Signify launches ultimate platform for professional lighting installers

Signify has announced the launch of the Signify Lumxpert website, an innovative platform for electricians and professional installers. With this new expansion, Signify Lumxpert is now available both as a web version as well as the existing mobile app, accessible for free on the App Store and Google Play Store. The Signify Lumxpert platform provides immediate access to an extensive catalogue of Philips and Ecolink products, with the participation of the main distributors in the market. This allows installers to access the best products available, guaranteeing high quality projects and competitive costs. In addition, users can enjoy a 25% discount on their first purchase and get the best prices for registered users, representing significant savings for professionals in the sector. On the platform, installers can also benefit from immediate financing options of up to £10,000 with a term of 30 days, allowing them to manage their resources more efficiently. Products are delivered within 24 to 48 hours, ensuring that professionals can plan and execute their projects quickly and effectively. Signify Lumxpert sets itself apart by offering personalised customer service through its lighting experts, who are always on hand to give advice via WhatsApp. The platform also includes a real-time lighting calculation function, helping to optimise project planning and execution. In addition, after-sales service is offered, providing continuous support to customers after completing their purchases. Another highlight of the new Signify Lumxpert website is its price comparison tool from leading wholesalers, which enables users to make informed decisions to ensure they get the best prices available. This price transparency and ease of comparison reinforce Signify’s commitment to customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. The company says that the launch of the Signify Lumxpert website represents a significant step forward in the digitalisation and professionalisation of the lighting industry. For more from Signify, click here.

New standard to ensure safety for EV charging equipment

With the increase in Electric Vehicle (EV) uptake, the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) is calling for a standardised approach for EV charging equipment dealing with faults on the public low voltage electrical distribution network. The IET has published a new standard to tackle this, known as Open combined protective and neutral (PEN) conductor detection devices (OPDDs), IET 01:2024. It outlines to manufacturers, specifiers, designers and installers the protection mechanisms for EV charging equipment in case faults occur – such as dangerous voltages on metalwork which could present a risk of shock – known as an open ‘PEN’ fault. The new standard also equips installers with the knowledge needed to choose the right charge point for the right circumstances, and with considerations towards differing external and environmental influences that may be faced at the chosen point of installation. The aim is to make it easier for designers and electrical installers to choose a suitable product to meet individual circumstances and requirements. This provides efficiencies for installers and will improve safety for operators and users of EV charging equipment, as well as members of the public. Current regulations require EV charging equipment to cease charging and completely isolate the vehicle from the charging equipment when a particular fault occurs on the supply cable out in the street. Most manufacturers of EV charging equipment provide this functionality, but not all of them do it in the same way, which causes confusion when choosing the most suitable equipment and approach to installation. IET 01 seeks to provide a standard way for EV charging equipment to operate with these considerations in mind. Mark Coles, Head of Technical Regulations at the IET, explains, “Embracing the EV transition means that both electric cars and the required vehicle charge points have become commonplace both on-street and outside homes. The positioning of EV charging equipment presents challenges to the designer and installer and must be supported by requirements and methods of operation that ensure the safety of EV equipment and users. “To meet the UK government’s targets for net zero, many more charge points need to be installed. The challenges faced by installers are not going away and, with the demand for more power to charge EVs, the risk of lost PEN incidents is increasing. “IET 01 has been developed over the course of several years by consensus of a technical committee comprising stakeholders from across industry and facilitated by the IET as part of our commitment to the advancement of engineering excellence. IET 01 is not a static document and will be continually developed through consensus and in response to public feedback and consultation. “It is the IET’s ambition for IET 01 to be adopted by those working with EV systems and installations, and to be considered by the relevant regulatory committees.” For more from The IET, click here.

