Kidde introduces fire and CO alarm control switch

Kidde Safety Europe, a UK manufacturer of smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide alarms, has introduced a new Fire and CO Alarm Control Switch that enables remote testing and silencing of interconnected Kidde FIREX hardwired alarms, providing a practical solution for properties where alarms are installed in locations that are difficult to access or require regular inspection. The Fire and CO Alarm Control Switch makes the process easy with a convenient Test/Hush button that eliminates the need for physical access to the alarms. This is particularly valuable for elderly or disabled individuals and in properties with high ceilings. It also enhances safety and compliance where alarms are installed in non-occupied areas, such as lofts with photovoltaic (solar) equipment. The solution aligns with BS 5839-6:2019, the British Standard for domestic fire detection systems, which highlights the importance of providing remote testing capability for alarms installed in inaccessible locations. The new control unit features separate visual indicators for fire and carbon monoxide detection to provide a quick and clear identification of the hazard. For simplicity, it also has a single multifunction button. To test the system, users simply press the button and all the alarms will sound. In the event of an activation, pressing the Test/Hush button will silence all alarms in the system except the initiating device, allowing for easy and convenient alarm source indication. The Fire and CO Alarm Control Switch can be connected into any part of a new or existing Kidde FIREX hardwired alarm installation and can support up to 24 interconnected devices. The switch, which fits into a standard wall back box or standard surface mounted electrical box, should be mounted to a wall in an easily accessible, central location, such as a hallway or landing space. It is supplied with a 10-year warranty for long-term reliability. Keeping alarms working Brad Taylor, General Manager at Kidde and a 20-year veteran firefighter, explains, “The safety of residents depends on fire and carbon monoxide alarms being in full working order, and it is imperative that they are tested regularly. “Landlords have a duty to ensure their properties remain compliant, and our new alarm control switch simplifies this process across all Kidde FIREX hardwired alarms, supporting more effective management of life safety devices.” For more information about the RTHL Fire and CO Alarm Control Switch and Kidde’s full range of fire safety solutions, visit the company's website. For more from Kidde, click here.

Ideal Heating reinstates One More MAX incentive

Ideal Heating, a UK manufacturer of boilers and heat pumps, has confirmed the return of its One More MAX installer incentive at the start of 2026, offering up to £1,000 in rewards through its Connect programme. The scheme runs from 1 January to 30 April 2026 and applies to installers who register more Logic MAX or Vogue MAX boilers during that period than they did between 1 January and 30 April 2025. Installers who exceed their previous total by one registered boiler will receive £300 in Connect points. A further £700 is available for those who register four additional MAX boilers beyond that threshold, taking the total potential reward to £1,000, alongside the standard points awarded for each registration. How the incentive is structured The benchmark for the incentive is an installer’s total number of MAX boiler registrations during the equivalent period in 2025. To qualify in 2026, the requirement is to register one additional boiler during the same timeframe. For example, an installer who registered six MAX boilers between 1 January and 30 April 2025 would need to register seven during the same period in 2026 to receive the £300 reward. Registering 11 in total would trigger the full £1,000 allocation. Ideal Heating has also indicated that a further announcement relating to its MAX boiler range will be made on 12 January 2026. The company says the initiative is intended to build on its existing commitments to installers and homeowners. Commenting on the return of the promotion, Luke Pykett, Head of Marketing at Ideal Heating, says, “One More MAX is a firm favourite with installers and it’s back at exactly the right time to kick start 2026. “But it also tees up something even bigger: Next week, we’ll be unveiling a new promise for the MAX range, and one that shows just how far we’re prepared to go to support installers and their customers.” For more from Ideal Heating, click here.

