Push beyond your limits this National Careers Week

National Careers Week is an opportunity to support young people in positive career choices for their future in the electrical industry. The theme of this year’s National Careers Week, which runs from 3-8 March is ‘You Can’. When leaving education, it can be difficult to know what route is best to take to reach your full potential and work toward a career. NAPIT wants to highlight that becoming an electrician can lead to many different career options and opportunities. Andrew Duffen first stepped into the electrical industry straight from school as an apprentice and he is now a Technical Commercial Engineer at NAPIT. “Don’t underestimate your limits,” he says. “When I was in school, I wasn’t very academic, and I now work in a very technical world, I’ve done all my electrical qualifications, in fact there’s one qualification left as part of my own CPD.” Andrew’s journey “I did my apprenticeship at a company in Birmingham, became a qualified electrician and worked my way through the company to become an approved electrician. I used to do a lot of the inspection and testing for the company. “There was a broad range of work - new-build houses, commercial new builds, student accommodation, luxury flats, factories, hospitals. We also got into solar farms, I was lucky enough to work on large solar farms, when the Feed In Tariff came in.” After 19 years that job came to an end in 2017 when the business folded. Andrew remained on the tools for a short time but wanted to take on new opportunities. He continues, “By that stage I was in my 30s, I had been doing on-site work since I was 16. “I fancied a change, I worked with a lot of apprentices during my time at the company, helping and training them and my wife said to me why don’t you get into training?” He started looking for something new and landed a role as an electrical tutor at a local college. Andrew was advised to go to college and get a teaching qualification, which he describes as one of the hardest things he has ever done in his career. “You need to understand how to teach and the theories behind it. I got the role and when you work at a further education provider at college, within two years of starting the role you have to get a teaching qualification. “That was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. It was scary and daunting and I had to do it during COVID-19 when teaching was online and you didn’t have that classroom support.” After four years as a tutor, an opportunity came at NAPIT, which saw Andrew join the Technical Team in summer 2024. Advice for aspiring electricians With the skills gap high on the agenda and the government’s push on renewables, the next generation of electricians and installers should explore the growth opportunities provided by the transition to net zero. Andrew has given some top tips for young people looking to start an apprenticeship. He emphasised how competitive the market is for an apprenticeship and shared how young people can stand out. He says, “I am a big apprenticeship fan - you earn and you learn, you’re learning on site, and you understand how electricity is generated and how it is transferred through the network systems, you understand that process. “You’re working in the industry and you go to college so you get learn the theory as well what you learn on site. “In the electrical world, you can’t know enough, there’s always going to be changes and you’ve got to be constantly evolving. The best bit of advice I was given was if you stand still, you get left behind.” Top tips to getting your electrical apprenticeship Go to your local college and enroll on an electrical course. Get a part time job to develop your employability skills. Make sure your CV is up to date. Set up a social media page separate to your personal one so you can showcase the work you do at college. A lot of electricians now use social media for advertising and it’s a good way to network. Offer work experience by reaching out to qualified electricians who are competent and certified.

SkillELECTRIC 2025: Search for top electrical student underway

The registration window for SkillELECTRIC 2025 is now open and those interested should register by 28 March 2025. NICEIC is again supporting SkillELECTRIC, the premier skills competition for the UK’s electrical industry. The event is part of the WorldSkills UK competition network and is designed to promote and showcase technical excellence and upcoming talent in the electrotechnical industry. SkillELECTRIC gives apprentices and students a platform to develop their skills and demonstrate what they have learnt while gaining valuable experience in a competitive environment. The 2024 SkillELECTRIC finals were the biggest to date, with Charlie Moore, from Norfolk-based NICEIC-certified business, Bramham Electrical, taking top spot. The judges noted Charlie’s grasp of key competencies including technical knowledge, attention to detail and precision. NICEIC Head of Product Development, Alex Robinson, comments, "At NICEIC, we're proud to be closely involved with SkillELECTRIC - the competition encapsulates what we stand for in terms of a commitment to learning and development as well as technical excellence. Every year, I am hugely encouraged by the depth of talent coming through in the industry and I’m looking forward to seeing that again from this year’s entrants. To those that may be interested, I’d emphasise what a fantastic opportunity this is and would encourage anyone who is eligible to take the plunge and apply today." This year, the SkillELECTRIC ‘entry stage’ is an app-based, interactive online task testing candidates’ electrotechnical knowledge. Those who register must complete the task independently. Top scorers will then progress to the National Qualifier heats, a series of one-day competitions taking place at various venues across the UK. Visit skillelectric.org.uk/registration to learn more and sign up.

