RAW supporting Christmas travel with new charging bays

Electric vehicle (EV) chargepoint operator RAW Charging has outlined how its EV charging network is supporting drivers 'driving home for Christmas' across the UK this year, with chargepoints located at hospitality, leisure, and retail destinations on key festive routes. During 2025, the company has installed more than 400 charging bays across sites including retail parks, visitor attractions, and hotels. RAW Charging says the network now covers every region of the UK, providing charging access for drivers travelling on busy routes such as the M25, M1, and M6 in the run-up to Christmas. The network includes charging at retail destinations such as McArthurGlen Designer Outlets, alongside leisure and hospitality locations including National Trust properties and hotel sites. RAW Charging has also continued to expand its rapid charging hubs, with new locations added at Gallions Reach Shopping Park, Etruria Mills, Merrielands Retail Park, and Forest Hill, with further sites planned for 2026. Expanding EV charging at destinations RAW Charging’s network has been recognised with the Zapmap Best Network Award for 2026, as well as ICC Gold accreditation. The company says these recognitions reflect its focus on destination-based charging, where drivers can charge vehicles while shopping, visiting attractions, or staying overnight. According to RAW Charging, the rollout of new charging bays comes as the number of electric and hybrid vehicles on UK roads continues to increase. The company states that its chargers support contactless payment and are backed by round-the-clock customer support to help maintain reliability during busy travel periods. Jason Simpson, CEO of RAW Charging, comments, “I want to thank the entire RAW team for their outstanding work this year. "Their dedication has enabled us to deliver a truly nationwide network, connecting amazing places and making it easier than ever for drivers to enjoy the festive season with confidence.” It's reported that further network expansion is planned into 2026, with a continued focus on supporting electric vehicle travel at locations where drivers naturally stop during longer journeys. For more from RAW Charging, click here.

ECA welcomes Boiler Upgrade Scheme expansion

Following the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s announcement that eligibility for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) will be expanded to include electric heating solutions, the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) is asking its members for feedback on the future role of alternative clean heating solutions. ECA has long advocated for broadening the low-carbon technologies which receive government incentives and grants. From 2026 the BUS will provide grants worth £2,500 to support the installation of air-to-air heat pumps. It is also intended to provide £2,500 grants to support the installation of heat batteries, once appropriate product, design, and installation standards have been implemented. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is now calling for evidence on the role of alternative clean heating solutions. It wants to understand what alternative technologies are available across different types of domestic and non-domestic buildings to ensure consumers have a choice of suitable low-carbon heating technology options and understand integration with other systems. This will be of particular interest to those interested in technologies like infrared heating and storage heaters. For more from ECA, click here.

City Plumbing expands Solfex heat pump accessories

City Plumbing, a national plumbing, heating, and electrical supplier, has expanded its Solfex range with a new selection of heat pump accessories, including cylinders, diverter valves, mounting feet, and heat transfer fluids. The additions are intended to support installers working on renewable heating projects by providing compatible components from a single product range. The Solfex accessories are designed for use with air source heat pump installations and are available through City Plumbing branches across the UK. According to the company, the expanded range builds on its existing renewable heating offer and reflects continued demand for supporting components alongside heat pump systems. The updated range includes unvented heat pump cylinders with a full bore coil design, supplied with components and controls intended to support compatibility with most heat pump systems. The cylinders are supplied with a 10-year warranty. Accessories to support heat pump installations Also included are Solfex diverter valves, designed for higher flow rates, along with a range of heat pump mounting feet. Options include fixed feet with integrated spirit levels and flexible kits intended to provide stable support while reducing vibration transfer to the ground. The Solfex heat transfer fluids are formulated for use in heat pump systems, with properties including low viscosity and higher thermal conductivity. City Plumbing says the fluids are biodegradable, non-hazardous, and include additives to support thermal stability. The Solfex brand has been part of City Plumbing’s renewables offering for nearly 20 years and has expanded over time to include a wider range of sustainable heating technologies aimed at the UK market. Hemal Morjaria, Managing Director, Heating and Renewables at City Plumbing, says, “This extension of the Solfex range to include wider renewable solutions demonstrates our constant evolution as a business. "City Plumbing is focused on providing high-quality, cost-effective solutions for installers as we move towards more sustainable energy solutions, so widening the Solfex range into air source heat pump accessories means our installers can have the convenience of being able to access all the products they need from one location.” For more from City Plumbing, click here.

