NAPIT announced as ECN Awards 2025 Entertainment sponsor

Electrical Contracting News is excited to announce that NAPIT will be joining the impressive sponsor line-up at the ECN Awards 2025. The company will sponsor the entertainment at the event, which takes place on 27 November 2025 at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre in Coventry. As a fast-growing government-approved and UKAS-accredited membership scheme operator in the building services and fabric sector, NAPIT is committed to raising standards and safety with a friendly and common-sense approach. What better way to demonstrate this than by partnering up with the ECN Awards to help raise the profile of those who are making a difference in the industry, through enhancing safety, efficiency, and sustainability. NAPIT tells us that the company is proud to support a fantastic evening of entertainment which recognises those who have dedicated themselves to enhancing the electrical contracting industry. Furthermore, NAPIT looks forward to seeing the best of the industry at the event in November, while celebrating what will have been a remarkable year of progress in the industry with regard to safety, sustainability, and growth. For more from NAPIT, click here.

‘Start with Grant’ aiming to help installers with low-carbon heating

Grant UK, a British manufacturer of heating systems, has launched a version of Nesta’s Start at Home initiative to heating engineers across England and Wales. The new programme, called Start with Grant, gives fossil fuel boiler installers who haven’t ever fitted a heat pump the opportunity to install a fully-funded Grant air source heat pump system in their own home with full technical support. Nesta’s original Start at Home initiative was created to help build confidence in heat pump technology among installers by giving them the chance to live with the systems themselves. The aim is to develop a growing network of professionals who can speak with authority and credibility when recommending low-carbon heating to customers. By partnering with Nesta on this project, Grant says it is delivering a version of the programme that is tailored to its products and services, providing an offering from training to MCS certification through Heat Pump Go’s umbrella scheme. Installers will receive a fully-funded Grant Aerona air source heat pump, available up to 12kW, alongside a hot water cylinder of up to 210 litres, a 50-litre volumiser, a smart controller, and a complete heat pump installation kit. These components are delivered directly from Grant to the property where the installation will take place. To support the installation process, Grant provides technical assistance including tailored system design and heat pump product training. Once the system is in place, on-site commissioning is arranged to ensure everything is working as expected. Installers do not need to be MCS certified to take part – Grant has partnered with Heat Pump Go, whose MCS Umbrella Scheme handles the certification. Following completion and MCS sign-off of the installation, Grant will also provide a £1,500 contribution towards installation costs. This amount is transferred from the remaining balance of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grant. Installers who take part in the scheme will become eligible to join Grant’s G1 Scheme if they’re not already members. This brings a seven-year guarantee for their own heat pump and the opportunity to extend the same seven-year guarantee cover to future customer heat pump installations. The scheme additionally opens the door to future access to BUS funding through Heat Pump Go, allowing installers to offer BUS-eligible installations. “This isn’t just about installing a heat pump,” claims Anna Wakefield, Head of Internal Sales and Marketing at Grant. “It’s about helping installers understand the technology, build their confidence, and become genuine advocates for low-carbon heating. When they can speak from personal experience, it transforms how they connect with customers. Start with Grant gives them that insight and reassurance.” Madeleine Gabriel, Director of Nesta's Sustainable Future Mission, says, "If we want to get more heat pumps in homes, then we need to start with installers. Making it free and easy for installers to get one in their own home knocks down a big barrier to [both] growing the workforce and the market for heat pumps. We're delighted to see Grant take forward the idea and we are excited to work with them in the months ahead." For more from Grant UK, click here.

KNIPEX's new tools 'powering up for solar'

