Darren Jones MP visits centre training electricians in Bristol

Darren Jones, MP for Bristol North West, has visited the NAPIT Training Centre in Avonmouth to see the work being done to train and upskill electricians and installers of low carbon technologies. NAPIT, a UK-based certification and registration body for electrical, plumbing, heating, and renewable energy installers and contractors, represents over 20,000 skilled installers across the UK's electrical, heating, plumbing, ventilation, microgeneration, and building fabric sectors, and has been in the electrical industry for over 30 years. The training centre offers courses in solar PV, fire detection, and fire alarm systems, energy storage systems, electric vehicle charging installations, and essential electrical safety and regulations. Stephen Melton, Commercial and Compliance Director at NAPIT, says, “We are grateful to Mr Jones for taking the time to visit our centre in his constituency. “NAPIT and its members will be key to ensuring there are sufficient skilled installers in the electrical, heating, plumbing, ventilation, microgeneration trades and will be on the front line of the transition to Net Zero. “We are keen to promote the growth opportunities to our members from the Government’s housebuilding and clean energy initiatives and are pleased to be able to support those wanting to upskill and take advantage of those opportunities here in Bristol.” Darren Jones MP comments, “The transition to Net Zero is in the DNA of this government because it is the route to energy security, lower bills, and good jobs for this country. “I was delighted to hear about the work that NAPIT is doing here in Bristol North West to certify, train, and upskill people for the skilled jobs that will be created." For more from NAPIT, click here.

Europa unveils new wireless cable replacement system

Europa, a UK distributor of electrical components, has announced the launch of its new wireless cable replacement system, Parrot. The company's product aims to eliminate the need for expensive cabling and containment in industrial environments. The system comprises of pre-configured transmitters and receivers, designed for installation on a standard DIN rail. Utilising long-range wireless technology, Chirped Spread Spectrum (CSS), and Digital Signal Processing (DSP), Parrot intends to deliver robust, long-range telemetry and achieve operating distances of over 8km line of sight in outdoor industrial settings with the correct configuration. The system has been tested in demanding environments, with the aim of providing a method of transmitting signals where traditional cabling is impractical or cost-prohibitive. The system can be used for tasks including remote gate controls, spotlights and switch gear, and measuring wind speed, temperature, and pressure. [embed]http://youtube.com/watch?v=tZ8KEdIOovg[/embed] Rob Aitken, Technical Director at Europa, says, “The Parrot system leverages decades of accumulated knowledge and specialised expertise in industrial monitoring, control, and wireless communication. This suite of innovative wireless cable replacement devices is designed to streamline deployments by removing the need for expensive cabling or adding telemetry in places where it wasn't previously possible. “Parrot aligns perfectly with our mission to simplify and modernise industrial control solutions.” Europa plans to introduce 15 new products in 2025, spanning both digital and physical electrical components. For more from Europa, click here.

Knightsbridge introduces new modular LED battens

Knightsbridge, a UK manufacturer of wiring accessories and lighting, has introduced its BATM range of single colour and tri-CCT, quad-wattage modular LED battens. The company says it uses advanced modular design to meet a wide range of lighting needs with fewer parts, reducing stock requirements for suppliers and installers. The BATM’s design allows for conversion to emergency, microwave, or a combination of both using plug-and-play accessories. It is also a replacement for the BATS LED battens. Installation has been designed to be quick with push-fit terminals, loop-in/loop-out wiring, rear and end 20mm conduit entries, and standard 600mm fixing centres. BESA box compatibility and a hinged gear tray are also intended to support a retrofit-friendly installation. With an efficiency of up to 140 lumens per watt, the BATM should reduce energy consumption compared to traditional lighting fixtures. There are also a selection of accessories, including an emergency kit and a microwave sensor. The emergency kit features a three-hour lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, and the microwave sensor is adjustable so that the detection area, hold time, and lux level can all be optimised. Operating at 230V with an IP20 rating, the BATM entry batten offers a 4000K colour temperature and is available in wattage options of 10W, 20W, 32W, 36W, 43W, and 48W. Beyond that, the BATMCW4, 5, and 6 are tri-CCT – 3000K, 4000K and 57000K – and each quad-wattage is adjustable between 17W and 49W depending on the model. Warranties of five years exist for BATM and seven years for BATMCW4, 5, and 6. For more from Knightsbridge, click here.

