First speakers named for Circular Lighting Live 2025

WEEE compliance scheme Recolight’s UK event dedicated to sustainable lighting, Circular Lighting Live 2025, returns to London on 25 September 2025. As part of this announcement, the company has revealed the first tranche of speakers for the event, which itself is dedicated to sustainable lighting and the circular economy. Taking place at The Minster Building, London, this year’s conference will once again bring together bright minds and impactful voices from across the lighting industry. With more speakers to be announced in the coming weeks, this first release already promises an insightful programme for professionals across the sector. Eight curated sessions to drive industry transformation • Climate-driven Design: Insight from Asela Rodrigo and Hamish Angus McAndrew on sustainability practices adapted from Mount Everest expeditions. • The Regulatory Roadmap: A forward-looking session with Teresa Selvaggio of LightingEurope outlining the complex web of incoming UK and EU policies shaping the future of lighting design and manufacturing. • Smart Remanufacturing: Featuring Thorlux Lighting’s retrofit of Aston University Library, cutting carbon and enhancing functionality through intelligent upgrade strategies. • Managing Metrics: From TM66 updates to Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), this session includes Recolight’s Max Robson on practical specification using robust environmental data. TM66 co-author Kristina Allison updates on the development TM66 and what to expect in Version 1 • Creative Cat A: Paul Beale of 18 Degrees presents a radical rethink of office fit-out lighting through rental and reuse models, supported by a documentary showcasing early pilot projects. • Innovations in Circularity: Examining pioneering materials and product concepts, Sylvania Group Regional Director Gareth Petley explores the OptiClip, its development, application, and unique properties. • Closing the Loop: Insights from SAS International Business Development Manager Tim Phillpot on developing a viable market for reclaimed and remanufactured ceiling tiles – a model that offers lessons for the wider built environment. • Pioneering Projects: Benz Roos of Speirs Major shares experience from relighting Utrecht’s Dom Tower using reused luminaires, navigating optical and design challenges. New for 2025 are ‘Just One Thing’ micro-presentations – short, punchy case studies showcasing real-world circular success stories – and a 'Moonshot Panel,' which aims to challenge conventional thinking and propose industry-shaping ideas. Complementing these formats is a larger exhibition space, allowing for hands-on interaction with the latest sustainable lighting from leading brands. From materials and controls to components and complete luminaires, the showcase hopes to provide a uniquely-focused, single-day opportunity to see and compare the latest in sustainable design. For more from Recolight, click here.

Drayton launches educational 'Sofa Sessions' series

Drayton, a UK-based manufacturer of heating controls and smart home systems, has released the first episode of its new Sofa Sessions series, which will explore pressing topics in the housing sector, share insights, and highlight pivotal talking points for housebuilders and social housing providers. Backed by 75 years of experience in designing and manufacturing products for energy-efficient domestic heating systems, Drayton is to release a further session on its YouTube channel this summer, with the sessions covering topics ranging from fuel poverty, funding schemes, decarbonisation, the new build market, and Boiler Plus legislation. During each episode, all aimed at professionals within the housing industry, the Sofa Sessions will take a deep dive into these themes as part of a discussion with industry experts. Viewers will have access to expert opinions and insight on areas including how the health and wellbeing of residents can be improved through warmer homes, the necessity to achieve net zero by 2025, and future home standards, as well as funding availability through schemes and specific legislation. Andrew Baines, National Sales Manager at Drayton, comments, “We’re thrilled to launch [the] Sofa Session series as a continuation of Drayton’s commitment to sharing knowledge and educational content throughout the industry. The topics have been specifically selected to ensure each episode reflects relevant talking points, drives conversation around these areas, and offers those in the industry a reliable source of expert advice and information.” For more from Drayton, click here.

