T.A. Electrical Ltd To Provide Electrical Install For New DSR Tax Claims HQ

T.A. Electrical Ltd is providing a complete electrical installation, including data services, lighting and audio/ visual services for the DSR Tax Claims Ltd, the firm of tax preparation specialists, refurbish Seven Mile House in Papplewick, which is to act as the new company HQ. Seven Mile House is a familiar landmark in Nottinghamshire with its roots going back to the 17th century and beyond. David Redfern, Managing Director of DSR Tax Claims Ltd commented that he has chosen an array of the best local tradespeople and companies to work on the high-specification refurbishment. "Due to the continuing success and growth of DSR Tax Claims, it became obvious that for us to continue to thrive and grow, we were going to need a new base for our operations  and so it seemed perfectly fitting when Seven Mile House became available,” he said. “It is such a privilege to be moving into such a landmark in Nottinghamshire's very rich history and as such, it was essential to select the finest tradesmen to work on this project. We are very fortunate in Nottinghamshire and the surrounding areas to have a wealth of talent to call upon and it has been a pleasure to work with the best.” "As a company we are able to provide the whole range of electrical services required by commercial and industrial projects, working to the highest of standards,” commented director Aaron Randall. “Seven Mile House has utilised the full range of our skills, from a complete rewire to installing servers and audio and visual services - all to the highest requirements and standards.” Speaking about the Seven Mile House refurbishment, the company’s other director, Tom Cullen stated that is has “been a pleasure to work on such an amazing project, where no expense has been spared on the installation and we have been able to use our creative vision so that the installation is not just functional but also looks amazing".  "The whole project has been delivered to such a high specification and it has been a great experience to see it take shape from the very beginning and be a part of such a remarkable transformation,” added Randall. Speaking about his decision to use T.A Electrical Ltd for the refurbishment, Redfern added: "Aaron and Tom have such an experienced skillset and have been able to execute such a complex project to the highest standards and expectations and with such impressive levels of professionalism at all times". Seven Mile House will be officially opened by the Mayor of Gedling on Friday 22 November 2019.

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Wireless audio equipment prizes up for grabs with Hamilton

Hamilton is to launch its new Wi-Fi wireless audio range at ELEX Sandown, Stand C26 on November 7-8. To celebrate, it’s giving you the chance to win a selection of its new audio products during ‘Appio Hour’ - which takes place at 12 noon each day of the show. Expanding its audio offering to include four new wireless products, the winner of the free prize draw will receive Hamilton’s new WSA50 wireless streaming amplifier and two 80W ceiling speakers. Second prize is an Appio wireless speaker, and third prize is an Oyster wireless audio receiver. Those wishing to enter the free prize draw must drop their business card in a white top hat on the Hamilton stand (C26). Each day at ‘Appio Hour’, the prize draw will take place alongside a brief introduction to the new wireless audio range from a member of the Hamilton audio team. To be one of the first to see Hamilton’s new wireless audio products for 2020, and for the chance to enter the free prize draw, just visit Stand C26 at ELEX Sandown.

Bureau Veritas welcomes Government’s green planning overhaul

Certification and compliance authority, Bureau Veritas, has welcomed news of the government’s ambitious green planning revolution – while stating it is vital that the process is managed carefully as to avoid deterring the already overstretched construction industry. On October 1, 2019, the government unveiled plans to create a ‘Future Homes Standard’, which aims to see fossil fuel heating systems, such as gas boilers, replaced with clean technology options such as air source pumps and solar panels. Widely hailed as ‘an environmental revolution in home building’, the aim is to cut carbon emissions by up to 80% for all new homes by this time. As part of this, the government has launched an open consultation until January 2020 on how Parts F and L of the Building Regulations can be upgraded to optimise energy efficiency in new homes. The first stage of the consultation concentrates on efficiency requirements for new homes in 2020, with the government’s preferred option to implement a 31% decrease in emissions. It is expected that this will be succeeded with the introduction of a net zero carbon status for new homes by 2025.  The government will also consult on an ambitious revamp of current planning rules in order to create a simpler system that works for all, and seek to create its first ever design manual to promote the building of ‘beautiful, well-designed homes that people are proud to live in.’ Although the full ramifications of the planning reforms remain to be seen, the consensus it that they will impact the roll out of existing property schemes and developments – as architects and developers struggle to plan around the transitional period.   Andy Lowe, Director of Building Control at Bureau Veritas, comments, “It’s no surprise that the government’s recent pledge to reduce emissions to net zero by 2050 has been succeeded with increased environmental focus on the housing sector. The reality is that this target, the first of its kind for any major economy, will simply not be met without the virtual elimination of emissions from UK buildings – yet it’s estimated that the UK’s 29 million homes, which account for 14% of total UK emissions, are using more energy than before. “While the proposed changes are, therefore, crucial to ensuring new builds are fit for the future – it is important that the impact they will have on the construction industry is carefully managed, particularly in terms of existing developments whereby developers will need to adapt to any restrictions and cost implications caused by a legislative upturn,” he continues. “In terms of best practice going forward, we’d recommend for developers to seek expert advice so that they can ensure they remain on top of the changes as and when they emerge, and have a future-focused strategy in place to negate as much impact as possible. Of course, as with any type of legislative overhaul, we understand it may mean extra complexity and cost, however the reality is that the green agenda is only going to increase in the years to come, meaning it is more of a case of ‘when’ rather than ‘if’ in terms of the path to a low carbon economy. Thus, in the long-run the changes will go a long way in helping developers ensure their properties are fit for the challenges of tomorrow, today.”

