CU Phosco completes lighting improvements on Metz Way

UK exterior lighting manufacturer CU Phosco, working with M Group Highways on behalf of Gloucestershire County Council, has successfully completed a lighting replacement scheme on Metz Way, Gloucester. The project involved the removal and replacement of high mast structures and the installation of LED street lighting to improve safety, reduce maintenance demands, and support local connectivity on one of the city’s busiest distributor roads. Metz Way is a major part of Gloucester’s transport infrastructure, linking residential areas like Abbeymead and Abbeydale to the city centre and playing a central role in the local economy. The route includes key junctions, such as Eastern Avenue, and provides access to major developments and commuter corridors, including bridges over railway lines. The lighting replacement project As part of ongoing routine maintenance, five high masts were identified as nearing the end of their operational life and requiring replacement. Gloucestershire County Council carried out a desktop study to determine the best way forward, concluding that a combination of new high mast lighting and LED street lanterns would provide optimal coverage, particularly in areas where traditional columns were unsuitable due to Network Rail access constraints. M Group Highways, the council’s maintenance contractor, successfully tendered for the works with a specification that included CU Phosco products. Having worked closely with M Group Highways for several years on mast maintenance across the county, CU Phosco says it was well placed to support this project through design, manufacture, and installation. The project scope included: • Design, manufacture, and installation of 4 x 20m high masts, each equipped with 6 P855 luminaires and 2 FL800D-2 floodlights • Supply-only of 16 P862 LED lanterns for street lighting columns • Removal and disposal of five existing high masts • Bespoke foundation stud covers designed and installed to protect foundations of decommissioned masts for potential future use • Pull-off testing of existing studs How the project progressed With sections of Metz Way elevated above Network Rail infrastructure, careful planning was required to manage access and ensure safe working conditions. CU Phosco had to work to tight deadlines to minimise disruption to local traffic and reduce the impact on ongoing development and transport routes in the area. According to the company, the lighting infrastructure upgrade has delivered a compliant and modern lighting solution that improves visibility and safety for all road users. It says the use of energy-efficient LED lanterns and future-ready high mast infrastructure reduces ongoing maintenance requirements and supports Gloucestershire County Council’s long-term strategy for resilient, sustainable public lighting. Additionally, the retention and protection of foundations for potential future reuse reflects a practical and resource-conscious approach to asset management. Jack Benham, Project Manager at M Group Highways, comments, “Metz Way is a key artery into Gloucester, and this scheme needed to be delivered quickly and with minimal disruption. "Working with CU Phosco, we were able to provide Gloucestershire County Council with a robust, energy-efficient lighting solution. "Their high mast expertise and ability to deliver on challenging access requirements were instrumental to the success of this project.” For more from CU Phosco, click here.

Ovia adds Inceptor Hi-Bloc to its Industrial Highbay range

An innovative addition to Ovia's industrial Highbay range, the Inceptor Hi-Bloc is designed with both performance and versatility in mind. The Hi-Bloc is a CCT and power switchable linear Highbay, aimed to deliver high-performance illumination across environments that demand both precision and intensity, such as warehouses, factories, gymnasiums, and other large-scale, high-ceilinged industrial or commercial spaces. The launch of the Hi-Bloc marks a strategic expansion of Ovia’s Highbay offering, with a deliberate shift towards an aesthetically unique yet highly practical product. The distinctive diffuser design not only elevates the visual profile of the fitting, but also supports superior glare control with a UGR rating of ≤22. This reduction in glare significantly enhances the working environment in high-demand industrial settings, promoting comfort, focus, and safety. What also sets the Hi-Bloc apart is its distinct linear design, engineered specifically to improve lighting efficiency in tight aisles and long rectangular spaces. The Hi-Bloc's rectangular form and narrow 72° beam angle focus light directly where it is needed most, ensuring optimal visibility in every corner of the space. Designed for installation From installation to operation, the Hi-Bloc is engineered for versatility and ease of use. The CCT and power switch is intuitively positioned behind an IP65 threaded cap for easy access. Each unit includes two mounting hooks as standard, allowing for chain mounting (chains not included, but compatible with existing setups), and features an integrated spirit level to ensure perfect alignment during installation. For added flexibility, a mounting bracket accessory is available, catering to a wide range of installation requirements. For further enhanced lighting control, the programmable remote allows full customisation of lighting, with the ability to adjust PIR detection range and sensitivity, daylight thresholds, standby periods, and hold times, allowing for easy fine-tune performance for maximum efficiency, comfort, and flexibility across different environments. In addition, the Hi-Bloc integrates seamlessly with Ovia’s 5W 3 Hour Maintained IP65 Emergency Pack, just like all other Ovia LED Highbays, ensuring consistent emergency lighting performance across the range. To find out more about Ovia’s industrial Highbay range, visit the company's website - where a brochure will be available - or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Ovia, click here.