Beyond storage heaters: The next generation of heating solution

Upgrading from outdated storage heaters to modern electric radiators presents an opportunity for electrical installers to enhance efficiency, safety and control in residential and commercial properties. While storage heaters were once popular due to Economy 7 tariffs, they now lag in performance and convenience. The Rointe D Series Electric Radiator offers a smarter, high-performance heating solution that is easy to install and efficient. Why replace outdated storage heaters? Improved temperature control: Storage heaters release heat unpredictably, often overheating in the morning and underperforming by evening. The Rointe D Series provides precise, demand-based heating with an integrated high-sensitivity thermostat for optimal temperature stability. Simplified, smart control: Unlike manual storage heaters requiring daily adjustments, the D Series features Wi-Fi connectivity. Through the Rointe Connect app, users can manage their heating remotely, reducing unnecessary energy use and enhancing client satisfaction. Compliance with modern safety standards: Many older storage heaters contain asbestos, posing health risks. Replacing them with the asbestos-free D Series ensures compliance with modern safety standards. Lower running costs and energy efficiency: With Fuzzy Logic Energy Control, the D Series reduces energy consumption by up to 62%, outperforming traditional storage heaters and ensuring long-term cost savings for clients. Healthier air quality: Storage heaters incorporate a fan that forces air circulation. If not cleaned regularly, this system can accumulate and distribute dust throughout the home, which may trigger asthma and other respiratory conditions. The D Series operates without forced air movement, maintaining a cleaner and healthier indoor environment. Heavy and difficult installation: Storage heaters are large and cumbersome, with heavy internal bricks that must be transported separately. Their weight and complexity make installation physically demanding for electricians. In contrast, the D Series is lightweight and easy to install, saving time and effort for professionals. The Rointe D Series – a smart choice for installers Electrical installers benefit from recommending and installing the D Series for its ease of installation and cutting-edge features: Seamless Wi-Fi integration: The built-in Wi-Fi Direct module enables direct control without additional gateways, streamlining setup and ensuring client convenience. Exceptional energy efficiency: The D Series consumes only the energy necessary to maintain a stable temperature, reducing overall power usage and maximising cost savings for end users. Its Fuzzy Logic Energy Control and Adaptive Start technology ensure optimal performance with minimal waste. Quick installation: Unlike storage heaters that require dedicated Economy 7 circuits, the D Series works with a standard electrical connection, simplifying installation. Enhanced heat distribution: Thermal Fluid Tech ensures even heat distribution, preventing hot and cold spots. Wide internal fins maximise dissipation, making it a superior alternative to conventional storage heating. Durable, recycled materials: Made from 100% recycled aluminium, the D Series is a sustainable, high-quality heating solution designed for longevity. Sleek, premium design: Crafted entirely from aluminium with no plastic components, the D Series provides a stylish and durable finish. AI-driven energy optimisation: The Advanced Artificial Intelligence Heating System learns usage patterns to enhance efficiency and automatically optimise heating schedules. Upgrade clients to smarter, more efficient heating Recommending and installing the Rointe D Series allows electrical professionals to provide clients with cutting-edge heating that prioritises efficiency, ease of use and smart connectivity. As demand for low-consumption electric heating grows, transitioning from outdated storage heaters to intelligent radiators benefits both installers and users. Explore the full Rointe D Series range at rointe.co.uk and stay ahead in the electric heating industry.

