Acrospire illuminates London’s Morgan's Walk development

Set against the riverside backdrop of Battersea, London’s Morgan’s Walk development has been enhanced with Acrospire’s contemporary Chelsea lanterns – blending modern lighting performance with a design that complements the area’s sought-after aesthetic. Nestled along the River Thames between Battersea Bridge and the landmark Montevetro building, Morgan's Walk is a private estate renowned for its blend of modern living and scenic surroundings. With 66 houses and 156 flats set within 10 acres of landscaped gardens, the estate is designed to offer a tranquil escape in the heart of London. However, as the existing lighting infrastructure aged, residents sought a solution that would enhance safety, maintain the aesthetic integrity of the estate, and provide energy efficiency. Morgan's Walk Management thus partnered with Acrospire to deliver a modern, visually appealing, and high-performance lighting upgrade that would meet the unique needs of the estate while ensuring minimal disruption to the local environment. A total of 53 Chelsea lanterns by Acrospire were installed across the estate. The Chelsea is a contemporary amenity lantern, designed to offer superior photometric performance while blending seamlessly into modern urban environments. The Morgan's Walk team selected Chelsea for its sleek, modern design, which harmonises with the estate's architectural style both during the day and at night. To enhance safety, the SYMAREAWIDE lens provides a symmetrical wide beam, ensuring even illumination across communal areas and walkways and helping residents feel safer after dark. A 3000K colour temperature was specified to align with best practices for urban wildlife protection, minimising light pollution along the Thames. The lanterns, which carry a 12-year warranty, also boast an IK10++ impact rating, ensuring long-lasting performance that withstands potential damage and environmental wear. The new lighting installation at Morgan's Walk successfully enhances both safety and aesthetics while providing a sustainable solution that aligns with the estate's long-term maintenance and environmental goals. Michael Stark, Director of Morgan's Walk Management, comments, "We chose Acrospire's Chelsea lanterns over competitor products because they not only looked great when illuminated, but they also complemented the estate beautifully during the day. Other options lacked a bowl, which meant they could attract insects and cobwebs - an issue we wanted to avoid, especially in a riverside location. "The Chelsea lantern is competitively priced and offers a particularly long warranty, minimising future maintenance costs. The service from Acrospire was second to none, ensuring a seamless installation and an excellent final result." For more from Acrospire, click here.

Michael Smith Switchgear receives King's Award for Enterprise

Michael Smith Switchgear has been honoured with the King’s Award for Enterprise in recognition of the company’s work in sustainable development. The Leicester manufacturer is one of 197 organisations to be recognised with the prestigious business award. The King’s Awards for Enterprise recognises outstanding UK businesses. Now in its 59th year, the award celebrates achievement in four categories: innovation, international trade, sustainable development, and promoting opportunity through social mobility. MSSL is one of only 27 businesses to be honoured in the sustainable development category this year, and it comes after a decade of work on embedding sustainability at the heart of its operations. MSSL achieved Carbon Neutral status in 2022, and is currently seven years ahead of Make UK’s net zero carbon reduction roadmap. It has doubled revenue and workforce over the last nine years, now employing 54 people. MSSL has also proactively enacted a string of sustainability measures which have reduced carbon emissions by 58% since 2018. Speaking to BusinessDesk East Midlands, Sean Smith, Managing Director, says, “It’s great for our team to see their hard work recognised at the highest level. This has never been a box-ticking exercise for us - it’s an area in which we really want to lead change.” The King’s Award recognition comes as Michael Smith Switchgear marks its 40th anniversary. Founded in 1985, MSSL has gone from a small yard behind a Leicester terrace to a purpose-built site that strives to set the standards for sustainable manufacturing. MSSL began its sustainability journey soon after Operations and Finance Director, Emily Smith, joined the company in 2013. Emily, a chartered accountant, has been actively involved in global conservation charities since childhood. Emily comments, “Lots of companies want to move towards net zero but don’t know where to start. This award shows that making a series of small steps over a period of time enables anyone to help protect future generations.” As well as sustainability, MSSL focuses closely on standards and safety, having recently renewed its four ISO certifications - including ISO 14001 for Environmental Management Systems - and recording nine consecutive years of RoSPA Gold Medal Awards. The Rt Hon Liz Kendall MP recently visited MSSL’s site on the Braunstone Frith Industrial Estate, in her Leicester West constituency. She met with team members and saw first-hand the innovative measures underpinning MSSL’s sustainability success. Liz Kendall MP comments, “Michael Smith Switchgear is a brilliant example of how manufacturing growth does not need to compromise net zero ambitions while also creating fantastic roles for apprentices”. For more from Michael Smith Switchgear, click here.

