KNIPEX launches limited edition diagonal cutter

Hand tools manufacturer KNIPEX has launched a limited edition version of its diagonal cutter, aimed at electricians, installers, maintenance engineers, and other tradespeople working across the construction and building services sectors. The ‘We Forge Winners’ edition is available for a limited period and features comfort handles in white, blue, green, and red colourways, alongside exclusive packaging. Based on the KNIPEX 70 02 160 diagonal cutter, the 160mm tool is designed for cutting soft, medium-hard, and hard wire across a range of installation and maintenance applications. The cutter features induction-hardened precision cutting edges and is rated for cutting soft wire up to 4mm in diameter, medium-hard wire up to 3mm, and hard wire up to 2mm. Built for site and installation work The tool is manufactured from forged vanadium electric steel and undergoes a multi-stage oil-hardening process intended to improve durability in demanding working environments. According to KNIPEX, the cutting edges are additionally induction hardened to approximately 61 HRC to help maintain cutting performance over extended use. The diagonal cutter also features a slim head design for improved access in confined spaces often encountered during electrical and mechanical installation work. Three-component ergonomic comfort handles are included to improve grip and reduce hand fatigue during repetitive tasks. The model incorporates two universal KNIPEXtend interfaces, allowing users to add tethering points for working at height or attach ColourCode clips for tool identification and organisation. For more from KNIPEX, click here.

Virtual College launches new 18th Edition courses

Online compliance training platform Virtual College has launched a new '18th Edition Requirements for Electrical Installations BS 7671' course, including Amendment 4 updates. The course is available exclusively through the Virtual College platform and the NICEIC, a certification body for the UK’s electrical contracting industry. The e-learning course aims to provide a complete introduction to the full scope of current regulations and the latest requirements of BS 7671 to support electricians with accurate, compliant decision-making across installation and inspection work. Virtual College has also launched a CPD-accredited 18th Edition Amendment 4 Workshop, suitable for electricians who currently work with BS 7671 in practice and want a clear, up-to-date understanding of the Amendment 4 changes. Virtual College says it is offering a 20% discount on both courses for a limited time only. Keeping up with Amendment 4 Laura Cooper, Marketing Director at Virtual College, comments, “The 18th Edition BS 7671 course including Amendment 4 updates is an essential requirement for every practising electrician. "The latest changes introduce new requirements around ICT systems, battery storage, PoE distribution, and energy efficiency, and our full course and additional workshop ensures experienced professionals remain compliant and new entrants are fully qualified in line with these updated standards. “We’re proud to offer a course that supports improved safety across the industry, and to be the only platform delivering it outside of NICEIC.” For more information on the course, click here.

113th President of ECA appointed

This week, at the Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA) Council meeting, Glenn Grant, Director of Drax360 (part of Obsequio Group), became the 113th ECA President. Glenn assumes this position in ECA’s historic 125th anniversary year, following a year serving as Senior Vice President. Having worked in the electrical industry since 1980, Glenn has been an active member of ECA’s East Region for over 25 years. During this time, he has held positions as Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire Branch Chair and East Regional Chair. He is currently on his second six-year term as an East Region Council Member. Glenn's background Glenn began his career in electrical wholesaling before moving to Gent in 1984, a fire detection and suppression systems design and installation organisation. He later went on to manage UK operations at Cerberus (now part of Siemens) before starting and running Wagner, aspirating smoke detection and fire suppression specialist. In 2001, he left Wagner to establish and run his own fire and security business. Following the sale of that business in 2018, he joined Drax360, where he remains today. He is originally from East London and is now living near Cambridge. During his career, he has gained a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Business Studies, completed the first year of an Ordinary National Certificate (ONC) in Electrical Engineering, and has achieved Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) qualifications. Industry reactions Commenting on his appointment, Glenn says, “I am honoured to take on the role of ECA President, particularly during this landmark anniversary year. "Throughout this year, I look forward to continuing to represent ECA as we support the advancements in our industry, driving electrification, tackling the skills shortage, and creating a fairer business landscape. “I am passionate about the people in our industry and a key priority for me this year will be developing the skills of the next generation of talent. "Promoting ECA’s Growth Hub, an initiative I have been closely involved with in its development and delivery, will be central to this work.” Andrew Eldred, Managing Director at ECA, adds, “Glenn’s longstanding involvement with ECA is a great preparation for his success as President over the next year. "Glenn’s experience and commitment will prove a great asset as we continue our work to help ECA Members build strong businesses and a resilient industry at a pivotal time.” Also at the ECA Council meeting, Andy Prager, Managing Director of ECA South East Member Business, was appointed as Vice President of ECA. Jeremy Parkin has been made Senior Vice President, and Ruth Devine MBE becomes Immediate Past President. For more from ECA, click here.

