Cable certifier power doubled with launch of new LanTEK IV-S

TREND Networks has launched LanTEK IV-S, its fastest, most powerful and easy to use copper and fibre cable certifier to date. “LanTEK IV-S has double the power of the original LanTEK IV model, which was a trailblazer when it was first introduced in 2019,” says Tim Widdershoven, Marketing Director for TREND Networks. “LanTEK IV-S builds on the exceptional functionality and reliability of the original model, with a new dual core processor, new 3.0 operating system software and twice as much memory storage, enabling 5,000 tests to be saved.” Testing links with LanTEK IV-S can now be done 16% more quickly and to help manage the test data, the best-in-class TREND AnyWARE Cloud system has also received a major speed improvement powered by Microsoft Azure. Plus, it now includes a unique, intuitive folder structure (similar to that found on a PC) that makes organising tests much easier between the project, building, floor, room, and rack. “We know that it is important to cable installers to work smarter, not harder, so the dependable LanTEK IV-S is designed to optimise speed and efficiency,” says Tim. “We’re providing the fastest Cloud system for certification, giving customers the quickest way to upload tests and create reports, alongside a more responsive touchscreen user interface that is 42% quicker, and faster operating system software.” To maximise value, the LanTEK IV-S cable certifier will also be available to purchase as part of cost-saving bundles. These offer extras such as the Sapphire Care Plan, FiberTEK IV adapters and cables, FiberMASTER video inspection probe and FiberMASTER OTDR, with total savings of up to 20%. A choice of six bundles is available. Existing LanTEK IV users that have a Sapphire Care Plan can upgrade to the new LanTEK IV-S at no extra cost. Trade-in discounts are also available for those with LanTEK II and LanTEK III certifier models. In addition, those with a LanTEK IV can install the latest software update for free to benefit from a faster user experience. As part of the TREND Networks Depend On Us Philosophy, LanTEK IV-S is also covered by a lifetime support promise. In the event that the product is no longer supported, a 30% discount is available on a new model. “With LanTEK IV, we brought a new standard to the industry, helping boost productivity and accuracy with one of the fastest Cat 6A test times in the world,” says Tim. “With the next generation, LanTEK IV-S, we’ve built on this core functionality with refinements that offer the power and speed that we know busy installers need.”

TheisCraft launches Multiload Spectrum: non-commissionable DALI lighting controls

TheisCraft has announced the launch of its Multiload Spectrum range. This end-to-end solution is two years in the making and offers an entirely new take on DALI: a flexible range of products that, when used together, create a system that requires no commissioning whilst still providing all the benefits of DALI control. Jon Theis, director of TheisCraft, says: “Although DALI is far superior to other lighting control standards, not all loads, light fittings or non-dimmable devices are DALI compatible. DALI installations are also typically more expensive than other light dimming protocols due to commissioning costs, which can account for up to a quarter of an initial project price using a standard DALI solution. Plus, any changes to a fully installed addressable DALI system will incur additional site visits and commissioning costs”. He continues: “TheisCraft has identified the need to address the limitations of DALI with a simple, non-commissionable option for commercial applications — including the residential market — that do not need complex levels of control and expensive technical support”. [gallery columns="4" ids="30079,30080,30081,30082"] Made in Britain, the Multiload Spectrum range negates the need for specialist commissioning software and tools or third parties to be involved with the configuration and setup of the control devices. Jon adds: “This flexible solution disproves the myth that DALI requires expensive and complicated setup costs. The Multiload Spectrum suite of products is an industry-changing development in accessible lighting control technology and will garner significant time and cost savings within commercial settings, such as hotels and office buildings”. The new Multiload Spectrum range comprises six core products, available as a suite or individual components: DALI Power Supply Unit, DALI Switch Interface, DALI Relay, DALI ColourDIM Rotary Dimmer, DALI Phase Dimmer and DALI Passive Infrared Detector (PIR). A DALI Power Supply Unit (PSU) supplies DC voltage for DALI control devices. The DALI Switch Interface module then allows for two switch gangs of control when used in 'Group' mode and is also available as an emergency test device. TheisCraft's DALI Relay is a single channel relay unit designed to allow control of non-DALI and non-dimmable loads such as water valves, bathroom extractor fans, window blinds or variable air volume units. The DALI Rotary Dimmer and DALI Phase Dimmer provide dimming control for non-DALI lamp loads and most DALI lighting control manufacturers' systems. The DALI PIR is uniquely available with a choice of varying lens sizes for different ranges. Using the Handset, the PIR can be configured for on/off control, brightness, colour temperature and scene recall of up to five scenes. These products can be used as standalone devices and work seamlessly with other manufacturers' equipment to create a complete DALI system. Multiload Spectrum also allows the installer to set each device's DALI groups and individual aspects via a rotary group dial and broadcast or group switch.

