BG's new GridLite modular switches make installation lite work

BG Electrical has introduced GridLite, an innovative clip-in modular switching system designed to make electrical installations faster, simpler, and more flexible Combining a screwless clip-in design with a unique yoke-free construction, GridLite is the first modular switch range of its kind from BG, allowing installers to build bespoke switch configurations, replace individual modules and adapt installations without changing the entire device. Developed in response to installer feedback, GridLite offers a more versatile approach to modular switching while maintaining the quality, reliability and aesthetics associated with BG. Designed for faster installation At the heart of GridLite is a screwless clip-in system that eliminates the need for fiddly fixing screws, allowing modules to simply push into place. Its innovative yoke-free design also means modules can be installed either way up, giving electricians greater flexibility on site. Installers can wire modules before fitting the faceplate, helping make installation quicker and more efficient. Engineered for today's lighting applications, GridLite's single-width modules are rated at 20A, while standard switch modules fit 16mm back boxes, helping to minimise rework on many installations. Complete modular flexibility Unlike traditional modular switching systems, GridLite allows individual modules to be removed and replaced independently, without disturbing adjacent modules. Whether replacing a damaged switch, upgrading functionality or adapting an installation to changing customer requirements, electricians can modify individual modules without replacing the complete device. The range includes standard, intermediate and retractive switches, key switches, touch dimmers, blank modules and USB-C charging modules, enabling installers to create bespoke configurations for a wide variety of applications. The compact single-module touch dimmer occupies the same footprint as a standard switch, while up to three modules can be installed on a single square plate, creating neat, space-saving installations without compromising functionality. One versatile platform across the BG range GridLite integrates seamlessly across BG's established wiring accessory ranges, including White Moulded, Nexus Metal, Flatplate Screwless, Evolve, Metal Clad and Part M. Using a common modular platform across multiple finishes allows installers to deliver consistent switching solutions throughout a project, while giving customers the flexibility to select a finish that complements their application. The modular approach also benefits wholesalers and contractors by simplifying product selection and reducing stockholding. Rather than carrying multiple finished switch combinations, installers can stock core modules and configure installations as required. Commenting on the launch, Dogan Dogan, Product Manager – Wiring Accessories at BG, says, "GridLite has been developed by listening to what installers want from a modular switching system. They told us they wanted a solution that is quicker to install, easier to adapt and flexible enough to suit a wide range of applications." With its innovative clip-in construction, flexible module configurations and compatibility across BG's established ranges, GridLite offers a practical solution for domestic, commercial and specification projects alike. For more information on the new BG GridLite range, click here | For more from BG Electrical, click here. This article is sponsored by BG Energy.

Labour MP Elaine Stewart backs SELECT's regulation campaign

Labour MP for Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock Elaine Stewart has become the latest politician to publicly endorse Scottish trade association SELECT's campaign for regulation of the electrical industry The Labour representative has demonstrated her backing for protection of title by adding her name to the organisation's Wall of Support as part of SELECT's long-running campaign. She says, “As the Member of Parliament for Ayr, Carrick & Cumnock, I recognise the vital role that qualified electricians play in keeping people safe and supporting our economy. “I support efforts to strengthen professional recognition within the industry and welcome the work being undertaken to promote high standards, skills development and public confidence in the electrical profession.” Her backing comes amid rising public and political support for regulation, with a petition lodged in the Scottish Parliament this month calling for statutory safeguards to prevent unqualified individuals from describing themselves as electricians. The backing also follows extensive engagement with SELECT member Jim Cooper, Vice Chair of the association’s Ayrshire Branch, who has been highlighting the importance of apprenticeships, skills development and regulation with his local politician. Cooper has been in regular contact with the MP, who joined him and SELECT Managing Director Sharon Miller at a meeting in Ayr on 4 September to discuss the UK Government’s Youth Guarantee initiative and the need for protection of title. He says, “I am delighted that Ms Stewart has taken the time to endorse SELECT’s long-running campaign and help put the need for regulation in the spotlight. “She comes across as a proactive politician who will take action and get results, and I look forward to working with her further on this and other important issues.” Labour MP's backing 'demonstrates need for greater recognition understood at all govt levels' SELECT has spent more than a decade campaigning to secure legal recognition for the electrical profession, arguing that the current situation leaves the public exposed to electrical work being carried out by people without the necessary training and qualifications. Sharon Miller, Managing Director of SELECT, adds, “Ms Stewart’s support is particularly welcome because it demonstrates that the need for greater professional recognition and enhanced public safety is being understood at all levels of government. “I’d like to thank Jim Cooper for his help in making this happen thanks to his ongoing work with his local MP. He is a fantastic ambassador for our sector and having him involved in these discussions as a constituent and successful local businessman has been invaluable.” For more from SELECT, click here.

