'Homeowners overlook quickest energy-saving upgrades'

Homeowners are prioritising major energy-efficiency projects such as heat pumps and solar panels, despite many lower-cost improvements offering faster returns on investment, according to new research from Uswitch, a comparison website for home services switching. The research, based on a survey of 500 UK tradespeople, compared the energy-saving measures most commonly requested by homeowners with those most frequently recommended by installers and contractors. Heat pumps were the most requested upgrade, cited by 32% of tradespeople, followed by solar panels at 28%. However, both technologies typically involve significant upfront costs and longer payback periods. According to the research, concerns over installation costs remain one of the biggest barriers to home energy improvements, with 66% of homeowners identifying cost as a key issue. Solar panel installations can cost around £9,000, with average annual energy bill savings of approximately £973, although savings vary depending on household energy use, property type, location, and export tariff arrangements. Tradespeople highlight overlooked efficiency measures The survey found that several lower-cost energy-saving measures receive comparatively little attention from homeowners. Draught-proofing was the least requested upgrade, cited by just 5% of tradespeople, despite potential annual savings of between £85 and £95. Smart heating controls were requested by only 14% of homeowners, although installation costs are typically significantly lower than larger retrofit projects. Insulation was identified as one of the most overlooked improvements. Nearly a quarter (24%) of tradespeople said insulation is the most commonly overlooked energy-efficiency measure, while 23% specifically highlighted loft and wall insulation. Although a quarter of homeowners request insulation upgrades, demand remains lower than for technologies such as heat pumps and solar panels. The research also found a gap between demand for double and triple glazing and professional recommendations. While 25% of homeowners request glazing upgrades, only 16% of tradespeople recommend them as a priority energy-saving measure. Many homeowners do not follow professional advice The survey suggests that homeowners do not always act on recommendations provided by tradespeople. Only 28% of tradespeople said homeowners always follow their energy-saving advice. A further 72% said recommendations are followed often or sometimes, while 5% reported that their advice is rarely or never implemented. Ben Gallizzi, Energy Comparison Expert at Uswitch, says homeowners should consider a phased approach to improving energy efficiency. He suggests, "Improving your home’s energy efficiency doesn’t have to involve a huge budget or disruptive work that affects your home life. "Start small with quick fixes that help keep your home more comfortable and cheaper to heat, such as draught-proofing, plugging gaps in floorboards, and investing in thermal curtains and blinds." Gallizzi also highlighted the importance of understanding payback periods and seeking professional advice before investing in larger projects. He continues, "Energy savings can vary greatly depending on your property type, location, and existing setup, so it’s important to factor all of this in when investing in updates to your home. "Seek advice from a trusted installer or energy expert to help identify which improvements will have the biggest impact based on your individual circumstances."

Luceco upgrades sports pitch lighting in Redcar

Rye Hills Academy in Redcar has completed a lighting upgrade for its 3G sports pitch as part of a wider refurbishment project aimed at improving facilities for students and the local community. The redevelopment received £250,000 in funding from Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's Levelling Up Fund and has created a multi-sports facility used by both the academy and local sports clubs, including Redcar Hockey Club. The lighting upgrade addressed an ageing floodlighting system that required costly maintenance and lamp replacements. Following a site survey and assessment of the pitch's sporting requirements, Luceco, a UK manufacturer and distributor of LED lighting products, supplied and installed new LED floodlighting to improve performance and reduce ongoing maintenance requirements. Leman Harris, Project Manager at Luceco, says, "This is one of the first projects completed for the North East Learning Trust, who chose Luceco because of our ability to demonstrate high product quality." New LED system improves efficiency and visibility The project involved the installation of Amnis LED floodlights, designed for sports and outdoor environments. According to Luceco, the luminaires offer a rated lifetime of up to 100,000 hours and incorporate optical controls designed to improve light distribution while reducing glare. The new system replaces older high-wattage floodlights and is intended to provide improved lighting levels while reducing energy consumption and maintenance demands. Adam King, Mechanical & Electrical Engineer at North East Learning Trust, notes, "We have been very impressed with the efficiency and high performance levels of Luceco Lighting, along with their ability to find the right solution for Rye Hills Academy, resolving the high-cost replacement of expensive components and hugely improving lighting levels on the 3G pitch area, a very important area for students." The upgraded facility enables continued use of the sports pitch by both the academy and community groups, supporting a range of sporting activities throughout the year. For more from Luceco, click here.