With demand for solar installs surging across the UK, electricians are finding themselves increasingly involved in photovoltaic work. But you need tools built for the job. Whether it’s working in tight spaces, handling rigid cable, or crimping to a consistent spec, the pressures of PV installation are pushing traditional kit to its limits. That’s why German manufacturer of professional hand tools KNIPEX has stepped up its offering for the solar sector with new tools tailored to the challenges of PV installs. Designed to speed up repetitive tasks, reduce strain, and guarantee accuracy on site, the ErgoStrip PV and MultiCrimp PV show KNIPEX’s commitment to supporting the renewables market. ErgoStrip PV The KNIPEX ErgoStrip PV is a compact cable stripping tool made for the realities of solar site work. Based on the original ErgoStrip but re-engineered for PV, it strips and skins cables cleanly, quickly, and consistently, even in awkward spaces like behind panels or inside mounting frames. It’s ideal for 4 and 6 mm² PV cables such as H1Z2Z2-K, as well as common round and damp-proof installation cables including NYM types (3 x 1.5 mm² to 5 x 2.5 mm²). The slim, conical tips improve access in tight spots and an adjustable length stop (6 to 18 mm) makes it perfect for repetitive prep of cables for MC4 and MC4 EVO 2 connectors. There’s also a dedicated notch for PVC single cores (0.2 to 4 mm²). It's a tool designed with installer comfort in mind. The pistol-style grip with soft-touch zones and the spring-loaded action reduces fatigue on long jobs. The ErgoStrip PV is also available as part of the KNIPEX PV Installation Set, which includes PreciForce PV crimping pliers which makes a compact, reliable combo for fast and accurate solar terminations. MultiCrimp PV Also new to the range is the KNIPEX MultiCrimp PV, a versatile crimping tool with three interchangeable dies included as standard. It’s designed to handle the core crimping needs of solar installs, including MC4 and MC4 EVO 2 connectors, insulated/uninsulated ferrules, and uninsulated cable connectors. The dies can be swapped out quickly and easily with no extra tools required and additional dies are available for customisation. A ratchet lock ensures high crimp quality every time and can be released manually if needed. The ergonomic, multi-component handles offer all-day comfort and a belt clip means it’s always within reach on site. With solar becoming a bigger part of the everyday workload for electricians, having the right tools is more important than ever. KNIPEX’s new PV range is built to handle the demands of real-world solar installs with the accuracy, durability, and usability electricians expect. For more information on the KNIPEX PV range, visit the KNIPEX website. For more from KNIPEX, click here.

Martindale Electric joins the Electrical Contractors’ Association

Martindale Electric, a manufacturer of electrical test equipment, has announced it is formally linking up with the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA), a UK trade association for the electrotechnical and wider engineering services industry. The partnership sees Martindale Electric become an ECA Commercial Associate, opening the door to closer engagement with ECA’s Member businesses that represent a combined annual turnover of over £6 billion, ranging from small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) electrical firms to nationwide engineering services businesses across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. ECA Members undertake a range of electrotechnical design, installation, inspection, testing, monitoring, and maintenance work. This package also includes access to a range of ECA content, including best practice guides and research, the latest technical and industry news, and use of the ECA Commercial Associate logo. Martindale Electric is a brand in the electrical safety testing field. The company says electrical safety is fundamental, and it offers a range of safe isolation equipment alongside socket testers, Portable Appliance Testers, and other test and measurement products. The company states that it is committed to developing, manufacturing, and supplying trusted and reliable solutions. “The opportunity to engage further with the ECA and its highly accomplished membership was an absolute no-brainer,” says Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale Electric. “Martindale will be utilising our ECA associate status to help our business grow and ensure the industry delivers best practice and high standards.” “We are delighted to welcome Martindale Electric as the ECA’s newest Commercial Associate,” comments ECA Director of Member Services Helen Atkinson. “We look forward to working closely with Martindale over the coming period to maximise commercial opportunities and industry collaboration. “Martindale Electric will now have access to an unbeatable package of resources and the ability to further engage with ECA’s membership base, which includes many leading electrotechnical and engineering services businesses.” In addition, ECA runs an associate programme for manufacturers, distributors, consultants, training providers, educators, specifiers, and end clients working within the electrotechnical arena. With this new partnership, Martindale Electric says that it aims to further strengthen its relationships with contractors and specifiers, while championing the safe working practices that "have defined [its] reputation for nearly a century." For more from Martindale Electric, click here.

Are you the UK and Ireland's top tradesperson?

