BGEN doubles down on training and development

BGEN, one of the UK’s largest engineering companies specialising in mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, control and automation, is celebrating a hat-trick of successes on the training and development front as it strives to address the skills gap and encourage a new generation of people into engineering. The company has been awarded gold status in The 5% Club, expanded its apprenticeship academy and appointed a dedicated training officer in a bid to support its ambition to become one of the UK’s top apprenticeship employers and an industry leader in early careers. The business, which employs 1,500 people across 14 locations in the UK, has become an accredited member of leading skills charity and employer movement, The 5% Club, achieving gold status on its first audit. BGEN is one of a select number of companies to meet the strict gold membership criteria of The 5% Club, with at least 5% of its workforce benefitting from skills-based learning opportunities in ‘earn and learn’ roles as apprentices and graduates. The milestone coincides with the first anniversary of BGEN’s apprenticeship academy, which has grown rapidly and now supports more than 100 apprentices, learning from Level 3 to Level 7. This year, the firm recruited 45 apprentices – its largest intake ever – as it looks to build the next generation of engineers. “Becoming a 5% Club gold member and expanding our apprenticeship programme underline our commitment to invest in talent development and fully support employees, working at every level and in all business units, to grow and develop with us,” says Robin Whitehead, Chief Executive at BGEN. “We’re passionate about investing in the next generation and we’re proud to offer vital hands-on learning for people, equipping them with the skills and confidence they need to achieve professional growth.” To aid its training and development mission, BGEN has recruited Jenny Jackson into the newly created role of Training Officer. Jenny will help to deliver tailored learning opportunities for apprentices and graduates to boost their skills and support their career development within the business. For more from BGEN, click here.

Qvantum part of project to drive heat pump innovation

Qvantum, an expert in heat pump technology, has announced its participation in a prestigious EU Pilot project, Annex 62, aimed at advancing innovation and development within the heat pump sector for multi-family residential buildings in cities. This collaboration underscores Qvantum's commitment to leveraging its extensive knowledge and expertise to contribute to significant advancements in the sector. Qvantum is participating within the Swedish initiative that is also a contributing party towards Annex 62 together with Research Institute of Sweden (RISE), financed by the Swedish Energy Agency and IKEA. The EU Pilot project, Annex 62, brings together a consortium of industry leaders, research institutions, property developers and governmental bodies to address key challenges and explore new opportunities within the heating and cooling industry. As a vital contributor, Qvantum will provide its specialised knowledge and the expertise of its seasoned professionals - Thomas Nowak, Head of Political Affair and Government Relations and former Secretary General of European Heat Pump Association, together with Per Rosén, Tekn.Dr. and Specialist in Energy Systems - to drive the project's success. "We are thrilled to be part of this ground-breaking initiative," says Fredrik Rosenqvist, CEO of Qvantum. "Our team is eager to collaborate with other distinguished partners and bring our know-how to help achieve the project's ambitious goals." The project will focus on identifying and overcoming barriers to the adoption of heat pumps in urban multi-family houses, with Qvantum playing a crucial role in knowledge around heat pumps for multi-family residential buildings in cities. This involvement not only highlights the company's leadership in the field but also reinforces its dedication to fostering sustainable and impactful advancements. For more information about Annex 62, visit its official website by clicking here.

ECN Awards 2024 winners announced!

