13 kilometres of electricity lines disappear to enhance Chilterns beauty spot

UK Power Networks has removed more than 13 kilometres of overhead electricity lines and 119 poles from the Chilterns National Landscape as part of a £2 million project to improve the area's appearance. The electricity firm has undergrounded high-voltage lines between Latimer and Chenies, through the Chess Valley, removing infrastructure from large parts of the Chenies and Latimer Conservation Area. The work forms part of UK Power Networks' commitment to removing overhead power lines in National Landscapes where doing so can deliver significant visual improvements. Extensive environmental and archaeological surveys were carried out before and during the project, with measures put in place to protect local wildlife, including badger setts, nesting birds and great crested newts. More than 13 kilometres of high-voltage lines have been moved underground, together with an additional 1.3 kilometres of low-voltage lines. Sections of the new network were installed using horizontal directional drilling to navigate around the River Chess. A total of 15 new substations have also been created along the route. UK Power Networks says the combination of new substations and underground cables will help provide reliable electricity supplies for local communities into the future. Luke Hughes, Head of Asset Management at UK Power Networks, says, "The Chilterns National Landscape is a special place enjoyed by thousands of people, and we're delighted to have completed this major undergrounding project. Removing overhead lines from the Chess Valley area has significantly reduced visual impact, helping to preserve the area's natural character while ensuring local wildlife and habitats were carefully protected throughout the works. At the same time, the new underground network will continue to provide a reliable electricity supply for the communities we serve." Dr Elaine King, CEO of the Chilterns National Landscape, says, "The removal of these overhead power cables is a fantastic outcome for the Chilterns, and we’re delighted to have played a part in bringing the project forward. Putting the cables underground has transformed the landscape around Chenies, revealing its natural beauty and significantly reducing visual impact. "This has been a long-term project requiring considerable commitment and collaboration, and we’re hugely grateful to UK Power Networks and everyone involved for their work in making it happen. It’s wonderful to see such a positive result for Chenies and the wider Chilterns."

LEDVANCE launches flexible LED solution for fluorescent refurbishment projects

LEDVANCE has launched a modern solution to replace ageing fluorescent lighting and simplify refurbishment. As organisations across the UK continue to replace ageing fluorescent lighting, attention is turning to solutions that simplify refurbishment while remaining adaptable to the changing needs of a building.  Offices, schools and public buildings often contain large numbers of conventional linear luminaires. Upgrading these installations can improve energy efficiency and lighting quality, but the process is not always straightforward. Different spaces may require different light outputs, colour temperatures or control functions, while requirements can also change during installation or later in the building’s life.  Choosing a configurable luminaire can help installers manage these variables without specifying and stocking numerous product variants. Developed with this flexibility in mind, the new LEDVANCE LINEAR SURFACE COMBO provides a surface-mounted solution for new-build and refurbishment projects. Suitable as a replacement for conventional T8 fluorescent luminaires, it has been designed for applications including offices, educational facilities and public buildings. [caption id="attachment_53910" align="alignnone" width="586"] LEDVANCE launches flexible LED solution for fluorescent refurbishment projects[/caption] The Multi Colour function allows either a 3,000 K or 4,000 K colour temperature to be selected on site, helping installers match the lighting more closely to each space. Multi Lumen also allows the required lumen output to be set before installation. Together, these features can simplify specification and stockholding while giving installers greater scope to respond to individual project requirements. Lighting quality is equally important, particularly in classrooms, offices and other environments where people may spend long periods. A choice of 1,200 mm, 1,500 mm and 1,800 mm lengths supports different room layouts, while outputs of up to 6,200 lumens and efficacy of up to 125 lm/W help balance illumination requirements with energy efficiency. Glare control of UGR <19 and low-flicker operation also contribute to a more comfortable working or learning environment. Practical installation can make a significant difference in buildings that need to remain operational. Schools, workplaces and public facilities often provide only limited access for refurbishment, so reducing time spent on site can help minimise disruption. A push-wire terminal enables tool-free electrical connection, while the inclusion of mounting screws and wall plugs helps make installation more straightforward. LEDVANCE’s Plug & Upgrade concept allows additional sensor, DALI or emergency lighting components to be added to the standard luminaire. The optional high-frequency sensor enables presence-based control, helping to reduce unnecessary operating hours, while an emergency lighting kit can be introduced without replacing the complete luminaire. This modular approach gives installers flexibility when specifications change and allows building operators to introduce additional functions later. DALI-2 connectivity also enables integration with the LEDVANCE VIVARES light management system. Designed for long-term professional use, the range offers a service life of up to 70,000 hours (L80/B10 at 25°C), helping to reduce the frequency of replacement and associated maintenance. LEDVANCE also provides a five-year warranty.