Smart heating solutions that redefine efficiency and design

In today’s electrical industry, clients are increasingly looking for heating systems that combine efficiency, reliability, and design appeal. For contractors and specifiers, that means identifying solutions that are easy to install, integrate seamlessly with smart controls, and deliver measurable energy savings. This is where Rointe’s premium electric heating collection comes in, featuring the EONIQ WiFi radiator, the NEO WiFi towel rail, and the PALAOS WiFi vertical radiator. Each product has been developed with a focus on high-end performance, connectivity, and architectural design, helping professionals offer their customers a heating solution that’s as intelligent as it is elegant. Engineered for professionals All three models have been redesigned with installation and usability in mind. A minimalist three-button touch interface replaces the traditional display, simplifying manual operation and reducing maintenance issues. Through WiFi Direct connectivity, the units pair effortlessly with the Rointe NEXA app, providing end users - and building managers - with full remote control, scheduling, consumption tracking, and power limitation tools without the need for additional gateways or hubs. For installers, this means fewer components, faster setup, and no compatibility headaches. For clients, it translates to real-time visibility and long-term efficiency. Inverter Smart Adaptive efficiency At the core of the EONIQ radiator lies Inverter Smart Adaptive technology, an advanced control system that constantly adjusts the heating output according to room demand. Unlike standard electric radiators that work at full power until the target temperature is reached, this inverter-based system modulates energy use dynamically, achieving temperatures 35% more stable, heating 25% faster, and delivering up to 10% higher energy efficiency compared with conventional systems. The result is lower energy consumption, reduced electrical load, and extended component life, all while maintaining consistent thermal comfort. Premium materials and finishes Beyond technology, Rointe places strong emphasis on durability and aesthetics. The EONIQ is constructed entirely from 100% aluminium for superior heat dissipation and corrosion resistance, with no plastic closures. The NEO towel rail incorporates thermal fluid technology for uniform heat distribution and offers a Boost mode for rapid drying. For compact spaces, the PALAOS vertical radiator provides the same WiFi functionality in a space-saving format, ideal for modern apartments or refurbishment projects where wall space is limited. Each product is available in a range of textured finishes and premium colours, allowing contractors and designers to specify heating that enhances interiors rather than detracting from them. Designed for the connected home and future regulations With the growing emphasis on smart control and energy efficiency in Building Regulations and Part L compliance, Rointe’s connected heating solutions give professionals a forward-looking alternative that supports sustainable building practices and end-user comfort. For electrical contractors seeking a smart, fully connected, design-led heating system that adds value to every installation, Rointe’s premium range delivers performance that stands out - both technically and visually. Discover the full collection at the company's website. For more from Rointe, click here.

