Rolec, Connekt secure funding to expand UK EV charging

Rolec, a UK manufacturer of EV charging points, and Connekt, a commercial EV charging installer, have announced plans to accelerate deployment of destination electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the UK, backed by multi-million-pound funding from the GF1 Growth Fund. The companies say the partnership is aimed at addressing one of the most underserved parts of the UK EV market. Of an estimated 70,000 potential sites for destination charging, fewer than 1% currently have charge points installed. Partnership approach Connekt, a Scotland-based EV charging funder, will provide financial support and site assessments, while Rolec will deliver UK-manufactured charging hardware and manage installation through its network of installers. The partnership is targeting locations such as hotels, universities, marinas, and leisure sites. Johnny Manning, founder of Connekt, says, “At Connekt, we see a real synergy with Rolec. Over the past three to four years, we’ve been on an incredible journey building the foundations of a leading charge point operator. "Rolec has been on a parallel journey, and they’ve emerged as one of the true market leaders in the EV charging industry. "Together, we’re bringing something unique to the market with our funded solutions, giving Rolec clients an opportunity to unlock EV charging infrastructure in a way that is both commercially viable and future-proof.” Darren North, National Sales Manager at Rolec, adds, “We are thrilled to be partnering with such a forward-thinking company to take on a major rollout of electric vehicle infrastructure across the UK. "By working closely with the Connekt team, we will be able to bring our combined expertise to a sector with immense potential.” Early progress The companies say installations are already under way, with several charging networks deployed and more sites scheduled for rollout in the coming year. For more from Rolec, click here.

Kew, Schneider establish partnership of sustainability

Schneider Electric, a company concerned with the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has announced a partnership with Royal Botanic Gardens (RBG), Kew. As Kew’s official Energy Sustainability Partner, Schneider Electric will play a core role in helping the world-famous botanic gardens meet its goal to become climate positive by 2030. As a UNESCO World Heritage site with a sizeable footprint, Grade 1 and 2 listed buildings, and high visitor numbers, Kew Gardens faces unique challenges in achieving its sustainability plans and targets. The partnership will see Schneider Electric take a hands-on role, advising Kew on how to develop and deliver its sustainability plan – which includes transitioning away from fossil fuels, reducing carbon emissions, and optimising energy use across its historic and complex estate at both Kew Gardens and Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden based in Sussex. As part of the agreement, Schneider Electric will provide a dedicated energy optimisation engineer, located onsite and on long-term secondment to Kew, helping to: · Support Kew in evaluating the impact, cost, and priority of energy efficiency, controls, and monitoring projects · Identify, assess, and implement energy-saving opportunities within Kew’s Building Management Systems (BMS) and Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) plant · Explore available solutions – such as cost-effective electricity use, battery storage, and microgrid opportunities – at both Kew Gardens and Wakehurst The partnership’s projects will begin in earnest with the arrival of Schneider Electric’s consultant on site at Kew Gardens in September. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9w-CWU3XeA[/embed] Rachel Purdon, Head of Sustainability at RBG, Kew, comments, “We are proud of our commitment to urgently tackling the dual climate and biodiversity crises through everything that we do at Kew. "Our partnership with Schneider Electric marks a major step forward in our sustainability journey. Working together, we can accelerate progress towards our ambitious goals, including becoming climate positive in less than five years. "With Kew’s unique combination of historic buildings, globally irreplaceable collections, and role of inspiring diverse audiences to connect with nature, we face complex and wide-ranging challenges. "Schneider Electric’s expertise and hands-on support will be invaluable; it will help us deliver real, measurable decarbonisation progress across our sites.” Kelly Becker, President of Schneider Electric UK and Ireland, Belgium, and Netherlands, adds, “Both of our organisations are impact makers, united in our vision for a more sustainable planet. "By combining our climate positive partnership, expertise, and energy management and automation solutions, we’re able to take real action to realise a more sustainable future at RBG, Kew. “We also have deep experience with helping organisations like Kew advance their energy resiliency, a growing priority across businesses, utilities, and communities worldwide. "In Kew’s case, maintaining a consistent energy supply is essential to protecting the world’s largest and most diverse botanical and mycological collections for humanity and we’re honoured to be a part of the solution.” For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

ECN September issue out now!

