• NICEIC accredited to deliver redeveloped MCS installer scheme

    NICEIC, the UK’s leading certification and training body for the electrical industry, is delighted to announce it has been accredited by UKAS to offer the redeveloped Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) MCS installer certification scheme (MCS:2025). The accreditation marks another milestone in NICEIC’s ongoing efforts to support the growth and standards of the UK low-carbon technology sector.
    The scheme redevelopment aims to simplify the certification process, focusing on the
  • Recolight launches Used Luminaire Certificate

    Recolight is pleased to announce the introduction of its Used Luminaire Certification service, designed to encourage and support the reuse of lighting products across the industry. With sustainability and embodied carbon at the forefront of project priorities, this certification offers reassurance to developers, consulting engineers, and lighting designers seeking to specify second-life luminaires.
    “Many projects generate unnecessary waste by replacing relatively recent lighting products w
  • Recolight launches Used Luminaire Certificate service

    Recolight, a UK not-for-profit compliance scheme for lighting waste recycling and sustainability, has announced the introduction of its Used Luminaire Certification service, designed to encourage and support the reuse of lighting products across the industry.
    With sustainability and embodied carbon at the forefront of project priorities, this certification offers reassurance to developers, consulting engineers, and lighting designers seeking to specify second-life luminaires.
    Recolight CEO Nigel
  • Sirius adds Morphy Richards as Approved Supplier

    Sirius Buying Group, major buying group of electrical appliance and kitchen retail solutions, is delighted to announce the appointment of UK home appliance leader, Morphy Richards, as a new Group Approved Supplier following its debut at the recent 2025 Sirius Trade Show. Available to Members as of 1st September 2025, Morphy Richards legacy traces back to 1936, when product fanatic Donal […]
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  • Quooker donates 3.65 billion litres of clean water worldwide

    Hot water tap brand, Quooker is highlighting major environmental and social progress, as shown in its most recent sustainability report – from water conservation and energy savings to circular product design and global clean water access. Through its long-standing partnership with the Made Blue Foundation, Quooker’s ‘Litre for a Litre’ initiative has now donated 3.65 […]
  • Advanced’s fire protection installed in Canterbury Student Village

    Fire protection solutions manufacturer Advanced has supplied new intelligent fire panels for student accommodation in Kent as part of a £3.5 million project to upgrade fire safety systems at Cloud Student Homes’ Canterbury Student Village.
    The installation replaces existing panels across several occupied buildings, requiring the previous system to remain active throughout the work to maintain constant protection for residents.
    Upgrading fire protection across student accommodation
    Cl
  • Octopus EV surges past £2bn in electric car funding

    Octopus Electric Vehicles (Octopus EV), a UK provider of electric vehicle leasing and salary sacrifice schemes, has extended and upsized its funding line from global banks to get more electric vehicles on roads, bringing its total EV funding to £2 billion.
    The deal allows Octopus to supercharge its EV fleet, pushing it from 40,000 cars currently to more than 75,000 once all funds are deployed.
    This builds on a major funding line agreed with Lloyds in 2023, now joined by international banks
  • Lighting retrofit cuts street lighting energy in Lincolnshire

    Lincolnshire County Council is working with TRT Lighting on a countywide retrofit programme that is cutting street lighting energy use by more than 65%. The project upgrades existing lanterns with new LED technology, delivering major carbon and cost savings while extending the lifespan of assets across one of England’s largest rural counties.
    Lincolnshire’s street lighting network plays a vital role in connecting communities and keeping roads safe. As a result, rather than replacing
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  • Alexander Zverev joins Loewe as brand ambassador

    Loewe, the German AV brand known for blending cutting-edge technology with timeless design, has announced Alexander Zverev, one of the world’s top tennis players, as its new global brand ambassador under the campaign “The Best for the Best.” Following recent collaborations with football superstar Kylian Mbappé and music legend David Guetta, Loewe continues to unite exceptional […]
  • ECA holds parliamentary roundtable to drive UK electrification

    On 23 October 2025, the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) hosted a parliamentary roundtable in the House of Commons, bringing together ECA Members, MPs, senior civil servants, policy influencers, manufacturers, and the wider clean energy industry to discuss how together we can successfully deliver the UK’s electrification transition.
    In May this year, ECA launched the Blueprint for Electrification: Delivering the UK’s Transition to Clean Power, a practical, 10-point pla
  • Bira: Independent retailers urge Chancellor – Boost business confidence or risk killing growth before it starts

