NVC Lighting has launched GREENLAND PRO, a high-performance IP66-rated non-corrosive LED lighting range designed to simplify installation while delivering reliable performance across demanding commercial and industrial applications.

Developed with installers in mind, the new range features NVC’s 2 FIX installation system, which separates first-fix and second-fix stages to support flexible project sequencing and streamline on-site workflows. During first fix, the base can be secured and the mains supply prepared, while the detachable light engine can be installed later when the project is ready for commissioning.

To further simplify installation, GREENLAND PRO incorporates prepared cable and conduit entry points that are pre-drilled, tapped and plugged, helping to maintain IP66 integrity without the need for additional drilling. A movable terminal block and terminal block on a flying lead provide added flexibility, enabling installers to position connections to suit a variety of cable entry requirements.

Designed for a wide range of applications, including car parks, warehouses, logistics facilities, industrial environments, plant rooms and service areas, GREENLAND PRO combines robust construction with a flexible specification. The range offers selectable outputs, multiple size options and a choice of emergency, sensor and control features, allowing specifiers and contractors to tailor solutions to individual project requirements.

Performance has also been a key focus, with efficiencies of up to 169lm/W helping to reduce energy consumption while maintaining high-quality illumination. The luminaires are protected to IP66 against dust and water ingress and achieve an IK10 impact rating, making them suitable for challenging environments where durability is essential.

The integrated light engine incorporates the diffuser, LEDs, driver and terminal block into a single unit, reducing installation complexity and requiring only one set of clips to be opened and closed during fitting and maintenance.

Backed by NVC’s seven-year PROe warranty, GREENLAND PRO has been engineered to provide long-term reliability while supporting efficient installation and flexible project delivery from first fix through to final commissioning.

Find out more here

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A look at the latest display solutions to help your in-store purchases.

COLOURFUL ENGAGEMENT

ENER-J believes that effective point-of-sale (POS) displays can help electrical wholesalers turn valuable branch and counter space into an opportunity to generate additional sales.

Many innovative lighting and smart products can be difficult to communicate from packaging alone, which is why ENER-J has developed ready-to-use POS solutions that allow products and their key features to be presented clearly in-store.

The company’s latest displays include the RGBIC + CCT Designer surface light range, allowing customers to see the colour-changing and CCT features, alongside its Designer LED wall lights display. The aim is to create an eye-catching presentation that encourages customer engagement and helps branch staff introduce new products more easily.

The displays are designed to give wholesalers a practical and professional way to showcase products without the need to create their own merchandising solution. By helping customers see how ENER-J products look and understand their key features, a well positioned POS display can help create interest and encourage additional sales.

ENER-J continues to invest in developing POS and display solutions across its product range. The company is keen to work with its wholesale partners to create attractive in-store presentations that support product awareness and sales.

To secure your ENER-J POS, contact jay@ener-j.co.uk or click here

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CEF has been awarded ISO 19443 certification, underlining its commitment to quality, traceability and operational excellence within the nuclear supply chain.

Developed specifically for organisations supplying products and services important to nuclear safety (ITNS), ISO 19443 is an internationally recognised quality management standard that builds on ISO 9001. It introduces additional requirements covering areas such as nuclear safety culture, risk management, supplier oversight, product traceability and continuous improvement.

The certification follows an independent third-party assessment of CEF’s management systems, confirming that its processes meet the stringent requirements expected within the nuclear sector. For customers, this provides additional assurance that effective controls, governance and quality management practices are embedded throughout the business.

As a distributor supporting the nuclear industry, CEF says the accreditation strengthens confidence in its ability to provide a secure, controlled and fully traceable supply chain. The company believes the certification will help customers mitigate risk while maintaining confidence in the products and services they procure.

Unlike broader quality management standards, ISO 19443 has been designed specifically to address the unique challenges associated with nuclear operations. Alongside quality assurance, it places greater emphasis on areas such as supplier performance, configuration management and end-to-end product traceability.

The achievement reflects CEF’s ongoing investment in strengthening its quality management systems and supporting the evolving needs of the nuclear sector. It also demonstrates the company’s readiness to support both current and future nuclear projects with dependable supply chain solutions focused on quality, compliance and operational reliability.

