JTL launches five new training centres

JTL has recently opened five new training centres. All five of the new centres are now actively recruiting apprentices at locations in Hull, Worthing, Eastbourne, Norwich and Telford. All sites deliver JTL apprenticeships in electrical engineering, with the sites in Hull and Norwich also offering apprenticeships in plumbing and heating. JTL works with employers to provide the training to support their apprentices with off-the-job learning and the knowledge elements of their apprenticeship programme, including both classroom and practical workshop learning, as well as monitoring and assessing apprentices in the workplace. JTL also supports the apprenticeship process in matching learners with a local employer, providing a dedicated training officer and supplying each learner with a free toolkit and study books. Employers that take on JTL apprentices receive assistance with the hiring process, guidance on the financial support available to them, and the management of the apprentice’s continued performance via the dedicated training officer. Liam Sammon, Director of Learning and Innovation at JTL, says, “Adding to our network of national JTL centres gives us additional capacity to expand in these already established areas, so we can continue to unite local employers with prospective apprentices. “We’re proud of the apprenticeships we offer at JTL, and we believe apprenticeships can be both a brilliant tool in growing a company and supporting local economies, and in this recent expansion we hope local businesses discover the multitude of benefits we may offer them.”

ECA reacts to Rishi Sunak’s appointment as PM

ECA has welcomed the appointment of Rishi Sunak as the new Prime Minister. ECA’s Director of Workforce and Public Affairs Andrew Eldred says: “We hope this latest development at Number 10 will bring much-needed stability to the economy, providing welcome reassurance to our members, who desperately need certainty to plan for the future. “The electrotechnical sector is a crucial part of the construction industry, which forms the backbone of the UK’s economy. While ECA broadly supports Rishi’s aim to fix the ‘profound economic crisis’ facing the country, we cannot overstate the importance of keeping electrification and decarbonisation front and centre of those plans. “We eagerly await next week’s fiscal statement and urge Rishi to prioritise green skills, infrastructure and incentives to boost our renewable energy sector, which in turn will help tackle rising energy bills. “ECA is also keen to see Rishi’s new government position the UK at the vanguard of decarbonisation on the world stage at COP27 in Egypt this November.”

UK Power Networks helps armed services leavers transfer their skills

UK Power Networks hosted an insight day at the Imperial War Museum to showcase the career opportunities available to former military workers. The firm also brought along key contractors to maximise attendees’ exposure to future employers and the type of roles available within the energy industry. Having signed the Armed Forces Covenant (AFC) in 2015, UK Power Networks has pledged to support veterans, reservists and their families. The company hosts insight days and offers work experience to recent and future forces leavers. Over 70 employees who are veterans, reservists or military spouses are part of the company’s armed forces community, helping support armed forces charities. Attendees at the event were able to network with hiring managers, hear from other veterans who have successfully made the transition into a civilian job, and enhance their employability through guidance on interview techniques and CV writing. Joe A’Lee, Head of Engagement at British Forces Resettlement Services, says: “UK Power Networks are a great champion of the armed forces community and being asked to assist them on their insight day was a no-brainer. They provided a rich platform to highlight the opportunities for next careers, whilst aligning their values to that inherent in military personnel. It is extremely gratifying when top companies like UK Power Networks take their pledge to the AFC seriously by reaching out in such a professionally engaging manner.” Liz Nash, Workforce Development and Partnership Lead at UK Power Networks, says: “We recognise the wealth of transferrable skills and behaviours that come with those who have served in the military. As an organisation with a vision to be an employer of choice, we work hard to attract, recruit, retain and develop high quality talent. “Our goal is continuous improvement, and that means maintaining a focus on wellbeing, diversity and inclusivity so that every employee feels equally valued and has their individual needs met. We do everything possible to support our armed forces in maximising their career opportunities.”