    Britain’s independent retailers, through Bira, are calling on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to use the autumn budget to restore business confidence, warning that mounting uncertainty is strangling the government’s growth ambitions before they can take root. New research from the British Independent Retailers Association has revealed a collapse in business confidence, with nearly half of independent retailers (46.2 […]
  • ‘PPE knowledge gap putting electrical workers at risk’

    A new research report from European workwear provider Alsico reveals that a knowledge gap lies behind widespread failures to wear protective uniforms correctly – or at all – across environments with live electricity in the UK.
    The new report, A safer future: Closing the PPE knowledge gap, explores the education and communication shortfalls highlighted by Alsico’s earlier research and offers expert recommendations from organisations, including the British Standards Institute, on
  • In2tec develops disassemblable lightbars using ReUSE tech

    In2tec, a UK-based sustainable electronics specialist, has introduced new technology designed to make industrial LED lightbars more circular, repairable, and resource-efficient.
    The company’s ReUSE and ReCYCLE processes allow lightbars to be fully disassembled and reused, significantly reducing carbon emissions and electronic waste.
    Reducing manufacturing emissions and e-waste
    As energy costs rise and environmental regulations tighten, LED lightbars have become a mainstay in industrial and
  • Entries open for the 2026 DALI Alliance Lighting Awards

    The DALI Alliance, a global industry organisation for DALI (an internationally standardised protocol for digital communication between lighting control devices), has announced that entries are now open for the 2026 DALI Alliance Lighting Awards.
    Submissions will be accepted until 19 December 2026.
    The annual awards remain free to enter and are an opportunity to be recognised for excellence and innovation in DALI-based lighting controls from across the global lighting industry.
    Awards will be giv
  • MP praises Europa’s innovation in renewables

    Europa, one of the UK’s leading distributors of electrical components and smart solutions, has been praised for its innovation, sustainability and contribution to local employment.
    The company welcomed Rachel Hopkins, MP for Luton South and South Bedfordshire, to its Luton head office where she met with its senior leadership team, toured the company’s Research & Development facilities, and learned more about its ambitious plans.
    The company has embraced innovation through custom-
  • £6m investment in electricity trade apprenticeships

    Distribution network operator UK Power Networks says it is investing £6 million in craft apprenticeships this year, including hiring 55 newcomers to support local communities and advance Britain’s clean energy goals.
    The 55 appointments are part of a “future-ready workforce” that will keep power flowing to 20 million people and connect the low-carbon future to the grid, enabling increasing renewable energy, electric vehicles, and heat pumps.
    The positions received 2,052 a
  • Countdown to LiGHT 25: One week to go

    This year’s LiGHT Expo London will feature an expanded programme of innovation, education, and networking opportunities.
    Key highlights for 2025 include the introduction of the Technical Zone, the return of the Associations Lounge, and a new immersive light art installation.
    The Technical Zone
    Launched for the first time at LiGHT 25, the Technical Zone will provide a dedicated showcase for prominent brands of urban lighting, commercial lighting, control systems, components and OEM, lamps a
  • Ecogenesys launches first Carbon Impact Report

    Ecogenesys, the UK’s leading not-for-profit, member-owned producer compliance scheme for electrical and electronic equipment, has released its first Carbon Impact Report, providing electrical producers with verified insight into the net carbon savings achieved through their share of electrical recycling activities. According to Ecogenesys, each of its members has received an individual report, providing verified insight […]
  • RAW Charging opens new ultra-rapid EV hub in Dagenham

    Electric vehicle (EV) chargepoint operator RAW Charging has opened its latest and largest ultra-rapid EV charging hub at Merrielands Retail Park in Dagenham, in partnership with Aviva Investors.
    The new eight-bay facility, located at Merrielands Crescent, features six bays offering up to 150 kW DC charging and two bays delivering up to 300 kW DC.
    Drivers will be able to charge for free for one week following the launch, starting on Friday 17 November.
    Positioned at one of Dagenham’s busies
  • Liebherr launches premium French Door appliances with new TerraSteel finish

    Liebherr, specialists in refrigeration, is set to launch its French Door collection to the UK market this November. The premium range is now available in three timeless finishes, including the striking new TerraSteel.  Design and craftsmanship are at the heart of all Liebherr appliances and the new collection is no exception. The French Door range has won both the Red Dot Design Award and iF DESIGN AWA
  • Schneider Electric appoints Alice Williams as VP Digital Energy UK&I

