Winners for ECA Industry Awards announced

Talent and achievements in the electrotechnical industry were recognised with prestigious accolades at the ECA Industry Awards held on Friday night (10 October). The awards ceremony showcased the excellence and innovation across the electrotechnical and engineering sectors. The ceremony was hosted by comedian and actress Ellie Taylor, alongside compere Alan Dedicoat – the voice of Strictly Come Dancing and The National Lottery. Helen Atkinson, Director of Member Services at ECA, says, “This year’s Industry Awards entries were a powerful reflection of the incredible impact ECA Members are making across the electrotechnical and engineering industry. Their passion and dedication to deliver excellence, as well as their commitment to support the next generation, will help drive forward the journey towards electrification. Congratulations to all the winners and highly commended runners-up.” Award winners The award winners are as follows: Best Client Partnership - West & West Best Fire and Security Project - Early Birds Fire Protection Best Health, Safety and Environment Initiative - Midwest Mechanical and Electrical Services Best New Business - BSN Electrical Best Supply Chain Partnership - Source Electrical Services Best Sustainability Net Zero Project - F B Taylor Cable Contractors Contractor of the Year (up to £1 million turnover) - O’Connor Electrical Contractor of the Year (up to £5 million turnover) - North East Installations Contractor of the Year (up to £15 million turnover) - West & West Contractor of the Year (up to £45 million turnover) - Elecomm ECA Large Contractor of the Year - SES Engineering Services Excellence in Apprenticeship Training - Geoffrey Robinson Fire Detection and Alarm Industry - Paul Turner, Lead Auditor, BAFE Major Contribution to the Industry - Martin Bailey Security Systems Industry - John Davidson, Approval Schemes Manager, NSI Judging panel The judging panel for the ECA Awards comprised the following: Gary Parker - Head of Technical, ECA (Head Judge) Helen Atkinson - Director of Member Services, ECA (Adjudicator) Richard Bowler - Editor, Professional Electrician & Installer Clair Bradley - Deputy Delivery Director, JTL Paul Collins - Technical Director, Certsure Hywel Davies – Former Chief Technical Officer, CIBSE Spencer Henry – Electrical Consultant and Designer, Modecsoft Matt Nimmons - Managing Director, CEDIA EMEA Luke Osborne - Deputy Technical Director, Electrical Safety First Kevin Sparrow - Industry & Portfolio Manager, EAL For reactions from the award winners in the coming weeks, visit ECA’s LinkedIn channel. For more from ECA, click here.

Grant UK launches updated Aerona³ heat pump training

Grant UK, a British manufacturer of heating systems, has expanded its eLearning Academy with a new, on-demand training course for heating engineers and installers. The updated Aerona³ ASHP Installer course provides the latest information on the Aerona³ R32 air source heat pump range, featuring new interactive elements to enhance learning and engagement. Launched in 2020, the Grant eLearning Academy offers online training for installers, merchants, and specifiers, with tailored courses on renewable heating systems and related legislation. The new Aerona³ ASHP Installer course replaces both the previous Aerona³ ASHP Installer and Aerona³ ASHP Advanced Installer courses, bringing the content up to date with product developments and industry standards. Enhanced learning experience for heating professionals The new course introduces updated material on the Aerona³ R32 air-to-water heat pump models, covering installation, set-up, and servicing procedures in detail. It also includes information on the Aerona Smart Controller, as well as supporting products such as the Mag One DUO filter and Grant Quick Recovery Pre-Plumbed cylinders. Structured into twelve modules, the course is designed for flexibility. Learners can start, pause, and resume at any time, allowing them to complete training around their work schedule. Each module includes short quizzes, videos, and interactive diagrams to reinforce understanding. Installers who complete all twelve modules and pass the final assessment can apply to become G1 Installers for Grant Air Source Heat Pumps, gaining access to benefits such as extended guarantees, rewards, and merchandise through the scheme. Phil Stanley, Training Manager at Grant UK, says, “We are pleased to release this new course which delivers the latest online heat pump training for the Grant Aerona³ R32 range. "Installers can choose between our one-day, in-person course or this on-demand equivalent. "With its modular format, which has proven popular with our Aerona 290 Installer course, the content will be continuously updated to reflect new developments and regulations. "We hope it becomes a valuable ongoing resource for installers.” The Aerona³ ASHP Installer on-demand course is available now via the Grant eLearning Academy. Installers can visit the website to enrol or create an account using the enrolment key GUKWEB0820. Those currently enrolled in the previous course can either complete it before 31 October 2025 or transition to the new course free of charge. For more from Grant UK, click here.

