The benefits of the partnership approach adopted by Siemens has been demonstrated in a project by EDSB to develop a fire detection and air sampling solution for a new warehouse operated by one of the UK’s most prominent retailers. The facility in Warrington saw some 1,000 devices installed to protect
Abloy UK and HKC are set to make a significant impact at The Security Event 2025, inviting visitors to their collaborative stand 5/F50 to explore the latest innovations in integrated security solutions. The event takes place at the Birmingham NEC from 8th – 10th April 2025 and will feature the
Plumbing and Heating Federation warns funding delays and high electricity costs are stalling Scotland’s decarbonisation progress The Plumbing and Heating Federation has raised concerns over the slow pace of heat pump installations following newly released Freedom of Information figures. Data from the Home Energy Scotland (HES) Grant and Loan Scheme
Ideal Heating is accelerating its diversification into the heat pumps market, building on its deep understanding and experience of heating millions of British homes and businesses for more than 100 years. The UK market leader is at the forefront of the decarbonisation of heating, working with the Government, industry bodies,
Evomax 2, the UK’s number one selling commercial wall-mounted boiler from Ideal Heating Commercial, is now available with a 10-year warranty. As with all Ideal Heating Commercial condensing boilers, Evomax 2 is designed specifically for the UK market, and produced in a state of the art manufacturing plant in Hull
Johnson Controls, the global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, today announced the acquisition of Webeasy, a prominent Dutch provider of building automation and control systems. This strategic acquisition reinforces Johnson Controls’ commitment to driving innovation, sustainability, and energy efficiency, while expanding its capabilities in the growing market for
Over 200,000 homeowners contacted Octopus Energy to enquire about a heat pump in 2024, the UK’s largest power company reports today. This marks a staggering 144% increase from the previous year, signaling a growing trend among homeowners eager to ditch traditional heating systems. The UK heat pump industry hit a
Siemens Smart Infrastructure today announced the launch of a mobile access offering for Building X Security Manager, based on Apple Wallet and a collaboration with Swiss leader in credential management and access security solutions, LEGIC. By integrating LEGIC Connect, a software service for the creation and distribution of mobile credentials
ABB has launched the ACS8080, its newest medium voltage air-cooled drive. The new drive represents an evolution, building on over 50 years of experience in delivering drives to industrial applications and bringing reliability, performance, and flexibility to the next level thanks to innovative motor control, versatile design, and digital capabilities.
The UK’s pledge to build 1.5 million homes faces a critical but overlooked challenge – the dramatic decline of regional housebuilders capable of delivering community-focused developments. That’s according to electrical specialist Garo who highlights the issue in a new report. Industry analysis reveals SME builders now deliver just 10% of
The benefits of the partnership approach adopted by Siemens has been demonstrated in a project by EDSB to develop a fire detection and air sampling solution for a new warehouse operated by one of the UK’s most prominent retailers. The facility in Warrington saw some 1,000 devices installed to protect the 81,570 m2 logistics warehouse area and its ancillary offices. Given the scale of the warehouse, which features high ceilings extending up to 43 metres at the highest point, the detection system needed to provide comprehensive coverage across the entire space. EDSB’s solution included air sampling with low-level test points and pipe runs exceding 200 metres, ensuring the system could accurately detect fires without interference from environmental conditions. Before stepping foot on-site, EDSB’s in-house design team was tasked with creating for the project a compliant BS:5839 Part 1 system, aligned with the Category L1/P1 standards. Given the building’s complexity – including multiple mezzanine levels, cold storage areas, aerosol and battery storage, automated racking systems and comms rooms – the design required a range of detection technologies tailored to each area’s specific needs and environmental conditions. Working with Siemens, after reviewing the 3D BIM models, specifications and fire strategy information, EDSB proposed a combination of air sampling systems, infrared linear beams, multi-sensor detectors, triple infrared flame detectors and gas suppression systems to ensure comprehensive coverage and compliance. One of the main focuses of the brief was to develop a zero-false-alarm system, given the considerable costs associated with four-hour halts in production that could arise from unnecessary shutdowns. In consultation with Siemens, a solution was designed which saw a hybrid fire detection system capable of identifying