Invest in your future and meet demand

With energy prices on the rise, utilising effective building controls remains at the heart of energy efficient buildings. This is a growing priority for many business owners and thus creates further demand for highly skilled engineers and managers to provide optimum solutions to ensure environmentally friendly workplaces. There has never been a better time to build an exciting and dynamic career path within the building controls industry. In a fiercely competitive sector, it is vital to move with the times and not get left behind. One of the best ways to achieve this is by being adaptable, upskilling and putting yourself into the driving seat to work across new markets. The Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) can help you fulfil those aspirations via its full suite of training courses which are tailored to those wishing to upskill or begin their journey as a Building Controls Engineer. Fundamentals of HVAC and Building Technology – BCM01, provides an overview of the Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) industry and the systems and technologies used in the control of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning. Key elements of the BCM01 course include an introduction to fundamental hydraulic circuits and refrigeration technology, the principles of the most important requirements of the building enclosure and building services installation; the principles of HVAC and the psychrometric chart and the physical fundamentals associated with building usage, measurement and controls. There are six modules to complete, all of which are CPD accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE). On successful completion of the BCM01-03 courses, delegates will be awarded the Technical Certificate which enables engineers to apply for the Building Controls Integrator Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) card which is the sole ID and competence card scheme for electrotechnical operatives in the UK. The BCIA courses are run online over a two-day period. This offers a flexible approach for delegates enabling them to update and hone their skills via their workplace or at home. BCIA President Terry Sharp comments: "Following the changing landscape in recent years, there is a growing demand for engineers and facilities managers with the latest expert knowledge to achieve solutions in any given building. Training is essential for individuals and businesses to ensure a complete understanding of the evolving terminology, technologies and systems in the building controls industry and BCM01 is a great starting point whether you are new to the building controls industry or simply wishing to upskill." For the full range of BCIA courses and to book your space(s) today visit the BCIA website.

Aico announces its charity of the year

Aico has announced that it will be supporting Shrewsbury-based charity, Little Stars Baby Bank for 2022 through iuts Charity of the Year initiative. Little Stars Baby Bank is a new charity, founded in July 2020; its mission is to help parents in need of essential baby items through generous donations from the community, helping to give children the best possible start in life. Since its inception, the charity has supported over 60 families and distributed over 2,500 preloved essentials to those in need. Recognising the importance of the support that Little Stars Baby Bank provides for families across Shropshire, Aico began its support to the charity in 2021. Initially, Aico colleagues assisted with the creation of marketing material, including designing a roller banner and offering its video recording equipment to film a promotional video. After working alongside Little Stars Baby Bank, and seeing first-hand how much this service was needed within the county, Aico has committed its continued support throughout 2022. In order to help the charity to achieve its wider, long-term goals, Aico colleagues will continue to support through fundraising, volunteering and offering space within its headquarters for Little Stars Baby Bank to store its donations. Extra storage space will allow the charity to extend its service to young children who are in need of school uniforms, winter clothing and footwear. Leanne Simcoe, Founder of Little Stars Baby Bank comments, “Our partnership with Aico is extremely special. The support and dedication they provide not only to ourselves but across the charity sector is second to none. "Little Stars is a relatively new charity and to have a strong partnership with Aico means a great deal to us. Aico’s support has given Little Stars the confidence to grow more than we ever thought possible within our first year. "The most important thing to me is how Aico understands the impact of having a baby bank in Shropshire and how our service supports little ones to have the essentials they need. Without their partnership we wouldn’t have reached as many families as we have – thank you Aico!”

