Who's Who - Free electrical estimating software from Electrika

Free to use, free to share, and built for the trade, the electrical estimating software from Electrika is providing electrical contractors with powerful tools to create accurate, professional quotes using real manufacturer pricing. Electrika is the UK's free electrical estimating software platform. Founded in 1992 and providing estimating tools to the trade since 1996, the platform gives contractors access to manufacturer trade prices from Schneider Electric, Hager, Ansell Lighting, MK Electric, and more than 25 other leading brands – at no cost, with no licence fees, and no limits on sharing. What is Electrika? Electrika is professional estimating software designed specifically for electrical contractors. It allows users to build detailed, accurate quotes using real manufacturer trade prices, complete with kits, templates, labour rates, equipment markups, and preliminaries. The output is a professional report that can be sent directly to a client or quantity surveyor. What makes Electrika unique is that it is entirely free. There is no subscription, no per-seat licence, and no restriction on who can access a quote. Contractors can share their work with colleagues, clients, subcontractors, and their wider team – all without anyone needing to purchase software. This model is funded by the manufacturers whose products appear on the platform. They provide their trade price data to Electrika, and in return their products are specified by thousands of contractors across the UK every week. Who uses it? Electrika is trusted by thousands of UK electrical contractors, ranging from sole traders pricing domestic work to mid-sized firms tendering commercial fit-outs up to £1 million. The platform is particularly valued by contractors who need professional-grade estimating but want the flexibility to share quotes openly – something that per-seat licensed software does not allow. One freelance estimator working with more than 20 electrical contractors has completed over 2,200 estimates through Electrika. He builds each quote once, then shares it across his client base, with each contractor applying their own labour rates, overheads, and profit margins. His entire business model depends on the software being free and shareable. Schneider Electric, Electrika's longest-standing manufacturing partner, uses the platform so extensively that it has built a custom version – the Field Quote Tool – for its own internal quoting on buildings projects. What's new? Electrika has recently completed its most significant platform upgrade in over a decade. The new platform delivers a fully mobile-responsive experience, allowing contractors to build, review, and amend quotes on any device – desktop, tablet, or phone – directly in the browser, with no app required. The platform has also undergone a major security upgrade and a complete user interface redesign, while preserving the underlying database and estimating engine that thousands of users already depend on. Existing users will find all their quotes, kits, contacts, and data exactly where they left them. For contractors who are increasingly working from site rather than an office, the ability to pull up a quote on a phone, check a price, or adjust a quantity on the move has become essential. Electrika now delivers that seamlessly. Later in 2026, Electrika will introduce AI-powered product assistants, enabling contractors to search, compare, and specify products using plain language rather than scrolling through catalogue pages. For example, a contractor could ask "What Schneider MCBs are available for a three-phase board?" and receive an accurate, contextual answer drawn directly from the manufacturer’s own technical data. A Pro subscription tier is also in development, offering advanced features such as variation pricing, a business dashboard, and enhanced file management – all at a price point designed for small and medium-sized contractors. Why Electrika? In a market where commercial estimating software can cost thousands of pounds a year, Electrika occupies a unique position: professional enough to win work, yet free and open enough to share with everyone on your team. It complements the tools that larger firms may already use, while giving smaller contractors access to the same quality of output – without the overhead. Visit electrika.com to register for free and to start quoting today. – This Who’s Who feature first appeared in the May 2026 issue of ECN, which is available in its entirety in our archives. For more from Electrika, click here.