environmental factors such as dust, smoke and exhaust fumes that could trigger false alarms. Also central to the fire safety considerations was the high ceiling space which presented a particular challenge for traditional smoke detection: ‘stratification’ was identified as an issue whereby the smoke plume generated by a fire cools as it rises, often resulting in it having insufficient buoyancy to reach the roof and activate detectors. This was overcome by using Siemens ASD (Aspirating Smoke Detection), with the first stage of the installation process undertaken once the roof structure was in place. EDSB installed pipework and air sampling units in strategic positions across the warehouse to cover all areas, including the high ceiling zones. Following installation, the entire system was tested and calibrated to ensure optimal performance. Another challenging factor in the project was the need to undertake phased works which operated in parallel with the warehouse construction. Several planning meetings took place to fully understand the site conditions and construction schedule. These meetings were crucial in ensuring that the installation would proceed smoothly alongside the building’s construction. Both the EDSB and Siemens teams, as well as the construction managers, worked together to align on the scope, timeline and logistics of the project. Additionally, potential challenges such as access points and space constraints were identified and strategies were put in place to prevent delays later in the project. Geoff Wain is a Senior Project Manager at EDSB. He comments – “This project has been a coordinated effort from the design stage through to installation and commissioning, primarily utilising in-house engineers. A dedicated site project engineer handled daily communication with our client to ensure that the phased works were completed on time, delivering the project to the end client. The high standard of workmanship across the site is a testament to all those involved.” Alistair Lyon was EDSB’s Install Leader on the project who said – “I believe what we have achieved is something that should be celebrated. This has been a long, challenging and complex installation and we have delivered an end product that we can all look back on and say we are proud to have been a part of.” The facility has a Desigo CC building management head end which is able to display the information relating to the fire system and allows operators to visualise it. Desigo CC is also used on site to manage the HVAC systems, meaning all the building operation data can be viewed via a single interface. This leads to operational and energy efficiency savings. The on site computerised maintenance management system (CMMS) is also integrated into Desigo CC, with its open architecture allowing this integration to happen. Siemens John Fennah added – “At Siemens we always strive to work closely with our partners and this application is an excellent example of how such an approach can achieve the best solution. By understanding and addressing the specific challenges presented by this warehouse, EDSB were able to match the appropriate technology with the different requirements, arriving at an integrated system which optimises fire safety while effectively managing the HVAC.” In total, the site comprises nine networked Siemens fire panels, 34 Siemens aspirator panels, and more than 30 high-level Siemens beam detectors. The warehouse is equipped with 200 interfaces that control various shutdowns and integrate with third-party systems. Special care was taken to ensure the system provides comprehensive coverage. For further information on Siemens Smart Infrastructure – Buildings www.siemens.co.uk/cerberus For further information on Siemens Smart Infrastructure, please seewww.siemens.com/smart-infrastructure Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Abloy UK and HKC are set to make a significant impact at The Security Event 2025, inviting visitors to their collaborative stand 5/F50 to explore the latest innovations in integrated security solutions. The event takes place at the Birmingham NEC from 8th – 10th April 2025 and will feature the world’s leading security brands. HKC Security is presenting its range of market-leading intruder alarm products, and Abloy UK is showcasing the latest in electromechanical and digital access solutions. Abloy UK As a pioneer and market-leader in access control technology, Abloy UK will offer attendees the opportunity to experience its comprehensive range of security solutions firsthand and learn more about how they can integrate with other products within the ASSA ABLOY portfolio. The stand will feature live demonstrations of advanced systems, including: Abloy UK’s presence at the event highlights its commitment to delivering state-of-the-art solutions that enhance security, access control, and operational efficiency across a wide range of sectors including critical infrastructure. HKC HKC is offering an immersive, hands-on experience to demonstrate the full potential of its SecureWave 10270 intruder alarm control panel. Attendees can witness first-hand the powerful integration capabilities