In this month’s Face to Face we speak with Luke Norcross-Evans, Product Development Executive at Aico, and get the lowdown on the alarm system market.

Q. What alarm systems and detector technologies are currently proving popular in the UK market?

Interlinked alarm systems remain a leading choice, with RF, hard-wired and hybrid options providing full-property coverage and flexible installation for both new builds and retrofits.

Multi-sensor alarms combining smoke and heat detection are increasingly preferred for their fast, reliable response and reduced false alarms, forming a core part of Aico’s range.

There’s also growing interest in connected solutions, such as our HomeLINK technology, which allow landlords and housing providers to monitor system performance and plan maintenance more efficiently.

Q. What is HomeLINK and what benefits can it offer to residents and landlords?

HomeLINK is the technology behind Aico’s Connected Home Solution, designed to link together multiple, in-property, life safety devices like our fire and CO alarms and environmental sensors into one single connected system to create a clear overview of the compliance and the health of a home.

For residents, it offers peace of mind. The main benefit is reassurance that their home is being monitored for risks that aren’t always visible, like poor indoor air quality or early signs of damp.

For landlords, the real value is evidence and actionable insight. Instead of reacting to complaints, they can proactively use data trends to spot patterns, prioritise interventions, and demonstrate compliance with safety standards.

 Q. What are the key factors behind the surging popularity of environmental sensors?

The growing popularity of environmental sensors is being driven by a heightened focus on indoor air quality and occupant wellbeing, alongside the increasing need to monitor damp and mould risks to ensure legislative compliance.

A key factor of course is the introduction of Awaab’s Law, which is accelerating the need for social landlords to identify and address hazards within strict timeframes. This is naturally pushing the adoption of sensors that can provide early warning of conditions that lead to damp and mould.

Advances in connected technology also enable real-time data and remote monitoring, supporting a more proactive, data-led approach to compliance and resident safety within property management.

Q. How has the ability to access real time data helped to improve visibility for alarm system end users?

The ability to access real-time data has significantly improved visibility for alarm system end users by providing immediate insight into the status and performance of devices across a property or portfolio.

Users can receive instant alerts to activations, faults or maintenance issues wherever they are, enabling faster response and reducing the possibility of systems being left inoperative and the serious risks associated with it.

Overall, it allows for remote diagnostics and maintenance planning, minimising unnecessary callouts and improving efficiency with faster response times. The real-time data supports a more proactive, transparent approach to system management, enhancing safety, compliance and user confidence.

Q. How are modern fire safety solutions able to better integrate with connected home systems?

Modern fire safety solutions are increasingly designed to communicate seamlessly with connected home systems, allowing alarms, CO detectors, and environmental sensors to work together as part of a single ecosystem.

Technologies like RF interlinking and cloud-based platforms enable connected devices to share data in real time, triggering alerts, notifications, and automated responses across the property.

Integration also extends to property management and monitoring platforms, giving landlords and housing providers a unified view of multiple safety systems. This connectivity allows for faster responses, proactive maintenance, and a more intelligent, data-led approach to home safety.

Q. What are Aico’s aims and objectives for the next 12 months?

Over the next 12 months, Aico is focused on continuing to raise standards and sharing genius across the housing and fire safety sectors, supported by further innovation in our current technologies and services.

A key priority is advancing our connected home solutions and data-led insights, alongside continued investment in education and professional development.

This includes expanding our range of CPD certified and City & Guilds-assured training programmes and qualifications, covering areas such as connected home technology and developments in CO detection. These courses provide industry-recognised accreditation and support improved competence across the sector.

Alongside this, Aico will continue to strengthen partnerships, sustainability initiatives and community engagement, with a clear focus on delivering smarter, safer, and more connected homes.

Find out more about Aico here

Catch up on previous ‘Face to Face’ articles here

The post Face to Face: Aico’s Luke Norcross-Evans talks alarm system market trends appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

National Ventilation has launched its Monsoon Energysaver IntelliSense i7 fan in a sleek, black design.

