JTL celebrates opening of £1m London South training centre

JTL, a training provider for electrical and plumbing apprenticeships across England and Wales, has officially opened its newly refurbished ‘London South’ training centre in Orpington, following a £1 million investment to expand high-quality electrical, plumbing, and heating training across London and Kent. The centre was formally opened at a launch event attended by employers, industry stakeholders, and local representatives, with Helen Hayes MP, Chair of the House of Commons Education Select Committee, officiating alongside Sir John Low, Chair of the JTL Board, and Chris Claydon, JTL’s Chief Executive. The significant investment has transformed the Orpington site into a modern, industry-led training facility, with a strong focus on heating, plumbing, and low-carbon technologies. The centre features fully equipped electrical and plumbing training bays, providing industry-standard equipment, including heat pumps, solar thermal systems, and energy-efficiency technologies. Developing the next generation Designed to meet the evolving needs of employers and support the transition to greener heating solutions, JTL London South will aim to play a key role in developing the next generation of skilled electricians, plumbers, and building services engineers. The centre supports apprentices from across London and Kent and aligns closely with regional skills priorities in construction and retrofit. Guests at the opening event were invited to tour the facilities, meet JTL apprentices and expert teaching staff, and see first-hand how the new workshops are preparing learners for real-world work environments. The event also provided opportunities for employers and local partners to network and explore how JTL supports businesses with apprenticeship recruitment and training. Helen Hayes MP, Chair of the House of Commons Education Select Committee, says, “It was a pleasure to officially open JTL’s London South training centre. "Facilities like this are vital in ensuring young people and career changers can access high-quality technical training, while supporting the development of skills needed for the future, particularly in areas such as plumbing, heating and energy efficiency. "It was fantastic to meet some of the brilliant apprentices - and the employers they are working for - and to hear how they will all benefit from JTL’s new training centre.” Chris Claydon, Chief Executive of JTL, adds, “Our new London South centre demonstrates JTL’s long-term commitment to the highly skilled trades of electrical and plumbing services, and to investing in the future of the region. "By providing apprentices with access to industry-standard equipment and specialist training in occupations in desperate need of skilled tradespeople, we’re helping to address skills shortages while supporting the UK’s journey towards a more sustainable built environment. "Each apprenticeship depends on employer backing to give them the work placement, so we are committed to supporting employers in meeting demand and pressing the Government to make these commitments a reality." The refurbished London South training centre is now fully operational and welcoming apprentices, employers, and partners from across the region, supporting the development of a skilled electrical, plumbing, and heating workforce to meet growing demand linked to retrofit, energy efficiency, and low-carbon technologies. For more from JTL, click here.

KeyIS launches fire safety company, ProDefend

Key Integrated Services (KeyIS), a mechanical and electrical engineering company, has launched ProDefend, a subsidiary focused on fire protection and security. The new company expands the services that Key Integrated Services can offer to its customers and has been launched at a time when a multitude of factors are driving demand. “The launch of ProDefend was an easy one to make,” says Mark Poulton, CEO at Key Integrated Services. “The reality is that many of our customers require specialist fire protection and security solutions alongside our core mechanical and electrical services at Key Integrated Services. "I am excited to see what this launch can deliver given the market is currently worth approximately £2 billion and is on a rapid growth trajectory due to factors including increased regulation.” The company's offerings ProDefend’s core offer includes the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of a range of fire protection and security systems. On the fire protection front, this includes fire alarm and detection systems through to a selection of fire suppression systems. On the security side, the company offers CCTV, intruder detection, access control, and remote monitoring. The new business will be led by sector specialist Mike Trenbath. Mike has more than 25 years’ experience in the fire protection and security space and his career has seen him hold senior roles at ProTec Camerfield, Hall & Kay Fire Engineering, and Alpine Fire Engineers. The company says he is considered an expert in fire suppression and has an excellent understanding of gaseous systems, sprinklers, and water mist. “The business has been launched at an exciting time in the industry”, comments Mike. “Fire protection and security solutions are no longer off-the-shelf packages, and businesses are prepared to invest in solutions that can effectively protect their key assets including people, data, and stock. “Joining forces with Key Integrated Services will enable us to fast track our growth plans, as they have a core services team in place to handle the finance, HR, and marketing, enabling us to focus on what we do best: safeguarding businesses with industry-leading fire protection and security solutions.”