of the SW10270 panel, featuring seamless interoperability with leading security solutions, including Abloy UK’s SMARTair wireless access control system and Optex external alarm sensors. Each of these integrations will be fully operational, allowing visitors to explore the advantages of a unified security approach. In addition, HKC will showcase its latest security innovations, including the brand-new SecureHub Panel, Wireless Keypad, Solas Outdoor Siren, Video Doorbell, and Chime. The SecureHub panel will be linked to various sensors on the stand, providing a live demonstration of its capabilities via HKC’s SecureComm app. Showcasing innovation Pip Courcoux, Technical and Product Director at Abloy UK, said: “We are excited to return to The Security Event 2025 to showcase our latest innovations in access control and security. As a trusted advisor in the industry, this event allows us to get face-to-face with visitors to give hands-on demonstrations of our wide portfolio of products and explain their features and benefits. “We can also advise on which systems can be combined into bespoke solutions to suit individual requirements – whether that’s securing premises for SMEs, or providing access control for environments such as healthcare estates, university accommodation, commercial offices, utilities infrastructure, and many more. “Our team will be on hand to help visitors understand how our innovations integrate seamlessly into modern security ecosystems, providing superior control, flexibility, and reliability.” Damian Lloyd, Marketing Lead at HKC, added: “The security landscape is evolving rapidly, and integration plays a key role in future proofing systems to protect customer investments and stay ahead of emerging technologies. “Our goal at The Security Event this year is to offer an interactive and engaging experience for visitors. By setting up functional integrations, we’re allowing security professionals to see our technology in action and understand how our solutions can enhance their security infrastructure. “We believe that hands-on demonstrations are the best way to showcase the reliability, efficiency, and ease of integration that our systems provide. We want visitors to leave with a clear understanding of how HKC’s solutions can work within their own security setups, offering seamless protection and peace of mind.” Join HKC Security and Abloy UK at stand 5/F50 at The Security Event 2025 to explore cutting-edge security solutions and experience the future of integrated intruder alarm technology and digital access control. For more information on HKC Security, please visit: hkcsecurity.com For further information on Abloy UK, visit https://bit.ly/4hN2iOO, call 01902 364 500, or email info@abloy.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Plumbing and Heating Federation warns funding delays and high electricity costs are stalling Scotland’s decarbonisation progress The Plumbing and Heating Federation has raised concerns over the slow pace of heat pump installations following newly released Freedom of Information figures. Data from the Home Energy Scotland (HES) Grant and Loan Scheme and the Private Rented Sector (PRS) Landlord Loan Scheme reveal that fewer than 9,000 heat pumps have been installed since 2019. Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive of the Plumbing and Heating Federation, said: “While it is encouraging to see growing numbers of homeowners and landlords making the switch to clean heating solutions, the Scottish Government’s ambition of over one million homes converted to low or zero-emission heat by 2030 is simply not achievable under current conditions. The data highlights the urgent need for clearer policy direction, greater financial certainty and stronger industry support.” Financial strain on installers must be addressed The Federation has also raised serious concerns over the Home Energy Scotland scheme’s payment structure, which places a heavy financial burden on installers. Many installers must absorb substantial upfront costs, leading to cash-flow pressures and administrative challenges that threaten business sustainability. “Installers are at the heart of Scotland’s green heating transition, but they need a stable, transparent funding framework to remain viable. Addressing cash-flow pressures and streamlining payments is critical to scaling up heat pump adoption at the pace required.”, said Hodgson She added: “Today’s CBI report highlights the significant economic benefits of investing in the net zero economy. In Scotland alone, the sector contributes £9.1 billion, 4.9% of the country’s total GV, and supports nearly one in 25 Scottish workers. However, the financial strain of this transition cannot fall solely on already stretched businesses, especially as they face mounting pressures, including the upcoming National Insurance hike.” ‘Spark gap’ must be closed to drive consumer uptake and confidence Beyond funding and administrative hurdles, the Federation is calling for urgent action on the wider policy challenge of energy pricing. The significant disparity, known as the ‘spark gap’, between electricity and gas costs remains a major barrier to heat pump adoption. Fiona Hodgson, concluded: “Even with various funding schemes, the fundamental cost imbalance between electricity and fossil-fuel heating remains a deterrent for households. Closing the spark gap will require close coordination between Westminster and the devolved administrations. “Only by working together can we provide the financial incentives and market certainty needed to boost consumer confidence and achieve Scotland’s net-zero targets.