CEF marks 75 years with sustainability report

Electrical distributor CEF has published its FY25 Sustainability & Social Value (SSV) Impact Report, outlining progress across emissions reduction, supplier engagement, and workforce development. The report coincides with the company’s 75th anniversary and highlights how sustainability initiatives are being implemented across its operations and supply chain. Key figures include an 82% reduction in Scope 2 emissions and 71% of supplier spend aligned with EcoVadis-rated partners. The report also details ongoing investment in electrification, installer training, and product efficiency. The FY25 report includes independently assured data for selected SSV metrics, verified by Jacobs UK in line with ISAE 3000 standards. CEF has set out its carbon reduction targets, aiming for a 63% reduction across Scopes 1, 2, and 3 by 2033, with a net zero target of 2040. Supplier engagement remains a focus, with more than 220 suppliers assessed through EcoVadis. The company has also carried out supplier events, on-site audits, and training to support improvements in sustainability practices. Measurable progress across operations and supply chain Across its operations, 74% of company cars are now electric or hybrid. The report also highlights continued rollout of EV charging infrastructure through its iCS business, alongside efforts to improve energy efficiency, packaging, and circularity across its own-brand products and supplier network. In workforce development, CEF delivered City & Guilds-approved training in solar PV and battery storage, supported 31 apprentices during FY25, and introduced a new health and safety management system in July 2024. Community initiatives also feature, with £208,000 raised for Macmillan in FY25 and continued support for the Electrical Industries Charity, alongside local volunteering and social value projects. Connor Dalton, Director of Sustainability, Health & Safety at CEF, comments, “As we celebrate 75 years of serving our customers and communities, this report shows how we’re pairing decades of industry expertise with modern sustainability action. “The independent assurance brings welcome credibility to our data and targets, but the real story is the practical work happening in branches, on sites, and in local communities. "We’re proud of the progress documented here and [are] focused on accelerating the changes that matter.” The report is intended to provide stakeholders with an overview of current progress, as well as areas requiring further development, as CEF says it continues to implement its sustainability and social value commitments. For more from CEF, click here.

Acrospire upgrades Jacob’s Ladder handrail lighting

British LED lighting manufacturer Acrospire has completed a handrail lighting upgrade at Jacob’s Ladder in Falmouth, working with Cornwall Council and contractor Enerveo to replace an ageing system. The Grade II-listed site, located on Falmouth Moor, consists of 111 granite steps and remains a well-used pedestrian route linking the Moor with surrounding areas. Originally commissioned in the early 19th century by local businessman Jacob Hamblen, it continues to form part of the town’s historic landscape. Lighting is a key requirement for the stairway, particularly in poor weather and low-light conditions. The previous system had reached the end of its serviceable life and replacement parts were no longer available. Mark Vincent, County Lighting Engineer at Cornwall Council, explains, “The problem we had was that the old handrail lighting system was beginning to fail and spares were no longer available. “The steps are old, worn, and well-used; they can also be very slippery when wet, so it was a priority for Cornwall Council to make sure they were properly lit.” Cornwall Council assessed retrofitting a new LED system into the existing structure, but a full replacement was selected following consideration of durability, installation, and overall cost. New system designed for coastal conditions Acrospire supplied a replacement illuminated handrail designed for staircases and bridges, with a focus on durability in exposed environments. The system incorporates 4000K 1W LED modules to provide consistent lighting while remaining appropriate for the historic setting. During the project, a section of the original handrail was found to be missing. Acrospire carried out additional site measurements to ensure the replacement system could be accurately manufactured and installed without delay. Mark continues, “We considered a retrofit option into the existing handrail, but given the minimal cost difference between that and full replacement, it was an easy decision.” The new handrail was delivered directly to site, with installation support provided to Enerveo operatives. “We now have a brand-new, built-to-last illuminated handrail solution backed by an Acrospire warranty and the can-do attitude of its owners and employees,” Mark concludes. “The result is a safer, more reliable system that supports the accessibility of this much-loved historic route.” For more from Acrospire, click here.

