ECN March issue out now!

The March issue of ECN is OUT NOW and packed with insights and information on the topics you care about. Read the issue here.  From the Editor It’s been a busy month here at ECN HQ! Kelly and I had the pleasure of recording a podcast with NAPIT’s Steve Humphreys and Andrew Duffen, where we delved into the topics of electrical compliance, safety and the skills gap. It’s a great listen that will be available soon on all major podcast platforms here. We also had an insightful visit to the Proteus, M2, Tamlex and Centaur factories to learn more about their operations and processes. It was fascinating to see what goes on behind the scenes – stay tuned for more details in a future issue of ECN. In the news, a recent report by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has highlighted the rapid growth of the UK’s net zero sector, which is expanding three times faster than the overall economy. The report has been well-received, showing that this sector not only creates high-wage jobs but also helps reduce carbon emissions while enhancing energy security. In 2024, the net zero economy grew by 10%, contributing £83 billion in gross value added (GVA). The sector includes 22,000 businesses ranging from renewable energy to green finance, employing nearly a million people in full-time roles. The average annual wage in these businesses is reported to be £43,000, which is £5,600 higher than the national average. While the UK economy has often faced criticism for being concentrated in London and the south-east and for its sluggish productivity growth, the net zero sector tells a different story. The report found that this thriving industry is more evenly distributed across the country. Major hubs of activity are located in the West Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber, and south-west England, with net zero jobs increasing by 20% in Scotland since 2022. Additionally, net zero jobs are 38% more productive than the UK average, further highlighting the sector’s significant economic contribution. This issue is a whopping 96 pages, packed with essential information. In our Interview, I speak with Jess Vailima, Managing Director of the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC), about the critical work the charity is doing to support individuals within the electrical and energy sectors. This month’s features include Cable Management, Commercial Lighting, Tools & Test Equipment, and Wholesalers & Distributors, providing plenty of content to explore. Plus, in this month’s Competition, you can win four of Domus Ventilation’s newest fans – enter here from 2 March. I hope you enjoy this issue – see you next month! Carly Weller Group Editor

Ventilux unveils Galaxy 2 emergency light

Ventilux, a provider of emergency lighting products, has launched the Galaxy 2, a high-performance, durable light built for the most demanding environments. Tailored to meet the needs of consultants and specifiers responsible for selecting emergency lighting products in various sectors, the Galaxy 2 is a robust, energy-efficient luminaire that ensures safety and reliability across residential, commercial, warehousing, data centres, education settings, and more. Galaxy 2 is engineered with advanced mains or DALI wireless capability, providing seamless integration into existing lighting systems - allowing for efficient, centralised monitoring and control. Designed with consultants and specifiers in mind, this next-generation bulkhead delivers ease of installation, superior energy efficiency, and long-term cost savings, Ventilux tells us. The Galaxy 2 boasts a range of advanced features that make it an ideal choice for modern emergency lighting specifications. Crafted from high-impact polycarbonate housing, it is designed for maximum durability and protection. Achieving IP65 and IK10 ratings, it is resistant to dust, water, and impact, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments. This ensures longevity and reduces the need for frequent replacements, translating into long-term cost savings. For ease of installation, the Galaxy 2 features 20mm conduit side entry points, allowing for quick and straightforward installation, reducing labour time and costs for contractors. Its circular design ensures even light distribution, minimising shadows and improving visibility in crucial areas such as stairwells and corridors. Performance is at the heart of the Galaxy 2, delivering 2250 lumens in mains mode and 200 lumens in emergency mode. This high-lumen output ensures that spaces remain well-lit during both normal operations and emergency scenarios, enhancing occupant safety. Aesthetically, the Galaxy 2 is available in white or black, with multiple lamp colour options to suit different environments and design requirements. This adaptability allows consultants and designers to specify a product that not only meets safety requirements, but also integrates seamlessly into modern architectural designs. Sustainability is a core focus of the Galaxy 2. It is powered by a lithium battery, which enhances emergency lighting performance and longevity. Compared to traditional battery technologies, lithium batteries have a significantly longer lifespan, reducing maintenance costs and environmental impact. Additionally, the energy efficiency of the luminaire contributes to lower power consumption, supporting sustainability initiatives and potentially reducing operational expenses for businesses. Emma Jevons, UK North West Sales Manager from Ventilux, says, "The launch of Galaxy 2 displays our commitment to delivering cutting-edge, future-proof emergency lighting solutions that cater to the needs of consultants, specifiers, and end-users alike. The Galaxy 2 combines advanced technology with sustainable design to support safer and smarter buildings.”

