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Articles by Rob Shepherd
Just back from: Quebec, New Brunswick & Nova Scotia
Eastern Canada unfolds as a journey of vibrant cities, coastal wilderness and deep cultural heritage, moving from Montreal’s historic neighbourhoods to the Acadian Peninsula, the Bay of Fundy and the harbours of Halifax. Scenic rail journeys, wildlife encounters, immersive cultural experiences and unforgettable coastal landscapes reveal the region’s warmth, character and diversity.
Interview with ECA MD Andrew Eldred on 125 years of history and shaping the future
For 125 years ECA has supported its members in shaping the electrical landscape. Rob Shepherd spoke with its Managing Director, Andrew Eldred, about how ECA continues to lead by raising standards, driving innovation and helping to build a smarter, safer and more sustainable future. Q: ECA was founded in 1901 during the early days of electrification, so how has its core mission of representing the interests of electrical contractors evolved over the last 125 years?
SELECT and Aico urge Scotland’s landlords to prepare for new damp and mould regulations
SELECT and Aico are calling on Scotland’s housing sector to ensure it is fully prepared for the introduction of stricter legal responsibilities that address damp and mould in residential properties. The upcoming implementation of Awaab’s Law, formally known as the Investigation and Commencement of Repair (Scotland) Regulations 2026, will introduce new obligations for landlords and contractors, with the changes scheduled to take effect from October.
NAPIT and West Nottinghamshire College open new pathways into electrical and low carbon careers
NAPIT and West Nottinghamshire College have formed a collaborative partnership to create a stronger, more effective pathway into qualifications within the building services, renewable energy and low carbon sectors. Both based in Mansfield, they aim to help students and employees wanting to take advantage of the opportunities available across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.
Advanced and TEE Fire Safety Solutions ensure a safe stay at the Royal Marine Hotel
Built in 1865 and overlooking the sweeping curve of Dublin Bay, the Royal Marine Hotel in Dún Laoghaire combines classic architecture with modern comfort. To maximise guest safety, it recently completed a significant upgrade of its fire alarm system with the installation of Advanced’s MxPro 5 fire panels. The previous fire alarm system was no longer meeting the operational needs of the site, with ongoing reliability issues and false alarms causing disruption for guests and staff.
NICEIC unveils comprehensive support package for BS 7671 Amendment 4
Following the publication of BS 7671:2018+A4:2026 by The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and British Standards Institution (BSI), NICEIC has announced the availability of a comprehensive package of support and resources to help electrical contractors confidently work to the new requirements. These include a 48-page digital workbook available through the NICEIC customer portal, designed to explain the changes in detail.
Knipex produces new video that shows how to look after VDE tools
Regularly maintaining VDE tools makes a real difference and a few simple checks can help them work properly, last longer and stay safe to use. To show how straightforward it can be, KNIPEX has produced a short video demonstrating how to care for VDE pliers in day-to-day use. The Knipex Diagonal Cutter VDE, featured in the video, is a good example.
The story so far – the history of the IET Wiring Regulations
From humble beginnings, the IET Wiring Regulations quickly became the standard for electrical installation in the UK. With the latest amendment to the 18th Edition set for publication on 15 April 2026, Rob Shepherd looks at the development of ‘The Regs’.
What electrical contractors need to know about the latest amendment to BS 7671:2018
The fourth amendment to BS 7671:2018, officially titled BS 7671:2018+A4:2026, signals a major step forward in electrical installation standards. As Rob Shepherd explains, it highlights just how rapidly the industry is evolving and adapting to new demands.
Vent-Axia welcomes Part F and Part L Building Regulations focus on improving indoor air quality
With buildings becoming increasingly airtight, Vent-Axia has welcomed the latest Approved Document Part F (Means of Ventilation) and Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power) of the Building Regulations. The strengthened focus on competency within the updated guidance recognises how good ventilation design plays an essential role in delivering safer homes. Part F outlines how greater care should be taken when installing a ventilation system, particularly centralised options.