Elucian’s new 10kA3 Pole + Switched Neutral Bi-Directional RCBO

Click Scolmore has announced the launch of Elucian’s new 10kA 3 Pole + Switched Neutral Bi-Directional RCBO, further expanding its comprehensive circuit protection portfolio. Developed in response to growing market demand, the new 10kA 3 Pole + Switched Neutral Bi-Directional RCBOs are supplied with a one metre Neutral fly lead and are available in a wide range of current ratings from 6A to 63A. Products are offered in both B Curve and C Curve variants, each featuring Type A 30mA protection. This ensures suitability across a broad spectrum of commercial and industrial applications where additional protection may be required. Regulation 411.3.3 sets out the requirements for socket-outlets up to 32A to incorporate additional protection when being used by ordinary persons. While many installations use SWA cables in this environment - which typically do not require additional protection - the regulation is clear that additional protection is required for socket-outlets up to 32A. Installers often install an RCD closer to the socket. This approach can be costly and time consuming. The new addition provides a reliable and space-saving solution for three-phase installations allowing multiple points to be installed on one RCBO, extending Elucian’s offering beyond its established single-pole solutions. Designed for versatile applications Designed with bi-directional functionality, the new RCBOs are suitable for a wide range of applications, including: • Three-phase distribution boards — Providing 4-pole protection (three phases plus neutral) for machinery, HVAC systems, and commercial equipment • Renewable energy and HVAC systems — Ideal for air source and ground source heat pumps, solar PV systems, and battery storage installations requiring dependable protection • EV charging stations — Suitable for 32A and 40A installations requiring 30mA earth leakage protection • Industrial environments — Motor control centres, automation systems, and robotics, where reliable protection is critical to prevent costly downtime • Commercial buildings — Offices, retail units, data centres, and hospitals, where continuous operation is essential For more information, visit the Elucian website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Elucian, click here.

Kewtech announces a big giveaway

Test equipment manufacturer Kewtech says it is excited to announce its big giveaway, giving electricians and professionals across the industry the chance to win over £1,000 worth of fantastic prizes. The company explains that the giveaway is its way of saying thank you to the community that continues to support and trust Kewtech for reliable, high-performance electrical test equipment. Whether you’re on site every day or just starting out in your electrical career, this giveaway is open to all. Kewtech has packed the prize pool with a selection of its favourites, including essential testing accessories, branded merchandise, and tools that every electrician will appreciate in their kit. It’s all designed to make your testing faster, simpler, and safer. How to enter Entering couldn’t be simpler, and once you’re in, you’ll automatically be in with a chance of winning from the full prize selection. With over £1,000 worth of gear up for grabs, this is a great opportunity to upgrade your toolkit with trusted equipment from one of the UK’s leading names in electrical testing. Kewtech says it is committed to supporting electricians with innovative products and practical solutions that make everyday testing easier. This giveaway reflects that same commitment - giving back to the professionals who rely on its equipment day in, day out. Don’t miss your chance to take part. Enter now and you could be one of the lucky winners. Are you in the draw? If not, you can click here to enter. For more from Kewtech, click here.