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Ideal Heating is accelerating its diversification into the heat pumps market, building on its deep understanding and experience of heating millions of British homes and businesses for more than 100 years. The UK market leader is at the forefront of the decarbonisation of heating, working with the Government, industry bodies, installers and customers to support the drive to net zero and playing a leading role in the transition to heat pumps as a low-carbon alternative to gas boilers. In 2025, Ideal is ramping up its focus on heat pumps, including the launch of a new proposition setting the standard for heat pump adoption in the UK. “Setting a new standard for heat pumps” is based on Ideal’s unrivalled heat pump product warranty, coupled with a market-leading service offering that stretches from pre to post installation and support. Ideal is also investing in large-scale heat pump production, will open an industry-leading research and development facility for heat pumps and other renewable heating solutions this year, and is training thousands of installers to become low-carbon heating engineers. Mark Derbyshire, Ideal Heating’s Managing Director (Domestic), said: “As the market leader in our industry, we recognise the crucial role we play in the decarbonisation of heating, which is essential to the UK’s drive to net zero. “It means we have to look beyond the product and how we support our customers at every touchpoint in the journey. “It’s why we’re making significant investments right across our business as we transition from manufacturing and supplying gas boilers to low-carbon heating solutions. “Heat pump installation rates are growing rapidly and we’re committed to leading the way in this field, while setting a new standard for the wraparound package of product, warranty, service and support for heat pumps in the UK.” Companies focused on heat pump installations have testified to the strength of Ideal’s proposition. Andrew Folan, Managing Director of Heat Pump Installers UK, which has fitted hundreds of heat pumps over the past eight years, said: “We’ve been impressed with how easy Ideal’s heat pumps are to install and set up. “The heat pump controls are easy for the customer to use. Nothing is overly complicated and the efficiency you get from the product is great. “For me, it’s the complete package of product, service and support you get with Ideal that you’ll struggle to find elsewhere. Having dealt with different manufacturers over the years, nothing else comes close to what Ideal offers.” Ideal has been awarded significant Government funding to support an investment totalling just over £12m to establish large-scale heat pump production in the UK, while also investing £19m in a UK Technology Centre, largely focused on research and development of heat pumps, which is due to open this year at the company’s headquarters site in Hull. Ideal’s Expert Academy training arm also offers the industry’s most extensive facilities and provision to equip boiler installers with the skills and qualifications to install, service and maintain heat pumps. For more information on Ideal’s heat pump range and customer support, go to www.idealheating.com/products/heat-pumps Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Evomax 2, the UK’s number one selling commercial wall-mounted boiler from Ideal Heating Commercial, is now available with a 10-year warranty. As with all Ideal Heating Commercial condensing boilers, Evomax 2 is designed specifically for the UK market, and produced in a state of the art manufacturing plant in Hull which has seen considerable investment over recent years. “Ideal Heating Commercial is one of the few true British manufacturers left in the heating industry” states Andy Forrest, National Sales Manager – Ideal Heating Commercial “and we consider the 10-year warranty we have introduced on Evomax 2 to reflect both our confidence in this market leading commercial boiler and our commitment to British manufacturing.” The new warranty covers 10-year parts and labour when Evomax 2 is installed on an Ideal Heating pipework header kit with plate heat exchanger, and commissioned by Ideal Heating Commercial. Commissioning is provided as a free service and not only saves installers time and money, but ensures that the boiler is operating correctly before it is put into service. An Enhanced Appliance and Primary System Check, which is chargeable at £250 per boiler, is also required under the terms and conditions of the 10-year warranty. The new 10-year warranty does not affect the existing 5-year warranty proposition, which will continue to be available with free commissioning. The