MCS reaches milestone with record number of certified contractors

MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme), the UK’s quality mark for renewable energy technologies, has reached a new milestone, with over 5,250 contractors certified under the Scheme, the highest since it began in 2008. This milestone comes after a record-breaking year for certified renewable installations in 2024, showing both the growing demand for renewable energy technologies and the increasing consumer confidence in MCS certified contractors to deliver these installations. Following the closure of the Feed-in Tariff (FiT), MCS contractor numbers dropped from nearly 5,000 in 2012 to just 1,700 in 2019. Since then, MCS has rebuilt its contractor base, certifying around 700 new businesses each year. According to the MCS Data Dashboard, 1,443 installers gained certification in 2024 across a range of renewable technologies. Solar PV saw the biggest rise, with 718 contractors gaining certification for solar PV in 2024, bringing the total number to over 4,000. The number of MCS certified heat pump contractors also continues to grow, with 387 becoming certified in 2024, bringing the total to over 2,000. This rise reflects the increasing demand for low carbon heating, as heat pump installations hit a record 60,000 last year – a 43% jump from 2023. Battery storage also saw a growing number of contractors, with 332 contractors gaining certification in 2024, taking the total to over 2,000. The demand for battery storage is accelerating, with MCS data showing January 2025 was a record month, exceeding 2,600 installations for the technology – a 176% increase compared to January 2024. As the numbers outline, contractors are increasingly becoming certified across multiple technologies, to enable them to provide customers with multi-technology solutions to industry-recognised standards. There was also renewed momentum in the small wind sector, with three contractors gaining certification in 2024. Ryse Energy’s G-11 wind turbine also became the first MCS certified wind product on the Scheme in three years, potentially paving the way for further growth in the UK’s small wind sector. Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS, says, "The year-on-year growth in MCS certified contractors reflects the continued expansion of the UK’s small-scale renewables sector and the increasing confidence in MCS certification. With over 5,250 contractors now certified and more contractors than ever active within a single year, we are ensuring that households across the UK have access to high-quality renewable energy installations.” Craig Haycock, founder of MCS certified contractor Craig Michael Renewables, adds, "We became certified for both solar PV and battery storage knowing that MCS certification, as a mark of quality, would give our customers confidence in our installations and strengthen our business’ reputation." To further support industry growth, MCS is transitioning to the Redeveloped Installer Scheme over the next 18 months, making certification more accessible and helping more installers meet industry standards.

Behind Every Connection: WISKA UK debuts short film

WISKA UK has released Behind Every Connection, a short film that pays tribute to the craftsmanship and dedication of electricians. The film highlights the professionals behind every connection - those who bring power, safety and reliability to homes, businesses and communities.  At the centre of the story is Cornish electrician Isaac Penfold, whose journey reflects the passion, pride and responsibility that define his profession. Through his experiences, the film explores the connection between his work and his family, illustrating the personal and professional dedication that drives electricians every day.  WISKA UK shares these values, designing and manufacturing products with electricians in mind. With a focus on reliability, innovation and ease of use, the company aims to support electricians, designers and engineers in their work. Behind Every Connection serves as both a tribute to their dedication and a reaffirmation of WISKA’s commitment to working alongside them.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgt4L_pqXl8 Elliott Rothon, Marketing Manager at WISKA UK, explains the vision behind the film, “The goal was to create something different - something that doesn’t just promote our products but instead places the electrician at the centre. Behind Every Connection is a story, one that a lot of people that use our products can hopefully relate too.”  WISKA UK invites viewers to experience Isaac’s story and celebrate the electricians who keep the world connected.  WISKA manufactures and supplies an innovative and quality range of cable entry systems, junction boxes and gel jointing products. WISKA was founded in Hamburg in 1919, and has been trading in the UK since 2000. The company operates its own research and development facilities and production plants in Germany, ensuring all products meet the highest standards in excellence, and prides itself on offering quality solutions with friendly helpful service.  For more from WISKA, click here.