British retailer of trade products Screwfix’s annual search for the nation’s most talented tradespeople is once again underway, with entries now open for 'Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2025.' It is open to all trades - from electricians to roofers, right through to carpenters and plumbers - and entries close 13 July. By entering, there's a chance to win a £20,000/€20,000 prize bundle of tools, tech, and training. Now in its 16th year, Screwfix Top Tradesperson aims to uncover the brilliant trade talent across the UK and Ireland and celebrates their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the industry. London-based plumber Mohammed Rahman claimed the title in 2024, receiving a prize bundle of tech, tools, and training worth £20,000. Since being crowned, his business has gone from strength to strength on the back of the publicity and profile he has enjoyed. Reflecting on the positive impact the award has had on his career, reigning champion Mohammed says, “Winning Screwfix Top Tradesperson was a significant milestone for me. I’ve always thought self-belief is so important when it comes to having a rewarding career, and it took a bit of courage to nominate myself and fill in the application, but it was one of the best decisions I ever made. “It has been great to get involved with media interviews and to even have the opportunity to speak about supporting trade apprentices at Parliament. I would encourage anyone thinking about entering to just go for it – it gives you an opportunity to talk about why you are passionate about your trade and, if you get shortlisted, the business-building benefits are great.” Previous winner, Devon-based carpenter Astrid Arnold agrees and says entering is easy and straightforward. “It’s quick to enter, with just a few questions where I could tell my story and the exciting parts of my career to date. I was also able to talk about areas I’m really passionate about, such as encouraging more women to take up a trade.” Brighton electrician Dan Lloyd, who was crowned Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2021, believes successful entries are those that come from the heart. “It can be a bit daunting to promote yourself, but the judges are looking for an authentic voice and compelling story that isn’t just about high standards of work and service, but also how you are trying to make a difference such as operating in an environmentally-friendly way or giving back to the community.” How to enter Entries for Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2025 are now open and will close on Sunday, 13 July. Tradespeople from the UK and Ireland can put themselves forward - or be nominated by employers, customers, or friends - by filling out the online application form at the UK or Irish websites. The standout applicants will be shortlisted to the semi-final stage and invited to an interview in August. From there, just 10 will head to the final at Screwfix Live in Farnborough on Friday, 26 September, where they will go head-to-head in front of a panel of industry experts. They’ll also walk away with a trade bundle worth £20,000/€20,000, made up of tech, tools, and training to boost their business. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXmpKDXHHr8[/embed] Jack Wallace, Marketing Director at Screwfix, comments, “We are so proud of Screwfix Top Tradesperson and how it highlights the skill and passion of exceptional tradespeople who are working day in, day out in our homes and businesses. We have a long list of Top Tradesperson winners in our Hall of Fame and we can’t wait to see who the 2025 champion is. “It is vital we continue to recognise and celebrate the work of the nation’s tradespeople. They perform vital roles in our community, create jobs for others, and build rewarding careers for themselves. I encourage all tradespeople from electricians to plumbers, builders to painters, and carpenters to roofers, to come forward and share their stories. Good luck!” For more from Screwfix, click here.

New ESR guidance to support landlords with finding experts

The Electrical Safety Roundtable (ESR), an industry forum uniting electrical safety experts with the goal of improving electrical safety, has launched new guidance entitled How to Find a Competent & Qualified Person for Landlord Electrical Safety Checks. The guidance, published on 30 June, is a checklist that aims to support landlords in finding a competent and qualified tradesperson. It is a legal requirement in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland to have an electrical inspection and test of the electrical installation within a privately rented property undertaken by a suitably qualified and competent person at least once every five years. For non-rented domestic properties, it is recommended that these are carried out every 10 years. This test is called 'Periodic Inspection and Testing,' through which an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) is produced. When Periodic Inspection and Testing is carried out with an EICR being issued, there are two options depending on the outcome: Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory. With Satisfactory outcome observations coded as C3, there would be no other requirements for any additional works until the recommended date for the next EICR. In the case of an Unsatisfactory outcome, providing that all observations coded C1, C2, and FI - or action points - are addressed and rectified with supporting certificates of either an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) or a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate (MEIWC), the electrical installation would be then considered as satisfactory and safe for continued use. The 'Competent Person' undertaking this EICR should be a skilled individual, registered with a Full Scope Electrical Competent Person Scheme or Registration Body who monitors and regularly assesses the electrician/inspector to demonstrate their competency and ensure they hold Public Liability and Professional Indemnity Insurance. ESR's checklist breaks down the necessary checks to be undertaken when selecting a competent person. The checklist includes the certification, qualifications, insurance, and experience that demonstrate the electrical inspector and tester is a competent person to carry out electrical safety checks. Nick Hayler, Chair of ESR's Electrical Safety in the Home Group, says, “The Electrical Safety in the Home Group has created this checklist for landlords to highlight the necessary checks needed to find a qualified and competent person. “This will give confidence to landlords, tenants, and electricians that the work is being carried out correctly and safely by people with the necessary skills and experience.” For more from the Electrical Safety Roundtable, click here.

