Scale new heights for EIC with Port of Leith charity abseil

On 10 May, fundraisers will have the chance to experience a heart-racing challenge – an abseil down the world’s tallest distillery, the Port of Leith Distillery in Edinburgh, all in support of the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC). Why take part? The EIC has supported the electrical and energy industries for over a century, helping individuals and families navigate difficult times. With demand for the charity's services at an all-time high, fundraising events like this help the EIC continue to provide vital financial aid, mental health support and crisis assistance. Event details: 📍 Location: Port of Leith Distillery, Edinburgh 📅 Date: 10 May 2025 💰 Registration Fee: £120 💰 Fundraising Target: £120 By taking part in this EIC charity abseil, you’ll be making a direct impact on the lives of those in need while enjoying an adrenaline-fueled challenge like no other.  Sign up today and be part of something incredible. Can’t take part? You can still support the cause by donating here.

Click Scolmore launches Elucian IP65 Rated garage board

Click Scolmore has added a new IP65, 5-way garage board to its growing Elucian consumer unit range. Designed to withstand tough environments and deliver reliable performance, the new Elucian garage board offers a robust solution for both internal and external areas where electrical systems are exposed to the elements. It is engineered to provide dependable power in areas where weatherproofing is essential. Constructed from high-quality die-cast aluminium, the garage board guarantees superior strength, corrosion resistance, and long-lasting durability for any installation. Its advanced design ensures the IP65 rating is upheld, with a gasket around both the front cover and main body, plus an additional seal around the devices that compresses when the lid is shut for added protection. Additionally, the unit is designed to accommodate a security wire, preventing access to the internals even if unlocked. For ultimate flexibility in installation, the unit includes optional 20mm gland knockouts for easy cable entry. For larger cable entries such as M25 and M32, a hole saw can be used to create a custom fit using the guide grooves. Prioritising security, the board also features a pre-fitted lock that prevents unauthorised access and tampering, offering peace of mind to both installers and end users. The Elucian IP65 Garage Board comes offered in in two contemporary finishes — White and Anthracite Grey — and is also available in three different versions to suit varying electrical requirements: - 5 Way IP65 Garage Unit unfurnished (5 Free Ways) - 5 Way IP65 Garage Unit with 100A MS (3 Free Ways) - 5 Way IP65 Garage Unit with 63A RCD (3 Free Ways) A comprehensive brochure outlining the product features is available on the official Elucian website, as well as on the Scolmore Group app. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmaRgJ-OXek[/embed] For more from Scolmore, click here.

Longevity Power to deliver green energy to commercial properties

Energy and sustainability consultancy, Longevity Power, has partnered with all-in-one energy platform, Renewabl, to drive uptake of clean renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions in the commercial real estate sector. With this partnership, Longevity Power’s real estate customers gain access to Renewabl’s advanced energy procurement platform, enabling them to secure real-time matched renewable energy across their entire portfolios with an unprecedented level of accuracy and transparency that is required for sustainability reporting. Unlike traditional energy procurement methods, 24/7 time-matched renewable energy ensures every megawatt-hour consumed is backed by clean generation at the exact time of use. This means property owners can go beyond annual offsets and demonstrate true decarbonisation, meeting the highest sustainability standards with confidence. Commercial property owners and managers can use the Renewabl platform to easily procure renewable energy and monitor energy demand across their portfolio. They can also prove that the energy used is renewably sourced through clean energy certificates. The partnership solves the challenge of aligning renewable energy generation with real-time consumption, whilst offering commercial property firms a data-led solution to their decarbonisation efforts. Commenting on the partnership, Anthony Maguire, Managing Director at Longevity, says, "Landlords and commercial property owners can no longer afford to treat electricity procurement as an afterthought. The days of relying on bundled green tariffs with questionable environmental credentials are over. “Real estate owners must embrace credible alternatives, and time-matched energy attribute certificates represent a crucial step forward for the commercial property sector.” The partnership between Longevity and Renewabl comes at a time when the real estate industry is under growing scrutiny across Europe to demonstrate genuine sustainability results. According to the UK Green Building Council, real estate contributes 40% of all global emissions. The partnership gives real estate investors the ability to deliver measurable sustainability results in a sector that is currently plagued with misleading green claims. Anthony continues, “Our work with Renewabl enables property firms to make informed decisions and ensures their renewable energy investments deliver genuine results and contribute in a meaningful way to a sustainable net zero future. “The combination of Renewabl’s technical capabilities and Longevity’s industry expertise and policy insights means property firms can draw on guaranteed renewable energy that is available around the clock, supported by in-depth sustainability consultancy.” JP Cerda, co-founder and CEO at Renewabl, adds, “Partnering with Longevity Power enables us to support the commercial property sector in reducing its significant carbon footprint by providing data-driven tools to monitor and cut emissions from the electricity they use. In so doing, they can meet investor expectations and avoid criticisms of greenwashing. “24/7 renewable energy is a game-changer for commercial real estate managers. Pair this with improved operational efficiency and cost savings, and it’s obvious why property firms should invest in green energy solutions. “Our partnership with Longevity Power allows real estate investors to take meaningful climate action: help reduce their sector’s carbon footprint: and cut costs and boost their bottom line by using affordable renewable energy.”

