Revealing the scale of WEEE non-compliance in UK lighting

Environment Agency data released this month has uncovered the scale of WEEE non-compliance of products sold through online marketplaces. For the last four-and-a-half months of 2025, online marketplaces were legally required to report sales of electrical products imported into the UK via their platforms. That data showed an annual market share of 13.8% for consumer lamps and 11.8% for consumer luminaires. Commenting on the news, Nigel Harvey, CEO of Recolight, a UK not-for-profit compliance scheme for lighting waste recycling and sustainability, says, "At last we can see the true extent of WEEE non-compliance through online marketplaces. "What is more, one of the largest operators, eBay, does not yet appear in the list of compliant producers. So, once [its] data is also included, and it is grossed up into a full-year equivalent, market shares could well be over 25% for consumer luminaires and over 35% for consumer lamps. "The really good news for the lighting industry is that, at long last, online sellers will be forced to pay their share of WEEE costs. Recolight has worked tirelessly to see this change introduced over many years, and we are very grateful to current and former Defra staff who made this happen." The WEEE regulations were amended last year and, from 12 August 2025, online marketplaces have been required to start collecting data for all electrical goods brought into the UK via their platforms. Market shares are calculated using the weight of products placed on the market. For more from Recolight, click here.

Electric underfloor heating: A practical growth opportunity

As the UK heating market continues to evolve, electrical installers are increasingly being asked to deliver solutions that go beyond simple wiring and compliance. Homeowners and specifiers now expect greater comfort, smarter control, and improved energy efficiency, while also demanding invisible heating solutions that free up wall space and remove the need for radiators altogether, without compromising on aesthetics or ease of installation. Electric underfloor heating is one of the clearest opportunities for electricians looking to expand their offering, and Rointe’s underfloor heating range has been designed specifically with the installer in mind, supported by a dedicated projects team that provides free system calculations and layout support. A natural extension of the electrician’s skillset Unlike wet underfloor systems, electric underfloor heating requires no plumbing, manifolds, or hydraulic balancing. Installation is fully electrical, making it a natural progression for qualified electricians who want to add a high-value heating solution to their portfolio without retraining into another trade. Rointe’s systems are supplied as ready-to-install heating mats with clearly defined outputs, pre-sized formats, and straightforward electrical connections. Combined with free project calculations from Rointe’s technical team, this reduces on-site complexity and allows installers to quote, plan, and install with confidence. Two systems, clearly defined applications Rointe offers two electric underfloor heating systems, allowing installers to specify the correct solution for each project: • Milos W150 - designed for tiled and hard floor finishes - delivers 150 W/m² with a slim, 3mm profile, ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and open-plan living areas. • Erko W140 - designed for laminate, wood, vinyl, lino, and carpet - uses aluminium heating foil to spread heat evenly while keeping floor build-up to under 2 mm, a key advantage in retrofit projects. For installers, this clear separation simplifies product selection and reduces the risk of incorrect specification on site. Both systems feature an ultra-thin profile, making them particularly well suited to refurbishment and renovation projects where floor height build-up is limited, further supported by professional system design when required. Faster installs, fewer call-backs Speed and reliability are critical on any job. Rointe’s heating mats are available in multiple pre-sized formats, covering areas from 1 to 12 m², minimising cutting and adjustment during installation. A complete ecosystem of accessories, including insulation panels, perimeter strip, protective layers, and insulation blankets, allows installers to build efficient systems that perform as intended. Proper insulation improves warm-up times and helps avoid heat loss into the subfloor, reducing the likelihood of customer complaints about performance or running costs. Clear installation guidance, project validation, and direct technical support further reduce risk, helping installers deliver consistent results even on their first underfloor heating project. Smart control that installers can trust Control is a key element in any underfloor heating system and an area where installers can add real value. In Rointe underfloor heating installations, the GENIUS WiFi thermostat acts as the dedicated floor thermostat, providing accurate and reliable temperature management for electric underfloor heating systems. Using a floor temperature sensor, it ensures precise control of floor comfort while protecting floor finishes, making it an ideal solution for bathrooms, living areas, and refurbishment projects where underfloor heating is the primary heat source. This flexibility allows the system to be adapted to different room types and to the real preferences of the end user. With WiFi Direct connectivity, the thermostat connects directly to the customer’s router without additional hubs or gateways. Through the Rointe NEXA app, users can manage schedules, adjust temperatures and monitor energy usage remotely. For installers, this means: • Fewer components to install • Faster commissioning • Less troubleshooting • A cleaner, more professional handover Alternative programmable thermostats (ST.2 and ST.3) provide reliable non-connected options where WiFi control is not required. Adding value, not just watts Electric underfloor heating allows installers to move the conversation away from basic power ratings and towards comfort, efficiency, and lifestyle benefits. Even heat distribution, invisible installation, and smart control all contribute to a premium customer experience. From a commercial perspective, this opens up opportunities to: • Upsell smart controls and accessories • Win higher-value refurbishment projects • Differentiate from competitors offering basic heating solutions Because electric underfloor heating operates at lower surface temperatures and is only used when required, it also aligns well with growing customer awareness around energy use and running costs. A future-ready solution for electrical professionals As heating becomes increasingly electrified and digitally controlled, underfloor heating represents a logical next step for electricians who want to stay relevant and competitive. With no wet trades involved, minimal disruption on site, free project design support, and strong manufacturer backing, Rointe’s underfloor heating range offers a practical, scalable way to grow a heating-focused service offering. For installers looking to future-proof their business while delivering tangible benefits to customers, electric underfloor heating is no longer a niche; it’s a smart business move. For more from Rointe, click here.

