DEBATING WHAT CONSTRUCTION NEEDS

Sarah Jones MP, minister of state for industry and decarbonisation

 

The construction minister, who works across both the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), has said she wants to hear from the sector and is ready to advocate for it in government.

Speaking at the Labour Party Conference, Sarah Jones MP, whose official role is minister of state for industry and decarbonisation and has a brief that includes construction, infrastructure and green jobs, said:

“My role is to hear what industry needs and advocate for that in policy discussions with colleagues”.

This industry will be particularly important to a government that has put construction at the centre of its growth agenda. It has started working towards an industrial strategy to help provide industry with greater certainty and has already taken actions to ease planning restrictions on green energy and set out plans to reform and resource planning systems more widely as it seeks to increase house building to 1.5M homes over five years.”

However, Jones was at pains to point out that such significant ambitions did not mean that the government was unaware of the challenges faced.

“If we don’t nail the skills issue, we will struggle,” she said, before setting out some of the longer term thinking that government hopes will help with this and other challenges.

“The industrial strategy will provide a backbone – offering certainty and the shape of ambition for investors. We want to put local authorities on longer term funding cycles too. This should provide longer term funding visibility and pipeline visibility so that companies can invest and invest in skills.”

Jones also pointed out that some of the skills challenge can be tackled by helping more people see just how good careers in the sector can be. Reflecting on her time helping to deliver the Olympics in 2012, she said: “We need a message of hope. During the Olympic delivery we did surveys and the world thought we were better than we thought we were. We need to remember that the UK is really good at delivering.”

Much of the industry relies on immigration for skills, though the minister warned this could not be treated as a singular solution. “Skills and immigration are two sides of one issue that need bringing together,” Jones said. We can’t have ever increasing immigration instead of having a strategic plan for skills.” She then suggested what might be needed was something akin to the workforce planning done by the NHS.

Wider discussion and debate

The new government’s focus on longer term planning has generated some optimism for construction and infrastructure sectors, several of which had come together at the Labour Party conference to share a common voice.

When the floor was opened up to other voices from the sector, Association for Consultancy and Engineering chief executive Kate Jennings said: “We have all seen good things in the manifesto but there is no silver bullet. We need to see long term planning not just as a matter of investment in projects. It’s a productivity matter that allows companies to invest in technology and skills to improve how we deliver.

Civil engineer and All Party Parliamentary Group of Net Zero member Mike Reader MP partly agreed, though he courted controversy by saying he is “tired of talking about skills”.

Prior to his election in July 2024, Reader was an operations director at Mace and he noted that skills shortages had been a subject for years and that construction and engineering are not alone in this – citing the food and drinks sector as another example. “We need more skills and never quite get them,” he said. “So, do we continue to need more people or do we adopt more modern methods of construction and technologies to modernise delivery and reduce the number of people we need?”

While Reader has extensive experience of the industry, he hoped that it wouldn’t just be him who can help address construction in parliament. He said he had colleagues at Mace who found it frustrating to “explain the industry to a new construction minister every six months” and said that a more stable government should help improve understanding, especially with construction being so central to its agenda.

Construction Products Association deputy chief executive Jeff May said that offsite manufacturing is part of the solution, but he pointed out the need for certainty there too.  “Offsite manufacturing is manufacturing, and manufacturing investors need to see a long pipeline that their product will be used for,” he said. “Without that, they cannot invest either.”

Construction Engineering Contractors Association (Ceca) deputy CEO Marie-Claude Hemming stressed that while talk of longer-term planning was positive, this didn’t just mean setting out plans and projects, but that “it means sticking to them as well”.

“The impact of cancelling projects can be terrible for the industry but it can be even worse for communities who come to terms with disruption in return for better outcomes when it’s finished,” Hemming continued. “The cancellation of the Euston part of HS2 foe example means a community went through all that to end up with nothing but a mess.”

