ISE unveils its 2026 content programme

Returning to Barcelona in February 2026, Integrated Systems Europe (ISE), an annual trade show for audiovisual (AV) and systems integration professionals, unveils its most ambitious content programme yet, designed to maximise both learning and exploration. This year, the programme introduces a more flexible schedule, allowing attendees - including electricians adapting to a future shaped by smart spaces, cybersecurity, sustainability, and intelligent infrastructure - to take a deep dive into key industry topics in focused, intensive sessions, while still leaving ample time to experience the innovation and energy of the show floor. Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events, explains, "ISE 2026 is about pushing beyond expectations. This year’s ISE content programme will drive innovation with our most expansive schedule to date. "As the industry’s trailblazer, we’ve reshaped our programme, introducing Megatrend sessions and a new CyberSecurity Summit to reflect our industry’s rapid transformation and unprecedented challenges. "By bringing these topics to the forefront, we’re equipping our community with the insights and strategies needed to thrive in a changing landscape.” Join the ISE 2026 Summits Immerse yourself in the Summit programme at ISE 2026 and elevate your experience with high-impact, sector-specific sessions designed to ignite innovation and drive strategic growth. These ticketed Summits, covering emerging topics such as Smart Home Technology, Cybersecurity, and Smart Buildings, are meticulously designed to deliver real-world case studies, forward-thinking strategies, and peer-led discussions that tackle today’s most pressing challenges and tomorrow’s greatest opportunities. New for 2026 is the CyberSecurity Summit, chaired by Pere Ferrer i Sastre, Senior Public Executive and Strategic Advisor, who served as Director General of Police for the Government of Catalonia from 2019 to 2024. Pere will lead the discussion on tackling the escalating digital threats to AV infrastructure, smart venues, and critical systems - turning cybersecurity from a technical afterthought into a strategic advantage. The CEDIA Smart Home Technology Conference at ISE 2026 is designed for professionals who are seeking relevance, depth, and inspiration for their careers and their business. For attendees, this is an opportunity to move beyond the noise and focus on what truly matters: actionable strategies, peer-driven insights, and the skills that will define the next phase of your professional journey. Every session is crafted to address real-world challenges and deliver practical takeaways. The aim is to help you navigate uncertainty, and build a roadmap for ongoing growth, supported by the guidance of industry leaders who have walked the path before you. The Megatrends driving tomorrow’s technology For those seeking flexibility and inspiration, the bite-size Megatrends programme offers a series of shorter, intensive sessions built around six defining topic areas: AI, Cybersecurity, Robotics, Smart Spaces, Sustainability, and Tradescape. Chaired by some of the industry’s big names, these sessions are crafted to spark new ideas and provide actionable takeaways on the trends shaping tomorrow’s technology - all within a format that fits seamlessly into a busy event schedule. Taking place from 3–5 February in CC5.3, the Megatrends sessions offer attendees a unique opportunity to gain actionable insights and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape, designed to provoke discussion and inspire innovation. For full access across the three days and for all six sessions, visitors can purchase a Megatrends Pass. Don’t miss your chance to be part of what’s next Attendees can tailor their experience with individual summit passes or opt for the ‘All Conferences’ pass, unlocking access to the full spectrum of content across the event. With this new approach, ISE 2026 ensures every participant can engage deeply, learn meaningfully, and make the most of their time at the world’s leading AV and systems integration show. See the full details of the inspiring content programme by clicking here. Registration for ISE 2026 is open, so take your place among the visionaries, trailblazers, and creative minds from every corner of the globe. Reserve your spot at the event where tomorrow’s innovations are unveiled, and let’s Push Beyond what’s possible, together: Click here to register for free using the code ‘ecnews’ to Push Beyond.

