Next step in plans for gigabit broadband in new-build homes

Digital Infrastructure Minister Julia Lopez has launched a consultation on proposals for changes to building regulations to ensure new homes have next-generation gigabit broadband installed in them as standard practice. Around one in ten new-build homes are still being built without gigabit connections, mostly in smaller developments, where the cost can be higher or broadband companies have not had the time they need to install connections before houses are completed. The changes to the law will mean home developers will be legally required to build gigabit broadband into new homes in England and make it a priority as part of building work. They will also need to bring broadband network operators on board to consider gigabit broadband installation when construction plans are submitted to local councils. These measures will give more people access to future-proof internet connections and reduce the need for costly and disruptive work to retrospectively install them in homes. They represent another significant step in the government’s plan to level up the UK and accelerate the nationwide rollout of world-class broadband. Gigabit broadband is capable of download speeds of 1,000 megabits or one gigabit per second. It allows people to work remotely more easily and gives homes the fast and reliable connections needed for streaming ultra-HD and 4k TV and films and gaming online on multiple devices at the same time. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated just how crucial fast and reliable broadband connections are to the economy and to quality of life. Digital Infrastructure Minister Julia Lopez says: 'We are moving rapidly in our national mission to make sure everyone can benefit from faster gigabit-speed broadband. National coverage has jumped from six per cent to sixty-five per cent in just two years. The law changes we are consulting on today will help us go further and faster to make our homes fit for the future with the infrastructure people will need to take advantage of new technologies in the coming decades' Minister of State for Building Safety and Communities Lord Stephen Greenhalgh comments: 'The deployment of gigabit-capable broadband connections to new homes is consistent with DLUHC’s wider work to level up communities. Fast and reliable broadband will help owners of new homes throughout the country to live and work more flexibly and will help to support social inclusion and growth.' While these legislative changes will introduce responsibilities for housing developers, the burdens are balanced through secured financial support from certain network operators who have made commitments to contribute to gigabit connections costs. After considering respondents’ views, the government will publish final details of the secondary legislation before laying it in Parliament as soon as possible. The legislation will apply to all new residential dwellings, including self-built homes in England, but excluding renovated buildings, schools, residential homes, halls of residence, hotels and prisons. The government is also consulting on whether new homes created through building conversions should also be included in the scope of the policy. The technical consultation will be open for 10 weeks, closing on 28 February 2022, and respondents are encouraged to provide feedback on the specific questions raised or on other elements of the proposals.

New ceiling light innovation from Ansell

Highly durable yet cost effective, the Ecoline Batten is a brand-new ceiling light from Ansell Lighting. Ideal for use in a range of harsh or high use settings such as workshops and warehouses or factories and supermarkets, the fully polycarbonate luminaire is IK06 rated and has an LED lifespan of L70 50,000 hours requiring low levels of maintenance. Available in three different sizes - 600mm, 1200mm and 1500mmm - the Ecoline Batten delivers excellent light uniformity thanks to its high transmittance polycarbonate diffuser. It has selectable CCT settings of 3000K, 4000K, 6500K, meaning colour temperature can be set to enhance surroundings, productivity and wellbeing and is easily controlled via a switch located under the end cap. Quick and easy to install, the versatile surface mounted light is also supplied pre-wired with 600mm cable and comes complete with versatile mounting clips which can be located anywhere along the spine of the luminaire for fitting ease. Mark Abbott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting says: “The Ecoline ceiling batten is a truly cost effective, off the shelf lighting product. Low maintenance and easy to install, it is a versatile product ideal for multiple settings and offers many performance benefits. It also comes with a three-year warranty for added peace of mind.”

Electric car chargers fast-tracked in South East

Almost 1,000 electric car chargers have been fast-tracked to connect to the electricity network in London, the South East and East of England - thanks to an online portal for chargepoint installers. Since launching Smart Connect in February 2021, UK Power Networks has instantly approved more than 2000 new applications for electric car chargers, heat pumps, batteries and solar panels in record time. The portal means people don’t have to complete multiple paper forms, and streamlines the process so installers can work more efficiently and install more devices for more customers. So far, 983 (more than half) of the 1,720 new electric car charging applications have been instantly approved by the portal, meaning devices could be connected straight away. Smart Connect is also making other low carbon technologies possible. Applications to connect 234 electric heat pumps have been auto-approved since February, along with 765 household solar installs and 66 domestic batteries. The service works by using artificial intelligence to process data about each household installation. When an installer applies to connect a new car charger, Smart Connect refers customers to a UK Power Networks expert if the electricity supply needs to be upgraded to gain additional power. If no upgrades are required, the tool provides an automatic assessment and then auto-approval. Installers with multiple jobs planned can also use Smart Connect to check the status of all their applications at the click of a button. Ian Cameron, head of customer service and innovation at UK Power Networks says: “Millions of electric cars and heat pumps will connect to our networks over the next decade. Through tools like Smart Connect we’ll make sure - whether we’re working with installers or directly with consumers - they can all connect at pace.” Gary Church, electrical contracts manager at Blueflame (Colchester), which installs and maintains heat pumps and solar PV systems across Essex and Suffolk, comments: “We’ve been using Smart Connect throughout this year and it’s been a brilliant tool for us. It’s streamlined our process of notifying installations of heat pumps and PV completely. It also ensures we are always complying with all regulations and give our customers the best service possible.”

