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.

Click Scolmore introduces new Twin Type C USB Socket Outlets

Click Scolmore, one of UK’s leading manufacturers of wiring accessories for the professional electrical industry, has announced the launch of its latest innovation: 13A 1 and 2 Gang Safety Shutter Socket Outlets featuring twin USB Type-C Power Delivery (PD) fast-charge ports. Designed to meet the demands of today’s connected environments, the new socket outlets combine reliable 13A power with advanced USB-C PD technology, allowing fast and efficient charging of modern devices - such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops - without the need for additional adapters. With USB-C now the global standard for power delivery, Click Scolmore has fully integrated USB-PD fast-charging technology into its socket outlets, offering contractors and installers a future-proof solution that delivers performance, safety, and convenience in one product. Safety and compliance remain central to the Click Scolmore product philosophy. Both the 1 Gang and 2 Gang variants incorporate integral safety shutters to help prevent accidental contact with live components, making them suitable for residential and commercial installations. The sockets are fully compliant with relevant UK standards and reflect Click Scolmore’s commitment to quality, durability, and installer confidence. Benefits of USB-C power delivery USB Power Delivery (PD) is an advanced fast-charging technology, supporting devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets. USB-PD can charge smartphones/tablets up to 70% faster than a standard USB charger that only offers 5 watts of power. The USB-C PD specification is universally adopted, making it easy for users to connect a wide range of devices without worrying about compatibility. Key features and benefits include: • PD20W - fast-charging 20W USB Power Delivery • 3A independent charging per port • 4.2A Shared Output - an intelligent chip that adjusts output based on connected device load • Twin Type C Ports - two ports, ideal for the increasing the number of devices using the USB-C interface • Three Pin Safety Shutters - standard safety shutters for enhanced protection • Easy retro fit - easily replaces any standard or USB socket without the need for a deeper back box The new Twin Type C USB Sockets are available across Click Scolmore’s extensive wiring accessory portfolio, including Deco, Deco Plus, Define, Definity, Mode, Part M, Polar, Metal Clad, and Metal Clad Pro, ensuring a consistent solution for every installation style and environment. For more information, visit Click Scolmore’s website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Click Scolmore, click here.

UK Power Networks adds heat pumps to flexibility market

Distribution network operator UK Power Networks’ Distribution System Operator (DNO) has integrated heat pumps into its Localflex flexibility trading platform, allowing households to support electricity grid balancing. More than 6,000 heat pumps are now connected across London, the East, and the South East. The systems can respond to grid signals, enabling homes to pre-heat when renewable electricity is plentiful and reduce consumption during peak demand. The company has simplified payment rules and reduced registration approval times to one day. It also aligns services with National Energy System Operator timelines so participants can support both local and national balancing. Heat networks trialled in flexibility project In addition, UK Power Networks is testing heat network participation through its 'Heatropolis' project. The four-year trial covers three network types, with King’s Cross used as a benchmark site, and examines how heat and electricity networks can operate together. The project aims to show how flexibility services can reduce costs and relieve grid pressure as more homes move to electric heating. Alex Howard, Head of Flexibility Markets at UK Power Networks, says, “Flexibility from heat pumps, storage heaters, and heat networks will be vital as the UK transitions to clean, affordable energy. "We’re working on making it easier for households and flexibility providers to get involved - cutting wait times, automating payments, and making it easier to participate in both local and national services without any hassle. "This is all about making heating smarter, simpler, and more sustainable. With heat pumps joining EVs and batteries in providing flexibility, we are driving innovation in clean energy, helping to build a more resilient and sustainable energy system for the future.” TJ Root, Heat Flexibility Manager at Octopus Energy, says, “UK Power Networks’ innovation will help unlock the huge potential of flexible heating. "Without lifting a finger, people will be able to save money, stay warm, and help make Britain’s energy greener by using heat pumps smartly.” For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

Circular Lighting Live 2026 programme announced

Recolight, a UK not-for-profit compliance scheme for lighting waste recycling and sustainability, has announced the programme for Circular Lighting Live 2026, a one-day conference focused on circular economy principles in the lighting sector. The event will take place on 8 October 2026 at the Minster Building in the City of London and will include a conference, exhibition, and the Build Back Better Awards 2026 presentation ceremony. The central theme, 'Vision 2040: Restructuring the lighting sector', will explore alternatives to traditional product lifecycles and examine long-term approaches to low carbon lighting design. Sessions focused on circular design Delegates can choose from six sessions covering reuse, environmental product declarations, materials, fit-outs, product innovation, and sustainable project design: • Real world reuse — practical case studies on large-scale luminaire reuse • EPDs on trial — examining the role of Environmental Product Declarations • Materials masterclass — materials and supply chain considerations • Confronting Cat A — alternatives to standard fit-outs • Future lights — sustainable luminaire technologies • Disruptive design — case studies of recent lighting schemes The conference is free to attend for specifiers, including lighting designers, consulting engineers, end users, and architects. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more from Recolight, click here.