With continued investment being made in UK nuclear infrastructure, the need for resilient and high-quality supply chains remains a key priority. CEF says achieving ISO 19443 certification further reinforces its position as a trusted partner to the industry.

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As the demand for USB charging points increases hugely, so does the demand for the speed and power they can deliver and to meet the needs of both consumers and commercial users. Hannah Liscombe, Marketing Director at Knightsbridge, reports.

USB charging has moved from being a useful extra to an increasingly expected feature of modern electrical installations. As smartphones, tablets, laptops and other portable devices are now integral to everyday life, the conventional combination of a mains socket, plug-top charger and trailing cable is increasingly being replaced by integrated USB charging directly at the wall. For wholesalers and electrical stockists, that creates both a practical product category and an opportunity to trade customers up into higher-value wiring accessories.

A key point is that not all USB sockets are the same. Charging output ranges from relatively modest solutions for phones and smaller devices through to high-power USB-C Power Delivery (PD) products capable of charging laptops.

The current Knightsbridge range, for example, includes USB sockets offering outputs around 15.5W, 18W, 20W, 30W, 45W, 63W and 65W, providing a useful hierarchy of products for different applications.

Rapid charging

At the lower end, standard USB A+C charging is well suited to everyday smartphone use, small personal electronics and applications where high-speed charging is not a priority. An 18W fast-charge socket represents a step up, making it appropriate for smartphones and other portable devices where rapid charging is valued. Knightsbridge’s 45W products add USB-C PD, providing sufficient output for many tablets and compatible laptops while retaining USB-A charging for legacy devices.

Higher-power products are increasingly relevant in commercial environments. A 63W charger with two USB-C and one USB-A output is ideal for offices, hotels, cafés, bars and other locations where users may need to charge laptops as well as phones and tablets. USB-PD and PPS can manage voltage and current dynamically, helping compatible devices charge efficiently without requiring a separate power adaptor.

The latest 65W dual USB-C sockets take this further. They can deliver up to 65W to a single compatible device such as a laptop, or distribute power between two devices, with one combination providing 45W and 18W. GaN technology can also improve efficiency while reducing heat and energy loss.

Different markets

These capabilities translate readily into different markets. In residential applications, integrated USB charging helps declutter worktops, bedside areas and home offices, while decorative finishes make the socket part of the interior design rather than simply a functional fitting. In commercial settings, accessible charging can be an amenity in offices, hospitality, retail and communal areas. Educational buildings present another obvious application, particularly classrooms, libraries and staff workspaces where mobile technology is now commonplace.

There is also a strong design dimension. USB-equipped sockets are now available in multiple plate styles and finishes, including matt black, anthracite, brushed chrome, matt white and antique brass. That allows charging functionality to be specified alongside the wider accessory scheme rather than treated as an add-on.

For wholesalers and stockists, this creates a useful opportunity to build a clear product ladder rather than carrying a single USB offering. Lower-output products can address price-sensitive replacement work, while 18W, 30W and 45W models provide obvious upgrades. Higher-output 63W and 65W products can target offices, premium residential projects, hospitality and technology-heavy environments. Decorative versions add another route to upselling, while compatible charging cables provide a natural complementary sale; the Knightsbridge range includes 60W cables and certified 100W USB-PD C-C cables.

The commercial proposition is therefore broader than simply selling another socket. USB charging combines convenience, technology and design in a familiar electrical accessory, while giving the trade multiple points at which to differentiate products by performance, specification and finish.

For stockists, that means the opportunity to meet a wider range of applications, increase average transaction value and move customers from basic replacement products towards higher-value, feature-rich accessories.

Additional details can be found here

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Jackie Moore, UK Marketing Lead at Purmo Group UK, looks at why electric heating is far greener than many would give it credit for.

Even today, electric heating solutions can be met with scepticism. However, the rethinking of energy production and the associated legal regulations are driving technological development in the heating market. And in times of well-insulated, energy-efficient houses, modern electric heating systems score points on many levels.