RAW activates EV charging hub in Leamington Spa

RAW Charging, an electric vehicle (EV) chargepoint operator for the leisure, retail, and hospitality sectors, has opened a new EV charging hub at Leamington Shopping Park, reportedly one of the largest sites of its kind in the Midlands. The installation includes 17 charging bays, comprising six AC units and 11 DC ultra-rapid chargers. The site is located within a busy retail and leisure destination, providing access to a range of shops and amenities. The hub is designed to support both local drivers and visitors, offering a mix of fast and ultra-rapid charging options. The ultra-rapid chargers operate at up to 150kW, enabling shorter charging times for compatible vehicles. To mark the opening, free charging will be available for users signed up to RAW Rewards between 20 April and 26 April 2026. Supporting EV charging access at retail destinations The Leamington Spa site forms part of wider efforts to expand EV charging infrastructure across high-footfall locations. Retail and leisure sites are increasingly being used to provide convenient access to charging while drivers carry out other activities. Demand for EV infrastructure continues to grow, with electric and hybrid vehicles accounting for a rising share of new car sales in the UK. This is driving the need for accessible and reliable charging across a range of locations. RAW Charging focuses on installing and operating chargepoints at retail, hospitality, and leisure sites, aiming to support everyday charging requirements. Jason Simpson, CEO of RAW Charging, comments, "We’re proud to bring our ultra-rapid charging experience to Leamington Spa Shopping Park. "This hub delivers the speed, reliability, and convenience drivers expect at one of the region’s most popular destinations. "By partnering with leading property owners such as Aberdeen, we’re making sustainable journeys simpler and helping accelerate the UK’s transition to zero-emission travel." For more from RAW Charging, click here.

Schneider launches Boost Pro battery storage in UK

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology company, has announced the UK launch of Schneider Boost Pro, a battery energy storage system (BESS) designed for commercial and industrial buildings. The system will be presented in the UK for the first time at the Commercial Vehicle Show, taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 21–23 April 2026. Schneider Boost Pro is intended to support energy management across sites by storing electricity for later use, helping to manage demand and maintain operational continuity. The launch comes as the UK continues to increase its use of renewable energy. According to the National Energy Systems Operator, renewables now account for 44% of the country’s electricity generation. However, variability in supply and ongoing grid modernisation present challenges for consistent energy delivery. The battery storage system is designed to improve flexibility and stability in power supply, particularly in environments with fluctuating demand or intermittent renewable generation. It is also suited to depot environments, where it can support the charging of heavy-duty vehicles, including buses and lorries. In addition, it can be deployed within transport infrastructure, such as along highways, where high-capacity charging is required. Supporting flexible energy use across sites Schneider Boost Pro can be scaled from 200kWh to 2MWh by combining multiple units, allowing it to adapt to changing energy requirements. The system enables several operational use cases. First, it can store surplus renewable energy for later use, helping to increase on-site energy consumption. It also allows sites to balance demand by drawing on stored energy when required and can provide backup power during outages. In addition, the system supports tariff management by charging during off-peak periods and discharging during peak pricing periods, helping to manage electricity costs. Schneider Boost Pro integrates with EcoStruxure Microgrid Advisor, a cloud-based platform that provides forecasting and energy management insights based on factors such as weather conditions, site demand, and market signals. The system also incorporates cybersecurity measures designed to protect data and communications, alongside installation, maintenance, and remote support options. Battery energy storage is playing an increasing role in balancing electricity demand and supporting the integration of renewable energy. Systems such as Schneider Boost Pro are being deployed to help reduce pressure on the grid during peak periods, while enabling more flexible energy use across commercial and industrial sites. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

NICEIC launches support package for BS 7671 Amendment 4

NICEIC, a certification body for the UK’s electrical contracting industry, has announced a package of guidance and resources following the publication of BS 7671:2018+A4:2026. The amendment has been published by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and the British Standards Institution (BSI) and can be adopted immediately. The previous version is scheduled to be withdrawn on 15 October 2026. NICEIC states that the support package is designed to help contractors understand and apply the updated requirements. The organisation has introduced a range of materials for certified businesses, including a 48-page digital workbook covering the changes introduced in Amendment 4. This is available through the NICEIC customer portal. A series of CPD-accredited webinars, titled 'The Wire', will also cover the updates in detail. The first session took place on 16 April 2026, with further episodes available both live and on demand. In addition, NICEIC will host two in-person technical events during 2026, providing further guidance on the amendment. These events are planned to take place in Surrey in June and in Sheffield in September. Resources to support contractors Further support includes updated technical guides, expanded content in the Connections magazine, and access to the NICEIC technical helpline. The organisation has also updated its certification forms and reports to reflect the new amendment, which are available through its online certification system and shop. Paul Collins, Technical Director at NICEIC, says, “Amendment 4 introduces a series of updates that reflect the rapid evolution of electrical technology, the growing integration of renewable energy systems, and the increasing complexity of modern electrical installations. "These updates ensure the UK’s electrical regulations remain aligned with advancing technology and best practice. "At NICEIC, our priority is to give contractors the tools, clarity, and confidence they need to work to the new amendment from day one. We encourage all NICEIC-certified businesses to use the Let’s Get Technical Plus workbook, sign up to The Wire webinars, and make use of the exclusive resources available to them.” NICEIC has also made a range of Amendment 4 publications and training courses available for purchase, aimed at supporting both certified businesses and the wider electrical industry. For more from NICEIC, click here.