Selco launches new delivery system and trade week initiative

Selco Builders Warehouse has revealed a new delivery management system (DMS) and trade week training initiative for students The new DMS will see customers receive a two-hour delivery slot the day before their delivery, with live updates and real-time tracking on delivery day providing full visibility of the journey. Once their order has been delivered, customers will receive proof of delivery sent to their inbox. It comes after the brand earlier this year launched two new initiatives, its refreshed pricing, strategy Sharp Prices, and customer loyalty programme, tradeREWARDS. David Rose, Supply Chain Director at Selco Builders Warehouse, says, “We know our customers have enough jobs on their to-do list without waiting around all day for a delivery. “A big part of our approach is listening to customers, and some of the key feedback we received highlighted the desire for a reliable delivery service with simple, consistent communications to make their lives easier. “Our new system puts them firmly in the driving seat, with a two-hour delivery window, live tracking and instant proof of delivery – so they can spend less time clock-watching and more time cracking on with the job." Selco works with Gloucestershire College for training initiative The company has also partnered with Gloucestershire College for a week-long programme designed to give students greater exposure to the trade industry and career opportunities in the sector. Selco says the initiative is designed to help students build "practical skills and confidence to take the first steps into a trade career, rather than just learning the basics of DIY". Taking place at Gloucestershire College, the schedule features a range of sessions with the like of SPAX, Fakro, Milwaukee, Degafloor and Cure It. David Dello, Shopfloor Manager at Selco Builders Warehouse Cheltenham, says, "Supporting the next generation of tradespeople is hugely important to us, and Trade Week is providing a fantastic opportunity to connect students with the wider industry. “By bringing young people closer to the businesses, people and career opportunities within the sector, we hope to inspire them and give a better understanding of the pathways available as they prepare to enter the workforce.” For more from Selco, click here.

New app lets electricians price jobs through speech

Key safe and lock brand ViperSafe has launched a new app that lets electricians price a job by describing it out loud The ViperJob app allows tradespeople hold a button and describe the job, such as, "replace kitchen tap, two hours labour, mixer tap 85 pounds, call-out". ViperJob turns it into priced quote lines from the trader's own price list, adds VAT and makes a branded PDF they can send by WhatsApp, text or email before leaving the driveway. Every line can be changed, and with no signal the trader can type the job and ViperJob still prices it on the phone. The app then follows the job through to payment. Customers can accept a quote online, and the trader gets a notification. An accepted quote becomes an invoice in one tap, with the trader's bank details and their own card payment link printed with a QR code. The platform does not handle money, but covers deposits, part payments, chasing late payments, CIS deductions for subcontractors and the domestic reverse charge. Quotes, customers and photos stay on the trader's phone, with automatic backup to Google Drive. Sixty PDF templates carry the trader's logo and Gas Safe, NICEIC or TrustMark badges. ViperJob is free on Google Play for 3 quotes a month. ViperJob Pro costs £12.99 a month with a 14-day free trial. For the launch, the first 500 subscribers get Pro for £8.99 a month for 12 months with the code FOUNDER. For more on software and apps, click here.