NG Bailey drives forward with electric vehicle charging launch

Following a series of projects, NG Bailey has announced the expansion of its electric vehicle infrastructure service, as it meets the increasing needs of businesses and wider society looking for vehicle charging solutions. The dedicated business unit comes as sales of electric vehicles continue to increase and new legislation requires new build homes, workplaces, supermarkets and buildings to install electric vehicle charging points from later on this year. Headed by Darren Slade, Operations Director within NG Bailey’s Facilities Services division, the business unit offers an end-to-end electric vehicle infrastructure and solutions service. Tim Simmons, Managing Director of NG Bailey’s Services Division, says: “As part of the UK Government's commitment towards net zero emissions by 2050, and the phasing out of new petrol and diesel car sales by 2030, we are seeing a rapid drive towards a cleaner, greener and more responsible energy future. "As part of this agenda, we are seeing increased demand from both new and existing customers for electric charging solutions, as they drive towards lowering their carbon emissions and impact on the environment. “NG Bailey has a huge amount of expertise and skills to meet these requirements and offer a comprehensive end-to-end solution as well as helping to meet our own responsibility strategy and wider society goals.” Offering national coverage through an experienced delivery team, capabilities include consultancy, feasibility study and design, commissioning and infrastructure installation, cellular and network connectivity, and ongoing maintenance and aftercare.

ECS launches Qualified Supervisor endorsement and related discipline card

From September 2021, the Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS) – the assessment protocols and entry criteria for certification bodies such as the NICEIC and ELECSA – have been updated to mirror the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) minimum standards for electricians as well as requiring evidence relating to Continuing Professional Development (CPD), supervising employed person and insurance levels during assessment visits. To recognise this role and standard within the sector, those who are qualified supervisors within their company can apply to have this recognised on their ECS card while they are working for this company. This is contained under the endorsements section of an ECS application. This means that Gold Card Electricians can have this important endorsement as part of their physical and virtual ECS records, giving greater visibility of their role and experience. A separate Qualified Supervisor ECS card is also available to show those with this responsibility within an organisation assessed by a Competent Person Scheme. The requirements for the Qualified Supervisor related discipline card are set out here. For many years, the Joint Industry Board (JIB) has worked with the wider electrical industry to raise standards for those responsible for electrical installations. The requirements for occupations and cards are set by industry bodies and employers. For a Gold Card Installation or Maintenance Electrician, the core requirements have been the same since 1999. This is an apprenticeship or equivalent (such as underpinning technical theory and a vocational qualification to a Level 3, and a practical performance assessment of competence – the relevant version of the AM2). More recently, the minimum requirements have been strengthened to include a qualification in the latest edition of the Wiring Regulations, a commitment to wider CPD and a code of professional conduct. This is shown by those who have achieved ECS Registered Electrician status. Electricians can then upskill and progress in their career through further qualifications and training, such as inspection and testing, or design and verification, and achieve Approved Electrician or Technician grading. Although Registered Electrician status is the minimum standard expected for commercial and industrial sectors, the same standard is not always expected in the domestic sector where individuals responsible for electrical installations are assessed under Part P of the Building Regulations rather than the industry approved National Occupational Standards, and more recently apprentice “trailblazer” standards. Now these standards are aligned so that the minimum entry criteria for Qualified Supervisor is the same as those routes for an ECS Gold card. Martyn Allen, Electrical Safety First’s Technical Director, comments: “In industries such as ours, competence is key, and safety is paramount. The changes seen within this update are essential as collectively we strive to raise standards and enhance consumer protection. Updated processes to allow ECS recognition for QS status is an important part of essential visibility of competence.” Mike Smith, ECA Technical Director, explains: “It’s great to the see the electrical industry coming together under the EAS to agree higher standards within the specification, and ECS provides the necessary verification and assurance of these standards - recognised by government and industry - as a core part of competence frameworks.”

