UK Power Networks completes £6.8m network upgrade

Distribution network operator UK Power Networks has completed a £6.8 million electricity network upgrade between Sutton and Beddington to increase network capacity and support future electricity demand. The project involved installing 6.8km of new underground cables, helping to maintain reliable electricity supplies for more than 68,000 homes and businesses. The new infrastructure is also designed to accommodate growing demand as more low-carbon technologies are connected to the electricity network. Two new 132kV underground cables were installed along a 3.4km route. The work involved excavating trenches, installing cable ducts, and pulling the new cables into position before joining them at intervals along the route. Part of the project also required deep excavation to connect the new cables to an existing tunnel. Upgrade increases network capacity Gbenga Odesola, Project Manager at UK Power Networks, says, "Energisation of these cables marks the culmination of a significant investment in long-term resilience, modernising the network and preparing for future demand, including as more of us connect to low carbon technologies. "I'm proud of the way our team worked safely and collaboratively to deliver this important investment project. Their commitment has strengthened the network and will help ensure a reliable electricity supply for thousands of customers for years to come." TJ O'Keeffe, Construction Manager at Clancy, adds, "This was a complex project, delivered safely through strong teamwork and close collaboration with our client, UK Power Networks. "Working around live, 132,000-volt cables required care and specialist methods, including vacuum excavation. "I'm proud of the commitment and expertise that went into delivering this important investment for the local community." The project forms part of UK Power Networks' wider investment programme. The company says it invested more than £800 million across London, the South East, and the East of England last year to maintain and upgrade the electricity network while supporting the transition to lower-carbon energy. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

Frank Bertie retires as NAPIT Managing Director

Frank Bertie has retired as Managing Director of certification body and training provider NAPIT after two years in the role and more than 32 years as the organisation's Technical Director. During his career at NAPIT, Bertie has supported members with technical guidance, contributed to industry standards, and played a role in the development of electrical safety guidance and regulation. His career in the electrical industry began after developing an interest in the trade while electricians rewired his family home. He went on to study Electrical and Electronics before completing an apprenticeship with a local electrical contractor. Bertie started his career working to the 14th Edition of the Wiring Regulations and later contributed to the development of the 18th Edition. Reflecting on his career, he says, "What started as an interest turned into a career focused on improving safety and raising standards." He also highlighted the importance of safe isolation and continuing professional development throughout the industry. "For too long, a casual approach to safe isolation has had deadly consequences," he continues. "The biggest shift has been the need to develop knowledge to confirm competence, not just hold a qualification." Leadership changes at NAPIT Following Bertie's retirement, Stephen Melton has been appointed Managing Director, having previously served as Commercial and Compliance Director since joining NAPIT in 2019. Although retiring from his full-time position, Bertie will continue to support NAPIT in a consultancy role, providing technical advice and expertise. Stephen Melton comments, "On behalf of everyone at NAPIT, I would like to thank Frank for his outstanding contribution to the organisation over the past 34 years. "During that time, Frank has played a pivotal role in shaping our technical excellence, supporting our members, and helping to raise standards across the industry. "While Frank is stepping away from his full-time role, we are delighted that he will continue his long association with NAPIT in a consultative capacity, sharing the extensive technical knowledge and expertise that have been invaluable to the organisation for so many years. "Personally, I would like to thank Frank for his support during the leadership transition and for the strong foundation he leaves behind. "I am honoured to take on the role of Managing Director and look forward to working with NAPIT staff and industry partners as we continue to build on our growth and success. "Frank, thank you for everything you have done for NAPIT. We wish you a long, healthy, and enjoyable retirement." For more from NAPIT, click here.

