UK properties "stuck in the Dark Ages", smart building expert claims

A leading voice in the global smart building industry is set to fly to the UK and tell delegates at a Midlands conference how cost-cutting and tradition are keeping the country’s commercial properties “stuck in the Dark Ages”. Tim Miscovich, the outspoken Chief Commercial Officer of tech innovator, wtec, will use his address at the forthcoming Workplace Technology Conference, which takes place in Derby on 6 June, to explain where he thinks the UK is going wrong. Tim’s firm manufacturers smartengine, a network-powered lighting and sensor technology which provides energy savings and sensor data such as electricity usage, air quality, temperature and room occupancy levels to the building’s management system to enable operators to get a snapshot of their space. The company has worked in buildings operated by some of the world’s biggest best-known companies - including Google, Meta, Apple, PWC and Gymshark - and it has also fitted its smart building technology within high-profile projects in New York City, including on the 61st floor of SL Green’s iconic ONE Vanderbilt building. Smart building technology has been widely adopted and understood in the USA, which has embraced its benefits including sustainability, cost-savings and extra comfort that it delivers for the building’s occupants. By contrast, Tim believes the UK’s take-up of the technology has been disappointingly slow, which he says is due to cultural attitudes towards building methods, taking risks and spending. Time explains, “Compared to the US, I would say that when it comes to smart building technology, the UK - and in many respects, wider Europe - is, sadly, stuck in the Dark Ages. “Linking the horizontal and vertical technologies of a building is now becoming a standard practice in the US and other parts of the world, and we are increasingly working with smaller, less well-known firms that are investing in these technologies so they can have the most intelligent, sustainable and user-friendly space. “Saving energy is at the heart of this. Some people think that because we drive around in big trucks in the States we’re free and easy when it comes to energy use in our buildings, but they couldn’t be more wrong, because reducing energy waste is good business and we’re all about doing things that make sense. “The UK has made some strides, but it hasn’t got there yet [despite the fact the] technology has been readily available for the last 10 years. I would equate it to the conversion from analogue to VoIP phones.” Tim will also talk about one bright spot in the UK’s property landscape – Treetops Hospice in Risley, just eight miles away from where the conference is taking place. The hospice is home to one of the UK healthcare sector’s most advanced buildings: a therapy centre for children who have experienced a bereavement, which was erected as part of the BBC Children In Need’s DIY: SOS last year. Among the hundreds of plasterers, carpenters and landscape gardeners who gave up their time to create the project was a team from Derby firm, Scenariio, which fitted wtec’s smartengine technology which integrates with the BMS to provide real-time data on aspects such as energy optimisation, human-centric lighting and indoor air quality. Tim comments, “It’s a perfect example of how everything works together to make the building more energy efficient and comfortable for the people who use it, and I’m looking forward to a visit when I’m in Derby.” The one-day Workplace conference is being held at Derby’s Chocolate Factory venue, which is downstairs from Scenariio’s offices in Siddals Road. The event will offer a blend of exhibits and trade stands as well as discussions from Tim and other industry experts looking at issues including how AI can help create intelligent buildings that can offer occupants a more tailored and individual user experience. George Pritchard, Technical Director of Scenariio, notes, “Tim is right at the cutting-edge of the smart building industry and we’re really looking forward to what he has to say. “Although he pulls no punches, his comments on how the UK is falling behind when it comes to smart building technology will certainly get people thinking and, we hope, will help to shake up the industry.” Registration for the event is free, but attendees will be invited to make a donation to Treetops Hospice. For more information and to book your place, visit www.workplacetechnology.io.

Treston launches QuatreX electrical workbench

Treston, a provider of ergonomic workspace products, has announced the launch of its latest innovation, the Treston QuatreX electrical workbench. Engineered to excel in precision work across diverse industries, Treston believes it sets a new benchmark in stability, speed, and adaptability. Treston QuatreX is designed to seamlessly merge the stability of a traditional four-legged workbench with the added advantage of height adjustment, ensuring minimal vibration for tasks requiring precision. Equipped with four powerful motors, it boasts the fastest adjusting speed Treston has ever designed for electric workbenches, allowing users to transition from down to up in less than 14 seconds. Furthermore, Treston QuatreX introduces the capability to utilise both perforated and aluminium uprights, offering modular flexibility in workstation setup. Whether in luxury goods manufacturing, electronics, fine mechanics, logistics, maintenance, or R&D labs, Treston QuatreX adapts seamlessly to diverse industry needs. Optional side plates, available as accessories, provide a safe and secure environment when two tables are used side by side, enhancing workplace safety. With its modern design, Treston believes that QuatreX adds a touch of sophistication to any workspace while ensuring optimal functionality. Kari Nokka, Product Group Manager at Treston, remarks, "We're thrilled to introduce the Treston QuatreX Electrical Workbench. This product was born out of market demand for stability and flexibility. Designing of this new product has been all about stability, speed and adaptability."