IET & BSI officially publish Amendment 4

The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) together with the British Standards Institution (BSI) have today released Amendment 4 (2026) to the standard Requirements for Electrical Installations (BS 7671:2018) (18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations), marking the latest update to the UK’s national standard for electrical installation safety. This new amendment reflects the fast-paced evolution of technologies across the sector and introduces substantial changes in areas including stationary secondary batteries, medical locations, and Power over Ethernet (PoE). This update to the IET Wiring Regulations forms the UK national standard for: All new low voltage electrical installations Additions and alterations to existing installations Periodic inspection and testing of existing installations Amendment 4 is now available to be purchased and the previous version, BS 7671:2018+A2:2022+A3:2024, will be withdrawn six months from today on 15 October. New chapter: Stationary Secondary Batteries One of the most significant developments is the introduction of a new chapter covering stationary secondary batteries, responding to the rapid growth of energy‑storage technologies and their increasing deployment both with and without solar PV systems. The amendment sets out comprehensive requirements relating to system design, power conversion equipment, bidirectional or hybrid inverters and the suitability of protective devices for two‑way energy flow, an essential consideration as battery systems are increasingly used for vehicle‑to‑home and vehicle‑to‑grid applications. The chapter also places strong emphasis on safety‑critical matters such as appropriate battery location, ventilation, and fire‑risk mitigation. New section: Power over Ethernet (PoE) Section 716 introduces clear requirements for Power over Ethernet as Ethernet cabling is increasingly used to supply extra‑low voltage DC to low‑wattage equipment such as LED lighting and small appliances. The section focuses on the correct selection of power supplies and cables using SELV and PELV systems. While SELV and PELV typically allow up to 50 V AC or 120 V DC, Section 716, part of the Special Locations section, modifies these limits to 60 V ripple‑free DC in dry locations and 15 V ripple‑free DC elsewhere. To ensure safe operation, all electrical connections for PoE must comply with BS ISO/IEC 11801‑1 and be capable of supporting a continuous operating current of 750 mA per contact. Major revision: Medical Locations Section 710 has been significantly revised to improve safety in healthcare environments where patients are more vulnerable to the effects of electricity. Medical locations are now clearly classified into Groups 0, 1 and 2, with Group 2 areas, such as operating theatres, requiring medical IT systems that use a transformer and insulation monitoring device to maintain supply during a first fault and alert staff before disconnection would occur on a second fault. To avoid dangerous loss of power, two independent supplies and a UPS must also be provided, positioned as close as possible to the equipment they support. These updates align the UK with IEC 60364‑7‑710:2021 and its CENELEC adoption, strengthening protection for patients and medical staff. New section: Functional Earthing Another new section is dedicated to Functional Earthing and Functional Equipotential Bonding for ICT Equipment and Systems. Section 716 is principally concerned with power supplies and cables using SELV (Safety Extra Low Voltage) and PELV (Protection Extra Low Voltage) as the method for protection against electric shock. Conventionally, SELV and PELV require a voltage limitation of 50 V AC and 120 V DC; however, Section 716 is in Part 7, Special Locations, of BS 7671 which supplements or modifies the general rules. In this case, Section 716 limits SELV and PELV to 60 V ripple-free DC in dry locations and 15 V ripple-free DC in all other locations. The electrical connections for power over ethernet are to comply with BS ISO/IEC 11801-1 capable of supporting a continuous operating current of 750 mA per contact. The IET and BSI encourage all electrical professionals to ensure they become familiar with the changes now that they have been published. Mark Coles, Head of Technical Regulations at the IET, says, “The IET is the UK’s authority for electrical installations, and Amendment 4 continues our commitment to ensuring the IET Wiring Regulations evolve in line with the technologies shaping modern and future electrical work. “The inclusion of new requirements for stationary secondary batteries is a clear example of this progress, as advancing storage technologies increasingly support the integration of renewable energy in our daily lives. “It is essential that the sector remains aligned with these developments to maintain safe and resilient electrical installations across the UK and that the industry is ready to work to this new amendment before BS 7671:2018+A2:2022+A3:2024 is withdrawn.” Sebastiaan van Dort, Director of Energy and Sustainability at BSI, adds, “BSI is proud to jointly publish this vital standard with the IET at a time when the UK is accelerating towards its 2030 clean energy goals. BS 7671 underpins safe, modern electrical infrastructure - essential for delivering the electrification needed to meet net zero ambitions.” Further changes are included throughout all parts of BS 7671:2018+A4:2026, including the incorporation of Amendment 3:2024 to BS 7671:2018 as part of the main document. This Amendment sees the further adoption of CENELEC Harmonized Documents and IEC standards as the UK continues the inclusion of standards for new and developing technologies. BS 7671:2018+A4:2026 is available for purchase via theiet.org/GetTheRegs - where you can also learn more about the IET’s guidance and training packages too. For more from The IET, click here.  