Hanwha Vision unveils bi-spectrum cameras for early fire detection

Hanwha Vision, a South Korean security and surveillance products company, has introduced a new line of bi-spectrum early fire detection cameras that combine dual thermal radiometry and visible imaging lenses to support advanced fire detection, temperature monitoring, and continuous surveillance. Developed for use in critical environments such as electric vehicle charging stations, industrial facilities, and data centres, the cameras are designed to help identify potential fire hazards before they escalate, improving both safety and operational efficiency. Enhancing safety and reliability through dual-layer detection The cameras use a combination of thermal sensors and visible imaging to detect temperature changes and visible flames simultaneously. This dual-layer detection provides early alerts, enabling operators to respond quickly before a fire spreads. In addition to fire detection, the system supports real-time temperature monitoring to aid predictive maintenance. Users can configure up to two regions of interest to track minimum, maximum, and average temperature values, with adjustable event rules and alarm triggers when readings exceed predefined thresholds. The cameras can detect temperatures ranging from -10°C to 450°C, covering a wide range of industrial and environmental applications. Equipped with a QVGA (160x120) thermal detector and wide-angle lenses - 95° and 57° depending on the model - the cameras provide coverage for short- to medium-range monitoring, up to approximately 7 and 15 metres respectively. The ability to capture both visible and thermal images simultaneously ensures consistent situational awareness in all conditions, including darkness, fog, and smoke. Designed for seamless integration with existing monitoring and automation systems, the cameras support the MQTT protocol for compatibility with SCADA systems and industrial networks. Temperature data can also be accessed via Hanwha Vision’s SUNAPI protocol, ensuring interoperability with software such as Wisenet SSM, Wisenet WAVE, and third-party VMS platforms including Milestone and Genetec. Built for durability, the compact cameras are suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations, offering long-term reliability in demanding environments. Key features • Dual video and thermal imaging for early fire detection • Real-time temperature monitoring and alert configuration • SCADA system compatibility via MQTT protocol • Integration with leading VMS platforms (including Wisenet SSM, Wisenet WAVE, Milestone, and Genetec) • Continuous operation in low-visibility and harsh environmental conditions The bi-spectrum early fire detection cameras are intended as a supplementary layer of protection to conventional fire detection systems and on-site personnel, helping organisations strengthen fire prevention and safety strategies. For more from Hanwha Vision, click here.

