RD Group CEO honoured with BESA President’s Award

Raven Delta (RD) Group CEO, Dave Kieft, has been recognised with the President’s Award for Outstanding Achievement at the BESA Awards 2024, which took place on 17 October at The Brewery in London. The award, presented by Adrian Hurley, President of the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), is one of the industry’s highest honours, given to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the sector. Dave was honoured for his visionary leadership and pivotal role in developing the world’s first technical standard focused on the health and well-being of building occupants – British Standard BS40102 (Part One). This standard, created in response to pioneering legislation from the Welsh Government, has become a cornerstone in the global effort to improve indoor environmental quality (IEQ). Dave's work, which began nearly a decade ago, culminated in a standard that has gained international recognition for its role in addressing the need for healthier indoor environments, especially as the COVID-19 pandemic brought IEQ into the spotlight. The standard was fast-tracked by the British Standards Institute (BSI) and is already being adopted in multiple countries. Dave's commitment to the project and his leadership in bringing together technical experts and standards bodies were key to the rapid development and approval of BS40102. His work has set a new benchmark for the measurement, metering, and monitoring of indoor environments, ensuring that health and well-being are central to future building designs. Although Dave could not attend the awards ceremony due to other commitments, Steve Pridmore of Raven Delta Group accepted the award on his behalf. In a pre-recorded message, Dave expressed his gratitude to the team that supported the standard's development and outlined his vision for expanding this work into the domestic building sector. The President’s Award for Outstanding Achievement highlights Dave's lasting impact on the building services industry, especially his drive to ensure the well-being of future generations through healthier indoor environments. His efforts continue to shape the future of the industry, and his leadership in sustainability and environmental health is widely recognised. When introducing the award, Adrian Hurley, President of BESA, said, "This year’s recipient was the driving force behind the world’s first technical standard for the health and wellbeing of building occupants. Inspired by ground-breaking legislation passed by the Welsh Government aimed at safeguarding future generations, this individual set about galvanising technical experts and standards-setting bodies to turn a legislative requirement into practical measures. "For his vision, tenacity, and determination to improve indoor environments for the good of communities worldwide, this year’s President’s Award goes to Raven Delta Group's CEO, Dave Kieft." Dave Kieft, expressing his gratitude after receiving the award, commented, "I am truly honoured to receive this prestigious award from BESA, and I’m incredibly grateful for the recognition. However, this achievement is not just mine - it reflects the hard work, dedication, and expertise of a remarkable team of individuals who have worked tirelessly over the years to bring the BS40102 standard to life. "This award is a testament to the collaborative effort of many, including the technical experts, standards bodies, and industry partners who have contributed along the way. I’d especially like to recognise Chris Jenkins, who led the original steering group and has been instrumental throughout the process. Without his leadership and the support of BESA, this achievement would not have been possible. "The next step is to continue this vital work by expanding these principles into the domestic environment, ensuring that we safeguard the health and wellbeing of future generations. I am immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished so far, and I look forward to working with the team and our partners to drive even greater advancements in the years to come." For more from BESA, click here.

Schneider Electric launches Ringmaster AirSeT switchgear

Schneider Electric, an expert in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has announced the launch of Ringmaster AirSeT in the UK. Ringmaster AirSeT is a next-generation SF6-free (sulphur hexafluoride) digital medium voltage (MV) switchgear, which is critical to the development of smarter, more sustainable electricity grids. It will help grid operators decarbonise and modernise their infrastructure and enable electric distribution utilities to improve operational performance and reliability. Ringmaster AirSeT has a pure air design which replaces SF6, the greenhouse gas that is traditionally used in electrical equipment for insulation, with pure air. The use of pure air, which has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 0, removes the need for complex and costly gas recycling at end of life, minimising the total cost of ownership of the equipment. The rollout of Ringmaster AirSeT in the UK is a key element of Schneider Electric’s ‘Grids of the Future’ programme and a milestone in its progress towards producing a complete portfolio of SF6-free switchgear by 2025. SF6 is a potent greenhouse gas 24,300 times stronger than CO2. By eliminating its use in switchgear through an innovative and unique combination of pure air and Shunt Vacuum Interruption (SVI), the environmental footprint of electrical networks can be reduced. Schneider Electric has invested £7.2million at its site in Leeds, expanding the facility so that it can produce the Ringmaster AirSeT in response to the increasing demand for Schneider Electric’s portfolio of green and digital switchgear products. Ringmaster AirSeT key features include: Powered by pure air eliminating the need for SF6. Pure air is safer, sustainable by nature, and free from compliance risks related to future regulations. It combines pure air for insulation and vacuum for circuit breaking, while producing no alternative gases or toxic byproducts. It includes an innovative Shunt Vacuum Interrupter (SVI), 3 position ring to switch the circuit. It incorporates a next-generation CompoDrive mechanism which increases mechanical performance, allowing an increased number of operations for grids to handle more distributed energy resources (DERs) in the distribution network. Completely sealed from the external environment with an industry-leading 30 years of design life. The device retains the familiar three-position switch for closed, opened, and earthed – the first SF6-free switchgear to do so. This means unchanged operation, which allows for simple adoption, grid modernisation, and helps reduce upgrade risks. Ringmaster AirSeT can be SCAD connected with the integrated T300 remote terminal unit or the health status remotely monitored using wireless sensor technology. David Hall, Schneider Electric’s Vice President of Power Systems UK&I, comments, “New technology such as our Ringmaster AirSeT gives us a real opportunity to decarbonise the electricity distribution network in the UK. Manufacturers have a key role to play, supporting the National Grid in its efforts to reduce SF6 emissions. “With growing energy demands, the influx of distributed energy resources such as renewables, electric vehicles and battery storage, the launch of Ringmaster AirSeT means we have the technology here today for the grid of the future.” For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Johnson Controls delivers Germany's first seawater heat pump

