myenergi starts work on new V2G EV charger

British smart home energy technology manufacturer, myenergi, has started development on what it believes is likely to be the UK’s first mass-market Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) electric vehicle charger that can integrate with the rest of the home. The company plans to launch the new premium product in 2025 to coincide with many mainstream V2G-enabled electric vehicles coming to market. Best-known for its zappi, which hit the headlines as the world’s first solar compatible home charger, the Stallingborough-based tech pioneer plans to introduce the V2G EV charger to sit above the standard zappi in its product range. As well as EV charging, myenergi offers customers a fully integrated smart home energy management system, including installation. Alongside the zappi EV charger sits the eddi power diverter and the modular libbi smart home battery system. Until recently, V2G technology, which effectively enables customers to discharge power from their EV battery either into the home or directly back to the grid, could only be achieved via very expensive DC bidirectional charging hardware. Lee Sutton, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer at myenergi, says, “Our purpose is to remove the barrier to a greener future and we see the current limitations around V2G technology as one of those barriers. By offering an innovative AC V2G solution for the home, we can bring this great technology to a greater number of customers.” While DC V2G chargers have been significant in both size and cost historically, myenergi is aiming to deliver a new product that is much more attractive in both respects. And while to date the pool of vehicles that can truly deliver V2G charging has been limited, there is set to be enormous growth in the number of EVs that can offer this functionality to UK households. Jordan Brompton, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer at myenergi, adds, “Sitting above the zappi in the myenergi product portfolio, our new V2G charger will prove the perfect choice for those who want to power their home using the available energy stored in their EV battery, as well as those who want to support the grid through attractive export tariffs. We know that vehicle manufacturers are pursuing the AC pathway to deliver V2G functionality, so we are confident that our new product will fit seamlessly into their development programmes.” With operations based in the UK, myenergi is committed to delivering high quality, reliable and ergonomic technologies that help consumers to take complete control of their energy use. As well as streamlining energy bills, each myenergi device offers functionality to improve energy independence while reducing the carbon footprint. For more from myenergi, click here.

Aico collaborates with affordable housing provider

Shropshire-based home life safety expert, Aico, is now collaborating with The Guinness Partnership, one of the largest affordable housing providers in the UK. This collaboration focuses on enhancing the health, safety, and energy efficiency of properties across the South West of England through the implementation of Aico’s innovative HomeLINK environmental monitoring system. The Guinness Partnership is committed to improve the living conditions and well-being of their residents by embracing advanced technology to monitor key environmental factors, such as temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide levels. By working with Aico, it will introduce smart sensors and data analytics to ensure proactive property maintenance and healthier environments for all residents. As part of the initiative, both Aico and The Guinness Partnership will engage with residents through educational sessions and workshops, ensuring they understand the system and its benefits, improving living conditions. This collaborative approach is key to achieving the partnership’s goals of improving efficiency, preventing health risks, and maintaining property safety. This partnership represents a milestone in the use of technology within social housing. By adopting Aico’s HomeLINK system, The Guinness Partnership is setting a new standard for proactive property management and resident well-being. The success of this initiative in the South West sets a precedent for future projects, showcasing the transformative power of innovative solutions to meet evolving social housing challenges. The success of this collaboration is also attributed to the leadership and expertise involved. Tim Lewry, Regional Head of Service at The Guinness Partnership, praised the partnership, saying, "Our collaboration with Aico on the HomeLINK system has been nothing short of exceptional. Steve Bulley’s expertise and dedication have been instrumental in making this project a reality. His influence in social housing across the UK cannot be overstated." Steve Bulley, Aico’s Regional Specification Manager for the Southwest, adds, "It has been a privilege to collaborate with The Guinness Partnership on this groundbreaking project. Their senior leadership team, including Tim Lewry, Richard Seager, Lee Annunziata, and Rob Privett, have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to enhancing the well-being of their residents through innovative technology. Together, we are setting a new benchmark for the social housing sector." For more from Aico, click here.

