2024 set for record heat pump installations

2024 is on track to see more heat pumps installed in the UK than ever before, according to data from MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme), the UK’s quality mark for small-scale renewable energy. In the first six months of the year there have been 27,000 certified heat pump installations in the UK, which is 45% higher than the same period in 2023 – which was itself a record-breaking year for the technology. It means that the total figure for 2024 is almost certain to be higher than any previous years, as the transition to net zero gathers pace. Speaking about the increasing number of heat pumps being installed in the UK, Charlotte Lee, Chief Executive of Heat Pump Association, says, “It is fantastic to see the continuing growth in heat pump installations within the UK, underscoring the progress and commitment from the sector in supporting the decarbonisation of heat. Clarity and confidence from the new Labour Government on the direction of travel for the electrification of heat will be crucial to continue the momentum and ensure we stay on track for a record year.” The data also reveals more than 80,000 homes have had certified solar panels installed so far in 2024, having surpassed the 1.5 million installations mark earlier this year. Battery storage installations, meanwhile, have reached almost 8,000 certified installations in 2024, which is already more than any previous year with six months still to go. It shows a remarkable rise for the technology since the Battery Storage Installation Standard was introduced in 2021, and as homeowners increasingly look to build their own energy resilience. Chris Hewett, CEO at Solar Energy UK, adds, “I am glad that consumer demand for solar energy has remained both substantial and stable over the first half of the year, buoyed both by high energy bills and undoubtedly by environmental concerns too. This should provide installers with the confidence to invest in their staff, particularly in recruiting the new people we need to grow the sector.” “We should also celebrate reaching the milestone of 1.5 million MCS-scale solar installations this spring, not to mention battery storage systems - the natural partner to solar PV - hitting a new record last month. It's safe to say that now is something of a golden era for smaller-scale sustainable energy.” Ian Rippin, CEO at MCS, comments, “As the decarbonisation of UK homes gathers pace, it’s vital that homeowner confidence in renewables continues to grow alongside that to sustain demand. High-quality installations are key to this because we want everyone to enjoy the benefits of home-grown energy, so it’s fantastic to see these record numbers for certified installations. “We also know that alongside consumer trust in the effectiveness of renewable technology, ongoing government support can make a significant difference in helping to make the transition. The recently published Heat Strategy for Wales highlights a clear commitment to heat pumps, and initiatives such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) – which provides up to £7,500 towards the installation of a heat pump – are crucial in providing support to consumers. It is no coincidence that the record number of certified heat pump installations has coincided with a record number of BUS applications in 2024, which is ensuring more homeowners have access to low-carbon technology. It’s something that we hope the government will continue to support as home-grown energy becomes more mainstream in UK 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, sign up to The MCS Data Dashboard by clicking here. For more from MCS, click here.

Metcor appoints new Group Managing Director

Aylesford Electrical Contractors' parent company, The Metcor Group, has announced the appointment of Philip Fellowes-Prynne as Group Managing Director. Philip brings a wealth of experience in leading sustainable building solutions to the role, and will play a key role in driving the Metcor Group's continued growth and commitment to environmentally responsible solutions. “We are thrilled to welcome Philip to the Metcor Group,” says Nicholas Gaisman, CEO of the company. “His proven track record in the sustainable building solutions sector perfectly aligns with our vision for the future. Philip's leadership will be instrumental in expanding our service offerings and solidifying our position as a leader in sustainable drainage, water management, pumping, and electrical solutions.” Prior to joining the Metcor Group, Philip was Chief Executive at Efficient Building Solutions, where he championed sustainable practices within the construction industry. His extensive experience positions him perfectly to leverage the combined expertise of the Metcor Group's companies - Metcor Environmental, Anglo Pumps, and Aylesford Electrical Contractors. Philip comments, “I am honoured to join the Metcor Group at such a pivotal time. The Group's dedication to providing innovative and sustainable solutions aligns perfectly with my own values. I look forward to working with the talented team to build upon the company's impressive legacy and further our commitment to environmental responsibility.” For more from Metcor, click here.