Who's Who - Luceco: Lighting the way with innovation

ECN provides a full overview of the latest lighting projects and innovations developed by Luceco, which has established itself as one of the most recognisable and trusted names in the UK lighting market. Known for delivering solutions that combine cutting-edge product development with a practical, contractor-first approach, Luceco continues to set benchmarks in an industry where performance, reliability, and ease of installation are non-negotiable. With a portfolio that spans everything from domestic lighting to commercial projects, Luceco has become the go-to brand for professionals looking for quality they can trust and end users searching for products that deliver both efficiency and style. Lighting for every environment One of Luceco’s biggest strengths is the breadth of its offering. The brand covers the full spectrum of applications, ensuring there is a Luceco solution for almost every environment. In residential settings, Luceco provides lighting that combines style with efficiency, catering to homeowners who want their spaces illuminated by products that are both attractive and energy-saving. For tradespeople, the extensive range of work and inspection lights has become a staple. Built for the rigours of daily use, these portable solutions provide durability and functionality, ensuring contractors can always rely on their lighting, whether on site, in a workshop, or during inspection tasks. At the other end of the scale, Luceco’s commercial lighting range delivers high-performance luminaires designed for offices, schools, warehouses, retail spaces, and public buildings. With a strong emphasis on compliance, efficiency, and modern design, these products provide contractors and consultants with solutions that meet the needs of demanding projects while also helping organisations reduce energy consumption and costs. Shaped by contractor insight At the heart of Luceco’s philosophy is a commitment to listening to those who install and specify its products. The brand works closely with contractors, gathering feedback and insight to ensure every new launch addresses real-world challenges faced on site. This collaborative approach has become a defining feature of Luceco’s development process. By involving installers early in the design cycle, the brand is able to incorporate features that make products faster and easier to fit, while also ensuring they deliver long-term reliability for the end user. For contractors, this translates into less time spent on installations, reduced call-backs, and the confidence that every fitting is backed by a brand that understands their day-to-day pressures. In-house projects and lighting design expertise Luceco’s support extends far beyond its product catalogue. The brand offers an in-house projects and lighting design service that helps contractors, consultants, and end clients deliver the best possible outcomes. Whether it’s a new-build development or a large-scale commercial project, the Luceco design team works to provide tailored solutions that maximise efficiency, performance, and compliance. By offering detailed lighting calculations, layouts, and guidance on product selection, Luceco gives contractors the tools they need to deliver projects that perform from day one. This capability reinforces Luceco’s position as more than just a manufacturer; it makes the brand a true partner to the electrical industry, supporting projects from concept through to commissioning and beyond. Innovation and sustainability Innovation has always been a cornerstone of Luceco’s success. The brand continues to invest heavily in research and development, embracing the latest LED and smart lighting technologies to create solutions that meet evolving market demands. As sustainability climbs higher on the agenda for both contractors and end users, Luceco is committed to delivering products that not only provide outstanding performance, but also help reduce carbon footprints. From energy-efficient luminaires that lower running costs to Europe’s first NLC Bluetooth smart controls that optimise usage, the brand is ensuring its innovations contribute to a more sustainable future. This focus on energy efficiency is not just about regulatory compliance; it reflects a broader responsibility to support the UK’s journey toward lower emissions and more environmentally conscious building practices. For contractors, it means being able to specify products that are both future-proof and aligned with customer expectations around sustainability. A brand contractors trust What sets Luceco apart is the brand’s reputation that has been built on delivering solutions that balance innovation with practicality, ensuring that every product launched into the market is designed with both installers and end users in mind. From homeowners requiring stylish, energy-efficient lighting to contractors managing complex commercial projects, Luceco has proven itself to be a trusted partner across the board. Its combination of breadth, innovation, and real-world insight has made it a name that wholesalers recommend, installers rely on, and customers can depend on for quality and performance. The UK lighting market continues to evolve at pace, with new technologies and expectations reshaping how contractors and end users approach projects. Luceco is well-positioned to remain at the forefront of this change. By maintaining its commitment to innovation, strengthening its contractor-first approach, and expanding its design expertise, the brand is set to play a key role in shaping the future of lighting. For those looking for a lighting partner that offers it all – residential fittings, award-winning trade essentials, commercial luminaires, and design expertise – Luceco stands out as the complete package. You can find out more about Luceco’s full product range on the company's website. For more from Luceco, click here.