Martindale Electric launches the HPAT400

When it comes to testing portable appliances, the HPAT Series of portable appliance testers from Martindale Electric, now includes the HPAT400. This new update to its existing range enables both contractors and competent in-house personnel to quickly and safely verify the electrical safety of all types of appliances. Designed to perform safety checks in accordance with the IET Code of Practice, the lightweight HPAT Series of handheld testers are designed for ease of use with one button automatic testing and ultimate portability. The compact design with bright backlit display, provides the perfect solution for testing in all locations, particularly under a desk or behind a monitor, where lighting may be restricted. Easy to use, the HPAT400 from Martindale Electric is an affordable, battery powered PAT tester.  Suitable for Class I and Class II appliances, the basic tester incorporates large PASS/FAIL indicators and simple connection instructions on the tester. As well as performing a 500V insulation test, our latest feature now included with the HPAT400 is the ability for users to swap between different test voltages of 250V and 500V. This is especially helpful when testing appliances with surge protected circuits, such as sensitive IT equipment at 250V. For applications which require combining simple PASS/FAIL with actual test values, the HPAT500 is ideal and now features a low insulation test voltage, making it suitable for testing surge protected devices.  For added convenience, the HPAT500 is mains rechargeable for reduced running costs and can be operated from the mains via the supplied charger to ensure no down time. Also available in the range is the HPAT600 which includes both automatic one button testing like the HPAT400 and HPAT500, plus single test selection for diagnostics.  The HPAT600 features a run test for checking the integrity of the fuse and that the appliance is switched on prior to testing.  The pass levels can be easily adjusted for testing appliances with long power cords or long extension leads.  In addition, it has memory for storing test results of up to 200 appliances for on-screen recall at a later time. The latest range of PAT testers from Martindale Electric feature a new colour coded user interface with clear connection instructions on the tester or on screen, making operation simple, every time. All three models come supplied in a practical ‘Test & Go’ carry case, with space for accessories, meaning valuable time is saved as there is no need to unpack and repack the testers when taking measurements. With an increasing number of prosecutions brought by Health & Safety inspectors for failure to carry out routine inspections of electrical equipment, all these features make the Martindale HPAT the solution of choice for implementing an efficient and cost effective portable appliance testing schedule to keep users safe and reduce potential fire hazards.

Top tips for staying safe whilst working in bad weather

Bad weather can be a nightmare for those working in construction or trades, causing delays which can increase both the cost and the timeframe for the completion of a project, whilst also making working on site potentially dangerous if appropriate precautions aren’t taken. Recent research by IronmongeryDirect found that the average tradesperson loses £1,300 per year due to bad weather and misses an average of a week of work annually. Amongst the trades that are impacted by bad weather the most are plumbers, who lose £1,723 per year, electricians, who lose £1,570, and builders, who miss out on £1,548. Whilst it can be tempting to avoid delays and losing money by working through bad weather, it’s important to ensure that the safety of yourself and others is prioritised. For this reason, IronmongeryDirect has provided some expert tips to help you stay safe when working in bad conditions. Monitor the weather You should ensure that you’re constantly keeping an eye on the weather to determine what kind of work you can do safely. For example, if there’s a thunderstorm you should prioritise jobs that can be done indoors to avoid getting caught in the rain. Similarly, in heavy rain it is important to avoid work where slippery surfaces can pose a health risk. Working in an exposed position without any kind of protection or shelter can be a serious hazard, so it’s important to ensure that you’re monitoring the conditions and adjusting your work accordingly. Avoid working at height Most types of bad weather can make working at height particularly dangerous, so it’s important that you avoid these types of jobs in bad conditions. Whether it’s high wind making it more unstable to work on exposed positions at height, or heavy rain creating slippery surfaces that are more dangerous to stand or walk on, jobs lower to the ground are safer during bad weather. Be aware of your surroundings Building sites are hazardous at the best of times, and potential risks increase in the bad weather. When you’re working and exposed to the elements, ensure that you’re aware of potential hazards that could be around you. Check to see if scaffolding or equipment is secure and not posing a danger to you or anyone else, keep an eye out to see if any tools or materials could pose a tripping hazard and remove them if so. You should also try to be aware of other people or activities going on around you so you can safely avoid them. Secure loose materials and equipment In high winds and heavy rain, loose materials and equipment can pose a serious risk if they aren’t properly secured. In bad weather, unsecured items can move around and potentially cause disruption to a work site, which could result in either additional time spent clearing up and replacing the materials, or in the worst case, they could pose a danger to yourself or others on site. Don’t hesitate to stop Weather can progressively get worse as the day goes on, and what may have started out as workable conditions may deteriorate to a point where it is no longer safe to continue working. If this happens, then it’s important to call a halt to working outdoors until the weather improves. Whilst a delay to work is never desirable, it’s always better than having to deal with a disastrous situation that occurs from choosing to continue working in bad weather.