Siemens introduces new ‘training wall’

Siemens continues to invest in its partner training programme with the announcement of the introduction of a ‘training wall’ to enhance the practical experience at its dedicated facility in Manchester. Training has always been at the heart of Siemens' relationships with its partners, with the company recognising the vital role it plays in optimising the potential of its fire safety solutions. The new wall features the Siemens fire safety panels - Cerberus PRO and Cerberus FIT - along with detectors and sounders, including the FDA241 and FDA262 from the aspirating smoke detection (ASD and ASD+) range, all networked to allow engineers to see how the different elements can work together. The wall also has two fire dampers controlled by Siemens actuators which are integrated with the fire safety systems, as well as a PXC4 automation station, a Connect Box IOT unit and a Desigo optic embedded device from Siemens BMS (building management systems) portfolio, all of which can be integrated as part of a Siemens Building X single digital platform. Justin Leeks was appointed as Siemens Fire Product Trainer in 2023 and delivers many of the programmes. He recognises the importance of those undertaking the training being able to actually get experience of using the systems, commenting, “Theory is important, but it only goes so far. I have been a fire systems engineer myself so understand how getting your hands dirty by being ‘under the hood’ and seeing how these systems operate is the best way of learning. This knowledge can then be taken into the field by engineers who understand the specifics of the systems and how to best manage installation, commissioning and maintenance. “One of the benefits of the systems is that a lot of the work can be done in advance, pre-configuring a whole site and thereby offering significant savings in on-site installation and commissioning time. I’d like to thank Advanced Air and Detector Testors for supplying some of the equipment for the wall – it’s great to see that other companies also recognise the value of training the next generation.” The Siemens training programme is designed to be cost effective but comprehensive, with e-learning used to cover the fundamentals, followed by face-to-face training to go into more engineering detail. The training wall has been future-proofed, with a modular approach enabling new products to be added as they are developed. Rob Yates, Siemens' Head of Building Products Fire Safety in the UK and Ireland, adds, “Effective training programmes are vital to the future of the fire safety industry. Much is spoken of the skills shortage which demonstrates all too clearly why it is more important than ever that we invest in the training of those that do choose to go into fire safety engineering. Hopefully, in doing so, not only do we develop their skills, but we also potentially encourage others to consider it as a career option.” For more from Siemens, click here.

Schneider Electric unveils new power security innovations

Schneider Electric, a specialist in energy management and automation, is launching a number of offerings designed to maintain power supply in the event of an outage. The transfer switch innovations increase power security and availability, while reducing downtime by ensuring the supply of power to a building by moving to emergency backup sources, such as generators or batteries, if the primary source goes down. This means organisations can maintain vital services and avoid business disruption and potential financial losses by keeping essential equipment and operations up and running during a power cut. The new automatic transfer switch products include: Acti9 Incoming Automatic Transfer Switch Kit This is a new addition to Schneider Electric’s Acti9 range, equipped with TransferPacT Automatic, providing transfer switching capabilities to an Acti 9 distribution board up to 125A. The transfer switching kit follows the Acti9 design and offers a bolt-on configuration, allowing the option to retrofit onto existing Acti9 equipment. It is an off-the-shelf, ready-to-install innovation that is provided as an all-in-one kit and includes sensing inputs, monitoring, and control logic for source changeover operations. ASCO Single Way Bypass Transfer Switch This is a newly designed switch offering a single-way bypass arrangement. This allows primary power switches to be inspected, tested and maintained without interrupting the supply of power. The new Single Way Bypass ASCO switch offers a current capacity rating from 32A to 400A with IP31 and IP55 ingress protection rating, and is suitable for various applications and conditions. ASCO’s firefighting lift variant ensures that critical applications are able to continue to run efficiently in the event of a fire. TransferPacT – 32A-1600A With a new frame size, the TransferPacT all-in-one transfer switch now offers intelligent transfer switching capabilities between 32A-1600A. TransferPacT provides automatic transfer switching as fast as 500ms, as well as best-in-class power availability, even in extreme working environments. It has a futureproof design allowing for flexible functionality expansion with swappable function modules. It also offers multiple additional functions, including remote control, load shedding, generator control, fire protection and beyond. David Williams, Schneider Electric’s Vice President for Transactional Business, says, “We are having many conversations with organisations about the need for increased power security and availability as the demand continues to rise putting pressure on the grid at times. Few organisations can afford to be without a steady power supply and for some, such as healthcare providers, it can be a life-or-death situation. “Our new transfer switch kits are there to provide peace of mind so that if the primary power source fails, it’s quick and easy to transfer over to emergency sources, keeping vital equipment and operations up and running and limiting the impact.” For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Carhartt launches Sun Defender workwear range