TRILUX Osido earns 'Build Back Better' Gold

TRILUX, a manufacturer of professional lighting systems, has won a prestigious 'Build Back Better' Gold Award for its Osido wall luminaire, recognising the product’s innovation, sustainability, and contribution to reducing light pollution in architectural lighting. The Build Back Better Awards celebrate excellence across innovation, creativity, social purpose, and environmental leadership. In the 2025 lighting category, judges assessed projects, products, and initiatives from across the industry, awarding just one Platinum, eight Green, and a select number of Gold accolades. How Osido won Osido secured its Gold Award for tackling one of the toughest challenges in architectural lighting: creating striking façades and building surrounds without contributing to obtrusive light or sky glow. Instead of external shields or louvres, Osido integrates the solution into its design. In versions with indirect lighting, the LED board is angled inward by 6°, directing light precisely onto the façade and significantly reducing upward emissions - supporting Dark Sky principles. Beyond its optical precision, Osido sets new benchmarks in sustainability and ease of use. Based on a modular concept, the range supports refurbishment and circular economy principles with standardised mounting plates that allow one-person installation, upgrades, or maintenance. A larger cavity behind the mounting plate simplifies cable routing, while plug-and-play connectors enable tool-free installation. The luminaire family combines application-specific MLT optics, optional facial illumination modules for enhanced safety, and compatibility with Casambi and LiveLink controls. Designed to blend seamlessly into both modern and traditional architecture, Osido is available in four shapes, with further extensions to include ceiling luminaires, bollards, and spotlights planned. Leighton James, Product and Marketing Director TRILUX, says, “Winning a Build Back Better Gold Award underlines Osido’s role in setting new standards for responsible architectural lighting. “By combining design impact with environmental responsibility, Osido demonstrates how product innovation can support both the needs of designers and the wider goals of sustainability.” The award was officially presented on 25 September 2025 at Circular Lighting Live in London, with winners announced publicly the following day. For more information about Osido, visit the website. For more from TRILUX, click here.

NVC Lighting launches new CAT-R range

NVC Lighting, a supplier of commercial LED lighting systems, is launching its new range of recessed LED panels, the CAT-R. Designed with efficiency and longevity at its core, the company says CAT-R eliminates CAT-A/B fit-out waste in tenanted commercial spaces. Using TM66 principles, its modules can be replaced, reused, and redeployed, potentially lasting the entire lifetime of a building and making it effective for offices, schools, universities, and healthcare facilities. Product details CAT-R is built on the NVC adaptable plug-and-play platform and is available in a variety of options, offering flexibility for future tenants. Installers can choose from four different bodies - basic, winged, square, or acoustic - and an LED cassette which is available in opal or UGR<19 options. Phil Brown, Product and Marketing Director for NVC Lighting, comments, “We are thrilled to be launching our new CAT-R range this year and look forward to helping building managers and tenants hit sustainability goals. “NVC is fully committed to sustainable innovation and finding a way to achieve a higher level of sustainability. "Our CAT-R range is a fantastic solution to help with this and we hope our customers see a real difference in their energy consumption and savings.” NVC says CAT-R’s design means it can make a "substantial contribution" to waste elimination and reducing energy consumption. CAT-R’s magnetic snap-fit system allows for swifter installation and deployment, as well as reuse of the luminaire in a cost-effective and sustainable manner. For added adaptability, panels in the CAT-R range are available in 600mm x 600mm or 1200mm x 300mm and require no rewiring for upgrades at a later stage. For more from NVC Lighting, click here.

Hager opens sustainable local distribution centre in Telford

Hager, a German manufacturer of electrical installation and building automation systems, has officially opened its new local distribution centre (LDC) at Hortonwood 45 in Telford, marking a milestone in the company’s UK investment and growth strategy. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Sabine Busse, CEO of Hager Group, with the Hager Board and UK Senior Management Team in attendance. The company says the new 107,000 ft² (9,940 m²) facility will support the increasing demand for its electrical distribution solutions. The site is located 1 mile (1.6 kilometres) from the company’s existing manufacturing site at Hortonwood 50, where Hager has been producing enclosures for electrical distribution equipment since 1991. This new LDC should enhance logistics, production capacity, and customer service capabilities, while reinforcing Hager’s presence in Telford, where it currently employs over 300 people. Bruce Davies, Managing Director of Hager UK, comments, “This investment is a testament to our confidence in the UK market and our commitment to sustainable growth. "Telford has been our home for over three decades and this new facility strengthens our ability to serve our customers while advancing our environmental goals.” A carbon-positive building Hager claims the Hortonwood 45 site "exemplifies [its] commitment to sustainability and innovation" and is a carbon-positive building. The new building has achieved a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating and an EPC rating of A, thanks to its energy-efficient design and environmental credentials. Key features include: • 300 m² of photovoltaic panels generating 63kW of renewable energy • 15% rooflights to maximise natural daylight and reduce reliance on artificial lighting • 20 EV charging points and cycle storage to support sustainable travel • High insulation and airtightness standards • 1MVA power supply to support operational efficiency The site also incorporates a 20,000 m² landscaping scheme, twice the size of the building footprint, designed to enhance biodiversity and absorb 920 tonnes of CO₂ annually. It includes: • 16 varieties of trees, including a 180-year-old protected oak tree • 14 shrub types and 9 grass varieties • 2 km of hedgerows and wildflower zones • Bat boxes and nesting boxes for robins, blackbirds, and sparrows • Natural materials used for fencing • Outdoor breakout spaces to support employee wellbeing For more from Hager, click here.

