Electrical Review – Spring 2024

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BENEFITS

Shorter commissioning and installation time for a faster start up.

Modular and stackable design for versatile floor layouts and a smaller footprint.

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Save on capital expenditure.

World class service and support.

04 Editor’s Comment

Welcome to 2024.

08

How do you ensure your solar photovoltaic installations are designed for long-term use?

Chris Cowling from Aztec Solar has the answer.

13 Smart Grids

Could a decentralised microgrid be the solution to some of the UK’s energy infrastructure woes?

17

Powered On: Sustainability

Find out all the details surrounding our upcoming event dedicated to sustainability in the UK electrical industry.

18 Lighting

Dominic Harkness, a lighting designer from Ansell Lighting, shares some top tips on how to avoid unnecessary light pollution.

23 Electric Vehicles

Private financing could supercharge the roll-out of EV charging infrastructure in the UK, according to Toby Horne from Siemens Financial Services UK.

30 Safety

When working with electricity, it’s important to rigorously follow safe isolation procedures, using specialised equipment like proving units, says Martindale Electric’s Steve Dunning.

34 Final Say

Does the UK lack ambition when it comes to infrastructure upgrades?

Editor’s COMMENT

A Whole New Year

Is April too late to say ‘Happy New Year’? It probably is, especially as this year has been somewhat of a whirlwind thus far, but this is also the first issue of Electrical Review in 2024 – and that’s worth celebrating, right?

While it may be our first issue of the year, Electrical Review never sleeps. We’ve already had a bumper start to the year – whether it’s the success of our second CPD Week, which took place in January, or the excitement surrounding the recently-announced shortlist for the 2024 Excellence Awards, there’s been a lot going on.

The electrical industry has also been hard at work in the first half of this year. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledged to create up to 20,000 more apprenticeship places, which could go some way towards relieving the skills gap we’re facing at the moment, while National Grid ESO has proposed a huge overhaul of the UK’s electricity grid – which will cost in the region of £58 billion.

All of these recent moves should help the UK in its quest to decarbonise, and in this issue we have a myriad of contributions from across the industry that will explore some of the technologies and solutions that are enabling that decarbonisation to take place.

Whether it’s increasing private financing to ‘supercharge’ the roll out of electric vehicle chargers, or how we can move away from diesel gensets and towards more sustainable on-site power – this issue has it all.

Thank you to everyone who continues to support Electrical Review’s mission to serve the industry, and we hope that you enjoy this issue. As always if you ever need anything from me, you can reach out at jordano@sjpbusinessmedia.com.

Jordan O’Brien, Editor

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How do you take protection testing to the next level?

Advanced Protection Testing is the answer to improving efficiency and reliability.

Protection testing is a critical pillar in ensuring the seamless and safe operation of power grids, protecting them from potential faults and disturbances. However, as the energy landscape evolves and demands

increase, traditional methods of protection testing are reaching their limits. Read on to learn how Advanced Protection Testing is one of the key factors in keeping up with the demands of future grids and the benefits it offers.

What is Advanced Protection Testing about?

Let’s take a look at everyday tasks. For example, most people struggle with repetitive tasks that are error-prone and time-consuming. Another pain point is struggling with fully automated processes that don’t provide visibility into operations and often don’t deliver the desired results.

Many advantages compared to conventional testing

Standardised test routines, protection testing libraries, and semi or fully automated testing can reduce time effort by up to 80% compared to traditional manual testing. In addition, built-in documentation features reduce the time required to document test results. The combination of these features result in enormous time savings over the life cycle of the device.

Due to hourly engineering costs and travel expenses, the time saved on testing has a direct impact on the associated costs. In the event of a failure, there are even higher costs due to loss of supply, contractual penalties, or damage to assets. Advanced Protection Testing minimises testing time while maximising system availability, resulting in substantial cost savings.

Finding the right balance between transmission system quality and reliability on the one hand, and time and resources on the other, has always been a challenge. Now, rapidly evolving technology and generally scarce protection test resources make it even more difficult.

Standardised, prepared test routines and the addition of system-based testing to the parameter-based approach make the best use of existing resources – and pay off in higher quality and reliability.

Who is Advanced Protection Testing for?

Advanced Protection Testing can be used at all stages by different actors in the industry, including manufacturers, project companies, system operators and service providers. For example, it can be applied for precision and type testing at the product stage. In the project phase, it can be used for complete protection system testing during commissioning. In the maintenance phase, it can be a tool for regular or incident-driven testing.

To help with these tasks, Advanced Protection Testing provides a combination of tools and processes. It is a complete approach for organised, standardised or even automated parameter-based and systemlevel testing.

Safety is a top priority in the energy sector and avoiding putting people and assets at risk is the number one goal. Using some of the time saved from reduced testing to thoroughly prepare for upcoming test tasks not only increases efficiency, but also improves safety. You can increase safety even more by integrating connecting drawings, safety instructions, and warnings into automated test routines.

As mentioned earlier, the power industry is experiencing rapid technological evolution. To keep pace, Advanced Protection Testing solutions provide the tools necessary to integrate GOOSE and Sampled Values configuration modules into automated test routines. This simplifies all types of repetitive testing tasks in an IEC 61850 environment for maximum efficiency.

Whether it is from senior staff to new colleagues, for other training purposes or for remote support, the transfer of knowledge is essential. Using standardised test routines that show step-by-step how to test the protection function is an excellent way to document and transfer the protection test principles used.

In summary, the power sector is facing a confluence of challenges that require innovative solutions. By taking protection testing to new levels of efficiency and precision, the industry can overcome the hurdles of ageing assets, evolving technologies and increasing demand. Embracing these changes will not only ensure the reliability and continuity of the power supply but will also move the power sector towards a more resilient and sustainable future.

How to design commercial photovoltaic installation for long-term use A

The number of commercial and industrial buildings installing photovoltaic systems is growing exponentially. Chris Cowling from Aztec Solar explains how to get the specification and installation right for now and the long term.

ccording to Drax’s ‘Electrical Insights’ report, the rate of new solar panel installations more than tripled between September 2022 and 2023. As a country we installed a total of 2.9 GW bringing our total to 18.1 GW – and this growth is only set to accelerate, with the report forecasting 4.6 GW of solar installations in 2024.

The demand is particularly strong in public sector, commercial and industrial buildings as organisations seek to meet their carbon reduction commitments, reduce their electrical costs and secure their supply.

Payback periods for solar installations are typically about five to seven years, but depending on your client’s electrical consumption they can be as short as three years. After that, they are saving or even generating revenue by exporting it back to the grid. A good PV module will still be producing 90% of its output even after 25 years, so the potential lifespan of the system could be longer than you think. It makes the design of the system crucial both in selecting the right products and planning for the long term.

Planning renewable generation over a long period is not simply a case of finding the lowest cost solution. You must specify a system that meets

the needs of the organisation now and in the following decades. And you need to consider the practicalities of the installation plus the future operations and maintenance to minimise the lifecycle cost over its lifespan.

It all starts with the design and a clear idea of your customer’s electrical consumption and what it is likely to be in the next few years. Are they, for example, planning to charge more electric vehicles in the future – whether that’s cars, commercial delivery vehicles or forklifts in a warehouse?

Most commercial organisations will use most of their electrical power in the day, and can often use all the power generated by a PV system, so they may or may not need energy storage using batteries. The advantage of having batteries is that you can use the generated power when the sun is not shining, and also receive and store energy from the grid at low peak times for additional use when you need it. Each installation is different and it’s a matter of judgement.

Before you start your design, you will need to conduct a thorough site audit to assess the roof structure and its load-bearing capacity and the best areas to install the PV modules. This is to maximise their output, avoid skylights and other services, and consider safe passage for future operations and maintenance and in case of an emergency.

Planning for repair and maintenance and thinking ahead

If you outsource the design and installation then it’s a good idea to employ a company who also provides operations and maintenance support as they will have a clear understanding of what to consider for the long term.

