Aggreko appoints a new President for Europe

Following the appointment of a new President for Europe, Aggreko has formalised its plans for 2024 and beyond with the launch of Energising Change, its new sustainability framework which places support for the energy transition front and centre. Robert Wells, former Managing Director of Aggreko’s businesses across Africa, Middle East and Asia Pacific and Head of Global Events, has been appointed as the European President, as well as retaining responsibility for Global Events. With a focus on enabling European customers to access newer and greener technologies to support its decarbonisation process, Robert is set to embed the Energising Change framework in the region. Energising Change shapes how Aggreko works internally and alongside its diverse portfolio of customers across the world. It allows Aggreko and the companies it works with to embed low carbon power, temperature control technologies and a more efficient way of working. The framework forms a core part of the business proposition at a time when clearer action is needed to balance energy resilience, economic viability and action on climate. Central to the framework is a series of major investments that give the industry more immediate access to cleaner and greener energy sources, such as the expansion of its fleet of small, mid and large-sized battery energy storage solutions (BESS). The latest investment is part of the over $140 million earmarked in 2023 and 2024 to expand Aggreko’s Greener Upgrades fleet, which included new boilers, Stage V generation, batteries and chillers. Aggreko will use these investments to support the decarbonisation of many of its key sectors, such as manufacturing, construction and data centres. The approach is already being evidenced in projects across the continent, including a refinery in Romania where using a Greener Upgrade solution has already reduced carbon emissions, waste and operating costs by a substantial amount. The hybrid solution of solar photovoltaic and combined heat and power recovers waste heat from exhaust gases and uses a gas byproduct from the company’s process, producing electricity for the grid and on-site operations. Energy resilience is another core driver of Energising Change, reflecting a world where high energy costs and grid limitations continually present challenges to economic development. Supporting energy-intensive sectors such as manufacturing, construction and data centres, the company is set to continue working with customers to introduce solutions, which improve on-site resilience in addition to reducing environmental impact as it transitions to a renewable energy model. The Energising Change framework commits to supporting the move to renewables by using temporary solutions to support the construction and commissioning of tomorrow's energy systems. Working with key construction customers, Aggreko has been able to trial the use of BESS in conjunction with alternative fuels, such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) to see emissions and fuel consumption reductions of 45%. Commitment to being energy efficient also forms part of the framework, with the company expanding its approach to digitalisation via remote monitoring and data analysis services. This will ensure the equipment is running optimally, no matter where it is deployed. To read more on Aggreko, click here.

