EV leaders collaborate to expand infrastructure development

Two top companies in the electric vehicle charging industry have partnered to enhance the development of infrastructure in the UK and Europe. Virta, a worldwide software company that specialises in EV charging solutions, has become a Rolec preferred supply chain partner. This marks a major milestone in the advancement of integrated EV charging solutions. Rolec has 16 years of manufacturing experience in the EV charging industry, with over 360,000 public and private charge points supplied and installed. Globally, more than 1,000 companies and organisations operate their EV charging services on the Virta Hub. Frankie Mellon, Managing Director at Rolec, says, “We are truly excited to establish Virta as one of our preferred supply chain partners across the UK and Europe.  “Their impressive growth over the past year reinforces their position as a leading software business in the industry, supplying both AC and DC hardware to organisations. “Having witnessed the success of their operations in 37 countries, we see great potential to enhance customer satisfaction with a wider range of software solutions.  “We’ve collaborated closely to ensure our new partnership meets the diverse needs of the UK and European markets. This strategy will enable us to deliver reliable and feature-rich hardware and software solutions across these regions, marking a significant milestone in driving growth and enhancing our offerings for clients. We look forward to this journey together.” Stuart Tolley, Geo Director of UK & Ireland at Virta, says: “We’re delighted to be able to offer the Rolec products as part of our combined offer across the UK and Europe.  “I have personally known Rolec from the outset of their business and seen the meteoric rise in both sales and technical expertise.  “Their new range of products combines quality manufacturing with technical advances, allowing charging events to be smooth and reliable from the outset. In combination with our market leading software and payment solutions, this means the very best experience for all installers, fleets and charge point operators. “Virta is a software-first business in the UK and supplies both AC and DC hardware to organisations. The addition of Rolec to this supply chain stands as a testament to Rolec's continual improvement mindset, and Virta is pleased to be able to offer its products to its wide range of clients in the UK and beyond.” For more from Rolec, click here.

Interview: Don’t just talk about safe isolation - do it

Carly Weller and Darren Staniforth, Head of Electrotechnical Solutions at CEF and ECN Awards Judge, discuss the latest series of TechTalks, the importance of safe isolation and Amendment 4. CW: Hi Darren, Series 4 of CEF’s TechTalks has just kicked off – how is it going? DS: I’m thrilled to say we’ve had a great start. The engagement from the people who have turned up has been brilliant and it’s nice to see so many electricians care about the future of electrical installations. Everyone who attended has agreed that they need to be part of the decision-making process and our TechTalks allow them to be included without the need to go to the BSI website on their own. CW: What’s new for Series 4? DS: This time around, Dave and I are looking at the proposed changes to fire alarm and emergency lighting standards. We also consider the outcomes of the second Grenfell report, before moving on to looking at a newly introduced standard for battery storage systems in domestic installations. We finish off by looking at the 3rd Amendment to the Wiring Regulations and the proposed 4th Amendment, which will see all of us needing a brand new regs book in 2026. CW: What do you make of the proposed changes to the Wiring Regulations, 4th Amendment? DS: It’s clear that a good dose of common sense has been used when the proposed changes were pulled together. The installer community needs to take stock of what’s being proposed and make sure we can implement it practically and safely on site. If we don’t think that’s possible, we must take this opportunity to pass comment back to both the BSI and the IET. CW: CEF is supporting Super Rod’s safe isolation campaign – why is this so important and what advice would you give to electrical contractors? DS: Two years ago, I used the Super Rod report as the basis of the research into one of the topics we delivered at TechTalks. It’s horrific to think that we were losing around 13 electricians a year, all because safe isolation wasn’t deployed. We wanted to know what could be done to bring that number down, and one of the big things everybody in the industry can do is raise awareness of the need to complete safe isolation every time. CW: We are delighted that you are returning to the ECN Awards judging panel this year – why did you want to get involved? DS: It’s a privilege to be part of the judging panel and hear the remarkable stories of exceptional individuals, businesses and innovations. It’s an amazing opportunity to recognise and celebrate all the great work within our industry, together with a great opportunity to identify future trends and innovations. Last year’s entrants really showcased the best of British engineering and I’m looking forward to seeing the same again this year. CW: What’s next for you and CEF? DS: CEF are always looking to make things easier for our customers. Over the coming months you will see CEF offer our own renewable training. This will start small initially, with workshops dedicated to solar PV battery storage systems and maintenance of existing renewable installations. After this we’ll provide customers with a national solution to the skills gap by helping upskill electrical contractors to help take advantage of the increased activity in the renewables sector. CW: Do you have any career advice for people starting out in the industry? DS: Without a doubt, I believe one thing that everybody can do to help them get on in this industry is to improve their communication. Effectively communicating with people irrespective of age and background will help everyone progress. It will help customers understand what’s going on, it will help colleagues understand some of the problems that you’re facing, and it will allow you to find solutions and collaborate when you’re trying to solve problems. CW: What do you think should be made a priority for the electrical sector? DS: We’ve already spoken about safe isolation and it’s a topic we can’t talk about enough. However, just talking about it isn’t enough – we actually have to make it happen. A challenge to everybody reading this is to show somebody you’re working with, be that a supervisor or an apprentice, how to safely isolate the equipment or installation you’re working on. I believe all scheme providers should include this as part of their annual assessment and every qualification should include an assessment of safe isolation as standard. My hope is that in doing this we will see a reduction in the number of fatalities and injuries we see each year. CW: Where do you see the industry in five years? DS: With the introduction of Part P of the Building Regulations we saw a split in the industry. There were installers who only carried out domestic work and those that would take on all types of work. In the next five years I feel we will start to see them come together more, with electricians being asked to work in different environments as companies diversify. CW: What are your interests away from work? DS: I’m a father to three girls, so my interests are wherever I’m told they are! As my job takes me all over the UK, it’s important that I spend as much time as possible with my family when the opportunity presents itself. Five years ago, we moved into a house that was clearly a ‘doer-upper’ and it’s a project which is still ongoing. My wife thinks the project is going to take a lifetime – I just hope that it’s in my lifetime!

