NICEIC’s ‘Find a Trusted Tradesperson’ tool gets a boost

NICEIC, a certification and training body for the electrical industry in the UK, has just announced the launch of its upgraded 'Find a Trusted Tradesperson' tool – a platform designed to connect householders and specifiers with NICEIC-certified businesses in their area. The upgrade introduces a benefit for NICEIC-certified businesses as job requests can now be delivered straight to their inbox for free. This streamlined process should help businesses grow by connecting them with relevant, local jobs. This enhancement, according to NICEIC, supports the company's mission to promote competence and safety across the industry and "gives NICEIC-certified businesses a competitive edge." All businesses certified on an NICEIC electrotechnical or renewables scheme will appear on the searchable register, which includes details of the schemes they are certified on and their contact information. The upgraded tool allows consumers to enter key details about their electrical job – including the type of work, property type, and preferred timing. Their request is then automatically routed to local NICEIC-certified businesses operating under the relevant schemes. Due to a fully automated process, businesses can quickly indicate their availability and respond with a quote. Amanda Faulkner, Marketing and Customer Experience Director at NICEIC, comments, “Being NICEIC-certified isn’t just about the prestige of being with the UK’s leading certification body, it’s a full package of business support designed to help businesses grow, upskill, and stay competitive. "We are always looking for new ways to deliver added value for our certified businesses, and the upgraded 'Find a Trusted Tradesperson' tool is yet another addition to the list of useful benefits on offer.” For more from NICEIC, click here.

TrustMark confirms EVCC as its newest Scheme Provider

TrustMark, a government-endorsed quality scheme for trades and home improvement work in the UK, has announced the addition of The Electric Vehicle Consumer Code for Home Chargepoints (EVCC) as its latest Scheme Provider. With this new partnership, TrustMark now collaborates with 42 Scheme Providers to raise standards and enhance consumer protection across the home repair, maintenance, and improvement (RMI) sector. EVCC is the first Scheme Provider to be approved by TrustMark in the electric vehicle (EV) chargepoint sector, which, the company claims, "reinforces its commitment to meeting and maintaining the operating requirements set out by the quality scheme." EVCC members will now have the opportunity to become TrustMark registered if they meet the required standards of technical competence, trading practices, and customer service. Virginia Graham, Chief Executive of Renewable Energy Assurance, comments, "I am delighted EVCC is officially a TrustMark Scheme Provider. This means our EVCC members now have a streamlined route to becoming TrustMark registered where they wish to. "EVCC’s alignment with TrustMark complements our core mission to ensure that consumers receive honest advice, transparent pricing, reliable installations, and redress if things go wrong. With this new status, EVCC will continue working closely with industry stakeholders to uphold rigorous standards and support the transition to a green transport future.” Simon Ayers MBE, CEO of TrustMark, adds, “We are delighted to welcome EVCC as our latest TrustMark Scheme Provider with a focus on raising the high standards of consumer protection and industry best practice across the EV charging sector. "As a TrustMark Registered Business, EVCC members will now be able to give their customers the assurance and confidence that they are competent, qualified, and reliable, and serious about offering high standards of consumer protection. Together with EVCC, we can continue to strengthen our roles at the forefront of industry standards and help promote its installers to homeowners across the UK.” For more from TrustMark, click here.

CBG renews the lighting in Blenheim Palace restoration

CBG Light Perceptions, a specialist lighting design team working primarily in heritage buildings and high-end residential properties, recently worked on the restoration of the Blenheim Palace Orangery by designing an updated lighting scheme on a project that has received a 2025 RIBA South Award. The Orangery, a "refined and luxurious" dining area in Blenheim Palace, is now once again open to the public for an "authentically British experience." Known for hosting afternoon teas, the space also serves as a private venue for fine dining, weddings, and other special occasions. The £2 million restoration project on the Grade I listed building involved the replacement of the 19th-century glass roof with a solid, insulated steel and slate design. CBG Light Perceptions were tasked with overhauling the previous lighting design, which was known to generate glare and excessive brightness. The company says it has achieved a lighting design which complements the striking architectural textures of the new roof and captures the essence of the Orangery. The RIBA South Award recognises the efforts of all involved for reassessing the requirements of the space and coming up with innovative, sustainable solutions to improve the functionality and aesthetics of the Orangery. Specifically, the jury commented, “Boldly stepping away from an attitude of like-for-like repair typical in such a significant heritage setting, the project team at Blenheim Palace chose a new route for the design and delivery of the Orangery roof.” Working alongside the client's team, Historic England, the council, architects, and interior designers on the comprehensive refurbishment, CBG needed to consider a new lighting scheme that enhanced both the practicality and the atmosphere of the space. The design delivered improved lighting throughout the Orangery while also providing a sustainable, low-energy approach. The new scheme hopes to ensure flexibility for a wide range of uses, with discreet spotlighting allowing for tailored setups during events, and a pre-set dimming system enabling staff to adjust lighting levels depending on the occasion. The result is a lighting system that showcases the architectural fabric of the Orangery. The recognition of the overall project at the RIBA South Awards, held at the Bombay Sapphire Distillery in Hampshire in May 2025, is, according to the company, a testament to the care and collaboration invested in every element from all those involved. Bruce Kirk, Director at CBG, comments, “Successful lighting is built on a deep understanding of the space and close collaboration with the client and teams involved. Thoughtful project consultation with the client and stakeholders allows us to deliver tailored solutions that respect the heritage of a building while meeting the evolving needs of its users.” For more from CBG, click here.

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.