Makita launches XGT battery promotion

Makita, a manufacturer of power tools and outdoor equipment, has announced a limited-time redemption offer across its XGT cordless range. From 1 March to 30 September 2026, customers who spend at least £390 excluding VAT on qualifying XGT products can claim a free BL4040F battery. The promotion applies to selected machines, batteries, chargers, torches, and power source kits purchased through authorised dealers. The XGT range operates on a 40VMax battery platform, with some tools able to use two batteries to deliver up to 80VMax output. Offer details and eligibility The BL4040F battery included in the promotion is rated at 4.0Ah and features tabless cell technology, an integrated charge indicator, and an average charging time of 45 minutes. Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK, says, “The new XGT redemption promotion allows customers to claim a new battery when purchasing selected XGT tools, helping them to get even more value from every purchase. "Receiving a free BL4040F battery offers customers longer runtime and real cost savings, as well as fundamentally improving productivity.” To qualify, purchases must total £390 excluding VAT on a single invoice and be registered online within 28 days. Claims are validated before the battery is dispatched, and multi-platform models are excluded from the offer. For more from Makita, click here.

FireAngel launches fully insured fire alarm design service

FireAngel, a UK manufacturer of smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide alarms, is transforming fire safety for the trade, saying it is offering the UK’s first fully insured, fully compliant Design and Specification Service to help electrical contractors, installers, and project planners deliver projects efficiently, safely, and with complete confidence. Compliance you can trust Launched in September 2025 and provided in partnership with Rely on Fire Check (RoFC), the Design Service is certified under the BAFE DS301 third-party scheme and fully aligned with BS 5839-6 and current Building Regulations. Every Grade D design request received is fully insured and fully compliant, giving contractors peace of mind that systems are professionally specified and certified. Fast, simple, fully documented Contractors submit requests for free via FireAngel’s online portal and select their preferred Approved Stockist. RoFC then delivers a complete Grade D design pack, including: • System overview and operational details • Wiring schematics and layout drawings • Schedule of variations (where applicable) • BS 5839-6 Grade D Design Certificate • BAFE DS301 Modular Design Certificate This reduces design admin, saves time, and ensures every project is compliant. Wholesalers also benefit from itemised equipment lists, simplifying quotes and approvals. Supporting contractors even further: Pro Installer Network FireAngel has taken support a step further with its Pro Installer Network, giving contractors access to exclusive perks, CPD training, technical support, customer referrals, and project opportunities. Members enjoy full access to the free, fully insured Design Service providing bespoke designs and certification for every project. The network also offers clear progression, from ‘Registered Pro Installer’ to elite ‘Pro Installer Approved’, giving installers recognition, credibility, and tools to grow their business. Priority training, compliance updates, and previews of new products ensure members stay ahead in the sector. Nick Atkinson, National Account Manager at FireAngel, says, "Our Pro Installer Network and fully insured Design Service give electrical contractors the confidence, resources, and recognition they deserve. "It’s all about helping professionals deliver compliant, safe fire alarm systems efficiently while supporting growth across the sector." Whether working on new builds, retrofits, or residential projects, FireAngel’s Design Service and Pro Installer Network save time, reduce risk, and ensure every system is compliant. Find out more or submit your design requests by clicking here to visit the website. For more from FireAngel, click here.