Continuing a legacy – how Cutterwell is driving the evolution of cable management
Cutterwell builds on decades of trusted cable management expertise from the Mita brand. In this exclusive interview, the company’s Managing Director, Richard Beale, shares with Rob Shepherd how a forward-thinking approach is shaping the company’s latest generation of solutions. Q: Give us a bit of background about Cutterwell. What’s the story behind the company? A: Cutterwell represents the next chapter in a longstanding cable management manufacturing legacy.
ECA and NAPIT welcome Future Homes Standard announcement but issue safety warning
The Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) and NAPIT have both broadly welcomed the government’s Future Homes Standard, while raising concerns about the safety of plug-in solar panels. This new regulation will come into effect from March 2027 and aims to make sure new homes and non-domestic buildings are future proofed with low carbon heating and high levels of energy efficiency. It will require most new homes to include solar PV panels and low carbon heating systems such as heat pumps.
Electricity network operators plan to spend over £120bn by 2050 to upgrade the grid
Electricity network operators are getting set to invest more than £120 billion by 2050 to build a network capable of meeting future energy demands and support the growth of the next generation of smart UK industries. Alongside this investment, the expertise of 26,000 skilled energy network professionals will play a crucial role in ensuring the UK has access to reliable, affordable and clean domestically produced power in the years to come.
Environment Agency data reveals that WEEE non-compliance is widespread in UK lighting
Non-compliance within the UK lighting sector remains a far more significant issue than many realise and a survey by the UK WEEE Scheme Forum showed that 76% of LED lamps offered for sale on a major online marketplace were not registered. The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) regulations were amended last year and from 12 August 2025 online marketplaces were required to start collecting data for all electrical goods brought into the UK via their platforms.
Advanced’s MxPro 5 4-loop fire alarm control panels secure Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)
In an industry first, MxPro 5 4‑loop fire alarm control panels from Advanced have gained an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). Developed using a lifecycle assessment (LCA), an EPD quantifies impacts across each stage of a product’s life, from raw material extraction and manufacturing through to transport, use and end of life treatment. They are increasingly used across the construction and building services sectors to provide comparable, verified data on a product’s environmental impact.
ABB’s Zibo facility sets a benchmark for sustainable manufacturing
As part of its Mission to Zero program, ABB’s production facility in Zibo, China, is delivering measurable energy and emissions reductions. Focusing on energy efficiency, electrification, renewable electricity and digital energy management, the site has reduced its energy consumption by 71 MWh and prevented more than 63 tonnes of CO₂e emissions each year. This is equivalent to the electricity needed to power several hundred average homes for a month.
Fluke FEV500 sets a new standard in fast DC EV charger testing
Fluke’s FEV500 is an all-in-one testing solution designed specifically for fast DC Level 3 EV charging stations. Unlike traditional AC chargers, these high powered stations operate at extreme energy levels and rely on complex digital communication protocols, making safety, reliability and uptime critical concerns for operators.
Why creating a positive customer experience drives success
For electrical contracting firms timely job completion, technical prowess and clear communication are essential – but they are not enough. Rob Shepherd explains why excellent customer service is increasingly the key differentiator, the risks of falling short and how to build lasting relationships. Customer service within the electrical contracting sector is often underestimated, with contractors assuming that the quality of their work will speak for itself.
Vent-Axia’s Sentinel Apex is a breath of fresh air at the Carmarthen Health and Wellbeing Hwb
The Carmarthen Health and Wellbeing Hwb is a major new 245,000 ft2 community facility designed as a central hub for health, wellbeing, leisure, education and council services all. Occupying the former Debenhams department store on St Catherine’s Walk, Vent-Axia’s Sentinel Apex units have been specified, delivering energy efficient ventilation to this transformative development.
Why effective cable identification matters
Organised and legible labelling is an important part of cable management in electrical installations. Rob Shepherd explains the key considerations and outlines how modern labelling technologies provide durable and highly visible identification. Electrical installations can involve countless cable connections and when something goes wrong, being able to identify the problem quickly is vital.
