Product of the Month: Rolec's EVO charger

Rolec, a manufacturer and supplier of electric vehicle charging innovations, is introducing EVO, the newest product in its charging portfolio. Described as "affordable, modern and compliant", Rolec says that EVO is the first of a new generation of home chargers. Rolec has built close relationships with its global team of electrical contractors, giving the company unique insights into both its customers’ needs and preferences for creating a unit that is more installation-friendly than ever before. As a result, EVO features a highly modular design with three key components: a base, a click-in module, and a cover that provides easy access for installers. This practical and efficient design allows for quick, hassle-free installation and configuration in as little as 15 minutes, while the CT clamp’s plug-and-play capability further reduces installation time. Available in 7.4kW and 22kW models, it offers an easy-to-use, fully compatible charger for all EVs and PHEVs. But, more than that, it is a powerful and compact charger that makes itself at home in any setting. It is equipped with a passive cooling system that uses an aluminium heat sink to guarantee a safe maximum charging rate, along with a customisable LED indicator to display clear charging status, providing personalisation and enhanced accessibility. Even before its official launch, EVO was turning heads, winning the Red Dot Award for Product Design 2024. The EVO will always prioritise stable and efficient charging, Rolec tells us. Supporting dynamic load balancing as standard and 3-to-1 phase switching, the unit can adjust its charger output based on a  property’s available electricity usage, preventing grid overload, optimising energy use, and protecting power supply for easy charging and peace of mind. With three charging modes - Charge Now (plug & go), ECO (solar + grid), and ECO+ (surplus solar only) - EVO offers flexibility to suit the user's lifestyle. All of this is achieved without increasing the price, Rolec states. The introduction of EVO also marks the arrival of a new way to solar charge. With the eco+ smart solar feature, EVO can detect and allocate surplus solar energy generated from the user's home to charge their electric vehicle, creating an opportunity for zero-cost charging. Users can thus drive on 100% free, renewable electricity, powering their daily commute automatically. Every detail is visible through the native EVO app. Users can receive live updates on charging sessions, easily plan with the scheduled charging feature, and integrate smart tariffs to use off-peak rates. Alternatively, as with all Rolec units, users can opt to connect their charger to any OCPP-compatible app of their choice. Frankie Mellon, Managing Director at Rolec, explains, “We’re not here to play the game; we’re here to change it. Team Rolec has hit the ground running this year, bringing a fresh take on a familiar face. 2025 is the year of our next-generation home charger, EVO. Building on everything you loved about our popular QUBEV Smart unit, EVO introduces more advanced features, greater efficiency, and native OCPP compliance, setting a new standard for home EV charging. “EVO is designed with installers and customers in mind, featuring a modern, compact design that fits seamlessly into any home. Its eco+ smart solar capability allows users to harness surplus solar energy, promoting charging with 100% free, renewable electricity. With dynamic load balancing and intuitive app integration, EVO provides a powerful, efficient solution tailored to your home’s specific needs. We’re so confident in EVO that we’re offering a complimentary five-year extended manufacturer’s warranty to ensure your investment is protected.” EVO is available now, with next-day delivery for Rolec's UK customers, with an extended five-year manufacturer’s warranty included as standard. For more from Rolec, click here.  

Net Zero Lighting 2025 set to demystify sustainability credentials

The options open to lighting industry manufacturers to get their sustainability credentials independently certified can be bewildering - and making the wrong choice can have a big impact on customer perceptions and costs. Science based targets, Ecovadis and B Corp certification all provide credible corporate sustainability assessments. But what are the similarities and differences? And to what extent do they require businesses to actively decarbonise and move towards net zero? Do they all include non-climate related requirements such as labour practices, ethics and supply chain? And what are the costs and benefits? The Net Zero Lighting 2025 conference sets out to explain and demystify the options. Taking place on 29 April in London, the one-day event features presentations and panels from companies that have already made their choice. Delegates will hear of the opportunities, challenges and the pitfalls from those with first-hand experience. Presentations will also reveal the extent to which certifications support the decarbonisation of lighting businesses, as they move towards net zero. Now in its second year, the conference is organised by Recolight and chaired by Ray Molony. The conference uses case studies, authoritative presenters - including Science Based Targets initiative and BSI - and panel discussions to give delegates the practical advice and guidance they need to decarbonise their operations. Nigel Harvey, Recolight CEO, says, “We are delighted to be hosting Net Zero Lighting 2025. The direction of travel in the industry is clear and unstoppable: customer demands and government requirements for decarbonised lighting manufacture will only increase. We are thrilled that our experienced and knowledgeable speakers, drawn from within and beyond the lighting industry, are willing to share their expertise.” He adds, “The climate crisis is the defining issue of our generation, and every business on the planet has a role to play. We are confident that this event will empower delegates with the knowledge they need to help their businesses make a meaningful contribution.” View the programme and book your place here.