Net Zero Lighting 2024: Programme unveiled

A programme featuring experts in lighting and sustainability has been unveiled for the inaugural Net Zero Lighting Conference 2024. Organised by The LIA and Recolight, the event is designed to help lighting manufacturers on their net zero journeys and will take place on 2 May at 15Hatfields, London.   The conference will emphasise the practical steps that lighting manufacturers can take to reduce the carbon emissions of all parts of their operations to contribute to the low carbon economy.    “This event is coming at a critical time for the industry,” says event Chair, Ray Molony. “The lighting community stands ready and willing to play its part in addressing the climate crisis and we hope this gathering of experts and sharing of information will be a major springboard on our collective journey.”   The programme addresses seven vital areas:   Strategy: Tim Bowes and Oliver Wallace of Whitecroft share their roadmap for achieving net zero by 2045. Taran Rai from Epson will present the approach taken by an IT company to attain net zero. Nigel Harvey, CEO of Recolight, will share the organisation’s measures to minimise its carbon footprint, its successes, and the challenges it has faced.   Metrics and measurement: Bob Bohannon, Head of Policy and Sustainability at The LIA, will give a summary of the differing metrics, including B Corp, LEED, EcoVadis, SBTi, Earthly, Cradle-to-Cradle and TM65.2. Anton Borovy, Certification Manager for The LIA, will explain how low carbon operations can drive great TM65.2 scores.   Materials: Speakers include a representative from Wieland Nemco, who will discuss how incorporating recycled metals into lighting products can reduce embodied carbon.    Energy: This topic includes Angus Rose of Ineco Energy, who will guide delegates through the company’s successful implementation of a solar project on a lighting factory.    Packaging: Two case studies - a packaging materials supplier and a lighting manufacturer - will explore the world of sustainable packaging, and the steps taken to reduce plastic use and incorporate sustainable materials.   Transport: Andreas Adam of Ledvance will deliver a case study highlighting the pioneering sustainable transportation of the company’s luminaires to customers and its intake of raw materials.    Best practice: The Manufacturer's Perspective will be presented by Irene Mazzei of Stoane Lighting, a pioneer in sustainable manufacturing. Rebecca Hatch of WSP will explore the lighting specifier’s perspective in consideration of net zero credentials.   The day ends with a panel discussion addressing 'Commercial Imperative or Environmental Responsibility?'    Commenting on the programme, Ayça Donaghy, CEO of The LIA, says, “I am delighted that so many leading experts in this field are willing to share their knowledge and prowess with us all. It is already clear that the event will be filled with essential information to help lighting companies as they collectively work towards net zero.”    And Nigel says, “Achieving net zero is, without doubt, challenging, with input and change needed right across an organisation. The broad range of presentations will address many of the challenges, giving delegates the tools they need to decarbonise their operations.”   The early bird booking rate ends on 29 February. To register, click here.   To read more on Recolight, click here.

‘Game-changing’ roadworks tool hits the highway

An automated roadworks planning tool is cutting connection times for customers in a trial led by UK Power Networks.   The company successfully used 1Streetworks software in phase one of a trial to quote for and connect small power connections for customers. It reduced the hours surveyors spent on labour-intensive street work design plans from hours to just minutes while maintaining high levels of safety, and accuracy and meeting regulations.   The average time taken to connect new or altered power connections was reduced by a quarter across approximately 300 Surrey roadworks sites where 1Streetworks was used. The trial was so successful that the technology is going to be rolled out on a larger Kent trial, testing to see if it can be used to benefit customers served by other workstreams across UK Power Networks.   1Streetworks has been developed by Cambridge headquartered 1Spatial, a Location Master Data Management (LMDM) software and solutions. A street works plan for a smaller power connection, overhead line or underground cable repair usually needs a surveyor to assess the site, take measurements, and plot signage on a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) system. Now this can take minutes instead of hours. Designs can be produced on-site, adhering to the ‘Red Book’ street works code of practice, enabling local highway authorities to approve traffic management permits quickly and with fewer modifications.   Once the user plots the location of the work on a map, the software instantaneously plans site-specific traffic management, integrating layers of maps with main roads, bus stops, lane rental and street works rules.   Paul Dooley, Streetworks Performance Manager at UK Power Networks, says, “Planning street works to the high standards we expect takes time and few have tried to revolutionise the process during my 23 years in the sector. So, I’m excited about the potential of 1Streetworks to streamline complex traffic management plans, enable better communication with customers and highway authorities and improve the speed and accuracy of street works plans.   “We are exploring how 1Streetworks can enable effective collaboration with interested parties, reduce delivery times and provide unprecedented levels of consistency, repeatability, speed and efficiency.”   During the first trial in Surrey, surveyors welcomed being able to show customers what the traffic management would look like and explain the costs, while they were still together on-site. The trials have been funded by the Surrey and Kent lane rental funds.   Not all roadworks jobs can be planned using 1Streetworks, but the system could enable street works surveyors to concentrate on more complex jobs, such as street works near roundabouts.   To read more on UK Power Networks, click here.

