LEDVANCE expands emergency lighting portfolio

Emergency lighting is a fundamental component of building safety, helping to ensure that occupants can safely exit a space in the event of a power failure or emergency. For commercial, industrial, and public environments, the correct specification and installation of emergency luminaires is also essential for compliance with current regulations and standards. When planning an emergency lighting system, specifiers and installers must consider a range of practical factors. These include light output and coverage, emergency duration, environmental protection, and long-term reliability. Installation efficiency is also an important consideration, particularly on projects with tight deadlines or limited access. Increasingly, flexibility and futureproofing are also valued, allowing systems to be adapted as building use or requirements change. To support these needs, LEDVANCE, a manufacturer of LED lighting products and smart lighting systems, has expanded its emergency lighting portfolio with two new offerings designed to combine performance with practical installation features. LEDVANCE Emergency Twin Spot The LEDVANCE Emergency Twin Spot luminaire is designed for applications where high visibility and directional emergency lighting are required. Suitable for use in both indoor and outdoor environments, its IP65-rated housing offers protection against dust and moisture, making it appropriate for areas such as warehouses, car parks, plant rooms, and external escape routes. Two adjustable spotlights allow installers to direct light precisely where it is needed, helping to improve coverage along defined escape paths. The luminaire is equipped with a LiFePO4 battery, providing a minimum of three hours emergency operation, and is supplied with mounting accessories to help streamline installation on site. Wallpack Combo IP65 Complementing this is the Wallpack Combo IP65 luminaire, which introduces LEDVANCE’s Plug & Upgrade concept to outdoor emergency lighting. This modular approach allows the wallpack to be installed initially as a standard luminaire, with emergency functionality added later via an emergency kit if required. This can be particularly useful on projects where emergency lighting requirements may change, or where budget and programme considerations call for a phased approach. Options come with or without an integrated photocell - providing additional flexibility for exterior applications. Nelo Neves, Managing Director at LEDVANCE, says, “Safety and ease of installation are the two pillars of every professional lighting project. “These new emergency luminaires underscore LEDVANCE’s commitment to solutions that are not just technically excellent, but also genuinely easier to fit and commission.” Supported by LEDVANCE’s technical documentation and installer guidance, the new luminaires are intended to help professionals deliver effective emergency lighting while keeping installation and future maintenance considerations firmly in mind. For more from LEDVANCE, click here.

'Cold snap proves heat pumps' effectiveness'

As the UK experiences another spell of freezing winter weather, new data from Octopus Energy, one of the UK’s largest energy suppliers, suggests modern heat pumps are keeping homes just as warm as gas boilers – while reportedly keeping customers happier with their heating and their bills. A new survey of more than 1,800 UK households, carried out during the latest cold snap, reveals that people who have heat pumps installed reported higher comfort, higher overall satisfaction, and better value for money than those relying on gas boilers. When asked how well their heating kept their home warm during the cold weather, nine out of 10 (85%) heat pump owners said they were satisfied with performance, compared to eight out of 10 (80%) gas boiler users. Overall approval for heat pumps during the cold snap also pipped out gas boilers, with almost every heat pump customer (89%) reporting satisfaction with their heating system compared to three quarters (78%) of gas boiler users. Benefitting from the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Thanks to the £7,500 grant from the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), the cost of getting a heat pump is now often broadly in line with buying a new gas boiler. On top of that, smart tariffs designed for heat pumps mean they can also be cheaper to run. Octopus’ 'Cosy Octopus' tariff can, according to the company, save heat pump customers up to £360 a year on heating costs compared to gas boiler customers on a standard tariff. This difference is also reflected in the survey data: two thirds (66%) of heat pump users were satisfied with their running costs, while less than half (43%) of gas boiler owners were satisfied with their running costs. The findings challenge the myth that heat pumps struggle - or become more expensive - in cold weather, even during the winter cold snaps across much of the UK. Rebecca Dibb-Simkin, Chief Product Officer at Octopus Energy Group, comments, “Every winter we hear the same worry that heat pumps won’t cope when temperatures drop – and every winter the data tells a different story. “Customers with heat pumps are staying just as warm as those with gas boilers, and they’re happier with the experience overall – especially when it comes to running costs. "Modern heat pumps are built for British winters, cold snaps included.” For more from Octopus Energy, click here.