Why integrating security systems is the sustainable option
Integrating security systems is reshaping how organisations protect people and assets, creating smarter and more responsive operations. Rob Shepherd looks at how this approach also supports sustainability by cutting energy use, reducing waste and promoting resource efficiency. The evolution of building operations in recent years has highlighted the pressing need for organisations to rethink how technology is deployed and managed.
UK’s largest used EV battery study reveals 95% average battery health
Generational has published its 2025 Battery Performance Index – the largest analysis of EV battery condition undertaken in the UK. It reveals the average battery state of health (SoH) across more than 8,000 tested passenger cars and light commercial vehicles stands at a robust 95.15% of capacity compared to new. The Battery Performance Index establishes clear benchmarks for what can be considered typical, above average and below average battery degradation in UK vehicles moving through 2026.
NICEIC launches Connected Futures apprenticeship job board
In light of the need for the electrical contracting sector to close the skills gap, expand high quality apprenticeships and build a skilled workforce capable of meeting the challenges of electrification and low carbon technologies, NICEIC has launched Connected Futures. A dedicated apprenticeship job board, Connected Futures is designed to connect certified businesses with aspiring apprentices across the UK.
Knipex helps apprentices get off to a flying start with its new online learning hub
Knipex has created SkillsForge, a new online learning hub built specifically for those starting out in the trades. It is designed to give apprentices free access to practical training content and tailored resources to help build skills, confidence and good working habits from day one. SkillsForge is a dedicated platform that supports apprentices and educators across the electrical, plumbing and construction industries by bringing learning and career opportunities together in one place.
Vent-Axia takes the heat out of Part O compliance with free eBook
‘A Guide to Meeting Part O with Confidence’ is the title of a new eBook from Vent-Axia that provides guidance on tackling overheating in homes. This free publication provides a wealth of information, explaining the context of overheating in the UK and why it has become an industry challenge, as well as setting out the requirements needed to comply with Approved Document O of the Building Regulations.
Experience Alberta in Winter
The Rocky Mountains of Alberta are a magnificent sight to behold in winter, as the Canadian province’s soaring peaks and coniferous forests become thickly draped in snow and its lakes transform into glistening sheets of ice. To give you a taste of the many adventures on offer, these are the top 10 winter experiences for a holiday in the province. 1.
Advanced redefines smoke control with the launch of its SmokeGo panel
Advanced has introduced SmokeGo, a new control panel that offers complete and active smoke management. Developed to give specifiers, installers and end users a smarter and more intuitive way to achieve smoke control in a wide range of buildings, it is designed to make the process simpler, while being fully compliant. Giving users complete confidence in performance, SmokeGo meets the highest industry standards with approvals to EN54 Parts 2 and 4, and full compliance with ISO 21927-9 and BS 7346-8.
Why it makes sense to use high quality connectors
Connectors may be small components but their role in an electrical installation should not be underestimated. Rob Shepherd identifies the dangers of using counterfeit or substandard products and why superior branded products can enhance quality, integrity and safety. Electrical contractors operate in an environment where cost pressures are constant. Competitive tendering, rising material prices and tighter operating margins all encourage careful scrutiny of every purchasing decision.
Keith Boyce was, truly, all too beautiful
MEMBERS-ONLY CONTENT ROB SHEPHERD remembers the moment his affection for cricket grew in the presence of the allrounder at Itchycoo Park [~~OAKPAYWALL~~] Please ensure all fields are completed before submitting your comment! GEORGE DOBELL Chief correspondent HUW TURBERVILL Editor, The Cricketer Magazine JAMES COYNE Deputy editor, The Cricketer Magazine NICK HOWSON Digital Editor NICK FRIEND Features Writer OSCAR RESS Staff reporter
NAPIT welcomes IET and BSI’s statement on Amendment 4 (2026) to BS 7671:2018
Set for publication on 15 April, BS 7671:2018+A4:2026 will be the second, full consolidated amendment to the BS 7671:2018 18th Edition IET Wiring Regulations, which was first published in 2018. This essential update will serve as the UK national standard for all new low voltage electrical installations, as well as for additions and alterations to existing installations and the periodic inspection and testing of existing installations.
