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

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Schneider Electric has launched The Learning Loop, a monthly CPD-accredited online learning programme designed to support ongoing training, upskilling, and professional development across the electrical industry in the UK and Ireland.

The new programme will offer two sessions each month, combining a CPD-accredited technical webinar with a follow-on session exploring how those principles are applied to real-world projects.

As an accredited CPD provider, Schneider Electric will issue certificates following attendance, allowing participants to log recognised CPD hours with professional bodies.

The programme builds on Schneider Electric’s established CPD offering, which saw approximately 5,000 attendees in 2025, and complements its extensive on-demand CPD library available to UK and Ireland audiences.

A variety of topics will be covered, with more to come, including:

•  January: HV Switchgear | GenieEvo: Features, Benefits & Applications
•  February: Selecting the Right Meter for Your Application | Schneider Electric’s Metering & Power Management Software
•  March: Fundamentals of Automatic Transfer Switches | Our ATS Equipment Suite – Features, Benefits & Applications
•  April: Introduction to Building | Management Systems When Buildings Speak: Translating Data into Action with Building Advisor
•  May: Surge Protection in Electrical Distribution | Latest Developments in Acti9 & Powerpact 4 – Including SPDs
•  June: Fundamentals of Busbar in Electrical Distribution | Schneider Electric’s Busbar Portfolio & Applications

The Learning Loop launch reflects growing demand across the electrical industry for structured, accredited training as technologies and standards continue to evolve. 

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We hear how Schneider Electric’s suite of control solutions have been deployed by the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre to ensure the optimal conditions needed for scientific research and sustainability at the neuroscience research institute.

The deployment of a set of AS-P and RP-C controllers to monitor operations and regulate temperature levels in the new 800 square foot, 5th Quad four storey extension, marks the latest phase of a design concept that was first discussed between the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre and UCL in early 2021.

Changing requirements

A combination of AI-enabled digital tools, predictive analytics and connected equipment enables the facilities management team to accurately monitor power consumption to maintain energy and cost efficiency. Specific attention is paid to the performance of steam boilers, chilled water and low temperature hot water (LTHW) supplies. The network of electrical equipment and digital solutions has expanded to match the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre’s changing requirements.

All systems are linked to the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre’s BMS (Building Management System) that is underpinned by Schneider Electric’s Building Advisor EcoStruxure platform and remote bureau monitoring that delivers a dedicated alarm management system. The integrated solution, which covers the entire site, was initially deployed in 2019 to support the installation of Schneider Electric’s MV/LV power distribution equipment and energy metering solutions. Smart metering data is fed into the Building Advisor platform to ensure that energy usage and utility costs are closely aligned.

Data led

The integrated AI-powered monitoring solution manages the complexities of the building’s operations 24/7, to ensure regulated climate control to support lab conditions, and to provide a comfortable and efficient working environment. Performance data and analytics pulled from HVAC, lighting and other plant equipment is also used to support planned and condition-based maintenance that minimises risk and downtime.

The Building Advisor platform is configured to spot any anomalies in terms of energy, comfort and maintenance. Any deviation to temperature or conditions that may affect scientific research or building performance is reported immediately via critical alarms that are triggered automatically. Remote system access ensures that the facilities team receives notifications outside of business hours. The team can immediately consult with qualified engineers and skilled experts remotely via Schneider Electric’s Connected Service Hub, which provides 24/7 remote management and assistance.

The Building Advisor platform and integrated tools are also configured to support sustainable building strategies to help the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre reduce carbon intensity and meet its Net Zero targets. The research institute, which is located within UCL, can leverage the platform’s data analytics to align with UCL’s targets.

Smart and flexible

Doug Ward, Head of Building Facilities and Compliance, Sainsbury Wellcome Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour, explained: “We’re responsible for a scientific research facility with complex requirements. Our role is to ensure optimal conditions that contribute to a safe and productive working environment. We chose to partner with Schneider Electric because their management solutions and products met our requirements. Their data-led system integrates seamlessly with our BMS to support energy efficiency and operations management across a site that needs to be operational 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

“The BMS system also supports our sustainability journey as we gradually decarbonise operations. They have evolved with us to meet our changing requirements as we expand our research capabilities. This is complemented by the regular consultancy and training they provide to upskill our team.”

