Right, so the government keeps talking about 400,000 new green jobs by 2030 to 2050 (the timeline seems to shift depending on who’s making the announcement). It sounds fantastic on paper. But here’s the thing: when you actually dig into the data, the picture gets a lot more complicated than

Right, so whilst we’ve been talking about the UK’s green jobs situation, it’s worth looking at what’s happening across the pond. Because honestly, some of the approaches in the US to renewable energy workforce development are pretty interesting, and there might be lessons here for how the UK could do

So, you’ve done your Level 2, Level 3 electrical installation, and 18th Edition, congrats, honestly. But now you’re looking at the 2357 NVQ and thinking, “Right, what’s actually needed to get fully qualified?” Let me break this down for you. If your one of the, I got no experience and

JIB Wage Deal 2026-2028: What It Actually Means for Your Pay Packet Right, so the Joint Industry Board (JIB) and Unite the Union have just agreed a three-year deal that’s going to lift graded-operative wage rates by almost 13% between January 2026 and January 2028. And honestly? It’s pretty significant

The UK government aims for all new cars to be zero-emission by 2050 and offers grants to encourage drivers to switch to electric or hybrid vehicles. But how green are electric cars really? Beneath the marketing and cleaner image, their production and energy demands raise environmental questions worth exploring. If

Recent media reports have caused a stir by claiming that some electricians in the UK are earning over £150,000 per year. While there’s some truth to these figures, they only represent a small fraction of the workforce — mainly c ontractors working on large-scale commercial projects. For most tradespeople, pay

The 18th Edition of BS 7671 Wiring Regulations marked one of the biggest updates in the UK’s electrical standards. With publication scheduled for 1 July 2018, industry professionals were invited to review and comment before the final sign-off. This consultation process gave electricians and training providers the chance to shape

Each year, Bonfire Night brings families together across the UK to celebrate the historic Gunpowder Plot of 1605 — but it also brings a rise in fire and burn injuries. In the months of October and November alone, nearly a thousand people were hurt last year by fireworks, many during

The Joint Industry Board (JIB) and Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) have introduced a new Registered Electrician status for Gold Card holders — a move designed to recognise electricians who consistently d emonstrate professional competence and compliance with BS 7671 Wiring Regulations. This new tier aims to raise professional standards and

Finding the right Christmas present for an electrician or tradesperson can be tricky. To help, we’ve rounded up ten of the best tools and gadgets on the market — from reliable VDE screwdrivers and cable cutters to i nnovative site-ready accessories that make every job easier. If you’re currently studying

Smart technology is reshaping how we live — from thermostats and lighting to full smart home systems. For anyone not ready to install a complete setup, smart plugs are a great entry point into home automation, letting you control, monitor, and schedule your appliances from anywhere. If you’re currently studying

Over 53 million smart meters are being rolled out as part of the UK Government’s national energy-efficiency plan, aiming to equip more than 30 million homes and businesses. While the concept sounds simple — track energy use and cut waste — many households are already reporting unexpected issues. If you’re

Online trade directories claim to make it easier to find a “trusted” tradesperson — but can customers really rely on them? After all, not every site checks qualifications as strictly as you might expect. If you’re studying Law Lesson 17, you’ll already know how due diligence and verification form part

The 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) was officially released on 2 July 2018, marking one of the most significant updates in UK electrical standards in over a decade. Designed to r eflect new technologies and ensure ongoing safety in electrical installations, the regulations are the benchmark for

A recent Which? survey of almost 1,500 people found that 80% of homeowners trust electricians the most when it comes to improving their homes or carrying out repairs. In c omparison, only 48% said they trusted roofers and 53% trusted builders — showing a clear gap in public confidence across

Trade associations such as the NICEIC play a vital role in maintaining industry standards. They ensure tradespeople are competent, compliant with the latest wiring regulations, and qualified to self-certify notifiable work. For customers, these organisations offer reassurance that electrical installations meet recognised safety and quality benchmarks. Recently, a man from

Working as a tradesperson often means juggling multiple jobs, customers, and tools — sometimes all in one day. Having the right apps on your phone can make your working life e asier, from managing invoices to navigating between sites. If you’re currently studying Law Lesson 11, you’ll already know that