Siemens to carve out EV charging business

Siemens has announced the intention to carve out its eMobility business. The company bundled its eMobility charging activities in 2018 and subsequently organised it into a separate business unit in 2022. The carve out of Siemens eMobility, which has a strong technological core and portfolio, will give the business entrepreneurial freedom to transform into a more agile, focused and efficient market player. It will enable Siemens eMobility to better leverage opportunities in the fast-growing and dynamic electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure market. Siemens has made targeted organic investments to build the eMobility business’ technology leadership and strengthen the product portfolio. The business has also executed multiple acquisitions including most recently Heliox, a specialist in DC fast charging solutions, focused on eBus and eTruck fleets. The Heliox acquisition extended Siemens’ market reach, primarily in Europe and North America, while improving capabilities in power electronics. The upcoming carve-out will combine Siemens eMobility and Heliox into a dedicated legal structure, well-positioned to build on the experience and innovation of Siemens and the pioneering culture of Heliox. This future setup will create optimal conditions to drive progress and expand leadership in the market, further accelerating the sustainable transformation of mobility. Matthias Rebellius, Member of the Managing Board of Siemens AG and CEO of Smart Infrastructure, comments, “The new setup of eMobility will enable the business to accelerate profitability by focusing on high potential business segments and strategically relevant geographies. It will have more freedom to define its focus areas based on business strengths. This business will be well positioned to foster new partnerships to increase customer access through new sales channels and enrich capabilities in new end markets. “Building up charging infrastructure for electric vehicles is crucial to achieving the electrification of transport, a central piece in the aspiration to reach net zero by 2050.” Siemens eMobility offers IoT-enabled hardware, software and services for AC and DC charging from 11 kW to 1 megawatt for a broad range of applications. Today, the business has production and R&D sites in Germany, Portugal, the US, India and the Netherlands. For more from Siemens, click here.

HiKOKI Power Tools unveils latest product catalogue

HiKOKI Power Tools UK has launched its eagerly awaited 2024/5 product catalogue, offering a comprehensive overview of its latest innovations in power tools for professionals. With a focus on delivering high performance, the new catalogue showcases the brand's most advanced tools, accessories and systems designed to meet the needs of tradespeople across the UK. Featuring new 18V and 36V Multi Volt cordless tools, HiKOKI continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in power tool technology, offering enhanced power, efficiency and flexibility for various applications on the job site. The catalogue highlights key innovations such as the brushless motor technology that powers its cordless range, providing longer run times and increased durability, and the Multi Volt battery system, which allows seamless switching between 18V and 36V tools without compromising performance and powers over 110 tools. New products include the powerful yet compact H3641DA 36V 6.8J SDS Max Demolition Hammer, the C3612DRA 36V Compound Mitre Saw with Torque Boost technology that ensures consistent performance even when handling heavy loads and the UP18DA Cordless Air Inflator with high pressure mode. Additionally, HiKOKI continues to offer outstanding warranties on its power tools, including an extended five-year warranty for registered brushless cordless tools and batteries over 4.0Ah, including Multi Volt batteries. This commitment to customer satisfaction ensures that users can rely on their tools to perform under the toughest conditions​. The 2024/5 HiKOKI Power Tools Catalogue is available for download on the HiKOKI website, making it easier for tradespeople to explore their latest products and find the perfect tool for the job​. For more from HIKOKI, click here. 