For product specification, you should only consider tier 1 products. These are audited for performance and also for their provenance. Organisations are typically installing PV systems as part of their sustainability drive so the last thing they want is their PV modules produced using slave labour.

PV modules generally have a warranty for 25 years and will in many cases last even longer, whereas inverters could need replacing after 10 years. You need to plan for future access for the maintenance of both and their potential replacement.

Many commercial installations will have several thousand PV modules so you need to think about remote monitoring of the system so that a maintenance team can clearly identify and find where a fault is.

They will need access to the system so think about the positioning of distribution boards, inverters and the PV panels. At a basic level, PV panels will need cleaning regularly, but if they need replacing or maintenance then remember that they will be generating DC voltage electricity, so you need to mitigate the future risk to personnel.

Safety first

PV modules typically have an output voltage of 30-60V. Connecting several of these modules serially in a string creates a high voltage of up to 1000VDC in a commercial installation, which can be dangerous to installers and for future maintenance. Traditional string inverters cannot reduce this DC voltage even if they are turned off.

This has two implications. Personnel will need experience in working on live equipment, but more importantly you need to select an inverter that will reduce the voltage to a safe level for maintenance or in an

emergency; if, for example, firefighters need to access the roof.

Fortunately, inverter technology has caught up with this safety requirement. Systems like SolarEdge have power optimisers, inverters and individual monitoring on each module. This allows for the automatic shutdown of PV arrays and lowers and maintains the voltage in all DC conductors below 50V and to 1V per optimiser for either maintenance or in an emergency.

“ A good PV module will still be producing 90% of its output even after 25 years

A further safety requirement for inverters is that they must detect and terminate an electrical arc by shutting down. Such arcs could be due to connectors or cables being damaged or not properly connected.

This technology also keeps output levels high. In a traditional arrangement if one module is not working properly, then other modules in that string will drop down to a minimum level. With the inverter technology described above, if one module is not at full capacity for whatever reason it does not affect the other panels’ output.

Installation

Every installation is different and each poses its own challenges for the specification, installation and commissioning.

Factors to consider include when you can get access to the building to crane or lift the PV modules onto the roof, how long will the power be shut off for connection and commissioning, and the health and safety of the building occupants and those installing the system.

For many commercial buildings, such as hospitals for example, there may only be a very small time frame where you can connect, commission and test the system before they need the building’s power back on.

The specification, design, commissioning and ongoing maintenance of a PV system is vital if an organisation is going to maximise the rewards from renewable self-generation over its long lifespan. It pays to design such systems with future maintenance in mind and to consider the system’s future requirements for replacing equipment and the needs of personnel who need to maintain it.

Get the specification right and the building landlords and occupants will reap the rewards for decades. And perhaps more importantly, you will be making a significant contribution to the climate and our future energy security.

Top left and above: installation at Warwick University

Why the age of the diesel genset is finally coming to an end

Drawing on the recent experience of supporting one of the world’s biggest infrastructure firms, Ciaran Cotter, Technical Director at Solivus, explores the ever-mounting case for transitioning away from diesel gensets and towards sustainable on-site power.

It’s official; the days of the diesel generator are numbered. In June 2023, the Construction Leadership Council set out designs to eliminate diesel from most construction sites by 2035. This follows the 2022 withdrawal of red diesel in construction plants and machinery. Add to the equation record high diesel prices and it’s easy to see why the sector remains primed for a green alternative to the traditional gen-set. But what is it?

It’s easy to see why construction is on the front line of the climate crisis. Around 40% of UK carbon emissions are linked to the built environment. Yet infrastructure demand is vast. Therefore, without the right sustainability policies and strategies in place the sector could undermine the path to net zero.

in the transition towards zero diesel construction sites.

Traditionally, construction sites have relied on diesel generators to power onsite equipment and machinery thanks to their associated high performance, reliability and portability.

However, while diesel generators provide reliable temporary power, they do have some serious drawbacks, especially for the environment.

Thus, as construction firms continue to ramp up the scope and scale of their sustainability commitments, it was inevitable that the environmental implications of diesel generators would come under greater scrutiny.

This was seen last year as the Construction Leadership Council launched its ‘Zero Diesel Sites Route Map’, a key element of its CO2nstruct Zero programme, which sets out to eliminate diesel from 98% of construction sites by 2035. Importantly, the Route Map advocates increased on-site renewable energy, with up to 500 construction companies signing up to significant zero diesel reduction strategies by this year. It follows the 2022 removal of the red diesel rebate from construction.

At the same time, diesel prices remain highly volatile – having shot up at one of the fastest rates in more than 20 years last September – meaning the transition from diesel to renewable energy is no longer just a green imperative but a financial one.

Clearly then, the argument for accelerating the transition to diesel-free construction sites appears conclusive. But the big question is – what’s the best alternative?

Transitioning to renewables

Although not new, the use of solar panels in temporary construction is quickly coming to the fore as a way for sites to obtain a reliable temporary power supply and decarbonise, and for good reason.

Fundamentally, cost reduction has made it a viable option for both long-term and short-term construction projects, with it estimated that the cost of installing solar has dropped more than 80% since 2010.

But it isn’t just about cost but technological advances too. Traditionally, solar was once confined to robust permanent structures

able to withstand the weight of rigid roof-mounted solar panels and therefore not suitable for cabins. Not anymore.

Thanks to advances in technology, the latest generation of innovative lightweight solar panels are a fraction of the weight of conventional panels and have more universal applications for fixing methods which have opened up new roof space opportunities.

A great example of this opportunity can be found in Solivus’ recent work with one of the world’s biggest infrastructure names. Hereby, the challenge was to create a solar-fuelled alternative to the diesel generators currently used to power its construction site cabins portfolio.

To achieve this, Solivus created a low carbon set up which combines solar panels with a battery storage system to create a decentralised, self-sufficient energy hub. The system works by storing the excess energy generated by the solar panels in a connected battery storage unit. As a result, site cabins can be powered continuously, with the system automatically releasing the reserve energy even when there is no sunlight.

“ The cost of installing solar has dropped more than 80% since 2010

Indicative of this approach’s vast potential, the project, based on a seven-day operational period, is estimated to save the business up to 14,416 Kg of carbon dioxide emissions across the site’s cabin portfolio per year. It will also eliminate the need for 5223 litres of diesel.

Cost savings are accounted for too, with the average cost of solar generation at £0.61/kWh compared to the diesel equivalent of £1.44/ kWh. The result is a gross annual saving of £9,140, with the entire system paying for itself in just six years, all while ensuring a reliable, resilient, clean energy supply.

There is no doubt that it’s now or never for net zero. While this brings new complexity for construction operators, it also provides an opportunity to reimagine environmental strategy and take advantage of innovation. With benefits that include significant energy cost savings, emissions reductions and ‘always on’ reliability, the transition from diesel to solar in temporary construction is an inevitable and intelligent one.

One great example of the type of progressive climate action needed can be found

Join us for an exclusive gala dinner held at Christ Church near Spitalfields Market in London on 16 May 2024, where winners of each category will be announced.

Why microgrids are key to more resilient and sustainable infrastructure

As another winter draws to a close, it has once again revealed some cracks in the UK’s energy infrastructure.

ADavid Rimmer, Microgrid Business Leader

UK&I, Schneider Electric UK & Ireland, believes that decentralised microgrids could be the solution.

couple of months ago, Storm Isha became the latest extreme weather event to wreak havoc, leaving many households and businesses grappling with severe power outages. At the height of the storm, hundreds of thousands of people across Northern Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales were left without power.

It’s not only during storms that we have a power problem. In fact, recent research found that nearly 66% of UK residents have experienced power cuts, lasting an average of two and a half hours. It’s clear that we’ve reached an impasse: our existing energy infrastructure is no longer fit for purpose. It is struggling under the weight of more frequent extreme weather conditions, demand fluctuations, and momentous changes to baseloads (i.e. the minimum electrical current necessary to power constantly running components), historically supported by fossil fuels.

