'School leavers should consider electrical apprenticeships'

As thousands of young people across Scotland receive their exam results, two electrical bodies have reminded students that there’s no wrong path to a rewarding and successful career in the electrotechnical industry. With many school leavers unsure of their next step, and others disappointed by their grades, SELECT and the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) have highlighted the valuable opportunities and potential high earnings offered through an electrical apprenticeship. Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT, says, “This week’s results will have brought joy for some and disappointment for others, but our message is simple: there is no wrong path. “We want young people and their parents to understand that an electrical apprenticeship is a highly respected and financially rewarding career option that offers lifelong skills and exciting opportunities. "Qualified electricians earn excellent salaries and their services are in high demand here in Scotland and across the world. “A great number of our members are always on the lookout for potential apprentice recruits, so whether you’ve achieved top grades or are still unsure about what comes next, this is a chance to build a future that’s hands-on, challenging, and constantly evolving. After all, the future is electric.” Catherine Gillon, Secretary of the SJIB, adds, “Becoming an electrician means joining an economically crucial, modern profession with increasing demand, especially in areas like renewables, electric vehicles, and smart technology. “Apprentices are supported throughout their journey and come away with respected industry qualifications that open doors around the world. “We encourage anyone with an interest in how things work and a desire to learn to consider applying. It’s never too late to start.” As the country transitions to a net zero future, demand for skilled electricians has never been higher, and apprenticeships remain one of the most effective ways to develop talent for the future. Catherine continues, “Getting started as an electrical apprentice is easy, with typical entry requirements being National 4/5 in English, maths, and a science or technical subject. “Anyone interested in finding out more and applying to become an apprentice should contact the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), who manages Scotland’s industry-approved training scheme for electrical apprenticeships on behalf of the SJIB.” From music to multi-metres: Scott’s story A shining example of the varied paths into the electrical profession is Scott Ahern, who was crowned 2024 SJIB Apprentice of the Year last October. After studying music at college and working a range of manual jobs, Scott changed direction in his mid-20s and is now thriving as a qualified electrician with DRB UK Maintenance in Hamilton. Scott, from East Kilbride, comments, “I didn’t think it would be possible to start an apprenticeship later in life, but I’m so glad I did. “I’ve been lucky to work on major electric vehicle charger projects across the UK and now I’m aiming to become an Approved Electrician and even run my own business one day. “My message to anyone unsure about their future is simple: just go for it. You’ll be supported every step of the way and the opportunities are endless.” For more from SELECT, click here.

LIA announces keynote speaker for TECH-X

The Lighting Industry Association (LIA) has announced Ricky Nuttall as the keynote speaker for the inaugural TECH-X: Technical Excellence Conference, taking place on Wednesday, 10 September 2025 at Convene, 133 Houndsditch in the City of London. A former firefighter, mental health advocate, award-nominated screenwriter, and published poet, Ricky Nuttall is best known for his service during the Grenfell Tower fire and his advocacy work around trauma, PTSD, and recovery. His keynote is expected offer a human-centred perspective to open a day that is intended to provide deep technical insight and sector-wide collaboration. The event TECH-X 2025 is a brand-new conference built entirely around feedback from the lighting industry. The event will bring together lighting professionals, designers, engineers, manufacturers, regulators, and policy leaders for a packed day of dialogue and discovery across three dedicated stages: • Main Stage - Tech Talks Arena: Standards, compliance, regulation, and sustainability including major updates to IEC 60598 and 61347, plus insights on CE/UKCA, BREEAM V7, and more. • Lighting Design Stage: Exploring innovation, inclusive design, AI, neurodiversity, Part L, and the future of lighting for people and place. • Connected Lighting Stage: A deep-dive into smart systems, cyber resilience, hybrid integration, residential tech trends, and data-driven value creation. In addition to Ricky’s keynote, TECH-X will feature a line-up of expert speakers from LightingEurope, CIBSE, OPSS, BSI, and beyond. Key topics will include: • Single Lighting Regulation and market surveillance • Batteries in luminaires and sustainability • Circularity, remanufacturing, and transparent supply chains • Lighting controls, data integration, and digital innovation “This conference isn’t just about technical updates,” claims Ayça Donaghy, CEO of The LIA. “It’s about understanding what’s changing, asking better questions of how we design and deliver, and remembering the people affected by the choices we make. "Ricky Nuttall brings a perspective that helps us hold on to that, the human side of progress.” TECH-X 2025 is open to all, with limited places available. For more from the LIA, click here.

