CENTIEL leads industry with sustainable UPS launch

CENTIEL UK has launched its new uninterruptible power supply (UPS) StratusPower to provide complete peace of mind in relation to power availability while helping data centres to achieve net zero targets. The latest innovation leads the industry, as StratusPower shares all the benefits of its award-winning three phase, true modular UPS CumulusPower - including ‘9 nines’ (99.9999999%) availability to effectively eliminate system downtime; class leading 97.1% on-line efficiency to minimise running costs; true ‘hot swap’ modules to eliminate human error in operation – but now also includes long-life components to improve sustainability. The three phase modular UPS StratusPower now covers a power range from 50 to 1,500kW in one cabinet and can be paralleled for 3,750kW of uninterrupted, clean power, which is perfect for data centres, minimising total cost of ownership but also helping achieve sustainability goals with a full commitment to zero waste and net zero policies. Click here more latest news.

Manufacturers, Wholesalers and Contractors - the ECN Awards need you!

Have you been making a significant impact in your field? Are you or your team pioneers, innovators, or change-makers in the electrical contracting industry? If so, we want to celebrate YOU and all that you’ve accomplished! The ECN Awards – one of the most prestigious awards in the electrical contracting industry – is now open for entries. This is your chance to gain the recognition you truly deserve for your hard work and dedication. With only three months to go, it’s time to get your entries prepared! There are five awards up for grabs in the companies category: Manufacturer of the Year; Independent Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year; Chain Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year (three stores or more); Contractor of the Year (turnover under £5m); and Contractor of the Year (turnover over £5m). If your company is an outstanding manufacturer, wholesaler/distributor or electrical contractor that has been operating between 1 January 2022 and 31 August 2023, please ENTER NOW! The deadline for entries is 15 September. The first ever ECN Awards will be held at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre in Coventry on 30 November 2023. Take a look at each category to see what our expert judges will be looking for: Manufacturer of the Year What new products has your company launched during the qualifying period that have really offered something new and exciting to the marketplace? Why are they such a big deal, and what did you do to ensure the whole industry heard about them? What training does your company offer to ensure that installers know how to use your product? Do you keep your training regularly updated? Has your company done anything to support the industry during the qualifying period? Maybe it’s holding events for contractors to try out your products, or attending trade shows? What have you done to actively support the electrical contracting industry? Wholesaler/Distributor of the year There are two awards up for grabs for wholesalers and distributors – one for independents (one or two stores) and one for chains (three stores or more). What new clients has your company acquired this year, or new additions to your existing client’s product portfolio? How have you supported the launch of these new products, and why are they notable? What support do you offer your clients? Do you offer a design service, or excellent technical support? What training do you offer your clients? How does it help push the industry forward? Contractor of the Year The two awards for contractors at this year’s ECN Awards are Contractor of the Year (turnover under £5m) and Contractor of the Year (turnover over £5m). How has your company improved its performance in the market, and increased sales and market share? Can you demonstrate how your company delivers innovative and technologically advanced solutions to your customers? What is your company doing to assist the industry on the road to net zero? Which technologies and/or processes have you introduced to reduce your company’s carbon footprint? What steps is your company taking with regards to equity, diversity and inclusion? How do you support your staff in all areas, including staff safety, mental wellbeing and staff training? Reasons to enter A win can give a seal of approval to your activities and is a sign of quality for potential customers, so can form part of your sales pitch. It can also enhance business competitiveness – an award win can help cement your reputation in the industry and raise your profile head and shoulders above your competitors. Reward and motivate your team – entering awards sends a message to your team that their achievements are worth shouting about and that their hard work is worthwhile. Networking opportunities – as well as making new contacts on the night, winning an award can also give you a reason to communicate with your existing client database and let them know about your success. An award win isn’t just a popularity contest, it’s judged by an independent expert panel and therefore gives recognition for the great work that you do from the industry that you’re in. Please enter as soon as you can so you don’t miss out on the chance to win and don’t forget that it’s FREE to enter! To enter, please visit electricalcontractingnews.com/awards-entries. For general enquiries please contact Carly Wills at carly@allthingsmedialtd.com and for sponsorship enquiries please contact Kelly Byne at kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com. What better accolade could there be than to win one of the first ever ECN Awards?! For more on the ECN Awards please click here.

