CHINT Shield revealed as sponsor for 2026 ECN Awards

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

Liberty Wines cuts energy costs with solar installation

Liberty Wines says it has reduced its electricity costs by £86,480 in 10 months following the installation of a rooftop solar system at its warehouse in Basingstoke. The 521kWp installation was designed and installed by Insight Energy using SolarEdge technology and supplies power to both the warehouse and the company's electric vehicle fleet. According to the companies, the project overcame insurance-related challenges associated with installing solar panels on a facility storing large volumes of flammable products. Liberty Wines had originally planned to install rooftop solar during the warehouse's construction. However, the project was delayed after concerns were raised by the company's insurer regarding the storage of alcohol on site. Insight Energy subsequently designed a system based on SolarEdge's DC-optimised architecture, incorporating safety technologies including arc-fault detection and voltage reduction capabilities intended to support maintenance access and emergency response requirements. Kristian Day, Managing Director of Insight Energy, explains, "Insurance challenges are common when installing PV on warehouses, particularly those used to store flammable stock. "Liberty Wines needed a solution that was safe, reliable, and efficient. SolarEdge technology enabled us to meet all three requirements while also giving the company full visibility and control over its energy use." Solar generation offsets majority of warehouse demand The installation comprises 1,005 solar panels equipped with power optimisers and four 90kW inverters. Since commissioning, the system has generated 376MWh of electricity and supplied approximately 63% of the warehouse's energy requirements. The solar array is managed through SolarEdge's energy management platform, which coordinates power generation and consumption across the warehouse and EV charging infrastructure. Liberty Wines is using the platform to schedule vehicle charging during periods of high solar generation, increasing onsite consumption of renewable electricity. Kristian continues, "As a company committed to sustainable operations, Liberty Wines is taking a long-term, data-driven approach to optimising its energy management. "The SolarEdge system's monitoring platform shows exactly how much solar energy each panel generates and how much energy is actually being used. "Liberty Wines is already using 63% of the solar energy produced on site, which is very high." The company is also assessing the potential addition of battery storage to capture excess solar generation currently exported to the grid. Insight Energy used the SolarEdge Designer platform to model the installation and forecast its performance before deployment. Kristian concludes, "Customers often think the performance forecasts we provide for SolarEdge systems are too good to be true. "We use the SolarEdge Designer tool to design the solar system to meet our clients' exact requirements, while its modelling capabilities enable us to clearly demonstrate how and why each system will perform as predicted. As an installer, it's an invaluable tool in our toolkit." Liberty Wines supplies restaurants, hotels, bars, caterers, and retailers throughout the UK and Ireland. The company achieved carbon-neutral certification in 2014 and Carbon Neutral Plus status in 2017. It says carbon emissions associated with each £1 of wine sold have since fallen by 39%. For more from SolarEdge, click here.

ESR’s Above and Beyond Awards 2026 open for entries

The Electrical Safety Roundtable (ESR) has announced its Above and Beyond Awards (ABA) 2026 are now open for entries. The Above and Beyond Awards recognise and celebrate individuals and organisations who go above and beyond their legal duty and strive to enhance and improve electrical safety within the workplace. The Awards provide an opportunity to share best practice, promote electrical safety, gain recognition, and give clients and customers confidence in products and services. Award categories Product of the year: This category is open to products launched on or after 1 June 2024 that enable a safer way of working on or near electrical systems. Paul Skyrme Electrical Safety Initiative of the year: This category is open to organisations, charities, individuals, and other industry stakeholders who have enhanced electrical safety through an outstanding initiative. The initiative must have started after 1 June 2024. For example, this may be a marketing or awareness campaign, workplace safety initiative, or resident engagement exercise. Changemaker of the year: This category is open to an individual who has gone above and beyond their legal requirements to have a positive impact on electrical safety within their workplace. Entrants should provide evidence of this positive change in the workplace from 1 June 2024. Derek Thompson Industry Service Award: This award is for an organisation or individual who has contributed to enhancing electrical safety for a sustained period of typically over five years. You must not have previously submitted this application as an entry for the awards. Who can enter? The Awards are open to all individuals and organisations based in the UK with a notable interest in electrical safety. The ESR Above and Beyond Awards are also free to enter. You can nominate yourself, another individual, or an organisation. Entrants may enter multiple award categories and submit multiple applications to the same award. However, all submitted entries must be tailored to each category. Commenting on the ABA, Fraser Herd, Chair of the ESR Workplace group, says, “The Above and Beyond Awards are a fantastic opportunity to showcase some of the incredible work organisations and individuals do to enhance electrical safety. We look forward to a great Awards year!” Applications close at 23:59 on 1 August 2026. Winners will be announced in the autumn. For more from the ESR, click here.