£3.3m upgrade at Tunbridge Wells boosts power for thousands

New power infrastructure has been energised at Tunbridge Wells Grid under a £3.3 million investment in resilience and capacity, benefitting thousands of residents. Distribution network operator UK Power Networks has installed a new 97-tonne electricity transformer with one third more capacity than its two predecessors to support future power demand, enable more low-carbon technologies, and maintain safe, reliable electricity supplies. The transformer receives electricity at 132,000 volts, steps it down to 33,000 volts for distribution to smaller substations, and helps power more than 32,000 homes and businesses in the town. Investment began last winter when the first of two existing transformers was dismantled and taken away for recycling, making room for a new transformer that arrived in the summer. Since then, work has taken place to connect the new equipment to the grid. Heavy haulage experts delivered the electricity transformer to the electricity substation, and the site team coordinated with Network Rail to safely move it across the London to Hastings railway line without any reported impact on train schedules. Delivering power to local communities Sam Hills, Assistant Project Manager at UK Power Networks, comments, “Our close collaboration with partners and the professionalism of our teams have ensured the smooth delivery of the upgraded transformer and investment in long-term network resilience for the local community. “As the UK's energy landscape evolves, UK Power Networks is helping enable a low-carbon future. By investing and building new equipment now, we're preparing for growing demand from cleaner technologies while ensuring that our customers continue to receive safe, reliable electricity supplies." Craig Aust, Senior Construction Manager at Clancy, adds, “This marks the culmination of a huge amount of skilled technical work by our teams and reaching this point is a tremendous achievement by everyone involved. “We successfully overcame a range of challenges, coordinating with third parties on access and maintaining high safety standards while working within a particularly restricted site. "The project will deliver long-term benefits for the community. I’m extremely proud of the entire team and the strong collaborative effort between Clancy and UK Power Networks.” [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7Z_MmOIw2I[/embed] The replacement of the two transformers will increase capacity at Tunbridge Wells Grid from 60 megawatts to 90 megawatts. Science students from Bennett Memorial Diocesan School in the town recently visited Tunbridge Wells Grid to explore engineering and energy careers, supported by local industry professionals. UK Power Networks operates and maintains a large network of electricity cables, substations, and power lines that deliver electricity to approximately 20 million people across the South East, London, and East of England. The project in Tunbridge Wells is part of UK Power Networks' £800 million investment programme for the year. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.

Collingwood introduces its new downlight

Collingwood Lighting, a UK manufacturer of LED lighting products, claims that its new H2 Lite CSP downlight gives the contractor more lighting options from the same fitting than any currently available. Each luminaire has four switchable colour temperatures and offers two illumination levels. The company says it is the first luminaire in the UK with a colour temperature option of 2200K, which is a warm, relaxing light that is similar to a sunset or warm fireplace glow. The other three colour temperatures are a warm 2700K, 3000K, and a cooler white light of 4000K. You can also switch between a 4W and 6W output for a 460 or 780 lumens light level. The switches for changing both the colour temperature and the wattages are on the front of the fitting, behind the removable twist and lock bezel, allowing the contractor to select and easily demonstrate different lighting options after installation. An era of modern LED downlights Anthony Martindale, Product Manager at Collingwood Lighting, says, “Modern LED downlights are a popular choice for customers. Lighting will affect how a room feels, and H2 Lite CSP allows you alter its output to suit how people use the space and to match the decoration. “The lighting requirements of a kitchen are different to those of a living room or a bedroom and, in the commercial market, you want different solutions for corridors or toilets [compared to] a space where you want people to relax, such as in a break-out room or a restaurant or pub. "By offering switchable colour temperatures and illumination levels, you can offer different solutions without carrying multiple luminaires in your van or returning to the wholesaler.” For installation, the new downlight’s two-part connector allows first fix wiring without the luminaire, followed by a simple plug-in connection for second fix after other trades have finished. The connector has lever terminal blocks complete with testing ports, designed for faster and easier cabling. After installation, the contractor can select the preferred colour temperature and illumination level before fixing its twist and lock bezel. H2 Lite CSP has an IP65 rating from below (making it suitable for bathroom zone 1), is dimmable, and has a lifetime of 70,000 hours, which is equivalent to 63 years if used for 3 hours a day. For more from Collingwood Lighting, click here.