Rolec EV and Sinexcel launch 30kW DC charger

Building on the strength and success of their ongoing partnership, Rolec and Sinexcel have announced the launch of the UltraCharge 30, a compact and affordable 30kW DC rapid charger which is purpose-built and designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses, councils, fleets, and destinations. The UltraCharge 30 is a versatile, future-proof EV charging solution. Whether wall or pedestal-mounted, the unit offers up to 30kW power output in a space-efficient design, and delivers up to 10-80% charge in under 1.5 hours. With 96% peak efficiency, it optimises energy use, speeding up charging times and maximising ROI. It’s beneficial for sites looking to integrate a robust and rapid EV infrastructure. The UltraCharge 30 features the same trusted controller used in the UltraCharge 160, ensuring both reliability and performance. Its competitive pricing makes it an accessible option, minimising upfront costs while providing ease of installation. It combines proven technology with modern advancements to deliver a powerful and cost-effective solution. Compliant with the PAS 1899 accessible charging standard, it’s an ideal solution for destinations where accessibility is essential for serving a diverse customer base. Businesses can offer pay-to-charge solutions and benefit from generating additional revenue. Activation is simple via ISO 15118 plug and charge, mobile app, and RFID, or with the added convenience of an optional contactless payment terminal. Designed with the latest features, it supports dynamic power management, over-the-air updates, an eight-inch HD user interface touch screen with advertising capability, and is compatible with any OCPP 1.6 CPMS, which is upgradable to OCPP 2.0.1. The UltraCharge 30 features a CCS2 charging connector for fast and reliable compatibility with a wide range of electric vehicles. For seamless operation and data management, the unit supports both 4G and Ethernet connectivity methods, ensuring consistent communication and control. Businesses can benefit from bespoke branding and colour options, whether it’s adding a logo or creating a fully custom design. Businesses that want to provide public EV charging have the option to fully fund the purchase and installation of 30kW DC units through Rolec’s strategic partnership with funding provider, Wattif. This allows businesses to benefit from implementing the latest EV infrastructure without capital expenditure or investment risk. The unit is available for preorder now, with deliveries available from early November. Frankie Mellon, Rolec’s Managing Director, says, “I am thrilled to introduce the UltraCharge 30; a major step forward in delivering compact, cost-effective DC charging solutions. This unit is designed to supply rapid charging at an accessible price, with a focus on accessibility for all users. “The UltraCharge 30 builds on the success of its big brother, the UltraCharge 160, offering the same tried-and-tested technology in a smaller, very affordable package. “We’ve worked closely with Sinexcel to ensure this product is equipped to meet the many requirements of the UK market, such as contactless payment and PAS 1899 accessible charging standard compliance. It also supports ISO 15118 plug & charge for seamless convenience and is future-proof with OCPP 2.0.1 upgradability. “The UltraCharge 30 is easy to install and maintain, with full support provided by both Rolec and Sinexcel’s technical teams. “As workplaces increasingly demand both DC and AC charging solutions for fleets, visitors, and employees, we offer a reliable and affordable product with a short lead time. Stocked in the UK by Rolec, available for next-day delivery to our UK customers starting later this year.” Rolec and Sinexcel first partnered in 2022 to deliver high-quality, scalable, and reliable DC charging products, dedicated to operational excellence, accessibility, and innovation. For more from Rolec, click here.

Meet Eaton at Solar and Storage Live 2024

Eaton is thrilled to announce that it will be attending the Solar and Storage Live 2024 event from 24-26 September at the NEC in Birmingham. This premier event is a fantastic opportunity for electrical contractors to explore the latest advancements in sustainable energy solutions and network with industry leaders. Visit Eaton at Stand D113 Make sure to stop by Stand D113, where Eaton’s team of experts will be available to showcase its cutting-edge innovations in energy transition. From advanced energy storage solutions to smart grid technologies, discover how Eaton is driving the future of sustainable energy. The company’s experts are eager to discuss how these innovations can help you meet the growing demand for renewable energy and enhance your projects’ efficiency and reliability. Eaton’s special Energy Transition Event Don’t miss Eaton’s exclusive Energy Transition Event on the evening of 24 September. This special event will provide a deeper dive into the latest trends and technologies shaping the energy landscape. It’s a perfect opportunity to engage with the company’s experts, ask questions, and gain insights that can help you stay ahead in the rapidly evolving energy sector. Why attend? Innovative solutions: See Eaton’s industry-leading products and solutions designed to support the energy transition. Expert insights: Engage with Eaton’s specialists and gain valuable knowledge on how to integrate these technologies into your commercial projects. Networking opportunities: Connect with industry peers and leaders to share experiences and explore new business opportunities. Discover the future of sustainable energy Eaton is committed to powering the energy transition. The company is looking forward to welcoming you to its stand and discussing how it can help you achieve your energy goals.  Book your tickets today For more from Eaton, click here. 