UK Power Networks injects £1.5m into village electricity upgrade

Distribution network provider UK Power Networks has invested £1.55 million in upgrading electricity equipment in the Suffolk village of Hacheston Engineers have replaced seven circuit breakers and other key equipment that helps electricity flow to homes and businesses in the area. The project has introduced modern switchgear and advanced remote-control technology, enabling engineers to respond to faults quicker and restore power faster if a power cut happens. The substation supplies electricity to nearly 3,000 customers in the area. Project manager, Thomas Eng, says, “Our customers rely on us to provide a safe, reliable electricity supply every day, which is why we're continuing to invest in our network. “This work will help strengthen the local electricity infrastructure and support future demand, ensuring homes, businesses and communities can continue to depend on a resilient power supply for years to come.” UK Power Networks invests in Finsbury Market It comes after UK Power Networks refurbished its Finsbury Market substation in central London with a near half-a-million-pound investment. The upgrade to the electrical infrastructure near Liverpool Street saw a pair of transformers improved, as well as the perimeter of the compound becoming a canvas for street art by Global Street Art and artist Nelio Riga. The electricity firm invested £483,000 into the overhaul, with the upgrade set to improve reliability and strengthen power supplies for the area. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

Electrical industry leaders react to Autumn Budget 2026

Leaders from across the electrical contracting industry have shared their thoughts on the Burnham Government's first Autumn Budget On Wednesday (29 October), Chancellor John Healey MP set out the UK Government's tax and spending plans amid mounting pressure to tackle the rising cost of living. Key points include a one-off £100 payment for up to 20 million households in council tax bands A-D to help deal with rising energy bills; fixed daily fees customers pay regardless of usage to be removed from household gas bills; and a freeze on fuel duty extended again to July 2027. Chris Claydon, Chief Executive of electrical training provider JTL, says the government's "ambitious" plans on clean energy, housing and defence require a steady workforce of electricians and plumbers to deliver them. "Our research shows the plumbing workforce is set to shrink by 30% in 2039 whilst the electrical workforce has already declined by over 26% since 2018, and without urgent action, could shrink by another 32% by 2038. Expanding the number of apprentices into these trades is critical to delivering the government's plans," he adds. "We welcome the government's commitment to expand Mayoral Apprenticeship Brokerage Pilots to match employers and young people and would encourage the government to ensure the scheme also matches young people and employers with high-quality providers to deliver the apprenticeships. "In addition, it is positive to see the requirement for apprenticeships in large government construction and infrastructure projects. Alongside this we continue to encourage the government to increase SME apprenticeship incentives and support more employers to take on apprentices." [caption id="attachment_44231" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Chancellor John Healey revealed the Labour Government's Autumn Budget on Wednesday (29 October)[/caption] Meanwhile, Mike Harris, Director of Sales and Customer Services at insurance provider Kingsbridge, believes the extension of the fuel duty cut will be welcome news for tradespeople, particularly those who rely on their vans and vehicles every day to get between jobs.  “The increase in tax-free mileage rates is also encouraging, particularly for self-employed tradespeople who regularly travel between sites. However, with the cost of tools, materials, vehicle maintenance and insurance continuing to put pressure on businesses, there is still more that could be done," he adds “Tripling the trading allowance from £1,000 to £3,000 is another positive move, particularly for those starting out in the trades or earning additional income through smaller jobs. It could make it easier for people to test the waters of self-employment without immediately facing more complicated tax reporting requirements.” Greg Jackson, Founder and CEO of Octopus Energy, praises the government for supporting the development of the UK heat pump industry. "With companies and public sector working together, we can continue the path of innovation and cost-reduction that will enable us to reduce Britain's dependency on gas, a critical plank to improve our security and reduce heating bills," he adds. "Moreover, this creates a secure future for the thousands of skilled professionals who've trained to install heat pumps and manufacture them here in Britain. This is a great example of the Prime Minister's 'good growth in every postcode'." Autumn Budget 2026: 'What happens when temporary support comes to an end?' Becky Lane, CEO of home energy renovation company Furbnow, praised the freeze on VAT, saying "any reduction in energy bills is welcome, particularly as we head into winter". "But temporary tax cuts are only part of the answer. Households need help to make their homes cheaper to heat permanently, whether that's through better insulation, more efficient heating or other improvements. Otherwise, when temporary support comes to an end, families could find themselves facing exactly the same problems," she adds. Matthew Baynes, Vice President Secure Power and Data Centres UK&I for Schneider Electric, says the Government's Data Centre Covenant "represents a significant opportunity for a new era of responsible data centre development, where investment in digital infrastructure delivers tangible benefits for local communities and the wider UK economy". He adds: “As AI accelerates demand for computing capacity, the industry has an opportunity to become a catalyst for economic growth, creating skilled jobs, attracting investment and strengthening the UK’s position as a leading hub for secure, scalable and sovereign digital infrastructure. However, realising this ambition will require a fundamental rethink of how we power the next generation of data centres." For more coverage on the Autumn Budget 2026, click here.