Contactum launches compact surge protection devices

UK electrical products supplier Contactum has introduced a new Type 2 Compact Surge Protection Device (SPD) range designed for use with its Defender 2.0 consumer units and Defender B distribution boards. The new range has been developed to provide protection against transient overvoltages while reducing the amount of space required within electrical distribution boards. According to Contactum, the compact design addresses growing space constraints in modern electrical installations, where additional circuits and technologies are increasingly being incorporated into consumer units and distribution systems. The reduced footprint provides installers with greater flexibility when designing and configuring installations in residential, commercial, and industrial environments. Despite its smaller size, the company says the new Type 2 Compact SPD range delivers the same level of surge protection as conventional devices. Designed to support changing installation requirements The launch follows recent updates to industry guidance, including recommendations from BEAMA and manufacturers' installation instructions relating to surge protection devices in domestic applications. Under specific conditions, guidance now permits the omission of a dedicated miniature circuit breaker (MCB), with protection provided by the Distribution Network Operator's fuse instead. Contactum says its Compact SPD for Defender 2.0 consumer units has been developed in accordance with this guidance, enabling a simplified installation approach while maintaining compliance with current requirements. Alan Broom, Technical Manager at Contactum, comments, "The way electrical installations are designed is changing, with increasing pressure to maximise space without compromising safety. "Our new Compact SPD range has been developed to meet that need, delivering trusted protection in a smaller format that supports faster installation and greater flexibility for both domestic and commercial applications." The compact SPD range is also available for Defender B Boards, supporting commercial and industrial installations where space efficiency and system reliability are important considerations. As electrical systems continue to increase in complexity, surge protection remains an important element of installation design, helping to protect equipment from transient overvoltages and minimise disruption. For more from Contactum, click here.

MSP marks International Electricians' Day in parliament

A motion recognising the contribution of electricians and electrical contractors has been lodged in the Scottish Parliament ahead of International Electricians' Day on 10 June. The motion, submitted by SNP MSP Colin Beattie, highlights the role of electricians in supporting communities, businesses, public services, and Scotland's transition to net zero. It also acknowledges the work of SELECT, Scotland’s largest construction trade body, in promoting skills development and professional standards across the electrical industry. International Electricians' Day celebrates the work of an estimated 2.7 million electrotechnical professionals across Europe. In the motion, Beattie states that Parliament "recognises International Electricians’ Day, which is marked annually on 10 June to highlight the contribution of electrical professionals." The motion further notes the role electricians play in "designing, installing, and maintaining electrical systems that keep homes powered, public services operational, hospitals functioning, and businesses productive." It also recognises electricians and electrical contractors for their contribution to Scotland's economy and local communities. Parliamentary motion highlights industry skills challenge The motion acknowledges the importance of electricians in delivering projects linked to renewable energy, heat electrification, transport electrification, and wider infrastructure modernisation. It also highlights concerns around skills shortages within the profession and the need to attract and retain apprentices and adult trainees. According to the motion, there is a need for government, employers, and training providers to continue promoting careers in the electrical industry and supporting apprenticeship programmes. Sharon Miller, Managing Director of SELECT, says, "We are very grateful that Mr Beattie has highlighted this important day, which is being promoted by our friends at EuropeOn, the European voice of the electrical contracting industry, with the message ‘Skilled Hands, Resilient Europe’. "It is very timely that the Scottish Parliament is helping to celebrate the men and women who not only keep the lights burning and wheels turning across the country, but are integral to the administration’s ongoing commitment to building a greener, fairer society." Support continues for electrical industry regulation campaign Sharon also highlights the industry's ongoing recruitment challenges, noting, "However, as the motion states, we must also be aware of the challenges the sector faces, including skills shortages and the need to attract and retain new apprentices and adult trainees, an issue on which SELECT has consistently campaigned." Beattie has previously supported SELECT's campaign for the regulation of electricians, which seeks legal protection for the title of electrician to prevent unqualified individuals from carrying out work under the designation. The motion has received support from 10 other MSPs since being lodged on 29 May. Recent signatories include newly elected MSPs David Barratt and Lloyd Melville, who have also added their names to SELECT's Wall of Support initiative. For more from SELECT, click here.