HIKMICRO launches indoor water leak detector

HIKMICRO, a global provider of thermal imaging products, has introduced the AD21P, an indoor leak detector that uses sound analysis and powerful imaging to track down water leaks quickly and accurately. Combining SuperDetect technology with user-friendly operation, the AD21P reportedly provides a faster, smarter, more accurate and more accessible approach to pinpointing leaks, meeting the needs of both industry professionals and first-time users. Water leaks are a persistent issue in homes and larger residential, commercial and public sector buildings, often leading to extensive damage and costly repairs. While some leaks are easy to spot - such as dripping taps or visible water stains - many remain hidden for months or even years, wasting water and driving up utility bills. Traditional detection methods rely heavily on user experience and can be inefficient, particularly in noisy environments or when dealing with small leaks. The AD21P changes that by integrating intelligent sound frequency analysis with a precise and intuitive detection system, making leak identification simpler and more efficient than ever. At the heart of the AD21P is SuperDetect, HIKMICRO’s proprietary algorithm that automatically identifies leaks by analysing sound frequency, intensity, and spatial characteristics. Traditional acoustic leak detectors require trained professionals to interpret audio feedback and distinguish between normal pipe noises and potential leaks. However, with SuperDetect, even first-time users can achieve professional-level accuracy. Shadow Zhang, Global Brand Marketing Manager at HIKMICRO, says, “Efficiency and precision have always been key concerns when detecting water leaks. But even with professional tools, inspectors need experience to determine leaks quickly and accurately. With SuperDetect, we’re making it possible for anyone - from industry professionals to homeowners - to locate leaks efficiently and with confidence.” The SuperDetect system eliminates the need for prolonged data collection or reliance on headphones to listen for sounds, instead providing clear visual cues on a digital display. This automation speeds up the leak detection process and reduces the chances of misdiagnosis caused by background noise or interference from multiple sources. Traditional pipeline leak detection methods rely on comparing flow and pressure data, but these can be unreliable in noisy environments or when dealing with small leaks. By combining acoustic detection with intelligent analysis, the AD21P offers a more efficient, reliable, and non-destructive solution. Recognising that different users have different needs, the AD21P offers two distinct detection modes: - Quick Inspection Mode: This mode is for professional users who already know which area is leaking and can directly use this mode to locate the exact leaking point. - Route Inspection Mode: This mode, designed for beginners, helps the user once they have conducted inspections to determine which area is leaking. After reaching a conclusion, they can use the quick inspection mode to locate the leaking point. The AD21P also integrates seamlessly with HIKMICRO’s leading thermal imaging technology, such as the B20S handheld thermal camera, to provide a complete leak detection solution. Thermal imaging can help users visualise temperature differences caused by water leaks, making it easier to locate issues behind walls or under floors. HIKMICRO believes that together, these technologies provide an unmatched level of accuracy and efficiency in leak detection. By reducing misdiagnoses, cutting down on unnecessary repairs, and providing rapid leak identification, the AD21P is set to redefine industry standards for leak detection technology. For more from HIKMICRO, click here.