NAPIT welcomes legislation making safety checks a legal requirement for landlords

The Welsh Government has confirmed that the Renting Homes (Wales) Act will come into force on 15 July 2022. The changes will affect all social and private tenants and landlords. Part 4 of the Renting Homes (Wales) Act sets out the obligations placed on landlords regarding the condition of the dwelling. A landlord under these obligations must ensure a dwelling is in good repair and fit for human habitation. Alongside this, new guidance has been published for landlords on what they must do to meet The Renting Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) (Wales) Regulations 2022 (the FFHH Regulations). It includes three new legal requirements. These are to ensure: The presence of smoke alarms in proper working order The presence of carbon monoxide detectors in proper working order To ensure the inspection and testing of electrical installations From 15 July 2022, the Renting Homes (Wales) Act requires all rented homes to have a periodic inspection and testing (PIT) of the electrical installation, carried out by a qualified person such as a registered electrician, every five years unless the requirements of the previous Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) indicate a shorter inspection and testing interval. Failure to comply will mean that the dwelling is considered unfit for human habitation and the landlord could face prosecution. The current EICR must be made available to the contract holder (tenant) within seven days of the occupation date. Where a PIT is carried out after the occupation date the EICR must be provided to the contract-holder within seven days of the inspection date. Landlords will also have to provide contract-holders with written confirmation of all investigatory and remedial work carried out because of the PIT. This must be provided to the contract-holder within seven days of the occupation date or within seven days of the landlord receiving this confirmation if the property is already occupied. Commenting on the publication of this new guidance and legislation, NAPIT Trade Association Chairman, Frank Bertie says: ‘The new guidance and legislation are a welcome step forward in the provision of improving electrical safety standards in Wales. It is great to see mandatory electrical safety checks becoming a legal requirement for all tenures. This goes beyond the current requirements in England by including the social rented sector and establishes parity of safety for all tenants. The requirement to use a qualified electrician to undertake the periodic inspection and testing is key to enhancing safety and we support the Government’s recommendation to use a registered electrician. The enhanced ‘Find a Tradesperson’ search facility on the NAPIT website specifically allows landlords to search for registered electrical companies who have been assessed as competent to undertake electrical inspections and we encourage this facility to be used.’

Abtec partners with Acutrace to enhance the energy monitoring portfolio

A new partnership between Abtec Building Technologies and Acutrace will help organisations across the UK benefit from enhanced energy measurement as the drive to deliver smarter, more efficient buildings intensifies. Acutrace is a cloud-based energy measurement and sustainability platform designed to provide businesses with reliable and accurate energy consumption data. It uses a Measure, Visualise, Analyse and Control (MVAC) process to help organisations save energy, and reduce costs and carbon emissions. The platform can interface with any building management system and existing energy meters, with data accessible 24/7 from any web-enabled device. The data gathered can be used within  sustainability reporting to achieve international certification and standards such as ISO5000, LEED and the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB). With Abtec acting as Acutrace’s System Integration Partner in the UK, it opens a new market for the Dublin-based software company whilst enhancing Abtec’s existing energy monitoring portfolio with customers able to integrate the platform into their building management projects to create smarter and more efficient buildings. Dave Watkins, Director of Abtec Building Technologies comments: “Making simple changes to how we manage buildings can have a significant impact on energy consumption and carbon emissions. In the face of rising energy costs, we are finding that more than ever, carbon-conscious businesses are seeking out solutions that help them create more efficient buildings. Acutrace’s measurement platform complements our existing building energy management services, and this new partnership allows us to offer customers across the UK a complete approach to monitoring and measuring their energy use so they can save energy and reduce carbon emissions.” Aidan McDonnell, CEO at Acutrace, adds: “Abtec has a proven track record in delivering successful energy management projects from start to finish. Their turnkey building management offering combined with the Acutrace energy measurement and sustainability software platform will provide businesses and building owners with complete peace of mind when tackling energy measurement projects. We have already collaborated with Abtec on several projects, including the iconic Leadenhall Building in London. The strength of the relationship we have built ensured that when we sought to appoint a System Integration Partner in the UK, Abtec were the logical choice. By working in partnership with them we can ensure our customers across the UK have access to full project support as they reduce energy consumption and decarbonise their buildings.”