Scolmore counterfeit product dispute settled

Scolmore has settled a dispute with Dean Electrical Wholesale, Premspec Group and Dennis Boseley, the founder of Dean Electrical. The dispute arose after Scolmore became aware that Dean had been selling counterfeit accessory products in the UK, which it was mixing with, and selling alongside, genuine Scolmore products. The counterfeits had been purchased in China by Premspec, under the instructions of Dennis Boseley. Scolmore says it took a stand because it wanted to urgently get these products off the market, as product integrity and safety are key issues for Scolmore. In a statement published on its website, Dean says, "Scolmore (International) Limited and The Premspec Group Limited, Dean Electrical Wholesale Limited and Mr Dennis Boseley have settled their dispute over Premspec and Dean Electrical Wholesale's use of Scolmore’s trade marks in relation to the importation and sale of what have been found to be counterfeit versions of Scolmore’s CMA036 double socket products. Premspec, Dean Electrical and Mr Boseley accept that this amounted to trade mark infringement, which they regret and for which they have paid compensation to Scolmore." As soon as Scolmore became aware of the counterfeits, it took action to recover any remaining stock from Dean. The defendants have now paid Scolmore substantial damages and costs and given strict undertakings. Managing Director of Scolmore, Kevin Beech, says, “It’s shocking that some people are happy to go to China and think they have found a bargain alternative to a genuine Scolmore product - supplied by a factory which is nothing to do with Scolmore, and which is unable to provide any certification or proof of origin. These are mains voltage products, and the defendants took no steps to even make sure they were safe - before selling them on to unsuspecting buyers. “The lesson here is clear - if you sell counterfeit Scolmore products, we will take action against you.  "We have been working closely with a small number of select overseas factories for many years now and have built up a mutually respectful relationship with them. We have invested in these factories to ensure they have the best equipment, technologies and people in place to manufacture our products to the highest standards. All our products are designed in house in Tamworth, Staffordshire, by our specialist teams. Our partner factories work closely with the designers to work the designs up to samples and then finished products ready for market. We make regular trips to the premises and have regulated systems and procedures in place to ensure that they operate to our exacting standards.  "These factories operate on an exclusive basis with Scolmore, only producing products for our group of companies. Wholesalers and contractors rely on this assurance and this proof of the origin of the products that are being supplied to them by Scolmore.” For more from Scolmore, click here.