Drayton to highlight training at InstallerSHOW 2026

Drayton, a manufacturer of heating controls in the UK, will focus on technical training and installer support at InstallerSHOW 2026, with a programme of educational sessions and product demonstrations taking place throughout the event. Visitors to the company's stand will be able to attend training sessions led by James Clark, Technical Training Manager at Drayton. The sessions will cover topics including the operation of the company's TRV4 radiator valve, valve fault finding, product teardowns, and heating system optimisation. Attendees will also have the opportunity to take part in Q&A sessions and receive gland seal kits following participation in the training programme. Alongside the training activities, Drayton will showcase a range of heating control products, including its second-generation Wiser smart heating platform, thermostatic radiator valves, auto-balancing TRVs, motorised valves, and room thermostats. InstallerSHOW visitors can explore latest heating controls Among the products on display will be the Digistat range of programmable room thermostats, which now offer optional app control in 11 languages. According to Drayton, the feature is intended to improve accessibility for a wider range of users, including those in social housing environments. The company's technical team will also be available throughout the exhibition to provide product guidance and answer questions relating to installation and system performance. Away from the main exhibition hall, Drayton will position its training and demonstration vehicle outside the venue, where visitors can view additional products and learn more about the company's training activities. The stand will also feature prize giveaways, while installers signing up to the Drayton Rewards+ loyalty programme during the event will receive a £5 Greggs voucher. InstallerSHOW 2026 takes place at the NEC Birmingham, 23–25 June, bringing together manufacturers, contractors, installers, and industry professionals from across the building services sector. For more from Drayton, click here.