South Yorkshire primary school goes green

Pupils and teachers at Marshland Primary Academy in Moorends, near Doncaster, part of Venn Academy Trust, are celebrating cutting their carbon footprint after successfully installing a modern ground source heat pump system and other state-of-the-art energy efficiency measures. Working with Kensa, a manufacturer and installer of ground source heat pumps, the school is trailblazing how to go green, overhauling its old heating and hot water system and replacing the ageing gas boilers with seven new ground source heat pumps. The six-month project, partially funded by the Government’s Condition Improvement Fund, also included fitting new radiators and 69 solar PVT panels, an emerging technology used in renewable heating installations. The upgrades are expected to boost the school’s energy efficiency, cut heating-related carbon emissions by close to 80%, and ensure classrooms stay warm and comfortable throughout the year for the benefit of staff and pupils alike. The newly installed ground source heat pumps use renewable energy stored in the earth to provide heating and hot water and are hidden inside two converted plant rooms. To reach the underground energy, 18 boreholes were drilled beneath the school’s playing field, each to a depth of around 127m. Solar PVT has been integrated into the school’s ground source heating system, taking it beyond a standard ground source heat pump installation. The technology generates both electricity and thermal energy, supercharging the heat pump’s efficiency and lowering installation and energy costs. This integration works by: • Thermal heat energy captured by the PVT panels is removed and transferred to the heat pump system, improving its efficiency and reducing electricity use. • Using this excess thermal energy in the heat pump system significantly reduces the number of boreholes needed, lowering the overall installation costs. • Extracting the excess thermal heat from the panels increases the amount of electricity they can produce compared to ordinary solar PV panels. It's projected they will generate 34 kW of electricity -the output of 10 typical homes with solar panels. • Marshland Primary Academy is one of the first UK schools to embrace this energy-saving technology alongside a heat pump installation. Investing in energy efficiency upgrades has provided the school with a low-cost, low-maintenance, renewable heating system, securing its energy future while providing long-term savings on heating and hot water bills. To meet the government’s goals of reducing public sector carbon emissions by 75% by 2037, thousands of schools across the UK will need to follow Marshland Primary’s example, replacing their ageing, high-carbon-emitting heating systems and embracing more innovative, modern technologies. This latest school ground source heat pump installation follows more than 15 others Kensa has completed in schools, including in South Wales and Northumberland, along with another in Doncaster at Richmond Hill Primary School. Penny Marshall, Acting Principal at Marshland Primary Academy, says, “It has been an exciting journey watching and learning about the innovative ground source heating. Although the children had to sacrifice their field for the summer, they enjoyed watching the holes being bored and learning from Kensa staff how the system worked. “Energy efficiency and helping the environment is a big focus at Marshland, so it is exciting to be able to know that we are playing a small part in a much bigger picture by using natural resources to heat our school. This winter has been a toasty one at Marshland!” Wouter Thijssen, Commercial Director at Kensa, adds, "We’re proud to have worked with Marshland Primary Academy to deliver a more sustainable and efficient heating system. Thanks to a mix of super-efficient ground source heat pumps and other energy efficiency upgrades, pupils and teachers will enjoy warm classrooms while slashing their carbon footprint. “By opting for ground source heat pumps, boosted by solar PVT, the school has secured its long-term energy future, setting the benchmark for achieving sustainability in UK schools. Kensa’s mission is to deliver better heating, and this installation certainly lives up to that promise.” For more from Kensa, click here.

