Sonos to launch Era 100 Pro

Sonos has announced that Era 100 Pro, its first-ever innovation optimised for professional installation in light-commercial and residential spaces, is now available for pre-order and will ship from 28 January 2025. Exclusively sold in pairs through select Sonos partners specialising in professional installation, Era 100 Pro will be available alongside Era 100 Pro Surface Mount (sold separately), which delivers flexible mounting for a variety of layouts and applications. Zones, a new software feature that makes configuring and controlling multiple speakers easier and more customisable for larger spaces, will be available via a Sonos app update on iOS and Android at the same time. “Following our entry into the $2 billion light commercial audio market last year with Sonos Pro, our SaaS product for businesses, we are now making our hardware debut with Era 100 Pro, the first Sonos product designed specifically for professional installation,” says Patrick Spence, CEO of Sonos. “With a focus on creating the best solutions for our installer community, we have built a strong team of industry veterans across product, engineering, sales and more to lead our professional developments. In collaboration with our global partners, we’re committed to furthering our commercial business and offering new, much needed solutions to this market.” With the rich sound, elegant design, and versatile control that Sonos is known for, Era 100 Pro has been specifically designed to provide a complete, end to end solution for professional installation. Chris Heintzelman, VP, Product - Professional, comments, “Crafting custom audio systems is no easy feat. Dealers, distributors and integrators are tasked with recommending, curating and installing the best audio systems for their clients, which vary across a wide spectrum of needs, uses, budgets and layouts. “Sonos is delivering a new choice with Era 100 Pro, the company’s first solution specifically engineered for professional installation. We prioritised simple setup, flexible configuration and reliable ease of use, so installers can complete jobs more efficiently and deliver timely installation to their clients.” Features of the Era 100 Pro include: • Power over Ethernet: With one single cable that delivers both power and data, Era 100 Pro simplifies the installation process by eliminating the cost and complexities of having to install AC mains at each speaker location, allowing more unique configurations in various locations. Era 100 Pro is optimised for PoE+ but can also be used with standard PoE. With Power over Ethernet, business owners can utilise wired-first networking for enhanced reliability, speed and performance, while also seamlessly integrating into an existing network setup. • Customisable with zones: Introduced alongside Era 100 Pro, zones offers an easier and more customisable way to orchestrate and control larger scale installations. Users can configure speakers together into a predictable, unified entity, providing a more permanent experience that stays consistent throughout use. • Versatile Surface Mount (sold separately in pairs): Era 100 Pro Surface Mount boasts 30° pan and tilt ranges and 360° rotation, enabling installation in any orientation. Its indexed ball joint allows installers to achieve repeatable angles with precision, enabling fast deployment when mounting multiple speakers, while also ensuring the speakers won’t sag over time. Able to affix to virtually any surface, the mount can also accommodate hidden or exposed cabling, and has a locking base plate for theft deterrence. • Safety enhancements: Era 100 Pro has a built-in threaded insert and optional eyebolt that provides a secondary safety attachment point should building codes require it, helping the speaker withstand seismic events and avoid accidental damage. The hook receptacle increases stability when paired with the Surface Mount in non-portrait orientations. • Premium sound: Leveraging the same acoustic architecture as Era 100, Era 100 Pro provides high quality sound and impressive low frequency performance, unique within the PoE speaker category. With two 0.63 in / 16mm silk angled high-frequency drivers and a 3.5 x 4.4 in / 90.8 x 111.9 mm carbon filled-polypropylene low-frequency driver, the speaker delivers rich sound across a wide 240° horizontal dispersion, giving broad coverage from a compact profile. • Sonos Pro compatibility (US only): Clients can control Era 100 Pro and zones directly from the Sonos app or Sonos Pro dashboard via a tablet or computer, allowing a seamlessly integrated business solution without needing additional control units or components. For more from Sonos, click here.