UK household electricity demand continues to rise

Household electricity consumption across Great Britain is continuing to increase despite ongoing cost of living pressures, according to new analysis from Chameleon Technology, a UK smart energy technology company. The study, based on data from around 23,000 households, found that average electricity consumption rose by 6.4% between March 2025 and March 2026, increasing from 789kWh to 839kWh per household. Over the same period, gas consumption increased by 3%. Looking at longer-term trends, the analysis indicates that household electricity demand has increased by around 18% since 2023, while gas consumption has remained broadly unchanged. According to Chameleon Technology, the findings suggest that increasing electrification of homes, including the adoption of electric vehicles and heat pumps, alongside changing consumer behaviour, is contributing to rising electricity demand. The figures coincide with the latest Ofgem energy price cap, which has increased the annual cost of a typical dual-fuel household to £1,862. Electrification reshapes household energy use The report suggests that growing electricity demand highlights the need for continued investment in electricity infrastructure, as well as greater access to tools that help households monitor and manage their energy consumption. Kyle Brown, Chief Commercial Officer at Chameleon Technology, says, "Electricity demand isn't slowing down; it's shifting. "As homes electrify, we're seeing greater reliance on technologies like EV charging and electric heating, which are changing how and when electricity is used in the home. "If this demand continues to grow - which it almost certainly will - we cannot keep putting off the wide-scale infrastructure reforms needed for the grid. We can't focus on short-term affordability simply to push a complex problem down the line. "At the same time, most households still don't have clear visibility into how they're using energy. As demand grows, that becomes a bigger issue if people are expected to manage costs effectively. "Without better insight, households are making decisions in the dark. That's why it's so important to encourage households to engage with their in-home displays or energy apps. The data is there; it's ready to be used." The company says appliance-level energy monitoring tools, including in-home displays, current transformer (CT) clamps, and energy monitoring apps, are becoming increasingly important as electricity accounts for a greater share of household energy use. For more from Chameleon Technology, click here.

Entries open for Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2026

Screwfix is once again on the search for the UK and Ireland’s most talented tradespeople, and has officially opened entries for its Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2026 contest. The event, which Screwfix says is designed to celebrate the dedication, professionalism, and commitment displayed by tradespeople every day, serves to shine a light on the exceptional people working in the trades. This year’s Screwfix Top Tradesperson will walk away with a trade bundle worth £20,000/€20,000, made up of tech, tools, and training to help take their business to the next level. Martin Daly, a Motherwell-based builder, was the pride of Scotland when he claimed the coveted title in 2025, becoming the latest inductee into the Screwfix Top Tradesperson Hall of Fame as a result. Since winning, Martin’s business – MD Builders – has continued to thrive thanks to the publicity he has enjoyed over the past 12 months. Martin comments, “Entering Screwfix Top Tradesperson was one of the best decisions I ever made. The application process was simple and gave me the chance to share my personal journey in the trade. “The exposure I got from winning has helped raise the profile of my business, and I have been lucky enough to visit both the Scottish Parliament and the Houses of Parliament in London to talk about the importance of supporting the industry with more public funding. “I would encourage anyone thinking about entering to just take the first step, fill in the online application form, and you never know where it could lead!” Entries for Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2026 are now open and will close at midnight on Sunday 12 July 2026. Tradespeople from the UK and Ireland can put themselves forward, or be nominated by employers, customers, or friends, by filling out the online application form at screwfix.com/stt or screwfix.ie/stt. Once the entries close, 30 standout applicants will be shortlisted for the semi-final stage. From there, just 10 talented tradespeople will head to the grand final taking place at Screwfix Live in Farnborough on Friday 25 September 2026, where they will go head-to-head in front of an expert panel of industry judges to crown this year’s Screwfix Top Tradesperson. Jack Wallace, Marketing Director at Screwfix, comments, “We are delighted to launch this year’s nationwide search for the Screwfix Top Tradesperson. Now in its 17th year, the competition continues to recognise the outstanding skills and personal commitment of the talented tradespeople that serve our communities across the UK and Ireland. “Tradespeople play a vital role in supporting homes, businesses, and communities, and this competition is all about celebrating their achievements and championing the industry. We’re looking forward to hearing more inspiring stories as entries open for 2026.” For more from Screwfix, click here.

