Ovia launches LED sports floodlighting system

Lighting brand Ovia has introduced Pitch Finder, a modular LED floodlighting system designed for outdoor sports facilities. Part of the Scolmore Group, Ovia developed the system to provide configurable lighting for a range of applications, from training grounds to larger stadium environments. Pitch Finder is available in 600W, 1200W, and 1800W options, allowing installations to be matched to site requirements. The system supports different driver configurations, enabling either a single driver per unit or per LED module, depending on layout and performance needs. It also integrates with lighting control systems using 0–10V, DMX, and DALI protocols. Modular design supporting varied sports applications The system includes multiple optical configurations to suit different lighting requirements. A symmetrical wide lens provides broad coverage for general illumination, while a symmetrical narrow lens supports focused lighting for higher mounting positions. An asymmetrical wide lens directs light onto the playing surface, helping to reduce glare and spill light. Pitch Finder is designed for outdoor use, with an IP66 rating, C4 corrosion resistance, and IK08 impact protection. The LEDs have a rated lifetime of 100,000 hours, supporting long-term use with reduced maintenance requirements. The system can be installed using a range of mounting options and accessories, including spigots for different pole sizes, aiming tools for alignment, and visors to manage light distribution and minimise light pollution. Ovia also provides lighting design support, including site-specific calculations and guidance on system configuration to help meet project requirements. For more from Ovia, click here.

Unicrimp highlights its conduit accessories range

Unicrimp, a leading player in the cable accessories sector and a Scolmore Group company, continues to support professional electricians and installers with a comprehensive portfolio of Q-Crimp conduit accessories. The extensive Unicrimp conduit accessories range has been developed with the installer in mind, combining robust materials with practical design features to streamline on-site installation while delivering long-term reliability. The range includes more than 90 individual products, ensuring installers have the right accessory for virtually any application - whether residential, commercial, or industrial. Since the initial launch of the Q-Crimp conduit accessories range, Unicrimp has responded to market demand with significant size expansions, particularly in larger conduit applications. The size expansion applies across several core product lines, including: • Long pattern brass male bushes (32mm, 1.5”, and 2”) • Short pattern brass male bushes (32mm, 1.5”, and 2”) • Brass female bushes (32mm, 1.5”, and 2”) • Solid couplers (32mm, 1.5”, and 2”) • Flange couplers (32mm, 1.5”, and 2”) • Milled edge lock rings (32mm, 38mm, and 50mm) • Light gauge lock nuts (32mm, 38mm, and 50mm) In addition to size extensions, the Q-Crimp range now welcomes a completely new product type - Threaded Nipples - which are available in 20mm, 25mm, and 32mm sizes. This addition further strengthens the range’s position as a complete conduit accessory solution. Designed for secure conduit-to-enclosure connections and system extensions, threaded nipples provide reliable alignment and mechanical stability while maintaining electrical continuity. The introduction of this new category reflects Unicrimp’s continued commitment to evolving the range in line with installer needs. Other key product categories to highlight include Conduit Boxes, Light Gauge Saddles, Inspection Tees, Inspection Bends, and Metal Hooks. Key features and installer benefits Unicrimp’s conduit accessories deliver a range of benefits valued by professional installers: • Durable construction — Manufactured from galvanised steel to resist corrosion and environmental stress. • Heat resistance — The high-quality materials used means conduit accessories can handle high temperatures, making them suitable for industrial and commercial applications. • Flexibility — Available in multiple sizes to accommodate varying conduit diameters, with elbows, bends, and junction boxes supporting adaptable system design and expansion. • Versatility — Designed for use across a wide variety of installation environments, both indoors and outdoors. Assured quality and technical support As with all Unicrimp products, the Q-Crimp conduit accessories are manufactured in accordance with Scolmore Group’s stringent quality criteria and are designed to meet the requirements of their intended markets. Compliance is supported through independent third-party testing, routine inspection, and maintenance of manufacturing facilities, as well as batch coding for full product traceability. Installers also benefit from the technical backup of the Scolmore Group technical department, providing additional reassurance on specification and compliance matters. For more information on Unicrimp’s Q-Crimp portfolio, visit the company's website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Unicrimp, click here.