    Schneider Electric, a global energy technology leader, has appointed Alice Williams as VP Digital Energy UK&I.
    Alice’s role will be to drive growth and impact across the UK and Ireland Digital Energy business. She will focus on delivering end user energy savings and more resilient, efficient operations for customers through Schneider’s innovative energy management and automation solutions. Alice succeeds Kasim Mohammed who took on the role of VP for Services UK&I earlier this
  • Marshall-Tufflex supplies trunking to apprentice centre

    Marshall-Tufflex, a UK manufacturer of cable management products, has supplied its Sterling Curve Dado trunking to Darke & Taylor’s new apprentice training centre, Elevate, based in Long Hanborough, Oxfordshire.
    Darke & Taylor is a specialist mechanical and electrical contractor delivering projects across commercial, education, residential, public sector, and retail.
    Its new facility, just opened in October 2025, is designed as a practical workshop to provide hands-on training for
  • NAPIT welcomes new electrical safety requirements

    NAPIT, a company developing green skills and compliance, says it welcomes the new legislation requiring social landlords to inspect and test electrical installations in their properties at least every five years.
    New electrical safety requirements will bring the social housing sector in England in line with existing requirements for electrical safety standards in the private rented sector.
    The new electrical safety regulations have taken effect this November for new tenancies, whilst for ex
  • Cookology acquires Iceking after D.A.D administration

    Cookology has officially acquired the Iceking brand, securing the future of one of the UK’s most established and trusted names in home refrigeration. This exciting milestone brings together two complementary brands, combining Iceking’s 30-year heritage and trade relationships with Cookology’s innovation, investment, and operational strength. A smooth transition and continued commitment to independents The acquisition […]
  • Contactum’s new era: A tour of innovation and sustainability

    Hot off the heels of the company’s successful appearance at Screwfix Live, Simon Rowley, Group Editor of ECN, travelled up to Dunstable to meet with Contactum – one of the UK’s most comprehensive suppliers of electrical innovations – at its brand-new headquarters.
    Part of the Saudi Arabian alfanar Group since 2009, Contactum – which has roots dating back to its humble beginnings in 1936 – recently went through a significant relocation, which saw the company tr
  • Electrical apprenticeship shortfall of nearly 10,000, data reveals

    According to the ‘Apprenticeship Gap Report’, that the electrical trade faces the most severe deficit across all sectors analysed, with a 227:1 ratio representing a gap of just over 9,600 unfilled positions.
    The research, created by power tool accessories specialist DART Tool Group, analysed data from the Department for Education, the Office of National Statistics (ONS), and job board site Reed across six UK trade sectors, revealing where the skills crisis is most severe, why trainin
  • Ovia Welcomes Barnaby Chapman as ASM for South Wales

    Ovia is pleased to announce the appointment of Barnaby Chapman as Area Sales Manager, covering South Wales, Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire.
    In his new role, Barnaby will be instrumental in driving the growth, awareness, and continued success of the Ovia brand across the region. He will work closely with electrical wholesalers and contractors to deliver tailored lighting solutions across a wide range of applications. His remit includes providing bespoke lighting designs and sup
  • EW Nov – The path to decarbonisation

    In this issue, I am delighted to share memories and photos from this year’s EW Awards, which took place in September at the beautiful Chelsea Harbour Hotel. Unlike last year’s event, the weather was kind to us, and it was great to catch up with industry friends and colleagues over a prosecco, in the sun, on the balcony. You can see the full list of winning and highly commended entrants on page 21, along with photos and comments from the winners. Congratulations all round for your ama
  • ESP launches Espire Alarm Finder tool

    ESP, a UK fire and security product specialist and part of the Scolmore Group, has introduced the Espire Alarm Finder, an online tool designed to help homeowners, landlords, and businesses select the most suitable smoke, heat, or carbon monoxide alarms for their properties.
    Available on the Espire website, the tool offers tailored recommendations based on current fire safety regulations and individual property requirements.
    Simplifying alarm selection for safety and compliance
    Fire safety remain
  • Unicrimp unveils new Squarelock 6” Woodscrew Bit

    Unicrimp, a UK manufacturer of cable accessories and electrical fittings, and part of the Scolmore Group, has unveiled the latest addition to its Q-Crimp fixings range: the Squarelock 6” Woodscrew Drill Bit, an essential tool for electrical contractors and installers working with SQ2 square-drive fasteners.
    Engineered for maximum performance, the Squarelock Woodscrew Bit ensures a snug, secure fit, offering unparalleled torque, reach, and reliability for even the toughest installations.
    Ke
  • 9,600 apprenticeship shortfall threatens UK electrical sector