Most existing electric grids in the UK are decades old, built for a time when electricity needs were less complex. As global energy demand –which is expected to increase by 47% in the next 30 years – continues to grow, action must be taken today to ensure that we can meet that demand, keep the power on and curb emissions all at the same time.

Building a resilient power network

As a nation, we demand a lot of the grid, particularly during the winter months. Recent usage spikes and the knock-on effects of extreme weather events have emphasised the need for a more resilient power network. Investing in a smarter, decentralised grid based on a network of microgrids will help us to bring our infrastructure into the 21st century.

Microgrids are self-contained electrical networks that enable you to generate your own electricity on-site and use that energy when you need

it. A microgrid system can connect to the primary utility grid, store excess energy in battery energy storage systems, or ‘island’ to autonomously distribute energy locally even when disconnected from the centralised grid. This means that one central point of electrical generation is transformed into literally thousands of points – turning our homes and businesses into more self-sufficient producers of energy.

A smarter approach to energy management

Microgrids are managed by smart digital tools that constantly monitor the network’s performance in the same way a fitness watch monitors your health. This process helps to identify weak spots and stress points, enabling a faster response and recovery when it comes to blackouts by routing power to where it’s needed the most, or dispatching engineers to downed power lines.

This is one of the key advantages of adopting such technology. Imagine the grid powering your facility suffers an outage. Using the intelligent controls from your system, you can automatically switch your energy source from the main grid to your on-site microgrid, minimising the amount of downtime incurred from the outage. In addition to acting like insurance policies for uninterrupted supply, microgrids can also boost energy efficiency efforts by feeding any excess energy back into the system, reducing waste.

“ Investing in a smarter, decentralised grid based on a network of microgrids will help us to bring our infrastructure into the 21st century

To add to this, microgrids can be rolled out at a quicker pace than national grid upgrades, and at a fraction of the cost. A decentralised model would also accelerate the process of decarbonisation as we move away from fossil fuels. It would bolster our energy supply, cut energy costs, while minimising disruption in the event of high winds, flooding and freezing weather.

With extreme weather events becoming increasingly common and the demand for affordable, low-emission energy growing, it is more critical than ever that the industry and the government come together to modernise our infrastructure. After all, resilient infrastructure is a crucial enabler of productivity and economic development. In order to ensure that we are ready for next winter’s storms – and the new energy revolution – we must act today.

Managing a sustainable energy strategy in an electrified world

Future-proofing energy infrastructure is businesscritical as we transition to an electrified future.

Simon Port, Head of Design and Engineering at Powerstar, explores the issue, and looks at technologies that are helping to balance a resilient power supply with a sustainable strategy.

The energy transition is revolutionising the way we think of energy supply and demand, at a societal level and as businesses. As the country is increasingly electrified and moving away from fossil fuels, the energy mix has become more complex, and the risk of disruption to power supply – at the local level – grows.

How the energy system is changing

The Climate Change Committee has predicted a 50% rise in electricity demand by 2035. While this can be largely attributed to a rising global population, as well as the growing economies of developing countries, there are a whole myriad of reasons for growing electricity demand.

Alongside growing electricity demand, the energy system is also changing. At the grid level, as renewables make up a greater percentage of power generation, the distributed nature of this power presents further challenges to the status quo.

For instance, the National Grid was designed for centralised dispatch,

but now the energy transition is seeing the growth of smaller-scale generation across distribution networks.

Where large-scale power plants were connected to the high-voltage transmission network managed by National Grid, smaller-scale generation connects at the distribution network level, putting localised distribution under far greater pressure than it was designed to manage.

That’s led to distribution network operators taking on more of the heavy lifting, balancing incoming and outgoing power, while also dealing with significant variations in supply and demand, which only increases the risk of disruptions.

Options for working with a more complex energy system

As national power supply becomes decentralised, companies and organisations across the UK are looking to their own sustainability targets, and electrification is a vital element of a successful corporate decarbonisation strategy. Investment in on-site renewables – in solar and wind – and switching to EV fleets can significantly reduce carbon emissions. However, given the pressure on DNOs, any progressive corporate electrification plan may run into issues around grid constraints.

Bringing more electrical equipment on-site increases demand from the DNO, potentially taking it above your agreed supply capacity (ASC) – the maximum capacity the DNO must supply to your site. Exceeding your ASC can lead to excess capacity charges – significant surcharges on your energy bills. This can be circumvented by an application to the DNO to increase your ASC. While electricity bills will increase in line with increased usage, this resolves the expensive threat of excess capacity charges.

A second, and more problematic, issue comes about should you be close to the available capacity allowed by the DNO or should your proposed electrification/decarbonisation project take you to that point. And this impacts both where a site places additional demand, through

increased electrification – and/or provides additional supply – specifically on-site power generated through on-site renewables.

Both of these impact on the DNO’s resilience. If they deem that an application to increase capacity may impact on overall local distribution, the DNO may be forced to refuse it given their mandate to ensure secure supply across their whole network. This could block a project, outright.

If, however, an application to increase capacity is allowable, there may well be a long lead-time to establish an additional, and expensive, connection. Even for large corporations, where the costs may not be prohibitive given the benefits, the wait times can be significant, to say the least. Plans to remove projects deemed ‘unrealistic’ from the waiting list have been met with legal objections. Along with an influx of around 80 projects applying for connections each month, last November The Telegraph reported a queue of 1,600 proposals, and waiting times as long as 13 years.

“ For energy security, BESS technology offers significant benefits over traditional UPS

In this context, organisations need proven and effective solutions, and are increasingly investing in technologies that can help navigate these hurdles: to provide security to energy infrastructure planning; to ensure that decarbonisation strategies work; and to measure their impact in a rigorous manner.

Investing in on-site renewables is an obvious option for any company when first looking at sustainability, and research from the University of Liverpool backs up the business case for investment, establishing the stability of solar energy pricing when compared to fossil fuels. And renewable infrastructure is currently exempt from business rates until 2035.

Securing your power supply

However, given that renewables are inherently inflexible – dependent upon weather conditions – investment in these assets is largely pointless without the capacity to intelligently manage the storage of energy generated and its usage. With a battery energy storage system (BESS), this becomes feasible.

A BESS will store energy generated on-site, as well as energy purchased from the grid – ideally, purchased at the lowest price, and producing the lowest emissions, for use when needed.

To avoid the negative impacts of power disruptions from the grid, a BESS with an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) capability offers all the security of a traditional UPS system but with far lower operating costs and emissions: capable of protecting an entire site, rather than isolated pieces of equipment, with around 95% lower losses than the traditional solution.

That’s why, for energy security, BESS technology offers significant benefits over traditional UPS. And, as part of an EV strategy, BESS technology can be vital in managing demands between the availability of power, DNO constraints, and real-time charging needs – this is a key component of EV fleet transition where organisations may not be aware of the energy infrastructure implications and how these may be overcome through BESS technology.

When combined and managed within a smart microgrid, on-site renewables and BESS technology can work together, paired with an advanced AI-driven energy management software, to protect your site and assets. But that’s just the beginning of the benefits, with the solutions also driving efficiency and cost reduction, which helps to identify areas for potential savings and assists with preventive maintenance scheduling.

There are a multitude of reasons to consider a microgrid, such as:

• Using intelligent energy management software gives you a vital insight into energy usage, while the software can also manage multiple power flows across your site’s microgrid and automatically prioritise the assets and actions for optimum energy usage.

• Thanks to the growing use of machine learning and AI, this software can also facilitate real-time decision making and trend prediction which can enable the seamless switching between the use of centralised power and power generated on-site, depending on the most efficient option at the time.

