A new wave of UK learner drivers are showing a strong preference for electric vehicles (EVs). According to research from Gridserve, nearly half of new learners (48%) say they would be more likely to take driving lessons in an electric vehicle. With over one million fully electric cars already on

The Institution of Engineering & Technology (IET) and the British Standards Institute (BSI) are inviting feedback on the latest draft amendment to BS7671:2018 + A2:2022. This draft — known as Amendment 3 — is open for industry comment between 8 May and 5 June 2024. What’s changing? Amendment 3 has

Choosing the right lawn mower can make garden maintenance quicker and easier. For UK households, the big decision often comes down to whether to go corded or cordless. Both have their benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice depends on the size of your garden, your budget, and how you

The UK has reached another milestone in its journey to decarbonisation. Data from National Grid ESO (Electricity System Operator) shows that fossil fuel electricity generation — once the b ackbone of the grid — fell to its lowest levels ever in April 2024. For a brief hour at lunchtime on

E-bikes and e-scooters have quickly become a familiar sight on UK streets. They offer an affordable and greener way to travel, particularly in crowded cities where congestion charges, fuel costs, and low-emission zones make cars less attractive. But alongside the benefits, fire services have raised serious concerns: lithium-ion battery fires

The UK government’s drive towards Net Zero has made renewable energy a key part of the national agenda. For homeowners and small businesses, one of the main incentives to install renewable technology is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), which rewards people for exporting surplus energy back to the National Grid.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a vital safeguard for electricians, reducing the risks that come with working around live systems, high voltages, and busy construction sites. In this guide, we’ll break down what electrical PPE is, why it’s essential, and the main types you’re likely to use in day-to-day work.

Solar power often feels like a modern technology, but the idea of capturing the sun’s energy has been around for thousands of years. From ancient mirrors to today’s silicon panels, the story of solar PV is one of steady progress shaped by science, engineering and the need for cleaner energy.

For almost three decades, construction skills cards have been the industry’s benchmark for verifying worker competency. They provide assurance that a tradesperson has the right training and qualifications to work safely on site. But in recent years, there’s been a worrying rise in fake cards circulating across the UK —

With energy bills high and households under pressure to go greener, scams linked to eco-friendly products are on the rise. Fraudsters are targeting UK homeowners with fake grants, poor-quality installs, and unsafe electrical work. Staying alert is the best way to avoid f inancial loss or safety risks. What is

The UK’s electrical industry is under pressure. With half of companies reporting that they cannot find enough qualified sparks, the skills shortage is forcing employers to explore new ways of keeping up with demand. One option now being taken more seriously is automation. Robots and AI tools are not here

The renewable energy sector has just been shaken up by a discovery from researchers at the University of Oxford. Their development of ultra-thin perovskite solar cells could fundamentally change how electricity is generated, potentially replacing traditional s ilicon panels altogether. For electricians and contractors, this breakthrough points to a future

With festive sales and online bargains, more people in the UK are turning to e-bikes and e-scooters. But alongside the growth comes risk. The Government’s ‘Buy Safe, Be Safe’ campaign warns that counterfeit or unsafe models pose serious fire hazards — particularly when fitted with poorly manufactured lithium-ion batteries. For

Late payments remain one of the biggest financial headaches for self-employed tradespeople in the UK. New figures suggest that the average spark or contractor is chasing more than £6,000 in overdue invoices — a figure that h ighlights just how serious the cash flow problem has become. For electricians, who

Interested in becoming an electrician but not sure what skills are most important? Like any profession, being a spark takes more than just technical knowledge. It requires a mix of formal qualifications, practical ability, and personal qualities that help you succeed in real-world situations. This guide explores the 10 essential

Thinking about becoming an electrician? Whether you’re choosing your first career or retraining later in life, it’s worth weighing up the positives and the challenges. The trade offers solid wages, future-proof demand, and flexibility — but it’s not without its difficulties. Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons

Electricians play a vital role in modern life, keeping homes, workplaces, and public buildings safe, efficient, and connected. Their work is varied — ranging from installing new systems, to d iagnosing faults, to upgrading infrastructure for the future. For those thinking about entering the trade, or simply curious about the

Whether you’re starting your career journey at 16 or considering retraining later in life, the electrical industry continues to attract people who want reliable, skilled and rewarding work. But is being an electrician really a good career choice in the UK? Here are nine reasons why it’s one of the

If you’re thinking about becoming an electrician, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: how long will it take? The answer depends on which training route you follow. Some learners qualify in as little as 12–18 months, while others take around four years. The choice of pathway depends on

For electricians, wholesalers are part of daily life. Whether it’s picking up Twin & Earth, grabbing a consumer unit, or ordering specialist f ittings, the choice of wholesaler can shape how smoothly a job runs. But with so many options — from CEF and Screwfix to local independents — how

Electricians rely heavily on their test instruments. Accuracy is critical — whether you’re checking insulation resistance, continuity, or verifying safety before signing off an installation. Normally, meters are sent off for full c alibration once a year, but what about the months in between? That’s where the Calcard comes in.

When the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations came into force in January 2019, it changed how electricians across the UK a pproached inspection, testing, and compliance. At Elec Training, we regularly get asked about the practical details, especially from learners preparing for their exams and working sparks who want

It’s not all testing, regs and NVQs in the life of a tradesperson. Sometimes the little things on the way to site can bring a smile. One of our team spotted a plasterer’s van this week with a p ersonalised number plate that raised a laugh, which got us thinking:

The UK has one of the safest electrical systems in the world, yet thousands of electrical injuries still occur every week. Sadly, at least one person loses their life every week in a home electrical i ncident. Many of these tragedies could be prevented with better awareness, proper maintenance, and

Electricians are known for loving their gadgets. Whether it’s the latest PAT tester, a tool kit upgrade, or even a clever stocking filler, sparks are always on the lookout for kit that makes life easier on site. And while fashions in technology change quickly, some tools remain timeless. Here’s a

Since 6 April 2013, many electricians have been unsure about the qualifications needed to register on a Domestic Installer Scheme. The Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS) updates introduced a new Level 3 requirement for Qualified Supervisors, leading to w idespread concern that entry routes had become stricter. NICEIC and ELECSA have

For electricians, running cables is a daily task that can range from straightforward to downright frustrating. Anyone who’s worked on a full house rewire knows the challenge: getting cable under floorboards, over ceilings, or through walls without losing time or patience. While some sparks resort to makeshift tools, a proper

When it comes to electrical test equipment, Megger is one of the most trusted names in the industry. For decades, electricians across the UK have relied on their multi-function testers (MFTs) to carry out reliable, accurate results on site. Their MFT1730 On-Site Kit is one of the best-known options, combining

One of the biggest questions new electricians face is whether to focus on domestic work or commercial installation. Each route has different training requirements, costs, and day-to-day challenges. While many electricians e ventually cover both, the decision often starts with training: do you invest more time and money in the

Since 6 April 2013, many electricians have been unsure about the qualifications needed to register on a Domestic Installer Scheme. The E lectrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS) updates introduced a new Level 3 requirement for Qualified Supervisors, leading to widespread concern that entry routes had become stricter. NICEIC and ELECSA have

For many new electricians, getting set up with the right tools and transport can feel like a huge expense. While some tradespeople choose to invest in a brand-new van on finance, others prefer to start small and keep costs down. If you’re just beginning your career or branching out as

When you qualify as an electrician and decide to work for yourself, one of the first challenges you face is pricing. Getting it wrong can leave you out of pocket, but with the right planning and process you can set rates that reflect your skills, time and the real value

Electricians and trainees often think of electricity in practical terms: circuits, safety, BS 7671 regulations and NVQs. But every modern system we install t races back to one of the most dramatic rivalries in engineering history. The Current War, starring Benedict Cumberbatch as Thomas Edison and Michael Shannon as George

From May 2017, the way the government funds apprenticeships in England changed with the launch of the Apprenticeship Levy. While this policy has been in place for several years now, many employers in the electrical and wider construction sector still have questions about what it means for them. For anyone