CEF TechTalks to tour 25 locations to explain Amendment 4

Electrical distributor CEF has announced that registrations are now open for its latest TechTalks series, running from May to July 2026. Delivered in partnership with the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), the free events will visit 25 locations across the UK, giving electricians and contractors practical insight into the upcoming Amendment 4:2026 to BS 7671:2018 IET Wiring Regulations. The IET will publish Amendment 4 to the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations on 15 April 2026. The update will introduce changes that affect how electrical installations are designed, installed, and inspected, making it important for installers to understand how the new requirements will apply in practice. CEF’s TechTalks aim to help electricians stay ahead of the changes, providing a clear overview of the amendment and what it means for day-to-day installation work. Event details Returning to host the sessions are Darren Staniforth, CEF’s Head of Electrotechnical Solutions, alongside technical expert Dave Austin. Together, they will aim to guide attendees through the key updates in the new amendment, explain the practical implications for installers, and answer questions alongside a representative from the IET. Each event will also feature an exhibition space where prominent brands will showcase products and technologies designed to help electricians meet the latest requirements and stay compliant with the Wiring Regulations. Darren Staniforth, Head of Electrotechnical Solutions at CEF, comments, “With a new amendment to the Wiring Regulations being introduced, it’s important that electricians understand what’s changing and how it affects their work. "TechTalks are designed to break down the updates in a practical way, helping installers stay informed and confident when applying the new regulations on site.” Each TechTalk is CPD accredited and free to attend, with complimentary breakfast, refreshments, and free parking available at every venue - plus, the opportunity to purchase the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations at a discounted rate on the day. Selected locations will also feature TechTalks PLUS, offering an expanded exhibition area with additional supplier partners. See the full 2026 TechTalks schedule and find out how to register by clicking here. For more from CEF, click here.

PepsiCo to install roof-mounted solar power system

PepsiCo UK has today announced a multi-million-pound investment in a new solar power project at its Southern Region Distribution Centre (SRDC) in Leicester. Working together with energy infrastructure specialist, Ineco Energy, the project will see solar panels installed across 30,000 square metres of roof space – equivalent to around four football pitches. Once complete, the panels are expected to generate 100% of the energy needed to power the logistics centre over the course of a year, reducing demand on the national electricity grid. The 3.56 MWp solar power system is expected to generate around 2.84 GWh of renewable electricity each year – enough to power approximately 1,000 UK homes for a year. Any surplus electricity will go towards powering the Walkers crisps manufacturing plant, one of the world’s largest crisp factories, located just next door to the distribution centre. The solar project is the latest in a series of sustainability investments across PepsiCo’s UK sites. In recent years, PepsiCo has switched to electric ovens at its site in Leicester, installed more efficient machinery on its manufacturing line in Coventry, and invested in new, more efficient fryers at its Brigg site, the home of Pipers crisps. Together, these three initiatives have reduced PepsiCo’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by around 2,400 tonnes a year. The £3.6m solar panel installation follows a £14m investment to upgrade the distribution centre in 2021. The distribution centre plays a key part in PepsiCo’s UK supply chain, employing 240 people and distributing products made at the company’s six factories across the country. This marked one of the biggest UK logistics investments in PepsiCo’s history and saw state-of-the-art equipment and technology introduced across the site. Construction of the solar power system is already underway, with installation expected to be by completed by September 2026. Andy Smethurst, UK Warehousing & Logistics Director at PepsiCo, says, “Leicester is already home to one of the world’s largest crisp factories, and now we’re delivering one of the most complex solar power systems, right here in the East Midlands. It’s a major milestone for PepsiCo UK and shows how we’re continuing to find new ways to power our sites and operate more sustainably.” Climate Minister, Katie White, adds, “We welcome PepsiCo’s decision to embrace our rooftop solar revolution in powering their Walkers crisps distribution centre in Leicester - adding extra crunch to our clean energy mission. “It’s a great example of how businesses in Britain can cut emissions, lower bills and strengthen our energy security.” Angus Rose, Director at Ineco Energy, remarks, “Ineco is incredibly proud to be delivering this flagship solar project for PepsiCo. Once operational, it will be one of the largest rooftop systems of its kind in the UK food manufacturing sector, generating the same amount of electricity that the SRDC uses in a full year. “This project has required a collaborative and highly technical approach, and we’re delighted to now be moving into the construction phase. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with the PepsiCo team.”