Federation of Master Builders chief executive Brian Berry also suggested that government would need to look deeper than its initial plans for long term pipelines if they are to ramp up development and get things right.

“The new government plans to build 1.5M homes in five years, but the UK hasn’t built 300,000 homes a year in a very long time,” he said. “It will have to avoid the temptation to look only at the big home builders offering some big numbers. It needs to look to the many smaller local homebuilders too, to meet that target. And on planning reform, planning is a big challenge but that is also about resourcing planning departments properly.”

Builders Merchants Federation chief executive John Newcomb suggested that bringing very different parts of the industry together will be important to making the right case to a new government.

“The industry has had a really tough time recently and our members have had to mothball factories as orders of some materials have fallen,” he said. “But we are seeing an unprecedented coming together of different parts of the industry and we must keep doing that to offer whatever help the government needs so we can deliver on the ground.”

Source: New Civil Engineer

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Saniflo Modulo and Modulo XL – a stylish, plug in bathroom solution

Facilitating the addition of extra facilities to homes and buildings is what Saniflo has been successfully doing for over 60 years with its range of pumps and macerators. And now the company has made it possible to create a whole bathroom in a bedroom with two all-in-one solutions. Modulo is a pod-style solution with shower and basin, whilst Modulo XL features shower, basin and wall hung WC.

With a choice of profile and glass options, including white profiles with white glass, black profiles with black glass and black profiles with white glass, a new en-suite can be installed in just 2 or 3 days and no major work is required as long as there is electric and small-bore pipework to hand. As you would expect, where the waste discharge is problematic, a Saniflo pump can be specified as part of the package.

Each of the Modulos features a luxe version which consists of a sliding door shower, a stylish vanity unit with basin plus a modern towel rail and a standard model with a curtain rail in the shower and a washbasin with mixer tap. Both feature a contemporary mechanical shower valve and handset.

The bathroom pods can be installed in a recess or corner situation and feature a pivot door to access the facilities. In the shower area, there is a self-supporting platform in Biocryl on height-adjustable feet, with finishing plinths and opaque white glass back panels. The white honeycomb polypropylene ceiling features 2 integrated LED spotlights and the unit is finished with mirror, glass shelves, towel hook, ventilation grill, 220 V socket and a floor mat. All glass is anti-limescale for ease of cleaning after installation.

Modulo and Modulo XL are ideal solutions for boutique hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, Guest Houses, modular buildings, and any homeowner wishing to create extra living accommodation in a basement, garage, barn or other external building and represent a new opportunity for installers to offer swift, convenient bathroom solutions to their customers.

Amanda Mills, Marketing Manager, Saniflo believes the Modulo models will appeal to many sectors;

“The new Modulo and Modulo XL make it easy to add a practical, yet attractive en-suite to an existing bedroom. This will be particularly appealing to many small boutique hotels, Bed & Breakfast accommodation owners who have shared bathroom facilities for guests and domestic households who require an additional bathroom. It’s also a great opportunity for manufacturers of modular buildings that require a whole bathroom solution.”

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE SANIFLO WEBSITE

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IRONMONGERYDIRECT’S LATEST CATALOGUE DELIVERS MORE CHOICE FOR THE TRADE

 

Leading specialist supplier, IronmongeryDirect has released its latest catalogue featuring 500 new additions to its extensive range. Perfect for tradespeople browsing whilst on the go, the 2024 Autumn edition is available for free delivery or to view online on the retailer’s website.

 

The most recent catalogue details the retailer’s key product lines as well as a selection of its new and exciting additions, which include products from renowned brands such as Alexander & Wilks, Heat Mat, and Heat My Home.

 

A key highlight of the new line up from IronmongeryDirect includes a selection of high-quality door handles from Alexander & Wilks which join a burgeoning range of door hardware from the specialist retailer. Representing the epitome of British architectural door hardware and ironmongery design, the collection offers customers a variety of attractive finishes in three styles, including the Spitfire Reeded Door Handles on rose, featuring a tactile reeded barrel design for easy grip whilst retaining a striking appearance. Alternatively, the Knurled Door Handle on rose is designed with a modern-cut knurled pattern for simplicity and elegance.

