Schneider launches Boost Pro battery storage in UK

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology company, has announced the UK launch of Schneider Boost Pro, a battery energy storage system (BESS) designed for commercial and industrial buildings. The system will be presented in the UK for the first time at the Commercial Vehicle Show, taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 21–23 April 2026. Schneider Boost Pro is intended to support energy management across sites by storing electricity for later use, helping to manage demand and maintain operational continuity. The launch comes as the UK continues to increase its use of renewable energy. According to the National Energy Systems Operator, renewables now account for 44% of the country’s electricity generation. However, variability in supply and ongoing grid modernisation present challenges for consistent energy delivery. The battery storage system is designed to improve flexibility and stability in power supply, particularly in environments with fluctuating demand or intermittent renewable generation. It is also suited to depot environments, where it can support the charging of heavy-duty vehicles, including buses and lorries. In addition, it can be deployed within transport infrastructure, such as along highways, where high-capacity charging is required. Supporting flexible energy use across sites Schneider Boost Pro can be scaled from 200kWh to 2MWh by combining multiple units, allowing it to adapt to changing energy requirements. The system enables several operational use cases. First, it can store surplus renewable energy for later use, helping to increase on-site energy consumption. It also allows sites to balance demand by drawing on stored energy when required and can provide backup power during outages. In addition, the system supports tariff management by charging during off-peak periods and discharging during peak pricing periods, helping to manage electricity costs. Schneider Boost Pro integrates with EcoStruxure Microgrid Advisor, a cloud-based platform that provides forecasting and energy management insights based on factors such as weather conditions, site demand, and market signals. The system also incorporates cybersecurity measures designed to protect data and communications, alongside installation, maintenance, and remote support options. Battery energy storage is playing an increasing role in balancing electricity demand and supporting the integration of renewable energy. Systems such as Schneider Boost Pro are being deployed to help reduce pressure on the grid during peak periods, while enabling more flexible energy use across commercial and industrial sites. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

NICEIC launches support package for BS 7671 Amendment 4

NICEIC, a certification body for the UK’s electrical contracting industry, has announced a package of guidance and resources following the publication of BS 7671:2018+A4:2026. The amendment has been published by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and the British Standards Institution (BSI) and can be adopted immediately. The previous version is scheduled to be withdrawn on 15 October 2026. NICEIC states that the support package is designed to help contractors understand and apply the updated requirements. The organisation has introduced a range of materials for certified businesses, including a 48-page digital workbook covering the changes introduced in Amendment 4. This is available through the NICEIC customer portal. A series of CPD-accredited webinars, titled 'The Wire', will also cover the updates in detail. The first session took place on 16 April 2026, with further episodes available both live and on demand. In addition, NICEIC will host two in-person technical events during 2026, providing further guidance on the amendment. These events are planned to take place in Surrey in June and in Sheffield in September. Resources to support contractors Further support includes updated technical guides, expanded content in the Connections magazine, and access to the NICEIC technical helpline. The organisation has also updated its certification forms and reports to reflect the new amendment, which are available through its online certification system and shop. Paul Collins, Technical Director at NICEIC, says, “Amendment 4 introduces a series of updates that reflect the rapid evolution of electrical technology, the growing integration of renewable energy systems, and the increasing complexity of modern electrical installations. "These updates ensure the UK’s electrical regulations remain aligned with advancing technology and best practice. "At NICEIC, our priority is to give contractors the tools, clarity, and confidence they need to work to the new amendment from day one. We encourage all NICEIC-certified businesses to use the Let’s Get Technical Plus workbook, sign up to The Wire webinars, and make use of the exclusive resources available to them.” NICEIC has also made a range of Amendment 4 publications and training courses available for purchase, aimed at supporting both certified businesses and the wider electrical industry. For more from NICEIC, click here.