New domestic electrician EWA now available

Domestic electricians, who need to formally recognise their skills and experience, now have a dedicated Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA) route available to them. The domestic electrician EWA is based on the same content as the domestic electrician apprenticeship standard, so both new entrants and existing workers are assessed and accredited to the same industry standard. This presents, for the first time for many, an opportunity for people working solely in the domestic sector to show their skills and knowledge to the same standard as a Level 3 apprenticeship route, and the drive of industry in this part of the sector to raise the bar, ensuring people are qualified and competent for their role. Completion of the EWA route and AM2ED (the version of the AM2 for this route) leads to the award of an ECS Gold Card as a domestic electrician, and is being recognised by the EAS Management Committee for Qualified Supervisor status. To be eligible for the assessment, candidates need to be currently working as a domestic electrician with over three years’ experience. They must also hold at least a Level 2 electrical technical qualification listed in the EWA ‘Skills Scan’, a document that has to be completed during the application process for training providers to verify if the candidate has the relevant skills and knowledge to successfully complete the process. Crucially, the EWA is not a training course and there is no need for people with the experience and relevant training to go back to college. This is an assessment of the existing skills and knowledge to the relevant standard. Once enrolled on the EWA, learners will have to achieve the Domestic Electrician Experienced Worker Qualification, which comprises five practical performance units, plus the BS 7671:2018 and full inspection and testing qualification. A key benefit is that existing qualifications can count towards the assessment and do not need to be repeated. This assessment follows in the footsteps of the EWA for installation and maintenance electricians that was launched in 2020 and has seen thousands of people already working in the sector achieve recognition to a VQ Level 3 equivalent and award of an ECS Gold Card as an electrician. People working in the domestic sector now have this opportunity to be proud of and show their skills and knowledge have been assessed to this same standard, and the Gold Card should be the minimum expectation for anyone working unsupervised in the industry. Both EWAs were developed by an industry group comprising The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP), including the JIB, Certsure, ECA, ECS, NAPIT, City & Guilds, EAL, the IET and Unite. It will be recognised in the Electrotechnical Assessment Specification as equivalent to the domestic electrician apprenticeship. The EWA is available in England, Wales and Northern Ireland from accredited EAL training centres now, and later in the year from City & Guilds centres. Click here more latest news.

Study finds EV adoption being restricted in urban environments

A new study from Juniper Research has found that lack of public infrastructure is severely limiting EV (Electric Vehicle) adoption in urban environments. In particular, as flat and apartment owners typically cannot have home chargers fitted, the lack of public infrastructure is a stumbling block to EV adoption in urban environments. While EV charging points in service will grow from 14.2 million in 2023 to 45 million in 2027 globally, the analysis identified a significant gap between public and home charger adoption, with over twice as many home chargers as public chargers being in service by 2027. The report identified improving shared data on charging point distribution, as well as agreeing partnerships, to accelerate roll-outs in key areas as vital to redressing the gap. New business models needed The study has found that present initiatives from governments are not sufficient to accelerate EV adoption, with new innovation and business models within EV charging needed. Research co-author, Nick Maynard, explains, “It is clear that regulator initiatives, such as requiring charging points to be added to new buildings, are insufficient by themselves to roll out charging infrastructure on a wide enough scale to drive environmental benefits. EV charging networks must work together with both city authorities and each other to identify how best to plug gaps in charging infrastructure, or EV adoption will continue to be limited.” Fragmentation in charging networks creating confusion The research has found that despite initiatives such as the opening up of Tesla’s Supercharger network in North America, fragmentation in charging networks is still limiting EV adoption globally. The number of different charging rates, payment systems and access requirements is harming consumer enthusiasm, which is limiting growth of the overall space. EV charging networks must simplify networks and develop interoperability to make the ownership experience simpler, with regulator action needed to harmonise systems. Click here more latest news.