 

The online supplier has also expanded its range of heating and ventilation solutions. New additions include underfloor heating products from Heat Mat with a range of easy to install electric underfloor heat mats that can be directly fitted beneath tile and stone, or with levelling compound for use with carpet, LVT and laminate floors. The Heat My Home App Controlled Thermostat also joins the HVAC line-up, to offer a stylish and efficient method of controlling both floor and room temperatures and can be paired with a smart device companion app for additional convenience.

 

The retailer has also expanded its range with a further 2,300 products available online, including a wide choice of tools and tool accessories from industry leading brands OX Tools, ProDec and TIMCO.

 

Kelly Wing, Senior Category & Direct Sourcing Manager at IronmongeryDirect said: “We are excited to launch our latest catalogue and are proud of the extensive range of new products we are now able to offer our customers. Each product we sell is carefully chosen to ensure we offer the best, most high-quality products as well as a wide variety to suit the need of all projects and budgets.”

 

Award-winning online supplier, IronmongeryDirect, has been serving the trade for over 50 years, with over 18,000 products in stock including everything from hinges, locks, and security devices to specialist fire door hardware and electrical products. All products are regularly reviewed to ensure customers get great deals including bulk buy savings on thousands of products and regular price drops on top trade essentials. Customers can make use of the supplier’s Trade Quotes service for larger jobs and choose from a range of flexible delivery options to meet the needs of their busy schedules, including free next day delivery on orders placed up until 9pm over £50 ex VAT, 2-working day delivery, same day delivery to postcodes in selected areas of London and the East of England, as well as click and collect from 6,500 pick up points across the UK.

 

To request a free catalogue, or to view online, please CLICK HERE

 

 

 

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Zumtobel Illuminates Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre

Premium Lighting for Premier League Football: Zumtobel Illuminates Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre

The Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre in Enfield, North London, is one of the premier training grounds in the world. It boasts state-of-the-art facilities catering to every aspect of player training and development, from physical conditioning to mental coaching. The facility also serves as a hub for social and educational programs, enriching the lives of thousands within the local community.

Zumtobel, having already forged a successful partnership with Tottenham Hotspur through the supply of over 77,000 luminaires for the iconic Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, was once again selected as the preferred lighting supplier for the Training Centre. With a diverse range of luminaires, bespoke product development capabilities, and unparalleled installation expertise, Zumtobel was uniquely positioned to enhance the Training Centre’s multifaceted environment at the intersection of sports, education, and architecture. Every aspect of training in one place.

Team play first

To shed the best possible light on all these different club activities, lighting provider Zumtobel was heavily involved in the concept stage of the project, working closely with F3 Architects, Electro Tech Installations and M & E consultants EDP Environmental.

In order to be able to implement individual changes to the standard luminaires and to supply customised products, Zumtobel put two experienced lighting designers on the team throughout the process to make sure that the lengths and sizes of the luminaires fitted and all the clients’ and architects’ wishes were realised.

Unique design concept, urban appeal

Rachel McMurray, Zumtobel Project Manager, comments: “We focused mainly on helping the architect produce the desired design results. It was all about finding the right luminaire, in a certain product quality and longevity, that also gave the right feeling in terms of aesthetics.” F3 architects’ concept asked for a modern design approach with an urban, industrial feel that included high ceilings, exposed services, brickwork and much more.

“Especially in the refurbishment part of the project, the overall look became a lot more edgy”, Rachel McMurray continues. “Our luminaires reflected that urban, funky look – we used black coatings, opaque optic elements and a completely bespoke, original installation.”

Different luminaires reflect different kinds of activities 

“Our luminaires create a nice variety for the players,” says Rachel McMurray. “Each area has its specific look and provides a different inspiration.”