Three-quarters of UK electricians don’t feel confident handling finances 

Almost three-quarters (74%) of UK electricians don’t feel confident in handling their company finances, and many have lost money as a result, new research has revealed. The study, conducted by ElectricalDirect surveyed electricians from across the country and found that only 26% are comfortable dealing with the financial side of their business. This includes pricing up jobs for customers, with a quarter (25%) admitting to having lost money because they’ve made mistakes whilst giving quotes. A simple way for workers to check if their prices are reasonable is to see what other electricians in their area are charging for similar jobs. However, almost three-quarters (73%) of respondents said that this isn’t something they do. Furthermore, the vast majority (76%) of electricians do not account for the cost of living or inflation rates when giving quotes to customers. This is despite living costs rising at their fastest rate for 30 years and inflation predicted to reach 8.3% in April, meaning take-home pay could fall heavily. Although they don’t specifically consider the cost of living, more than a quarter (28%) of UK electricians have raised their prices since the start of 2022, and four in five (80%) have upped their quotes in the last year. However, despite the pandemic significantly disrupting the industry, one in 20 (5%) have not increased their rates in the last two years. This equates to more than 2,000 electrical businesses across the UK. Older electricians are more likely to have kept their prices constant despite COVID-19, with a fifth (20%) of over 55s maintaining their pre-pandemic rates. In comparison, just 2% of millennial workers (25-34) have done the same. Across the UK, electricians in Yorkshire and the Humber are the most likely to have upped their fees recently, with three in five (60%) having done so in 2022. On the other hand, just 7% of electrical businesses in Northern Ireland have done the same – the least of any region. The UK regions where electricians are most likely to have increased their prices in 2022 are: # Region Increased prices since the start of 2022 1 Yorkshire and the Humber 60% 2 East Anglia 50% 3 South West 38% 4 North West 32% 5 North East 30% 6 London 28% 7 Scotland 27% 8 South East 24% 9 West Midlands 24% 10 East Midlands 21% 11 Wales 18% 12 Northern Ireland 7%   Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at ElectricalDirect, says: “The rising cost of living is going to impact everyone in the coming months, both personally and professionally, and electricians should at least consider it when providing quotes, to ensure they’re not leaving themselves short. “Managing a company’s finances can be complicated and mistakes can prove to be costly. That’s why we’ve partnered with a specialist to provide advice to electricians on how best to handle their money.”

ECA champions green careers

During National Careers Week, ECA seized opportunities to amplify its support for green apprenticeships, green jobs and the net zero agenda across several government forums this week. ECA supported the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) at an event in the House of Lords to mark National Careers Week on Monday 7 March. The event was hosted by Rt Hon Baroness McGregor-Smith CBE, the new chair of the Institute’s board. Also in attendance were employers and key stakeholders from the education sector, as well as electrotechnical and construction apprentices. Luke Osborne, Energy and Emerging Technologies Solutions Advisor for ECA and a member of the Green Apprenticeships Advisory Panel, supported IfATE at the event. He says, “The event highlighted IfATE’s activities and the doors apprenticeships can open. The importance of collaboration between employers and colleges is also vital. “With the skills and Post-16 Education Bill set to pass Royal Assent in the near future, education pathways will radically change, providing new and viable options for school leavers and career changers.” ECA also attended the Westminster Employment Forum on Green Jobs on 10 March. With input from, among others, BEIS, local authorities, and National Grid, it was clear that education and upskilling, at all levels, was the key to the safe and fair transition to net zero. The forum, hosted by Philip Dunne MP, Chair of the Environmental Audit Committee, considered the best ways to equip today’s workforce with the green skills to help them deliver net zero solutions. Estimates presented at the event suggest there will be 400,000 jobs in the energy sector by 2050. 30,000 of these are needed between 2025 and 2030 to achieve current net zero targets. A successor to the Green Jobs Task force was announced. Named the Green Jobs Delivery Group, it will consist of a cross-government coalition headed up by ministers, but with an industry chair. Jane Dawson, ECA’s Head of Public Relations and Public Affairs, says “It is heartening to see so much thought given to the skills needed for the surge in green jobs. While delivery of green courses remains patchy, the groundwork of upskilling our workforce has begun. "But, reaching net zero will only be possible if we attract new people to the energy sector, those who’ve never thought it possible before. And, we must be inventive and agile supporting them throughout their careers.”