Scolmore sales manager conquers Kilimanjaro for EIC

Scolmore Group's Regional Sales Manager, Audra Fellows, recently took on one of the biggest challenges of her life when she tackled, and successfully completed, the 5,895m climb to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, raising an impressive £8,619 for the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) in the process. The EIC charity event, which took place in October 2024, was organised by the charity’s Director of Marketing and Business Development, Kate Adamczyk. Audra and Kate were joined by 28 other team members from across various aspects of the electrical industry from manufacturers, wholesalers and contractors. Having previously tackled the Three Peaks Challenge, and having undertaken an incredible amount of training, Audra admitted that nothing can prepare you for the physical and mental impact of the six-day experience. She comments, “It was physically and mentally the biggest challenge I have ever undertaken, but what will stay with me forever is the incredible bond that we all made as a group. We each relied on one another’s strength, support and encouragement at various stages of the climb. It’s the people I climbed it with that have made it an unforgettable experience.” “The typical success rate for the six-day climb that we undertook is between 60-65%, and yet every single one of our 29-strong team made it to the submit. That’s some achievement and was driven by our collective commitment to supporting the Electrical Industries Charity. Each one of us has seen  first-hand what a difference the EIC has made to some of our close friends in the industry.” The Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) is a charitable organisation dedicated to improving the well-being of individuals working within the electrical and energy industries. Founded over 100 years ago, the EIC has been instrumental in assisting thousands of people within the electrical sector who face financial hardship, health issues, or need mental health support. For more from Scolmore, click here.

JTL announces sale of Develop Training

The JTL Group, a provider of electrical and plumbing apprenticeships in England and Wales, has announced that it has entered into an agreement to divest its subsidiary, Develop Training, to RelyOn, a global provider of safety and competence for the renewable, oil and gas, and maritime sectors. JTL will now sharpen its focus on expanding its apprenticeship services to meet growing industry demand, with an increased focus on direct delivery from its network of dedicated training centres. JTL is an Independent Training Provider (ITP) and not-for-profit organisation, partnered with over 4,000 employers and supporting 8,000 apprentices in the electrotechnical and building services engineering sectors. Develop Training was acquired by JTL in 2019, and is a provider of compliance, technical, and safety training. Develop specialises in delivering practical, short-course training programmes in high voltage and low voltage electrical systems, mechanical systems, and electrical installations. Its focus on compliance and safety training aligns with RelyOn's mission to support clients in safeguarding their people, assets and the environment. RelyOn operates in over 20 countries, and will now enhance its training-offering, positioning itself to better support the evolving needs of the UK’s electrical and utility infrastructure sectors. Chris Claydon, CEO of JTL, says, “This sale enables JTL to focus on its core business of electrical and plumbing apprenticeship services, meeting the increasing demand across the UK. We are confident that RelyOn is the right home for Develop, where it will continue to flourish supporting technical and safety training that is essential to our industry.” Colin Leyden, Managing Director of RelyOn UK, remarks, "This acquisition represents a significant expansion of RelyOn’s expertise in HV and LV electrical training and bolsters our facility network across the UK, which now includes Liverpool, York, Derby, Swindon, Brentwood, Aberdeen, and Teesside, and co-locations such as our new High and Low Voltage Hub at Cleveland Redcar College. We are thrilled to welcome the Develop team to RelyOn and look forward to working closely with JTL to serve its members alongside our own clients." Matt Gray, Acting Managing Director of Develop Training, adds, “This is an excellent opportunity for Develop. It will enable us to expand delivery across the UK and benefit from the expertise and experience that RelyOn has in the industry. We would like to thank JTL for all its support and I look forward to continuing our close relationship as we join RelyOn.” Andrew Eldred, COO of the Electrical Contractors Association, concludes, “This acquisition offers Develop an opportunity to accelerate its growth with a strong, established training partner committed to investing in the future. With RelyOn’s backing, Develop will be well-positioned to expand its services and capabilities as industry demands evolve.” The acquisition is expected to close in 2024. Following the transaction, RelyOn will integrate Develop Training’s programmes into its wider portfolio and expand its commitment to delivering training that meets the changing needs of critical infrastructure sectors in the UK. The JTL Group was advised and supported by Beaumonde Consultants on the divestment of Develop Training. For more from JTL, click here.

