Electricity cables ‘re-rooted’ to protect ancient tree

Distribution network operator UK Power Networks has adapted the route of new electricity cables in central London to protect the root system of what is believed to be the capital's oldest tree. The London plane tree on Cheapside, near St Paul's Cathedral, is thought to have stood in the same location since 1855, although some estimates suggest it dates back to the 18th century. Its protected status required careful planning during electricity network upgrades in the area. Designers and engineers identified that the original cable route on Wood Street would pass close to the tree's extensive root system and revised the plans to avoid potential damage. Trial holes were excavated to confirm the location of the roots before work began. The revised route also avoided the Grade I-listed Guildhall and the surrounding conservation area, with support from specialist environmental contractors. When excavation work reached the edge of the tree's canopy, only hand-digging methods were used to minimise the risk of damaging the roots. Careful planning protects heritage and infrastructure The project demonstrates how electricity network upgrades can be delivered while protecting historic landmarks and the natural environment. James St John Davis, Chair of the City of London Corporation's Natural Environment Board, says, "When infrastructure projects stop and change course for a single tree, it speaks volumes. "UK Power Networks have gone to impressive lengths to protect what is believed to be one of the oldest and most historically important trees in the Square Mile - a truly living piece of the City's history. "As custodians of more than 11,000 acres of green and open spaces across London and the South East, we know how rare and irreplaceable these landmarks are. "This is a powerful example of how modern infrastructure and heritage can coexist, delivered with real sensitivity to our natural and historic environment." Chanelle Mistry, Assistant Project Manager at UK Power Networks, adds, "London's heritage is irreplaceable, and at UK Power Networks, we're determined to protect it while keeping the capital powered. "When our teams realised this historic plane tree could be at risk, we acted quickly to adapt our plans to safeguard it. "Projects like this show how we can modernise the electricity network responsibly, without compromising the landmarks that make London special." The project also received the 'Streetworks Communication' award at the City of London Corporation's Considerate Contractor Streetworks Scheme. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

UK set to miss Clean Power 2030 target

According to new analysis from energy consultancy LCP Delta, Great Britain is "unlikely to meet its target" of generating 95% of electricity from clean power by 2030. The company's latest GB Power Market Outlook forecasts that clean power generation will reach 83% by 2030 under current plans, with the 95% target not expected to be achieved until 2035. Even under its most ambitious 'Accelerated Build' scenario, the report suggests the milestone would be reached in 2032. Clean power generation has increased steadily in recent years, rising from 68% in 2020 to 74% by the end of 2025. However, the report estimates that a further 28GW of renewable capacity would be needed to achieve the Government's 2030 target. The analysis models several possible pathways for decarbonising Great Britain's electricity system and assesses progress towards the Clean Power 2030 objective. Despite falling short of the target, the report concludes that policies introduced over the past two years are expected to deliver significant changes to the electricity system by the end of the decade. By 2030, gas use is forecast to fall by 38% compared with 2024, rising to 52% under the Accelerated Build scenario. Renewable capacity is expected to almost double, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 36% compared with current levels, or around 46% under the accelerated scenario. Gas is also projected to set electricity prices less than half of the time by 2030, down from 85% in 2025. Grid constraints remain a major obstacle According to the report, one of the main barriers to achieving the 2030 target is the continued reliance on gas generation to manage constraints on the electricity network. Under current projections, around 27TWh of renewable electricity would be curtailed in 2030 because it cannot be transported to areas of demand, while 16TWh of gas generation would instead be brought online. LCP Delta says that accelerating key network upgrades in East Anglia, improving existing infrastructure, and reforming balancing mechanisms could increase clean power generation to around 90% by 2030. The report also suggests that a cleaner electricity system would help reduce consumers' exposure to fluctuations in international gas prices. It estimates that a gas price shock similar to that experienced following disruption in the Strait of Hormuz would increase household energy bills by around 4% in 2030, compared with 24% in a system without Contracts for Difference-backed renewable generation. An accelerated rollout of clean power could also reduce the average household electricity bill by around £40 in 2030 compared with 2026, according to the analysis. LCP Delta says that moving policy costs associated with older renewable schemes to general taxation, alongside removing VAT, could reduce average bills by a further £64. The company is calling on the Government to accelerate renewable deployment, reduce grid connection delays, deliver network upgrades, and introduce measures to reduce network constraints. Sam Hollister, Head of UK Market Strategy at LCP Delta, explains, "While our analysis shows that Great Britain is unlikely to meet its 2030 Clean Power target, the direction of travel is clear: by the end of the decade, the energy system will have undergone a profound transformation. "Renewable capacity is set to provide over 70% of our power needs in just a few years, weaning the country off volatile international gas markets whilst halving the power sector carbon emissions compared to 2025. "For consumers, one of the biggest benefits will be greater protection from external gas price shocks. A cleaner power system means lower reliance on gas, helping to shield households from the kind of price volatility seen during recent energy crises whilst benefiting the climate. "Importantly, there are actions the Government can take beyond current policy to accelerate renewable deployment, tackle grid constraints, and unlock the full benefits of the clean power transition."

