Belize WiFi: Rointe's slim, smart electric radiator

Rointe continues to redefine energy-efficient heating with the launch of the new Belize, its next-generation WiFi-connected electric radiator featuring Inverter Smart Adaptive Technology and artificial intelligence. Designed for comfort, style, and real energy savings, Belize brings professional performance and user-friendly innovation into a compact, elegant body. At only 90 mm in depth, Belize is one of the slimmest electric radiators in its class, ideal for contemporary apartments, offices, or any environment where space and aesthetics matter. Its top-mounted control panel and high-contrast TFT display give users quick, intuitive access to settings, while full WiFi Direct connectivity enables remote control through the Rointe NEXA app - no additional gateways or hubs required. Inverter Smart Adaptive Tech Belize integrates Rointe’s patented Inverter Smart Adaptive Technology, allowing the radiator to modulate power dynamically rather than running at a constant 100%. As the desired room temperature is approached, Belize automatically reduces its consumption, maintaining warmth with minimal energy use. Independent laboratory tests show the system can deliver up to 35% effective power on average - achieving steady comfort while reducing overall consumption. Complementing the inverter system, built-in artificial intelligence analyses usage habits to predict heating needs, ensuring that energy is never wasted and comfort is always guaranteed. The result is a radiator that reacts in real time, learns from the user, and continuously optimises performance. Safer heating with LST compliance For projects that demand safety as well as efficiency - such as schools, care homes, and rental properties - Belize includes a Low Surface Temperature (LST) function. When activated, it limits the radiator’s contact temperature while maintaining effective room heating. This feature helps installers meet specific safety regulations without requiring a separate product range. Smart control made simple From the Rointe NEXA app, users can programme schedules, monitor energy usage, activate energy-saving functions (such as open-window detection), or automate heating via GPS routines. Four pre-installed programmes simplify setup, and Bluetooth pairing allows local control even without internet access. Belize is also compatible with voice assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant, offering complete flexibility for smart home integration. Built to last Manufactured from 100% aluminium with PC/ABS side panels, Belize is available in White RAL 9016 and Matt Black RAL 9005 finishes, and in sizes from 600 W to 1800 W. Each model includes a 1.7 m plug-in cable, wall brackets, and template for quick, professional installation. The electronics are covered by a three-year warranty and the aluminium body by ten years. With its intelligent efficiency, minimalist design, and smart connectivity, the Rointe Belize sets a new benchmark for modern electric heating - offering installers a reliable, compliant, and visually refined solution that helps end users stay comfortable while saving energy.

Stay current with KNIPEX's latest products

Jason Cunningham from hand tools manufacturer KNIPEX highlights three VDE-tested favourites that deliver precision, safety, and versatility on every electrical job: When every cut, grip, and connection counts, electricians need kit that performs flawlessly under pressure. KNIPEX has built its reputation on engineering tools that meet the demands of real-world site conditions: strong, precise, and reliable. Within its extensive VDE-tested range, there are plenty of must-have tools that bring safety and efficiency to everyday electrical work, including some firm favourites trusted by professionals across the trade. One tool, six functions The Pliers for Electrical Installation (13 96 200) can handle all the most common installation tasks. With six functions in one, these pliers can grip, bend, deburr, cut, strip, and crimp, so there’s no need for constant tool changes that slow work down. The VDE-tested, insulated grips give electricians the confidence to work safely. Precision cutting edges handle copper and aluminium cables up to 15mm in diameter, while smooth tips hold single conductors securely without causing damage. The integrated stripping holes and crimping die make these pliers ideal for preparing and finishing conductors quickly and accurately. An integrated pawl keeps the cutting edges securely closed while allowing other functions to remain active so users can grip without reopening the pliers. At just 200mm long and 280g, these pliers are great for small spaces and fit easily in any tool bag. Feel the force If you don’t want to carry around an entire set of spanners, the Pliers Wrench (86 06 250) is the tool to take with you. It combines the strength of pliers with the precision of a wrench and has an innovative design that delivers 10 times the manual force put in, holding workpieces like a vice without any damage to sensitive surfaces. The parallel, smooth jaws grip flat fittings without marking, even on chrome, and you can be confident there will be no unintentional shift of the gripping jaws or slipping of the joint. It can be adjusted to widths up to 52mm using the push-button mechanism and can be set to the right wrench size away from the workpiece by using the laser-cut scales. Fully VDE-tested with insulated handles, the Pliers Wrench is perfect for gripping, pressing, bending, and tightening. It’s a real all-rounder that saves space and boosts efficiency. A KNIPEX classic A long-time favourite among electricians, the Diagonal Cutter (70 06 160) is perfect for small spaces and cuts both hard and soft wire cleanly, right to the tip. The slim head makes it ideal for use in junction and distribution boxes, and the precisely machined cutting edges mean even very fine stranded wire can be cut accurately. VDE-insulated grips ensure safety up to 1000V and a rust-resistant chrome plating means these tools are easy to clean and hold up under tough site conditions, even outdoors. From first fix to final connection, electricians depend on tools that can keep pace with the demands of the job. KNIPEX’s focus on precision, safety, and ease of use means its tools are built for the realities of working on site. Whether it’s saving time, improving accuracy, or ensuring safety on live systems, well-made tools make every task that bit easier. To view the full KNIPEX VDE range, visit the company's website. For more from KNIPEX, click here.