How growing class sizes impact learning outcomes

Shaun Newton, Electrical Installation Curriculum and Development Manager at Smart Energy Training, on why growing class sizes are the leading cause of poor outcomes for learners on electrical courses Around five years ago college classes had a maximum of around 16 people, but it’s been a long time since I walked into a classroom with fewer than 20 people in it. Recently, class sizes seem to have crept up to around 26 learners. I can’t see the situation changing in the short-term as electrical courses are more popular than ever as people seek AI-proof careers. Many fear that menial and office jobs are going to be eroded by either robotics or AI and are looking for alternatives. A former colleague at a college has told me that demand has doubled for their electrical courses in the last 12 months. Adding to the problem is the fact that electrical lecturers are at a premium. I’ve been teaching for over 10 years and I know it’s very difficult to operate properly in classes with more than 20 learners. You just cannot give people the time required to offer them the one-on-one attention required. That’s why, as we introduce electrical courses at Smart Energy Training, we’re committed to a maximum of 12 learners per classroom. This will ensure we can deliver on our goal of being an electrical centre of excellence rather than just a training provider. It’s very much quality over quantity. Smart Energy Training has grown rapidly over the last 12 months, now with nine centres across England and Wales. Our main focus has traditionally been gas and low carbon heating solutions, so this step into electrical marks a significant moment for the business. Initially the electrical courses will be offered at our Ashbourne and Nottingham centres and we have our first cohort of learners starting in November. We have built new testing and fault finding rigs within those two centres, and have safe isolation facilities as well. We’ve spent considerable time and effort making sure the bays are set up to encourage learning; even just making sure the learners have enough space and the lighting is right can make a huge difference. We want the centre to be warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It sounds simple but these things are often overlooked. 'We teach people how to be first-class electricians – not just how to pass' It’s really important to me and the wider team that we are teaching people how to be first-class electricians, not just how to pass an exam. We want to help people improve their skills and understanding, so they leave Smart Energy Training work-ready. There will always be some in the class who are exceptional and push ahead of the rest of the group. We see this as a chance to give them extra challenges, expanding their knowledge further, rather than just standing in the corner waiting for others to catch up. The curriculum must be consistent, but we also build in room so that it can be tailored for everyone’s needs. For example, if an apprentice is working for a commercial lighting installation company, we’ll tailor the sessions to what they are doing day in day out rather than teaching them about lighting circuits in domestic settings. The ultimate goal is for Smart Energy Training to be the number one electrical training centre in the UK – but we want to make sure we can walk before we run. We want to under promise and over deliver. The electrical landscape is changing, with more people becoming ‘prosumers’ — generating electricity through solar PV, storing it in batteries and managing their energy use through technologies such as heat pumps, smart controls and EV charging. It’s important that training and skills keep pace with this shift – and we’re committed to offering the very best provision for anyone committed to a career in the trade, whether they are brand-new to the industry or are looking to upskill. Shaun Newton is Electrical Installation Curriculum and Development Manager at Smart Energy Training For more on training, click here.