The September issue of ECN is OUT NOW and packed with insights and information on the topics you care about. To read the issue in full, click here. From the Editor Welcome to the September issue of ECN. With the quieter summer months in the rear-view mirror and autumn creeping in, we’re excited to be gearing up for a whole raft of exhibitions coming our way during the month of September – not least Solar & Storage Live, which we're covering in depth in our full show preview. With a record number of renewables being installed in the first six months of 2025 according to MCS, and the Future Homes Standard set to mandate solar panels and low carbon heating in new build homes from 2027, a new wave of opportunities are opening up for electrical contractors. Those with solar expertise will surely be able to diversify their services, boost revenue, and future-proof their business, and it will be fascinating seeing how this unfolds, and what other opportunities this leads to, in the weeks and months ahead. Head to our dedicated Power/Renewables/Solar feature for more. The countdown to the ECN Awards is well and truly on, and we are now less than three months away from this year’s ceremony being held on 27 November. With entries for the awards closing imminently, we’d urge you to get your submissions in as soon as possible – as our expert panel of judges will soon be weighing up the merits of each of the submissions to determine this year’s worthy winners. A limited number of tickets for the ECN Awards are also still available, so grab yours while you still have the chance – and head to electricalcontractingnews.com/awards for all the information you need. In addition to the usual blend of news, views and commentaries we’re serving up in this month’s issue, other highlights include intriguing details on how the climate crisis may lead to a heightened level of repair work for all tradespeople, information on how you can take on the Pu Luong Trek in Vietnam with the Electrical Industries Charity, an opportunity to win a £200 One4All voucher courtesy of Ovia, and more. Enjoy the issue! Simon

Test before touch – it’s not just PEN faults!

In recent years, there has been increasing concern in the industry regarding PEN faults - a specific type of network fault with potentially lethal consequences. While the rise in PEN faults is being acknowledged and investigated, it’s important to note that these are not the only way that hazardous situations, including Touch Voltage and Diverted Current flow, are created. In particular, there has been an increasing number of incidents where engineers have come into contact with live metallic parts (e.g., metal casings or equipment) during installation or maintenance activities. These contacts can and have led to fatalities. Touch Voltages and Diverted Currents Touch Voltages: This occurs when there is a fault in the system that results in no return path for current (i.e., due to a broken or disconnected earth or neutral, combined with other faulty wiring). As a result, metallic parts (such as a distribution board, boilers or control panel) that are connected to the electrical earth could be raised to a dangerous potential. Diverted Current: This is a more complex fault, where the current may flow through unintended paths (e.g., through earth or neutral conductors). Even though the circuit might appear to be functioning normally, diverted current can present serious dangers. Let’s have a look at a couple of potential scenarios you may come across… Scenario One: The fault is hidden, and the current appears to be flowing correctly in the system, as everything is working, but when measured, it is found that the current is flowing through earth conductors. This can be detected only by measuring multiple points across the earthing and neutral conductors in the installation, (current will always follow the path of least resistance). If not detected, disconnecting cables could break the return path and present a touch voltage hazard. Scenario Two: When we isolate a circuit and prove it dead, everything should measure as being at zero potential; however, where we have multiple cables under terminals within that isolated circuit, we may also have current still flowing through the return path or via the neutral, either through cross circuits or faulty wiring. If proper checks are not performed, engineers could potentially break these return paths when disconnecting cables, creating dangerous touch voltages in the system. Prevention Tip: Use a clamp meter to check current flow, especially when multiple cables are connected to the same terminal. This can help prevent introducing a new hazard when disconnecting cables. Kewtech’s KT5 open jaw current and voltage tester is an ideal safe isolation tool equipping you with non-contact voltage indication, single and two pole voltage indication and current measurement all-in-one. Issues with Current Safe Isolation Procedures: The current safe isolation procedures in place often do not specifically account for or test for touch voltages and diverted current. Even though the best industry practices for safe isolation and proving dead are followed, these two specific hazards are often overlooked. The proving dead process usually involves opening enclosures or testing electrical terminals to confirm that the equipment is not live. However, this step can be potentially lethal if there is already a touch voltage present. Test Before Touch – The Missing Step: The concept of ‘Test Before Touch’ is well-established and often taught to engineers. However, it’s usually focused on high-voltage equipment, and not before entering or touching low-voltage equipment like distribution boards, control panels, pipework, and appliance casings (e.g., boilers or motor casings). In practice, engineers may not always adhere to this guideline, especially when handling parts of the installation that seem to be disconnected or “dead.” They may neglect to check if there is a touch voltage or diverted current present. Testing Equipment for Hazard Detection: Non-contact voltage indicators (such as the KEWSTICK DUO) and single-pole voltage detectors Kewtech’s KT1700) are often used as tools to check for the presence of dangerous voltages, though these only give us an indication that a lethal voltage may be present. Crucially, in the case of a PEN fault or similar, all conductors may be at the same potential, so when measured using a two-pole BS EN  61243-3 voltage indicator, these tools might not effectively identify the risk. In such a scenario, a single-pole device would at least give us that potentially life-saving indication. Will our industry adapt? Industry guidance on safe isolation and proving dead circuits do not typically account for checking for these hidden hazards, as part of the safe isolation process. There is the urgent need therefore to improve safety standards and include testing protocols specifically for touch voltages and diverted current, as part of the standard safe isolation protocol. It is critical that electricians and engineers are equipped with the correct tools designed to detect these issues. The need for a BS EN 61243-3 voltage indicator and proving unit should be accompanied by a single pole detection device and an amp meter as a minimum. With this, it is essential that training programs ensure they are updated to include awareness of these risks and proper techniques to mitigate them. Summary The industry’s focus on PEN faults is undoubtedly important, however, it shouldn’t overshadow the fact that deadly electrical hazards like touch voltages and diverted current are present in many installations without PEN faults. These types of faults are often not checked during routine isolation procedures, leaving engineers at risk. By updating safety protocols, ensuring proper training, and using the right test equipment, these risks can be minimised, leading to safer practices in the field. And remember… Test Before Touch! Andrew Griffiths, GCS Doncaster, in conjunction with Kewtech For more from Kewtech, click here.