The UK electrical sector has long been built on the strength of its apprentices and new entrants. But for many, starting out in the trade isn’t as straightforward as enrolling on an electrician course and finding a placement. Life circumstances, health issues, or family pressures can derail even the most

For years, the idea that a university degree is the only pathway to a well-paid career has been pushed in schools and colleges across the UK. But fresh research from the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) shows the opposite can be true. Skilled trades like electricians, plumbers and b ricklayers

The UK construction industry is at a turning point. Electricians, in particular, are working later into life, with fewer younger r ecruits coming through the system. This imbalance between retiring sparks and new entrants risks creating a serious shortage at the very time demand for electrical skills is climbing. From

As the autumn chill creeps in and winter edges closer, UK households inevitably turn their attention to heating costs. Rising energy bills remain a worry for many families, with budgets s tretched by everything from fuel to food prices. Against this backdrop, simple, low-cost techniques to keep warmth indoors have

Electricians rely on trusted information. From wiring regulations to inspection procedures, the textbooks on your desk are meant to be a ccurate and reliable. But what happens if the book you’ve bought isn’t genuine? Counterfeit copies of technical publications are becoming a growing issue, and they’re now showing up in

Imagine a light bulb so small it’s just one atom thick. That’s what researchers have achieved using graphene, a material first isolated in 2004 at the University of Manchester. Although invisible i tself, the light it produces is visible to the naked eye. For the electrical industry, this breakthrough is

When the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671:2018) were announced for July release, with enforcement from January 2019, many sparks w ondered: is this just another tidy-up of the 17th Edition, or a genuine step change for the industry? The answer is somewhere in between. Yes, there are structural improvements

The UK’s Road to Zero strategy just took another decisive step. The Department for Transport (DfT) has proposed that all new-build homes must include an electric vehicle (EV) charging point, written directly into building regulations. If carried through, this would make the UK the first country in the world to

The UK’s electrical industry is evolving fast. Higher wages, renewable technologies, and structured apprenticeships make it one of the most attractive trades for anyone considering a career shift. But one group remains underrepresented—women. That imbalance is now being challenged head-on. The NICEIC’s “Jobs for the Girls” campaign has been raising

Spend a few minutes at the counter of an electrical wholesaler and you’ll hear it: “I don’t need to advertise, I’m busier than ever.” It sounds confident, but in reality it’s more bravado than truth. No contractor should settle for scraping work together week by week. The real goal is

When new legislation hits the electrical trade, it usually means two things: change and opportunity. Lot 20, introduced under EU Regulation 2015/1188, is one of the most significant shifts in recent years. It directly affects electric space heating and, by e xtension, the work many sparks carry out in domestic

The UK government has made clear commitments to a low-carbon future. First came the announcement of banning new petrol and diesel cars by 2040 (now likely to be brought forward), and more recently, proposals that all new homes in England must include electric vehicle charging points. For electricians, this is

Every week electricians face questions that aren’t always clear-cut. One recent talking point was whether a consumer unit can be mounted on its side. Many sparks said “no,” while a smaller group gave a more detailed answer. The truth? It’s a trick question—the correct response is to check the manufacturer’s

Every electrician knows the regulations never stand still. On 1 July 2018, the industry officially said goodbye to the 17th Edition and welcomed the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations. For learners, this shift wasn’t just about a new book colour—it represented a step forward in safety, compliance, and career readiness. For

Energy efficiency isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a practical need for households and businesses looking to cut costs. Products like Vphase voltage optimisation units show how technology can save customers money while creating new revenue streams for electricians. At the same time, the industry outlook for pay and demand remains strong,

The UK electrical industry has always evolved alongside its regulations. From the 16th Edition to the 17th, and now the 18th Edition and beyond, each update brings new requirements that electricians must understand to remain compliant. For learners today, it’s not about revisiting the 17th—it’s about looking ahead to how

