NAPIT Returns to Installer Electric at Installer Show 2025
NAPIT are once again excited to be attending this year’s Installer Show at the NEC in Birmingham from June 24-26. The NAPIT stand can be found at 5F72 and will focus on education, providing training opportunities with hands-on learning and networking. There will be a chance to meet senior staff, including NAPIT experts in the technical, scheme, standards and training areas of renewable energy. Visitors to the NAPIT stand will also be able to view and purchase essential publications, approved training courses, along with the associated practical rigs, as well as certified scheme application. There will be various discounted offers available on the day, as well as the opportunity to take advantage of the government funded ‘Heat Training Grant’ for Air Source Heat Pump installers. Steve Humphreys, NAPIT Technical Commercial Manager, will be appearing in a number of seminars during the event. These include one for installers entering the sector on June 24 at 12:50 and June 25 at 2.35 in the Solar Pavilion, Solar PV system performance, expectancy vs reality at 2pm on June 24 at Installer Electric and ‘where can domestic battery storage systems be installed?’ on June 25 from 12pm in the Installer Electric area. Andrew Duffen, Technical Commercial Engineer at NAPIT, will be taking part in a session on safety in specific home improvement installations between 2pm and 3pm on 25 June and a forum on installers’ biggest challenges on June 26 between 11.30am and 12.30pm, both in the NHIC Knowledge Hub. NAPIT Commercial and Compliance Director Stephen Melton, also on Thursday’s ‘powering the future’ discussion at 1pm, said: “The Installer Show is a great opportunity for us to engage with our members, talk to new installers interested in becoming certified and share our team’s wealth of technical knowledge with visitors. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for professionals to gain hands-on knowledge, connect with industry experts and stay ahead of the latest developments in the renewable microgeneration industry.” Register for the Installer Show 2025 here.
Darren Jones MP visits the NAPIT training centre for electricians and plumbers
Darren Jones, MP for Bristol North West, has visited the NAPIT Training Centre in Avonmouth to see the work being done to train and upskill electricians and installers of low carbon technologies. NAPIT represents over 20,000 skilled installers across the UK’s electrical, heating, plumbing, ventilation, microgeneration, and building fabric sectors and has been a leading voice in raising standards within the electrical industry for over 30 years. The training centre offers courses in solar PV, fire detection and fire alarm systems, energy storage systems, electric vehicle charging installations and essential electrical safety and regulations. Stephen Melton, Commercial and Compliance Director at NAPIT said: “We are grateful to Mr Jones for taking the time to visit our centre in his constituency. “NAPIT and its members will be key to ensuring there are sufficient skilled installers in the electrical, heating, plumbing, ventilation, microgeneration trades and will be on the front line of the transition to Net Zero. “We are keen to promote the growth opportunities to our members from the Government’s housebuilding and clean energy initiatives and are pleased to be able to support those wanting to upskill and take advantage of those opportunities here in Bristol.” Darren Jones MP said: “The transition to Net Zero is in the DNA of this government because it is the route to energy security, lower bills and good jobs for this country. “I was delighted to hear about the work that NAPIT is doing here in Bristol North West to certify, train and upskill people for the skilled jobs that will be created.” For more information on NAPIT training centres, visit their website here.