Screwfix reaches 1,000 stores across UK and Europe

Screwfix, a UK retailer of trade tools, accessories, and hardware products, has marked the opening of its 1,000th store across the UK, Republic of Ireland, and France, following continued expansion over the past two decades. The retailer opened its first store in Yeovil in 2005 and has since grown its physical and digital presence. Over the past decade, Screwfix has opened an average of one store per week, alongside international expansion. The company entered the Republic of Ireland in 2019 and has since opened more than 40 shops, creating close to 500 jobs. In 2022, Screwfix expanded into France, opening a distribution centre and its first stores. The French network now totals 35 stores. Store formats and omnichannel growth In 2024, Screwfix introduced its Screwfix City format, designed to support tradespeople in city centre locations. The smaller format provides access to more than 3,000 products via Click & Collect, with a wider range available online for next-day collection. Screwfix’s store network operates alongside its digital channels, offering services such as Click & Collect and rapid delivery through Screwfix Sprint, available via the Screwfix app. John Mewett, Screwfix CEO, comments, “We’re delighted to have opened our 1,000th Screwfix store. "Since our first opening in 2005, we’ve continued to provide the ultimate convenience for tradespeople and build on our success in the UK to expand into the Republic of Ireland and France. "I’d like to say a huge thank you to all our Screwfix and Kingfisher colleagues who have been instrumental in achieving this amazing milestone.” Screwfix now employs more than 14,000 people across the business and operates an in-house apprenticeship programme. The company says that 84% of retail colleagues complete the programme and go on to earn a promotion. Screwfix has stated its intention to continue expanding, with a target of more than 1,000 stores in the UK and Ireland and up to 600 stores in France. For more from Screwfix, click here.

ESR launches 'Let Me In!' campaign

The Electrical Safety Roundtable (ESR), an industry forum uniting electrical safety experts with the goal of improving electrical safety, has launched a new campaign to promote electrical safety for social housing tenants. The ESR Social Housing Sub-Group has launched the 'Let Me In!' campaign (on 26 January) to engage social housing providers and tenants to ensure the safety of electrical installations and equipment within their properties. This tenant-focused campaign aims to educate and allow access for essential safety checks across the UK. The campaign media pack promotes its key message, "Safety Starts at Your Door... Let Me In!", and includes free resources such as posters and leaflets, accessible documents, and social media images and captions. The materials include statistics and information explaining the dangers of electricity, why electrical checks must be carried out, and what happens during an electrical inspection. Responding to new regulations New electrical safety regulations have come into force in England, requiring social landlords to inspect and test electrical installations in their properties at least every five years and carry out necessary works. These changes took effect in November 2025 for new tenancies and will come into force in May 2026 for existing tenancies. The requirements are already in place in Scotland and Wales and there is support to see them extended to the social rented sector in Northern Ireland too, so to ensure consistent safety standards across the UK. Social landlords will also be required to inspect and test any electrical appliance they provide as part of a tenancy. Martin Simmonds, Chair of the ESR Social Housing Group, says, “The ESR welcomes the Government's commitment to enhance safety within the social rented sector. "We hope that the Let Me In! campaign can educate tenants, encourage access, and enhance electrical safety standards. “It’s key that clear and accessible information about safety checks is available, which will help contribute to ensuring all properties meet the highest safety standards through regular inspections.” For more from the ESR, click here.

'Rising demand for energy-saving products despite cost barrier'