LIA appoints new president

Trevor Grote, Managing Director of BELL Lighting, has been appointed President of The Lighting Industry Association (LIA), a UK trade body for lighting manufacturers and suppliers. The LIA represents more than 170 organisations across the UK lighting industry and supply chain, promoting standards, compliance, education, sustainability, and industry representation. Its members employ more than 10,000 people and generate a combined annual turnover of £1.6 billion. Trevor succeeds to the role having led BELL Lighting, a company with more than 100 years of history in the lighting sector. He comments, "The lighting industry has given me an enormous amount, and I'm genuinely honoured to take on the role of President. "The LIA does vital work on behalf of everyone in the sector, championing compliance, giving the industry a credible voice in policy and regulation, driving progress on sustainability, and developing the next generation of lighting professionals. "I'm looking forward to working with members, the LIA team, and the wider industry to keep building on that. Lighting matters - in how we work, live, and feel - and it deserves a strong, unified voice." Supporting the future of the lighting industry The LIA is the UK's trade association for the lighting industry and its supply chain, working with manufacturers and suppliers to help shape policy, promote industry standards, and support skills development. Ayça Donaghy, Chief Executive Officer of the LIA, says, "Trevor's leadership and focus on strengthening the value of membership, reinforcing the credibility of the LIA badge, and continuing to raise standards across the sector aligns closely with our long-term strategy. "I look forward to working alongside Trevor as we continue to support our members, champion compliance and quality, and build an even stronger future for the lighting industry." For more from the LIA, click here.

Dimplex hot water heat pump listed on Government ETL

Dimplex has reinforced the shift towards proof-based specification with its Edel hot water heat pump now listed on the UK Government-backed Energy Technology List (ETL). It is currently the only dedicated hot water heat pump to achieve inclusion. The listing confirms the Edel range (170, 200, and 270-litre models) meets strict energy performance criteria set out by the scheme, giving specifiers and developers a recognised benchmark at a time when compliance, efficiency, and real-world performance are under increasing scrutiny. As Part L requirements evolve and the transition to all-electric buildings accelerates, technologies that can demonstrate verified performance are moving higher up the decision-making agenda. ETL inclusion provides assurance, helping reduce risk in specification and supporting long-term energy and carbon targets. Edel is designed to meet this need, using energy extracted from external air to deliver efficient domestic hot water across both new-build and retrofit applications. Its compact, self-contained design allows for straightforward installation in space-constrained settings, without adding unnecessary system burden. David Patrick, Head of Specification Marketing at Dimplex, says, “Being the only hot water heat pump currently listed on the Energy Technology List is significant because it reflects where the market is heading. Specifiers are being asked to prove performance, not just promise it. Verified technologies give that confidence, particularly as regulation tightens and expectations increase.” That confidence is already being demonstrated on site at the Chateau Mews development. Delivered with Keepmoat, Edel units were specified as part of a fully electric solution designed to meet modern energy standards and remove reliance on gas. Installed within standard utility cupboards in each apartment, the compact units addressed space constraints while delivering an efficient, low-carbon hot water system. The approach also supported compliance with updated Part L requirements, where domestic hot water is an increasingly important part of overall energy performance. The project reflects a wider shift towards decentralised, apartment-level solutions that simplify installation, improve controllability, and support compliance without increasing system complexity. As the industry continues to adapt to evolving regulation and net zero targets, Dimplex says independently verified technologies will play a growing role in helping specifiers make confident, well-informed decisions. David adds, “Low-carbon solutions now need to be proven in real-world conditions, not just on paper – and that’s where technologies like Edel are making a difference. As the industry moves towards higher performance standards and greater electrification, having that level of confidence in specification will only become more important.” For more from Dimplex, click here.