With tradespeople spending hours outdoors and vulnerable to harmful UV rays, dehydration and heat stress, Carhartt has introduced a new Sun Defender range – a collection of durable, high-performance workwear with built-in sun protection that doesn’t have reduce comfort or mobility. Sun Defender fabric is rated to UPF 40+, offering maximum protection by blocking 98% of the sun’s harmful UV rays. The range includes lightweight, breathable garments that help workers stay cool, and each piece in the collection is designed with Carhartt’s Force technology which wicks moisture away from the skin and dries quickly to prevent discomfort in warm conditions. Sun protection on site doesn’t have to mean heavy, restrictive layers, Carhartt says, and its Force Sun Defender Relaxed Fit Pant combines lightweight, durable fabric with UPF 40+ protection, designed to keep tradespeople cool and comfortable while standing up to the rigours of site work. With built-in stretch and a relaxed fit, they offer full freedom of movement – which is essential for climbing ladders, kneeling, and lifting materials throughout the day. Reinforced pockets provide practical storage, while the sweat-wicking fabric helps prevent overheating. For upper-body protection, Carhartt has introduced the Force Sun Defender Lightweight Long-Sleeve Logo Graphic T-Shirt. Made from a lightweight polyester blend, this long-sleeved top offers full arm coverage without adding unnecessary warmth. The breathable, fast-drying material actively pulls sweat away from the skin, keeping contractors cool even in direct sunlight. It’s ideal for roofers, landscapers and anyone working in exposed environments where long hours in the sun are unavoidable. For those who prefer short sleeves but still need UV protection, the Short-Sleeve Logo Graphic T-Shirt delivers the same moisture-wicking and quick-drying benefits, along with UPF 40+ shielding. The relaxed fit ensures all-day comfort while the durable fabric is designed to withstand the demands of a tough working environment. Why UPF-rated workwear matters Many workers assume that a standard cotton t-shirt is enough to protect against the sun, but ordinary fabrics only provide minimal UV protection – often as low as UPF 5. This means harmful rays can still penetrate through the material, increasing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. Carhartt’s Sun Defender range ensures workers are properly protected with fabrics tested and rated to block out the vast majority of UV radiation. Prolonged exposure to the sun is a serious health risk; skin cancer rates are rising in the UK, with outdoor workers among those most at risk due to cumulative exposure. Excessive heat can also lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and even heatstroke, so investing in the right protective clothing is just as important as wearing a hard hat or high-vis vest, Carhartt believes. The Carhartt Sun Defender range makes it easier for workers to stay safe under the sun while focusing on the job at hand. For more from Carhartt, click here.