BRUSH Group launches CRYNO switchgear solution

Energy engineering solutions provider, BRUSH Group, has launched CRYNO, a compact, efficient, and versatile switchgear solution for numerous electrical power applications. Designed and built in Wales, CRYNO is a 12kV fixed pattern, indoor, metal-enclosed, vacuum switchgear that combines the best of BRUSH’s highly regarded Eclipse and Quantum switchboards, to deliver a solution that offers an impressive space-saving footprint, easier installation and maintenance, as well as enhanced safety for operators. Pronounced ‘Cruh-no’ (Welsh for ‘compact’), the CRYNO name not only describes a key feature of this space-saving solution, but also reflects its proud Welsh heritage, having been designed, developed, and now manufactured, at BRUSH Switchgear’s production facility in the Welsh Valley town of Blackwood. Leveraging advanced vacuum switching technology, CRYNO offers superior arc interruption capabilities, enhancing safety and minimising downtime. Its fixed pattern configuration simplifies installation and maintenance, and the metal-enclosed design ensures durability and protection against indoor environmental factors, making it suitable for multiple applications. SF6 free and with a Notice of Conformity Certificate from the Energy Networks Association (ENA), CRYNO is a highly engineered and versatile choice for a variety of sectors, from DNOs (Distribution Network Operators) and utility companies to commercial ventures. Its streamlined design and manufacture helps BRUSH to reduce lead times, which is an important factor in meeting the anticipated growth in demand as the UK accelerates its transition to net zero. BRUSH Group CEO, Nicolas Pitrat, says, “Our switchgear plays a vital role in maintaining the stability and reliability of electrical power systems across a wide range of applications. CRYNO is the next evolution in switchgear technology; engineered to meet the growing demand for compact and reliable solutions for indoor installations with enhanced performance and safety.”

Manrose wins accolade at IBA Supplier of the Year 2024 Awards

Manrose, a British ventilation manufacturer, has been named as a winner at the IBA Supplier of The Year 2024 Awards. Voted for by IBA Buying Group members, Manrose won the ‘Most Improved Supplier’ award, reflecting customers’ positive supply experience through the year and the continuous improvement Manrose strives to implement. The awards took place on 19 September 2024 at Whittlebury Park Hotel, Towcester, with comic actor, Chris Barrie serving as the guest speaker for the evening and celebrating the achievements of the IBA’s 100-plus preferred suppliers. The annual ceremony recognises, and shows appreciation for, the extraordinary customer service the IBA’s supply partners provide. Formed in 1993, the IBA is a nationwide group of independent electrical wholesalers which has grown from an initial 10 members to more than 95 members with over 135 branches throughout the UK. Each year, IBA members vote for their favourite suppliers against four criteria: excellence in product range; value for money; service levels; and IBA Group support. The supplier who gains the largest points increase is named as the ‘Most Improved Supplier’ for that year. Paul Jenner, IBA CEO, says, “We were delighted to award Manrose our Most Improved Supplier Award. It demonstrates the focus Stuart and his team at Manrose have given to the IBA Membership. A year-on-year improvement of over 10% is a record that is particularly difficult for an established supplier to the group to achieve.” Stuart Eglin, Manrose Sales Director, comments, “I was delighted to receive the award for Most Improved Supplier for 2024. Upon joining Manrose in January 2023, I could see that the Manrose brand support was declining due to us not being sufficiently aligned to its members to drive sales. Making a few simple changes to our commercial approach and improving our customer service performance has resulted in a turnaround in our sales with the group. “I am of course thankful to Paul Jenner and all of the team at the IBA for their continued support, but it goes without saying that this award is testament to the efforts of my sales team who have driven local initiatives with the members to bring us back into a position of positivity that we can use as platform for future growth.” A wide range of Manrose’s ventilation products are available via the IBA, including some of its newest products such as the Manrose Quiet Fan X5 range. The Quiet Fan X5 fan offers ultra-low sound levels as well as being IPX5 compliant, and offers simple and flexible installation. Boasting Manrose’s renowned reliability, while providing effective and efficient ventilation, the Quiet Fan X5 has already proved popular with electrical wholesalers, electricians and households, the manufacturer says. Another new product available via the IBA is Manrose’s Lo-Watt Pivotal Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) unit, making it easy for installers and homeowners to combat condensation and mould in the home. Designed to remove stale, moist air from the home and replace it with filtered, drier air, to prevent moisture build up that can cause condensation and mould, the Lo-Watt Pivotal is also energy efficient, cost effective; and offers effortless, easy installation. This makes it a win-win for wholesalers, electricians and households alike. For more from Manrose, click here.