Nutrition and health – support from the EIC

We know a healthy diet and lifestyle are vital to maintaining our wellbeing, with a poor diet leading to a whole host of problems, including everything from high cholesterol to cancer. Whereas these can too often be problems of excess, malnutrition is also a serious problem, and can result in stunted growth, problems with eyesight and diabetes. Nutrition and health – both physical and mental – are all areas the EIC can help its industry colleagues with. This was the case for Holly and her husband, who both worked in generation and renewables. Holly’s husband had experienced significant trauma as a child. But he had suppressed this trauma for so many years that he became unable to cope. Refusing to engage in professional help, he started to experience thoughts of suicide. The knock-on effect on his marriage and Holly’s own mental health was understandably huge, and she started to struggle as well. Due to the urgent needs of her husband, she thought of caring for herself very little and turned to other ways to manage her emotions. She did this through her eating. Holly’s weight dropped at a concerningly fast rate and, in a very short time, Holly lost nearly 9 stone. But her fluctuating weight at times of distress was nothing out of the ordinary. It was her way of coping when she found things difficult to manage. Holly was suffering from an eating disorder – a mental health condition whereby she was using the control of food to cope with feelings and challenging situations. It can include eating too much or too little or worrying obsessively about your weight or body shape. Anyone can get an eating disorder, with teenagers affected the most. Left unchecked, it can lead to malnutrition from not getting enough nutrients in your diet and result not only weight loss, but a range of issues including fatigue and irritability, difficulty concentrating, depression and anxiety. Thankfully, with the right treatment, most people can recover. Through her job, Holly was made aware of the EIC and the support available to them both. Holly spoke with the charity and opened up about the struggles her husband was experiencing. The EIC explored possible support for her husband and the right professionals were sourced. Holly felt a huge sense of relief that her husband was now going to be adequately supported. As a result, she was also ready to allow support for herself. With her eating disorder being her hugely detrimental coping strategy, the EIC sought help with a dietitian. Alongside this, Holly also engaged in sessions with a therapist. With the right support put in place for both Holly and her husband, they were able to turn a hugely positive corner in their relationship together, and in all aspects of their lives. The help Holly and her husband were able to access was due to the support of the EIC and the powerLottery. It meant they both got the support and treatment they required.  Without powerLottery, EIC would not be able to offer support to people like Holly and her husband. That’s why the organisation needs you to become a powerLottery player to help EIC to continue supporting its industry members. powerLottery is the only lottery made for the industry by the industry. It gives players 40 chances to win cash prizes ranging from £50 to £1,000 every single month. A £10,000 draw bi-yearly gives you even more opportunity to win BIG. A new car, a holiday in the sun, a kitchen re-fit or a brand-new wardrobe… Think of all the different ways you could spend £10,000. To sign up to play the powerLottery today, click here.

Bemco initiatives support new entrants to gain a foothold in smart home installation 

Bemco, one of the larger independent electrical wholesalers in the UK and a specialist in smart home technologies, has introduced Bemco SmartPRO, a new online channel for electricians’ keen to grow their business in the professional smart home space. This initiative is supported by a new ‘Innovation Room’, located at Bemco’s HQ in Wandsworth, South London, which will act as a physical demonstration space, showing how these technologies can be installed and seamlessly integrated into a customer’s home. Accessible at Instagram @bemcosmartpro and Twitter #bemcosmartpro, the Bemco SmartPRO channel focuses on providing solutions, advice and resources to help electricians get to grips with the latest technologies that will help them seize the smart home market opportunity.  Bemco SmartPRO is supported by Lutron (RA2 Select, Vive and Quantum), SONOS, Honeywell and Collingwood, whose products can be deployed to offer smart lighting, blind, audio, security and HVAC control solutions for the modern smart home. Bemco’s ‘Innovation Room’, a demonstration set up featuring products from these brands, is also now open to visitors. Here, those new to the market can see how different technologies can be applied and integrated to deliver an effective smart room solution for a client. Once inspired, Bemco can support electricians on a tailored training programme, to equip them with the skills they need to learn, improve and become a professional smart home technology integrator. “Consumer demand for professionally installed and integrated smart home technologies is growing,” says Julian Barkes, Managing Director at Bemco. “We know that the smart home represents a sizeable market opportunity for electricians, but it also requires new skills and a familiarity with new brands and fast-moving technology to meet consumer expectations. As a trusted and respected electrical wholesaler, we have relationships in place with the key players that enable us to provide a solid platform to educate and support our customers.  The Bemco SmartPRO channel together with the Innovation Room will give our customers a great start-point for exploring this market and help them develop expertise and experience so they can take full advantage.”