The 7 in 1 IntelliSense i7 is a clever multifunction fan, and as black interiors continue to grow in popularity, the choice of black or white offers a stylish and intelligent choice for wholesalers, electricians and households alike. With a choice of intermittent or continuous running, this ultra-quiet, ultra-modern, smart bathroom fan runs extremely quietly at low speed at just 17dB(A). The ingenious fan also offers an intelligent humidity sensor, a useful overrun timer and presence sensor, and an airing function to avoid stuffy odours in the bathroom.

Offering the versatility to ventilate bathrooms, toilets and utility areas, the 7 in 1 IntelliSense i7 boasts six core ventilation modes including: three continuous ventilation modes; three intermittent modes; and one heat mover mode. Suitable for installation in wet areas (IP44) such as WCs and bathrooms the fan offers further installation flexibility since it is suitable for both wall or ceiling mounting. This makes IntelliSense i7 the ideal choice for electrical wholesalers, who can offer this intelligent fan to their customers, confident that with its 7 in 1 options the fan’s versatility means it will fit the majority of bathroom installations.

Find out more here

Find more industry products and equipment here

The post National Ventilation launches the 7 in 1 IntelliSense i7 fan appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Marcus Walsh, Director at Ventilux, highlights the apprenticeship opportunities the company has championed with Hugh Baird College.

At Ventilux, we believe in building more than emergency lighting systems – we’re building careers, confidence and long-term futures. As an independent emergency lighting manufacturer, we’re proud to play a hands-on role in developing the next generation of electrical engineers. Incredibly, not one but three of our current employees have all been studying at Hugh Baird College, combining academic learning with real-world experience on-site. For us, apprenticeships are not a tick-box exercise. They are an essential part of how we grow our business, strengthen our team and invest in the industry’s future.

Daniel Bold, Reece Webb and Harry Adams are shining examples of why apprenticeships matter. Each of them is gaining practical, hands-on experience in live environments while contributing to high-profile projects across the UK – from Manchester Airport and historic London landmarks to major installations in Scotland.

Competence and confidence

Working on complex emergency lighting installations gives our apprentices invaluable exposure to real challenges: compliance, coordination with other trades, problem-solving on-site, and delivering to strict safety standards. This practical learning complements their college studies and accelerates both their technical competence and professional confidence.

By working with a respected local college, we’re able to align on training standards, ensure apprentices receive the right academic support, and maintain open communication about their development.

Les Simmons, Ventilux’s Installation and Service Supervisor and mentor to the apprentices, explains: “Ventilux is a family-run business that wanted to provide apprenticeships to local young people to grow the team. Working with a local college, such as Hugh Baird, is a great professional relationship.”

That partnership ensures apprentices benefit from structured learning in the classroom while developing practical skills under experienced supervision on-site.

Daniel Bold joined Ventilux in June 2024 after completing his Level 1 and 2 Diplomas at Hugh Baird College. He has quickly become a valued member of the team and describes Ventilux as a “supportive, nice, family-run team.” His progression demonstrates how apprenticeships can provide a clear pathway from education into meaningful employment.

Reece Webb began his apprenticeship in October 2024, transitioning from the Autocare sector. With no prior electrical experience, Reece brought determination and a strong work ethic. His rapid development highlights the accessibility of apprenticeships to those willing to learn and embrace a new career path.

Harry Adams, our newest apprentice, joined us after completing his Level 2 and 3 Diplomas. He has found a welcoming, growth-focused environment where he can continue to build on his qualifications while gaining valuable site experience.

The electrical and emergency lighting sectors face ongoing skills shortages. For independent manufacturers like Ventilux, the solution isn’t simply to recruit talent – it’s to create it.

Fresh perspectives

By nurturing apprentices from the start of their careers, we’re not only strengthening our own team but also contributing to the wider industry. Apprentices bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm and a willingness to embrace new technologies. In return, we provide mentorship, structured development and the opportunity to work on prestigious, technically demanding projects.