Geotab analysis shows EV batteries degrade 2.3% annually with charging habits a key factor
Electric vehicle (EV) battery health data from Geotab has found that modern EV batteries continue to perform strongly through their operational lifespan, even as fast charging becomes more common. In its latest study, the company analysed battery health data from more than 22,700 EVs across 21 makes and models, drawing on several years of aggregated telematics information. The updated analysis shows an average annual battery degradation rate of 2.3%, compared to 1.8% in Geotab’s 2024 findings.
ECA celebrates its 125th anniversary as it looks to power a future of opportunity
Founded in 1901, the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) has represented and supported the UK’s electrical contracting industry 125 years. Established to promote high standards, fair practice and professional excellence, it has played a vital role in shaping the sector through periods of significant technological, economic and social change.
NAPIT gains UKAS accreditation to deliver the redeveloped MCS Installer Scheme
NAPIT has been formally accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) to deliver the redeveloped Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) Installer Scheme. This significant milestone reinforces NAPIT’s dedication to high quality certification, strong consumer protection and robust standards across the UK’s small scale renewable energy sector, the organisation says.
Giving an accurate account - why regular test equipment calibration is essential
Ensuring accurate test results is more than just good practice, it’s a legal and professional necessity. Rob Shepherd explains why test equipment calibration not only ensures compliance and reliability but also safeguards reputations and lives in an increasingly safety conscious world. For some electrical contractors, calibrating their test equipment rarely crosses their mind.
Electrical safety in the private rented sector - what installers need to know
The private rented sector (PRS) has grown significantly, with millions of people relying on it. Rob Shepherd explores the importance of electrical safety in these homes and how electrical contractors can prevent hazards and ensure regulatory compliance. The PRS has become one of the defining elements of the modern housing landscape. According to the English Housing Survey, the number of rental homes in England increased by 36% from 6.3 million in 1990 to 8.6 million in 2023.
NICEIC research finds the UK is unprepared for storm season power outages
The impact of increasingly severe weather often leaves thousands without power for days, as experienced recently during Storm Amy and Storm Bram. Yet research from NICEIC has revealed almost one in eight UK homes have no back-up power essentials in the event of a power outage. It also suggests that many people either haven’t considered, or are not prioritising, measures that could mitigate the impacts of an electrical blackout.
Vent-Axia introduces CIBSE approved CPD course to address overheating in residential properties
Vent-Axia has launched a new CIBSE approved Continuing Professional Development (CPD) course titled Overheating in Residential Properties: Part O – How Ventilation can be Part of the Solution to Remove Excess Heat. It aims to provide a greater understanding of overheating, legislation and guidance, and the ventilation solutions available to help mitigate rising temperatures in newbuild homes.
Specifying and installing floor boxes - what electrical contractors need to know
Floor boxes are increasingly common in commercial, educational and mixed use buildings where flexible power and data distribution is essential. Rob Shepherd explains why electrical contractors must ensure that that every aspect from product choice to final testing supports both compliance and performance.
Advanced provides the University of Southampton with a smarter safety solution
The University of Southampton has strengthened its fire safety measures for deaf and hard of hearing individuals by introducing an innovative paging system. Advanced’s MxPro 5 fire panels, integrated with the ESPA Pager Interface, form the core of the new solution delivered by Premier Fire Security and Scope Communications, providing targeted alerts and improved accessibility.
Start the countdown to Christmas with the Knipex advent calendar and top up your toolbox
Christmas is just around the corner and the Knipex annual advent calendar is back, packed with top tools that every electrician wants to get their hands on. Open the calendar doors every day from 1-24 December and find up to three fantastic prizes to be won, from stripping tools to cutters and cabinet keys. Lucky winners will be taking home the new PV ErgoStrip, which quickly strips 4 mm2 and 6 mm2 PV cables and all common round and damp proof installation cables, even in awkward spaces.