Kas Mohammed, Schneider Electric’s Vice President of Digital Energy, UK & Ireland: “The Sainsbury Wellcome Centre is a scientific research institute that requires a smart and flexible solution that can manage the complexities of the facility. We’ve been fortunate to work with them over the past few years as the site has grown, helping to optimise lab conditions and building performance. Our onsite and remote teams are always on hand to help future-proof the facility using AI, predictive analytics and other digital tools. Sustainability is high on their agenda, and we have the infrastructure in place to support the eventual migration to a microgrid solution.”

For more on the products and systems uses, click here

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David Pownall, Vice President of Power Systems for Schneider Electric UK & Ireland, has seen first-hand how vital community, innovation, and compassion are to the industry’s success. As a trustee for the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC), he’s committed to helping the charity stay relevant and resilient as it enters its next era of support.

David had known about the EIC for much of his career but became more involved after joining Schneider Electric six years ago. “I’d known about the charity for years,” he says, “but it was really through Schneider that I began to understand the scale and impact of the EIC’s work.”

Through Schneider’s wellbeing initiatives and the EIC’s mental health and training support, David saw the charity’s work in action. “It just connected,” he says. “What Schneider stands for and what the EIC delivers overlap in a really meaningful way.”

Building a more connected industry 

For David, one of the most powerful aspects of the EIC’s work is how it brings together such a wide and varied industry. “This industry is incredibly diverse,” he explains. “If you look at utilities or generation, you’ve got more structure, but then you move into this network of independent contractors, self-employed people, and small firms – thousands and thousands of them. What the EIC does is create a sense of connection across all of that in a way that hasn’t happened before.”

He believes this sense of unity is essential for the future. “If we’re going to do more to look after each other and build something that’s more than just a trade, then that’s where I see the EIC as being really important.”

Celebrating milestones

To celebrate 120 years of the EIC, David has been helping to raise awareness within Schneider Electric and across the wider industry. From promoting the anniversary across internal communications to taking part in fundraising events, his enthusiasm for the cause is clear. “Jess put me in prison for a day,” he laughs. “It was absolutely freezing, and she didn’t let me out until I’d raised enough money to secure my bail. But it was great fun and a brilliant way to start the year, and we raised a fantastic amount for the charity.”

Looking ahead

As a trustee, David’s focus is firmly on the future. “For me, the question is: how do we make sure the EIC is still relevant in another 20 years – and in another 120 years?” he says. “The world is changing. It’s digitising, electrifying, and moving away from fossil fuels. That’s creating new opportunities but also challenges for people in our industry. Jobs are shifting, new skills are needed, and we’ve got to make sure the charity keeps adapting to that.”

David is particularly passionate about engaging younger generations and supporting apprentices as they enter the sector. “There’s a huge number of people who’ll retire in the next decade,” he explains. “We’ve got to make sure we’re attracting the next set of people who’ll carry the EIC forward. Unless people understand the value of charity and are prepared to invest their time, our future isn’t secure. That’s why I love the work around apprentices and the Emerging Professionals Board. It’s about planting that seed early and showing people why this matters.”

A collaborative vision 

One of the aspects David enjoys most about being a trustee is the opportunity to work with peers from across the sector. “You spend your life in your own bubble. I live in the Schneider bubble, others are in their own,” he says. “But when you come together as trustees, you get this mix of perspectives from every corner of the industry. Everyone’s looking at the same issues through a different lens. It’s fascinating, and I’ve learned a lot from it.”

If you’d like to learn more about how you can get involved – whether as a volunteer, supporter or committee member, click here

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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…

Robin Grosse

SIEMENS ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS AND ELECTRIUM

Robin Grosse has been appointed Managing Director of Electrium and Siemens Electrical Products (EP). Robin brings over a decade of deep expertise in product management and sales across hardware and software within the Electrical Products business. Robin’s leadership will strengthen Electrium and Siemens’ commitment to excellence, drive continued growth and innovation, and foster even closer partnerships with valued customers.

Jordan Charran & Barnaby Chapman

OVIA

Ovia has appointed two new Area Sales Managers, with Jordan Charran appointed in the Southwest region, and Barnaby Chapman covering South Wales, Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire. Jordan brings a wealth of industry experience to the role, with over a decade in the electrical sector, while Barnaby brings with him four years of experience in the electrical wholesale sector, having held both internal and external sales positions. These appointments form part of Ovia’s ongoing commitment to invest in regional support and deliver outstanding service and solutions to its customer base.