Quick and easy heating

Electric heating is ideal for rooms such as bedrooms, hobby rooms or attics, where heat is only needed temporarily and selectively, and where a connection to the central heating pipework might be missing.

It’s also perfect for second homes or holiday cottages that are only used sporadically, or to heat passive houses where the heating load is so low that a hot water heating system doesn’t make sense.

When renovation work or a property extension is carried out, a subsequent extension of pipework is often too time-consuming and expensive.

In all these cases, electric heating can provide a quick and uncomplicated remedy. No additional heating pipes are required which not only speeds up the installation, but also means there’s no heat loss from the boiler or pipes, and reaction times are very fast.

Electric heating on demand 

Unlike central heating that requires the boiler or heat pump to always keep the temperature at a set level, an electric radiator is only switched on when there’s an actual need for warmth.

Together with correct sizing of radiators and the presence of a decent thermostat, this can make a big difference in reducing both energy consumption and running costs, especially since each degree increase or decrease in indoor temperature results in 5 to 7% more or less energy use.

Modern electric radiators are also a great addition to existing heating installations, particularly when the room in question isn’t yet centrally heated, or if heat is generated selectively on particularly cold days.

Ecodesign Directive 

To help lower resource consumption and improve the environmental performance of various products, the EU has created the Ecodesign Directive, which sets out minimum mandatory requirements in terms of energy efficiency.

Additionally, for products such as electric heating systems, it demands intelligent control functions such as open window detection, weekly and daily programmes, and self-learning functions to optimise start-up and minimal stand-by consumption.

Precision thermostat 

An important feature that helps our Myson range of electric radiators meet sustainability requirements are the different control options that allow users to control the temperature to an accuracy of 0.2°C. This ensures a constant and comfortable ambient temperature as well as an optimal energy use since there is no risk of overheating or needless energy consumption.

Through modern technology the temperature settings can easily be managed via a tablet or smartphone, and the radiator can quickly adjust to provide the required power.

Green energy sources 

In addition to technological developments in electric heating, the need for smarter energy use has also given rise to a re-examination of energy production and a movement towards the use of green energy sources such as wind, water or solar-generated electricity.

Since electric radiators run equally well on electricity generated from fossil fuels and increasingly from sustainable resources, they make an easily adaptable heating solution that can effortlessly evolve with changing energy landscapes.

When electric radiators are powered with self-generated electricity, they not only provide a sustainable and energy-efficient heating solution but also guarantee a comfortable indoor climate with minimal costs.

Further details can be found here

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Mental health challenges, particularly securing diagnoses for conditions like ADHD, present complex obstacles for working professionals. The diagnostic journey often involves confusing processes, extensive delays, and emotional strain – especially when managing undiagnosed symptoms affects daily performance.

Uncertainty in empowerment

Diana’s experience demonstrates how targeted professional guidance can transform uncertainty into empowerment and progress.

Working within the electrical sector, Diana contacted the EIC after recognising potential ADHD symptoms that were increasingly disrupting her professional and personal functioning. She struggled with concentration, organisational skills, and emotional balance – issues that created mounting stress in both workplace and home environments.

Acknowledging these persistent challenges, she actively sought professional intervention.

Diana encountered the frustrating reality many face when pursuing ADHD assessment: overwhelming NHS backlogs, unclear referral procedures, and limited accessible information. The diagnostic pathway seemed nearly impossible to navigate independently. This prompted her decision to approach the Electrical Industries Charity for specialised guidance and advocacy.

The EIC’s response was immediate and comprehensive. Diana’s assigned caseworker provided attentive listening and practical direction for moving forward. The most transformative intervention involved educating Diana about the Right to Choose framework – an NHS provision enabling English patients to select alternative providers for specialist consultations, often significantly reducing assessment waiting periods.

Her caseworker thoroughly explained Right to Choose procedures, clarifying Diana’s entitlements, qualification requirements, and GP referral processes. Armed with this knowledge, Diana felt confident and equipped to pursue the diagnosis and treatment she required.

