Smarter homes need smarter energy. Robert Stuart-Walker, Head of Product at Sync Energy, looks at how home energy management systems are changing the game.

The drive towards net zero and growing consumer awareness of energy costs are reshaping how households use electricity. Homeowners are no longer content to passively accept whatever their utility bills deliver – they want control, transparency and efficiency. That’s where home energy management systems (HEMS) come in, providing an intelligent, connected approach to monitoring, controlling and optimising energy consumption in the modern home.

For electrical wholesalers, this shift represents both an opportunity and a responsibility. Growing consumer demand for sustainable solutions means that offering smart, reliable and future-proof products is no longer optional – it’s essential. Wholesalers need to be confident in the systems they provide. The Sync Energy approach is to deliver not just hardware, but a complete ecosystem with professional-grade support. It’s about giving both installers and homeowners confidence that the technology will work, seamlessly, for years to come.

Connecting power, storage and savings

At its core, a home energy management system is a centralised platform that monitors and controls a household’s energy flows. It enables real-time visibility into how energy is being consumed, whether it’s coming from solar panels, stored in batteries, or drawn from the grid. More importantly, it provides tools to optimise that consumption – shifting usage to off-peak periods, directing surplus solar energy to useful tasks, or charging electric vehicles (EVs) intelligently to reduce costs.

Sync Energy’s Flow demonstrates this approach well. The system unites hybrid inverters, modular battery storage, solar diverters and EV chargers through the single, intuitive Sync Energy app. By bringing all these components together, Sync Energy makes energy management simple for homeowners. They can see, control and optimise everything from one interface, whether they’re at home or on the move.

For consumers, the benefits are tangible. Sync Energy Flow can reduce energy bills by storing electricity when it’s cheapest or most abundant and using it when needed most. When paired with solar PV, homeowners can dramatically increase self-consumption, meaning less reliance on the grid and a shorter payback period for their investment. For those with EVs, intelligent chargers such as Sync Energy’s Wall Charger 2 or Link Charger can take advantage of surplus solar power or off-peak tariffs to deliver efficient, cost-effective charging.

Key components of a connected home

A key strength of the Sync Energy Flow ecosystem is modularity. Hybrid inverters sit at the heart of the system, converting DC from solar panels or batteries into usable AC power while intelligently deciding when to draw from the grid or store energy. Stackable or wall-mounted designs allow homeowners to scale their system to meet evolving energy needs, while integrated safety features such as AC and DC surge protection simplify compliance.

Battery storage is equally flexible. Sync Energy’s modular LiFePO₄ batteries offer up to 35.84 kWh of expandable storage, a 90% depth of discharge, and over 6,000 life cycles – engineered for durability and reliability.

Installers appreciate the plug-and-play connectivity and easy handling of our batteries, whilst for wholesalers, this translates into fewer call-backs and a system that’s genuinely easy to sell, install and support.

Smart EV charging is another critical touchpoint for modern HEMS, such a Flow. The Wall Charger 2, compatible with the Octopus Intelligent Go tariff, allows homeowners to manage dynamic charging up to 7.4 kW without the need for an earth rod, while the slim Link Charger integrates seamlessly into home aesthetics. Both chargers are fully app-controlled, support OCPP 1.6J connectivity and include Auto Solar Charge and Tariff Sense functionality to optimise costs automatically.

Even simpler components, like solar diverters, play a vital role. These devices redirect surplus solar generation to heat water or power resistive loads, complementing battery storage for a fully optimised home energy system. Some homeowners start with a diverter as a cost-effective first step and over time, they can expand into batteries and intelligent chargers, all managed through the same app.

Why this matters for wholesalers

The HEMS market is not just about technology – it’s about service, reliability and future readiness. Wholesalers must be able to offer products that deliver tangible value to homeowners while also supporting installers with fast, clean and professional installations. Sync Energy designs with this in mind – modular designs, plug-and-play connectors, adjustable mounting feet and dedicated wiring areas all reduce installation time and complexity.

The market is evolving quickly – consumers want sustainable solutions that are simple to understand and use; installers need products that are fast to install and reliable; and wholesalers need to be able to back those products with exceptional support.

By partnering with a supplier that provides a full ecosystem, wholesalers can future-proof their offerings. As more homes adopt solar, battery storage and EVs, demand for integrated, easy-to-manage systems will only grow. Products like Sync Energy Flow allow wholesalers to offer a single solution that covers multiple household energy needs, reducing the need for multiple vendors and streamlining the supply chain. 