Johnson Controls, a provider of building technology, software and services, is supplying the municipality of Neustadt in Holstein, Germany, with a state-of-the-art heat pump that will use water from the Baltic Sea to generate green energy. The system will provide part of the heat supply to a new district in the city's harbour via its own heating network. This seawater solution is the first of its kind in Germany on this scale and represents a model for the transformation of heat supply. “Heat pumps are a crucial technology in the energy transition and provide an efficient and sustainable alternative to gas and oil heating,” says David Emin, General Manager for Johnson Controls, Germany. “Our cooperation with the Neustadt in Holstein municipality shows we can use the technology to harness one of the world’s most abundant and natural resources. We are proud to bring our expertise to this innovative project that is setting an example for carbon neutrality in Europe and beyond.” Johnson Controls is providing its SABROE DualPAC heat pump - a two-stage heat pump that features a modular system to enable high temperature lifts - ideal for use in district heating applications. It uses sea water to generate a heating output of up to 700 kW. During the winter months when the water is colder, it will extract around 500 kW of heat from the water, which is raised to a higher temperature using electrical energy and then fed into the new district heating network. At peak times, it will be supplemented by heat from a nearby waste incineration plant and a heat storage facility. The DualPAC heat pump, manufactured at Johnson Controls’ plant in Denmark, is at the heart of a pioneering project by the Neustadt municipality and is being funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection. "The seawater heat pump is the essential element of our climate-friendly heat supply concept," remarks Thomas Anthoni, Project Manager for Heating at the Neustadt in Holstein municipal utility company. "With this solution, we are implementing a flagship project for the energy transition." Most of the world’s heating needs today are met with direct fossil fuel combustion. To decarbonise buildings and maintain a reliable grid, electrifying these systems with heat pumps is key. They use one third of the energy of conventional heating systems and can generate three to eight times as much energy as they consume. For more from Johnson Controls, click here.

Collingwood publishes lighting design guide

Collingwood Lighting has produced a lighting design guide for offices to help electricians win more commercial lighting business this winter. Andrew Fairhurst, Sales Director at Collingwood, says, “It’s now over a year since the ban on manufacturing fluorescents, which means there will be lots of offices refurbishing their lighting and installing modern LED luminaires over the next few months. “Energy savings and fast payback periods of often less than a year are powerful arguments; but it is also an opportunity to design better lighting schemes to create a welcoming environment that aids concentration and productivity. “By unlocking the secrets of good office lighting design, this guide will help electricians win more business in a sector where there will be a huge demand this winter.” The guide explains the principles of lighting design to mix ambient, accent and task lighting to create a sophisticated multi-layered scheme. It details recommended illuminations levels for different areas, correlated colour temperatures, how to minimise glare and lighting control. Recognising that there are different areas and rooms in a typical office block, it also provides a room by room guide to help the contractor provide a compliant and good design throughout the building. The guide also covers emergency lighting requirements and details how Collingwood Lighting supports contractors and wholesalers with a lighting design service. For copy of the guide, download here or email sales@collingwoodgroup.com. For more from Collingwood Lighting, click here.

Avoid electrical scares this Halloween with tips from NICEIC

NICEIC, the certification and training body for the electrical industry, is offering tips to help families and householders stay safe this Halloween. Electrical accidents can occur at any time, but during Halloween the increased use of decorations and lights can elevate the risks. By following the simple precautions below, individuals can eliminate these dangers and ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for all: Inspect Halloween decorations for frayed wires and damaged plugs and socket-outlets and only buy from reputable retailers. Follow equipment instructions and only use decorations in the intended setting. Unplug decorations when unattended and during the night. Beware of flammable materials in Halloween costumes and inspect light-up costumes for damaged battery compartments or loose wires. Keep pavements and driveways well-lit and clear of wires to prevent tripping hazards during trick-or-treating. NICEIC encourages families to follow these tips to ensure safe celebrations this Halloween and reminds individuals to instruct a qualified and certified business for electrical equipment repairs. NICEIC-certified businesses across the UK can be found through the 'Find a trusted NICEIC tradesperson' tool. NICEIC Technical Director, Paul Collins, says, “This Halloween, we are encouraging everyone to take a few simple precautions when it comes to electrical safety. By following these tips and seeking help from an NICEIC-certified business for any concerns, families can ensure that their Halloween celebrations are not posing any risks to themselves or their neighbours.” For more from NICEIC, click here.

