Schneider introduces upgraded PowerPact 4 Powerboard

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology company, today announced enhancements to its PowerPact 4 Powerboard offering, addressing the growing demand for space-saving options in electrical distribution. The new PowerPact 4 ComPacT NSXm Powerboard features an optimised, wall-mounted design and slimmer profile, which makes it lighter and more space efficient. Rated up to 250A, its fishbone structure with top and bottom entry points, as well as its removable door and cover handles, simplifies installation, operation, and maintenance. Engineered for industrial and commercial environments, the Powerboard integrates NSXm MCCBs with EverLink connection technology, alongside the newly introduced Type 1+2 integral surge protection. A built-in viewing window allows users to monitor surge protection status without removing the cover, enhancing both convenience and safety. Other key features • Moulded case breaker range which comprises of incoming device ratings up to 250A with triple pole, triple pole and neutral, and four pole options • Hinged meter bracket supports metering for up to eight devices, enabling easier cabling and installation With this product offering, Schneider says electrical contractors and engineers will be able to adapt to the increasingly restricted spaces in which they need to work. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Dimplex highlights its Quantum electric storage heaters

Dimplex, a manufacturer of electric heating, heat pumps, and cooling systems, is spotlighting its Quantum electric storage heaters, which have been on the UK market for more than a decade and are positioned as a high heat retention (HHR) option for modern electric heating installations. The range combines HHR construction with self-learning charge control. It stores off-peak electricity and releases heat when required, aiming to provide more consistent room temperatures while managing energy use more precisely. This approach is intended to help reduce unnecessary heat loss and improve day-to-day control for householders. Dimplex says independent analysis has indicated that the product can deliver running-cost savings of up to 27% compared with older storage heaters, based on improved insulation, heat management, and energy-use control. The range is supplied with a 10-year guarantee and carries the BEAB safety mark. Smart controls and connectivity features Quantum units use an adaptive control algorithm designed to learn household routines and adjust heat output accordingly. Features such as Adaptive Start and Open Window Detection are intended to reduce wasted energy and maintain comfort without frequent manual adjustment. When connected via the Dimplex Hub, compatible heaters can be managed through the Dimplex Control app. This allows users to view performance data, adjust settings remotely, and use functions such as Boost and Away modes. Scheduling and monitoring tools are included to provide greater visibility of heating use. For retrofit installations, the casing and footprint are designed to help cover fixing marks from older storage heaters. This can reduce the amount of 'making-good' work required and help achieve a cleaner finish during replacements. Associated support network Dimplex also provides trade support through the Dimplex PRO Installer Club, which includes access to product information, technical resources, and tools such as a heating calculator. The platform supports installers working on ECO-funded projects and includes engagement and reward schemes. Dimplex notes that its Quantum is used across a range of applications, from individual property upgrades to larger housing programmes, where electric storage heating is specified. For more from Dimplex, click here.