HDM Solar opens first Scotland branch

HDM Solar, a UK wholesaler of solar panels, batteries, and renewable energy equipment, is opening its first Scottish branch in Livingston, marking an expansion of its presence across the UK. The new site, located on Brucefield Park West, is due to officially open on 8 May and forms part of a wider £10.2 million investment to build a nationwide network of 60 locations. The company now operates five sites across England, Wales, and Scotland. The 10,000ft² (929m²) facility includes a sales office and warehouse, supplying solar equipment to installers across Scotland and the North of England. Training centre supports installer development The Livingston branch will also house a Renewable Training Centre of Excellence, providing hands-on training for installers. The facility includes a roofing rig and is designed to support practical learning delivered in collaboration with manufacturers. The branch team has been operating since early 2026. Branch Manager Stevie Paton has almost 40 years of experience in the electrical sector, supported by Assistant Branch Manager Michael Robertson, who has 15 years of experience in solar distribution. An opening event is scheduled for 8 May, running from 10am to 2pm, with local representatives (including Livingston MP Gregor Poynton) expected to attend. Stevie Paton, Branch Manager, comments, “We’re thrilled to have the keys to our new branch and can’t wait to welcome customers. "Our team is excited to support local installers in providing clean energy solutions. We look forward to building strong community relationships, offering exclusive training, and giving access to leading solar products.” Adam Firth, Group CEO, adds, “Livingston is the ideal platform for our first branch in Scotland. It is another important step in building a nationwide network that truly supports installers. "Everything we do is built around putting the installer first, and that runs through every decision we make as a business. "Our incredible team that we have assembled provides installers with the speed, reliability, and confidence they need to keep projects moving and grow their businesses.” The expansion, the company notes, reflects increasing demand for solar installations and associated training across the UK installer base. For more from HDM Solar, click here.

Aico Community Awards 2026 winners announced

Aico, a manufacturer of residential fire and carbon monoxide detection products, has announced the winners of its Community Awards 2026, recognising individuals and organisations across the social housing and fire safety sectors. The event brought together representatives from all over the industry, with awards presented across a range of categories highlighting community engagement, innovation, and professional development. The evening included speeches and entertainment, including Kevin Sinfield speaking about motor neurone disease and Aico’s support for the MND Association as its chosen charity for 2026. The awards were presented by a panel of judges, who selected winners from a wide array of entries. A new category, the People’s Choice Award, was also introduced this year, with attendees themselves voting during the event. All the awards were produced by students at Severndale Academy in Shropshire and Telford, using fused glass designs based on Aico’s community branding. The event concluded with closing remarks from Neal Hooper, Managing Director of Aico, who highlighted the role of the awards in recognising contributions across the sector. Recognising contributions across housing and fire safety The full list of winners is as follows: • Apprentice of the Year Award — Emily-Jane Simmons • Best Distributor Community Initiative Award — City Electrical Factors NW London • Collaborative Partnership Award — Equans • College Initiative of the Year Award — Cheshire College South and West • Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative Award — Smith & Byford • Electrical Contractor of the Year Award — Magnus Electrical Services • Inspirational Colleague of the Year Award — Steve Messenger, Booker & Best • Lifetime Achievement Award — June Anderson, Clackmannanshire Tenants & Residents Federation • Neighbourhood Transformation Award — Mid Devon District Council and Zed Pods Limited • People’s Choice Award — Wolverhampton Homes • Resident Engagement Award — Magenta Living • Rising Star Award — Alfie Squirrell, Wiggett Group • Sustainability Project of the Year Award — H&A Group • Woman in Fire Safety Award — Martina Lydon, WHG The Community Awards programme continues to highlight activity across the housing sector, with a focus on recognising practical contributions and sharing good practice. For more from Aico, click here.