As a family-run business, we take pride in creating a supportive environment where young professionals can grow, make mistakes, learn and ultimately thrive. For Ventilux, apprenticeships aren’t just about today’s workforce. They’re about ensuring that the next generation of engineers is skilled, confident and ready to uphold the highest standards in safety and compliance. By investing in people now, we’re helping to secure a stronger future for our business – and for the industry as a whole.

For more on this topic, click here

Catch up on previous ‘Soapbox’ articles here

The post How is Ventilux and Hugh Baird College shaping future electrical engineers? | Soapbox appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

CTEK has welcomed the UK government’s decision to increase the value of EV chargepoint grants and extend several schemes aimed at supporting electric vehicle infrastructure.

The maximum grant available has increased from £350 to £500, with several schemes extended for a final year until 31 March 2027. The funding is available to support installations for flat owners and renters, residential landlords, households with off-street parking and employers providing workplace charging.

Viktors Nikolajevs, UK Key Account Manager at CTEK, said: “The increase in the maximum grant from £350 to £500 is a very welcome added incentive to flat owners and renters, residential landlords, households with off-street parking and employers with workplace parking.

“They all have until 31 March 2027 to apply for the increased amount. Although the maximum grant for state-funded education institutions is decreasing, there will still be up to £2,000 per socket available until the end of March next year.”

The government’s Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) is also introducing a new application portal for grants covering flats, renters and residential properties, allowing customers to apply directly.

Find more industry news here

The post Extension of UK EV chargepoint grants welcomed appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Now is the perfect time to plan ahead and get ready for when demand for heating and ventilation products spike, so you’re primed and ready to maximise sales.

Investing in the EDA’s award-winning Product Knowledge Modules isn’t just about learning, it has a measurable positive impact on your business and strengthens your position as the trusted expert your customers reply on.

Fewer mistakes and increased sales

By reducing costly mistakes, improving accuracy, and building deep product confidence across your team, the modules empower staff to provide clear guidance on the products they sell. This increases customer satisfaction, builds trust, creates upselling opportunities and ensures customers return.

Best-in-class commendations

Setting the benchmark for professional skills development in the UK’s electrotechnical sector, this EDA training programme has two Princess Royal Training Awards – in 2022 and again in 2025.

The EDA’s training module Heating and Ventilation covers:

• The principles of heat
• Heating – elements, controls and types of heaters
• The principles of hot water
• Types of water heaters
• The principles of ventilation
• Ventilation applications

Online learning through The EDA Academy

When studying the modules, there is a choice of formats:

• Online learning through The EDA Academy (with video and interactive content), OR
• A hard copy textbook which is yours to keep

Test your knowledge

Have a go at this quiz sampled from the Heating and Ventilation module and check your answers below. If the results show that you need to boost your team’s know-how, talk to the EDA today.

Q1. True or false: The hotter the object the more radiation it gives off.
Q2. Convection is the transfer of heat between what elements?
Q3. A mechanical thermostat contains a bi-metallic strip, how many strips of metal are there?
Q4. A tundish should be installed in a system as this shows a homeowner, what?
Q5. What size unvented cylinder is recommended for a property with 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and shower?
Q6. Fill in the missing word. Forward curve fans are very good at providing __________

Scroll down for answers

Answers

Q1: True
Q2: Liquids or gases
Q3: Two metal strips
Q4: Whether a fault has developed and maintenance is urgently needed.
Q5: 210 litres
Q6: Pressure

How did you do?

Full marks: Well done.

3 – 5 out of 6: Time to fill in any gaps in your knowledge and build confidence.

Less than 3: EDA Product Knowledge Training needed.

Watch the video and download the Course Directory

There’s plenty of information online at www.eda.org.uk including a video and a downloadable Course Directory, giving you a summary of what’s covered in each of the 12 training modules.

The EDA team is ready to help. Call 020 3141 7350 or email training@eda.org.uk

For more information, click here

Find more ‘EDA Insight’ articles here

The post EDA Insight: Heating and Ventilation – are you ready to maximise sales? appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Outdoor LED lighting is set to grow by almost 10% a year, but are you making the most of this lucrative market? In this article Anthony Martindale, senior product manager at Collingwood lighting explores some profitable opportunities for you and the contractor.