The SGTV podcast is back and better than ever!

Scolmore Group is back with new episodes of its hit SGTV podcast, Spark Talk! Packed with fresh insights, educational tips, and an exciting guest lineup, Spark Talk continues to elevate the SGTV platform. Don’t miss out - read the full story now!

Instrotech launches new test equipment competition

For the final time in its 40th anniversary year, Instrotech, a supplier of test equipment, is running a prize draw competition, giving entrants one last chance to win test equipment prizes. With three competitions complete and the lucky winners having received their prizes, the final competition commences on 1 November. This time, Instrotech is asking entrants to solve a test and measurement themed 'spot the difference' puzzle. To take part, entrants have to correctly spot five differences between the two online images and fill in their details. The first prize is a Fluke PTi120 pocket thermal imaging camera, alongside two runner-up prizes of a Fluke 62Max+ infrared thermometer and a PLS 180G cross line laser level kit. Guy Brown, Sales Manager at Instrotech, says, “After the huge success of all the 40th year competitions throughout 2024, we are running one last competition - this time in partnership with Fluke. Once again, there are some fantastic opportunities to win great test equipment prizes, so why not celebrate with us and have a go.” To enter the competition, complete the online spot the difference competition at www.instrotech.com/40year. The competition ends on 31 December, with the draw taking place in the first week of January 2025. For more from Instrotech, click here.

Ovia introduces new GU10 LED Lamps

With energy efficiency continuing to drive product development in the lighting sector, Ovia has announced the introduction of new GU10 Glass LED lamps which boast a higher energy class than previous models. Designed to meet growing demands for optimal energy savings, the launch of the new GU10 LED lamps reinforces Ovia’s commitment to providing innovative and sustainable lighting solutions for a wide range of applications. Four new GU10 LED lamps have been added to the Ovia range, offering Class A and Class B energy ratings: • 2W Energy Class A, non-dimmable lamp with a 360 lumen output and 3000K colour temperature • 2W Energy Class A, non-dimmable lamp with a 360 lumen output and 4000K colour temperature • 2.6W Energy Class B, dimmable lamp with a 410 lumen output and 2700K colour temperature • 2.6W Energy Class B, dimmable lamp with a 430 lumen output and 4000K colour temperature These lamps offer installers superior energy efficiency, long-lasting performance, and exceptional brightness, making them an ideal solution for both residential and commercial environments. More information on these products can be found on the Ovia website. For more from Ovia, click here.

New compact Q-Nect IP junction boxes from 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 Three-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 complementing Click Scolmore’s range of Aquip66 outdoor sockets and switches. A Q-Nect brochure can be downloaded from the Unicrimp website, as well as from the Scolmore Group app. For more from Unicrimp, click here.

Budget tax rises threaten small builders, says FMB

Small building companies may not be able to shoulder the burden of increased business costs if, as widely reported, the Chancellor increases employers’ National Insurance contributions in next week’s Budget, warns the Federation of Master Builders (FMB). Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, takes up the story: “Many tax rises are being mooted in the upcoming Budget, with employer National Insurance contributions widely tipped as a given. Any increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions would hinder small building companies from growing, especially if this is coupled with wage rises. “Small building companies’ costs have gone up and up and this is impacting their bottom lines. Over half of FMB members are reporting that their businesses are on track to make a loss, and over a quarter are reporting that they are restricting the hiring of new staff. If the Government is serious about economic growth, it should be empowering and not undermining those companies that are seeking to build the much-needed new homes and make the existing ones more energy efficient. “If the Government wants regional economic growth, then it should consider incentivising homeowners to make their homes more energy efficient. This would benefit every community across the country. We know improving the energy efficiency of private homes could grow builders’ businesses and supply chains, especially in the country's historically underinvested areas. The current tax system also doesn't help and needs addressing. Complex VAT arrangements are leading to homeowners missing out from benefiting from cheaper energy efficiency installations, as the paperwork is too onerous for them or the builder! "While I don't expect house builders to receive much in the Budget, it would be good for smaller house builders, who have been in sharp decline, to see something to help them regain market share. A commitment to significantly boost planning officer numbers and encourage more into the public sector in the long term would be welcome news. While I acknowledge commitments have already been made in this area, they barely scratch the surface." For more from FMB, click here.