Q&A with lighting expert Dr Shelley James

In this month’s interview, ECN is speaking with Dr Shelley James of Age of Lighting Innovations, a renowned lighting consultant, TEDx speaker, educator, and advocate for healthier, high-performing environments through the science of light: ECN: Hi Shelley! To start with, could you describe your beginnings in the electrical sector, along with details of what motivated you to create Age of Light Innovations and champion healthier lighting? Shelley: My route into the electrical sector has been a bit unconventional. Following a career first in corporate design, a cycling accident that triggered extreme sensitivity to light forced me to learn how light affects my brain first hand - discoveries that sparked a complete change of direction. I went back to art school, set up a residency at the Bristol Eye Hospital, and was accepted to take a PhD at the Royal College of Art, working with print in glass to study optical illusions. Preparing for an installation at the Saatchi gallery, I struggled to find anyone to advise me on the lights, so I decided to take basic City and Guilds qualifications to become an electrician myself. I set up a light library and advisory service so that others wouldn't have to face the same hassle and expense. However, I had to close that down due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Realising that few people understood just how much light matters for mental and physical health, I launched a social media campaign for my teenage nieces that went viral. Encouraged by that response, I set up Age of Light Innovations over five years ago now. ECN: Lighting has historically been about illumination and energy savings, but much of your work focuses on the biological effects of lighting. What's the primary message you're seeking to deliver? Shelley: The primary message is that specifying lighting for your biology really isn't rocket science and it doesn't need to cost the earth. We just need to go back to basics. Every system in your body and brain is optimised for a regular cycle of bright days and dark nights. Huge biobank studies show that the people who follow that simple rule of thumb are healthier and happier, do better at school and at work, and cope more easily with the symptoms of chronic and degenerative diseases like diabetes and dementia. Anyone who's been on holiday and spent more time outside knows first hand just how much better they sleep at night. But you can't always be on holiday - and you can't always be outside. We now know enough about the 'active' ingredients to be able to engineer light sources to deliver the right light at the right time. That approach may need higher brightness at some times of day, but you can actually save energy over time. Given that you're specifying lighting anyway, you might as well do it right. ECN: How do you respond to sceptics who see human-centric lighting as a “nice-to-have”, rather than an essential? Shelley: I suppose you have to ask: if it's not for humans, who else is it for? But seriously, you don't need super-sophisticated lighting everywhere; if you focus the investment where it will have the greatest impact, the marginal cost is small, but the gain in terms of client experience and satisfaction - and environmental performance over time - can be the difference between repeat business and referrals or someone going elsewhere. ECN: With the rise of smart buildings and IoT, what role do you see electrical contractors playing in delivering truly responsive, human-centric lighting? And what are some of the challenges contractors face when it comes to these types of projects? Shelley: Electrical contractors are absolutely central to the successful delivery of truly human-centric schemes. Designers can create concepts on paper, but making it happen on the ground is where the real magic - and value - lies. In my experience, electrical contractors are often keen to learn about human-centric lighting, but contracts are written to minimise risk and ensure projects are delivered on time and on budget, so they're reluctant to try anything new. I've also seen that some contractors may lack the skills or confidence to make the shift from wiring to programming, through which they could successfully navigate what this 'smart' world demands. ECN: How can contractors effectively collaborate with lighting designers and clients to move beyond basic compliance lighting and towards genuinely health-supportive installations? Are there common specification pitfalls to avoid? Shelley: The key to effective collaboration - and to avoid the frustration and 'crossed wires' I often see - is open communication and respect for each other's perspective. Being clear about the creative and technical brief upfront, identifying potential pinch points and working them out together in good time, and seeing each project as a chance to build expertise and mutually profitable relationships for the future rather than a short-term drive for the bottom line. The most common pitfall I see is where there is no provision for time or budget to test or adjust an installation once it goes 'live'. This critical stage can transform performance in environmental and human terms. ECN: What advice would you give to electrical contractors and their teams who want to upskill in this area? Are there specific training pathways or tools you’d recommend? Shelley: The LIA has an award-winning professional training platform, and I believe they have just introduced a controls module that may be of interest. ECN: Looking ahead, what innovations or policy changes in lighting do you anticipate will most impact the electrical contracting sector in the next three to five years? Shelley: We already have the new Part L requiring smart lighting controls and I think this will be a big driver for change. I'd love to see contractors using this as an opportunity to think more holistically about what (and more importantly whom) the lighting is for, to integrate with other building systems and simplify rather than simply add a layer of control to an existing legacy system. Growing awareness of the harm caused by artificial light at night is another trend that is likely to drive policy changes that affect electrical contractors working on agricultural, industrial, and transport infrastructure. ECN: If you could mandate one change in how the industry approaches lighting design and installation tomorrow, what would it be and why? Shelley: The one change I would mandate would be the requirement for lighting designers, installers, and manufacturers to spend a full day in the spaces they have delivered - and, better yet, bring their partner, parent, or child with them. ECN: What has been the most rewarding part of your work in relation to championing lighting and its impact on health and wellbeing? Shelley: Seeing the effects of changes in lighting infrastructure on real people. Seeing an older person who has been isolated in his bedroom coming into the lounge to chat. Overhearing a nurse telling a colleague how she just doesn't get headaches any more. ECN: Lastly, what do you most enjoy doing in your time away from work? Shelley: I swim in the sea every morning, all year round. I'm also training for a half marathon and live three doors away from a pub that has award-winning beer and live music or a DJ several times a week. This interview first appeared in the June 2026 edition of the Electrical Contracting News (ECN) magazine.