'96% of UK homeowners interested in integrating smart home tech'

Drayton, a manufacturer of heating controls, recently surveyed heating engineers, electricians, heat pump installers, and plumbers about homeowner appetite for smart home technology. When asked about consumer interest in smart home technology, 96% of the surveyed installers revealed that their customers had demonstrated an interest in smart home technology. The demand for smart home technology now also expands past just heating controls. Survey respondents reported that outside of heating controls, smart lighting was the most popular element of smart technology, with 56% stating their customers currently have or would be interested in adding this to their home. When building a complete smart home, other devices such as smart alarms (36%) and a range of sensors, including water leak sensors (13%), window and door sensors (12%), and humidity sensors (11%), were also found to be of interest or already present in homes. As home technology evolves, the research reinforces that so do the desires of homeowners, with a majority looking for a more comprehensive approach that integrates more than smart heating controls. This also demonstrates the importance for installers to have an awareness of a broader range of home technology. Nick Hunt, UK Sales and Marketing Director at Drayton, comments, “The results of our survey emphasise that the needs of customers are continuing to change in line with the evolution of technology. "Tradespeople need to be well-equipped to match these demands by offering a reliable system that simply incorporates a variety of smart home technologies as they become more prevalent in homes. “However, when installers are recommending smart home solutions, it is crucial that they consider recommending one that is compatible with renewable heating solutions to ensure homes are futureproofed, as the research showed that 66% of homeowners were considering making the switch to a renewable solution such as heat pumps or solar panels. “The research highlights the opportunities available to installers through the growing interest in smart home solutions - and with systems like [Drayton's] Wiser 2nd Generation, installers can confidently offer their customers the means to a seamlessly smarter, more connected home.” For more from Drayton, click here.

'98% of businesses operate with electrical safety risks'

Energy management and industrial automation company Schneider Electric is urging organisations to address what it calls the “Silent Saboteur” – the unseen, cumulative risks that can gradually undermine operational safety, efficiency, and resilience. Findings from Schneider Electric’s latest Industry Insight Report, based on audits of more than 400 customer sites worldwide, reveal that many businesses are unknowingly exposed to operational vulnerabilities with potentially serious financial and reputational consequences. Common risks identified in facility audits The report highlights several recurring issues across industrial and commercial sites: • Safety and compliance gaps — 98% of audited sites presented electrical safety risks and 93% had not carried out recent protection coordination studies, increasing the likelihood of safety incidents and non-compliance. • Obsolete equipment — 79% of sites were operating outdated electrical systems, raising the risk of unplanned failures and costly downtime. • Insufficient spare parts — 71% of facilities lacked essential components, leaving them vulnerable to prolonged outages during equipment breakdowns. • Poor maintenance — Nearly one third of sites had damaged or poorly maintained capacitor banks, contributing to power quality and stability issues. • Limited visibility — Many organisations still rely on manual processes and isolated data, restricting their ability to detect inefficiencies or prevent faults before they escalate. Kas Mohammed, Vice President for Services, UK and Ireland at Schneider Electric, says, “Too often, organisations focus on headline investments while overlooking the operational fundamentals that keep their business running. "The real risk lies in the hidden faults – those silent saboteurs – that quietly erode efficiency and resilience. "The good news is that increased monitoring and digitalisation of assets can stop the saboteur lurking in the shadows, helping organisations take a proactive approach to operational management.” For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Who’s Who – Sync Energy: Charged-up sustainability every day