Meeting the Net Zero challenge 

The UK government’s Net Zero agenda is a driving force behind the growing interest in HEMS, with households being encouraged to electrify heating, transport and other energy-intensive functions. Smart home energy systems help consumers participate in this transition, offering ways to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, optimise renewable energy use and make meaningful cost savings.

Every home equipped with intelligent energy management is a step closer to a sustainable future. For wholesalers, this is an opportunity to be part of the energy revolution by stocking products that genuinely make a difference.

Total control, total peace of mind

The unifying element across the Flow ecosystem is the Sync Energy App. It provides complete oversight of the home’s energy system, from solar generation and battery storage to EV charging. Homeowners can schedule, monitor and optimise energy use, share access with family members, and receive real-time updates on performance and costs. For wholesalers, the app is a key selling point – it simplifies handover from installer to homeowner, provides confidence in the system’s reliability and reinforces the value of a connected solution.

Looking Ahead

The HEMS market is poised for growth, driven by cost-conscious, eco-aware consumers and government incentives for electrification and Net Zero compliance. For wholesalers, having a partner like Sync Energy means they can meet this demand with confidence, backed by a complete, scalable and future-ready product ecosystem.

Wholesalers who embrace this opportunity today will be offering products and support that will be in demand for years to come. It’s not just about selling product – it’s about empowering homeowners to take control of their energy and contribute to a greener, smarter future.

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Katie Plumstead, Group Marketing Manager with Scolmore Group, provides an overview of the home automation sector, and outlines details of the smart solution that ESP can offer wholesalers.

The home automation market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for smart homes. Electrical wholesalers are in a prime position to capitalise on this trend by offering a range of smart home products and solutions. By understanding the key technologies, market opportunities, and implementation strategies, wholesalers can stay ahead of the curve and enhance their business prospects.

Understanding home automation

Home automation refers to the use of smart devices and interconnected systems to control various aspects of a home, including lighting, security, heating, cooling and entertainment. These systems are typically controlled through mobile apps, voice commands, or centralised hubs. As technology advances, consumers are increasingly seeking integrated solutions that enhance convenience, energy efficiency, and security. Electricians who are working to satisfy this demand will be looking to their preferred wholesaler and manufacturer to provide guidance on the products and solutions available to help them meet their clients’ requirements.

Key technologies:

1. Smart security systems – cameras, smart locks, doorbell cameras and alarm systems that provide real-time monitoring and control.
2. Smart lighting – includes LED bulbs, dimmers and motion sensors that can be controlled remotely.
3. Thermostats and climate control – smart thermostats allow homeowners to optimise energy use and maintain comfortable temperatures.
4. Smart plugs and switches – enable remote control of electrical appliances and devices.
5. Voice assistants and hubs – devices such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit integrate various smart devices for seamless operation.

The smart security solution

ESP first launched its comprehensive range of Fort smart security products over three years ago and the range continues to be popular both for the installers fitting the products and the wholesalers stocking the range, with its choice of easy-to-install and set-up security solutions. Fort is a complete range of smart security products, which includes intruder alarms, video doorbell, video security light, sensors and a selection of 1080p cameras. They all operate under a single app – the ‘Click Smart+’ app – which is completely subscription-free, with no additional fees incurred. With the operation of the Fort range coming under Click Smart+ app from Scolmore, users have control of a raft of connected home and security products all from one secure, easy to access platform.

Fort offers accessibility and simplicity for both the installer and end user, bringing smart solutions together for a safer and more comfortable home. The range features contemporary styling and has been designed to be simple to install, maintain and use and to provide a hassle-free security solution.

At the heart of the Fort smart security range is the smart intruder alarm, which will support up to 32 RF devices and provide remote monitoring and alert notifications directly to the Click Smart+ APP. The smart alarms are available in handy kit formats or can be purchased as separate devices for a tailor-made system.

The purpose-built smart security kits contain everything needed to kit out a home in one box. A number of different kits are available, with the basic kit containing one each of the following – a smart hub, PIR, door/window contact and remote control. Other kits offer an additional number of PIRs, door/window contacts, remote controls and pet PIRs. Other kits include an additional smart alarm keypad and external solar powered smart siren, or an additional smart alarm keypad, external solar powered smart siren and smart Wi-Fi doorbell. All devices supplied within the kits are pre-registered, to assist with a straightforward install.

The Fort range also includes a smart thermostat and smart sockets to further enhance the offer to stockists and end users.