Scolmore announces new external sales structure

Scolmore Group, a leading player in the professional electrical contracting sector, has announced a realignment of its external sales structure to support the organisation’s strategic business plan and to maximise the growth potential for all companies within the group – Click, Ovia, ESP and Unicrimp. Due to the continuing success and growth of the Elucian range since it was launched in 2021, a decision was made to separate Wiring Accessories and Circuit Protection into two separate categories, each with its own dedicated sales team. This will provide more focused effort and allow the company to develop the expertise within each sector to offer the highest level of service to customers. Scolmore Group is confident that this evolution will not only bring significant benefits to both customers and partners but will maximise the particular skills and expertise within the senior management team. The restructure will see former Regional Sales Manager (South West and Midlands), Audra Fellows, promoted to the new position of National Sales Manager - Group Specification and Key Accounts. Audra will now have responsibility for the specification and key accounts team across the UK (excluding Scotland & Northern Ireland). Audra has a wealth of experience within the industry, in particular the specification sector, and has held various roles across the business during her 15 years with the Scolmore Group. Promoted from Regional Sales Manager (North) to National Sales Manager - CLICK, is Dom Freer who will now have responsibility for the CLICK range of products across the UK (excluding Scotland and Northern Ireland). Dom has been with the business for eight years, having previously also held ASM roles with both Unicrimp and Scolmore. He will be working closely with the regional sales managers to continue to provide the exceptional service levels that customers have come to expect. With the Elucian consumer units and circuit protection range now operating as a separate product category, Scolmore Group has invested in a dedicated focus for the category with the appointment of Dan Ellams as the Elucian National Sales Manager, covering the whole of the UK (excluding Scotland and Northern Ireland). Dan joined the business in October 2024 and has significant knowledge and experience in this sector. He has overseen the launch of the new Elucian Three Phase product range introduced on 12 February 2025. For more from Scolmore, click here.

Toolstation Club celebrates first anniversary with 300,000 members

Toolstation has announced that its loyalty programme, Toolstation Club, has signed up a landmark 300,000 members, shortly after the one-year anniversary of its launch. The Club, which is available to join online and through the Toolstation App, launched in January 2024 to reward Toolstation’s loyal trade and DIY customers who regularly buy essential tools and accessories from the retailer’s range of over 25,000 products. Customers who sign up to the Club are able to enjoy 5% off all orders throughout the first month of their membership, which will automatically be taken off all orders with no restrictions on basket size or price. Upon completion of the first month, customers that spend £75 or more each month afterwards will continue to benefit from the 5% discount. In addition to the discount, members are frequently eligible for prize draws, product deals, discounts and competitions, with Toolstation giving away hundreds of prizes, including breakfasts, holiday vouchers, TVs and more over the last year.  The membership benefits led to a huge surge in demand, with Toolstation seeing over 100,000 sign-ups within the first three months of launch. The Club has continued to grow ever since and has now reached a milestone 300,000 sign-ups in just one year, of which 60% are via the Toolstation App.  Chris Other, Customer Director for Toolstation, says, “Last year we launched the Toolstation Club with our ambition of offering the best value, accessibility and convenience to our customers. With over 300,000 members joining in the 12 months since it began, a large volume of tradespeople have benefited from some of the best deals and offers from Toolstation and our partners.” The Toolstation Club will continue to offer exclusive discounts, giveaways and competitions to its members throughout 2025, with several promotions currently ongoing. In addition to the 5% discount, current members who spend over £25 on any JG Speedfit product in one transaction before 2 March will automatically be entered into a competition to win a £15 Just Eat voucher, whilst those who purchase a Speedfit Barrier Pipe Coil and a bag of fittings in one transaction will also be in with a chance to win either a 4K TV or Luxury Night Away for Two.  In partnership with Vision Express, members can also take advantage of a free eye test and a 30% discount on the Vision Express range when spending £50 or more on any Toolstation shop.  The Club is also providing a 10% discount to customers on switches and sockets, cable management and power distribution when purchased with cables and flexes.  The launch of Toolstation’s new rapid same-day delivery service with TradeKart means that Club members can get up to 10,000 products from the range delivered to their home or site in as little as 30 minutes. 

ECN March issue out now!