JTL apprentices reach SkillELECTRIC UK finale

Three apprentices from JTL have reached the final stage of the SkillELECTRIC UK competition. Demi Mae Whitehead from William Davis Homes; Ben Gillin from Lloyd Morris Electrical; and Thomas Turner from Parker Technical Services, have been named amongst the eight finalists at the UK grand final of the competition. The three learners beat competitors from across the country at the national qualifying heats to be named within the top eight scoring apprentices. All three will now compete at the final between 14 – 16 November at Oldham College, where they will complete a two day practical installation task under the close scrutiny of judges in the hope of being named the SkillELECTRIC UK champion. The practical assignment will also include a solar PV-related task to reflect the growing needs for training in solar installation. Jo Frith Williams, Interim Director of Quality at JTL, says, “We’re thrilled that three of our learners have made it to the final of the SKILLELECTRIC UK competition and want to congratulate Demi Mae, Ben and Thomas on their fantastic achievements. “We’re very proud of the training that we provide here at JTL to our electrical engineering apprentices, equipping them with the skills needed to install, maintain and repair electrical systems, whilst simultaneously spotlighting modern green technologies. It’s brilliant to see that this training has equipped all three with the skills required and we wish them all the very best of luck for the final in November.” Click here for the latest ECN competition.

Discover the latest in smart technology at Smart Buildings Show 2023

According to Fortune Business Insights, the global smart building market is projected to grow from $80.62bn in 2022 to $328.62bn by 2029, at a CAGR of 22.2% in forecast period, 2022-2029. Smart Buildings Show, taking place at ExCeL, London on 18-19 October 2023, will cover all key aspects of creating and managing a smart building, making it a must-attend event for anybody involved in this innovative industry. The smart building market is set to grow for a number of reasons. Innovative building architecture helps to reduce operating costs, tenant management, security management, and performance management. Many organisations have implemented smart building technology to increase facilities personnel efficiency and promote sustainability programmes, strengthen building operations, and enhance organisational decision making. The event promises to showcase all the latest technology in a number of related sectors, including energy efficiency, lighting and controls, HVAC, security, networks and wireless, and software. The seminar theatres will also play host to top industry speakers, bringing all the latest developments and opinions on the smart buildings market. Ian Garmeson, Event Director, says, “The biggest names leading the way in smart technology will be joining us at this year’s Smart Buildings Show and it promises to be another exciting and highly informative event. If you are a building manager or owner looking to upgrade your building and help make your own contribution to the UK’s net zero target, you will almost certainly take away something useful. Whether it’s knowledge of a new piece of technology or some useful advice from industry experts, you’ll find it at Smart Buildings Show 2023.” Click here to register for a free ticket to Smart Buildings Show 2023. For exhibitor enquiries, please email c.hatchett@turretgroup.com

Uncrimp welcomes two new members to the sales team

Unicrimp has bolstered its sales effort as it welcomes two new members to the rapidly expanding sales team. Stuart Clark joins the business as Area Sales Manager for Scotland and Northern Ireland and Hannan Miah as Area Sales Manager covering the Southeast region. Stuart joins the company with a wealth of experience in product design. In his most recent role within the lighting industry, he was responsible for designing electrical installations and CAD drawings for major hotel projects across London. He will be responsible for developing relationships with new and existing Unicrimp wholesale customers to drive sales of the extensive product offering and help them realise their sales ambition. Hannan’s position follows a number of years working for a major labelling solutions manufacturer where he built up relationships with key electrical wholesalers and established the brand as part of the electrician’s tool kit. At Unicrimp, Hannan will have responsibility for selling the company’s vast range of cable management consumables to the electrical wholesaler and supporting the wholesalers’ efforts to generate growth. Click here for more on Unicrimp.

Scolmore welcomes Nathan Richards to the team

Scolmore Group has welcomed Nathan Richards to the position of Area Sales Manager, covering the Dorset, Hampshire, Isle of Wight and Channel Islands regions. He will be responsible for developing new and existing relationships with wholesalers and contractors to drive demand for the extensive Click wiring accessories and Elucian consumer units ranges. Among his aims is the desire to make Click the go-to brand for those contractors currently not using our products, and in turn to increase demand for wholesalers to supply the ranges. Nathan has a wealth of experience to bring to his new role, having most recently spent a number of years on the wholesaler/distributor side of the business with a key operator in the industry, where he progressed from trade sales manager to trade area coordinator, achieving a ‘Trade Sales Manager of the Year’ award along the way. He joins the company with an in-depth knowledge of the Click range of products, having also worked for a construction company where he was responsible for specifying products from the wiring accessories range for a number of new building projects. Click here more latest news.