Crackdown on late payments in support for small businesses

The Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA) reports that the government has unveiled new measures to support small businesses and the self-employed by tackling the scourge of late payments, which is costing small businesses £22,000 a year on average and leads to 50,000 business closures a year. In addition, new legislation being brought in the coming weeks will require all large businesses to include payment reporting in their annual reports - putting the onus on them to provide clarity in their annual reports about how they treat small firms. This will mean company boards and international investors will be able to see how firms are operating. Enforcement will also be stepped up on the existing late payment performance reporting regulations which require large companies to report their payment performance twice yearly on gov.uk. Every quarter, 52% of small firms in the UK suffer from late payments, meaning roughly 2.6 million small firms face this issue, with the Federation of Small Businesses describing it as one of the biggest problems facing SMEs. Late payments are just one element of the problem, with some SMEs forced to wait months for contracts to be fulfilled and some are even forced to take out loans against their own homes to manage cash flow. Cracking down on late payments will unlock growth for 5.5 million small firms by enabling them to invest their time hiring more employees, boosting wages, and exporting around the world, rather than chasing down late payments. Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, says, "We’re determined to back small businesses by unlocking their barriers to growth, and stamping out late payments is at the heart of this. "We know how important it is for business owners to have the peace of mind and certainty around their cashflow to keep their businesses alive. Late payments cost businesses tens of thousands of pounds and is one of the biggest reasons businesses collapse. "After years of delay, we’re bringing forward measures that small businesses have long been calling for to tackle late payments once and for all." Business Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, adds, "Late payments are simply unacceptable and this government is determined to level the playing field for small business. When the cashflow runs dry, small firms go under which is why we need to hold larger business to account with their payment practices and foster an environment that supports growth and jobs. "Slashing trade barriers, reforming business rates, getting more SMEs exporting – this government is committed to small firms. We know there’s a lot more to be done, but today we are calling time on late payers once and for all." For more from ECA, click here.

Digital tools key to navigating challenges for UK tradespeople

ToolTime, a provider of job management software for tradespeople, has published research into the use of digital tools by small and micro UK trade businesses. The findings reveal that 88% of tradespeople (91% of electricians) consider digital and software tools to be important for successful operation, with 89% using them to help with day-to-day business operations. Of the tradespeople using digital tools and software day-to-day, 39% use them to save time on admin for business growth, 36% to compensate for shortfalls in skilled workers, and 34% to strike a better work-life balance or spend more time on their trade. These figures were similar for electricians, although using digital and software tools to achieve a better work-life balance was on a par with saving time for business growth (both 36%), while making up for the shortfall in skilled workers ranked second (33%). Being able to spend more time on their trade, achieving more efficient backend processes and better organisation also featured highly. The challenges driving tech adoption The rising cost of supplies emerged as the number one challenge for 29% for tradespeople (32% amongst electricians), and was particularly significant for one-person and micro businesses of less than five people. “Rising costs make finding ways to maintain profitability, manage costs and ensure prompt invoice payments critical elements of small business management,” comments ToolTime CEO and Co-Founder, Marius Stäcker. “Investing in digital and software tools offers tradespeople the opportunity to create a resilient business model by streamlining and optimising operations for greater efficiency, enabling them to focus on increased revenue generation and profitability even with limited resources and in the face of higher operational costs.” Roofing company, ZafBuild, points to the use of the ToolTime business management platform to grow profit by 20%. Meanwhile, home emergency services business, Generational Homes, reports savings of four to six hours every day, helping them to complete an additional 20-25 jobs every week to bring in additional revenue. Social media, messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, and mobile apps for time tracking, job sheets, and scheduling were the top three digital tools named by the 1,000 tradespeople surveyed. Social media was also named as the most commonly used tool by electricians, with messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, accounting specific and job management software representing the other top digital tools. The utilisation of these tools and platforms reflects some of the other major challenges identified by UK trades, such as managing time and jobs (23%), managing a team (22%), keeping up with customer communications (21%), talent and skilled worker shortages (21%) and marketing the business (20%). For electricians specifically, marketing the business was the biggest challenge next to rising costs (25%), closely followed by being asked for ‘freebies’ or ‘mates’ rates’ (23%). Managing time and jobs and stress or burnout due to overwork also followed closely (22%). Marius continues, "As tradespeople face rising supply costs and a shortage of skilled workers, digital solutions are becoming essential to survive and thrive in this environment. Technology is rapidly filling the gaps created by challenges like time constraints and labour shortages, allowing businesses to operate more efficiently than ever before." How business management software drives professionalism 23% of electricians use job management software, compared to 20% of tradespeople overall. The top three greatest perceived benefits of use for electricians were business growth potential, better team management and making the business more attractive to young or skilled workers, all chosen by 35%. Time savings and better customer communications were the second highest ranked benefits, while better business operations oversight and a more professional image followed, named by 26% of respondents. The top named benefits of job and field management software by tradespeople overall were better oversight of business operations (37%), time savings or better customer communications (36%), and business growth potential (32%). Lewis Sweenie, ToolTime's UK Account Executive, comments, "The link between professionalism and business growth chimes with what we hear from customers. Neat and tidy digital processes will generally win business over crumpled paper and pen in today's digital society. "The need to spend less time on business admin also strikes a chord. Business owners often represent their company's information bank, meaning they can never switch off. The ability to centralise key business information and relinquish that control offers the key to business growth." Marius concludes, "Business management software and mobile apps are not just streamlining admin and communication - they drive business growth, improve work-life balance, and enhance professionalism. Our mission is to empower tradespeople with the right tools to optimise resources, win more customers, and spend more time on generating income, not handling admin."