Ideal Heating introduces heat pump lifetime warranty

Ideal Heating, a UK manufacturer of boilers and heat pumps, has launched a lifetime warranty for its Logic Air heat pumps, offering long-term, manufacturer-backed support for eligible installations. Available for Logic Air heat pumps installed with an Ideal cylinder and Halo Air controls, the package includes annual servicing, an ongoing warranty, and manufacturer support for the lifetime of the system. Homeowners can register within six months of installation through a monthly subscription of £22.50 or an annual payment of £270. According to Ideal Heating, the new package is designed to complement the role of installers rather than replace it. New support options for installers and homeowners Installers can recommend the lifetime warranty to customers who want Ideal Heating to provide ongoing servicing and support. Those wishing to retain responsibility for annual servicing can continue to do so through the company's extended warranty options. Ideal Heating says the new offering has also been developed for the housebuilding sector, providing a route for ongoing support after homeowners move into new properties fitted with Logic Air heat pumps. Adam Foy, Chief Executive Officer at Ideal Heating, comments, "We didn't want to launch just another warranty; we wanted to redefine what long-term ownership of a heat pump should look like. "That's why lifetime warranty is about much more than repairing a product if something goes wrong; it's about ongoing care, expert support, and giving installers and homeowners confidence throughout the lifetime of the system. "The heating industry has spent years talking about giving homeowners confidence in heat pumps. We wanted to do something that genuinely moves that conversation forward. "Lifetime warranty is an industry first. It gives homeowners the reassurance that their heat pump can be looked after by the people who designed and built it, while giving installers another powerful way to support their customers. "This isn't about taking away servicing from installers; in fact, it's the opposite. It's about standing behind them." The lifetime warranty forms part of Ideal Heating's wider investment in low-carbon heating, which includes UK heat pump manufacturing, research and development, technical support, a nationwide service network, and Expert Academy training. The package was previewed at InstallerSHOW 2026 ahead of its launch. For more from Ideal Heating, click here.

Schneider Electric launches compact three-phase RCBO

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology company, has expanded its Acti9 range with the launch of the Acti9 iC60 H3, a compact three-phase residual current circuit breaker (RCBO) with overcurrent protection for commercial and industrial applications. The device is designed to provide protection against overloads, earth faults, and short circuits, while supporting compliance with the requirements of BS 7671. According to Schneider Electric, the new RCBO has been developed to reduce the amount of space required within distribution boards. The device occupies three modules, compared with seven modules for the previous design, allowing more efficient use of available panel space. Designed for monitoring and easier installation The Acti9 iC60 H3 is compatible with Schneider Electric's PowerTag energy sensors, enabling circuit-level energy monitoring. Energy data can be integrated into the company's EcoStruxure Energy Hub platform and building management systems to provide visibility of energy consumption and support operational decision-making. Schneider Electric says the RCBO also incorporates Type A residual current device (RCD) technology for applications with electronic loads, alongside solid neutral and voltage-dependent technology. The company adds that the reduced number of wiring connections is intended to simplify installation and make it easier to upgrade from miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) to RCBOs. The Acti9 iC60 H3 RCBO is now available through Schneider Electric's distributor network. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Ellis reports 57% carbon emissions reduction

