Schneider to invest in new manufacturing site

Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, is investing £42 million in a new manufacturing facility in Scarborough, North Yorkshire. More than 200 jobs will be created to meet the increased demand for electrical equipment to drive the UK’s move to cleaner energy including renewable energy sources, electric vehicles, and intelligent, energy-efficient buildings. The site, which is almost triple the size of Schneider Electric’s existing Scarborough facility, is a blueprint for sustainable design and operations in the manufacturing industry. It is poised to become a net zero plant and will use modern technology to reduce energy waste and maximise the use of renewable energy. It is expected to be net zero in Scope 1 and 2 emissions when it opens in early 2025. 30% of the facility’s energy will be produced by a state-of-the art solar energy system, with solar panels covering 50% of the roof, to ensure the building harnesses solar energy efficiently. Any energy consumed on site from the national grid will be 'renewable certified', Schneider states, while an intelligent Building Management System, based on Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure platform, will ensure energy-efficient operations including light sensors, automated heating and cooling. It will feature one of the first fully electric paint lines in Europe to support decarbonised operations, and it is targeting a BREEAM 'Excellent' rating, setting it apart in terms of sustainable construction standards. The site is designed to be environmentally friendly, with sustainable transport options for employees. Employees will also have access to 30 EV chargers on site, and there will be dedicated cycling racks, shelters, and showers on site for bike riders. Work is underway with Natural England to create a habitat for protected species, and the site will promote biodiversity by retaining as many of the existing trees and natural features as possible. Scarborough is a long-established manufacturing base for Schneider Electric, currently employing 450 people. It specialises in the manufacture of low-voltage switchgears which protect and distribute electricity and are crucial to the rollout of sustainable and energy-efficient operations such as EV charging infrastructure and net zero buildings. Kelly Becker, President at Schneider Electric, UK & Ireland, Belgium & Netherlands, says, “Sustainability is at the core of our purpose, culture and business. We’re proud to be investing in and developing innovative solutions which will deliver immediate and lasting decarbonisation in the UK, while bolstering the creation of local, green jobs in Yorkshire. “The region has long been part of our operational presence in the UK, and we’re excited to expand this as part of our commitment to investing in the UK’s green economy. The new facility in Scarborough represents a pillar of innovation in net zero, and one which will be an industry benchmark for the transition to sustainable, energy efficient buildings.” The investment in Scarborough is in addition to a £7.2 million facility upgrade to Schneider Electric’s site in Leeds, announced in October 2023, meaning the company will create more than 300 jobs in Yorkshire over the next 10 years. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Contactum's ongoing commitment to training

Contactum has announced that Katie Durrant and Emma Sanders have successfully completed EDA modules. Katie and Emma both received certificates for completing the Customer Services module, and Katie also completed the Introduction to the Principles of Electricity, Distribution, Switchgear and Protection modules. Nigel Birch, Head of UK Sales and Key Accounts, comments on their achievements, “It’s great to see that Katie and Emma have completed these EDA modules, ensuring they have a wider understanding and appreciation of the content from an internal sales and customer service perspective. I am sure it will benefit them and our customers. Well done to both.”

Skills for Security announces partnership with Cento

Skills for Security, a provider of fire and security training, has announced its newest sponsor, Cento - a recruitment consultancy specialising in the fire and security, engineering, and built environment sectors. This collaboration marks a significant step forward for both organisations, as they work together to enhance industry standards and promote professional development within the fire and security sector. Cento’s sponsorship will provide support to Skills for Security’s ongoing initiatives to deliver high-quality training and development opportunities for professionals within the security industry. With a shared commitment to fostering excellence and upholding the highest standards, the partnership is designed to create a positive impact across the sector. David Scott, Managing Director at Skills for Security, comments, "We are delighted to welcome Cento as a sponsor. Its commitment to excellence in recruitment aligns perfectly with Skills for Security's mission to provide top-tier training and development for fire and security professionals. This partnership will enable us to expand our reach and continue to support the growth and development of individuals within the industry." Brett Ennals, CEO of Cento, adds, "Partnering with Skills for Security is a fantastic opportunity for us to support the future of the fire and security sector. We believe in the importance of investing in people, and this sponsorship reflects our dedication to helping shape a skilled and competent workforce." The sponsorship will see Cento actively involved with Skills for Security, providing valuable insights from a recruitment perspective. Skills for Security and Cento are committed to a collaborative approach that benefits both the fire and security industry and its workforce. By combining their expertise and resources, they aim to make the fire and security industry a career of choice and close the skills gap within the sector. For more from Skills for Security, click here.

