UK Power Networks hits flexibility milestone

Distribution network operator UK Power Networks’ Distribution System Operator (DSO) has delivered more than 11GWh of flexibility through its day-ahead market, marking a milestone for distribution-level services in Great Britain. The company says the total was achieved across more than 500 daily auctions since the service launched in spring 2024, establishing it as a route to market for flexibility providers. More than 95% of participating assets are low-carbon technologies, including electric vehicle chargers, heat pumps, and battery storage, reflecting the increasing role of flexibility in supporting grid resilience and decarbonisation targets. The DSO also publishes daily flexibility dispatch data in an accessible format with API integration, allowing providers to incorporate the data into their own systems and improve visibility of network requirements. Market growth and system coordination The service is designed to operate in coordination with the national electricity system, enabling alignment between distribution and transmission-level flexibility markets. This approach supports more efficient use of flexibility across both local and national networks, while enabling providers to respond to system needs at short notice. Since its launch, the day-ahead market has scaled from an initial deployment into a more established mechanism, with UK Power Networks sharing its experience to support wider adoption across the sector. Alex Howard, Head of Flexibility Markets at UK Power Networks, notes, “Reaching 11GWh through our day-ahead market is a major milestone. "When we launched this service in 2024, it was the first of its kind in Great Britain. Today, it’s an established route to market supporting thousands of domestic and commercial low-carbon assets in UK Power Networks’ region.” Michael Kenefick, Grid Services Manager at Ev.energy, adds, “UK Power Networks’ DSO’s day-ahead market has made it quicker and easier to engage EV drivers in local flexibility, enabling them to help the grid and be rewarded.” For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

Ariston launches Clas One boiler range extended warranty

Heating systems manufacturer Ariston has introduced a promotion offering an extended warranty for its Clas One combi gas boiler range. The promotion, which runs from 1 March to 31 August 2026, will increase the warranty from eight years to 10 years on all Clas One boilers purchased and installed during the same time period, at no extra cost. The Clas One combi boiler range houses an XTRATECH stainless steel heat exchanger and high domestic hot water flow rates. With a 1:7 modulation ratio, the company notes that it is A-rated for energy efficiency and is compatible with the Ariston Net app. Coverage for installers' customers Jamie Shaw, National Sales Manager at Ariston, comments, “At Ariston, we are always looking for ways to support our installers with technical expertise and heating solutions that are energy efficient without compromising on performance. That’s why we have introduced this promotion which offers a longer warranty at no extra cost. “Our Clas One combi gas boiler range is known for its reliability, performance, and competitive pricing, and this increased warranty will help installers give their customers additional peace of mind, offering their customers the very best when it comes to thermal comfort.” Installers can claim this promotion by clicking here to visit the website and entering their details. In order to validate the promotion, the boilers must be registered by the installer via Ariston’s product registration platform, EXPERT. For more from Ariston, click here.

Octopus launches heat pump performance dashboard

Octopus Energy, one of the UK’s largest energy suppliers, has launched the Cosy Heat Pump Fleet Performance Dashboard, a tool providing real-time efficiency and cost data from its installed Cosy heat pumps across thousands of UK homes. The dashboard collects anonymised data on energy use and heat output, showing a coefficient of performance (COP) of 4.11 over the past month, meaning each kilowatt-hour of electricity produced over four kilowatt-hours of heat. By comparison, gas boilers typically have a COP of around 0.85. Monitoring efficiency and cost Cosy heat pumps include multiple sensors for temperature and humidity, with optional remote servicing and wireless software updates to maintain performance. Regional data is available, and the fleet’s annual average Seasonal Performance Factor (SPF) is reported at 3.68. Octopus notes that 80% of Cosy units cost less to run than a conventional gas boiler, with customers saving an average of £219 per year on its heat pump tariff. Greg Jackson, CEO of Octopus Energy, says, “We're launching this revolutionary data dashboard to prove, in perpetuity, that heat pumps cost less to run than a gas boiler. "This isn't a projection or a lab test; it's daily data from thousands of homes.” A survey of Octopus customers found 85% reported running costs at or below their previous gas boiler, with 89% expressing total satisfaction during the January 2026 cold snap. For more from Octopus Energy, click here.