SECTT and SELECT release its latest industry podcast

Apprentices from both ends of the electrical training journey have once again revealed their behind the scenes secrets in the second episode of the new industry podcast from the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) and electrical trade association, SELECT. The latest instalment of ‘Sparks’ Remarks’ features the thoughts of five youngsters as they reflect on their first year of training, discuss how much they’ve learned and compare notes on their progress in both self-confidence and practical skills. The episode – entitled ‘More than wires and pliers: My first year as an apprentice’ – also hears from three fourth year apprentices who are now setting their sights on rewarding careers beyond the lecture rooms of West Lothian College as they prepare to put their training into practice. Both groups talk frankly about their experience at college and on site, the complexity of the courses and the support they have received from the dedicated trainers guiding them. The first half of the podcast once again catches up with first year learners, Fay Greens and Mason Arthurs, who work for West Lothian Council, Nick Anderson of Glasgow Rewires, Robbie Super of Everwarm, and Aaron Muir from Westrigg Electrical Services. The trainees reveal their progress and how they have advanced from not being able to hold a screwdriver properly to taking part in domestic installations. One says, “I didn’t realise at the start just how much an electrician has to do but I’ve now learned how to do a complete installation, taking the skills from the workshop into a real life situation and testing everything to make sure it is safe and working properly.” Another reveals, “The variety of work has really surprised me and we’ve learned about design as well as practical work and how measurements have to be 100% accurate, you really have to do things correctly all the time.” Aimed at existing and would-be apprentices, ‘Sparks’ Remarks’ also features three apprentices at the other end of their training who are in their fourth year and now looking forward to a challenging career both at home and further afield. One tells the podcast, “While the first year focuses on domestic work, I have now progressed to commercial and industrial installations, and I have recently been involved in the complete wiring of a warehouse. We also work on new tech, such as rechargers.” Another says, “Some people struggle with the science, but you just have to listen to the lecturers. They expect a lot of you, but there is no need to be embarrassed or afraid to ask questions – they are there to help you.” The podcast comes during a record year for electrical apprenticeships in Scotland, with 934 apprentices and adult trainees recruited for the 2022/23 intake and extra financial support secured for the 2023/24 intake after lobbying by SELECT, SECTT, the SJIB and Unite the Union. Click here more latest news.

Legrand announces new brand vision

Legrand UK & Ireland has announced a new brand vision which sees the introduction of business units that align with the present and future needs of customers, providing easier access than ever to its end-to-end electrical solutions. Putting customers at the heart of the company by bringing together its teams of specialists, Legrand’s product portfolio and associated support services will be split into four business units: Cable management: providing support and advice for any cable management installation, with ranges such as Cablofil, Swifts and Salamandre. Critical power: covers all power distribution and control requirements of any building –  whether a data centre, hospital or office – thanks to a tried and tested range of product from Zucchini, Starline and new acquisition Power Control. Working and living spaces: incorporates many of Legrand’s leading brands, including CP Electronics lighting control, Electrak power distribution and Bticino door entry to deliver a solution for the fit out stage of construction. Digital infrastructures: offers sustainable solutions for data centres and local area networks, encompassing established brands such as Minkels, Server Technology, Raritan and new acquisition USystems. Together, they will ensure electrical professionals are best placed to receive the bespoke solutions required for any project – no matter the application. To support a seamless customer journey, Legrand has launched a new website to help bring its product information and support services closer to those who require them. These changes will see the CP Electronics website and product catalogue integrated into its website, meaning electrical professionals can access the company’s entire portfolio of leading brands in one place. Emphasising the company’s commitment to providing complete solutions, brands included in the Legrand family will adopt new look logos. For electrical contractors, the move will bring the company’s product portfolio under one roof, making it easier for them to access the information required for their projects, such as installation guides, data sheets and certifications. The improved website will also assist electrical professionals in accessing its training offer thanks to the Legrand Training Academy. The academy harnesses its vast expertise to support the industry in enhancing product knowledge and tackling the key issues faced when approaching projects – be it meeting client expectations or the regulatory landscape. The news follows the latest inception of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) roadmap, which was introduced last year. Built around four pillars, the roadmap is helping the organisation reduce its carbon footprint, make advancements in diversity and inclusion, develop a circular economy and take the next steps as a responsible business regarding employee wellbeing and customer satisfaction. In 2022, almost half of its sales came from products that help enhance energy efficiency, while 80% of UK sales came from products designed and manufactured in the UK. Click here more latest news.