Circular Lighting Live 2023: programme unveiled

The provisional programme for this September’s Circular Lighting Live 2023 conference and exhibition has been unveiled by Recolight. The event, which takes place on 21 September 2023 at the Royal College of Physicians in London, will feature two separate tracks for the first time, one focused on manufacturers and the other focused on specifiers. The manufacturers’ track in the Wolfson Theatre will open with a provocative keynote on ‘reimagining the lighting industry’ in a circular economy. It will be followed by presentations on the ‘avalanche’ of green regulations facing the sector, remanufacturing, environmental data and bioplastics. There’ll also be a ‘Dragons’ Den’-style session based on the popular BBC television series. In it, executives will pitch innovations and ideas in circularity to a panel of seasoned lighting manufacturers. Designers, meanwhile, will explore design as a differentiator in circularity and look in depth at a life cycle assessment method created by lighting designers for lighting designers. An expert will also look at methodologies for evaluating the environmental impact of projects. This will be followed by exemplar projects and a session on perception-based lighting design. In this session, participants will look at best-practice methodologies for assessing the environmental impact of a lighting project throughout it operational life. The afternoon will be a plenary session for all delegates. Presentations will include the Circular Place luminaire-exchange platform, solutions to waste from Cat A commercial office installations and a panel discussion of experts. This will again be followed by inspirational case studies and, at the end of the day, a drinks reception. An exhibition hall will feature innovations in circular lighting from major brands including Signify, Trilux, Urbis Schreder, Casambi, Feilo Sylvania, Holophane, ASD Lighting, Bell Lighting, Commercial Lighting, EGG Lighting, FutureDesigns, Glamox Luxonic, Llumarlite, Regen Initiative, Silent Design, Smart Systems UK, Synergy Creativ, and TRT Lighting.

Driving the LED revolution through collaboration

TRILUX has reflected on its collaboration with HYDROSOLAR Group, which embraced the LED revolution in 2017. HYDROSOLAR recognised the long-term benefits of LED technology and partnered with TRILUX to implement cutting-edge LED lighting systems. Since 1991, HYDROSOLAR has been promoting innovative, energy saving, and environmentally friendly products in the HVAC sector. Its commitment to sustainable solutions led it to choose TRILUX as its trusted partner for constructing its logistics centre near Krakow, Poland. Despite the availability of cheaper alternatives then, HYDROSOLAR made the forward-thinking decision to opt for TRILUX's LED solutions, which proved to be a more economical choice in the long run. Maciej Gronert, Project Manager at TRILUX Poland, says, "EU directives that ban the production and import of certain obsolete light sources were a distant future in 2017. Despite the lower prices of the luminaires, the investor opted for LED solutions, which were a more economical choice in the long run - high praise for awareness and taking such a step. The savings, as well as the comfort that was provided six years ago thanks to our luminaires, have become an example for our next clients." During the implementation of the project, TRILUX went beyond being a mere manufacturer and supplier of LED luminaires. Its specialists actively participated in the design process of the installation, collaborated with the architect, supported the contractors during installation, and implemented its LiveLink luminaire management system. This comprehensive approach resulted in automated processes that fully optimised lighting energy consumption. TRILUX's E-LINE NEXT luminaires illuminated the hall of the HYDROSOLAR warehouse. Each warehouse aisle became a separate lighting zone with independent sensors and controllers managed by the LiveLink system. 915 luminaires and 48 independent LiveLink controllers were installed, ensuring efficient and customised lighting for the warehouse. The office spaces were equipped with Siella, Oleveon FIT, and Loreto luminaires, providing lighting quality and design. The success of this project can be attributed to the collaboration and strong relationships between all project participants. Marcin Jaremek from Jaremek Architekura, states, "TRILUX was simply something we could count on. We received full support and comprehensive development for each of our design topics. Importantly for us architects, TRILUX products also met our expectations in terms of design." TRILUX looks back on this joint project with HYDROSOLAR Group as a testament to its commitment to a greener future and responsible energy usage. By embracing LED technology and sustainable lighting solutions, TRILUX and HYDROSOLAR have been true forerunners of the LED revolution, paving the way towards a brighter, more energy-efficient world.