Ideal Heating launches MAX Confidence initiative

Ideal Heating, a UK manufacturer of boilers and heat pumps, has introduced MAX Confidence, a customer support initiative for its Logic MAX and Vogue MAX boiler ranges. The pledge introduces a new form of manufacturer assurance. If a boiler is within warranty and Ideal Heating confirms the fault is attributable to the product, the customer will receive a repair and a 12-month warranty extension. This sits alongside the company’s existing service model, which includes long warranties, nationwide engineer coverage, priority callouts, and year-round customer support. New commitment for installers and households MAX Confidence brings existing support and service elements under a single offer intended to provide a clearer message to installers and homeowners. The features include: • Extended protection where a verified product fault occurs • Priority engineer visits • 365-day service availability • Support delivered under an established aftercare model Chris Jessop, Group Customer Relationships Director at Ideal Heating, comments, “MAX Confidence is about standing behind our products and giving customers a clear and fair outcome if things go wrong. "We already have one of the strongest service models in the industry with long warranties, priority response, 365 day-a-year support, and a nationwide engineer network. This takes it a step further. “If a fault is on us, we fix it and extend the warranty. It’s real accountability and a level of confidence customers should be able to expect.” Ideal Heating says it is the first UK boiler manufacturer to introduce an additional warranty extension mechanism of this type. The company states that MAX Confidence has been developed in response to rising expectations for transparency and customer service. The programme also forms part of the firm’s broader installer-focused activity, which includes training, tools, loyalty schemes, and technical support. For more from Ideal Heating, click here.

JTL celebrates opening of £1m London South training centre

JTL, a training provider for electrical and plumbing apprenticeships across England and Wales, has officially opened its newly refurbished ‘London South’ training centre in Orpington, following a £1 million investment to expand high-quality electrical, plumbing, and heating training across London and Kent. The centre was formally opened at a launch event attended by employers, industry stakeholders, and local representatives, with Helen Hayes MP, Chair of the House of Commons Education Select Committee, officiating alongside Sir John Low, Chair of the JTL Board, and Chris Claydon, JTL’s Chief Executive. The significant investment has transformed the Orpington site into a modern, industry-led training facility, with a strong focus on heating, plumbing, and low-carbon technologies. The centre features fully equipped electrical and plumbing training bays, providing industry-standard equipment, including heat pumps, solar thermal systems, and energy-efficiency technologies. Developing the next generation Designed to meet the evolving needs of employers and support the transition to greener heating solutions, JTL London South will aim to play a key role in developing the next generation of skilled electricians, plumbers, and building services engineers. The centre supports apprentices from across London and Kent and aligns closely with regional skills priorities in construction and retrofit. Guests at the opening event were invited to tour the facilities, meet JTL apprentices and expert teaching staff, and see first-hand how the new workshops are preparing learners for real-world work environments. The event also provided opportunities for employers and local partners to network and explore how JTL supports businesses with apprenticeship recruitment and training. Helen Hayes MP, Chair of the House of Commons Education Select Committee, says, “It was a pleasure to officially open JTL’s London South training centre. "Facilities like this are vital in ensuring young people and career changers can access high-quality technical training, while supporting the development of skills needed for the future, particularly in areas such as plumbing, heating and energy efficiency. "It was fantastic to meet some of the brilliant apprentices - and the employers they are working for - and to hear how they will all benefit from JTL’s new training centre.” Chris Claydon, Chief Executive of JTL, adds, “Our new London South centre demonstrates JTL’s long-term commitment to the highly skilled trades of electrical and plumbing services, and to investing in the future of the region. "By providing apprentices with access to industry-standard equipment and specialist training in occupations in desperate need of skilled tradespeople, we’re helping to address skills shortages while supporting the UK’s journey towards a more sustainable built environment. "Each apprenticeship depends on employer backing to give them the work placement, so we are committed to supporting employers in meeting demand and pressing the Government to make these commitments a reality." The refurbished London South training centre is now fully operational and welcoming apprentices, employers, and partners from across the region, supporting the development of a skilled electrical, plumbing, and heating workforce to meet growing demand linked to retrofit, energy efficiency, and low-carbon technologies. For more from JTL, click here.