The March issue of ECN is OUT NOW and packed with insights and information on the topics you care about. Read the issue here.  From the Editor It’s been a busy month here at ECN HQ! Kelly and I had the pleasure of recording a podcast with NAPIT’s Steve Humphreys and Andrew Duffen, where we delved into the topics of electrical compliance, safety and the skills gap. It’s a great listen that will be available soon on all major podcast platforms here. We also had an insightful visit to the Proteus, M2, Tamlex and Centaur factories to learn more about their operations and processes. It was fascinating to see what goes on behind the scenes – stay tuned for more details in a future issue of ECN. In the news, a recent report by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has highlighted the rapid growth of the UK’s net zero sector, which is expanding three times faster than the overall economy. The report has been well-received, showing that this sector not only creates high-wage jobs but also helps reduce carbon emissions while enhancing energy security. In 2024, the net zero economy grew by 10%, contributing £83 billion in gross value added (GVA). The sector includes 22,000 businesses ranging from renewable energy to green finance, employing nearly a million people in full-time roles. The average annual wage in these businesses is reported to be £43,000, which is £5,600 higher than the national average. While the UK economy has often faced criticism for being concentrated in London and the south-east and for its sluggish productivity growth, the net zero sector tells a different story. The report found that this thriving industry is more evenly distributed across the country. Major hubs of activity are located in the West Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber, and south-west England, with net zero jobs increasing by 20% in Scotland since 2022. Additionally, net zero jobs are 38% more productive than the UK average, further highlighting the sector’s significant economic contribution. This issue is a whopping 96 pages, packed with essential information. In our Interview, I speak with Jess Vailima, Managing Director of the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC), about the critical work the charity is doing to support individuals within the electrical and energy sectors. This month’s features include Cable Management, Commercial Lighting, Tools & Test Equipment, and Wholesalers & Distributors, providing plenty of content to explore. Plus, in this month’s Competition, you can win four of Domus Ventilation’s newest fans – enter here from 2 March. I hope you enjoy this issue – see you next month! Carly Weller Group Editor

Ventilux unveils Galaxy 2 emergency light

Ventilux, a provider of emergency lighting products, has launched the Galaxy 2, a high-performance, durable light built for the most demanding environments. Tailored to meet the needs of consultants and specifiers responsible for selecting emergency lighting products in various sectors, the Galaxy 2 is a robust, energy-efficient luminaire that ensures safety and reliability across residential, commercial, warehousing, data centres, education settings, and more. Galaxy 2 is engineered with advanced mains or DALI wireless capability, providing seamless integration into existing lighting systems - allowing for efficient, centralised monitoring and control. Designed with consultants and specifiers in mind, this next-generation bulkhead delivers ease of installation, superior energy efficiency, and long-term cost savings, Ventilux tells us. The Galaxy 2 boasts a range of advanced features that make it an ideal choice for modern emergency lighting specifications. Crafted from high-impact polycarbonate housing, it is designed for maximum durability and protection. Achieving IP65 and IK10 ratings, it is resistant to dust, water, and impact, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments. This ensures longevity and reduces the need for frequent replacements, translating into long-term cost savings. For ease of installation, the Galaxy 2 features 20mm conduit side entry points, allowing for quick and straightforward installation, reducing labour time and costs for contractors. Its circular design ensures even light distribution, minimising shadows and improving visibility in crucial areas such as stairwells and corridors. Performance is at the heart of the Galaxy 2, delivering 2250 lumens in mains mode and 200 lumens in emergency mode. This high-lumen output ensures that spaces remain well-lit during both normal operations and emergency scenarios, enhancing occupant safety. Aesthetically, the Galaxy 2 is available in white or black, with multiple lamp colour options to suit different environments and design requirements. This adaptability allows consultants and designers to specify a product that not only meets safety requirements, but also integrates seamlessly into modern architectural designs. Sustainability is a core focus of the Galaxy 2. It is powered by a lithium battery, which enhances emergency lighting performance and longevity. Compared to traditional battery technologies, lithium batteries have a significantly longer lifespan, reducing maintenance costs and environmental impact. Additionally, the energy efficiency of the luminaire contributes to lower power consumption, supporting sustainability initiatives and potentially reducing operational expenses for businesses. Emma Jevons, UK North West Sales Manager from Ventilux, says, "The launch of Galaxy 2 displays our commitment to delivering cutting-edge, future-proof emergency lighting solutions that cater to the needs of consultants, specifiers, and end-users alike. The Galaxy 2 combines advanced technology with sustainable design to support safer and smarter buildings.”