Screwfix Trade Apprentice semi-finalists named

Three aspiring electricians are in with a chance of winning Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2025 after being selected from more than 2,000 applications to compete in this year’s semi-final. They all will now compete against the other semi-finalists from the UK and Ireland, who are currently completing apprenticeships across various construction trades. The semi-final stage will see them face a tough interview with Screwfix before finding out if they have made the final. Just 10 semi-finalists will be selected to compete for the title of Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2025 at the two-day final of the competition in May. Not only will the winner receive a prize bundle of technology, training and tools worth £10,000, but their college will also receive £2,000 worth of Screwfix vouchers to spend on workshop equipment, helping to upskill tomorrow’s trade professionals. They were all shortlisted for the semi-final for their passion, dedication, and ambition – which shone through in their applications. Charlie Holder, 18, who is studying Electrical Installation at Tungsten Training Centre, says, “I’m really excited to have been shortlisted and I’m proud to be representing Lancing in this national award. I love my trade, and I have a real passion for installing renewable solutions such as solar panels, battery storage systems, EV charging points and even heat pumps.” Ashton Bull (pictured above), 18, who is studying Electrical Engineering at JTL Ashford Training Centre, adds, “I genuinely love to learn, and I’m committed to perfecting my trade so I can run my own electrical company in the future. My passion for the trade continues to grow, and I enjoy being challenged by the work I do.” Callum Peggs, 17, who is studying Electrical Engineering at Steve Willis Training Centre, remarks, “Working in the trade has provided me with so many opportunities, and I’ve really fallen in love with the electrical industry. I’ve even started making video content to showcase my work and inspire more young people to consider an apprenticeship in the trade.” Jack Wallace, Marketing Director for Screwfix, notes, “Screwfix Trade Apprentice is a fantastic way to recognise the hard work and dedication of today’s apprentices who are undertaking intensive, on-the-job training and qualifications to create tomorrow’s workforce of skilled tradespeople. “This competition highlights how vital apprenticeships are in addressing the current skills shortage. We are committed to championing trade apprentices, the colleges that teach them and the employers that nurture them. “Every year we are consistently amazed by the applications from trade apprentices across the UK and Ireland who are passionate, dedicated and committed to excelling in their chosen trade. To make it through to the semi-finals is a fantastic achievement. I wish this year’s semi-finalists the very best of luck in making it to the final.” To find out more about the Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition, click here. For more from Screwfix, click here.