The cyber threats SMEs and sole traders can't afford to ignore

Rob Rees, Divisional Director of insurance firm Markel Direct, highlights the common cyber threats facing SMEs and sole traders as electrical contractors turn to social media to entice new business A recent study by Markel Direct revealed that over half (54%) of small business owners spend one-to-three hours per week making content for social media, with 84% revealing the platform generates business for them and 72% considering social media to be essential to their success. But alongside opportunities, this marketing channel also comes with risks to the cyber security of these small businesses. Six social media risks facing small businesses Account takeover Through weak or reused passwords, poor security settings or phishing attacks, cyber criminals can gain access to business social media accounts and take them over. This then gives them the ability to lock the owners out, allowing them to scam clients or customers, extort business owners and post content that could damage the business’ reputation. To help prevent this from happening, businesses should use passkeys where available. Where passwords are used, they should be strong and unique to each account, ideally managed through a reputable password manager, with multi-factor authentication enabled. Phishing and fake platform messages Cyber criminals can create convincing direct messages or emails that appear to come from a social media platform, customer, or supplier. This is to trick SMEs and sole traders into giving away information or login details. These messages may claim that an account is about to be suspended or deleted, or they might ask the recipient to verify their details by clicking on a link. With the introduction of free AI tools, these scams are becoming increasingly harder to spot. It is unlikely that business owners can stop these messages from being received, so prevention is more about awareness of scams and knowing what to check for. Businesses should be cautious when receiving unexpected messages and avoid clicking on links unless they are sure they are genuine. Always check the email address or profile where the messages have come from before cross referencing them with genuine accounts. Any requests should be checked through official channels and anyone with access to the business' social media accounts should be given training or guidance on the common signs of a phishing scam. Impersonation and fake business accounts Another potential threat, particularly for smaller brands, is people creating fake social media profiles that appear to belong to a genuine business or sole trader. They may then use these accounts to contact customers, ask for payments or promote fake offers or competitions, which could result in a financial loss for the customer or the business, as well as damaging the reputation and trust of the real business. To avoid these outcomes, businesses should regularly check social media platforms for fake or copycat accounts and report them as soon as they are discovered. This can also help to make it clear which accounts are real, before warning customers to be cautious of any suspicious messages or communications coming from profiles which are not genuine. Oversharing information Information shared on social media, including employee names, contact information, business locations, upcoming projects and even video content or images from within the company premises, can give cyber criminals the information they need to target a business. For example, a fraudster could use publicly available staff information to impersonate a colleague, supplier or senior manager and send convincing scam emails.Even small details can be used to build a picture of how a business operates and make scams or phishing attempts appear more convincing. Businesses who regularly use social media should consider thinking carefully about the information they share online and whether it is necessary to make certain details public. Having clear guidelines around social media use can help, particularly when it comes to avoiding the sharing of sensitive business information or posting operational details in real time. Social engineering and business impersonation Like using information shared about a business, scammers can also use information found on LinkedIn and personal social media platforms to impersonate a business owner, colleague, customer or supplier. This could allow them to make a fraudulent request, such as asking for a payment to be made or requesting changes to bank details, appear genuine. To help prevent this, businesses should take extra care when receiving unusual or urgent requests, particularly where money or sensitive information is involved. Rather than relying on the contact details provided in the message, the request should be checked using a known and confirmed phone number, or in person if possible. Malicious links and fake customer enquiries Cyber criminals could also try and pose as potential customers, collaborators or brands and use comments or direct messages to send malicious links or files. If these are opened, they could be used to steal login details, gain access to accounts or install malware onto a device. It is important to always use caution when receiving unexpected links, files or messages, especially from unknown contacts. The identity of new contacts should be checked before opening anything, while security software and devices should also be kept up to date. What should you do if your business falls victim to a social media cyber-attack? Even when businesses take steps to protect themselves, it is not always possible to prevent a cyber-attack from happening, particularly as cyber criminals and their methods become more sophisticated, such as using AI. If a business does fall victim to such an attack, acting quickly can help to limit the financial, operational and reputational impact. Here’s what you can do: Secure the affected account: Change passwords as soon as possible, remove any unrecognised devices or users with access, and enable multi-factor authentication where possible. Contact the platform: Report the issue through the social media platform's official reporting channels. Warn customers and contacts: If scammers have used the account or created a fake account to contact customers or followers, let them know through another trusted channel so they are aware of any potential scams. Keep evidence: Take screenshots and keep any messages, emails or other information that could help when reporting or investigating the incident. Check other accounts and systems: If login details or other information may have been compromised, check whether the same details are used elsewhere and secure any other accounts that could be affected. Report the incident where appropriate: Consider whether the incident involves fraud, crime or a personal data breach and seek appropriate advice promptly. Certain personal data breaches must be reported to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) without undue delay and, where feasible, within 72 hours of becoming aware of them. You should document the incident and your assessment even where you decide that an ICO report is not required. Check your business insurance: A cyber-attack can lead to financial loss, disruption to the business, and costs associated with responding to and recovering from the incident. Cyber insurance may provide cover for certain financial losses, incident-response services and recovery costs following a cyber incident, subject to the policy’s terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and excess. Rob Rees is Divisional Director of Markel Direct For more on cyber security, click here.