Snowdon climb raises vital funds for the EIC

In the early hours of Saturday 15 March, a dedicated team from The LIA, alongside industry members, embarked on a challenge - climbing Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) at night. This event was more than just a test of endurance, as it was organised to raise awareness of the critical role of high-quality, compliant emergency lighting, while supporting the incredible work of the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC). The EIC provides crucial assistance to those within the electrical and energy industries, ensuring support is available whenever individuals or their families face challenges, at any stage of life. By undertaking this challenge, The LIA team aimed to highlight the importance of emergency lighting in maintaining safety and wellbeing. The challenge itself began at 3am, with participants aiming to reach the summit before sunrise, and before the emergency lighting batteries ran out. Their teamwork was clear as they pushed forward in the darkness, relying on their preparation, keen sense of direction, and the support of their fellow climbers. The LIA is incredibly proud to announce that it raised £2,170 for the EIC, and the company extends its thanks to Clevertronics and Fox Lux for their generous product donations, which supported The LIA team throughout the night and day. The LIA also extends its gratitude to those who attended and completed the challenge: Ayça Donaghy, Morgan Thomas, Melissa Duckett, Kyle Lindsay, Jack Anthony, Sarah Ellis, and Dan Griffiths from The LIA, Martin Green from Hochiki, Matt Higgins from Mackwell, Steve Rham, Tom Skevington, and Sophie Jongen from P4, Ellie Warner and Caroline Armstrong from Lux Box, Mark Jones from Fox Lux, and Kevin James from One Lux. Reflecting on the experience, The LIA CEO, Ayça Donaghy, shares, “I completely underestimated how debilitating total darkness can be. Even powering up our emergency lighting kit in the absence of any other light was stressful, reinforcing the critical need for compliant emergency lighting to work automatically when needed. The cold, the endurance, and Snowdon’s treacherous terrain pushed us to our limits, but team spirit and the generosity of our sponsors kept us going. A huge thank you to everyone - those who took part, those who donated products, and those who supported the EIC charity with their donations!” Technical Operations Manager, Dan Griffiths, who organised the experience, adds, “This hike tested our limits, but it was a powerful way to demonstrate the significance of emergency lighting. Seeing so many members of our industry come together for a common cause was fantastic. Thank you to all who participated and donated.” The LIA’s and ICEL’s commitment to emergency lighting doesn’t stop there, and on Thursday 11 September 2025, it will host the inaugural ICEL Emergency Lighting Conference 2025 at the Cavendish Conference Centre in London. Organised by industry expert, ICEL, this event will feature a carefully curated programme covering a wide range of essential topics, presented by leading figures in the sector. This exclusive gathering will bring together key stakeholders across the entire emergency lighting supply chain, from manufacturers to end-users. For more from The LIA, click here.