Info toolkit to help councils seize clean energy ambitions

A new information toolkit has been launched to equip local authorities with the knowledge and resources to drive their clean energy ambitions. Launched partnership between UK Power Networks’ Distribution System Operator (DSO) and local government climate network UK100, Navigating the Net Zero Energy Transition: A toolkit for local authorities has been designed specifically for elected leaders, cabinet members, and officers. Local authorities across the UK are already witnessing changes, from a rise in local renewable energy projects to increasing demand for electric vehicle charge points and other green energy infrastructure. Now they can seize the opportunity to collaborate and share insights with peers who are facing similar challenges and working towards similar goals. The energy toolkit enhances this collaboration by providing a framework for local authorities to implement innovative solutions, making local clean energy projects more achievable and impactful. Through this collective approach, local authorities have a direct pathway to influence the future of energy at both the local and national levels. Lynne McDonald, Head of Local Net Zero at UK Power Networks’ DSO, says, “This new toolkit provides practical information on specifically how UK Power Networks works with local authorities, and it supports local leaders to make informed decisions. “Throughout the toolkit, local authorities will find case studies with examples of projects undertaken by other local authorities and partners on the same journey. It also includes a wider look at how the electricity system is changing, who the key stakeholders are, and what support is available from them for the delivery of local net zero. Importantly, there’s practical advice on the opportunities available to finance this work and how a decarbonised energy system can reduce costs.” Christopher Hammond, Chief Executive of UK100, adds, “Local authorities and the communities they serve will be at the heart of the next stage of the transition to a net zero energy system. “Working in partnership with UK Power Networks’ DSO, we are equipping them with the tools and ideas to shape their response to this change. Developing a comprehensive Local Area Energy Plan is a foundational step. It will enable them to play a bigger role in supporting the local rollout of everything from EV charging to Community Energy. But too many don't know where to start. We hope to help councils unlock their clean energy ambitions with this toolkit.” The toolkit includes case studies showing how councils have successfully partnered with DSOs to achieve their energy goals. To explore the full energy toolkit and discover how it can support your local net zero initiatives, click here. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

Light Forms luminaires specified in Birmingham office overhaul

As part of a £38.8m refurbishment of a Birmingham City Centre commercial office space, a wide variety of luminaires from high-performance lighting manufacturer, Light Forms, have been specified into the upgraded building. The office space sits within Brindleyplace; a large, mixed-use canal-side development in the heart of Birmingham. It is home to restaurants, shops, leisure offerings such as the Sealife Centre, and a number of commercial office buildings. Wilmott Dixon Construction was appointed by the building owner, CBRE Investment Management, to combine two separate sites – 8 and 10 Brindleyplace – into one large building. The transformation creates a more modern space with a focus on smart technology, sustainability and wellness. Not only is this better from an environmental perspective, but it will help to attract future occupants of the office and ensure the area remains buoyant and commercially successful. Given the focus on sustainability, LED lighting was an important part of delivering improved energy savings and a better carbon footprint. A plethora of solutions have been specified by Light Forms, fulfilling many of the lighting requirements of the refurbishment project. These were primarily specified by Wilmott Dixon Interiors, who were responsible for the internal fit-out of the renovated offices. Light Forms was able to offer a wide variety of solutions for the project given its well-rounded and all-encompassing portfolio. This is alongside Light Forms’ commitment to offering flexible products that can be adapted and customised in a variety of ways to best suit the needs of each and every project. These include Lightplane 2.5; a compact and streamlined luminaire that provides direct, indirect or direct-indirect illumination. Offering the adaptability that Light Forms is renowned for, Lightplane 2.5 can be suspended, wall or surface mounted. The Brindleyplace office is using the prismatic lens for low UGR, which delivers a more pleasant and healthier working environment. Elsewhere in the building, Light Forms Cygnus Round luminaires have been used, along with ValueDown. Cygnus Round is a minimalist, high-power LED track spot with a wide range of light sources and optics. ValueDown is a budget-friendly, recessed downlight spot fixture that may be specified in multiple outputs with a beam spread of 15, 25 or 40 degrees. Other specified solutions include Nova Medium 62, Leo, Indus, Slimline 1.25, TinCan, Lightrod 80 and Panel Up and Under. Completing the project are the EM surface, EM Recessed and EM Exit. These are all part of Light Forms’ LED Emergency luminaire range, which encompasses both emergency spotlights and exit signs. The lighting configuration and control was completed by Mymesh; wireless controls designed for professional and demanding environments. Harry Prior, Managing Director from Light Forms, says, “Brindleyplace offices are an enviable location within Birmingham city centre, offering ease of access, an attractive waterside setting and stunning architecture. To have our luminaires featured so heavily in this exciting renovation project to bring two spaces together was incredibly exciting. Furthermore, it truly demonstrates how much our portfolio can meet the needs of even the most ambitious refurbishments, including those where sustainability is a key part of the work.” The overhaul has now linked the two formerly separate sites into one building, creating 212,000 square foot of office space over nine floors. The location also boasts of the city’s largest available floorplans at over 27,000 square foot. Other improvements include internal reconfiguration such as the brand-new reception area. Extra facilities have been added including a café, business lounge and conference facilities. The redevelopment has achieved a number of accreditations, including Fitwel; a standard that measures occupant health and wellbeing. It has also been awarded other certifications including EPC A rating and BREEAM Excellent.