£18 million power upgrade benefits 30,000 residents

More than 30,000 people in Hackney and North London will benefit from upgraded energy supplies following the completion of an electricity project from distribution network operator UK Power Networks. The project, which began in July 2017, required the installation of 22km of cable and ducting across four new circuits, with the final circuit being energised in November 2025. The new infrastructure will benefit more than 30,000 homes in Hackney and Walthamstow, paving the way for electric vehicles, heat pumps, and a greener future. Upgrading London's power infrastructure Errol Lord, Project Manager at UK Power Networks, says, "This initiative represents a significant investment in Hackney’s energy infrastructure and underscores our unwavering commitment to the local community. "The project was meticulously designed not only to enhance network resilience, but also to meet the burgeoning demands of both residents and businesses in the area. "The upgraded infrastructure will provide more reliable and sustainable energy to homes, schools, and local services. "Throughout the duration of the works, we have maintained close collaboration with the community to minimise disruption and ensure everybody knew what was happening. "We are grateful for the patience and understanding demonstrated by the residents, and we take pride in the collective effort that has brought this project to fruition." Teams working on the project included Alliance partner Clancy, D&R Jointing, and Enigma Scaffolding, as well as UK Power Networks’ office and field staff. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

New lockable enclosure covers for Elucian consumer units

Click Scolmore has enhanced its Elucian consumer unit range with the launch of new Premium Lockable Enclosure Covers. These sleek and secure retrofit covers have been designed to fit seamlessly with the company’s current Elucian range, meeting the growing demand for lockable, tamper-proof consumer units. The upgraded security and design have set new standards in the domestic market, offering a simple upgrade solution for customers who already have Elucian consumer units installed. The new lockable Elucian cover sits flush with the consumer unit to offer a more discreet appearance, perfect for homes with a consumer unit on display. The retrofit cover allows users to easily remove the existing cover and replace it with the new lockable version. In keeping with Elucian’s commitment to improved security, the new lid features a cam lock and is supplied with two keys per lid. The range of lockable lids features nine variations to accommodate the different sized consumer units available from five-way to 22-way. Some more of the stand-out features include: • Surface-mounted and IP20 rated • Steel construction for durability and long-lasting performance • New grooved sides on the cover to increase grip when lifting • Improved hinge design for greater quality and ease of use • 10-year warranty for peace of mind For more information, visit Elucian’s website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Elucian, click here.

NAPIT announces UKAS accreditation for MCS scheme

NAPIT, a company developing green skills and compliance, has confirmed that it has achieved UKAS accreditation to deliver the MCS Redeveloped Installer Scheme. The company says this reinforces its commitment to quality, consumer protection, and robust certification standards across the small-scale renewable sector. The milestone marks a new phase in the long-standing partnership between NAPIT and MCS, aiming to provide greater clarity for installers as the redeveloped scheme is rolled out. Building on this, the two entities say they are developing a comprehensive transition plan for existing MCS-certified members. This transition will start in 2026. Until further notice, existing members should continue to meet all current MCS Scheme requirements, including maintaining an approved Consumer Code. Further details on the transition process and key implementation dates will be shared early in 2026. In the meantime, installers are encouraged to visit the NAPIT MCS Redeveloped Installer Scheme page for more information. A redeveloped scheme Lindsay Hague, Head of Compliance at NAPIT, comments, “We are committed to supporting our members throughout the transition to the redeveloped MCS Installer Scheme. "By working closely with MCS, we aim to ensure the process is clear, practical, and delivers continued confidence in quality and compliance for both installers and consumers.” Ian Rippon, CEO at MCS, adds, “I’m delighted to congratulate NAPIT on its UKAS accreditation and look forward to continuing our partnership under the redeveloped MCS Installer Scheme. "MCS has worked in partnership with our certification bodies and the wider small-scale renewables industry to redevelop our Installer Scheme, making certification simpler and more rewarding. "Putting quality and consumer protection first, we are excited to roll out the redeveloped scheme over the coming months, helping businesses and industry to build lasting confidence in home-grown energy.” NAPIT will continue to keep its members informed as further information becomes available and says it remains committed to providing clear guidance to installers preparing for the future of the MCS Installer Scheme. For more from NAPIT, click here.