Aico’s Community Awards to return in 2026

Aico, a manufacturer of residential fire and carbon monoxide detection products, is bringing back its biennial Community Awards, set to take place at The International Convention Centre in Birmingham on 16 April 2026. The event celebrates excellence and inspirational achievements from across the UK housing industry, honouring those making a real difference in their communities. Open to all, Aico’s Community Awards provides entrants the opportunity to showcase inspirational colleagues, projects, and innovations from the housing sector. The last awards, held in 2024, raised over £9,000 for the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC), with Aico matching the donation to result in a total contribution of £18,000. Since 1905, the charity has offered vital support to those who work within the electrical and energy industries. Next year’s ceremony will welcome over 450 guests, including the inspirational finalists from all award categories. Continuing its support for the EIC, the evening will feature a formal dinner, guest speakers, and live entertainment, all hosted by Carl Jones from SBLTV. “We’re proud to bring the Community Awards back for 2026,” says Neal Hooper, Managing Director at Aico. “These awards are about recognising the real difference individuals and organisations make every day in improving lives and communities across the UK.” New for 2026, the People’s Choice Award introduces an exciting interactive element to the evening. This special category will be voted for exclusively by attendees on the night, giving guests the chance to play a direct role in recognising excellence. Award categories The 13 other award categories outlined below are now open to enter by either groups or individuals from across the UK. All entries must be submitted by 20 February 2026. • Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative • Neighbourhood Transformation • Resident Engagement • Lifetime Achievement Award • Woman in Fire Safety Award • College Initiative of the Year • Rising Star Award • Electrical Contractor of the Year • Inspirational Colleague of the Year • Sustainability Project of the Year • Best Distributor Community Initiative • Collaborative Partnership • Apprentice of the Year Previous Woman in Fire Safety Award winner Georgina Homer, from Wolverhampton Homes, was commended for her passion and dedication to resident engagement. Georgina commented, “I am thrilled to win this award and incredibly humbled to be in this position, a moment I’m going to remember for a very long time.” Marc Redfern, Managing Director of Service Electrical Distributors and winner of Best Distributor Community Initiative, added, “We don’t do social value to win awards; we do social value to give back to people who are less fortunate. "To get recognised for what we do is probably one of my proudest moments in business.” Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this celebration of excellence, community spirit, and innovation. Submit your entries by 20 February 2026 and join Aico alongside professionals from across the housing industry. For more from Aico, click here.