South Cambridgeshire leads the way with renewable installations

According to data from MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme), the UK’s quality mark for small-scale renewable energy, South Cambridgeshire has become the second local authority in England to have over one in five households with a certified renewable energy installation. This compares with an overall figure of 6.1% of households across England that have an MCS certified installation. Solar PV is the most popular renewable technology in South Cambridgeshire, with over 11,000 certified solar PV installations recorded since 2008. In fact, solar PV accounts for 82.8% of all certified renewable installations in South Cambridgeshire, revealing how homeowners in the region are tapping into free energy from the sun to power their homes. Air source heat pumps are the second most popular renewable technology in South Cambridgeshire, accounting for 14.5% of all certified installations in the area. It is a technology that is on the rise, and there have already been more heat pumps installed in South Cambridgeshire in 2024 than across the whole of 2023, showing the increasing number of residents opting for cleaner, greener heating solutions for their homes. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which is available across England and Wales, is playing a key role in making heat pumps more affordable and accessible. The incentive provides £7,500 towards the installation of a heat pump and requires it to be MCS certified. Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS, says, “It’s great to see the growing demand amongst homeowners in South Cambridgeshire to generate their own home-grown electricity, lower their energy bills, and decrease their carbon footprint with quality MCS certified installations. "I look forward to seeing more homeowners across England place their trust in MCS certified contractors and transition to cleaner, greener energy solutions for their homes." MCS holds the most comprehensive repository of data on the uptake of small-scale renewable technologies across the UK on The MCS Data Dashboard. For near-real-time updates on renewable installations, you can sign up for free to The MCS Data Dashboard by clicking here. For more from MCS, click here.

Click Scolmore introduces Definity Complete in matt bronze

With the increasing demand for decorative wiring accessories, electrical contractors are looking for stylish and refined solutions to complement modern interiors. In response, Click Scolmore has expanded its Definity Complete range, which now features a new sleek matt bronze finish. Renowned for its screwless, push-fit face plates, the Definity Complete range is designed to give installers the ultimate flexibility. As all Click switch plates are modular as standard, this allows for endless combinations to suit multiple installations within both domestic and commercial environments. The new matt bronze finish, available with black inserts, seeks to add elegance to any interior, making it ideal for both residential and commercial settings. The popular range now totals nine finishes including matt bronze, antique brass, brushed steel, stainless steel, polished chrome, white, metal white, matt black and metal black finishes. The Definity Complete product brochure can be downloaded from Scolmore's website as well as from the company's app. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rjqEvRs1PgI[/embed] For more from Scolmore, click here.