Sync Energy launches IP66 Plastic Consumer Unit

Luceco, a supplier of circuit protection products, has launched its latest edition IP66-rated Plastic Consumer Unit specifically designed for external use, under the Sync Energy brand. The new product is ideal for electric vehicle (EV) and solar (PV) installations. The IP66-rated Plastic Consumer Unit is described as a 'go-to solution for high-quality external circuit protection’. Launched as a cost-effective alternative to metal consumer units, the IP66-rated Plastic Consumer Unit is nevertheless ahead of the game for consumer units in general, is packed with features, and supplied with pollution degree three certified devices. The Plastic Consumer Unit is available in three versions, all pre-fitted with advanced safety features for maximum protection and complete peace of mind. These are: • IP66 Enclosure with 100A Main Switch, 40A 30mA double pole bidirectional RCBO Type A and Type 2 SPD • IP66 Enclosure with 100A Main Switch, 40A MCB and Type 2 SPD • IP66 Enclosure with 40A 30mA double pole bidirectional RCBO Type A and Type 2 SPD The IP66 rating guarantees protection against dust and water, making it ideal for external use, while the IK07 impact rating ensures durability. Made from premium UV-stable plastic, the IP66 consumer unit offers a more economical alternative to traditional metal units, is maintenance free and guaranteed not to crack, distort, or fade. In addition to being durable, hardwearing, and long lasting, focus has been given to ensure the product can operate within climatic conditions that are specific to the outdoors. This includes lower operating temperature range devices that can function down to –25°C, sealed ingress rated enclosures to protect against dust and water ingress, and the added assurance of pollution degree 3 testing. This validates pollution exposure on devices with natural forming condensation to ensure the safety of protection devices are not compromised. Engineered for easy setup, the Sync Energy IP66 Consumer Unit features a removable, raised DIN rail for fast 'first fix' and easier cable routing. The combi-style screws enable one-tool installation, and there are multiple drill-out cable entry points (two on each side, one on the rear, and three on the base). Backed-out, retained terminal screws all help towards straightforward installation with maximum flexibility, finished with convenient quarter-turn cover screws. Each unit is designed for easy expansion accommodating up to five modules and supplied with a single built-in moulded 18mm blank to allow for future devices. Featuring a lockable front cover and type-tested to BS/EN 61439-3, this IP66 consumer unit complies with the 18th Edition Amendment 2 with Amendment 3 compliant bi-directional devices to support EV/PV applications. The units are backed by a 10-year guarantee for peace of mind. For more from Sync Energy, click here.

New compact Q-Nect IP junction boxes by Unicrimp

Unicrimp has expanded its comprehensive offering of Q-Nect junction boxes with the introduction of a new, compact version of the original IP66-rated weatherproof enclosure. The new slimline Q-Nect IP junction box measures 85mm x 55mm x 52mm and is designed for maximum efficiency to ease installation in places where space is limited. It comes furnished with four 3 Way Lever Connectors with a curved lid which provides the installer with additional space for wiring. The lid is also locked, using quarter turn fasteners making the job quicker and easier. The junction box includes eight membrane entry points and offers installers the option of using up to six M20 cable glands. The M20 threaded entries with membrane ensure that the IP66 rating is maintained without needing to use any tools or locknuts. It also offers fixing directly to a wall using four screws into the pre-moulded holes in the base. It is compatible with Unicrimp’s single and double Brass Earthing Plates and is offered in black or anthracite grey finishes, thus also complimenting Click Scolmore’s range of Aquip66 outdoor sockets and switches. A comprehensive Q-Nect brochure can be downloaded from Unicrimp's website, as well as from the Scolmore Group app. For more from Unicrimp, click here.