National Ventilation commended at Electrical Wholesaler Awards

National Ventilation, a leading UK-based ventilation manufacturer and supplier, says it is proud to have been highly commended in the ‘Best Customer Service’ category at the Electrical Wholesaler Awards 2025. The awards, held on Thursday, 25 September 2025 at London’s Chelsea Harbour Hotel and hosted by comedian Jimmy McGhie, celebrate excellence across the electrical wholesaler sector. This marks the second year that National Ventilation has been recognised for outstanding customer service, having won the category outright in 2024. The Electrical Wholesaler Awards Providing a unique platform for the recognition of excellence and achievement across the electrical wholesale sector, the Electrical Wholesaler Awards boasts an array of expertly curated categories, with accolades that honour everything from innovative brands and outstanding wholesalers to the exceptional professionals at the heart of every successful business in the sector. The voting and judging each hold a 50% weighting in the final decision, ensuring the winners are selected for their outstanding industry reputations and technical expertise. Robin Francis, Managing Director at National Ventilation, says, “We are thrilled to be highly commended at this year’s Electrical Wholesaler Awards, and especially proud to be recognised for our customer service two years running. "At National Ventilation, we always strive to go the extra mile for our customers. Winning last year’s award motivated us to raise the bar even higher and since then, we’ve seen growing demand for both our ventilation and design services. "We remain committed to continuous improvement and to delivering the very best support for our customers." The company's offerings During the last year, the company has seen a significant rise in demand for ventilation products. At the same time, there has been a surge in National Ventilation’s in-house team’s free ventilation design service for wholesalers to offer to their contractor customers. This has resulted in a 22% increase in designs in the last financial year, with an increase of 18% of new customers using the service. This service is incredibly valuable for wholesalers as they can quickly and easily assist contractors needing help with ventilation system design - especially helpful for wholesalers looking to grow their share of the new build ventilation market. With the ability to turn around designs in 48 hours, often quicker, National Ventilation enables wholesalers to supply contractors with a full design and quotation, including unit calculations, a full kit list, as well as recommended duct routes, making the process simple for wholesalers and their customers alike. 100% there for its wholesaler customers, National Ventilation doesn’t sell through any other channel and acts as an expert ventilation department on call whenever needed. In an ultra-competitive-market it is not all about price. National Ventilation’s USP is to be Electrical Wholesalers’ VSP (Ventilation Solutions Provider). To support its customers, National Ventilation has a knowledgeable customer service team, offers a next-day delivery service, provides a free ventilation design service, and all of its product information is easily accessible on its newly improved website. National Ventilation is trusted by its customers to provide high-quality products with excellent customer service and to always go the extra mile. National Ventilation has everything wholesalers need to act as their ventilation department: • An extensive product range with a knowledgeable support team • Free ventilation design service with a full report on parts needed • Technical support with a two-ring phone policy • Next-day delivery. This is a big help for wholesalers who have thousands of products to manage apart from ventilation; National Ventilation takes the stress away and grows their businesses for them. National Ventilation has an extensive product range with over 2,000 lines, so it has the fan or accessory for nearly every job. If something ventilation-related is needed, National Ventilation probably has it. Boasting a two-ring policy, all calls to National Ventilation are answered as soon as possible. The whole team is involved to ensure customers are promptly responded to and all staff are trained to a high level to provide a professional, knowledgeable response. National Ventilation always does its utmost to give the customer a prompt and accurate answer, but most calls can usually be answered by the first person customers speak to, no waiting on hold in long queues to speak to another department. National Ventilation combines traditional customer service values, where the customer can always talk to a person rather than a machine, with forward-thinking services, such as its digital transformation and a first-class design service. Excellent customer service is an essential part of National Ventilation’s offering to its customers, with its knowledgeable staff always ready to provide information, advice, and solutions to customers. For further information on all products and services offered by National Ventilation, telephone 01823 690 290 or visit the company's website. For more from National Ventilation, click here.