Solar PV Panels PLUS Battery Storage Heralds a New Dawn of Opportunity For Electrical Installers
For experienced electricians, now presents a prime opportunity to expand your qualifications into solar PV panel installation and electrical energy battery storage. The UK is still firmly committed to its Net Zero 2050 target, a pledge that hinges significantly on scaling up renewable energy sources. This commitment is creating a robust and rapidly expanding market for solar and battery technologies. Demand for skilled installers is soaring. The UK’s solar capacity is projected to increase five-fold by 2030, with battery storage also experiencing dramatic growth, doubling within the next few years. This surge translates directly into a wealth of job opportunities, with the solar industry alone expected to create tens of thousands of new roles by 2030. Electricians already possess the foundational electrical knowledge, making the transition to these specialist areas a natural and efficient progression. Furthermore, government initiatives are actively incentivising adoption. The 0% VAT rate on solar panels and retrofitted battery storage systems until March 2027 significantly reduces upfront costs for consumers, driving further demand. The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) also provides homeowners with payments for surplus electricity, making solar an even more attractive investment. XS Training now offer an on-site 3-day course in Solar PV Systems and a 2-day course in Energy Storage Systems, at their Training & Test Centre in Leeds. They offer this as separate courses or as a combination of the two. These are delivered from City & Guilds and are one of the current qualifications required to gain MCS accreditation. Many energy companies require MCS for any excess energy that is exported back to the grid to be paid to the customer. By acquiring these new qualifications, electricians can diversify their skillset, enhance their earning potential, and secure their careers in a future-proof industry. They’ll be at the forefront of the UK’s green energy revolution, contributing directly to a sustainable future while capitalising on the significant growth in the renewable energy sector. Get in Touch with XS Training & Find Out More TODAY. Website: https://www.xstraining.comEmail: enquiries@xstraining.comTelephone: 0800 170 0294
Starkey Electrical adds to awards haul at prestigious business awards
A family-run electrical business, Starkey Electrical, has achieved an awards quad trick after being named winners at the Central England Prestige Awards for the fourth year running. Starkey Electrical was named ‘Electrical Contractor of the Year 2024/25’ in recognition of its positive engagement with customers, high-quality reviews and testimonials and for having built up a loyal customer base in its local area of Stourbridge. The win marks the fourth consecutive award Starkey Electrical has received at the annual ceremony, which this year took place at Moor Hall Hotel in Sutton Coldfield on Monday, 26th May – and the second time the team has won in this category. The company, which was founded in 2009 by husband-and-wife team Stuart and Lisa Starkey, has also previously been awarded ‘Sustainable Electrician Company of the Year’ and ‘Electrician of the Year,’ making it a Prestige multi-award winner. Stuart Starkey, managing director at Starkey Electrical, said: “To be recognised for an award once is a huge achievement, but four times is incredible. As a small company, we have always strived to provide a world-class, exceptional end-to-end customer service and, of course, do an excellent job in the process. “Our team continues to grow from strength to strength and this award is testament to the exceptional talent of our team, who always go above and beyond for our customers – a commitment that has now been recognised and rewarded four-fold. Thank you to everyone who has supported us on our journey over the past 16 years and continues to do so.” The Prestige Awards believe that SMEs are the backbone of any economy and were set up to celebrate businesses and individuals consistently offering excellent products and services, while also making an impact in their communities. Starkey Electrical is MCS certified and provides building automation, solar PV, energy efficient LED lighting and EV charging services to clients in residential developments, leisure, education, healthcare and industrial facilities. For more information, please visit https://www.starkeyelectrical.com/
NAPIT Leads Successful Sponsored Walk on Bolsover Loop
A team of enthusiastic employees from NAPIT, a Bolsover-based company at the forefront of developing green skills and compliance, led a successful sponsored walk on the newly waymarked Bolsover Loop on Friday, May 23. The sponsored walk raised money for mental health charity Samaritans, while celebrating the opening of the newly waymarked route through the stunning Bolsover countryside. The event brought together NAPIT staff and supporters, who collectively walked 22 miles from their HQ at Pleasley Vale Mills, along scenic trails that showcase the natural beauty of the local area, from rolling hills and woodlands to panoramic viewpoints and historic paths. The walk, organised in partnership with the Bolsover Place Programme team, marked one of the first events exploring the newly waymarked route, which extends through Clowne, Creswell, Bolsover, Shirebrook and Pleasley; developed to encourage outdoor activity, support local tourism, and improve access to the countryside. “We’re incredibly proud of our NAPIT team for coming together to support such a worthy cause,” said Mike Andrews, Divisional Managing Director for Phenna Group and Bolsover Place Board member. “The walk gave us a chance to connect outside the workplace, give back to the community, and enjoy the fantastic new trails right on our doorstep. We even got the sunshine!” Funds raised will go directly to Samaritans, supporting their work in providing emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland. The success of the walk also highlighted the potential of the new routes to host future events and community initiatives, with many participants praising the clear signage, accessible route, and breathtaking scenery. The new signage and waymarking have been made possible through UK Government funding, via Dragonfly Management (Bolsover) Ltd and Bolsover District Council. You can visit the NAPIT website here.