Who's Who - Rolec: EV charging infrastructure installers can rely on

ROLEC has become one of the UK’s most established manufacturers of EV charging solutions, supporting installers while meeting the demands of today’s rapidly evolving market. ECN explores the company’s extensive capabilities and how installers and end users can benefit. EV charging for today’s installations Rising EV adoption, increasing power demands, and the need for scalable infrastructure create new challenges for both domestic and commercial installations. ROLEC offers a comprehensive portfolio of AC fast and DC rapid charging solutions designed for a wide range of applications. Whether for residential driveways, workplace car parks, fleet depots, or destinations, ROLEC’s range is designed to outperform competitors in ease of installation, reliability, and flexibility for any project. With products suited to single installations and multi-site rollouts, ROLEC supports you from start to finish, working across new builds, retrofits, and large-scale deployments. Expertise that educates Central to ROLEC’S approach is knowledge transfer. By investing in the training of both current and future electrical contractors, ROLEC helps ensure best practice across the entire project lifecycle. Purpose-built training academies, along with comprehensive free CPD-accredited courses, enable installation partners to deploy EV infrastructure efficiently and at scale. This commitment to collaboration and capability-building reflects ROLEC’s long-term view of industry growth – one built on competence, consistency, and confidence. Design, compliance, and safety Every ROLEC charger is designed and manufactured to meet relevant UK Government legislation and building regulations, giving installers complete confidence. Compliance and reliability are built into the hardware, with rigorous testing ensuring long-term performance in demanding environments. Engineered using high-quality materials and robust enclosures suitable for outdoor, high-usage locations, ROLEC chargers deliver long-service operation for both installers and end users. Installer-friendly features By listening to installers on the ground, ROLEC shapes product development around real-world needs, ensuring chargers are practical for you to fit and maintain on site. With technical support, step-by-step documentation, and aftersales care, the company goes beyond being a supplier to become a long-term partner. Features such as flexible cable entry points, clear internal layouts, robust mounting systems, and intuitive commissioning reduce installation time and complexity. Modular designs support efficient multi-charger setups, making ROLEC a trusted choice for larger projects where speed and precision matter. These practical details may seem small, but together they help you work smarter, reduce call-backs, and deliver a premium finish each time. True OCPP compliance ROLEC recognises the growing need for scalability, connectivity, and adaptability. Its chargers come with true native OCPP as standard, designed to integrate with any software across more than 45 CPMS platforms, facilitating smooth onboarding to your customer's chosen provider. Unlike many hardware solutions that rely on cloud-to-cloud connections, ROLEC chargers communicate directly with the platform, eliminating extra layers that can cause outages. This ensures faster, more reliable communication and reduces the risk of downtime for charging networks. Loyalty rewards At ROLEC, great work deserves recognition. The EVO Loyalty Incentive rewards installers for every 15 EVO chargers installed with a free EVO worth £449, making ROLEC not only the easiest to install but also the most rewarding for contractors in the UK market. The scheme has been created to celebrate the rapid success of the EVO while rewarding the contractors behind it. Projects will be automatically tracked via the RolecConnect app during configuration, ensuring a seamless process, and ROLEC sends your free EVO straight to you. With EVO, the benefits don’t stop at rewards. Work faster, powering through jobs with ease, you can install and configure units in under 10 minutes. This is a fantastic opportunity for ROLEC’s installer network to not only deliver the latest in EV charging technology but also be recognised for their ongoing work. Powering the future together ROLEC continues to place education and installer confidence at the centre of its growth strategy. With UK manufacturing expertise, a versatile product range, and a focus on practical installation needs, ROLEC is driving the next phase of EV infrastructure rollout, offering installers best in class. From single home chargers to large-scale commercial and fleet installations, ROLEC delivers solutions that you can trust, operators rely on, and future networks require. For more from ROLEC, click here.