Stabila Launches LAX 60 G Greenbeam Cross Line Laser

STABILA has launched the LAX 60 G, a new compact cross line laser designed for accurate marking and alignment work across a range of construction and installation applications. Aimed at professionals working in areas including electrical installation, drywall construction, tiling, decorating, joinery and plumbing, heating and air conditioning, the LAX 60 G uses STABILA GreenBeam technology to project bright, sharp green laser lines with visibility at distances of up to 30 m. The unit provides horizontal and vertical lines with a levelling accuracy of ±0.3 mm/m and a self-levelling range of ±4°. For work in larger or brightly lit spaces, pulse-modulated laser lines can be used with an optional receiver to extend the working area to as much as 80 m. A manual mode allows the pendulum to be locked so that laser lines can be positioned at the required angle, making the LAX 60 G suitable for tasks including marking diagonals. For flexible positioning on site, the laser features powerful magnets for attachment to steel beams, radiators and other suitable metal surfaces, together with a 1/4in thread for tripod mounting. Designed for straightforward operation, the LAX 60 G uses two buttons and is powered by three AA 1.5 V batteries, which are supplied with the unit. STABILA quotes an operating time of up to 15 hours, while an LED battery display allows users to monitor the remaining charge. The laser has an IP54 protection rating against dust and water spray and features STABILA's shock-absorbent soft-grip casing to provide additional protection against impacts on site. A pendulum locking mechanism also helps protect the unit and maintain its accuracy during transportation. The LAX 60 G is supplied with a belt pouch, target plate with magnetic holder and cross-hair, and three AA batteries. The magnetic target plate can also be attached to metal rails when working on suspended ceilings. The STABILA LAX 60 G is available from retailers.

Historic ‘Jolly Green Giant’ Surrey substation restored

A rare vintage electricity substation affectionately dubbed the ‘Jolly Green Giant’ has been restored on a Surrey village green. UK Power Networks, owner of the decommissioned 1914 Grade II listed substation, hired specialist conservators to preserve the pillar – one of the few surviving examples of early domestic electrification, which had a dramatic impact on British domestic life. In December, the 1.5-tonne cast iron pillar was craned onto a lorry and transported 45 miles to an East London workshop to undergo careful restoration work. The community has now welcomed its return to Kingswood in mint condition, where the historic landmark has even been compared to Dr Who’s TARDIS. The local landmark, as old as the Kingswood North estate, originally housed a transformer that distributed the first power supplies to the area. After the transformer was relocated from Beech Drive, it is believed internal equipment was removed, and it now functions solely as a streetlight in The Glade. Emma Machin, surveyor at UK Power Networks and leader of the restoration project, says, “The ‘Jolly Green Giant’ can stand tall once more in the heart of Kingswood, linking our past to our future and highlighting how far we’ve come in harnessing electricity for a more sustainable future. “The original substation had a revolutionary impact on daily lives when it was first installed, bringing electricity to homes for the first time. With so few surviving substation pillars on public view we were delighted to work with the residents and conservators to ensure this example continues to play a positive part in the Kingswood community.” Emma was amazed by the transformation of the substation which she said was looking “quite forlorn”. Adam Gooding, metalwork conservator at Rupert Harris Conservation, adds, “Structurally it was in good condition, but it was time to have some new life breathed into it. We stripped the failing paint, corrosion and rust to give a new surface for a fresh coat of paint. “It is always satisfying to work on an unusual object, especially something which has significance to the local community and it’s nice to see it transformed into a condition much closer to how it would have looked.” The addition of late 20th century light fixtures on top of the pillar has been replaced for period-style street lamps, which are more in keeping with the era. The substation had been painted several times, and the original colour was closely matched through paint analysis on a similar substation that UK Power Networks restored in Wimbledon in 2023. William Rockall, director for estate care, Kingswood North Estate Company Limited (KNECL), comments, “On behalf of the KNECL road association and the wider Kingswood community, I would like to say how delighted we are to see the restoration and return of the electricity transformer, fondly known as The Jolly Green Giant, to the village green at the junction of The Glade and Forest Drive. "Over the past 80 or so years, the transformer has become an iconic landmark and a focal point for the Kingswood North Estate in particular, forming part of the company’s logo. It has been much missed since its removal before Christmas; however, the results have been well worth the wait, and we would all like to thank UK Power Networks for funding such a splendid piece of restoration." Records suggest less than 6% of the domestic population had electricity when the Kingswood substation pillar was installed around the time of World War One, when electricity was still an aspirational luxury.  The substation’s arrival would have been part of the fragmented early introduction of electricity that revolutionised domestic life.  Although it is rare for utility infrastructure to have special historic interest, the electricity transformer pillar has been Grade II listed by Historic England in recognition of its importance and special interest. Other unusual examples of listed buildings include a fish-shaped RNLI collection box, and a 19th century urinal in Westminster. In 2020, as a mark of the community’s affection for the pillar, the road association, Kingswood North Estate Company Limited (KNECL), included the substation in their logo. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/shorts/FEy6GMnvylM[/embed]