Latest data shows heat pump installations are on the rise

On the day of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme's second anniversary, MCS is reporting that there were more than 4,500 certified heat pump installations in April alone, making it the third-best month for heat pumps in the scheme's history. Ian Rippin, CEO at MCS, takes up the story: “The latest MCS data shows that during 2024, April was the best month so far for the uptake of small-scale renewables, with a total of 18,621 certified installations across the UK. “There were more than 4,500 certified heat pump installations in April alone, making it the third-best month for heat pumps in Scheme history. Average monthly heat pump installations this year are 32% higher compared to 2023, setting the stage for what looks to be another record-breaking year for the technology. It’s evidence that more homeowners are making the switch to low-carbon heating, bolstered in part through government initiatives such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). “The BUS, which requires installations to be MCS certified to qualify for the grant, remains a critical part of the drive to make low-carbon heating more accessible and affordable. As we approach its two-year anniversary, government figures show there have been more than 37,000 applications for grants as of the end of March 2024. The number of BUS applications in March alone was 46% higher in 2024 compared to March 2023, and looking at January to March as a whole, applications were up by 56% compared to the same period in 2023. “MCS data also shows that the momentum for battery storage installations continues to build, with 1,374 certified installations in April alone, making it the best month ever for this technology, and surpassing 10,000 total certified installations. “Finally, Wales continued to strengthen its position as the leading nation for renewable energy uptake, with 8.90% of households now having an MCS certified renewable installation, moving further ahead of Scotland’s 8.59%. We can also see that both South Hams and Stirling have exceeded the 20% uptake mark. This makes South Hams the first local authority in England to have more than one in five households with a certified renewable installation.” For near-real-time dynamic visualisations of the uptake of small-scale renewable technologies across the UK, view the MCS Data Dashboard here. For more from MCS, click here.

Martindale Electric expands its Locking Off device range

Implementing safe isolation is essential to achieving compliance with the Electricity at Work Regulations, which are there to ensure that workers on site are not exposed to danger when working on or near live electrical systems. With this in mind, Martindale Electric has expanded its Locking Off device range, to help electricians stay safe during the installation and maintenance of electrical plant and equipment. The Martindale 'LOK' lock out devices have been designed to fit a wide range of MCBs, RCBOs, fuse carriers and main switches and are compatible with Martindale PAD series padlocks and TAG label sets. A recent addition to the range is the Martindale LOCK26 - an item that doesn't require tools to fit as it has a clamping action, activated by use of a simple turn-by-hand adjustment then closing the device and applying the appropriate warning tag and padlock. In addition to individual components, Martindale offers electrical industry focused kits ranging from the LOKKITBASE, a basic lock out kit ideal for domestic installers working on smaller installations, through to LOKKITPRO, a more substantial lock out kit which contains a comprehensive range of locking off devices for use by contractors and maintenance teams working on industrial and commercial systems. From an individual electrician working on a domestic installation through to a maintenance team working on an industrial site, Martindale offers solutions with a wide portfolio of safety products available either as individual items or within a handy kit. The range includes lock off devices and warning signs, proving units, voltage indicators/testers and many accessories. More additions to the range are scheduled for later in the year. For more from Martindale Electric, click here.