As the UK transitions to a cleaner, smarter energy future, Sync Energy has quickly established itself as a brand at the forefront of EV charging and renewable energy integration. With growing charging solutions, complemented by its intelligent home energy management system, Sync Energy is helping households and businesses take control of their energy usage while supporting the wider push towards decarbonisation. Sync Energy has a simple but powerful goal: to make the benefits of EV charging and renewable energy accessible for everyone. From installers fitting a domestic EV charger at a family home to businesses managing a commercial car park, Sync Energy products are designed to balance advanced technology with practical installation and everyday usability. This comes from working closely with electrical contractors to ensure that every new development genuinely meets the needs of the market. Say goodbye to bulky and unsightly EV charging One of Sync Energy’s most notable innovations this year is the Link EV Charger. Unlike many traditional EV chargers, Link uses a two-part design. The compact, attractive-looking socket can be fitted in the most convenient location on the outside of the property, while the control box can be hidden out of sight at a range of up to 50m from the socket. For contractors, this design brings installation flexibility. It allows them to overcome common challenges such as limited wall space or homeowner concerns about aesthetics. Whether recessed into the wall, with a slim 37mm profile or surface-mounted for speed of installation, Link provides contractors with a product that looks good, performs reliably, and is easy to commission. Link integrates seamlessly into residential environments, offering a discreet, architectural design that appeals to style-conscious homeowners. But, despite its slim size, it delivers robust charging performance, supported by the Sync Energy app, ensuring that once installed, homeowners can manage charging schedules and monitor energy usage quickly and easily. Home energy management with Sync Energy Flow Sync Energy isn’t stopping at EV charging. The new Sync Energy | Flow system has been designed to take the complexity out of whole-home energy systems. By combining hybrid inverters, 5.12kWh modular batteries, power diverters, and EV charging into one connected solution, Flow makes installation straightforward and reduces the need for multiple, disconnected products. Commissioning is handled quickly through the Sync Energy app, giving contractors a clear and efficient process that ensures a smooth handover every time. Scalability is built into the design. With modular 5.12kWh batteries, contractors can offer end users a system that can grow as their energy needs change. This flexibility not only future-proofs the installation, but also creates opportunities for contractors to return and expand the system over time. For end users, the biggest advantage is simplicity. Instead of switching between different apps to monitor solar generation, manage storage, and control their EV charger, everything is managed through one platform. The Sync Energy app gives a clear view of energy use across the home, with features like Tariff Sense to automatically make use of off-peak rates and the ability to divert excess solar directly into the EV charger. The result is a system that is easy for contractors to fit, easy to hand over, and easy for end users to control from day one. Commercial charging with the Pro Charger Range Sync Energy’s offer extends well beyond the domestic market, with the Pro Charger Range providing durable and scalable solutions for commercial environments such as workplaces, retail parks, public car parks, and fleet depots. Available in both single and three-phase wall-mounted units and floor-mounted twin chargers, the range is designed with contractors in mind, offering straightforward installation, integrated safety features, and easy future expansion possibilities with the loop-in-loop-out design. End-user-focused features include intuitive touchscreens, multiple payment options, and accessibility-compliant layouts in line with PAS 1899:2022. Built with galvanised steel housings, integrated MID metering, and PEN fault protection, Pro Charger products are engineered to withstand heavy use in demanding environments while giving contractors peace of mind about reliability and compliance. From compact, design-led solutions for the home to powerful, scalable systems for commercial projects, Sync Energy is committed to maintaining its ongoing innovation, supporting contractors with products that are easy to install. The ethos remains unchanged: listen to contractors, understand customer needs, and deliver products that make renewable energy adoption easier. To find out more about Sync Energy and the full product range, visit the company's website. For more from Sync Energy, click here.