Paul Sawyer, Alistair Lishman & James Louriero

CLICK SCOLMORE

Scolmore Group has announced the expansion of its Click sales team with the appointment of three new Area Sales Managers. Paul Sawyer has been appointed as Area Sales Manager for the East of England, covering Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, and Essex. Alistair Lishman will cover the Lancashire and Merseyside regions, while James Loureiro will cover West Yorkshire. The appointment of Alistair, James and Paul marks a significant step in the ongoing development of the Click Scolmore brand. Their combined experience and regional expertise will ensure that customers across these key areas continue to receive the highest level of service, support, and access to innovative wiring accessories and circuit protection products.

Alice Williams

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC

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

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

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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…

Helen Longdon & Ash Chem

DOEPKE UK

Doepke UK has welcomed two new team members to further support wholesalers, electricians, and contractors nationwide.

Helen Longdon, Marketing Executive, will boost brand visibility and keep the trade informed through clear, timely communications. Ash Chem, Workshop Operative, will assemble switchgear and manage order processing to keep deliveries fast and reliable.

These appointments come alongside the expansion of Doepke’s Daventry premises, increasing stock capacity and streamlining logistics for next-day delivery across the UK. This investment in people and infrastructure strengthens Doepke’s position as circuit protection specialists – delivering quality products, technical expertise, and hands-on support for the electrical trade.

Kristen Brown, Layton Hill, Kas Mohammed, David Pownall & David Williams

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC

Schneider Electric has announced a series of new appointments to its executive leadership team across the UK and Ireland (UK&I).

Kristen Brown, previously VP Strategy UK&I, will be appointed VP Customer Operations UK&I. Kristen will assume the full scope, previously held by Rhonda Doyle, of the Customer Care Centre, Customer Satisfaction and Quality, Project Management Office, Business Systems and Compliance.

Layton Hill, who has been serving as interim VP Strategy UK&I, will formally assume the role. Layton joined Schneider Electric in 2023 and has played a pivotal role in the Transactional Business team, helping to drive continuous improvement, product commercialisation, and go-to-market strategy.

Kas Mohammed, previously VP Digital Energy UK&I, will assume the role of VP Services UK&I. With an impressive 18-year tenure in Digital Energy, Kas brings a wealth of experience and is well-equipped to share his extensive knowledge and best practice in his new position.

David Pownall assumes the role of VP Power Systems & Safety UK&I. David joined Schneider Electric over six years ago as VP Services & Safety UK&I. During that time, he has successfully driven the growth of the Services business, implemented a new service model, and enhanced employee engagement.

David Williams will expand his remit to include the Major Pursuits team as the VP Transactional Business & Major Pursuits UK&I. David will continue to focus on key customers and segments, ensuring the ongoing development of a robust pipeline for large-scale projects across the territory.

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

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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…

Jacqui Whittaker

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC

Schneider Electric has appointed Jacqui Whitaker as its new Vice President of Finance, UK and Ireland (UKI). Jacqui will lead the UKI finance team, focusing on maximising investment returns, supporting growth opportunities, and driving forward Schneider Electric’s broader sustainability goals.

She steps into the role with nearly a decade of international experience with Schneider Electric, having led the international business finance function across 100+ countries in South America, the Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa.

Charlotte Jackson

SCOLMORE GROUP

Scolmore Group has announced the appointment of Charlotte Clarkson as Area Sales Manager for the Hereford, Worcester, Warwickshire and Staffordshire regions. With over 30 years’ experience in the electrical industry, Charlotte brings a wealth of expertise to her new role and will be responsible for driving sales growth, nurturing client relationships and supporting the company’s mission of delivering cutting-edge electrical solutions.

Her day-to-day activities will include visiting electrical wholesaler accounts and contractors across the region, promoting the comprehensive and ever expanding Click brand of wiring accessories.

Kate Blake

ENVIROVENT

EnviroVent has appointed Kate Blake as Head of Specification, as the company strengthens its offer and drives forward with ambitious plans in the new build sector.

In her new role, Kate will be responsible for leading EnviroVent’s New Build Specification sales team, building strong relationships with housebuilders, developers, specifiers, M&E consultants and M&E contractors and driving growth in the specification of ventilation systems across the UK. Kate’s responsibilities also include enhancing EnviroVent’s new build strategy, supporting the specification sales team’s growth and raising its brand profile with housebuilders.

Kate has over 20 years’ experience in sales, business development and leadership within the construction sector, which has given her a broad network of contacts amongst consultants, M&E engineers, contractors and developers.

Phillip Conroy

ZEHNDER GROUP

Zehnder Group UK has announced the appointment of Phillip Conroy as its new National Sales & Key Account Manager.