Anritsu unveils latest advancements in field testing equipment

Anritsu Corporation, a provider of test and measurement technologies, has unveiled its latest advancements in field testing equipment - the Site Master MS2085A Cable and Antenna Analyzer and the MS2089A with Integrated Spectrum Analyzer. These latest entries to the company's line-up are designed from the ground up to address the multifaceted demands of the general-purpose market. They seek to redefine industry standards for functionality, precision, and user-friendly operation, and Anritsu says they mark a leap forward in field testing technology. The Site Master MS2085A and MS2089A combine Anritsu's extensive experience and commitment to customer-focused innovation. This dual offering merges the functions of cable and antenna analysis with spectrum analysis and monitoring in a seamless, integrated solution. It is tailored to support a wide spectrum of industries, including telecommunications, broadcasting, aerospace, satellite, and defence, facilitating a variety of applications from Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) and satellite monitoring to interference analysis and routine installation and maintenance tasks. Highlighted features and advantages: • Multi-functional capability: The Site Master's integration of cable and antenna analysis alongside spectrum analysis equips professionals with a singular, versatile tool for a wide array of testing and analysis needs. It stands as a comprehensive solution for assessing antenna systems, diagnosing wireless networks, or conducting spectrum signal monitoring. • Operational efficiency: Merging multiple testing functions into one device, the Site Master significantly optimises field testing workflows. This consolidation reduces the need for multiple instruments, streamlines testing processes, and allows for greater achievements in shorter timeframes - effectively enhancing productivity while minimising operational costs. • Accuracy and dependability: Engineered for precision and built to withstand rigorous field conditions, the Site Master ensures consistent, reliable outcomes. Its superior measurement accuracy and robust construction instil confidence in every test result, allowing for precise, informed decisions under any circumstances. • Advanced features: With features like Real-Time Spectrum Analysis (RTSA), IQ capture and streaming, and PIM hunting, Anritsu says it is not just meeting industry standards, but creating them. Raymond Chan, Product Manager at Anritsu Corporation, comments, "We are thrilled to launch the Site Master MS2085A and MS2089A, signifying a monumental stride in field testing technology. These innovations underscore our dedication to advancing testing and measurement technologies that not only meet but exceed our customers' evolving requirements across various sectors. They stand as a testament to Anritsu's unwavering commitment to excellence, setting a new benchmark for field testing proficiency." The Site Master MS2085A and MS2089A Analyzers are now available globally.

SolarEdge to unveil new products for superior energy optimisation

SolarEdge Technologies, a global provider of smart energy technology, will unveil its next-generation products at this year’s Intersolar exhibition (taking place in Munich on 18-19 June). With a focus on delivering energy optimisation across its entire smart energy ecosystem, SolarEdge will present new technologies and advancements in residential PV software, hardware and EV charging, while completing its commercial & industrial (C&I) ecosystem with a new portfolio of commercial storage and smart energy management solutions. The new innovations for the residential market to be unveiled at the show include a next-generation SolarEdge Home inverter and battery for the European market, as well as new capabilities of the SolarEdge ONE energy optimisation platform, including a solution for dynamic utility rates that provides homeowners with a faster return on investment. Broadening home energy automation, SolarEdge will also present new third-party integrations with heat pumps and EV charging devices – helping to further optimise energy usage and savings in the home. In the C&I segment, SolarEdge will present a comprehensive ecosystem for PV generation, storage and energy management for businesses. The cornerstone of this new ecosystem is SolarEdge ONE for C&I, a cloud-based energy optimisation and PV fleet management platform, designed to meet the needs of EPCs, operations and maintenance (O&M) managers, and asset owners. The platform constantly controls and manages site energy production, consumption, storage, and EV charging, enabling businesses to reduce their operational costs and maximise profits. The ecosystem also consists of a new portfolio of commercial PV storage solutions, which includes the new SolarEdge CSS-OD, a solution comprised of a 102.4 kWh-rated battery cabinet and a 50kW battery inverter scalable up to a total capacity of 1MWh per site and suitable for a wide range of businesses and applications. Installed outdoors or indoors, it is designed to connect seamlessly with SolarEdge PV systems. It is managed by SolarEdge ONE for C&I, which controls its functionality to increase efficiency, cut energy costs and maximise self-consumption. For the Optimised Utility segment, SolarEdge will showcase a full ecosystem of solutions with a focus on the agrivoltaics market via a display of the SolarEdge TerraMax inverter, the company’s new high-power DC-optimised SolarEdge 300kW/330kW inverter system for agrivoltaics and small-to-medium ground mount PV installations, together with its complementing H-1300 Power Optimizer. Intersolar attendees are invited to the below speaking opportunities taking place during the show, in which SolarEdge experts will participate: High-level panel – Distributed Solar Power: Controlling Energy Bills in Residential and C&I Buildings (Tuesday, 18 June, 11:30−13:00, ICM, International Congress Center Munich, Room 14B): Moderated by Michael Schmela of SolarPower Europe, this panel – including Gadi Hirsch, Lead Analyst in SolarEdge’s Strategy Group – will discuss the evolving landscape of distributed energy systems in Europe. A part of the Intersolar Conference 2024, the session will provide insights on drivers and challenges affecting distributed solar uptake, technical solutions for better solar energy consumption and grid stability, and various business models in this domain. High-level forum – Agricultural PV: Combining Photovoltaics and Agriculture (Thursday 20 June, 2024, 11:45-12:40, Hall: Messe München, Hall A3 Booth A3.150): Noam Shvartz, Global Agrivoltaics Program Manager at SolarEdge, will be one of the keynote speakers at this session at the Intersolar Forum 2024. With Agrivoltaics on the rise in many European countries, Module Level Power Electronics (MLPE) is becoming a best practice for these projects. Noam will share SolarEdge’s global agrivoltaics experience, and the different ways through which MLPE technology improves the economics of agrivoltaics. To find out more about all new innovations unveiled at the show, visit SolarEdge at Intersolar at its booth in Hall B4, Stand 110 within Messe Munich in Germany. For more from SolarEdge, click here.