City Plumbing announced as ECN Awards sponsor

Following our recent announcements about this year's ECN Awards, ECN is excited to announce that City Plumbing is also an official sponsor of the ECN Awards 2026. While most famous for plumbing and heating, City Plumbing has rapidly expanded its electrical business, ElecStore - stocking everything from cable and consumer units to heating and ventilation. This sponsorship highlights the wholesaler's major commitment to supporting UK electrical contractors with everything they need for quality installations, from renewables to bathrooms and beyond. City Plumbing is delighted to be involved as: • The Official Drinks Reception Sponsor: Hosting the welcome drinks reception to kick off the night's celebrations. • HVAC Product of the Year Sponsor: Championing innovation, safety, and energy efficiency. City Plumbing has grown its in-branch electrical offering nationwide, combining top brands and 14,000 products, with the expertise to keep your jobs moving. The wholesaler is proud to be on board to celebrate the industry's best at this glittering event. You don't have to wait for awards night to check out the wholesaler's expanded electrical offering, and you can explore City Plumbing's range today. Visit your local branch or browse online today by clicking here. Entries for this year’s ECN Awards are now live, and you can submit your entries and find out more about the event by clicking here. For more from City Plumbing, click here.

JTL opens £1m Thames Valley training centre

Electrical training provider JTL has officially opened its new Thames Valley Training Centre following a £1 million investment aimed at expanding electrical apprenticeship training in the region. The facility was formally opened by Baroness Jacqui Smith, Minister for Skills, who visited the centre to meet apprentices, employers, and industry representatives. The centre has been redeveloped to provide industry-standard training facilities, including a dedicated electrical workshop, End Point Assessment preparation areas, classrooms, and breakout spaces. JTL says the site has capacity to train around 200 apprentices each year. During the visit, the Skills Minister met apprentices preparing for their End Point Assessments and observed practical training activities. The visit also highlighted training programmes focused on emerging technologies, including solar and wind energy systems. Among those taking part was apprentice Freya Taylor, who recently received JTL's Regional Rising Star Award for the Western region. Local employers including Bojen Electrical, Haysham Electrical Contractors, Darke & Taylor, and Lowe and Oliver joined discussions focused on increasing apprenticeship recruitment among small and medium-sized businesses. New AM2 assessment facility expands testing capacity Alongside the training centre, JTL has opened a new eight-bay AM2 Assessment Centre following a further £250,000 investment. The organisation says the facility will help address assessment capacity challenges, with waiting times for an initial AM2 assessment reaching several months in some parts of the UK. The opening event was attended by representatives from the Department for Work and Pensions, the Joint Industry Board, Kewtech, and JTL's leadership team, including Sir John Low. Jacqui Smith says, "Apprenticeships are central to our mission to grow the economy and equip people with the skills they need to succeed, and it was fantastic to meet the young apprentices at JTL's new Thames Valley training centre. "This is the kind of dynamic, hands-on environment which will help us produce the skilled workforce of the future - in this case, one which will help deliver our housing ambitions and accelerate our transition to clean energy." Centre supports growing demand for electricians Chris Claydon, Chief Executive of JTL, comments, "It was a pleasure to welcome the Skills Minister to JTL's new Thames Valley centre and to see her officially declare it open. "This facility represents a major investment in the future of our industry, training around 200 apprentices each year and reinforcing JTL’s unwavering commitment to delivering the highest-quality apprenticeships. "As the UK looks to drive economic growth and deliver on its infrastructure ambitions, the need for skilled electricians has never been greater. Dedicated training centres like this are critical to building the workforce required to power that growth." "The creation of an AM2 assessment centre at this facility is another significant step forwards. With demand high across the country, this will help more electricians complete their qualifications more quickly, supporting productivity and ensuring businesses have access to the skilled workforce they need." The Thames Valley Training Centre is now fully operational and supporting apprentices, employers, and industry partners from across the region. For more from JTL, click here.