In this pivotal role, Phillip will spearhead the strategic direction of Zehnder’s Heating Division, with a focus on strengthening key partnerships and refining the company’s radiator strategy. His leadership will play a crucial role in driving sustainable growth and ensuring the division remains aligned with Zehnder’s overarching business objectives.

Bringing with him an exceptional track record, Phillip has held senior roles at some of the most respected names in the home improvement industry, including Geberit, Kohler Mira, and Merlyn Showering.

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

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A recent survey by Drayton Controls and Schneider Electric found that home improvements to increase energy efficiency are the most popular among UK homeowners.

The survey found that home improvements that could result in energy savings were top of the list for 89% of homeowners. This ranked above other measures such as improving comfort & convenience (82%), making the property more sustainable (64%), installing home security (60%), design & aesthetic improvements (62%), and increasing the size of the property (36%).

This comes on the back of the energy crisis, with the average annual bill costing about £750 more compared to 2020-21 according to Ofgem. As such, energy efficiency has become more important to more homeowners than ever before. However, following the axing of winter fuel payments last year, the survey found that those aged 55+ (52%) were most concerned about energy efficiency, whereas less than half of those aged 35-54 (46%) or 18-34 (43%) felt it was important.

When it comes to the smart home tech that homeowners believe will contribute to improving energy efficiency, smart thermostats were the top choice (54%), outranking smart lighting (48%), smart EV charging (30%) and smart sensors (28%).

This presents a prime opportunity for installers to identify new work, as 54% of homeowners who invested in a smart thermostat relied on a professional to install it. And when it comes to spending, 27% of homeowners in the UK are prepared to spend up to £1,000 on home improvements that would increase energy efficiency, and 12% would spend between £1,000-£5,000.

Merlin Milner, Product Owner for Water-based Systems at Drayton, commented: “This survey highlights a clear trend – homeowners are prioritising energy efficiency more than ever, creating a significant opportunity for installers. With over half of those investing in smart thermostats relying on professional installation, there’s never been a better time for heating engineers and electricians to have a solution they are well versed in that can help customers reduce energy costs.”

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Kas Mohammed, VP Digital Energy UK&I at Schneider Electric, explores the variety of smart technology enabling buildings to become more efficient

By 2030, the continued adoption of hydrogen and renewable energy sources, as well as advancements in energy storage and AI-powered optimisation, will drastically alter the energy environment. The message for building operators is straightforward: change or risk falling behind. The building industry, one of the biggest polluters, is also under strain as a result of the UK’s aggressive Net Zero ambitions. The good news is that a clear path to decarbonisation is provided by smart technologies.

These developments are essential for increasing productivity, maximising energy use and reducing waste. When spaces are empty, simple yet effective solutions like occupant based smart controls automatically switch the lighting, HVAC and plug loads to energy-saving modes. On days with low occupancy, even these minor changes can make a big impact, cutting operating expenses by up to 22%. Optimising the use of electricity is not only advantageous but also necessary, as it currently accounts for 34% of all final energy consumption in buildings.

Sustainable buildings: the key to a low carbon tomorrow

To meet the UK’s ambitious Net Zero emissions target ahead of 2050, decisive action will be required by the construction industry. Fortunately, smart technologies are already being used by progressive operators, setting the stage for a more sustainable future. It’s perhaps no surprise when you consider the economic opportunity offered by the green building market in the UK. It’s expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.10%, from £6.6 billion in 2024 to £17.1 billion by 2033. Adding to this, stricter government rules and regulations are only set to propel sustainable construction, driving up demand for technologies that monitor and manage energy efficiency in buildings. Sustainable construction will become even more vital as urban populations continue to increase, necessitating future-proof developments.

Building owners need to improve the visibility of their operations in order to meet this shift. Significant reductions are hard to achieve without a thorough understanding of where energy is being utilised, consumed and wasted. Since the climate problem is fundamentally an energy one, smart technologies are crucial to provide the insights required to promote increased efficiency.

Fortunately, it’s now easier than ever to retrofit smart technologies into existing structures. For example, installing inexpensive IoT sensors throughout a building allows for the collection of real-time data on temperature, occupancy, energy use and air quality. This information gives operators the ability to optimise energy use, make well informed decisions and improve maintenance effectiveness when combined with a central software management system. As a result, operators can optimise space utilisation, lower personnel requirements and enhance cost control by employing real-time insights. Imagine a typical building with temperature fluctuations. By monitoring the dispersion of heat, operators can discover if a particular room lacks adequate insulation. To create an efficient thermal barrier, operators can install high quality, sustainable insulation right away rather than depending on hunches or costly assessments.