Ellis, a designer and manufacturer of electrical cable cleats, has published a new Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for its polymer cable cleat range and released its latest carbon footprint report, which shows a 57% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions since its 2017/18 baseline year. The new EPD provides independently verified lifecycle environmental data for the company's polymer cable cleats, enabling consultants, contractors, EPCs, and end users to assess the environmental impact of products during specification. It follows the publication of Ellis's stainless steel cable cleat EPD, meaning the company now offers verified environmental data across both of its main cable cleat ranges. The EPD has been produced in accordance with EN 15804+A2, ISO 14025, and ISO 21930, and assesses environmental impacts throughout the product lifecycle, from raw material extraction and manufacturing to end-of-life disposal and recycling. Sustainability progress backed by verified data Alongside the EPD, Ellis has released its latest Carbon Footprint Report, outlining progress against its sustainability objectives. The report shows the company has reduced Scope 1 and 2 emissions by approximately 57% over the past eight years through investment in renewable energy, electrification, and operational improvements. According to Ellis, solar power now supplies more than half of its operational energy requirements. Danny Macfarlane, Managing Director of Ellis, says, "Sustainability is increasingly influencing decisions across the industries we serve, from data centres and renewable energy projects to power generation and critical infrastructure. "Providing independently verified environmental data through EPDs gives customers the transparency they need to assess the environmental impact of their projects, while our latest carbon footprint report demonstrates that we are committed to reducing the environmental impact of our own operations as well. "We believe environmental claims should be supported by robust evidence and measurable outcomes. These latest developments reinforce our commitment to transparency, continuous improvement, and supporting customers on their own sustainability journeys." EPDs provide independently verified information on the environmental performance of products and are increasingly used to support sustainability assessments, embodied carbon calculations, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting. Ellis notes that the new Polymer Cable Cleat EPD and Carbon Footprint Report are available from its website. For more from Ellis, click here.

JTL opens new Medway training centre

Electrical training provider JTL has officially opened a new electrical training centre in Medway following a £2 million investment to expand apprenticeship training across Kent. Located at Sun Pier in Chatham, the facility was opened by the Mayor of Medway, Councillor Douglas Hamandishe, alongside Sir John Low, Chair of the JTL Board; Chris Claydon, JTL Chief Executive; employers; industry representatives; and local skills organisations. The centre has been created within the former BBC Radio Kent building and has the capacity to train more than 200 electrical apprentices each year. Facilities include electrical training bays with industry-standard equipment, a hybrid classroom for practical and theory-based learning, four teaching rooms, an inspection and testing area, an exam room, and an End Point Assessment preparation area. JTL says the centre will support apprentices from across Kent and the South of England, with plans to introduce plumbing apprenticeship training in the future. Addressing regional skills demand The new centre has been developed to support regional priorities around construction, retrofit, and low-carbon technologies, whilst providing opportunities for people not in education, employment, or training (NEETs). The opening event included guided tours of the facilities, opportunities to meet apprentices and training staff, and networking sessions for employers and industry partners. Exhibitors included Edmundson Electrical, Milwaukee, JIB, Scolmore, and Schneider. Councillor Douglas Hamandishe, Mayor of Medway, comments, "It was a pleasure to attend the official opening of JTL's Medway centre. "Facilities like this are vital in ensuring young people and career changers can access high-quality technical training, while supporting the development of skills needed for the future. "It was fantastic to meet some of the brilliant apprentices and the employers they are working for and to hear how they will all benefit from JTL's new training centre." Sir John Low, Chair of JTL's Board of Trustees, adds, "The new Medway centre demonstrates JTL's long-term commitment to the highly skilled trades of electrical services, and to investing in the future of the region. "By providing apprentices with access to industry-standard equipment and specialist training in occupations in desperate need of skilled tradespeople, we're helping to address skills shortages while supporting the UK's journey towards a more sustainable built environment. "Each apprenticeship depends on employer backing to give them the work placement, so we are committed to supporting employers in meeting demand and pressing the Government to make these commitments a reality." According to Skills England's latest Skills Assessment, electrotechnical occupations (including electricians) are expected to see significant growth due to increasing demand linked to net zero, construction, and infrastructure projects. The report identifies electricians as a priority occupation where additional training capacity is required. The Medway training centre is now operational and supporting apprentices, employers, and industry partners across the region. For more from JTL, click here.