Centiel appoints John Kreyling as Business Development Director

Centiel has strengthened its senior team with the appointment of John Kreyling as Business Development Director. John has more than two decades of experience in the power distribution industry and will be responsible for driving Centiel’s continued growth within the data centre market.   John says, “Data centres - particularly the larger facilities - value working closely with the factory manufacturing their UPS solutions. My role will now be to help cement such relationships and contribute to driving Centiel’s vision of further expansion in this global market.   “Working hand-in-hand with Centiel’s experienced team of trusted advisors, which includes the designers who have led the industry for 40 years to develop such solutions, is exciting. Centiel’s long-term vision, energy and focus on growth are refreshing and I am looking forward to meeting industry contacts and new customers as part of Centiel’s leadership team at the forthcoming Data Centre World event on 6-7 March at booth D725.’’   John has 23 years of experience in the power distribution industry, including 13 years in LV switch gear manufacture and 10 years in UPS sales and service. He joins Centiel from Kohler where he spent nine years in roles such as area, regional and UK sales manager. John has a HNC in Electronic Engineering and is Level 4 NVQ qualified in project management.   David Bond, Chairman of Centiel, says, “John is a well-known industry expert and brings with him a significant amount of experience which will benefit our valued clients both in the UK and further afield. We are delighted to welcome John as another trusted advisor in our team, tasked to help our customers further improve the availability and efficiency of their data centres while reducing the total cost of ownership and taking steps to improve sustainability at the same time.”   To read more on Centiel, click here. 

Unicrimp expands its Q-Crimp accessories range

Unicrimp has expanded its comprehensive Q-Crimp range of cable accessories with some essential new products designed to make an electrical contractor’s job even easier. Heavy-duty masonry nails, rubble sacks, dust sheets and brass cable glands have been added to the newly updated Unicrimp catalogue. The new heavy-duty masonry nails are ideal for items where extra security and lightweight fixtures are installed. As an essential part of a tradesperson’s toolkit, the range includes various robust and long-lasting options suitable for both interior and exterior use and comes in a variety of sizes to suit the job at hand. The rubble sacks are suitable for loads of up to 15kg and are ideal for rubble, bricks, plaster, sand, gravel and shale. They are supplied in a roll of 10 and come in two sizes: standard (560 x 790 x 90mm), which has a 70l heavy-duty capacity, and large (790 x 1080 x 90mm), which has a 135l heavy-duty capacity. The dust sheets are made from strong hard-wearing cotton, which absorbs paint splashes and resists everyday wear and tear such as tools, step ladders and working boots. The fabric is also washable and reusable, helping the installer save money on multiple sheets and contributes to the sustainability factor. The new armoured industrial brass cable glands and nylon cable glands are offered in a variety of BW, CW and AE1W and come manufactured to the latest approvals and BS 6121 standard. To read more on Unicrimp, click here.

Workwear brand Scruffs introduces its new Tech range

Committed to using recycled materials wherever possible, the Scruffs team says it has worked side-by-side with skilled professionals for over 20 years, developing products that meet all the quality and performance standards tradespeople need day in and day out.    Scruffs will introduce its new Tech range in March, which includes the Tech Holster Trouser, Women’s Tech Trouser, Worker Plus Holster Shorts, Tech Polo, Graphic Tee, Trade Softshell and a Tech Waterproof Jacket. The collection is ideal for layering up in colder seasons or providing enhanced stretch, breathability and comfort during the warmer seasons.    After extensive research and wear trials with tradespeople, Scruffs identified the need for its workwear to provide enhanced functionality and comfort crafted from top-tier, technical fabrics. The new Tech range features flexible waistbands, additional stretch panels, an adjustable hem with zip opening, and mesh panels for extra breathability. Moreover, Scruffs says that the range is made from naturally breathable and sustainably sourced fabric.     In addition to the tech garments, Scruffs has introduced a new Safety Boot - the ‘Rugged’. Combining all S3 safety features with extra cushioning for optimum comfort, the Rugged Safety Boot offers advanced protection, including electric shock absorption, water resistance for challenging weather conditions, and a composite toe and mid plate to allow lighter weight protection.   To read more Scruffs, click here. 