Extra support secured for Scottish electrical apprenticeships

Scotland’s leading electrical bodies are celebrating another training boost for the industry after it was confirmed that the next intake of electrical apprentices and adult trainees will again be financially supported. The Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB), Unite the Union and campaigning trade association SELECT had been lobbying for additional places after initial fears that there would be another shortfall in funding for new learners signing up for 2023-24. However, it has now been confirmed that all 926 places on next year’s intake have been awarded - the second time this year that additional resources have been allocated after campaigning by the bodies. Anne Galbraith, CEO of SECTT, says, “We are delighted to have been informed that employer demand has been recognised and an expanded roster of apprentice and adult trainee places for 2023-24 will be available. “We’d previously been issued a contract for only 576 places but after significant discussions, we were delighted to be awarded a further 350, taking us to 926. This will allow us to meet employer demand and maximise the spaces within our approved centres.” Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT, says, “This welcome development has followed a period of intense lobbying from SECTT, the SJIB, SELECT and Unite the Union and is a great result for us all, particularly after we secured similar additional resources for the 2022-23 intake earlier this year. “Such a result again demonstrates the value of everyone connected to the industry working together for a common cause and we are grateful to the Scottish Government and Skills Development Scotland (SDS) for listening to our case and acting accordingly.” Fiona Harper, The Secretary of the SJIB, adds, “This second guarantee of additional places means we can continue to train and develop a significant number of skilled electricians which will help keep the industry in line with key government policies and priority areas. “Electricians will play a significant role in supporting the Scottish Government to reach its targets for net zero, and it’s vital that we continue to train the talent of tomorrow.” SECTT, the SJIB, SELECT and Unite helped secure additional funding for the 2022-23 intake of electrical apprentices and adult trainees in March this year after making an urgent appeal to the then Deputy First Minister John Swinney. After initially saying it had no more funding, SDS agreed to meet the cost of an outstanding 87 apprentice and 68 adult trainee places for 2022-23. The appeal came after SDS announced a cap on additional apprentice places in October 2022, shortly after SECTT had confirmed a record intake of 960 learners for 2022/23 - some 300 over its contracted number.

New trial opens the door to low carbon heating

Newly installed zero-emission smart heating systems could enable millions of small households to slash their carbon emissions. The roll-out of UK Power Networks’ NeatHeat project is seeing new boiler systems trialled in 30 homes across London, the south east and the east of England - offering a low emissions solution for homes which may be unable to install a heat pump. The OVO Energy customers participating could cut their emissions by 2.5-3t of CO2 a year during the trial - which runs for 12 months from when they sign up. That’s the equivalent to driving over halfway around the world in a diesel car. With installations currently underway, NeatHeat will seek to understand how the tepeo’s Zero Emission Boiler (ZEB) interacts with the electricity network. This will allow UK Power Networks to understand its charging pattern and test optimisation mechanisms that will provide flexibility to the local electricity network and use existing infrastructure in a smarter way. Using the heating systems already present in many UK households, the ZEB charges up when electricity is cheaper or greener, rather than using carbon intensive solutions such as gas or oil. With a high-density storage core, the ZEB makes the most of off-peak tariffs to charge up overnight, efficiently storing this energy and releasing it whenever the thermostat calls for heat or hot water. Its software will also create a unique heating plan and a charging schedule to enable the most cost-efficient heating for the home. Ian Cameron, Director of Customer Service and Innovation at UK Power Networks, says, “Decarbonising heating is an essential step in our country’s journey towards net zero. Homes are already transitioning to electric heat pumps, but for some, that is less straightforward. “Through NeatHeat, we can open the door to millions of UK homes who don’t yet have access to decarbonised heating solutions. This is a new technology with tremendous potential to expand low carbon heating across the UK. With installations underway, we’re putting it to work on the electricity network, finding out exactly what it can do and how it can benefit customers and the network. It is an important step towards a wider roll-out.” Working alongside the boiler’s smart system, tepeo and OvO Energy are initiating a first-of-its-kind ‘type-of-use’ tariff bolt-on, charging trial participants a lower rate to encourage them to charge during off-peak hours. Johan du Plessis, CEO of tepeo, says, “We urgently need to deploy solutions for low carbon heating at scale - helping UK customers transition away from fossil fuels as fast as possible. “It is fantastic to be working with UK Power Networks and OVO Energy on this project to demonstrate how low cost, low carbon, flexible heating solutions like our Zero Emission Boiler provide an option for millions of homes across the UK to go electric while supporting the UK energy system in the shift to net zero heat.” Alex Thwaites, Head of Zero Carbon Living, OVO Energy, says, “With household heating accounting for 17% of the UK’s carbon emissions, the project drives forward our commitment to promoting zero carbon living and a sustainable future, whilst helping our customers to lower their energy bills through the provision of smart green tech solutions.”