Unicrimp introduces new cable sleeving options

Unicrimp has extended its comprehensive range of Q-Crimp electrical sleeving solutions to include new black and grey PVC sleeving. Used to insulate and protect wiring, cable sleeving keeps the wire safe from abrasion and temperature damage and comes colour coded to make wiring identification easier. The new additions to the range include: • 100M x 2MM PVC Sleeving – Black • 100M x 2MM PVC Sleeving – Grey • 100M x 3MM PVC Sleeving – Black • 100M x 3MM PVC Sleeving – Grey • 100M x 4MM PVC Sleeving – Black • 100M x 4MM PVC Sleeving – Grey The Q-Crimp electrical sleeving range can be cut to size to suit the task at hand. For more from Unicrimp, click here.

New Unicrimp showroom welcomes its first visitors

Unicrimp, part of the Scolmore Group of companies, has welcomed the first visitors to its newly opened showroom at its headquarters in Staffordshire. Launched by Scolmore Group in 2014, Unicrimp has continued to enjoy success with its comprehensive range of cable accessory products, and the requirement to invest in a visitor centre and showroom resource became a high priority. As well as showcasing Unicrimp’s ever-expanding range of cable accessories, it will serve as a venue to host a range of events including internal meetings and presentations, product launches and demonstrations, as well as training sessions for customers. Since launching 10 years ago, the Unicrimp range has been continually developed and expanded, and currently comprises three distinct product categories, with each one marketed under its own sub brand and all available exclusively through the electrical wholesaler channel. These are the Q-Crimp range of cable and wire accessories, Q-Fire fire–rated and 18th Edition compliant cable accessories, and the most recent addition to the portfolio, Q-Nect lever connectors and connection boxes (which were launched last year). Unicrimp is also the exclusive distributor of the original, multi-surface sealant and adhesive brand, OB1, through the UK electrical wholesale channel. The Q-Crimp range of cable accessory products provides everything required to harness cable between the consumer unit and the end accessory. The product offering comprises an extensive range of cable management consumables, including stainless steel cable ties, nylon cable ties, crimp terminals, PVC tape, copper tube terminals, cable clips, and brass and nylon glands. Q-Fire is an extensive range of fire–rated cable accessories that are 18th Edition compliant. The range comprises fire-safe Twin and Earth Cable Clips, Saddle Clips and P Clips, Stainless Steel Mounts, Metal Cable Cleats, All-Round Banding, Masonry Screws and Fire-resistant Sealants and Foam. The comprehensive range provides installers with an expanded choice of fixing solutions, suitable across a range of applications and environments – helping them to satisfy the latest wiring regulations. The Q-NECT range of lever connectors and connection boxes brings together a selection of products that work in conjunction with each other to provide installers with strong, quick and reliable solutions that will offer them versatility when carrying out their everyday tasks. A total of 10 products make up the full Q-NECT range, which comprises two, three and five-way lever connectors, IP66 weatherproof junction box, two and three-way IP connection boxes and five pole, three-way IP68 ‘T’ and two-way inline connectors. OB1 is a high-spec hybrid construction sealant and adhesive that has a tried and tested formulation which has been used by the trade for over 15 years. What makes OB1 stand out is its versatility, flexibility and its 24-hour full curing time. It provides an alternative to mastics, wood and PU adhesives, silicones, acrylics and butyl rubber sealants. Visitors to the new showroom facility will have the opportunity to get a close-up look at the key products from across each range which are on display, as well as the most recent additions which include new trade tubs, armoured industrial brass cable glands and nylon cable glands, earthing plates and black and grey PVC cable sleeving. The displays also show how various Unicrimp products work in conjunction with other products from across the Scolmore Group, such as the cable ties, nylon meter tail glands and grommet strip trim roll with the Elucian consumer units, and the metal clad switches and sockets. For more from Unicrimp, click here.

