Martindale updates CP201 socket tester

Martindale Electric, a manufacturer of electrical test equipment, has introduced an updated version of its CP201 industrial socket tester, extending its range for testing 16A and 32A single-phase industrial sockets. The revised CP201 is intended for use during routine inspection and maintenance, providing a simplified method for identifying common wiring issues and supply voltage conditions at industrial outlets. Updated features and intended use The latest CP201 includes a simplified interface designed to make results easier to interpret. Wiring conditions are indicated using three LEDs arranged to reflect the pin layout of the plug, supported by an on-device reference chart to assist with fault identification. The tester also checks mains voltage, indicating whether the supply is high or low at the socket. The device is designed for testing single-phase industrial socket wiring and is available in both 16A and 32A versions. Each unit is fitted with a 230V industrial plug compliant with BS EN IEC 60309-1. The CP201 is housed in an ABS moulded enclosure intended to withstand regular site use and does not require ongoing maintenance, according to Martindale Electric. Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale Electric, says, “Socket testers provide a fast and effective solution for identifying potentially unsafe installations and wiring faults, and can be particularly useful as a service tool for detecting unsafe conditions prior to installing new plant and equipment.” Martindale notes that socket testers are not a substitute for full verification of an electrical installation, but are commonly used as an initial indicator during maintenance and inspection activities. For more from Martindale Electric, click here.

ECS commissions LED controls for Stoke City FC

Elite Control Services (ECS), a UK specialist in architectural lighting control systems, has completed the commissioning of a new LED lighting controls system at the Bet365 Stadium, home of Stoke City Football Club. The project forms part of a wider lighting and controls upgrade at the stadium, replacing floodlights that had been in operation since 2014. The new system is intended to improve lighting performance while reducing overall energy consumption. Stadium lighting and controls upgrade The lighting design was produced by Midstream, with ECS responsible for commissioning and integrating the controls, RGBW, and under-bowl lighting systems. The installation includes a combination of LED luminaires, projectors, and RGBW floodlighting, alongside a fully integrated architectural controls platform. Control is provided through three main access points located in the Match Control, Media Suite, and Groundsman’s Shed. Following commissioning, the system delivers illumination levels of 1,650 lux, aligned with Premier League requirements, while reducing the stadium’s energy use by 51%. During the project, ECS carried out on-site demonstrations using temporary projectors and floodlights to determine beam angles and mounting positions. This process informed final installation decisions for the RGBW lighting, projection equipment, data infrastructure, and control systems. The upgrade also introduces colour-changing RGBW lighting across areas including advertising boards, pitch-side screens, and under-bowl spaces. In addition, projection equipment is used to display club and stadium branding on the pitch ahead of matches. Adam Hardy, Director at ECS, comments, “We’re thrilled to have partnered with Midstream Lighting and Stoke City FC on such a prestigious project. "Our team worked tirelessly to ensure the lighting control system not only meets the Premier League specifications but also delivers an energy-efficient, dynamic experience for both players and fans.” James Brunt from Midstream Lighting adds, “It was fantastic working with ECS on this project. Their expertise in lighting control and commissioning was instrumental in delivering the high-quality, energy-efficient system Stoke City FC required.”