Ansell Lighting launches S19 product catalogue

Lighting manufacturer Ansell Lighting has released its S19 product catalogue, featuring almost 50 new products and product updates, alongside details of expanded support services for electrical contractors. The S19 catalogue is the company's largest to date and includes new additions across its lighting portfolio, as well as updates to existing product ranges. Among the new products is the Exa C, a floodlight designed specifically for padel courts. The luminaire incorporates precision lenses for controlled beam distribution and uniform illumination across playing surfaces. It also features an anti-corrosion coating, an integrated visor to reduce glare and light spill, and a lightweight aluminium construction intended to simplify installation. Another addition is the redesigned Tornado Pro non-corrosive batten, developed for retail, industrial, and car park environments. The upgraded fitting includes a UV-stable polycarbonate illuminated base, changeable optics, and compatibility with Ansell's XPRESS system. New features aimed at simplifying installation Ansell is also expanding the availability of its XPRESS emergency and microwave sensor converter kits across a wider range of products. The clip-in system allows emergency lighting and microwave sensor functionality to be added to compatible luminaires, including Tornado Pro and Disco Evo. The company says the labelled gear trays and clip-in connections are specifically designed to reduce installation time. The catalogue also outlines a range of contractor support services, including on-site surveys, lighting design assistance, delivery services with enhanced pallet labelling, and on-site warranty support. Mark Abbott, Managing Director of Ansell Lighting, says, "Our commitment to innovation at Ansell Lighting is not just about launching new products; it is about listening to our customers and then updating and upgrading popular products to meet their needs. "As a result, many of the new and upgraded products in S19 are about making life easier for installers and helping wholesalers to reduce the number of SKUs they have to carry. "This year, we have launched our dedicated contractor support service that helps to address common project pain points for contractors, such as on-site issues, delivery logistics, and post-installation support." The S19 catalogue is available to download from the Ansell Lighting website, whilst printed copies can be requested through the company's online platform or your local Area Sales Manager. For more from Ansell Lighting, click here.

NAPIT announced as Entertainment Sponsor for 2026 ECN Awards

NAPIT, one of the UK’s largest certification bodies in the building services and fabric sector, is proud to return as sponsor of the entertainment at the ECN Awards for the second consecutive year. Last year’s ECN Awards featured fantastic entertainment, with Rule the World - the UK’s number one Take That tribute band - delivering a memorable performance alongside aerial performers, magicians, and more. This year’s entertainment promises to be even bigger and better, with NAPIT once again supporting this key part of the evening. Hannah Thompson, Head of Communications at NAPIT, comments, “The ECN Awards are a fantastic platform for celebrating the very best of our industry, and what better way to make the night truly memorable than by sponsoring the entertainment at the end of the awards.” The 2026 ECN Awards take place on 3 December at the Heart of England Conference & Events Centre in Coventry. Award entries are officially open, and you can submit entries and find out further information about this year's Awards by clicking here. For more from NAPIT, click here.