New guide for electricians looking to grow into the EV market 

UK Power Networks and the Electrical Contractors Association (ECA) have released a guide to the connections process for installers interested in moving into the growing electric vehicle market. The network operator estimates that only a small proportion of electricians in its patch are currently trained to install chargers for customers. Latest figures show around 4,500 registered installers operate in the area, with as many as 2.7 million EVs forecasted by 2028. The guide aims to demystify the process for potential new installers so they can begin connecting chargers. The document features quick access to a range of useful information, including installation processes, technical considerations, earthing arrangements, and inspection requirements. The guide takes installers through the nine different type of electricity supplies that can be used for EV charge points on UK Power Networks’ network, including help on how to install ‘vehicle to grid’ (V2G) chargers which release car battery energy into the local grid. It also features details on regulations, permissions, and safety rules helping installers stay safe and compliant at work. It includes extra resources for ECA’s 2,700 Members, which range from SME electrical firms to nationwide engineering contractors and building services firms that employ thousands of professionals on major UK projects. There are already over half a million EVs registered in the UK, with the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans set to end by 2030. UK Power Networks’ distribution area is currently at the forefront of the switch, with an estimated 29% of all electric vehicles charging from its grid. Despite the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 saw a record growth of new battery and hybrid sales while petrol sales declined by 15%. Ian Cameron, head of customer services and innovation at UK Power Networks, says: “Millions of electric cars will be connecting to our networks in the next decade. To reach Net Zero emissions by 2050, we’re going to keep working with industry bodies like the ECA and the thousands of installers in our areas to keep making Net Zero a reality.” Luke Osbourne, ECA’s energy & emerging technologies solutions advisor adds: “With the rapidly rising demand for EV charging points, it is vital we don’t take short cuts to ensure safe installation. This guide will help professional electricians pivot their business to new opportunities and play their part in the drive to Net Zero."

Training instructors delighted at Ofsted praise

Ofsted inspectors have praised the quality of technical training at UK Power Networks - following their first full inspection of the company’s training centres. UK Power Networks achieved an overall effectiveness rating of Good, plus Outstanding in the areas of ‘personal development’ and ‘behaviour and attitudes’. Apprentices at the company play a key role in the country’s transition to Net Zero, as the company enables communities to use low carbon technologies including electric transport and heating. During their time at UK Power Networks’ Bury St Edmunds and Sundridge training centres last year, 20% of apprentices gained a Distinction. The company has been an approved employer-provider with the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) since May 2017. It is rated a ‘platinum’ employer by Investors in People and is number six in the Top 25 Best Big Companies to Work For list. The retention rate of apprenticeships since becoming an employer-provider is 98%, all those retained pass their apprenticeship and are offered permanent employment. Dudley Sparks, head of technical training and assurance at UK Power Networks, has been in the business for 40 years since starting as an apprentice cable jointer aged 17, and says: "We are very proud because it is rare on a first inspection to gain Outstanding in one area, let alone two areas. My team have worked tirelessly to provide a great programme which trains our future operational staff.” Of UK Power Networks, the Ofsted report says: "Apprentices are highly valued employees with an employer that embodies a strong culture of safety, care and support. Apprentices benefit from learning and working in a highly positive, respectful and nurturing environment.” UK Power Networks distributes electricity across London, the South East and East of England to 8.3 million customers. The company’s operational teams deliver safe and reliable power supplies, which enable the increasing uptake of Electric Vehicles and electric heating towards a low carbon future.