Toolstation selects Slimstock to improve supply chain

Toolstation, a UK supplier of tools, accessories, and building supplies, is revamping its inventory management. With over 25,000 products available online and in over 590 shops nationwide, Toolstation has partnered with Slimstock, a knowledge partner and provider of the supply chain planning platform Slim4, to boost product depth across its multi-channel retail operation. Laying the foundations As a brand within the Travis Perkins Group, Toolstation says it continues to invest in its supply chain and suggests that the latest partnership with Slimstock will "lay the foundation for a more efficient and connected supply chain planning operation." Jonathan Rendall, Head of Supply Chain at Toolstation, states, “To ensure fast, reliable service in-store and online as our operation scales, we need an integrated and scalable supply chain framework.” The right tools for the job Toolstation will adopt Slimstock’s supply chain planning platform, Slim4, to address challenges around forecasting, inventory management, and replenishment. As part of the transformation project, Slimstock will also support Toolstation in empowering the planning team through up-skilling and enabling improved cross-functional collaboration. By streamlining processes, improving visibility, and automating planning workflows, Toolstation expects Slimstock will underpin its goals. These are to: • Improve product availability and deliver good customer experience across every channel • Improve operational efficiency to accelerate business growth • Navigate increasing operational complexity Jonathan continues, “Slimstock will play a pivotal role in unifying our operation, driving efficiency as we better position the business to meet its promise to thousands of customers across the UK.” Why Slimstock Following an extensive review of the market, Toolstation selected Slimstock to support its supply chain transformation. Slimstock’s industry experience and implementation process were reportedly decisive factors. Jonathan concludes, “We needed a partner who could offer not only a proven technology solution but also work with us to create more effective processes. "The strong chemistry between the Toolstation and Slimstock teams throughout the selection process assured us that Slimstock is the right partner to deliver value to our customers." For more from Toolstation, click here.

Acrospire lights up Newbridge footbridge

British LED lighting manufacturer Acrospire has enhanced pedestrian safety on Newbridge’s Joe Calzaghe Footbridge with a targeted retrofit lighting scheme. Working with Caerphilly County Borough Council, Acrospire supplied LED modules to replace part of the original, failing illuminated handrail system, aiming to improve visibility while maintaining the bridge’s sleek aesthetic. The Joe Calzaghe Footbridge - a pedestrian and cyclist link in Newbridge, South Wales - connects the town centre with its railway station, leisure centre, and comprehensive school. Originally built in 2009 as part of a regeneration initiative, the bridge plays a key role in supporting sustainable travel and reconnecting parts of the community previously divided by the railway and river. However, over a decade on, lighting issues had started to compromise the safety and usability of this well-used footbridge. The original illuminated handrail system was failing and a new solution was urgently required. Working with Caerphilly County Borough Council, Acrospire provided a retrofit system to address the bridge’s most problematic lighting sections. The project involved multiple site trials to ensure compatibility with the original design and meet the council’s safety and aesthetic requirements. Acrospire supplied 40 3-Pod and 30 6-Pod linear LED modules in a 4000K neutral white. These were engineered to fit within the existing recessed sections of the bridge handrail, allowing integration without structural alterations. Due to their flexible beam orientation and glare control, the new units reportedly deliver enhanced visual clarity for users while minimising light spill onto adjacent habitats. Only one-third of the bridge was retrofitted with new units, allowing the council to redeploy salvaged working fixtures to other failing sections, maximising efficiency and extending the life of the original system. Gareth Fleming, Senior Engineer, Street Lighting, Caerphilly County Borough Council, comments, “The retrofit lighting scheme delivered by Acrospire for the Joe Calzaghe Footbridge is an excellent example of quality engineering and collaborative working. "The custom-built LED modules have been seamlessly integrated into the existing structure, preserving the visual appeal of the bridge while significantly improving safety and reliability. "Acrospire’s commitment to delivering a tailored solution through detailed site trials and precise manufacturing has resulted in a high-standard installation that enhances both pedestrian safety and the bridge’s aesthetic appeal.” For more from Acrospire, click here.