AWEBB welcomes Westminster Electrical Wholesalers as a new member

AWEBB has announced that Westminster Electrical Wholesalers will be joining its buying group on 1 March 2024. Westminster Electrical is a family-run business established by ex-Chelsea and Crystal Palace footballer Micky Droy in 1984. After almost 30 years of wholesaling in Greater London, it opened a second branch in Welwyn Garden City in 2012, expanding its operational capability and increasing its economies of scale in order to serve its customers. Following its success in Greater London, it now operates worldwide in more than 15 countries, where it provides a wide range of specialist items, including 800A + panel boards, switchgear distribution, solar, lightning protection and lighting designs. AWEBB says Westminster Electrical is a fantastic addition to its thriving membership. Meet Westminster Electrical Steve Droy, Managing Director, was proud to follow in the footsteps of his father and has worked for Westminster Electrical for over 25 years. He was instrumental in steering the selection and opening of its first branch office and headquarters in Welwyn Garden City. Steve is focused on growth in volume and its customer base, direct sourcing from well-recognised manufacturers, and capability building in human resources and facilities management. Richard Jolley, General Manager, has been in the industry since 1990 and has worked with all the national wholesalers, as well as the independent ones. Richard oversees everything in Welwyn Garden City and London, including its growing export business. Steve and Richard work together closely, sharing the same vision and values. When asked about joining AWEBB, Steve says, “We are planning the prudent expansion of our network in the coming years and felt that AWEBB were best placed to help us deliver this - with strong deals and similar values it really was an easy choice.” Mark Lambert, CEO of AWEBB, says, “We’re proud to have Westminster Electrical on board. They have such a strong track record of delivering excellence through everything they do. New members such as this further enhance our collective strength in such an innovative industry. We welcome Westminster Electrical to a powerful partnership and here’s to a bright future of collaboration and growth.” To read more on AWEBB, click here.

UK Power Networks engineer powers to the top

Kieran Coughlan, an engineer with a track record of shaping and growing teams, is to become the Director of Capital Programme at UK Power Networks.   The move follows the retirement of Nirmal Kotecha, who has had a successful career spanning over 30 years in infrastructure.   Kieran is a chartered electrical engineer with a track record in engineering, project delivery, regulation and commercial roles within the energy sector across the UK, Ireland and Australia before becoming head of Engineering and Safety at the Energy Networks Association. He joined UK Power Networks Services in 2017.   Since then, Kieran has led the development and growth of asset management, consulting and corporate development capabilities in UK Power Networks Services as part of the senior management team.    He holds an honours degree in Electrical Engineering from University College Cork. Kieran says, "I'm extremely proud to join the executive management team of UK Power Networks and lead the Capital Programme directorate. This marks an exciting time for our industry and UK Power Networks as we intensify our infrastructure development to support our customer needs and the transition of the electricity system to net zero.    “I look forward to collaborating with colleagues and supply chain partners to ensure the continued delivery of exceptional service to our customers in the years to come. I extend my best wishes to Nirmal for every success in the next stage of his career.’’   Nirmal has worked in infrastructure across gas, water, roads and electricity throughout his career and joined UK Power Networks in 2011. He is the immediate past Chair of the Infrastructure Client Group’s Management Board and remains a Non-Executive Director of the Major Projects Association. He is also a Fellow of both the Institution of Civil Engineers and the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply.    Nirmal says, “It has been a privilege to have been part of UK Power Networks’ journey in becoming the best-performing network operator over 2015-23 and to have worked with a fantastic team over that period. After 12 very successful years, the time is right for me to step aside and allow the next generation of our leaders to pick up the baton for 2023-28 and beyond. In this respect, I offer Kieran my very best wishes on his appointment.    “My immediate plans over the spring and summer include a significant amount of travel and working on lowering my golf handicap! Thereafter, I hope to stay involved in the world of procuring and delivering major infrastructure, albeit in a non-executive and/or advisory capacity.”   To read more on UK Power Networks, click here.