BGEN expands presence in Barrow-in-Furness

BGEN, one of the UK’s largest engineering companies specialising in mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, control and automation, has expanded its presence in Barrow-in-Furness. The company has opened a second office in the town as the business eyes growth opportunities with BAE Systems, as well as supporting customers across industries including energy, manufacturing and nuclear. “We’re expanding our operations in Barrow-in-Furness to help service a number of client requests,” says Glyn Shawcross (pictured above), Engineering and Design Director at BGEN. “As we expand in the area, we have a firm commitment to recruit locally, and we will also expand our support of schools, colleges and community initiatives.” The new office, located on Trinity Enterprise Centre in Barrow, will be dedicated to engineering, design and project management, and will add to the skills set of the existing office which specialises in electrical, installation and instrumentation works. Businesses in the area will now be able to access advice and support on every aspect of the project cycle, including engineering, design, project controls, planning, procurement, risk management, construction methodology, health and safety, quality, environment and sustainability. The expanded presence in the area will also see BGEN extend its support of schools, colleges and community initiatives in the area. Already a proud sponsor of Barrow Raiders, which includes being the main commercial sponsor of the club’s Raiders Girls side – an initiative that encourages young women aged 5-16 to get into the sport – the business is actively looking at sponsorship opportunities with other local sports clubs in the area. BGEN is also looking to partner with important local initiatives such as charities and food banks as the company looks to deliver an effective ESG plan in the area. This plan will also include linking with schools and colleges to help future generations understand the crucial role of engineering in the world, and to help attract more people into the profession. For more from BGEN, click here.

NAPIT discusses importance of skilled workers

Brett Forster, Head of Training at NAPIT, discusses the importance of heat pumps, the green skills gap and the transition to net zero. Decarbonisation is high on the agenda as the new government continues its journey to reach net zero targets. The first-ever Heat Pump Week, held between 23-29 September, aims to unite the heat pump community and engage the government in highlighting the importance of heat pumps in the energy transition. Low-carbon technologies are key to driving this transition. Through grants such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, key policies, and the commitment to ‘get Britain building again’, the government must have energy efficiency at its focus. According to data from the Heat Pump Association, UK heat pump annual sales have seen huge growth over the years. In 2019, there were 24,591 heat pump sales in the UK, and in 2023, this figure hit 60,244. As the demand for heat pumps accelerates, sufficiently skilled installers in the renewable electrical and microgeneration trades will be required. This allows new opportunities for the renewable-led skilled workforce to develop and grow. NAPIT and its members will play a crucial role in ensuring that there are competent and qualified installers to install heat pumps. Installers need to be supported with the skills and knowledge required to install a heat pump. As an accredited Microgeneration Certification Scheme provider, low-carbon heat pump training is available across the four NAPIT Training centres. It’s just as important that consumers are also supported and engaged with the transition to low-carbon heating. Property owners wanting to install low-carbon heating can find a NAPIT registered member that has the right correct training and certification to ensure a compliant install. NAPIT must continue to highlight the importance of filling the green skills gap to meet the demand for low-carbon technologies such as heat pumps, as we work towards a greener future. For more from NAPIT, click here.