Phenolic breakdown: The hidden danger

If you have read any of UK manufacturer of electrical test equipment Kewtech's previous articles, you may already be familiar with the mantra "Test Before You Touch". In a previous piece, the company explored the risks of metallic surfaces becoming live. Here, it dives into a lesser-known but equally dangerous issue: phenolic breakdown in thermosetting plastics. What are phenolic plastics? Back in the late ’60s through the early ’90s, phenolic resin was the go-to material for electrical accessories: strong, heat-resistant, and a great insulator - at least when new. Fast forward a few decades and those same components could be hiding a serious hazard. Phenolic materials don’t always age gracefully; over time, heat from loose connections or overloaded circuits can cause them to crack, become brittle, and even carbonise. What's more, carbonised phenolic can become conductive. That means what was once a safety barrier can turn into a live path for electricity. Phenolic plastics are still commonly found in older DNO intake cut-outs, identifiable by the dark brown, almost-black colour. What to watch out for Key identifiers include scorch marks, cracks, brittle surfaces, or that tell-tale burnt smell. See the video below for an example: [embed]https://youtube.com/shorts/MSl3TxzFwqg?si=INFm5Ne6P6K7aiAZ[/embed]   Visual checks are your first line of defence, but tools like the Kewtech KT1700 single-pole voltage tester can give you an early warning. The tester won’t diagnose phenolic breakdown directly, but it will tell you if unexpected voltage is lurking on nearby cut-out surfaces - a common symptom when phenolic insulation fails. Lawrence, AKA 'Bristol Sparky', comments, “I wasn’t aware of phenolic breakdown, and now it’s one of the first things I check before I go sticking my hands anywhere near anything. "A cut-out or even a board - if there is suspicion, I use my KT1700 contact voltage tester before I go and touch anything.” The bottom line Phenolic breakdown is a silent threat in ageing electrical systems. Combining training, sharp eyes, and smart tools like the KT1700 helps you stay safe, compliant, and ahead of the curve. Remember: 'Test Before You Touch', because what you can’t see can hurt you! For more information or electrical safety tips, visit Kewtech's website. For more from Kewtech, click here.

Kidde introduces fire and CO alarm control switch

Kidde Safety Europe, a UK manufacturer of smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide alarms, has introduced a new Fire and CO Alarm Control Switch that enables remote testing and silencing of interconnected Kidde FIREX hardwired alarms, providing a practical solution for properties where alarms are installed in locations that are difficult to access or require regular inspection. The Fire and CO Alarm Control Switch makes the process easy with a convenient Test/Hush button that eliminates the need for physical access to the alarms. This is particularly valuable for elderly or disabled individuals and in properties with high ceilings. It also enhances safety and compliance where alarms are installed in non-occupied areas, such as lofts with photovoltaic (solar) equipment. The solution aligns with BS 5839-6:2019, the British Standard for domestic fire detection systems, which highlights the importance of providing remote testing capability for alarms installed in inaccessible locations. The new control unit features separate visual indicators for fire and carbon monoxide detection to provide a quick and clear identification of the hazard. For simplicity, it also has a single multifunction button. To test the system, users simply press the button and all the alarms will sound. In the event of an activation, pressing the Test/Hush button will silence all alarms in the system except the initiating device, allowing for easy and convenient alarm source indication. The Fire and CO Alarm Control Switch can be connected into any part of a new or existing Kidde FIREX hardwired alarm installation and can support up to 24 interconnected devices. The switch, which fits into a standard wall back box or standard surface mounted electrical box, should be mounted to a wall in an easily accessible, central location, such as a hallway or landing space. It is supplied with a 10-year warranty for long-term reliability. Keeping alarms working Brad Taylor, General Manager at Kidde and a 20-year veteran firefighter, explains, “The safety of residents depends on fire and carbon monoxide alarms being in full working order, and it is imperative that they are tested regularly. “Landlords have a duty to ensure their properties remain compliant, and our new alarm control switch simplifies this process across all Kidde FIREX hardwired alarms, supporting more effective management of life safety devices.” For more information about the RTHL Fire and CO Alarm Control Switch and Kidde’s full range of fire safety solutions, visit the company's website. For more from Kidde, click here.

Ideal Heating reinstates One More MAX incentive

Ideal Heating, a UK manufacturer of boilers and heat pumps, has confirmed the return of its One More MAX installer incentive at the start of 2026, offering up to £1,000 in rewards through its Connect programme. The scheme runs from 1 January to 30 April 2026 and applies to installers who register more Logic MAX or Vogue MAX boilers during that period than they did between 1 January and 30 April 2025. Installers who exceed their previous total by one registered boiler will receive £300 in Connect points. A further £700 is available for those who register four additional MAX boilers beyond that threshold, taking the total potential reward to £1,000, alongside the standard points awarded for each registration. How the incentive is structured The benchmark for the incentive is an installer’s total number of MAX boiler registrations during the equivalent period in 2025. To qualify in 2026, the requirement is to register one additional boiler during the same timeframe. For example, an installer who registered six MAX boilers between 1 January and 30 April 2025 would need to register seven during the same period in 2026 to receive the £300 reward. Registering 11 in total would trigger the full £1,000 allocation. Ideal Heating has also indicated that a further announcement relating to its MAX boiler range will be made on 12 January 2026. The company says the initiative is intended to build on its existing commitments to installers and homeowners. Commenting on the return of the promotion, Luke Pykett, Head of Marketing at Ideal Heating, says, “One More MAX is a firm favourite with installers and it’s back at exactly the right time to kick start 2026. “But it also tees up something even bigger: Next week, we’ll be unveiling a new promise for the MAX range, and one that shows just how far we’re prepared to go to support installers and their customers.” For more from Ideal Heating, click here.

