Martindale launches new PAT/EET workshop test kits

Martindale Electric has launched two new PAT kits featuring the recently updated EPAT series of portable testers, complete with a free comprehensive set of essential accessories. Ideal for workshop and commercial applications, the EPAT1600KIT1 and EPAT2100KIT1 include the PAT tester plus 1000 pass labels, 200 fail labels, a PAT register book and a set of three adapters for the most common IEC connectors. The kits are perfect for both new users and those needing to upgrade their test capability. The handy accessories are supplied free with the tester when the special kit is ordered - available until the end of 2026. The EPAT Series are sophisticated portable devices capable of testing both 230V and 110V portable appliances, making them ideal for speedier on-site testing, tool hire, and workshop repair applications. Both units are mains-powered and offer high current bond test capability.  EPAT1600 is a simple one-button, one test, manual PAT tester that’s made for Class I, Class II and power lead tests. There are three earth bond test currents, 25A, 8A and 200mA, which can be selected on a simple rocker switch, the 200mA test being specifically for computers and sensitive I.T. equipment. Additionally, the EPAT1600 has a built-in lead tester for checking extension leads, IEC leads and adaptors. It will perform a polarity test and is supplied with the Martindale EX332 230V lead test adapter. The EPAT2100 also features a simple one button, one test interface for testing both 230V and 110V appliances. It seamlessly performs the mandatory tests on Class I and Class II appliances for earth bond and insulation, but has the added benefits of run current, run leakage and high voltage flash test for tool hire and workshop servicing and repair environments. Earth bond tests can be carried out at 25A, 8A and 200mA for sensitive IT equipment.   Unlike the EPAT1600 this unit can be powered by a 110V or 230V supply, which enables run current or run leakage tests to be performed without need for connection to an external power source. The 110V adaptor is included to enable connection to a 110V supply. As with the EPAT1600 the EPAT2100 has a built-in lead tester for testing extension leads, IEC leads and adaptors. 

Glenfield Electrical wins Green Apple Award for sustainability campaign

Leicestershire electrical contractor Glenfield Electrical has won an international Green Apple Award for Environmental Excellence for its campaign helping local businesses reduce energy bills and carbon emissions. The company received the award in the Electrical and Electronics category for its A Sustainable Future for Leicestershire Business campaign, which examined the barriers preventing local firms from adopting cleaner energy solutions. Selected from more than 700 entries worldwide, Glenfield Electrical will receive its accolade at a ceremony at the House of Lords this November. Phil Houlder, Managing Director of Glenfield Electrical, says, "Winning this award is a proud moment for us, and we hope it brings more attention to the difficulties local firms are facing." The campaign began with a survey of 40 Leicestershire businesses, followed by interviews with local business owners. Three in five respondents expressed concern about energy costs, while 85% were unaware of government or local grants available to support energy efficiency improvements. Although 82.5% wanted to reduce their carbon footprint, just 17.5% had firm plans to install renewable technology within the following year. Interviews also highlighted difficulties for businesses renting their premises, with some unable to secure landlords' permission for improvements, even when willing to fund the work themselves. Glenfield Electrical has incorporated its findings into a report and is developing free, industry-specific guides for businesses, including breweries and manufacturers, to help identify suitable energy-saving measures. The campaign has also received support from Mid-Leicestershire MP Peter Bedford, who visited the company's headquarters and pledged to raise local businesses' concerns in Westminster. The MP described the initiative as "a very worthy campaign" and welcomed its efforts to help local firms reduce costs. Glenfield Electrical's full white paper, A Sustainable Future for Leicestershire Business, is available to read on the company's website 