Autocharge enabled for CTEK EV charge points

Zero touch charging of Electric Vehicles (EVs) has been enabled for CTEK’s latest charge points via a new firmware update which includes Autocharge. Firmware update 4.9.1 empowers CTEK’s Chargestorm Connected 3 (CC3) to support Autocharge, the streamlined charging experience for drivers who will simply plug into a CC3 which automatically communicates with the vehicle and, if a payment method has been previously set up, begins charging. The faster to use Autocharge is particularly beneficial for businesses with fleet or other workplace charging and destination charging. Its benefits also apply to public charging networks and residential community car parks. Only registered vehicles are authorised to charge, preventing unauthorised access. Autocharge requires the driver to pre-register their vehicle with the charging network’s backend or, for the first charge only, use an RFID card or authenticate via an app. Autocharge relies on the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) 1.6 and later, with CC3 supporting the latest version 2.0.1. CTEK’s firmware version 4.9.1 also enables wireless configuration over Wi-Fi, giving installers the opportunity to configure and commission newly installed CC3s from inside their work van, now by using a mobile phone or tablet. It also adds customisable current limits per outlet, allowing greater flexibility in distributing available power. The new firmware also introduces key innovations for both CTEK’s current CC3 model and its predecessor, the CC2. Both models can now get wireless load balancing thanks to CTEK’s Nanogrid Air add-on, which enables dynamic power management without physical wiring. Nanogrid Air reads information from a smart energy meter and communicates with a CC3 or CC2 via a local area network’s Wi-Fi. When multiple EV charge points are in use, the CC3 or CC2 connected to Nanogrid Air dynamically adjusts the charging current for all chargers in the installation to ensure the total load remains within the building’s available power limits. If overall consumption increases due to other electrical demands, the system reduces charging power temporarily. Once demand decreases, more power is reallocated to the chargers. The wireless communication simplifies installation and its lack of cabling reduces costs. It is also scalable and future-proofed, easily expanding as more charge points are added to charge more EVs. For larger sites, Nanogrid Local Plus will handle load balancing for even more charge points. Daniel Forsberg, CTEK’s Marketing Manager EVSE, says, "This firmware update unlocks exciting innovations for EV drivers, installers, charge point operators, employers and many others. Autocharge will simplify the driver experience of charging and streamline administration for operators. Wireless load balancing helps limit installation costs and prevents overloading of local power limits.” For CC3 and CC2 charge points with internet connection, firmware 4.9.1 can be deployed via ctek.com/support/software-firmware or via a charging installation’s backend provider. For more from CTEK, click here.

Ansell announces slimline version of Reef wall light

Echoing the same sleek styling and modern design aesthetic, Ansell Lighting has created a slimmed-down version of its popular outdoor Reef wall light. Available in both directional and bi-directional formats, the highly robust, polycarbonate Reef S lamp has been designed to ensure long-lasting performance, withstanding even salt air and coastal spray. Re-enforced with a five-year warranty, Ansell believes that the IP65 rated lamp will be the ideal option for the majority of outdoor lighting projects. Inventively, Reef S is also supplied with three interchangeable Gobo inserts, enabling a range of decorative beam angles to be easily created for unique visual effects. This is reportedly the first lamp designed for residential applications to offer this innovative feature, fulfilling current market demand for products that deliver a highly personalised lighting experience. CCT Selectable between 3000K and 4000K, Reef S also offers users the added flexibility of choosing between warm or cool lighting hues. Designed to be easy to install, Reef S features a unique lockable installation base plate and push-fit loop-in/loop-out terminals with a WAGO 'park' area, facilitating quick and efficient wiring. A PIR option is also available for added functionality, providing increased convenience and security. Mark Abbott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting, comments, “Reef S is a fantastic new addition to our Reef outdoor lighting range and represents a new era of innovation for residential lighting. Not only does it look great, but it is easy to install and will stand the test of time. It offers users the ability to create interesting lighting effects in their own homes, providing both versatility and durability in one stylish package.” For more from Ansell Lighting, click here.

Swindon council partners with Aico for home life safety

Swindon Borough Council’s housing tenants are set to benefit from enhanced safety through a programme replacing existing fire and carbon monoxide alarms with upgraded Aico devices. The new 3000 Series alarms will be fitted with sensors that detect heat, smoke and carbon monoxide. The units will replace existing devices with the ability to send notifications to the Council when they need testing, repairing or replacing, using Aico’s Ei1000G Gateway. Tenants will also have the option to receive these alerts via a downloadable resident app. The four-year, £10.5m upgrade programme, which started in September 2024, has so far seen new devices installed in 1,190 council-owned properties. Swindon Borough Council is the largest social housing provider in the Borough, owning and managing 10,383 homes including 31 sheltered housing schemes and four supported housing schemes. Alongside these new alarms, approximately 10% of all the properties benefitting from the works will also receive Aico’s EI1025 Environmental Sensors, which measure temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide levels. These will provide the Council with real-time data and alerts, enabling them to take proactive measures to maintain a safe and healthy living spaces. The four-year upgrade programme is included within the Council’s new asset management strategy, agreed by cabinet members in February. The strategy outlines plan to invest £250m into the maintenance and improvement of Council owned homes between 2025 and 2030, at no cost to services funded through Council Tax. Councillor Janine Howarth, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, says, “This £10.5m upgrade programme will see fire and carbon monoxide alarms upgraded in all council-owned houses over the next four years. “The devices will help our Housing team to enhance tenants’ safety and peace of mind, by sending notifications when the alarms need testing, repairing or replacing. “Meanwhile the Environmental Sensors being installed in a prioritised list of properties will provide alerts to tenants so they can take action to maintain a safe and healthy living space. Our Housing team will also have access to these so we can be proactive in providing support and advice.” Peter Price-Higgott, Relationship Manager at Aico, says, “We’re delighted to collaborate with Swindon Borough Council on their upgrade programme. Following a successful project to trial the technology, they have experienced the benefits of using our products to improve wellbeing and enhance resident safety within their homes. We look forward to continuing our support throughout the project and beyond.” For more from Aico, click here.