ABB E-mobility unveils the next evolution in fleet charging solutions

With the decarbonisation of road transport taking centre stage in many nations’ climate policies, recent years have seen huge strides made towards the provision of electric mobility solutions. But while the growing number of public charging points is excellent news for EV drivers, these alone do not meet the needs of electric fleets. Despite comprising just 4% of vehicles, buses and trucks contribute a staggering 40% of global transport emissions, making their rapid electrification a vital step in the decarbonisation process. Slightly fewer than 66,000 electric buses were sold worldwide in 2022, around 4.5% of total bus sales. The electrified share of the bus market is rising quickly, however, by 20% in Europe and 27% in the US, with India accounting for more demand than the US and Europe combined, and the Chinese market acquiring 98% of all e-buses globally. With this rapid rise comes significant demand for more flexible and efficient charging solutions to enable e-bus fleets to keep running from the space-restricted urban depots where they are often based. ABB E-mobility’s new HVC360 power cabinet, being displayed this week at the UITP global public transport summit in Barcelona, represents a big step in helping to deliver the crucial solution for depot charging, embracing the complexities of fleet operations rather than forcing them to adapt. Offering ultimate flexibility for any site layout or use case, each HVC360 power cabinet enables the connection of up to four charging stations as far as 100m from the power cabinet itself, while its proven, compact design allows installation back-to-back, side-to-side, or along a wall. Dynamic charging capability allows the HVC360 to allocate differing levels of power to each charging station, based on the number of vehicles plugged in or their charging requirements, while the unit also supports all charging interfaces simultaneously, from CCS to pantograph. Add power density, a low footprint, and the HVC360’s ability to allow charging forecourts and fleet depots to offer a range of charging options in one place becomes clear, enabling providers to mix and match the perfect configuration for their user requirements. Chris Nordh, Global Head of the Fleet and Transit business at ABB E-mobility says, “Today’s launch of the HVC360, on World Environment Day, represents yet further commitment from ABB E-mobility to meet the complex and sometimes operationally rigid needs of bus and truck fleet operators, and comes backed by decades of development and unrivalled field experience. “Even more impressive than the unit’s exceptional quality and power density are its extraordinary flexibility and interoperability with a wide range of OEMs, making it a truly global solution. We are very excited to see how HVC360 helps customers of all shapes and sizes to reduce their running costs and emissions as the heavy vehicle sector catches up to the excellent progress already made in the electrification of passenger vehicles.” Another example of HVC360’s global near-term potential can be found in the haulage industry. Nearly 60,000 medium and heavy-duty electric trucks were sold worldwide in 2022, just 1.2% of the truck market as a whole. But with the sector continuing to expand at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) as high as 47.5%, global sales are expected to surpass 1.1 million per year by the end of the decade. Such rapid growth will be necessary to meet the ambitious climate goals of many nations around the world, but can only be achieved if supported by flexible, efficient charging infrastructure, both en-route and in depots. Accessibility, however, only goes so far if a solution doesn’t meet evolving requirements. Future-proofing technology of this scale is therefore crucial, and the flexibility of the HVC360 ensures it will be easier for fleet operators to adapt as EVs continue to evolve. As significant as the HVC360 hardware itself, therefore, is the scale of the ABB E-mobility support system which underpins it. The digital tools and services available for remote management and installation, combined with several layers of services and support, provide a superior customer experience. In addition, energy management solutions enable optimal charging performance and energy consumption, helping bus and truck fleets to operate more efficiently both now and in the future.