RAW Charging offers 50% off EV charging at over 65 National Trust destinations

RAW Charging is offering 50% off EV charging at more than 65 National Trust destinations across the UK to celebrate Heritage Open Days, which run from 11–20 September 2026.  Heritage Open Days is England’s largest festival of history and culture, running from 11–20 September 2026 and offering free access to hundreds of historic sites, buildings and spaces across the country.  The offer spans both AC and DC bays, with DC rapid charging working out at less than 40p per kWh throughout the Heritage Open Days period.  The initiative builds on RAW Charging’s wider partnership with the National Trust, which has already delivered charging infrastructure at 68 sites across the UK, comprising 464 AC bays and 34 DC bays, and powered more than 5.6 million emission-free miles to date.  RAW Charging’s collaboration with the National Trust forms part of a wider commitment to support lower-emission visits to some of the UK’s most treasured heritage sites, helping visitors make sustainable choices without compromising on convenience or cost. The Heritage Open Days offer gives EV drivers an added incentive to visit and rewards those already charging with the network.  RAW has been recognised with the Zapmap Best Destination Network Award for 2026, as well as the ICC Gold accreditation, reinforcing RAW’s position as a leading EV charging partner for leisure, retail and hospitality destinations.  Jason Simpson, CEO, RAW Charging, says, “Heritage Open Days is all about opening up the UK’s most loved places, and we wanted EV drivers to be part of that. By offering 50% off charging across more than 65 National Trust destinations, families can plan a full day out at sites knowing they can charge easily and affordably while they explore. Our partnership with the National Trust has already supported more than 5.6 million lower-emission miles, and this offer is one way we can recognise the drivers helping make that happen.” 

Charge-M8 Extends Exclusive Kelvelec Partnership Ahead of EV Charge Live Launch

Charge-M8 has expanded its exclusive distribution agreement with Kelvelec Electrical Supplies, one year after the launch of its EV Kube ground anchor. The extended partnership will widen the range of Charge-M8 products available exclusively through Kelvelec across the UK and Republic of Ireland, as the EV charging technology specialist prepares to unveil its latest product at EV Charge Live 2026. Launched on September 29, 2025, EV Kube is a modular composite ground anchor designed to provide an alternative to traditional concrete foundations for EV charging and payment infrastructure. According to Charge-M8, the system offers installers and operators a lighter, faster and more sustainable installation method and has been adopted on EV charging projects across the UK and further afield. Building on the product's first year in the market, Charge-M8 has developed a new solution that it says will challenge conventional approaches to EV charging infrastructure. The product will be officially launched at EV Charge Live at the NEC Birmingham on September 22. The company says both developments form part of its commitment to creating more sustainable, intelligent and efficient EV charging infrastructure and improving solutions throughout the infrastructure lifecycle. Julian Smith, Managing Director at Charge-M8, says, "Our partnership with Kelvelec has gone from strength to strength. EV Kube's success over the past year has been built on that partnership and the shared effort behind it. "We're equally excited about the new product now in development, which will build on everything EV Kube has achieved and push EV charging infrastructure even further forward." Matt Gooding, Director at Kelvelec, says, "EV Kube has been a standout addition to our range over the last year and we are pleased to extend our exclusive partnership with Charge-M8 as they continue to innovate. "We look forward to bringing their new product to installers and operators across the UK via our broad network of national, regional and independent wholesalers."