All the luminaires throughout the gym and activation area are ball-proof. The gymnasium has been built completely new and features SLOTLIGHT light lines in many different lengths. The architects played with the linear look to give the room a dynamic, urban design. The unique environment is designed to spur the athletes – both professional and junior – on to an even greater performance.

Restaurant lighting promotes social exchange

To illuminate food and drinks in the best possible way and enhance the modern, edgy design of the restaurant area, Zumtobel opted for MICROS and DIAMO luminaires. MICROS downlights in black feature modern reflector technology and a round shape that encourages social exchange. Various beam angles combined with excellent glare control make MICROS perfectly adaptable to general lighting tasks in every hospitality area. DIAMO spotlights complement the lighting concept by creating powerful accents in brilliant lighting quality and RESCLITE PRO as well as ARTSIGN both ensure the athletes’ safety in an emergency.

Office lighting activates human biorhythm

For best working conditions in the office areas, Zumtobel chose MELLOW LIGHT. With its dynamic lighting characteristics, it is modelled on daylight and has a particularly activating effect on the human biorhythm. MELLOW LIGHT can also help to create different moods in the room and is an ideal solution for computer work and VDU work because of its effective glare control. With its minimalist appearance, MELLOW LIGHT blends seamlessly into the surrounding architecture.

Academy corridors are lit by PANOS infinity LED circular downlights. RESCLITE PRO and ARTSIGN provide best-in-class emergency lighting throughout all the walkways.

Excellent teamwork for an elite sports facility

The diverse and complex project with its various applications has been made possible by outstanding teamwork and experienced partners: “From concept to installation: Each stage in the project is critical”, says Rachel McMurray. “We received fantastic support from all our partners, so we were able to accommodate the many changes in planning with ease.”

The successful partnership continues

Zumtobel are already working on a follow-up project for Tottenham Hotspur, with a state-of-the-art lighting solution for the extended Media Centre.

 

For further information on any of the products please CLICK HERE

 

 

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Inclusive Spaces, Sustainable Places: Dulux Trade Leads The Discussion During Allermuir Event

 

Leading paint manufacturer, Dulux Trade, recently invited architects, specifiers and interior designers to the Allermuir showroom in London for a panel discussion exploring inclusive design and the power of colour and sustainability on wellbeing.

 

Designing inclusive spaces presents a unique set of challenges for specifiers and architects, and the process of achieving inclusive design can be quite daunting – especially due to the various rules and regulations. To address these challenges and provide guidance, Dulux Trade organised an event titled ‘Inclusive Spaces, Sustainable Places: A New Era of Design Thinking’. This panel event, co-hosted with Allermuir, aimed to share valuable insights on the importance of designing inclusive spaces and how to achieve this in practice.

The panel discussion included insightful contributions from Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director at Dulux, Peter Howard, Sustainability and CSR Lead at Dulux and Dawn Scott, Senior Colour Designer at Dulux – as well as guest speaker, Stephanie Kyle, Senior Architect and Inclusive Design Consultant at Floyd Slaski Architects.

The discussion was opened by Marianne, who emphasised that colour is a powerful tool for communication, as it can evoke different emotions in building occupants. Therefore, the selection of colour should be carefully considered to match the mood and use of the space.  Marianne also explained how Dulux takes the key issues of the day and distills them into colour palettes for interior designers, architects and specifiers to use on projects.

Next, Peter Howard shared insight into the impact that the decorating industry has on the environment and indoor air quality – and offered practical solutions for improving sustainability across projects.

Dawn Scott then took to the floor for an in-depth look at how colour and design can be used to create inclusive spaces. This was then bought to life further by Senior Architect and Interior Design Consultant, Stephanie Kyle, who shared the rationale behind her colour and design choices for an infant school in Leicester and how they will positively impact the neurodivergent students there.