Octopus and Barratt Redrow target zero home energy bills

Octopus Energy, one of the UK’s largest energy suppliers, and Barratt Redrow, one of the UK’s largest housebuilders, have announced a partnership aimed at delivering homes with no household energy bills for up to 10 years, combining low-carbon building design with integrated clean energy technology. The agreement brings together Octopus Energy’s Zero Bills tariff with Barratt Redrow’s new-build housing developments, enabling residents to live in homes designed to generate, store, and use their own energy without paying for electricity or heating during the guarantee period. Launched in 2022, Zero Bills is positioned as the world’s first tariff of its kind. It applies to homes fitted with a heat pump, solar panels, and a battery system, allowing energy costs to be covered for at least five to 10 years, subject to usage conditions. First sites and wider rollout As an initial phase, the partners will deliver 54 Zero Bills homes across two developments in Wixams, Bedfordshire, and Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire. The first properties are expected to be completed in 2026, with further sites already under consideration across the UK. The partnership follows Octopus Capital’s recent £100 million funding round through its Affordable Housing Fund, which is expected to support the delivery of more than 1,000 Zero Bills homes across England and Scotland. Octopus Energy says it has already approved more than 5,000 Zero Bills homes through agreements with multiple developers, spanning affordable housing, private rental, shared ownership, and private sale. The company has set a target of delivering 100,000 Zero Bills homes by 2030 and has expanded the initiative into markets including Germany, France, and New Zealand. Nigel Banks, Zero Bills Director at Octopus Energy, says, “We’ve been working closely with Barratt Redrow on research trials and can now demonstrate what’s possible when Zero Bills is delivered at scale within new housing developments. "With solar panels, heat pumps, and EV chargers increasingly standard in new homes, eliminating energy bills is becoming a practical and cost-effective step.” Oliver Novakovic, Technical & Innovation Director at Barratt Redrow, adds, “By combining our highly energy-efficient homes with Octopus’ Zero Bills approach, we’re helping customers reduce their energy costs to zero while also lowering carbon emissions. "This partnership shows how innovation in housebuilding and energy can work together to deliver homes that are both sustainable and affordable over the long term.” For more from Octopus Energy, click here.

Click Scolmore introduces Matt Black to New Media modules

Click Scolmore, a designer and manufacturer of electrical accessories, has upgraded its New Media module range with the introduction of a stylish new Matt Black finish, delivering the same trusted functionality with a more sophisticated modern style. Designed to complement modern interiors, the new matte texture offers a sleek, low-sheen appearance that blends effortlessly into contemporary environments - perfect for applications where elegance and performance are essential. The Matt Black finish will be available across a comprehensive selection of New Media modules, including: • 10AX 2-Way Switch Module • 13A Socket Outlet Module • 16A European Schuko Socket Outlet • 20A Double Pole Switch Module • 20A Double Pole Switch Module with Neon • 10AX Intermediate Switch Module • 15A 110V US Socket Outlet • 15A Round Pin Socket Outlet Module • 5A Round Pin Socket Outlet Module • 13A Fused Connection Unit Module • Single Brush Module This enhancement reflects Click Scolmore’s ongoing commitment to innovation and meeting the evolving demands of the market with high-quality, design-conscious solutions. For more information on Click’s full range of New Media modules, visit the Scolmore Group website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Click Scolmore, click here.

Ansell enhances Highbay range with Halo

Ansell Lighting, a designer and manufacturer of luminaires, has launched the Halo Highbay - a modern decorative low-/high-bay luminaire, featuring a unique halo-ring design. Suitable for use in commercial, retail, educational, and healthcare applications, the Halo Highbay has been designed as a versatile option available in both black and white finishes. From a performance standpoint, the luminaire is CCT selectable between 3000K and 4000K, as well as power selectable, offering a choice of two outputs in one fitting. It also offers a rated lifetime of L80 54,000h, intended to ensure long-lasting operation across various settings. Designed for ease of installation, the Halo Highbay features push-fit terminals for quick setup and direct wiring into the fitting. Mark Abbott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting, says, “The Halo Highbay is one of the most versatile products in our portfolio, due to its suitability across a wide range of applications. "We believe the product delivers on every front, from performance and design to functionality. "One of our core values is to design products that are easy to install, and with the Halo Highbay, we have further streamlined the process to make setup as straightforward as possible for our customers.” For more from Ansell Lighting, click here.