Carhartt introduces TENCEL to women’s workwear range

American workwear company Carhartt has expanded its women’s workwear range with garments made using TENCEL Lyocell fibres, designed to combine comfort, durability, and breathability for a variety of working environments. The range is made from fibres derived from sustainably sourced wood pulp. The fibres are naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, and durable, helping to regulate body temperature while maintaining strength. Lightweight fabrics designed for flexibility The TENCEL Fibre Series includes a selection of everyday clothing such as shirts, joggers, and lightweight T-shirts, intended to offer flexibility and ease of movement throughout the working day. One of the key garments in the collection is a long-sleeved flannel shirt, combining cotton with TENCEL Lyocell for improved softness and comfort. The series also features a midweight crewneck sweatshirt that uses a cotton and TENCEL Lyocell blend for warmth and durability. Other designs include relaxed-fit joggers with stretch fabric and reinforced pockets and a short-sleeved T-shirt made from a cotton and TENCEL Lyocell mix for breathable comfort. Carhartt says the expansion of the TENCEL Fibre Series is part of its ongoing effort to create hard-wearing workwear that reflects the needs of tradeswomen. The use of lighter fabrics, developed with input from wearers, aims to provide strength and mobility without excess weight. For more from Carhartt, click here.

Thorn expands Altis range with RGBW floodlight

Thorn Lighting, a luminaire manufacturer and supplier, has expanded its Altis floodlight range with a new RGBW model designed for sports venues and architectural spaces. The addition reflects a growing demand for colour-changing lighting that supports visual identity, audience engagement, and creative illumination schemes. RGBW (red, green, blue, and white) lighting technology has become increasingly popular in arenas, stadiums, and public environments, offering designers the flexibility to build atmosphere and highlight architectural features through colour. Flexible configuration and control options The new Altis RGBW floodlight is available in one-, two-, or three-module versions and offers multiple optical configurations and mounting options. Its tiltable LED modules help achieve uniform light distribution with fewer fittings, reducing energy use and installation space. Each luminaire delivers up to 18,500 lumens per module, allowing strong, even colour projection across large areas. The gearbox, featuring four independently controlled RGBW channels, can be positioned up to 200 metres from the light fitting to simplify installation in complex layouts. The system integrates with DMX-RDM and DALI-2 control protocols, enabling programmable lighting effects, synchronisation with music, and dynamic scene creation. Built for durability, the Altis RGBW uses AC44300-grade aluminium with C5 corrosion resistance. It also features a patented pin-fin heatsink for improved thermal management and a lateral arm stirrup design that supports flexible mounting. Designed for a range of lighting projects As part of the Altis family, the RGBW version complements Thorn’s wider portfolio of floodlights, spotlights, and recessed luminaires suitable for architectural and sports environments. The company provides design and technical support across project stages, including concept development, lighting design, and commissioning. The Altis RGBW extends Thorn’s offering for energy-efficient, controllable, and durable lighting systems in both sports and architectural settings. For more from Thorn Lighting, click here.

Electrification could save Europe €250 billion per year

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology company, has launched a new research report highlighting the role electrification must play in Europe’s future. Currently the electrification rate in Europe is just 21%, a figure that hasn’t changed in the last decade and is 10% behind China, where rapid electrification is taking place. At the same time, the cost of residential energy use in the EU is €0.27 (£0.24) per kWh. In the US, that figure is €0.15 (£0.13), and China comes in at €0.08 (£0.07) per kWh. This puts the price of everyday activity for every EU citizen three times higher than that of those in China. Findings from the report The report, Europe energy security and competitiveness – supercharging electrification, reveals Europe could save €250 billion (£218 billion) per year by 2040 through accelerated electrification. The energy trilemma - balancing affordability, security, and sustainability - persists with high dependency on fossil fuel imports, keeping costs high and sustainability targets at a distance. That said, emissions in the EU have dropped 37% since 1990 levels. With electrification the proposed solution to the energy trilemma, the research notes the pace and progress of electrification in Europe varies significantly from country to country. This is due to differences in infrastructure, policy, market maturity, and consumer adoption. Some nations, such as the Nordics, have made notable advances in sectors like transport and buildings, while others are just beginning to scale up their efforts. Southern European countries often show higher rates of building electrification, whereas Western and Central Europe are seeing increased investment in industrial electrification and prosumer initiatives. For Europe to remain competitive on the international stage, the report says the continent needs to speed up progress to a more electrified world. Policy as an enabler The report identifies several critical policy levers that must be pulled. First, policymakers must reduce the price gap between electricity and natural gas by phasing out fossil fuel subsidies and reforming energy taxation to incentivise clean energy use. Accelerating financing is equally vital, including streamlining access to investment, offering targeted incentives (especially for SMEs), and directing emission trading schemes revenues and innovation funds toward electrification projects. The report also highlights the importance of creating robust local markets, which includes mandating electrification in new buildings and industrial processes, supporting rapid deployment of heat pumps and electric vehicles, and fostering prosumer initiatives. Finally, fostering local development through sustainable public procurement, fast-tracking standardisation, and prioritising support for European innovation and manufacturing will ensure that the economic and employment gains of electrification are realised across the continent. Commenting on the research, Laurent Bataille, Executive Vice President, Europe Operations at Schneider Electric, says, “This landmark research provides one of the most comprehensive analyses to-date of Europe’s electrification potential and the policy actions needed to realise it. "It underscores that electrification is vital, not only for achieving our climate ambitions, but for driving economic growth, energy independence, and industrial competitiveness. "Europe must break free from electrification stagnation urgently. The technology is here, ready to deploy. Now, policy must incentivise and businesses must drive implementation to unlock the economic and environmental gains we need to see today.” For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Recolight publishes first EPD for Raytec