IET & BSI officially publish Amendment 4

The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) together with the British Standards Institution (BSI) have today released Amendment 4 (2026) to the standard Requirements for Electrical Installations (BS 7671:2018) (18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations), marking the latest update to the UK’s national standard for electrical installation safety. This new amendment reflects the fast-paced evolution of technologies across the sector and introduces substantial changes in areas including stationary secondary batteries, medical locations, and Power over Ethernet (PoE). This update to the IET Wiring Regulations forms the UK national standard for: All new low voltage electrical installations Additions and alterations to existing installations Periodic inspection and testing of existing installations Amendment 4 is now available to be purchased and the previous version, BS 7671:2018+A2:2022+A3:2024, will be withdrawn six months from today on 15 October. New chapter: Stationary Secondary Batteries One of the most significant developments is the introduction of a new chapter covering stationary secondary batteries, responding to the rapid growth of energy‑storage technologies and their increasing deployment both with and without solar PV systems. The amendment sets out comprehensive requirements relating to system design, power conversion equipment, bidirectional or hybrid inverters and the suitability of protective devices for two‑way energy flow, an essential consideration as battery systems are increasingly used for vehicle‑to‑home and vehicle‑to‑grid applications. The chapter also places strong emphasis on safety‑critical matters such as appropriate battery location, ventilation, and fire‑risk mitigation. New section: Power over Ethernet (PoE) Section 716 introduces clear requirements for Power over Ethernet as Ethernet cabling is increasingly used to supply extra‑low voltage DC to low‑wattage equipment such as LED lighting and small appliances. The section focuses on the correct selection of power supplies and cables using SELV and PELV systems. While SELV and PELV typically allow up to 50 V AC or 120 V DC, Section 716, part of the Special Locations section, modifies these limits to 60 V ripple‑free DC in dry locations and 15 V ripple‑free DC elsewhere. To ensure safe operation, all electrical connections for PoE must comply with BS ISO/IEC 11801‑1 and be capable of supporting a continuous operating current of 750 mA per contact. Major revision: Medical Locations Section 710 has been significantly revised to improve safety in healthcare environments where patients are more vulnerable to the effects of electricity. Medical locations are now clearly classified into Groups 0, 1 and 2, with Group 2 areas, such as operating theatres, requiring medical IT systems that use a transformer and insulation monitoring device to maintain supply during a first fault and alert staff before disconnection would occur on a second fault. To avoid dangerous loss of power, two independent supplies and a UPS must also be provided, positioned as close as possible to the equipment they support. These updates align the UK with IEC 60364‑7‑710:2021 and its CENELEC adoption, strengthening protection for patients and medical staff. New section: Functional Earthing Another new section is dedicated to Functional Earthing and Functional Equipotential Bonding for ICT Equipment and Systems. Section 716 is principally concerned with power supplies and cables using SELV (Safety Extra Low Voltage) and PELV (Protection Extra Low Voltage) as the method for protection against electric shock. Conventionally, SELV and PELV require a voltage limitation of 50 V AC and 120 V DC; however, Section 716 is in Part 7, Special Locations, of BS 7671 which supplements or modifies the general rules. In this case, Section 716 limits SELV and PELV to 60 V ripple-free DC in dry locations and 15 V ripple-free DC in all other locations. The electrical connections for power over ethernet are to comply with BS ISO/IEC 11801-1 capable of supporting a continuous operating current of 750 mA per contact. The IET and BSI encourage all electrical professionals to ensure they become familiar with the changes now that they have been published. Mark Coles, Head of Technical Regulations at the IET, says, “The IET is the UK’s authority for electrical installations, and Amendment 4 continues our commitment to ensuring the IET Wiring Regulations evolve in line with the technologies shaping modern and future electrical work. “The inclusion of new requirements for stationary secondary batteries is a clear example of this progress, as advancing storage technologies increasingly support the integration of renewable energy in our daily lives. “It is essential that the sector remains aligned with these developments to maintain safe and resilient electrical installations across the UK and that the industry is ready to work to this new amendment before BS 7671:2018+A2:2022+A3:2024 is withdrawn.” Sebastiaan van Dort, Director of Energy and Sustainability at BSI, adds, “BSI is proud to jointly publish this vital standard with the IET at a time when the UK is accelerating towards its 2030 clean energy goals. BS 7671 underpins safe, modern electrical infrastructure - essential for delivering the electrification needed to meet net zero ambitions.” Further changes are included throughout all parts of BS 7671:2018+A4:2026, including the incorporation of Amendment 3:2024 to BS 7671:2018 as part of the main document. This Amendment sees the further adoption of CENELEC Harmonized Documents and IEC standards as the UK continues the inclusion of standards for new and developing technologies. BS 7671:2018+A4:2026 is available for purchase via theiet.org/GetTheRegs - where you can also learn more about the IET’s guidance and training packages too. For more from The IET, click here.  

