Macclesfield FC announce sponsorship deal to cut energy costs

Macclesfield FC has announced a three-year partnership with Powerdown220, with the aim of reducing the club’s energy costs and lowering their carbon footprint to help the club become more eco-friendly. The technology reduces a site's electrical consumption by up to 12% by lowering the voltage supplied by the National Grid and allowing clients to power their sites at the optimal level for their equipment. The partnership will result in an annual saving of over £10,000, which can be reinvested into other areas of the club. In the current climate of spiralling energy costs, it also affords a certain amount of protection against further price rises from energy suppliers. Powerdown220 are keen to help UK facilities reduce their voltage, as average voltage supply in the UK is higher than required for CE rated equipment, leaving businesses paying more than they need to. This year alone, their clients have saved over £10m, combined with a further 7,000 tonnes of CO2 removed from the environment. Announcing the partnership, Powerdown220's Founder, Stuart Hawkwood, says, “We work with companies all over the country, but it's always nice to be able to work with and support local businesses wherever possible. “We've already helped a number of organisations and charities in the Cheshire area with their energy costs, especially in the current climate, and we look forward to adding Macclesfield FC to that list.” Powerdown220's Director, James Goodby, adds, “We've watched the club’s rise over the last few years, as they have been on a similar trajectory to ourselves.” “As an office full of sports fans and being based in the town centre, it always made sense to offer our services to the club, so we're delighted to be able to contribute positively to the club’s continued success and growth on and off the pitch.’’ Macclesfield FC, Head of Commercial and Sponsorships, Bob Trafford, states, "We are delighted to welcome Powerdown220 into our commercial family, with a deal that will span the for the next three years. "We have already started to see vast amounts of savings in our energy bills since the installation and look forward to this continuing. "Powerdown220's innovative and cost-saving technology will allow us to redirect vital funds to other areas of the business - including our first team budget, as we look to continue our upward trajectory over the next three years."

Zumtobel introduces first Cradle to Cradle Certified product

Zumtobel has introduced ARTELEA, a sleek office luminaire designed for modern workplaces, combining aesthetics and a powerful lumen output of up to 32,000 lumens. The slimline, free-standing design offers nine unique configurations, maintaining a consistent office design language while allowing creative freedom. Crafted from up to 80% recyclable materials and following Zumtobel's Circular Design Rules, ARTELEA is the first luminaire to achieve Cradle to Cradle Certified Product Standard Version 4.0 certification. With a 100,000-hour service life, estimated to last 48 years, ARTELEA supports sustainability through 'design for disassembly', reducing material consumption and CO2 emissions by approximately 74.2kg. Featuring swarm technology for networking, tunableWhite technology, and compliance with workplace lighting standards, ARTELEA enhances wellbeing and energy efficiency. Designed by EOOS Design, ARTELEA embodies circular design principles, offering enduring and flexible office lighting solutions.

Good Energy reveals research on heat pump misinformation

Good Energy has revealed new research which shows the widespread nature of misinformation around heat pumps. The green energy supplier and heat pump installer commissioned Opinium to survey adults across the UK, asking them to identify if a number of statements about the electric heating technology as true or false. Shockingly, the most widely believed statement, identified as ‘true’ by 25% of respondents, is that ‘heat pumps are less efficient than gas boilers’. In fact, heat pumps are not simply more efficient than boilers, they are much more efficient — converting one unit of energy into three or four on average, accounting for seasonal differences. This makes them as much as four times as efficient as a typical gas boiler. Other false news that a significant number of people consider fact, according to the survey, includes – Running a heat pump costs more than a gas boiler, according to 24% of those surveyed. In fact, the greater efficiency of heat pumps brings their running costs down, even accounting for the inflated unit costs of electricity compared to gas. A heat pump is louder than a fridge believed by 23% of respondents. In fact, the maximum noise output of a heat pump is 42 – 45dB, about the same as a fridge and slightly quieter than a gas boiler which can range from 48dB – 53dB. Heat pumps only work in newer homes, identified as ‘true’ by 20% despite government funded research showing they are suitable for all housing types. Heat pumps don’t work in the cold, say 15%, presumably unaware that 1.4 million homes in Norway are warmed by heat pumps, which can function well down to outdoor temperatures of -15ºC or even -20ºC. Heat pumps require underfloor heating, a further 15% believe. While underfloor heating and a heat pump is a great combination, the clean technology can function perfectly well with traditional radiators. The survey results have been published, as Good Energy is launching its new bespoke 'Winter Tips' service for its heat pump customers. Good Energy offers remote monitoring with its heat pumps, meaning it can identify issues early and ensure customers get the best from their heating. The new Winter Tips service will provide a set of tips and individualised data on customers’ overall efficiency, and recommend any changes they may wish to make to their setup in order to save energy over the colder months. Good Energy's Chief Executive, Nigel Pocklington, says, “For some unfathomable reason, heat pumps have found themselves in the front line of the culture war, with the truth, as ever, becoming an early casualty. “The constant flow of misinformation from media with poor journalistic standards, an absence of reputable data or the fingerprints of lobbyists all over them, means that the overall level of public understanding has fallen. “The best antidote to this is to keep pointing towards fact-based research and data, and we will continue to do that. “That is what we will be providing with our new Winter Tips — information and data for our customers to ensure they are as informed as they possibly can be about their heating, in order to save money and be greener.”