CU Phosco completes lighthouse replacements on River Thames

CU Phosco, a UK designer and manufacturer of exterior lighting equipment, has replaced three structurally compromised historic lighthouses at Crossness, Coldharbour, and Margaretness along the River Thames. Commissioned by the Port of London Authority, the project involved designing, manufacturing, and installing modern, 8m mid-hinge columns fitted with solar-powered beacons - eliminating the need for working at height while preserving the visual identity of the vital navigational aids. The Port of London Authority (PLA) is responsible for maintaining safe navigation on one of the UK's busiest inland waterways. As part of its ongoing infrastructure programme, structural inspections revealed that three existing lattice tower lighthouses — those at Crossness, Coldharbour, and Margaretness — had reached the end of their serviceable life. These historically significant structures, initially installed by Trinity House in the early 20th century, were in a deteriorating condition. To ensure continued safe navigation along this stretch of the Thames, CU Phosco was appointed via competitive tender to design and install replacement solutions that would meet heritage sensitivities and modern safety standards. CU Phosco proposed and delivered three 8m lightweight mid-hinge columns, each supporting a free-issue solar-powered beacon. The red-painted columns retain the original structures' traditional appearance and focal height, ensuring continuity for mariners and minimal visual disruption. Each column is equipped with a mid-hinge mechanism, allowing the beacon to be lowered for maintenance without the need to work at height - improving operational safety and reducing ongoing maintenance risks. Access to each location was particularly challenging, with the sites positioned along narrow towpaths. CU Phosco used specialist-tracked cranes and MEWPs to ensure a safe and efficient installation, as well as carefully dismantling and removing the original towers in sections. By safely decommissioning the ageing lattice towers, CU Phosco has removed a potential structural risk and replaced it with a durable, modern alternative that aligns with the Port of London Authority's long-term infrastructure goals. Mark Collier, Civil Engineer, Port of London Authority, comments, “[It] was a pleasure working with the whole CU Phosco team to help PLA safely deliver the replacement of three lighthouses with new lowering masts. These new masts eliminate any need for PLA operatives to work at height on the lighthouses. "CU Phosco successfully managed the project's difficult logistical challenge of accessing the remote sites on towpaths right beside the Thames. We are very happy with the overall delivery from start to finish.” For more from CU Phosco, click here.

Martindale Electric launches new EV socket tester

Martindale Electric, a manufacturer of electrical test equipment, has unveiled what it describes as a "first-of-its-kind" EV socket tester. The BZ820-EV performs functional electrical checks on electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) charge points with Type-2 connectors. The single phase BZ820-EV detects 28 wiring fault conditions as well as checking and indicating the voltage supply level as high or low. Correct polarity is indicated by three flashing green LEDs and a continuous audible tone, while fault conditions are indicated by three red LEDs and an intermittent warning buzzer. Meanwhile, socket polarity and earth wiring faults are identified by a combination of red LEDs. A look up chart on the tester provides basic fault diagnosis. While the BZ820-EV connects directly to an EVSE charging point using the Type-2 connector, the integral CP mode four-position slider switch allows vehicle states to be simulated: no vehicle connected is (A), vehicle connected but not ready to charge is (B), vehicle connected and ready to charge is (test mode C), and the additional “E” (error) setting simulates failure of the CP signal, which causes the charger to inhibit charging. Additionally, LEDs on the integral Type-2 plug show the status of the CP signal and whether the voltage supply is present (L1). There’s also testing for the correct wiring of L, N, and PE in a three-wire cable. The company says the product is suitable for indoor and outdoor use, but in dry conditions only. It is designed, as with other socket testers, to be used as a first line tester, not as an alternative to a full installation test. For more from Martindale Electric, click here.