Luceco launches new LED Tempus Extra bulkhead

Engineered for industrial environments such as warehouses and factories with high ceilings, the new LED Tempus Extra Bulkhead from Luceco provides emergency illumination for up to three hours, delivering 800 lumens to high-risk areas where enhanced lux levels are essential. Due to its innovative interchangeable optics, the spacing between units can be increased, reducing the number of wiring points, leading to substantial time savings for installers. The LED Tempus Extra Bulkhead is self test as standard, ensuring consistent performance and reliability. Its slim, IP65-rated polycarbonate housing guarantees durability and protection, making it ideal for industrial settings where robust construction is essential. By optimising spacing and reducing installation complexities, the LED Tempus Extra Bulkhead can  redefine emergency lighting solutions. Whether retrofitting an existing space or integrating into new commercial builds, this product provides a smarter, more efficient way to meet emergency lighting requirements. Luceco Lighting is part of the Luceco Group of companies. It has over 80 years of industry experience and is internationally recognised as an expert in all key electrical products. Earlier this year, Luceco also unveiled its latest innovation in downlighting technology, which you can read about in our archives by clicking here. For more from Luceco, click here.

MCS now an approved scheme for Clean Heat Market Mechanism

MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) has been announced as an approved certification scheme for the Clean Heat Market Mechanism (CHMM). The CHMM launched on 1 April and is designed to support the adoption of heat pumps by requiring boiler manufacturers to increase their share of heat pump sales. All heat pump installations under the scheme must be registered on the MCS Installation Database (MID). This is to provide assurance that the installations are genuine and to mitigate the risk of them being counted multiple times. The requirement for heat pumps to be registered on the MID also means that installations are MCS certified. This provides an additional layer of assurance that they are being installed to industry-recognised standards, by certified installers who are using certified products. Ian Rippin, CEO at MCS, says, “As the heat pump market continues to grow, we need to ensure that consumers are protected. This is crucial in ensuring everyone has confidence in home-grown energy. The best way to achieve this is through high-quality installations and by providing strong consumer protection in case anything does go wrong. “We therefore welcome the move to approve MCS as a certification scheme for the CHMM, and look forward to working closely with government, manufacturers, and installers on this key step towards achieving net zero.” For more from MCS, click here.

CES targets business sectors looking to transition to clean energy

Midlands contractor, Collison Electrical Services, is targeting growth in 2025 with new investment aimed at supporting UK businesses looking to transition to clean energy. The strategic move will see the company become CES, tapping into a renewable energy market expected to see significant growth through the Government’s net zero drive. Director Joe Collison (pictured above) says the company’s ambitious growth plan is more than just a name change, thanks to its growing reputation for expertise in sustainability projects. Joe explains, “We’ve built a great reputation in recent years for our electrical work on medium to large scale solar projects across the UK, and this investment in our future growth will help us capitalise on this. “Our technical know-how has delivered significant value for businesses looking to both switch to clean energy, but also solve challenges around advanced energy storage and grid capacity. “The UK has set out a blue print for clean energy transition. It has set a goal of 100 million solar panels to be installed across the country, and the Industrial Strategy will deliver in tandem with the new Clean Power 2030 Action Plan. “CES’s goal is to assist businesses in adopting energy systems that not only reduce environmental impacts but also improve their efficiency and lower their costs.” Based in Ford, CES has an established track record in installing and managing complex electrical projects, including the installation of solar systems up to 700 kW which address grid capacity issues. Heidi Vaughan, Operations Manager at CES, adds, “This is an exciting next step. Although we are now CES, we are the same experienced team delivering brilliant projects and our expertise spans a variety of sectors, each facing unique energy demands. “From manufacturers and agricultural businesses across the Midlands and Wales to hospitality and leisure facilities in the Highlands needing remote access and control, we provide solutions that simplify the transition to renewable energy.” CES has recently completed several notable renewable energy projects, highlighting its expertise and commitment to integrating sustainable practices across various sectors across the UK. In Somerset, CES successfully installed a 121kWp solar PV system at a new flagship DAF dealership in Bridgwater. The project serves as a pilot, setting new standards for dealership specifications and demonstrating the synergy between commercial transport and renewable technology. In another ambitious project, CES installed a 86kWp solar PV system for McFour, a specialist groundworks contractor based in Shropshire. The green initiative supports McFour’s strategic goals of bolstering their environmental credentials for competitive HS2 project tenders and transitioning to electric vehicles and construction equipment. These projects are a testament to how renewable energy solutions can enhance a company's operational sustainability and possible tendering prospects in large-scale infrastructure projects.

ECN April issue out now!