NAPIT welcomes Government’s Warm Homes Plan

Certification body and training provider NAPIT has welcomed the Government’s just-released 'Warm Homes Plan'. The £15 billion plan will see direct support for householders to install technologies such as solar panels and a battery, zero- and low-interest loans for solar panels, and continued support for heat pump installs. There will also be support for renters and landlords to ensure homes are safe, warm, and affordable. Low-income households will receive free-of-charge packages of upgrades, depending on what technologies are most suitable for their homes, backed by £5 billion of public investment. This could include fully funded installations of solar panels and a battery, to the full average cost which is currently between £9,000 and £12,000. The government-backed, zero- and low-interest loans programme will see more solar panels installed onto existing homes, and new rules will mean every new home will come with solar panels by default. The Government says this will triple the number of homes with solar panels on their rooftops by 2030. The £7,500 universal grant for heat pumps will also continue and will be expanded to include air-to-air heat pumps that can also cool homes in the summer. The Heat Training Grant which provides grants of up to £500 for existing heating engineers to train to install heat pumps in England will be increased over the next three years to March 2029. This will continue to support existing heating engineers in training to become heat pump installers and will support an increased range of training opportunities in heat networks. Stephen Melton, NAPIT Commercial and Compliance Director, comments, “It has been a long time coming, but it is good to see this investment which will make it easier and more affordable for people wanting to switch to technologies such as solar panels and heat pumps. “NAPIT always recommend that these works are carried out by a competent, qualified, and experienced installer which will give consumers added protection and help ensure quality installs. “We have over 21,000 members who will be crucial in delivering these measures and hope the clarity and certainty this plan will deliver will be welcomed by our installers and encourage more to train and upskill to take advantage of these growth opportunities. “We have already trained over 500 installers under the Heat Training Grant, so the increase in funding over the next three years is also something we welcome “The Warm Homes Plan should ensure more people are able to live in warm, healthy, existing homes, and we look forward to the Future Homes Standard being implemented to ensure all new homes are built with as much renewable technology fitted as standard.” “We also hope that Government will take action soon to cut the cost of electricity and close the gap with gas prices to ensure take-up of technologies to electrify heating in homes.” Wider industry comments Mark Krull from LCL Awards and Logic4training has also commented on the Warm Homes Plan, stating, "I'm very pleased to see the Warm Homes Plan finally published, providing security for businesses in the building services sector. "A huge investment overall - one of the biggest the UK has ever seen in retrofit - [meaning] low-carbon home improvements are now open to everyone. "Highlights include the fact that batteries are explicitly included under the plan alongside solar PV and heat pumps. Energy storage is critical to supporting low-carbon technologies, ensuring they perform in the most energy-efficient way possible alongside grid fluctuations. "The introduction of government-backed, zero- and low-interest loans will help to establish domestic battery storage and remove the upfront cost barrier for homeowners. Ambitious plans for Heat Networks are also encouraging. “To deliver the Warm Homes Plan we need suitably trained installers, so I’m pleased to see that Heat Training Grant funding will continue until 2029. "Apart from upskilling the installer base, we also need to encourage more young people into the sector. "The £20 million expansion of ‘free’ construction-based courses is welcome, but I would like to see the new Level 2 Heating & Plumbing Engineer Apprenticeship (due for launch this September) mentioned alongside Diplomas in Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, and Heat Pump Systems." For more from NAPIT, click here.

NICEIC TechLive returns for 2026

Following the inaugural event held last year, NICEIC, a certification body for the UK’s electrical contracting industry, has confirmed the return of TechLive for 2026. Two new in-person events are scheduled: NICEIC TechLive Surrey Mercedes-Benz World, Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, KT13 0SL Thursday, 11 June 2026 NICEIC TechLive Sheffield Magna, Sheffield Road, Rotherham, S60 1DX Wednesday, 30 September 2026 The events are aimed at certified electrical businesses seeking face-to-face technical guidance, professional discussion, and structured continuing professional development (CPD). With 2026 expected to bring notable regulatory updates for the electrical sector, NICEIC says the events will focus on supporting businesses through changes including Amendment 4 of the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations and recent updates to the Electrotechnical Assessment Specification. Technical updates, CPD, and business support Each TechLive event will feature a programme of technical and practical sessions delivered by NICEIC specialists and industry contributors. Attendees can select sessions most relevant to their work, allowing them to build up to five hours of CPD during the day. The 12 sessions are grouped around four themes: industry and regulatory updates, electrotechnical and renewables fundamentals, mental health and wellbeing, and business tools. Topics include inspection and testing, renewable technologies, mental wellbeing in the workplace, and upcoming requirements such as Making Tax Digital for Income Tax. Paul Collins, Technical Director at NICEIC, states, “It is set to be a year of important changes across the sector. "Through our TechLive events, industry experts will provide the information and insight businesses need, alongside the opportunity to complete up to five hours of CPD.” Each event is limited to 300 tickets and you can register via the company's website. For more from NICEIC, click here.