Dawn said:

“Events like our Inclusive Spaces, Sustainable Places: A New Era of Design Thinking panel discussion at Allermuir are crucial for bringing inclusive design to the fore and educating the industry on best practices. The event exceeded expectations and generated insightful conversations and ideas around how design can be more inclusive. We’re committed to continuing these important dialogues to shape spaces that work for everyone.”

 

Wayne Scholfield, Head of Senator A&D Sales at Allermuir, added:

“These events encourage people to explore new ideas outside the normal comfort zone of a daily routine. It’s important for us to engage in dialogue with the market and tap into topical ideas and sentiment. This helps us listen and collaborate and it shapes our world view.”

Industry professionals interested in staying up to date about inclusive design principles,

as well as any future events, are encouraged to sign up for the Dulux Trade newsletter

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP

 

 

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INNOVATIVE CONCRETE VENEER ACOUSTIC WALL PANELS CREATE INDUSTRIAL LOOK

 

CMS Danskin Acoustics has launched an innovative new concrete veneer wall panel to provide an ‘on trend’ industrial look combined with acoustic benefits for commercial interiors, such as hotel lobbies, retail outlets and exhibition and meeting spaces.

 

Xapa, pronounced shapa and meaning veneer in Catalan, is a routed slat, PET felt sound absorber panel faced with a decorative, authentic concrete veneer.  It is a lightweight alternative to solid concrete walls, providing a fashionable concrete appearance, without the reverberation issues associated with hard wall surfaces.

Xapa panels are available in smooth or travertine finishes, both in a range of four colours – taupe, charcoal, light travertine and dark travertine.

“There are concrete-look, vinyl covered panels on the market, but Xapa is different.  It has a concrete veneer that feels and looks like concrete, because it is concrete,” said Andy Turner of CMS Danskin Acoustics’ product development team.

“Solid concrete walls present reverberation issues, making spaces noisy even to the extent of making conversation or concentration difficult.  Xapa gives the desired minimalist concrete look with the benefit of good acoustic performance,” he added.

 

Xapa is available in two standard thicknesses – 14mm or 26mm, offering a choice of acoustic performance.  Used with a CMS Danskin Acoustics coreboard, Xapa achieves up to Class A sound absorption.  CMS Danskin Acoustics provides a free reverberation calculation service as well as full technical and on-site support.

The Xapa concrete veneer panel is one of a range of veneered acoustic panels being developed by CMS Danskin Acoustics.  CMS Danskin Acoustics products also include a timber veneered slat acoustic wall panel, also in a range of colours.

 

CLICK HERE

To view the data sheet and installation guide

 

Part of the Performance Technology Group, CMS Danskin Acoustics produces and sources insulation products advising on all matters relating to sound reduction materials and noise reduction strategies, including floors, ceilings and walls, to combat airborne and impact noise.  Notable projects include the Bank of England, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, The Shard and the W Edinburgh.

www.cmsdanskin.co.uk

 

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How Energy-Efficient School Buildings Improve Student Performance

By Olivier Blum, EVP of Energy Management, Schneider Electric

The Green Classroom Revolution: How Energy-Efficient School Buildings Improve Student Performance

With new technology already transforming our world and job markets, the importance of education has never been greater. It’s no wonder that high-quality education — whether preschool or high school, university or vocational — is a fixed priority for governments, parents, and students alike. But beyond the curriculum and teaching methods, what other factors affect student performance?

 

Creating a conducive space to learn

A productive learning environment is more than just walls and a roof; it’s a space that also supports the physical and mental well-being of a student and faculty population. In some countries, extreme heat and other climate-related events have caused major disruptions to education.  For instance, extreme heat and extreme cold have been linked to reduced cognitive abilities. Beyond performance, severe heat and air quality conditions can also prevent students from even attending school.

As such, the quality and design of school environments, including factors like noise and natural light, are now widely recognized as a critical factor in student success. By prioritizing energy efficiency and improving indoor environmental quality (IEQ), schools can create healthier, more comfortable learning spaces that enhance student performance, while also minimizing their environmental impact.