Acrospire delivers PIR-controlled lighting at Ruislip Lido car park

Set beside the scenic Ruislip Lido, British LED lighting manufacturer Acrospire has delivered a sensitive, low-energy lighting upgrade for the Lido’s main car park. Working with the London Borough of Hillingdon, the project involved installing compact Sprint Micro luminaires with PIR sensors to ensure the lights only activate when needed. Nestled on the edge of Ruislip Woods, Ruislip Lido is a popular destination for families and visitors alike, offering sandy beaches, a miniature railway, woodland trails, and splash zones around a 60-acre lake. As visitor numbers continue to rise - particularly during the summer months - the Lido Car Park on Reservoir Road becomes an access point for many. With 153 standard bays and 10 disabled spaces, the car park plays a role in accommodating guests heading to the Lido’s attractions. However, with residential housing close by and long periods when the car park is not in use - particularly during winter evenings - the London Borough of Hillingdon required sensitive lighting that would provide security and visibility without causing light trespass. Appointed through the Lighting Engineer at LB Hillingdon, Acrospire was commissioned to deliver a smart lighting scheme using its compact Sprint Micro luminaires in a 4000K neutral white. To reduce energy usage and eliminate waste light, each Sprint lantern was fitted with a PIR sensor, meaning the lights only activate when movement is detected. Once triggered, the lights remain on for seven minutes, seeking to provide sufficient illumination for cars and pedestrians before automatically switching off. This should ensure that the car park is only lit when needed - improving safety for users while keeping the area dark and peaceful for local residents when not in use. Roy Thabrew, Lighting Manager at the London Borough of Hillingdon, comments, "We needed a lighting solution that prioritised both resident comfort and public safety. Acrospire’s Sprint Micro lanterns with PIR control have delivered exactly that. The lights are only on when needed, reducing glare into neighbouring homes and keeping energy use to a minimum while still giving car park users the reassurance of well-timed illumination." For more from Acrospire, click here.

Logic4training warns against online training shortcuts

With more young people choosing a career in the trades over university, and as the UK approaches results day for school and college leavers, training provider Logic4training urges aspiring building services engineers to prioritise quality over speed when choosing a path into the sector. New research carried out by said training provider reveals growing demand for online training, with yearly search volume rising from 42,860 in 2022 to 61,550 in 2024, an increase of 44% in just two years. However, a survey of tradespeople reveals significant challenges associated with e-learning. A lack of hands-on experience is cited as the biggest obstacle by 54% of respondents, followed by cost concerns (46%) and limited job placement opportunities (42%). Mark Krull from Logic4training says that while online training may appear convenient, it often comes at the cost of quality and credibility: "Far too many aspiring tradespeople are investing their money into courses that promise the earth but end in disappointment. Young people exploring alternatives to university may be attracted by the lure of remote learning and a quick qualification. However, when a course starts front-loaded with online training and little or no tutor support, the chances of success are pretty low." E-learning is often sold as a quick option - and speed clearly is an important factor, reflected by a 58% increase in yearly searches for ‘fast track' courses since 2022. While many of these courses are legitimate - and play an essential role in providing flexible routes into the trades - candidates must ensure that they will achieve a valid qualification at the end and that hands-on training is prioritised, avoiding those that rely too heavily on online modules. Mark continues, "Apprenticeships are a tried and tested way into the sector, allowing apprentices to ‘earn while they learn' and avoid the debt associated with university - [which], I expect, [is] one of the key reasons more people are turning their backs on this education route. For college leavers and anyone looking for a quicker way to switch careers, quality apprenticeship alternatives do exist, but they must include rigorous practical components, industry-recognised qualifications, and realistic timelines for skill development." Logic4training advocates for comprehensive, in-person training supplemented by digital resources, rather than being replaced by them. Its ClubLogic platform, the provider claims, "exemplifies this balanced approach," serving as an online revision tool that supports in-centre learning. Key statistics: · 9 out of 10 ClubLogic users report it helped them prepare for their course. · 94% of candidates on related courses use the platform. · Candidates receive both practical skills development and on-demand revision support. Quality training provider checklist: · Visit training centres in person and meet teachers before committing to a course. · Check industry connections and relationships with contractors and local companies. · Verify qualifications are certified by reputable awarding bodies, like LCL Awards. · Look for transparent outcomes with clear information and career progression. For more from Logic4training, click here.

Carhartt introduces Force Series to help tackle the heat

American workwear company Carhartt is introducing its Force Series range, which it says has been designed for tradespeople "when the temperature climbs and there’s no air-con in sight." Intended to work where airflow is limited and movement is constant, the company claims its clothing range "fights sweat, dries fast, and keeps you comfortable from sunup to sundown." The Force Series T-shirt has been updated with improved zoned mesh panels, better stretch, and redesigned seams which shouldn't irritate or distract. The Men’s Relaxed Fit Midweight Short-Sleeve Pocket T-Shirt is made from flex jersey with mesh side panels for extra ventilation. FastDry sweat-wicking tech, anti-microbial properties, and raglan sleeves - which have extra under-arm width for added movement - make it appropriate for physical work in direct sunlight. For women, the Relaxed Fit Midweight Pocket T-Shirt intends to deliver all the same features, with mesh sleeves and back panels to boost airflow. The women’s Utility Leggings are one of Carhartt’s bestsellers for women. They are made with Carhartt Force Series Ponte fabric, offering sweat-wicking, odour-fighting elements alongside abrasion-resistant pockets and stretch. For men, the Relaxed Straight Force Series Ripstop Cargo Pants bring together stretch ripstop fabric, reinforced pockets, and 'Rugged Flex technology.' The Force Series range also covers caps, socks, work boots, shorts, and jumpers. For more from Carhartt, click here.