£18 million power upgrade benefits 30,000 residents

More than 30,000 people in Hackney and North London will benefit from upgraded energy supplies following the completion of an electricity project from distribution network operator UK Power Networks. The project, which began in July 2017, required the installation of 22km of cable and ducting across four new circuits, with the final circuit being energised in November 2025. The new infrastructure will benefit more than 30,000 homes in Hackney and Walthamstow, paving the way for electric vehicles, heat pumps, and a greener future. Upgrading London's power infrastructure Errol Lord, Project Manager at UK Power Networks, says, "This initiative represents a significant investment in Hackney’s energy infrastructure and underscores our unwavering commitment to the local community. "The project was meticulously designed not only to enhance network resilience, but also to meet the burgeoning demands of both residents and businesses in the area. "The upgraded infrastructure will provide more reliable and sustainable energy to homes, schools, and local services. "Throughout the duration of the works, we have maintained close collaboration with the community to minimise disruption and ensure everybody knew what was happening. "We are grateful for the patience and understanding demonstrated by the residents, and we take pride in the collective effort that has brought this project to fruition." Teams working on the project included Alliance partner Clancy, D&R Jointing, and Enigma Scaffolding, as well as UK Power Networks’ office and field staff. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

New lockable enclosure covers for Elucian consumer units

Click Scolmore has enhanced its Elucian consumer unit range with the launch of new Premium Lockable Enclosure Covers. These sleek and secure retrofit covers have been designed to fit seamlessly with the company’s current Elucian range, meeting the growing demand for lockable, tamper-proof consumer units. The upgraded security and design have set new standards in the domestic market, offering a simple upgrade solution for customers who already have Elucian consumer units installed. The new lockable Elucian cover sits flush with the consumer unit to offer a more discreet appearance, perfect for homes with a consumer unit on display. The retrofit cover allows users to easily remove the existing cover and replace it with the new lockable version. In keeping with Elucian’s commitment to improved security, the new lid features a cam lock and is supplied with two keys per lid. The range of lockable lids features nine variations to accommodate the different sized consumer units available from five-way to 22-way. Some more of the stand-out features include: • Surface-mounted and IP20 rated • Steel construction for durability and long-lasting performance • New grooved sides on the cover to increase grip when lifting • Improved hinge design for greater quality and ease of use • 10-year warranty for peace of mind For more information, visit Elucian’s website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Elucian, click here.

NAPIT announces UKAS accreditation for MCS scheme

NAPIT, a company developing green skills and compliance, has confirmed that it has achieved UKAS accreditation to deliver the MCS Redeveloped Installer Scheme. The company says this reinforces its commitment to quality, consumer protection, and robust certification standards across the small-scale renewable sector. The milestone marks a new phase in the long-standing partnership between NAPIT and MCS, aiming to provide greater clarity for installers as the redeveloped scheme is rolled out. Building on this, the two entities say they are developing a comprehensive transition plan for existing MCS-certified members. This transition will start in 2026. Until further notice, existing members should continue to meet all current MCS Scheme requirements, including maintaining an approved Consumer Code. Further details on the transition process and key implementation dates will be shared early in 2026. In the meantime, installers are encouraged to visit the NAPIT MCS Redeveloped Installer Scheme page for more information. A redeveloped scheme Lindsay Hague, Head of Compliance at NAPIT, comments, “We are committed to supporting our members throughout the transition to the redeveloped MCS Installer Scheme. "By working closely with MCS, we aim to ensure the process is clear, practical, and delivers continued confidence in quality and compliance for both installers and consumers.” Ian Rippon, CEO at MCS, adds, “I’m delighted to congratulate NAPIT on its UKAS accreditation and look forward to continuing our partnership under the redeveloped MCS Installer Scheme. "MCS has worked in partnership with our certification bodies and the wider small-scale renewables industry to redevelop our Installer Scheme, making certification simpler and more rewarding. "Putting quality and consumer protection first, we are excited to roll out the redeveloped scheme over the coming months, helping businesses and industry to build lasting confidence in home-grown energy.” NAPIT will continue to keep its members informed as further information becomes available and says it remains committed to providing clear guidance to installers preparing for the future of the MCS Installer Scheme. For more from NAPIT, click here.