Retrofit lighting key to energy savings and carbon reduction

Businesses must use the next six months to identify energy efficiency measures, including LED lighting upgrades, to protect themselves against soaring operational costs. This is the message from Tamlite Lighting as the Treasury looks set to review the Energy Bill Relief Scheme, which came into force at the start of the month. With many organisations looking to reduce energy demand, Tamlite says retrofitting outdated lighting control systems will be key to reducing their usage and improving energy efficiency. It believes that whilst historically the emphasis has been on innovative energy efficient technologies, many will have forgotten the impact simple building system upgrades can have in terms of reducing demand and operational costs. By replacing outdated lighting with modern LED systems, coupled with intelligent control systems, buildings can be made more efficient, generating savings of between 60% to 80%. Tamlite Lighting’s comments come at a time when a new report by PwC UK suggests companies will experience the impact of the volatile energy market for at least the next two years. Debbie-Sue Farrell at Tamlite Lighting comments: “Lighting is one of the single biggest energy expenses that a business will face, yet small changes can make a big difference. Whilst the Energy Bill Relief Scheme will provide vital support over the next six months, there is a very clear message; all but the most vulnerable businesses must use the next six months to identify measures which improve energy efficiency and reduce consumption. “Replacing outdated lighting with modern LED systems is a cost-effective way to reduce energy use, as well as carbon emissions. Such upgrades are easy to do and should be seen as a key component of any energy saving plan over the next six months, and beyond.”

Electric vans are cheaper to run than their diesel counterparts

The average cost per mile of a diesel van is 19.29p, whilst running an electric van costs just 8.51p per mile (a saving of 77%) according to New AutoMotive’s Electric Van Count (EVC). Ciara Cook, Research and Policy Officer at New AutoMotive, says: “September was a difficult month for many businesses, especially with the uncertainty around what support would be offered for those struggling with the energy crisis. Despite this, electric vans continue to be registered at record levels. “With the government’s package for businesses now in place, electric vans are considerably cheaper to run than their diesel counterparts. Using average energy efficiency figures for both vehicle types, New AutoMotive has calculated that the average cost per mile of a diesel van is 19.29p, whilst running an electric van costs just 8.51p per mile - meaning electric is 77% cheaper to run per mile than diesel. “It is worth recognising that some level of uncertainty still exists. Government support is only guaranteed for six months, and businesses will need further reassurance that their bills will not increase again in March. The government should indicate how businesses will be supported after this scheme ends to ensure that the long-term cost savings of switching to electric are maintained.” UK market overview The UK van market has increased by 10% from September 2021, marking a significant rise in the van market. September is usually a bumper month for registrations and to record an increase in registrations compared to the same month last year will be seen as a positive sign by the industry. Although electric vans continue to be the fastest growing market segment, diesel dominance is still evident. Brands quickest to electrify For the fourth time in a row, Maxus tops the list with 51% of its total registrations being electric. Vauxhall comes in second, with 18% of its total registrations being electric this month. Ford, as one of the most popular van brands, sits in ninth spot with only 1% of its vans being electric, despite registering a respectable 180 electric vans this month. The race for EV market share The manufacturer with the highest electric van sales is Vauxhall, accounting for 44% of all electric sales this month. September was a strong month for the marque, with Vauxhall selling 483 more electric vans than in September 2021. Maxus has also had a strong month, accounting for 14% of electric vans registered and cementing its reputation as a manufacturer to watch out for. The top three manufacturers accounted for 69% of all electric van sales this month. Tristan Thomas, CEO and Co-Founder of Packfleet, adds: “When I first set up Packfleet, I wanted to disrupt the logistics sector as much as possible - that meant electrification and improving driver standards. We’ve had no problem charging, storing and operating our all-electric fleet, and we’ve found that drivers are enjoying them more than petrol vans. This means Packfleet’s workforce is as happy as they are sustainable. “It’s great to see that despite the economic turbulence, it’s getting easier for businesses to electrify their fleets due to the range of vehicles available on the market. As the owner of a logistics company, the cost per mile is something that I pay particular attention too, and the fact we’re saving 77% compared to our petrol-using competitors gives us a huge advantage.”