    Reports are suggesting the talent shortage in UK trade sectors is getting worse. While job demand surges across the electrical sector, the apprenticeship system that should be feeding these trades is failing to deliver, according to new data.
    The Apprenticeship Gap Report found that the electrical trade faces the most severe deficit across all sectors analysed, with a 227:1 ratio representing a gap of just over 9,600 unfilled positions.
    The research, conducted by power tool accessories spec
  • Vent-Axia joins panel discussing air quality in the workplace

    Ventilation manufacturer, Vent-Axia, is taking part in the BESA Ventil8 Day Exchange today (6 November) at The Building Centre, London, to support World Ventil8 Day.
    The BESA Ventil8 Day Exchange aims to bring together engineers, contractors, consultant housing professionals and anyone with an interest in healthier buildings to promote and facilitate collaboration between academia, industry and regulatory bodies.
    Louise McHugh, Commercial and Industrial Product Manager at Vent-Axia, will join th
  • Unqualified electricians continue to pose risks, SELECT says

    Unqualified electricians in Scotland pose a significant threat to public safety, the head of Scotland’s largest construction trade association has warned.
    Alan Wilson, Managing Director of campaigning electrical trade body SELECT, voiced his concerns in a new podcast during which he also reinforced the urgent need for the regulation of the electrical sector in the country.
    Speaking to architect Kenneth Martin on Hard Hat Talks, Alan said that as many as 13% of fires in the home could be tr
  • CU Phosco unveils updated floodlight for high mast lighting

    UK exterior lighting manufacturer CU Phosco has announced the latest update to its FL820 floodlight, designed for demanding high mast lighting applications across airports, ports, and sports facilities.
    CU Phosco says the enhanced FL820 builds on the performance of its LED floodlighting range, offering increased power, efficiency, and flexibility for large-scale area lighting projects.
    Key updates include:
    • Extended range optics, delivering improved light distribution and coverage
    • O
  • Independent retailers urged to prioritise cybersecurity as Bira podcast reveals growing threat

    Independent retailers are being urged to ensure they are clued up on IT security to minimise the risk of cyber crime, a new podcast from Bira has explored. The latest episode of ‘High Street Matters’, titled ‘No Business Too Small – Protecting Independent Retailers from Cyber Crime’, tackles the misconception that small businesses are not targets for […]
  • NAPIT highlights importance of Green Careers Week

    This Green Careers Week, 3-8 November, NAPIT is exploring some of the careers that contribute to a greener future – not just the jobs viewed as ‘green’.
    A green career can be any job, role or occupation that contributes to preserving or restoring the environment. At NAPIT, there are many roles that make a positive impact on contributing to a greener future, and the company says its training department is key to upskilling the installers to drive the transition away from fo
  • New Elucian power and lighting distribution boards

    Three-phase power and lighting distribution boards are critical components in commercial, industrial, and large residential electrical systems. They provide a centralised point for power distribution, control, and protection of electrical circuits, including both lighting and power loads.
    Designed with the installer in mind, the Elucian power and lighting boards from Click Scolmore are engineered to deliver reliability, efficiency, and ease of installation for electrical contractors working acro
  • Samsung announces HDR10+ Advanced TV standard, eyes 2026 launch

    HDR10, the open HDR TV standard, is evolving. Samsung has just announced HDR10+ Advanced, a dramatic upgrade designed for next generation televisions capable of extreme peak brightness and colour depth, reports Steve May. The development is a clear response to the recent launch announcement of Dolby Vision 2, at this year’s IFA fare in Berlin. […]
  • Exclusive: Samsung announces HDR10+ Advanced TV standard, eyes 2026 launch

    HDR10, the open HDR TV standard, is evolving. Samsung has just announced HDR10+ Advanced, a dramatic upgrade designed for next generation televisions capable of extreme peak brightness and colour depth, reports Steve May. The development is a clear response to the recent launch announcement of Dolby Vision 2, at this year’s IFA fare in Berlin. […]
  • AMDEA House of Commons Reception “a huge success”

    The Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliances (AMDEA) held a hugely successful reception at the House of Commons on 29 October, hosted by environmental champion Dr Roz Savage MP on the theme of ‘Appliances bringing home the circular economy’. Braving the wet weather to attend, over 100 guests included parliamentarians from across the House, including […]
  • LiGHT 25 to showcase explorations of light and perception

