NICEIC announces Spring series of The Wire

NICEIC, the certification and training body for the electrical industry, has announced that the Spring edition of its CPD-accredited webinar series, The Wire, will begin on 8 May. The Wire is a free resource for NICEIC-certified businesses designed to keep viewers on top of industry developments, hone their technical knowledge, and help their business stay ahead. The last series of The Wire delivered five hours of CPD to 16,059 total viewers. NICEIC says that the new series will feature five episodes on timely and important issues. The Wire team will be tackling some highly requested topics, including frequently asked technical questions, key regulatory updates, and in-depth renewables episodes covering heat pumps and solar PV. NICEIC Technical Director, Paul Collins, comments, "The purpose of The Wire has always been to empower NICEIC-certified businesses with the insights and information they need. With the launch of our spring 2025 series of The Wire, we are excited to present five fresh episodes packed with our experts’ perspective on the issues we know electrical businesses care about right now. We strive to ensure The Wire delivers substantial value, guided by feedback from our viewers." Upcoming episodes: 8 May - Questions from the NICEIC technical helpline 22 May - BS 5839-1:2025: fire systems update 12 June - Heat pump fundamentals and considerations 19 June - Solar PV update 10 July - Myth busters: NICEIC edition NICEIC-certified businesses can sign up for free by clicking here. NICEIC also has an on-demand episode library, containing over 30 hours of CPD-accredited webinars, allowing you to watch back any episodes you may have missed or need a refresher on. For more from NICEIC, click here.

Milwaukee launches Packout Electrician sets

In its mission to provide workers with the tools and equipment they need to carry out their jobs quickly and efficiently, Milwaukee has introduced four new products which will bring electricians and plumbers a high level of durability, organisation and tool protection. When designing these products, Milwaukee used customer feedback to ensure they have been designed with usability and convenience in mind, with the aim of delivering exactly what tradespeople need at work. Featuring both packed and unpacked boxes with inlays, these new Packout trade sets allow users to customise their toolbox in a way that perfectly suits them. Milwaukee says that electrical contractors can say goodbye to disorganised toolboxes and opening their toolboxes after a journey to find your tools dislodged and untidy. Thanks to a synthetic technology that clamps the tools to hold them extremely firm, tools will be exactly where the user left them, even after transit. What’s more, the Packout toolbox provides a high level of durability, meaning that tools are protected during transportation. The boxes have been designed to stack onto your existing boxes, for easy transportation. These sets have been designed in Milwaukee's signature colours to aid recognition, helping users to find the tools you need quickly and easily. As a full system provider, both the 62-piece Packout Electrician Set and the 74-piece Packout Plumbing Set contain all the necessary hand tools for contractors to complete their jobs. They are manufactured to Milwaukee's high standards and come with a lifetime guarantee for added reassurance. Thanks to the multiple inlays and dividers, you can configure your toolbox in a way that suits you, with extra space for your favourite hand tools so you can store all of your equipment in one place. The four SKUs are as follows: Packout Electrician Set (62 pieces); Packout Plumbing Set (74 pieces); Packout Electrician Box (Empty); and Packout Plumbing Box (Empty). For more from Milwaukee, click here.

Rooftop solar PV installed at Southampton estate

Renewable energy advisor and installer, Longevity Power, has delivered a 186-panel, 100 kWp solar array at Southampton’s Royal London Park industrial estate. The system is expected to produce over 85,000 kWh of electricity annually, reducing onsite grid consumption by a third and reducing carbon emissions by more than 220 tonnes over the lifetime of the system. Consequently, the tenant will now save over £20,000 on their annual energy bills, significantly reducing their Scope 2 emissions in the process. Royal London Park was constructed in 2009 and provides a unique purpose-built warehouse between Southampton and Portsmouth. Royal London Asset Management Property is targeting net zero carbon by 2030 across its directly managed property assets and developments, and by 2040 across its indirectly managed property assets. The solar PV installation at Royal London Park is one of many projects being undertaken by Royal London Asset Management Property in an effort to significantly decarbonise its portfolio. Anthony Maguire, Managing Director of Longevity Power, says, “There are acres of industrial roof space across the UK that could be generating clean renewable energy. But at the moment, landlords and tenants alike are missing out on this potential in terms of lower energy bills and lower emissions. “This decision made by Royal London Asset Management Property to invest in and install solar PV puts them ahead of the game. Commercial units that can offer tenants cheaper, cleaner energy will be snapped up in the coming years as more companies look to reduce their operating costs and meet important sustainability targets. Commercial property owners who fail to act are likely to lose out as prospective tenants opt for units with renewable energy capabilities already installed. “Rooftop solar gives landlords and asset managers a significant competitive advantage in the commercial and industrial property sector. At the same time, they get to make a meaningful contribution to the nationwide effort to decarbonise the UK’s energy system and economy in the push for net zero.” Tamryn Anderson, Asset Manager at Royal London Asset Management Property, adds, “We are committed to supporting advancements and decarbonisation efforts in the industrial sector. To that aim, we are pleased to be working with our partners across our portfolio to find solutions such as this one that can make long-lasting improvements to our assets, ultimately driving strong returns for our customers.” For more from Longevity Power, click here.