Ovia introduces new range of LED panels

With energy efficiency remaining a key priority for the lighting sector, Ovia’s latest product development focuses on the company’s range of LED panels, with the launch of new and improved versions which now feature lower wattages and produce higher lumen outputs. Ovia’s premium Inceptor Slate Backlit LED panels, as well as the regular Slate Backlit panels, are now available in 22W versions that produce an impressive 140 lm/W output to maximise energy efficiency. The LED panels market has come a long way since they were first introduced more than 10 years ago, when a 45W panel cost more than £200. In recent years, LED panels have been used as the main replacement for fluorescent tubes as a means of saving on energy consumption. With the launch of the new 140 lumen panels range within its commercial lighting offer, Ovia is creating the opportunity for the replacement of existing higher wattage panels for these more energy efficient versions to create even further energy savings. Ovia’s Inceptor Slate Backlit is a premium TP(a) rated LED Panel with a low <19 UGR diffuser. The range has been upgraded to reduce the wattage from 30W and 40W to 22W and 30W, to achieve a higher lumen output whilst consuming much less power. As well as being power switchable, these new backlit panels feature selectable CCT (4000K, 5000K and 6500K) options as standard, to offer completely customisable lighting solutions. There are three sizes available: - 22-30W 600mm x 600mm - 22-30W 1200mm x 300mm - 37-50W 1200mm x 600mm At the same time as introducing the improved Inceptor Slate LED Panel range, the company has upgraded its standard Slate Backlit Panels which are now available in a reduced wattage of 22W, producing a 140 lm/W output. These 4000K low glare 600 x 600, 22W panels are available in a TP(a) or TP(b) option. These ratings relate to the fire-rating of thermoplastic diffuser materials. Thermoplastic materials undergo specific tests to certify their ability to withstand the application of heat and fire. The requirements are established by Building Regulations Approved Document B, which sets out the fire safety of buildings. Section B2 covers internal fire spread. The difference between TP(a) and TP(b) rated materials is in their composition and thickness or how they react under test conditions when a flame is applied to them. Both the Inceptor Slate and the standard Slate Backlit LED panels are supplied with LED driver and pre-wired push-fit 3-Pole Ovia Flow connector, and they come with a five-year warranty. More information from Ovia, click here.

IronmongeryDirect publishes brand new catalogue

Specialist supplier, IronmongeryDirect, has released its latest catalogue featuring 500 new additions to its extensive range. Ideal for tradespeople to browse whilst on the go, the 2024 Autumn edition can be delivered to homes and businesses for free, or alternatively, it can be viewed online on the retailer’s website. The most recent catalogue details the retailer’s key product lines, as well as a selection of its new additions, which include products from renowned brands such as Alexander & Wilks, Heat Mat, and Heat My Home. A key highlight of the new line-up includes a selection of high-quality door handles from Alexander & Wilks, which join a burgeoning range of door hardware from the specialist retailer. Representing the epitome of British architectural door hardware and ironmongery design, the collection offers customers a variety of attractive finishes in three styles, including the Spitfire Reeded Door Handles on rose, featuring a tactile reeded barrel design for easy grip whilst retaining a striking appearance. Alternatively, the Knurled Door Handle on rose is designed with a modern-cut knurled pattern for simplicity and elegance. The online supplier has also expanded its range of heating and ventilation solutions. New additions include underfloor heating products from Heat Mat with a range of easy to install electric underfloor heat mats that can be directly fitted beneath tile and stone, or with levelling compound for use with carpet, LVT and laminate floors. The Heat My Home App Controlled Thermostat also joins the HVAC line-up, to offer a stylish and efficient method of controlling both floor and room temperatures and can be paired with a smart device companion app for additional convenience. The retailer has also expanded its range with a further 2,300 products available online, including a wide choice of tools and tool accessories from industry leading brands, OX Tools, ProDec and TIMCO. Kelly Wing, Senior Category & Direct Sourcing Manager at IronmongeryDirect, says, “We are excited to launch our latest catalogue and are proud of the extensive range of new products we are now able to offer our customers. Each product we sell is carefully chosen to ensure we offer the best, most high-quality products as well as a wide variety to suit the need of all projects and budgets.” IronmongeryDirect has been serving the trade for over 50 years, with over 18,000 products in stock including everything from hinges, locks, and security devices to specialist fire door hardware and electrical products. The retailer says that all of these products are regularly reviewed to ensure customers get great deals, including bulk buy savings on thousands of products and regular price drops on top trade essentials. Customers can make use of the supplier’s Trade Quotes service for larger jobs and choose from a range of flexible delivery options, including free next day delivery on orders placed up until 9pm over £50 (excluding VAT), two-working day delivery, same day delivery to postcodes in selected areas of London and the East of England, as well as click and collect from 6,500 pick up points across the UK. To request a free catalogue or to view online, click here. For more from IronmongeryDirect, click here.