The April 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 Hello and welcome to the April issue of ECN! It’s been another eventful month at ECN HQ. We had the pleasure of attending the Rolec Level Up event in Birmingham, where the company unveiled a range of exciting innovations. You can read all about them on page 50 and in the EV Charging supplement that comes with this issue. Additionally, we’ve been busy recording podcasts with several industry leaders, so keep an ear out for those in the coming weeks. I also had the opportunity to chat with industry legend Mark Allison about his multiple businesses, his ECN Award win, and the fantastic work he does for electrical apprentices – read more in our interview on page 28. In the electrical sector, Schneider Electric has announced a new initiative to double its veteran talent intake to help bridge the UK skills gap. The skills shortage has been repeatedly highlighted as one of the biggest challenges facing the country’s electrical industry and Schneider Electric’s Veterans Talent Programme aims to equip individuals leaving the armed forces with the industry knowledge and technical skills required for hard-to-fill operational and senior management roles in the energy management and electrical industry. The programme lasts 12–18 months and offers a full salary, providing veterans with specialist classroom-based and on-the-job training without requiring any prior technical experience. After a successful first year in 2024, Schneider Electric plans to more than double the intake in 2025, increasing from six to around 13 recruits. This is a fantastic initiative that acknowledges the value of veterans’ transferable skills while addressing the industry’s skills shortage. In this issue, we focus on LED Lighting, Software & Apps, and Sustainability/Circular Economy and bring you the latest case studies and thought leadership from these industry sectors. Plus, catch up on all the latest industry, contract and product news, along with all of our regular features.  I hope you enjoy this issue – see you next month! Carly Weller Group Editor

Oasis tickets up for grabs in NVC Lighting promotion

NVC Lighting has launched a ‘Supersonic’ promotion to reward contractors with a main prize of tickets to see Oasis at Wembley. The ‘Don’t Look Back in Hunger’ campaign – NVC Lighting’s first ever national sales promotion – runs until 31 May. Contractors purchasing NVC Lighting products to the value of more than £250 between now and the closing date will be put into a prize draw to win four tickets to see Oasis at Wembley Stadium on 26 July 2025 – a key date in the reunion tour which saw unprecedented demand for tickets last year. All purchases of £250 gives the contractor a £5 Greggs voucher, with a £10 voucher for purchases over £400 – on top of this, all claims are entered into a monthly Amazon voucher draw, with 15 prizes available each month for the duration of the promotion Distributors will also earn £5 per claim submitted against their branch. Neil Clydesdale, Group Commercial and Finance Director at NVC Lighting, says, “We’re proud to be giving away tickets to the hottest show of the summer as an incentive for choosing NVC Lighting products. “This promotion is a way to give something back as a way of thanks for contractors and distributors who support us. “We’re excited to find out who the lucky winner is, making their way to see Oasis!” For more information and to register any purchases, click here. 

SPARKS Female Skills 2025 finalists announced

After a thrilling series of Regional Heats, SPARKS has announced the finalists who will go head-to-head in the Grand Final of the SPARKS Female Skills Competition 2025 this April. Each heat saw talented electrical learners take on a live practical test designed by National Electrotechnical Training (NET), showcasing their technical abilities, precision and confidence in a competitive, real-world setting. The 2025 finalists are: Caitlin Beattie - Derwentside College Charlie Kirby - Northampton College Gracie Donaghy - Weston College Hannah Bone - City College Plymouth India Ward - Darlington College Sianna Borland - South and City College Birmingham The level of talent across the board has been phenomenal, and each competitor should be incredibly proud of their achievements. The competition not only showcases technical skills but also builds confidence and opens doors for the future generation of female electricians. Zoë Tanner, Managing Director at SPARKS, says, “We’ve been blown away by the standard of work, professionalism and passion displayed at every regional heat. This competition continues to grow and inspire, and we can’t wait to see what our finalists bring to the Grand Final!” The competition is sponsored by Electric Center, Milwaukee, Aico, Luceco Group, Megger, Schneider Electric, Fix Radio, Prysmian, Snickers Workwear, and National Electrotechnical Training (NET). The Grand Final of SPARKS Female Skills 2025 will be held at SMB College Group, Stephenson Campus.