SELECT and SJIB warn against rise of rogue training providers and fast-track electrician courses

SELECT and the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) have issued a fresh warning about the dangers of rogue training providers offering short courses which claim to provide a fast-track route into the electrical industry. The two organisations say there is growing concern that people are being encouraged to believe they can acquire the knowledge, practical skills and occupational competence required of a qualified electrician after only a few weeks of classroom-based training. They have now urged anyone considering a career in the electrotechnical sector – including adults looking to retrain – to make sure they follow an industry-approved route which combines structured learning with essential supervised experience in the workplace. Sharon Miller, Managing Director of SELECT, says, “There is already a robust training programme in Scotland that raises electrical professionals to the high standard required of the modern contractor. This is proven to be the ONLY way to equip electricians with the skills required and give consumers confidence that work is being carried out safely and competently. “This also applies to retraining, with an adult training scheme that offers on-site working to help develop skills in conjunction with the classroom aspect. A short course simply doesn’t cut it and endangers consumer safety. “As we have outlined on a number of occasions, electrical installation is highly skilled, safety-critical work. It simply isn’t possible to replicate in a matter of weeks the combination of technical knowledge, practical ability and workplace experience that is developed through a proper electrical installation apprenticeship. People considering a career in the industry should therefore be extremely wary of organisations which suggest that a collection of qualifications or a short period of training will somehow make them a competent electrician.”  SELECT and the SJIB work closely with the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), which manages the Modern Apprentice in Electrical Installation programme in Scotland. Taking around four years to complete, the programme combines college-based learning with extensive supervised workplace experience, culminating in the Final Integrated Competence Assessment (FICA). Catherine Gillon, Secretary of the SJIB, adds, “Qualifications are obviously an important part of becoming an electrician, but qualifications alone do not demonstrate occupational competence. Working alongside experienced electrical professionals on-site is an essential part of the learning process. It enables trainees to put their technical knowledge into practice, encounter different situations and installations and gradually develop the judgement, ability and experience expected of a qualified electrician. “That is why there can be no shortcut to competence. Anyone who is being told that they can become an electrician simply by completing a handful of short courses in a classroom should think very carefully about what they are being promised. The consequences extend beyond the individual who may have spent considerable sums on inappropriate training. If someone then undertakes electrical installation work without the necessary competence, the consequences for customers and the wider public could be extremely serious.” SELECT and SJIB have urged would-be electricians to contact SECTT and also visit the Rogue Trainers campaign run by The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP), which helps identify misleading training offers and understand the industry-approved routes to qualification. “The Rogue Trainers campaign is extremely important because people looking for a new career can understandably be attracted by promises that they can qualify quickly,” adds Miller. “But becoming an electrician isn’t about collecting certificates. It’s about developing genuine occupational competence and being able to demonstrate that you can carry out complex electrical work correctly and, above all, safely. We would urge anyone considering electrical training to investigate exactly what a course will deliver before committing their time and money. The electrical installation apprenticeship remains the safe, recognised and proven route into our profession.”