SELECT calls for MSPs to ensure Scotland’s future is powered securely
Trade body (SELECT) issues urgent call to action in manifesto for 2026 Scottish Parliamentary elections to create a stronger sector and safer society Scotland’s largest construction trade association, SELECT, has issued an urgent three-point plan for action as part of its manifesto for next year’s Scottish Parliamentary elections. The campaigning body, which represents electrotechnical business who between them employ 19,000 electricians across Scotland, is urging all political parties to work with it to secure a safer society, stronger industry and successful transition to net zero. Launched at the association’s recent AGM (Thursday 5 June), the manifesto is calling for action in three key areas: Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT, said: “Scotland stands at a historic crossroads. As we transition to a low-carbon economy, our nation’s future depends on a safe, skilled and strategically empowered electrotechnical workforce. “As the world’s oldest electrical trade association, and the body that represents the electrotechnical contractors of Scotland, SELECT calls upon policymakers to support a bold new vision that will enable us to power progress together. “This is a moment when our political representatives can seize the initiative and bring in the measures for which we have been campaigning for many years in the long-term interests of all the people of Scotland.” On regulation, SELECT is calling on the next Scottish Government to legislate for statutory protection of title, so only those who meet nationally recognised qualifications should be allowed to use the title ‘electrician’. On skills, the association wants politicians to commit to a just transition for the electrotechnical workforce by offering accessible and lifelong learning, expanded, modernised and future-proofed apprenticeships and additional support for SME contractors. On renewables, SELECT is calling for any government to put electricians at the heart of its energy strategy, recognising the electrotechnical sector as essential infrastructure for net zero and local energy resilience and empowering electricians to lead in energy projects. SELECT President Mike Stark said: “Scotland’s net zero goals depend on new technologies such as heat pumps, EV charging, smart grids and energy storage, which must be installed and maintained by competent, properly-trained and future-ready professionals. “In addition, Scotland’s vast renewable energy potential, from offshore wind to domestic solar, also requires a national electrotechnical workforce capable of turning potential into power and trusted Scottish businesses. “By introducing these measures, public safety, consumer protection and professional pride will all be strengthened, lives will be saved and money currently used to fix poor work will be used in a better way.”