Jefferson Tools publishes Tool Up Spring 2026 brochure

Jefferson Tools, a tools supplier across the UK and Ireland, has released its Tool Up Spring 2026 brochure, bringing together a range of professional tools and workshop equipment for use across construction, industrial, automotive, and agricultural settings. The Sterling Edition runs from January to 30 April 2026 and includes products spanning hand tools, power tools, and air tools. Jefferson Tools says the range has been selected to reflect the practical requirements of trade users and workshops during the early part of the year. The brochure includes equipment for routine maintenance and heavier-duty tasks, with items intended for use in both small workshops and larger industrial environments. Focus on core equipment Hand tools form a central part of the range, including socket sets, torque wrenches, spanners, clamps, and measuring equipment. Jefferson Tools states that many of these products are designed for frequent professional use and are supplied with lifetime warranties on non-moving parts. Lighting solutions are also featured, including rechargeable work lights, headlamps, and task lighting intended for use in workshops and on site. Power tools complete the selection, with equipment such as mitre saws, grinders, mixers, and cutting tools included in the brochure. Darren Binns, National Sales Manager at Jefferson Tools, explains, “For this Sterling Edition, we’ve focused on dependable core equipment such as compressors, hand tools, lighting, and fabrication. "The aim is to provide a practical range that reflects what customers need on the workshop floor as they plan for the year ahead.” The Tool Up Spring 2026 Sterling Edition is available until 30 April 2026. For more from Jefferson Tools, click here.

UK Power Networks innovates new electricity pole tech

From driveways to rooftops, renewable energy is reshaping how we use electricity, and distribution network operator UK Power Networks is now deploying a new device to support the adoption of low-carbon technologies on traditional electricity networks. To help customers adopt clean technologies like electric vehicles and solar panels without delays, UK Power Networks is trialling a new technology that maximises the use of existing low-voltage cables rather than build anew. The company has partnered with Ecojoule Energy and Fundamentals to deploy new smart EcoVAR units that balance electricity on local networks, reducing the need for costly new infrastructure. How the tech works The initiative will see five EcoVAR units - which are smart, pole-mounted devices - installed that keep the network operating efficiently at the low-voltage level, where most homes and businesses are connected. The technology works by managing the flow of electricity across the network’s three separate lines, known as phases. Sometimes one phase can become overloaded while others are underused. The EcoVAR unit automatically redistributes electricity to the quieter lines, helping the network accommodate more clean-energy technologies without spending customers’ money on infrastructure where it is not needed. Installed on existing poles, the device can be up and running within hours. Trials in place The first unit has been installed in Graveney Bridge, Kent, with data collected during the trial being used to assess how effectively the system improves network efficiency. Each unit is monitored and updated remotely, allowing for smarter management of power flows. The trial will also test the unit across different weather conditions, helping to ensure that as low-carbon technologies become widespread, electricity networks remain resilient, flexible, and ready for the future. Luca Grella, Head of Innovation at UK Power Networks, notes, “Being the first to install this kind of technology in the UK highlights our commitment to working with partners who share our vision for a smarter, more resilient grid. "The EcoVAR trial is helping us understand how digital solutions can deliver real improvements for customers at street level.” Colin Relf, Treasurer of Graveney & Goodnestone Village Hall, is delighted the community is part of the trial, stating, “The EcoVAR device has been a godsend. "Export was very unreliable, preventing a much-needed income that, without it, could have ultimately led to the Village Hall closing. It provides peace of mind and security for supplying back onto the grid.” For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

Tridonic supports lighting controls upgrade at Dublin offices

Tridonic UK, a supplier of lighting technology, has contributed to the refurbishment of The Distillers Building in Smithfield, Dublin, supplying a DALI-2 lighting control system as part of a wider upgrade delivered with ACEC Distributors. The seven-storey office building has been redeveloped from its original limestone structure and is now designed to accommodate multiple government departments. The project required a lighting control system that could support flexible space use, long-term compliance, and efficient operation. Tridonic worked with ACEC to deliver a wired DALI-2 installation across multiple floors, with lighting zones designed to allow future reconfiguration as occupancy and layouts change. Lighting controls designed for flexibility and efficiency The installation includes sceneCOM EVO DA2 application controllers, MSensor G3 PIR sensors in surface-mounted and recessed formats, DALI-2 XCG3 pushbutton couplers, DALI-2 scene plates, and DALI-2 LED drivers. The system is overseen through Tridonic’s lightMONITOR software, providing asset visibility, automated emergency testing, and compliance reporting. Sustainability formed a core part of the design brief. Tridonic’s generation four drivers and boards are C2C approved, with average driver efficiency exceeding 92%. Presence detection and daylight-responsive dimming reduce unnecessary lighting use while maintaining consistent visual conditions throughout the building. Paul O’Connor, Managing Director at ACEC, notes, “Tridonic’s control systems have enabled us to deliver a flexible lighting installation that supports the client’s sustainability ambitions. "The availability of detailed energy and usage data also allows us to carry out post-occupancy evaluation and identify further opportunities for savings.” James Huntington, OEM Controls and Solutions Manager at Tridonic, adds, “This project highlights the role of intelligent lighting control in achieving sustainability and long-term performance. "The system supports efficiency, compliance, and a high-quality working environment.” Tridonic says The Distillers Building now serves as an example of how modern lighting control can support heritage-led redevelopment while meeting the operational demands of contemporary office spaces. For more from Tridonic, click here.