Toolstation to host live Hawksbee & Jacobs show

Toolstation, a retailer of tools and building materials, and official sponsors of radio show Hawksbee & Jacobs, have partnered with talkSPORT, Macmillan Cancer Support, and Greene King to host a special, one-off event in front of a live audience on Friday 6 June, aiming to encourage more open conversations around men's health. Presenters Paul Hawksbee and Andy Jacobs will swap their regular talkSPORT studio for the Greene King pub The George in Southwark, hosting a three-hour ‘Cheers to Wellness’ show between 1:00pm and 4:00pm. During this show, they will discuss the importance of men managing their mental and physical health, participating in regular check-ups, and breaking the stigma of talking openly about these topics ahead of Men’s Health Week. Hawksbee & Jacobs will be joined by well-known special guests from the world of sport throughout the live show, who will be on hand to discuss their personal experiences with men’s health conditions and how they overcame them. These include former footballers Aaron Lennon, Perry Groves, and Steven Caulker, former rugby union player Gavin Henson, and former rugby league player Junior Nsemba. The one-off special will also encourage men who are living with, worried by, or affected by cancer to use the support and services of Macmillan, charity partner to both Toolstation and Greene King, and aims to build an environment in which men feel comfortable to do so. This comes after research conducted by Greene King found that only a third of men regularly (more than once a month) talk to family or friends about personal issues, but as many as half (52%) men say they feel more comfortable discussing personal issues when side-by-side, whether walking with a mate, chatting over a pint, or during a car ride. A report from the UK Government Health and Safety Executive in 2024 found that the construction industry has the largest volume of occupational cancers amongst the industrial sectors, with over 40% of occupational cancer deaths and cancer registrations being from the industry. As Macmillan’s charity partner, Toolstation continues to raise awareness of their services available to trade customers and hosts regular fundraisers across the business to help continue expanding these services, having raised over £3m since launching the partnership in 2020. In addition to Toolstation’s sponsorship of the live show, the retailer will also be sponsoring talkSPORT’s new season of the ‘After the Lights Go Out’ podcast hosted by Steve Harmison and Leon McKenzie, which focuses on the mental and physical struggles of sports personalities following the end of their careers. Chris Other, Customer Director at Toolstation, says, “The strong bond created between tradespeople is such an important aspect of the industry and on-site discussions are always thriving, whether that be regarding sports, pop culture, lunchtime snacks, and more. However, men’s health remains an uncomfortable discussion for many, and this is something we want to change. “By working with talkSPORT, Macmillan, and Greene King, we hope to break the stigma by demonstrating how open and comfortable men can be when discussing their own health in front of both a live and national audience, and encourage men to feel the same way talking to friends, family, or even the Macmillan Support Line.” Liam Fisher, Head of talkSPORT, comments, "Sport is a subject where many men naturally lean into the conversation, and talkSPORT is one of the most popular destinations for those conversations to be had. I'm delighted that talkSPORT is part of this very exciting collaboration with Toolstation, Greene King, and Macmillan. Together, we can encourage important conversations about men's health in ways that really resonate." Michael Stickland, Director of Corporate Partnerships & Philanthropy for Macmillan Cancer Support, adds, “We know that cancer can disrupt your whole life, and that it affects everyone differently. This is a wonderful opportunity to get men to talk about their health, a first step to prioritising it. In 2024, only 37% of people who contacted the Macmillan Support Line were men, despite men accounting for 52% of cancer cases diagnosed each year in the UK. "We're doing whatever it takes to help more people with cancer get the best care the UK has to offer. We can clearly see the need to get men talking, and by harnessing the combined power of partners like Toolstation, Greene King, and talkSPORT to spark a conversation, we can make a real difference.” Tradespeople interested in attending the free live show can head to The George, 75 Borough High St, London SE1 1NH, between 1:00pm and 4:00pm on Friday 6th June. To listen in to Friday’s special edition of the Hawksbee & Jacobs talkSPORT show, go to Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Acast. For more from Toolstation, click here.