Lighting the way to a sustainable future

Phil Brown, Product and Marketing Director at NVC Lighting, discusses the benefits of embracing more sustainable business operations and the impact this can have when electrical contractors are tendering for contract work. As the UK's building and construction industry doubles down on sustainability targets, electrical contractors and engineers have a pivotal role to play - not just in helping clients meet environmental goals, but in transforming their own operations to stand out in an increasingly competitive tendering environment. The shift toward sustainability isn't just good for the planet - it’s also a smart business move. One of the most effective ways electrical contractors can contribute to greener building practices - while saving clients serious money - is through the installation of energy-efficient lighting. LED technology remains one of the most accessible and impactful solutions available today. By switching to LED lighting, commercial properties can cut energy consumption by up to 90%, translating into immediate cost savings and a quick return on investment. But the benefits don’t stop there. LEDs boast long operational lifespans, significantly reducing maintenance demands and replacement costs over time. For electrical contractors bidding on projects, offering LED lighting solutions, particularly when supported by robust performance and energy data, will position you as a future-focused partner capable of delivering both sustainability and bottom-line value. Beyond commercial LED lighting products, smart lighting systems also offer a powerful next step in sustainable electrical design. Controls such as occupancy sensors, daylight harvesting, and programmable dimmers help reduce unnecessary energy use, enhancing both efficiency and user experience. Layered lighting schemes - different zones or lighting 'scenes' that are used for different times or functions - can help further optimise energy use. These solutions ensure energy is consumed only when and where it’s needed, minimising waste while improving flexibility and comfort. Electrical contractors who understand how to work with facility managers and building performance teams to implement intelligent lighting systems will not only help projects achieve their environmental targets, but also gain a competitive edge in tenders, especially where sustainable building accreditations, like BREEAM, are part of the project scope. As the role of electricians evolves alongside smarter buildings and greener standards, keeping skills current is essential. Contractors looking to stay ahead should build competency in control protocols like DALI, Bluetooth and Zigbee, which are critical for integrating lighting with broader building management systems. In addition, a strong grasp of life cycle assessment (LCA) tools, Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), and RoHS/REACH compliance ensures electricians can support clients in making informed decisions based on long-term environmental performance, not just upfront costs. Familiarity with eco-friendly materials, modular system design, and circular economy principles also plays into the growing demand for low-impact, adaptable electrical solutions. Contractors who bring these skills to the table signal to clients that they're ready to meet - and lead - the green building transition. Despite the opportunities, many lighting projects fall short of their sustainability potential due to a familiar issue: poor early-stage integration. One of the most common oversights in electrical projects is failing to align lighting design with a building’s overall performance objectives at the outset. The result of this can lead to over-specifying light levels, leading to unnecessary energy consumption, excess fittings, and underused lighting control systems. By engaging early and thinking long-term, contractors can create lighting solutions that are both high-performing and resource-efficient. This proactive approach doesn’t just benefit the building - it adds value to your role, showcasing your strategic thinking and strengthening your bid in any competitive tender. Being a sustainable electrician isn’t just about meeting compliance standards or ticking a CSR box. It’s about delivering smarter solutions, lowering lifetime costs, and building trust with increasingly sustainability-conscious clients. Contractors who embrace these principles and design philosophies now will future-proof their businesses, appeal to a broader client base, and open the door to higher-value contract opportunities - especially in public sector work where sustainability is no longer optional. As a leading supplier of commercial LED lighting solutions, NVC Lighting’s commitment to sustainability sits at the heart of our business. Through responsible recycling, sustainable packaging and proactive carbon management, we strive to create a greener future in all facets of our operations, including an extensive range of energy efficient and high-performance solutions. Certified by Carbon Neutral Britain and recognised by EcoVadis for sustainable practices, NVC Lighting has a net zero target of 2025, already achieving a 43% reduction in CO2 since 2022. For more from NVC Lighting, click here.