Schneider Electric launches CPD programme, ‘The Learning Loop’

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology company, has launched 'The Learning Loop', a monthly CPD-accredited online learning programme designed to support ongoing training, upskilling, and professional development across the electrical industry in the UK and Ireland. The new programme will offer two sessions each month, combining a CPD-accredited technical webinar with a follow-on session exploring how those principles are applied to real-world projects. As an accredited CPD provider, Schneider Electric will issue certificates following attendance, allowing participants to log recognised CPD hours with professional bodies. The programme builds on Schneider Electric’s established CPD offering, which saw approximately 5,000 attendees in 2025, and complements its extensive on-demand CPD library available to UK and Ireland audiences. CPD covering a range of topics A variety of topics will be covered, with more to come, including: • January: HV Switchgear | GenieEvo: Features, Benefits & Applications • February: Selecting the Right Meter for Your Application | Schneider Electric’s Metering & Power Management Software • March: Fundamentals of Automatic Transfer Switches | Our ATS Equipment Suite - Features, Benefits & Applications • April: Introduction to Building | Management Systems When Buildings Speak: Translating Data into Action with Building Advisor • May: Surge Protection in Electrical Distribution | Latest Developments in Acti9 & Powerpact 4 - Including SPDs • June: Fundamentals of Busbar in Electrical Distribution | Schneider Electric’s Busbar Portfolio & Applications Schneider Electric says The Learning Loop's launch reflects growing demand across the electrical industry for structured, accredited training as technologies and standards continue to evolve. The first session will take place on 22 January 2026, with further sessions running monthly throughout the year. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Brother UK launches app-based label printers for electricians

Brother UK, an electronics manufacturer specialising in printers and office equipment, has introduced a new range of app-driven professional label printers aimed at electricians and network installers. The PT-E CUBE range allows users to create compliant labels from a phone, tablet, or laptop using the Brother Pro Label Tool app or P-touch Editor software. The keyboard-free devices are positioned as an alternative to handheld industrial label printers that rely on on-device keyboards. Brother says the printers are designed to support mobile working, enabling labels to be prepared in advance or updated on site. Users can select and edit industry and wiring regulation templates, adjust label layout settings, and batch print sequential labels via Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Labels can also include logos, QR codes, and contact details, and can be amended or reprinted without returning to the office. Designed for electrical and network environments The Brother PT-E720BT is intended for general electrical work, producing labels up to 24 mm wide and including an automatic cutter. Brother states that the model is suitable for applications such as warning notices, consumer units, PAT testing, renewable installations, and patch panels. The PT-E920BT targets network and data centre installations, offering wider labels of up to 36 mm and higher print resolution. It includes an auto-cutter with half-cut functionality, designed to speed up batch labelling across racks, cabinets, patch panels, ports, and fibre and LAN cabling. Both printers use rechargeable batteries and are compatible with Brother’s industrial-grade label tapes, including options for strong adhesion, flexible identification, security, and cable flag labelling. Brother says the tapes are designed to withstand heat, abrasion, and prolonged exposure to sunlight. Louise Unsworth, Head of Labelling Business Solutions at Brother UK, comments, “These new models reflect what we’ve heard from electricians and network installers. "They are designed for professionals who want flexible, mobile ways to produce clear, compliant labels, whether they are preparing work in advance or adapting labels on site. “The PT-E CUBE range sits alongside our existing professional printers to give users more choice in how they work, particularly for those who prefer app-led, connected workflows.”