Doepke UK electrifies the industry with high-quality switchgear

In a world that increasingly demands reliability and speed, Doepke continues to lead the charge by offering state-of-the-art switchgear to industries across the UK. As an innovative company known for its commitment to quality and performance, Doepke ensures that each product it delivers meets the highest safety, functionality and durability standards. Whether powering up commercial sites or supporting industrial operations, Doepke’s switchgear ensures everything runs smoothly. Reliable and safe power distribution Switch or switch fuse versions are available in 3P + N link (unswitched neutral), meeting the requirements for traditional commercial and industrial installations. 4P (switched neutral) versions are available for complex power requirements, such as 3-phase PV incoming supplies and/or TT earthing systems. Higher current requirements With a rating of up to 630A, the switch and switch fuse range is designed to support high-power loads, making it suitable for large-scale industrial machinery or power distribution needs. Proudly assembled in the UK Doepke takes pride in its UK-based assembly process, ensuring all switchgear products are manufactured with the utmost care and attention to detail. By assembling locally, Doepke can offer better quality control and faster response times, making it easier for customers to get their products without delays. Convenient collection and strategic location Located in the Midlands, Doepke offers unbeatable convenience for clients looking to collect their switchgear products through their wholesalers. With a centrally positioned base, customers from all over the country can easily access the products they need by collecting from Doepke's premises in Daventry, Northamptonshire. Fast, next-day delivery In today’s fast-paced world, businesses need equipment quickly to minimise downtime and keep operations on track. Doepke understands this urgency and offers next-day delivery for many of its products. Fast delivery times without compromising quality are a significant factor that sets Doepke apart in the highly competitive switchgear market. Trust Doepke for the best in the business When it comes to switchgear, Doepke is a name you can trust. Headquartered in Germany, with offices worldwide, the company is committed to providing superior products, high-quality materials and fast service, solidifying its leadership in the industry. Doepke offers the expertise and experience to meet all your needs for commercial, industrial or residential projects. Global product, local service All Doepke products are available through wholesalers across the UK. You can benefit from next-day delivery to your local wholesaler or collect directly from the UK depot in Daventry. For more information about Doepke UK: TEL: 01628 829 133 Email: sales@doepke.co.uk

Get ready to power up with the all-new io6 Pro from Ratio

Ratio EV is thrilled to share an exciting sneak peek with you - the company is gearing up to launch the next generation of its popular io6 charger: the io6 Pro and io6 Pro Lux. Packed with new features and designed with both installers and EV drivers in mind, the io6 Pro series sets a new standard in performance, safety and sustainability. Whether you're an EV owner looking for smarter, faster charging or a professional installer seeking a streamlined setup experience, the io6 Pro delivers on all fronts. What’s new? Ratio EV has taken everything you loved about the original io6 and levelled it up. The io6 Pro includes: ✅ Integrated MID-Certified power meter – For ultra-accurate energy monitoring and billing. ✅ Built-in single and 3-phase open PEN fault protection – Enhances charger safety and eliminates the need for costly earth rods. ✅ Simplified installation – Faster, easier setup with click-in terminals and accessible ports. ✅ Lux technology (Separate model coming October 2025) – Plus the io6 Pro Lux also enhances safety with radar-based detection which triggers a white light and illuminates the charging cable. Why you'll love it Designed with a strong focus on convenience, control and energy efficiency, the io6 Pro is a game-changer for EV owners. 🔋 Smart scheduling – Charge when electricity rates are lowest to save money. 📱 Remote control – Manage charging anytime, anywhere via the upgraded Ratio app. 🌱 Eco-friendly – Smart energy management reduces waste and boosts sustainability. ☔ Built to last – Weather-resistant and rugged enough for any setting - home or commercial. ☀️ Solar integration – Seamlessly compatible with home solar and energy storage systems. For installers, it’s a dream Time is money. That’s why the io6 Pro is built with electrical professionals in mind. Faster installs, diagnostic tools and a simplified wiring process make it easier than ever to get your customers up and running with minimal hassle. A word from Ratio "The io6 Pro series represents a significant step forward in EV charging technology," says Tom Jennings, General Manager at Ratio. "With smarter energy use, faster installs and eco-conscious design, we’re proud to deliver a charger that benefits both users and professionals. Plus, it comes in fully sustainable packaging - it’s a win for everyone." Coming soon The io6 Pro will be available June 2025, with the io6 Pro Lux launching in October 2025. Stay tuned for more updates and be the first to experience the future of EV charging. 👉 Learn more and get ready