KNIPEX shares guidance on maintaining VDE tools

Hand tools manufacturer KNIPEX has outlined practical steps for maintaining VDE-rated tools, highlighting the importance of regular checks to support performance and safety on site. The guidance focuses on simple maintenance tasks that can help extend tool lifespan and ensure compliance when working on electrical systems. For this, KNIPEX has produced a short video demonstrating how to care for VDE pliers in everyday use: [embed]https://www.youtube.com/shorts/dXgvxIQLpUw[/embed] The example shown is the KNIPEX Diagonal Cutter VDE, designed for electrical work in confined spaces such as junction boxes and distribution boards. The tool features a narrow head and extended cutting edges for precision work, alongside induction-hardened blades and insulated grips tested to IEC 60900 standards. Simple maintenance steps for safe use KNIPEX highlights that regular maintenance is particularly important for VDE tools, where insulation integrity is critical for safe operation. Basic steps include wiping tools clean after use, drying them thoroughly, and applying a light layer of oil to protect against moisture and corrosion. Adding lubricant to moving parts can help maintain smooth operation and reduce wear over time. The company also recommends routinely checking handle insulation to ensure it remains intact and suitable for electrical work. KNIPEX states that consistent upkeep can help maintain performance, extend tool life, and support safe working practices for electricians. For more from KNIPEX, click here.

Powered Now announces April event for Cardiff electricians

A free pop-up event for tradespeople will open at Cardiff’s Par 59 for one day only on 30 April. The ‘Advice on Tap’ event, hosted by job management software Powered Now, promises to bring together tradespeople from across the city. The event is designed to create a community for tradespeople, including installers, who often work in isolation or rely on social media for communication with others in their industry. Attendees will be able to enjoy a free game of mini golf, a goody bag giveaway, and drinks, as well as free tool marking by SelectaDNA for the first 30 sign-ups. The Powered Now team will be on hand to provide advice and actionable tips on how to streamline admin, digitalise business, and get on top of tax, particularly following the arrival of Making Tax Digital for Income Tax. There are 50 free tickets available to people working in the trades. Tradespeople can register for a free ticket to Advice on Tap Cardiff online at the company's website. Bringing the trades together Benjamin Dyer, founder and CEO of Powered Now, comments, “We work with so many tradespeople who are now under more pressure than ever before. "With the trades often working solo, it can at times be a lonely job. Add to this a growing pile of admin, invoices, and paperwork, and it’s no surprise that many tradespeople are feeling stretched. “Advice on Tap is our way of bringing the trades together in Cardiff, with a proper evening out that’s worth them turning up for. "It’s about offering practical advice, a few laughs, and reminding tradespeople that they’re not alone with real talk on running a trade business.” Powered Now is a job management software designed specifically for trade businesses. With a UK-based support team, the company explains that the app allows businesses to invoice, quote, and schedule jobs and teams. For more from Powered Now, click here.

Celebrating 70 years of innovation: Doepke at Light + Building 2026

2026 marks a significant milestone for Doepke, as the company celebrates 70 years of expertise in electrical safety and protection. Since its founding in 1956, Doepke has established itself as a specialist in residual current protection, consistently delivering high-quality, reliable solutions for the electrical industry. Over the decades, the company has evolved alongside the sector - supporting everything from traditional installations to modern applications such as EV charging and heat pump systems. This anniversary year was proudly celebrated at Light + Building 2026 in Frankfurt, Germany, one of the industry’s most important global events. The exhibition provided the ideal platform to reflect on Doepke’s journey while showcasing its latest innovations. Visitors to the Doepke stand were taken through a dedicated exhibition highlighting key milestones from the past 70 years. From early developments in protective devices to today’s advanced technologies, the display demonstrated how Doepke has remained at the forefront of electrical protection. The celebration at Light + Building was not only a look back at Doepke’s heritage, but a clear statement of intent for the future. As the industry continues to evolve, Doepke remains committed to supporting installers, contractors, and engineers with trusted expertise and innovative solutions. 70 years of protection, with the future firmly in focus. For more from Doepke, click here.