Enhancing Edinburgh safety with a smart city vision

The City of Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and the second most populous city in the country. It is the seat of the Scottish Government and the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. As well as serving a vital role in government, the city is economically significant for the region, attracting global tourism as well as being home to a world-renowned university. Protecting citizens and visitors as they move through the city and keeping Edinburgh’s roads running smoothly is of the utmost importance. Transforming into a smart city The City of Edinburgh Council leadership needed to modernise security and surveillance across the capital. This involved upgrading the control centre to a new smart city operations centre to receive real-time data from Edinburgh’s surveillance network. The centre also integrates with traffic and transport platforms to enhance operational management and improve city planning. The new control centre gives operators access to real-time data and analytics, for insights that improve response times and situational awareness. Smart technology solutions provider, North, designed a security solution built with more than 100 high-resolution Hanwha Vision IP cameras including the PNM-9322VQP multi-directional PTZ camera and XNO-8080R 5MP IR bullet camera. The solution also incorporates a video management system from Genetec. Comprehensive coverage and intelligence Multi-directional cameras are ideal for monitoring large and complex areas such as city centres. The multi-directional PNM-9322VQP features five camera sensors in a single device, minimising the amount of cabling and server infrastructure required compared to installing five separate devices, to improve cost-efficiency while streamlining installation. The XNO-8080R is a 5MP IR bullet camera with accurate video analytics. These analytics - carried out on the device to reduce server needs - include loitering, directional detection, audio detection and sound classification. It features Hallway View to cover narrow areas such as alleyways. Additionally, using the proprietary compression technology, WiseStream II, improves bandwidth by up to 75% while retaining video quality. Best-in-class cyber security Cyber security is crucial in a smart city, given the number of connected devices that could be exploited. Hanwha Vision has been hardening its cyber security measures for many years with the National Defense Authorization Act compliance (NDAA), UL CAP Certification, and a dedicated security vulnerability response team (S-CERT). Furthermore, North is part of Genetec’s 'network of trust' initiative, signalling the close partnership between the two solution providers and their shared focus on securing network and critical surveillance infrastructure. Leading the way “The new operations centre has been years in the making and it’s fantastic to see it live in action,” says Councillor Jane Meagher, Council Leader, The City of Edinburgh Council. “With cutting-edge low-carbon technology designed to keep the city moving and our communities safe, it drastically steps up our capabilities as a council. Edinburgh is fast becoming an example of a truly smart city and it’s thanks to trailblazing projects like this.” Andrew Foster, MD – Public Services at North, adds, “Helping to drive positive change through smart technology and improved operational systems across Edinburgh is something that North is incredibly proud of. Working together, the city now has access to real-time data that will influence the future of city planning, improve large-scale events and create a greener environment for generations to come.” The new video surveillance system provides Edinburgh with future-proofed, smart city technology with the option to expand and add connected devices such as air quality sensors, smart parking applications and flood sensors. For more from Hanwha Vision, click here.