Signify makes a splash at London Aquatics Centre with LED lighting upgrade

Signify has delivered an LED lighting upgrade at the London Aquatics Centre to drive performance, energy savings, efficiency, and long-term sustainability at one of the UK’s most iconic sporting venues, which is said to be the most technologically advanced swimming facility in the world. Designed by Zaha Hadid, the London Aquatics Centre was built in 2012 and immediately took its place on the world stage as a venue for that summer’s elite swimming and diving events. More than a decade later, operator Everyone Active undertook a major modernisation project to replace the venue’s legacy lighting system with energy-efficient LED technology. A key requirement was achieving the stringent World Aquatics (formerly FINA) television broadcast standard of 1,500 lux Ev.  To achieve this, Signify partnered with DC Electrical Supply to deploy a lighting system designed for the unique demands of the venue’s architecture. With luminaires suspended up to 40 metres above water, access, precise aiming and adjustment using conventional methods were challenging and time-consuming. While traditional flood lighting approaches could provide general illumination, they lacked the precision and data validation needed to meet the project’s demanding performance requirements. Instead, Signify deployed a proprietary solution designed to translate an on-paper lighting design into real-world accuracy. By combining its advanced ArenaVision LED gen3.5 luminaires with an innovative Augmented Reality (AR) aiming system, Signify enabled installers to accurately align each luminaire, even at heights of up to 40 metres above the pool. A detailed grid over the pool area enabled installers to align each luminaire precisely with the original lighting design. Instead of relying on a visual aiming scope, the installers used a smartphone attached to the luminaire to aim the lights directly at the grid. This approach reduced time spent working at height, improved installation accuracy, and ensured the final lighting performance matched the design intent. Any subsequent adjustments could be made quickly and precisely, delivering measurable and repeatable results. The installation includes 168 ArenaVision luminaires providing the main competition lighting, complemented by 16 UniFlood Flat luminaires that add additional flexibility. The luminaires are paired with a DMX control system to enable immersive and adaptable lighting scenes that enhance sporting events and audience experiences while meeting the requirements of elite competition. The new lighting provides excellent visibility for athletes and fully complies with the World Aquatics broadcast standards, helping the venue maintain its status as a top destination for televised sporting events. Compared with the previous HID lighting system, the LED solution delivers significant energy savings of up to 60% when used in full capacity. The addition of DMX controls also gives venue operators greater flexibility to create engaging experiences for spectators and support a wider range of events.  “Having the new LED lighting at the London Aquatics Centre for elite sport is an absolute game changer,” says Mark Basker, Regional Contract Manager at Everyone Active. “Everyone Active has invested £685,000 in the lighting upgrade, working in partnership with global lighting specialist Signify and electrical contractor DC Electrical Supply. With individual control of each light, we can black out the pool, introduce coloured lighting, and follow athletes during events. This gives the venue flexibility to host many more events while future-proofing the facility and maintaining its reputation as a world-class aquatics venue.”  Mark Camley, Executive Director for Estate & Neighbourhoods at London Legacy Development Corporation, adds, “The new energy-efficient lighting upgrade is a welcome addition to London Aquatics Centre as we embark on the next phase of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, focussing on shaping sustainable communities while supporting the Mayor’s ambitions for a greener, cleaner and healthier capital. London Aquatics Centre is a much-loved venue, and Everyone Active’s investment builds on its legacy as an exemplar for televised sport where major swimming events are hosted regularly. It also benefits those who use the space, from local members of the community to world-class athletes.”  Darren Clark, Director at DC Electrical Supply Ltd., comments, “We’re proud to be working alongside Everyone Active and Signify to deliver a lighting solution that supports all ambitions like energy efficiency and sustainability for the iconic venue while ensuring the best fan experience. Given the complexity of access and adjustment within the venue, the solution installed allows for ensuring results are measurable and repeatable. The key point of difference is how they translate on-paper lighting design into real-world accuracy.” Simon Wilkinson, Commercial Leader, Public UK, Signify concludes, “The London Aquatics Centre first took its place on the world stage under Signify lighting in 2012. More than a decade later, we are proud to have been chosen once again to help future-proof this iconic venue with a new generation of lighting performance, flexibility, and energy efficiency that will support athletes, spectators, and broadcasters for years to come.”

