MCS reports record January for renewable installations

MCS is reporting a record January for renewable installations, with a particularly strong surge in battery storage and heat pumps. Ian Rippin, CEO at MCS, comments, “The latest data from the MCS Data Dashboard show that January 2025 was the strongest start to the year in Scheme history for certified renewable installations, with 23,021 systems installed – up 26% from January 2024. “Battery storage saw its best month ever, with over 2,600 installations - a 176% increase compared to January 2024. This surge is underpinned by the growth of our certified battery storage installer base, which now exceeds 2,000. “Heat pumps also continue their upward trajectory, with 4,902 installations recorded in January - up 21% on January last year - as more homeowners make the switch to low-carbon heating. This brings the UK’s total number of certified heat pump installations to 280,992 as of the end of January 2025.” MCS holds the most comprehensive repository of data on the uptake of small-scale renewable technologies across the UK on The MCS Data Dashboard. For near-real-time updates on renewable installations, you can sign up for free to The MCS Data Dashboard by clicking here. About The MCS Data Dashboard The MCS Data Dashboard provides near-real-time dynamic visualisations of the uptake of small-scale renewable technologies across the UK. It is divided into two sections: Installation Insights and Scheme Insights. Both can be filtered by year and month, location, technology type and installation type, and the system is updated every 24 hours as new installation data becomes available. Address-level installation data is mapped to the local authority/regional/national geographical levels using a small degree of estimation from postcode to output area, in order to be matched to census data. As there are no live datasets detailing household data for each local authority, uptake percentage figures should be taken as estimates, with their calculation being the total number of installations in an area divided by the total number of households in that same area. For more from MCS, click here.

InstallerSHOW to partner with World Refrigeration Day

InstallerSHOW, taking place on 24-26 June at the NEC in Birmingham, is once again partnering with World Refrigeration Day - and will host a programme of activity on Thursday 26 June, the day when the cooling industry marks its contribution to life and health. In 2025, the show will have even more focus on the cooling industry, addressing its technology and its people, with features including the World Skills Refrigeration Finals, IOR Masterclasses and a range of exhibitors. Building on the success of the partnership at the 2024 show, WRD members will be taking part in sessions to highlight its 2025 theme of 'Cool Skills' at InstallerSHOW. The events on Thursday will include panels and talks looking at: • Encouraging the skills for an inclusive industry • Celebrating the skills of 'Thinking Differently' • Emphasising the skills of up-and-coming engineers Steve Gill, World Refrigeration Day Founder, says, "InstallerSHOW provides a perfect platform for World Refrigeration Day to showcase the vital role of cooling and the people behind it. This year’s theme, ‘Cool Skills’, is all about recognising the expertise, innovation, and problem-solving abilities of those in our industry. It’s exciting to see InstallerSHOW putting an even greater focus on the cooling sector in 2025, making it the ideal place to celebrate and inspire the next generation of skilled professionals.” Underlining his enthusiasm for the 'Thinking Differently’ focus, which continues a series of collaborative initiatives focusing on neurodiversity, Steve remarks, “Recognising and embracing neurodivergent talent isn’t just about inclusivity - it’s about unlocking a wealth of problem-solving skills, creativity, and innovative thinking that directly benefit our industry. As we push the boundaries of cooling and heating technology and sustainability, having a workforce that thinks differently is not just an advantage; it’s essential to our future success." Andrew Gaved, Editor at Large for elemental and Installer, adds, “World Refrigeration Day once again falls within the show week, so it gives us a great opportunity to draw attention to the cooling industry’s achievements, along with its challenges and opportunities. It will also allow us to highlight how important it is to have cooling alongside heating in the heart of net zero conversations.” The two organisations will also be collaborating on industry events at InstallerSHOW’s sister show, elementalLONDON, which is dedicated to improving the efficiency of buildings, and takes place on 19-20 November at ExCeL in London. InstallerSHOW takes place on 24-26 June at the NEC, Birmingham. Register for your free ticket by clicking here. For more from InstallerSHOW, click here.