Understanding that assessment delays remained likely, the EIC simultaneously arranged interim mental health counselling sessions. These therapeutic interventions helped Diana manage her existing challenges while pursuing formal evaluation. Professional counselling enabled her to examine her symptoms, build effective coping mechanisms, and strengthen her emotional resilience.

Comprehensive support 

The EIC’s Employee Assistance Programme provides immediate access to qualified mental health professionals, case management services, and specialised support for neurodiversity challenges. When employees face diagnostic uncertainties, workplace difficulties, or personal crises, the EAP ensures confidential, expert intervention tailored to individual circumstances.

This professional service prevents personal struggles from escalating into workplace performance issues. Staff receive discreet support for ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and other conditions, with qualified practitioners who understand both clinical needs and industry-specific pressures.

The EIC’s specialised team navigates complex healthcare systems, advocates for employee rights, and provides interim therapeutic support while formal treatments are arranged. This comprehensive approach ensures no team member faces mental health challenges without professional guidance.

For further information please contact the Electrical Industries Charity directly – 020 3696 1710, fundraising@electricalcharity.org or click here

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Electric heating manufacturer Consort Claudgen has adopted Consort as its master brand, introducing a new logo and visual identity effective 1 September 2026.

The change reflects the name already used by customers and colleagues and creates a clearer, more consistent presence across the company’s communications and trade materials. The refreshed identity uses a warm red, retains the familiar heat-wave element and introduces the strapline, ‘Your trusted electric heating partner.’ The Claudgen name remains part of Consort’s product brand portfolio.

Gareth Davies, Managing Director at Consort, said: “Customers already know us as Consort, so the new identity makes the brand clearer while reflecting the business we are today. What has not changed is our focus on dependable electric heating, practical support and long-term partnerships. The new look gives us a stronger platform for the next stage of the business.”

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Wiring accessories may be among the most familiar products on an electrical installation, but that does not mean the category stands still. Dogan Dogan, Product Manager – Wiring Accessories at BG, examines the next generation of wiring accessories.

As contractors look for ways to complete work more quickly and efficiently, manufacturers are increasingly examining how established products can be redesigned around the practical realities of life on site.

The latest trends are being shaped by common demands – greater flexibility, simpler installation, easier maintenance and the ability to adapt products to changing customer requirements. For electricians, innovation is increasingly valuable when it removes complexity rather than adding it.

Modularity is playing an important role in this evolution. Rather than relying solely on fixed, pre-configured accessories, modular systems allow installers to build the combination required for a particular application. Individual modules can also be replaced or changed as requirements evolve, helping installations remain adaptable. And, for wholesalers, a common modular platform can simplify product selection and reduce the need to hold every possible finished combination in stock.

It’s these trends that are behind the launch of BG GridLite, a new screwless, clip-in modular switching system that represents the first stage of a wider development across the BG wiring accessories portfolio.

Making installation easier

At the heart of GridLite is a simple principle – reducing unnecessary complication for the installer. Traditional modular systems can involve separate fixing components and the challenge of assembling multiple parts before an installation is complete. GridLite takes a different approach with a screwless clip-in system and a unique yoke-free construction.

Modules simply push into place, eliminating the need for fiddly fixing screws. The yoke-free design also means modules can be fitted either way up. Modules can be wired before the faceplate is fitted helping to streamline installation.

Engineered for modern lighting applications, GridLite’s single-width modules are rated at 20A, while standard switch modules fit 16mm back boxes, helping installers minimise rework where existing back boxes can be retained.

GridLite has been developed by listening to what installers want from a modular switching system and they wanted a solution that is quicker to install, easier to adapt and flexible enough to suit a wide range of applications.

Flexibility built in

One of the defining benefits of modular systems is the ability to create bespoke configurations. Customers increasingly expect wiring accessories to provide more than basic switching, with requirements varying according to the building, room and application.

GridLite offers standard, intermediate and retractive switches, key switches, touch dimmers, blank modules and USB-C charging modules. This enables installers to configure accessories for a project rather than working around a limited number of fixed combinations. The compact single-module touch dimmer occupies the same footprint as a standard switch, while up to three modules can be installed on a single square plate.