New qualification for experienced workers in panel wiring

In a significant development for the electrotechnical industry, the EAL Level 3 Panel Wiring for Engineering Applications route has been approved by the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) as a pathway to obtaining the prestigious Panel Builder and Wireman Gold card for experienced workers. This new qualification aims to address the long-standing demand for recognising experienced workers in the Specialist Control and Distribution Panel Manufacture and Installation subsector. Companies within this niche of the electrotechnical industry have long called for a way to acknowledge the expertise of seasoned professionals. While traditional apprenticeship routes are well-suited for new entrants, leading to recognition and eligibility for a Wireman/Panel Builder Gold card, there has been a clear need for an alternative pathway for experienced workers. These individuals, who have been contributing to the field for years, often find apprenticeships unsuitable but still wish to align with the latest ECS and competence requirements. To address this, the Joint Industry Board (JIB) led a task and finish group to explore potential solutions. The result is the Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA), which offers a structured and standardised way for experienced workers to have their skills formally recognised. A working group comprising employers and industry representatives including the JIB, the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA), SELECT, the British Electrotechnical and Allied Manufacturers’ Association (BEAMA), and the Association for Instrumentation, Control, Automation & Laboratory Technology (GAMBICA) brought substantial knowledge of previous efforts in this area and discussed the history and existing workarounds. “This is a significant step forward for our industry,” says Andy Reakes, Director of Growth and Development at the JIB & ECS. “It ensures that the valuable skills of experienced workers are recognised and rewarded, aligning with our commitment to raising standards and providing clear career pathways. It addresses a critical gap and offers a much-needed alternative to traditional apprenticeships for those who have already dedicated years to this occupation, while maintaining the rigour and practical assessment that has come to be embodied in the award of an ECS Gold card.” For further information, click here. For more from ECS, click here.  

Advanced’s fire protection installed in the heart of Aldershot

The newly revitalised Union Yard development in Aldershot now boasts a cutting-edge Advanced MxPro 5 fire safety system, installed by Integrated Fire Safety Systems to provide robust protection for this scheme in the heart of Aldershot town centre. The Union Yard development in Aldershot is a transformative project that has revamped a key area of the town centre, establishing a vibrant, mixed-use environment with high-quality retail, leisure, culture, employment, and housing offerings. The development, which spans seven floors from lower ground to the fifth floor, includes 82 private apartments, 18 affordable rent apartments, 128 studio units for UCA student accommodation, 13 commercial units, lower ground-level parking, and a landscaped public realm. To ensure the safety of residents, students, and visitors, the development has been equipped with a comprehensive fire safety system, expertly designed and installed by Integrated Fire Safety Systems (IFSS). The project included the installation of an Advanced MxPro 5 fire panel, which provides robust fire detection and alarm coverage for the common corridors throughout the complex. Iain Clenaghan, Commercial Manager at IFSS, highlights the importance of the integration, saying, “The complexity of this project required a fire safety solution that could seamlessly integrate with various systems while providing reliable protection across the development. The Advanced MxPro 5 panel was the ideal choice for its versatility and ease of integration, allowing us to deliver a comprehensive fire safety system that meets regulatory standards.” The Union Yard development project underscores the critical role that Advanced’s fire safety solutions play in large-scale, mixed-use developments. The installation not only ensures compliance with fire safety regulations but also provides peace of mind for all occupants, knowing that they are protected by state-of-the-art technology. Matthew Jones, Head of Sales for UK and Ireland at Advanced, remarks, “We are proud to be part of the Union Yard development, providing a fire safety solution that contributes to the safety and security of this transformative project. The MxPro 5’s adaptability and reliability make it a perfect fit for complex developments like this, where multiple systems need to work together seamlessly to ensure the highest levels of protection.” As a world leader in the development and manufacture of intelligent fire systems, Advanced products are trusted in locations worldwide, from single-panel installations to large, multi-site networks. The MxPro 5 is renowned for its flexibility, offering a choice of detector protocols and the ability to be configured into high-speed networks of up to 200 panels. With ease of installation and a wide range of peripheral options, the MxPro 5 can be tailored to meet the specific needs of any application. Advanced says that the Union Yard development project exemplifies its commitment to delivering cutting-edge fire safety solutions that are both reliable and adaptable, ensuring the highest levels of protection for mixed-use developments. For more from Advanced, click here.