Rointe EONIQ: The next step in smart electric heating

Delivering adaptive efficiency, flexible aesthetics, and installer-friendly control As electrical professionals continue to seek heating solutions that balance compliance, efficiency, and user comfort, smart electric radiators have become a core part of modern refurbishment and new-build specifications. Rointe’s new EONIQ WiFi radiator has been designed with this market reality in mind: a next-generation heating device built for superior energy management, flexible installation, and seamless digital control. Smart Adaptive Inverter Technology: Efficiency that learns A defining feature of EONIQ is its Inverter Smart Adaptive Technology, an advanced control system engineered to help reduce energy consumption without compromising comfort. Unlike static on/off thermostatic control, this technology: • Analyses heat demand based on room behaviour and usage patterns • Modulates power intelligently, increasing or decreasing energy input to maintain temperature more efficiently • Minimises temperature swings and unnecessary on/off cycles, ensuring more consistent and stable heat output • Optimises consumption automatically, even when user interaction is minimal With energy regulations pushing for smarter, more efficient electric heating, adaptive control is rapidly becoming the market standard. EONIQ meets this demand with a system that installers can trust to deliver predictable performance and lower running costs for end users. Five premium finishes and three power ratings Alongside its internal technology, EONIQ recognises the growing design expectations in residential and commercial spaces. Installers can specify the radiator in five contemporary finishes - White RAL 9016, Black RAL 9005, Oyster White, Pearl Beige, and Dark Grey - allowing the product to blend into modern interiors or make a visual statement. The range is available in three power ratings (600 W, 1,200 W, and 1,800 W), giving installers flexibility when matching heat output to room size, building insulation level, or project design constraints. A slimline form factor ensures easy wall mounting and placement in compact environments. Seamless control with the Rointe Nexa app The EONIQ radiator is fully compatible with the Rointe Nexa app, offering WiFi Direct connectivity without the need for separate gateways or hubs. For installers, this means: • Faster commissioning • Fewer additional components to configure • Reduced installation complexity on multi-room projects For end users, the app provides: • Remote temperature control and scheduling • Real-time consumption information • Geolocation-based automation • Energy-saving modes (including Eco, Anti-Frost, Open Window detection, Limited mode, Night mode, Vacation mode, smart programming, early start, panel lock, and consumption indicator) In multi-property management - such as landlords, facility managers, or short-term lets - Nexa becomes a powerful tool for centralised monitoring, ensuring comfort while preventing unnecessary energy use. Built for durability and consistency Behind the modern aesthetic is a robust manufacturing process centred on quality and longevity. EONIQ uses: • 100% recycled aluminium heating elements for rapid, even heat distribution • High-density thermal fluid that maintains stable temperature for longer periods • Advanced surface coatings resistant to daily wear, cleaning, and UV exposure Each unit is tested individually during production to ensure thermal accuracy, structural integrity, and electronic reliability before reaching the installer. Installer-focused design The product has been engineered with the installer experience in mind: • Silent operation and no moving parts reduce maintenance requirements • Simple wall-mount system with clear templates for fast fitting • Integrated WiFi means no additional wiring or network gateways • Lot 20-compliant for regulatory peace of mind The radiator’s smart temperature control reduces user manual adjustments, lowering the number of callbacks typically associated with poorly set schedules or incorrect thermostat use. Mythbusting: Common misconceptions about electric radiators “More watts mean faster heating.” Not necessarily. EONIQ demonstrates that heat distribution and adaptive control play a larger role in perceived comfort than raw wattage alone. “Smart radiators require complex networking.” EONIQ uses WiFi Direct, making setup as simple as pairing a smartphone - no bridges, extenders, or additional kits needed. “Electric radiators are difficult to control in multi-room properties.” With Nexa’s multi-zone structure, installers can create a centralised system that is intuitive for owners and managers to oversee. Supporting emerging trends in the electrical heating landscape The shift towards electrification, tighter energy standards, and smarter home control is reshaping the heating market. EONIQ aligns with key industry trends: • Electrification of heat to support decarbonisation targets • Increased regulatory scrutiny under Lot 20 and Ecodesign • User demand for connected, app-driven heating control • Premium interior design requirements in modern refurbishments By combining adaptive efficiency, modern aesthetics, and streamlined installation, EONIQ positions itself as a forward-looking solution for electricians specifying next-generation heating systems. For more from Rointe, click here.

Knightsbridge adds black to its metal clad range

Knightsbridge, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of wiring accessories and lighting, has expanded its core metal clad range with a powder coat textured black finish. Designed to meet the practical demands of installers while satisfying the aesthetic expectations of lighting designers and architects, the new finish combines durability with a contemporary design aesthetic. The black finish seamlessly integrates into the existing metal clad core range, ensuring compatibility and continuity, and allowing designers and specifiers to maintain design cues across existing and new installations. The textured matte black surface has a sophisticated, tactile quality that enhances traditional metal clad accessories, making them suitable for design-conscious residential, commercial, and hospitality environments. Matte black metal rockers and co-ordinated black inserts ensure a consistent, understated appearance while allowing accessories to be incorporated into modern interiors without compromising robustness. Benefits for installers For installers, the expanded range builds on the proven performance of the existing metal clad core portfolio. All products are manufactured from SPCC steel, supplied complete with back boxes where applicable. Features such as twin earth terminals, double pole switching options, neon indicators, and pre-fitted fuses support straightforward fitting across a wide variety of applications. A comprehensive 25-year warranty further reinforces long-term confidence in the products. For more information on the black metal clad rockers range, click here to visit Knightsbridge's website or contact 01582 887760. For more from Knightsbridge, click here.