    LiGHT 25 in London is set to bring together contractors, designers, specifiers, and architects to explore developments in lighting design, technology, and collaboration across the industry.
    Organisers say the event will feature more than 200 exhibitors, a programme of talks, and networking areas designed to encourage discussion around the role of light in the built environment.
    A new light installation
    Following the ‘Intra-Spectrum’ installation by artist Frankie Boyle at last year&r
  • Vent-Axia’s new Revive 7 smart fan

    As Awaab’s Law comes into effect in England, British ventilation manufacturer Vent-Axia is urging social landlords to take proactive steps to improve poor indoor air quality (IAQ) and tackle damp and mould.
    Introduced following the death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, the law requires landlords to investigate and fix damp and mould issues within strict timeframes, ensuring faster repairs and safer homes. Acting early not only protects tenants’ health, but also helps landlords cut costl
  • Introducing ECN Live!

    The successful team behind Electrical Contracting News (ECN) is proud to announce the launch of ECN Live!, a brand-new, dedicated trade event for the electrical contracting sector and all electrical professionals.
    For 45 years, ECN has been representing and supporting the electrical contracting sector with cutting edge print and online platforms. Firmly established as a leading light in the trade journal sector, and with the recent and highly successful launch of the ECN Awards in 2023, the time
  • Morphy Richards introduces new HeatFlux and EverCosy ranges

    Morphy Richards has launched its new ‘HeatFlux’ and ‘EverCosy’ ranges, designed to help households stay cosy, comfortable and energy-efficient through the cold months ahead. It is also launching a new ‘PureFresh’ range of dehumidifiers to banish excess moisture. The company launches the new product along with a new blog on its website, offering advice to […]
  • Spazio Plus: Designed for faster, smarter installs

    When it comes to emergency lighting, Zemper appreciates that the types of fitting count for contractors.
    More fittings mean more time on site, more cost, and more disruption for clients. That’s where Zemper’s Spazio Plus stands out.
    Up to 30-metre spacings:
    The Spazio Plus delivers exceptional optical performance, achieving up to 30m spacings depending on ceiling height and conditions.
    This means fewer fittings are required to achieve full coverage – saving you time and reducin
  • AEI Cables says check tech spec for safety and certainty

    Specialist cable supplier AEI Cables is advising those in the supply chain with any doubts about fire performance of cable products on the market to check the specification to ensure certainty and compliance.
    The company is highlighting the need for safety and certainty across all fire performance cables, particularly Category 3 fire performance cables which are designed to withstand heat and flames for up to 120 minutes, helping to protect equipment, property and even lives.
    Stuart Dover, gener
  • Electrical4Less shortlisted in SME London Business Awards

    Electrical4Less, an independent electrical supplier based in Fulham, London, has been shortlisted as a finalist for ‘Website of the Year’ at the LCCI SME London Business Awards 2026.
    Hosted by the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry in partnership with SME News, this recognition highlights the hard work and commitment behind Electrical4Less’s online platform, and marks an important milestone in the business’ journey as a growing, London-based electrical supplier.
  • Advance Paris celebrates 30 years with the APEX range

    Advance Paris is marking its 30th anniversary with the introduction of APEX, a premium range of amplifiers and audio components debuting at the Paris Audio Video Show 2025. Positioned above the company’s Classic range, APEX takes key elements from Classic components a step further to showcase the brand’s enduring blend of form, function, and value. […]
  • Zumtobel achieves fourth Ecovadis Gold

    The Zumtobel Group, an Austrian lighting company specialising in indoor and outdoor lighting, has been awarded an EcoVadis gold medal for the fourth time in succession.
    The evaluation by the independent sustainability platform covers the headquarters in Dornbirn as well as all the globally operating lighting group’s other locations worldwide.
    In an industry comparison, the Zumtobel Group now ranks among the top 1% of all companies assessed by EcoVadis.
    Green improvements
    Sebastian Gann, Su
  • Simpson & Partners to expand EV charger installer network

    British EV charger brand Simpson & Partners is looking to expand its Trusted Installer Network, introducing new tools, content, and commercial opportunities to help independent installers grow their businesses.
    The enhanced programme includes a dedicated Installer Portal for quoting, ordering, and approvals, alongside a new ‘Trusted Installer’ accreditation badge and ready-to-post social media packs to help partners market their services locally.
    Installers joining the network al

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