Legrand launches new lighting control platform

Legrand UK & Ireland, a manufacturer of electrical and digital building infrastructure equipment, has introduced a new lighting control platform designed for complex buildings, including commercial offices, hospitals, sports venues, and other large infrastructure projects. The platform, known as Wattstopper PLUS and powered by Encelium technology, supports both wired and wireless DALI-2 configurations. It is compatible with Legrand’s CP Electronics sensors and can be implemented across new or existing developments, including hybrid systems where buildings may be added or extended over time. Wattstopper PLUS supports all DALI dimmable and non-dimmable luminaires, making it suitable for both new-build and retrofit applications. The platform has also been developed to meet the requirements of Approved Document L, Volume 2, by providing energy usage data in a format that aligns with statutory reporting obligations. One notable feature is the ability to carry out a large portion of the commissioning process off-site. This is made possible through a virtual database that replicates the physical system layout, allowing early configuration work and reducing the likelihood of disruption during construction or renovation phases. Russell Vanstone, Product Manager, Connected Buildings at Legrand UK & Ireland, comments, “Meeting the needs of occupants with quality lighting that continually adjusts according to changing conditions through the day can have a major impact on both wellbeing and energy consumption. "Getting lighting right is critical to the success of any major development or renovation project. “Wattstopper PLUS draws upon Legrand’s decades of experience in lighting [and] digital building products, including sensor technologies, to deliver a high-end lighting system that caters for projects with the most stringent demands for quality lighting controls.” Legrand provides project support from early-stage design through to post-installation servicing. This includes layout planning, system integration advice, logistics coordination, on-site and remote commissioning, and long-term technical support. The company will demonstrate Wattstopper PLUS and other Connected Buildings solutions at LiGHT25, where it will be exhibiting at stand T14. For more from Legrand, click here.

Record number of renewables being installed into UK homes

According to data from UK quality assurance scheme MCS, there were a record 170,000 certified renewable installations in the first six months of 2025. This is a 37% increase on the equivalent period last year and a 33% increase on the previous highest start to a year in 2023. The record number of installations is fuelled by three technologies: solar panels, battery storage, and heat pumps. Key figures • There were 120,000 certified solar panel installations in the first six months of 2025, a 36% increase on the same period for last year and 13% higher than the previous Jan-June record which was set in 2012. • Battery storage saw almost 20,000 installations, a 130% increase on the same period last year. • There were 30,000 certified heat pump installations, a 12% increase on last year’s record start to a year. MCS data shows that there were almost 50,000 renewable installations on new build properties, accounting for 28% of the total for the year so far. This is almost double the figure for January - June 2024, where 21% of certified renewables went onto new builds. With the Future Homes Standard set to mandate solar panels and low carbon heating in new build homes from 2027, this highlights the massive potential for growth in the industry as the government works towards key housebuilding targets. One of the key drivers behind the increasing number of renewable installations is financial support from the Government through schemes such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan, the Social Housing Net Zero Fund, and ECO4. For example, data from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) highlights the impact that government incentives are having on heat pump uptake. The latest figures available (January - March 2025) show that 11,737 heat pump installations were government supported (either wholly or partially), which equates to about three quarters of total heat pump installations. Ian Rippin, CEO at MCS, comments, “Across all renewable technologies, we are seeing a dramatic rise in the number of installations being delivered into homes – helping to reduce energy bills for consumers and drive down emissions. "Crucially, there are also more MCS-certified installers than ever before, which means a growing capacity to deliver high-quality installations at volume into people’s homes. “With roughly 14% of greenhouse gas emissions estimated to come from domestic heating, it’s critical that installations of low-carbon technologies are delivered to a high quality. "As installation numbers continue to rise, we’re proud of the vital role that MCS standards continue to play in giving everyone confidence in the ability of home-grown technology to heat and power their homes.” Miatta Fahnbulleh, Minister for Energy Consumers, says, “People can save hundreds of pounds off their energy bills when installing renewable and low-carbon technologies like solar panels, heat pumps, and batteries. “So it is no wonder that installations in the first six months of 2025 have broken records, as households recognise it just makes financial sense. “That is why we are also pushing ahead with our Warm Homes Plan, which will deliver lower bills and warmer homes for millions of families.” Charlotte Lee, Chief Executive at the Heat Pump Association, adds, “It’s fantastic to see the continued growth in heat pump installations, solar panels, and battery storage into 2025. "With electrification firmly on the Government’s agenda, this suite of measures will play a vital role in reducing consumer bills, enabling flexibility, and enhancing the UK’s energy security. "The recent Spending Review confirmed £13.2 billion for delivering the Government’s Warm Homes Plan, a significant commitment, which we expect to outline further support for the electrification of heat.” Chris Hewett, Chief Executive of trade association Solar Energy UK, explains, “More and more households and businesses are seeing how rooftop solar installations and battery systems deliver dramatically lower bills. "But there are wider benefits too. More solar also means a more secure energy system, less at the whim of geopolitical crises. It also means more investment going into local economies via the thousands of installers that are MCS certified, not to mention lowering greenhouse gas emissions.” Beth Mukushi, Head of Programme Delivery at Home Energy Scotland, concludes, "With heat pumps being a key part of the UK's transition to net zero by moving homes away from polluting, expensive fossil fuels, the uplift in installations is really encouraging. "In Scotland, we've been pleased to see an increase in applications to grants and loans for heat pumps in the last financial year. Government-backed schemes such as these are crucial to help people with the upfront cost of renewable technologies, ensuring that no one is left behind in the transition to a low carbon society.” For more from MCS, click here.