CEF marks 75 years with sustainability report

Electrical distributor CEF has published its FY25 Sustainability & Social Value (SSV) Impact Report, outlining progress across emissions reduction, supplier engagement, and workforce development. The report coincides with the company’s 75th anniversary and highlights how sustainability initiatives are being implemented across its operations and supply chain. Key figures include an 82% reduction in Scope 2 emissions and 71% of supplier spend aligned with EcoVadis-rated partners. The report also details ongoing investment in electrification, installer training, and product efficiency. The FY25 report includes independently assured data for selected SSV metrics, verified by Jacobs UK in line with ISAE 3000 standards. CEF has set out its carbon reduction targets, aiming for a 63% reduction across Scopes 1, 2, and 3 by 2033, with a net zero target of 2040. Supplier engagement remains a focus, with more than 220 suppliers assessed through EcoVadis. The company has also carried out supplier events, on-site audits, and training to support improvements in sustainability practices. Measurable progress across operations and supply chain Across its operations, 74% of company cars are now electric or hybrid. The report also highlights continued rollout of EV charging infrastructure through its iCS business, alongside efforts to improve energy efficiency, packaging, and circularity across its own-brand products and supplier network. In workforce development, CEF delivered City & Guilds-approved training in solar PV and battery storage, supported 31 apprentices during FY25, and introduced a new health and safety management system in July 2024. Community initiatives also feature, with £208,000 raised for Macmillan in FY25 and continued support for the Electrical Industries Charity, alongside local volunteering and social value projects. Connor Dalton, Director of Sustainability, Health & Safety at CEF, comments, “As we celebrate 75 years of serving our customers and communities, this report shows how we’re pairing decades of industry expertise with modern sustainability action. “The independent assurance brings welcome credibility to our data and targets, but the real story is the practical work happening in branches, on sites, and in local communities. "We’re proud of the progress documented here and [are] focused on accelerating the changes that matter.” The report is intended to provide stakeholders with an overview of current progress, as well as areas requiring further development, as CEF says it continues to implement its sustainability and social value commitments. For more from CEF, click here.

Acrospire upgrades Jacob’s Ladder handrail lighting

British LED lighting manufacturer Acrospire has completed a handrail lighting upgrade at Jacob’s Ladder in Falmouth, working with Cornwall Council and contractor Enerveo to replace an ageing system. The Grade II-listed site, located on Falmouth Moor, consists of 111 granite steps and remains a well-used pedestrian route linking the Moor with surrounding areas. Originally commissioned in the early 19th century by local businessman Jacob Hamblen, it continues to form part of the town’s historic landscape. Lighting is a key requirement for the stairway, particularly in poor weather and low-light conditions. The previous system had reached the end of its serviceable life and replacement parts were no longer available. Mark Vincent, County Lighting Engineer at Cornwall Council, explains, “The problem we had was that the old handrail lighting system was beginning to fail and spares were no longer available. “The steps are old, worn, and well-used; they can also be very slippery when wet, so it was a priority for Cornwall Council to make sure they were properly lit.” Cornwall Council assessed retrofitting a new LED system into the existing structure, but a full replacement was selected following consideration of durability, installation, and overall cost. New system designed for coastal conditions Acrospire supplied a replacement illuminated handrail designed for staircases and bridges, with a focus on durability in exposed environments. The system incorporates 4000K 1W LED modules to provide consistent lighting while remaining appropriate for the historic setting. During the project, a section of the original handrail was found to be missing. Acrospire carried out additional site measurements to ensure the replacement system could be accurately manufactured and installed without delay. Mark continues, “We considered a retrofit option into the existing handrail, but given the minimal cost difference between that and full replacement, it was an easy decision.” The new handrail was delivered directly to site, with installation support provided to Enerveo operatives. “We now have a brand-new, built-to-last illuminated handrail solution backed by an Acrospire warranty and the can-do attitude of its owners and employees,” Mark concludes. “The result is a safer, more reliable system that supports the accessibility of this much-loved historic route.” For more from Acrospire, click here.

RAW activates EV charging hub in Leamington Spa

RAW Charging, an electric vehicle (EV) chargepoint operator for the leisure, retail, and hospitality sectors, has opened a new EV charging hub at Leamington Shopping Park, reportedly one of the largest sites of its kind in the Midlands. The installation includes 17 charging bays, comprising six AC units and 11 DC ultra-rapid chargers. The site is located within a busy retail and leisure destination, providing access to a range of shops and amenities. The hub is designed to support both local drivers and visitors, offering a mix of fast and ultra-rapid charging options. The ultra-rapid chargers operate at up to 150kW, enabling shorter charging times for compatible vehicles. To mark the opening, free charging will be available for users signed up to RAW Rewards between 20 April and 26 April 2026. Supporting EV charging access at retail destinations The Leamington Spa site forms part of wider efforts to expand EV charging infrastructure across high-footfall locations. Retail and leisure sites are increasingly being used to provide convenient access to charging while drivers carry out other activities. Demand for EV infrastructure continues to grow, with electric and hybrid vehicles accounting for a rising share of new car sales in the UK. This is driving the need for accessible and reliable charging across a range of locations. RAW Charging focuses on installing and operating chargepoints at retail, hospitality, and leisure sites, aiming to support everyday charging requirements. Jason Simpson, CEO of RAW Charging, comments, "We’re proud to bring our ultra-rapid charging experience to Leamington Spa Shopping Park. "This hub delivers the speed, reliability, and convenience drivers expect at one of the region’s most popular destinations. "By partnering with leading property owners such as Aberdeen, we’re making sustainable journeys simpler and helping accelerate the UK’s transition to zero-emission travel." For more from RAW Charging, click here.