Recolight, a UK not-for-profit compliance scheme for lighting waste recycling and sustainability, has published its first One-Off Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), created for UK LED lighting manufacturer Raytec’s SPARTAN Linear range. The release marks a key milestone in Recolight’s growing EPD service and reflects increasing demand for verified environmental data across the lighting sector. Raytec, based in Ashington, Northumberland, manufactures its products in-house and provides specialist LED lighting for hazardous, industrial, transport, and security environments. Through Recolight’s One-Off EPD service, the company now holds verified environmental metrics for its flagship range, supporting transparent reporting and demonstrating its commitment to sustainable manufacturing. Supporting sustainability through verified data Recolight’s One-Off EPD service is designed for companies seeking a small number of declarations or product-specific assessments. The process is delivered using the One Click LCA platform and independently verified by EPD Hub. Raytec’s EPD is now also publicly available on the EPD Hub platform. From initial data submission to publication, the process took less than four months. Max Robson, Environmental Metrics Manager at Recolight, says, “We’re proud to have delivered our first One-Off EPD for Raytec’s SPARTAN Linear range. "This is the first step in our commitment to helping lighting manufacturers navigate the complexities of product-level environmental reporting. "This new service opens the door for more companies to showcase their sustainability credentials in a meaningful way.” Gemma Millington, Project Manager at Raytec, adds, “The SPARTAN Linear is a high-performance LED lighting design for hazardous area installations. [...] It was a logical choice for our first EPD. "Working with Recolight meant we obtained our EPD quickly and cost-effectively.” Recolight’s EPD services are delivered in partnership with One Click LCA and form part of the organisation’s wider goal to promote sustainability across the lighting industry. By offering One-Off EPDs for product families, Recolight aims to enable manufacturers to meet growing expectations for environmental transparency and contribute to a more sustainable future. For more from Recolight, click here.