Vent-Axia to tackle ventilation installation at InstallerSHOW 2026

Ventilation manufacturer Vent-Axia will offer installers the chance to join its seminar, ‘Raising the standard – why quality ventilation installation matters’, at the InstallerSHOW 2026 at the NEC in Birmingham. Taking place on Thursday, 25 June, from 12.00–12.50 in the InstallerELECTRIC Theatre, the session will be presented by David Cook, Group Technical Product Manager at Vent-Axia, and will cover how to overcome ventilation installation challenges. The seminar is particularly timely following the publication of the Future Homes Standard, the new Approved Document Part F (Means of Ventilation) of the Building Regulations, and Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power), which have increased the focus on ventilation competency. Ensuring ventilation works effectively is essential to avoid issues from damp, mould, and poor indoor air quality, as well as costly reputational damage. During the session, David Cook will explore the practical ventilation challenges installers face on site and how raising installation standards and registering as a competent person can unlock new business opportunities and improve indoor air quality and comfort for households, helping ensure happy customers. Attendees will learn why accredited training and independent verification are vital for helping build customer trust and delivering ventilation systems that perform as intended. The session will also outline how becoming a registered competent installer can benefit both residents and installers’ businesses. A timely session The updated Building Regulations now provide clearer guidance around competency for those installing, commissioning, and testing ventilation systems. Under Part F, there is now guidance that greater care should be taken when installing mechanical ventilation systems and that those carrying out the work should be suitably competent. Ventilation installation work must meet the requirements of the Building Regulations; this must be demonstrated by either self-certification by a registered competent person or certification by a building control body. For ventilation installers, these amendments offer a clear incentive to register with a competent person scheme. David Cook, Group Technical Product Manager at Vent-Axia, says, “Ventilation systems are evolving as homes become more energy efficient and airtight, so it is important installers feel supported with the right knowledge, training, and guidance to help them deliver ventilation that performs effectively. “During the session at the InstallerSHOW, we will be looking at some of the common ventilation installation challenges installers can face on site, alongside practical ways to help ensure systems are installed correctly and perform as intended. "The updated Building Regulations place great emphasis on competency, which creates a real opportunity for installers to demonstrate professionalism, build customer confidence, and differentiate themselves in the market by joining a competent person scheme.” Further training opportunities Vent-Axia has been championing ventilation competency for more than a decade, with the company running a NICEIC Domestic Ventilation Training Course at its Crawley training suite. Demand for the course has risen significantly, initially following COVID and then again with the launch of Awaab’s Law. The latest changes to Part F are set to drive a further uptake in the course. Vent-Axia is already prepared for this growth with a new training facility set to open at its Dudley manufacturing site in the coming months. The two-day course is aimed particularly at experienced electricians, plumbers, ventilation installers, and heating engineers looking to improve their knowledge and understanding of domestic ventilation systems. It covers legal requirements, why ventilation is important, and the different types of ventilation available, alongside information on the updated Building Regulations to help installers understand and comply with the new changes. The course meets the minimum technical competency requirement for installers looking to apply to join a Competent Person Scheme in England and Wales for Domestic Ventilation Systems and is also relevant for installers working in Scotland and Northern Ireland. It has been designed to provide the necessary skills in design, installation, testing, commissioning, handover, servicing, and fault-finding of ventilation systems in accordance with the latest National Occupational Standards (NOS) and Minimum Technical Competency documents (MTC). Show details The InstallerELECTRIC Theatre at InstallerSHOW delivers a practical seminar programme focused on the technologies shaping the future of the electrical installation, with sessions providing real-world technical insight for electricians and multi-skilled installers. InstallerSHOW takes place from 23–25 June 2026 and is the UK’s leading event for installers and specifiers working across heat, water, air, energy, and the built environment sectors. Held annually at the NEC Birmingham, the show combines exhibitors, live demonstrations, and seminars focused on the built environment. Click here to visit the show's website. For further information on all products and services offered by Vent-Axia, telephone +44 (0)344 856 0590 or visit the company's website. For more from Vent-Axia, click here.

