New partnership accelerates fleet charge point installation

Qmerit has partnered with Jumptech to expedite work-order distribution and scale up capacity to serve UK fleet customers. Jumptech and Qmerit’s established ecosystems of installation partners, combined with Qmerit’s service management capability, bring a new proposition to the market. Through this collaboration, UK automotive OEMs, EVSE manufacturers, car dealerships and fleet management companies (FMCs) can seamlessly facilitate charge point installation for EV fleets – enabling fleet operators to accelerate their transition towards EVs both at home and at work. Fleet managers can also stay updated without direct involvement in the installation process. The specialist fleet workflow will not only simplify handling of quote approvals to FMCs, but also allow real-time communication among FMCs, Qmerit and installers for a frictionless installation process. And the ability to track and keep drivers informed throughout the process will optimise EV drivers’ experiences. This commitment to transparency and quality control will ensure that every interaction, from enquiry to charge-point installation, aligns seamlessly with Qmerit and Jumptech's commitment to excellence.

BGEN fuels net zero journey with EV salary sacrifice scheme

BGEN has announced its partnership with Vehicle Consulting, in collaboration with franchisee, Vehicle Consulting Solent, to substantially lessen its carbon emissions. It’s a move that aligns seamlessly with its ambitious sustainability roadmap to reduce CO2 emissions by 25% by 2025 and achieve net zero carbon by 2035. BGEN has always been committed to delivering comprehensive engineering solutions. Recognising the importance of aligning their operations with its ambitious ESG plan, BGEN identified a strategic need to curtail its Scope 3 emissions. The electric car salary sacrifice scheme is a clear reflection of this commitment. Not only does it offer employees an environmentally friendly transportation option, but it also serves as a testament to BGEN's dedication to sustainability and enhancing employee welfare by providing them with tangible financial benefits and the pride of contributing to a greener future. Paul Thorley, Vehicle Consulting Solent, says, "Securing the trust and partnership from a company with the stature of BGEN is a testament to our capability, dedication and professionalism. We're not just facilitating access to electric vehicles; we're helping businesses drive tangible change in their environmental footprint whilst enhancing employee satisfaction." The scheme emphasises vehicles from eminent brands such as Mercedes and Tesla. The collaboration is set for an initial duration of three years, but both parties are enthusiastic about a prolonged and evolving relationship. Key benefits of the partnership include: Tailored solutions: By understanding BGEN's specific vehicular requirements, Vehicle Consulting tailored a solution to prioritise a mix of vehicle types that fit within BGEN's value parameters, ensuring that employees have access to a wide range of sustainable transportation options. Streamlined fleet management: Through an integrated fleet management platform, BGEN can seamlessly track mileage allowances, ensure driver's license validity, and maintain vehicles efficiently, thereby reducing overheads and ensuring compliance. Employee perks: Positioned as a cornerstone of this partnership, employees stand to gain substantial financial savings through payroll tax reductions and reduced fuel costs. More importantly, this scheme empowers them to be at the forefront of environmental change, driving vehicles that align with BGEN's commitment to sustainability.