National Ventilation relaunches popular multi-function fan

National Ventilation, a leading UK-based ventilation manufacturer and supplier, has launched its popular Monsoon Energysaver IntelliSense i7 fan in a sleek, black design. The seven-in-one IntelliSense i7 is a clever multi-function fan and, as black interiors continue to grow in popularity, the choice of black or white offers a stylish and intelligent choice for wholesalers, electricians, and households alike. With a choice of intermittent or continuous running, this ultra-quiet, ultra-modern, smart bathroom fan runs extremely quietly at low speed, at just 17dB(A). The ingenious fan also offers an intelligent humidity sensor, a useful overrun timer, and presence sensor, as well as an airing function to avoid stuffy odours in the bathroom, while simultaneously offering a high performance of up to 110m³/hr. Offering the versatility to ventilate bathrooms, toilets, and utility areas, the seven-in-one IntelliSense i7 boasts six core ventilation modes including: three continuous ventilation modes, three intermittent modes, and one heat mover mode, allowing the fan to transfer any surplus heat to an adjacent room. Suitable for installation in wet areas (IP44) such as WCs and bathrooms, the fan offers further installation flexibility since it is suitable for both wall or ceiling mounting. This makes IntelliSense i7 the ideal choice for electrical wholesalers, who can offer this intelligent fan to their customers confident that, with its seven-in-one options, the fan’s versatility means it will fit the majority of bathroom installations. Plus, the new black option makes the fan even more adaptable for customers. With one fan suitable for most installations, wholesalers can hold less stock in their warehouses. Furthermore, electricians can keep the fan in their van knowing they will always have the right solution for their customers to hand and that they can also expect happy customers thanks to all of its intelligent features. “The Monsoon Energysaver IntelliSense i7 in black is an exciting new addition to the range, offering customers looking for a more contemporary look even greater choice alongside the fan’s versatile seven-in-one options”, says Robin Francis, Managing Director at National Ventilation. “Wholesalers and electricians can also be confident that they are selecting the right fan for customers since it offers reduced energy consumption due to a low-voltage motor, a third less than conventional bathroom fans, all in all making the IntelliSense i7 fan the intelligent choice.” Selecting the right fan The IntelliSense i7 is backed up with a five-year warranty. It's stylish yet great value and packed with clever features, including the fan’s intelligent self-adjusting humidity sensor, which continuously measures the humidity level in the room, protecting the home from condensation and mould. When a sharp rise in humidity is sensed (e.g. when taking a shower), or if the relative humidity (RH) exceeds 70%, it starts up automatically, and once the level is restored, the fan will return to basic flow or will stop. Meanwhile, a useful presence sensor is activated by motion (IR) or when the light is switched on to ensure the fan operates when the room is in use. The overrun time is 15 minutes, with the fan switching to a medium speed, 60 m³/h, and, depending on the choice of mode, it starts up immediately after 2.5 minutes. If the humidity control or presence sensor has not been active for 24 hours, the airing function will start up with the fan operating at medium speed for 30 minutes every 12 hours, avoiding stuffy, musty odours in the bathroom when the room is unoccupied for a while. The IntelliSense i7 offers excellent performance with high capacity and very good pressure capability, featuring a unique self-calibrating motor that senses and compensates its speed if, for example, wind resistance increases in the ventilation duct. This can be compared to a built-in cruise control that automatically ensures an optimal ventilation flow and avoids backdraughts even when the fan is running at low speed. Suitable for both wall and ceiling mounting, once the wall frame is installed, the fan is simply fixed to the wall frame, phase and neutral are connected, and the job is done, making installation easy for electricians. The fan offers plenty of space for electrical connection: it has a liftable terminal block, integrated seals around the back side of the wall frame, cable and screw entries, and a built-in multi-pole switch. Changing the function is easy too: simply lift the cover plate, select the desired mode with a screwdriver, and close the cover. It is also possible to change mode when the motor unit has been removed from the wall frame. For further information on the IntelliSense i7, click here to view the product on the company's website. For further information on all products and services offered by National Ventilation, telephone 01823 690 290 or visit the company's website. For more from National Ventilation, click here.