KNIPEX expands electrical tool range for installers

Hand tools manufacturer KNIPEX has launched several new additions to its electrical range, giving installers practical new options for faster PV work, cleaner cable preparation, and improved handling in tight or demanding working environments. As solar installations continue to grow, installers are looking for ways to complete jobs quickly, safely, but without carrying unnecessary kit. KNIPEX has introduced five new tools designed to support PV installation work alongside cutting, stripping, and cable preparation tasks across wider electrical applications. Mounting tools The KNIPEX Set of Mounting Tools (97 49 66 3) has been designed for MC4 and MC4 Evo 2 connectors. It’s a compact set that combines two functions in one: tightening housing screw connections and unlocking plug-type connectors. The kit includes two compact wrenches made from glass-fibre-reinforced plastic, so they are lightweight but durable enough for everyday site use. Integrated magnets hold the two tools together so they can be separated easily but help installers avoid losing individual parts when moving between jobs. PreciForce SAC Another addition aimed at PV installers is the PreciForce SAC (97 52 42 6), developed specifically for installation, maintenance, and repair work. Combining cutting, stripping, and crimping functions in one tool, it cuts down on tool changes so jobs can be completed more quickly. The lever transmission system delivers high crimping force with minimal effort, while an integrated release lock compliant with IEC 60352 ensures the crimp cycle only completes once the correct pressure has been reached. Crimping pressure is factory set and locked in so users can be confident of consistency across repeated connections. Diagonal cutters Not brand new, but completely updated are the VDE-insulated KNIPEX 200 mm High Leverage Diagonal Cutters (74 06 200). These cutters have a redesigned power joint that improves leverage by positioning the cutting edges closer to the pivot point. This reduces effort by around 20% compared to the previous model, making repeated cuts through tougher materials less demanding over the course of the day. As well as the VDE model, the cutters are available in a range of versions, including burnished or chrome-plated finishes, the new three-component comfort handles, and straight or angled designs. The three-component comfort handles are designed to reduce fatigue and improve grip, and the KNIPEXTEND interface allows users to personalise the tool with ColourCode Clips or a tether attachment and add a name label. Slim Knips For installers working in cramped spaces or with intricate setups, the new Slim Knips (78 03/61 150) are a compact option for precision cutting. They have a slender, asymmetrical design, making access in awkward spaces easier. The micro-offset cutting edge cleanly cuts fine-stranded and solid copper conductors, and a transport lock keeps the cutting edges safely closed during storage while also acting as a stop when tightening cable ties to avoid accidental cutting. The Slim Knips can be paired with the optional holster (78 09 LE) so they can be safely stored close to hand. STX60 cable stripping tool Completing the latest additions is the KNIPEX STX60 cable stripping tool, designed for larger diameter power cables between 30 and 60 mm. Intended for industrial installations, renewable energy projects, and heavy-duty applications, the STX60 handles materials including PVC, rubber, and PUR insulation. A quick-adjust mechanism and fine adjustment dial help deliver controlled cuts without damaging inner conductors, while guide rollers support smooth circumferential and longitudinal cutting. For tougher materials, the integrated ratchet function reduces strain during repeated use. Together, these five new additions give installers a practical range of options for everything from PV connector work and precision cutting through to heavy-duty cable preparation. Whether reducing the number of tools needed on site, improving access in tighter spaces, or cutting down on fatigue during repetitive tasks, the latest KNIPEX range has been developed with the realities of day-to-day installation work firmly in mind. To find out more about the KNIPEX new product range, click here to visit the website. For more from KNIPEX, click here.

CEF partners with WellChild to support families

Electrical distributor CEF has announced a new charity partnership with WellChild aimed at supporting children with complex medical needs and their families across the UK. The partnership will focus on fundraising, volunteering, and practical support projects, including improvements to homes and outdoor spaces through WellChild’s Helping Hands programme. WellChild provides specialist nursing services, family support programmes, and practical initiatives designed to help children with complex health conditions receive care at home. As part of the partnership, CEF employees will take part in Helping Hands projects that create safer and more accessible outdoor spaces for children and their families. The projects are designed to be completed within a short period to minimise disruption while delivering long-term improvements. The company says it has already completed three Helping Hands projects, with further work planned across the UK, including in Northern Ireland and at a respite centre in Basingstoke. One recent project involved adapting a garden to improve accessibility for two brothers who use wheelchairs, enabling them to access the outdoor space safely. Volunteers contribute to home and garden projects Alongside volunteering activities, CEF employees will raise funds for wider WellChild programmes, including Better at Home, which helps children leave hospital sooner and receive care in their own homes. According to WellChild, the programme provides training facilities and resources that help parents and carers develop skills required to support children with complex medical needs. Connor Dalton, Director of Sustainability, Health & Safety at CEF, says, “We’re proud to support WellChild and the incredible work they do for seriously ill children and their families across the UK. "Giving back to our communities is part of who we are, and partnering with WellChild allows us to contribute with real and lasting impact.” Matt James, CEO at WellChild, adds, “We are so excited about our new partnership with CEF. "Our shared values, commitment, and passion is going to have a profound impact on the lives of so many children and families across the UK and will create a legacy of care for many years to come.” CEF selected WellChild as its new charity partner following consultation with employees across the business. The partnership launches as the company marks its 75th anniversary and follows its previous fundraising activities for Macmillan Cancer Support, which raised more than £1.25 million. The company says it will also continue supporting the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC). For more from CEF, click here.