• Detailed data relating to the grid, the company’s site, and assets onsite, provides the information to inform maintenance planning and to have a data-driven overview of possible failure points, providing the research to inform improvement strategies. Monitoring and reporting tools can inform strategic load planning, while also giving the data that is vital to informing sustainability strategies and reporting. The more technology and the more assets that can connect to a microgrid’s control software, the more it will learn, and the more intelligently it will function. AI-driven control, when combined with the right energy management technology, has the capacity to transform the way our energy systems work.

As electrification increases, we’re faced with a difficult balance –the demand for energy security alongside the imperative of emission reduction for a sustainable future. But these need not be competing agendas. Modern energy management technologies can help futureproof energy infrastructure with resilient power and a significant, measurable, and positive impact for your decarbonisation strategy.

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Recolight go beyond recycling, by o ering circular economy services, facilitating the reuse of lighting equipment, and helping to avoid unnecessary recycling of surplus new lighting.

Working with the lighting industry, Recolight o er support and services to help their Producer Members transition to a Circular Economy.

Engineer the sustainable future you want to see

The electrical industry has undergone massive changes over the past decade or so, and sustainability is now at the heart of the industry. Whether it’s the electrification of heat and transport, managing the influx of renewables onto our energy grid, or simply trying to make energy efficiency gains – everywhere you look, we’re thinking more sustainably.

That’s why Electrical Review is set to run a half-day event on April 23 dubbed ‘Powered On: Engineering a Sustainable Future’.

Similar to the Powered On Live digital conference that takes place every June, with details surrounding the 2024 event set to be revealed soon, Powered On: Engineering a Sustainable Future offers an insight into some of the technologies and solutions that are enabling the UK to move towards its goal of net zero emissions by 2050.

The agenda for the event is stacked with some of the industry’s preeminent experts and will kick off with a keynote speech from Jon Davies, Director of Network Operations & Intelligence, Electricity Transmission at National Grid.

During the half-day event you can expect to hear a range of debates on everything from:

• The role of electrical technologies in accelerating the transition to electric vehicles

• How we can balance the integration of renewable energy with energy security concerns

• What role role IoT and smart grids can play in energy management

Additionally, a special presentation by Bret Simon, Strategic Business Development at Exodigo, will discuss the revolutionary impact of AI on the electrical grid.

As with Powered On Live, Powered On: Engineering a Sustainable Future offers an opportunity for the industry to come together, share ideas, and discuss solutions to some of the industry’s biggest problems – although with a unique focus on sustainability.

Registrations for the event are open now and you can view the full agenda on the right.

Sustainable Future Powered On Engineering a

VIRTUAL CONFERENCE 23 APRIL 2024

09:05 - 09:35 Keynote

ELECTRIFYING SUSTAINABILITY

- THE GRID OF THE FUTURE

09:35 - 10:05 Session

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN IN PRACTICE

10:05 - 10:45 Panel

SMART GRIDS AND IOT: REVOLUTIONISING ENERGY MANAGEMENT

11:00 - 11:40 Panel

BALANCING ACT: RENEWABLE ENERGY AND GRID RELIABILITY

11:40 - 12:20 Panel

ELECTRIFYING TRANSPORTATION: ACCELERATING THE TRANSITION TO ELECTRIC VEHICLES

12:20 - 12:50 Session

HOW AI IS TRANSFORMING THE ELECTRICAL GRID

How to avoid polluting the night sky with thoughtful lighting design

Dominic Harkness, a lighting designer from Ansell Lighting, shares some top tips on how to avoid unnecessary light pollution.

Impacting ecosystems, human health and the environment, light pollution is a huge issue across the globe. Caused by excessive, poorly directed and improperly shielded artificial light, installers and lighting designers are being called upon to prevent and address this problem when maintaining existing, or implementing new, lighting systems.

Outdoor lighting is fundamental for security, safety and visibility after dark. It also contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of our surroundings, while playing a huge role in accentuating architectural features, landscapes, and urban environments.

However, much of the lighting we use at night is unnecessary. Often too bright, ineffectively shielded and badly directed, it is causing needless radiance in the world around us – or namely, light pollution.

But what are the issues caused by light pollution and why is it such a problem to our planet?

The impact of light pollution

Light pollution is a complex problem that affects diverse aspects of our world. It causes huge disruptions to ecosystems and the natural behaviours and rhythms of wildlife, including migration patterns, mating

rituals and, especially for nocturnal animals, feeding.

Excessive artificial lighting also creates skyglow which washes out starlight and other celestial objects hindering astronomical observation and research.

Human health is another issue impacted by light pollution with circadian rhythms and sleep patterns disrupted causing various health issues, including insomnia, fatigue, mood disorders, and increased risk of certain chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cancer.

That’s not to mention that lighting pollution wastes huge amounts of energy worldwide, further contributing to climate change – not to mention escalating energy bills.

The scale of the issue is vast. Approximately eight out of 10 people on earth live under a light-polluted night sky, with global light pollution levels said to be increasing around 2% per annum – meaning the problem is worsening. That’s why it’s important that we take steps to address the issue.

How to solve our lighting pollution problems

Whilst it will take many years before levels can be significantly reduced and inefficient schemes replaced, we can ensure that new schemes will

not contribute to the problem and help in the fight to reclaim dark skies.

Product selection is a key starting point. Installers should ensure that they opt to include products that combine advanced lens technology and enhanced glare control design to minimise glare and reduce light trespass. These products, alongside shielded designs, will ensure a minimal amount of light is given off upward, preventing light pollution.

Many manufacturers have committed to developing new product designs that incorporate these characteristics. A fixed mounting system is also advisable, helping to ensure that light is distributed in line with photometric testing.

Easing the specification process, DarkSky (formerly International Dark-Sky Association), the authoritative voice on light pollution, has developed a certification program to recognise products that meet these standards. Known as the Fixture Seal of Approval, all products with this certification meet required criteria and won’t add to light pollution levels in the night sky.

“ Approximately eight out of 10 people on earth live under a light-polluted night sky

DarkSky also provides useful guidelines on how to approach the design of installations so that they have much less impact on the environment.

Known as ‘Dark Sky Design’ there are five principles to follow and consider in total, which can be seen on the right hand side of this page.

Light pollution is a very real problem in our world but by implementing these strategies and incorporating dark sky-friendly lighting practices into new lighting projects, we can contribute to its reduction, protecting natural habitats, ecosystems and ensuring the beauty of the night sky is preserved for future generations in turn.

The five principles of ‘Dark Sky Design’

USEFUL

The light should have a clear purpose and benefit, and consideration should be given as to whether individual luminaires are actually needed. Thought should also be given to how the fitting will impact the specific area and whether it will have a negative impact on any wildlife in the local environment.

TARGETED

The light should be illuminating only the area needed and not impacting on neighbouring spaces.

LOW LEVEL

The illumination should be at a low level, providing only the desired level of illuminance and nothing more.

CONTROL

Systems should be completely controllable and only switched ‘on’ when they are useful. Products which have integral control, such as dimmable functionality, selectable colour temperature and selectable power function are a must as they can be set to optimise colour, performance, and energy usage. Integral electronic photocell, microwave sensor and smart options are also recommended, ensuring products are only in use exactly when they are needed.

COLOUR

Finally, the colour of the lamps is hugely important in reducing light pollution. A warmer colour with a CCT of 3000K or less should be used as they have a lower blueviolet component.

How to make sustainability a reality in lighting

Sustainability is rapidly moving from a “Nice to have” to a “Must have” for companies that want to grow and expand. And to evidence their sustainability, companies need to present data and actions. Fine words no longer cut the mustard!

So what does sustainability look like in a lighting company? To be clear, it is no longer just the energy efficiency of lighting. Manufacturers have made huge strides with modern LED lighting, But that means energy efficiency is now a given. True sustainability in lighting should now also include:

• Ability to remanufacture or upgrade fluorescent fittings to LED

• Facilitate reuse when supplying new product

• Good metrics on embodied carbon and environmental impact

• A clear published pathway to net zero

Customer requirements – and legal requirements

An increasing number of customer specifications now include detailed sustainability criteria. And those suppliers who cannot meet them may find themselves missing out. But it is also only a matter of time before the Government adopts new legislation and mandatory standards to enshrine many of these in law.