13 kilometres of electricity lines disappear to enhance Chilterns beauty spot

UK Power Networks has removed more than 13 kilometres of overhead electricity lines and 119 poles from the Chilterns National Landscape as part of a £2 million project to improve the area's appearance. The electricity firm has undergrounded high-voltage lines between Latimer and Chenies, through the Chess Valley, removing infrastructure from large parts of the Chenies and Latimer Conservation Area. The work forms part of UK Power Networks' commitment to removing overhead power lines in National Landscapes where doing so can deliver significant visual improvements. Extensive environmental and archaeological surveys were carried out before and during the project, with measures put in place to protect local wildlife, including badger setts, nesting birds and great crested newts. More than 13 kilometres of high-voltage lines have been moved underground, together with an additional 1.3 kilometres of low-voltage lines. Sections of the new network were installed using horizontal directional drilling to navigate around the River Chess. A total of 15 new substations have also been created along the route. UK Power Networks says the combination of new substations and underground cables will help provide reliable electricity supplies for local communities into the future. Luke Hughes, Head of Asset Management at UK Power Networks, says, "The Chilterns National Landscape is a special place enjoyed by thousands of people, and we're delighted to have completed this major undergrounding project. Removing overhead lines from the Chess Valley area has significantly reduced visual impact, helping to preserve the area's natural character while ensuring local wildlife and habitats were carefully protected throughout the works. At the same time, the new underground network will continue to provide a reliable electricity supply for the communities we serve." Dr Elaine King, CEO of the Chilterns National Landscape, says, "The removal of these overhead power cables is a fantastic outcome for the Chilterns, and we’re delighted to have played a part in bringing the project forward. Putting the cables underground has transformed the landscape around Chenies, revealing its natural beauty and significantly reducing visual impact. "This has been a long-term project requiring considerable commitment and collaboration, and we’re hugely grateful to UK Power Networks and everyone involved for their work in making it happen. It’s wonderful to see such a positive result for Chenies and the wider Chilterns."

LEDVANCE launches flexible LED solution for fluorescent refurbishment projects

LEDVANCE has launched a modern solution to replace ageing fluorescent lighting and simplify refurbishment. As organisations across the UK continue to replace ageing fluorescent lighting, attention is turning to solutions that simplify refurbishment while remaining adaptable to the changing needs of a building.  Offices, schools and public buildings often contain large numbers of conventional linear luminaires. Upgrading these installations can improve energy efficiency and lighting quality, but the process is not always straightforward. Different spaces may require different light outputs, colour temperatures or control functions, while requirements can also change during installation or later in the building’s life.  Choosing a configurable luminaire can help installers manage these variables without specifying and stocking numerous product variants. Developed with this flexibility in mind, the new LEDVANCE LINEAR SURFACE COMBO provides a surface-mounted solution for new-build and refurbishment projects. Suitable as a replacement for conventional T8 fluorescent luminaires, it has been designed for applications including offices, educational facilities and public buildings. [caption id="attachment_53910" align="alignnone" width="586"] LEDVANCE launches flexible LED solution for fluorescent refurbishment projects[/caption] The Multi Colour function allows either a 3,000 K or 4,000 K colour temperature to be selected on site, helping installers match the lighting more closely to each space. Multi Lumen also allows the required lumen output to be set before installation. Together, these features can simplify specification and stockholding while giving installers greater scope to respond to individual project requirements. Lighting quality is equally important, particularly in classrooms, offices and other environments where people may spend long periods. A choice of 1,200 mm, 1,500 mm and 1,800 mm lengths supports different room layouts, while outputs of up to 6,200 lumens and efficacy of up to 125 lm/W help balance illumination requirements with energy efficiency. Glare control of UGR <19 and low-flicker operation also contribute to a more comfortable working or learning environment. Practical installation can make a significant difference in buildings that need to remain operational. Schools, workplaces and public facilities often provide only limited access for refurbishment, so reducing time spent on site can help minimise disruption. A push-wire terminal enables tool-free electrical connection, while the inclusion of mounting screws and wall plugs helps make installation more straightforward. LEDVANCE’s Plug & Upgrade concept allows additional sensor, DALI or emergency lighting components to be added to the standard luminaire. The optional high-frequency sensor enables presence-based control, helping to reduce unnecessary operating hours, while an emergency lighting kit can be introduced without replacing the complete luminaire. This modular approach gives installers flexibility when specifications change and allows building operators to introduce additional functions later. DALI-2 connectivity also enables integration with the LEDVANCE VIVARES light management system. Designed for long-term professional use, the range offers a service life of up to 70,000 hours (L80/B10 at 25°C), helping to reduce the frequency of replacement and associated maintenance. LEDVANCE also provides a five-year warranty.