Voltempo powers UK’s first megawatt-scale eHGV charging hub

The eFREIGHT 2030 consortium has reached a major milestone with the official opening of the UK's first megawatt-scale electric heavy goods vehicle (eHGV) charging site, using charging system provider Voltempo’s HyperCharger technology, at East Midlands Gateway to support Kuehne+Nagel’s UK road operations. Formally opened on 15 January with Chris McDonald, Minister for Industry in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), in attendance, the Kuehne+Nagel hub is the first MCS-ready (Megawatt Charging System) charger to be deployed in the UK. Designed and implemented by Voltempo, lead partner of the eFREIGHT 2030 consortium and the programme’s charging infrastructure provider, the new charging hub at East Midlands Gateway is powered by the company's HyperCharger system, capable of delivering charge rates up to one megawatt - enough to charge future eHGVs in less than 30 minutes. It is the first of Voltempo’s megawatt-scale HyperChargers to be deployed under the planned national rollout of 35 depot charging hubs through eFREIGHT 2030, part of UK government’s £200 million Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) Programme, funded by the Department for Transport and delivered in partnership with Innovate UK. “This first deployment of Voltempo’s HyperCharger at Kuehne+Nagel’s depot is a significant milestone for zero emission freight,” comments Simon Smith, CEO of Voltempo. “As lead partner and charging infrastructure provider for eFREIGHT 2030, our focus has been on delivering infrastructure that works for real-world freight operations today, while being ready for the next generation of high-power electric and autonomous HGVs tomorrow.” The Kuehne+Nagel site features six DC charging bays powered by Voltempo’s HyperCharger infrastructure. At the heart of the system is a single, megawatt-scale HyperCharger pod, which intelligently distributes power across a network of chargepoints (with one positioned at each bay), enabling flexible, high-power charging to support future freight operations. Strategic location for UK freight The East Midlands Gateway charging infrastructure will support Kuehne+Nagel’s continued investment in decarbonising its fleet, initially serving an electric fleet of 12 eHGVs which are part of the ZEHID project, including both DAF XF Electric and Renault Trucks E-Tech Ts. Each truck is providing real-world performance and efficiency data to support the eFREIGHT 2030 programme, including analysis of energy use, range, charging cycles, and total cost of operation. Kuehne+Nagel’s 200,000 ft² East Midlands Gateway facility serves as the company’s UK key operations hub for road logistics activities, featuring 67 loading docks and handling a wide range of goods, including pharmaceuticals, High-Tech, and groupage services. Its prime location adjacent to the M1 and East Midlands Airport makes it one of the UK’s most connected logistics hubs and an ideal base for demonstrating the viability of electric HGV operations. British-designed infrastructure purpose-built for lorries The Voltempo HyperCharger is a British-designed and manufactured charging system, developed specifically for heavy-duty freight applications. The technology has recently achieved Made in Britain membership eligibility, recognising that the product is substantially designed, engineered, and manufactured in the UK, with all labour involved in producing the finished system based in Tyseley, East Birmingham. Each HyperCharger can deliver up to one megawatt of dynamically distributed power, supplying up to six vehicles simultaneously. The system can be scaled across multiple chargepoints to support larger fleets and evolving depot requirements. Designed with sustainability and simplicity in mind, Voltempo says its HyperCharger "functions efficiently and flexibly due to the configuration and control of the power modules allowing multiple vehicles to be charged to suit their range requirements and time of despatch, helping operators minimise vehicle charging time as well as lowering the fleet’s carbon emissions." The chargers are OCPP 2.0+ compliant and Plug and Charge capable. The system requires no payment terminal and authenticates the trucks from the operator’s fleet list, managing all the charging transactions in the background. Alistair Barnes, Senior Programme Manager at Innovate UK, notes, "We are delighted to support the launch of this pioneering charging hub at Kuehne+Nagel’s East Midlands Gateway depot. Voltempo's state-of-the-art HyperCharger is enabling eFREIGHT 2030 to meet the sustainable haulage demands of today and tomorrow. The ZEHID programme, funded by the UK Government and delivered in partnership with Innovate UK, is providing strategic insights into the future of road transport. Powerful partnerships like this are accelerating the transition to zero-emission freight and driving the UK's clean growth ambitions forward."