Ovia unveils enhanced ‘Orbik’ emergency lighting portfolio

Lighting brand Ovia, part of the Scolmore Group, has announced the launch of the newly enhanced 'Orbik by Ovia' emergency lighting range. The development marks the next chapter for the long-established Orbik brand, which was brought under Scolmore Group’s distribution earlier last year and integrated within Ovia’s growing lighting portfolio. Ovia has invested heavily in the redevelopment of the range, combining Orbik’s trusted reputation in emergency lighting with Ovia’s own focus on innovation, performance, and compliance. The result is a comprehensive, fully refreshed collection of emergency lighting solutions designed to meet the requirements of today’s commercial, industrial, and residential environments. Four new flagship products The enhanced Orbik by Ovia portfolio introduces four new flagship products: the Novem HO5 high-output bulkhead, the Calvip 65 slimline IP65 exit box, the Synex5 five-in-one exit sign, and the Vipex5 4W box exit sign - each engineered to deliver improved performance, flexibility, and installation efficiency. Alongside these launches, the entire Orbik range has been upgraded, featuring enhanced self-test functionality, long-life LiFePO4 battery technology, and refined designs to meet the evolving demands of modern emergency lighting applications. Novem HO5 – high-output emergency bulkhead Leading the upgraded portfolio is the Novem HO5, a high-performance, non-maintained emergency bulkhead, delivering over seven times the lumen output of the standard Novem5 model. With a light output of 920 lumens and boasting 115lm/w, the HO5 delivers significantly enhanced brightness and energy efficiency, making it suitable for larger installations and high-ceilinged spaces. Calvip 65 – slimline IP65-rated exit box The new Calvip 65 combines robust performance with a slim, contemporary design. Featuring an IP65 ingress protection rating, the unit is well suited to damp or humid environments such as changing rooms and shower areas, where reliability is essential. Synex5 – five-in-one exit sign Designed for maximum flexibility, the Synex5 provides multiple mounting options within a single unit - ceiling and wall mount as standard, with additional accessories available for suspended, recessed, or side-mounted installations. This provides contractors and specifiers with a true five-in-one solution, adaptable to any application. Vipex5 - 4W polycarbonate exit box Delivering outstanding performance, the Vipex5 boasts a 36-metre viewing distance for maximum visibility and safety. Its ultra-narrow frame creates a sleek, modern aesthetic, while the robust polycarbonate construction provides a durable upgrade from traditional metal exit boxes. Designed for versatility, this polycarbonate exit box can be easily retrofitted, making an ideal stylish solution for both new installations and refurbishment projects. Stand out features All products within the Orbik by Ovia range benefit from a number of key technical and functional upgrades: • Enable/disable self-test function – automated periodic testing simplifies compliance and reduces maintenance costs • LiFePO4 battery technology – provides longer life, improved charge efficiency, and reduced environmental impact • Optional black finish – available on selected models to meet the design requirements of modern interiors • Five-year warranty – covers all Orbik by Ovia emergency lighting products The expanded Orbik portfolio In addition to the three new flagship products, the complete Orbik by Ovia range encompasses upgraded solutions across the following categories: • Exit Signs and Exit Boxes – offering 26–34-metre viewing distances, three-hour minimum operation, and directional legends • Twin Spots and Pin Spots – improved Newem5 and Ibex5 models with 6000K–6500K colour temperature LEDs for high visibility • Bulkheads, Circular and Square Spots – a variety of IP20–IP65 options with interchangeable lenses for corridor, wide-corridor, and open-area applications • Control Gear and Accessories – compact, compliant emergency conversion kits built to BS EN 60598-2-22 standards All products are supplied in Ovia’s eco-friendly recyclable packaging, reflecting the company’s wider commitment to sustainable manufacturing and distribution practices. Ovia also offers bespoke Emergency Lighting Design schemes engineered to comply with the latest BS5266 code of practice, incorporating all design objectives for optimal performance. Ovia’s highly skilled specialists produce detailed, accurate lighting layouts tailored to project requirements, ensuring comprehensive solutions that are perfectly engineered for safety, compliance, and peace of mind. A new chapter for a trusted brand The relaunch of Orbik by Ovia represents a new chapter for one of the emergency lighting sector’s most established names. Backed by Ovia’s technical expertise, product development, and UK-based support network, the enhanced Orbik range provides a comprehensive, compliant, and future-friendly solution for the professional electrical trade. For more information on the new range of Orbik emergency lighting, visit Ovia’s website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Ovia, click here.