ECA launches 'Electrifying Our Future'

The Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) has introduced Electrifying Our Future, a digital series that highlights the vital contributions of the electrical industry in achieving the UK’s net zero goals. With the UK Government committed to clean power by 2030, the pace of electrification is accelerating, but without the right skills, infrastructure and policy clarity, progress risks being derailed. Electrification is not just about renewable energy and infrastructure investment - it requires a highly skilled workforce and robust safety standards to succeed. As the UK moves towards heat pumps, EVs and smart energy systems, the need for proper training, clear regulation and industry-wide collaboration has never been greater. Electrifying Our Future spotlights the key barriers to electrification - from skills shortages to supply chain issues - and outlines the solutions needed to ensure a safe, rapid transition to net zero. The series, made in collaboration with Content With Purpose, explores the enormous opportunities electrification presents for the sector, as well as the challenges along the way. Speaking at the House of Lords launch event, Lord Foster of Bath said, “Electrical safety is paramount as the speed of electrification increases. Electrifying Our Future highlights the aspects needed for a safe energy transition, from consistent support for apprenticeships, clearer guidance from manufacturers, and a continued focus on good regulation as the sector ramps up its efforts to achieve net zero. Without proper training and safety measures, rapid deployment of low carbon technologies could put both workers and consumers at risk.” The series highlights the essential steps needed to scale up efforts in the sector, from addressing the skills gap and improving workforce training to adopting emerging technologies and optimising existing low carbon systems. By spotlighting the key players, policies, and innovations driving this change, Electrifying Our Future provides a roadmap for navigating the challenges ahead and seizing the opportunities of tomorrow’s energy landscape. Gary Parker, Head of Technical Standards at ECA, shared his insights on the industry’s transformative growth: “The electrification of the UK’s energy system is creating unprecedented opportunities for electrical contractors. As we diversify into areas like solar, energy storage and electric vehicles, the industry is positioned to lead in the UK’s transition to net zero. This is an exciting time for the sector, offering both growth and sustainability.” Electrifying Our Future will feature valuable insights and contributions from a wide range of leading organisations in the sector, including Megger, PowerCor, JTL, Calisen, Sync Energy, SES Engineering Services, AMP, Simpro Software, Hispec, NIBE, Rexel UK, Chameleon Technology, ABB Electrification Service and EnergyAce. These organisations demonstrate a shared commitment to advancing the electrical contracting industry’s role in the UK’s decarbonisation efforts, and they are helping shape the future of a more sustainable, electrified economy. This digital series also features contributions from leading figures in the electrical and energy sectors, including: Mark Coles, Head of Technical Regulations at the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Andrew Eldred, COO of the Electrical Contractors’ Association Robert Birch, Policy Manager at Energy UK Luke Osborne, Deputy Technical Director at Electrical Safety First Ruth Devine, MBE, Managing Director, SJD Associates & Chair, The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership Faye Burnett, Programme Director for the Super Sector Installer Programme at Mace Group Kelly Butler, Strategy Director at BEAMA Gary Parker, Head of Technical Standards at ECA Alan Wilson, Managing Director at SELECT The Electrifying Our Future series is available to watch now at here.  It is set to be a valuable resource for industry professionals, businesses and policymakers seeking to understand the role of electrical contractors in the UK’s electrification journey.