Digital tool training packages now available from Logic4training

Logic4training has expanded its training packages to include essential digital tools for the trades, designed to kickstart business success for new and existing candidates. Logic4training's new entrant packages - including its gas Managed Learning Programme (MLP) and Domestic Electric Installer programme - will now include free website design and hosting with Aim High Websites, and more than six months' free access to Gas Engineer Software, a business management tool that can be used to schedule jobs, reduce paperwork and issue gas safety certificates. Existing candidates can also benefit from huge discounts. The exclusive website offer includes mobile-friendly professional design tailored to meet business needs, SEO set up for improved online visibility and secure hosting with email accounts and domain registration. Logo design and branding is also available, making it easy for engineers to establish and maintain an online presence. As mentioned, candidates can also benefit from six months' free access to Gas Engineer Software, a trusted platform for plumbing and heating engineers. The software streamlines business operations, from team management and scheduling to quotes, invoices, reminders and customer service. It integrates with accounting systems and eliminates paperwork, saving time and freeing up engineers to focus on what they do best. Mark Krull, Managing Director at Logic4training, says, "Logic4training is delighted to partner with Aim High Websites and Gas Engineer Software to ensure newly qualified building services engineers have all the tools they need to succeed - including the digital ones. Millions of people search for local businesses online every day, so having a well-designed website that showcases your skills and ranks high on Google is essential to winning work. "Our sector is experiencing a massive skills gap, with 35% of the workforce over 50 and an impending wave of retirements. Therefore, it is critical that newly qualified engineers are supported to achieve their potential beyond the training centre. Business management tools, like Gas Engineer Software, ensure a smooth transition from classroom to workplace and help newly qualified engineers focus on growing their skills and customer base for long-term success." To access the offer, click here. For more from Logic4training, click here.

NG Bailey net zero target validated by environmental body

NG Bailey, which includes NG Bailey’s IT Services, has become one of the first construction and engineering companies in the UK to have its long-term target to achieve net zero emissions by 2045 approved by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTI). The UK’s largest independent engineering and services business has set a target to achieve net zero by 2045 for its scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas emissions. As part of its long-term target, NG Bailey has committed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions for sources it owns or controls directly (Scope 1 and 2) by 90%, as well as reducing emissions from its wider supply chain (Scope 3) by 90% by 2045. The new target is in addition to its existing near-term targets, approved in 2022, which include a commitment to reduce absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2031, and that 75% of its suppliers will have science-based targets in place themselves by financial year 2027. As well as setting future targets, NG Bailey has already taken significant steps to reduce its own emissions as part of its Net Positive responsibility strategy. All the electricity at sites where NG Bailey has operational control are now from renewable sources. It is phasing out diesel and petrol cars within its fleet by 2025, with 91% of its company car fleet now battery or electric plug-in hybrid. It is also undertaking a trial of electric vans within its fleet and looking to the future and what alternative fuel solutions may be available, including for plant. Natalie Wilkinson, Head of Responsibility at NG Bailey, says, “NG Bailey has a long history of being a responsible business and the company was proud to become one of the first UK construction and engineering businesses in the UK to have its near-term science-based targets validated in 2023. “Receiving this latest validation from the Science Based Targets initiative for the company's long-term net zero target demonstrates just how seriously NG Bailey is taking this as a business and its ongoing commitment to put more into society, the environment, and the global economy than it takes out. “Climate change is a growing threat to NG Bailey's business, its customers and future generations. The latest climate science, described by the UN as a ’code red for humanity’, shows the urgency with which we must all take action. “The company's vision as a business is to create exceptional environments for present and future generations, which means that cutting greenhouse gas emissions and taking significant and credible action on climate change is absolutely essential.” For more from NG Bailey, click here.