Aggreko announces renewable energy developments

Aggreko has strengthened its energy products offering in Europe with the formation of a team dedicated to developing large scale renewable energy projects, working with landowners and industry to increase the amount of clean energy produced in Europe. Led by Jon Crouch (pictured above), Commercial Director of IPP Solutions, Europe, the team is delivering renewable generation for clients either on site, by private wire connection, or through commercial arrangements like ‘energy as a service’ and corporate power purchase agreements; removing the need for capital outlay. Working predominantly with the commercial and industrial sectors, Aggreko offers renewable turnkey solutions having the capability to develop, build and operate generation assets with clients paying for energy as they use it. Entering into a Power Purchase Agreement with a credible counterparty such as Aggreko gives customers the ability to control their energy cost and supply over periods from 10 to 20 years. Energy-intense industries can ensure they have a reliable power supply, lock in predictable costs regardless of fluctuating market prices, and have assurance that their energy supply is from renewable sources. Speaking about this expanded offering, Jon Crouch comments, “Balancing ESG goals alongside commercial success is putting businesses under extreme pressure, which is why many are looking for more sustainable energy procurement methods”. “Bespoke agreements can be complex and lengthy to establish, and Aggreko is able to operate as a trusted partner making the process as simple as possible for clients and replicating how we work with clients regarding their shorter-term bridging solution needs”. Offering enhanced energy solutions that bring renewable technologies to clients in more flexible ways forms part of Aggreko’s sustainability framework, Energising Change. With substantial investment in capability and technology, Aggreko is committed to playing a key role in the development of a renewable infrastructure across Europe. Jon continues, “We know that the pressure to accelerate the energy transition is greater than ever, and companies must balance this with their commercial success at a time when costs are high. By working with a strategic partner like Aggreko, which has a track record of delivery, customers can meet their energy aspirations whilst controlling costs through long term agreements and procuring a reliable source of power for their business”. For more from Aggreko, click here.

THORNeco launches new installer promotion

Thorn Lighting has announced 'Spin to Win', its latest installer promotion. Running until the end of June 2025, the promotion gives installers the chance to win one of over 700 instant prizes, simply by purchasing THORNeco products in-store. Installers who spend £150 or €150 or more (excluding VAT) on THORNeco products at participating wholesalers will be eligible for one spin of the online prize wheel. Every additional £150 spent - up to a total of £750 - earns another spin (up to a maximum five spins per invoice). Prizes include PlayStations, AirPods, coffee vouchers, and more. To take part, installers simply scan the QR code found on promotional leaflets available in-store at their local wholesaler. This takes them to a dedicated landing page, where they can upload their invoice and instantly spin to win. John Lyons, Divisional Director - Trade at Thorn Lighting, says, “As a gesture of appreciation to our installers who support our THORNeco range, Spin to Win is all about rewarding loyalty in a fun and engaging way - just one more reason to choose THORNeco this spring.” The promotion is open to all UK and Irish installers purchasing in-store from any wholesaler stocking THORNeco products. Prizes are available while stocks last. For more information, click here. For more from Thorn Lighting, click here.  