NVC Lighting publishes new 2026 catalogue

NVC Lighting, a supplier of commercial LED lighting systems, has launched its new 2026 catalogue, featuring new products alongside a wide array of LED commercial lighting for a range of applications and sectors. The new catalogue includes a selection of products new for 2026, including the upgraded STERLING PRO. Using the latest back-lit technology, NVC Lighting says the STERLING PRO "combines high performance with an elevated level of efficiency, making it the go-to luminaire for sustainability-driven projects." The TEXAS PRO - which NVC Lighting calls "the quickest batten to install on the market" - also features amongst the products new for 2026. A showcase of NVC Lighting The catalogue showcases NVC Lighting’s experience and product portfolio across multiple sectors - including commercial, industrial, education, healthcare and residential - alongside its sustainability credentials. Said credentials include Carbon Neutral certification and EcoVadis Silver accreditation, alongside a signal of commitment to growing its range of Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)-verified products. Phil Brown, Product & Marketing Director at NVC Lighting, comments, “Our new catalogue for 2026 includes some exciting new additions, as well as consolidating all of our products into one comprehensive, clean resource, offering key information tailored to the needs of our diverse customer base. “We’re looking forward to an exciting year ahead, and this catalogue showcases our current capabilities while paving the way for future innovations.” NVC Lighting’s new 2026 catalogue is available to download now from the company's website. For more from NVC Lighting, click here.

Zumtobel, Thorn deliver lighting for Sacred Heart University

Zumtobel and its sister brand Thorn, both lighting brands of the Zumtobel Group, have completed a full lighting scheme for the refurbishment of Sacred Heart University’s Dingle campus in County Kerry, Ireland. The €8 million (£6.9 million) project forms part of a wider regeneration of the site, which includes the restored 19th-century Christian Brothers School and newer additions created to support the university’s study-abroad programme. The Dingle campus hosts more than 500 students each year and is located in a protected building overlooking the Atlantic. The redevelopment, officially opened in March 2025 by Minister Norma Foley, introduced modern learning facilities while retaining the structure’s original form and character. Blending heritage and contemporary lighting needs MRG Consulting Engineers & Architects and Freeman Electrical Services set performance requirements for the lighting installation, including heritage sensitivity and operational durability. During the early design phase, Zumtobel was asked to explore alternative fitting options, producing models and visualisations to demonstrate the performance of its original recessed SLOTLIGHT design, which was ultimately retained. A wide range of luminaires was selected for interior spaces. Classrooms and seminar rooms feature Beta 3, Chalice 3, and IQ Wave lighting, chosen for uniform illumination and glare control. Track-mounted VIVO fittings highlight existing stonework, while custom SLOTLIGHT infinity Round pendants in a red finish provide focal points within circulation areas and echo campus colours. Absence detection and daylight sensors are integrated throughout the interior lighting to balance operation against occupancy and natural light levels. Lighting tailored to the environment To meet the seaside location’s environmental demands, Thorn’s external luminaires incorporate corrosion-resistant treatments. Bollards include built-in power outlets and a combination of façade uplighting, lanterns, and floodlighting provides safety and architectural enhancement across the campus exterior. Indoor colour temperatures were specified to create different atmospheres: 3000K for shared and social areas, and 4000K for teaching environments. Outdoor lighting balances warmer tones for sandstone with cooler whites for limestone, highlighting architectural details after dark. Project partners highlighted the importance of retaining authenticity while updating functionality. One consultant described the process as a balance between honouring heritage and ensuring modern performance, while the electrical contractor said durability and serviceability were key priorities. According to the project team, the scheme provides modern, low-maintenance lighting while respecting the campus’s historic fabric. The completed installation is intended to support the student community and campus visitors while reducing ongoing maintenance demands. For more from Zumtobel, click here.