Exams are a reality in every electrician course. Whether you’re tackling the 18th Edition, an inspection & testing practical, or the NVQ portfolio, assessments are there to prove competence. For many learners, they can also be a major source of stress. The good news is that with the right techniques,

The UK’s shift towards electric vehicles isn’t just about cars—it’s about the people trained to install, maintain, and certify the infrastructure that makes EV adoption possible. As schemes like UK Power Networks’ new Shift project show, the demand for qualified sparks is only getting stronger. For those looking to step

Every October brings out ghosts, ghouls, and jump scares—but for electricians, the real horror stories often hide in walls, lofts, and distribution boards. From tangled wiring to botched DIY fixes, these “electrical horrors” remind us why proper training is so important. For those looking to avoid becoming part of the

The electrical sector is evolving fast. From new safety regulations to renewable energy systems, companies need staff who are up to date, safe, and confident in their skills. That’s why demand for structured electrical training is rising among both individuals and businesses. For learners aiming to reach full competence, the

When deciding between university and trade, many young people face a difficult choice. With rising tuition fees, debt concerns, and uncertain job markets, it’s no wonder more are looking at trades as a viable path. For those considering an Elec Training electrical training course, there are clear benefits in terms

The UK construction industry is bracing for rapid expansion, with forecasts predicting 150,000 new jobs over the next five years. That growth is expected to drive massive demand for skilled trades, especially electricians. For anyone considering training, starting with an electrician course is a strong entry point. And for learners

Halloween is the time of year when ghosts, ghouls and things that go bump in the night come out to play. But for electricians, some of the scariest sights aren’t in haunted h ouses — they’re hidden in lofts, consumer units and dodgy DIY jobs. We’ve pulled together some of

The UK construction and energy sectors are entering one of their busiest decades in living memory. From delivering net-zero targets to building new homes and rolling out EV charging networks, the demand for qualified electricians is rising fast. Yet a Labour Market Report released earlier this year e stimated that

Electrical safety on construction sites has always been a critical issue, but recent years have shown just how easily standards can slip. Back in 2019, the Building Safety Group (BSG) reported a 31% increase in electricity breaches compared with the year before, citing damaged cables, exposed conductors and poorly managed

Christmas is a good excuse to treat the electrician in your life — or yourself — to tools and gear that make the job easier. Electricians often work long hours in d emanding conditions, so a gift that’s practical, reliable, and built to last is always appreciated. In this 2026

Keeping on top of the UK’s key electrical and construction events can be difficult when you’re busy on site or studying. To make things simpler, we’ve pulled together a month-by-month calendar of the most important exhibitions, trade shows, seminars, and networking opportunities taking place in 2026. Whether you’re a qualified

Electric Vehicles (EVs) have been marketed as the future of transport in the UK, but for many electricians and tradespeople, the real question is simple: can they cope with the day-to-day demands of work and travel? To find out, we got a YouTuber and electrician to take part in a

Weekends often give us the perfect chance to catch up on jobs around the house. From painting the spare room to assembling new furniture, DIY can be r ewarding and cost-effective. But when it comes to electrics, the safest advice is simple: don’t attempt electrical DIY yourself. Electrical work in

In recent years, the UK’s transition towards electric vehicles (EVs) has been steadily accelerating. But moments of disruption often act as tipping points. The recent petrol shortage, which left drivers queueing at forecourts and scrambling for fuel, was one of those moments. Within days, Google UK reported a 63% increase

The UK electrical industry is under pressure. Demand for skilled electricians continues to rise, driven by new housing developments, renewable energy projects, and the government’s Net Zero commitments. At the same time, the w orkforce is ageing, and fewer apprentices have entered the trade in recent years. This makes apprenticeships

The UK faces a well-documented shortage of electricians. Industry reports suggest demand is at its highest level in d ecades, fuelled by the drive towards Net Zero, the electrification of transport and heating, and a wave of construction projects. Employers across the country are feeling the strain — struggling to

The UK Government has confirmed that from 2025, gas boilers will no longer be fitted in new build properties. Instead, homes will rely on low-carbon h eating systems such as heat pumps, heat networks, or electric radiators. This is part of the broader Net Zero commitment to cut emissions and