KNIPEX launches Twistor16 crimping tool

KNIPEX, a German manufacturer of professional hand tools, has introduced the Twistor16, a crimping tool designed for use in confined or hard-to-reach spaces. The tool features a 360-degree rotatable crimping die that locks into eight positions, allowing wire ferrules to be crimped from multiple angles without compromising on pressure or accuracy. Features and functionality The Twistor16 handles wire ferrules from 0.14 to 16mm² without the need for manual adjustment. Its square crimp profile automatically adapts to different cross-sections, and twin ferrules up to 2 x 6mm² can also be processed. An open crimp zone makes it possible to work with extra-long ferrules, accessible from both sides, and a slim crimp head enables easier access between conductors and inside cabinets. The tool uses a toggle lever mechanism to increase force transmission and reduce strain, while maintaining consistent crimping pressure. The pressure is factory pre-set but can be readjusted if required. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qyqlqX_QT8[/embed] Weighing 478g, the Twistor16 is compact and designed for daily trade use, particularly in installations where space is restricted or access is awkward. For more from KNIPEX, click here.

Carhartt expands Rain Defender workwear range

American workwear company Carhartt has introduced its Rain Defender range of clothing and accessories, designed to provide water resistance for tradespeople and outdoor workers. The products use durable water repellent (DWR) technology to cause water to bead on the surface, offering protection against light rain without the weight of traditional waterproof clothing. The Rain Defender line includes sweatshirts, jackets, vests, and accessories, all intended to remain lightweight and breathable while withstanding daily use. Product features The Rain Defender Loose Fit Heavyweight Quarter-Zip Sweatshirt combines fleece material with a water-repellent finish. It includes a mock neck for warmth and a concealed security pocket inside the handwarmer pocket. For colder conditions, the Super Dux Relaxed Fit Insulated Traditional Coat features a nylon shell with Rain Defender, Rugged Flex for mobility, and Wind Fighter to reduce wind penetration. The coat includes quilt lining, a chin guard, and multiple pockets. The women’s Montana Relaxed Fit Insulated Jacket is made from Carstrong quilted nylon and includes synthetic insulation with a sherpa lining. It also features an adjustable drop-tail hem, storm flap, and secure pockets. Carhartt says the Rain Defender collection extends beyond outerwear, with options including vests, rucksacks, and tool belts. For more from Carhartt, click here.