Maximising opportunities

The range of home automation products and solutions available is extensive and by stocking a wide variety wholesalers can attract a broader range of customers, with electricians and consumers keen to take advantage of this growing sector. By partnering with a reputable manufacturer, wholesalers will have access to high-quality, cutting-edge products, backed up with excellent customer service and access to training to help them understand how the different products operate and integrate. As the demand for smart home technology continues to grow, electrical wholesalers have a significant opportunity to expand their product lines and enhance customer engagement. By investing in the right products, partnerships, and training, wholesalers can position themselves as go-to suppliers for the evolving home automation market.

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As we arrive in September it feels like a return to normal life after a summer dominated by Euro 2024, the Olympics and the general election, which I will come back to later.

The sport was obviously lots of fun as I quickly learned (and just as quickly forgot again) all about ‘kickflips’ and ‘lipslides’ (skateboarding), ‘twists’ and ‘tucks’ (diving) and ‘carving’ and ‘cutbacks’ (surfing). And it was of course fantastic to see Team GB bring home so many medals.

Earlier this year it was claimed by organisers that the Paris Olympics would be the ‘greenest ever games’ as they aimed to use existing or temporary venues for most events and focusing on low carbon building for the rest. The statistics will hopefully reveal in due course just how successful the event has been in terms of sustainability, but it’s important that huge global events like this set an example in reducing our carbon footprint, as the technology used in large sporting arenas can be used in our homes and everyday workplaces.

Two of our special features this month, Lighting and Home Automation, are key industries in the UK’s aim to achieve its sustainability targets. An increasing shift towards LED lighting is helping to improve the UK’s position in its aim to meet its Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050 target, and it is becoming widely acknowledged that lighting – and lighting controls – will play a significant role in a new, modern built environment.

In this issue we not only have articles focusing on the latest products from some of the industry’s leading brands, you can also discover how wholesalers can work with their suppliers to offer LED upgrade kits to their customers. On page 26, Recolight CEO Nigel Harvey explains the role of the wholesaler as the key link between customer and manufacturer and why supporting remanufacture and upgrade solutions will ensure wholesalers do not lose out as the increased focus on sustainability and Net Zero emissions drives growth in this sector.

On a final note, the general election brought with it all the usual empty promises, soundbites, media hysteria and mudslinging we’ve come to expect but we’re now through all of that, for now at least, and a new Government is in place and Sir Keir Starmer is our new Prime Minister. Number 10 Downing Street became a virtual revolving door during the last administration, which did very little to help further initiatives in dealing with matters such as climate change. At the moment an era of government stability I think will be welcomed by all.

But for anyone who’s keen for a bit more political excitement…..if you can call it that…..the US presidential election is just around the corner!…‘Sigh’….

– Tracey Rushton-Thorpe

Catch up on previous ‘Editor’s Viewpoint’ here

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Katie Plumstead, Group Marketing Manager at Scolmore Group, looks at the current state of the UK home automation market and what is driving growth.

According to a recent report by market research company ReportLinker, the UK has emerged as a prominent player in the global smart home industry with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.45% from 2022 to 2027. By the end of this period the market is expected to reach a valuation of US$17.81 billion, fuelled by increasing consumer awareness, technological advancements, and government initiatives supporting energy efficiency and sustainability.

One significant trend shaping the UK smart home market is the rising adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, which facilitate seamless communication between various home appliances and systems. This increased connectivity has paved the way for innovative home automation solutions, providing homeowners with improved energy management, security and convenience.

Another notable trend is the growing demand for voice-controlled smart home devices, driven by the popularity of virtual assistants such as Amazon’s Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple’s Siri. This has led to the development of a wide range of voice-enabled products, including smart speakers, lighting systems, thermostats and security systems, which are increasingly integrated into the daily lives of UK consumers.

Diverse sector

The smart home sector is diverse and incorporates a broad range of products, ranging from highly integrated, high spec systems, fully smart home designed through to low cost, lower spec, products with limited installation requirements and singular functionality.

Previously, smart home technology was primarily associated with luxury homes and large residential projects due to its high cost. However, there has been an increasing demand for retrofitting home automation products among enthusiastic consumers who are eager to integrate new technology into their homes.

Renowned for its innovative and intuitive solutions in lighting and wiring accessories, Scolmore continues to invest in its Click Smart+ home automation range to meet the growing demand from contractors and end users for smart products and solutions. The comprehensive range is available through the electrical wholesale channel and will assist installers looking to boost their business with an enhanced smart home offer that will deliver a complete connected home experience to householders.