The end of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme in September 2021 was a turning point for the UK labour market. As furlough wound down, many workers faced uncertainty, redundancy, or a shift into entirely new sectors. At the same time, the construction and electrical industries were already struggling with shortages

The UK is experiencing one of the most severe shortages of electricians in decades. Industry reports describe the situation as the worst since the late 1990s, with demand for skilled workers reaching record levels. For those considering a new career, or electricians already working and looking to upskill, the opportunities

Inspection and testing is one of the most technical and critical aspects of electrical work. Whether you are preparing for your AM2 assessment, aiming for a competent person scheme (CPS) assessment, or simply brushing up on knowledge, keeping skills sharp is essential. To support learners at every stage, Elec Training

Energy bills have become one of the biggest concerns for UK households in recent years. Even before the geopolitical shocks of 2022, wholesale gas prices had already surged, driving consumer costs higher. By spring 2022, forecasts suggested that combined fuel bills for an average home could exceed £2,000 per year,

In March 2021, the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, delivered a Budget that many in the trades were watching closely. With so many electricians and allied trades working as self-employed sole traders, the question on everyone’s mind was simple: how will government decisions affect those running their own businesses or planning to

The UK electrical industry has always placed safety, standards, and competence at its core. Over the years, various schemes and regulations have been introduced to make sure that anyone carrying out electrical work is properly trained and accountable. One of the most significant f rameworks is the Competent Person Scheme

If you’re considering switching career to becoming an electrician, now is one of the best times in recent memory. Between panic at the pumps, new laws demanding more EV charging points, and wage rises driven by JIB agreements, the landscape has shifted. For someone entering fresh, you can build a

The UK is facing a critical shortage of qualified electricians. With demand rising from new housing, infrastructure, and renewable technologies, employers are looking for long-term solutions to build a skilled workforce. Apprenticeships remain the most reliable pathway to achieving this — d eveloping competent electricians while giving learners the chance

The UK has taken a bold step in its journey towards Net Zero. From 2022, it became mandatory for all new homes and offices to be built with electric vehicle (EV) charging points. This makes Britain the first country in the world to legislate for chargers in new buildings, setting

Mobile phones and tablets have become as essential on site as a multimeter or set of screwdrivers. For electricians, the right apps can save hours of admin, reduce errors, and even help win more work. From certification to cable calculations, there are now dozens of tools aimed at making the

Periods of furlough can feel unsettling. You’re out of your regular work routine, wages may be lower than usual, and the uncertainty makes it easy to lose momentum. But there is another side to furlough: it can be a valuable window of opportunity. Many people in the UK used their

At Elec Training, we’re always looking for ways to make the learner journey clearer, faster, and more convenient. Training as an electrician is a big commitment, so we want your digital experience to be as smooth as your time in the classroom. That’s why we’ve r elaunched our website with

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is one of the most practical and widely required services in the electrical sector. From schools and offices to l andlords and housing associations, every organisation that provides electrical equipment is under a duty to ensure it is maintained safely. In November 2020, the long-standing 2377-22/32

Over the past few years, demand for electrical training has s urged to levels not seen in decades. From new entrants seeking a career change to experienced electricians looking to upskill, the need for structured training pathways has never been greater. At Elec Training, we have seen a marked increase

Choosing the right van is one of the biggest decisions a newly qualified or career-changing electrician will face. A van isn’t just a way of getting from A to B — it’s your mobile workshop, your storage hub, and often the first impression a client gets of your business. With

Becoming a qualified electrician is only the first part of the journey. Once you’ve completed your training, built your skills, and started gaining practical experience, the next step is deciding how to structure your working life. Many electricians choose to work for themselves, either as sole traders or by setting

Across the trades, electricians continue to sit at the top of the pay table. Surveys show that electrical work is one of the most financially r ewarding routes for skilled workers, and despite the challenges of COVID-19, demand for qualified electricians has remained high. But what exactly can electricians expect