SolarEdge UK launches new solar solution

SolarEdge Technologies, a provider of smart energy technology, has announced the UK launch of its high-power SolarEdge TerraMax Inverter combined with H1300 Power Optimisers. Targeting small-to-medium utility scale PV installations, the new versatile solar system is suitable for varied topologies and challenging site conditions, ideal for ground mounted sites on sloped, uneven, or irregular shaped terrains, and dual use sites for applications such as floating PV and Agri-PV (Agrivoltaics) with trackers. The SolarEdge TerraMax solar inverter provides SolarEdge’s benefits of advanced Module Level Power Electronics (MLPE), that include higher energy yields by overcoming module mismatch and shading losses – particularly common in bi-facial modules and vertical PV – advanced built-in safety features, as well as design flexibility. The solution will be powered by the SolarEdge ONE for C&I new energy optimisation platform, with high-precision module-level monitoring and PV fleet management for reduced site visits, increased system uptime and lower O&M costs. The new high-power optimised utility solution is designed to increase solar energy production through 99% inverter efficiency, 200% DC-oversizing and an integrated night-time PID rectifier. The design supports up to 80-module string lengths, requiring less cabling and overall equipment. This can lead to reduced balance of system (BoS) costs by as much as 50%. Pre-commissioning also allows early system validation of components and wiring, prior to AC connection. Christelle Barnes, UK Country Manager at SolarEdge Technologies, says, “SolarEdge Technologies is excited to bring the well-known benefits of SolarEdge power optimisation and high-resolution monitoring to the utility solar segment in the UK with the introduction of its new high-power SolarEdge TerraMax Inverter. We believe that this technology will help maximise value to investors and EPCs.” The new SE330K inverter is available now for pre-order, with shipments expected to start in Q1 2025. For more from SolarEdge Technologies, click here.

elementalLONDON partners with Electrical Safety First

elementalLONDON, taking place at ExCeL London on 19-20 November 2025, has announced the formation of a new partnership with Electrical Safety First. Reflecting and enhancing the success of the elemental digital platform, elementalLONDON will have the ethos of advancing the efficiency of buildings at its core. It will deliver an exhibition and content programme created around the wants and needs of its audience that combines deep insight with practical understanding of the challenges faced by building owners and operators, and the entire supply chain, across commercial and residential projects. elementalLONDON will be an official sponsor of Electrical Safety First’s Installation Seminar 2025. This is a must attend event for anybody involved in the electrical installation arena – decision makers, manufacturers, wholesalers, installers/inspectors, registration bodies, enforcement and education/awarding bodies. Luke Osborne, Deputy Technical Director at Electrical Safety First, comments, “Electrical Safety First is delighted to have elementalLONDON as a sponsor for its Electrical Installation seminar event. With the move towards the full electrification of the built environment and the increasing focus on building efficiency, it’s paramount that electrical safety is considered and promoted widely across the sector." Felicity Reese, elementalLONDON Partnerships Manager, adds, “elementalLONDON is thrilled to announce this partnership with Electrical Safety First and to sponsor its Installation Seminar. This is a fantastic opportunity to reach out to our electrical audience and to demonstrate our commitment to electrical safety within the built environment, which is an integral part of our drive towards more energy efficient buildings. We are excited to be a part of this event.” For more from Electrical Safety First, click here.