Batt Cables invests in creating new jobs in Doncaster

A leading cables distributor, Batt Cables, has announced a major new logistics centre acquisition in South Yorkshire as part of its long-term growth strategy and to maximise the growing demand for cable solutions in the UK. The 250,000 ft², new-build facility in Doncaster is creating 50 new jobs in the area to help run the operation. Batt is the longest established cables distributor in the UK, with operations across Europe and the USA. The new site is a key part of its ambitious growth plans to increase the company’s nationwide distribution capabilities and enable further improvements in customer service. The Doncaster site complements existing Batt facilities in Edinburgh, Manchester, Bristol, and Erith. Among the new roles being created are managerial positions in operations planning, transport, and site management. Beyond the management roles, Batt will also be seeking to recruit warehouse team managers and operatives who will work together to ensure this new distribution site is sector leading. Strategically located near major motorways including the M1, M18, and M62, the Doncaster hub will enable efficient delivery across the UK. The facility will house an expanded inventory of over 3,200 essential cables and accessories, enabling Batt Cables to meet increasing customer demand with improved stock availability and reduced transit times. Equipped with advanced stock management and order processing systems, the new centre is designed to streamline operations, offering quicker response times and greater reliability for clients across industries such as construction, infrastructure, and energy. Rob Barclay, CEO of Batt Cables, comments, “The significant investment we’re making in the brand-new, state-of-the-art warehouse facility represents a major milestone on our growth journey. The Doncaster site offers first-class working environments for our colleagues as well as more capacity for future growth, which is fantastic.” The new facility is expected to become fully operational in the coming months, with a phased introduction program currently underway. For more from Batt Cables, click here.

NAPIT announced as ECN Awards 2025 Entertainment sponsor

Electrical Contracting News is excited to announce that NAPIT will be joining the impressive sponsor line-up at the ECN Awards 2025. The company will sponsor the entertainment at the event, which takes place on 27 November 2025 at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre in Coventry. As a fast-growing government-approved and UKAS-accredited membership scheme operator in the building services and fabric sector, NAPIT is committed to raising standards and safety with a friendly and common-sense approach. What better way to demonstrate this than by partnering up with the ECN Awards to help raise the profile of those who are making a difference in the industry, through enhancing safety, efficiency, and sustainability. NAPIT tells us that the company is proud to support a fantastic evening of entertainment which recognises those who have dedicated themselves to enhancing the electrical contracting industry. Furthermore, NAPIT looks forward to seeing the best of the industry at the event in November, while celebrating what will have been a remarkable year of progress in the industry with regard to safety, sustainability, and growth. For more from NAPIT, click here.

‘Start with Grant’ aiming to help installers with low-carbon heating

Grant UK, a British manufacturer of heating systems, has launched a version of Nesta’s Start at Home initiative to heating engineers across England and Wales. The new programme, called Start with Grant, gives fossil fuel boiler installers who haven’t ever fitted a heat pump the opportunity to install a fully-funded Grant air source heat pump system in their own home with full technical support. Nesta’s original Start at Home initiative was created to help build confidence in heat pump technology among installers by giving them the chance to live with the systems themselves. The aim is to develop a growing network of professionals who can speak with authority and credibility when recommending low-carbon heating to customers. By partnering with Nesta on this project, Grant says it is delivering a version of the programme that is tailored to its products and services, providing an offering from training to MCS certification through Heat Pump Go’s umbrella scheme. Installers will receive a fully-funded Grant Aerona air source heat pump, available up to 12kW, alongside a hot water cylinder of up to 210 litres, a 50-litre volumiser, a smart controller, and a complete heat pump installation kit. These components are delivered directly from Grant to the property where the installation will take place. To support the installation process, Grant provides technical assistance including tailored system design and heat pump product training. Once the system is in place, on-site commissioning is arranged to ensure everything is working as expected. Installers do not need to be MCS certified to take part – Grant has partnered with Heat Pump Go, whose MCS Umbrella Scheme handles the certification. Following completion and MCS sign-off of the installation, Grant will also provide a £1,500 contribution towards installation costs. This amount is transferred from the remaining balance of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grant. Installers who take part in the scheme will become eligible to join Grant’s G1 Scheme if they’re not already members. This brings a seven-year guarantee for their own heat pump and the opportunity to extend the same seven-year guarantee cover to future customer heat pump installations. The scheme additionally opens the door to future access to BUS funding through Heat Pump Go, allowing installers to offer BUS-eligible installations. “This isn’t just about installing a heat pump,” claims Anna Wakefield, Head of Internal Sales and Marketing at Grant. “It’s about helping installers understand the technology, build their confidence, and become genuine advocates for low-carbon heating. When they can speak from personal experience, it transforms how they connect with customers. Start with Grant gives them that insight and reassurance.” Madeleine Gabriel, Director of Nesta's Sustainable Future Mission, says, "If we want to get more heat pumps in homes, then we need to start with installers. Making it free and easy for installers to get one in their own home knocks down a big barrier to [both] growing the workforce and the market for heat pumps. We're delighted to see Grant take forward the idea and we are excited to work with them in the months ahead." For more from Grant UK, click here.