What does the Autumn Budget mean for electrical contractors?

Chancellor John Healey has delivered his first Autumn Budget amid mounting pressure to tackle the rising cost of living and ease the burden on businesses. From higher tax-free mileage rates to minimum wage increases, here are the key announcements for electrical contractors Tax-free mileage rates increased Electrical contractors who use their own vehicles for work are set to benefit from changes to tax-free mileage rates. The Government is making the 55p-per-mile rate for the first 10,000 business miles permanent, while increasing the rate for mileage above that threshold from 25p to 35p per mile. The changes are expected to benefit around three million employees and self-employed people who use their own vehicles for work. The rates determine how much employers can reimburse employees tax-free for qualifying business mileage in their own vehicles. They are also used by self-employed workers claiming tax relief through simplified motoring expenses. However, the changes do not require employers to increase the mileage payments they make, meaning the benefit will depend on individual arrangements. Fuel duty and energy costs Fuel costs remain a significant expense for electrical contractors travelling between jobs and transporting tools and equipment. The Budget includes a further freeze on fuel duty until at least July 2027, providing some protection against increases in the cost of petrol and diesel. The Government has also announced plans to abolish standing charges on domestic gas bills from 2027, or as soon as possible afterwards. The change is expected to save the average household up to £50 a year. Becky Lane, CEO of home energy renovation company Furbnow, says reducing standing charges could "make a real difference" to households on tighter budgets, particularly those who already use very little energy. "But we need to look at where those costs go. If they're simply added to the price of each unit of energy, families living in larger, older or poorly insulated homes could end up paying more," she adds. Investment could create opportunities The Budget also includes more than £20 billion in additional support for state-backed business and infrastructure lenders, with investment intended to support areas including green energy, artificial intelligence, defence and infrastructure. For electrical contractors, the significance will depend on how this funding is deployed and whether it translates into new projects and contracts. Investment in energy infrastructure, renewable generation and wider electrification could create opportunities for businesses involved in electrical installation, power distribution, energy management and associated technologies. Warren Abbey, CEO of 365 Finance, believes today's Budget "did little to improve funding options" for established SMEs. “The Government seems to have fallen into the trap of directing funding purely to early-stage companies and innovation sectors," he adds. "Yes, injecting capital into such companies is clearly important, but so is supporting the established independent retailers, cafés, pubs and restaurants that employ local people and keep high streets active. Business rates relief is a step forward, but commitment to more SME financing options would also have been welcomed." Greg Jackson, Founder and CEO of Octopus Energy, says: “The government is right to support the development of the UK heat pump industry. With companies and public sector working together, we can continue the path of innovation and cost-reduction that will enable us to reduce Britain's dependency on gas – a critical plank to improve our security and reduce heating bills. "Moreover, this creates a secure future for the thousands of skilled professionals who've trained to install heat pumps and manufacture them here in Britain. This is a great example of the Prime Minister's "good growth in every postcode”." Wage costs and the workforce The Chancellor announced a 3.9% increase in the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage, affecting around 2.3 million people. Higher minimum pay rates can increase employment costs for smaller contractors, particularly where firms need to maintain differentials between entry-level roles and more experienced workers. For employers, the overall effect will depend on the rates applying to their workforce, alongside other employment costs and the ability to pass higher costs through to customers. Warren adds, "People need to be paid fairly. Inflation continues to rise, and energy costs are soaring just as winter approaches. But the government cannot give with one hand and take with the other – it is absolutely right that minimum earnings are driven up, but this is why the business rates policies were so important. Namely, increasing Small Business Rate Relief and freezing business rates across the board." What does the Autumn Budget mean for electrical contractors? The Budget offers some targeted support for people who drive for work, while longer-term investment in infrastructure and green energy could provide opportunities for firms across the electrical supply chain. For electrical contractors already facing pressure from wages, materials, vehicle expenses and energy costs, the key question is whether the measures announced will provide meaningful relief while supporting a stronger pipeline of work.