Octopus Energy Generation accelerates green power with wind farms in the UK, Sweden, France and Finland 

Octopus Renewables, the fund management specialist in Octopus Energy Group’s generation business, has signed four deals to ramp up wind power generation across Europe to help deliver net zero. The team already managed 745MW of wind assets - and these deals will boost its wind capacity by up to 90% over the next 10 years. The investments, all signed in the last three months, will see wind farms in the UK, Sweden, France and Finland provide a combined capacity of up to 690MW, enough to power nearly half a million homes a year. Development of nine wind farms in Scotland and Wales  In the UK, Octopus Renewables is investing in a joint venture to develop nine onshore wind farms with Wind 2 Limited, a specialist UK wind farm developer. The new wind farms will be developed across Scotland and Wales over the next five to 10 years, with a potential combined capacity of approximately 570MW. The deal will go a long way to help the UK create more home grown renewable energy. Building a Swedish wind farm with OX2 The business is expanding its footprint in Sweden with a third deal in the country, buying a ready to build onshore wind farm in Marhult, outside Växjö, from OX2, a developer of renewable energy across Europe. Once built, the 31.5MW capacity wind farm with seven Vestas turbines will generate enough to power 18,000 homes annually. Octopus Renewables has previously completed two other deals with OX2 - and is now strengthening this relationship. Managing French wind farm following deal with Energiequelle Octopus Renewables will now be managing a French onshore wind farm Broons/Biterne-Sud in north-east Brittany, after a deal with Energiequelle, a German project developer and operator of renewable assets and storage facilities. The wind farm has six Enercon turbines with a capacity of 14.1MW. This project has a government-backed Contract for Difference (CfD) for a 20-year period. CfDs encourage renewable generation by guaranteeing developers a fixed price for the green power generated. Acquiring two Finnish wind farms In the final investment, Octopus Renewables has acquired two onshore wind farms in Finland. The Saunamaa and Suolakangas wind farms have a combined capacity of 71.4MW. They will generate enough energy to power over 45,000 homes, avoiding the equivalent of 68,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually. These wind farms have a five-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Baltic energy company Eesti Energia. This will allow Eesti Energia to provide its customers with more clean energy. Zoisa North-Bond, CEO of Octopus Energy Generation, comments: “We’re blown away by the prospect of building so many wind farms in the UK and further afield in Europe. We’re passionate about accelerating the transition to green energy across the globe - and these deals will hugely boost our wind power portfolio.” “The energy crisis has shown how exposed Europe is to global fossil fuel prices. These new wind farms will help Europe reduce its reliance on gas and become energy independent. Stepping up renewable generation will help deliver net zero targets and supercharge the green energy revolution.” More broadly, Octopus Energy Group has been stepping up its generation capabilities, constantly innovating to put people at the heart of green energy developments. Octopus Energy plans to supply around 2.5 million households with green power through its initiative ‘Fan Club - The Collective’ by 2030. This is all part of Octopus Energy Group’s plans to create 18 gigawatts of clean energy generation projects by 2027.

Gardeners urged to stay safe on spring return

UK Power Networks wants gardeners to put safety first as many spring into action and venture back outside at the end of winter. The UK’s biggest electricity distributor is reminding those with green fingers to stay on red alert when undertaking any digging work. The company, which distributes electricity to 8.3 million homes and businesses across London, the South East and East of England, needs gardeners to understand that contact with high voltage underground electricity cables can be fatal. The main risk to gardeners comes with deep digging, but wider advice includes how to stay safe using mowers, ladders and even replacing fence panels which may have been damaged during recent storms. The top tips for gardeners include: Be aware of the location of underground electricity equipment and request details before work starts. Cable plans can be found at linesearchbeforeudig.co.uk. For larger projects use a Cable Avoidance Tool (CAT). When digging deep in the garden, for instance planting trees or installing fence panels, assume all cables are live and hand dig trial holes to check the depth of cables. When mowing the lawn always fit plugs with a Residual Current Device (RCD) to protect against electrocution. This safety device automatically switches off power when there is a fault. If doing outdoor jobs involving a ladder, always look up and look out for overhead power cables, for instance near trees, as contact could cause serious injury or even death. Debbie Chachulski, Safety Advisor says: “As we move into spring and the better weather many people will be getting out and about more in their gardens, and our advice, when undertaking work yourself, is to stay safe and be aware of electricity infrastructure. “People do need to scope out any potential locations of underground cables before they carry out any work which involves breaking ground. Gardening can be a relaxing activity, but to stay safe there is always a need to stay focused on the tasks you are doing.” If gardeners spot a safety issue or need to report a damaged cable, the number to call is 105, while a range of advice and information is available at Safety advice and resources | UK Power Networks