Evomax 2 is not only Ideal Heating Commercial’s best selling boiler, but the best selling wall mounted boiler in the UK. Its popularity is attributed to its reliability and performance, as well as its flexibility, and quick and easy installation. Highly efficient, Evomax 2 has up to 99.6% full load efficiency and up to 110% part load efficiency, can operate at up to 30° Δ T, and boasts a high turndown of 5:1. NOx <40mg/kWh (Class 6) is achieved for all Evomax 2 natural gas boilers, for low emissions. It is available with outputs from 30-150kW, which can be increased to 900kW using six Evomax 2 boilers in cascade. When using Evomax 2 in cascade, Ideal Heating Commercial has made this process even easier through the provision of low height and standard frame and header kits to suit all plantrooms, along with an online cascade configurator tool to make choosing what you need straightforward. Building an Evomax 2 cascade system is also fast: a three-boiler cascade can be built in under 90 minutes, as demonstrated in Ideal Heating Commercial’s video idealcommercialboilers.com/news/how-quickly-can-you-build-a-three-boiler-cascade Evomax 2 is available with a range of accessories, including hydraulic separation, all with market-leading availability, all designed and manufactured in the UK. Ideal Heating Commercial delivers commercial heating solutions that are at the forefront of technology and developed in line with the latest market trends and legislation. For more information visit idealcommercialheating.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Johnson Controls, the global leader for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, today announced the acquisition of Webeasy, a prominent Dutch provider of building automation and control systems. This strategic acquisition reinforces Johnson Controls’ commitment to driving innovation, sustainability, and energy efficiency, while expanding its capabilities in the growing market for smart, connected buildings across Europe. Expanding Johnson Controls’ Global Reach in Building Automation Webeasy, headquartered in the Netherlands, has earned a strong reputation for delivering innovative building management solutions tailored for small to medium-sized commercial buildings, including offices, educational institutions, hotels, and sports facilities, where simplicity, cost efficiency, and fast deployment are key priorities This acquisition complements Johnson Controls’ leadership in the building automation industry and enhances its ability to address the specific needs of this segment in Europe. “With the addition of Webeasy’s technologies, we are thrilled to enhance the range of solutions we offer to our customers across Europe,” said Richard Lek, President Europe, Middle East, Africa and Latin America. “Webeasy’s expertise in building automation perfectly aligns with our mission to innovate energy-efficient and sustainable building solutions, empowering our customers to achieve greater operational efficiencies.” Advancing Innovation and Sustainability Webeasy’s extensive pre-configured application library simplifies the deployment of building management systems by improving engineering efficiency, operational effectiveness and making building automation easier, smarter and more cost efficient. The combined capabilities of Webeasy and Johnson Controls will enable businesses and facility owners to better address the growing demands of European sustainability regulations, reduce energy costs and carbon footprints and drive operational excellence. A Bright Future for Smart Buildings This acquisition reinforces Johnson Controls’ growth strategy and leadership position in next generation building automation technology and innovation. Webeasy’s trusted customer base in the Netherlands and across Europe will benefit from Johnson Controls’ global resources, robust service infrastructure, and a shared commitment to smarter, more sustainable buildings. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Visit www.johnsoncontrols.com for more information and follow @Johnson Controls on social platforms. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Over 200,000 homeowners contacted Octopus Energy to enquire about a heat pump in 2024, the UK’s largest power company reports today. This marks a staggering 144% increase from the previous year, signaling a growing trend among homeowners eager to ditch traditional heating systems. The UK heat pump industry hit a new record with almost 60,000 new installations in 2024*. With the UK government’s annual target of 600,000 new heat pump installations by 2028 another year closer, Octopus’ figures show exponentially growing consumer demand. A similar growth from 2025-2026, 2026-2026 and 2027-2028 would see the UK easily hit this target. Furthermore, half (49%) of UK consumers want to invest in low-carbon heating solutions, a recent study revealed*. Thanks to the £7,500 grant from the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), the costs of getting a heat pump are now on par with a new gas boiler. Heat pumps are also cheaper to run than gas boilers with dedicated smart tariffs. Octopus’ ‘Cosy Octopus’ can save heat pump customers £315 a year on heating costs compared to gas boiler customers on an SVT**. To further drive down running costs, the government is currently considering moving environmental and social levies off electricity. Alex Schoch, Global Director of Clean Tech at Octopus Energy at Octopus Energy, said: “With over 200,000 inquiries in just one year, it’s clear that the UK is at the cusp of a heating revolution. “The appetite is there, British homeowners are hungry to go green. But the industry must step up and demystify heat pump technology to help people make informed choices.” Octopus has already invested over £75 million to speed up the rollout of heat pumps. Its proprietary ‘Cosy 6’ heat pump is designed and manufactured in the UK. Octopus also built an R&D and engineer training centre for heat pumps in Slough – the first of its kind in the country. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Siemens Smart Infrastructure today announced the launch of a mobile access offering for Building X Security Manager, based on Apple Wallet and a collaboration with Swiss leader in credential management and access security solutions, LEGIC. By integrating LEGIC Connect, a software service for the creation and distribution of mobile credentials to smart devices, into the Siemens application, users can now enjoy a seamless connection to Apple Wallet. Security Manager is a cloud-based application to manage access control in buildings. The new solution is an extension of the existing Siemens Building X Security Manager app and enables its users to conveniently and securely use their Apple devices – such as iPhone or Apple Watch – to enter buildings faster by tapping a compatible card reader. Apple Wallet is an app that securely and conveniently organizes credit, debit and identity cards, keys, and more – all in one place. Once badges are activated, users can hold their device near a door’s Near Field Communication (NFC)-enabled lock to seamlessly access secured areas. With Express Mode, they don’t need to unlock their device to use their badge in Apple Wallet. If an iPhone needs to be charged, people can still access buildings for up to five hours with Power Reserve. For building owners and security managers, Apple Wallet provides a trusted and secure platform for mobile credentials as stored directly on the devices – including built-in privacy and security features of iPhones and Apple Watches. At the same time, it increases the efficiency and sustainability of building access by eliminating the need to open an app or present a traditional, plastic access key. “By collaborating with Apple and LEGIC, our Building X customers can enhance their experience when entering buildings. They will benefit from a streamlined access method that feels as natural as using their device for payments, leveraging a familiar and intuitive interface,” said Rahul Chillar, Executive Vice President, Software, Siemens Smart Infrastructure Buildings. “We will also be using it for our own Siemens’ buildings.” Building X is a digital building platform that supports customers to digitalize, manage, and optimize their building operations. This leads to an enhanced user experience, increased performance, and improved sustainability. It is part of Siemens Xcelerator, an open digital business platform that enables customers to accelerate their digital transformation easier, faster and at scale. Together with LEGIC, Siemens will showcase the Building X Security Manager integration into Apple Wallet at Intersec 2025 fair in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The event that maps the future of safety, security and fire protection takes place from 14 to 16 January, 2025. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
ABB has launched the ACS8080, its newest medium voltage air-cooled drive. The new drive represents an evolution, building on over 50 years of experience in delivering drives to industrial applications and bringing reliability, performance, and flexibility to the next level thanks to innovative motor control, versatile design, and digital capabilities. The converter can achieve up to 98% efficiency, targeting optimal performance for the entire drive system. The new motor control technology MP3C pushes efficiency and motor friendliness to the limit, while preserving the dynamic performance and robustness of the predecessor DTC. It also reduces harmonic distortions by around 50% compared to classic control and modulation schemes, thereby extending equipment lifetime and achieving energy savings. Designed for versatility and ease of integration, the new ACS8080 easily adapts to a wide range of applications and industries. The modular and flexible design includes the possibility of utilizing an external transformer and selecting a sine filter option, making it an optimal match not only for new applications, but also for retrofitting existing drive systems or direct online (DOL) machines. A high degree of flexibility is also possible due to the advanced digital features: the integration of the open software platform, Crealizer™, into the ABB drive operating system allows for