Aico highlights its free training courses

Aico, a manufacturer of residential fire and carbon monoxide detection products, is committed to providing comprehensive support at every stage, no matter your role in domestic alarm selection, distribution, or installation. Whether it’s the company's expert technical helpline, dedicated Relationship Managers, or award-winning training programmes for skilled trades professionals, you can count on Aico for reliable guidance and assistance. The company delivers tailored training, development, and technical expertise designed around your needs. From the Expert Installer programme and renowned Centre of Excellence to its Mobile Training & Demonstration Units, Aico is here to help you stay ahead. Its free training courses fill up fast, so secure your place by contacting your local Relationship Manager today. Expert Installer The Expert Installer training scheme is Fire Industry Association CPD accredited. Effective protection relies on having the best alarms correctly installed, so the free Expert Installer training scheme from Aico is designed to make sure Electrical Installers have all the information they need to install domestic fire and carbon monoxide alarm systems. On completion of Expert Installer, the attendee will be invited to Aico’s Installer Community, where they can make discussions, complete challenges, and redeem rewards. CPD Time: One hour Expert Distributor This bespoke course is made specifically for electrical distributors and gives attendees 30 minutes of Fire Industry Association accredited CPD time. It provides an in-depth understanding of industry standards, regulations, and legislation, as well as relevant products and technology. The training is completely free and open to all Electrical Distributor Association members. It provides an overview of legislation and grading, alarms and sensor types, and a detailed look into Aico’s full product range, assisting in promoting best practice within the industry. CPD Time: 30 minutes Expert Apprentice CPD certified by the Fire Industry Association, this presentation equips apprentices with the foundational knowledge of domestic fire detection that is required before advancing to the full training course, Expert Installer. CPD Time: 30 minutes Expert Carbon Monoxide CPD certified by the Fire Industry Association, this presentation covers everything you need to know about the detection of carbon monoxide (CO), covering the following: legislation and standards, building regulations, alarm siting, alarm interconnection, CO detection, CO alarm types, sound and control, and maintenance. CPD Time: 30 minutes City & Guilds Assured: Domestic Fire and CO Alarm Systems The City & Guilds Assured training course focuses on Domestic Fire and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Systems, delivering a comprehensive, full-day learning experience. Designed to build confidence and expertise, this course provides in-depth knowledge of system design, installation, maintenance, interconnection and correct siting of alarm systems in domestic dwellings - equipping you with the skills needed to ensure compliant and effective Fire and Carbon Monoxide detection. Full day course To book in for any of these courses, contact your local Relationship Manager by clicking here. For more from Aico, click here.

Click Mode - the number one wiring accessory range

Since it was first launched back in 2006, Scolmore’s Click Mode range has remained the company’s best-selling wiring accessories collection to date. Mode was conceived and developed as a high-quality, flexible, and modern solution for virtually any domestic wiring requirement. The smooth, contemporary lines of the accessory plate will fit easily into traditional and contemporary designs alike, and the modular design allows installers unprecedented flexibility in creating dedicated wiring solutions. Flexibility for installers When selecting wiring accessories, installers have often had to compromise their schemes as they have been unable to identify a suitably modular solution to satisfy their ideas. Mode accessories have been providing that flexibility, with a comprehensive selection of products ranging from the humble light switch and socket outlet through to more specialised products dealing with the very latest developments in telephone and satellite products. All Click Mode switch plates are modular as standard, allowing the creation of virtually any switch plate required. The MiniGrid modules are also all easily and quickly exchanged or mounted onto unfurnished plates by means of a simple single screw fixing. All Mode products are manufactured using Urea Formaldehyde, which has similar inherent properties to antimicrobial additives that inhibit the growth of infectious diseases. All products independently tested achieved a 99.99% kill-off rate across all four types of the strains of bacteria - MRSA, E-Coli, Salmonella, Klebsiella Pneumonia, and enveloped viruses. Mode plates have also been independently tested and have shown to have anti-viral properties against enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. The full range of Click Mode wiring accessories is available to view on the Scolmore Group website, as well as on the Scolmore Group app. For more from Click Scolmore, click here.