Residents risk missing out on free emergency support

Caring power workers are urging people to check if they or someone they know can join UK Power Networks’ Priority Services Register. Residents across London, the East of England the South East risk missing out on free support from the Priority Services Register in electricity emergencies, according to data from UK Power Networks. Under-represented areas on the company’s Priority Services Register include Camden, Cambridge and Elmbridge, where 42%, 50% and 55% of eligible households are registered. Although take-up has been strong in most areas, with almost two million households already registered, the company wants to make sure everyone has access to the free help available. London boroughs: % eligible households PSR-registered East of England: % eligible households PSR-registered South East: % eligible households PSR-registered Westminster 30.4% Cambridge 49.5% Elmbridge 55.1% Kensington and Chelsea 31.2% Watford 54.3% Woking 55.3% Hammersmith and Fulham 41.7% St Albans 55.2% Mole Valley 57.8% Tower Hamlets 42.1% North Norfolk 57.2 % Tunbridge Wells 59.4% Camden 42.4% Bedford 57.6% Brighton and Hove 59.9% Wandsworth 44.1% Ipswich 58% Worthing 60.1% Southwark 45.8% Peterborough 58.2% Epsom and Ewell 60.3% Hackney 45.9% Kings Lynn and West Norfolk 58.2% Mid Sussex 60.3% Lambeth 47% Huntingdonshire 58.3% Reigate and Banstead 61.3% Brent 48.4% Chelmsford 58.4% Tandridge 61.6% Waltham Forest 48.8%   Wealden 62.5% Those most likely to miss out include families with children under five, households who cannot communicate easily in English, those of pensionable age and people with mental health conditions. Giulia Privitera, social sustainability manager at UK Power Networks, says: “Emergencies on the electricity network do not happen often, but we know they can be an especially worrying time for households in vulnerable circumstances, whether they are ongoing or temporary situations that need a little bit of extra help. The register allows us to direct support where it’s needed. “Joining the register does not always mean we can restore electricity supplies quicker but helps us target updates and offer additional support if needed, so people can plan their lives while our engineers work on the issue. We can also put them in touch with an expert who can offer free independent advice on energy if they are worried about paying their fuel bills or need help to keep their home warm this winter. “Our message to people across London, the South East and East of England is that helping someone you care about join the register takes minutes. Being without power can be cold, uncomfortable and isolating and all of us can take an easy step to help our friends and neighbours, family and loved ones before they find themselves in this situation.” In the past year, users of the Priority Services Register gave UK Power Networks’ service a 94% customer satisfaction rating and the company has spent around £40,000 on meals and hotel stays provided to registered households. The independent energy advice and support UK Power Networks provide to their customers in collaboration with community partners has saved up to £8.4 million over one year alone. Over 65s, families with children under five, those who rely on medical equipment or with a disability, people who are hearing, sight or speech impaired, patients leaving hospital and people with any physical or mental health condition are all entitled to join the register. The company provides bespoke vulnerability training for its customer service team so they know how best to respond to a variety of different needs. The company has also partnered with experts like Scope and AgilityEco to expand the range of tailored support services available via helplines to anyone eligible for Priority Register Services who also need extra help to manage their energy bills and to keep their home warm. Water companies also provide free extra support to vulnerable households and UK Power Networks is urging residents to register with them at the same time.

Powerlite Fitzgerald showcases Urban Disc Anti-ligature Downlight

Powerlite Fitzgerald has announced a fresh push on the Urban Disc anti-ligature downlight for applications where security is paramount. Designed specifically for the mental health and custodial sectors, the Urban Disc is compatible with the company’s popular Fitz-I wireless technology and works to offer these sectors energy and monetary savings. Manufactured with the latest machinery and technology at its factories in Cornwall and West Yorkshire, the Urban Disc is able to achieve an IP65 & IK10+ rating using a 5mm polycarbonate diffuser. Reflecting Powerlite Fitzgerald’s philosophy where the emphasis is on function, form and technical excellence, the Urban Disc has been manufactured with the needs of secure and mental health environments in mind. With comprehensive experience in public sector lighting design and installation, Powerlite Fitzgerald developed the product to meet the changing trends and new requirements of the evolving sector. The new Urban Disc will be offered in both 20w and 30w with two sizes of housing. With the adaptability that in-house design affords, Powerlite Fitzgerald is also able offer the Urban Disc in bespoke RAL colours for individual solutions. With an extensive knowledge of LED lighting, its experienced technical team is able to ensure a quick turnaround and a product that meets the exact specification of the application. Speaking about the Urban Disc, Lesley Fitzgerald, Marketing Manager at Powerlite Fitzgerald comments, “We are fully aware of the need to meet the challenges that new demands bring with new technologies. This push on the mental health and custodial sectors will offer secure and reliable lighting for this fast-paced industry.”