£1.2 million power upgrade benefits Bromley

UK Power Networks has invested a £1.2 million to upgrade the electricity network for residents in the Ruxley area of Bromley. The upgrade includes the installation of a modern electricity transformer at a local substation, maintaining reliable power supplies to thousands of homes and businesses. The electricity distributor, which serves around 20 million people across London, the South East and East of England, has installed a new transformer that steps down voltage from 33,000 to 11,000 volts. This enables power to be safely distributed to smaller substations and local customers. This project is part of UK Power Networks' £800 million investment programme for the year. Paul Maslen, Project Manager at UK Power Networks, says, “We’re continually investing in our network and the replacement of the transformer at this local substation is a part of our commitment to maintaining a reliable electricity network.” The project began last summer and the new transformer is now operational. UK Power Networks has recently started installing new cables between Ruxley and St Mary Cray, in Orpington, as part of further investment in the local electricity network. UK Power Networks operates and maintains the network of cables, substations, and power lines that deliver electricity to 8.5 million homes and businesses across the South East, London, and East of England. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

EIC announces Stuart Pearce as newest Patron

The Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) has announced that former England footballer and qualified electrician, Stuart Pearce, has joined the charity as its new Patron. Before rising to football fame, Stuart began his career as an apprentice electrician with Brent Council, later running his own electrical business. Even during his early football days at Coventry City and Nottingham Forest, he continued working as a tradesman - famously advertising his services in matchday programmes. Stuart’s first-hand experience in the trade means he truly understands the pressures, demands, and challenges faced by those in our industry, making him the ideal ambassador to help raise awareness and champion the EIC's cause. EIC says that throughout his career, Stuart has embodied resilience, integrity and commitment - qualities that align perfectly with the charity's values. As Patron, he’ll play a key role in amplifying EIC's work and helping us reach more people who need vital support. EIC's Managing Director, Jess Vailima, comments, “At EIC, we provide essential financial, emotional and practical assistance to those in the electrical and energy industries when they need it most. Having Stuart as our Patron is a huge honour, and we know his influence will help us make an even bigger impact.” With Stuart’s support, EIC aims to reach more individuals and families in need, whether they’re facing mental health challenges, financial hardship, or unexpected life events. Stuart Pearce, EIC Patron, remarks, “I am truly honoured to become Patron of EIC. Before my professional football career took off, I was settling into life as an electrician, so I have a real appreciation for the hard work and dedication of those in the electrical and energy industries. I know first-hand the challenges that can come with the job, which is why I’m so passionate about supporting the incredible work that EIC does.” Keep an eye out for upcoming events and initiatives featuring Stuart - including EIC's flagship powerBall event in November 2025 - as he helps the charity shine a spotlight on the electrical and energy sector. For more from EIC, click here.

Data reveals 'postcode lottery' for clean tech installations

Octopus Energy has today released new data revealing significant regional disparities in the time customers have to wait for approvals to install new EV chargers, heat pumps or solar panels. Such approvals are needed to ensure that the local electricity network can support the new connection. If the network can’t cope, a grid upgrade may be required. This process for clean technologies stands in stark contrast to the process for fossil-fuel alternatives, such as gas boilers, which don’t require the same approvals. Approval times for clean technologies can range between one to 45 days, depending on where in the country customers live, the new Octopus data shows. The delays are caused by inconsistent processes among Distribution Network Operators, who manage installation approvals across different regions. This disparity has led to a ‘postcode lottery’ where some homes are green-lit for upgrades within a few days, while others are left waiting for weeks. The data shows a clear North-South divide: customers in the North and Scotland are facing longer delays, especially for solar panel installations, while those in areas served by National Grid Electricity Distribution and UK Power Networks experience the shortest waits – averaging at seven and eight days for all technologies. With enquiries for heat pumps increasing 144% in 2024 compared to the year before and costs for solar panels coming down to record lows, Octopus is calling for urgent action to streamline the approval process, and speed up the UK’s push toward net zero. Alex Schoch, Director of Electrification at Octopus Energy, says, “The UK’s journey to net zero depends on millions of people being able to install clean tech in their homes. “While some are getting these quickly and efficiently, current delays in the worst-hit regions risk leaving many customers in limbo while waiting for approvals that should take hours, not weeks. “We’re shining a light on the blockers and will continue to work with industry and networks to clear the way for faster, fairer access to clean energy tech.” Octopus Energy has outlined five priority actions for DNOs to speed up the process, including increasing the rate of instant approvals and simplifying applications for common LCT installations. For more from Octopus Energy, click here.