SJIB Apprentice of the Year crowned

A talented young Lanarkshire electrician has been rewarded for his “unprecedented enthusiasm” after being chosen as the winner of the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) Apprentice of the Year, in conjunction with Edmundson Electrical. Scott Ahern, from East Kilbride, managed to see off an exceptional field of emerging electrical talent to lift the 2024 trophy after impressing the SJIB panel of judges. SJIB Chair Jock Simpson also presented the 27-year-old with a voucher for £1,000 at the awards ceremony in the Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood last week (Wednesday 9 October), at which Central Scotland MSP Monica Lennon was the guest speaker. Catherine Gillon, the recently-appointed Secretary of the SJIB, says, “Apprentices are the great hope for the sector’s future and the SJIB Apprentice of the Year Awards recognise and celebrate the very best of our new talent. “At a time when more and more young people are choosing the electrical industry as a career, Scott has triumphed in an extremely close field after showing an unprecedented degree of commitment, dedication and enthusiasm.” Catherine, who is also Director of Employment Affairs at SELECT, Scotland’s largest construction trade body, adds, “This accolade also recognises the contribution that Scott and his fellow apprentices will make in our transition to net zero and the electrification of society. “As technology continues to advance and electrical installation becomes ever more complex, Scott and his peers will go forward as an elite band of professionals who will hold the smooth running of the future in their hands.” Scott, who works for DRB UK Maintenance in Hamilton, completed his studies at New College Lanarkshire’s Motherwell Campus under the watchful eye of Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) Training Officer Gordon Penman. Scott comments, “My electrical apprenticeship has been very challenging but also extremely rewarding, so this award is the icing on the cake and makes all the hard work worthwhile. “It was a huge surprise – but also a huge honour – to be selected from among my fellow apprentices, many of whom I know to be really talented professionals who have a great future in front of them. “There is no doubt that I owe this award to the continuing support of my employers, lecturers and trainers who have been endlessly patient with me, and to everyone whom I’ve had the pleasure to work with and learn from in recent years.” Jason Boyle, Electrical Project Manager at DRB UK, notes, “Scott has worked long and hard over the course of his apprenticeship and very much deserves his place in the spotlight. “He is dedicated to his profession and is a perfect example of the quick, skilful and effective people we want to see coming into the industry and taking it forward into a new era.” The competition also saw vouchers presented to finalists Jake Stewart, 22, from Dundee, who works for Monifieth-based Kevin Black Electrical Contractors, and Sean Bermingham, 33, from Strathpeffer, who works for Inverness-based Ross-shire Engineering. Jake carried out his studies at Dundee and Angus College, under SECTT Training Officer David Stebbings, while Sean completed his training at the University of the Highlands and Islands Inverness College under the watchful eye of SECTT Training Officer Graham Keil. All three finalists were also presented with top-of-the-range Megger multi-function testers by Stuart Minty, Regional Key Account Manager at Edmundson Electrical. Derek Allen, Scottish Regional Director of Edmundson Electrical, says, “Scott and his fellow finalists have every reason to be proud of their achievements, which reflects the hard work and dedication demonstrated throughout their apprenticeships. “Thanks should also go to the SJIB and SELECT for continuing to promote the ongoing importance of electrical apprenticeships, and the training officers from SECTT who help develop the talent of tomorrow on a day-to-day basis.” Founded in 1969 by SELECT and Unite the Union, the SJIB’s duties include regulating between employers and employees, providing benefits for people engaged in the industry and stimulating industry progress. In addition, it has oversight of employment, skills and proficiency, health and safety competence, wages and welfare benefits across the electrical industry in Scotland. Edmundson Electrical is an electrical wholesaler that serves Scotland from more than 37 locations. Its customer base includes electrical contractors and engineers, industrial companies, facilities management, government agencies and local authorities. For more from SELECT, click here.

CEF TechTalks Series 4: Have your say and stay ahead in the electrical industry

The highly anticipated TechTalks is back and it’s bigger and better than ever! Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the industry, these events are open to everyone - not just CEF customers. This year’s TechTalks, themed 'Have Your Say', is all about giving you the platform to influence the industry’s direction. Running from 3 September to 21 November, each event will be led by industry experts Darren Staniforth and Dave Austin. They’ll guide you through the latest developments, ensuring you’re up to speed with the essential changes and innovations shaping the future of electrical installations. Focus on BS 7671 – your chance to influence the next amendment One of the standout features of this year’s TechTalks is the focus on the upcoming Amendment 4:2026 to BS 7671:2018 (IET Wiring Regulations). The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and BSI are calling on professionals across the industry to provide their feedback on this crucial update. The Draft for Public Consultation (DPC) will be open from 7 August 2024 to 3 November 2024. This is your chance to have a direct impact on the standards that govern our work. Key areas of Amendment 4: Stationary secondary batteries: As the demand for renewable energy grows, the regulations surrounding battery storage are becoming increasingly important. Low voltage generating sets: Keeping pace with advancements in technology, this amendment will address new safety and efficiency requirements. Power over ethernet (POE): With the rise of smart buildings, POE is set to become a key component in electrical installations. Energy efficiency: Ensuring that our practices contribute to a sustainable future. Functional earthing for ICT: Addressing the specific needs of modern information and communication technology systems. Why attend? Earn CPD credits: Each event is CPD accredited, offering 3.5 hours of Continuing Professional Development. Plus, you'll receive a digital certificate after each event to add to your professional portfolio. Exclusive perks: Attendees will receive a £50 voucher to spend at CEF.co.uk (T&Cs apply) and a set of TechCards, providing a handy reference guide long after the event. Discover innovations: Engage with over 20 leading brands showcasing the latest in technology and products that are transforming the electrical industry. Free to attend: Enjoy complimentary breakfast, refreshments and parking at all event venues. Join us and shape the future Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with fellow professionals, learn from industry leaders, and influence the future of electrical installations in the UK. Register now for TechTalks Series 4 and be part of the conversation that will shape our industry for years to come. Register Now