Absolar solar panels installed at Bexhill's De La Warr Pavilion

Commercial solar company Absolar has completed the installation of 144 lightweight solar panels at the Grade I-listed De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex, as part of the venue's 'An Icon For Everyone' redevelopment project. Installed on the auditorium roof, the 77.7kWp system is expected to generate around 71,570kWh of electricity each year, meeting approximately 20% of the building's annual electricity demand. According to Absolar, this is the first UK installation of this lightweight solar panel model used for the project. Weighing 7.2kg/m², the panels were selected to suit the pavilion's original steel roof structure while preserving capacity for future building upgrades. The installation also includes GoodWe inverters, which have been integrated with the building's existing electrical infrastructure and are compatible with future battery storage. Balancing heritage with energy generation The De La Warr Pavilion was designed by architect Erich Mendelsohn and structural engineer Felix Samuely. As a Grade I-listed building, the project required a system that could be installed without placing excessive loads on the original structure. Absolar says the system combines lightweight construction with high energy generation and manufacturer warranties, allowing the building to improve its energy performance while maintaining its historic fabric. The company estimates the installation will reduce carbon emissions by around 18 tonnes each year. Stewart Drew, CEO and Director of the De La Warr Pavilion, comments, "As we celebrate the 90th year of the De La Warr Pavilion, I couldn't be prouder to see these solar panels being installed. "It's a milestone moment and one that reflects our ongoing dedication to environmental sustainability, strengthening the long-term resilience of the building and reducing its operational impact on the environment. "These super-lightweight panels are the first of their kind to be installed in the UK and have been carefully chosen to be sympathetic to the existing roof, preserving the integrity of this Grade I-listed, modernist landmark." Kathryn Field, Portfolio Holder for Environment at Rother District Council, adds, "We are delighted that the solar panels are being installed at the De La Warr Pavilion. "This funding has enabled a major investment in environmental sustainability which will greatly reduce the Pavilion's carbon footprint." Part of a wider redevelopment programme The solar installation has been funded through Rother District Council's Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Climate Emergency Bonus Fund and forms part of the pavilion's An Icon For Everyone transformation project. The wider programme includes new learning and community spaces, refurbishment of the auditorium and galleries, accessibility improvements, and measures to improve the building's environmental performance. Phil Wu, CEO of Absolar, says, "It's been a real honour to be part of this project, as the De La Warr Pavilion is such a community asset, steeped in history and loved by the people of Bexhill. We were determined to find a solution that protects and preserves it for the next 90 years and beyond. "As a listed building used daily by artists and the wider community, we approached this as much as an art project as an engineering one. "Absolar chose modern solar panels, which are lightweight yet don't compromise on performance. This means we fully respect the building's original structure while securing its energy future. "We're proud to be part of its journey, helping make it both structurally sound and environmentally ready for the next century."

TRILUX provides lighting for Oxford humanities centre

TRILUX, a manufacturer of professional lighting systems, has supplied 6,691 luminaires for the Stephen A. Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities at the University of Oxford, providing lighting across teaching, performance, library, and public spaces. Located within Oxford's Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, the centre brings together teaching, research, performance, and public engagement facilities within a single building. Designed by Hopkins Architects, with Max Fordham acting as M&E engineers and lighting designers, the project is the largest single building development undertaken by the University of Oxford. TRILUX supplied general, architectural, and emergency lighting throughout the 25,000m² Passivhaus-certified building. Tailored lighting for a diverse environment The centre incorporates a range of spaces, including academic facilities, performance venues, libraries, and public areas, requiring different lighting approaches throughout the building. Key areas such as the main entrance, Great Hall, and concert venue required integrated architectural lighting, while teaching rooms, circulation spaces, and study areas called for functional and efficient illumination. Wireless lighting controls have been implemented across the site, with Bluetooth-enabled luminaires supporting zoning, scene setting, and lighting adjustments throughout the building. A significant part of TRILUX's involvement was the development of a bespoke luminaire for the library areas. The fitting was designed to provide uniform vertical illumination across shelving while maintaining visual comfort for users. According to the company, the optical design enables multiple light distributions from a compact luminaire profile, helping achieve consistent lighting levels across library collections. Alongside the bespoke library solution, TRILUX supplied a range of products from its standard portfolio across the wider building. Finea linear luminaires were installed throughout teaching spaces, offices, and circulation areas, while Sonnos downlights were used in social and shared spaces. Oleveon and Aragon luminaires were specified for performance and service areas, with Siella G5 suspended luminaires installed in offices and Onplana downlights used across a variety of working environments. Meeting Passivhaus requirements The Schwarzman Centre was designed to meet Passivhaus standards, requiring careful consideration of energy performance across all building systems. TRILUX says its lighting systems support these objectives through energy-efficient luminaires and intelligent controls designed to reduce energy consumption while maintaining appropriate lighting conditions throughout the building. The project involved collaboration between TRILUX, Max Fordham, Laing O'Rourke, and other members of the project team to ensure the lighting design aligned with architectural, construction, and operational requirements. For more from TRILUX, click here.