While there is always a market for security lighting, the flexibility of modern LED fittings means that you can offer the contractor and their customers far more to win higher value business.

The difference is partly mindset. Instead of thinking about functional lighting think about the visual impact that the products can create, that is where the real margin is.

For you and the contractor, you may already be selling 80% of the job but missing that extra 20% that will significantly increase the order value. And outdoor lighting jobs are getting bigger and more sophisticated, both for homeowners to create “outdoor living rooms” and for commercial businesses who want that curb appeal to create an edge over the competition.

Helping the contractor win these larger projects will pull through more luminaires plus other products including drivers, IP rated connectors, cabling, junction boxes, and lighting control.

Landscape lighting

A big ongoing trend is the focus on outdoor living and entertainment. People want lighting to create a relaxing outdoor area for socialising and to highlight features and draw the eye.

Whether it’s for someone’s garden or the outdoor space in a pub or restaurant the entertainment area is a place to relax and socialise. Here more subdued lighting with a warmer colour temperature of less than 3000K to create a relaxed atmosphere is a good choice.

But the magic happens when you consider feature lighting to create interest. It may be an interesting texture on a wall, a plant, or a water feature. Or it could be that functional lighting of a path or steps, which serves the dual purpose of safety and drawing the eye. Contrast is key, picking just a few elements and leaving the rest in shade.

Commonly used products in landscape lighting include spotlights, outdoor downlights, wall lights, ground lights, bollards, spike lights and to add an extra wow factor LED strip lighting.

Architectural lighting 

Lighting a building’s façade can be part of a wider landscape lighting scheme and/or serve a vital role in enhancing a business’ curb appeal. For some, in the hospitality business for instance, it is vital to attract footfall. What is certain is that it is another chance to sell a solution for higher margin business.

Again, the secret is to accurately illuminate the right areas and crucially avoid any light spillage that could cause light pollution or glare. In practice this means that you should be able to offer the contractor products with different beam angles depending on what they want to light.

A fitting with a wide beam, of for example 110°, will create a wash of light across a surface or illuminate an area of the building from further away. A medium beam of about 45° is a good for mid-level lighting to create a swathe of light across a dedicated area. And to pick out features, details and even entrances of a building you will need a narrow beam of about 6°.

Decorative wall lights are another way that the contractor can highlight architectural features or light entrances. Again, you need to consider what beam angle the contractor needs.

The colour temperature of the lighting is also important. This can depend on what material you are lighting.

For warmer coloured materials such as wood or sandstone a warmer light of 2700K or even 2200K will help it glow. To help bring out the natural elements of stone and for red brick suggest 2700k or 3000K. And for white materials a cooler light of 4000K or more will add drama, but cooler lighting should be used sparingly because it can cause light pollution and have a negative effect on nocturnal animals.

Avoiding light pollution

If you want to avoid returns from outdoor lighting projects, then you also need consider the DarkSky requirements that many local councils demand. The products you sell must ensure that the contractor avoids light pollution that affects both neighbours and nocturnal wildlife.

Luminaires that have hoods or shields allow the installer to target light output to ensure there is no light spillage causing glare.

Luminaires also need to avoid any upward spillage of light which causes that glow we see from urban areas. To avoid this, you need to provide luminaires that have a ULOR, or upward light ratio of less than 0.5% or 50 lumens.

For uplighting, your customers need to accurately target the light so that it only lights what is needed. Beam angle is important to ensure there is no light spillage and supplying asymmetric lighting will ensure that they can accurately target the light.

Lighting control and accessories

But targeting the light where it is needed is just part of the story. Proper lighting control means that the final customer only uses light when they need it, a key part of DarkSky requirements that will also save them energy.

This control could be as simple as PIR sensors, timers or even manual switching or it could be more sophisticated lighting control that allows the final user to set different lighting scenarios.