Pendle receives LED lighting upgrade from Thorn

Luminaire manufacturer and supplier Thorn Lighting has completed an LED lighting upgrade at the Steven Burke Sports Hub, a free-access cycling circuit and BMX pump track operated by Pendle Borough Council. Named after Olympic cyclist Sir Steven Burke, the 1.1km facility has replaced ageing HID lanterns with LED luminaires designed to improve visibility, reduce energy use, and limit light spill into surrounding wildlife areas. The project involved collaboration between Thorn Lighting staff, members of the Pendle Forest Cycling Club, council officers, and local contractors. The original lighting installation was completed by a contractor based within five miles of the site, which also carried out the latest upgrade work. Thorn says the luminaires were manufactured at its Spennymoor facility, while a nearby wholesaler supplied the equipment. LED lighting reduces energy consumption The installation uses Thorn’s Isaro Pro LED lanterns across 41 fixed column positions around the circuit. According to the company, the luminaires were selected for their optical control and durability. Each lantern contains 24 LEDs configured to provide consistent illumination across the track while reducing glare and minimising spill beyond the circuit boundary. The system uses 4000K LEDs to support visibility during early morning and evening use. Thorn engineers carried out lighting design work and site visits to address dark spots caused by the fixed column locations and to maintain lighting uniformity around the track. The project also aimed to reduce the impact on local wildlife by limiting upward light and controlling horizontal spill in surrounding areas of Swinden Playing Fields. According to Pendle Borough Council, the LED upgrade has reduced energy consumption by around 45% and lowered maintenance requirements due to the longer operational life of the luminaires. Tricia Wilson, Project Manager (Engineering & Cycling) at Pendle Borough Council, says, “This [...] was a community effort. Club members and Thorn staff all contributed. The result is a safer, greener facility that honours Steven Burke’s legacy.” For more from Thorn Lighting, click here.

Schneider launches StarCharge Fast 720 EV charger

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology company, has introduced the Schneider StarCharge Fast 720 EV charging system to the UK market, targeting commercial and industrial sites as well as fleet operators. The charging platform delivers up to 720kW of power and can charge up to 12 vehicles simultaneously, supporting a range of electric vehicles including passenger cars, buses, and electric lorries. Schneider Electric says the system operates at 97% efficiency and includes dynamic load management to balance charging requirements across different vehicle types. Flexible EV charging infrastructure for fleets The Schneider StarCharge Fast 720 uses a decentralised architecture, allowing operators to position up to six dispensers within an 80m radius of the Boost Pro+ Power Cabinet. According to the company, this enables more flexible site layouts and scalable charging configurations. Schneider Electric says the design can help reduce the number of grid connections required, while also simplifying installation and lowering operational noise levels. The system also includes lifecycle support services covering installation, maintenance plans, 24/7 support, and remote monitoring through Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure Energy Asset Portal. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Who's Who - On a live system, there is no second chance