The ECN Awards, hosted by Electrical Contracting News and supported by sponsors Aico, CEF, Chint, Essential Install, Hispec and Selectric, was a remarkable celebration of excellence in the electrical contracting industry. The event took place on Thursday 5 December at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre in Coventry, where the industry’s brightest talents gathered for an unforgettable evening. Attendees were captivated by the stunning venue, cheered as outstanding companies and individuals received coveted ECN Awards, and were blown away by the surprise guest act, East 17! Established to honour the achievements of those who drive innovation, safety, efficiency and sustainability in the electrical sector, the ECN Awards spotlight the dedication and hard work of industry professionals. This year’s winners showcase the exceptional standards that the awards aim to celebrate. The winners were decided by a panel of esteemed independent experts, including Frank Bertie, Managing Director, NAPIT; Paul Collins, Technical Director, NICEIC; Ruth Devine MBE, Managing Director, SJD Associates; Richard Harvey, Electrical Installation Safety Engineer, Electrical Safety First; Chris Horne, Electrical Lecturer, Riverside College; Carl Murray, Director, TClarke; Gary Parker, Senior Technical Manager, ECA; and Darren Staniforth, Head of Technical Solutions, CEF. Their expertise and rigorous evaluation ensured the most deserving candidates were recognised, making the awards a resounding success. "The ECN Awards are a true celebration of excellence in our industry, and we are thrilled with the overwhelming success of the event," says Carly Weller, Group Editor, ECN. "It was an honour to recognise the outstanding achievements of this year’s winners, who exemplify innovation, talent and hard work. Thank you to everyone who played a part in making the night one to remember and huge congratulations to all of the winners. We look forward to reliving the highlights through the event photographs and sharing details of the ECN Awards 2025 soon."  “What a night! We certainly celebrated the electrical contracting industry last night in style!” says Kelly Byne, Sales Director, ECN. “From start to finish it was joyful, fun and uplifting, and I can’t thank everyone enough for their support. Massive congratulations again to all the winners, I hope you’ll be displaying your trophies in pride of place at your premises. The ECN Awards is our baby, and we’re thrilled it has been so well received by the industry and is now a staple in the events calendar, hopefully for many years to come. Thanks again and roll on the ECN Awards 2025 - watch this space!” ECN Awards winners 2024 Cable Management Product of the Year Winner: WISKA UK - TriShot Highly Commended: HellermannTyton – QWICGRIP Cable Product of the Year Winner: Doncaster Cables - PV-Ultra Circuit Protection Product of the Year Winner: Gewiss UK - ReStart Autotest Fire Safety Product of the Year Winner: Ajax Systems - ManualCallPoint (Red) Jeweller Highly Commended: NVC Lighting – LiFe Emergency Lighting HVAC Product of the Year Winner: Moss Technical Services - Niko Home Control - Generic Wall Control with Comfort Sensors Highly Commended: Vent-Axia – Vent-Axia Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq Cool-Flow Lighting Product of the Year Winner: Hispec - Orca SWiTCH Wall Pack Highly Commended: Moss Technical Services - Niko Home Control, Generic Wall Control with Comfort Sensors Highly Commended: Thorn Lighting – Cesar Opera Drive Over and Cesar Opera Walk Over Range Software/App of the Year Winner: Powered Now - Powered Now Highly Commended: Ajax Systems – PRO Desktop Tools/Testing Product of the Year Winner: TIS - TIS 819SIKIT Highly Commended: Carl Kammerling International (C.K Tools) – Armourslice EVO Wiring Accessories Product of the Year Winner: Luceco - BG Super-Fast 45W USB fast charge socket in Evolve Highly Commended: Hamilton Litestat – LEDSTAT Multi-Way Smart Wi-Fi Dimmer EV Charging Product of the Year Winner: Aurora Lighting - Seren EV Charger Highly Commended: Andersen EV – Andersen A3 Highly Commended: evpzee – evpzee 7kW on-street charger Power Product of the Year Winner: Reskube - Reskube Edge Highly Commended: Doncaster Cables – PV-Ultra Highly Commended: V-TAC Exports Ltd – Hi-Energy All In One Solar System Smart Buildings/Sustainability Product of the Year Winner: Shelly/NetXL - Shelly Pro 3EM-120A 3-Phase DIN-rail Energy Meter Highly Commended: Lithe Audio – Lithe Audio 4inch Compact Bluetooth Ceiling Speaker Lighting Project of the Year Winner: Powercor - The Great Hall at Wembley Stadium Sustainable Project of the Year Winner: Prefect Controls - The Refinery  Highly Commended: Powercor – Vision Engineering Highly Commended: Thorn Lighting – Lighting Upgrade at Gatwick Airport Overall Project of the Year Winner: Prefect Controls - The Refinery Highly Commended: CU Phosco – Connected Urban Smart Pole Project Training Provider/Initiative of the Year:  Winner: Aico Highly Commended: Apprentice 121 Highly Commended: Legrand UK & Ireland Apprentice of the Year Winner: Gavin Harrison Manufacturer of the Year Winner: Aico Highly Commended: Andersen EV Highly Commended: Super Rod Independent Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year Winner: Service Electrical Distributors Highly Commended: Moss Technical Services Chain Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year Winner: HDM Solar (Wholesale) Highly Commended: CEF Contractor of the Year (turnover under £5m) Winner: Penkhull Electrical Highly Commended: Starkey Electrical Contractor of the Year (turnover over £5m) Winner: Powercor Special Recognition Winner: Mark Allison To register your interest in the ECN Awards 2025 please contact Kelly Byne at kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com