Work dips for trades, with a 20% decrease in job value

According to data analysis, there was a steep drop in the value of trade jobs over the past year. Data, from field management software specialist Workever, shows that the average quote value dropped by 6.5% in 2023 compared to data in 2022, with the value of quotes given the green light by homeowners dropping by nearly £500, an average of 20%. Data analysed from more than 500 companies and sole traders also showed that average invoice values have dropped by nearly 10%, with invoices for tradespeople such as plumbers, heating engineers and electricians averaging £748 in 2023, compared to £829 a year earlier, despite rising costs and overheads. Worryingly, invoices are also being paid more slowly, with tradespeople waiting an average of 31 days to get paid compared to 29 days in 2022, a nearly 2% increase in unpaid invoices. Damien Knight, CEO and Founder of Workever, says, “These statistics are concerning as we go into 2024. Whilst there’s been a dip in the housing market due to mortgage rates, the expected resulting boost in ‘don’t move, improve’ work for tradespeople doesn’t seem to have translated. “Having worked in the trade myself, we tend to work largely on the go, and it’s easy to lose track of jobs quoted or even those completed without a centralised log of everything. This is where utilising software that can track jobs, log quotes and manage all elements of the workload can prove invaluable. “Missing even one job could mean a significant loss of earnings, as can forgetting to invoice for the extra work done on a job; not ideal when tradespeople are already seeing a decline in the value and number of jobs.’’ “I designed the Workever software to meet the needs that I had when working in property maintenance. I needed to be able to track jobs, log costs, send invoices and chase payment, but to do that I’d need to essentially stop working and sit at a desk to go through it all. Workever has all the capabilities needed for businesses, but as a web-based app, it can all be done from the work van, on-site or on the sofa at the end of the working day.”

City Plumbing to unveil new Basildon branch

City Plumbing is set to open its new Basildon branch on 26 February. Moving to a new location at Carnival Park on Carnival Close, City Plumbing’s new and larger branch will be able to offer greater stock availability to customers, coupled with a Renewables Centre, Underfloor Heating Store and Bathroom Showroom. As part of City Plumbing’s ongoing commitment to supporting installers with energy-efficient solutions, the Renewable Centre is a key component of the new branch, which offers tradespeople access to information, products and impartial advice about the range of renewable products, including lower temperature heating technologies. The launch event starts at 9:30am and customers can view a suite of renewable solutions such as air source heat pumps, solar PV, wastewater heat recovery and EV chargers. Allen Hart, a plumber and social media influencer, will officially open the branch at 10am, whilst representatives from suppliers, including Worcester Bosch, Honeywell, Recoup, Rothenberger and Thermaskirt, will also be in attendance, offering a selection of giveaways on the day. Food and drinks will be provided and guests will have the chance to chat with manufacturers about their latest product ranges. The underfloor heating products on show will be part of the Underfloor Heating Store which will be housed within City Plumbing’s new location. The Bathroom Showroom displays an extensive range of bathroom products and suites for both the trade and end customers to visit. The branch has also created six additional roles within the Basildon area. Hemal Morjaria, Managing Director of Renewables and Electrical City Plumbing, says, “This flagship branch gives our customers a broader range and greater availability of stock. Coupled with this, through the launch of our second Renewables Centre, we’re demonstrating our ongoing commitment to a low carbon future with a host of sustainable heating and plumbing products on display. Our aim is to empower the trade to make a difference when it comes to renewable technologies.” Gary Plummer, Branch Manager at City Plumbing Basildon, says, “The official opening is a fantastic opportunity for our current customers and potential new customers to see what City Plumbing has to offer. Having a Renewables Centre, Underfloor Heating Store and Bathroom Showroom as part of the branch really gives customers that one-stop shop for everything they need. “The Bathroom Showroom is part of City Plumbing’s offering and is a fantastic sales tool for plumbers to assist their end customers in choosing their new bathroom range, backed up with an extensive stock of products. The new Renewables Centre also gives tradespeople an opportunity to explore low carbon options for now and the future.” To read more on City Plumbing, click here.