Sevadis strengthens solutions with EVbee partnership

Sevadis and EVbee have announced a strategic partnership to provide an affordable, feature-packed and future-proofed EV charger to the UK market. The partnership combines Sevadis’ expertise in EV charging solutions and EVbee’s experience in developing cutting-edge products. Together, the strategic partnership will enable electrical contractors, installers and engineers to provide an affordable EV charging solution to their customers, whilst providing electric vehicle drivers with a seamless EV charging experience. After a stringent research and due diligence process, Sevadis appointed EVbee as one of their key EV charging hardware manufacturers due to sharing the same values and a commitment to providing accessible EV charging solutions for electric vehicle drivers. The partnership further strengthens Sevadis’ portfolio of EV charging hardware, giving customers with a choice in their EV charge point purchases. Key highlights of the partnership: Affordable EV charging solutions: The collaboration between Sevadis and EVbee seeks to make EV charging more accessible to a wider audience by providing cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality or innovation. Innovative technology integration: By bringing together Sevadis' expertise in EV charging networks across the region and EVbee’s cutting-edge charging solutions a strong partnership has been created. This includes smart charging capabilities, real-time data analytics, and user-friendly interfaces for a seamless charging experience. Customer-centric approach: Sevadis and EVbee are committed to putting the electrical contractor/installer and end-user first. The partnership focuses on delivering a customer-centric EV charging experience, emphasising ease of installation and use, reliability, and accessibility. A product launch of the EV charger will commence in 2024 where electrical contractors/installers and EV drivers can purchase via their respective channels. Craig Slater, Managing Director at Sevadis, says, "This collaboration represents not only a meeting of minds but a synergy of values and aspirations. We have carefully chosen EVbee because of their unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability — principles that resonate strongly with our own. "Together, we are poised to redefine industry standards and elevate our collective impact. By joining forces with EVbee, we are fortifying our commitment to delivering excellence to our customers and stakeholders. This partnership opens up new avenues for growth, propelling us toward shared success and prosperity. "I look forward to introducing our new EV charging solution to the UK market next year in 2024." Merv Roxas, CEO at EVbee, says, "Sevadis and EVbee’s collaboration is based on shared values and aspirations. As EVbee’s first UK partnership, Sevadis’ extensive network and expertise in providing EV charging solutions across the region is something we highly value. We are looking forward to forging our partnership to utilise each other's strengths to deliver innovative public and home charging products accompanied by great service. "I look forward to welcoming Sevadis as one of our UK partners for delivering innovative EV charging solutions to the growing market. Together we can unite in our mission to provide carefree EV charging that prioritises durability, reliability, and forward-thinking design."

Legrand puts simplicity at the heart of newly launched Bticino kits

With the global entry door market continuing to boom, Legrand UK & Ireland has launched its latest Bticino multi way audio and video entry kits for multiple dwelling units (MDUs). Data from Ken Research has stated that the door entry market is forecasted to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 9% up to 2028, reaching a value of $14bn overall. Anticipating this continued growth, Legrand has launched a new range of Bticino 2 wire kits to wholesalers, each including audio or video push button calling systems for small-to-medium-sized apartment projects. The kits, which are easy-to-fit and can be installed in MDUs with up to 18 units, have been launched to support electrical installers looking for a simple-to-install door entry system. All required installation components are provided in each kit’s box, ready to be installed on existing cabling or Bticino 2 wire cable. Legrand also provides simple instructions in its installation guides, which can be downloaded on its new website. Included in the kit is the plug-and-play Sfera Allmetal push button entrance panel, which meets IP54 and IK08 ratings for weather and impacts. Each kit also contains a power supply, configurator kit, modules and door lock relays, alongside internal units with door lock release buttons and entrance panel surface mounting backboxes. A video option is also available, which includes Classe 100V16M video internal units with a 4-3in colour LCD display. Bticino is a door entry brand, sitting under Legrand UK & Ireland’s Working and Living Spaces business unit. With a long history in providing door entry solutions to the UK and Irish market, these latest kits make it even simpler for installers to ensure they have the correct equipment for a simple and reliable installation. Crucially, as components are also available separately, each individual part included within the box can be easily replaced without needing to buy an entire system, in the event of upgrading work or vandalism. Richard Hopkins, Lead Marketing Manager for Legrand’s Working and Living Spaces business unit, says, “The continued demand for new and retrofit MDU projects is undoubtedly a good thing for wholesalers looking to supply professionals. However, those unfamiliar with fitting door entry systems may be denied opportunities for valuable additional work or miss out on entire projects altogether. It is for this reason that we launched our new Bticino multi way audio and video door entry kits – we wanted to simplify the process for professionals who are inexperienced in this area. “All kits have been designed to be easy-to-fit and feature a QR code on the box that links to a simple guide on how to install the system. As such, wholesalers can market the Bticino system to professionals looking to take their first steps with door entry technologies and highlight the additional technical support the Legrand team can offer for any additional queries. When combined with the installer training available via our Training Academy, we are showing our commitment to ensuring electrical professionals are equipped to deliver quality projects time and time again.”