Octopus and Barratt Redrow target zero home energy bills

Octopus Energy, one of the UK’s largest energy suppliers, and Barratt Redrow, one of the UK’s largest housebuilders, have announced a partnership aimed at delivering homes with no household energy bills for up to 10 years, combining low-carbon building design with integrated clean energy technology. The agreement brings together Octopus Energy’s Zero Bills tariff with Barratt Redrow’s new-build housing developments, enabling residents to live in homes designed to generate, store, and use their own energy without paying for electricity or heating during the guarantee period. Launched in 2022, Zero Bills is positioned as the world’s first tariff of its kind. It applies to homes fitted with a heat pump, solar panels, and a battery system, allowing energy costs to be covered for at least five to 10 years, subject to usage conditions. First sites and wider rollout As an initial phase, the partners will deliver 54 Zero Bills homes across two developments in Wixams, Bedfordshire, and Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire. The first properties are expected to be completed in 2026, with further sites already under consideration across the UK. The partnership follows Octopus Capital’s recent £100 million funding round through its Affordable Housing Fund, which is expected to support the delivery of more than 1,000 Zero Bills homes across England and Scotland. Octopus Energy says it has already approved more than 5,000 Zero Bills homes through agreements with multiple developers, spanning affordable housing, private rental, shared ownership, and private sale. The company has set a target of delivering 100,000 Zero Bills homes by 2030 and has expanded the initiative into markets including Germany, France, and New Zealand. Nigel Banks, Zero Bills Director at Octopus Energy, says, “We’ve been working closely with Barratt Redrow on research trials and can now demonstrate what’s possible when Zero Bills is delivered at scale within new housing developments. "With solar panels, heat pumps, and EV chargers increasingly standard in new homes, eliminating energy bills is becoming a practical and cost-effective step.” Oliver Novakovic, Technical & Innovation Director at Barratt Redrow, adds, “By combining our highly energy-efficient homes with Octopus’ Zero Bills approach, we’re helping customers reduce their energy costs to zero while also lowering carbon emissions. "This partnership shows how innovation in housebuilding and energy can work together to deliver homes that are both sustainable and affordable over the long term.” For more from Octopus Energy, click here.

Click Scolmore introduces Matt Black to New Media modules

Click Scolmore, a designer and manufacturer of electrical accessories, has upgraded its New Media module range with the introduction of a stylish new Matt Black finish, delivering the same trusted functionality with a more sophisticated modern style. Designed to complement modern interiors, the new matte texture offers a sleek, low-sheen appearance that blends effortlessly into contemporary environments - perfect for applications where elegance and performance are essential. The Matt Black finish will be available across a comprehensive selection of New Media modules, including: • 10AX 2-Way Switch Module • 13A Socket Outlet Module • 16A European Schuko Socket Outlet • 20A Double Pole Switch Module • 20A Double Pole Switch Module with Neon • 10AX Intermediate Switch Module • 15A 110V US Socket Outlet • 15A Round Pin Socket Outlet Module • 5A Round Pin Socket Outlet Module • 13A Fused Connection Unit Module • Single Brush Module This enhancement reflects Click Scolmore’s ongoing commitment to innovation and meeting the evolving demands of the market with high-quality, design-conscious solutions. For more information on Click’s full range of New Media modules, visit the Scolmore Group website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Click Scolmore, click here.