ESP offers reliable fire detection with Espire heat alarms

Security products supplier ESP is setting high standards in specialist fire detection with its Espire Heat Alarm range. Designed for kitchens, garages, and dusty environments, these provide essential protection where traditional smoke alarms may be prone to false triggering. These alarms utilise a thermistor, which acts as a heat sensor, capable of detecting temperature fluctuations. The Espire Heat Alarm activates at 58°C and offers optimal performance in spaces where smoke or particles from cooking or work machinery might interfere with optical detection. A compact and contemporary design with a secure lock-in base ensures a streamlined installation and tamper protection. Product features Key features across the range include auto sensor testing, a 24-hour memory function, and RF-link compatibility for wireless alarm integration. Installers can choose from three power options to suit varying project requirements: • Powered by mains with a sealed, tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery • Powered by mains with 9v replaceable battery • Powered by a sealed, tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery The Espire Heat Alarms are to be installed in accordance with BS 5839-6. All models are tested to BS 5446-2 and certified by LPCB (mains powered options) and TUV (battery option) for safety assurance. In keeping with the Scolmore Group’s sustainability goals, ESP has also committed to recyclable packaging and low-energy designs throughout the Espire collection. More information can be found on the Espire website and the Scolmore Group app. For more from ESP, click here.

Who's Who - Future-proof your business with City Plumbing

City Plumbing, one of the most prominent and highly-regarded suppliers in the UK, is offering a one-stop solution for the electrified trades. Here, ECN looks at ElecStore, its dedicated brand for electricals, and explains why the supplier should be considered a trusted electrical partner. The market is changing. Are you? The drive towards net zero is fundamentally reshaping the trade industry. Plumbers, heating engineers, and electricians are increasingly required to work across disciplines to meet the growing demand for technologies like heat pumps, solar PV, and EV charging. Recent research* shows installers spend over three hours a week just sourcing products. That’s nearly 10% of a working week, or over £150 in potentially chargeable time, lost to shopping around. City Plumbing has evolved to meet this challenge by fully bridging the gap between plumbing, heating, and electrical supply, providing a simple, one-stop solution for increasingly integrated projects. Introducing ElecStore: Your electrical trade partner To support this shift, City Plumbing has launched ElecStore – its dedicated brand for electricals – putting the power and expertise you need right where you work: More than 14,000 products: A comprehensive range of electrical products, supporting projects no matter the size and including all the brands you trust. Nationwide expertise: Available across City Plumbing’s branches (over 350 in total), with in-brand expert advice. Dedicated support: City Plumbing has established 30 dedicated ElecStore electrical trade counters, each supported by an experienced electrical manager to give you in-depth product guidance. “Increasingly, tradespeople are offering a wider range of services, especially as low-carbon technologies like heat pumps and electrical heating, such as electrical radiators or storage heating, become more commonplace,” says Hemal Morjaria, Managing Director for Heating, Renewables, Electrical at City Plumbing. “ElecStore ensures multi-skilled trades have access to the products and advice they need, all under one roof.” Introducing the ElecStore branded range Described by City Plumbing as “Your trusted electrical partner”, ElecStore is expanding its offering to bring you a new line of own-branded products designed to deliver exceptional value without compromising on performance or reliability. This range is specifically curated to provide cost-effective solutions across key trade categories, helping you maximise profitability on every job. The range has launched with electric heating – convector, oil-filled radiators and space heaters, LED downlights, first fix accessories, plus a range of dehumidifiers. Plus, even more ElecStore branded products are arriving soon. Innovation and support that drives growth City Plumbing understands that saving time and building confidence are critical. Its investments go beyond stock to streamline your complex installations and upskill your team. Digital Innovation: The supplier’s suite of online Kit-Builder tools simplifies complex, integrated projects: Heat Pump Kit Builder Solar PV Kit Builder Underfloor Heating Kit Builder In easy steps, these tools allow you to plan and source a complete, compatible system with real-time stock and pricing visibility, ensuring accuracy and speeding up quoting. By evolving its offer, City Plumbing is supporting businesses at every stage through a time of rapid change. Choose City Plumbing and ElecStore to simplify your projects and help grow your business. For more from City Plumbing, click here.