Power On secures Hartlepool Marina utilities deal

Utilities connections provider Power On has been awarded a contract by Jomast to deliver multiple utility connections at the Hartlepool Marina development. The agreement covers electricity, water, wastewater, fibre-to-the-premises, and a ground source heat pump network for the first phase of the waterfront project. Initially focused on a heat network, the scope expanded to a full multi-utility package following discussions between the two companies. Ground source heat pumps and infrastructure The development will use a networked ground source heat pump system, designed for higher-density residential buildings. The system includes 32 boreholes, each drilled to an average depth of 200 metres. According to Power On, the approach is expected to reduce carbon emissions compared to conventional heating systems, while also improving energy efficiency. The heat network will be owned and operated by Power On and regulated by Ofgem. Ian Williams, Director at Jomast, comments, “By using Power On’s multi-utility and NGSHP solution, we are making savings on both time and cost. "We will minimise the number of trenches dug, making a huge cost saving and limiting disruption on site.” The installed infrastructure could also support passive cooling in the future, using the same ground source system. Alex Randall, Business Lead for Sustainable Heat at Power On, says, “We are delighted to have been awarded this contract by Jomast and look forward to working with them directly to provide an effective and efficient service installing effective and efficient utilities.”

ENA, BEAMA appoint energy consortium

Energy Networks Association (ENA), a UK industry body representing gas and electricity network operators, and BEAMA, a UK trade association representing manufacturers of electrical infrastructure and energy technologies, have appointed a consortium of consultancies to deliver the next phase of the Electricity Networks Sector Growth Plan. The consortium includes LCP Delta, EA Technology, Frontier Economics, and Energy & Utility Skills. This phase builds on a previous interim report, which outlined the need for more than £100 billion of investment and highlighted the sector’s potential to support tens of thousands of jobs by 2050. The updated growth plan will assess the electricity networks sector’s contribution to the UK economy, including its role in strengthening supply chains, supporting employment, and improving energy security. It will also set out a roadmap for delivering these outcomes. Focus on capacity, skills, and investment The consortium will analyse current network capacity, future growth opportunities, and barriers to delivery. This includes assessing supply chains, workforce requirements, investment pathways, and the policy environment. The work will involve engagement with industry stakeholders to identify gaps and prioritise actions needed to support sector expansion. The plan will also examine the UK’s potential to develop network technologies and intellectual property, with the aim of supporting export opportunities and wider economic growth. Tom Veli, Head of Networks at LCP Delta and Project Lead, says, “Britain’s electricity networks provide the foundation for secure, clean energy and act as the engine for long-term economic growth. "The Sector Growth Plan is about turning ambition into action, creating clarity around investment, strengthening supply chain resilience, and ensuring we have the skilled workforce required to deliver at scale. “We are proud to be supporting BEAMA, ENA, and the entire industry in unlocking this major economic and workforce opportunity.” David Mills, Head of Consulting at EA Technology, adds, ‘‘EA Technology is pleased to be part of the consortium delivering the Sector Growth Plan, helping to shape a strategic, evidence-based roadmap that ensures our networks are future-ready." For more from BEAMA, click here.