Ways to improve energy efficiency in schools

  • Lighting: Natural light and energy-efficient LED lighting are proven to boost concentration and cognitive performance. Schools that invest in these lighting solutions can create environments where students are more engaged whilst saving money on energy bills.
  • Ventilation: Studies have shown that improved ventilation led to an increase of up to 14% in student performance on standardized tests. Reducing pollutants and controlling humidity can improve energy efficiency by helping classrooms remain cooler in hot climates and limiting heat loss in colder months – all whilst maintaining comfort and health for students and teachers.

 

These outcomes can be achieved with digital tools like room sensors paired with room ventilation technology such as constant air volume and demand controlled ventilation systems which can gather data and insights to optimize ventilation and improve efficiency.

  • Temperature: According to a study in India by Research Gate, the optimal temperature range for classrooms is between 20-26°C, but this does differ slightly based on region and climate. Energy-efficient buildings equipped with advanced HVAC systems and proper insulation can ensure that classrooms stay within the ideal temperature range, which may lead to better academic outcomes.

 

Technology, such as smart thermostats, enable users to easily automate and control temperatures with the touch of a button. Schools can set the desired temperatures at specific times based on classroom schedules, holidays, and seasonal variations. This not only fosters a more optimal learning environment but also reduces energy wastage by using energy only as necessary.

 

The technology for this already exists. Schneider Electric’s connected room solutions take the complexity out of installation and operation, offering flexible, scalable, and modular tools that provide greater control and automation of room environments, while providing insights into energy consumption. These can make a deep environmental impact, reducing operational energy and carbon emissions by as much as 39%.

 

Reinvesting savings to unlock student potential

Energy-efficient buildings return heavy financial benefits. For example, The Carbon Trust saves up to 30% of heating costs just by preventing cold air from entering the building. Energy-efficient systems reduce overall consumption, which lowers utility bills and shields against future energy price increases. These systems also require less frequent maintenance, reducing repair and replacement expenses. Finally, by lowering energy use, institutions can reduce their carbon footprint.

In the United States alone, K-12 schools (primary and secondary schools) spend approximately US$8 billion annually on energy, with improved energy efficiency, they could lower operating costs by up to 30%.

Around the world, public sector budgets are increasingly stretched. Energy efficiency can provide valuable relief, freeing up funds for other things: learning materials, or investment in students’ academic or personal growth.

 

Making green schools a reality

While the benefits of energy-efficient school buildings are clear, the opportunity lies in implementing these solutions at scale. Retrofitting existing school buildings may be challenging due to long project approvals, costs, and lack of knowledge. However, considering 50% of buildings that will exist in 2050 already exist today,  there’s a big opportunity to make impactful improvements.

In our collective journey to Electricity 4.0 – a more digital and electric future – energy efficiency is the quickest most impactful path to reducing emissions while also delivering cost savings. As such, policymakers and decision-makers in education should be prioritizing energy efficiency in the design and renovation of school buildings. This can be achieved by promoting sustainable design practices, integrating digital energy management systems, and ensuring that there is continued investment in the right infrastructure needed to create optimal learning environments.

Investing in energy efficiency isn’t just about protecting the environment and protecting the well-being of our planet; it’s also about investing in the next generation. With students spending a significant portion of their lives in school buildings, it’s crucial that these spaces are safe, healthy, and they’re set up for success for the rest of their lives. By prioritizing energy efficiency, we not only defend our planet but the young minds who will eventually decide our future.

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NESO: Accelerating Net Zero

New publicly owned National Energy System Operator to pave the way to a clean energy future

National Energy System Operator will support the UK’s energy security, help to keep bills down in the long term, and accelerate the government’s clean power mission.