Schneider Electric’s Natalya Makarochkina wins the SILVER STEVIE award

Schneider Electric has announced that Natalya Makarochkina, Senior Vice President, Secure Power Division, International Operations, has won the SILVER STEVIE Award for Female Executive of the Year in the Business Services category in the 20th annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business. The Stevie Awards for Women in Business honour the achievements of women executives, entrepreneurs, employees, and the companies they run, worldwide. The Stevie Award has been hailed as the world’s premier business award. In her current role, Natalya stands at the forefront of transformative initiatives in the IT, software, and energy management sectors. Leading a dynamic team of approximately 700 professionals, she has played a pivotal role in guiding Schneider Electric's customers and partners through their digital transformation journeys. Her influence extends across diverse regions, including MEA, East Asia, Pacific, Japan, and South America, contributing significantly to the realisation of sustainability goals in an all-electric world. Natalya's tenure with Schneider Electric spans over eight years, during which she previously led the IT businesses across the CIS zone. Her strategic vision and implementation of an anti-crisis growth strategy, coupled with a corresponding organisational setup, have been instrumental in driving the company's success. Reflecting on Natalya's achievements, Pankaj Sharma, Executive Vice President, Secure Power Division and Data Centre Business at Schneider Electric, states, “Natalya's exceptional leadership has steered Schneider Electric's Secure Power Division towards consistent double-digit growth. We are thrilled that her unwavering dedication to the success of her team, customers, and partners is receiving well-deserved recognition. Her sharp intuition and unparalleled expertise have made a lasting impact, significantly influencing our business strategy as we strive to position ourselves for a sustainable future."

EnOcean products help save 1.4 million tons of CO2 every year

EnOcean has been making a significant impact in the fight against climate change. Through its innovative energy harvesting wireless technology, EnOcean is saving over 1.4 million tons of CO2 emissions annually, preventing this harmful greenhouse gas from entering the atmosphere. This achievement is made possible as its technology is now connecting smart-building systems in more than one million premises worldwide. In collaboration with SET Ventures, EnOcean has quantified the energy savings achieved by their devices, which result in an average reduction of approximately 15% in a building's energy consumption. Currently, its products manage an impressive 221 million square metres of floorspace which equals around 74,000 football fields. As EnOcean continues to supply more sensors to the market, these annual savings are expected to grow even further. "Reducing our energy demand is critical for transitioning to renewable sources and combating climate change. Buildings are responsible for 40% of global energy consumption, as reported by Forbes," emphasises Armin Anders, Co-Founder and VP Business Development at EnOcean. "Smart HVAC and power control are cost-effective measures that can significantly contribute to this cause. Products like ours, which allow us to eliminate unnecessary energy consumption, represent quick and affordable wins compared to extensive infrastructure investments." EnOcean's wireless building-automation products operate on the principle of energy harvesting, drawing power from their surroundings, such as motion, light, and temperature differences. This eliminates the need for batteries and power cords. It supports various wireless standards, including Bluetooth, Zigbee, and the optimised EnOcean radio protocol. The product range includes kinetic switches, self-powered sensors, gateways, actuators, configuration tools, and the SmartServer IoT edge device. These products seamlessly integrate into existing Wi-Fi access points from Aruba Networks, simplifying installations without requiring complex cabling or additional gateways. The products communicate with heating, air conditioning and lighting, monitor occupancy and people flow, and allow settings to be automatically adjusted for optimum user convenience while saving energy. Because of their battery-free and maintenance-free nature, they eliminate the necessity for regular servicing and battery replacements, ensuring continuous, reliable performance and contributing significantly to reducing electronic waste and operational disruptions. Furthermore, the easy installation stems from the wireless, self-powered nature of the devices, which mitigates the need for complex cabling and power source setups, allowing for straightforward, eco-friendly integration into any building infrastructure using a 'peel and stick' approach.