UK Power Networks starts the search for new apprentices

Distribution network operator UK Power Networks is searching for 31 school leavers and career changers to become apprentices in the electricity industry at a time of exciting change in the sector. The countdown has begun in the search for new recruits for UK Power Networks' popular craft apprenticeship. Applicants have until 31 January to apply online to train as electricity cable jointers, overhead linespeople, and substation fitters. Successful candidates will gain practical, hands-on skills at dedicated training facilities while shadowing experienced technical teams. Paid to learn, their apprenticeship lasts three years for school or college leavers and two years if they are career changers. There are vacancies for 14 foundation and 17 experienced apprentices this year. Once the newcomers qualify, they fill essential roles, helping maintain safe and reliable electricity supplies to 20 million people and ensuring the electricity network is ready for increasing demand as the country moves to low-carbon electric transport and heating. Recruits follow the Power Networks Craftsperson (Level 3) Apprenticeship, which combines practical training at training centres in Kent and Suffolk with theoretical knowledge at college, and gain experience working alongside local experts in their trade. Craft apprentices now also spend a week in the Lake District developing teamwork, resilience, confidence, and communication skills key to their future roles. The apprenticeship class of 2025 described their Outward Bound adventures in just one word in the short video below: [embed]https://youtu.be/6vwzjEbmRRY[/embed] Charlie Aston, Engineering Trainee Manager at UK Power Networks, comments, “The start of a new year is the perfect time to pursue new career goals. "Our apprenticeship programme gives recruits a golden opportunity to learn from experts, work in supportive teams, and build a career with purpose. “Like many of our field staff, I began my own career as an apprentice and I’ve seen how our power apprenticeship programme opens doors to lifelong careers and opportunities. "We look for team players who put safety first, pride themselves on quality work, and strive to provide the excellent customer service our communities depend on. They should also thrive on physical tasks, outdoor work in varied conditions, and creative problem-solving.” Opportunities on offer Six of the sought-after positions are within the company’s commercial division, UK Power Networks Services, responsible for building and maintaining private electrical networks for clients in aviation, rail, defence, fleets, and a range of industries. UK Power Networks craft apprenticeship earned national recognition in 2025, winning the Learning Excellence Awards 2025 Outstanding In-House Training Initiative and East of England Regional Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2025, Regional Highly Commended. Applicants can find full details and apply through UK Power Networks' careers pages. The full selection process includes submitting an online application and CV, an online assessment, recorded audio interview responses, an in-person assessment, and a final interview. Apprenticeship positions are available in Aldershot, Borehamwood, Brixton, Bury St Edmunds, Cambridge, Camden, Canning Town, Chatham, the Chilterns, Colchester, Crawley/Lewes, Croydon/Kingston, Downham Market, King’s Lynn, Lea Valley, Letchworth, Falconwood, Gatwick, Maidstone/Strood, Norwich, Purfleet, Singlewell, Southend, and Wimbledon. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

VCHRGD integrates chargers with Octopus Energy tariff

VCHRGD Technologies, a British EV charge point manufacturer, has confirmed that its electric vehicle chargers now integrate directly with Octopus Energy’s Intelligent Octopus Go tariff, enabling eligible users to access lower charging rates and automated smart charging schedules. The integration applies across VCHRGD’s charging portfolio, including the Seven Pro 7.4kW home and business charger and the TwentyTwo Dual 22kW workplace and public model. Intelligent Octopus Go automatically schedules charging for periods when energy prices and grid demand are at their lowest. VCHRGD states that customers may be able to access rates from £0.07/kWh, depending on eligibility and tariff terms. For wholesalers and installers, the company says the update is expected to drive interest from households and businesses looking for tariff-compatible charging equipment. VCHRGD cites its reliability statistics and UK-based support team as factors contributing to long-term demand. Founded in 2021, VCHRGD works with installers, distributors, and fleet operators across the UK. The company reports a high rate of positive customer feedback and a low proportion of charger replacements. Tariff-linked charging and installer demand Alex Watson, Founder and Technical Director at VCHRGD Technologies, comments, “Our integration with Intelligent Octopus Go is another step in making EV charging smarter, affordable, and more accessible. "For resellers and installers, it’s a fantastic opportunity, and we’ve already seen that energy integrations can significantly boost sales opportunities in this space. "By working with Octopus, we’re further strengthening our proposition for installers, giving them and the team here at VCHRGD a real edge in the market.” VCHRGD says it plans to contact resellers and installation partners to support discussions with home and business owners considering the Intelligent Octopus Go tariff.

Drayton offers a 'Great Greggs Giveaway'