Top-level investment at Scolmore to support continued growth

Recognised as one of the UK’s principal manufacturers of products for the electrical industry, Scolmore Group attributes its market-leading position to sustained reinvestment in its business infrastructure and people, to provide a solid platform for continual growth and expansion. Having navigated the difficult trading conditions experienced across the sector over the last two years, with an uninterrupted supply of products and continued support for customers, the company is on a solid footing as it plans for future development. In a move designed to facilitate the future growth plans of the business, Scolmore is pleased to announce a number of new board appointments that have been made from within the existing team of directors. There are two new appointments to the Scolmore board of directors, with Group Commercial Director, Jim Hutchison, and Sales Director for Scotland and Northern Ireland, Barry Taylor, assuming the new board positions. Mike Jackson, current Sales Director for Unicrimp, has been appointed to the Unicrimp board, while Kevin Beech, existing board member and current Sales Director for Scolmore has been promoted to Group Sales Director. Jim Hutchison joined the Scolmore Group as Commercial Manager in 2019 before being promoted to Group Commercial Director in 2021. He has more than 30 years’ industry experience and a wealth of knowledge and expertise, having worked primarily within customer facing roles, across a broad spectrum of well-known businesses and predominantly premium brands. Barry Taylor has been with the business for over 10 years, having joined as regional sales manager in 2011, before being promoted to national sales manager in 2015 and to sales director – Scotland & Northern Ireland in 2019. His vast experience comes from more than 19 years in the industry, working for a number of high profile manufacturers, as well as a leading wholesaler. Mike Jackson joined Unicrimp as National Sales Manager in 2014, before being promoted to Sales Director in 2019. Having started out as an electrician, Mike has been working in the industry for more than 31 years in a variety of sales roles, as well as time spent as head of sales for NICEIC. Kevin Beech has more than 35 years’ experience in the industry, working with a number of high profile manufacturing and wholesale companies. He joined Scolmore as National Sales Manager in 2014 and was promoted to the role of Sales Director in 2019. Gary Mordue, Scolmore Group Chief Executive Officer, comments: “There has never been a more challenging time to be operating in the electrical industry and it’s important that we have the right people and structure in place to allow us to future-proof the business for continued success. We are very fortunate to have a pool of extremely talented and experienced individuals within the organisation, and I am delighted to welcome the new members to the board. They will each have a key role to play in developing and implementing the strategies that will help drive the continued growth and expansion of the business.”

Gesis FLEX now with DALI2 Gateway

Wieland Electric's established gesis FLEX series is expanded with the new KNX DALI Gateway. It allows direct communication between the two interoperable and well-known systems, KNX and DALI 2. As a result, it communicates with devices from other manufacturers that are certified in these systems on both sides. The device covers practically the complete spectrum of lighting control in terms of capability. It can be utilized for both simple office applications, such as grouping and regrouping connected luminaires in open office areas, and more complicated lighting situations with RGBW and Tunable White requirements. The device's broad parameter set includes scenes and time controls, as well as operational hours tracking. Simple handling and easy implementation of the construction process criteria were prioritized throughout the device series. The device is mounted decentrally, that is, without the use of a separate casing. All electrical connections are pluggable, ensuring the quickest, easiest, and safest installation procedure for the most pluggable electrical installation available on the market. Because the manual operation works without prior KNX integration, the installation's basic functionality can be evaluated immediately after installation.