The Lord Mayor opens JTL’s latest training centre in York

On October 18, JTL, the national training provider for electrical, plumbing and heating apprenticeships, invited the Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Janet Looker, to officially open its new centre in York. The Lord Mayor was joined by local employers, where they were given a tour of the new training facilities. They also had the chance to speak to current JTL apprentices and trainers to find out more about the wide range of opportunities available to them in the local area. Following a £500,000 investment, the centre – located in the Osbaldwick area of York – has been designed with a brand new and fully equipped electrical workshop. It offers 6,000 square foot of teaching and workshop space over two floors. It comprises two modern teaching rooms, a meeting room, a refectory area and bright, modern double height workshops. JTL’s chief executive, Jon Graham, says, “We are delighted to have welcomed the Lord Mayor to our York centre and showcase our brand-new facilities. It was fantastic to share the day with local employers too, as we believe it’s important to work collaboratively with these businesses, as we develop their future employees. “Here at York, we’re proud to now be home to 30 first year learners and 14 second year learners. We look forward to welcoming more new apprentices and employers in the future”. This facility is the latest in a string of dedicated centres and joint ventures JTL has launched in the last few years. In addition to York, JTL also has its own centres operating successfully in Birmingham, Tankersley, Norwich, Oxford, Yeovil, Orpington, Maidstone, Ashford, Preston, Carlisle and Langley Mill in Nottinghamshire. For more information about JTL and what it offers young people and local employers, visit www.jtltraining.com.

Knightsbridge announces most innovative LED panel to date

Knightsbridge explains why its new LED panel is the most versatile, innovative LED solution to date. Knightsbridge, one of the UK’s leading lighting and wiring manufacturers, has announced its most innovative LED panel to date – a product that promises to provide a solution for countless new and retrofit projects across the UK. Available in four sizes (6W, 12W, 18W and 24W), this product has been designed to suit multiple applications. Here are three reasons why it is so versatile: Adjustable fixing bracket The adjustable bracket on the rear of the panel, which features fixing clips mounted on a rail-type mechanism, allows recess mounting into existing apertures with a cut-out radius anywhere between 55mm to 250mm (depending on the product size chosen). The same bracket enables the panel to be surface mounted on the ceiling or wall. Flexible CCT options The panel can be adjusted to three colour settings (warm white, cool white and daylight), with the chosen CCT locked in place via a simple switch on the rear of the product. This can also be set to ‘switch’ mode, enabling the product to be CCT adjustable via a wall switch giving additional control to the end user. This ensures the product is adaptable for multiple commercial, retail, and domestic environments where end-user control may or may not be required. Easy-fit design options Finally, in terms of design options, Knightsbridge is selling optional polished chrome and brushed chrome bezels that can easily be fitted onto the product thanks to an easy-fit magnetic construction. The ultra-low projection (15mm) makes this product the perfect fit for new build and renovation projects, regardless of the mounting option chosen. For more details, visit mlaccessories.co.uk or watch the video below. https://vimeo.com/366517221