Construction apprenticeships rise but the skills shortage and access for young people remain key challenges
The Department for Education (DfE) has published new data on apprenticeships in England for the 2024-25 academic year. Overall starts increased by 4.1% to 353,500, up from 339,580 in the previous academic year, highlighting strong employer demand for new talent pipelines despite ongoing economic pressures. Construction, planning and the built environment continued its post-pandemic recovery. Starts in the sector reached 24,590 in 2024-25, a slight increase on last year.
ABB drives decarbonisation and digital innovation across smart and sustainable buildings
ABB has launched ABB Ability BuildingPro, a cybersecure integration platform that is designed to connect, manage and optimise building operations. Available across more than 40 countries worldwide, the solution supports key sectors including commercial real estate, education, healthcare, hospitality and government, helping organisations accelerate their decarbonisation and digital transformation efforts.
Conflow Power’s solar powered streetlights aim to address AI climate impact
A new solar powered streetlight by British greentech firm Conflow Power provides a unique solution to the growing global artificial intelligence (AI) power consumption crisis. It reduces carbon footprint to near zero while supplying the world’s first autonomous, off-grid, distributed AI data centre.
ECA joins with other bodies to call for reduction in electricity levies
Andrew Eldred, Deputy CEO at the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) is one of more than 50 signatories in a letter to the chancellor, Rachel Reeves, calling for the government to prioritise reducing electricity levies to help achieve greater economic growth. The letter states: “Energy price increases since 2022 have been predominantly driven by increases in gas prices. However, taxation and levies also artificially inflate electricity bills by around 25%.
Electrical apprenticeships in crisis as shortages threaten future workforce
New research has confirmed that competition for apprenticeships across the construction sector remains fierce, with an average of 106 job seekers vying for each available training position. This highlights a significant imbalance between the growing demand for skilled workers and the limited supply of apprenticeship opportunities.
Wi-Fi testing and troubleshooting - what electricians need to know
As more clients expect seamless connectivity in every part of a building, Wi-Fi has become as critical as power and lighting. Rob Shepherd explores how new testing tools and smarter commissioning methods are helping electrical contractors diagnose dead zones, dropouts and interference. As commercial spaces fill with connected devices, clients now expect flawless Wi-Fi everywhere – from the basement plant room to the top floor meeting suite.
Over two-thirds unaware that their EV could power their home for two days
Europe’s largest vehicle-to-grid (V2G) pilot has revealed that 70% of people have never heard of V2G bidirectional charging technology. This is even though it could allow them to use their electric vehicle (EV) as a giant battery to power their entire home for two days and make significant savings on their energy bills. The revelation comes from the PAVE project, where Easee is contributing its V2G-ready bidirectional charging technology to transform how EVs interact with the energy grid.
Spacing and siting of fire detection devices - what installers need to know
The correct spacing and siting of fire detection equipment cannot be overstated, as if these devices do not do their job properly precious time could be lost in safely evacuating a building’s occupants. Rob Shepherd explores the key factors that must be considered when carrying out this essential work. When it comes to keeping building occupants safe, few things are as important as fire detection.
Tewke unveils a new lighting innovation that’s easy to install and energy smart
Tewke has created Tap, an innovative light switch that is designed to offer electrical contractors new business opportunities while helping homes adopt smart technology with ease. Tap not only delivers mood lighting at a fraction of the cost of traditional smart systems but also helps homeowners significantly reduce their energy bills. Tap can be operated on-screen or remotely via an intuitive app and is easy to set-up.
NICEIC teams up with the EIC to deliver mental health and wellbeing support toolkit
NICEIC has partnered with the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) to launch The Tools to Talk, a dedicated mental health and wellbeing support toolkit to support NICEIC certified businesses and their teams. The Tools to Talk includes ongoing digital support through a quarterly e-newsletter, interactive mental health focused episodes of The Wire webinar series, resources to help teams start conversations and signposting to professional support services.
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