New guide helping councils accelerate EV chargepoint rollout

Local authorities across England can now speed up their electric vehicle (EV) charging programmes with a new guide that highlights how evidence-based planning tools improve funding success. Councils using ChargePoint Navigator, a digital planning tool developed by distribution network operator UK Power Networks’ Distribution System Operator (DSO), achieved a 100% first-time success rate in Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) funding applications, compared with an average rate of 37%. ChargePoint Navigator combines data on network capacity, pavement widths, residential characteristics, and projected EV demand to help councils identify viable sites earlier in the planning process. Authorities including Kent and Brighton & Hove have used the tool to coordinate planning, identify priority sites, support chargepoint operator engagement, strengthen procurement decisions, and track progress. The findings are set out in Powering Local EV Infrastructure: A Guide for Councils, published by UK100 in partnership with UK Power Networks’ DSO and Cenex. The guide was launched at the Transport + Energy Forum in Warwick and offers a practical roadmap covering strategic planning, business case development, procurement, network connections, and equitable access for residents without off-street parking. Support for councils ahead of major LEVI investment The guide arrives as the government’s LEVI fund releases almost £400 million to support 100,000 new chargepoints across England. Despite accelerating EV adoption, many councils still face technical, financial, and operational challenges that slow delivery. The publication outlines how councils can match charging types to travel patterns, structure long-term partnerships with chargepoint operators, reduce connection costs through early engagement with electricity networks, and take a portfolio approach that balances higher- and lower-demand areas. It also explains how to work with wider partners, including DNOs, DSOs, chargepoint operators, regional Net Zero Hubs, government bodies, and local communities. Developed jointly by UK100 and UK Power Networks’ DSO, with Cenex as a partner, the guide combines local government insight, technical expertise, and independent LEVI programme validation. The aim is to give councils the clarity, evidence, and confidence required to deliver EV charging infrastructure at scale. Industry comments Christopher Hammond, Chief Executive of UK100, says, "Local authorities are absolutely central to making the electric vehicle transition work for everyone, yet too many councils have struggled to navigate the complex funding, technical, and commercial challenges involved. "Until the way local climate action is funded is fundamentally reformed, this new guide is indispensable." Lynne McDonald, Head of Local Net Zero at UK Power Networks, notes, “Local authorities are clear about what their communities need and our job is to help them deliver it. "We’re proud to work with UK100 and Cenex to create a guide to help councils navigate the end-to-end journey of getting electric vehicles moving. “In the guide we celebrate ChargePoint Navigator, a digital tool developed by Field Dynamics, alongside partners Cenex and ZapMap. "It was built on councils’ needs for straightforward insights on existing charge points, areas of charging needs, and data on where to connect in one place so they can plan confidently and secure funding first time. "The 100% LEVI success rate shows the impact of listening to our customers and responding with tools that genuinely solve their challenges.” Chris Rimmer, Head of Department, Policy, Strategy and Implementation at Cenex, adds, "Local authorities are at the heart of the electrification revolution and critical players as we seek to clean and green our streets and our environment. "This guide showcases key examples of collaboration and innovation from UKPN and others who are powering local EV infrastructure across the UK." The guide is available now to all local authorities in England. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