Acrospire supports LED retrofit for lanterns in Bath

Acrospire has worked with Bath & North East Somerset Council to refurbish a series of historic wall-mounted lanterns on Milsom Street – one of Bath’s most celebrated Georgian streets. Milsom Street is one of Bath’s most iconic Georgian thoroughfares, and a location steeped in architectural and literary history. Built in the 1760s, the street is known for its elegant façades, Grade II and II* listed buildings, and fashionable boutiques. Today, it remains a vibrant pedestrian-friendly destination at the heart of Bath’s shopping and cultural quarter. Lighting on Milsom Street plays an important role in enhancing its visual appeal and ensuring public safety after dark, while preserving the area’s distinct heritage look. As part of an ongoing programme to modernise the city’s lighting assets, Bath & North East Somerset Council appointed Acrospire to retrofit the existing wall-mounted lanterns with a more sustainable LED solution. Acrospire refurbished the wall-mounted lanterns in place, reusing the original housings to retain the aesthetic character of the streetscape. New 2400K LED modules were carefully integrated to provide a warm, heritage-style glow that echoes the visual tone of the traditional lamp types previously used. The retrofit also supports Bath & North East Somerset Council’s sustainability goals. By upgrading and reusing existing assets, rather than replacing them, the project reduces waste and contributes to circular economy principles, delivering carbon savings with minimal visual impact. As with previous projects such as North Parade Bridge, Acrospire’s team worked closely with the council to ensure that all elements of the solution, from optics and colour temperature to mounting and control, were suited to the sensitive setting and future operational needs. The finished installation maintains the character and integrity of one of Bath’s most historically significant streets, while significantly reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs. The upgrade also supports the council’s wider goals for public realm enhancement and sustainable infrastructure investment across the city. The project forms part of the city’s wider strategy to modernise public lighting infrastructure across the World Heritage Site, balancing energy efficiency, improved lighting quality, and respect for historic character. For more from Acrospire, click here.

MAGDUO: The two-wire fire alarm system from ESP

Security products supplier ESP’s MAGDUO two-wire fire alarm system has been designed with small-to-medium sized contractors in mind, providing a flexible and adaptable solution that helps reduce installation time and overall project costs. Two-wire fire alarm systems are based on conventional system technology but offer a more streamlined wiring approach. Unlike traditional four-wire conventional systems - where detectors, call points, and alarm devices for each zone are wired on separate circuits - MAGDUO uses intelligent two-wire technology. This allows all devices to be connected via the same two-core zone cable back to the control panel. By enabling a single circuit per zone for both detection and sounder operation, the system significantly reduces the amount of cabling required on site, helping installers save both time and material costs while maintaining reliable fire detection performance. Product range details The MAGDUO range currently comprises 25 products, including two-, four-, and eight-zone fire alarm control panels available in either grey or black finishes. Matching repeater panels are also available, with the four- and eight-zone panels capable of supporting up to eight repeaters. A key feature of the system is the FlexiPoint detector, which can be programmed into seven different operating modes, including smoke and heat detection. The range is further supported by a selection of sounders, strobes, and manual call points, allowing installers to configure systems to suit a wide range of applications. With its adaptability, fast installation, and cost-effective design, MAGDUO is ideally suited to small-to-medium sized projects including restaurants, retail premises, schools, offices, apartments, and hotels. ESP is also offering comprehensive training on the MAGDUO system for wholesalers and installers. For more from ESP, click here.