SolarEdge introduces solar-attached EV management solution

SolarEdge Technologies has announced the launch of a solar-attached electric vehicle (EV) management solution for the commercial and industrial (C&I) segment. The new software-based solution, which further expands SolarEdge's growing suite of C&I-focused products and software, manages and optimises the EV charging process for sites that require dynamic load management and have large quantities of EVs, such as apartment buildings, workplaces and public charging locations. Built on advanced AI-based predictive algorithms, the solution incorporates real-time data analytics and considers solar production, dynamic electricity prices and tiered charging schedules. By integrating seamlessly with SolarEdge’s energy management system, this new offering orchestrates and optimises interactions between facility solar generation, stationary battery storage and large-scale EV charging, taking into account grid and infrastructure limitations. The EV charging management solution is powered by technology developed by Wevo Energy (Wevo), a startup specialising in EV charging optimisation and management software, in which SolarEdge is an investor. “As more companies are taking active measures to electrify their car fleets, combining solar PV and EV charging is a cost-effective and sustainable way to manage these fleets,” says Zvi Lando, CEO of SolarEdge Technologies. “We believe SolarEdge C&I PV solutions, combined with Wevo's advanced EV charging management capabilities, will help businesses use energy more economically and sustainably.” "Wevo’s solution is already deployed at thousands of parking spaces globally. The combination of Wevo’s software with SolarEdge's leading PV solution and market presence will enable the accelerated deployment of load-balanced EV charging infrastructure," says Teddy Flatau, CEO of Wevo Energy.

KNIPEX launches the award-winning Modular X18 Tool Backpack

Carry all your tools, laptop or accessories comfortably with the new KNIPEX Modular X18 (00 21 50 LE) tool backpack, all conveniently stowed away on your back. The KNIPEX Modular X18 is made for those who don’t want to compromise on which tools they take where. The backpack can hold up to 15kg and adapts to its wearer thanks to the fully foldable front and back, a laptop compartment, a removable tool board and ergonomic back padding. The durable fabric made from sustainable recycled synthetic fibre is splash-proof and easy to clean. The waterproof, 6cm high base shell made of impact-resistant plastic ensures that the backpack stands firmly on the ground when open and closed. Innovative FIDLOCK connectors and adapters with fabric loops and MOLLE straps provide many options for individual tool storage and access to the tools. There are also two separate inner compartments on the front and back for tools, measuring devices and a 15in notebook or tablet. With a total of 21 straps, 37 pockets and a luggage strap, everything that needs to be close at hand can be stowed away - whether it's tools or a laptop. A luggage strap also allows it to be attached to the telescopic handles of tool cases. The practical backpack weighs 2.9kg and is available empty or fully equipped for the electrical or plumbing sector. The KNIPEX Modular X18 Electric (00 21 50 E) is equipped with 16 KNIPEX tools, a total of 22 branded tools, partially VDE-tested according to DIN EN 60900. For HVAC professionals, the KNIPEX Modular X18 Plumbing (00 21 50 S) has been packed with 12 KNIPEX tools, a total of 17 branded tools, also partially VDE-tested according to DIN EN 60900.