Central London flats fitted with Kensa heat pumps

An Edwardian-era social housing estate in Chelsea, central London, is the latest ‘complex to decarbonise’ building to get the renewable heating treatment, successfully dispelling myths about whether heat pumps can work for old and existing buildings. The Sutton Dwellings estate, built in 1913, has seen 81 flats across four blocks fitted with Kensa’s British-made ground source heat pumps, making these the oldest blocks of social housing flats in the UK so far to be heated using a networked heat pump solution. This unique project is part of an extensive regeneration of the estate by housing provider Clarion Housing, which started in 2019. In this phase, each new, modern social home has received highly energy-efficient heating and hot water via its own compact ground source heat pump, that will keep energy bills low for residents while producing zero carbon emissions at the point of use. Like traditional gas boilers, the heat pumps are small enough to be housed inside a cupboard in each flat. However, unlike gas, renewable heat energy used by the heat pump is sourced from the ground via the 27 boreholes drilled deep beneath the estate’s tight, urban footprint. This method ensures there’s no visible impact on the historic property’s traditional red-brick exterior and allows residents to fully enjoy the landscaped outside spaces around each block. Installing networked heat pumps for Sutton Dwellings showcases one of the solutions to decarbonise existing buildings in the UK, 80% of which are expected to still be standing in 2050. It also busts commonly held myths about heat pumps, proving that: • Ground source heat pumps can work for almost any property type, including older buildings and those with limited outdoor space • Multi-unit dwellings are perfectly suitable for ground source heat pumps, with Kensa’s Shoebox fitting inside a cupboard – much like a traditional gas boiler • Dense urban environments pose no issue for ground source heat pump installations • Heat pumps can be installed without impacting a property’s historical architecture and external features • Ground source heat pumps require no outdoor storage space, leaving residents to fully enjoy gardens and outside spaces without compromise • Expected annual heating costs of around £300 for a one-bed flat to just over £700 for a four-bed flat in the estate demonstrate the affordability of heat pumps for consumers Installing Kensa’s networked heat pump system marks the third age of heating for the historic flat blocks, which has transitioned from coal fireplaces to gas heating, and now renewable energy. It’s also an example of how history and modern solutions can work seamlessly in tandem, offering a pathway to retrofit the UK’s other ‘complex to decarbonise’ buildings and homes currently heated using fossil fuels. Regenerating the 100 year-old buildings highlights how heat decarbonisation solutions can work for the UK’s existing properties, potentially saving others from future demolition. It also follows other major social housing retrofit projects completed by Kensa, including the installation of Shoebox heat pumps in 273 flats across multiple 1960s tower blocks in Thurrock, and over 400 flats across eight tower blocks owned by Enfield Council. Stuart Gadsden, Commercial Director at Kensa, says, “Often you see claims heat pumps don’t work, that they aren’t suitable for older buildings, and that there isn’t enough space to install ground source heat pumps in cities. This project is proof you can do all these, and more. “This was an ambitious project, but at Kensa, we’re always searching for the next innovation, the next solution that can improve people's lives and be the answer to decarbonising heat in the millions of UK buildings that need it. Hopefully, this project can serve as a blueprint for other social housing providers with properties that need decarbonising. “While this can be seen as a great myth-busting project for renewable heating, particularly ground source heat pumps, the most important outcome will be the benefits felt by residents. With our systems they will be getting low cost, low carbon heating and hot water, allowing them to keep their whole homes warm.” Paul Quinn, Director of Regeneration at Clarion Housing Group, adds, “Kensa’s contribution to the regeneration of the historic Sutton Dwellings in Chelsea, one of the UK's first examples of social housing and an incredibly important site for Clarion, has been invaluable. We initially faced considerable challenges in realising our low-carbon, fossil fuel-free ambitions for these densely packed, heritage buildings, but Kensa’s ground source heat pump technology provided the ideal solution. They worked closely with the main contractor and residents to ensure a smooth process, with minimal disruption and their professionalism throughout was exceptional.” John Bromley, Managing Director of Clean Energy & Climate Strategy (Private Markets), Legal & General, concludes, “We see a huge opportunity in the global transition to a low carbon economy – particularly in private markets, where Legal & General invests in companies and infrastructure with significant growth potential in the medium to long term. Combining analysis of energy systems with infrastructure and property development expertise led to our equity investment in Kensa: to provide a high-efficiency, scalable heating and cooling solution for homes and businesses. “I’m delighted to support Kensa as they successfully deploy this technology across varied and complex tenures and locations, including new developments and retrofits like Sutton Dwellings. Supporting the roll-out of reliable, efficient energy solutions is crucial to improving the standard of our built environment and occupier experiences whilst also decarbonising UK properties at scale.” For more from Kensa, click here.