Zumtobel Group earns EcoVadis Platinum rating

Zumtobel Group, an Austrian company specialising in professional indoor and outdoor lighting, has received a Platinum rating from sustainability assessment platform EcoVadis, placing the company amongst the top 1% of organisations evaluated worldwide. The lighting manufacturer has been assessed by EcoVadis since 2016 and has progressed from Silver to Gold before achieving Platinum status for the first time. According to the company, the latest rating reflects continued improvements in its sustainability performance and reporting practices. Alfred Felder, CEO of Zumtobel Group, notes, "The EcoVadis Platinum rating confirms the Zumtobel Group's consistently pursued path; for us, sustainability is not a single project but an integral part of our business. "This success is only possible thanks to the joint commitment of our teams and the continuous implementation of our sustainability strategy. "At the same time, we see this award as an incentive to continue advancing our ambitions in the interests of our customers and partners, our employees, and the environment." A sustainable strategy The company says its sustainability strategy is built around three areas: Net Zero, Circular Economy, and Partner of Choice. Zumtobel states that it is implementing measures and targets across its value chain to support these objectives, whilst increasing transparency through sustainability reporting. The company also highlights the role of regulatory frameworks, including the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), in supporting the disclosure of sustainability performance and progress. According to Zumtobel, the move to Platinum status reflects both its sustainability initiatives and its approach to measuring and reporting results. For more from Zumtobel, click here.

Luceco supplies lighting for Kings’ School Winchester

Luceco, a UK manufacturer and distributor of LED lighting products, has completed a lighting project at Kings’ School Winchester, providing a new lighting scheme designed to improve energy efficiency, visual comfort, and long-term maintenance across the site. The state-maintained secondary school required upgraded lighting for classrooms, communal areas, circulation spaces, and external environments. Luceco developed the lighting design in collaboration with the installation contractor, drawing on previous experience delivering projects for Hampshire County Council within the education and healthcare sectors. Lighting installed across school facilities The project incorporated a range of Luceco products selected to meet the requirements of different areas across the school. Classrooms and study spaces were fitted with LuxPanel Connect LED panels, designed to provide uniform illumination and low-glare performance. Platinum with Platform downlights were installed in selected areas, offering lighting controls intended to support energy efficiency, whilst the Academy range was used throughout corridors, communal areas, and learning spaces. Externally, DW Windsor bespoke columns were installed to provide site lighting while complementing the school's architecture. Emergency exit signage was also integrated throughout the building. According to Luceco, the lighting design was developed to support educational standards while simplifying ongoing maintenance requirements. Ongoing work in the education sector Luceco says its previous work with Hampshire County Council helped streamline the design process and ensure the project met technical and operational requirements. Paul Carter, Account Manager at Luceco, notes, "Having worked with Hampshire County Council on other school projects, we understand the importance of reliable, compliant, and visually comfortable lighting for both students and staff. "At Kings’ School Winchester, we were able to deliver a solution that enhances learning environments while providing long-term energy and maintenance benefits." The project forms part of Luceco’s ongoing work within the education sector, supplying lighting systems for schools and other public sector facilities. For more from Luceco, click here.