Acrospire promotes LED lighting retrofit projects

British LED lighting manufacturer Acrospire is encouraging local authorities and contractors to consider LED retrofit projects as an alternative to replacing structurally sound street lighting lanterns. The company has launched a lantern appraisal service that allows existing lighting assets to be assessed for retrofit suitability, helping organisations determine whether upgrades can be completed without replacing the entire lantern. The initiative forms part of Acrospire's wider focus on extending the lifespan of lighting infrastructure through LED retrofit technologies. Built around the principle of upgrading internal components rather than replacing complete units, the company's retrofit offering includes LED gear trays and optic assemblies designed to fit within existing lantern housings. According to Acrospire, the approach can be used across both functional and decorative lighting schemes, helping local authorities improve energy efficiency while reducing material consumption and preserving the appearance of existing installations. Assessing when retrofit is the right option Acrospire says retrofit solutions can often be installed in less than 10 minutes per lantern, reducing disruption, traffic management requirements, and installation times compared with full replacement programmes. The systems are compatible with a range of commonly installed lanterns, including heritage lighting stock. One example is a project in the London Borough of Waltham Forest, where approximately 500 existing lanterns are being upgraded through a retrofit programme intended to retain the area's existing streetscape while reducing energy consumption and maintenance requirements. Tim Barker, Managing Director at Acrospire, says, "In many cases, existing lanterns still have years of structural life remaining, making retrofit a viable option for LED upgrades. "However, every scheme is different. Some assets are well suited to retrofit, while others may be better suited to full replacement depending on condition, performance requirements, and long-term maintenance considerations. "That’s why we encourage local authorities and contractors to involve our engineers early in the process. By assessing the existing lantern stock, we can help determine the most practical and cost-effective approach for each project." Acrospire says its appraisal service is intended to help local authorities identify the most appropriate upgrade path based on the condition and performance requirements of existing lighting assets. Where lantern housings remain structurally sound, the company argues that retrofit can provide a lower-carbon and less disruptive route to LED lighting upgrades. For more from Acrospire, click here.

CHINT Shield revealed as sponsor for 2026 ECN Awards

Ahead of the 2026 ECN Awards in December, ECN is excited to reveal that Chint Shield is to sponsor this year's Independent Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year and Power Product (including Solar PV) of the Year Awards. CHINT Shield is proud to be returning as a sponsor of the ECN Awards 2026, continuing its support for an event that recognises excellence, innovation, and commitment across the UK electrical industry. Established in 2004, CHINT Shield provides complete low voltage electrical solutions for domestic, commercial, and industrial applications, with many products designed and assembled in the UK. From its Stockport base in Greater Manchester, the company supports customers nationwide with a broad portfolio spanning industrial switchgear, energy distribution, wiring accessories, and solutions for sectors including automation, telecommunications, and renewable energy, including EV infrastructure. Backed by the global strength of the CHINT Group, CHINT Shield combines an international scale with a strong focus on the UK market. As referenced, CHINT Shield is sponsoring the Independent Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year Award in recognition of the vital role that the wholesale channel plays in the industry. Working closely with over 3,000 distributors across the UK, the company values the partnerships that ensure products, expertise and support reach contractors efficiently. The company is also proud to sponsor the Power Product (Including Solar PV) Product of the Year Award, reflecting its commitment to advancing energy solutions that support electrification, renewable integration, and a more sustainable future. CHINT Shield looks forward to celebrating the achievements of the industry and connecting with peers across the sector at the ECN Awards 2026. Entries for this year's ECN Awards are now live, and you can submit your entries and find out more about the event by clicking here. For more from CHINT Shield, click here.