WILA announces expansion into US market

WILA Lighting has announced its expansion into the US market, taking its cutting-edge and innovative product portfolio across the pond to offer a wealth of premium lighting solutions for projects.    WILA Lighting’s growth into the US market has been facilitated by its close affiliation with Experience Brands, a fast-growing global lighting conglomerate comprised of medium-sized agile production and innovation facilities that work very closely with its specific markets. The goal of the group is to combine the experience, capacity, and capabilities of the individual businesses to achieve maximum service and performance to the customer.  Benefitting from Experience Brands worldwide distribution network, extensive product facilities, and shared infrastructure, WILA Lighting will complement the extensive Experience Brands’ portfolio, to fulfil unique project requirements across a range of sectors.   The expansion comes at an exciting time for WILA Lighting who, earlier this year, achieved recognition for its impressive green credentials with the confirmation of its status at the highest level of Carbon Neutral+ standard. This makes them an exemplary organisation within the lighting industry, demonstrating their commitment to supporting a range of additional environmental projects.   Matt Vogel, Chief Executive Officer at WILA Lighting comments: “Expansion into the US is a significant step for WILA Lighting and one we have been working towards for some time. Our products have already been specified for several high-profile US projects, and it is fantastic to see the strong appetite in the market for our extensive product range. We are delighted to have the support of Experience Brands and the individual businesses that make it such a worthwhile enterprise.”   Chris Stockton, Chief Executive Officer at Experience Brands adds: “WILA Lighting is a fantastic company, and we are proud to be able to offer WILA products here in the US. As a fast-growth company it has been exciting for Experience Brands to experience the growth of WILA Lighting and we have full confidence that their expansion into the US will be both extremely worthwhile and rewarding.”  

Live and direct from NICEIC: THE WIRE 2022

NICEIC is poised and ready to deliver an all-new series of the hit technical webinar series, THE WIRE. Covering the most relevant technical topics, upcoming episodes will discuss Maximum Demand and Diversity and Battery Storage. Delivered via a new and improved browser-based platform, the 2022 series will also feature a newcomer, the NICEIC Pub Quiz, a fun interactive segment designed to test (and reward) the most technically advanced minds. “When the pandemic struck back in 2020, the world looked for quality sources of remote learning. Quick to respond we doubled our efforts on THE WIRE to ensure our contractors had the resources they needed”, says NICEIC and ELECSA’s Technical Director, John O’Neill. “Since this time, we have broadcasted 48 episodes delivering over 40 hours of CPD Certified learning. Our live sessions attracted significant numbers and were often maxed out, while our on-demand service also attracted a large following. “The combined result is one we are extremely proud of. Since April 2020, we have issued an impressive 69,000 personalised CPD certificates to our registered contractors, a fantastic number and one we are committed to exceeding in 2022.” Thanks to a new and improved platform, the WIRE will no longer be restricted on numbers for live events. Furthermore, the browser-based system will remove the need for any downloads allowing viewers to access sessions directly via their web browser. Add to this the ability to download CPD certificates straight after a webinar, and a raft of new in session functionality, and it is clear the updates will enhance the viewing experience. John O’Neill continues: “We believe the improved functionality of our new platform, coupled with our fresh and engaging new content, will ensure 2022 is another record-breaking year for THE WIRE. We are focused and ready to kick off another year, supporting our contractors providing them with the tools they need to remain at the forefront of the industry.” Free and exclusive to NICEIC and ELECSA contractors’ registration for the 2022 series is open now. [embed]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsBJf0r7_Co[/embed]