Salko opens new electrical plant hire depot in Balkholme

Mechanical and electrical engineering specialist Salko UK has announced the opening of its new electric plant hire warehouse in Balkholme, near Goole. The company says the investment marks a step forward in its commitment to sustainability and innovation across multiple sectors and disciplines. Brett Dainton, previously Technical Engineer at Clarks Vehicle Conversions in Doncaster, has been appointed Stores Manager for the depot, managing the facility’s inventory alongside Pete Myers, Facilities Supervisor. The new bricks and mortar facility will enable M&E contractors to hire sustainable lighting and electrical plant equipment, including small transformers, extension leads, and fully electric LED lighting systems. All products are 100% electric, aiming to deliver improved reliability, safety, and energy efficiency whilst reducing environmental impact. As well as electrical plant hire, the depot is equipped with specialist welding tools and facilities. Clients can utilise the welding expertise on site with Salko’s team. Modernising electrical hire options Georgina Wilkinson, Chief Financial Officer at Salko UK, explains, “Customer feedback has been central to this investment. "While electrification of the vehicle fleet has been a big priority, more widely, the market has been calling for more modern, efficient electric plant hire options, and we’ve listened. “Our new Balkholme site will provide M&E specialists with easy access to the latest equipment - all designed to reduce power consumption and support our clients’ decarbonisation goals.” Located close to the high-profile industrial sites on the Yorkshire coastline, Salko says it has invested significantly in brand-new electrical packages, ensuring every item undergoes rigorous in-house testing and quality checks before being made available to customers. The company also notes that the expansion supports its wider sustainability strategy, which includes reducing emissions across sector operations and investing in renewable energy infrastructure. Salko is also planning additional upgrades at its offices, including solar panels and electric vehicle charging facilities. Georgina continues, “We see plant hire as a real opportunity for growth and, by providing reliable, sustainable and cost-effective hire options, we’re helping customers meet modern efficiency standards without increasing project costs.” For more from Salko UK, click here.

'Festive pressures taking a toll on tradespeople’s mental health'

As Christmas approaches, new research has revealed that a worrying number of tradespeople in the UK are dealing with stress, burnout, and anxiety. Many report that the festive period is the toughest time of year for their mental health. According to the latest industry data in UK manufacturer Jackson Woodturners's recently launched UK State of The Trades Report, over a third (37%) admit feeling more stressed at this time of year. Whilst over a quarter (27%) report higher levels of burnout. This is concerning given a high proportion already deal with mental health challenges throughout the rest of the year. Additionally, nearly a quarter (23%) feel pressured to take on extra work to make more money for the festive season, a pattern that often leads to exhaustion and longer hours. Lucie Levesley, Director at Jackson Woodturners, comments, “The end of the year can be especially tough for tradespeople. They’re juggling a heavy workload, tight deadlines, and customers eager to get jobs finished before Christmas, all while managing their own personal and business challenges. "It’s easy for mental health to take a back seat, but it’s vital people take a step back, rest, and reach out if they’re struggling.” Nigel Sanderson, Director and Lived Experience Expert at Men’s Minds Matter, adds, “Generally, it's a difficult time of year for everyone. Grey days and harsh weather affects us, working outdoors or in unlit, unheated spaces can make things even tougher. "Before joining Men’s Minds Matter, I worked as a Joiner myself for a few years and remember this only too well! Coupled with this are financial pressures and unrealistic expectations that everything has to be perfect for Christmas.” Widespread mental health strain across the trades The research highlights how widespread mental strain has become across the trades. Nine in ten tradespeople have felt stressed at some point this year, with many also reporting burnout, anxiety, and loneliness. A quarter experience anxiety weekly and two thirds have battled symptoms of depression during 2025. This echoes national findings showing that those working in the construction space are four times more likely to suffer mental health issues than the UK average, according to charity Mates in Mind. Despite all this, nearly 70% of tradespeople say they’ve never accessed therapy or formal mental health support. Men make up the majority of the UK’s skilled trades workforce (women are only around 2-4% of this and only 15% across the broader sector, according to ElecTraining), so despite these concerning figures in the report, it’s unsurprising that poor mental health is so prevalent in the industry. Three out of four deaths by suicide are male (76%), with suicide being the biggest killer of men in the UK. This is at a rate of 14 men per day and, whilst gendered, these deaths affect everyone as they are not just men; they are husbands, partners, dads, brothers, sons, and more, leaving families wondering "why did this happen." Guidance and support Dr Luke Sullivan, Clinical Psychologist and founder at Men’s Minds Matter, has shared guidance on how all tradespeople can look after their mental health during the festive season: 1. Learn to spot early warning signals: Take the time to know yourself and notice any physical and emotional cues that might be a result of stress. Irritability, tension, fatigue, difficulty switching off are all common indicators to act and make changes. They’re your body telling you something is off, not signs of weakness. 2. Assess your load, not your limits: Stress often reflects excessive demands, not a lack of resilience. Examine what's on your plate both personally and professionally and adjust the weight before questioning your capacity or capabilities. It’s a good idea to review your new year plans now, too, so you’re not struggling into the new year. 3. Redistribute, don’t internalise: You don’t have to carry everything alone. Delegate, share, or ask for help in finding another way. Whether that’s at work, at home, or with friends. Even small redistributions of responsibility or calling in additional resources can release a lot of pressure. 4. Protect your boundaries: Protect your personal time, family time, and rest. Boundaries are essential; they’re not selfish, they’re protective. Make space for the things that replenish you and treat that time as non-negotiable. Deciding what you are willing to give creates boundaries and helps you recognise when you have crossed them. 5. Talk before you tip: You don’t have to wait until things fall apart to speak up. Talk early and openly about how you’re feeling. Sharing takes the weight off and gives others the chance to step in before the load becomes too heavy. If you’re not sure where to start, visit the Men's Minds Matter website for self-help resources, guides, and training opportunities. You may also find support through organisations like Band of Builders.