Lambeth Pier connection paves way for greener River Thames

UK Power Networks and Net Zero Marine Services (NZMS) have partnered so that electric boats along the River Thames can plug in to charge and reduce emissions soon. UK Power Networks, which distributes energy across London, the East and the South East of the UK, will deliver 1.5MVA of energy to NZMS’s new battery storage facility that will be used to charge electric boats on the River Thames. This will be the UK’s first ever High Voltage (HV) shore power station above tidal waters. The substation will be based on a fixed tidal platform above an ebb and flow tidal range of 7m. The project is being funded by UK Power Networks’ Green Recovery programme to support new low carbon electricity connections. As part of the works, UK Power Networks installed 1.8km of new cables and equipment that will allow for the electrification of boats along the Thames. This means lower carbon emissions, reduced water contamination and cleaner air for London. It has invested £1.2m into the local electricity network to enable the connection to be made. The connection, near Lambeth riverside, was made in June 2023, a month ahead of schedule and will be used from next Summer. Under the Green recovery scheme, NZMS is developing five shore power locations in Central London, which will create a network of HV power infrastructure available for all Thames operators. UK Power Networks is delivering £66 million investment across 85 sites as part of the Green Recovery programme, to fast-track low carbon energy projects that will help achieve the Government’s Ten Point Plan towards net zero by 2050. This supports the transition to net zero carbon emissions and London Mayor, Sadiq Khan’s pathway for London to be net zero carbon by 2030.

Major conference on electrical safety tackles full lifecycle of products

The clear focus of the 2023 Electrical Product Safety Conference has been the importance of the whole product lifecycle – from design and pre-market, to on the market and end of life – the full circular economy. Held at Church House in Westminster, London on 16 November, the day-long event brought together experts and leaders from across government and industry to investigate critical issues, offer solutions, and share insights on the growing need for electrical product innovation to support the UK’s transition to a net zero future. Attended by more than 240 delegates from government departments, manufacturers, retailers, importers, lawyers, fire and rescue services, and test houses, the conference explored key themes and trends affecting consumer safety and the electrical product industry. Sarah Smith, OBE, Deputy Chief Executive of the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) at the Department for Business and Trade, was among the panellists for the session on regulation and she notes, “This is the moment to set the framework for the next 30 years.” This year’s theme, 'to market and beyond', saw experts examine each stage of a product’s life with sessions focused on safety in design, pre-market, on the market, and end of life decisions. This led to discussions on issues such as how to ensure safety from the outset of product design, the legal responsibilities and due diligence needed to take a product to market, supply chain issues, service and repair, the lack of global regulation, and the pros and cons of product removal versus extended life. Attendees gained insights from renowned experts and industry leaders at the forefront of product safety and learned about the latest legislation and regulations affecting the safety of electrical products. They also saw innovations in electrical safety and how they can help consumers and engaged in discussions and networking with a wide variety of key stakeholders. The conference featured the announcement and presentation of Electrical Safety First’s prestigious and coveted Safety Innovation Award, sponsored by ProductIP, which recognises and rewards innovators, designers, and creators delivering forward-thinking approaches to product design and safety. The 2023 winner is HobSensus, designed by Prefect Controls, specifically for student accommodation, communal kitchens and people living in sheltered or assisted-living property. It makes kitchens safer by ensuring that hobs are not left switched on if the person preparing food is distracted, and by alerting residents, if there is potential for a pan fire. In addition to the award winner, the Highly Commended entry for 2023 went to South Tyneside Homes for its Post Occupancy Electrical Safety Check initiative, which educates tenants on electrical safety risks. This improves awareness of how tenants can keep themselves and their families safe in their homes over the short and long-term. And it offers protection by reducing issues of disrepair, electrical faults, electrical fires, and overspending of budgets. Sponsors and supporters of the 2023 Electrical Product Safety Conference were Connected Innovations, Eurofins, ICPHSO, OPSS and ProductIP.

NAPIT launches its new podcast

NAPIT, the National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers, has recently launched its new podcast: WATT’S CURRENT. It will be releasing a new episode every other Wednesday, with each episode a bite-sized 20-30 minutes, ideal to listen to on your drive into work, walking the dog, or while you're working. Hosted by NAPIT's Technical Commercial Manager, Steve Humphreys, WATT’S CURRENT will feature a variety of topics and themes, such as: Providing valuable insights and discussions on the latest developments of NAPIT and the other services they offer, such as NAPIT training and insurance Educating and informing listeners with technical insight Discussing any industry updates, new technologies, regulation changes and issues from within the wider electrical industry It will also be inviting in perspectives from a number of industry experts, and other professionals in the field to provide a dynamic and engaging listening experience for the audience. NAPIT are also encouraging listeners to write in with suggestions of topics they would like to see NAPIT cover, they can email suggestions to besocial@napit.org.uk.