KeyIS launches fire safety company, ProDefend

Key Integrated Services (KeyIS), a mechanical and electrical engineering company, has launched ProDefend, a subsidiary focused on fire protection and security. The new company expands the services that Key Integrated Services can offer to its customers and has been launched at a time when a multitude of factors are driving demand. “The launch of ProDefend was an easy one to make,” says Mark Poulton, CEO at Key Integrated Services. “The reality is that many of our customers require specialist fire protection and security solutions alongside our core mechanical and electrical services at Key Integrated Services. "I am excited to see what this launch can deliver given the market is currently worth approximately £2 billion and is on a rapid growth trajectory due to factors including increased regulation.” The company's offerings ProDefend’s core offer includes the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of a range of fire protection and security systems. On the fire protection front, this includes fire alarm and detection systems through to a selection of fire suppression systems. On the security side, the company offers CCTV, intruder detection, access control, and remote monitoring. The new business will be led by sector specialist Mike Trenbath. Mike has more than 25 years’ experience in the fire protection and security space and his career has seen him hold senior roles at ProTec Camerfield, Hall & Kay Fire Engineering, and Alpine Fire Engineers. The company says he is considered an expert in fire suppression and has an excellent understanding of gaseous systems, sprinklers, and water mist. “The business has been launched at an exciting time in the industry”, comments Mike. “Fire protection and security solutions are no longer off-the-shelf packages, and businesses are prepared to invest in solutions that can effectively protect their key assets including people, data, and stock. “Joining forces with Key Integrated Services will enable us to fast track our growth plans, as they have a core services team in place to handle the finance, HR, and marketing, enabling us to focus on what we do best: safeguarding businesses with industry-leading fire protection and security solutions.”

Ovia unveils enhanced ‘Orbik’ emergency lighting portfolio

Lighting brand Ovia, part of the Scolmore Group, has announced the launch of the newly enhanced 'Orbik by Ovia' emergency lighting range. The development marks the next chapter for the long-established Orbik brand, which was brought under Scolmore Group’s distribution earlier last year and integrated within Ovia’s growing lighting portfolio. Ovia has invested heavily in the redevelopment of the range, combining Orbik’s trusted reputation in emergency lighting with Ovia’s own focus on innovation, performance, and compliance. The result is a comprehensive, fully refreshed collection of emergency lighting solutions designed to meet the requirements of today’s commercial, industrial, and residential environments. Four new flagship products The enhanced Orbik by Ovia portfolio introduces four new flagship products: the Novem HO5 high-output bulkhead, the Calvip 65 slimline IP65 exit box, the Synex5 five-in-one exit sign, and the Vipex5 4W box exit sign - each engineered to deliver improved performance, flexibility, and installation efficiency. Alongside these launches, the entire Orbik range has been upgraded, featuring enhanced self-test functionality, long-life LiFePO4 battery technology, and refined designs to meet the evolving demands of modern emergency lighting applications. Novem HO5 – high-output emergency bulkhead Leading the upgraded portfolio is the Novem HO5, a high-performance, non-maintained emergency bulkhead, delivering over seven times the lumen output of the standard Novem5 model. With a light output of 920 lumens and boasting 115lm/w, the HO5 delivers significantly enhanced brightness and energy efficiency, making it suitable for larger installations and high-ceilinged spaces. Calvip 65 – slimline IP65-rated exit box The new Calvip 65 combines robust performance with a slim, contemporary design. Featuring an IP65 ingress protection rating, the unit is well suited to damp or humid environments such as changing rooms and shower areas, where reliability is essential. Synex5 – five-in-one exit sign Designed for maximum flexibility, the Synex5 provides multiple mounting options within a single unit - ceiling and wall mount as standard, with additional accessories available for suspended, recessed, or side-mounted installations. This provides contractors and specifiers with a true five-in-one solution, adaptable to any application. Vipex5 - 4W polycarbonate exit box Delivering outstanding performance, the Vipex5 boasts a 36-metre viewing distance for maximum visibility and safety. Its ultra-narrow frame creates a sleek, modern aesthetic, while the robust polycarbonate construction provides a durable upgrade from traditional metal exit boxes. Designed for versatility, this polycarbonate exit box can be easily retrofitted, making an ideal stylish solution for both new installations and refurbishment projects. Stand out features All products within the Orbik by Ovia range benefit from a number of key technical and functional upgrades: • Enable/disable self-test function – automated periodic testing simplifies compliance and reduces maintenance costs • LiFePO4 battery technology – provides longer life, improved charge efficiency, and reduced environmental impact • Optional black finish – available on selected models to meet the design requirements of modern interiors • Five-year warranty – covers all Orbik by Ovia emergency lighting products The expanded Orbik portfolio In addition to the three new flagship products, the complete Orbik by Ovia range encompasses upgraded solutions across the following categories: • Exit Signs and Exit Boxes – offering 26–34-metre viewing distances, three-hour minimum operation, and directional legends • Twin Spots and Pin Spots – improved Newem5 and Ibex5 models with 6000K–6500K colour temperature LEDs for high visibility • Bulkheads, Circular and Square Spots – a variety of IP20–IP65 options with interchangeable lenses for corridor, wide-corridor, and open-area applications • Control Gear and Accessories – compact, compliant emergency conversion kits built to BS EN 60598-2-22 standards All products are supplied in Ovia’s eco-friendly recyclable packaging, reflecting the company’s wider commitment to sustainable manufacturing and distribution practices. Ovia also offers bespoke Emergency Lighting Design schemes engineered to comply with the latest BS5266 code of practice, incorporating all design objectives for optimal performance. Ovia’s highly skilled specialists produce detailed, accurate lighting layouts tailored to project requirements, ensuring comprehensive solutions that are perfectly engineered for safety, compliance, and peace of mind. A new chapter for a trusted brand The relaunch of Orbik by Ovia represents a new chapter for one of the emergency lighting sector’s most established names. Backed by Ovia’s technical expertise, product development, and UK-based support network, the enhanced Orbik range provides a comprehensive, compliant, and future-friendly solution for the professional electrical trade. For more information on the new range of Orbik emergency lighting, visit Ovia’s website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Ovia, click here.