New office sparks expansion push for Arc Electrical

ARC Electrical UK Services, a fast-growing Black Country electrical specialist, has capped a record year by investing in new offices in Upper Gornal. The company, which was founded by Adam Checketts in 2021, has moved into a 2,500 square foot facility on Dormston Trading Estate, providing a larger home for the business to expand and giving it a dedicated training space for staff. The company supports the private sector and social housing providers with a range of services, including full electrical installation works, new builds, upgrades on offices and factories and Electrical Safety Reports (EICR). Clients span from Holdens Brewery and Wolverhampton Wanderers to G&T Properties, GreenSquareAccord, Black Country Housing and Utopia Maintenance. Founder of the company, Adam Checketts, comments, “We’ve come a long way since we started back in 2021, when the work I was completing on weekends and evenings got so much that I decided to turn it into a full-time venture. “Most of our growth in the early stages came from ‘word of mouth’ about our professionalism, the quality of our work and our ability to turn around jobs quickly when the rest of our sector was giving lead times of six weeks or more.” Adam continues, “We then started to win tenders for larger contracts with major organisations. That has really transformed where we are going and led to the new offices just off Burton Road in Upper Gornal. “This investment gives us a central hub to manage the different teams we have out on site, a place where we can host clients and, importantly, the capability to train our electricians. In fact, we‘ve decided to make the room available to local companies so they can train people in the community.” ARC Electrical UK Services now employs seven people, including electricians, admin staff, one improver and two apprentices - the latter a firm commitment to offer long-term employment opportunities for young people. A string of new contract wins has seen turnover rocket to £425,000 and, with a host of new projects due to kick-off shortly, the CHAS Elite and NICEIC-accredited firm is now turning its attention to taking on further admin support and two more qualified electricians. Adam concludes, “As a company, we are committed to leading our industry in safety advancements, workforce training and embedding new technology into our offer - and ultimately giving our customers access to ‘greener’ power and cost savings through more efficient lighting and systems. “We are passionate about our Black Country roots and want to grow to be one of the best electrical businesses in the region.”

Members urged to contribute to neutral current diversion research

SELECT Members are being asked to provide their feedback to help an industry-wide research project into neutral current diversion (NCD). The association is working with sector partners IET, ECA, Electrical Safety First, NICEIC and NAPIT to help shape a UK-wide picture of the scale of the issue. Contractors who come across NCD are being asked to submit their findings by clicking here. Participants will be asked to answer a short survey, including questions on the postcode of the installation, the voltage/current measured and if the incident was reported by calling 105. The research period will run for six months, during which submissions will be reviewed. Bob Cairney, Director of Technical Services at SELECT, comments, “Currently, there’s not a lot of data about NCD available in the public domain, which is why this industry-wide research is being conducted. “What happens next depends on what is uncovered; if there are lots of incidences in one area, then the DNO in that area will be made aware of the size of the problem, and if there are lots of incidences countrywide, then every DNO will be alerted. “Should the findings indicate a problem wider than expected, it may be that the group also decides to inform the UK Government.” SELECT has already issued a range of NCD resources to help contractors, including posters, a downloadable flowchart and a pocket-sized foldout that advises how to check for the issue. NCD was also among the hot topics at SELECT's recent Toolbox Talks, with technical advisers delivering an update to hundreds of Members across Scotland in May and June. For more from SELECT, click here.

ECA praises the King's Speech

The ECA has praised the King’s Speech - which took place on 17 July - for focusing on energy security and growth. The Association has reiterated the role of the electrotechnical and engineering services sector in delivering both. ECA has also welcomed the creation of Skills England, a new governance body for post-16 skills and training. A sector-wide survey carried out by ECA in early 2024 showed that electrotechnical businesses have been held back by slow growth, caused in part by a shortage of adequately skilled workers. ECA Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Eldred, comments, “We expect our Members, and the wider sector, will welcome the new government’s early emphasis on energy, transport, and housing. However, a competent, sustainable skills base is the foundation for delivering growth in these areas, and meeting net zero targets. “We urge the new government to make sure Skills England is an agile body that can move at pace. It must also be a body that listens and understands the needs of employers in the electrotechnical sector.” ECA has long called for more investment in green energy, and is hopeful that the introduction of GB Energy will speed up the country’s transition to clean electrification. With the CCC recently announcing we are no longer on track to reach its net zero targets by 2030, rapid electrification is the safest and quickest way to get back on course. ECA works closely with its Members, industry partners and Government to raise awareness of the role of electrical contractors in the transition to net zero carbon. To learn more, click here. For more from ECA, click here.