At the end of last year, the Government consulted on amending the WEEE regulations to recognise and reward remanufacture – possibly via a reduction in the WEEE financing obligations. So companies that move first, are also likely to be best placed as requirements change.

Ability to remanufacture and upgrade lighting

Remanufacture and reuse is a vital way in which users can reduce the carbon footprint of any lighting upgrades they require. Keeping existing light fittings in service reduces waste, improves material efficiency, and lowers the embodied carbon of new lighting. Industry estimates suggest that reused light fittings have typically 50% lower embodied carbon than new – and often more.

One of the biggest barriers to the reuse of lighting equipment has been the perception that customer demand is limited. Clients, both corporate and public sector, are however now warming to the concept of reconditioned lighting to achieve both sustainability goals and cost savings. And now tenders are beginning to emerge which specify the reconditioning and reuse of luminaires in a project. The more end users include reused or remanufactured products as an option in specifications, the more we will see producers offering these solutions.

In situ or off-site

Remanufacture and upgrade can take place either on the owner’s premises, or at a third-party site. Where the work happens onsite, this clearly reduces the carbon footprint of the transport of product, and means that work can be scheduled to cause minimal interruption to the client. A number of companies can now provide or design upgrade kits for specific luminaire types.

Recycle the fluorescents

During any remanufacture or upgrade, it is vital to ensure that the waste fluorescent tubes that are removed are appropriately recycled. They are classified as hazardous waste and must be stored and transported appropriately. Recolight can help with a free container and recycling service, subject to minimum quantities.

Good environmental metrics

More and more lighting designers, specifiers and end users are now requiring potential suppliers to provide credible metrics that demonstrate the environmental performance of new products. In some cases, that means Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and Life Cycle assessments (LCAs), supported by independent third parties. The advent of Product Specific Rules written specifically for lighting products (PSR0014) makes it far easier for specifiers and end-users to compare products from different suppliers.

Where third party certified EPDs and LCAs are not available, TM66 (for circularity) and TM65 (for embodied carbon) can also provide excellent data that give a client the confidence that a product is more sustainable in manufacture and in use.

Facilitate reuse when supplying new product

Where new products are supplied and older products are displaced, there is a much better environmental outcome if the products that are removed are reused, and not just recycled. That reuse could be by the building owner, the contractor, or the supplier. But if no immediate solution is available, the Recolight Reuse Hub is an online portal that links donors with excess new or used lighting equipment, with recipients that can offer to remove and use it.

Standards for the remanufacturing of lighting products

A BSI committee of industry stakeholders has been working on a new lighting remanufacture standard, BS8887:221. This standard will help companies remanufacture in a way that applies realistic approaches to product compliance and should give end users the confidence that the product is suitable for use. The draft is expected to enter a consultation phase later this year.

A clear published pathway to Net Zero

Every company in the lighting supply chain should have a long term target to hit net zero. But a long term target, on its own, is not enough. Companies should also set annual plans and actions to make tangible emissions reductions. Those plans need to cover every aspect of corporate behaviour, e.g. how product is made and shipped, the source of electricity used to power and heat factories and offices, the use of recycled raw materials, the way staff travel. Offsetting should not be considered acceptable – all too often, it masks bad environmental practices with schemes that frequently have very questionable carbon savings.

Two events later this year to learn more about sustainability in lighting

NET ZERO LIGHTING CONFERENCE

2 MAY, LONDON Recolight and the Lighting Industry Association (LIA) are jointly hosting a conference that will focus on the practical steps lighting manufacturers can take to reduce the carbon emissions of all parts of their operations, to contribute to the low carbon economy. This event will provide guidance from a range of experts from both the lighting industry and other sectors to advise on best practice in moving towards net zero. Further information is available at www.thelia.org.uk/page/ NetZeroConference

CIRCULAR LIGHTING LIVE CONFERENCE

9 OCTOBER, LONDON

Circular Lighting Live is a one day conference and exhibition for the lighting industry that focuses on all aspects of the circular economy, including case studies on remanufacture and reuse, updates on new EU and UK standards and regulations, and the growing significance of life cycle assessments. It is intended for manufacturers, suppliers, specifiers, and end users. Further information is available at www.recolight.co.uk/circular-lighting-live/

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How to bridge the funding gap in the roll-out of EV charging infrastructure

Toby Horne, Siemens Infrastructure Financing Partner at Siemens Financial Services UK, explores how private financing could supercharge the roll-out of EV charging infrastructure.

The decarbonisation of road transport is an important objective in global net zero strategies. Given that road transport consumes almost half of all oil production, it’s clear why.

Electric and hybrid vehicles have already been introduced for freight, commercial, and consumer transport in order to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, and while the penetration of EVs in the overall automotive market was still relatively low two or three years ago, this picture has radically changed.

Government incentives, mandatory climate targets, and a fundamentally shifting consumer zeitgeist concerning personal carbon footprint reduction have all served to accelerate the take-up of EVs. In 2022, 10.5 million new electric and hybrid vehicles were delivered, an increase of 55% compared to the previous year.

Growing EV charging infrastructure

Rapid growth in EV sales requires growth in the national charging infrastructure, with a particular emphasis on rapid public charger availability, if the current capabilities of fossil fuel stations are to be matched.

While there are issues around the subtleties of charging and power exchange between charging stations, workplaces, homes, and even from vehicle surplus (vehicle-to-grid or V2G), the most fundamental issue is matching the pace of EV sales with the pace of rapid EV charger installation. On this point, there are concerns about the availability and reliability of public rapid-charging stations

There are many different types of organisations potentially involved in growing the charging station network: fuel companies, utilities, the public sector, and companies with a campus where charging facilities are to be offered to employees. Additionally, hotels, parking lots, company premises, filling stations, street lamp posts, university campuses, shopping centres, and supermarkets are already increasingly offering charging points.

However, the nationwide charging network is simply not growing at the same fast pace as EV adoption. In fact, recent research has shown that in the UK, the figure of available public EV chargers as a proportion of the EV fleet is only 3.7%.

The investment challenge

A typical challenge facing the development of an effective charging infrastructure is the sheer cost of investing in network development. A previous study estimated that a €104 billion gap exists for the global development of EV charging infrastructure for the period 2023-25 alone.

This ‘gap’ represents the EV charging infrastructure not yet being acquired with specialist third-party finance – indicating that it is still being paid for out of CAPEX (capital expenditure). CAPEX can prove to be inefficient in that it ties up an organisation’s capital in depreciating assets and makes it unavailable for other requirements. Acquiring EV charging infrastructure using specialist financing techniques harnesses third-party capital and reserves precious funds for more immediate needs.

The idea of affording these sums out of the public purse, or freezing them in corporate accounts, is (for most) simply untenable. Many commentators have remarked on this situation across the globe.

Similarly, many have also remarked on the critical role being played, and expected to be played, by private sector finance in building the EV charging network.

New financing models supporting the transition

EV charging units are particularly appropriate for new private sector financing models based on usage, performance, and outcomes. This is because the charging units generate a potential income stream over time that can be harnessed to pay for today’s capital cost of the investment. The provider of the facility can then make a series of regular payments that can be flexibly aligned with the flow of the expected income from the charging units.

“ A €104 billion gap exists for global EV charging infrastructure development for 2023-25, underscoring the critical role of private sector finance

These financing models range from leasing-based arrangements that help to manage cash flow, through to more complex usage-based arrangements that enable ‘X-as-a-service’ methods of accessing EV charging technology.

Hence, the key requirement is for specialist financing tools that can flex to match the expected cash flow generated by the charging points, in some cases making the investment budget neutral. Such flexibility is not normally available from generalist financiers as it requires expert knowledge of the technologies involved and experience of the benefits that they deliver in real-life situations. In this way, the financier can deliver flexibility while also using their in-depth understanding to mitigate risk.