Fergus launches job management software promotion

Fergus, the job management software for trades businesses, is offering an exclusive End of Financial Year deal whereby customers can get 75% off their first three months when signing up in March. This limited-time offer is designed to help trades businesses streamline operations, improve efficiency, and boost profitability as they prepare for the new financial year. With Fergus, users can take control of job scheduling, invoicing, and team management - all in one easy-to-use platform. “Fergus was built by tradies, for tradies, to reduce admin headaches and give business owners their time back,” says Mark Bartels, CEO of Fergus. “As we approach the end of the financial year, this is the perfect opportunity for trade professionals to experience the power of Fergus at a fraction of the usual cost.” With 75% off the first three months, customers will gain access to all Fergus features, including: • Job scheduling and tracking – Organise jobs, assign tasks, and track progress in real time. • Quick and accurate quoting and invoicing – Create professional quotes and invoices with ease, ensuring smoother cash flow. • Powerful team management tools – Allocate resources, manage timesheets, and monitor team performance. • Real-time job insights – Access reporting features that show how every job impacts the bottom line. To access the 75% discount, click here to get started any time during the month of March, and it will be automatically applied to the first three months of the subscription. For more from Fergus, click here.

All aboard for new maritime infrastructure projects

UK Power Networks Services has been awarded a framework contract by KBS Maritime, to mastermind future infrastructure projects for the Royal Navy’s base at Portsmouth. The 500-acre site is home to 60% of the Royal Navy’s surface fleet and a base for visiting warships and submarines. It accommodates up to 17,000 personnel with an extra 700,000 visitors to the city’s historic dockyard. Under the new two-year agreement, UK Power Networks Services will be in the running for consulting services, to design and assess new projects, and carry out feasibility studies. It will be able to deliver upgrades to the electrical infrastructure, serving 900 buildings and over three miles of waterfront. Paul O’Leary, Sector Lead for Defence, says, “This builds on the success of our recent installation of a new substation on site, which required a special elevated base to protect the integrity of the listed building it is housed in. “We work as a trusted partner to the Ministry of Defence and many other organisations, and invest in long-term relationships. This includes helping key clients where the electrical infrastructure supports critical sites of national significance. If and when they have to handle major incidents, the high resilience of our electricity networks are fundamental to their success.” KBS Maritime delivers facilities management and alongside services at Portsmouth. It’s total £5.2 billion Future Maritime Support Programme employs a framework of contractors and sustains more than 9,400 jobs. Serena Lewis, Commercial Director at KBS Maritime, comments, “The creation of the Multi-disciplinary Supplier Framework covers the full range of professional services and capabilities to deliver Portsmouth Naval Base’s infrastructure investment plans. “The benefits include improved supply chain engagement, accelerated timescales for delivery, reduced administration, and enhanced value for money for our customer. In parallel, by attracting local companies and increasing SME participation, together, we will deliver a positive impact for Portsmouth prosperity, demonstrating our commitment to social value.” For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

NAPIT welcomes Climate Change Committee report

NAPIT has welcomed the Climate Change Committee report, which says switching to EVs and heat pumps will save householders cash while also helping the planet. The Government’s climate advisers say households could save hundreds of pounds a year if they switch away from volatile fossil fuels to heat pumps and EVs instead. The Climate Change Committee published its advice on the Seventh Carbon Budget today (26 February). The Committee recognises that the upfront costs of fitting houses with low-carbon heat pumps instead of gas boilers are a “sizeable” part of the costs of the UK’s net zero shift, and there will need to be continued support to encourage people to make the switch. In its latest advice for how to end the UK’s contribution to global warming, the independent advisory committee is urging the Government to commit to an 87% cut on 1990 levels by 2040. Around a third of the emissions cuts in the period will have to come from action by households; mainly buying an electric car and a heat pump to replace an old gas boiler. The committee said its modelling shows that, by mid-century, households would save around £700 a year on heating bills and another £700 on motoring costs, with a switch to electric heat pumps for home heating and electric vehicles (EVs). But households would need support with the costs (particularly those on lower incomes), the cost of electricity needs to come down, and action needs to be taken to tackle a lack of awareness and misconceptions around technologies such as EVs and heat pumps. NAPIT, a leading Government-approved membership scheme operator with over 20,000 registered installers working across electrical, heating, plumbing, ventilation, microgeneration, and building fabric trades has welcomed the CCC’s recommendations. Managing Director, Frank Bertie, says, “It’s clear that if the UK is to reach its emissions targets, then more action will be needed to decarbonise heating in homes and transport. It’s good to see that the CCC is highlighting the potential savings to householders in their energy bills if they make the switch, although more needs to be done to bring the costs of heat pumps and EVs down. “Many of our members are already installing heat pumps and EV chargers across the country, and we also provide training courses to allow even more tradespeople to upskill. “The CCC has recommended some challenging targets, but they also create opportunities for our members to expand and create economic growth and provide skilled jobs across the low carbon sector as well as saving households money on their energy and fuel bills.” The Government has to decide on the level of cuts it will commit to for the period 2038-2042, which is the seventh in a series of five-year 'carbon budgets', and put it to a vote in Parliament by the end of June next year. For more from NAPIT, click here.

