Fire Aware calls for higher fire safety standards across supply chain

Fire safety organisation Fire Aware is calling on those across the electrical supply chain to uphold best practice and prioritise public safety. Fire Aware CEO Gavin Skelly says those who adopt the highest standards of best practice should be proud of their stance as opposed to those who still cut corners. “There is a growing demand from the public and decision-makers in the supply chains to meet and exceed fire safety requirements,” says Gavin. “The Building Safety Act references competence and what it means in terms of knowledge, qualifications and skills. However, the public doesn’t know what competence looks like technically and neither should they be expected to, but they have a right to expect reassurance that they are safe moving around in our towns and cities. “Best practice every time should be the norm, but it still isn’t, and we will continue to demand the highest standards technically and morally to ensure that people and the buildings they inhabit are safe. “The public has a right to know they are protected by the actions and behaviours of those duty holders responsible for putting fire safety into place including those who procure products and services, install them and assess them. “But if we are to change culture, we must shift the market to provide the public and the supply chains with an identity of that responsible provider. Providing the consumer with a choice to make about their service provider’s behaviour is surely as important as identifying their technical ability when people’s lives are at stake. “Our own Fire Aware members commit to a Code of Conduct and our specific charters which take the safety process beyond legislation and abide by them. This is a vocation, not a job, and we should not forget that. “That means following the codes and legislation and even exceeding them to ensure the public can sleep at night with peace of mind. We still come across instances where safety has been breached by cutting corners to save money. We need commitment and transparency in the way that companies and responsible people do business when safety is at risk.” Gavin emphasised that the fire safety principles are relevant to any sector which relies on best practice, including the retail industry, hospitality, stadia, healthcare and the public infrastructure. Dame Judith Hackitt – who led the Grenfell Inquiry – has called for cultural change through moral and ethical behaviours, recently supported by the new independent Building Safety Regulator (BSR) that was created to ‘promote competence and higher standards.’ The BSR sits at the heart of the government’s mission to create safe communities, support economic growth, and deliver 1.5 million high-quality homes for residents. Its role is part of the drive to advance building safety and restore confidence in the safety of people’s homes. Fire Aware is a recognised membership body serving the built environment and related sectors with a common aim to work and trade responsibly to all best practice standards in the interests of the safety of the general public.