NVC Lighting supports NHS Trust with energy-saving drive

An NHS Trust delivering services to thousands of patients across Herefordshire and Worcestershire has been supported by lighting manufacturer NVC Lighting in its continued drive towards running a more energy-efficient estate. Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust provides a range of mental health, community, and learning disability services across the region, including community hospitals, minor injury units, sexual health services, and specialist dental services. Over recent years, the Trust has been actively working on improving energy efficiency across its facilities, backed by financial support from the NHS Energy Efficiency Fund (EEF), which started in 2018 and is now in its third phase. This included being awarded £90,000 from the NHS EEF to upgrade lighting across the whole Trust, in line with the NHS’s goal of becoming net zero by 2040. After carrying out a rigorous vendor screening process, the Trust contracted Adam Masters, Profit Centre Manager at electrical wholesalers Edmundson Electrical, to execute the lighting works. Adam in turn reached out to Aaron Chandi, Business Development Manager at NVC Lighting, to support with product selection and delivery. Rehan Yunus, Environmental Officer at the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health & Care NHS Trust, says, “It’s vitally important for providers across the NHS to find ways to become more energy-efficient. This is in line with the overall aim of the NHS to become net zero by 2040. It’s equally important that we do this in a way that is cost-effective and supports local businesses. We strongly believe that by using more energy-efficient lighting, such as LED lights [and] automatic timer lighting, we can make a significant difference in reducing our overall energy consumption. “In line with our Green Plan, we are on track for becoming net zero by 2040 and this change is a major step towards a greener and more sustainable NHS. A greener NHS will not only benefit the planet, but also prove beneficial for patients by giving them better quality air to breathe in and more green spaces to relax.” The project focused on seven older buildings from the Trust’s estate, offering a range of services across mental health, nursing, child development, and more. The plan was to move from older light fittings in need of replacement to more modern, energy-efficient lighting from NVC Lighting, provided by Edmundson Electrical. Rehan continues, “We had issues with the throw of light and temperature changes caused by overhead lighting. These issues made the existing lighting less suitable for our staff and visitors. The new lighting also provided a neutral white glow to the spaces, making them appear calmer. “We also wanted to have a greater degree of precision over how our lighting is used, so newer products which could be controlled with additional switches and dimmable controls were a priority for us. As well as granting us greater control and adaptability, this also provides us with energy saving and product usage benefits.” Sites including Tenbury Community Hospital, Warndon Child Development Centre, and mental health service buildings (The Knoll and Rose Cottage) all presented unique challenges when it came to selecting the right lighting solutions. Edmunson Electricals’ Adam Masters comments, “It was important that we got this right first time and, because it was a unique set of challenges across multiple different sites, we wanted to do as much groundwork as possible to make sure that there were no unexpected surprises. “We visited all seven sites, spoke with staff, and assessed each building – so it was a mixture of anecdotal, on the ground insight, as well as analysis based on our experience on which products would be suited to the environment.” Products selected include YALE PRO, which offers UGR<19 low glare and is designed for use in corridors and high footfall areas, as well as the IP65- and IK10-rated COLUMBUS, PORTLAND bulkheads, WASHINGTON recessed downlights, and TEXAS battens. Aaron Chandi, Business Development Manager at NVC Lighting, reflects, “We were delighted to be able to support this project and understood what was required of us. The quality of our products and our warranty offering meant we were ideally placed to provide the perfect solutions for the Trust. “We pride ourselves on building strong relationships based on trust, so we were ready to do what was needed to ensure the right products were in the right place at the right time. Communication was key - and I even got out [on] site to manage a delivery, [showing] support to Adam and the team at Edmunson. It was a real team effort. “We’re confident that staff across the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health & Care NHS Trust will feel the benefit of NVC Lighting products in their daily activities, while Trust leadership will soon see the energy- and cost-savings associated with our products.” For more from NVC Lighting, click here.