Designed to simplify and streamline connected home products – lighting controls, smart sockets, security cameras and sensors – the Click Smart+ range utilises Zigbee technology – one of the most widely adopted smart home communication protocols. Zigbee certified devices require the Click Smart+ Hub and communicate with each other using a mesh network which creates multiple pathways for the connection of multiple smart home devices without compromising signal and communication range. A key benefit of Zigbee and the new Click Smart+ range is that there is no requirement for a signal repeater, as all wired Zigbee devices have repeaters built in.

Ultimate control

Click Smart+ has at its core accessibility and simplicity for the installer and end user and is designed to bring convenience, comfort, security, energy saving and ultimately more control in the home. Installation is simple and flexible, with no additional cables or wall cutting required, making it ideal for existing or newly constructed buildings. The bespoke Click Smart+ app gives householders ultimate control of the smart devices, which can also be operated through voice control in conjunction with a smart speaker.

As the rise in demand for smart home products continues, there is ample opportunity for wholesalers and installers to tap into this burgeoning sector. ESP, a Scolmore Group company, continues to enjoy success with its Fort Smart Security range launched over two years ago. Fort provides installers with a comprehensive range of products that covers all aspects of smart home security and is designed to be simple to install, maintain and use – making it an ideal solution for wholesalers to promote to their customers. The Fort range includes intruder alarms, video doorbell, video security light, sensors and a selection of 1080p cameras, and they all operate under a single app – the ‘Click Smart+’ app – which is completely subscription-free, with no additional fees incurred. By bringing the operation of the Fort range under the well-established Click Smart+ app from Scolmore, users have control of a raft of connected home and security products all from one secure, easy to access platform.

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Paul Foulkes, Country Manager for Theben Automation, explores the complexities and opportunities that smart home systems present for wholesalers, electricians, and ultimately, homeowners.

It’s easy to get lost in the sea of smart home devices promising convenience, efficiency and a glimpse into the future of living. For wholesalers and electricians, the smart home journey can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to guide homeowners towards solutions that deliver not just convenience, but also longevity and sustainability. Let’s discuss why selecting the right smart home system is paramount in empowering homeowners to create a truly intelligent living space.

Why choosing the right system matters

Smart home systems serve as the backbone of modern residential automation, they should seamlessly integrate all the various devices to enhance comfort, security and energy efficiency. By enabling control through a unified interface, these systems offer unparalleled convenience and customisation, transforming the way homeowners interact with their surroundings.

Among the abundance of smart devices flooding the market, it’s crucial to point out the significance of selecting an integrated smart home system over standalone gadgets. While individual devices may provide immediate gratification, they often lack the interoperability and scalability needed for a holistic true smart home solution.

Future-proofing is a key consideration for smart home technology. A system that embraces interoperability ensures compatibility with a diverse array of devices and technologies, safeguarding the homeowner’s investment and facilitating seamless integration of future innovations. This adaptability not only enhances the homeowner’s experience but also maximises the longevity of the smart home investment.

Simplicity and affordability

Accessibility is paramount in driving widespread adoption of smart home technology. Solutions like LUXORliving by Theben exemplify this ethos by offering simplicity and affordability without compromising on functionality. With an intuitive interface and simplified installation, it minimises complexity and reduces costs for both professionals and homeowners alike.

The right approach to smart home automation prioritises simplicity and user experience, ensuring that electricians can effortlessly design, install and commission the system without extensive training or expertise. This accessibility broadens the reach of smart home technology to a wider audience. It also provides direct benefits to electricians who embrace smart home systems, expanding their client base and market opportunities.

The cost-effective nature of solutions like LUXORliving positions them as an attractive option for wholesalers. The ease of installation and simple training requirements minimise overhead costs for professionals, allowing wholesalers to offer competitive pricing and cater to the growing demand for smart home technology while maximising customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Empowering choices through education

While 79% of UK residents own one or more smart devices, currently only 8% of UK homes contain integrated smart home ecosystems. However, with smart homes estimated to save £450 annually due to reduced energy consumption, the number of integrated smart home ecosystems is set to increase. The UK integrated smart home market is expected to grow by 11.66% per year between now and 2028.

It’s the responsibility of wholesalers to empower electricians and homeowners with knowledge and options. By highlighting the importance of selecting the right smart home system and educating on the benefits of interoperability, simplicity and affordability. Homeowners and the electrical contractors responsible for specifying and installing smart homes can make choices that align with their priorities and aspirations. This knowledge also enables the wholesaler to serve their professional customer base and be recognised as the sales point for these smart home solutions.

Let’s continue to empower homeowners with the insights and options they need to shape the homes of tomorrow.