YESSS Electrical opens store in Lewisham ahead of 10th anniversary

YESSS Electrical is opening its 98th store in Lewisham, ahead of the company's 10th anniversary this February. The company has invested £180,000 into the site, preparing a 5,500 sq ft floor and five members of staff for high quality service to the SE postcode. YESSS Electrical supplies a wide range of great value electrical components and items to tradespeople, companies purchasing in bulk, and budding DIYers who want to purchase new lights, switches, or even smart CCTV at wholesale price. All branch teams have regular product training, delivering a highly knowledgeable service across the four YESSS sectors - Lighting, Security, EV & Energy, and Industrial. Mike Cronin, Branch Manager at YESSS Electrical Lewisham, says: “We’re thrilled to open our new wholesale branch in Lewisham this month. “The new branch will offer a wide variety of great value brands and products to both residential and commercial customers looking for electricals. “Our range of products and expertise stretches from light bulbs, switches and light fittings, to smart homes, EV chargers and accessories. “We pride ourselves on delivering regular training to all staff members, so that customers visiting our stores always receive professional advice and support.” YESSS Electrical currently covers other areas of London with stores in New Southgate, Kingston Upon Thames, Croydon, Sutton, Hounslow, and Tower Hamlets. The new Lewisham branch is located at: Unit 17 Chiltonian Industrial Estate, Manor Lane, Lewisham, London, SE12 0TX

UK government expands heat networks to power homes with green energy

UK homes, university residences and public buildings will benefit from cleaner, more affordable heat and energy, thanks to £19 million government funding to further expand Great Britain’s network of low carbon heating. The £19 million investment will go towards setting up five new heat networks, two in Bristol, and three across Liverpool, London and Worthing, providing households and workplaces with more affordable, reliable heating that offers a low carbon, more cost-effective alternative to installing individual, energy-intensive, heating solutions such as gas boilers. Heat networks  supply  heat  from a central source to consumers, such as large rivers and heat from sewers via a  network  of underground pipes carrying hot water, like a giant central heating system serving many buildings, and supplies it through pipes to homes and businesses. The funding comes from the government’s £320 million Heat Networks Investment Project (HNIP), which supports the development of heat networks across England and Wales. Government-funded heat networks currently being developed include Leeds City County’s 16km district heat network, Cardiff Town Heat Network in South Wales, spreading across the Cardiff Bay area, and Newcastle University’s District Heat Network within its city centre campus. As a proven, cost-effective way of providing reliable low carbon heat at a fair price to consumers, and as recommended by the Climate Change Committee, the UK government is working towards growing the heat networks sector, which provides roughly 2% of UK heat demand but could meet around a fifth of heat demand by 2050. Minister for Climate Change Lord Callanan says:  "Almost a third of all UK carbon emissions come from heating our homes and addressing this is a vital part of tackling pollution, driving down bills and reducing our reliance on costly fossil fuels. This announcement builds on our commitments made in the Heat and Buildings Strategy to regulate the UK’s heat networks, protect consumers, and create opportunities for green jobs and investment across the country." This will allow thousands of households and businesses to feel the benefits of projects that are breaking new ground and making our villages, towns and cities cleaner places to live and work. To support this, Ofgem has been appointed by the UK government as the heat networks regulator for Great Britain to ensure consumers receive a fair price and reliable supply of heat.

Legrand signs BEAMA Climate Commitment

As part of its ongoing support for the decarbonisation of the electrical industry, Legrand has signed BEAMA’s Climate Commitment to industrial decarbonisation and sustainable product development across the whole electrical industry. The commitment has been made to support electrical industry professionals faced with the challenge of implementing energy efficient and sustainable solutions in buildings to meet Government targets for net zero emissions by 2050. Crucial to helping contractors and consultants deliver more sustainable buildings, signing this commitment is part of Legrand’s wider aim to drive sustainability across the UK’s electrical installations, as its CEO Pascal Stutz, explains: “As a leading manufacturer of electrical equipment across an entire breadth of buildings, it is our responsibility to support professionals with energy efficient products and expertise across all sectors of construction to achieve sustainability targets. This forms part of our wider mission of improving lives by transforming the spaces where people live, work and meet. “In signing this agreement, we want to show contractors and consultants that we are with them every step of this journey and are a trusted partner when it comes to decarbonising and futureproofing their projects.” Beyond providing the electrical solutions and experts who can help specify and implement technologies, Legrand is also transforming its own operations to be more sustainable. For example, the company upgraded its Consett manufacturing facility using its own energy saving lighting control innovations in conjunction with solar panels to reduce the consumption of operations. Pascal adds: “The work at Consett represents just part of our commitment to creating a more sustainable electrical industry. Not only are we demonstrating how our own technologies can help in the energy efficiency challenge, but we are also creating environments that promote wellbeing for our own people. “Our mission is to improve lives, not only of clients and their end users, but of our own teams of experts who are key in helping customers integrate solutions in their projects. We want our people and the wider industry to be proud to work with us, and signing the BEAMA Commitment is just part of us showing how we can drive this progress forward.”