SPARKS Learner of the Year 2024 deadline fast approaching!

Last call for entries! This is your last chance to enter the SPARKS Learner of the Year 2024. Level two and three students have only until midnight this Thursday to secure a spot in this prestigious event, now celebrating its 14th year. The competition is an opportunity for the next generation of electricians to showcase their skills, gain confidence, and win incredible prizes. Contestants will compete at regional locations across England and Wales, kicking off in January, leading to the Grand Final at Schneider Electric’s Innovation Hub in Coventry. The competition is supported by some of the biggest names in the industry, including Schneider Electric, Electric Center, Milwaukee, IDEAL Industries, Aico, The IET, Luceco, Prysmian, Snickers, FIX Radio, and NAPIT. Don’t miss out! Enter now at SPARKS Learner of the Year 2024. Follow SPARKS on social media using #SPARKSLOY24 - you can check last year's highlights on the website.

App enables instant mobile payment for call-out repairs

The BigChange job management system has now allowed payment for completed field service jobs to be taken whilst on site. After viewing an invoice summary on the engineers’ mobile device, a customer receives a payment app link. A ‘pay now’ screen then pops up on their phone for easy, one-click payment. BigChange Pay is a very easy add-on to BigChange and does not require any complicated bank or credit card set-up. After reviewing and agreeing the payment, the payment app link is received via email, SMS, or most conveniently, by simply reading a QR code displayed on the engineer’s device. “A healthy cash flow is something that all businesses strive for and that’s what BigChange Pay is all about,” says Jonathan Isaacs, Product Marketing Manager, BigChange. “And because invoices are paid directly by the customer on a job’s completion, there is no need to chase payments. This new feature also means invoice disputes will be a thing of the past; something that will be a huge relief for many business managers.” BigChange Pay is also very beneficial to customers as they can review the work done and the invoice at the same time and the paid invoice is received automatically by email. If there are any issues with the invoice, they can be raised, and most likely resolved, with the field service operative still on site. And with instant payment, all the usual administrative burden dealing with invoices is eliminated. BigChange Pay uses technology pioneered by BigChange during the Covid pandemic when a ‘No-Touch’ job sign-off app was developed, as an option to traditional sign-on-glass. This allowed jobs to be signed-off on the customers’ own phone even from remote locations, such as at home. “At BigChange we're dedicated to providing solutions that not only make operations smoother but also ensure financial success. So, BigChange Pay is a natural progression in providing added convenience for customers and will be especially appealing for companies servicing domestic customers and for non-contract commercial work,” Jonathan comments. BigChange Pay can be configured according to various criteria. For example, instant-pay might not be suitable for some types of work. In addition, access can be restricted to authorised field service staff; companies might, for example, not want junior engineers or subcontractors to take payment.

KNIPEX launches its Christmas promotion

Tis the season to be jolly and once again, KNIPEX has made a great Christmas companion with the perfect gift for tool fans – the limited edition Pliers Wrench (86 01 180 XMAS), a sparkling holiday delight! Don’t expect to see the famous KNIPEX red handles on these pliers. Instead, they come in a striking black with gold lettering, complete with a festive gift box – the ideal Christmas treat for any tool enthusiast. The Pliers Wrench is a master at gripping, holding, pressing and bending and replaces an entire set of both imperial and metric wrenches. With smooth jaws ideal for delicate surfaces, these pliers can grasp an infinite variety of wrench sizes up to 40mm. Featuring a convenient button for fast adjustment and ensuring no unintentional slips, their innovative design enables swift tightening and loosening of screw connections using the ratchet principle. Don’t miss out on the KNIPEX Christmas sparkle! If you want to bag these pliers you need to act fast – this is a limited-time offer, only while the strictly limited edition run lasts.