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The home automation market is growing at a rapid pace and the demand for smarter homes is growing significantly. Holly Pulham of Securi-Flex discusses the cables making it all possible.

A smart home refers to an accessible home setup which allows homeowners to control appliances, thermostats, lights, and other devices remotely using a smartphone or tablet through an internet connection. For example, you can even use voice commands through Google Home or Amazon Alexa to complete basic tasks in your smart home.

What is the difference between ‘home automation’ and ‘smart home’?

Home automation is a system that allows your smart home to run automated services you may have set up. They will be pre-programmed by the user to deliver pre-defined preferences. The idea behind this is that some things which you may do all the time on a routine basis should and can be fully automated. For example, with certain lighting you might like it set to a preferred state which adjusts automatically to how you want it each time.

A smart home on the other hand, as mentioned, can be controlled by the user via an app on their phone or by using an internet connection to connect to these devices, which in this context could be smart or dimmable bulbs.

Why are smart homes becoming more desirable?

An automated home, either fully or in part, provides numerous benefits to its user. This includes enhanced security for the protection of theft, protection from unauthorised access to the user’s home and the evolving need for energy efficient solutions. For these reasons it’s no surprise that the market is gaining traction, particularly in the residential and commercial sectors in order to protect both personal and business-related assets.

There’s been an increase in demand for home monitoring from remote locations. In line with technological advancements, the adoption of smart devices and growing number of smartphone and Internet users worldwide are all contributing factors.

Smart home statistics show that the global household penetration of products stood at 7.2% in 2019, according to Statista. This figure is reportedly set to increase to 16.7% by 2023, which is more than double and there’s certainly room for further growth.

What is the most common smart home product in Britain?

According to YouGov, smart meters are the most commonly used smart home product in Britain. However as these are free, it is noted that smart speakers are the most popular smart home device by physical purchase, with 11% of consumers owning one. Among them, 69% chose the Amazon Echo, while a comparatively small 19% opted for Google Home.

The key role specially developed cabling can play

This leads us to discuss smart home cabling and the options available. Securi-Flex stocks a vast range of cables suitable for smart homes, which includes but not limited to: audio speaker cables, smart lighting, blind control, access control (Purple Pipe), networking and high-speed data, home surveillance, fire alarm, security alarm, HVAC control, Belden and KNX equivalents (also known as EIB cable), which is ideal for smart buildings and building utility systems.

Cable options

Let’s take a closer look at some of these cables. Securi-Flex stocks a composite access control cable, also known as Purple Pipe. Specifically designed for proprietary access control systems, these cables are broadly used in public buildings where security and safety are important. It’s a cost-effective security solution that’s less labour-intensive and provides easy-identification features for a new level of ease and convenience to any installation.

Commonly known as KNX cable, Securi-Flex also stocks an EIB Bus equivalent which features two twisted pairs of solid conductors with a foil screen and tinned copper drain wire. This cable has a distinctive sheath which is green in colour and is Low Smoke Zero Halogen. The KNX/EIB cable has exceptional capabilities for electrical and shielded communication performance, which enables use for intelligent building control, lighting, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, blinds, time management and locking systems. This is used to build intelligent building control solutions for domestic and commercial applications resulting in control of the users everyday working or living environment.

The Securi-Flex home automation range also includes structured data networking cables, which enable multiple devices to share connection of internet and media over Category 5e, Category 6, Category 6A, Category 7A and even Category 8. Streaming HD for example requires cabling that can provide fast and accurate data transmission. Using a high-quality, high-performing data cable is vital.

DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) is a standard international Communication Protocol, a global standard for dimming and digital lighting control. DALI cables are versatile, easy to install and a cost-effective lighting control solution.

LonWorks (Local Operating Network) is regarded as the world’s Leading technology for building services devices. Devices are installed in a variety of sectors including motorway lighting, lighting control, HVAC systems, security systems and many more. The ‘SFX/USP1-16’ for example is available in LSZH GREY and Black PE Duct Grade – It has two 16 AWG cores and unscreened composition.

Hybrid data, communication & control cables work with speciality lighting systems for efficient control of artificial light. Often referred to as 1502R or Lutron equivalent, we can offer our ‘SFX/USP16-OSP22-LSZH’ from stock, which is the ideal solution to these systems to allow custom configuration by the owner to create their own lighting settings. Whereas lighting control bus cables are intended for communications between the lighting distribution board, lighting control modules and luminaire plug wiring. Colour coded sheath compounds are provided for the ease of identification between lighting control wiring and Dali Bus Installation. These are often referred to as E-BUS, M-BUS, O-BUS and T-BUS.

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