SELECT launches SQA-accredited installation training course

SELECT has responded to the rising demand for electric vehicle (EV) charge points by launching its first installation training course. Developed after extensive consultation with its 1,260 member firms, the one-day module can be delivered in person or online and aims to ensure that EV technology is installed safely and competently by a qualified electrician. Rated at Level 7 on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), the first SQA customised award in electric vehicle charging equipment installations was delivered at the Gailes Hotel in Irvine on 7 November. Delegates were given an introduction to the technology and an overview of its electrical requirements before getting hands-on with the units and being talked through the installation process. Jenny Cryans, SELECT Training Manager, says, “There’s no doubt that the demand for EV charge points is rising all the time and that installations are becoming part of the modern electrician’s world. “It’s also essential that such work is carried out safely and efficiently, which is why SELECT spent the first half of 2023 speaking to members and responding to feedback as we created and shaped this comprehensive new training resource.” The course was created by Training Development Adviser, Stuart McKelvie, and Consultant Technical Adviser, Billy McRobert, who both delivered the first session in Ayrshire, with Technical Adviser Robert McGoogan sitting in to experience things as a delegate. Bob Cairney, Director of Technical Services at SELECT, says, “The future is electric and with this course SELECT is reinforcing its position at the forefront of the green revolution as the electrification of society continues. “With EVs and charge points becoming more popular, the module helps SELECT members add another string to their electrical bow and provide more business opportunities as they learn how to work with EV technology safely and efficiently.” Following the successful launch, more courses will be delivered across Scotland in the coming months, with the in-person sessions completely mobile thanks to the donation of two top-of-the range charge points by SELECT Associate Member, Luceco Group. The course is designed for qualified electricians with a current BS 7671 qualification and who are a minimum of 18 years old. The cost for SELECT members is £230 + VAT (£276), which includes the assessments and SQA certificate on successful completion. Three new sub-categories were introduced specifically for those with existing classification and approval in low and extra-low voltage electrical installations who also install EV charging equipment.

ARMD ‘sticks one up’ to tool theft at Toolfair and Elex

Incidents of tool theft in the South East of England have seemingly been at an all-time high, but at the recent Toolfair and Elex show at Sandown Park, Esher, ARMD took the initiative to protect the trade. Giving out free ‘stick one up to tool theft’ stickers, ARMD demonstrated how its insurance, combined with its ARMD Guard Smart Van Alarm and Tracker, allows hard-working professionals to take control; not only preventing theft, but getting back on the tools quickly should the worst happen. “We targeted Sandown Park as many trades from the London area flock to the show to buy their power tools,” explains Stephen Holland, Co-Founder of ARMD. “The interest we had was overwhelming. Many more tradespeople are now properly insured and their vans are protected with the ARMD Guard, which sends an alert to your phone if your van is being broken into.” According to LBC radio, tool theft is costing the UK construction industry over £100m during the cost of living crisis, with at least 110 tools being stolen each day on average, according to figures from 25 of the 45 territorial police forces in the UK. Andy Trotter, the former Deputy Assistant Commissioner at the Metropolitan Police, labelled LBC’s figures, “devastating for tradespeople”. He says, “The impact is enormous, particularly when people are going through a very tough time economically. It is a huge problem for the police to deal with." However, ARMD is a great solution to protect your tools, and should you be the victim of theft, resume work without delay. “Without the resources to police tool theft effectively, ARMD is the best option to take back control and really make sure you can get back to work in no time,” explains Mark Tiff, a heating and plumbing installer who has been in the trade for over 25 years and is also well known for his popular Real World Plumbing YouTube channel. “It’s easy to set up and you can claim on your insurance digitally through the app, which saves so much time and aggro. My advice is to download the ARMD app, input what tools you have got and get covered – don’t leave it too late. It takes just a few minutes!” ARMD were giving away its Hi-Viz van stickers at the show encouraging trades to stick one up to tool theft and show solidarity in fighting the problem. Toolfair Sandown was also the first ‘in-person’ launch of its latest smart van alarm and tracker, which proved a popular choice amongst show visitors. ARMD will be appearing at more trade shows and events throughout the year.