"The tester everyone is talking about"

Kewtech, a leading manufacturer of professional electrical test equipment, presents your guide to the ultimate MFT and explains why it is fast becoming the industry favourite. Every electrical contractor knows that testing isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about confidence. Confidence that your readings are accurate, your results are defensible, and your equipment won’t let you down when you’re under pressure on site. That’s why Kewtech has spent decades designing test instruments with one clear philosophy in mind: make electrical testing faster, simpler and safer for the UK electrician. The KT66DL multifunction tester is a perfect example of that approach. Rather than chasing gimmicks or unnecessary complexity, it focuses on solving real-world testing problems – noisy environments, sensitive RCDs, EV circuits, tight timescales and demanding clients, all the while remaining intuitive and easy to use. This is a tester designed by people who understand how electricians actually work. Loop test accuracy: because everything depends on it At the heart of safe electrical installations is accurate loop impedance testing. If your loop values are wrong, disconnection times may not be met and protective devices may not operate as intended. That’s why loop accuracy has always been a cornerstone of Kewtech design. The KT66DL delivers highly accurate and, importantly, repeatable loop values, time after time, even in challenging conditions. This accuracy gives contractors confidence that what they’re recording is genuinely representative of the installation, not distorted by noise, uplift or unstable supply conditions. When certification, liability and reputation are on the line, that confidence matters. 2-Wire low current no-trip loop testing One of the biggest frustrations during testing is nuisance RCD tripping. It slows the job down, disrupts occupants, and can lead to unnecessary call-backs. The KT66DL’s 2-wire low-current no-trip loop test is designed to remove that problem entirely. It allows you to carry out loop testing quickly and safely at light fittings and light switches where a high-current two-wire test would trip the RCD. Fewer interruptions mean faster inspections and a smoother experience for both contractor and client. High-current loop testing where precision really counts Not all loop testing is equal. When you’re testing close to a supply transformer, loop values can be extremely low – and many testers simply don’t have the resolution to cope. The KT66DL includes two high-current loop test settings: a 6A test and a 25A test with 0.001Ω resolution. That level of precision makes it ideal for testing near the origin of the supply, where accuracy is critical. The 25A test enables a genuine 50kA PFC range, giving contractors confidence that prospective fault current readings are accurate even in demanding commercial and industrial installations. This removes guesswork and ensures protective devices are correctly rated. Reliable results in noisy environments Real sites are rarely electrically “clean”. Machinery, inverters and other connected equipment introduce noise that can cause unstable readings. The KT66DL automatically detects this and activates its noise handling feature, extending the test and measuring at different frequencies to deliver a stable, usable result. Combined with Kewtech’s renowned resistance to RCD uplift, this ensures that readings remain reliable even in hostile environments. The benefit is simple: less frustration, fewer failed tests, and more confidence in the numbers you’re recording. Designed for real installations, not ideal ones Oxidised terminations and aged connections are a fact of life, especially on older or industrial installations. The KT66DL’s PULSE function applies a short burst of high current to clean the contact point and remove surface oxidation. This produces more stable and repeatable readings, saving time and avoiding misleading results. Again, it’s a practical feature that exists because Kewtech designs testers for the conditions electricians actually face. Extra-low current loop testing for EV installations EV charge points bring new challenges, particularly with over-sensitive RCD protection that can trip during conventional loop testing. The KT66DL includes a specialist extra-low current loop test specifically for EV circuits, allowing testing to be carried out without nuisance tripping. As EV installations continue to grow, this feature ensures contractors can test confidently without workarounds or compromises. Coupled with the KEWEVSE or KEWEVA adaptors, the KT66DL will carry out a full auto EVSE RCD test covering both the internal EV DC and AC protective devices but also the external EV circuit RCD / RCBO. It’s a clear demonstration of Kewtech future-proofing of its products for modern electrical work. Insulation/continuity testing with built-in protection Mistakes happen – especially on busy sites. Connecting an insulation/continuity tester to a live circuit can be costly if the instrument isn’t protected. The KT66DL warns you if it detects a live circuit, and even if the test button is locked, internal protection prevents damage to the PCB. This protects both the tester and your investment, helping ensure long-term reliability. Kewtech builds longevity into its MFTs, which is why many contractors continue using them for years rather than replacing them every upgrade cycle. No touch screen… which Kewtech is proud of There is no touch screen on Kewtech MFTs… and that’s to your benefit, the company says. Kewtech’s dot matrix screen provides clear, reliable visibility in all site conditions and can be operated easily with gloves, wet hands or in cold weather while also offering significantly lower repair costs should the unthinkable happen. This all helps to reduce downtime and long-term ownership costs. In contrast, touch screens tend to be more fragile, costly to replace and often uneconomical if damaged. All on one screen The KT66DL displays all key test results simultaneously on a single screen, eliminating the need to scroll through menus or repeat tests. RCD results, PSC/PFC and even simultaneous TRMS display of L-PE, L-N and N-PE are all there to provide you with a complete, instant overview of circuit conditions, speeds up fault current assessment, and make testing more efficient. SPD testing The KT66DL makes SPD (Surge Protection Device) testing quick and straightforward, allowing contractors to verify that SPDs are functioning correctly without damaging the life of the SPD. By quickly identifying faulty or degraded surge protection, the tester helps protect sensitive equipment, ensures compliance, and gives electricians confidence that the installation is safe and reliable – saving time and preventing costly damage for clients. One tester, multiple capabilities The KT66DL provides a range of additional features, including: Phase rotation testing Earth electrode testing (2-wire and 3-wire) PAT testing with the optional adapter Help at your fingertips – no manual required With such a feature-rich tester, you would be forgiven for thinking that with such capabilities must come a level of complexity that you would rather avoid. But rest assured that it’s intuitive, user-friendly operation means this simply isn’t the case… we bet you won’t even have to consult the manual to start testing straight away. Just a single rotary dial, clear all-in-one result screens, logical menu structure and dedicated help buttons providing on-screen guidance, all help to reduce training time, speed up testing, and ensure new to Kewtech users can hit the ground running. Accuracy starts with the test leads A tester is only as good as the test leads that are connecting it to the installation. That’s why Kewtech prides itself on its G7 Precision test leads, designed with unrivalled accuracy and durability. Kewtech universal test leads are put through a rigorous seven-step testing procedure to ensure that they stand up to the demands of the everyday contractor, providing reliable contact, consistent readings and long service life. Support you can rely on Kewtech MFTs are known for their longevity. Contractors buy them knowing they’re investing in their future and in equipment that will last. Just as importantly, Kewtech is proud of the feedback it receives on its excellent customer service. Real technical support is always on hand, offering advice, guidance and reassurance when needed. Kewtech understands that this level of backup matters when your tester is central to your livelihood, and the company is genuine in its approach to after-sales care. Kewtech is with you every step of the way – just ask one of the thousands of trusting Kewtech users across the UK. A tester designed around the electrician The KT66DL isn’t just a multifunction tester; it’s a reflection of Kewtech’s design philosophy. Every feature is there to make testing faster, simpler and safer, all the while excelling in accuracy and repeatability of results. For UK electrical contractors who want a reliable, long-term investment backed by real support, Kewtech and the KT66DL isn’t just another tool – it’s a partner you can depend on, job after job. Scan the QR code below to view the KT66DL in action, or visit kewtechcorp.com.