Jefferson Tools launches new Tundra impact bit sets

Jefferson Tools, a tools supplier across the UK and Ireland, has introduced a new range of Tundra impact bit sets, available in 32-, 46-, and 54-piece configurations. The sets are designed for use with impact drivers and high-torque tools across construction, electrical, agricultural, and automotive work. Each kit includes a selection of Phillips, Pozi, Torx, Hex, and security bits, along with magnetic accessories and adaptors. Manufactured from S2 impact steel, the bits feature a torsion zone intended to absorb torque shocks and reduce wear. A magnetic quick-lock holder is also included for faster bit changes. Storage and compatibility features Each set is supplied in an interlocking case designed to keep components visible and organised. The cases can be stacked together for transport or storage in vans and workshops. Darren Binns, National Sales Manager at Jefferson Tools, says, “These new Tundra Impact Bit Sets are the result of listening to our customers. "We wanted to create a range that truly matches the needs of today’s tradespeople - not just strong bits, but smart organisation, flexibility, and performance that can stand up to the toughest torque applications. “Every trade environment brings its own challenges. The Tundra sets are built to meet them head-on, offering strength, precision, and the reliability professionals count on.” The range is intended to support fastening accuracy and reduce downtime associated with worn or slipping bits. For more from Jefferson Tools, click here.

Resideo expands First Alert ProSeries security platform

Resideo, a manufacturer of smart home, energy management, and security products, has expanded its First Alert ProSeries security and life safety platform with two new peripherals: an outdoor siren and a slimline indoor keypad. The additions bring the ProSeries range to more than 40 peripherals and are intended to support professional installers delivering security systems for residential and light commercial applications. The outdoor siren is available in two versions, one with an orange flash and one with a blue flash. Both integrate with the First Alert ProSeries PROBOX-EU and PROAIOPLUS-EU control panels and feature a larger housing. New peripherals for the ProSeries platform The outdoor siren measures 320mm (H), 233mm (W), and 54mm (D), and delivers a 110dB output. It includes indicator lights for arming, disarming, and alarm status. The PROVLEDKP-EU compact LED indoor keypad measures 136mm (H), 88mm (W), and 25mm (D). It includes total and perimeter arming buttons, an RFID badge reader, and an alert function. The keypad is designed for both new-build and retrofit installations. Both peripherals can be commissioned and supported using the Resideo Pro App, which enables system setup and remote diagnostics. An end-user app is also available for remote arming, disarming, and system monitoring. Maxime Chila, European Security Commercial Director at Resideo, comments, “UK installers told us that products are often too complex for end users. "These new peripherals were built to simplify every stage of the experience - from installation to daily operation - while maintaining the high performance the new First Alert ProSeries platform is becoming known for.” The ProSeries platform combines security and life safety hardware with software, services, and accessories to support integrated system deployment. For more from Resideo, click here.

"Is your equipment HSE GS38 compliant?"