The development of smart technologies will make buildings more flexible. Microgrids, wind turbines and rooftop solar panels will blend seamlessly with the current infrastructure, reducing reliance on outside energy sources. Routine servicing will give way to predictive, on-demand interventions in maintenance, which will save costs and increase operational effectiveness. In the end, the shift to smart buildings is an essential first step in the direction of a sustainable future.

Optimising operations through smart technologies

Smart technologies have an impact that goes beyond just how buildings are operated. AI is transforming the planning, building and maintenance of structures from the design stage to on-site personnel management. These technologies improve sustainability and cut waste by enabling architects to produce digital models prior to the start of construction, which can be used to simulate energy saving measures.

By simulating different situations, these virtual duplicates allow operators to test energy saving techniques before putting them into practice in the real world. One noteworthy example is from The University of Liverpool, where HVAC renovation plans were evaluated using digital twin technology. The result was that one campus building’s energy usage was reduced by 23%, saving £25,000 in operating expenses annually.

Smart technologies continuously improve a building’s performance after it is up and running. Sensors keep an eye on important variables like illumination, temperature and air quality, and they automatically modify systems in accordance with pre-set criteria. Machine learning algorithms examine this data over time looking for trends to improve system performance. With little human labour, operators can get maximum energy efficiency thanks to this continuous improvement process. Building owners can concentrate on other aspects that promote sustainability and long-term asset value as automation increases and energy waste declines.

The production of materials is also changing due to AI-driven efficiencies. Digital procurement in the construction industry is streamlining supply chains and guaranteeing more efficient use of resources. Simultaneously, improvements in automated quality control are improving sustainability. For example, concrete slabs are now inspected for flaws prior to installation, which drastically cuts down on material waste.

Shaping the future with technology

Data is the key to increasing efficiency for building operators. With time, sophisticated AI and machine learning systems improve their accuracy by regularly analysing past data. The benefits are extensive with predictive maintenance extending the life of HVAC, escalators and lifts. Buildings adjust to user preferences, improving occupant comfort while optimised environmental conditions boost workplace productivity. For facilities managers, the design and maintenance of electrical systems is also changing. Before power infrastructure is physically implemented, engineers can use digital twins to model it virtually, reducing inefficiencies and design errors.

Furthermore, the ‘live digital twin’ idea guarantees that real-time operational data is constantly added to a facility’s virtual model. Facility managers can accurately plan future renovations, such as adding EV charging stations or increasing power capacity to meet rising demand, thanks to this continuous optimisation.

There isn’t a single, universal strategy for smart buildings. Connectivity is crucial for success, though, as the more systems that are connected via IoT devices, the more opportunities there are to increase efficiency. Operators can future proof their assets without making significant upfront investments by working their way up from basic monitoring to completely autonomous building management.

Charting the course to Net Zero

Many building operators in the UK are already demonstrating the capabilities of smart technologies. At its UK headquarters in 150 Holborn, for instance, the worldwide design, engineering and construction company Sidara is setting a new standard. Here, more than 60,000 data points are collected and processed by more than 650 IoT devices.

By monitoring environmental factors, occupancy trends and energy use, these smart building technologies enable real-time alterations to heating and cooling, driving up efficiency. This data-driven strategy has resulted in a 22% decrease in carbon emissions and energy use during low-occupancy periods. By continuously monitoring CO₂ levels, humidity and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), these smart systems ensure that indoor air quality remains within acceptable bounds.

Looking ahead, smart buildings are set to have a significant influence on commercial real estate, playing a vital role in reducing the built environment’s carbon footprint as the race to Net Zero continues. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, from digital twins to machine learning and automation, building operators can ensure they are well equipped to realise a more robust and resilient built environment in the years to come.

Further details can be found here

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David Williams, Schneider Electric’s Vice President, Transactional Business for the UK & Ireland, explains why electrical professionals are the true trailblazers powering the sustainable revolution.

When we look back at our sustainability journey up to now, it is clear that electrification is at its heart. From the wide-scale introduction of electricity 100 years ago to harnessing it to power a sustainable future today, one thing remains a constant – electrical professionals powering change behind the scenes.

In fact, they have always been the true trailblazers. Between contractors, engineers and electricians, they collectively ensure the transition to a more electrified and energy efficient world is as safe, effective and sustainable as possible. With an increase in innovative and sustainable technologies and the growing momentum of renewable energy sources, these key industry players are the impact makers helping us to embrace this new world of opportunities.