NICEIC research highlights homeowner electrical knowledge gap

NICEIC, a certification body for the UK’s electrical contracting industry, has released new research raising awareness of the importance of electrical installation condition reports (EICRs) amongst homeowners. The findings highlight a significant gap in understanding of electrical safety, underlining the need for continued, industry-wide efforts to improve awareness and encourage regular inspection and testing. A poll of 2,000 UK homeowners, carried out by OnePoll, found one in seven have ignored potentially dangerous electrical faults such as constant tripping, broken switches, and flickering lights. More than one in five (22%) admit they take an “I’ll worry about it tomorrow” approach to these issues. The research also points to low levels of engagement with electrical checks (EICRs). More than a fifth (22%) have not had their electrics inspected and tested in over a decade, if at all, while 16% are unsure whether their property has ever been assessed by a qualified electrician. Crucially, the findings highlight widespread low awareness of EICRs. Nearly seven in 10 (69%) homeowners do not know what an EICR is, and almost half (48%) of those who are aware do not realise inspections are recommended at least every 10 years in owner-occupied homes. For the industry, the findings reinforce the importance of ongoing efforts to raise awareness of electrical safety and the role regular inspection plays in maintaining safe installations. Efforts to improve public knowledge NICEIC says it is promoting the findings to national consumer media outlets as part of a wider effort to help improve understanding of electrical safety. As part of this activity, NICEIC is signposting homeowners to clear, consumer-friendly guidance on EICRs, while also highlighting its 'Find a Trusted Tradesperson' tool, which, the company explains, enables homeowners to locate NICEIC-certified businesses in their area. Paul Collins, NICEIC Technical Director, says, “These findings highlight a clear gap in awareness when it comes to electrical installation condition reports and their role in maintaining safe electrical installations. "As electrification accelerates, regular inspection and testing is becoming increasingly important, and improving understanding of EICRs is vital.” For more from NICEIC, click here.

Marshall-Tufflex cable tray installed at Bay Queen

Marshall-Tufflex PVC cable tray systems, from the UK manufacturer of cable management products, have been installed at the Bay Queen residential development in Port St Mary as part of a redevelopment project on the Isle of Man. The Bay Queen scheme has transformed the site of a former seaside hotel into a collection of apartments overlooking the Irish Sea. As part of the redevelopment, contractors constructed a new underground car park for residents. According to the project team, the coastal location created challenges for the electrical installation due to exposure to moisture, salt air, and fluctuating temperatures, all of which can contribute to corrosion in metallic containment systems. The installation was carried out by Gough Electrical, with products supplied by Edmundson Electrical in Douglas. Marshall-Tufflex says its Basor PVC cable tray system was selected because the non-metallic material is resistant to corrosion and suitable for exposed environments. The company adds that the lightweight design of the tray system also helped reduce installation time during the project. Tony Kelly of Gough Electrical says, “With the car park exposed to the elements and salt air, we needed a system that wouldn’t corrode over time. “Marshall-Tufflex offers cable tray in metal, GRP, or PVC, so in this case the Basor PVC cable tray was the obvious choice: durable, easy to install, and built to last in this type of environment.” For more from Marshall-Tufflex, click here.

Schneider Electric expands Samsung SmartThings integration

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology company, has announced expanded integration between its SpaceLogic KNX platform and Samsung SmartThings systems for residential and commercial buildings. The integration allows SpaceLogic KNX devices to connect with Samsung SmartThings for homes and SmartThings Pro for commercial and multi-site environments. According to Schneider Electric, the integration enables users to manage lighting, blinds, temperature controls, sensors, HVAC systems, and energy monitoring through a single interface. The company says Samsung has simplified its certification process, allowing Schneider Electric to bring a wider range of SpaceLogic KNX devices into the SmartThings ecosystem. Laurent Roussel, SVP Commercial & Channel at Schneider Electric, says, “Interoperability has become increasingly important in both residential and commercial environments, where customers expect connected systems to work together seamlessly. “Integrating SpaceLogic KNX with Samsung SmartThings expands how customers can manage their connected devices, personalise their automation experience, and gain greater visibility into energy usage across homes and buildings.” Building management and smart home systems brought together Schneider Electric says the SmartThings Pro integration is designed to help facility managers oversee multiple commercial sites through centralised dashboards. The system enables monitoring and management of lighting, occupancy, HVAC, blinds, and energy consumption across connected buildings. For residential users, the integration allows SpaceLogic KNX products and other smart home devices to be managed within the SmartThings application, reducing the need for multiple control platforms. According to Schneider Electric, this gives contractors, housebuilders, and homeowners a more centralised way to manage connected appliances, entertainment systems, lighting, and household energy use. Schneider Electric was one of the founding companies behind the KNX standard and notes that the protocol has been deployed globally for more than 35 years, with support from more than 500 manufacturers. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.