Schneider launches Boost Pro battery storage in UK

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology company, has announced the UK launch of Schneider Boost Pro, a battery energy storage system (BESS) designed for commercial and industrial buildings. The system will be presented in the UK for the first time at the Commercial Vehicle Show, taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 21–23 April 2026. Schneider Boost Pro is intended to support energy management across sites by storing electricity for later use, helping to manage demand and maintain operational continuity. The launch comes as the UK continues to increase its use of renewable energy. According to the National Energy Systems Operator, renewables now account for 44% of the country’s electricity generation. However, variability in supply and ongoing grid modernisation present challenges for consistent energy delivery. The battery storage system is designed to improve flexibility and stability in power supply, particularly in environments with fluctuating demand or intermittent renewable generation. It is also suited to depot environments, where it can support the charging of heavy-duty vehicles, including buses and lorries. In addition, it can be deployed within transport infrastructure, such as along highways, where high-capacity charging is required. Supporting flexible energy use across sites Schneider Boost Pro can be scaled from 200kWh to 2MWh by combining multiple units, allowing it to adapt to changing energy requirements. The system enables several operational use cases. First, it can store surplus renewable energy for later use, helping to increase on-site energy consumption. It also allows sites to balance demand by drawing on stored energy when required and can provide backup power during outages. In addition, the system supports tariff management by charging during off-peak periods and discharging during peak pricing periods, helping to manage electricity costs. Schneider Boost Pro integrates with EcoStruxure Microgrid Advisor, a cloud-based platform that provides forecasting and energy management insights based on factors such as weather conditions, site demand, and market signals. The system also incorporates cybersecurity measures designed to protect data and communications, alongside installation, maintenance, and remote support options. Battery energy storage is playing an increasing role in balancing electricity demand and supporting the integration of renewable energy. Systems such as Schneider Boost Pro are being deployed to help reduce pressure on the grid during peak periods, while enabling more flexible energy use across commercial and industrial sites. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

NICEIC launches support package for BS 7671 Amendment 4

NICEIC, a certification body for the UK’s electrical contracting industry, has announced a package of guidance and resources following the publication of BS 7671:2018+A4:2026. The amendment has been published by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and the British Standards Institution (BSI) and can be adopted immediately. The previous version is scheduled to be withdrawn on 15 October 2026. NICEIC states that the support package is designed to help contractors understand and apply the updated requirements. The organisation has introduced a range of materials for certified businesses, including a 48-page digital workbook covering the changes introduced in Amendment 4. This is available through the NICEIC customer portal. A series of CPD-accredited webinars, titled 'The Wire', will also cover the updates in detail. The first session took place on 16 April 2026, with further episodes available both live and on demand. In addition, NICEIC will host two in-person technical events during 2026, providing further guidance on the amendment. These events are planned to take place in Surrey in June and in Sheffield in September. Resources to support contractors Further support includes updated technical guides, expanded content in the Connections magazine, and access to the NICEIC technical helpline. The organisation has also updated its certification forms and reports to reflect the new amendment, which are available through its online certification system and shop. Paul Collins, Technical Director at NICEIC, says, “Amendment 4 introduces a series of updates that reflect the rapid evolution of electrical technology, the growing integration of renewable energy systems, and the increasing complexity of modern electrical installations. "These updates ensure the UK’s electrical regulations remain aligned with advancing technology and best practice. "At NICEIC, our priority is to give contractors the tools, clarity, and confidence they need to work to the new amendment from day one. We encourage all NICEIC-certified businesses to use the Let’s Get Technical Plus workbook, sign up to The Wire webinars, and make use of the exclusive resources available to them.” NICEIC has also made a range of Amendment 4 publications and training courses available for purchase, aimed at supporting both certified businesses and the wider electrical industry. For more from NICEIC, click here.