By 2050, four in five homes that will exist in the UK have already been built today, but in order to reach the UK’s net zero goals, most will require retrofitting with low-carbon heating systems and energy-efficient improvements. As the Government’s Warm Homes Plan sets out to help households save up to £600 off energy bills (based on the installation of heat pumps and other technologies), new research from energy experts at Uswitch, a comparison website for home services switching, has uncovered which energy-saving and green upgrades are most in demand by consumers. To understand the popularity of technologies from heat pumps to solar panels, biomass boilers, and more, the data analyses online searches to see average monthly search volumes as well as year-on-year increases across search engine, retail, and social media channels. Key research findings 1. Solar panels had the highest online searches across Google, major social media channels, and Amazon. Despite their popularity and predicted annual savings of £600, survey data from Uswitch shows that only 38% of homeowners have or would consider adding solar panels to their homes. 2. Wind turbines came second overall in the research. While less popular than solar panels, off-grid power sources like turbines can be added to homes either through rooftop or standalone options. While generally more expensive than solar panels, the UK’s status as the windiest country in Europe means that retrofitting wind turbines can generate a significant amount of energy. 3. Underfloor heating-related searches have decreased across all major platforms; however, it remains the third most popular energy-saving installation. With high installation costs, underfloor heating can be the right option for new build homes or when building a new room or extension. 4. Smart thermostats are the fourth most popular energy-saving device, despite only 35% owning or considering installing them. With costs between £100 to £200 to install, smart thermostats don’t directly save money on energy bills; they provide an option to heat homes more efficiently, helping to manage consumption. 5. Biomass boilers are generally cheaper to run than gas or oil systems, costing around £400–600 per year. While a more energy-efficient and sustainable option, they can be expensive to install. Those living in rural areas and unconnected to the gas grid could be eligible for £5,000 off installation costs as part of the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme. Barriers to wider adoption While the research shows increased interest in energy-saving retrofits, survey analysis also uncovers that two-thirds (61%) of homeowners believe upfront cost is the biggest barrier to retrofitting. Nearly two thirds (60%) feel they do not know enough about the financial support or grants available to retrofit, while nearly half (48%) feel that retrofitting feels too disruptive, confusing or complex. Ben Gallizzi, Energy Expert at Uswitch, says, “While interest in energy-saving technologies is still high, many households still feel unsure about where to start. “Retrofitting doesn’t have to mean a full home overhaul; even small steps can make a difference to your energy use and long-term savings. “The Government’s support schemes are an important opportunity, and we’d encourage homeowners to explore what funding they might be eligible for before ruling out improvements.”

Win a trip to a group stage match in Miami this summer

Play the BG Penalty Shootout for your chance to win hundreds of instant prizes and the grand prize: two hospitality tickets to a football group stage match at Miami Gardens. BG Electrical is bringing the thrill of the pitch to installers with an exciting new promotion packed with instant prizes and a headline sports experience. Taking part is quick and easy: simply spend £20 or more on BG Electrical products during the promotional period, upload your receipt or invoice on the competition's website, and you’ll be invited to play the BG Penalty Shootout. Line up your shot, score a goal, and you could win instantly. There are over 300 instant prizes available throughout the promotion, including useful tools and vouchers. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Every valid entry is automatically entered into a big prize draw, giving participants the chance to win two hospitality tickets to a group stage match at Miami Gardens. It’s an unforgettable sports experience that puts this promotion in a league of its own. Play now by clicking this link: British General The promotion is open to residents of the UK and Northern Ireland aged 18 and over and runs from 00:01 GMT on 1 January 2026 to 23:59 GMT on 30 April 2026. Full terms and conditions, exclusions, and prize details are available at the competition's website.

Screwfix launches exclusive Bosch EXPERT tool range

Screwfix, a UK retailer of trade tools, accessories, and hardware products, has extended its product range with the launch of the Bosch EXPERT tool range, which is available exclusively through the retailer. The range includes power tools, batteries, accessories, and measuring tools. In total, 36 products are included, with 24 tools listed as exclusive to Screwfix. The tools are designed for professional use, with a focus on durability, user protection, and performance. The range is also supplied with a five-year warranty. Range scope and availability The Bosch EXPERT launch follows the earlier introduction of EXPERT Accessories in 2021. The current range expands this to include power tools and measuring technology. Screwfix states that the updated offering is intended to broaden choice for trade customers, with a wider selection of tools using Bosch’s latest platform and technologies. Heidi Woodhouse, Screwfix Commercial Director, comments, “We’re delighted to bring the Bosch EXPERT range exclusively to Screwfix customers, giving them access to Bosch’s most advanced tools and accessories. "This launch strengthens our commitment to offering our tradespeople the very best products to help them get their jobs done quickly, affordably, and right first time.” Steve Neumann, Bosch Power Tools Regional Business Director UK & Ireland, adds, “Building on our successful 2021 launch of EXPERT Accessories, we’re delighted to launch the EXPERT power tool and measuring technology range with Screwfix. "Packed with innovative features and state-of-the-art technology, EXPERT gives high performance across all trades. "With an industry-first five-year warranty, we’re confident in the quality of our EXPERT tools to perform on the toughest job sites.” The Bosch EXPERT tool range is available now to purchase through Screwfix online and via Screwfix's app. For more from Screwfix, click here.