WISKA earns EcoVadis Gold sustainability rating

WISKA, a manufacturer of electrical installation products, has achieved a Gold rating from EcoVadis, with a score of 80/100, placing it among the top 5% of companies assessed globally. This milestone comes three years after WISKA’s first EcoVadis assessment and reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to integrate sustainability into its operations and strategy. EcoVadis evaluates organisations across environment, ethics, labour and human rights, and sustainable procurement. WISKA says sustainability is embedded in its long-term approach, balancing economic performance with environmental responsibility and social impact, adding that it maintains strong environmental management practices and pursues continuous improvement across its global operations. Tanja Hoppmann, General Manager and Head of Sustainability at WISKA Hoppmann, comments, “We are incredibly proud that our efforts to make WISKA more sustainable have been recognised with the EcoVadis Gold medal. "This achievement means a great deal to us because it reflects the dedication and commitment of colleagues across the entire WISKA team around the world. "Sustainability is something we work on every day, and we strongly believe that innovation plays a key role in creating better, more responsible solutions for our industry. "This recognition motivates us to keep pushing forward, continuing to innovate and improving the way we operate.” For more from WISKA, click here.

Zumtobel launches luminaire remanufacturing service

Zumtobel, an Austrian company specialising in professional indoor and outdoor lighting, has introduced a remanufacturing service for luminaires, aimed at extending product life cycles and reducing environmental impact. The service restores existing lighting systems to an as-new condition through a standardised factory process. This includes dismantling luminaires, testing and cleaning components, and replacing or upgrading key parts such as drivers and LED modules. Software updates may also be applied where relevant. Unlike refurbishment, the remanufactured systems are returned with comparable specifications and performance, alongside a new factory warranty. The service also includes maintenance and annual inspections, with reinstallation either at the original site or a new location. Process and environmental impact According to Zumtobel, the reuse of components can reduce CO2 emissions by between 30% and 50%, depending on the application. In retail environments, this figure is estimated at around 50%, based on Environmental Product Declaration data. The service is offered as a full package, covering deinstallation, remanufacturing, and reinstallation. This approach is intended to simplify the process for organisations looking to extend the use of existing lighting infrastructure. Data collected during remanufacturing projects can also support environmental reporting and certification processes, including ESG requirements. Alexandru Zloteanu, Innovation Manager at Zumtobel, says, “Our remanufacturing service addresses customer needs particularly in brick-and-mortar retail, as well as in logistics and production. "It results in lower total operating costs, reduced resource consumption and emissions, and improved performance thanks to regular technology upgrades.” The service is available with selected luminaire ranges, including Tecton II, Vivo II, Panos III, Craft II, and Factor II. For more from Zumtobel, click here.

Ariston launches R290 heat pump water heater

Heating systems manufacturer Ariston has expanded its heat pump water heater range with the introduction of the Nuos Plus S2 Wi-Fi, designed for domestic and light commercial applications. The new unit uses R290 refrigerant and builds on the existing Nuos Plus Wi-Fi, with updates aimed at improving efficiency, installation flexibility, and system integration. The system has an A+ energy rating and a coefficient of performance (COP) of up to 3.51. According to the manufacturer, this can deliver improved energy savings compared to traditional electric water heaters. The use of R290 refrigerant also results in a low global warming potential (GWP) of 3. The unit supports photovoltaic integration for properties with solar panels and can be connected with other Ariston systems. Its design allows installation in a range of settings, including locations with limited ceiling height, without requiring significant structural changes. Installation and control features The Nuos Plus S2 Wi-Fi includes smart connectivity via Ariston Net, enabling remote monitoring and control. Users can adjust temperature settings, schedule operation, and track energy consumption. The system operates at 48 dBA, with an optional night mode to reduce noise further. It also includes several operating modes, such as Green, Green+, Boost, and I-Memory, which adjust performance based on demand. Additional features include a magnesium anode for corrosion protection, alongside tank protection technology designed to reduce limescale build-up and extend product lifespan. Edoardo Pauletta, Country Manager at Ariston, comments, “We’re excited to launch the Nuos Plus S2 Wi-Fi, which is the first of our R290 solutions launching this year. "As more households shift to renewable sources for hot water generation, Ariston is committed to giving professionals access to a range of sustainable thermal solutions for their customers. “The new Nuos Plus S2 Wi-Fi range offers efficient performance without compromising on quality, and we are confident that it will help users save significantly on their energy consumption and costs while contributing to a greener future.” For more from Ariston, click here.