  • Electricity and gas network planning to be brought under one roof, as the new independent National Energy System Operator launches to achieve the clean energy transition
  • Set to launch on Tuesday 1 October
  • The publicly owned body will support the UK’s energy security, help to keep bills down in the long term and accelerate the government’s clean power mission

Britain’s energy system will be planned by a new publicly owned organisation as part of a new more strategic approach, which will help to deliver clean power by 2030.

The new National Energy System Operator (NESO) will help connect new generation projects with the electricity grid, working alongside Great British Energy to deploy renewable energy, so bill payers can reap the benefits of clean, secure, homegrown power.

It comes as the government today reached an agreement with National Grid to acquire the Electricity System Operator, which will be transferred to public ownership.

Set to start work on 1 October, NESO will be chaired by former E.ON CEO Dr Paul Golby, with Fintan Slye as the Chief Executive Officer.

Energy Secretary, Ed Miliband, said:

Today marks a milestone for Britain’s energy system as we bring the system operator into public ownership to provide impartial, whole-system expertise on building a network that is fit for the future.

The new National Energy System Operator has a huge role to play in delivering our mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower.

We need to move Britain off expensive, insecure fossil fuel markets, and onto clean, cheap homegrown power that we control. This is how we reduce bills in the long term, strengthen our energy independence and support skilled jobs across the country.

This is another step forward by a government in a hurry to deliver for the British people.

Currently, there is no single body responsible for overseeing the strategic planning and design of the country’s electricity and gas networks.

NESO will fill this gap – breaking down the siloes which currently exist between the planning of electricity and gas systems, with independent oversight for the design of all Great Britain’s energy networks.

The move will enable investors to build out new energy infrastructure with confidence in how their project will fit into the country’s wider clean energy plan.

The new independent body will support the government’s rapid action to accelerate to net zero.

The government’s Mission Control – headed up by Chris Stark – has already given NESO one of its first tasks – commissioning it to provide advice on how the UK will hit its goal to deliver clean power by 2030.

It comes on top of launching Great British Energy, lifting England’s onshore wind ban, approving four major solar farms and launching the Clean Energy Mission Control Centre.

John Pettigrew, Chief Executive of National Grid, said:

We look forward to working together with NESO to continue to drive the UK’s energy transition forward at pace; accelerating the decarbonisation of the energy system for the digital, electrified economies of the future.

Paul Golby, Chair of the National Energy System Operator said:

This is a pivotal moment as we head closer to the launch of the National Energy System Operator on 1 October. NESO will support a more integrated and coordinated strategy to meet the unprecedented challenges of climate change, ensuring security of energy supply and keeping bills as low as possible.

NESO brings together critical roles and responsibilities under one roof, creating an environment that is essential for success. We will have a broad strategic oversight of both the electricity and gas systems, managing system planning, market operations, and ensuring that our energy infrastructure is secure, resilient, flexible, and future-proof.

The National Energy System Operator has been established through powers under the Energy Act 2023. This sets out the responsibilities of the new public body to maintain the UK’s energy supplies, protect energy consumers and plan for an efficient clean energy system that is fit for the future.

As part of this, NESO will take a cross-sector approach to planning the country’s energy system in the best interests of the British public – looking across electricity, gas and hydrogen, as well as renewable generation, storage and other emerging technologies like carbon capture usage and storage. The independent organisation will map out the country’s future energy networks – helping both the government and Ofgem make informed decisions when considering new infrastructure, speeding up grid connections and progressing the UK’s net zero goals.

Fintan Slye, Chief Executive of the National Energy System Operator, said:

Today is a crucial step in our journey to become the National Energy System Operator and we’re delighted that the Energy Secretary has confirmed 1 October will be the launch day of this new independent organisation.

We are excited to take this bold step forward to help unify and optimise our national approach to energy and to deliver the clean, secure, decarbonised energy system that is affordable and fit for the future.

We are ready, and look forward to providing expert independent advice and working collaboratively across all parts of the energy sector, with government, the regulator and within our communities across Great Britain.