From system integration to the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) to dealing with new sources of electricity and connected electrical heating, these technicians face a challenging future. Let’s take a look at the role these trailblazers have played up to now, how their job will evolve going forward, and consider how partnerships and training can power sustainable success.

A century of electrical evolution

Reflecting on the last 100 years, the role of electrical workers is now unrecognisable. As the trailblazers leading the charge into a new world of electrification in the 1920s and 30s, they were front and centre of the world’s technological revolution. In an era where the average person had little to no understanding of electricity, electrical technicians were the noble pioneers learning how to install or repair electrical systems and bring society into a new era. As the experts who brought light to homes, installed the first electrical appliances and ensured that the new technological innovation was safely integrated into everyday life, they were the people making a serious impact on society.

This pioneering spirit meant that early technicians were keen innovators and problem-solvers, working with rudimentary tools and facing challenges that would be unimaginable today. With the concept of electrification so new, the equipment they dealt with was often bulky, complex and dangerous. In the 1950s post-war boom, when electrical appliances became household and business staples, and moving into the computer age of the 1980s and 1990s, technicians had to adapt and evolve. They had to think, and learn, quickly, transitioning from installing basic lighting and power outlets to handling much more complex systems.

These trailblazers laid the groundwork for the modern electrical systems we take for granted today.

Today’s electrical complexities

Now, a new set of challenges is on the horizon as the world becomes increasingly connected and electrified. The role of an electrical practitioner has expanded beyond simple installations and repairs. Modern technicians must now act as installers and system integrators, capable of managing and connecting a wide array of devices and systems in any type of building. There are four key focus areas as we look to the future:

System integration: With the rapid increase in smart equipment and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, specialists need to understand how to integrate various connected appliances and sensors. From lighting systems to smart thermostats to security cameras, professionals must ensure that all devices must work seamlessly together, systems are installed correctly and that communication between these systems is smooth and efficient.

The rise of EVs: As electric vehicles become more popular in the transition toward a sustainable future, electrical professionals are increasingly tasked with installing and upgrading EV charging stations in homes and businesses. This task requires a deep understanding of electrical load management and the ability to ensure that the charging station is safely connected to the building’s electrical system.

Energy efficiency and renewables: With energy efficiency becoming a priority, many homes and businesses are adopting connected systems that allow remote control and optimised energy use. Electrical professionals now play a critical role in installing and maintaining these systems, ensuring they operate safely and efficiently. The shift to sustainable energy sources – like solar panels and heat pumps – requires skilful and safe integration into existing technologies.

Digitalisation: Moving forward we need to make sure our systems are future ready and give us the insights we need to be proactive. Digitalisation and the use of advanced technology solutions, such as our own Acti9 active safety system – powerful tools to navigate modern electrical challenges. With increased visibility into how systems perform, technicians can anticipate, diagnose and address potential issues in real time before they become major issues.

Powering a sustainable future

Electrical professionals remain just as vital to progress today as they were in the early 1900s – but what does that role look like in practice? As more organisations prioritise electrification and sustainability to power a better future, skilled electrical partners are helping drive meaningful progress toward Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) targets.

At Schneider Electric, we closely monitor and measure our impact across a range of transformative ESG goals – a commitment that has earned us the title of World’s Most Sustainable Corporation for 2025 by Corporate Knights. This recognition marks Schneider Electric as the only company to top the Global 100 ranking twice, having first led the list in 2021. It highlights both our longstanding dedication to sustainability and the significant gains that can be achieved through strong partnerships with skilled electrical professionals.

A key factor in this success has been surpassing our goal of providing access to green, reliable energy for 50 million people, alongside our ongoing upskilling efforts. In an industry defined by rapid technological change and growing sustainability demands, continuous training is essential for electrical professionals to navigate complex systems and emerging technologies. To support this, we’ve trained over 763,000 people in energy management and recently partnered with Enactus, empowering university students from 10 countries to develop entrepreneurial solutions addressing social challenges tied to the energy transition.

Ultimately, a truly sustainable future can only be achieved with the help of electrical professionals. Throughout the past century, they’ve been at the forefront of technological evolution – and that remains the case today. As sustainability challenges evolve, these key players will continue to adapt and innovate, and it’s up to industry partners to provide the tools, training and guidance they need to lead the way.

For more on Schneider Electric and sustainability, click here

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