With GridLite, each module can be removed and replaced independently without removing adjacent modules or replacing the complete device. This makes maintenance and future alterations simpler.

One platform, multiple finishes

While functionality and ease of installation remain central to product development, aesthetics continue to be important across domestic, commercial and specification projects.

GridLite has been designed to integrate across BG’s established wiring accessory ranges, including White Moulded, Nexus Metal, Flatplate Screwless, Evolve, Metal Clad and Part M.

Using a common modular platform across multiple accessory finishes allows installers to configure a consistent system while giving customers freedom over the final appearance.

For wholesalers, the approach can also simplify conversations at the trade counter, with a common platform offering greater consistency across functions and finishes.

The start of a wider change

The GridLite launch is not intended to be an isolated product development. It represents the first stage of a wider move towards a fully modular, yoke-free screwless switching system across the BG Wiring Accessories portfolio.

The new modular approach will also begin to be introduced across BG’s existing plated switch ranges. The transition will take place as a running change, with existing switches gradually moving to the updated modular design as new versions filter into the market over the following months.

As updated products become available, GridLite and the subsequent developments to BG’s plated switches will together establish a broader common approach to modular switching.

Innovation with a practical purpose

For the electrical industry, product innovation does not always need to mean radical change. In wiring accessories, small improvements can have a meaningful impact on the time and effort required to complete a project.

Screwless clip-in modules, independent replacement and a yoke-free construction are all examples of design decisions intended to make life easier on site. The move towards a broader modular platform also recognises the importance of flexibility as customer requirements and buildings change.

The development of GridLite therefore reflects a wider trend in wiring accessories – moving towards products that are simpler to install, easier to adapt and capable of providing more choice from a common platform.

As the system is progressively rolled out across BG’s portfolio, the focus remains on practical innovation – delivering products designed around the needs of installers while providing wholesalers with a flexible and increasingly consistent switching solution. The best innovation is often the innovation that solves a problem without making the product more complicated.

Further product details can be found here

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With this year’s GCSE, T Level and A Level results now released, many young people across the UK are considering their next steps into further education, training or employment.

For those interested in a career in the electrical industry, NAPIT Foundation is encouraging students and apprentices to take advantage of the support available to help them develop their knowledge, build confidence and prepare for the workplace.

NAPIT Foundation offers free membership to students and apprentices, providing access to technical guidance, educational resources, CPD opportunities and regular industry updates. The organisation says these tools can help learners stay informed as they progress through their training and begin their careers.

The support comes at a time of significant change within the industry, following the introduction of Amendment 4 to BS 7671:2018. Understanding regulatory developments and emerging technologies early in their careers can help learners strengthen their technical knowledge and improve their long-term prospects.

Brett Forster, Technical and Commercial Director at NAPIT, said: “Learners should be proud of their efforts throughout the academic year, and we congratulate all NAPIT Foundation students and colleges on their achievements.”

He added: “Through NAPIT Foundation, we are pleased to offer free membership that supports learners with technical resources, expert guidance and opportunities to enhance their knowledge as they begin their journey into the industry.”

For more information about NAPIT Foundation membership, visit: www.napit.org.uk/join-us/students-and-colleges/

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Martin Plumbridge, Doepke Technical Manager, discusses heat pumps and RCD selection

Electrical characteristics of inverter-driven heat pumps, residual current waveforms, and practical selection of RCDs/RCBOs to support safe and reliable operation.

Introduction

Modern air source and ground source heat pumps (ASHPs/GSHPs) are electrically powered refrigeration systems. Unlike legacy electric heaters, most heat pumps use inverter drives (power electronics) to vary compressor and fan speed for efficiency and low starting current. Power electronics change what the electrical installation “sees”: the equipment can generate leakage currents that are not purely 50Hz sinusoidal AC.

This matters because RCDs/RCBOs are waveform-dependent protective devices. Selecting an unsuitable RCD type can lead to nuisance tripping (loss of heating), or in the worst case “blinding” (reduced ability to detect a dangerous earth fault). This article summarises the electrical behaviour of inverter-driven heat pumps and provides a practical approach to upstream RCD selection in line with BS 7671 and manufacturers’ instructions.