The difference between a compliant tool and a non-compliant one isn't a matter of preference – it's a matter of life and death. Here, C.K Tools makes the case for why VDE certification should be the non-negotiable starting point, and why its RedLine VDE range sets a new benchmark for the trade. Every electrician knows the feeling: a system that should be isolated, a colleague who assured you it was, and the moment of doubt that hits just before the tool makes contact. On a live system, there is no second chance. It is a standard the trade knows by name, expects on site, and increasingly demands by contract, and the tools that meet it need to be beyond question. VDE, awarded by Germany's Association for Electrical, Electronic and Information Technologies, is one of the most rigorous independent testing regimes in the world for insulated hand tools. Every tool is individually tested to withstand 10,000 volts and rated for safe working at 1,000 volts AC or 1,500 volts DC. Certification is not granted on the basis of design alone; it requires third-party laboratory verification and is subject to ongoing surveillance audit. For professionals working on or near live systems, it is not a premium extra, it is the professional baseline, and the due diligence that protects both the electrician and their liability. The steel behind the standard C.K Tools has built its reputation over more than a century on uncompromising specification. Its RedLine VDE range is a comprehensive suite of cutters, pliers, and strippers manufactured using German steel throughout and has long been the choice of electricians who understand that the material a cutting jaw or gripping face is made from is not incidental. German steel, alloyed and hardened to exacting tolerances, delivers the edge retention, jaw integrity and long-term performance that professional, repetitive use demands. For cutters and strippers in particular, blade hardness determines not just longevity but precision: a jaw that has lost its edge or begun to deform under load does not cut cleanly, and in cable preparation work, an unclean cut creates problems later in the job. The latest generation of the RedLine VDE range also introduces a handle design that represents a step forward in ergonomics and practical performance. The new handles incorporate 30% more material than their predecessors, a change which is noticeable in the hand. The increased volume, distributed through a refined, rounded profile, reduces the pressure points that accumulate during sustained gripping and cutting work. For electricians spending hours working through cable schedules, terminating panels, or stripping back wiring in awkward voids, this is not a marginal gain. Fatigue in the hand translates directly into reduced control and slower progress; tools that actively counter it are tools that justify their place in a professional kit bag. The handles are also longer than in the previous generation, providing greater leverage – a particularly significant improvement for cutting tools, where mechanical advantage determines how cleanly and efficiently heavier cable gauges can be worked. Better leverage means less effort per cut, which over the course of a full day's cable work makes a significant difference to how a professional arrives at the end of it. Made for where the work actually happens A significant development in the new RedLine VDE range is the integration of tether points directly into the tool design. As working at height regulations tighten, and as awareness of dropped-tool incidents grows, the ability to secure tools when working off the ground is moving from niche requirement to standard expectation. With C.K's approach, the tether point is not an afterthought: it is engineered into the handle structure itself, conforming to both VDE certification and the ANSI standard for working at height. There is no compromise to insulation integrity, no awkward retrofit solution, and no reason to reach for a less specified alternative simply because it happens to have a lanyard attachment. This matters particularly working in commercial and industrial environments where working-at-height risk assessments are mandatory and where project managers increasingly expect documented evidence of tool compliance. A tool that satisfies both VDE and ANSI requirements within a single, integrated design removes stress from that compliance process entirely. A new generation The arrival of a significantly upgraded product range presents a familiar question: how quickly to transition. The engineering improvements in the new RedLine VDE handles are not cosmetic revisions. The changes to handle geometry, material volume, leverage length, and tether integration reflect a step change in what the range offers. The new handles deliver meaningfully better performance across cutting, gripping, and stripping work, and the integrated tether system adds a compliance capability that the previous range did not offer. The RedLine VDE range represents C.K Tools at its most focused: German steel, independently certified insulation, ergonomic design that reflects real-world working conditions, and safety features built to the highest international standards. For more from C.K Tools, click here. - This article first appeared in the May 2026 edition of ECN, which is available by clicking here.  

JTL Preston to host SkillELECTRIC competition heat

Electrical training provider JTL's Preston site is set to host a regional qualifying heat of the SkillELECTRIC competition on Thursday 14 May, bringing together apprentices, employers, and industry representatives for a day of skills challenges, networking, and sector discussion. Taking place from 10am to 3pm at the Preston training centre on Frenchwood Avenue, the event will see electrical apprentices compete in a live skills challenge as part of the national competition, which recognises excellence across the electrotechnical sector. Alongside the competition, guests will have the opportunity to tour the training centre, meet apprentices and employers, and connect with industry representatives, including Edmundson, JIB, and Milwaukee. Employer discussion session and sector insight JTL will also host a dedicated employer discussion session led by Gillian Day, Director of Finance and Corporate Services at JTL. The session will give employers a platform to share their views on key priorities, challenges, and opportunities facing the sector at both a local and national level. The event is open to employers, partners, and those with an interest in supporting skills development across the region. Gary Downes, Delivery Team Manager for JTL Preston, says, "We're really pleased to be opening our Preston centre to employers and partners from across the local area for this event. "It's a great chance to see our facilities in action, meet our apprentices, and connect with others working across the sector here in Lancashire." Chris Claydon, Chief Executive of JTL, adds, "We are delighted to be hosting a SkillELECTRIC qualifying heat at our Preston training centre and to welcome employers and industry partners from across the region. "Events like this are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the talent of electrical apprentices and the network of support behind them as they progress in their careers. "Attendees at this event will see true collaboration between training providers and industry, which is essential if we are to address skills shortages and support the next generation of electricians." Those interested in attending can click here to find out more and register. For more from JTL, click here.