FMB comments on the creation of Skills England

Although the creation of Skills England, a new body to tackle the construction skills crisis, is being hailed by many as a positive move by the new Government - its success will be dependent on what it prioritises and having a long-term skills plan in place, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) says. Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, explains, “Over recent weeks, the new Government has set out ambitious plans to get Britain building again, but this can only be achieved if the skills crisis is tackled. There is a serious shortage of all trades in the construction industry, with the result that we need additional 240,000-plus workers over the next four years. “The Prime Minister’s announcement to set up Skill England recognises the seriousness of the problem, but details about how Skills England will operate remain light. It will be vital that future delivery focuses on a long-term skills plan being put in place, and that plans to allow up to 50% of the Apprenticeship Levy to be redirected into other forms of training don’t result in a fall in the number of construction apprenticeships available.” Brian continues, “As part of the Prime Minister’s announcement that the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) will be amalgamated into the new Skills England, maintaining current skill levels, and increasing numbers further, must remain a key focus. “It raises a question about what role the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) will play in this new system. We’re still awaiting publication of the Mark Framer performance review of CITB, which may help provide some clarity. The Secretary of State for Education should publish the report as soon as possible to ensure the industry has stability about its future training needs.”

Baxi heat pumps employed in Scottish housing project

A development of 16 social homes designed and built to achieve the Passivhaus standard has been constructed in Dalbeattie, Dumfries and Galloway with the support of Baxi and its air source heat pump solutions and services. To play its part in the delivery of these new net zero homes for Loreburn Housing Association, heating contractor James Frew required a solution that would provide sustainable heat to the properties; in this case, air source heat pumps. The team then needed to find a strategic partner that would be able to offer the solutions and on-site support to implement the technology. Facing stringent design requirements to make the homes efficient and low carbon, James Frew decided to partner with Baxi to benefit from its full range of support services, training and efficient products. Designed By Architect, Robert Potter and Partners and built by main contractor Ashleigh (Scotland), the two and three-bedroom properties were to meet the highest standards of energy efficiency and comfort – part of Loreburn’s commitment to delivering new homes fit for the future. This type of home will play a key role as local authorities and housing associations such as Loreburn look to deliver new homes in line with the New Build Heat Standard (Scotland) or Future Homes Standard. Using the Passivhaus model, the entire home had to be designed around achieving the best energy efficiency as well as the heating source being a heat pump. This involved specifying not only the insulation and windows to meet the standard, but also the correctly sized heat pump for each home. Space was also a consideration in the homes. The design needed to guarantee there was ample room for the internal and external elements of the heat pump solution, without compromising on comfort for tenants. The James Frew team worked closely with Baxi’s experts – Specification Manager, Craig McVicar, and Engineering Solutions Manager, Ryan Kirkwood – to ensure the correct specification of heat pump for the design requirements of each house. Baxi’s air source heat pumps, compatible cylinders and uSense controls were specified to provide the heating and hot water provision for each of the 16 homes through three radiators. As part of Baxi’s heat pump service, the team of engineers had access to the company’s specialist training to allow them to become familiar with the specified solution and be confident in installing it before the project began. They also benefitted from expert support on site, ensuring the full system was designed correctly and could be installed within the space. Baxi’s Commissioning Engineers, Michael Murray and Adam Stock, were on hand to oversee the commissioning of each of the heat pumps and make certain they would operate as expected once in place at each home. Evan Peat, Senior Contract Manager at James Frew, says, “From tender to completion, it has been great to have the support of Baxi’s expert service throughout the process. The design support and training meant the team had peace of mind that the most suitable products would be going into the homes and that our engineers were comfortable with the installation of them. “It was also really important to have the support on site from Craig and Ryan. Having their expertise on the ground meant we were able to overcome this challenge and still meet the Passivhaus standard.” Rob Pearse, Director of Distribution Sales at Baxi UK, adds, “This innovative project is a great example of how collaboration and consultation can result in amazing results for delivering net zero social housing. As heating solutions experts, we can work closely with social housing providers and their appointed contractors to consider the different approaches for low-carbon heating, selecting the most suitable combination of solutions for the application. “Whether it is a new build project to Passivhaus standard like this one or decarbonising existing developments through retrofit, we are committed to providing the complete home service to our social housing clients.” Alison Maxwell, Project Delivery Officer for Loreburn HA, comments, “The standard of these homes is testament to Loreburn’s commitment to building warm and highly energy efficient homes, where technology and intelligent design come together to create a sustainable future for our tenants”. Speaking about his experience of living in one of the properties, Alan Vinnie, a Loreburn tenant, notes, “It will really help to lower my energy bills, which is a huge relief. You can really notice the change in the air and it’s so quiet. I think all future builds should be of this quality”. For more from Baxi, click here.