KNIPEX's new tools 'powering up for solar'

With demand for solar installs surging across the UK, electricians are finding themselves increasingly involved in photovoltaic work. But you need tools built for the job. Whether it’s working in tight spaces, handling rigid cable, or crimping to a consistent spec, the pressures of PV installation are pushing traditional kit to its limits. That’s why German manufacturer of professional hand tools KNIPEX has stepped up its offering for the solar sector with new tools tailored to the challenges of PV installs. Designed to speed up repetitive tasks, reduce strain, and guarantee accuracy on site, the ErgoStrip PV and MultiCrimp PV show KNIPEX’s commitment to supporting the renewables market. ErgoStrip PV The KNIPEX ErgoStrip PV is a compact cable stripping tool made for the realities of solar site work. Based on the original ErgoStrip but re-engineered for PV, it strips and skins cables cleanly, quickly, and consistently, even in awkward spaces like behind panels or inside mounting frames. It’s ideal for 4 and 6 mm² PV cables such as H1Z2Z2-K, as well as common round and damp-proof installation cables including NYM types (3 x 1.5 mm² to 5 x 2.5 mm²). The slim, conical tips improve access in tight spots and an adjustable length stop (6 to 18 mm) makes it perfect for repetitive prep of cables for MC4 and MC4 EVO 2 connectors. There’s also a dedicated notch for PVC single cores (0.2 to 4 mm²). It's a tool designed with installer comfort in mind. The pistol-style grip with soft-touch zones and the spring-loaded action reduces fatigue on long jobs. The ErgoStrip PV is also available as part of the KNIPEX PV Installation Set, which includes PreciForce PV crimping pliers which makes a compact, reliable combo for fast and accurate solar terminations. MultiCrimp PV Also new to the range is the KNIPEX MultiCrimp PV, a versatile crimping tool with three interchangeable dies included as standard. It’s designed to handle the core crimping needs of solar installs, including MC4 and MC4 EVO 2 connectors, insulated/uninsulated ferrules, and uninsulated cable connectors. The dies can be swapped out quickly and easily with no extra tools required and additional dies are available for customisation. A ratchet lock ensures high crimp quality every time and can be released manually if needed. The ergonomic, multi-component handles offer all-day comfort and a belt clip means it’s always within reach on site. With solar becoming a bigger part of the everyday workload for electricians, having the right tools is more important than ever. KNIPEX’s new PV range is built to handle the demands of real-world solar installs with the accuracy, durability, and usability electricians expect. For more information on the KNIPEX PV range, visit the KNIPEX website. For more from KNIPEX, click here.

Martindale Electric joins the Electrical Contractors’ Association

Martindale Electric, a manufacturer of electrical test equipment, has announced it is formally linking up with the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA), a UK trade association for the electrotechnical and wider engineering services industry. The partnership sees Martindale Electric become an ECA Commercial Associate, opening the door to closer engagement with ECA’s Member businesses that represent a combined annual turnover of over £6 billion, ranging from small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) electrical firms to nationwide engineering services businesses across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. ECA Members undertake a range of electrotechnical design, installation, inspection, testing, monitoring, and maintenance work. This package also includes access to a range of ECA content, including best practice guides and research, the latest technical and industry news, and use of the ECA Commercial Associate logo. Martindale Electric is a brand in the electrical safety testing field. The company says electrical safety is fundamental, and it offers a range of safe isolation equipment alongside socket testers, Portable Appliance Testers, and other test and measurement products. The company states that it is committed to developing, manufacturing, and supplying trusted and reliable solutions. “The opportunity to engage further with the ECA and its highly accomplished membership was an absolute no-brainer,” says Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale Electric. “Martindale will be utilising our ECA associate status to help our business grow and ensure the industry delivers best practice and high standards.” “We are delighted to welcome Martindale Electric as the ECA’s newest Commercial Associate,” comments ECA Director of Member Services Helen Atkinson. “We look forward to working closely with Martindale over the coming period to maximise commercial opportunities and industry collaboration. “Martindale Electric will now have access to an unbeatable package of resources and the ability to further engage with ECA’s membership base, which includes many leading electrotechnical and engineering services businesses.” In addition, ECA runs an associate programme for manufacturers, distributors, consultants, training providers, educators, specifiers, and end clients working within the electrotechnical arena. With this new partnership, Martindale Electric says that it aims to further strengthen its relationships with contractors and specifiers, while championing the safe working practices that "have defined [its] reputation for nearly a century." For more from Martindale Electric, click here.