Ansell Lighting supports St. Rocco’s hospice project

Lighting manufacturer Ansell Lighting has installed a feature lighting wall at St. Rocco’s Hospice in Warrington as part of its ongoing support for the organisation. The installation forms part of a new relaxation room designed for patients and visitors using the hospice’s services. Ansell Lighting previously supported St. Rocco’s as its charity of the year during 2025, raising more than £1,200. The company designed and installed the lighting feature using its LED Cell strip lighting range. The system includes remote-controlled lighting effects intended to allow colours and scenes to be adjusted depending on patient requirements. The relaxation room also includes recliner chairs, salt lamps, blackout blinds, music facilities, and soft furnishings. The hospice explains that the space is used for therapies including reflexology, massage sessions, group therapy, and relaxation classes. Lighting installation designed for a calming environment Gemma Sheerin, Marketing and Communications Manager at St. Rocco’s Hospice, says, “The lighting feature wall has brought another dimension to our relaxation room. "Using the lights, we are able to provide a calm and soothing environment for our patients. The lights help to induce a feeling of relaxation for our patients as soon as they enter the room. "During treatments, the lights are also a gentle distraction to help calm the mind as the therapy soothes the body.” Sarah Ankers, HR Director at Ansell Lighting, comments, “I’m incredibly proud of the way our colleagues and the wider business have come together to support St. Rocco’s. "The generosity, energy, and commitment everyone has shown truly reflects who we are as an organisation. “St. Rocco’s does truly incredible work, providing compassionate care and vital support to patients, and those important to them, during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Being able to contribute to that mission is something we value deeply. “One of the standout moments this year has been the beautiful lighting scheme our team designed, using our products to enhance the therapy room. "This has helped create a warm, calming space that supports the wellbeing of those who use it, and it’s a wonderful example of how sharing our skills and creativity can make a meaningful difference.” For more from Ansell Lighting, click here.

Announcing the Headline Sponsor for the 2026 ECN Awards

ECN is excited to announce CEF as the Headline Sponsor of the 2026 ECN Awards, taking place 3 December at the Heart of England Conference & Events Centre in Coventry. As the UK’s leading multi-channel electrical distributor, CEF works closely with contractors, installers, consultants, and supplier partners every day, so the retailer understands both the opportunities and challenges facing the sector. From decarbonisation targets and energy efficiency to skills development and supply-chain pressures, the industry is evolving quickly, and collaboration has never been more important. The ECN Awards provide an important platform to recognise businesses, projects, and products that are delivering meaningful environmental and social impact, while also raising standards across the industry. That’s something CEF is proud to endorse through its Headline Sponsorship, along with its additional support for the Sustainable Project of the Year and Sustainable Product of the Year awards. Over the past year, CEF has expanded availability of products that support the low-carbon economy and energy transition across its branches and online. The electrical wholesaler has also strengthened installer support through its TechTalks, product training and closer supplier engagement via its EcoVadis programme. Sponsoring these awards reflects CEF's commitment to helping customers access the products, knowledge and support they need to deliver successful, sustainable future-focused projects. It also gives CEF the opportunity to celebrate the people and businesses making a positive difference across the industry every day. For more from CEF, click here.

BG launches B + Heat Pump circuit protection range

With heat pumps becoming more common in UK homes, installers require circuit protection solutions that will match these operational characteristics. The new BG B + Heat Pump range provides the correct protection without the risk of nuisance tripping. The range includes dedicated Type B + Heat Pump RCDs and populated consumer units for handling AC, DC, pulsed DC, and high-frequency currents over 20kHz. A minimum surge trip threshold of 150mA for frequency operation >1kHz makes these the ideal choice for all heat pump brands. Standalone B + Heat Pump RCDs are two-module size and compatible with all BG consumer units. Populated enclosures prebuilt with overcurrent and surge devices provide a convenient solution for fast installations. The offering also comes backed by a 10-year warranty and UK technical support. For more from BG, click here.