EIC Support Helps Electrician Re-engage Following Devastating Bereavement

The Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) has highlighted how compassionate, person-centred support helped a self-employed electrician re-engage with counselling after the devastating loss of both of his daughters to suicide. Chris contacted EIC while experiencing profound grief and depression. He had been signed off work and was struggling to cope with day-to-day life, while becoming increasingly isolated from friends, family and support services. Although Chris had sought help from his GP and started taking antidepressant medication, he had also begun experiencing thoughts of ending his own life. Recognising that he needed specialist support, he contacted EIC for help. Following the referral, Chris's Case Manager recognised that his difficulties engaging with support were likely to be a consequence of the severity of his grief and mental health difficulties rather than an unwillingness to accept help. Chris was matched with a specialist therapist, who made immediate contact. However, he found it difficult to respond to calls, voicemails and text messages. Rather than treating this as a refusal of support, his Case Manager continued to check in regularly without applying pressure, allowing Chris to remain in control of how and when he accessed help. As Chris became increasingly withdrawn, his case was eventually closed in accordance with standard procedures. However, communication remained supportive and made clear that the door would remain open if he felt able to reconnect. Just a few days later, Chris contacted EIC again. He explained that he had not deliberately ignored the offers of support but had reached a point where he was spending extended periods in bed, withdrawing from everyday activities and finding communication with others extremely difficult. Chris also recognised that he had been in denial about the severity of his situation and had not been emotionally ready to accept support when it was initially offered. Receiving notification that his case had been closed prompted him to reflect on his circumstances and recognise that his withdrawal was itself an indication that he needed help. Chris asked to reconnect with therapeutic services and his case was immediately reopened. This time, he was able to engage fully with counselling and, over the following weeks, began making progress and developing a greater awareness of his mental health needs. During his sessions, Chris acknowledged that he had reached a point where he could no longer cope alone and that accepting support was an important first step towards recovery. EIC says Chris's experience demonstrates that recovery from profound grief and mental health difficulties is rarely linear and that people may not always be ready to accept support when it is first offered. By maintaining a compassionate approach and ensuring that support remained available, EIC was able to help Chris reconnect when he felt ready to do so. Further information and support are available directly from the Electrical Industries Charity.

Toolstation expands ROKTOR and Minotaur ranges

Toolstation has announced the expansion of its power tool range ROKTOR and hardwearing hand tool collection Minotaur, helping tradespeople and DIYers conquer each and every job at hand this autumn.  The expanded ROKTOR range introduces a brand new collection of 18V cordless power tools featuring combi drills, impact drivers, multi-tools, circular saws and more, with prices starting from £23.99. Customers can also access over 240 power tool accessories as part of the expansion, varying from screwdriver bits, sanding sheets, jigsaw blades and more, starting from £1.09.  Toolstation’s Minotaur supply has also seen the addition of over 100 new hand tools ranging from spirit levels, clamps, screwdrivers, utility knives and more. The expansion of ROKTOR and Minotaur comes at an ideal time for tradespeople whose work schedule will start to ramp up across the coming months. Research from the retailer found that just under half (43%) of tradespeople expect their level of work to increase over autumn and winter, with October to December being the second busiest quarter for emergency call-outs, just behind January to March.  ROKTOR and Minotaur are two of nine own brand ranges supplied by Toolstation alongside Hawksmoor landscaping, Pinnacle painting and decorating accessories, Lockworks ironmongery, Maverick workwear, Flume plumbing and heating, Ebb & Flo kitchen and bathroom accessories, and Wessex electrical and lighting. Beth Priestley, Senior Category Manager for Power Tools, Hand Tools and PTA at Toolstation, comments, “We are delighted to announce the expansion of our ROKTOR and Minotaur ranges, adding to our ever-growing own brand collection. Our role is to help customers conquer each and every job at hand, and the new collections are built to do just that with their robust, high-quality offering to simplify tradespeople’s construction and installation projects.”  Toolstation’s multi-channel service means local customers can order the expanded ranges online at toolstation.com or on the Toolstation App, and Click & Collect from the store within five minutes of ordering. Customers can browse the full ROKTOR and Minotaur ranges online.

Martindale launches electrical learning hub

A dedicated new resources hub on the Martindale website has been introduced to support students and apprentices as they start their journey in the electrical industry.  As an industry leader in the field of safety and test equipment, Martindale has collated a comprehensive library of free essential resources, guides and downloads for electrical students, apprentices and their educators – in one central hub - so that all concerned can easily build knowledge with practical articles and technical guides. Those using the hub can also access links to key industry information all in one place, test their knowledge with quizzes designed to reinforce learning, access free guides, posters and learning resources and upskill with essential safe isolation knowledge and advice.  “Electrical safety is at the heart of everything we do at Martindale and supporting the next generation of electrical professionals is a very important part of that,” explains Steve Dunning, Managing Director of Martindale Electric. “With our recent electrical safety in the workplace revealing 86% of professionals have experienced at least one electrical incident,  it’s imperative that students and apprentices get more safety insights to complement their electrical training, so the new hub provides easily signposted website access to our extensive library of guides, technical articles, posters and safe isolation materials.”