Financing arrangements from an expert financing partner allow technology vendors to make rapid capital investment affordable and cashflow friendly for public and private sector organisations wishing to invest in EV charging points, and other technologies that support sustainability ambitions.

Indeed, anecdotal evidence suggests that the availability of specialist financing options from one technology supplier can often tip investment decisions away from competitors not offering those options. By removing the need for capital spending, specialist finance enables scarce public and corporate capital to be applied to investments that do not generate such an immediate and tangible cash flow.

The predicted rapid growth in electric vehicles around the world – a major contributor to meeting climate change and sustainability targets – will not happen if the EV charging infrastructure does not expand at a similar rate. The sheer scale of capital investment required to build that infrastructure is considerable and is not affordable out of public funds.

Private sector finance (from specialist, tech-savvy financiers) is being deployed to align investment costs with the cash flow that charging stations deliver, making the investment budget neutral. Take-up of such financing options will determine the rate of deployment for the EV charging infrastructure and will play a determining role in the development of the EV market as a whole.

How Selwood Housing monitors environmental conditions for improved living with Aico’s IoT technology

Selwood Housing, a social housing provider in South West England, embarked on a pilot initiative in collaboration with Aico. The project involved the installation of HomeLINK Environmental Sensors and Gateways in 100 properties within their housing portfolio.

Selwood Housing has a long and proud history of providing quality housing to the community. With over 30 years of experience and a portfolio of over 7,000 properties, Selwood Housing is dedicated to creating safe, comfortable, and affordable homes for its customers. The team is passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of customers, and are always looking for new ways to improve services. Selwood Housing aims to construct 1,700 more affordable homes by 2034, ensuring they play a long-term role in addressing the housing crisis.

Monitoring environmental conditions for improved living

The primary goal of Selwood Housing’s pilot initiative was to enhance customer wellbeing by leveraging advanced technology to monitor and manage environmental conditions within their homes. Aico’s HomeLINK Environmental Sensors provide data on temperature, humidity and

indoor air quality, gaining insights for a safer and more comfortable living environment.

The pilot consisted of a total of 100 properties that were selected to participate, representing a diverse range of housing archetypes that had previously been identified with risks.

Expert support: sharing the genius

Before installation, Aico’s Regional Specification Manager for the South, Peter Price-Higgott provided Aico’s free, FIA CPD-certified Expert Installer Training to Selwood’s team, teaching the installation and commissioning processes. This ensured that the sensors were installed correctly, and that the data would be accurate and reliable.

“It was great to offer our support to Selwood Housing through our comprehensive training programme, as education and ‘sharing the genius’ is one of the cornerstones of our business,” noted Peter PriceHiggott, Regional Specification Manager – South, Aico.

“It was also great to get back to my routes, visiting the initial properties alongside the engineers. This engagement allowed us to provide invaluable support during the installation process, ensuring a seamless completion of works.”

The Ei1025 Environmental Sensors were strategically installed in key areas, such as wet rooms, habitable rooms, and kitchens. The installation process involved the integration of Aico’s HomeLINK Gateway, enabling communication between sensors and the cloud-based HomeLINK portal.

According to Charlie Worby, Electrical Supervisor at Selwood Housing, “The Gateway and Environmental Sensors were easy to install, and the commissioning app was user-friendly. From my experience, our customers seemed happy, as it was a positive approach to addressing their concerns.”

Adapting to evolve: a commitment to continuous improvement

Post-installation training was provided to surveyors and members of the management team at Selwood Housing to help them navigate the system. The user-friendly HomeLINK portal empowered Selwood’s team to readily access real-time data and customise notifications, ensuring the right department responds to each specific need. This level of control and transparency ensures efficient resource allocation and timely interventions.

The training also covered the system features and explored how data is calculated, into actionable insights, risk scores, and damp and mould risk intelligence. Recognising the importance of continuous improvement, Aico readily incorporated feedback from Selwood Housing’s users.

“When Rob and Sean first started utilising the Portal, they provided feedback that it could be challenging to understand which properties required prioritising,” said Jordan Toulson, Head of Product, HomeLINK.

“We took this feedback on board and developed a solution - the ‘Property Insight Scores’ Report, which provides a sortable, filterable 0-100 score for each room and home, helping Selwood and Housing Providers across the country prioritise their workload effectively and efficiently.’

The pilot has provided positive outcomes, benefiting both Selwood Housing and their customers:

“The equipment and devices are first class, they provide real time data that is crucial for the damp and mould surveyors. As we look to eradicate damp and mould from within our housing stock,” commented Robert Mcferran, Planned Improvement Project Surveyor, Selwood Housing.

“The equipment allows us to be proactive in our approach with regular updates provided by Aico’s HomeLINK technology, flagging up any of our stock that is at high risk of damp and mould.

“The dashboard is very user friendly with easy access to the required data without unnecessary complexity. The data is clear, organised and visually appealing. Key data and trends are easily identifiable. The Aico team is highly knowledgeable and very supportive. They have swiftly answered any queries we have, and are always receptive to any feedback that we provide.

“From a damp and mould perspective the development of the system has been helpful as the alerts for damp and mould have been adjusted so

Outcomes observed by Selwood Housing following the trial

IMPROVED

CUSTOMER WELLBEING:

With real-time monitoring capabilities, the HomeLINK Environmental Sensors contributed to improved indoor air quality, helping Selwood Housing’s customers create healthier living spaces.

ENHANCED SAFETY:

Linking Aico’s Fire and Carbon Monoxide alarms to the Gateway has given residents on the pilot scheme enhanced safety. Providing an additional layer of safety by alerting Selwood Housing instantly of any potential hazards, such as fire and CO activations, tampering events, system fault, and essential maintenance.

PROACTIVE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT:

The actionable insights from the HomeLINK Portal will allow Selwood Housing to be proactive in problem-solving. leading to efficient resource allocation and cost savings.

only the very high-risk properties are flagged. Going forward, I believe the approach to historic damp and mould will be very much data driven, so further development may be required which we are happy to be part of.”

A model for the future

Selwood Housing’s collaboration with Aico in piloting HomeLINK Environmental Sensors and Gateways has demonstrated the potential for technology to positively impact tenant wellbeing and property management efficiency. The insights gained from the pilot will inform future decisions regarding technology adoption, tenant engagement strategies, and overall property management practices.

As the housing sector actively embraces innovation, this case study offers crucial insights for organisations seeking to proactively address the quality of housing through advanced environmental monitoring solutions. Discover Aico’s products and support here: www.aico.co.uk/homelink

Destination charging should be the focus for EVs – not rapid charging

Ali Khan, Head of EVC UK Sales and Business Development at Vestel e-Mobility, argues that the Government’s missed target on the roll-out of motorway fast chargers is not as crucial as changing consumer and commercial transport mindset to destination charging.

Government targets for the number of rapid chargers at motorway services by the end of 2023 have been missed, according to data analysed by the RAC. The organisation said data showed that only four in 10 motorway service stations had the minimum of six rapid or ultra-rapid chargers installed by the end of 2023. Yet is this a significant setback for the electrification of the UK transport network?

Motorway rapid chargers are only a tiny part of what will become the UK’s EV charging infrastructure. Due to the time it takes to charge a car or commercial vehicle, the transport industry and consumers must dramatically rethink how they refuel their vehicles. Dropping the kids off and then sitting at a charger in a local service station for at least half an hour with a growing queue of cars behind you will never work for consumers. Having drivers of commercial vehicles sitting around doing nothing for several hours a day while their truck recharges is not financially viable for business.

Destination charging, where EV users will charge using more traditional chargers at home, at work, at the supermarket, at the cinema, and at their customers’ premises (automatically billed back to the transport business), is the future of EV transport. Very few of the 33 million car users in the UK will pass a motorway service station regularly enough to make the most of an ultra-fast charger, and given the very high price of petrol and diesel (and charging) at motorway services, most consumers avoid ‘filling up’ at these trunk route destinations anyway.