NVC Lighting publishes new 2026 catalogue

NVC Lighting, a supplier of commercial LED lighting systems, has launched its new 2026 catalogue, featuring new products alongside a wide array of LED commercial lighting for a range of applications and sectors. The new catalogue includes a selection of products new for 2026, including the upgraded STERLING PRO. Using the latest back-lit technology, NVC Lighting says the STERLING PRO "combines high performance with an elevated level of efficiency, making it the go-to luminaire for sustainability-driven projects." The TEXAS PRO - which NVC Lighting calls "the quickest batten to install on the market" - also features amongst the products new for 2026. A showcase of NVC Lighting The catalogue showcases NVC Lighting’s experience and product portfolio across multiple sectors - including commercial, industrial, education, healthcare and residential - alongside its sustainability credentials. Said credentials include Carbon Neutral certification and EcoVadis Silver accreditation, alongside a signal of commitment to growing its range of Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)-verified products. Phil Brown, Product & Marketing Director at NVC Lighting, comments, “Our new catalogue for 2026 includes some exciting new additions, as well as consolidating all of our products into one comprehensive, clean resource, offering key information tailored to the needs of our diverse customer base. “We’re looking forward to an exciting year ahead, and this catalogue showcases our current capabilities while paving the way for future innovations.” NVC Lighting’s new 2026 catalogue is available to download now from the company's website. For more from NVC Lighting, click here.

Zumtobel, Thorn deliver lighting for Sacred Heart University

Zumtobel and its sister brand Thorn, both lighting brands of the Zumtobel Group, have completed a full lighting scheme for the refurbishment of Sacred Heart University’s Dingle campus in County Kerry, Ireland. The €8 million (£6.9 million) project forms part of a wider regeneration of the site, which includes the restored 19th-century Christian Brothers School and newer additions created to support the university’s study-abroad programme. The Dingle campus hosts more than 500 students each year and is located in a protected building overlooking the Atlantic. The redevelopment, officially opened in March 2025 by Minister Norma Foley, introduced modern learning facilities while retaining the structure’s original form and character. Blending heritage and contemporary lighting needs MRG Consulting Engineers & Architects and Freeman Electrical Services set performance requirements for the lighting installation, including heritage sensitivity and operational durability. During the early design phase, Zumtobel was asked to explore alternative fitting options, producing models and visualisations to demonstrate the performance of its original recessed SLOTLIGHT design, which was ultimately retained. A wide range of luminaires was selected for interior spaces. Classrooms and seminar rooms feature Beta 3, Chalice 3, and IQ Wave lighting, chosen for uniform illumination and glare control. Track-mounted VIVO fittings highlight existing stonework, while custom SLOTLIGHT infinity Round pendants in a red finish provide focal points within circulation areas and echo campus colours. Absence detection and daylight sensors are integrated throughout the interior lighting to balance operation against occupancy and natural light levels. Lighting tailored to the environment To meet the seaside location’s environmental demands, Thorn’s external luminaires incorporate corrosion-resistant treatments. Bollards include built-in power outlets and a combination of façade uplighting, lanterns, and floodlighting provides safety and architectural enhancement across the campus exterior. Indoor colour temperatures were specified to create different atmospheres: 3000K for shared and social areas, and 4000K for teaching environments. Outdoor lighting balances warmer tones for sandstone with cooler whites for limestone, highlighting architectural details after dark. Project partners highlighted the importance of retaining authenticity while updating functionality. One consultant described the process as a balance between honouring heritage and ensuring modern performance, while the electrical contractor said durability and serviceability were key priorities. According to the project team, the scheme provides modern, low-maintenance lighting while respecting the campus’s historic fabric. The completed installation is intended to support the student community and campus visitors while reducing ongoing maintenance demands. For more from Zumtobel, click here.