Electricity cables ‘re-rooted’ to protect ancient tree

Distribution network operator UK Power Networks has adapted the route of new electricity cables in central London to protect the root system of what is believed to be the capital's oldest tree. The London plane tree on Cheapside, near St Paul's Cathedral, is thought to have stood in the same location since 1855, although some estimates suggest it dates back to the 18th century. Its protected status required careful planning during electricity network upgrades in the area. Designers and engineers identified that the original cable route on Wood Street would pass close to the tree's extensive root system and revised the plans to avoid potential damage. Trial holes were excavated to confirm the location of the roots before work began. The revised route also avoided the Grade I-listed Guildhall and the surrounding conservation area, with support from specialist environmental contractors. When excavation work reached the edge of the tree's canopy, only hand-digging methods were used to minimise the risk of damaging the roots. Careful planning protects heritage and infrastructure The project demonstrates how electricity network upgrades can be delivered while protecting historic landmarks and the natural environment. James St John Davis, Chair of the City of London Corporation's Natural Environment Board, says, "When infrastructure projects stop and change course for a single tree, it speaks volumes. "UK Power Networks have gone to impressive lengths to protect what is believed to be one of the oldest and most historically important trees in the Square Mile - a truly living piece of the City's history. "As custodians of more than 11,000 acres of green and open spaces across London and the South East, we know how rare and irreplaceable these landmarks are. "This is a powerful example of how modern infrastructure and heritage can coexist, delivered with real sensitivity to our natural and historic environment." Chanelle Mistry, Assistant Project Manager at UK Power Networks, adds, "London's heritage is irreplaceable, and at UK Power Networks, we're determined to protect it while keeping the capital powered. "When our teams realised this historic plane tree could be at risk, we acted quickly to adapt our plans to safeguard it. "Projects like this show how we can modernise the electricity network responsibly, without compromising the landmarks that make London special." The project also received the 'Streetworks Communication' award at the City of London Corporation's Considerate Contractor Streetworks Scheme. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

UK set to miss Clean Power 2030 target

According to new analysis from energy consultancy LCP Delta, Great Britain is "unlikely to meet its target" of generating 95% of electricity from clean power by 2030. The company's latest GB Power Market Outlook forecasts that clean power generation will reach 83% by 2030 under current plans, with the 95% target not expected to be achieved until 2035. Even under its most ambitious 'Accelerated Build' scenario, the report suggests the milestone would be reached in 2032. Clean power generation has increased steadily in recent years, rising from 68% in 2020 to 74% by the end of 2025. However, the report estimates that a further 28GW of renewable capacity would be needed to achieve the Government's 2030 target. The analysis models several possible pathways for decarbonising Great Britain's electricity system and assesses progress towards the Clean Power 2030 objective. Despite falling short of the target, the report concludes that policies introduced over the past two years are expected to deliver significant changes to the electricity system by the end of the decade. By 2030, gas use is forecast to fall by 38% compared with 2024, rising to 52% under the Accelerated Build scenario. Renewable capacity is expected to almost double, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 36% compared with current levels, or around 46% under the accelerated scenario. Gas is also projected to set electricity prices less than half of the time by 2030, down from 85% in 2025. Grid constraints remain a major obstacle According to the report, one of the main barriers to achieving the 2030 target is the continued reliance on gas generation to manage constraints on the electricity network. Under current projections, around 27TWh of renewable electricity would be curtailed in 2030 because it cannot be transported to areas of demand, while 16TWh of gas generation would instead be brought online. LCP Delta says that accelerating key network upgrades in East Anglia, improving existing infrastructure, and reforming balancing mechanisms could increase clean power generation to around 90% by 2030. The report also suggests that a cleaner electricity system would help reduce consumers' exposure to fluctuations in international gas prices. It estimates that a gas price shock similar to that experienced following disruption in the Strait of Hormuz would increase household energy bills by around 4% in 2030, compared with 24% in a system without Contracts for Difference-backed renewable generation. An accelerated rollout of clean power could also reduce the average household electricity bill by around £40 in 2030 compared with 2026, according to the analysis. LCP Delta says that moving policy costs associated with older renewable schemes to general taxation, alongside removing VAT, could reduce average bills by a further £64. The company is calling on the Government to accelerate renewable deployment, reduce grid connection delays, deliver network upgrades, and introduce measures to reduce network constraints. Sam Hollister, Head of UK Market Strategy at LCP Delta, explains, "While our analysis shows that Great Britain is unlikely to meet its 2030 Clean Power target, the direction of travel is clear: by the end of the decade, the energy system will have undergone a profound transformation. "Renewable capacity is set to provide over 70% of our power needs in just a few years, weaning the country off volatile international gas markets whilst halving the power sector carbon emissions compared to 2025. "For consumers, one of the biggest benefits will be greater protection from external gas price shocks. A cleaner power system means lower reliance on gas, helping to shield households from the kind of price volatility seen during recent energy crises whilst benefiting the climate. "Importantly, there are actions the Government can take beyond current policy to accelerate renewable deployment, tackle grid constraints, and unlock the full benefits of the clean power transition."