The missed target news does not indicate slow EV adoption in the UK but demonstrates how urgently we need to adapt to a new way of fuelling our transport into the future. For the electrical industry, installing the sheer number of destination chargers required to power an EV-centric UK offers one of the most significant business opportunities of our time.

Why shift to destination charging

The traditional model of refuelling vehicles at ‘petrol stations’ is deeply ingrained in the collective consciousness of drivers. Yet the future of EV charging lies not in replicating the petrol station experience but in integrating charging into the daily lives of consumers and commercial users, where charging activity aligns with the traditional downtime of the vehicle.

For many drivers, overnight charging at home can cover daily commuting needs, while workplace and public destination chargers address the needs of those without access to home charging and provide additional flexibility. This shift alleviates range anxiety and distributes the demand for electricity more evenly, reducing the strain on the grid during peak times.

Moreover, focusing on destination charging rather than an over-reliance on motorway fast chargers encourages a more sustainable and efficient use of resources. Installing high-speed chargers is expensive and resourceintensive, requiring significant upgrades to electrical infrastructure. In contrast, destination charging stations, particularly at workplaces and commercial venues, can often be integrated into existing electrical systems with fewer upgrades. The concept reduces congestion at public charge points as spreading out charging locations minimises the likelihood of bottlenecks at motorway service stations.

It also provides a more cost-efficient refuelling experience for EV users. Charging overnight at home (typically 19p/kWh), during the day at work (typically 29p/kWh) or even subsidised as an employee benefit is a considerable saving over the typical 75p/kWh of an ultra-fast charger. Not only does this lower users’ cost-per-mile, but it also allows for more efficient use of renewable energy sources and better electrical grid management.

“ Destination charging, where EV users will charge using more traditional chargers at home, at work, at the supermarket, at the cinema, and at their customers’ premises, is the future of EV transport

Business opportunities in destination charging

The pivot towards destination charging opens vast opportunities for electrical installers, contractors, and wholesalers. As homes, businesses, residential complexes, and public venues seek to attract, accommodate, and retain EV drivers, the demand for charging infrastructure will skyrocket. This demand isn’t limited to the chargers and installation but also extends to ongoing service and maintenance contracts.

For electrical professionals, this represents a significant expansion of their market. Offering EV charging solutions, from sales and installation to ongoing service and maintenance, can become a substantial part of their business portfolio. Additionally, as more companies aim to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, providing EV charging facilities for employees and customers becomes a competitive advantage, further driving demand.

While the missed targets for fast charger installations at motorway services might seem like a setback, it simply underscores the need for a strategic rethink in approaching EV charging infrastructure. By embracing destination charging, the UK can foster a more sustainable, efficient, and user-friendly EV ecosystem and open a wealth of opportunities for the electrical industry.

Dangers aren’t always visible – this

is

why safe isolation is key

To protect against the invisible dangers of live circuits, electricians must rigorously follow safe isolation procedures, using specialised equipment like proving units, says Steve Dunning, Managing Director of Martindale Electric.

Safety is the key consideration when working on or near electrical systems. Procedures must be in place to ensure that workers on site are not exposed to danger. Unfortunately, there have been incidents where failure to use safe isolation procedures has resulted in serious injury and even the needless loss of life.

Engineers, contractors, and electricians will be familiar with safe isolation processes and procedures; however, it is also essential that this knowledge is passed to all workers undertaking work near or on electrical systems.

Safe isolation is the process of ensuring the electrical circuit is completely turned off, and no current is flowing through it before any work is done. Safe isolation procedures must be followed for safety, compliance, and property protection, and to guard against legal issues that could arise from accidents or damage.

Electrical contractors and engineers carry a duty that extends beyond their own safety; they must also protect those around them from the hazards of electrical circuits. Simply putting up a sign or warning other workers isn’t enough to ensure safety. They must use the correct tools and follow the complete safe isolation process, which includes turning off the power, locking it off so it can’t be turned back on accidentally, checking to ensure the power is truly off, and clearly labelling the work area.

Locking off kits

Locking off kits are available to ensure you have all the necessary equipment to lock out the circuit being worked on at hand. There are several locking off kits available on the market; however, a basic kit should include a selection of Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCB) and breaker locks, a padlock with a unique key or combination, a hasp for when more than one person is working on a system, and lockout tags and warning labels.

The padlock used during electrical work should be secured with a unique key or combination to which only the person carrying out the work has access. This ensures nobody else can remove the lock and accidentally turn the power back on. With combination locks that arrive set to zeros, changing this to a new combination is crucial before starting work.

Using a lock that requires a unique key is by far the safest option. Once the power source has been isolated and secured with a lock, a warning tag must be placed on it – this acts as a clear signal that the circuit is out of service and work is in progress. The use of high-quality locks and lock-off components is advisable; simple combination locks can sometimes be less secure.

Proving devices

Verifying the circuit is dead before carrying out any work is essential. To do this, electricians will use a voltage indicator (VI) compliant with BS EN 61243-3.

It is, of course, critical that the VI is working correctly and giving the correct readings; if the indication shows no electricity is present when there is, it could be extremely dangerous.

The most reliable and safest way to check the VI and achieve safe isolation is to use a dedicated proving device. A proving device should be used before an electrician starts working to ensure the VI can correctly tell if electricity is present or not.

While a known live source can be used to test a voltage indicator, there will not always be one available nearby, and it may not check the

full indication range of the VI. A dedicated proving unit, however, will, which means the VI can be fully tested.

“ Implementing safe isolation procedures is neither difficult nor expensive and has been proven to save lives and avoid injury

After the engineer finishes checking the electrical system and believes it to be safe (meaning the circuit is dead), the proving device should be used to test the VI again. This double-check ensures the VI didn’t stop working while being used, proving the circuit is truly dead. It is also essential that the voltage indicator can operate without relying on a battery; a failed battery could cause an incorrect indication of a dead circuit when it is live.

Implementing safe isolation procedures is neither difficult nor expensive and has been proven to save lives and avoid injury. It’s essential for compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations for safe working when installing and maintaining electrical equipment and systems. Electricians navigate a high-risk landscape. By rigorously applying safe isolation measures, including the use of locking off kits and proving devices, electricians can ensure that circuits are genuinely dead, preventing tragic accidents and upholding the highest safety standards.

Safe isolation is not just good practice; it is a legal requirement, according to the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

• The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require those engaged in electrical work to be competent in preventing danger or injury, or to be under the supervision of someone who is (Regulation 16);

• It forbids work on or near a live conductor unless it has been insulated, or it is unreasonable for it to be made dead (Regulation 14);

• It requires taking adequate precautions to prevent electrical equipment that has been made dead from becoming electrically charged while work is being carried out (Regulation 13).

Elevating ladder safety in the electrical industry

In an industry that thrives on innovation and precision, the electrical sector faces a persistent challenge in ensuring the safety of its workforce, particularly when it comes to working at height.

The latest statistics from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) paint a concerning picture: over 5,000 people were injured last year due to falls from height, with 40 of these incidents proving fatal. While the data doesn’t provide an insight into what equipment was used, the number of non-fatal injuries resulting from falls from height has remained relatively static since 2014.

Thanks to NHS data, we know that approximately every 11 minutes of every hour of every day, people attend A&E after sustaining an injury involving a ladder. These figures represent lives, careers, and families blighted – and sometimes destroyed – by accidents that, in many cases, could have been prevented.

The enormity of work-at-height accidents extends beyond personal tragedies to impose substantial financial burdens on the self-employed, employers and the wider economy. Last year, nearly a million working days were lost, and the financial toll exceeded £770 million, demonstrating the serious implications of these incidents on productivity and the economy.

These persistently high figures serve as a clarion call for the electrical industry. They highlight the urgent need for comprehensive safety measures and practices in the use of ladders. They also remind us that we are all responsible for ensuring ladder safety practices are widely understood and followed.