Data published from unsafe electrical work reporting tool

Following a unique collaboration between the Electrical Safety Roundtable (ESR) and TrustMark, a tool for reporting unsafe and non-compliant electrical work was launched in January 2022. The tool allows electricians and homeowners to report unsafe and non-compliant electrical work via a simple online form. Individuals from across the UK have used the form to help fill a data gap on the quality of electrical installations in homes. According to data collected over the past nine months, 68% of instances of unsafe electrical work reported were found in owner-occupied dwellings, while 28% were found in privately rented dwellings. This statistic illustrates a high level of risk in an area which currently has no legislation requiring electrical safety checks at specified times. The reporting tool results add weight to the wider campaign within the industry in relation to enhancing electrical safety standards in the owner-occupier sector. Worryingly, 27% of all faults identified by electricians were classified as a Category 1 (C1) hazard. A C1 hazard poses an immediate threat to life. Pleasingly, in all but one case where a C1 hazard was discovered, it was immediately reported to the occupier or landlord. Responders also submitted photographs of the unsafe work unearthed in addition to the forms which illustrate some truly shocking situations. Simon Ayers, CEO of TrustMark, comments: “The ongoing data collected continues to underline the need for improving the quality and standards of electrical installation work in homes across the UK, along with enhanced consumer protection. Having a simple tool to enable homeowners, householders, and electricians alike to report unsafe electrical work means that these issues can be highlighted to help tackle key areas of skills, knowledge, and training.” Chris Pack, Chair of the ESR in the Home group, says: “The reporting form is an excellent addition to our arsenal for improving electrical safety standards in homes across the UK. Gathering data to quantify the need for change is critical to enact reform. This easily accessible reporting tool allows for simple reporting of unsafe or non-compliant electrical work, and we encourage anyone who uncovers unsafe or non-compliant electrical work in their homes to use it.”

UK Power Networks Services wins award for smart charging solution

Engineers from UK Power Networks Services are celebrating after securing a top award for their influential sustainability work. The team, in conjunction with UPS, Cross River Partnership and Moixa, won Major Project of the Year at the National Sustainability Awards. The team was praised for demonstrating how smart charging can incentivise large fleet operators to go electric through providing flexibility to the grid. Businesses and organisations needing to find cost effective and quick ways to switch the EV fleets is one of the key challenges for the electrification of transport across the UK. The smart charging solution, EV Fleet-Centred Local Energy System (EFLES), builds on the company’s Active Network Management system to dynamically move charging demand off-peak, and avoid any need for significant investment in new electrical infrastructure. It also uses artificial intelligence to optimise the EV charging operation, reducing recharging costs and unlocking new revenue from any existing assets the fleet owner has, such as solar generation. Sefinat Otaru, Project Manager at Cross River Partnership, says: “Cross River Partnership is pleased that the EFLES project has been recognised at the National Sustainability Awards. Given the pressure to mitigate climate change by reducing emissions, particularly in the transport sector, fleet managers must have the tools they need to manage their electric vehicles efficiently.” Adam Cundy, Senior Delivery Manager at Moixa, says: "EFLES is a great example of how intelligent control can not only reduce the operational costs of managing an electric fleet, but also unlock additional revenue streams through participation in flexibility services. We're very proud of this award and the recognition that technology like Gridshare plays a big part in enabling sustainable transport." Kieran Coughlan, Head of Strategic Advisory Services at UK Power Networks Services, adds: “We have a key role in making sure our customers can benefit from new technologies that help reduce the costs of transitioning their fleets to fully electric. Smart charging and EV charging optimisation are key parts of the solutions to help commercial fleets to transition to EVs in a sustainable and cost-effective way.”