White paper highlights hybrid heat pump opportunity

A white paper exploring the policy landscape around hybrid heat pump systems has been launched to provide a series of key findings which inform a recommended rollout of the technology in the UK. Baxi, the manufacturer of heating and hot water solutions, commissioned Gemserv (a Talan Company) to research and produce the report – entitled Unlocking the Power of Heat Pumps with Hybrid Installations – which was launched at an event in Westminster last week. Exploring the suitability of heat pumps deployed in hybrid configuration with new or existing gas boilers for UK homes, the paper highlights series of policy recommendations designed to help accelerate heat decarbonisation. These include consideration for eligibility under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, better representation of hybrid systems’ carbon saving benefits under the Clean Heat Market Mechanism and a rebalancing of electricity prices to help reduce running costs. The launch follows the announcement of the government’s Warm Homes Plan, which saw increased funding for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and a reformed Clean Heat Market Mechanism as part of plans to increase the uptake of heat pumps in the UK. Building on ambition from the Government to progress heat decarbonisation, Baxi has commissioned the report to demonstrate how hybrid systems could be a key transitional technology to clean heat. Jeff House, External Affairs and Policy Director at Baxi, explains, “There has been no shortage of ambition to decarbonise heat in the UK, as demonstrated through the Government’s commitment to make Britain a Clean Energy Superpower and the additional support provided through the Warm Homes Plan. However, we wanted to commission this report to demonstrate that there is a real missed opportunity when it comes to including hybrid systems within these policies. “Whilst heat pumps, whether deployed individually or at the heart of heat networks, will be one of the key mass market drivers of decarbonised heat, we have a responsibility to ensure a balanced and equitable transition in line with consumer needs. A hybrid system offers advantages as a transitional technology, not only in terms of overcoming some technical barriers to make them more cost effective in difficult to decarbonise homes, but also for energy system flexibility and resilience.” The report also highlights learnings from the rest of Europe, including countries that are incentivising the installation of hybrid systems as a transition technology. For example, following extensive deployment in the Netherlands, the state was considering whether to mandate hybrid systems as the minimum requirement for all retrofit installations. Jeff continues, “By including hybrids in more incentives such as Boiler Upgrade Scheme and Clean Heat Market Mechanism, we can expect to see the same spikes in uptake that there have been in Europe. Add to the addressing of the gap between electricity and gas prices for householders and we could well see uptake for clean heat technologies accelerate at the rate we need it to.” The exclusive launch event, which took place on 28 November in Westminster, included an in-depth panel discussion on hybrid systems with industry experts from Gemserv, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), the Heat Pump Association and Passiv UK. To read the white paper in full, click here. For more from Baxi, click here.

CEDIA launches the CEDIA Foundation

CEDIA, the association for smart home professionals, has announced the launch of the CEDIA Foundation, a new organisation dedicated to nurturing the smart home workforce and shaping the future of the smart home industry. “We are very lucky to work in a fast-paced industry that is constantly advancing with new technology and innovations,” says Daryl Friedman, CEDIA Global President and CEO. “But what drives the industry forward is the people, and at CEDIA, we want to champion professional development and encourage new entrants. We believe that the CEDIA Foundation will help make education accessible to all, equipping individuals with the skills to excel. Together, we can build a stronger, more innovative smart home industry.” Education is the cornerstone for ensuring that the industry continues to design and install systems to a high standard. To meet these goals, it’s vital that everyone has access to the training and tools that will help them thrive in the workplace. The CEDIA Foundation will ensure that this education is universally accessible. Through scholarships, career development opportunities, and grants the foundation will invest in and empower aspiring professionals. Contributions will directly fund education and training for the next generation, in addition to providing support during unexpected crises. The CEDIA Foundation accepts monetary donations and offers the opportunity for either one-off payments or a monthly contribution. To learn more about how you can take action and invest in the future of smart home technology, visit cediafoundation.org. For more from CEDIA, click here.

GTEC launches funded heat network training

Heat networks are set to play an important role in the UK's transition to net zero, with plans to increase their share of the heat market from under 3% today to 20% by 2050. To help installers, facilities managers (FMs), specifiers and others in building services and related sectors, understand and take advantage of this growing marketplace, GTEC, part of the United Living Group, has launched a fully funded online ‘Introduction to Heat Networks' course. Covering the design and feasibility of heat networks for various applications, funding has been awarded by the Department of Energy, Sustainability & Net Zero, as part of its drive to push this market forward. In 2025, the government is launching ‘Heat Network Zoning', which will empower local communities to accelerate the development of district heating schemes in their area. Providing an introduction to heat networks for anyone interested in this technology and its applications, such as specifiers, building services engineers working with heat pumps and/or on large-scale projects, professionals in both commercial and residential sectors will benefit from the 15-minute, free introductory course which can be accessed remotely and contributes towards CPD points. Griff Thomas, MD for GTEC, says, "With much potential to decarbonise built-up environments, the Government sees heat networks as an important growth area for the UK, sustaining jobs, boosting the economy and helping urban and out of town commercial developments move away from fossil fuels. Our new course will provide those with an interest in district heating with the background information to make informed decisions, equipping candidates with the fundamentals of this approach to multi-building heating - whether they're designing, installing or managing heat networks in the future. "In the coming year, GTEC will be diversifying into more areas of the building services and supporting sectors, expanding our offering across the construction space to meet the demands of a fast-paced and evolving market as the UK heads towards net zero." Funded training places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. To secure your place, click here. For more from GTEC, click here.