New electrician training routes introduced in Southeast

Training provider Logic4training has introduced new training pathways aimed at people entering the electrical trade without prior experience. The courses are intended to help address a national shortage of electricians. Analysis from the Electrical Contractors Association indicates apprenticeship starts have fallen by 5.5% across the UK, rising to 8% in Greater London and surrounding areas. Training is delivered at centres in Northolt, Luton, Basildon, and Sittingbourne. Candidates complete practical workshop training and industry qualifications, with the option to progress to an NVQ and apply for an ECS Gold Card once workplace evidence is achieved. Qualification stages and progression The training programmes include: • Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations, covering core electrical science, safe working, and installation basics • Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations, covering inspection, testing, and fault finding • Level 3 NVQ in Electrical Installation and Maintenance, enabling qualification as an electrician After qualification, learners can add courses in solar PV, battery storage, and electric vehicle charge point installation. The provider states training can be structured around work commitments and may support career changers or existing tradespeople seeking additional skills. For more from Logic4training, click here.

Shocking Energy launches AI RAMS platform

Shocking Energy, a UK provider of field service software and compliance automation for renewable energy installers, has launched an AI-based RAMS (Risk Assessments and Method Statements) platform designed to automate risk assessments and method statements for electrical contractors. The system is intended to help contractors keep safety documentation aligned with changing site conditions and regulations, while reducing the time required to produce compliant records. Site data is captured once and reused across projects, allowing teams to standardise documentation without recreating it for repeat work. The platform generates structured drafts for review and produces controlled PDF packs for handover and compliance purposes. Automation and compliance tracking The software includes templates, reusable hazard libraries, version control, and approval tracking to record what has changed and which documents are active onsite. It supports multiple sectors including power, water, drainage, telecoms, highways, and civil engineering. Mobile data capture enables updates from site so documentation reflects current working conditions. Kevin Bird, CEO of Shocking Energy, says, “As regulations continue to change, keeping safety documentation accurate and compliant has become more demanding than ever. "Our platform uses AI to remove that pressure. By capturing site data once and automatically generating structured, controlled documents, teams can stay aligned with current standards, speed up approvals, and remain audit-ready without being buried in paperwork. "Because updates happen in real time from the field, the documentation always reflects what’s actually happening on site - not an outdated version saved in a folder.”

Ansell Lighting launches Reveal undercabinet range

Ansell Lighting, a designer and manufacturer of luminaires, has introduced Reveal, a new undercabinet lighting range designed for kitchens, wardrobes, and similar applications. The collection comprises five luminaires with plug-and-play installation and a four-way splitter that can power up to four fittings from a 12V system. Five luminaires for residential use The range includes: • Reveal L – an L-shaped undercabinet light in a polished silver finish with touch-free wave control • Reveal R – a circular 120mm luminaire available in black or silver • Reveal P – an undercabinet light with touch-free wave sensor and integrated USB-C and USB-A charging ports, available in silver or black • Reveal H – a baton-style luminaire in silver, available in 450mm, 600mm, and 900mm lengths, with a dimmable option • Reveal T – a triangular luminaire with touch-free wave sensor and dimmable option, available in silver or black The Reveal L also features an additional push switch and is CCT selectable between 2900K and 6500K, while the Reveal P, R, and T are supplied as kits including three lights, a driver, and a four-way splitter. Mark Abott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting, says, “Undercabinet lighting is always in demand due to its versatility and functionality. "We believe the Reveal range is the complete package - functional, installer-aware, and reliable - while meeting illumination requirements and with a design to meet every residential application.” For more from Ansell Lighting, click here.