Hull contractor completes college electrical upgrades

GW Power, a Hull-based building services engineering company, has completed the first year of a three-year electrical maintenance contract with Hull College, delivering a programme of infrastructure upgrades and energy efficiency improvements across the campus. GW Power has worked with Hull College on a range of projects during the first year of the contract, supporting the college’s plans to improve sustainability and modernise its estate. A key element of the work has been the installation of seven 22kW electric vehicle chargers, supporting the college’s move towards lower-emission transport. In addition to the EV charging infrastructure, GW Power has carried out routine electrical maintenance, produced electrical condition reports, completed compliance testing, and delivered LED lighting upgrades across nine buildings. These include an eight-floor tower block within the college estate. On-site engineers and estate upgrades Two full-time GW Power engineers are based on site, providing a combined minimum of 40 hours per week dedicated to the college’s electrical infrastructure. Both engineers began their careers as apprentices at Hull College, reflecting a long-standing relationship between the organisations. One of the engineers has recently completed Level 3 electrical qualifications. Daniel Haley, Managing Director of GW Power, comments, “Reaching the one-year mark on this contract is something we’re incredibly proud of. "Our on-site team has worked tirelessly to keep the college’s facilities safe, efficient, and compliant, whilst also delivering tangible improvements such as the EV chargers and LED upgrades. "What makes this contract even more special is that both of our engineers started their careers at Hull College – as did I!” Matthew Blowman, Director of Facilities and Infrastructure at Hull College, adds, “GW Power has become an integral part of our operations over the past year. "The company’s reliability, professionalism, and technical expertise has helped us maintain high standards across a complex estate. "The improvements made so far have already had a positive impact on our energy efficiency, sustainability goals, and enhancing the learner experience.” GW Power was founded in 2014 and provides electrical, mechanical, and renewable energy services to clients across the UK. The company employs 43 staff and continues to recruit apprentices and qualified engineers to support ongoing projects.

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Carhartt introduces Storm Defender wet weather workwear

American workwear company Carhartt has introduced its Storm Defender workwear range, designed for tradespeople working outdoors in wet and changeable conditions. The range combines a water-resistant outer layer with a breathable membrane intended to reduce moisture build-up during physical work. Outer layers for colder site conditions As winter conditions become more challenging, the Carhartt Monterey Jacket - available in both men’s and women’s fits - is positioned as a lightweight outer layer for site work. The jacket uses a fully seam-sealed construction to limit wind and rain ingress, with water-resistant zips to protect tools and personal items. An adjustable hood and drop-tail hem provide additional coverage, and the jacket can be packed into its own pocket when not in use. The Monterey Pants are designed for prolonged outdoor use in wet and windy environments. Carhartt states that the trousers remain lightweight to support movement during long shifts and can be folded into a hand pocket for compact storage. For colder weather, the Storm Defender Heavyweight Jacket is designed to provide a higher level of weather protection while allowing moisture to escape. Features include a removable roll-away hood, an adjustable drop-tail hem, a fit intended to accommodate additional insulating layers, and multiple pockets for carrying everyday work items. The women’s Storm Defender Relaxed Fit Heavyweight Jacket offers similar weather protection, with added design features such as thumbhole cuffs that can be tucked away when not required. A combination of zip, flap, and internal pockets provides storage options, while the lighter construction is intended to suit variable winter conditions. Across the range, Carhartt says it focuses on durability, weather resistance, and practical detailing, aiming to support electricians and other tradespeople who need reliable outerwear during wet and cold working conditions. For more from Carhartt, click here.

Ariston offers heating promotion for installers

This season, heating systems manufacturer Ariston is hitting the road, visiting merchants and partners across the country with exclusive promotions available on its range of heat pumps and boilers. As part of its Near You campaign, installers who come along to these nationwide events will receive Ariston’s exclusive promotion, which offers discounts of up to £1,000 on heat pumps and up to £400 on its range of wall-hung boilers at participating merchants, including Plumbase, Bell Plumbing, Plumblink, MP Moran. To claim the offer, installers just need to complete the form with their local ASM at the event. Event details At the trade mornings and technical days, installers can also learn more about Ariston’s full product range as well as hear how they can enhance their skills at Ariston’s training courses, held across the country throughout the year. Jamie Shaw, National Sales Manager at Ariston, comments, “We are excited to be rounding out the year with our nationwide Near You events, which aim to connect installers with the latest innovations, training, and support available from Ariston. “These trade mornings and technical days are taking place across the UK and Ireland, bringing people together for hands-on product demos, expert advice from local ASMs, and the latest product updates. "With our exclusive promotion, there’s also never been a better time for heating engineers to choose Ariston for their renewable installations. “This is just the start of our Near You campaign, which will continue into 2026 with even more ways for installers to stay connected with Ariston.” For more from Ariston, click here.