Tamlite calls for urgent focus on role of emergency lighting

Tamlite Lighting, one of the UK’s largest independent lighting manufacturers, is urging the construction industry to prioritise emergency lighting as a vital component of building safety. Tamlite’s call to action follows the publication of the 1,700-page Grenfell Inquiry report, which exposed a series of systemic failures across government and the construction industry, leading to the tragic Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017. The report outlines 58 recommendations, including the creation of a new construction regulator responsible for overseeing all industry functions as part of a broader industry reform. Tamlite emphasises that this industry shake-up must place sufficient importance on emergency lighting as a critical factor in ensuring building safety. John Allden, Managing Director of Tamlite Lighting, explains, "Emergency lighting is designed to activate automatically in the event of a power failure and plays an essential role in aiding safe evacuations during a fire. Maintaining the highest standards in the design, installation, and upkeep of these systems is paramount. This involves regular checks on fixtures, fittings, and batteries to ensure that emergency lighting functions as intended during crucial moments." The evolving regulatory landscape in the wake of recent incidents was a key theme at the Industry Committee for Emergency Lighting (ICEL)’s Emergency Lighting Conference 2024 last month. John continues, “The UK Government has introduced more stringent building regulations through the secondary legislation of the Building Safety Act in 2022. However, recent high-profile fires in London, including one in a residential block in Dagenham and another at the iconic Somerset House, reminds us that buildings of all types remain at a risk of fire. “The Grenfell report has made it abundantly clear that everyone involved in construction is responsible for keeping people safe. While emergency lighting is already subject to rigorous standards, there is an ongoing need for the industry to evolve these standards and enhance fire safety across all building types, potentially saving lives. “This drive for continuous innovation in the lighting sector was strongly supported at the recent ICEL conference, which brought together industry leaders committed to improving building safety standards.” In August 2024, the Lighting Industry Association (LIA) and ICEL launched an enhanced ICEL Product Certification Scheme as part of their ongoing commitment to excellence in emergency lighting. The updated scheme represents a crucial shift from an endorsed model to a certified one, offering even greater assurance of quality and safety in emergency lighting products. ICEL also launched Phase 2 of its Competency Recognition Scheme in September 2024, providing more professionals with the opportunity to have their emergency lighting skills validated and recognised. Backed by a framework that spans six critical domains - Testing and Maintenance, Product Design Management, Specification, Installation, Sales and Distribution, and Scheme Design - the ICEL scheme is designed to recognise the professional skills, knowledge, experience, and behaviours required to successfully design, install, and maintain emergency lighting systems. John adds, “The LIA and ICEL are working tirelessly, in partnership with industry, to drive forward standards in emergency lighting, guided by a shared mission to keep people safe.” In the UK, emergency lighting systems must comply with strict standards, including BS 5266, which provides detailed guidance on design, installation, and maintenance. According to the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, the duty to comply with these standards falls on the ‘responsible person’ within an establishment. This ensures that all emergency lighting systems are tested regularly, with intervals specified by the regulations to maintain their effectiveness. It is a legal requirement under these regulations and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, that all business premises - including offices, factories, pubs and clubs, schools, hospitals and entertainment venues - are equipped with emergency escape lighting. These legal requirements also apply to almost all residential buildings and structures, except for individual private homes, including houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), blocks of flats and maisonettes. For more from Tamlite, click here.