Drayton launches new generation of Wiser

Drayton, a UK-based manufacturer of heating controls and smart home systems, is extending its Wiser system, introducing a range of new smart home devices with the aim to create an all-in-one system for home automation. The new products of Wiser 2nd Generation include the company's Smoke Alarm, Window and Door Sensor, Water Leakage Sensor, Temperature and Humidity Sensor, Motion Sensor, Lighting Dimmer Micromodule, Shades Control Micromodule, and Power Micromodule - and all of these devices are able to be managed via the Wiser Home app. The Window/Door Sensor detects the status of windows and doors and sends this information to the Wiser Home app, providing notifications if the status changes when the user is away from home. This information can also trigger automations or ‘Moments’, for example turning off the heating if a window is open in order to save wasted energy. Meanwhile, the Temperature/Humidity Sensor can be used as a lower cost alternative to the Wiser Room Thermostat, enabling users to monitor the temperature and humidity remotely via the app. When automations are set up, the system can trigger other devices in response to environmental changes. The Water Leakage Sensor alerts homeowners via a notification on the app and by sounding an alarm if triggered. Additionally, tailor-made automations can be created based on the detection of water. The Wiser Motion Sensor provides a way for homeowners to create automations within the home. For instance, if motion is detected in the living room the lamp will turn on, or if motion is detected while the user is away from home, it will send a notification to the app. The smoke alarm and all sensors are battery powered, with no wiring necessary. Both the Lighting Dimmer and Shades Control micromodules enable control via the app as well as with Automations or Moments. Additionally, the Power Micromodule can be used for switching resistive loads, such as a hot water tank. It offers scheduling on the app and users can also view the current power consumption by the load. Loads controlled by the power micromodule may also benefit from 'Away Mode' to reduce wasted energy consumption. The Wiser 2nd Generation HubR is the 'brains' of the new system. Available in 1, 2, and 3 channel variants, it allows heating control and, combined with the new devices, seeks to enable complete home automation. As previously mentioned, all elements of the system can be controlled via the app, which has recently been updated with a new dashboard. This provides quick access to favourite devices and modes. Plus, homeowners can get personalised tips and advice about how to reduce their energy use, shared on the new home screen. Merlin Milner, Product Owner for Water-based Systems at Drayton comments, “We are excited to be expanding the Wiser system with the launch of these new sensors and micromodules. The UK is currently ranked 3rd highest for household penetration for smart homes globally, which demonstrates the opportunities available to installers. With these new launches, Wiser becomes the all-in-one solution capable of managing more than just the heating system that installers can rely on to meet their customers’ needs.” For more from Drayton, click here.

City Plumbing launches ElecStore

City Plumbing, a national plumbing, heating, and electrical supplier, has launched ElecStore, a dedicated electrical brand available at its branches nationwide. Developed in response to the changing needs of today’s tradespeople, ElecStore offers over 12,000 electrical products plus in-branch expert advice to help multi-skilled trades. As part of the launch, 35 ElecStore dedicated electrical trade counters have also opened across the UK. As the boundaries between plumbing, heating, and electrical work continue to blur, the launch of ElecStore is intended to support multi-skilled trades. Research conducted by Censuswide (in March 2025) found that nearly half (48%) of plumbers and heating engineers have already trained in electrical work, with a further 37% planning to upskill within the next 12 months. “Increasingly, tradespeople are offering a wider range of services, especially as low-carbon technologies like heat pumps and electrical heating - such as electrical radiators or storage heating - become more commonplace,” says Hemal Morjaria, Managing Director for Renewables, Electrical, and Site Temp at City Plumbing. “ElecStore ensures multi-skilled trades have access to the products and advice they need, all under one roof.” Every City Plumbing branch will stock a key range of ElecStore’s products, and 35 sites have a specialist electrical counter. Hemal continues, “For a renewable heating installation such as an air source heat pump or solar PV system, which typically includes a significant electrical element, our research found that installers spend an average of 3.44 hours per week sourcing products. That’s nearly 10% of a standard 37.5-hour working week, or over £150 of potentially chargeable time, just trying to find the right parts.” ElecStore trade counters are supported by an experienced electrical manager who can give product guidance. Sites will also stock a vast product range, including switches and sockets, cable and cable management, consumer units, EV charging solutions, and temporary site power equipment, with products from brands such as Dimplex, Scolmore, Aico, Kosnic, BG, and Hispec. For more from City Plumbing, click here.