Are you the UK and Ireland's top tradesperson?

British retailer of trade products Screwfix’s annual search for the nation’s most talented tradespeople is once again underway, with entries now open for 'Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2025.' It is open to all trades - from electricians to roofers, right through to carpenters and plumbers - and entries close 13 July. By entering, there's a chance to win a £20,000/€20,000 prize bundle of tools, tech, and training. Now in its 16th year, Screwfix Top Tradesperson aims to uncover the brilliant trade talent across the UK and Ireland and celebrates their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the industry. London-based plumber Mohammed Rahman claimed the title in 2024, receiving a prize bundle of tech, tools, and training worth £20,000. Since being crowned, his business has gone from strength to strength on the back of the publicity and profile he has enjoyed. Reflecting on the positive impact the award has had on his career, reigning champion Mohammed says, “Winning Screwfix Top Tradesperson was a significant milestone for me. I’ve always thought self-belief is so important when it comes to having a rewarding career, and it took a bit of courage to nominate myself and fill in the application, but it was one of the best decisions I ever made. “It has been great to get involved with media interviews and to even have the opportunity to speak about supporting trade apprentices at Parliament. I would encourage anyone thinking about entering to just go for it – it gives you an opportunity to talk about why you are passionate about your trade and, if you get shortlisted, the business-building benefits are great.” Previous winner, Devon-based carpenter Astrid Arnold agrees and says entering is easy and straightforward. “It’s quick to enter, with just a few questions where I could tell my story and the exciting parts of my career to date. I was also able to talk about areas I’m really passionate about, such as encouraging more women to take up a trade.” Brighton electrician Dan Lloyd, who was crowned Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2021, believes successful entries are those that come from the heart. “It can be a bit daunting to promote yourself, but the judges are looking for an authentic voice and compelling story that isn’t just about high standards of work and service, but also how you are trying to make a difference such as operating in an environmentally-friendly way or giving back to the community.” How to enter Entries for Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2025 are now open and will close on Sunday, 13 July. Tradespeople from the UK and Ireland can put themselves forward - or be nominated by employers, customers, or friends - by filling out the online application form at the UK or Irish websites. The standout applicants will be shortlisted to the semi-final stage and invited to an interview in August. From there, just 10 will head to the final at Screwfix Live in Farnborough on Friday, 26 September, where they will go head-to-head in front of a panel of industry experts. They’ll also walk away with a trade bundle worth £20,000/€20,000, made up of tech, tools, and training to boost their business. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXmpKDXHHr8[/embed] Jack Wallace, Marketing Director at Screwfix, comments, “We are so proud of Screwfix Top Tradesperson and how it highlights the skill and passion of exceptional tradespeople who are working day in, day out in our homes and businesses. We have a long list of Top Tradesperson winners in our Hall of Fame and we can’t wait to see who the 2025 champion is. “It is vital we continue to recognise and celebrate the work of the nation’s tradespeople. They perform vital roles in our community, create jobs for others, and build rewarding careers for themselves. I encourage all tradespeople from electricians to plumbers, builders to painters, and carpenters to roofers, to come forward and share their stories. Good luck!” For more from Screwfix, click here.