Electricians 'face new tax headache' on top of rising costs

New research from Tradesman Saver reveals that thousands of self-employed electricians will need to introduce new processes under the government’s Making Tax Digital (MTD) reforms, adding to growing pressure from rising day-to-day costs. Six in 10 (61%) tradespeople currently manage their accounts themselves, while only one in five (21%) use an accountant or bookkeeper. A further 17% rely on a partner or spouse to handle their finances. The research highlights how unprepared many in the sector may be for the shift, which will require many sole traders to keep digital records and submit quarterly tax updates. The changes come during a period of wider financial pressures. Tradesman Saver’s data shows that rising fuel and transport costs (45%), household inflation (39%), and energy bills (34%) are the biggest financial pressures facing tradespeople today. Meanwhile, one in five (20%) say late or missed payments from customers are impacting their cashflow. Alongside everyday expenses, tradespeople are also dealing with rising tool and equipment costs (29%) and income tax (26%). Early digital adopters likely to win Dean Laming, Managing Director of Tradesman Saver, comments, “Making Tax Digital comes at a time when many tradespeople are already stretched, facing rising costs and ongoing cashflow challenges and fitting admin into evenings and weekends. “There are around 700,000 self-employed workers across construction. Our data shows that for many, the shift won’t just be a process change; it will mean adding another layer of financial responsibility, increasing the pressure on them in the short term. "However, those who adopt the right digital tools early are likely to benefit from greater visibility over invoices, payments, and business expenses like insurance, which could ultimately put them in a stronger position.” The research from Tradesman Saver was carried out in March 2026 and surveyed over 650 tradespeople.

VCHRGD partners with Kelvelec on EV charging

VCHRGD, a British EV chargepoint manufacturer, has partnered with Kelvelec, a UK-based electrical distributor serving the wholesale trade, to expand distribution of its EV charging products across the UK wholesale market. Under the agreement, Kelvelec will stock and supply VCHRGD’s range of smart EV chargers to its network of wholesale customers, improving access for electrical contractors and installers. The move reflects VCHRGD’s focus on the wholesale channel as a route to market, supporting engagement with installers and trade partners. The partnership follows VCHRGD’s existing collaborations with energy suppliers including Octopus Energy and So Energy. These arrangements allow installers to offer EV charging systems alongside time-of-use tariffs. Kelvelec customers will have access to VCHRGD’s charging range, which is supported by a UK-based technical team. The company reports a low return rate for its hardware, with fewer than 0.54% of units requiring replacement. Wider access for contractors and installers Phil McDermott, Chairman at VCHRGD, says, “Wholesale is a critical channel for us, and partnering with Kelvelec is an important step in expanding our reach across the UK. "They have a strong understanding of the electrical trade and share our focus on service, reliability, and supporting wholesalers and installers on the ground. "For our partners, this means easier access to chargers that are simple to install, competitively priced, and fully supported, alongside integrations with energy providers like Octopus and So Energy that are helping customers reduce charging costs.” Matt Gooding, Director at Kelvelec, adds, “VCHRGD share the same ethos and values as Kelvelec, prioritising the customer experience and delivery of exceptional service, so partnering with them was a no-brainer for us. "Meeting the passionate people within their team gave us huge confidence in the partnership, and we are proud to be working together with them to promote the products for exponential growth throughout 2026 and beyond.” Founded in 2021, VCHRGD operates across wholesale, installer, and fleet channels. The partnership with Kelvelec forms part of ongoing efforts to expand EV charging infrastructure across the UK. For more from VCHRGD, click here.

NAPIT opens redeveloped MCS Installer Scheme

Certification body and training provider NAPIT has launched the MCS Redeveloped Installer Scheme and confirmed it is now open to new applicants. The updated scheme is intended to strengthen certification standards, consumer protection, and quality across the small-scale renewables sector. It also introduces changes aimed at simplifying processes for installers while maintaining compliance requirements. The scheme includes a revised structure for assessing installer operations. Appendix A of the MCS Installer Operating Requirements sets out different operating scenarios, reflecting varying levels of business processes and controls. NAPIT has also introduced an online calculator to help installers identify which scenario may apply to their organisation. Phased transition for existing installers NAPIT states that existing members will transition to the redeveloped scheme in stages, with most expected to move across during 2026. The process will begin from mid-April, aligned with annual renewals and surveillance activities. Stephen Melton, Commercial and Compliance Director at NAPIT, says, “The MCS Redeveloped Installer Scheme is a key step in enhancing quality and standards in the small-scale renewable sector. "NAPIT will continue to support members throughout the transition to the redeveloped MCS Installer Scheme.” Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS, adds, “The rollout of the redeveloped installer scheme is a significant milestone for the small-scale renewable industry and its continued growth. "Our redeveloped scheme is simple, robust, and rewarding for installers, and will transform consumer protection in the UK, helping to build lasting confidence in home-grown energy. "Congratulations to NAPIT on this exciting achievement. We look forward to continuing our long-standing partnership under the redeveloped scheme and welcoming many installers over in the weeks and months to come.” For more from NAPIT, click here.