Johnson Controls enhances efficiency of Paris Olympics venues

Thanks to the latest technology from Johnson Controls, fans at the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris are set to enjoy a more comfortable experience at some of the smartest and most energy-efficient stadiums on the continent. By integrating advanced building automation systems, HVAC and fire suppression technologies across eight venues, the company is not only helping the International Olympic Committee prioritise safety and operational efficiency, but also is contributing to the Committee's ambitious goal of reducing the event's carbon footprint by 50% compared to previous Olympic Games. Achieving this goal required making the building infrastructure behind the games' venues more energy efficient and sustainable. For example, two of the latest innovations of Johnson Controls' York 3.3 MW industrial chillers are in operation at the new cooling production plant, the La Chapelle plant, located in the Adidas Arena sports and cultural complex. As the twelfth power plant in the city of Paris' cooling network, it meets the cooling needs of the Adidas Arena and the surrounding area. This equipment provides sustainable and energy-efficient cooling at one of the flagship sites of the Olympic Games. "With temperatures rising year on year and heatwaves becoming the norm, the need for sustainable cooling technology is critical to ensure optimal conditions in venues while minimising the impact on the planet," says Marc Vandiepenbeeck, CFO and EMEALA President for Johnson Controls. "Chillers are one of the most energy-consuming pieces of equipment in a building and represent an important opportunity to cut energy use and cost, while minimising carbon footprint and delivering a healthier indoor environment." A further example is a renowned tennis stadium where the Johnson Controls Metasys building automation system links the most vital building equipment including HVAC, lighting control and energy management. The system controls and monitors performance and provides real-time data so that facility managers can identify potential issues, make adjustments and ensure the stadium is running as efficiently and sustainably as possible. Marc continues, "We are proud to work with these prestigious venues and help our customers achieve their desired outcomes in energy efficiency, carbon reduction emissions, safety, security and building management. Our expertise in smart stadiums and large venues has made Johnson Controls the partner of choice for stadiums across the world and we continue to innovate in this space to further elevate the fan experience." Johnson Controls drives fan engagement, operational efficiency and sustainability with innovative building technology at sports and entertainment venues across the globe. The company provides smart buildings solutions to Intaleq in Doha, Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, O2 Arena in London, Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Chase Centre in San Francisco, Borussia Dortmund at Signal Iduna Park, and more. It offers its full range of technologies for this sector including its OpenBlue digital platform, building automation system, HVAC, fire detection and suppression. For more from Johnson Controls, click here.