Polestar and MBA to drive circular economy for EVs

Polestar, an electric vehicle manufacturer, and MBA Polymers UK, a plastics recycling expert, have signed a collaborative agreement aimed at accelerating the UK towards a circular economy for electric vehicles. The collaboration will encourage the entire automotive industry to rethink what’s possible when it comes to recycled plastics, by integrating more post-consumer materials into interior parts for luxury vehicles. The partnership between MBA Polymers UK and Polestar will enable a circular material flow for end-of-life vehicle (ELV) plastics, meaning less materials from ELVs end up in landfill and less carbon is emitted during a vehicle’s manufacture. Draft amendments to the ELV Directive by the EU Commission will require the automotive industry to ensure that at least 25% of plastic used to build a vehicle comes from recycled sources – of which, 25% is to come from recycled ELVs. Achieving full climate neutrality is a complex task, one which Polestar recognises and seeks to attain through partnerships with specialist and industry leading businesses - and MBA Polymers UK says that it is well-placed to rise to this challenge. As an expert in recycling automotive plastics, MBA Polymers UK takes valuable plastic bound for landfill, and transforms it into high quality polymers, which have a considerably lower carbon footprint than the virgin equivalent. As part of EMR, a sustainable materials expert, the company has also committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2040 and, through its sustainable manufacturing approach, is devoted to creating a closed loop circular economy. The partnership follows the launch of MBA Polymers UK’s new ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) polymer, ABS 4125 UL, which contains over 95% post-consumer recycled content. The UL certified product provides a high-quality recycled alternative to the plastics used in electronics and automotive manufacturing, reducing the demand on the Earth’s depleting resources. Paul Mayhew, Director at MBA Polymers UK, says, “As a leader in plastics recycling, we are dedicated to offering solutions to sustainability challenges and we are proud to partner with such an influential brand as Polestar. MBA Polymers UK’s expertise, combined with our state-of-the art technologies, will support this transition to high quality recycled plastics, enabling Polestar to truly transform the automotive industry and help to safeguard the planet for future generations.” Ross Kelk, Chief Engineer Interiors from Polestar UK R&D, adds, “We are delighted to welcome MBA Polymers UK as a partner. Aligned in our sustainability goals, MBA brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to the project. As an industry leader in vehicle recycling and the sustainable production of high-grade polymers, MBA Polymers UK will play a key role in supporting Polestar’s pursuit for a carbon neutral car in the future.”

Makita introduces battery-powered Bluetooth speaker

Makita has launched a new cordless Bluetooth speaker designed for versatility and quality sound. Powered either by Makita’s 18V LXT or 40VMax XGT batteries, or AC mains power, the MR014G XGT/LXT Jobsite Speaker has been built to withstand the toughest work environments, offering professionals a choice of music, podcasts, playlists, or even karaoke, whatever the location. The new, compact MR014G Bluetooth Speaker is packed with a range of notable features that provide crystal clear, high-quality sound with powerful deep bass, making it an ideal sound system companion on a busy jobsite. Offering 1.8 times higher sound pressure levels compared to older models, plus an equaliser to adjust levels to suit the choice of music, it includes a 140mm woofer and a 40mm tweeter to deliver 20W of high-quality sound and an impressive max volume of 99dB(A). With a choice of AUX or Bluetooth connection – communicable up to 100 metres and guaranteed to 30 meters - it also includes True Wireless Stereo function enabling connection to a second MR014G Speaker to deliver stereo sound. In fact, it can connect with up to 10 compatible units to boost the reach of the audio, which is ideal for large scale locations that require a wider coverage of synchronised sound. Other useful features include a convenient carry handle which doubles as a smartphone stand and a built-in microphone amplifier ideal for making announcements, or even to use for a karaoke session. A USB port enables mobile charging for other devices, and for added entertainment, a built-in LED decorative light can be set to blink in time to the music. Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK, says, “We are known for our wide range of innovative power tools and cordless technology and we continue to apply this expertise to a wider range of miscellaneous products that offer the same performance, quality, and convenience to jobsites in various ways. With this in mind, we are thrilled to launch our new cordless speaker that joins a growing line up of diverse products that complement our power tool range – spanning site lights, microwaves, kettles, heated jackets and more.” For more from Makita, click here.