advanced programming capabilities that enable the rapid development and deployment of innovative application-specific functionalities, reducing reliance on external controllers. “At ABB, we invest in R&D to deliver new solutions that enhance productivity while reducing emissions and operating costs. With over 50 years of experience in mission-critical applications, we recognize the importance of reliability and flexibility. This is why we continue to evolve—integrating clean, adaptable designs, stepping up our testing capabilities, and embedding the latest digital technologies. This product reflects our commitment to advancing reliability, performance, and flexibility to help the industries outrun- leaner and cleaner,” says Chris Poynter, President of Systems Drives Division, ABB Motion. The leaner design of the ACS8080 translates into a lower number of components than its predecessors, increasing reliability but also simplifying maintenance and service processes. For this new drive, being reliable also means being able to withstand extreme conditions, and this has been tested through rigorous accelerated lifetime tests carried out in the ABB Drives testing facility in Estonia, simulating 20 years of operations. Enhanced sensing capabilities and a next generation control hardware enable the collection of up to 10 times more diagnostic data for better and faster monitoring solutions. The new ABB Connectivity Edge Gateway allows connectivity whether on premises or to the cloud, making it an optimal fit for many digital needs. The built-in sensing solutions enable Asset Health and Performance Management (AHPM) capabilities, reliability monitoring, and data supported inspection for faster troubleshooting and failure detection. Fully embedded in the new drive are advanced safety and protection systems designed to prevent foreseeable hazardous situations and effectively manage unexpected ones. The new ACS8080 is developed to protect against unauthenticated access, malicious firmware, data breaches, and insecure connectivity allowing customers to benefit from all modern digital capabilities. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The UK’s pledge to build 1.5 million homes faces a critical but overlooked challenge – the dramatic decline of regional housebuilders capable of delivering community-focused developments. That’s according to electrical specialist Garo who highlights the issue in a new report. Industry analysis reveals SME builders now deliver just 10% of new homes, a figure which was previously 40%[1], creating a significant gap in regional housing delivery. This collapse in local building capacity comes at a crucial moment when housing electrical requirements are becoming exponentially more complex. Modern homes demand consumer units that can handle bidirectional power flow from solar panels, manage high-power EV charging points, and incorporate smart monitoring systems – all while maintaining capacity for future innovations. For SME builders operating on tight margins, these technical demands create significant financial and operational challenges. “The combination of ambitious construction targets and increasingly sophisticated home technology creates a perfect storm,” says Dan Dempsey, National Sales Manager at GARO Electric. “Modern homes require advanced electrical infrastructure to support everything from EV charging to heat pumps – yet we’ve lost the very builders who best understand local market needs. “While larger developers excel at volume delivery, regional builders have traditionally delivered developments that reflect local architecture, demographics, and price points. Their decline impacts our ability to create diverse, well-integrated housing solutions across different communities.” The situation is set to become more challenging. The Future Homes Standard, due in 2025, will require new homes to produce 75-80% less carbon emissions than current standards. This demands even more sophisticated electrical systems, potentially further squeezing regional builders already struggling with technical complexity and cost barriers. These challenges extend beyond individual properties. As homes evolve from passive energy consumers to active participants in dynamic energy networks, the loss of regional building expertise threatens both housing delivery and the UK’s broader transition to sustainable communities. Data suggests that without addressing this technical and financial burden on smaller housebuilders, the government’s ambitious housing targets may prove difficult to achieve, particularly in regions where local building knowledge is essential. Dan Dempsey continued: “The implications reach far beyond simple housing numbers. At stake is not just the government’s 1.5 million homes target, but the very character of Britain’s regional housing development and its ability to create the sustainable, community-focused developments that the next generation of homeowners will demand.” To download Garo’s specialist report on the topic, click here https://www.garoelectric.com/electrical-products/consumer-units/shapingtomorrow Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