Hamworthy launches heat pump CPD module

Hamworthy Heating, a technical expert in commercial heating and hot water products, has expanded its CIBSE-accredited Continuous Professional Development (CPD) portfolio with the launch of its latest module, titled 'Considerations for air source heat pump selection, specification and system design’. Designed for anyone involved in plant room design, the module is divided into four easy-to-digest segments and provides valuable information on selecting and sizing air source heat pumps (ASHP) for both new and existing commercial buildings. Beginning with an introduction to the main driving forces behind air source heat pumps, the latest CPD from Hamworthy Heating discusses the various influencing factors to consider when specifying a heat pump. Designed to offer guidance, participants can learn more about the process of sizing air source heat pumps according to their design, load and intended use. Market drivers, such as best practices and government incentives, are also addressed. Participants will gain an appreciation for the various considerations that need to be addressed when specifying and installing a heat pump, such as space and noise and positioning and mounting issues. Additionally, for installers or specifiers considering options, the latest CPD also explores other possible heating and hot water solutions, in hybrid heat pump systems. Delivered in person or online, the new CPD seminar lasts for approximately one hour. For more from Hamworthy Heating, click here.

Recolight announces One-Off EPD Service

Recolight has launched a new One-Off EPD service to make Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) as accessible as possible. EPDs are becoming essential in the lighting industry, with momentum driven, in part, by the EU Green Deal requirements in addition to growing market demand for rigorous environmental metrics. With sustainability always at the heart of Recolight's efforts within the lighting industry, the company has now introduced the new One-Off EPD Service which is designed specifically for manufacturers looking for an economical stepping stone into the world of EPDs. Using all data on materials and components supplied by a manufacturer, Recolight will create and arrange verification of an EPD for a family of lighting products. This allows manufacturers to rapidly create a single EPD, familiarise themselves with the EPD process, and assess their options for future EPD requirements. Commenting on the launch of the service, Max Robson, Recolight’s Environmental Metrics and Training Manager, says, “Outsourcing your first EPD to get started is typically an expensive, and sometimes opaque and lengthy process. Recolight will generate and verify an EPD in weeks, rather than months, and at a cost effective, flat rate with no ongoing costs. You will be kept up to speed on the process, providing you with insights into the EPD process. All EPDs will be verified and published through EPD Hub.” Recolight CEO, Nigel Harvey, adds, “This new service uses the One Click LCA software and dedicated luminaire tool, already used by many lighting manufacturers. It is ideal for manufacturers who want to get their foot in the EPD door, and who need a single, or very low volume of EPDs per year. But as companies gain familiarity with EPDs, and their needs grow, it is likely that it will become more cost-effective to obtain their own licence.” For more from Recolight, click here.

Investment powers Cambridge for the future

A £5.5 million investment has upgraded power supplies in the heart of Cambridge, benefiting thousands of residents for the future. UK Power Networks, which distributes electricity across the East, has commissioned two new electricity transformers in the city, each weighing more than 50 tonnes. The transformers offer scope for greater electrical capacity and will maintain reliable supplies. The new kit is part of the £85 million Fulbourn to Sawston investment programme which UK Power Networks is delivering as part of an ongoing major programme to upgrade the electricity supply for a large part of Cambridge. The transformers receive electricity from the network at 33,000-volts and safely turn it down to 11,000 volts for onward delivery to more than 12,600 local homes and businesses, including the Addenbrookes Hospital area. Philip Woods, Project Manager at UK Power Networks, says, “This investment project will deliver long-lasting benefits in the expanding Cambridge area. It will increase the resilience of the network for residents across a wide area and support growth in demand for EVs, heat pumps and more low carbon technologies connecting to electricity networks.” UK Power Networks owns and maintains the network of cables, substations and power lines that deliver electricity to approximately 20 million people across the East, London and South East of England, regardless of who customers pay their energy bill to. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

NAPIT announces EXPO for ELEX 2025

NAPIT has announced a new and improved EXPO at ELEX 2025, which is designed to deliver an enhanced, interactive experience for industry professionals. With a focus on education, hands-on learning and networking, this year’s EXPO will feature a fresh dynamic stand, expert-led CPD sessions, and opportunities to connect with leading partners in the electrical sector. “The newly designed stand isn’t just about providing information; it’s about hands-on learning and real engagement,” explains Steve Melton, Commercial and Compliance Director at NAPIT. Featuring newly updated rigs alongside a dedicated training section, the new stand gives visitors the chance to interact with the latest technologies and practical demonstrations. Whether visitors are looking to refine their skills, explore new techniques, or stay up to date with industry standards, the NAPIT stand can help. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet NAPIT's technical experts, Frank Bertie, Steve Humphreys, Richard Hughes-Lewis and Andrew Duffen. Their extensive knowledge and experience in the electrical sector is invaluable to professionals seeking advice or insights on the latest industry developments. They will also be delivering a series of CPD sessions throughout the day. CPD sessions are tailored to provide practical knowledge and professional growth opportunities: • 11:10 – 11:40: Installation (Selection & Erection) of Solar PV Systems • 13:50 – 14:20: NAPIT Codebreakers Session • 14:30 – 15:00: Joint FAQs from the Helpline – Questions from Each Organisation + Audience Q&A NAPIT is proud to be introducing new partners Segen, Solutions Lighting, Sync Energy, Solax and Doncaster Cables, joining its trusted network of industry leaders including CHINT, CPN Cudis, MCS, and Flexel. Their presence offers valuable insights into the latest products and innovations in the electrical sector. Visitors will also benefit from exclusive discounts available on the day, with the opportunity to purchase publications, book training sessions, and join NAPIT if they're not already a member. Whether they're looking to expand their knowledge, upgrade their tools, or connect with like-minded professionals, the NAPIT EXPO at ELEX 2025 will cover all bases. Steve notes, “We’re excited to bring a fresh, interactive experience to ELEX 2025 with our new stand and CPD sessions. It’s a fantastic opportunity for professionals to gain hands-on knowledge, connect with industry experts and stay ahead of the latest developments in the electrical industry.” For more from NAPIT, click here.