Nuaire ventilation systems now with Passivhaus certification

Indoor air quality and ventilation manufacturing specialist Nuaire has announced Passivhaus certification has been achieved on BPS Passivhaus air handling units (AHU) and XBC Passivhaus packaged heat recovery units. With buildings contributing significantly to harmful carbon emissions, Passivhaus aims to provide solutions to deliver net-zero-ready buildings that also provide a high level of occupant health and wellbeing. For a building to achieve the Passivhaus Standard in the UK, a mechanical ventilation system with highly efficient heat recovery is considered a core principle. Independently tested under realistic conditions to ensure they meet the strict criteria, Nuaire’s BPS Passivhaus AHUs in sizes 12,17, 22, 32, and 42, and XBC Passivhaus packaged heat recovery units in sizes 55 and 65, have now been certified as Passivhaus compliant components. BPS Passivhaus is a range of AHUs designed and engineered with the intention of providing an efficient, high-performing, compact solution for various applications. These feature a double-lined acoustic end panel insulated with Rockwool for reduced noise breakout and low leakage, as well as M5 extract air filters, enabling pollutants as small as 1 micron to be captured, and G4 and G7 supply air filters which are designed to stop larger pollutant particles from entering. XBC Passivhaus are heat recovery units designed to improve indoor air quality whilst saving energy. F7 and G4 extract filters have been installed, whilst airtight seals aim to prevent heat or air loss up to L2 leakage classification. They have been designed with the lowest possible noise breakout for user acceptance, and intend to be easy to install, commission, and maintain. XBC Passivhaus is available with LPHW or electric heating options as standard, with cooling modules also available as an ancillary.

Rolec launches new UltraCharge range with EVbee

UK manufacturer Rolec, which specialises in DC rapid and ultra-rapid charging, has launched its upgraded UltraCharge range in partnership with EVbee. The collaboration brings together two companies who both seek to accelerate the rollout of EV infrastructure. EVbee, a Dutch design and engineering company known for its EV charging technology, has a strong presence across Europe. The two companies have jointly announced four new additions to the UltraCharge range. The result, they say, is a more well-rounded and premium package, better supported, and more future proof. The range has been launched with the intent to serve a broader spectrum of commercial and public sector applications, offering wider power outputs, from 40kW to 1.6MW+, and greater flexibility to meet diverse site requirements. Rolec has upgraded the standard specifications, including improved LCD screens and advanced cable management. Frankie Mellon, Managing Director at Rolec, says, “Both companies have a strong green tech synergy and a shared focus on DC expansion and agile design. A common drive for compact, modular, and user-friendly unit design, remote diagnostics, and adaptable mounting options, enables faster and more versatile deployment. Backed by Rolec’s UK-based technical support, localised industry experience, and nationwide installer network. Rolec actively seeks out innovative partners who are working closely with R&D, technology, people, and progress. EVbee perfectly fits that vision.” Tao Yang, Founder and CTO of EVbee, adds, “Partnering with Rolec was a natural choice for EVbee. Their strong presence in the UK and trusted reputation in the industry align perfectly with our ambition to push innovation to the next level. We share a common drive for quality, adaptability, and intelligent design, which makes this collaboration both exciting and impactful. We’re confident this partnership will not only accelerate the adoption of DC charging but also lead to many more pioneering projects together in the UK.” Installers may be pleased to know that the new units are advertised to offer a smaller footprint and easier installation, from initial configuration to continued maintenance and servicing. The UltraCharge 40 is a compact DC charger delivering up to 40kW, targeted at small businesses, workshops, and workplaces requiring rapid charging, and available wall or post mounted. The UltraCharge 80 is an alternative option for businesses looking to future-proof their charging network. Targeted at busy commercial and public transport sites, dealerships, and depots, this unit delivers up to 80kW of charging potential, offering dual charging capabilities using power sharing via 5m 250A Peak and 150A Nominal charging cables capable of delivering 80kW charge rate to a standard 400V vehicle. The UltraCharge 180 is a high-performance charger built for high-traffic environments, such as motorways, retail outlets, and shopping centres, and features an integrated advertising screen for additional ROI. It is capable of simultaneous vehicle charging via dual 5m 350A peak and 250A nominal CCS2 universal charging cables, and the unit can be up or downgraded in 30kW increments from 120kW up to 180kW of power. Like the rest of the range, the UltraCharge 180 is fitted with safety features such as under/over voltage, DC overcurrent, over-temp and surge protection, built-in 30mA Type A RCD protection, and IK10 impact protection rating and IP54 weatherproofing. The UltraCharge 400 aims to deliver ultra-rapid charging at scale, with modular power upgrades from 200kW up to 400kW, supporting dual-vehicle charging. With its 150V-1000V dual power output segment, the unit has an improved power utilisation ratio, speeding up charging times and decreasing vehicle downtime. This means the charger should be able to meet the low voltage charging needs of conventional EVs but also meet the requirements for charging larger commercial vehicles such as HGVs, electric trucks, buses, and boats - delivering up to 80% charge in under 10 minutes. Each unit is built with future-ready connectivity (Wi-Fi, ethernet, and 4G) and full compliance with PAS 1899 standards. Charging can be controlled either via ISO15118 plug & charge, RFID, any OCPP app, or contactless payment for pay-to-charge functionality. Frankie comments, “Our new UltraCharge lineup reflects Rolec’s commitment to delivering flexible, cost-efficient, and future-focused solutions that meet the evolving demands of fleet and public EV infrastructure. We’ve upgraded the standard specifications while maintaining competitive pricing. This portfolio combines advanced functionality with a broader range of power outputs – designed to maximise performance, scalability, and ROI. We’re proud to offer an improved solution that gives our customers long-term value and complete confidence as they power the future with us.” For more from Rolec, click here.