UK economy benefitting from net zero commitment

A new report by the CBI has found that the UK’s net zero industry is booming. Specifically, the sector is growing three times faster than the rest of the UK economy, and with electricity demand expected to treble by 2050, there is plenty of room for it to continue this upward trend. According to Mark Sprawson, Commercial Director of VisNet from EA Technology, a UK low voltage energy network monitoring and management specialist, the UK’s commitment to net zero-related technologies is set continue to create new growth opportunities at home and abroad. Mark explains, “As heat pumps, EV infrastructure, and a new generation of data centres powered by clean energy roll out across the country, the UK is becoming increasingly well-versed in renewable technology. This creates a significant opportunity to export our expertise across the world. “While some have expressed concern about the projected cost of decarbonising the UK energy network, the benefits are set to supercharge the economy in the long run, aligning with Chancellor Rachel Reeves's goal of increasing investment and unlocking the potential of UK industry. “With infrastructure projects like The Great Grid Upgrade on the horizon, there’s never been a better time for the UK to take the lead as a net zero pioneer.” Drawing on VisNet's work with electricity network owners and operators to manage their low voltage distribution infrastructure, Mark notes, “The UK’s energy grid is incredibly resilient, and our network owners and operators do an incredibly challenging job managing rapidly shifting usage whilst keeping in step with clean energy goals. “However, last year, National Grid said that only so much can be done with a power system that was originally built for a different era. The UK needs new infrastructure to connect renewable energy and ensure that it reaches homes and businesses. “With 130,000 new jobs projected to be created by new electricity transmission infrastructure and the UK green economy growing by 9% in 2023 versus 0.1% growth in the rest of the economy, there’s a clear economic benefit to the UK in becoming a leader in the wider decarbonisation movement. “We’re fortunate that the UK is already an important European hub for green technology solutions. As we’ve seen with other sectors like financial services, exporting our expertise to other markets delivers lucrative returns here at home. “With the UK’s electricity supply having the cleanest year on record in 2024, the country is on the right trajectory with levelling up our transmission infrastructure, and we’re ahead of much of the international community regarding our net zero transition. “The renewable energy sector is playing a key role in Britain’s economic growth, and positioning ourselves as an international leader attracts important inward investment to these shores. “The UK taking the lead in net zero isn’t just the right decision for the planet - it’s also the right decision to get the country’s economy on track and performing in a way that healthy and resilient.” For more from EA Technology, click here.