Solar safety upgrade completed at York Minster

York Minster, the world-famous Gothic cathedral at the heart of York, has reduced energy costs and emissions following the installation of a rooftop solar photovoltaic system designed to prioritise both efficiency and fire safety at the historic site. Since commissioning, the 184-panel installation has generated more than 42,000 kWh of electricity in six months. At peak output, the system has met more than 80% of the Minster’s electricity demand, delivering savings of almost £20,000 and offsetting around eight tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. The project supports the Church of England’s target to reach net zero operation by 2030. The Chapter of York, which oversees the Minster and its seven-hectare estate, sought a solution that would reduce operational emissions while managing risk in a building with a documented history of rooftop fires, including a major incident in 1984. Solar design focused on heritage safety The installation was delivered by Associated Clean Technologies, working with SolarEdge technology that was selected for its approach to panel-level control and electrical safety. Power optimisers installed beneath each panel allow modules to operate independently, limiting the impact of shading from the Minster’s complex roof structure and maintaining overall system output. Alex McCallion, Director of Works and Precinct for the Chapter of York, explains, “This is an incredibly important building - it’s the symbol of this great city, the largest Gothic cathedral north of the Alps - so it has huge international significance. "However, it is also a building with an unfortunate history of fire. We chose SolarEdge technology primarily for peace of mind. “One of the reassuring aspects is the significant reduction in risk. We worked very closely with our insurance company to reassure them that we were able to address the possible risk to the fabric of this beautiful building.” Safety measures include panel-level voltage reduction when the system or grid is shut down, lowering the risk of electrical shock during maintenance or emergency response. Connector-level temperature monitoring is also in place to detect abnormal heat build-up and prevent electrical faults. The system is integrated with the Minster’s fire alarm infrastructure through a dedicated gateway, allowing the solar array to be shut down automatically or manually in an emergency to provide safe roof access for fire crews. Nicola Newby, Operations Director at Associated Clean Technologies, comments, “We are a strong advocate of the technology, primarily because of its safety features. "The support team is always available, which is important on complex installations such as this.” The York Minster project forms part of the Chapter of York’s wider Neighbourhood Plan, which aims to decarbonise more than 50 buildings across the estate. Combined, the estate’s solar installations now generate more than 120,000 kWh of electricity each year. For more from SolarEdge, click here.

RAW supporting Christmas travel with new charging bays

Electric vehicle (EV) chargepoint operator RAW Charging has outlined how its EV charging network is supporting drivers 'driving home for Christmas' across the UK this year, with chargepoints located at hospitality, leisure, and retail destinations on key festive routes. During 2025, the company has installed more than 400 charging bays across sites including retail parks, visitor attractions, and hotels. RAW Charging says the network now covers every region of the UK, providing charging access for drivers travelling on busy routes such as the M25, M1, and M6 in the run-up to Christmas. The network includes charging at retail destinations such as McArthurGlen Designer Outlets, alongside leisure and hospitality locations including National Trust properties and hotel sites. RAW Charging has also continued to expand its rapid charging hubs, with new locations added at Gallions Reach Shopping Park, Etruria Mills, Merrielands Retail Park, and Forest Hill, with further sites planned for 2026. Expanding EV charging at destinations RAW Charging’s network has been recognised with the Zapmap Best Network Award for 2026, as well as ICC Gold accreditation. The company says these recognitions reflect its focus on destination-based charging, where drivers can charge vehicles while shopping, visiting attractions, or staying overnight. According to RAW Charging, the rollout of new charging bays comes as the number of electric and hybrid vehicles on UK roads continues to increase. The company states that its chargers support contactless payment and are backed by round-the-clock customer support to help maintain reliability during busy travel periods. Jason Simpson, CEO of RAW Charging, comments, “I want to thank the entire RAW team for their outstanding work this year. "Their dedication has enabled us to deliver a truly nationwide network, connecting amazing places and making it easier than ever for drivers to enjoy the festive season with confidence.” It's reported that further network expansion is planned into 2026, with a continued focus on supporting electric vehicle travel at locations where drivers naturally stop during longer journeys. For more from RAW Charging, click here.