Octopus and gs8 unveil new ‘Zero Bills’ development

Octopus Energy, the UK’s largest energy supplier, and sustainable housebuilder, gs8, have teamed up to develop the UK's largest ‘Zero Bills’ development in Thornwood, Epping. Building on the success of their first ‘Zero Bills’ site in Walthamstow, Octopus and gs8 have partnered to develop the 113-home site - the housebuilder's largest to date - alongside a revolutionary microgrid design. The innovative scheme will feature centralised battery storage, allowing solar power to be seamlessly shared between properties. The Octopus-accredited site will be developed in line with gs8’s ‘Planet Positive Framework’, meaning it will follow zero waste principles and store more carbon in the homes than is needed to build and maintain them. Launched in 2022, Octopus’ ‘Zero Bills’ tariff enables customers to move into homes that are fully kitted out with state-of-the-art green tech, including a heat pump, a battery and solar panels, with no energy bills guaranteed for 5-10 years. The Thornwood development will feature 35 homes available through affordable rent, with the first properties to be launched in April this year. The plans are shaped by and tailored to the needs of the local community and will introduce several new public spaces with homes bordering a nature reserve. Octopus Energy aims to deliver 100,000 ‘Zero Bills’ homes by 2030, and has already rolled out the initiative in Germany and New Zealand, as well as the UK. Nigel Banks, Zero Bills Director, Octopus Energy, comments, “‘Zero Bills’ is not just about eliminating energy bills - it’s about creating a sustainable future. Our partnership with gs8 to deliver a microgrid community is all about delivering a truly transformative solution that sets a new standard for affordable, eco-friendly living.” Josh Gordon, Co-Founder, gs8, adds, “This is a landmark development for us as a business, building on the ground-breaking regenerative housing approach we’ve been committed to for the past six plus years. “We are delighted to continue our successful partnership with Octopus Energy, a pioneering business which shares our vision and values, and seeking to create homes built for the future and developments that bring positive lasting impacts to local communities." Octopus has already accredited well over 1,000 ‘Zero Bills’ homes through contracts with a number of prominent developers. Accredited homes span affordable and private rent, as well as private and shared ownership. For more from Octopus Energy, click here.

Click Scolmore expands Part M Range with LED indicators

Click Scolmore offers a variety of LED indicator products in its comprehensive Part M visually contrasting wiring accessories range. The LED indicators feature a contemporary design and offer a brighter and more discreet method of modern indication, as opposed to traditional neon indicators. The Part M range includes the following product types with LED indication, all supplied with a 25-year warranty as standard: • 13A Switched Fused Connection Unit • 13A Switched Fused Connection Unit with LED • 13A Switched Fused Connection Unit with LED & Flex Outlet • 13A Fused Connection Unit with LED • 20A Double Pole Switch with LED & Flex Outlet • 50A 1 Gang Double Pole Switch with White Rocker & LED • 50A 2 Gang Double Pole Switch with White Rocker & LED (Vertical Plate) All products in the Part M range are manufactured using Urea Formaldehyde, which is known for its advanced antibacterial and antiviral properties (making it the ideal solution for hospitals and care home settings). Products are also independently tested to achieve a 99.99% kill off rate against bacteria such as MRSA, E. coli, Salmonella, Klebsiella Pneumonia, and enveloped viruses. The full Part M range can be viewed on the Scolmore Group website. For more from Scolmore, click here.