Shelly expands smart automation portfolio

Shelly Group, a maker of smart home automation devices and IoT hardware, has expanded its portfolio of smart automation solutions with the launch of three new products designed to support key use cases across modern installations. The latest additions focus on access control, lighting management, and simple upgrades for existing electrical systems - helping installers and integrators deliver smarter, more efficient environments. The new products include the BLU Door/Window ZB sensor, featuring both Zigbee and Bluetooth connectivity; the Dimmer 0/1–10V PM Gen4, enabling precise lighting control with integrated energy monitoring; and the Smart Light Bundle, developed in partnership with V-TAC. The BLU Door/Window ZB sensor The BLU Door/Window ZB is a compact, multi-functional sensor that combines a magnetic reed sensor with an integrated G-sensor, enabling highly accurate detection of doors and windows opening and closing. In addition to contact sensing, the device measures ambient light levels and tilt angle, allowing for more advanced automations based on brightness or partially opened windows. This enables greater control and flexibility across a wide range of smart building scenarios. The device supports both Bluetooth 5.0 and Zigbee connectivity. Bluetooth offers a range of up to 10 metres indoors and up to 30 metres outdoors (depending on environmental conditions), while Zigbee enables mesh networking for extended coverage and improved reliability. Communication is secured using AES-128 encryption, and its energy-efficient design delivers up to five years of battery life under typical usage. Designed for both residential and professional environments - including multi-dwelling units (MDUs), hotels, and office spaces - the BLU Door/Window ZB supports centralised access monitoring and automation. In practice, the sensor can trigger a range of smart actions, such as turning off heating when a window is opened, activating lighting upon entry, or sending alerts in the event of unexpected access. When operating via Bluetooth, a gateway is required for remote access and cloud integration. This functionality is supported by a wide range of Shelly devices, including those from the Plus, Gen3, and Gen4 series. Alternatively, Zigbee connectivity allows seamless integration with existing Zigbee hubs across many smart home platforms. The Dimmer 0/1-10V PM Gen4 lighting controller Dimmer 0/1-10V PM Gen4 is an intelligent lighting controller designed for compatibility with both 0–10V and 1–10V drivers, making it suitable for a wide range of LED luminaires, LED strips, as well as motor control and ventilation applications. Powered by the ESP32-C6 processor, the device supports multi-protocol connectivity - including Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, Zigbee, and Matter - enabling seamless integration into smart home and building automation systems, often without the need for an additional gateway. Alongside smooth and precise dimming, the device features built-in, real-time power monitoring, measuring voltage, current, and energy consumption to support improved energy efficiency and cost control. The Dimmer 0/1–10V PM Gen4 can be operated using existing wall switches (single or double button), while also supporting advanced functionality such as schedules, scenes, scripting, and Night Mode - automatically reducing lighting levels during predefined hours. With support for KNXnet/IP, the device can be integrated into professional building management systems across offices, hotels, and retail environments. Combined with local control capabilities and compatibility with Matter ecosystems, it ensures reliable operation even without an internet connection - an important advantage for scalable, resilient automation systems. The Smart Light Bundle The Smart Light Bundle offers an accessible entry point into smart lighting, providing a simple, effective way to transform standard lighting into an intelligent system. Developed in partnership with V-TAC, the kit includes three A60 LED bulbs (4000K) and the compact Shelly 1 Mini Gen4 relay. The relay enables smart control of existing lighting circuits, adding connectivity and automation without the need to replace full installations. Supporting loads of up to 8A (240V AC) / 5A (30V DC), the Shelly 1 Mini Gen4 operates via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, with Matter compatibility enabling seamless integration across major smart home ecosystems - all without requiring an additional hub in many setups. Using the Shelly Smart Control app, users can create schedules, scenes, and automations, as well as control lighting remotely or via voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Home. Suitable both as a first step into smart home technology and as an easy extension to existing systems, the bundle combines affordability, flexibility, and quick installation. All products available now More broadly, these latest solutions from Shelly Group are designed with real-world applications in mind, from automatically switching off heating when a window is opened, to intelligent lighting based on time of day, through to centralised lighting control across offices, hotels, and commercial spaces. With multi-protocol connectivity spanning Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, and Matter, the products can be easily integrated into both existing smart home environments and new installations, typically without the need for major infrastructure changes or additional hubs. All products are available in the UK and Ireland on Shelly's website, as well as via authorised resellers (a full list of which can be found here).