Unicrimp adds Pink PVC Tape to cable accessory range

Unicrimp, a UK manufacturer of cable accessories and electrical fittings and part of the Scolmore Group, has expanded its comprehensive Q-Crimp cable accessories portfolio with the introduction of a new Pink PVC Tape, developed specifically to provide clear and compliant identification of Functional Earth conductors within electrical installations. Designed to deliver instant visual differentiation, the Pink PVC Tape enables installers to clearly separate Functional Earth from Protective Earth, reducing the risk of confusion on site. While Protective Earth provides a critical safety connection to prevent electrical shock, Functional Earth serves a different purpose by supporting the operational stability of the electronic equipment. By introducing a distinct pink identification solution, Unicrimp addresses the growing need for clarity and compliance in modern electrical systems where both earthing types be present. Combining flexibility with strength Manufactured for durability and performance, the pink PVC tape combines flexibility with strength ensuring reliable application across a wide range of installation environments. It features a natural rubber adhesive for strong adhesion and offers a voltage breakdown rating of 6kV. The tape is also self-extinguishing, further supporting enhanced on-site safety standards. Supplied in a 19mm width with a 33m roll length, the tape provides practical coverage for everyday installation requirements. Its high visibility finish not only promotes safer working practices but also helps contractors maintain neat, professional results. For more information, visit Unicrimp’s website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Unicrimp, click here.