NAPIT announces leadership succession as Frank Bertie retires

NAPIT has announced that Frank Bertie will retire as Managing Director at the end of June 2026 when Stephen Melton will be appointed to the role. During his time at NAPIT, Frank served as Managing Director for two years, following over 30 years as Technical Director. Frank will continue his long and proud relationship with NAPIT and still share his extensive technical knowledge supporting the organisation in a consultative role. Following Frank’s retirement, Stephen Melton, currently Commercial and Compliance Director, will become Managing Director, bringing a strong track record of leadership and having overseen rapid growth since joining NAPIT in 2019. Stephen is excited to build on this and continue driving standards with key industry stakeholders. Brett Forster, currently Head of Training, is also being promoted to Technical and Commercial Director. With more than 25 years’ industry experience and having joined NAPIT in 2021, Brett brings a strong understanding of the organisation’s commitment to quality, training, and customer experience. The new appointments will help shape the next chapter for NAPIT and demonstrate continued commitment to providing expert technical support and guidance to its growing membership and raising and promoting industry standards at a crucial time for electricians and installers. For more from NAPIT, click here.

Safer installations with Elucian’s Type B HP Bi-Directional RCCB

Click Scolmore has announced the launch of the Elucian Type B Heat Pump (HP) Bi-Directional RCCB, a high-specification protective device designed to protect people and equipment by disconnecting the power supply when excess leakage current to earth is detected. The new Elucian Type B HP RCCB builds on the capabilities of a standard Type B device by delivering enhanced sensitivity at higher frequencies. While a conventional Type B RCCB detects pure direct current from 0Hz upwards and alternating current leakage up to 1kHz, the Type B HP extends detection capability to 20kHz. This significantly broader detection range provides reliable protection in installations where high-frequency leakage currents are present. Enhancing Elucian’s growing circuit protection portfolio offerings, this advanced RCCB helps prevent electric shock and potential fire hazards, making it suitable for advanced residual current protection for modern high-performance electrical installations. Designed to detect high-frequency and DC leakage currents that standard RCCBs might miss, the new Type B HP provides reliable protection for these increasingly complex circuits. Key features of the Type B HP Bi-Directional RCCB include: • Detects leakage up to 20kHz • True DC detection from 0Hz • Designed for inverter-driven loads • Minimum tripping threshold of 150mA for frequencies above 1kHz The Elucian Type B RCCB is suitable for use across a wide range of applications, including EV charging installations, HVAC systems, lifts, pumps and heat pumps, and CNC machinery. It is also fully compatible with Elucian consumer units and Three Phase Boards, ensuring seamless integration within the Elucian range. For more information, visit the Elucian website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Elucian, click here.

Marshall-Tufflex launches ‘Ultimate Guide to Cable Management’ catalogue

Marshall-Tufflex has launched its newly updated Ultimate Guide to Cable Management catalogue, bringing together the company’s widest cable management offering in one comprehensive reference guide. The catalogue includes the addition of the Basor range of metal cable management solutions alongside Marshall-Tufflex's established PVC-U trunking and conduit, GRP ladder and tray, underfloor to desk solutions, and PowerPoles and Posts. Together with detailed product information, the catalogue also includes recycled content data and sustainability guidance to support environmentally responsible specification decisions. The inclusion of the Basor metal cable management products gives customers access to an even wider selection of high-quality solutions including metal cable tray, metal cable ladder, and metal trunking solutions. Commenting on the launch, Ronnie Ford, Marketing Services Manager, says, “The new catalogue demonstrates the full strength of the Marshall-Tufflex offering by bringing together our PVC-U, metal, GRP, and underfloor solutions into one comprehensive guide. We’re making it easier than ever for customers to specify and source their cable management systems from a single trusted partner.” Scan the QR code or visit www.marshall-tufflex.com/newcatalogue to see the catalogue and to order a copy. For more from Marshall-Tufflex, click here.