Zumtobel broadens lighting range for diverse applications

Zumtobel, an Austrian company specialising in professional indoor and outdoor lighting, has expanded its lighting portfolio with new acoustic elements, adaptive safety lighting, cleanroom-compatible luminaires, and art-focused spotlights. The additions are intended to address acoustic comfort, safety, hygiene, and visual presentation across a wide range of environments. Acoustic considerations In offices, classrooms, healthcare settings, and hospitality spaces, hard surfaces and high ceilings can increase noise levels. Zumtobel’s new acoustic elements are designed to reduce reverberation and create calmer conditions. The range includes three lines - Essentials, Advanced, and Premium - all meeting fire classification B-s1, d0 under EN 13501-1. Acoustic accessories for SLOTLIGHT round acoustic, LIGHT FIELDS III acoustic, and PANOS III R 200 acoustic also extend sound absorption to existing luminaires. Safety lighting for complex spaces SMARTSIGN has been added to Zumtobel’s safety lighting range as a directional emergency exit sign with dynamic escape route guidance. It uses a Full-HD display with programmable content and includes ISO 7010 symbols, with optional multilingual text. The unit provides a viewing distance of 38 metres and luminance above 500 candela per square metre, in line with DIN 4844. Each SMARTSIGN can be configured via the PROset app and operates with the nBox group battery system, which supports areas up to 1,600m². CROSSIGN PRO is designed for hybrid buildings where office and production spaces intersect. Its slim housing and transparent light guide allow it to blend into architectural lighting schemes. Available in three viewing distances - 11 metres, 24 metres, and 32 metres - the family also includes optional ERI spots, enabling the unit to function as both a safety sign and emergency luminaire. Cleanroom and specialist lighting For hospitals, laboratories, and cleanroom production, the CLEAN II supreme range provides luminaires developed for sterile environments. The units offer multiple mounting options, compact formats, and simplified installation and maintenance. A key feature is the multi-layer micro-pyramidal optic, which directs and refracts light precisely. The CLEAN II supreme essential variant uses backlight technology to allow maintenance without removing the light engine, providing direct access to components when the cover is opened. Lighting for galleries and adaptable track systems Zumtobel’s VIVO II art spotlight family is intended for museums and galleries, delivering high colour accuracy and controlled, glare-free illumination. The VIVO II framer provides adjustable beam angles for precise lighting of framed artworks and can be reconfigured for changing displays. Zumtobel TRACKS offers adaptable track systems suitable for a variety of applications. TRACK basic is a three-phase system designed for functional, cost-sensitive retail environments. TRACK advanced provides six conductors, full DALI functionality, and integration of emergency lighting and power, making it suitable for architectural projects, museums, offices, and educational spaces. For more from Zumtobel, click here.