Finally, you need to have confidence that the products you supply to the contractor will stand the test of time. Most will need a minimum IP rating of 65 and be durable enough to withstand the British climate. Check the warranty of what you are selling, the last thing that either you or the contractor wants is to be called back to the job.

Outdoor lighting is about far more than security and safety, although this is of course vital. If you can help your customers win higher value outdoor lighting projects their reputation and business will grow and you will sell more luminaires and other products. It’s a win win for everyone involved.

For further details, click here

Find more industry features here

The post Are you maximising the outdoor LED lighting opportunity? appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Multi-award-winning British audio manufacturer Q Acoustics announces its new Q Acoustics Certified Installer (QCI) Programme, a dedicated training initiative designed to equip professional electricians with the skills, knowledge and confidence to install its range of high-performance home audio systems and speakers. The free programme opens-up a valuable new revenue stream for electricians while making professionally installed audio more accessible to homeowners.

Developed in response to direct industry feedback, the QCI Programme addresses the three biggest barriers electricians face when offering home audio solutions: lack of training, concerns around product complexity, and homeowner perception.

Through three comprehensive online modules, electricians will gain a clear understanding of home audio fundamentals, product technologies, and best-practice installation techniques. The training is designed to demystify the category, enabling participants to confidently explain, sell and install Q Acoustics systems. Additional modules are planned for release in 2026, ensuring the programme evolves in line with installer feedback and industry needs.

“Professional electricians told us they want to expand into home audio but feel it is too complex or challenging to get started,” says Charlie Henderson, Managing Director, Q Acoustics. “The QCI Programme removes that uncertainty by providing the right training, the right products, and the right support to succeed.”

A key focus of the programme is highlighting Q Acoustics’ ‘Easy Install’ range. Featuring innovative solutions such as EasyFit speakers and the E60, E120 and E300A audio systems, these products are specifically engineered for fast, straightforward installation without compromising on performance. By reducing installation time and complexity, electricians can deliver premium audio solutions that remain competitive with smart audio and speaker systems in both cost and convenience.

The programme also tackles homeowner perception – one of the most persistent challenges in the category. Many homeowners believe that installed audio systems are complex, expensive, and require highly specialised engineers. QCI-trained electricians will be equipped to resolve these understandable concerns, presenting simple, elegant solutions that integrate seamlessly into modern living spaces.

Upon successful completion of the programme, electricians will receive an official QCI certification. This includes the ability to display the QCI certified installer logo on quotes and marketing materials, reinforcing credibility and professionalism. Certified installers will also be featured on the Q Acoustics website and linked through product listings, helping drive new business opportunities directly to them.

Q Acoustics will also actively share and promote installation project content and videos across its social media channels, helping to increase visibility and exposure for our partners and their work.

To further support adoption, Q Acoustics is offering an exclusive incentive: The first 20 newly certified installers can purchase their first Easy Install system – E60, E120 or E300A – bundled with a pair of Qi65CE speakers at 50% off the Electrical Wholesaler Trade Price (terms apply). This enables electricians to gain hands-on experience with the products while maximising their initial investment.

With the QCI Programme, Q Acoustics is redefining how home audio is brought to market – empowering electricians, simplifying installation, and making high-quality sound more accessible than ever. For electricians ready to grow their business, the message is simple: Learn. Install. Earn.

Sign up to the QCI Programme here.

To learn more about our Easy Install product range visit www.qacoustics.co.uk

Find more industry news here

The post Learn. Install. Earn: Q Acoustics Launches Certified Installer Programme appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Off-grid renewable power and lighting expert, John Foster, Managing Director, Prolectric, talks about renewable lighting and the operational risks for businesses that rely solely on diesel power.

As regulators call for the tightening up of environmental standards on site emissions, early adopters of renewable technologies are now not only ahead of the game when it comes to compliance but are able to realise a competitive advantage. As fuel markets remain unpredictable and supply chains increasingly fragile, more organisations are recognising the strategic value of futureproofing and diversifying their onsite energy sources. As a result, off-grid renewable power is rapidly becoming an intrinsic part of a site operator’s risk-management strategy – and no longer just perceived as an isolated tick box sustainability exercise.