Fuuse helps minimise energy crisis with new scheme

Fuuse is enabling businesses to utilise their EV charging assets to help protect the UK’s energy supply this winter. The announcement comes in response to the National Grid’s Demand Flexibility Service, launching on 1 November, which incentivises those who can to reduce their energy consumption at peak times. In a bid to relieve pressure on the grid, Fuuse users who sign up to the scheme will be financially incentivised to turn down their vehicle charging during peak times. These ‘demand response’ events are expected to happen mainly between the hours of 8am and 10am, and 4pm and 8pm, and could occur any day of the week. All participants will be notified by email the day prior to an event, with the Fuuse platform automatically handling the appropriate EV charging response. This winter’s pilot scheme is due to begin on 1 November and run until March 2023, with financial rewards paid to all participants in one lump sum after the scheme ends. Gary Highton, Head of Energy Services at Fuuse, explains: “With the UK potentially facing its first planned power cuts in decades, it is imperative that everyone who can play their part in helping to keep Britain moving supports the scheme. As a business with the innovative solutions and tools in place to facilitate response needed for the new Demand Flexibility Service, it is our responsibility to get as many organisations on board as possible. By enabling our customers to turn down their EV charging during peak demand times via the Fuuse platform, we can not only ensure businesses generate revenue from the scheme but facilitate their social responsibilities at a time of unprecedented crisis.” Fuuse's demand-side response solutions are delivered as part of the soon-to-be released Fuuse Energy suite, allowing customers to monitor, manage and monetise their EV charging assets. Following the acquisition of Envisij earlier this year, Fuuse has made plans to bring to market a unique offering, enabling clients to optimise their energy use and make informed decisions on their core energy infrastructure.

BGEN outlines commitment to support more female employees

BGEN has outlined its plans to support the recruitment and retention of female employees across its business. Central to the company’s commitment is the creation of a women’s forum to drive meaningful change across the business. At the same time, the company has launched enhanced adoption, maternity, and shared parental leave packages, and signed up to the industry-backed ‘Inspiring Women’ pledge to help create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. “Women are under-represented in our industry, and while we may not be able to fix this problem overnight, we’re determined to play our part,” says Robin Whitehead, Chief Executive at BGEN. “We have talented female employees across our business, and with their help, we’re keen to make our business a more diverse, equitable and inclusive environment.” The BGEN women’s forum has been established to identify and fully understand attitudes around women in engineering, as well as looking at issues regarding representation of women in the wider industry. The forum is open to all female employees. One key outcome of the women’s forum to date has seen BGEN launch enhanced packages for adoption, maternity, and shared parental leave. Eligible employees will now receive 29 weeks on full pay, followed by 10 weeks on statutory pay. This is a significant uplift on the industry standard package of six week on 90% full pay, followed by 33 weeks on statutory pay. In addition, the packages include optional paid ‘keep in touch’ meetings and a phased introduction back to work. “We believe these enhanced packages are at the forefront of what companies in our industry are offering their employees,” says Michelle Stott, HR Director at BGEN. “In determining these enhanced packages, we looked at the support offered by other leading national and international companies outside of our industry.” To support BGEN’s focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, the company has also signed up to the industry-backed Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Pledge. The pledge is a commitment from organisations to strive for a more inclusive industry, improve business environments for women and champion equal representation on boards.

Top apprentices to help UK Power Networks charge a low carbon future

14 new apprentices have joined UK Power Networks to help to keep the power flowing to millions of homes - while supporting net zero carbon emissions targets by 2050. Places are highly sought after, and after succeeding in a rigorous selection process, the 14 have joined a two-year adult apprenticeship programme with the opportunity to qualify in one of three trades: cable jointer, overhead linesperson or electrical fitter. The practical skills are taught at the company’s dedicated training centres in Suffolk and Kent, coupled with training with experienced field staff, putting their new skills into practice while under supervision. The apprentices will learn vital skills and play an important role in meeting the growing demand from communities and organisations as more turn to low carbon technologies such as electric vehicles and heat pumps. Murtaza Hasmi, 26, from Woodford, who is part of the new intake, says: “I’m looking forward to joining a company that values me and has my best interests at heart. “I’m hoping this apprenticeship will help me get the accreditation to become a proper, recognised, skilled worker. The stability of work and being a worker for an essential service is something I’m looking forward to.” Charlie Aston, Engineering Trainee Manager at UK Power Networks, says: “As more industries look to low carbon technologies to help achieve their sustainability and cost ambitions, our apprentices can play an important role in helping to achieve the country’s net zero carbon emissions targets over the coming years. “We look to recruit people who share the company’s focus on teamwork and values of continuous improvement, integrity, responsibility, diversity and inclusiveness, respect and unity. They will shadow an experienced team as part of their training, spending at least a quarter of the programme completing on-the-job training. “Our apprenticeship an ideal opportunity for people who enjoy working outdoors and want variety as they will face different challenges every day, usually in different locations.”