Firefighters get training on evacuation alert systems

Firefighters from South Wales Fire & Rescue Service are getting hands-on training in evacuation alert systems following the installation of an Advanced EvacGo system at the Cardiff Gate Training and Development Centre. The centre trains around 1,400 firefighters in a range of advanced facilities, including industrial and domestic training buildings, a multi-purpose climbing and abseiling tower, dedicated area for road traffic collision simulations, a confined space tunnel, rope rescue structure and areas for hazardous materials. Most recently the Centre opened a state-of-the-art Real Fire Training Facility (RFTF) enabling crews to undertake drills in a range of real-life scenarios - the first of its kind in Wales. Facilities like this are essential for ensuring firefighters receive the best possible training to respond effectively to a wide range of emergency scenarios. The addition of an EvacGo now means that operational crews will be able to familiarise themselves with the operation of an evacuation alert system, ensuring they are able to use it successfully should they encounter one during the course of their work. An evacuation alert system is vital to help fire and rescue services inform residents of a change in evacuation strategy during an incident. This gives fire crews an additional tool to use on the ground, alongside existing methods of evacuation. EvacGo is compliant with the BS 8629 Code of Practice for the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of evacuation alert systems for use by fire and rescue services in England and Wales. Following amendments to Approved Document B of the Building Regulations, evacuation alert systems became mandatory in new residential high-rise buildings over 18m in England and Wales in December 2022. However, for all other new-build and retrofit projects, complying with BS 8629 is still seen as best practice and many building owners are choosing to install evacuation alert systems to keep their residents safe. Station Manager Jason Lamport says, “I would like to personally thank Advanced for providing us with the EvacGo panel. These simple high-rise evacuation systems are a huge step forward in the future of tall and complex building fire safety. “Secure alert systems, such as the EvacGo, will allow operational crews to evacuate residents floor by floor at an incident. These systems have already been installed in a number of high-rise buildings in Newport and Cardiff, with many more planned. As a service, familiarisation with these systems is paramount to their successful use and now, thanks to Advanced, we have the opportunity to give our crews and commanders realistic training on the latest high-rise technologies.” Ken Bullock, Business Development Manager - Evacuation Alert Systems at Advanced, says, “I am delighted that the EvacGo training panel will help make communities in south Wales safer. Following the Grenfell Tower inquiry and the increased awareness of the importance of effective fire evacuation, we have seen a growing number of building owners choosing to install an EvacGo system, even in instances where it is not mandatory, so firefighters are increasingly likely to encounter them. It’s crucial that firefighters have an understanding of these systems before using them and Advanced has worked closely with the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) to accelerate this learning.” All Advanced evacuation alert systems are custom manufactured to reflect each individual building’s evacuation zones and have been developed to provide a bespoke solution that allows the fire services to control evacuation floor by floor according to the severity and location of the fire. BS 8629 guidance states that the evacuation alert control system should be installed where a ‘stay put’ policy is in force, so that it can be used to facilitate a timely and ordered evacuation for all residents. An evacuation alert system is vital to help fire and rescue services inform residents of a change in evacuation strategy during an incident. This gives fire and rescue services an additional tool to use on the ground, alongside existing methods of evacuation. It must be standalone, with its only function being to assist fire and rescue services in the evacuation of the building.

Ansell unveils new floodlight

Powerful and built to last, Telic is a brand-new floodlight from Ansell Lighting. Featuring a modern and sleek design, the stylish black lamp is available in three different sizes, ideal for a myriad of outdoor settings and applications. Reinforced by a six-year warranty, Telic is a robust fitting with IP65 and IK06 ratings. Die-cast constructed, it features a heat sink design, ensuring optimal LED life and thermal performance and has an integrated breathable gland to prevent internal moisture accumulation. CCT selectable between 3,000K, 4,000K and 6,000K, Telic provides users with a choice of non-dimmable lighting hues. A plug and play PIR accessory is also available, which can be easily added to the fitting to provide motion sensor functionality. Easy to install, Telic features loop-in, loop-out junction back on the rear of the fitting as well as an innovatively designed bracket which allows installation without removal of the mounting bracket. Mark Abbott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting says, “Telic is a great addition to our outdoor floodlighting range. Thoughtfully designed, it is extremely durable and has been built to withstand the famous British weather. “The available PIR accessory enhances Telic’s versatility and controllability, making it the ideal fitting for security focussed installations or those where energy efficiency is key.”

Beat the heat on site

Clothes change as the seasons do. That’s why Snickers Workwear’s summer working clothes for professional tradesmen and women combine comfort and protection for beating the heat on site. This summer’s LITEWork range combines all the features of high-performance sportswear. Its 37.5 Technology fabric is quick-drying and functional, as well as providing UPF 40+ sun protection. Snickers says that it’s also longer lasting than other comparable workwear making it a sensible, sustainable choice. There’s also new trousers, shirts, shorts, and jackets and high-vis summer clothes with new styles and stretch features for enhanced freedom of movement, including trousers that feature the bio-based Sorona fibre for a more sustainable fit on site. But for the ultimate in working comfort, durability and ventilation, check out the LiteWork garments for precisely the right clothes to fit your workday in summer.