KNIPEX shares guidance on maintaining VDE tools

Hand tools manufacturer KNIPEX has outlined practical steps for maintaining VDE-rated tools, highlighting the importance of regular checks to support performance and safety on site. The guidance focuses on simple maintenance tasks that can help extend tool lifespan and ensure compliance when working on electrical systems. For this, KNIPEX has produced a short video demonstrating how to care for VDE pliers in everyday use: [embed]https://www.youtube.com/shorts/dXgvxIQLpUw[/embed] The example shown is the KNIPEX Diagonal Cutter VDE, designed for electrical work in confined spaces such as junction boxes and distribution boards. The tool features a narrow head and extended cutting edges for precision work, alongside induction-hardened blades and insulated grips tested to IEC 60900 standards. Simple maintenance steps for safe use KNIPEX highlights that regular maintenance is particularly important for VDE tools, where insulation integrity is critical for safe operation. Basic steps include wiping tools clean after use, drying them thoroughly, and applying a light layer of oil to protect against moisture and corrosion. Adding lubricant to moving parts can help maintain smooth operation and reduce wear over time. The company also recommends routinely checking handle insulation to ensure it remains intact and suitable for electrical work. KNIPEX states that consistent upkeep can help maintain performance, extend tool life, and support safe working practices for electricians. For more from KNIPEX, click here.

Powered Now announces April event for Cardiff electricians

A free pop-up event for tradespeople will open at Cardiff’s Par 59 for one day only on 30 April. The ‘Advice on Tap’ event, hosted by job management software Powered Now, promises to bring together tradespeople from across the city. The event is designed to create a community for tradespeople, including installers, who often work in isolation or rely on social media for communication with others in their industry. Attendees will be able to enjoy a free game of mini golf, a goody bag giveaway, and drinks, as well as free tool marking by SelectaDNA for the first 30 sign-ups. The Powered Now team will be on hand to provide advice and actionable tips on how to streamline admin, digitalise business, and get on top of tax, particularly following the arrival of Making Tax Digital for Income Tax. There are 50 free tickets available to people working in the trades. Tradespeople can register for a free ticket to Advice on Tap Cardiff online at the company's website. Bringing the trades together Benjamin Dyer, founder and CEO of Powered Now, comments, “We work with so many tradespeople who are now under more pressure than ever before. "With the trades often working solo, it can at times be a lonely job. Add to this a growing pile of admin, invoices, and paperwork, and it’s no surprise that many tradespeople are feeling stretched. “Advice on Tap is our way of bringing the trades together in Cardiff, with a proper evening out that’s worth them turning up for. "It’s about offering practical advice, a few laughs, and reminding tradespeople that they’re not alone with real talk on running a trade business.” Powered Now is a job management software designed specifically for trade businesses. With a UK-based support team, the company explains that the app allows businesses to invoice, quote, and schedule jobs and teams. For more from Powered Now, click here.

Celebrating 70 years of innovation: Doepke at Light + Building 2026

2026 marks a significant milestone for Doepke, as the company celebrates 70 years of expertise in electrical safety and protection. Since its founding in 1956, Doepke has established itself as a specialist in residual current protection, consistently delivering high-quality, reliable solutions for the electrical industry. Over the decades, the company has evolved alongside the sector - supporting everything from traditional installations to modern applications such as EV charging and heat pump systems. This anniversary year was proudly celebrated at Light + Building 2026 in Frankfurt, Germany, one of the industry’s most important global events. The exhibition provided the ideal platform to reflect on Doepke’s journey while showcasing its latest innovations. Visitors to the Doepke stand were taken through a dedicated exhibition highlighting key milestones from the past 70 years. From early developments in protective devices to today’s advanced technologies, the display demonstrated how Doepke has remained at the forefront of electrical protection. The celebration at Light + Building was not only a look back at Doepke’s heritage, but a clear statement of intent for the future. As the industry continues to evolve, Doepke remains committed to supporting installers, contractors, and engineers with trusted expertise and innovative solutions. 70 years of protection, with the future firmly in focus. For more from Doepke, click here.