European report highlights importance of electricians

The head of Scotland’s largest trade association has highlighted a major European report on the importance of electricians to an increasingly digital-dependent society which strongly reinforces the sector’s campaign for Recognition of Electricians as a profession. The first ever Europe-wide sector report - published by AIE, the European Association of Electrical Contractors - emphasises the vital, safety-critical contribution which electricians make to day-to-day life across the continent, as well as being key players in major advances in infrastructure, the digital economy and climate change goals. And it points out that the 300,000 electrical companies in the EU and EFTA have a combined annual turnover of €214 billion (£184bn) and employ 1.8 million highly-skilled and technically proficient people, or one in every 134 professionals. Alan Wilson, Managing Director of Select, the campaigning body for the electrotechnical sector in Scotland, which contributed to the report, says, “This snapshot of the electrical sector across Europe confirms that the work of electricians is more complex and more highly valued than that of other construction professionals. “The intricacies of modern electrical installation underpin everything from the internet to cars, hospitals, homes and businesses and the ubiquity of electricity and its applications must soon be recognised with professional status. “This is why Select and other organisations – backed by many influential individuals and MSPs – have been campaigning so vigorously for Protection of Title for electricians in Scotland, a campaign which is being considered in Parliament even now.” Select’s campaign for Recognition is supported by the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) and Unite the Union, among others. The report reveals that electrical companies account for 15% of the overall construction sector turnover in Europe and that growth is being driven by decentralised and green technologies. It backs arguments by Select that skills in the sector are evolving rapidly to keep ahead of technology and that the sector is quickly becoming white rather than blue collar, a transformation which should be recognised at government level in the interests of consumer safety. Digitalisation is having an increasing impact and is changing installations and work processes away from traditional skill sets, meaning that more diverse digital skills are urgently needed. Select says that, at present, the profession has more than 3,000 people in training as part of its investment in the future. Wilson adds, “We are all becoming increasingly reliant on an electric future, with emerging technologies which entail previously undreamt-of levels of complexity. The electricians needed to make it all work are delivering a vital contribution to society. “At Select, we will continue to contribute our expertise and insights to organisations such as the AIE, as well as helping prepare our members deal with new areas such as renewables, home technology, smart meters and electric vehicles. “The importance of the electrical sector has never been greater and, with our European counterparts, it plans to rise to the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

PrefectIrus added to Energy Technology List

Prefect Controls has announce that its PrefectIrus system has been listed on the Energy Technology List (ETL), which entitles buyers to claim an Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA). The ECA scheme means that a business can invest in energy-saving plant or machinery that might otherwise be too expensive. The Energy Technology List is one of the world’s largest databases of top performing energy-efficient products. The first-year allowances let businesses set 100% of the cost of the assets against taxable profits in a single tax year. This means the company can write off the cost of the new plant or machinery against the business’s taxable profits in the financial year the purchase was made. This is equivalent to approximately five-and-a-half times the benefit of standard tax relief in the year of purchase. An ECA is claimed through a business’s income or corporation tax return in the same way as any other capital allowance. Businesses buying products listed on ETL can also make significant energy savings. PrefectIrus is a Building Management System specifically designed for multi-occupancy properties such as student accommodation or hotels – and controls rooms individually. PrefectIrus ensures energy is only used when heating is required, if rooms are empty or windows are open the system automatically reverts to lower settings, only increasing temperatures when inhabitants return. Occupants have control over the comfort of their environment, but ultimately, energy managers have control over energy use via the web-based portal. Along with temperature, PrefectIrus also controls and monitors humidity, light, CO2 and decibel levels as well as hot water – even alerting management if leaks are detected. Another feature is the ability to automatically buy energy when tariffs are low, avoiding costly peak times use. By embedding the ETL into procurement processes, organisations ensure they are buying the best energy-efficient products. Doing this will reduce the time it takes to find good quality products, and can deliver resource, energy and financial savings.

Lighting efficiency pivotal to environmental policy, says Ecolighting

Steve Gardner, Managing Director of EcolightingUK, discusses how reduced energy consumption has to be the starting point for any realistic energy efficiency policy. Despite great strides taken in recent years to run businesses in a more environmentally-friendly way, companies are still failing to cut their energy consumption, and it’s costing their shareholders and the planet dearly. Organisations across all industry sectors believe they are playing their part by adding solar panels to their buildings, putting up wind turbines in car parks and planting flowers on roundabouts, but a plan to reduce energy consumption has to be the starting point for any realistic energy efficiency policy. Nothing burns more energy within a building than lighting. In fact, it is estimated that in a warehouse or distribution centre, lighting accounts for around 70% of the annual energy spend. But by replacing old and inefficient sodium light fittings with ultra-efficient, modern LED luminaires, these costs and the CO2 emissions that go with them can be cut dramatically. EcolightingUK has improved the lighting at hundreds of sites in its 48-year history, and regularly sees yearly lighting bills drop by around £5,000 (83%) in 12 months. This also results in annual CO2 emissions being slashed from around 29,000 kg to 4,900 kg. Introducing energy efficient lighting will reduce any company’s CO2 emissions and save an organisation a significant amount of money on energy, so companies wanting to get serious about their environmental credibility and operating costs simply have to review their lighting policy. In April 2018, a new legal standard for minimum energy efficiency was brought in for rented commercial buildings. Previously, commercial buildings had an energy efficiency rating of A – G, with F and G as the worst performing. The new law introduced a minimum standard of E, which means that buildings cannot be rented out unless they meet that standard. Industrial buildings are exempt from the new standard, and Ecolighting is calling for that to change. There is currently no accepted means of measuring an industrial building’s energy efficiency. As a result, occupiers have no way of telling if the building is efficient, inefficient or somewhere in between. So a system that gives industrial properties an energy efficiency rating would be hugely beneficial to both existing occupiers and those looking to rent or lease a new unit. Installing a low-energy LED bulb may seem like a trivial contribution to cutting the carbon emissions that are overheating the planet, but if millions choose LED lighting, this will lead to a small but significant dent in the UK's energy demand. Lighting accounts for nearly 6% of global CO2 emissions, so a global switch to energy efficient light emitting diode (LED) technology could save over 1,400 million tonnes of CO2 and avoid the construction of 1,250 power stations.