Why RCD type matters 

An RCD measures imbalance between current carrying conductors. If current is leaking to earth (through insulation failure, moisture ingress, damaged cable, or a person), the imbalance rises and the device trips.

However, not all RCDs respond to all residual current waveforms. Smooth DC and some high frequency components can saturate the sensing core of certain RCD types. This is commonly described as RCD blinding. Separately, normal inverter-related leakage and switch-on transients can cause unwanted tripping if the RCD sensitivity/type is not suited to the equipment.

Standards context

RCD selection for inverter driven equipment is primarily governed by the general requirements of BS 7671 rather than a single dedicated heat pump section. Key themes are:

• Follow manufacturers’ instructions (BS 7671 Reg 134.1.1): if the heat pump specifies an RCD type or special characteristics, design accordingly.
• RCD type selection by waveform (Reg 531.3.3): choose an RCD type suitable for the residual current that may occur.
• RCD rating/sensitivity and cumulative leakage (Reg 531.3.2): avoid unwanted tripping by considering protective conductor currents of connected equipment.
• Additional protection (typically 30 mA): often required in domestic circuits depending on cable installation method and location (e.g., cables in walls, outdoor equipment feeds).

RCD/RCBO types in practice

For single phase equipment, the use of Type F or B RCDs is governed by the level of smooth dc residual current produced under certain fault conditions. Some examples of basic configurations for different inverter topologies (Power Electronic Control System – PECS), and the associated Types of RCD are listed in BS 7671 Figure A53.1. The level of smooth DC fault current is related to the value of the “DC link voltage” i.e. it is function of the original equipment design and can only be defined by the inverter manufacturer.

The AC operational leakage current (PE current), must be compatible with the installation design and the RCD sensitivity. Consider the possible addition of leakage currents, when adding new equipment to an existing installation, as this may require sub-division of existing circuits.

DC link voltage determines the Type of RCD

The use of Type F or Type B RCDs for inverters connected to a single phase supply, is governed by the value of smooth dc residual current produced under fault conditions i.e. dc fault = link voltage/fault resistance.

Figure 1 gives a generic example of a single phase combined compressor and fan unit. The DC voltage output from the rectifier will be a minimum of 1.41 x the AC rms voltage. There may be a step-up voltage section, to increase the DC voltage before it is fed into the control section, based on the characteristics of the motors connected to the inverter output.

A capacitor connected across the DC bus provides smoothing and a power reservoir, for the control section during the non-conducting period of the AC supply. These characteristics of the inverter design determine the maximum value of smooth DC residual current.

A fault to earth on the DC link section, results in a smooth DC residual current flowing in the PE conductor, back to the source earth and returning via the line conductors through any upstream RCDs.

Operational leakage currents

Heat pumps can have high leakage currents due to EMC filtering and inverter operation. When multiple circuits share one 30mA RCD, the cumulative leakage can approach the trip threshold, especially during transients (power-up/defrost).

Relatively small inverter setups designed for permanent connection to the supply, may require a minimum of 300 mA RCDs. Check with the manufacturer first, do not leave it until you get to site.

BS7671 543.7.1 places limits on the operational leakage current, based on the method of connection: Check the HP manufactures installation instructions for the correct method of connection and earthing.

High frequency residual currents

Inverter switching frequencies are typically in the kHz range. While Type F devices are intended for composite residual currents and Type B devices for smooth DC, real world performance at higher frequencies can vary by product. If the heat pump manufacturer specifies enhanced frequency performance (or if persistent nuisance tripping/compatibility concerns exist), verify the chosen RCD/RCBO’s frequency characteristics with the protective device manufacturer.

Conclusion

Heat pumps are high efficiency electrical loads that rely on inverter technology, and that technology can introduce composite and DC residual currents that traditional RCD assumptions do not cover. For safe, robust installations, select the protective device type based on the equipment’s residual-current characteristics (starting with the manufacturer’s instructions), manage leakage current to minimise nuisance tripping, and verify performance through appropriate testing and certification.

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