MCS reaches milestone with record number of certified contractors

MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme), the UK’s quality mark for renewable energy technologies, has reached a new milestone, with over 5,250 contractors certified under the Scheme, the highest since it began in 2008. This milestone comes after a record-breaking year for certified renewable installations in 2024, showing both the growing demand for renewable energy technologies and the increasing consumer confidence in MCS certified contractors to deliver these installations. Following the closure of the Feed-in Tariff (FiT), MCS contractor numbers dropped from nearly 5,000 in 2012 to just 1,700 in 2019. Since then, MCS has rebuilt its contractor base, certifying around 700 new businesses each year. According to the MCS Data Dashboard, 1,443 installers gained certification in 2024 across a range of renewable technologies. Solar PV saw the biggest rise, with 718 contractors gaining certification for solar PV in 2024, bringing the total number to over 4,000. The number of MCS certified heat pump contractors also continues to grow, with 387 becoming certified in 2024, bringing the total to over 2,000. This rise reflects the increasing demand for low carbon heating, as heat pump installations hit a record 60,000 last year – a 43% jump from 2023. Battery storage also saw a growing number of contractors, with 332 contractors gaining certification in 2024, taking the total to over 2,000. The demand for battery storage is accelerating, with MCS data showing January 2025 was a record month, exceeding 2,600 installations for the technology – a 176% increase compared to January 2024. As the numbers outline, contractors are increasingly becoming certified across multiple technologies, to enable them to provide customers with multi-technology solutions to industry-recognised standards. There was also renewed momentum in the small wind sector, with three contractors gaining certification in 2024. Ryse Energy’s G-11 wind turbine also became the first MCS certified wind product on the Scheme in three years, potentially paving the way for further growth in the UK’s small wind sector. Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS, says, "The year-on-year growth in MCS certified contractors reflects the continued expansion of the UK’s small-scale renewables sector and the increasing confidence in MCS certification. With over 5,250 contractors now certified and more contractors than ever active within a single year, we are ensuring that households across the UK have access to high-quality renewable energy installations.” Craig Haycock, founder of MCS certified contractor Craig Michael Renewables, adds, "We became certified for both solar PV and battery storage knowing that MCS certification, as a mark of quality, would give our customers confidence in our installations and strengthen our business’ reputation." To further support industry growth, MCS is transitioning to the Redeveloped Installer Scheme over the next 18 months, making certification more accessible and helping more installers meet industry standards.

Behind Every Connection: WISKA UK debuts short film

WISKA UK has released Behind Every Connection, a short film that pays tribute to the craftsmanship and dedication of electricians. The film highlights the professionals behind every connection - those who bring power, safety and reliability to homes, businesses and communities.  At the centre of the story is Cornish electrician Isaac Penfold, whose journey reflects the passion, pride and responsibility that define his profession. Through his experiences, the film explores the connection between his work and his family, illustrating the personal and professional dedication that drives electricians every day.  WISKA UK shares these values, designing and manufacturing products with electricians in mind. With a focus on reliability, innovation and ease of use, the company aims to support electricians, designers and engineers in their work. Behind Every Connection serves as both a tribute to their dedication and a reaffirmation of WISKA’s commitment to working alongside them.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgt4L_pqXl8 Elliott Rothon, Marketing Manager at WISKA UK, explains the vision behind the film, “The goal was to create something different - something that doesn’t just promote our products but instead places the electrician at the centre. Behind Every Connection is a story, one that a lot of people that use our products can hopefully relate too.”  WISKA UK invites viewers to experience Isaac’s story and celebrate the electricians who keep the world connected.  WISKA manufactures and supplies an innovative and quality range of cable entry systems, junction boxes and gel jointing products. WISKA was founded in Hamburg in 1919, and has been trading in the UK since 2000. The company operates its own research and development facilities and production plants in Germany, ensuring all products meet the highest standards in excellence, and prides itself on offering quality solutions with friendly helpful service.  For more from WISKA, click here.

HIKMICRO launches indoor water leak detector

HIKMICRO, a global provider of thermal imaging products, has introduced the AD21P, an indoor leak detector that uses sound analysis and powerful imaging to track down water leaks quickly and accurately. Combining SuperDetect technology with user-friendly operation, the AD21P reportedly provides a faster, smarter, more accurate and more accessible approach to pinpointing leaks, meeting the needs of both industry professionals and first-time users. Water leaks are a persistent issue in homes and larger residential, commercial and public sector buildings, often leading to extensive damage and costly repairs. While some leaks are easy to spot - such as dripping taps or visible water stains - many remain hidden for months or even years, wasting water and driving up utility bills. Traditional detection methods rely heavily on user experience and can be inefficient, particularly in noisy environments or when dealing with small leaks. The AD21P changes that by integrating intelligent sound frequency analysis with a precise and intuitive detection system, making leak identification simpler and more efficient than ever. At the heart of the AD21P is SuperDetect, HIKMICRO’s proprietary algorithm that automatically identifies leaks by analysing sound frequency, intensity, and spatial characteristics. Traditional acoustic leak detectors require trained professionals to interpret audio feedback and distinguish between normal pipe noises and potential leaks. However, with SuperDetect, even first-time users can achieve professional-level accuracy. Shadow Zhang, Global Brand Marketing Manager at HIKMICRO, says, “Efficiency and precision have always been key concerns when detecting water leaks. But even with professional tools, inspectors need experience to determine leaks quickly and accurately. With SuperDetect, we’re making it possible for anyone - from industry professionals to homeowners - to locate leaks efficiently and with confidence.” The SuperDetect system eliminates the need for prolonged data collection or reliance on headphones to listen for sounds, instead providing clear visual cues on a digital display. This automation speeds up the leak detection process and reduces the chances of misdiagnosis caused by background noise or interference from multiple sources. Traditional pipeline leak detection methods rely on comparing flow and pressure data, but these can be unreliable in noisy environments or when dealing with small leaks. By combining acoustic detection with intelligent analysis, the AD21P offers a more efficient, reliable, and non-destructive solution. Recognising that different users have different needs, the AD21P offers two distinct detection modes: - Quick Inspection Mode: This mode is for professional users who already know which area is leaking and can directly use this mode to locate the exact leaking point. - Route Inspection Mode: This mode, designed for beginners, helps the user once they have conducted inspections to determine which area is leaking. After reaching a conclusion, they can use the quick inspection mode to locate the leaking point. The AD21P also integrates seamlessly with HIKMICRO’s leading thermal imaging technology, such as the B20S handheld thermal camera, to provide a complete leak detection solution. Thermal imaging can help users visualise temperature differences caused by water leaks, making it easier to locate issues behind walls or under floors. HIKMICRO believes that together, these technologies provide an unmatched level of accuracy and efficiency in leak detection. By reducing misdiagnoses, cutting down on unnecessary repairs, and providing rapid leak identification, the AD21P is set to redefine industry standards for leak detection technology. For more from HIKMICRO, click here.