Ladders are safety-critical equipment when used correctly. The risks of working at height can be substantially mitigated by following proper safety protocols, using the correct equipment, and ensuring all workers receive training on working at height from ladders and stepladders.

To help you navigate these precautions, here are some essential tips for safer practices that all electrical professionals should incorporate into their daily routines.

Proper equipment selection

at height.

Working at height is risky enough without the additional danger of unsafe equipment. The foundation of ladder safety lies in selecting the appropriate equipment for the task. Despite the sector’s familiarity with ladders and steps, they are still safety-critical equipment, so selecting equipment that fits the task – and not just what is available in the van – is crucial.

The specifics of the task – such as height, nature, duration, and environment – should dictate the choice of ladder or stepladder.

A key question to ask yourself is whether your ladders are certified as conforming to the EN131 European Standard. If so, this can help you prove that your equipment is fit for purpose; if not, it’s time to invest in a new set. The EN131 standard provides vital reassurance that your ladder has been rigorously tested for safety and reliability, as it offers an international benchmark for quality.

Taking the time to research and select the right ladder for the job maximises safety and will also enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

David Gray, Managing Director of T.B Davies and Chair of the Ladder Association, highlights the key steps you need to know to ensure your safety when working

2

Correct ladder setup and use

Proper setup is crucial for ladder safety. All work at height must be risk assessed, with common considerations including ground conditions and whether or not the product is designed for use on uneven surfaces. It can be tempting to overreach or climb too far up the ladder or stepladder, which are common causes of accidents, so your risk assessment needs to address these points. Keeping your belt buckle within the equipment’s stiles (the vertical uprights) is a surefire way to ensure you are not overreaching.

Another critical factor is maintaining three points of contact when working from ladders and steps, so it is vital to always maintain a firm handhold.

Access equipment is constantly evolving, and some of the latest designs to hit the market include integrated devices that ensure the ladder is level. Also of note are components that alert you when standing on the bottom tread. These reduce the likelihood of stepping down from the second step, an all-too-frequent cause of accidents.

Other innovative designs offer deployable structural features that allow you to secure a stepladder onto wall corners, with the back of the step pointing directly into the centre of the angle of the two walls. This provides a stable position, allowing you to install cabling and trunking quickly, effectively, and safely.

Training and awareness

Cultivating a safety-first culture through ongoing training and vigilance can dramatically reduce falls, fostering a safer work environment.

Comprehensive training on ladder safety is an indispensable tool in minimising ladder-related accidents. Education on selecting the right ladder, recognising and mitigating potential hazards, and employing safe climbing practices empower electrical professionals to navigate the risks of working at height. This is where the Ladder Association can support you.

In addition to its comprehensive LadderCard accredited training scheme, the Ladder Association publishes safety guidance, a Code of Practice and technical notes, all free to download from its website. Completing the available courses allows you to demonstrate the all-important competency to work at height when on-site.

Material considerations for safety

When it comes to electrical work, the material of the ladder is paramount. Fibreglass, or glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), is the obvious safe choice due to its nonconductive properties, mitigating the risk of electrical shocks. Additionally, its thermal non-conductivity means it is less cold to the touch than metals, promoting a safer grip, particularly in colder conditions.

While GRP ladders may often come with a higher price tag or additional weight when compared with their aluminium counterparts, their safety benefits are invaluable, especially in electrically hazardous environments.

Routine inspection and maintenance

You should never consider using a faulty, damaged or excessively worn ladder. Ensuring your ladders stay in prime condition extends their lifespan and significantly reduces the risk of accidents.

A critical yet often overlooked aspect of ladder safety is the routine inspection and maintenance of equipment. Formal, recorded written inspections are a legal requirement, and we strongly recommend that you carry out a brief, unrecorded visual inspection of your ladder before every use or shift. Doing so can identify potential issues – such as cracks, loose rungs, or worn feet – that could compromise safety. If you spot any areas of damage or concern, contact the manufacturer for their advice. A reputable and responsible manufacturer will always be happy to help, whether sourcing replacement components or offering a full repair service.

Taking the time to make regular formal and visual checks of your equipment is the only way to ensure that any gradual wear or damage is identified and addressed promptly.

Safety first

The statistics on falls from height serve as a sobering reminder of the daily risks electrical workers face.

By embedding these pillars of ladder safety into your work culture, you can safeguard your wellbeing and elevate safety standards across the electrical profession, ensuring that every climb is a step towards a safer future.

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5

Short-sighted Kingdom

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland may be formally united, but political divisions could not be more obvious. In each of the four nations that make up the UK, you’ll find a different political party with different views on the future of the country, whether it’s the SNP in Scotland, Labour in Wales, the uneasy coalition of Sinn Fein and the DUP in Northern Ireland, or the Conservative Government in Westminster.

However one thing most political parties have in common these days appears to be indecision and a severe lack of ambition. This is most pronounced when looking at the country’s inability to build much of anything without dithering, delaying and cost overruns –whether it’s housing, a third runway at Heathrow, new train lines, or a nuclear power station.

The UK kickstarted the global industrial revolution, creating world-class transport links, inventing brand new machinery, and supercharging the country’s economy. However, since then, it appears that we have been resting on our laurels, and have easily been overtaken in terms of infrastructure by other countries around the world.

Our Victorian-era railway network is beyond overdue for an overhaul, but rather than creating the network of tomorrow, Network Rail has privately admitted that it doesn’t even have enough money to run the system at the current standard – which is to say, if you think things are bad now, they’re likely to get worse.

The UK Government had an opportunity to create a brand-new line in the form of HS2, built to modern standards and offering extra capacity and a speed boost for those travelling between London and the North. Instead, it’s decided to scrap the majority of the project,

with just a shuttle service between London and Birmingham now planned – and its extension to central London isn’t even guaranteed.

Meanwhile, you have a likely Labour Government in waiting, and while many will be hoping for a radical change, it seems like we’ll continue to have indecision and a lack of bold plans under Starmer. While the Labour Leader has promised to “unleash the big build”, don’t expect too much.

In February, the Labour Party cut its green investment pledges by half, from £28 billion to less than £15 billion. That could severely hamper the UK’s path to net zero, and once again is emblematic of the UK’s failure to face its challenges boldly and instead defer to the rest of the world to lead.

Granted, the world is currently focused on a war in Ukraine and Israel’s offensive in the Gaza Strip, but while there have been demands for the Government to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, where is the demand for an increase in infrastructure spending?

According to the Council on Foreign Relations, the UK is estimated to spend just 1.8% of its GDP on infrastructure between 2016-2040, the fifth lowest of any G20 country. Meanwhile, Australia is set to spend double that of the UK, while China is set to reach 5.1% of its GDP – and these figures are when you take into account both public and private spending on infrastructure.

If you want to grow an economy, you need the infrastructure to support it, but it seems that here at home, decisions are made for the near-term to meet the political will of the day, rather than the longterm. So, maybe a name change for the country is in order. From here on out, we should be known as the Short-sighted Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

FULL CIRCLE PROTECTION

Simple and intelligent, the 3000 Series provides whole property coverage.

The technologically advanced 3000 Series includes both Multi-Sensor and Single-Sensor alarms, detecting Fire and Carbon Monoxide from just one range, while maintaining the simplicity that Installers love.

Smart, connected and future-proof.

Add the Ei3000MRF for wireless interconnection and data extraction via the Ei1000G Gateway

Triumph over your cable faults!

digiPHONE+2

Shock wave receiver for acoustic and electromagnetic cable fault location

¢ NEW: Greatly improved noise filtering

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¢ OPTIONAL: Bluetooth® headphones

¢ OPTIONAL: Sheath fault testing (NT Set)

¢ OPTIONAL: Cable tracing/Line location (NTRX Set)

¢ OPTIONAL: Rechargeable Lithium ion battery

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