Stabila Launches LAX 60 G Greenbeam Cross Line Laser

STABILA has launched the LAX 60 G, a new compact cross line laser designed for accurate marking and alignment work across a range of construction and installation applications. Aimed at professionals working in areas including electrical installation, drywall construction, tiling, decorating, joinery and plumbing, heating and air conditioning, the LAX 60 G uses STABILA GreenBeam technology to project bright, sharp green laser lines with visibility at distances of up to 30 m. The unit provides horizontal and vertical lines with a levelling accuracy of ±0.3 mm/m and a self-levelling range of ±4°. For work in larger or brightly lit spaces, pulse-modulated laser lines can be used with an optional receiver to extend the working area to as much as 80 m. A manual mode allows the pendulum to be locked so that laser lines can be positioned at the required angle, making the LAX 60 G suitable for tasks including marking diagonals. For flexible positioning on site, the laser features powerful magnets for attachment to steel beams, radiators and other suitable metal surfaces, together with a 1/4in thread for tripod mounting. Designed for straightforward operation, the LAX 60 G uses two buttons and is powered by three AA 1.5 V batteries, which are supplied with the unit. STABILA quotes an operating time of up to 15 hours, while an LED battery display allows users to monitor the remaining charge. The laser has an IP54 protection rating against dust and water spray and features STABILA's shock-absorbent soft-grip casing to provide additional protection against impacts on site. A pendulum locking mechanism also helps protect the unit and maintain its accuracy during transportation. The LAX 60 G is supplied with a belt pouch, target plate with magnetic holder and cross-hair, and three AA batteries. The magnetic target plate can also be attached to metal rails when working on suspended ceilings. The STABILA LAX 60 G is available from retailers.

Historic ‘Jolly Green Giant’ Surrey substation restored

A rare vintage electricity substation affectionately dubbed the ‘Jolly Green Giant’ has been restored on a Surrey village green. UK Power Networks, owner of the decommissioned 1914 Grade II listed substation, hired specialist conservators to preserve the pillar – one of the few surviving examples of early domestic electrification, which had a dramatic impact on British domestic life. In December, the 1.5-tonne cast iron pillar was craned onto a lorry and transported 45 miles to an East London workshop to undergo careful restoration work. The community has now welcomed its return to Kingswood in mint condition, where the historic landmark has even been compared to Dr Who’s TARDIS. The local landmark, as old as the Kingswood North estate, originally housed a transformer that distributed the first power supplies to the area. After the transformer was relocated from Beech Drive, it is believed internal equipment was removed, and it now functions solely as a streetlight in The Glade. Emma Machin, surveyor at UK Power Networks and leader of the restoration project, says, “The ‘Jolly Green Giant’ can stand tall once more in the heart of Kingswood, linking our past to our future and highlighting how far we’ve come in harnessing electricity for a more sustainable future. “The original substation had a revolutionary impact on daily lives when it was first installed, bringing electricity to homes for the first time. With so few surviving substation pillars on public view we were delighted to work with the residents and conservators to ensure this example continues to play a positive part in the Kingswood community.” Emma was amazed by the transformation of the substation which she said was looking “quite forlorn”. Adam Gooding, metalwork conservator at Rupert Harris Conservation, adds, “Structurally it was in good condition, but it was time to have some new life breathed into it. We stripped the failing paint, corrosion and rust to give a new surface for a fresh coat of paint. “It is always satisfying to work on an unusual object, especially something which has significance to the local community and it’s nice to see it transformed into a condition much closer to how it would have looked.” The addition of late 20th century light fixtures on top of the pillar has been replaced for period-style street lamps, which are more in keeping with the era. The substation had been painted several times, and the original colour was closely matched through paint analysis on a similar substation that UK Power Networks restored in Wimbledon in 2023. William Rockall, director for estate care, Kingswood North Estate Company Limited (KNECL), comments, “On behalf of the KNECL road association and the wider Kingswood community, I would like to say how delighted we are to see the restoration and return of the electricity transformer, fondly known as The Jolly Green Giant, to the village green at the junction of The Glade and Forest Drive. "Over the past 80 or so years, the transformer has become an iconic landmark and a focal point for the Kingswood North Estate in particular, forming part of the company’s logo. It has been much missed since its removal before Christmas; however, the results have been well worth the wait, and we would all like to thank UK Power Networks for funding such a splendid piece of restoration." Records suggest less than 6% of the domestic population had electricity when the Kingswood substation pillar was installed around the time of World War One, when electricity was still an aspirational luxury.  The substation’s arrival would have been part of the fragmented early introduction of electricity that revolutionised domestic life.  Although it is rare for utility infrastructure to have special historic interest, the electricity transformer pillar has been Grade II listed by Historic England in recognition of its importance and special interest. Other unusual examples of listed buildings include a fish-shaped RNLI collection box, and a 19th century urinal in Westminster. In 2020, as a mark of the community’s affection for the pillar, the road association, Kingswood North Estate Company Limited (KNECL), included the substation in their logo. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/shorts/FEy6GMnvylM[/embed]