Free webinar to address standards in PAT testing sector

Product Safety Collective is hosting a free webinar aimed at improving standards in portable appliance testing (PAT) inspections, supported by Chartered Trading Standards Institute and Electrical Safety First. The online session will take place on Thursday 26 March at 4pm and is open to professionals involved in PAT testing and electrical safety. The webinar will bring together industry experts to share guidance and practical insights to help inspectors identify risks and improve inspection quality. Focus on safety and compliance The session will cover common electrical product safety failures and outline additional checks that can be carried out during PAT inspections. It will also address relevant Trading Standards legislation and introduce a new online reporting form for unsafe products and poor practices. According to the organisers, the aim is to support professionals in strengthening their knowledge, improving consistency across inspections, and staying informed about developments in product safety. The initiative is funded through the Electrical Safety Fund, which supports projects focused on reducing domestic electrical risks across the UK. Electrical faults remain a significant contributor to domestic fires, with many incidents linked to faulty or unsafe electrical products. Lewis Collantine, Director of the Product Safety Collective and who will lead the webinar, says, “PAT testing plays a vital role in keeping people safe, but standards across the sector can vary. "This webinar is about sharing practical knowledge, highlighting common safety failures, and helping inspectors raise the bar for electrical safety.” Registration is available via the organisers’ online sign-up page.

RAW Charging to open 'UK's largest destination EV charging hub'

RAW Charging, an electric vehicle (EV) chargepoint operator for the leisure, retail, and hospitality sectors, is partnering with Landsec to launch "the UK's largest destination EV charging hub" at Bluewater in Kent. The installation forms part of a £24.5 million national EV charging network across some of the UK’s most popular shopping destinations. The rollout will deliver 1,000 new charging bays - comprising 554 AC fast chargers and 446 DC rapid chargers - across 28 Landsec destinations, including Bluewater (the largest retail destination EV charging hub in the UK), Gunwharf Quays, White Rose Shopping Centre, and Brighton Marina, with some installations already complete. Modernising legacy charging infrastructure RAW says its network is designed to meet growing customer expectations while helping retailers and landlords drive footfall, engagement, and revenue. By placing charging hubs at high-footfall destinations, it says EV drivers will remain on site for longer - interacting with retail, dining, and leisure offerings - creating a tangible boost to dwell time and spend. The 20-year partnership will also include a major replace and upgrade programme, modernising legacy charging infrastructure that no longer meets current standards for speed, reliability, or accessibility. These upgrades are expected to improve charge time, with some chargers charging a vehicle within a dwell time of 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. The network is also fully accessible via contactless payment and the major EV charging apps. RAW Charging’s network already powers popular destinations including National Trust sites, Merlin Entertainments (such as LEGOLAND Windsor and Alton Towers), McArthurGlen Designer Outlets, and several hotel groups. Collectively, these destinations reportedly power over 400,000 electric journeys per year. Investing in the UK Neil Broadbank, CCO at RAW Charging, comments, “We’re proud to partner with Landsec, whose top-tier retail and leisure destinations attract millions of visitors each year. “Our EV charging hubs give customers confidence to recharge on arrival, enhancing their experience and keeping them on site longer. "This investment goes beyond infrastructure; it’s about connecting amazing places and supporting the UK’s transition to cleaner, greener transport.” Ben Padley, Head of Consumer at Landsec, adds, “Our destinations welcome millions of visitors each year and are the hubs for communities across the UK. Creating exceptional experiences while supporting a more sustainable future is central to how we shape those places. “As more drivers switch to electric, retail destinations like ours have a clear responsibility to make charging simple, accessible, and part of everyday life. "Through our partnership with RAW Charging, we’re embedding high-quality, future-ready EV infrastructure across our portfolio, including plans for what will become the UK’s largest destination charging hub at Bluewater." For more from RAW Charging, click here.