Lombard Shipping installs SolarEdge ecosystem

Lombard Shipping, a domestic and international logistics provider, plans to cut electricity costs by around 50% at its Ipswich logistics hub after installing a combined solar, battery storage, and EV charging setup. The site, near the Port of Felixstowe, is the company’s headquarters and largest of five locations. The project follows the introduction of two electric HGVs, which increased onsite energy demand. The SolarEdge installation, from the provider of smart energy technology, is expected to generate about 118MWh of electricity annually. Lombard Shipping estimates savings of around £1 million over 20 years, with a payback period of roughly 5.3 years. Peter Fraser, Director at Lombard Shipping, says, “Rising energy demand across our operations made it essential for us to take a more strategic approach to managing our power use. "With our EV chargers alone consuming around 7MWh of electricity each month, we needed a solution that could maximise clean energy generation on site and ensure it is used as efficiently as possible - and this system delivers exactly that.” Integrated onsite energy management Installer Insight Energy deployed rooftop solar panels, battery storage, and six EV chargers managed through a single control platform coordinating generation, storage, and charging. The system allows approximately 83% of generated solar electricity to be used onsite. Excess energy can be stored in the battery or used to charge fleet vehicles depending on schedules, solar forecasts, and electricity pricing. Kristian Day, Managing Director at Insight Energy, says, “By leveraging SolarEdge’s unified technology platform, we have delivered a smart, scalable clean energy solution that enables Lombard Shipping to use almost all of the energy generated on site, which is a key factor in achieving a rapid return on investment.” For more from SolarEdge, click here.

Employment Minister visits JTL Hull to meet apprentices

Dame Diana Johnson, Minister for Employment and MP for Kingston upon Hull North and Cottingham, visited training provider JTL’s training centre in Hull to mark National Apprenticeship Week and meet apprentices and local employers to discuss how the Government can strengthen apprenticeship opportunities across the region. Established over 30 years ago by the Electrical Contractors’ Association and Unite the Union, JTL is a not-for-profit Independent Training Provider delivering Level 3 electrical and plumbing apprenticeships across England and Wales. Working with thousands of employers and training thousands of learners at any one time, JTL reportedly trains more apprentices in the building services engineering sector than any other provider. The Hull training centre plays an important role for JTL in supporting skills development across the Humber region, helping to address local skills shortages while contributing to wider national priorities, including housebuilding and clean energy ambitions. Tour details During her visit, the Minister toured the centre’s training facilities and met with electrical and plumbing apprentices to hear about their experiences. Accompanied by JTL’s Chief Executive, Chris Claydon; Director of Finance and Corporate Services, Gillian Day; the North East Head of Delivery, Roosevelt Alexander; and others in the operations team, she spoke with learners about their routes into the sector. The Employment Minister then sat down with a group of 11 local electrical and plumbing employers - the majority SMEs - to hear first hand their business priorities and the challenges they face both in the current economic climate and with the skills system. Employers raised particular challenges around the rising cost of employment and how to improve apprenticeship completion rates. The importance of promoting apprenticeships in schools was also highlighted, with attendees noting the need to ensure technical routes are given equal recognition and visibility. Comments Following her visit, Dame Diana Johnson MP said, “It was a real pleasure to visit JTL Hull and meet apprentices and employers from across the region. "Apprenticeships offer a strong route into skilled, secure jobs and are vital to building the workforce our economy needs. “It was particularly valuable to hear directly from apprentices about their experiences, and from employers about both the opportunities and the challenges they face. Conversations like these are essential as we continue working to ensure the employment system supports businesses and creates genuine opportunities for young people.” Chris Claydon, Chief Executive of JTL, adds, “We were delighted to welcome Dame Diana Johnson to our Hull training centre and to facilitate constructive discussions with apprentices and employers from across the region. “High-quality apprenticeships are essential to meeting the UK’s infrastructure, housing, and net zero ambitions. However, to boost starts and improve completion rates, we must continue to remove barriers for [employers], particularly small and micro businesses, and ensure apprenticeships are promoted as a first-choice route for young people. “We appreciate the Minister taking the time to listen to the experiences of both apprentices and employers and look forward to continuing to work together to strengthen the skills pipeline.” For more from JTL, click here.