NICEIC's pocket guide app just got a lot smarter

NICEIC has announced the release of its updated Pocket Guide app. The app equips users with an array of cutting-edge technical resources on the go. Free and exclusive to NICEIC certified businesses and their employees, the app has been downloaded over 50,000 times since its launch less than 18 months ago. Available for both iOS and Android devices, this latest update offers: EV charging pocket guides: Two new pocket guides covering electric vehicle charging and installation methods for flat twin and earth cables Gas pocket guides: NICEIC's renowned gas pocket guides are now integrated into the app, offering comprehensive information and support for gas engineers Technical helpline access: Users can now submit questions to the NICEIC’s technical helpline directly through the app Enhanced interconnectivity: Each guide now features convenient links to related documents and webinars, streamlining access to essential resources Tailored content filters: Users can now customise their experience by filtering guides to display only those relevant to specific topics such as building regulations, emergency lighting, and isolation Latest news section: Keeping users up to date and in the know, this new feature provides access to press releases and sends push notifications whenever new news is added “NICEIC's commitment to innovation and technical excellence is evident in the continued development of the Pocket Guide app,” says Paul Collins, NICEIC’s Technical Director. “Since launching in June 2022 the app has proven to be an indispensable companion for NICEIC certified businesses and their employees, providing on-the-go access to accurate technical information. We recognise this and are committed to developing the app even further.” If you are certified with NICEIC, head over to your app store and search for NICEIC Pocket Guide app. If you have already downloaded the app, please check for updates to ensure you are using the latest version.

Kidde Europe elevates fire safety awareness for children

Kidde Europe has launched its Cause for Alarm campaign. This campaign was created in response to the statistics that fatal house fires disproportionately affect some communities more than others. Alarmingly, children under the age of five are at the greatest risk of fire-related deaths, making up almost 50% of fire deaths among children aged 16 and under.[1] This Fire Safety Week, Kidde Europe is determined to bring this critical issue to the forefront, helping to educate and support families in safeguarding their homes and their loved ones. Kidde recognises the need for a creative approach to engage and educate children and their families. To address this, Kidde has introduced the Cause For Alarm jingle, a catchy tune that helps children and parents remember what to do when a fire alarm sounds - 'Beeps that last, get out fast'. ‘‘We want to make fire safety a top priority in every household and keep children safe in their homes,” says Rebecca Cackett, European Channel Marketing Manager, at Kidde. “With the right fire safety education and home safety products, we can help prevent devastating fatalities. We are calling on everyone to work together to help spread this message and keep our children and loved ones safe.’’ This campaign emphasises the importance of selecting the right fire safety products and creating, and importantly practising, a family escape plan, where children understand what to do if they hear an alarm sound, as these are fundamental in the battle against fire hazards. Despite a considerable percentage of households owning functional smoke alarms, a concerning 21% of those surveyed admitted to never testing them.[2] Fires can spread rapidly, leaving no time to waste. Moreover, many house fires start at night, and the assumption that the smell of smoke will wake individuals is a big misconception. The smoke produced in house fires often contains toxic gases, like carbon monoxide, which can render people unconscious swiftly. This is why working smoke alarms are crucial, as they provide vital minutes for escape before a home becomes filled with smoke. In the coming weeks, Kidde will be partnering with influential figures to promote the campaign, aiming to connect with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. [1] Child accident prevention trust [2] English Housing Survey

Travis Perkins launches 'Trade Talk' podcast with Sally Wallace

Travis Perkins has launched a podcast entitled ‘Trade Talk’. The three part series is hosted by podcast and radio presenter, Sally Wallace. Sally, whose husband has been a builder for 15 years, is joined by Karl Conway of KLC Builders from South Manchester, and Jake Keenan, a Travis Perkins Branch Manager at Congleton, throughout the podcast series, who will share their own blend of insight and experiences for those in the trade or thinking about joining the trade. In the first episode, Sally talks with Karl and Jake about their experiences of apprenticeships and training, and the episode also covers accounting and bookkeeping within the construction industry. Matthew Aitken, Head of Marketing at Travis Perkins, says, “It is full of great tips, subject matters that the trade might find helpful and relatable. We’re really excited to be working with Sally, Karl and Jake, who each has different experiences in the construction sector. At Travis Perkins we have a long heritage of doing what matters for the trade and think each episode will help equip tradespeople with valuable insights and advice.” Sally says, "I've been married to the trade for almost 16 years and presenting and hosting podcasts and radio shows for the same time. Hosting 'Trade Talk' for Travis Perkins produced by the team at Voiceworks is a dream combination for me. The episodes are fun, informative and a chance to share relatable stories and topics of the trade, with a little insight to the madness of my home life, as a trade wife." You can subscribe to ‘Trade Talk powered by Travis Perkins’ on all major platforms including Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music.