RAW Charging offers 50% off EV charging at over 65 National Trust destinations

RAW Charging is offering 50% off EV charging at more than 65 National Trust destinations across the UK to celebrate Heritage Open Days, which run from 11–20 September 2026.  Heritage Open Days is England’s largest festival of history and culture, running from 11–20 September 2026 and offering free access to hundreds of historic sites, buildings and spaces across the country.  The offer spans both AC and DC bays, with DC rapid charging working out at less than 40p per kWh throughout the Heritage Open Days period.  The initiative builds on RAW Charging’s wider partnership with the National Trust, which has already delivered charging infrastructure at 68 sites across the UK, comprising 464 AC bays and 34 DC bays, and powered more than 5.6 million emission-free miles to date.  RAW Charging’s collaboration with the National Trust forms part of a wider commitment to support lower-emission visits to some of the UK’s most treasured heritage sites, helping visitors make sustainable choices without compromising on convenience or cost. The Heritage Open Days offer gives EV drivers an added incentive to visit and rewards those already charging with the network.  RAW has been recognised with the Zapmap Best Destination Network Award for 2026, as well as the ICC Gold accreditation, reinforcing RAW’s position as a leading EV charging partner for leisure, retail and hospitality destinations.  Jason Simpson, CEO, RAW Charging, says, “Heritage Open Days is all about opening up the UK’s most loved places, and we wanted EV drivers to be part of that. By offering 50% off charging across more than 65 National Trust destinations, families can plan a full day out at sites knowing they can charge easily and affordably while they explore. Our partnership with the National Trust has already supported more than 5.6 million lower-emission miles, and this offer is one way we can recognise the drivers helping make that happen.” 