Ansell introduces new Luna bulkhead

Extending its popular bulkhead range, Ansell Lighting has unveiled Luna, a new internal wall/ceiling bulkhead that delivers strong performance and durability across a wide range of applications. Highly efficient, Luna delivers 150lm/W and offers a choice of two selectable power outputs, 12W or 22W, for optimal brightness and energy savings. Luna’s sleek design complements a wide range of settings, and the choice of four clip-in bezel trims - white, chrome, satin chrome and black - allow it to blend seamlessly into any interior design scheme. CCT selectable between 3000K, 4000K and 5000K, Luna also offers users more choice in customising their lighting hues to meet individual needs. Designed with ease of installation in mind, Ansell’s new bulkhead features a clip in diffuser, bezel and gear tray for a tool-less assembly. Rated IP54, it provides reliable protection against dust and water spray making it suitable for various indoor environments. Mark Abbott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting, says, “We designed Luna specifically to meet the growing demand for more versatile solutions in the bulkhead market. Luna is a highly efficient, durable, and adaptable lamp that offers customers high performance and real value for money. “Easy to install and adaptable to a range of environments, it is the perfect lighting solution for areas such as corridors and staircases in commercial, healthcare and educational settings.” For heightened functionality, Luna is also available with a range of advanced options. These include Self-Test Emergency, DALI Emergency, Microwave Sensor, Corridor Function, Digital Dimming and OCTO Smart Control. All models come with a five-year warranty. For more from Ansell Lighting, click here.

Surging demand puts EV charging infrastructure capacity at risk

Electric vehicle (EV) charge point operators (CPOs) should consider putting plans in place now to achieve higher technical standards and cater for a surge in demand, according to Legrand UK & Ireland. The call comes as the company publishes a white paper, Powering the zero emissions transition, examining the multifaceted challenges facing the sector this year following a huge rise in the take-up of EVs. Between January and March of 2024 alone, more than 1.72 million plug-in EVs were registered in the UK, topping the total number for 2023 of 1.56 million. CPOs are currently facing the challenge of equipping all charge points for use by the public with contactless payment ahead of a legislative change in November 2024. The Public Charge Point Regulations 2023 mandate that by November, all new and existing EV chargers 8kW and above for use by the public can accept contactless payments. At the moment, a sizeable proportion of charging points use app-based payment methods, meaning drivers need to be registered with several different CPOs to be able to use the full range of public charging facilities available to them. Among the issues explored in Legrand’s new white paper are the options open to CPOs to meet this deadline. Supply and load sharing, and equipment quality and interoperability, that will become increasingly important as the transition to EVs continues, are also explained. Compounding the challenges facing CPOs is the advent of new EV models with increasingly large battery capacities in response to consumer demand for greater range. As a result, lower capacity home charging points are expected to become less practical and, in turn, drive up demand for higher capacity public charging points. Paul Martin, Lead Marketing Manager for Power Distribution at Legrand, says, “It won’t be long until the majority of new cars in the UK are reliant on regular access to charge points. Coupled with the fact that a great many UK homes don’t have driveways – and therefore no easy spot for a home charger to be installed – it’s looking like public charge points are going to be powering a large proportion of the cars on our roads. “This transition to electric vehicles represents a seismic change in Britain’s driving landscape and it will require examining infrastructure and equipment to ensure that CPOs are ready for the logistical challenges, regulatory requirements, as well as business opportunities that lie ahead. To meet the requirements in time, planning needs to begin now. “With the rise of EVs well underway, CPOs must consider how they are going to approach the increased power supply needs and payment requirements in a way that best suits their businesses.” To find out more about the issues facing CPOs, download a free copy of Legrand’s white paper by clicking here. For more from Legrand, click here.