Select Awards ceremony recognises worthy winners

In a year in which the Scottish electrical industry took another historic step towards being recognised as a profession, Select, the country’s largest trade association, paid tribute to the sector’s leading talent, drive and enterprise at a ceremony held on October 11. Behind the glitz and glamour of the campaigning body’s annual awards ceremony at the Radisson Blu hotel in Glasgow was burgeoning support from all quarters for moves in Holyrood towards Protection of Title. The ceremony also coincided with the cinematic showing of The Current War, a Hollywood film which highlighted the way that electrical power transformed the world and took societies everywhere out of literal darkness. In a world which is increasingly dependent on electrotechnology, Select singled out some of the individuals and companies which have stood out from the crowd and delivered particularly outstanding services. Electrical professionals from companies large and small, and from every part of the country, gathered in Glasgow to submit themselves to the critical judgement of their peers – and emerge as winners. This year also saw a new award category – the Health and Safety Initiative award – which replaced the Best Electrical Safety Project award. Alan Wilson, Managing Director of Select, comments, "There has never been a more exciting time to be part of the electrotechnical industry; a sector which underpins everything we do in our day-to-day lives. “Scotland's electrical trade has earned and maintained a reputation for quality, craftsmanship and excellence, and Select has been instrumental in raising awareness of quality, safety and the highest possible standards. "The 2019 awards are all about recognising top performers, and once again we have been astounded by the response from companies throughout Scotland. Every one of them is a worthy winner." As an example of the growth the sector has experienced, the Best Large Contractor award went to Ayrshire-based Booth Welsh, which has transformed itself from a local company in Irvine into a globally operating concern with hundreds of employees. Wilson notes, "Scotland is very lucky have major players like Booth Welsh – which have gone out into the world and come back with hard-won export orders – in its industrial and commercial portfolio.” Other award winners were as follows: - Apprentice of the Year, won by Marc McQuade, who works with Weir & McQuiston. - Wholesaler Apprentice of the Year, a recently-introduced category, won by Rian Keegan, who works with CEF in Glasgow. - Best Small Contractor, won by Aberdeenshire electrical company, RH Electrical. - Best Medium-Sized Contractor, won by Interlink Lighting and Electrical, of Glasgow. - Best New Product, won by South Wales company Super Rod, for its Ferret WiFi Cable Pulling Tool. - Best Delivery of Customer Service, won by Electrical Solutions Network of Ayrshire. - Best Use of Training, won by JFM Electrical, of Bellshill, Lanarkshire. - Best Visual Promotion, won by for the second time by Ideal Electrical Solutions, of Edinburgh. - Health and Safety Initiative, replacing the Best Electrical Safety Project, and won by EDI-Aberdeen. The Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Schneider Electric, was made to Bernard McAulay (pictured above), Unite the Union’s national officer for construction, allied trades and technicians, who is also a member of the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB). Wilson says, "Bernard McAulay’s focus over the course of many years of high-level union activity and negotiation has always been on the workers he represented and he has never sought the spotlight for himself. “Like many of the people he represents, he has always been a hard worker. He is not only tenacious and determined, but is well known throughout the industry as being very capable of driving a hard bargain on behalf of his members. We are delighted to be able to pay tribute to him.” The evening was hosted by popular radio and television personality, Shereen Nanjiani, and was attended by more than 350 guests from a wide spectrum of companies, ranging from major electrical enterprises to local firms, illustrating the diversity and strength of Scotland's electrical sector.