Salko UK opens recruitment drive for 120 specialists

Mechanical and electrical services provider Salko UK is inviting skilled professionals to join its growing workforce as it prepares for a busy programme of contracts supporting the delivery of power generation throughout 2026. Operating across multiple sites throughout the UK and Ireland, Salko UK will deliver a wide range of planned outages, inspections, upgrades, and repair works within the power generation sector. To support this programme, the company is recruiting across a broad range of disciplines, including electrical, mechanical, welding, and operational roles. Salko UK is seeking experienced and safety-focused individuals across a range of roles, including electrical supervisors. Salko UK’s 2026 project portfolio includes work at major power stations such as Dublin Bay, South Humber Bank, Isle of Grain, Enfield, Staythorpe, and Great Yarmouth, with projects running from March through to November 2026. Contract opportunities for 2026 Dean Murphy, CEO of Salko UK, says, “We are really excited to be kicking off 2026 with a big recruitment drive to support a diverse range of projects in the energy sector. "We are particularly looking for individuals who take pride in delivering high standards of workmanship and working safely within demanding environments. “As our project portfolio continues to grow, we are looking to strengthen our teams with skilled, reliable professionals who share our commitment to quality, safety, and teamwork. “We recognise that our people are our greatest asset and by recruiting the right individuals and supporting them on-site, we can ensure that our projects are delivered on time, to client specifications, and to the highest quality standards.” For more information on roles at Salko UK, you can visit the company's website or send your CV to recruitment@salko.co.uk. For more from Salko UK, click here.

Schneider introduces upgraded PowerPact 4 Powerboard

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology company, today announced enhancements to its PowerPact 4 Powerboard offering, addressing the growing demand for space-saving options in electrical distribution. The new PowerPact 4 ComPacT NSXm Powerboard features an optimised, wall-mounted design and slimmer profile, which makes it lighter and more space efficient. Rated up to 250A, its fishbone structure with top and bottom entry points, as well as its removable door and cover handles, simplifies installation, operation, and maintenance. Engineered for industrial and commercial environments, the Powerboard integrates NSXm MCCBs with EverLink connection technology, alongside the newly introduced Type 1+2 integral surge protection. A built-in viewing window allows users to monitor surge protection status without removing the cover, enhancing both convenience and safety. Other key features • Moulded case breaker range which comprises of incoming device ratings up to 250A with triple pole, triple pole and neutral, and four pole options • Hinged meter bracket supports metering for up to eight devices, enabling easier cabling and installation With this product offering, Schneider says electrical contractors and engineers will be able to adapt to the increasingly restricted spaces in which they need to work. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Dimplex highlights its Quantum electric storage heaters

Dimplex, a manufacturer of electric heating, heat pumps, and cooling systems, is spotlighting its Quantum electric storage heaters, which have been on the UK market for more than a decade and are positioned as a high heat retention (HHR) option for modern electric heating installations. The range combines HHR construction with self-learning charge control. It stores off-peak electricity and releases heat when required, aiming to provide more consistent room temperatures while managing energy use more precisely. This approach is intended to help reduce unnecessary heat loss and improve day-to-day control for householders. Dimplex says independent analysis has indicated that the product can deliver running-cost savings of up to 27% compared with older storage heaters, based on improved insulation, heat management, and energy-use control. The range is supplied with a 10-year guarantee and carries the BEAB safety mark. Smart controls and connectivity features Quantum units use an adaptive control algorithm designed to learn household routines and adjust heat output accordingly. Features such as Adaptive Start and Open Window Detection are intended to reduce wasted energy and maintain comfort without frequent manual adjustment. When connected via the Dimplex Hub, compatible heaters can be managed through the Dimplex Control app. This allows users to view performance data, adjust settings remotely, and use functions such as Boost and Away modes. Scheduling and monitoring tools are included to provide greater visibility of heating use. For retrofit installations, the casing and footprint are designed to help cover fixing marks from older storage heaters. This can reduce the amount of 'making-good' work required and help achieve a cleaner finish during replacements. Associated support network Dimplex also provides trade support through the Dimplex PRO Installer Club, which includes access to product information, technical resources, and tools such as a heating calculator. The platform supports installers working on ECO-funded projects and includes engagement and reward schemes. Dimplex notes that its Quantum is used across a range of applications, from individual property upgrades to larger housing programmes, where electric storage heating is specified. For more from Dimplex, click here.