National Ventilation relaunches popular multi-function fan

National Ventilation, a leading UK-based ventilation manufacturer and supplier, has launched its popular Monsoon Energysaver IntelliSense i7 fan in a sleek, black design. The seven-in-one IntelliSense i7 is a clever multi-function fan and, as black interiors continue to grow in popularity, the choice of black or white offers a stylish and intelligent choice for wholesalers, electricians, and households alike. With a choice of intermittent or continuous running, this ultra-quiet, ultra-modern, smart bathroom fan runs extremely quietly at low speed, at just 17dB(A). The ingenious fan also offers an intelligent humidity sensor, a useful overrun timer, and presence sensor, as well as an airing function to avoid stuffy odours in the bathroom, while simultaneously offering a high performance of up to 110m³/hr. Offering the versatility to ventilate bathrooms, toilets, and utility areas, the seven-in-one IntelliSense i7 boasts six core ventilation modes including: three continuous ventilation modes, three intermittent modes, and one heat mover mode, allowing the fan to transfer any surplus heat to an adjacent room. Suitable for installation in wet areas (IP44) such as WCs and bathrooms, the fan offers further installation flexibility since it is suitable for both wall or ceiling mounting. This makes IntelliSense i7 the ideal choice for electrical wholesalers, who can offer this intelligent fan to their customers confident that, with its seven-in-one options, the fan’s versatility means it will fit the majority of bathroom installations. Plus, the new black option makes the fan even more adaptable for customers. With one fan suitable for most installations, wholesalers can hold less stock in their warehouses. Furthermore, electricians can keep the fan in their van knowing they will always have the right solution for their customers to hand and that they can also expect happy customers thanks to all of its intelligent features. “The Monsoon Energysaver IntelliSense i7 in black is an exciting new addition to the range, offering customers looking for a more contemporary look even greater choice alongside the fan’s versatile seven-in-one options”, says Robin Francis, Managing Director at National Ventilation. “Wholesalers and electricians can also be confident that they are selecting the right fan for customers since it offers reduced energy consumption due to a low-voltage motor, a third less than conventional bathroom fans, all in all making the IntelliSense i7 fan the intelligent choice.” Selecting the right fan The IntelliSense i7 is backed up with a five-year warranty. It's stylish yet great value and packed with clever features, including the fan’s intelligent self-adjusting humidity sensor, which continuously measures the humidity level in the room, protecting the home from condensation and mould. When a sharp rise in humidity is sensed (e.g. when taking a shower), or if the relative humidity (RH) exceeds 70%, it starts up automatically, and once the level is restored, the fan will return to basic flow or will stop. Meanwhile, a useful presence sensor is activated by motion (IR) or when the light is switched on to ensure the fan operates when the room is in use. The overrun time is 15 minutes, with the fan switching to a medium speed, 60 m³/h, and, depending on the choice of mode, it starts up immediately after 2.5 minutes. If the humidity control or presence sensor has not been active for 24 hours, the airing function will start up with the fan operating at medium speed for 30 minutes every 12 hours, avoiding stuffy, musty odours in the bathroom when the room is unoccupied for a while. The IntelliSense i7 offers excellent performance with high capacity and very good pressure capability, featuring a unique self-calibrating motor that senses and compensates its speed if, for example, wind resistance increases in the ventilation duct. This can be compared to a built-in cruise control that automatically ensures an optimal ventilation flow and avoids backdraughts even when the fan is running at low speed. Suitable for both wall and ceiling mounting, once the wall frame is installed, the fan is simply fixed to the wall frame, phase and neutral are connected, and the job is done, making installation easy for electricians. The fan offers plenty of space for electrical connection: it has a liftable terminal block, integrated seals around the back side of the wall frame, cable and screw entries, and a built-in multi-pole switch. Changing the function is easy too: simply lift the cover plate, select the desired mode with a screwdriver, and close the cover. It is also possible to change mode when the motor unit has been removed from the wall frame. For further information on the IntelliSense i7, click here to view the product on the company's website. For further information on all products and services offered by National Ventilation, telephone 01823 690 290 or visit the company's website. For more from National Ventilation, click here.