NICEIC partners with EIC for 'Tools to Talk' initiative

NICEIC, a certification body for the electrical industry, has partnered with the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) to launch The Tools to Talk, a dedicated mental health and wellbeing support toolkit to support NICEIC-certified businesses and their teams with issues relating to mental health. Launched at NICEIC’s in-person CPD event, TechLive, The Tools to Talk includes ongoing digital support for NICEIC-certified businesses through a quarterly e-newsletter, interactive mental health-focused episodes of The Wire webinar series, resources to help teams start conversations, and signposting to professional support services. To further support the charity’s work, NICEIC has donated £10,000 to help the EIC continue to provide support across the electrical sector, including counselling, wellbeing resources, financial assistance, employment support, and family support. The donation reflects NICEIC’s ongoing commitment to the vital work that the EIC does improving mental health outcomes for those working in the sector and ensuring that support is available when it’s needed most. Research from YouGov shows 62% of tradespeople think that, as a society, mental health and mental health challenges are discussed too little, making them 29% more likely to feel this way more than the general population. The Tools to Talk is designed to help electricians to express themselves on matters relating to mental health, start positive conversations with colleagues, and provide practical advice and experience they can use to improve the mental health of their colleagues. Commenting on the partnership, Danny Mouskovias, Learning and Wellbeing Manager at NICEIC, says, “Tradespeople across the UK play a crucial role in building and maintaining our society. Their work is safety-critical, often involves long hours, and comes with a lot of pressure – yet stigma around mental health persists. Too often, issues go undiscussed until someone reaches crisis point. “We must support our colleagues in taking the first step – having that conversation. The Tools to Talk provides the guidance and confidence teams need to support themselves and each other with compassion. Together with the Electrical Industries Charity, we’re committed to ensuring that everyone – from sole traders to businesses with large teams – has access to the support they need.” Jess Valima, Managing Director of the Electrical Industries Charity, adds, “We see the impact of mental health issues in the sector every day, which is why we’re proud to partner with NICEIC on The Tools to Talk. It’s vital that people recognise the signs early and know where to turn for help. “The Electrical Industries Charity offers a range of free and confidential support services for those working in the electrical and energy sectors.” If you need support or advice, reach out to the Electrical Industries Charity via support@electricalcharity.org, the online form, or by calling 0800 652 1618 (operating hours are 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday). For more from NICEIC, click here.

Vent-Axia to present latest ventilation at elementalLONDON

British ventilation manufacturer Vent-Axia will showcase its latest ventilation systems for housebuilders and social housing providers at the first elementalLONDON exhibition, held at ExCeL London on 19-20 November 2025. Visitors to stand D46 will be able to explore the company’s newest ventilation technologies, including the Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq range, and speak with Vent-Axia representatives about solutions for ventilation and overheating in residential developments. The event is aimed at professionals in the built environment who are focused on reducing energy use and carbon emissions in large-scale residential and commercial projects. Vent-Axia says it will demonstrate how its Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq range of Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) supports net zero housing goals while addressing one of the sector’s growing challenges: overheating. Addressing net zero and overheating in new homes Steve Pearce, New Build Residential Product Manager at Vent-Axia, comments, “We are pleased to be part of the inaugural elementalLONDON exhibition and to engage with developers and specifiers focused on the future home standard. "Visitors will be able to see our Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq range, which is designed for large-scale residential and social housing projects. "Our team will also offer guidance on achieving compliance with Building Regulations and meeting net zero targets while improving indoor air quality.” The Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq range is designed to provide energy-efficient ventilation, consistent thermal comfort, and compliance with Part O of the Building Regulations. The line-up includes four models: the Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq, Passivhaus-certified units, the Sentinel Econiq Cool-Flow, and the Sentinel Econiq-Cool (KERS). The Sentinel Econiq systems aim to mitigate overheating risks, which is a growing issue as new homes become more thermally efficient. ‘Approved Document O: Overheating’ of the Building Regulations sets out two key requirements: limiting unwanted solar gains and ensuring that excess heat can be effectively removed from the home. Ventilation plays a vital role in achieving both. When additional cooling is required, the Sentinel Econiq Cool-Flow model integrates DX cooling for automatic active cooling, using intelligent controls that switch between heat recovery, summer bypass, and active cooling. The Sentinel Econiq-Cool (KERS) unit combines an MVHR system with a KERS Coolboost air source heat pump. When passive cooling is insufficient, the system automatically activates mechanical cooling and renewable hot water production, providing a dual-function, energy-efficient approach. Expanding the range to support housebuilders Vent-Axia notes that housebuilders are increasingly adopting decentralised Mechanical Extract Ventilation (dMEV), alongside centralised MEV and MVHR, to reduce carbon emissions and meet the latest Building Regulations. The Lo-Carbon NBR dMEV C has been developed specifically for the new-build residential sector, offering low Specific Fan Power (SFP) values of 0.08 W/l/s and near-silent operation, independently tested at 7.4 dB(A). The unit is designed to reduce Dwelling Emission Rates (DERs) while improving energy efficiency and acoustic comfort. For more from Vent-Axia, click here.