CEF, Klein Tools release limited tape measure for charity

Electrical distributor CEF has partnered with Klein Tools to launch a limited edition five metre tape measure in support of Macmillan Cancer Support. For every unit sold, five pounds will be donated to Macmillan, with a fundraising target of £25,000 to help provide vital services for people living with cancer across the UK. Product features Designed with electricians in mind, the co-branded tape measure is intended to combine professional performance with a meaningful cause. Key features include a magnetic double hook for hands-free measuring, a heavy-duty nylon coated blade for durability, and a retraction brake for safe speed control. Additionally, it also offers a 4m standout, 3m drop protection, and a metal belt clip for everyday convenience. The campaign The launch builds on the success of previous fundraising campaigns, which raised £45,000 for Macmillan through previous CEF and Klein Tools’ co-branded products. This time around, the collaboration hopes to raise another £25,000, bringing the overall fundraising total to £70,000 in support of Macmillan’s work. Vanessa Molloy, Head of Sales & Marketing at Super Rod / Klein Tools UK, comments, “Macmillan Cancer Support is a charity that many trade professionals care deeply about, and we are proud to support CEF in combining professional tools with purpose.” Rebecca Fanning, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, adds, “We’re incredibly grateful to CEF and Klein Tools for their continued support. Every tape measure sold is not only a donation, but also a powerful gesture of solidarity with people living with cancer.” Andrew Moseley, Commercial Director at CEF, says, “At CEF, we are proud to support causes that matter to our customers and colleagues. “Partnering with Klein Tools on this initiative allows us to provide a high-quality product for the trade and also make a meaningful contribution to Macmillan Cancer Support, a charity that touches so many lives.” The limited edition tape measure will be available from 1 September, exclusively through CEF, and customers can purchase it at any of CEF’s branches across the UK or on the company's website. For more from CEF, click here.

Breathing Buildings to showcase school ventilation

Breathing Buildings, a UK provider of controlled hybrid and natural ventilation systems, will present its full range of ventilation systems for schools, colleges, and universities at the Education Estates Exhibition and Conference, taking place at Manchester Central on 14–15 October 2025. The event combines a two-day conference with an exhibition focused on funding, design, construction, and management of educational infrastructure. The company’s stand will feature natural, hybrid, and mechanical ventilation systems designed to improve indoor air quality and energy efficiency across education estates. Ventilation and government funding The exhibition follows the Government’s Spending Review, which allocated £2.4 billion annually over the next four years to rebuild more than 500 schools, alongside further investment in school maintenance. Breathing Buildings says that with many schools looking to improve energy efficiency, the timing provides opportunities to integrate low-carbon ventilation into both new and refurbished buildings. Matthew Cooper, Business Development Director at Breathing Buildings, says, “Visitors to our stand will be able to learn more about our complete ventilation solution, as well as service and maintenance options for schools, and how we can help create a healthy and productive learning environment. "With the new Government funding, now is the ideal time for schools to invest in energy-efficient ventilation.” Hybrid and mechanical options The company’s Natural Ventilation with Heat Recycling (NVHR) range provides hybrid systems that combine natural and mechanical ventilation. These units recycle heat from within the building while maintaining airflow and comfort, making them suitable for retrofitting and spaces with high heat gains. An expanded version of the range, NVHRe, incorporates a low-resistance heat exchanger for both heat recycling and heat recovery. According to the company, the NVHRe achieves 46% heat recovery efficiency with a low specific fan power of 0.075 W/l/s. Models include heating and cooling options to suit different climates and building requirements. Breathing Buildings has also added the MVHRe mechanical ventilation range to support environments requiring consistent extraction or advanced filtration, such as gyms, libraries, or Air Quality Management Areas. With heat recovery efficiency of up to 93%, the system is intended to complement the company’s hybrid systems. Environmental assessment All ventilation units have been evaluated under the CIBSE TM65 methodology, allowing specifiers to assess embodied carbon and environmental impact. Breathing Buildings also provides design and modelling support, alongside on-site demonstrations and client services. Visitors to stand 208 will be able to see the full range of ventilation solutions and learn more about service and maintenance options. For more from Breathing Buildings, click here.

Swivelpole introduces global 10-year warranty

Swivelpole, a Canadian manufacturer of lowering pole systems, has announced a 10-year warranty across its standard Swivelpole range incorporating the Maxis joint. The warranty applies worldwide and covers industrial, commercial, and infrastructure applications. The company, which has more than 25 years of experience and over 500,000 installations globally, manufactures lowering pole systems designed to allow lighting and equipment to be safely brought down to walkway level for maintenance without the need for ladders, scaffolding, or lifts. Durability and safety focus Rob Pannekoek, Director at Swivelpole, says, “Our products are designed to perform in the toughest conditions, and we stand behind that with a decade of coverage. "This 10-year warranty demonstrates our long-term commitment to safety, innovation, and our customers’ success across every project lifecycle.” The warranty is available across all markets, with Swivelpole products used in sectors including energy, manufacturing, and mining in Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and South America. All products are engineered and certified to meet international electrical and safety standards, including the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the National Electrical Code (NEC). They also carry CE, UKCA, and CSA conformity markings.