Fergus Pay seeks to eliminate late payment anguish

Not only can late payment be the scourge of the construction industry, it can also be detrimental to a trade business’s ability to function properly. Recognising the need to help speed up payment, Fergus, the job management software for trade businesses, has added ‘Fergus Pay’ and ‘Scan to Pay’ features to its software, which has been designed to simplify financial transactions and minimise delays in payments, ensuring a steady cash flow which is essential for business growth and sustainability. James Chillman, UK Country Manager for Fergus, comments, “There are 101 reasons why some customers don’t pay their bills and invoices on time, but most fall into three categories. The first type of late-paying customer is simply forgetful. The second type finds the whole bank transfer thing a hassle, which causes them to delay. The third type simply cannot or would rather not fork out the lump sum in one go. “Luckily, there is one easy fix for all three. With Fergus Pay, our smart credit card payment solution, every one of your customers can send quick and fuss-free payments to you. You can even collect it from them on-site using the Fergus mobile app. The more straightforward it is for them to do so, the sooner you’ll be able to pocket your hard-earned cash.” Fergus Pay seeks to provide a seamless way for tradespeople to issue invoices and receive payments swiftly. Users can send digital invoices instantly, and customers can pay promptly using their credit cards. Enhancing the functionality of Fergus Pay, the Scan to Pay feature utilises QR code technology to facilitate immediate payments on the job site. Customers simply scan a QR code with their smartphone and complete the payment using their card. This feature is included at no additional cost with Fergus Pay, and it eradicates the need for sending follow-up invoices and chasing late payments. James continues, “Fergus users report getting paid up to twice as fast compared to traditional payment methods. This swift payment processing translates to better cash flow management and less financial stress. It’s also more convenient for your customers too. “Integrating payment processing with your job management streamlines the entire workflow from job scheduling to final billing, saving you time, reducing your administrative hassles and leaving more time for you to do the things you enjoy.” For a free trial of Fergus software, visit www.fergus.com. For more from Fergus, click here.

myenergi awarded EcoVadis bronze medal for sustainability

Eco-smart home energy technology manufacturer, myenergi, has been awarded an EcoVadis bronze medal for its commitment to setting the standards in sustainable best practice. The prestigious accolade places the Stallingborough-based company within the top 35% of all companies assessed by the framework within the past 12 months. EcoVadis is one of the world’s largest providers of business sustainability ratings, boasting a global network of more than 130,000 rated companies. Its certifications recognise and reward companies that go above and beyond to embrace sustainable practices. The accreditation process requires businesses to submit documentation, examples and references for multiple sustainability proof points, with performance assessed against a bespoke methodology. myenergi scored well across each of the four performance themes analysed – environment; labour and human rights; ethics; and sustainable procurement. Emma Brigginshaw, Head of Sustainability and Ethics at myenergi, comments, “Being recognised by EcoVadis is a clear demonstration of our commitment to embracing sustainable best practice across the business. It affirms the robustness of our management systems and performance of our production processes. “But while a positive endorsement of our work to date, this certification is just the start. As a leader in the design and manufacture of eco-smart home energy technologies, we’re committed to holding ourselves to account and really leading the way when it comes to setting the industry standards. “We’re therefore already working hard in the background on numerous initiatives to further improve our environmental performance, each of which will be announced in due course. This bronze medal is a really valuable yardstick to fully understand where we’re already scoring highly, as well as the areas that need additional focus moving forward.” Although perhaps best known for developing zappi, the world’s first solar-compatible electric vehicle charger, myenergi manufactures a wide range of energy management devices, including the eddi power diverter and libbi battery storage system. Since its founding in 2016, the business has sold more than 600,000 units globally, while opening subsidiaries in Australia, Germany, the Netherlands and Ireland along the way. For more from myenergi, click here.