ECA welcomes Government response to Grenfell Inquiry

The Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA), a trade body for electrical contractors, has welcomed the long-term ambition expressed in the response from Government to the Inquiry into Grenfell Tower Phase 2. The Government accepts all the recommendations from the Inquiry Report. Electrotechnical systems are key in any new build construction or ongoing maintenance of a building, and are a major risk without appropriate competence and expertise. ECA says that it welcomes the commitment to end top-down, government-driven solutions in favour of greater dialogue with industry, including the electrical and fire industry sectors. ECA is particularly heartened to see the introduction of a Single Regulator and Chief Construction Adviser to streamline and reset processes. In the spirit of marking a generational shift to better and safer buildings, ECA believes this role will be broad enough to tackle obstacles to competence development in the industry, by tackling barriers to industry recognised training routes. ECA and the Fire & Security Association (FSA) also welcome three specific changes which will directly impact Member firms and improve electrical safety and efficiency: - The introduction of stringent and regular electrical safety checks for social landlords - Moving responsibility for fire safety functions to MHCLG - Consulting on minimum energy efficiency standards for buildings Mike Smith, ECA Director of Technical and Safety, Health and Environment and FSA Secretary, comments, “It is encouraging to see a clear direction of travel in the Government’s response to the Phase 2 Inquiry into the terrible tragedy of Grenfell Tower. “Over several years, ECA and FSA have contributed to the Grenfell Inquiry and recognise the nuanced and complex changes needed to shift the culture of the industry. By accepting all the recommendations in the Inquiry, the Government has started on a journey to make electrical safety and fire engineering a significant part of future regulations.” For more from ECA, click here.

CEF launches solar panel recycling partnership

Electrical wholesaler, CEF, is teaming up with Waste Experts, a waste management specialist, and ROSI, a French solar panel recycling company, to offer UK-wide collection capabilities for end-of-life solar panels. The partnership aims to address the responsible recycling and treatment of end-of-life solar panels, which is a critical issue in the renewable energy sector. As the UK makes efforts to shift to clean energy, sustainable solar panel recycling and material recovery has never been more critical. Despite this, CEF believes that the UK currently lacks the necessary infrastructure to facilitate the transition. At present, many end-of-life solar panels risk being sent to landfills, stock pilled or illegally exported, which leads to an increase in environmental harm. To tackle this challenge, CEF (in partnership with Waste Experts and ROSI) is now offering a UK-wide collection for end-of-life solar panels via a combination of in-house and subcontracted fleets, ensuring fully compliant handling and transportation in line with environmental and regulatory standards. The end-of-life solar panels will then be processed at ROSI’s facility using advanced recycling technologies to recover up to 95% of the value of photovoltaic (PV) modules, including high-purity silicon, silver, copper, aluminium, and high-transparency glass. The approach aims to significantly reduce the reliance on virgin materials and ensures valuable resources remain in circulation. Producing less than 1% of disposable waste, it also helps cut carbon emissions, as each tonne of recycled solar modules saves one tonne of CO2, greatly reducing the environmental footprint of solar energy. Mike Gadd, Director of Renewables at City Electrical Factors (CEF), says, “Waste Experts provide CEF customers with a nationwide solution to manage their carbon footprint by considering a product’s full lifecycle and ensuring responsible end-of-life treatment. By recovering valuable materials and minimising landfill waste, we are driving long-term sustainability in clean energy and beyond.” As global demand for renewable energy continues to grow, Waste Experts and CEF are building a circular economy for solar panel materials - ensuring that renewable energy technologies are managed sustainably at every stage of their lifecycle. “Our collaboration highlights the vital role of global partnerships in tackling sustainability challenges,” explains Shaun Donaghey, Managing Director of Waste Experts. “With our nationwide collection service and ROSI’s cutting-edge recycling processes, we’re not just addressing the immediate issue of end-of-life solar panel waste - we’re establishing a framework for responsible lifecycle management that sets a new benchmark for the renewable energy sector.” Yun LUO, President and Co-Founder of ROSI, comments, “We are thrilled to partner with Waste Experts and CEF, [which are] leading figures in sustainable waste management in the UK. Their dedication to diverting waste from landfills and driving a circular economy perfectly aligns with our vision. This collaboration allows us to introduce our advanced solar panel recycling solutions to the UK market, ensuring responsible end-of-life management for photovoltaic modules.” For more from CEF, click here.