NAPIT leads sponsored walk on Bolsover Loop

A team of enthusiastic employees from NAPIT, a Bolsover-based company developing green skills and compliance, led a successful sponsored walk on the newly waymarked Bolsover Loop on Friday, 23 May 2025. The sponsored walk raised money for mental health charity Samaritans, while celebrating the opening of the newly waymarked route through the Bolsover countryside. The event brought together NAPIT staff and supporters, who collectively walked 22 miles from their HQ at Pleasley Vale Mills, along scenic trails that showcase the natural beauty of the local area, from rolling hills and woodlands to panoramic viewpoints and historic paths. The walk, organised in partnership with the Bolsover Place Programme team, marked one of the first events exploring the newly waymarked route, which extends through Clowne, Creswell, Bolsover, Shirebrook, and Pleasley - developed to encourage outdoor activity, support local tourism, and improve access to the countryside. “We’re incredibly proud of our NAPIT team for coming together to support such a worthy cause,” says Mike Andrews, Divisional Managing Director for Phenna Group and Bolsover Place Board Member. “The walk gave us a chance to connect outside the workplace, give back to the community, and enjoy the fantastic new trails right on our doorstep. We even got the sunshine!” Funds raised will go directly to Samaritans, supporting their work in providing emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland. The success of the walk also highlighted the potential of the new routes to host future events and community initiatives, with many participants praising the clear signage, accessible route, and breathtaking scenery. The new signage and waymarking have been made possible through UK Government funding, via Dragonfly Management (Bolsover) and Bolsover District Council. For more from NAPIT, click here.

myenergi launches zappi GLO EV charger

British smart home energy technology manufacturer myenergi has unveiled its next-generation zappi GLO EV charger. The 7kW compact, plug-and-go device has been designed with the future in mind. Featuring eco-smart functionality, including out-of-the-box energy tariff integration, bundled scheduling, and automated solar compatibility, the screenless, buttonless single-phase device intends to offer simple, integrated charging control. Controlled via the myenergi app, users have the option to plug-and-go or explore toggle options to adjust settings, set timers, and monitor performance. The device can integrate with third party energy apps, and the addition of tap-to-charge functionality with RFID provides access for up to 126 users with unique identification for tracking. The charger is manufactured in the UK and users are set to benefit from Grid Protection functionality, as well as compatibility with Gridpay, a myenergi service that rewards households for supporting the energy grid during peak times or using excess supply in quieter periods. Commenting on the announcement, Andrew Clint, Group CEO at myenergi, says, “The launch of zappi GLO marks the next exciting chapter in our remarkable journey. Specifically designed for the EV driver of tomorrow, GLO represents the future of plug-and-go charging technology – effortless operation, eco-smart capability, out-of-the-box tariff integration, and unmatched functionality without the complexity. “The first device in a series of game-changing energy management technologies, each designed to challenge convention and revolutionise home energy, GLO demonstrates our ambitions for the future. Born out of customer feedback, the device aligns perfectly with the market’s desire for total charging simplicity, while still delivering powerful, intelligent, sophisticated functionality.” The company has also designed its new Assistant App with the intent for installers to benefit from a step-by-step process for fitting, as well as to guarantee replicability. Installers can access the app through myenergi’s Installer Centre and can apply for the Product Champion Scheme to be put on the ‘Find an Installer’ map and receive customer enquiries directly to their inboxes. Available as a 7kW single-phase plug-and-go device with 6.5m tethered Type 2 cable, zappi GLO is available for pre-order now, with dispatch from 1 June 2025. Supporting WiFi, Bluetooth, and local radio communication, the IP-rated unit features impact resistance, tamper detection, and integrated 6mA DC fault protection. The myenergi zappi 2.1 remains available for users who prefer on-device control. For more from myenergi, click here.