With skills shortages, high inflation, rising material and equipment costs, not to mention volatile fossil fuel supply chains, pressure is mounting from all directions. As a result, we are currently witnessing a phenomenal pivot within our client base, where long-term established customer businesses have parted with their traditional diesel-dependent equipment in favour of investing in renewable off-grid alternatives. Business, they say, is booming, in what is globally a very difficult market.

For many companies, the adoption of more sustainable business practice is having a halo effect, helping to enhance brand reputation and attract more environmentally conscious clients who share similar values. The strategic reinvention and repositioning of traditional diesel-dependent businesses is clearly paying dividends.

Lighting the way

As industries across the UK accelerate their transition to lower‑carbon operations, renewable lighting has emerged as one of the most practical ways to reduce environmental impact while improving operational efficiency. From construction and infrastructure to events and urban environments, renewable lighting technologies are proving that sustainability and performance are no longer mutually exclusive.

Prolectric designs and manufactures both permanent and temporary off-grid solar lighting solutions for the UK market. Prolectric permanent solar street lighting solutions provide reliable, low-maintenance illumination, which is mains-free and fully compliant with British Standards and DarkSky Approved.

In the temporary lighting category, solar tower lights, column lighting and perimeter and zonal lighting systems deliver safe, sustainable and fully off-grid illumination for construction sites and infrastructure projects, as well as on many other schemes and applications. For example, they are often supplied to warehousing projects and are equally at home on film sets. Designed for rapid deployment and consistent performance, these solutions reduce operational costs while eliminating diesel dependency.

Tower lights are essential for safe and productive work after dark and in areas of poor lighting – and with so many mobile tower lights available in the market it is important to understand the various options available. They are operated all year round, offering the most essential, versatile and functional components to extend construction hours after dark.

Prolectric created the original solar-powered tower light in the UK in 2017, pioneering the transition from diesel and fossil fuel-powered tower lights to solar and hybrid alternatives. Since then, our solutions have saved customers over £40m in diesel costs and over 83m kgs of CO₂e.

Prolectric’s tower lights are designed and engineered in the UK at a manufacturing facility in Clevedon, near Bristol. From here, the company is able to specialise in developing lighting solutions that are specifically designed and built for the UK market. There is a unique and often challenging balance to strike in the UK winter between lower solar yield and longer nights.

Patented autonomous lighting control technology ensures lights operate reliably throughout the night, working as long and as hard as Prolectric customers do. The technology was specifically developed by an in-house R&D team in response to general market perceptions that off-grid solar lighting does not work consistently in the UK. Based on over 10 years of climate data, including sunrise and sunset patterns, combined with GPS location of the light and the battery state-of-charge analysis, the lights intelligently self-regulate their brightness to ensure they stay on all night.

Tower power

Advanced tower lights include specialised telematics systems which enable remote monitoring and control from any location. Prolectric has also developed the only solar lighting solutions on the market that eliminates the need for battery draining. Battery draining is commonly employed by traditional diesel tower lights to prolong the useable life of a battery and is required multiple times a month by our competitors’ products. The battery will be drained to 0 and then recharged using an external power supply back to 100%. This is a level of maintenance that we believe can be avoided by providing true setup-and-forget solutions, which are unique to Prolectric.

As many lighting towers are used in very harsh weather conditions, the design of the canopy can be a gamechanger when it comes to optimising performance and usability. It is vital that the body of the light tower is made of material that is corrosion- and crack-resistant, environmentally friendly and able to meet the demands of the working environment.

Prolectric’s tower light canopies are built from robust, powder-coated steel to protect the tower’s internal components from the elements. What is more, the innovative design and tough material helps ensure that the tower continues to perform throughout years of service, helping retain a high resale value and providing an outstanding Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Wind resistance is another important consideration; our tower lights are rated for use in up to 80km/h wind speeds and are fitted with outriggers to provide further stability.