Ideal Heating introduces heat pump lifetime warranty

Ideal Heating, a UK manufacturer of boilers and heat pumps, has launched a lifetime warranty for its Logic Air heat pumps, offering long-term, manufacturer-backed support for eligible installations. Available for Logic Air heat pumps installed with an Ideal cylinder and Halo Air controls, the package includes annual servicing, an ongoing warranty, and manufacturer support for the lifetime of the system. Homeowners can register within six months of installation through a monthly subscription of £22.50 or an annual payment of £270. According to Ideal Heating, the new package is designed to complement the role of installers rather than replace it. New support options for installers and homeowners Installers can recommend the lifetime warranty to customers who want Ideal Heating to provide ongoing servicing and support. Those wishing to retain responsibility for annual servicing can continue to do so through the company's extended warranty options. Ideal Heating says the new offering has also been developed for the housebuilding sector, providing a route for ongoing support after homeowners move into new properties fitted with Logic Air heat pumps. Adam Foy, Chief Executive Officer at Ideal Heating, comments, "We didn't want to launch just another warranty; we wanted to redefine what long-term ownership of a heat pump should look like. "That's why lifetime warranty is about much more than repairing a product if something goes wrong; it's about ongoing care, expert support, and giving installers and homeowners confidence throughout the lifetime of the system. "The heating industry has spent years talking about giving homeowners confidence in heat pumps. We wanted to do something that genuinely moves that conversation forward. "Lifetime warranty is an industry first. It gives homeowners the reassurance that their heat pump can be looked after by the people who designed and built it, while giving installers another powerful way to support their customers. "This isn't about taking away servicing from installers; in fact, it's the opposite. It's about standing behind them." The lifetime warranty forms part of Ideal Heating's wider investment in low-carbon heating, which includes UK heat pump manufacturing, research and development, technical support, a nationwide service network, and Expert Academy training. The package was previewed at InstallerSHOW 2026 ahead of its launch. For more from Ideal Heating, click here.

Schneider Electric launches compact three-phase RCBO

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology company, has expanded its Acti9 range with the launch of the Acti9 iC60 H3, a compact three-phase residual current circuit breaker (RCBO) with overcurrent protection for commercial and industrial applications. The device is designed to provide protection against overloads, earth faults, and short circuits, while supporting compliance with the requirements of BS 7671. According to Schneider Electric, the new RCBO has been developed to reduce the amount of space required within distribution boards. The device occupies three modules, compared with seven modules for the previous design, allowing more efficient use of available panel space. Designed for monitoring and easier installation The Acti9 iC60 H3 is compatible with Schneider Electric's PowerTag energy sensors, enabling circuit-level energy monitoring. Energy data can be integrated into the company's EcoStruxure Energy Hub platform and building management systems to provide visibility of energy consumption and support operational decision-making. Schneider Electric says the RCBO also incorporates Type A residual current device (RCD) technology for applications with electronic loads, alongside solid neutral and voltage-dependent technology. The company adds that the reduced number of wiring connections is intended to simplify installation and make it easier to upgrade from miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) to RCBOs. The Acti9 iC60 H3 RCBO is now available through Schneider Electric's distributor network. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.