UK Power Networks starts the search for new apprentices

Distribution network operator UK Power Networks is searching for 31 school leavers and career changers to become apprentices in the electricity industry at a time of exciting change in the sector. The countdown has begun in the search for new recruits for UK Power Networks' popular craft apprenticeship. Applicants have until 31 January to apply online to train as electricity cable jointers, overhead linespeople, and substation fitters. Successful candidates will gain practical, hands-on skills at dedicated training facilities while shadowing experienced technical teams. Paid to learn, their apprenticeship lasts three years for school or college leavers and two years if they are career changers. There are vacancies for 14 foundation and 17 experienced apprentices this year. Once the newcomers qualify, they fill essential roles, helping maintain safe and reliable electricity supplies to 20 million people and ensuring the electricity network is ready for increasing demand as the country moves to low-carbon electric transport and heating. Recruits follow the Power Networks Craftsperson (Level 3) Apprenticeship, which combines practical training at training centres in Kent and Suffolk with theoretical knowledge at college, and gain experience working alongside local experts in their trade. Craft apprentices now also spend a week in the Lake District developing teamwork, resilience, confidence, and communication skills key to their future roles. The apprenticeship class of 2025 described their Outward Bound adventures in just one word in the short video below: [embed]https://youtu.be/6vwzjEbmRRY[/embed] Charlie Aston, Engineering Trainee Manager at UK Power Networks, comments, “The start of a new year is the perfect time to pursue new career goals. "Our apprenticeship programme gives recruits a golden opportunity to learn from experts, work in supportive teams, and build a career with purpose. “Like many of our field staff, I began my own career as an apprentice and I’ve seen how our power apprenticeship programme opens doors to lifelong careers and opportunities. "We look for team players who put safety first, pride themselves on quality work, and strive to provide the excellent customer service our communities depend on. They should also thrive on physical tasks, outdoor work in varied conditions, and creative problem-solving.” Opportunities on offer Six of the sought-after positions are within the company’s commercial division, UK Power Networks Services, responsible for building and maintaining private electrical networks for clients in aviation, rail, defence, fleets, and a range of industries. UK Power Networks craft apprenticeship earned national recognition in 2025, winning the Learning Excellence Awards 2025 Outstanding In-House Training Initiative and East of England Regional Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2025, Regional Highly Commended. Applicants can find full details and apply through UK Power Networks' careers pages. The full selection process includes submitting an online application and CV, an online assessment, recorded audio interview responses, an in-person assessment, and a final interview. Apprenticeship positions are available in Aldershot, Borehamwood, Brixton, Bury St Edmunds, Cambridge, Camden, Canning Town, Chatham, the Chilterns, Colchester, Crawley/Lewes, Croydon/Kingston, Downham Market, King’s Lynn, Lea Valley, Letchworth, Falconwood, Gatwick, Maidstone/Strood, Norwich, Purfleet, Singlewell, Southend, and Wimbledon. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

VCHRGD integrates chargers with Octopus Energy tariff

VCHRGD Technologies, a British EV charge point manufacturer, has confirmed that its electric vehicle chargers now integrate directly with Octopus Energy’s Intelligent Octopus Go tariff, enabling eligible users to access lower charging rates and automated smart charging schedules. The integration applies across VCHRGD’s charging portfolio, including the Seven Pro 7.4kW home and business charger and the TwentyTwo Dual 22kW workplace and public model. Intelligent Octopus Go automatically schedules charging for periods when energy prices and grid demand are at their lowest. VCHRGD states that customers may be able to access rates from £0.07/kWh, depending on eligibility and tariff terms. For wholesalers and installers, the company says the update is expected to drive interest from households and businesses looking for tariff-compatible charging equipment. VCHRGD cites its reliability statistics and UK-based support team as factors contributing to long-term demand. Founded in 2021, VCHRGD works with installers, distributors, and fleet operators across the UK. The company reports a high rate of positive customer feedback and a low proportion of charger replacements. Tariff-linked charging and installer demand Alex Watson, Founder and Technical Director at VCHRGD Technologies, comments, “Our integration with Intelligent Octopus Go is another step in making EV charging smarter, affordable, and more accessible. "For resellers and installers, it’s a fantastic opportunity, and we’ve already seen that energy integrations can significantly boost sales opportunities in this space. "By working with Octopus, we’re further strengthening our proposition for installers, giving them and the team here at VCHRGD a real edge in the market.” VCHRGD says it plans to contact resellers and installation partners to support discussions with home and business owners considering the Intelligent Octopus Go tariff.