Charge-M8 Extends Exclusive Kelvelec Partnership Ahead of EV Charge Live Launch

Charge-M8 has expanded its exclusive distribution agreement with Kelvelec Electrical Supplies, one year after the launch of its EV Kube ground anchor. The extended partnership will widen the range of Charge-M8 products available exclusively through Kelvelec across the UK and Republic of Ireland, as the EV charging technology specialist prepares to unveil its latest product at EV Charge Live 2026. Launched on September 29, 2025, EV Kube is a modular composite ground anchor designed to provide an alternative to traditional concrete foundations for EV charging and payment infrastructure. According to Charge-M8, the system offers installers and operators a lighter, faster and more sustainable installation method and has been adopted on EV charging projects across the UK and further afield. Building on the product's first year in the market, Charge-M8 has developed a new solution that it says will challenge conventional approaches to EV charging infrastructure. The product will be officially launched at EV Charge Live at the NEC Birmingham on September 22. The company says both developments form part of its commitment to creating more sustainable, intelligent and efficient EV charging infrastructure and improving solutions throughout the infrastructure lifecycle. Julian Smith, Managing Director at Charge-M8, says, "Our partnership with Kelvelec has gone from strength to strength. EV Kube's success over the past year has been built on that partnership and the shared effort behind it. "We're equally excited about the new product now in development, which will build on everything EV Kube has achieved and push EV charging infrastructure even further forward." Matt Gooding, Director at Kelvelec, says, "EV Kube has been a standout addition to our range over the last year and we are pleased to extend our exclusive partnership with Charge-M8 as they continue to innovate. "We look forward to bringing their new product to installers and operators across the UK via our broad network of national, regional and independent wholesalers."

SELECT and SJIB warn against rise of rogue training providers and fast-track electrician courses

SELECT and the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) have issued a fresh warning about the dangers of rogue training providers offering short courses which claim to provide a fast-track route into the electrical industry. The two organisations say there is growing concern that people are being encouraged to believe they can acquire the knowledge, practical skills and occupational competence required of a qualified electrician after only a few weeks of classroom-based training. They have now urged anyone considering a career in the electrotechnical sector – including adults looking to retrain – to make sure they follow an industry-approved route which combines structured learning with essential supervised experience in the workplace. Sharon Miller, Managing Director of SELECT, says, “There is already a robust training programme in Scotland that raises electrical professionals to the high standard required of the modern contractor. This is proven to be the ONLY way to equip electricians with the skills required and give consumers confidence that work is being carried out safely and competently. “This also applies to retraining, with an adult training scheme that offers on-site working to help develop skills in conjunction with the classroom aspect. A short course simply doesn’t cut it and endangers consumer safety. “As we have outlined on a number of occasions, electrical installation is highly skilled, safety-critical work. It simply isn’t possible to replicate in a matter of weeks the combination of technical knowledge, practical ability and workplace experience that is developed through a proper electrical installation apprenticeship. People considering a career in the industry should therefore be extremely wary of organisations which suggest that a collection of qualifications or a short period of training will somehow make them a competent electrician.”  SELECT and the SJIB work closely with the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), which manages the Modern Apprentice in Electrical Installation programme in Scotland. Taking around four years to complete, the programme combines college-based learning with extensive supervised workplace experience, culminating in the Final Integrated Competence Assessment (FICA). Catherine Gillon, Secretary of the SJIB, adds, “Qualifications are obviously an important part of becoming an electrician, but qualifications alone do not demonstrate occupational competence. Working alongside experienced electrical professionals on-site is an essential part of the learning process. It enables trainees to put their technical knowledge into practice, encounter different situations and installations and gradually develop the judgement, ability and experience expected of a qualified electrician. “That is why there can be no shortcut to competence. Anyone who is being told that they can become an electrician simply by completing a handful of short courses in a classroom should think very carefully about what they are being promised. The consequences extend beyond the individual who may have spent considerable sums on inappropriate training. If someone then undertakes electrical installation work without the necessary competence, the consequences for customers and the wider public could be extremely serious.” SELECT and SJIB have urged would-be electricians to contact SECTT and also visit the Rogue Trainers campaign run by The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP), which helps identify misleading training offers and understand the industry-approved routes to qualification. “The Rogue Trainers campaign is extremely important because people looking for a new career can understandably be attracted by promises that they can qualify quickly,” adds Miller. “But becoming an electrician isn’t about collecting certificates. It’s about developing genuine occupational competence and being able to demonstrate that you can carry out complex electrical work correctly and, above all, safely. We would urge anyone considering electrical training to investigate exactly what a course will deliver before committing their time and money. The electrical installation apprenticeship remains the safe, recognised and proven route into our profession.”