Scolmore announces new external sales structure

Scolmore Group, a leading player in the professional electrical contracting sector, has announced a realignment of its external sales structure to support the organisation’s strategic business plan and to maximise the growth potential for all companies within the group – Click, Ovia, ESP and Unicrimp. Due to the continuing success and growth of the Elucian range since it was launched in 2021, a decision was made to separate Wiring Accessories and Circuit Protection into two separate categories, each with its own dedicated sales team. This will provide more focused effort and allow the company to develop the expertise within each sector to offer the highest level of service to customers. Scolmore Group is confident that this evolution will not only bring significant benefits to both customers and partners but will maximise the particular skills and expertise within the senior management team. The restructure will see former Regional Sales Manager (South West and Midlands), Audra Fellows, promoted to the new position of National Sales Manager - Group Specification and Key Accounts. Audra will now have responsibility for the specification and key accounts team across the UK (excluding Scotland & Northern Ireland). Audra has a wealth of experience within the industry, in particular the specification sector, and has held various roles across the business during her 15 years with the Scolmore Group. Promoted from Regional Sales Manager (North) to National Sales Manager - CLICK, is Dom Freer who will now have responsibility for the CLICK range of products across the UK (excluding Scotland and Northern Ireland). Dom has been with the business for eight years, having previously also held ASM roles with both Unicrimp and Scolmore. He will be working closely with the regional sales managers to continue to provide the exceptional service levels that customers have come to expect. With the Elucian consumer units and circuit protection range now operating as a separate product category, Scolmore Group has invested in a dedicated focus for the category with the appointment of Dan Ellams as the Elucian National Sales Manager, covering the whole of the UK (excluding Scotland and Northern Ireland). Dan joined the business in October 2024 and has significant knowledge and experience in this sector. He has overseen the launch of the new Elucian Three Phase product range introduced on 12 February 2025. For more from Scolmore, click here.

Toolstation Club celebrates first anniversary with 300,000 members

Toolstation has announced that its loyalty programme, Toolstation Club, has signed up a landmark 300,000 members, shortly after the one-year anniversary of its launch. The Club, which is available to join online and through the Toolstation App, launched in January 2024 to reward Toolstation’s loyal trade and DIY customers who regularly buy essential tools and accessories from the retailer’s range of over 25,000 products. Customers who sign up to the Club are able to enjoy 5% off all orders throughout the first month of their membership, which will automatically be taken off all orders with no restrictions on basket size or price. Upon completion of the first month, customers that spend £75 or more each month afterwards will continue to benefit from the 5% discount. In addition to the discount, members are frequently eligible for prize draws, product deals, discounts and competitions, with Toolstation giving away hundreds of prizes, including breakfasts, holiday vouchers, TVs and more over the last year.  The membership benefits led to a huge surge in demand, with Toolstation seeing over 100,000 sign-ups within the first three months of launch. The Club has continued to grow ever since and has now reached a milestone 300,000 sign-ups in just one year, of which 60% are via the Toolstation App.  Chris Other, Customer Director for Toolstation, says, “Last year we launched the Toolstation Club with our ambition of offering the best value, accessibility and convenience to our customers. With over 300,000 members joining in the 12 months since it began, a large volume of tradespeople have benefited from some of the best deals and offers from Toolstation and our partners.” The Toolstation Club will continue to offer exclusive discounts, giveaways and competitions to its members throughout 2025, with several promotions currently ongoing. In addition to the 5% discount, current members who spend over £25 on any JG Speedfit product in one transaction before 2 March will automatically be entered into a competition to win a £15 Just Eat voucher, whilst those who purchase a Speedfit Barrier Pipe Coil and a bag of fittings in one transaction will also be in with a chance to win either a 4K TV or Luxury Night Away for Two.  In partnership with Vision Express, members can also take advantage of a free eye test and a 30% discount on the Vision Express range when spending £50 or more on any Toolstation shop.  The Club is also providing a 10% discount to customers on switches and sockets, cable management and power distribution when purchased with cables and flexes.  The launch of Toolstation’s new rapid same-day delivery service with TradeKart means that Club members can get up to 10,000 products from the range delivered to their home or site in as little as 30 minutes. 

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.