Signify’s Interact system awarded cyber security assurance

Signify today announced that its Interact cloud-based wireless lighting system has been awarded the DEKRA IEC 62443-3-3 security certification. This certification is a mark of confidence that the Interact system and services are private and secure against ever-evolving information security threats. This certification confirms the resilience of the Interact system and is the latest step in Signify’s ongoing efforts in cyber security assurance. Signify was among the first lighting companies to certify its development lifecycle process against IEC 62443-4-1, the international standard for security of industrial control systems and operational technology. Signify’s cloud solutions are also certified against ISO 27001, a reputed international standard for information security. The Interact system, which includes a network of wireless connected luminaires and devices, is centrally managed and controlled through a cloud-based software suite called Interact building manager. With Interact building manager, users can easily manage, monitor and maintain their lighting, resulting in a better place to work, improved staff efficiency, and maximum energy savings. Greg Nelson, Executive Vice President - Systems & Services at Signify, says, “In today's interconnected digital world, it is critical that all companies build trust with partners and customers. Attaining this DEKRA certification demonstrates our commitment to the highest level of cyber security within our automation and control systems. “Third-party validation that we meet established security standards for confidentiality, integrity and the availability of our systems is hugely important. Not only does this accreditation demonstrate our compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices, it also reinforces our continued focus and leadership in cyber security excellence.” IEC-62443-3-3 focuses on the principle of a secure Industrial Automated Control Systems (IACS) and other parts of the standard series. Certification is awarded based on tests against seven pillars: • Access control - only authorised users can access the system • Use control - only authorised actions can be performed in the system • System integrity - the system and its data are protected from unauthorised changes • Data confidentiality - sensitive data is safeguarded from unauthorised access and disclosure • Restricted data flow - data can only flow between controlled system components, preventing unauthorised access or information leaks • Timely response to events - detects and responds to a cyber security threat • Resource availability - ensures that system resources remain available and functional during a cyber security incident. “IEC certification is a mark of excellence in a digital landscape where safety and cyber security are of fundamental importance,” says Bram Holtus, CEO of DEKRA Certification B.V. “We were proud to certify Signify’s development lifecycle process against IEC 62443-4-1 as early as 2020 and to complement this certification with a DEKRA Seal, which demonstrates that Signify undergoes annual audits by DEKRA, ensuring continuous compliance with process requirements. “The fact that Signify’s Interact cloud-based wireless lighting system has now been awarded a DEKRA IEC 62443-3-3 certificate is truly impressive, as they are among the first in the world to meet the particularly high demands of this certification scheme.” For more from Signify, click here.

Schneider to boost energy efficiency at University of Nottingham

Schneider Electric, an expert in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has expanded its relationship with the University of Nottingham as it looks to improve its operational and energy efficiency. Working with Schneider Electric, the top 20 UK university is adopting a digital-first, AI-powered approach to manage its buildings estate, the fifth largest in the UK’s higher education sector. Schneider Electric has deployed its state-of-the-art Connected Services Hub (CSH) to provide 24/7 remote monitoring of the electrical equipment installed onsite. The CSH uses AI-powered digital analytics to deliver real-time, comprehensive insights into estate operations, ensuring preventative or remedial action is acted upon quickly. It does this by directly integrating urgent actions into the onsite engineers’ work schedules. It also identifies energy conservation measures, producing regular reports that offer guidance to the university’s in-house estates team on how to optimise their time and resources more effectively. In addition, Schneider Electric also provides a team of experienced engineers onsite, delivering preventative and condition-based fault remediation, and support and training for the university’s estates team to boost their skills. Gavin Scott, Head of Sustainability at University of Nottingham, explains, “Our challenge is how to optimise our building systems to minimise energy consumption and improve operations given we have a very small team responsible for a large physical estate. Embracing digital technology is helping us work towards our goals. Leveraging AI for analysis is like having thousands of eyes scrutinising the estate, significantly boosting what my team and I can deliver. “Over the years, our relationship with Schneider Electric has evolved into a true partnership. The team at Schneider Electric know our campus inside out and access to its expertise and experience has been invaluable on our journey towards improved.” Kas Mohammad, Schneider Electric’s VP, Digital Energy for the UK & Ireland, adds, “The University of Nottingham is a prime example of an institution striving to improve and create a more sustainable campus for students and staff. It is using state-of-the-art technology and expert services to boost productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in its bid to hit its decarbonisation targets. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Compliance Group joins forces with Electrical Test Midlands