Keeping your BS 7671 knowledge current isn’t a tick-box exercise—it’s the bedrock of safe, compliant work and a key marker of professionalism in the UK. Amendment 2 to the 18th Edition landed in March 2022, and if you qualified prior to the update—or you simply want a structured refresher on

Electrical work in the UK is governed by strict standards, particularly BS 7671 Wiring Regulations and the requirements of Part P Building Regulations. But not every task in a domestic or commercial setting requires the full involvement of a registered electrician. There is an important distinction between notifiable and non-notifiable

Demand for solar PV is rising again as households and businesses look to cut bills, stabilise energy costs, and reduce carbon. That means more work for competent installers—especially those who can design tidy systems, commission them correctly, and explain performance clearly to clients. If you’re ready to add PV to

Rising energy prices, time-of-use tariffs, and the switch to low-carbon tech are pushing homeowners to squeeze more value out of every kilowatt-hour. That’s why electrical energy storage systems (EESS)—most commonly lithium-ion battery systems—are moving from “nice to have” to “seriously consider”. If you’re a homeowner weighing up payback, or an

The UK’s transition to cleaner transport has super-charged demand for competent EV charge-point installers. Alongside that growth, the qualification f ramework changed in September 2022: the legacy City & Guilds 2919 routes were retired and replaced by C&G 2921-31: Design and Installation of Domestic & Small Commercial EV Charging Installations.

PAT testing is the combination of visual inspection and electrical tests to confirm that in-service equipment remains safe to use. Although many people still say “PAT,” modern training (e.g., C&G 2377-77) takes a wider EET view: not just portable tools and kettles, but also certain stationary or fixed equipment on

Electricians continue to set the pace for earnings across the UK trades—driven by persistent skills shortages, sustained demand in domestic and commercial work, and g rowth areas like EV charging, consumer unit upgrades, and inspection & testing. If you’re mapping your career, pricing your jobs, or deciding which qualifications to

Choosing the right electrician course is the decision that shapes everything that follows: how quickly you get site-ready, which jobs you can safely take on, how you build your NVQ portfolio, and how soon you reach full competence for the ECS Gold Card. With so many options—apprenticeships, adult fast-track routes,

Electrification is reshaping how the UK heats homes, moves people, and powers businesses. From consumer-unit upgrades and rewires to solar, battery storage, and EV charge points, domestic electrical work is d iversifying—and it’s creating real opportunity for electricians who upskill early. If you’re exploring your next move, a focused domestic

The UK’s electrification agenda—new builds, retrofits, EV charging, solar, and smarter homes—means demand for qualified electricians is the strongest it’s been in decades. That’s great news if you’re starting out or looking to retrain. The big decision is how to qualify: the traditional apprenticeship, or the increasingly p opular adult

If you are wired for a good laugh and fancy a jolt of humour between jobs, you are in the right place. We have rounded up groan-worthy puns, quick one-liners, and longer story g ags to brighten your tea break. And if these tickle your funny bone and spark an

A stripped screw turns a five-minute job into a head-scratcher. The slots in the head are rounded or mangled, the driver slips, and every attempt s eems to make it worse. Below you will find clear, field-tested methods to free stuck fasteners in wood, metal, and plastics, plus quick prevention

Getting earthing and bonding right saves lives. Both are core parts of UK electrical safety under BS 7671, but they do different jobs. This plain-English guide from Elec Training explains what each term means, how they w ork together, and what good practice looks like on real sites. If you

Tool theft isn’t “petty”—it’s business-stopping. One break-in can wipe out thousands of pounds of kit, delay jobs, hit your reputation, and pile on stress from insurance c laims and re-buying everything. The good news: a layered approach makes you a hard target. Below are six practical, field-tested ways to protect

Electricians are the unsung heroes ensuring our homes, workplaces, and public spaces remain powered, safe, and efficient. But with the electrical trade comes risk—accidents, d amage, or legal liabilities can quickly escalate into financial and reputational threats. Securing your electrical business starts with having the right insurance in place. Here’s