Staying alert to safe isolation processes

A number of sources working across the electrical industry report that injuries caused by electrical accidents are still all too prevalent. Ensuring electrical equipment and circuits are dead is vital when it comes to the safeguarding of people and assets. A robust safe isolation procedure is essential for helping to reduce the number of electricity-related injuries and fatalities within the workplace. Proving a circuit dead sounds relatively simple, but establishing real confidence around the procedure and understanding exactly how to prove dead starts with a rigorous electrical safety process and a focus on safer working practices. Isolation, locking off, labelling, and proving dead are all critical components because they ensure the safety of both those working on the installation and other tradespeople or members of the public who might be on the premises. The Martindale 'ALIVE' campaign, from the manufacturer of electrical test equipment, aims to create a simple, memorable acronym to help in an ongoing mission to safeguard workplaces. Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale Electric, explains, “We need to acknowledge that, in terms of the safety of individuals, there is a difference between the activities that should take place prior to working - such as gaining permission and permits, for example - compared to the activities that are totally critical in terms of preventing accidents and fatalities. "For instance, a risk assessment is a critical element of any job, but it is not core to safe isolation in terms of staying alive. The same is true for activities that take place after working on an electrical system, such as safe re-testing and start-up. “In developing our 'ALIVE' message, we are distinguishing between good working practice (such as our complete 12-step approach) and shining a spotlight on the five vital steps that absolutely must be carried out to protect yourself and your team, and to prevent loss of life. "Streamlining the message and focusing on the most vital elements, the 'ALIVE' process is, quite literally, what will help keep you safe.” ALIVE: Five steps to safe isolation A - Approved Kit Before starting, make sure your equipment meets all legal safety standards (BS EN61243-3, BS EN6010-1). L - Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) Identify the point of isolation, lock it off, and place warning tags onto the equipment. I - Initial Prove Test your Voltage Indicator (VI) against the proving unit to make sure it is working correctly. V - Voltage Test Use your VI to confirm dangerous voltage levels are not in the circuit you are about to work on. E - Ensure Prove and re-test the VI against the proving unit to ensure it is still functioning before working on the circuit. Steve continues, “There are no reasonable circumstances in which you should be working with live equipment. "By making this process as straightforward as possible, our hope is that more maintenance engineers, more technicians, more operatives, more electricians, and more hard-working people will go home safely to their families at the end of their working day. "It really is as simple as that. Every injury or life lost to such incidents is absolutely tragic. It is all of our responsibilities to prevent this from happening and we will keep spreading the message until the vital steps of the ALIVE campaign are second nature to everyone working around electricity.” For more from Martindale Electric, click here.

Salko expands nuclear operations as demand rises

Mechanical and electrical engineering specialist Salko UK is ramping up its operations across the UK’s nuclear sector as it expands its team of security-cleared professionals active on high-priority sites. The Yorkshire-based firm, which recently marked 25 years in business, currently has 20 technical professionals with specialist clearance to work on nuclear power plants - a level of access that requires extensive vetting and is in high demand across the industry. These specialists, including controls and Instrument technicians, electricians, riggers, mechanical fitters, and support staff, are deployed on vital contracts across the country as the UK scales up its nuclear capacity in support of national net zero targets. Alongside its nuclear-ready team, Salko UK says it has built a wider labour base of trained personnel ready to support mechanical and electrical engineering projects across power generation, construction, mining, and infrastructure. This announcement follows the Government publishing its Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan to ensure the clean energy revolution is built in Britain. Sim Sharphouse, Operations Manager at Salko UK, comments, “In a sector with high entry barriers, the level of clearance needed to access a nuclear plant is significant, but we’ve invested in getting the right people through those processes. “At Salko UK, we’re committed to creating a skilled, site-cleared pipeline of workers, allowing us to move fast when our clients need us, whether on long-term infrastructure work or rapid-response technical support. “We’re proud to be supporting projects that contribute to the UK’s energy independence and we’re equally proud to be growing a workforce that can keep up with the pace of change in energy, engineering, and infrastructure.” For more from Salko UK, click here.