Kewtech, a manufacturer of innovative, accurate and reliable test equipment that enables the UK electrical industry to undertake testing obligations quickly and efficiently, is offering advice when selecting and using test equipment when working on Low Voltage (LV) electrical installations. This advice is provided for consideration as part of your risk assessment and method statement, derived from the site-specific risk assessment. HSE Guidance Note GS38 (Fourth Edition) is the UK Health & Safety Executive’s safety requirements for Electrical test equipment for use on low-voltage systems. Testing equipment and accessories that conform to these standards are designed to minimise the risk of electric shock, arcing, and injury when working on low-voltage electrical systems (up to 1000 V AC / 1500 V DC). It is imperative that your test equipment conforms to the standards set out in HSE GS 38 to prevent accidental contact, reduce shock risk, and ensure equipment can safely handle faults. Whether you are following the correct safe isolation procedure to prove dead, or fault-finding on a live circuit, you should ensure that the equipment conforms with the requirements set out in HSE GS38. GS38 applies to electrical test equipment such as: Test probes Leads Lamps Voltage detecting devices Measuring equipment, for circuits with rated voltages not exceeding 1000V AC 6 things to look out for… GS38 checklist: Use shrouded or insulated tips Probes should be insulated to leave an exposed tip not exceeding 4mm measured across any surface tip of the probe. Where practicable, it is strongly recommended that this be reduced to 2mm or less, or that spring-loaded retractable screened probes be used. Warning: Kewtech strongly recommends not using any test leads or test probes which have removable tips. In the likely event that you lose or misplace these tips, the probes may no longer be GS38 compliant, having more than 4mm exposed. Have finger guards Finger guards on your two-pole testers and probe tips stop your fingers from slipping onto live parts during use. Use high-integrity insulated leads Your test leads should be double-insulated, such as Kewtech’s G7 precision standard test leads. We would strongly recommend using silicone-insulated leads as these are more durable, flexible and heat-resistant. CAT rating Match the equipment to its environment: CAT II – (Prospective short circuit currents are less than 10kA), for example, appliances and single-phase domestic installations CAT III – (Prospective short circuit currents of up to 50kA), for example, testing of 3-phase installations, distribution boards, wiring systems, equipment and socket outlets connected to 3-phase systems CAT IV – (Where prospective fault currents may exceed 50kA, for example, at the origin of installation that are close to HV/LV transformers or where there is risk of high energy arc flashes) For most electrical testing on LV systems, a minimum of CAT III or CAT IV is recommended. Be robust and properly maintained Be vigilant. Regularly check your equipment to ensure it is fit for purpose. There should be no exposed metal parts other than probe tips and no visible inner insulation on the test leads. Carefully look for damage, deterioration and the presence of water or other liquids that may be present before each use. Check the function of the test equipment on a proving device or known live source before use. Use a reputable brand that manufactures and conforms to the relevant British Standards. Look for the manufacturer’s declaration of conformity with HSE GS38 and verify that the probes, leads, and tester are all compliant, not just the measuring unit. Further recommendations to consider: Working without batteries? Consider the use of a voltage indicator that will still indicate the presence of voltage without batteries or even when the batteries fail. Battery-dependent testers introduce an additional point of failure, and a flat or faulty battery could give a false indication. Contrastingly, products that are self-powered from the circuit under test, or that incorporate battery-independent voltage indication, provide an added layer of reliability. Single-Pole Detection Equipment that offers single-pole detection can provide an extra safeguard by allowing the presence of voltage to be identified with reference to earth, which may highlight hazardous conditions not always apparent with two-pole testing alone. Non-detachable leads Equipment with permanently fixed leads should also be strongly considered. Detachable leads present a risk of poor connections, damage, or the inadvertent use of non-compliant accessories, whereas fixed leads reduce the likelihood of misuse and help to maintain GS38 compliance over the life of the tester. The bottom line Ensuring your electrical test equipment is HSE GS38 compliant is not just best practice - it’s a critical part of managing risk when working on low-voltage systems. By selecting the right equipment, checking it is suitable for the environment, and maintaining it properly, you significantly reduce the risk of electric shock, arcing, injury and danger to life. GS38 compliance should be a fundamental consideration of your working, helping to protect yourself and others as well as the installations while promoting safe, professional working practices. For more from Kewtech, click here.

NVC Lighting upgrades STERLING PRO panel

NVC Lighting, a supplier of commercial LED lighting systems, has introduced an upgraded version of its STERLING PRO LED panel, replacing the previous STERLING model. The back-lit LED panel is designed to improve energy efficiency while offering a wider range of options for commercial lighting projects. It delivers up to 187 luminaire lumens per circuit watt and is power selectable, with a range of dimming and control options available. The STERLING PRO is offered in three sizes: 600x600, 1200x300, and 1200x600. It is available with either a high or low wattage-selectable driver, providing up to eight wattage settings. Colour temperature options include 3000K, 4000K, and 6000K. Flexible configurations for commercial spaces The panel features two TP(a)-rated front covers designed to reduce glare. The opal diffuser provides a 100° beam angle, while the micro-prismatic option offers a 90° beam angle for applications requiring lower glare. With CRI>90, it is suited to retail, gallery, office, healthcare, and education environments. Installation options include lay-in for exposed grid ceilings, pull-up for plasterboard ceilings, as well as surface-mounted and suspended configurations. Phil Brown, Product and Marketing Director at NVC Lighting, says, “We’re pleased to launch our upgraded STERLING PRO panel and hope that the added features will make [it] the go-to product for a diverse range of commercial buildings and spaces. “This enhanced panel reflects our commitment to listening to our customers and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, with higher performance, greater flexibility, and outstanding efficiency that sets a new benchmark in commercial lighting solutions.” The panel has a rated life of 100,000 hours, with L80 performance at end of life, and is supported by a seven-year warranty and a verified Environmental Product Declaration. For more from NVC Lighting, click here.