Thorn Lighting announces upgrades to Oxane lantern

Thorn Lighting has announced that its Oxane lantern has been updated, with the new design combining the latest technology standards with a classic aesthetic. Oxane has long been a popular choice for illuminating roads and streets, Thorn tells us - and with its sleek, elliptical styling, it fits seamlessly into modern cities, major highways, and more traditional towns and villages alike. The new generation of Oxane enhances its classic aesthetic while incorporating the benefits of upgraded LED technology, ease of maintenance and Zhaga connectivity. The original Oxane designer, Sweden-based Zachau Design AB, has returned to update the design, and adding some modern flair in the process. Its streamlined, elliptical concept offers a new interpretation of a luminaire design that has stood the test of time. Hans Philip Zachau MSc, of Zachau Design, comments, “Identity, functionality, and vitality were the guiding principles in creating this luminaire. The first generation of Oxane made a statement with its originality and distinctiveness. The new generation will honour these values, not only by reflecting on its origins, but also by looking into the future. The new design is even more dynamic and slim, with crisp feature lines that accentuate the oval theme.” Oxane’s design is about more than just aesthetics, Thorn states. Circularity was a core principle in the design of this luminaire – starting with the packaging, which is entirely plastic-free. Furthermore, Oxane’s 100% recycled aluminium body uses a highly corrosion-resistant alloy, and all components can be replaced or changed, using a clever and robust tool-free opening system, for simple maintenance and upgrade. No glue is used throughout the manufacturing process, making it easy to manage end of life as well. Oxane is equipped with high performance LEDs able to still provide up to 98% of their initial output after 100,000 hours of operation, making it an ideal long-term product. A wide range of optics are available for highly efficient and comfortable light, exactly where it is needed, whether lighting a residential street, a busy road, a cycle path, or a pedestrian area. With optional Zhaga connectivity, Oxane can be combined with Thorn’s UrbaSens control platform for an even more tailored lighting offering. Light pollution and obtrusive light is a global concern, but Oxane responsibly leads the way with <1% Upward Light Output Ratio, optional internal louvres, a number of CCT options and NightTune compatibility. Thorn’s innovative NightTune technology automatically adjusts lumen output and colour temperature throughout the hours of darkness, balancing human needs whilst minimising ecological impact. For more from Thorn Lighting, click here.

ESP's Beacon disabled refuge range

ESP’s comprehensive Beacon disabled refuge range is being increasingly sought after by contractors working on larger, specification type projects. Meeting the requirements of BS 9999:2017 and Building Regulations Approved Document B, the Beacon range comprises a variety of products that are specifically designed to assist emergency evacuation situations in a wide range of buildings and venues – with the aim of assisting people with limited mobility to safely exit the building. The Beacon ‘Master Stations’ are the central point of the disabled refuge system, which combines Fire Telephone Handsets, Disabled Refuge Outstations and Emergency Alarms to form one fully integrated system. Master Station - There are two Beacon Master Station options available: a push button version with 2-8 lines, and a touchscreen version with capacity for up to 512 lines to support a wide range of communication devices. During an emergency, the Master Station identifies the location of the Outstation that has been activated, with clear duplex audio to assist an evacuation process. Disabled Refuge Outstations - Known as ‘Type B’ Outstations, these provide a fixed point of communication in a building for users who require evacuation or assistance. Situated in refuge areas usually found in protected stairwells, the Outstation provides duplex audio to the Master Station, which is located in the building’s control room, or at the access points for the fire service. Fire Telephone Handsets - Known as ‘Type A’ Outstations, these are for use by the fire and rescue service during an evacuation, allowing the officer at the fire control centre to communicate with other officers to control the evacuation. The ‘Type A’ Outstation activates a call to the Master Station to assist the fire and rescue service. Assist Call Range - This comprises a number of expandable three-part Assist Call Kits and accessory products which interface with the Master Station, identifying the location of the alarm upon activation. These include a Toilet Kit, as well as a Bedroom Kit suitable for hotels, residential and student accommodation. IP-rated modules are also available as part of the Assist Call accessories range, suitable for wet rooms and for areas of high moisture and humidity. The options include Call Button, Call Plate and Cancel Plate. ESP’s Beacon disabled refuge and assistance alarm range is supported by a dedicated, UK-based technical team, and will offer contractors and specifiers access to a free design service, compliant with the latest BS5839-9:2021 regulations. A brochure covering the whole of the Beacon range, along with examples of how the components of the system integrate is available to download from the ESP website and from the Scolmore Group app. For more from Scolmore Group, click here.