Proven technology

Renewable solar lighting is no longer a niche or futuristic technology; today it is a proven, high‑performance solution delivering real-world environmental and commercial value. As industries continue to decarbonise site operations and developments, solar and hybrid lighting will play an increasingly central role in creating cleaner, quieter and more resilient projects. For organisations looking to future-proof their energy sources and take meaningful steps towards sustainability, without compromising safety or productivity, renewable lighting offers one of the most rewarding and immediate opportunities to make a difference.

Find out more here

Find more industry features here

The post What are the opportunities in renewable solar lighting? appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

It’s been a busy few months in the electrical industry, with new appointments and shake-ups across different sectors. Keep up to date with the latest movements here, as we details who has gone where…

Ben Swift, Lee Hems & Samuel Ferriday

OVIA

Ovia has announced three key appointments to its UK sales team as the business continues its strong growth trajectory. Ben Swift has joined as Regional Sales Manager for the Southern Region. Ben brings over 20 years of experience within the electrical industry, predominantly in lighting and the wholesale market. His career includes senior roles with a number of leading players in this sector.

Joining Ben’s Southern team is Lee Hems, appointed Area Sales Manager for East Anglia and Essex. Lee brings over six years of experience in the specification lighting market, having progressed through several technical and customer facing roles. Lee’s strong technical background, customer‑focused approach and deep understanding of lighting solutions will support Ovia’s continued expansion across the region.

Ovia also welcomes Samuel Ferriday as Area Sales Manager for the West Midlands. Samuel joins with over a decade of experience in the electrical wholesale sector, having progressed through sales, account management and branch management roles.

Flavie Lowres

RECOLIGHT

Recolight has announced the appointment of Flavie Lowres as Environmental Metrics Manager. Flavie will play a pivotal role in supporting the lighting industry in the adoption of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). Flavie joins Recolight with a distinguished track record in Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs), EPDs, and the circular economy of construction products and buildings. Flavie is a fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3) and chairs their Construction Materials Group Board and is also Sustainability Champion at the Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS).

Dr James Ezhaya

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC

Schneider Electric has appointed Dr. James Ezhaya as Senior Vice President, Industrialization and Supply Chain for the Power Products Division. The appointment reflects Schneider Electric’s continued focus on strengthening industrial execution and supply chain performance to support the division’s growth and customer needs.

James has served as the Vice President of Quality & Customer Satisfaction, Sustainability and Operational Excellence for the Power Products Division, joining Power Products in 2022. He has demonstrated his ability to strengthen quality performance, accelerate sustainability integration, and embed continuous improvement disciplines across the division.

Catch up on previous months ‘Movers and shakers’ articles here

The post Movers and Shakers | May 2026 appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Click Scolmore has announced the launch of the Elucian Type B Heat Pump (HP) Bi-Directional RCCB, a high specification protective device designed to protect people and equipment by disconnecting the power supply when excess leakage current to earth is detected.

The new Elucian Type B HP RCCB builds on the capabilities of a standard Type B device by delivering enhanced sensitivity at higher frequencies. While a conventional Type B RCCB detects pure direct current from 0Hz upwards and alternating current leakage up to 1kHz, the Type B HP extends detection capability to 20kHz. This significantly broader detection range provides reliable protection in installations where high frequency leakage currents are present.

Enhancing Elucian’s growing circuit protection portfolio offerings, this advanced RCCB helps prevent electric shock and potential fire hazards, making it suitable for advanced residual current protection for modern high-performance electrical installations. Designed to detect high-frequency and DC leakage currents that standard RCCBs might miss, the new Type B HP provides reliable protection for these increasingly complex circuits.

The Elucian Type B RCCB is suitable for use across a wide range of applications, including EV charging installations, HVAC systems, elevators, pumps and heat pumps, and CNC machinery.

Find out more here

Find more industry products and equipment here

The post Click Scolmore unveils new Elucian Type B Heat Pump Bi-Directional RCCB appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.