Schneider Electric supports EV charging infrastructure with the launch of Canalis for EV
Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, unveils the launch of Canalis for EV, a flexible and future-proof busbar solution for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. Figures from the UK’s Department for Transport show that the domestic transport sector was responsible for 29% of total domestic emissions in 2023. There is an urgency and opportunity for the industry to transform the efficiency of transport and emobility while accelerating the energy transition. With the demand for EVs growing at a faster pace than the infrastructure is currently able to meet, Canalis for EV is designed to solve these challenges by focusing on building a scalable, future-proof EV infrastructure with the following features: David Williams, Schneider Electric’s Vice President, Transactional Business UK&I said:“Schneider Electric’s Canalis for EV provides a flexible, scalable, and modular busbar system designed to seamlessly integrate with electric vehicle charging infrastructure, ensuring efficient and reliable power distribution for outdoor applications. “With Canalis for EV, businesses can enjoy reduced installation time and costs, less civil work, maintenance-free operation, and the ability to easily expand EV charging capabilities as demand grows. This solution not only optimises operations but also positions businesses to meet the increasing demand for EV charging solutions, making them future-ready and environmentally responsible.” Related resources:
OG Swarfega® Original gets a 2025 Upgrade
For generations, Swarfega® Original has been the secret weapon for tradespeople. Battling grease, grime and the worst muck imaginable, it’s helped the hard-working tradespeople of the UK scrub up after the toughest shifts to leave a green legacy on sink edges up and down the country. But the time has come for a changing of the guard. That’s right – Swarfega® Original, the jar of green jelly that rings when it’s tapped and has that distinctive citrus smell, is officially hanging up its gloves. But fear not: this isn’t goodbye, it’s just the start of the next chapter. Swarfega® Steps Forward with a Bold New Range The brand is still very much here. The same guts, the same grit from the brand that’s backed builders, mechanics, farmers and workers since 1947. Because even legends need a bit of a spruce-up now and then, we are launching a new range to carry on the legacy with unbeatable power and protection. Built for Hands That Keep the World Working Swarfega is known as the brand for hardworking hands. It’s seen everything – through the oil and the grit. Now, this cult-classic brand is getting a fresh new look with Swarfega® Orange stepping into the limelight – all without compromising on the power and quality that has become associated with the Swarfega® brand. Full Scale Skin Defence System The Swarfega® brand isn’t just a hand cleaner – it’s a full scale skin defence system. Protecting, cleaning and restoring for hardworking hands. The new line up is simple, effective and built around a clear three-step process: Oil, grease, paint, tar – whatever the job throws your way, Swarfega® products keep you working. Smarter. Sharper. Still Swarfega The refreshed design brings a cleaner packaging that utilise pump bottles instead of tubs, bold colour codes, on-the-go and dispenser options that cut mess, boost hygiene and help protect hardworking skin. It’s everything you need, nothing you don’t. Built for The Next Generation Swarfega® is more than a name, it’s part of the job, passed down generations of mechanics, tradespeople and grafters. And now, with a bold new look and an even clearer product lineup, the brand is ready to help the next generation keep working. The new 1 litre and 5 litre Orange and Extreme products are available from May 2025, with more skin products coming in 2026. Find out more here.
Schneider Electric Appoints New VP of Finance, UK and Ireland
Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, 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. Her business and commercial focus, coupled with expertise in dealing with hyperinflation and foreign exchange instability, have equipped her with the resilience and scenario planning skills necessary to navigate the current UKI market. Prior to Schneider Electric, Jacqui held leadership roles at Eurostar in the UK. Speaking about her appointment, Jacqui Whitaker, Schneider Electric’s Vice President of Finance for UKI said: “Schneider Electric has a mature and very successful business here, but I am looking forward to finding additional growth opportunities and making it operate even more effectively as the demand for clean energy increases in the region.” Kelly Becker, Schneider Electric’s President UK and Ireland, Belgium and The Netherlands said: “Jacqui has excelled as a finance leader at Schneider Electric, clearly demonstrating excellence in execution as well as driving key finance transformation initiatives. Jacqui’s extensive experience, having worked in multiple finance functions internationally and in the UK, gives her the experience and perspective needed to support our UKI growth journey.” About Schneider Electric Schneider’s purpose is to create Impact by empowering all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. At Schneider, we call this Life Is On. Our mission is to be the trusted partner in Sustainability and Efficiency. We are a global industrial technology leader bringing world-leading expertise in electrification, automation and digitalisation to smart industries, resilient infrastructure, future-proof data centres, intelligent buildings, and intuitive homes. Anchored by our deep domain expertise, we provide integrated end-to-end lifecycle AI enabled Industrial IoT solutions with connected products, automation, software and services, delivering digital twins to enable profitable growth for our customers. We are a people company with an ecosystem of 150,000 colleagues and more than a million partners operating in over 100 countries to ensure proximity to our customers and stakeholders. We embrace diversity and inclusion in everything we do, guided by our meaningful purpose of a. sustainable future for all. www.se.com