Automating Brewery Processes with WAGO Modular Systems

What happens when modern process automation technology meets stone-built production premises dating from the Middle Ages? The answer is a product, craft beer, of exceptional quality and unique character, made by a brewery which is set for a sustainable future and growing revenues. But achieving this outcome required a sensitive and carefully calibrated approach to implementing automation technology – an approach to which the modular products and collaborative culture of WAGO were well suited. 21st Century Equipment in a 14th Century Building The brewery in question, Orm’s Brewhouse, operates out of 14th-century farm buildings on the Ormside Hall Estate in rural Cumbria, in northern England, on the fringes of the scenic Lake District. Its location is rich in history but presents difficulties for operators of modern manufacturing equipment and processes. A five-barrel (5BBL) craft brewery founded in 2025, Orm’s Brewhouse has embraced the challenge of preserving the buildings’ traditional character. But the difficulty of operating in premises from another age militates against the brewery’s ambition to create the perfect pint. Director Ian Purves insists that the brewery has to respect the ‘soul’ of the place where the beer is made. After all, the age and history of the premises underpin the Viking story that the Orm’s Brewhouse brand tells its customers. Ian Purves, Director at Orm’s Brewhouse, says, "We were working against the building, not with it." When Orm’s Brewhouse was founded, the ancient building was equipped with refurbished vessels, pumps and extraction pumps. Mechanically, the system was sound. From a control and automation perspective, however, it was extremely limited. The control panel offered little more than basic start/stop functionality: it provided no recipe management, no automated dosing, no alarms and no meaningful process feedback. Critical brewing stages relied heavily on manual intervention. Volumes were estimated, temperatures adjusted by experience rather than data, and additions timed manually. This created the risk of inconsistent beer quality, wasted water and ingredients, unnecessary energy use and limited scope to scale production with confidence. Just as important was the effect on the people at the centre of the operation – the brewing team. Chris Stanley, Brewer at Orm’s Brewhouse, says, "You were so busy fighting the equipment that you lost sight of the craft." Combining Modern Process Control with Legacy Equipment Purves and Stanley knew that automation could solve the problems which the ancient building put in their way. Done the right way, automation would: Improve accuracy and repeatability without removing brewer control. Reduce risk and stress on brew day, while providing visibility into what the process is actually doing. Keep the system flexible, open and future-proof. The automation system which would provide these benefits needed to be open and modular, so that the brewery could retain existing systems. This was a sensible approach for a small craft brewery to take, since it avoided the high upfront capital cost entailed in discarding equipment before the end of its useful life and replacing it with an all-new solution. This decision to, as Ian Purves describes it, "build on what we started with", was in tune with the ethos of WAGO’s engineers, who are experienced in implementing modular systems which combine best-of-breed equipment from multiple vendors. Ian Purves says, "The WAGO engineers did not come to us with a product catalogue, they came for a conversation." WAGO’s application engineering team began with a site visit, working closely with the brewers to understand the process, the constraints of the historic estate and the brewery’s long-term ambitions. Together with Orm’s Brewhouse, they decided that the brewery had three main requirements of the automation system: Automated temperature control. Visualisation of the processes. Harnessing process data to enable continuous improvement and quality control. The WAGO solution combined new hardware with a software system which both controls the process and provides graphs, numeric read-outs and other visualisations which can be viewed both on-site and remotely. A New Open, Scalable Brewery Automation System At the heart of the upgrade was the replacement of the legacy controller with a WAGO PFC100 programmable logic controller (PLC 750-8112), which handles OPC UA, MQTT, Modbus, Ethernet IP and many other protocols. This broad support for standard industrial control technologies provides a foundation for future expansions of the system, as well as improving connectivity and monitoring capability. To bring real insight into the brewing process, IO-Link smart temperature and other sensors from Endress+Hauser were integrated via a WAGO IO-Link Master module (750-1657). Together, the PLC and IO-Link Master provide a complete data chain from the temperature and flow sensors all the way to the cloud. This connectivity benefits from VPN firewalls and integrated cybersecurity protection to ensure that process-level components can safely be linked to higher-level systems and to the internet to enable remote access. Now, for the first time, accurate measurements of flow, temperature and viscosity were available in the brewhouse or remotely via the cloud, alongside reliable volume measurements available throughout the process. This meant that the most important parts of the brewing process were automated: Automated Hot Liquor Tank (HLT) temperature control, compensating for ambient conditions. Precise water dosing using flow sensors. Safety cut-offs and alarms to protect equipment and prevent unplanned downtime. The control software was engineered from the ground up around Orm’s actual brewing process, rather than forcing it to fit a generic template. Alongside the automation equipment, a new Web Panel 400 10.1in display provides clear visibility of each brewing stage, giving brewers confidence in what the system is doing at all times. Chris Stanley was immediately struck by the way automation was going to transform his craft. Chris says, "The first time that I saw the flow meter hit the target and the pump just automatically stop, I realised just how precise we could make the whole brewing process." Data-Driven Brewing Replaces Guesswork The upgraded system supports recipe entry and storage, visualisation of water dosing during mashing, and automated prompts for key additions during the boil. Critical process parameters are logged, creating a growing dataset which supports consistency and continuous improvement. Temperature control during fermentation, often spanning several days, is now fully automated, including a controlled step-down chilling process at the end of fermentation to protect yeast health. When it comes time to rack, brewers know exactly how much beer is available, allowing the correct number of casks to be cleaned and prepared in advance. Remote connectivity configured by the Orm’s Brewhouse team allows WAGO engineers to provide support and troubleshooting without the need for site visits. This is a major advantage for a rural brewery. Chris Stanley concludes, "Efficiency isn’t just about saving time or ingredients — it’s what allows a small brewery like ours to grow. With WAGO’s automation in place, we finally have the visibility and control we need to trust the process from start to finish. It gives us more concentration time to get the recipe right, to stop processes at the right moment, so that when we get the brew in the fermenter, it’s the best that it can be." The Result: Energy Efficiency, Sustainability and a Future-Ready Platform Since the upgrade, Orm’s Brewhouse has gained a far higher level of confidence in its brewing process. Improved temperature control has significantly increased consistency, automation has reduced waste and manual intervention, and brew days are shorter and less stressful. Energy efficiency has also improved. Automated pump shutdowns, timed HLT heating and better process visibility have reduced unnecessary runtime, lowering both energy consumption and operating costs. Crucially, the modern control platform provides a foundation for future optimisation. The brewery already operates a large on-site solar installation and has written code to enable surplus solar generation to be diverted into heating the HLT. Electricity worth around £0.08 per kWh when exported from solar sources can instead offset heat that would otherwise cost around £0.24 per kWh to buy from the brewery’s energy supplier. This capability is only possible because the open control system has been designed from the outset to enable extension over time. A Long-Term Partner in Automation The solution for Orm’s Brewhouse worked so well in part because of the modularity of the equipment available from WAGO and others. But it was just as much to do with the nature of the collaboration between customer and supplier. WAGO’s open approach allowed the WAGO PLC and control architecture to be engineered around the brewery’s real process, ensuring accuracy, repeatability and long-term flexibility. As a vendor-agnostic automation provider, WAGO seamlessly integrated IO-Link sensors from third-party suppliers alongside existing equipment, protecting the brewery’s prior investment while enabling modern, data-driven brewery automation. The modular, scalable architecture devised by WAGO ensures that the system can evolve as production volumes grow, recipes change, and the brewery implements new methods for optimising energy generation and consumption. Underpinning all this technology, however, is a relationship: WAGO’s application engineering team worked directly with the brewers, combining their deep automation expertise with Purves’ and Stanley’s hands-on understanding of the brewing process to produce a robust, future-ready system that the brewing team can trust. John Mackey, Head of Automation Sales at WAGO UK & Ireland, says, "For WAGO, what makes this a moment of success is seeing the focussed application of automation to help the company deliver on its goal of creating a really high-quality beer. Together we have married the craft and artisan element of the brewing process with modern automation for data harvesting and quality control, which is ultimately what is going to enable Orm’s Brewhouse to develop as a business."

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.”