While the majority of UK households rely on gas-fired central heating, around 2.2 million use electricity as their primary source of warmth. For some homes — especially flats or properties off the gas grid — electric heating can be an efficient and practical choice when d esigned correctly. If you’re

A major report by The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP) and National Electrotechnical Training (NET) has revealed the extent of the ongoing skills shortage across the electrotechnical industry. It’s the first in-depth r eview of its kind in over a decade, providing insight into the recruitment and training challenges that could

There are many reasons you might want to add lighting to your garden — whether for decoration, security, or practicality. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of lighting available and what to consider before installation. If you’re currently completing modules like Hazards Lesson 4, understanding how lighting systems

Electricity powers almost every part of our daily lives — from boiling the kettle and charging a phone to running large-scale manufacturing. But where does it come from, and how does it make its way safely into our homes? In this guide, we’ll explore how electricity is generated, how it’s

Installing CCTV can make a significant difference to your home security. Homes without any protective measures are five times more likely to be burgled compared to those that have basic security systems installed. With a burglary occurring every 40 seconds in the UK, choosing the right camera setup is one

Mistakes and accidents can happen on site at any time, and occasionally, complaints will arise. Professionalism is key throughout your customer journey, from first quote to final sign-off, and it’s especially important to maintain this same standard if you receive a complaint or bad review. Whether you’re a large company

On 3rd February 2020, Amendment 1 of the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) was released, focusing solely on Electric Vehicle (EV) charging installations. This update reflects rapid changes in EV technology and is part of the UK’s wider push towards greener infrastructure. What does Amendment 1 change? The amendment

Working as a tradesperson can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with challenges that can affect both your business and personal life. From customer payments to securing new jobs, these are some of the most common concerns tradespeople face — and practical ways to handle them. Customer Payments One

Working from home has become standard practice for many in the UK, and a well-designed home office is no longer a luxury but a n ecessity. The right setup can improve comfort, productivity, and work-life balance, but it also needs to be practical and safe. Choose the right space A

One of the most important parts of running a trade business — and often the difference between repeat custom and losing work — is how you handle customer interactions. From the first phone call to completing the job, every stage is a chance to show professionalism. First contact with the

Living a greener lifestyle doesn’t have to mean fitting your home with solar panels, driving an electric car, or building a compost heap in your garden. While these big changes can make a difference, smaller everyday adjustments can be just as impactful. In fact, many eco-friendly choices save money as

In 2019, more than 79,000 construction workers suffered from work-related ill health (either new or long-standing conditions). Around 54,000 workers every year experience non-fatal i njuries such as trips and falls, strains from lifting, accidents at height, or being struck by moving objects. Trades like building, plumbing, plastering, joinery, and

Starting a business is exciting — and a bit d aunting. The truth is, great ideas still fail when basics get missed. Below are the most common mistakes new owners make, plus simple ways to avoid them. Don’t underestimate the costs There’s lots of noise online and it can be

The pandemic has reshaped the world of work. Redundancies, furlough schemes, and industry shutdowns forced millions of people to re-think what a stable and fulfilling career looks like. By September 2020, more than 9.6 million workers were still on furlough, and over 190,000 redundancies had already been confirmed in the

From 1st September 2021, new rules came into force for electricians looking to join a Competent Person Scheme (CPS) such as NICEIC or NAPIT. These changes are designed to raise competency standards in the industry and ensure all registered c ontractors meet a consistent benchmark of qualifications and experience. If

Filed under History • Published on 30/09/21 The surge in popularity of electric cars may feel like a modern phenomenon, but the idea has been around since the Georgian era. In fact, long before today’s climate debates, Victorians were already exploring alternatives to horse-drawn carts. With streets clogged by waste

Since the introduction of the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020, the volume of Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) carried out by UK electricians has grown rapidly. These regulations require every privately rented property in England to undergo an EICR at least every five years.