Postcode lottery persists in UK’s EV charging network

UK councils are increasing investment in EV infrastructure by as much as 42% year on year, according to Freedom of Information (FOI) data released by Schneider Electric, an expert in the digital transformation of energy management and automation. Despite this investment, the same focus is not placed on monitoring charger performance and reliability, potentially leaving EV owners in a situation where they are met with chargers that are out of service. As essential infrastructure for a successful shift to more EVs, building a resilient and reliable network of chargers is essential. This comes as the UK works towards its target of having 100% of new cars and vans sold in Great Britain be zero emission by 2035, and EVs take more than a fifth of new car registrations. However, the FOI data, which surveyed 67 councils across England, Scotland and Wales, also discovered that only 15% of councils could report that 100% of their EV chargers are operational. Over half (53.7%) are unable to monitor whether chargers are working or not. The lowest reported fully operational charger percentage was 2.8% working in the last six months. Despite this the data does reveal that, as the UK gears up for a ban on ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles by 2030, there have been some developments. In fact: • The number of public EV chargers increased by 140% between 2022 and 2023 • Of the 2,555 devices installed by councils, only 52 or 2.04% of devices are ultra rapid charging (over 100kW) • The highest five-year investment amount was £8,000,000 by a single council. 40% of councils, however, have either spent nothing in that same time period, or were unable to provide the figure. While the number of ultra rapid chargers remains low, it remains important to have smart medium and low voltage infrastructure within the network. A balanced mix of charging speed and the right infrastructure to support the EVs on site is essential. Proper assessments of the grid’s availability may reveal ultra rapid charging isn’t viable in that location. David Hall, Schneider Electric UK & Ireland’s VP Power Systems, says, “Whilst there’s a positive story that councils are investing in their EV charger infrastructure to meet the growing demand, it is clear that many councils could greatly benefit from the ability to track EV charger performance, detect faults or outages, and even enable remote repairs. Without it, reliability is called into question, potentially leaving EV drivers in their areas stranded. “Increasing awareness and education around remote monitoring systems would support local councils and EV charging providers, particularly at high-demand locations like motorway services or city/town centres, where usage will surge as EV adoption grows. Ideally, greater collaboration between charging providers and their suppliers - across both the public and private sectors - will help ensure a more reliable and seamless charging experience – both before install and after. Making sure councils have the right plan in place to plot the EV charging infrastructure will be essential for long term success.” For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

UK hits 100,000 public EV chargers milestone

Over 100,000 public electric vehicle (EV) charge points are available to drivers in the UK, according to Octopus Electroverse’s new Charging Infrastructure Insights report. UK drivers are finding it easier to charge on the road, the report says, with one new public charger installed every 13 minutes in the last six months. Rapid and ultra-rapid chargers – powerful enough to recharge EVs in as little as 20 minutes – are being rolled out the quickest and now make up nearly a quarter (24%) of all public charge points. The landmark figure is revealed just days after the government confirmed the ban on new petrol and diesel car sales by 2030. It is targeting 300,000 public chargers to be installed in the UK by the same year. The rapid rollout of public charges stands in stark contrast to the declining number of petrol stations, with around 8,300 available across the country today. Electric cars have become even more accessible to drivers over the last year, with leasing deals starting from just £200 a month through salary sacrifice. Last month saw record-breaking sales in the UK, with more battery electric cars registered than ever before. Octopus Electroverse has expanded quickly since it launched in 2020. It is now Europe’s largest EV charging platform, supporting around half of electric car drivers in the UK and hundreds of thousands more internationally. A charging session is started every few seconds by an Electroverse electric car driver, fleet member or partner car manufacturer. Matt Davies, Director of Octopus Electroverse, says, “This milestone shows we are building real momentum behind electric driving in the UK. Drivers can now trust there is a charger at almost every twist and turn of the road – making plugging in an EV feel as easy as charging up your phone. ”We’re well on track to turning the government’s 300,000 target by 2030 into a reality. And with new rules raising standards on reliability and ease of use, drivers can feel more confident than ever.” For more from Octopus, click here.

Primary school benefits from heat pump cascade installation

Two Tyneham 290HT 27kW air source heat pumps from Hamworthy Heating, a British manufacturer and supplier of commercial heating and hot water products, have been installed in cascade for underfloor heating in a new extension at a primary school in Cambridge. To accurately meet the heating requirements of the new school extension and ensure an even distribution of heat, the new system from Hamworthy Heating includes two 290HT 27kW Tyneham heat pumps with natural refrigerant, configured in a hydraulic cascade set up. The heat pumps are connected to a 500L buffer cylinder, which also features an electrical heating element, controlled by a BMS. The buffer connections, Exogel anti-freeze valves and degassers were also supplied by Hamworthy Heating. This cascade arrangement allows for the heat capacity to be equally distributed according to the specific heating demands of the new school building. Rather than rely on a larger single heat pump that could run inefficiently at partial load, the new cascade set-up enables the units, which have inverter controlled compressors, to adjust their capacities as needed which will enable the school to achieve a more accurate match to its actual heating demand and optimise performance. Additionally, as the new system can adjust to keep the heat pumps operating at their most efficient state, cycling of heat pumps and unnecessary energy consumption is avoided. The two new Tyneham 290 HT installation also provides the school with increased protection against breakdowns. Unlike a single heat pump installation, which can result in complete downtime, the new system now supplies the new building with uninterrupted heating. Furthermore, as the workload is shared across two Tyneham heat pumps, stress and wear on individual components is significantly reduced. Following a previously successful collaboration with Hamworthy Heating on the school's existing heating system, Sotham Engineering was keen to stick with a brand it could trust on the second phase of its project. Ricky Harris, Sotham Engineering Services, comments, “We choose Tyneham heat pumps due to their overall performance and efficiency. Having collaborated with Hamworthy during the first stage of the project, we found them easy to work with and always available to provide support and assistance”. Building on the success of its popular Tyneham heat pump range, the new 290HT heat pump utilising natural refrigerant offers a co-efficiency of performance (COP) of up to 4.94 for optimum efficiency.  Quiet in operation, with noise levels as low as 64db(A), the latest 290HT heat pump range is available in five outputs from 15kW through to 50kW and can be cascaded to achieve higher outputs and can be combined with alternative Hamworthy Heating products to achieve a low-carbon hybrid heating system. Following a successful installation, the new extension now benefits from a reliable and efficient heat pump system that will help the school to reduce its carbon footprint and lower operational costs. For more from Hamworthy Heating, click here.