To kickstart the new year, Drayton, a manufacturer of heating controls in the UK, has launched the Great Greggs Giveaway, with up to £26,000 worth of vouchers up for grabs until the end of April. When installers spend over £75 on Drayton products in a single transaction - either online or in branch at any merchant or retailer in the UK - they’ll receive a £5 Greggs digital voucher. Plus, there’s no limit on how many voucher installers can claim; the more individual transactions they make with a minimum spend of £75 on Drayton products, the more they can earn, until the £26,000 total giveaway value runs out. All installers need to do is upload their proof of purchase via the Drayton website and their £5 Greggs voucher will be sent via email, ready for them to redeem in store. Only purchases between 1 January and 30 April 2026 qualify for this promotion and must be redeemed by 10 May 2026. Additionally, installers can unlock an extended five-year warranty by registering their products with Drayton Rewards+. Log in or sign up to Drayton Rewards+ and all registered products will also qualify for points that can be exchanged for products, merch, and vouchers from the rewards catalogue. Giving back to contractors Nick Hunt, UK Sales and Marketing Director at Drayton, comments, “Here at Drayton, we’re always looking for ways to give back to our loyal installers, which is why we’re excited to be kicking off the new year with the Great Greggs Giveaway. "It’s a simple way to say thank you for their continued support, while helping to put a well-earned treat in their hands. "Alongside the Rewards+ loyalty scheme and extended warranties, we hope it gives installers an extra reason to choose Drayton in 2026.” For more from Drayton, click here.

Cold snap drives UK power demand to seven-year high

An Arctic blast of snow, sleet, and hail has driven UK temperatures to -12.5°C, the coldest recorded this winter, sharply increasing electricity demand and placing stress on the GB power system. With Storm Goretti forecast to bring further heavy snowfall, experts warn that elevated demand and high prices could persist into mid-January. Reacting to the news, Jake Thompson, GB Market Expert at Montel Analytics, says, “National electricity demand surged during peak hours as temperatures plunged. Morning peak demand reached 44GW today, with Montel EnAppSys forecasts suggesting demand could rise to around 46GW during the evening peak. On Monday, GB recorded its highest demand since March 2018 at 47.3GW. “As a result, 23% of demand was met by renewables on 5 January, the day of the demand peak, leaving the system heavily reliant on the conventional gas-fired generation fleet during peak periods. To alleviate pressure on domestic generators, NESO, the GB system operator, intervened in interconnector markets." Effects on interconnectors Jake continues, “Ahead of the day-ahead auction, interconnectors linking GB with Belgium (Nemo Link), the Netherlands (BritNed), and Denmark (Viking Link) were scheduled to export power from GB from 05:00 through to the evening peak. However, from 05:00 this morning, NESO reduced these flows by purchasing volumes via competitive auctions, paying prices of up to £1,040/MWh. The highest prices were recorded around 13:00 and were more than ten times the weighted day-ahead price for the same hour. “The decision to buy back exports had material knock-on effects across neighbouring markets, particularly in the Netherlands. Severe winter weather reduced renewable output across the region, forcing fossil fuel generation to meet the bulk of demand. Dutch generators were already exporting to Germany and Belgium, with further flows reaching France, while relying on imports from Denmark and GB. When GB reduced exports, Dutch imbalance prices surged above €4,000/MWh (£3,464/MWh) on Monday, 5 January. “The cold snap could last until at least 11 January, maintaining elevated demand levels. High prices are expected to persist due to the system’s reliance on gas-fired generation, especially during periods of low wind. Forecasts indicate wind output could fall to as little as 2GW on 8 January, further limiting renewable supply and increasing upward pressure on wholesale prices.”

ESP spotlights its Aperta access control range

Innovative security products supplier ESP is once again shining a spotlight on its Aperta access control range, a streamlined and reliable collection of products designed to meet the demands of modern installations. The range operates under the Aperta name - the Italian word meaning 'to open' or 'to allow access, passage, or a view through a space' - and continues to be recognised for its focus on ease of installation and straightforward operation. With just two main components - door station (with optional access control keypad) and the hands-free monitor - the Aperta range will allow the creation of anything from a single-door entry system to a multi-usage system. Two-wire technology The Aperta video door entry systems utilise two-wire technology, which offers many benefits and advantages over traditional video door entry systems. For simplicity and time-efficient installations, the two-wire technology provides a friendly platform by reducing the number of cores required for connection and requires just one power supply unit (PSU). This ensures that just one PSU needs to be concealed and supplied with just a single electrical mains supply. The Aperta access control range offers superb video and audio quality and comprises the following products: • Two door entry kits: The APKIT includes a colour monitor and door station, and the APKITKP includes colour monitor and door station with door release option via the keypad. They will both connect up to four monitors. • Multi Apartment Door Station (APDSMW), which includes door release via keypad and will connect up to 32 handsets. • Optional monitor with GUI (graphic user interface) menu incorporated for advanced options and includes SD card record facility. ESP has also developed new instruction manuals to support the range. They are designed to enhance the simplicity of installation by incorporating easy-to-follow, step-by-step graphics, taking the user through the installation and programming processes. For more information, visit ESP’s website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from ESP, click here.