IET & BSI officially publish Amendment 4

The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) together with the British Standards Institution (BSI) have today released Amendment 4 (2026) to the standard Requirements for Electrical Installations (BS 7671:2018) (18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations), marking the latest update to the UK’s national standard for electrical installation safety. This new amendment reflects the fast-paced evolution of technologies across the sector and introduces substantial changes in areas including stationary secondary batteries, medical locations, and Power over Ethernet (PoE). This update to the IET Wiring Regulations forms the UK national standard for: All new low voltage electrical installations Additions and alterations to existing installations Periodic inspection and testing of existing installations Amendment 4 is now available to be purchased and the previous version, BS 7671:2018+A2:2022+A3:2024, will be withdrawn six months from today on 15 October. New chapter: Stationary Secondary Batteries One of the most significant developments is the introduction of a new chapter covering stationary secondary batteries, responding to the rapid growth of energy‑storage technologies and their increasing deployment both with and without solar PV systems. The amendment sets out comprehensive requirements relating to system design, power conversion equipment, bidirectional or hybrid inverters and the suitability of protective devices for two‑way energy flow, an essential consideration as battery systems are increasingly used for vehicle‑to‑home and vehicle‑to‑grid applications. The chapter also places strong emphasis on safety‑critical matters such as appropriate battery location, ventilation, and fire‑risk mitigation. New section: Power over Ethernet (PoE) Section 716 introduces clear requirements for Power over Ethernet as Ethernet cabling is increasingly used to supply extra‑low voltage DC to low‑wattage equipment such as LED lighting and small appliances. The section focuses on the correct selection of power supplies and cables using SELV and PELV systems. While SELV and PELV typically allow up to 50 V AC or 120 V DC, Section 716, part of the Special Locations section, modifies these limits to 60 V ripple‑free DC in dry locations and 15 V ripple‑free DC elsewhere. To ensure safe operation, all electrical connections for PoE must comply with BS ISO/IEC 11801‑1 and be capable of supporting a continuous operating current of 750 mA per contact. Major revision: Medical Locations Section 710 has been significantly revised to improve safety in healthcare environments where patients are more vulnerable to the effects of electricity. Medical locations are now clearly classified into Groups 0, 1 and 2, with Group 2 areas, such as operating theatres, requiring medical IT systems that use a transformer and insulation monitoring device to maintain supply during a first fault and alert staff before disconnection would occur on a second fault. To avoid dangerous loss of power, two independent supplies and a UPS must also be provided, positioned as close as possible to the equipment they support. These updates align the UK with IEC 60364‑7‑710:2021 and its CENELEC adoption, strengthening protection for patients and medical staff. New section: Functional Earthing Another new section is dedicated to Functional Earthing and Functional Equipotential Bonding for ICT Equipment and Systems. Section 716 is principally concerned with power supplies and cables using SELV (Safety Extra Low Voltage) and PELV (Protection Extra Low Voltage) as the method for protection against electric shock. Conventionally, SELV and PELV require a voltage limitation of 50 V AC and 120 V DC; however, Section 716 is in Part 7, Special Locations, of BS 7671 which supplements or modifies the general rules. In this case, Section 716 limits SELV and PELV to 60 V ripple-free DC in dry locations and 15 V ripple-free DC in all other locations. The electrical connections for power over ethernet are to comply with BS ISO/IEC 11801-1 capable of supporting a continuous operating current of 750 mA per contact. The IET and BSI encourage all electrical professionals to ensure they become familiar with the changes now that they have been published. Mark Coles, Head of Technical Regulations at the IET, says, “The IET is the UK’s authority for electrical installations, and Amendment 4 continues our commitment to ensuring the IET Wiring Regulations evolve in line with the technologies shaping modern and future electrical work. “The inclusion of new requirements for stationary secondary batteries is a clear example of this progress, as advancing storage technologies increasingly support the integration of renewable energy in our daily lives. “It is essential that the sector remains aligned with these developments to maintain safe and resilient electrical installations across the UK and that the industry is ready to work to this new amendment before BS 7671:2018+A2:2022+A3:2024 is withdrawn.” Sebastiaan van Dort, Director of Energy and Sustainability at BSI, adds, “BSI is proud to jointly publish this vital standard with the IET at a time when the UK is accelerating towards its 2030 clean energy goals. BS 7671 underpins safe, modern electrical infrastructure - essential for delivering the electrification needed to meet net zero ambitions.” Further changes are included throughout all parts of BS 7671:2018+A4:2026, including the incorporation of Amendment 3:2024 to BS 7671:2018 as part of the main document. This Amendment sees the further adoption of CENELEC Harmonized Documents and IEC standards as the UK continues the inclusion of standards for new and developing technologies. BS 7671:2018+A4:2026 is available for purchase via theiet.org/GetTheRegs - where you can also learn more about the IET’s guidance and training packages too. For more from The IET, click here.