Custom consumer unit branding with Elucian’s laser etching

Launched by the Scolmore Group in 2021, Elucian is a trusted name in circuit protection and has enhanced its product offering with a bespoke, in-house laser etching service. This service is suitable for single phase consumer units in domestic and commercial applications that require personalised branding for electrical systems, enabling businesses to reinforce their brand identity and add a touch of professionalism to their electrical installations. For over four years, Elucian has utilised state-of-the-art laser technology to create intricately detailed designs on the covers of consumer units - guaranteeing long-lasting clarity and durability. Service details Once the logo is supplied to the Elucian team, a digital file is then created and uploaded onto the machine ready for etching. As well as producing precise, permanent etching of logos and branding, this service can also etch a variety of custom designs. This can include QR codes, technical specifications, and circuit identification. This specialised service stands out as one of the few in the market offering fully customised consumer units, etched in-house at Scolmore Group’s headquarters. Since the launch of Elucian, close to 300 bespoke laser etching jobs have been delivered, each tailored to required specifications, proudly featuring company logos and branding. To date, this has included the etching of almost 10,000 consumer unit boards, demonstrating the strong and growing demand for customised, premium-quality solutions. The system’s flexibility accommodates both high-volume orders and tailored projects, making it an ideal choice for businesses seeking distinctive branding or design integration. The bespoke laser etching service is also available for the full range of Click Scolmore’s GridPro modules, which can be customised to suit the specific requirements of any project. All GridPro module finishes can be etched, offering a wide range of options for customers to create a personalised and professional installation. You can enquire about Elucian’s bespoke laser etching service by contacting local Area Sales Managers. For more information on Elucian’s consumer units and circuit protection devices, visit the company's website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Elucian, click here.

NAPIT welcomes extra tech included in Boiler Upgrade Scheme

NAPIT, a company developing green skills and compliance, has welcomed an announcement by the Government this week that the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is being expanded to offer a £2,500 discount off the cost of installing an air-to-air heat pump, which can provide both heat in winter and cooling in summer. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme currently offers grants of £7,500 off the cost of installing an air source or ground source heat pump, which can keep homes warm during the winter. Low-carbon technology for UK households Stephen Melton, NAPIT Commercial & Compliance Director, comments, “We welcome this announcement which will mean householders can benefit from help with installing additional low-carbon technologies. “It will help provide alternative solutions to the varying types of housing stock across the UK as we all move towards the electrification of heating. “NAPIT members are at the forefront of this transition so this latest move could add further benefits to their growth and expansion. "Hopefully the Boiler Upgrade Scheme will continue and we look forward to greater clarity and certainty around the scheme, which is something our members, UK homeowners, and the wider industry need.” For more from NAPIT, click here.

Schneider launches ‘Build My Business' training for electricians

Energy management and industrial automation company Schneider Electric has unveiled ‘Build My Business’, a new training programme designed to help electricians start, manage, and grow their own businesses. This flexible eLearning series provides skills and practical guidance for both newcomers and experienced professionals in the electrical industry. The 'Build My Business' programme features five modules covering everything from business planning and financial management to digital marketing, customer relations, and leadership. Optional modules Electricians can choose the modules most relevant to their needs and business including: · Start My Business — Key considerations for launching a business, including marketing, budgeting, and insurance · Finance My Business — Practical advice on budgeting, pricing, cost control, and using online tools for profitability · Promote My Business — Strategies for building an effective online presence, leveraging websites, SEO, social media, and customer reviews · Run and Grow My Business — Advice on customer service, adopting new technologies, and staying ahead of industry trends · Lead My Business — Guidance on team management, leadership skills, and motivating staff for long-term success David Williams, Schneider Electric’s Vice President for Transactional Business, explains, “Our Build My Business training combines presentations, videos, templates, and expert suggestions to support electricians at every stage of their business journey. "Schneider Electric's goal is to equip electricians with the knowledge and confidence to thrive in a competitive market.” For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Metway enters employee ownership

Metway Electrical Industries, a UK manufacturer of electrical connectors and lighting control systems, has announced the successful transition of its business into an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), effective 1 November 2025. The move marks a defining moment in the company’s history, seeking to ensure Metway’s continued independence and "reinforcing [its] commitment to long-term stability and customer service." A shift of ownership The EOT structure means Metway’s employees now hold a controlling interest in the business, aligning ownership directly with the people responsible for its operations. Metway says the transition was planned to preserve its core values of "quality, innovation, and reliability". Managing Director Steve Chessell comments, “Our people are at the heart of Metway’s success and moving to employee ownership reflects that reality. "This transition safeguards Metway’s independence, strengthens our collaborative culture, and ensures that our customers and partners continue to receive the consistent service and support they expect from us.” Metway continues to design, manufacture, and supply a range of electrical connectors, lighting connection systems, and lighting controls from its Brighton headquarters.