Dallas Pro luminaires in every colour of the rainbow

NVC Lighting has launched Dallas Pro, a new range of luminaires that offer easy installation, low glare, high performance and a unique colour matching option. The stylish and robust surface/suspended luminaire is suited for residential, education, office and commercial settings, with a sleek and modern design complemented by technical features to improve productivity, efficiency and focus. Designed for easy installation and backed by a seven-year warranty, Dallas Pro products offer a UGR<19 low glare light and are available in X, L, T and straight configurations, offering flexibility for creative and functional lighting configurations. Uniquely, NVC Lighting is offering a RAL colour matching service, allowing customers to choose from over 2,500 colours or choose their own custom finish to perfectly coordinate with any setting. Phil Brown, Product & Marketing Director at NVC Lighting, says, “Dallas Pro is a product that ticks all of the right boxes – it’s high quality, high performance, easy to install and looks the part. Now, with customers able to choose any colour of choice thanks to our colour matching system, the design possibilities are endless. “This is a really exciting development for us and we can’t wait to see how our products are brought to life in exciting settings and colours.” Further benefits of Dallas Pro include selectable wattage, allowing flexibility to adjust the light’s brightness to suit different needs, as well as EPD verification in line with NVC Lighting’s ongoing commitment to sustainability. EPDs provide independently verified data on a product’s environmental impact throughout its lifecycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal. This helps architects, specifiers, and project managers make informed decisions that align with sustainability goals. For more from NVC Lighting, click here.

Comprehensive cable management from Unicrimp

Unicrimp focuses on cable management, under three ranges, each designed for a specific need: Q-Crimp, Q-Fire, and Q-Nect. The comprehensive range of Q-Crimp cable accessories provides installers with an increasing number of problem-solving products. Today, the Q-Crimp range incorporates more than 19 different product categories, including a wide variety of durable Cable Glands. Offered in a variety of BW, CW and AE1W, Unicrimp’s Brass Cable Glands are manufactured to the latest approvals and are BS6121 compliant. The latest additions feature the 3- and 4-part Brass Glands; these include a brass olive which allows for different sizes and grades of steel wire armour. They are each available in four different sizes - 20(s)mm, 25mm, 32mm and 40mm - and they come supplied as a pack of two. Also designed to house incoming cables on metal consumer units, Unicrimp’s Meter Tail Glands provide the ideal solution for incoming cables requiring entry through 32mm or 40mm knockouts. Due to their specialist grommet, the fitment allows for 25mm² or 16mm² meter tails. Unicrimp’s Nylon cable glands are made from polyamide 6 and are manufactured to the most recent UL approvals. They are also IP68 rated and available in a range of different sizes. A recent addition to the Q-Crimp range was the extensive collection of Conduit Accessories. The range comprises more than 90 individual products in total, with key products including Conduit Boxes, Light Gauge Saddles, Inspection Tees, Inspection Bends and Metal Hooks. Prevent cables from premature collapse during a fire and keep emergency services and the public safe. BS7671 IET Wiring Regulations 18th Edition, Chapter 52: Selection and erection of wiring systems, provides requirements for the methods of support of wiring systems in escape routes. Metal cable cleats from Q-Fire comply with the latest regulations. The unique adjustable screw slot adjusts the cleat to fit oversized or undersized cables. Focusing on strong, quick and reliable solutions, the Q-Nect range offers great versatility for electrical connections. Each product is packed with features that make your installations quicker and easier. With Lever Connectors, IP-rated Junction Boxes, Inline Connectors and Connection Boxes, the complete range can help installers harness cables safely, even in the outdoors. The IP Junction Boxes are a firm favourite with installers, due to the variety they offer. Available in two colours, in standard and Slimline versions, with and without Lever Connectors included, and with opaque or Semi-Transparent lids, there's a Junction Box for every installation. Fast and easy to use and suitable for solid, stranded and flexible cable types, the Lever Connectors use screwless spring clamp technology, which means there is no need for any tools. For more from Unicrimp click here.