TESP publishes insights into apprentice charge-out rates

Research exploring employers’ different approaches to charge-out rates for electrical apprentices was recently published by The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP), a UK not-for-profit partnership promoting skills development and training standards in the electrotechnical industry. This latest piece of work was carried out to enhance the apprentice Return on Investment (ROI) calculations that TESP conducted in 2025, which found that businesses still can realise a positive ROI, albeit at a lower return than found in 2019 calculations. With the rate at which an apprentice is charged out being a key element in determining the ROI of apprentices, the results showed that most interviewed businesses (76%) work on a fixed price basis - this was slightly higher for medium/large (85%) than micro/small businesses (67%). When determining apprentice charge out rates, many businesses (78%) apply an hourly rate for their apprentice when pricing work. Most (65%) have a formal process in place for this, taking into account associated costs such as apprentice wages, supervision, equipment, administration, and travel. Several (30%) increase charge-out rates in line with wages, while some (24%) apply a charge-out rate as a proportion of the cost of a fully qualified electrician (which may vary depending on the ability/experience of the apprentice). Of those with no formal process for determining charge out rates, most said they simply assess and price a job based on the overall cost of the labour and materials. Key findings The research also explored views on apprentices’ roles and recruitment, with the following findings: • Employers broadly agreed that Year 1 apprentices largely shadowed qualified electricians and helped with preparation of tools, materials, and site preparation; in Year 2 they undertake wiring and cabling (etc.) under supervision, before being more proficient and capable of most tasks by Year 4. • Collaboration with colleges was widely valued for candidate vetting and apprentice support, though some employers cited communication issues and tutor shortages affecting quality. • Many employers assess candidates through trial periods or temporary contracts, alongside pre-apprenticeship roles and internal training schemes. • Suggested improvements included greater emphasis on practical skills and onsite collaboration, earlier health and safety training, and improved consistency in college staffing to reduce tutor and assessor shortages. Other recommendations made in the report include developing a best practice toolkit to help employers with apprentice recruitment with guidance on trial periods, candidate assessment and retention, and setting up an apprentice loan scheme between businesses to help learners gain exposure to all the skills they need to become a qualified electrician. In addition to the research, TESP has also published summary guidance giving practical advice and considerations to help businesses set rates that are fair, competitive, and reflect the true value apprentices bring as they grow in skill and confidence. TESP Chair Ruth Devine MBE says, “Given the diminished ROI that our earlier research highlighted, the importance and significance of the apprentice charge-out rate should not be underestimated, and we hope this additional piece of work and guidance supports businesses in this respect. "Many employers maintain a commitment to recruiting and training apprentices, but growing business and cost pressures mean the quality of candidates and training delivery is ever more important.” To view the full report and guidance document, you can visit TESP's website by clicking here. For more from TESP, click here.

Fluke launches FEV500 EV charger tester

Fluke, a manufacturer of industrial test, measurement, and diagnostic equipment, has launched the FEV500, a testing device designed for fast DC electric vehicle charging stations. The tool is intended for testing and maintaining high-power Level 3 chargers, which operate at significantly higher energy levels than AC charging systems and rely on complex digital communication protocols. The device simulates an electric vehicle, allowing technicians to carry out safety and operational checks without connecting a physical EV. Fluke explains that the FEV500 enables engineers to test charging stations on site to verify performance, communication, and electrical safety. Martijn Gerlag, EMEA Application Engineer at Fluke Corporation, says, “With the FEV500, Fluke is redefining how fast DC EV charging stations are tested and maintained. "These high-powered, complex stations are critical infrastructure, and ensuring their safety, reliability, and uptime is essential. "Our all-in-one solution acts like a virtual electric vehicle, allowing technicians to diagnose, test, and validate stations on-site - reducing risk, accelerating service, and enabling the EV charging industry to scale with confidence.” Testing EV chargers with a single device The FEV500 combines several testing functions typically carried out with separate tools, including a digital multimeter, insulation tester, and oscilloscope. It supports communication standards used between electric vehicles and charging equipment, including ISO 15118 and DIN SPEC 70121. The system can simulate charging behaviour and communication processes to verify interoperability and station performance. The device provides guided workflows and pass or fail results to assist technicians during commissioning, maintenance, and fault finding. Fluke says the tool also enables testing without opening the charging station, allowing technicians to complete checks through a single connection point and helping reduce service downtime. Designed for field work, the device is housed in a wheeled chassis for transport between sites and includes a removable battery for easier travel. For more from Fluke, click here.