Gaming giant MSI enters EV charging market

Gaming technology giant MSI has entered the electrical vehicle (EV) charging market through MSI EVSE, its dedicated EV supply division The company is launching with two chargers, the portable EZgo, which delivers UKCA- and CE-certified charging, and the wall-mounted Eco Series. "The UK is moving quickly towards zero-emission transport, and drivers and building owners need charging they can trust. A charger lives outdoors, plugged in and often unattended overnight, so we lead with protection," says Kevin Yang, General Manager, MSI UK. "The EZgo has seven built-in safety mechanisms and a three-year warranty behind it. The Eco Series is listed for UK chargepoint grants from day one, which shows our hardware already meets the standard this market expects." The £189 EZgo is rated IP66 against dust and water and IK08 against impact, and adjusts its output from 1.6 kW to 3 kW. On a standard 13 A Type G socket, it adds around 11 miles of range per hour. It plugs into an ordinary outlet, so drivers can charge at home, at work or on the road with no fixed installation. The device features seven protection mechanisms which run continuously: over temperature, overload, overvoltage, undervoltage, earth fault, leakage and surge protection. If the unit passes 90 degrees Celsius, charging suspends automatically. The Eco Series, meanwhile, is managed through the MSI aConnect app, with each unit supporting single-phase 7 kW and three-phase 22 kW from the same hardware. Auto Charge vehicle recognition starts a session the moment the cable is plugged in, after a one-time app setup. MSI launch comes as UK moves closer to 2035 zero-emission targets Max Home Socket and the Eco Premium Max Home Socket are listed on the UK government register of chargepoints approved for Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) grants. Flat owners and renters with private off-street parking can claim 75 per cent of the cost to buy and install a socket, up to £500, under the current scheme, which is funded to 31 March 2027.  Most UK homes run on single-phase supply, and the Eco Series delivers a full 7 kW from a standard connection. Where three-phase power is available, the same unit steps up to 22 kW with no hardware changes. The UK models are socketed Type 2 units, so drivers can use their own cable, and they are rated to run at full power from -30 to 55 degrees Celsius and at altitudes up to 3,000 metres. The expansion comes amid the UK Government's plans to end the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, with all new cars and vans zero-emission by 2035. Under Part S of the Building Regulations, new homes and buildings with parking must already provide EV charging. For developers and managing agents, the question has shifted from whether to wire a building for EVs to how to deploy chargers across the building, affordably and safely. For more on EV charging, click here.