.”

The myriad commercial and technical considerations and calculations of the viability of hydrogen production, storage and its use to cut carbon in data centres are explored. Analysis of the simulation results examines the challenges and opportunities of current shortfalls and how they can be overcome.

If not how, then when?

Will hydrogen production, storage and use be used to offset carbon in data centres? As more advantages and beneﬁts need to be demonstrated today the answer is perhaps, but not yet. However, given the nature and scale of the challenges to cut data centre carbon intensity it doesn’t mean not ever, and could be sooner than one thinks.

Read the white paper at: bit.ly/3QlLPVS

“But could hydrogen be produced effectively at a data centre scale to achieve carbon savings? What is the potential for on-site production of low-carbon hydrogen (hydrogen produced without associated carbon emissions) for use as an energy carrier in data centres? Could fuel cells powered with clean on-site produced hydrogen replace batteries for back-up or even additional power?”

C.K Tools strips away the hassle for electricians with the launch of new ArmourSlice EVO Cable Stripper

C.K Tools, is leading the way in product innovation with the launch of its new ArmourSlice EVO Cable Stripper – designed to deliver greater effectiveness for electricians in their everyday work.

A high-quality redesign of one of C.K Tools most popular innovations thanks to the speed and precision achieved by using it, the new ArmourSlice EVO offers superior stripping and cutting abilities making it faster, easier and safer to strip SWA cables than conventional stripping methods.

The next generation ArmourSlice features an innovative new quick-clamp design allowing for rapid tool fitment and removal as well as a new finger-grip handle for greater rotational force and faster cutting – providing busy electricians with an efficient method of stripping SWA cables ready for termination.

The new ArmourSlice EVO scores armour strands to a uniform depth for a clean break off and trouble-free gland connection. The automatic cable clamp applies constant pressure throughout the cut with no retightening necessary, ensuring no cable slip or over-scoring, while the wide cable clamp ensures perfect blade to cable alignment for precise cuts on cables from 12mm up to 36mm. The high quality, modern tool has a rugged all-metal construction for exceptional durability. www.ck-tools.com/stockists/stockist-search

ESP expands Beacon assistance alarm kits with Part M version

ESP has expanded its Beacon Disabled Refuge and Assistance Alarm product range to include a new Part M version of its assistance alarm kit.The new assistance alarm kit is designed to meet the criteria of care standards that are set out in Part M building regulations BS 8300.

BS 8300 is a British Code of Practice that sets out the requirements of how buildings should be designed, constructed and maintained to meet the needs of disabled people as well as create an accessible and inclusive environment for them.

Designed to enable a person in need to raise an alarm in the event of an emergency, the simple to install 3-part kit comprises an Indication Module, Pull Cord Module and Reset Module and features a battery back-up function (battery included).

The compact design makes the products suitable for many interiors and the system is expandable to include additional indication and pull cord modules if required. All three modules are designed to fit a standard 1-gang box. www.espuk.com

Axiom add 1,500V DC Rotary Isolators to range

The Axiom Industrial Control Gear range currently includes 415v 4 Pole Rotary Isolators from 25 to 125 Amp in either ABS polycarbonate moulded or sheet steel units, as well as 32 and 63 Amp die cast aluminium options. Enclosures for this existing range are IP65 rated, designed with two knockouts on either side and come with a padlock facility.

The NEW additions of 1,500V 4 Pole DC Rotary Isolators include 16, 25 and 32 Amp versions. Again in PC moulded units, these Isolators have lockable pads and door interlock systems, where the unit cover only opens in the OFF position. IP66 rated and with TUV and UL approvals, these DC Isolators are compact, reliable and easy to install, with excellent switching and high short circuit capacity.

Suitable for photovoltaic solar panels, inverters and DC solar pumps, these new units are a significant addition to the Axiom Rotary Isolator range. Further information please call 0208 503 8500 or visit the website. www.cedelectrical.co.uk

Click Mode – the number one wiring

accessory range

Since it was first launched back in 2006, Scolmore’s Click Mode range has remained the company’s best-selling wiring accessories collection to date.

Mode was conceived and developed as a high quality, flexible and modern solution for virtually any domestic wiring requirement. The smooth, contemporary lines of the accessory plate will fit easily into traditional and contemporary designs alike and the modular design allows installers unprecedented flexibility in creating dedicated wiring solutions.

When selecting wiring accessories installers have often had to compromise their schemes as they have been unable to identify a suitably modular solution to satisfy their ideas. Mode accessories have been providing that flexibility, with a comprehensive selection of products ranging from the humble light switch and socket outlet through to more specialised products dealing with the very latest developments in telephone and satellite products.

All Click Mode switch plates are modular as standard, allowing the creation of virtually any switch plate required. The MiniGrid modules are all easily and quickly exchanged or mounted onto unfurnished plates by means of a simple single screw fixing.

The full range of Click Mode wiring accessories is available to view on the Scolmore Group website as well as on the Scolmore Group app. www.scolmore.com

Small and compact in name and format but packing a huge punch when it comes to features and benefits is the new Inceptor Milli dimmable, fixed, fire-rated LED downlight from Ovia.

Designed to complement the range of downlight solutions already offered by Ovia, Inceptor Milli is aimed predominantly at the domestic market. It combines style and functionality to provide installers with a downlight that is quick and easy to fit and offers a raft of features at the flick of a switch.

Five bezel finishes are available, with a choice of White, Black, Chrome, Satin Chrome and Antique Brass finishes offered. With the standard version you simply order the finish of your choice as a fixed finish. The baffle version is supplied with a white bezel, but this can be interchanged with any of the other finishes and they are purchased separately. Simply twist the existing bezel to remove and replace with the colour finish of your choice.

A brochure featuring the new Inceptor Milli can be viewed on the website and the Scolmore Group app. It is also available in the new Issue 5 Ovia Catalogue. www.oviauk.com

Unicrimp’s Q-Crimp catenary wire and accessories range includes a catenary wire kit bundle which brings all the essential items together in one handy kit form to aid installers.

Catenary wire is used to create an overhead catenary to support pipes, banners, cables and lighting, for example. The range comprises two lengths of 3mm galvanised steel wire rope (50 metres and 30 metres). This is a flexible cable which has a 650kg breaking load.

The catenary kits comprise 1 x 30m length of the 3mm steel wire rope, 1 x zinc plated strainer, 4 x 3mm steel wire rope grips, 2 x 3mm steel wire eyelets, 1 x hook wall plate and 1 x wire ring plate.

For further information contact Unicrimp on 01827 300600: sales@unicrimp.com or visit the website. www.unicrimp.com

Ovia – switching up its downlight offer

Essential Catenary Wire Accessories from Unicrimp