Electrical safety tips for the festive season

Although adding lights to the house can get us into the festive spirit, NAPIT is warning consumers to ensure that both indoor and outdoor festive lights are installed safely. When installing lights, homeowners need to think about potential obstructions, equipment condition, overloaded sockets, weather conditions, weatherproof sockets, and damaged lights. Failing to consider these things can pose a significant danger to consumers and risk causing a fire. As a result, NAPIT has put together a series of Festive Electrical Safety Top Tips, which advise  consumers on how to keep safe when decorating with both indoor and outdoor lights this holiday season. NAPIT's top tips for indoor decorative lights Ensure you purchase your lights from a reputable manufacturer or retailer If you need to use access equipment, ensure you have the right equipment. Check all equipment to be used is in a good working condition, with no damage Consider using LED lights, as they are safer and cheaper to run Follow the manufacturer’s instructions Before installing lights, especially for existing decorative lighting, check the condition of the lights, checking for damage and check they work correctly Avoid overloading socket-outlets or extension leads with too many decorative lights or electrical devices, as this may lead to overloads (which could cause a fire)  Ensure that wires/cables are not trapped or caught in doors, windows, or under heavy furniture, which could damage the insulation Turn off all indoor decorative lights before leaving home or going to sleep. NAPIT's top tips for outdoor decorative lights Create a plan on how you are going to install the lights, and check possible routes for the lights, potential obstructions, and fixing methods If you need to use access equipment, ensure you have the right equipment. Check all equipment to be used is in a good working condition, with no damage Check the weather conditions, as bad weather (such as wind and rain) could affect the surface, especially using access equipment such as ladders If you are installing lights on guttering, for example, use cable mounting solutions such as plastic clips and ties to secure your lights and cable along surfaces. This will prevent wires from sagging or becoming damaged Use LED weather-resistant lights as they are safer, designer to be installed outside and cheaper to run Use weatherproof sockets that are designed for outdoor use. These sockets provide protection against moisture and ensure safe power connections for outdoor light decorations Before installing lights, especially for existing decorative lighting, check the condition of the lights, check for damage, and check they work correctly. Turn off all outdoor decorative lights before leaving home or going to sleep NAPIT is also urging consumers purchasing e-bikes and e-scooters as gifts to avoid rogue online sellers, and to only buy safe products from reputable sellers. Furthermore, it is urging consumers to only replace items with products recommended by the manufacturer, and to seek professional help when converting or repairing e-bikes and e-scooters. For more from NAPIT, click here.

KNIPEX Tethered Tools offer safety at height

With workplace safety a top priority, KNIPEX’s range of Tethered Tools has become an essential choice for professionals who work at height, reducing the risk of accidents caused by falling tools. Working at height remains one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities and major injuries in the UK, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). To help mitigate these risks, KNIPEX’s Tethered Tools are designed to keep tools secure and prevent accidental drops that could cause injury or damage below by including a tether attachment point so each tool can be safely attached to the user. Among the most popular tools in the tethered range are the KNIPEX Cobra water pump pliers, which feature a push-button adjustment, self-clamping capabilities on pipes and nuts and specially hardened gripping teeth for strong performance. The range also includes the KNIPEX CoBolt compact bolt cutters, which easily slice through wire, bolts, nuts and nails, and the X-Cut compact diagonal cutter which needs 40% less force compared with standard diagonal cutters of the same length. KNIPEX has also introduced new comfort handles with KNIPEXtend, which allow its new TetheredTool Clips to be easily attached to any pliers with these updated handles. Each clip features a metal fastening eyelet that connects to a tethered tool lanyard, securely preventing the pliers from falling during work at height. The clip is quick and simple to attach – no tools are needed, and users can just slide it into place. These tools all attach to the KNIPEX Tethering System Set which has been put through multiple rigorous drop tests and can safely hold tools up to 1.5kg. The set includes a lanyard, three adapter straps and two high-strength carabiners with screw locks, offering flexible attachment options to meet different on-site needs. This versatile system helps tradespeople prevent tool loss, protect workers below and minimise potential damage to surroundings. This range of tools and accessories exemplify KNIPEX’s dedication to health and safety, offering a trusted option for those working at height who need secure, high-quality equipment. With their robust materials and user-friendly designs, KNIPEX tethered tools help professionals work safely and efficiently, reducing the risks associated with height-related tasks. For more from KNIPEX, click here.