DW Windsor delivers Gosport Harbour lighting upgrade

DW Windsor, a UK manufacturer of exterior lighting equipment for public and commercial outdoor applications, has completed a bespoke lighting upgrade for Gosport Harbour, replacing over 100 lanterns while maintaining the distinctive visual identity of the original scheme first installed to mark the millennium. Located on the edge of the Solent, Gosport Harbour’s lighting has long featured a unique design inspired by maritime forms, specifically echoing the shape of a ship’s masthead. The new lighting retains this heritage character while introducing energy-efficient LED technology and improved performance. DW Windsor was commissioned to provide a like-for-like design that respected the harbour’s historic setting. The original scheme used two separate light sources: a SON lamp for white functional lighting, and a metal halide lamp for decorative blue light. The updated version replicates this concept using two dedicated LED sources: one to deliver precise white light via modern optics, and another to provide the distinctive soft blue glow that has become synonymous with the harbour’s night-time appearance. The new lanterns were developed to withstand the challenging coastal environment. Manufactured with marine-grade paint finishes, high-grade stainless steel components, and robust gasketed seals, the fittings were tested in DW Windsor’s in-house laboratory to ensure compliance with relevant Ingress Protection (IP) ratings. The updated lanterns are compatible with the original custom-designed columns and brackets, allowing for visual consistency and minimising installation disruption. To accommodate the complex design brief, the manufacturing process included a combination of cast components, CNC-machined parts, and specialised plastics. Given the size and weight of the luminaires, additional lifting points and reinforced couplers were incorporated to support safe handling and fitting on site. The project was delivered in partnership with contractor Enerveo as part of a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) agreement with the local authority. Martyn Dancer, Interim Regional Director (PFI’s South) at Enerveo, comments, “This project demonstrates what can be achieved when collaboration, craftsmanship, and respect for heritage come together. "Working alongside DW Windsor, we’re proud to have played our part in delivering a lighting solution that honours Gosport Harbour’s history while providing a resilient, sustainable future for this iconic waterfront.” Alex Winship, Specials Product Design Manager at DW Windsor, adds, “This project required balancing heritage and performance in a challenging environment. "From how a lantern looks during the day to how it performs at night, and how it stands up to the elements over time, every detail matters. "The key is flexibility: listening to the client’s needs, understanding the character of the place, and adapting our designs to suit.” For more from DW Windsor, click here.

EIC partners with ANDYSMANCLUB for Suicide Prevention Day

World Suicide Prevention Day is on 10 September. Suicide is the single biggest killer of men under the age of 45, so the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) believes it's hugely important that we eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health in our industry. The EIC is teaming up with ANDYSMANCLUB to offer a Wellbeing Talk on Suicide Prevention. Together, their aim is to reduce the stigma and create safe, judgement-free spaces for men to be open about the storms affecting their lives. This month’s talk is designed to be free of pressure and there is no obligation to speak if you do not feel comfortable – you’re welcome to simply listen and learn. You can tune into this wellbeing talk on Wednesday, 3 September from 12pm to 1pm. ANDYSMANCLUB offers weekly, free-to-attend, peer-to-peer support groups for men aged over 18 and focus on raising awareness and spreading the word to as many people as possible. What you can do to help Listen non-judgementally: When someone talks about their difficulties, it can be tempting to offer immediate solutions or try to lighten the mood. But in these moments, the most important thing is to provide sympathetic, non-judgemental support. Actively listening: Sometimes people just need to be heard. Simply giving our full attention and listening can stop people from feeling isolated and can give opportunities for emotional release. Unhurried listening also builds trust – so let them talk at their own pace. Signposting: If someone is feeling suicidal, it can help to direct them to professionals, people who are trained to deal with suicidal thoughts. The first steps are often to seek advice from a GP. However, there are also alternatives such as The Hub of Hope, CALM, and The Samaritans. The EIC offers counselling services to anyone in our industry who is experiencing suicidal thoughts or who has been bereaved by suicide. You can read more about suicide prevention here. Contacts If you or someone you know is affected, please don't hesitate to reach out via EIC's helpline on 0800 652 1618 or by emailing at support@electricalcharity.org . For general information, please contact their fundraising team directly by calling 020 3696 1710 or by emailing at fundraising@electricalcharity.org . For more from the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC), click here.