HDM Solar Wholesale celebrates opening of new branch

HDM Solar Wholesale, a national wholesaler of solar energy products and electric vehicle charging technologies, celebrated its new Basildon branch with a well-attended opening event on 21 February 2025. The event welcomed solar and EV installers, businesses and individuals interested in renewable energy systems. Attendees had the opportunity to explore the new facility, meet the HDM Solar team and access exclusive offers. The day’s highlights included a ribbon-cutting by the Mayor of Basildon, Councillor Allan Davies, and live demonstrations from 13 industry-leading suppliers, including SolaX, Sunsynk, GivEnergy, Growatt, Mounting Systems, Genius Roof Solutions, Canadian Solar and Astronergy. HDM Solar Wholesale supplies solar panels, batteries, inverters and electric vehicle (EV) chargers to trade customers, businesses and individuals across the UK. With options for branch collection or same-day and next-day delivery, the 11,000-square-metre facility will provide installers in Essex, London, East Anglia and the South East with convenient access to high-quality equipment and expert support for residential and commercial solar projects. Malcolm Campbell, Manager of HDM Solar’s Basildon branch, comments, “The turnout at our Basildon open event was fantastic, and we’re grateful for the support from installers, local businesses and our industry partners that attended and exhibited at the event. With the renewable energy sector growing rapidly, our new branch enhances our ability to provide quality products, quick delivery and outstanding service to installers across the region.” HDM Solar has experienced significant growth, achieving a turnover of £20 million in its first full financial year and establishing itself as a trusted wholesaler of solar products. The opening of the Basildon branch follows successful branches already operating in Hull, Sheffield and Bournemouth. With several new branches planned for 2025, the company is reinforcing its position as a leader in the fast-growing solar industry. For more from HDM Solar Wholesale, click here.

Heat pumps to be in 10% of homes by 2029

A new study from Juniper Research, an expert in IoT markets, has revealed that the number of homes fitted with heat pumps globally will exceed 238 million in 2029 - which would be up 35% from 2025. This compares with 177 million in 2025, which represents only 7% of homes. Growth is being driven primarily by regulatory interventions, such as the Clean Heat Market Mechanism in the UK which instructs boiler manufacturers to have a minimum percentage of their revenue come from heat pump sales. Despite this, massive challenges remain for heat pump adoption. The study predicts that the high cost of installation, a clear lack of trained heat pump experts, and a lack of suitability for apartments will restrict acceptance beyond early adopters. To unlock the 90% of homes that will not have an alternative heating system by 2029, heat pump manufacturers must invest in emerging technologies which create greater efficiencies in the heating process and reduce cost, Juniper Reseach states. The report identified R32 refrigerant as a key solution that will immediately help vendors to improve operating efficiency. Report author, Thomas Wilson, remarks, “Vendors must promote the cost-saving abilities they are bringing to their units, to stimulate growth. More efficient components, such as variable-speed compressors, increase the value of heat pumps to end users by reducing their monthly energy expenditure.” The report identified that due to the difficulties in retrofitting heat pumps in space-constrained apartments, fitting monobloc systems should be a key priority to generate growth. Failure to do so will result in a stagnated adoption of heat pumps and possible regulatory fines due to missing sales targets. An extract from the new report, Global Heat Pump Market 2025-2029, is now available as a free download and can be accessed by clicking here. For more from Juniper Research, click here.

SPARKS Learner of the Year 2025 finalists announced

With the regional heats of the SPARKS Learner of the Year 2025 contest reaching their conclusion, the organisers have now announced the seven finalists who have secured their spots in the prestigious grand final. The follow participants will go head-to-head at JTL Training's site in Birmingham for the coveted title this coming April: Drew Squires O’Sullivan (Gower College Swansea) Frankie McCall (South Hampshire College) Jack Kirby (Burnley College) Paddy Moran (Clifford College) Taylor Slade (Bridgwater and Taunton College) Toby Hildreth (Derwentside College) Zack Bloomfield (Suffolk New College) With an impressive range of talent on display, the standard of work in all regions has been outstanding, SPARKS tells us. Zoë Tanner, Managing Director at SPARKS, comments, “All the competitors should be extremely proud of their hard work. The calibre of talent this year has been exceptional. We’re delighted to see the continued success of SPARKS Learner of the Year and are grateful for the support from so many respected industry leaders.” SPARKS Learner of the Year 2025 is proudly sponsored by Luceco Group, Electric Center, Milwaukee, Aico, EAL, Ideal Industries, Fix Radio, Prysmian, Snickers Workwear and NAPIT. The Grand Final at JTL Training, Birmingham, on 2-3 April. Stay tuned to SPARKS's social media channels to follow the action and find out who will be crowned Learner of the Year 2025. The competition provides a platform for apprentice and student electricians to showcase their skills, gain confidence and win an array of prizes to support them at the very start of their careers. For more from SPARKS, click here.