Compliance Group, a provider of integrated safety and regulatory compliance services across electrical, fire, and water sectors, has joined forces with Electrical Test Midlands (ETM), a specialist in electrical testing and compliance with over two decades of expertise. This latest move marks Compliance Group’s second addition to its electrical testing division this year after Intersafe joined the Group back in April, underpinning the organisation's commitment to comprehensive service delivery and specialised expertise across all three of it verticals. Established in 2001, ETM delivers high-quality electrical compliance services across the UK. The company’s offerings, spanning fixed wire testing, portable appliance testing (PAT), and emergency lighting installation, have cemented its reputation for precision, efficiency, and client-focused service. Phil Campion, Managing Director of Compliance Group Electrical, comments, “ETM brings an exceptional level of technical skill, a commitment to customer service, as well as shared values of responsibility and sustainability. We are excited to welcome them into Compliance Group’s Electrical Division and further strengthen our position in the electrical safety and testing space and offer more comprehensive services to our clients across multiple sectors.” In a joint statement, Richard and Nadine Jones, Founders of ETM, add, “Joining Compliance Group is an incredibly exciting step for us and for our clients. Our commitment to safety, client service, and sustainable practices will continue to grow and evolve with Compliance Group’s support.” This merger underscores Compliance Group’s commitment to sustainable growth through strategic partnerships with quality-focused businesses in the fire, water, and electrical compliance sectors. Compliance Group’s unique, decentralised operating model supports local expertise within each division, while central resources fuel innovation and expansion, helping ensure the highest service standards.

Aico launches Case Management system to support landlords

Aico, the home life safety specialist, has announced the launch of its HomeLINK Case Management (HCM) system, an advanced tool designed to address landlords’ biggest challenges in maintaining safe and compliant homes. HCM provides landlords with a comprehensive, intuitive tool to manage issues like damp and mould, with plans to expand into fire and carbon monoxide compliance and decarbonisation in future updates. HomeLINK is a provider of smart property management solutions, dedicated to helping landlords create healthier, safer living environments through advanced technology and data-driven insights. HomeLINK products are trusted by landlords across the UK, supporting their efforts to stay compliant, enhance tenant satisfaction, and achieve sustainability goals. Informed by feedback from customers and recent industry legislation, Aico created HCM to help property managers meet compliance requirements and streamline complex processes. This launch is timely, as landlords are facing increasing regulatory pressures to maintain safer, healthier living environments for residents. HCM’s development reflects five big challenges identified from customer insights and feedback following Aico’s recent events: ‘Building a Safer Future Together’ and ‘Social Housing Professionals Network Roadshow’. These challenges include identifying and managing cases, analysing data, recording actions and interventions, and communicating with residents - all areas where HCM is set to make a transformative impact. “HCM is a direct response to the needs and concerns of landlords, delivering a robust solution that not only makes compliance easier but also promotes proactive management and tenant satisfaction,” says Chris Jones, CEO, HomeLINK. Aico’s HomeLINK Case Management System helps landlords address each stage of case management with greater ease and effectiveness: • Identify: HCM empowers landlords to identify potential property issues quickly. By using data insights and resident surveys, landlords can proactively detect and assess problems, enabling faster, more targeted responses. • Manage: HCM allows landlords to manage their entire property portfolio without requiring pre-installed hardware, although optional device installation can provide deeper insights. Cases are easily created and assigned to team members, with task management features that ensure issues are tracked and resolved from start to finish. • Analyse: With powerful new data visualisations, landlords gain unique insights into property conditions, including comparisons with portfolio and national averages. HCM also enables landlords to overlay interventions, such as upgrades to insulation or heating, to see whether these efforts improve outcomes over time. • Record: HCM’s comprehensive record-keeping captures every detail of case management, from maintenance updates to resident feedback, ensuring full transparency and compliance. Additionally, a complete audit trail for each case guarantees accurate record-keeping and supports regulatory requirements. • Communicate: Landlords can now communicate directly with residents through the HomeLINK Resident app, keeping them informed and engaged. The platform allows landlords to request surveys and up-to-date photos of issues, with tools to track changes over time, improving tenant satisfaction. HCM will be available to all existing HomeLINK customers as an integrated extension of the current portal, allowing them to manage cases with ease and reliability. This seamless integration provides landlords with a unified, comprehensive solution for managing compliance, improving tenant experiences, and maintaining high standards across their portfolios. For more from Aico, click here.