With more than £46 million worth of tools reported stolen since April 2021, protecting your kit has never been more important. Van thefts are also rising sharply, with up to 35 vans being stolen every day compared with just 12 six years ago. For electricians training on safety modules like

Rising energy costs in the UK have left households more determined than ever to cut bills. Yet not all of the “tricks” we’ve been told over the years actually work. Some are half-truths, some outdated, and others are outright myths. Below, we tackle some of the most common energy-saving claims

Every year, UK households and businesses discard an estimated 2 tonnes of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). This category covers almost every product that uses a plug or battery, from k ettles and laptops to washing machines. Since WEEE is the fastest-growing waste stream in the UK, regulations were

April 2022 marked the release of Amendment 2 to BS7671:2018, bringing with it a series of important updates for electricians across the UK. While the changes aren’t as sweeping as some past revisions, there are several adjustments that every installer needs to be aware of. And just to clarify —

The UK is heading into a critical period for trade skills, with electricians at the centre of the challenge. According to the UK Trade Skills Index 2023, the construction and wider t rade sector will require an additional 937,000 workers by 2032 — with 100,000 of those roles needing to

The expansion of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has become one of the most hotly debated transport policies in recent years. For everyday motorists, the charge is inconvenient, but for tradespeople whose work depends on reliable transport, the changes represent a major financial and logistical challenge. What is the

Electric vehicles (EVs) are reshaping how we think about transport, with adoption in the UK accelerating year on year. But alongside benefits like lower emissions and reduced reliance on fossil fuels, EVs also bring new engineering challenges. Among these is whether existing infrastructure—particularly multi-storey car parks—can safely accommodate a rising

Reports of energy meter tampering are on the increase, with more tradespeople noticing it in UK homes. A recent survey by Direct Line revealed that 3 in 10 tradespeople have come across signs of tampering, highlighting how common the practice is becoming. But why is it happening, and what are

For decades, the “dream careers” most often promoted to young people were professional titles such as doctor, lawyer, or banker. Parents encouraged children to head to university, often with the belief that academic qualifications equalled financial stability. But new research suggests that perception is changing. According to a Career Choice

The UK’s electrical industry is under pressure. Demand for skilled electricians keeps rising, yet many firms say they simply cannot find enough workers to cover the jobs available. With the skills gap widening year on year, businesses are being forced to turn away projects they could otherwise deliver. The current

From phones and tablets to TVs and gaming consoles, our homes are full of electronic devices — and with them comes the i nevitable tangle of wires. Most of us have that dreaded “spaghetti drawer” stuffed with cables, but poor storage can damage wires and even create trip hazards. Taking

The UK has passed an important milestone in renewable energy adoption, with more than 1.3 million domestic solar installations and around 500 large-scale solar farms now in operation. But while solar panels are designed to deliver clean energy for decades, what happens when they reach the end of their life?

For decades, hands-on trades such as plumbing, electrical work and construction have been dominated by men. But this picture is slowly changing. Not only are more women entering these roles, but consumers are also showing a growing preference for hiring female contractors. Research from tradespeople search platform My Local Toolbox

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more mainstream each year, but manufacturers know that one of the biggest hurdles for drivers is convenience. Even with today’s expanding charging network, some still view plugging in cables as a barrier. Wireless EV charging is one of the latest technologies that p romises to

For most tradespeople, a van isn’t just a vehicle – it’s the backbone of their business. Whether you’re carrying tools, materials, or travelling between clients, keeping your van on the road comes with ongoing costs. Insurance is one of the biggest expenses, and a r ecent study shows that the

In November 2023, new regulations came into force that are set to change how millions of drivers use the UK’s growing n etwork of electric vehicle (EV) charging points. These laws are designed to make charging simpler, quicker, and more reliable — supporting both consumer confidence and the government’s wider

The UK Government has extended its VAT relief scheme for energy-saving materials in homes, making battery energy storage systems (BESS) exempt from tax when installed in domestic properties. This change is expected to make low-carbon technology more affordable and help a ccelerate the UK’s push toward Net Zero. What changed

Borrowing tools can be a money-saver, especially if you only need something for a one-off job. But for tradespeople, lending tools out — whether to friends, family or colleagues — often comes with hidden costs. What are the risks of lending your tools? Research from Direct Line Business Insurance shows

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