New Advanced CPD set to combat false fire alarms

Advanced, a global provider of fire safety solutions, has announced the launch of its latest Continuing Professional Development (CPD) course - named Managing False Fire Alarms: Tools & Techniques. This course addresses one of the fire industry's most persistent challenges, offering professionals the expertise needed to mitigate false fire alarms effectively. Managing False Fire Alarms – Tools & Techniques is a comprehensive, free CPD course that addresses the common causes of false alarms, their impact on safety and business continuity, as well as exploring effective strategies for mitigation. Attendees will gain in-depth knowledge of: • Alarm verification techniques • Investigation delays • BS EN54-2 compliance • Controlled evacuation strategies tailored to various building types. This course is delivered by members of the Advanced team with decades of industry experience and is ideal for consultants, fire risk assessors, facilities managers, health and safety professionals, and anyone involved in ensuring fire safety. Attendees will enhance their understanding of false alarm reduction techniques, crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency and business continuity. Matt Jones, Head of Sales for the UK & Ireland at Advanced, comments: “At Advanced, we are dedicated to raising industry standards through education. Competency in the fire safety industry is crucial, and our new CPD course on managing false fire alarms is another important step in equipping fellow fire-industry professionals with the latest tools and techniques to effectively reduce false and unwanted fire alarm incidents.” Advanced continues to promote industry knowledge through its range of CPD courses, which also includes A Guide to BS 8629, offering practical tips and insight into the key points of the BS 8629:2019+A1:2023 Code of Practice, covering the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of evacuation alert systems for fire and rescue services in buildings containing flats. To widen understanding of the BS 5266-1 Code of Practice for the emergency lighting of premises, Advanced also runs regular sessions covering The Best Route to Compliance for Your Emergency Lighting. Advanced CPDs hold approvals from the FIA and CPD Certification Service, with participants receiving a certificate of attendance upon successful completion of each course. Anyone interested in enhancing their skills and knowledge can register for the Managing False Fire Alarms CPD course by clicking here.

Energy & Utility Skills celebrates 25th anniversary

Industry skills body, Energy & Utility Skills, is celebrating 25 years of collaborating with employers, regulators, governments and agencies across the UK. For over a quarter of a century, the business has identified workforce and skills needs, adapting to many challenges, and delivering solutions to meet employers’ needs. Celebrating the anniversary on 22 July, Phil Beach CBE, CEO of Energy & Utility Skills, says, “This milestone reflects our success in collaborating with our members, government and key stakeholders to help deliver the skills that employers need. “Our recent company party celebrated the wealth of experience and knowledge within our team and everything we have accomplished together. As skills and workforce experts, we’re proud of our work to set industry standards and deliver high-quality apprenticeship assessments, qualifications and schemes. We’re looking forward to continuing our work in support of industry and the UK’s ambitions for achieving net zero and environmental goals in the years ahead.” The organisation began in 1999 as the Gas Industries National Training Organisation (GINTO). In 2003, it began trading as Energy & Utility Skills and was awarded its licence to operate as a Sector Skills Council by the Department for Education and Skills. The Energy & Utility Skills Register (EUSR), which was launched in 2005, improves workforce safety and regulatory compliance through quality assurance, scheme development and a register of skills. Partnering with industry to provide a trusted, authoritative voice ensures a skilled, competent workforce. In 2006, EUSR launched the National Water Hygiene scheme, standardising hygiene training across water companies to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. EUSR is also the CSCS Alliance Partner for all on-site utilities work. In 2015, the business reacted to apprenticeship reform by launching Energy & Utilities Independent Assessment Service (EUIAS). It carried out the first end-point assessments in the country for the Power Network Craftsperson standard in 2016. Last year, the business expanded to develop qualifications to support the sector’s skills requirements. Energy & Utility Skills provides a strategic voice on all skills issues, ensuring the right schemes, qualifications, apprenticeships, assessments and funding are in place across the UK. It supports the delivery of the workforce required to meet the UK’s energy and utilities infrastructure demands. Membership secures a seat at this influential table, enabling engagement as an industry with government, regulators and other key influencers, while receiving sector intelligence, research and insights to strategically drive their industry forward. Phil Beach adds, "Our industries underwrite the UK’s ambitions to tackle the impacts of climate change through the drive to net zero and environmental improvements. A safe, skilled and sustainable workforce is critical for achieving these goals and we bring industry together to champion skills issues.” With this in mind, the inaugural Energy & Utility Skills Conference and Awards will be held at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on 10 September 2024. With significant changes ahead, the conference will focus on skills and jobs related to the green agenda and achieving net zero, sharing knowledge and celebrating excellence.