NAPIT welcomes Government’s Warm Homes Plan

Certification body and training provider NAPIT has welcomed the Government’s just-released 'Warm Homes Plan'. The £15 billion plan will see direct support for householders to install technologies such as solar panels and a battery, zero- and low-interest loans for solar panels, and continued support for heat pump installs. There will also be support for renters and landlords to ensure homes are safe, warm, and affordable. Low-income households will receive free-of-charge packages of upgrades, depending on what technologies are most suitable for their homes, backed by £5 billion of public investment. This could include fully funded installations of solar panels and a battery, to the full average cost which is currently between £9,000 and £12,000. The government-backed, zero- and low-interest loans programme will see more solar panels installed onto existing homes, and new rules will mean every new home will come with solar panels by default. The Government says this will triple the number of homes with solar panels on their rooftops by 2030. The £7,500 universal grant for heat pumps will also continue and will be expanded to include air-to-air heat pumps that can also cool homes in the summer. The Heat Training Grant which provides grants of up to £500 for existing heating engineers to train to install heat pumps in England will be increased over the next three years to March 2029. This will continue to support existing heating engineers in training to become heat pump installers and will support an increased range of training opportunities in heat networks. Stephen Melton, NAPIT Commercial and Compliance Director, comments, “It has been a long time coming, but it is good to see this investment which will make it easier and more affordable for people wanting to switch to technologies such as solar panels and heat pumps. “NAPIT always recommend that these works are carried out by a competent, qualified, and experienced installer which will give consumers added protection and help ensure quality installs. “We have over 21,000 members who will be crucial in delivering these measures and hope the clarity and certainty this plan will deliver will be welcomed by our installers and encourage more to train and upskill to take advantage of these growth opportunities. “We have already trained over 500 installers under the Heat Training Grant, so the increase in funding over the next three years is also something we welcome “The Warm Homes Plan should ensure more people are able to live in warm, healthy, existing homes, and we look forward to the Future Homes Standard being implemented to ensure all new homes are built with as much renewable technology fitted as standard.” “We also hope that Government will take action soon to cut the cost of electricity and close the gap with gas prices to ensure take-up of technologies to electrify heating in homes.” Wider industry comments Mark Krull from LCL Awards and Logic4training has also commented on the Warm Homes Plan, stating, "I'm very pleased to see the Warm Homes Plan finally published, providing security for businesses in the building services sector. "A huge investment overall - one of the biggest the UK has ever seen in retrofit - [meaning] low-carbon home improvements are now open to everyone. "Highlights include the fact that batteries are explicitly included under the plan alongside solar PV and heat pumps. Energy storage is critical to supporting low-carbon technologies, ensuring they perform in the most energy-efficient way possible alongside grid fluctuations. "The introduction of government-backed, zero- and low-interest loans will help to establish domestic battery storage and remove the upfront cost barrier for homeowners. Ambitious plans for Heat Networks are also encouraging. “To deliver the Warm Homes Plan we need suitably trained installers, so I’m pleased to see that Heat Training Grant funding will continue until 2029. "Apart from upskilling the installer base, we also need to encourage more young people into the sector. "The £20 million expansion of ‘free’ construction-based courses is welcome, but I would like to see the new Level 2 Heating & Plumbing Engineer Apprenticeship (due for launch this September) mentioned alongside Diplomas in Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, and Heat Pump Systems." For more from NAPIT, click here.