JTL achieves sustainability verification

JTL, the largest training provider for electrical and plumbing and heating apprenticeships in England and Wales, has been awarded verification from SafeSupplier for demonstrating its ethical, environment and financial credentials. SafeSupplier accreditation demonstrates an organisation’s commitment to a robust, streamlined, consistent and effective supplier on-boarding and management solution. Businesses with the accreditation are compliant with regulatory requirements, international standards and industry best practice in the supply chain. SafeSupplier validates business capabilities and showcases ESG standards. JTL is a charity, established over 30 years ago by the ECA and Unite the Union to train apprentices in the electrical and plumbing trades. JTL currently has over 8,000 learners in England in partnership with 4,000 businesses across its network of training centres, delivering the skills needed to support housebuilding, critical national infrastructure development and achieving net zero. The company’s application for SafeSupplier verification was driven by the desire to demonstrate the highest standards in health and safety, quality, ethical best practice and responsible growth. Assessment for the mark is a robust process examining compliance to regulatory requirements, international standards and industry best practice in the supply chain. David Consterdine, Head of Audit and Assurance at JTL, comments, “JTL has always been committed to best practice in all areas of its operations, and now the company has a simple way to demonstrate this to those we work with as part of a supply chain. “Our SafeSupplier accreditation, and the process we had to go through for assessment, is a testament to the quality of JTL's operations and our relentless drive for improvement.” Gemma Archibald, Director of Alcumus SafeContractor, adds, “Major organisations simply cannot afford to run the risk of employing suppliers who are not able to prove that they have sound health and safety, quality, ethical best practice and responsible growth policies in place. “More companies need to understand the importance of adopting good risk management in the way that JTL has done. The company's high standard has set an example which hopefully will be followed by other companies within the sector.” For more from JTL, click here.

EV chargers accepted into UK Capacity Market

British smart home energy technology manufacturer, myenergi, has achieved what it believes to be an industry first in having electric vehicle (EV) chargers accepted into the Capacity Market in the UK without relying on smart meter data. The Capacity Market, an important feature of the UK's evolving energy system, was introduced by the Government approximately 10 years ago to act as an insurance policy for the electricity grid, providing protection against shortages in supply during peak demand periods. Historically, the Capacity Market has been dominated by large-scale generation - typically fossil fuels, such as gas - with renewable generation not able to participate. Flexible capacity in the past has typically been commercial and industrial, such as grid-scale batteries or a steel plant that can pause production if energy demand is too high. While domestic EV charge points have more recently been able to be aggregated to participate in the Capacity Market, they have been entered by energy suppliers using smart meter data held by these parties. However, myenergi has now achieved an industry first by having thousands of its zappi EV chargers accepted into the Capacity Market using the metering from the EV chargers themselves. Lee Sutton, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer of myenergi, says, “This is a really important and exciting milestone in creating a truly flexible and distributed energy system in the UK. We firmly believe that flexibility markets must be open to a wider variety of players, and myenergi has proven that this is possible through the high-quality technology in our products and our innovative approach, in partnership with Axle Energy.” Karl Bach, Co-Founder and CEO of Axle, adds, “We were really pleased to collaborate with myenergi to deliver this industry-first, which we hope will serve as a proof of concept to widen participation in all flexibility markets, not just the Capacity Market.” In return for ensuring sufficient reliable capacity is available, the Capacity Market provides payments to parties investing in new capacity or ensuring existing capacity remains available, and myenergi ultimately seeks to share this value with customers. For more from myenergi, click here.

Snickers Workwear’s energising new technical mid-layers

Snickers Workwear’s new range of lightweight mid-layers are a Fusion of style and performance - built for active work in the autumn. Crafted for full flexibility on site and optimal comfort and built for active work, they’re fully flexible and can be worn as an outer layer when it’s warmer or a mid-layer when it’s a bit cooler. They’re full of handy technical features and innovative fabrics to tame the wind, plus brand new energising colours to brighten your springtime workday. Choose from new street-smart styles such as the Windblocker Half-zip Hoodie or the Lightweight Flexiwork Mid-Layer Jacket – creative workwear solutions designed to make your job easier. Whatever Snickers Workwear mid-layer you choose, you can be sure that they all have body-mapping designs for a great fit, outstanding functionality and long-lasting comfort – all day, every day. For more from Snickers Workwear, click here.