Jonathan Brearley, Chief Executive of Ofgem, said:

The setup of NESO is a huge step forward in ending Britain’s exposure to volatile energy markets and getting clean, renewable power to every single one of us.

Its work is central to long-term energy security and to running the system day to day.

We look forward to working with NESO to ensure Britain gets the clean power system it needs at the lowest possible cost to consumers and taxpayers.

 

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DULUX UNVEILS TRUE JOY™ AS ITS COLOUR OF THE YEAR 2025

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For 2025, Dulux is asking architects, specifiers and designers to embrace yellow and infuse a sense of optimism, pride and imagination into their projects. As a guiding light to introduce these bold, positive shades to clients, the paint manufacturer has announced True Joy™ as its Colour of the Year for 2025, which is complemented by three versatile ColourFutures™ palettes.

 

Over that last two decades, the Dulux Colour of the Year has been chosen through extensive trend research by Dulux colour experts and international design professionals. The 2025 selection, True Joy™, is a bright and positive yellow that reflects people’s desire to break free, reset, and create something new and exciting. As well as embracing True Joy™, Dulux is also encouraging designers to share the joy of yellow and help clients to leap out of their comfort zone – and feel confident in doing so.

Yellow shades like True Joy™ can be used as a bold statement colour or an accent hue. However, to help designers advise their clients on the best colour pairings, Dulux has created three supporting ColourFutures™ palettes.

  • Bold Colour Story: Inspired by the thrill of adventure, these bold colours bring spontaneity and energy to any space. Bright blues and oranges contrast beautifully with accent yellow, making them ideal for educational and office environments where inspiration and creativity are key.
  • Human Colour Story: Celebrating artisanal craftsmanship, these shades of wood and clay reflect the raw materials used in handmade processes. Perfect for educational and healthcare settings, these colours add a touch of authenticity and warmth.
  • Proud Colour Story: Drawing inspiration from diverse cultures around the world, these deep, rich and earthy browns and greens celebrate the rich heritages that make us unique. Ideal for hospitality and residential spaces, they create a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at home.

Dawn Scott, Dulux Trade Senior Colour Designer, said:

“True Joy™ and its accompanying palettes offer a fresh perspective on colour’s role in shaping our built environment. These colours are not just trends but tools for architects and specifiers to craft spaces that resonate with the values and visions of their clients, improving our experience within the spaces we inhabit.

“One of the most impactful applications of True Joy™ is within healthcare environments. Paired with the earthy, natural shades of our Human Colour Story, True Joy™ can transform waiting rooms, corridors, and communal areas into uplifting and calming spaces. This combination not only brightens the atmosphere but also connects patients and staff to a sense of warmth, creativity, and well-being.”

 

Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director and Colour Expert at Dulux, explains:

“It may be difficult to immediately picture where yellow paint could seamlessly slot into your home, but it’s actually much more versatile than you may first think. The decision to choose the most uplifting hue in the spectrum is to spark inspiration and instil confidence to leap into the unknown and endless possibilities of what could be. Whilst yellow is one of the bolder colours on the spectrum, True Joy™ is complementary to a vast range of palettes, it brings out the positivity in even the most neutral of shades and is the figurative glue that binds more daring colour stories together.”

 

To support specifiers and provide additional guidance on the use of True Joy™, Dulux has created the Dulux Trade Colour of the Year 2025 Specifier Guide which includes mood boards that can be used to help create the perfect space across any sector. Architects, specifiers, and designers can also use the Dulux Trade Colour Schemer for colour inspiration or to create specifications for projects. They can also speak with the Dulux Commercial Colour Services team for additional advice on how to use the Colour of the Year 2025.

Dulux is proud of its ongoing efforts to produce durable solutions in a more sustainable manner. By focusing on reducing carbon emissions and increasing the circular use of materials, Dulux ensures that products like True Joy™ not only enhance spaces aesthetically but also contribute to a greener future. With initiatives such as using up to 70% recycled content in packaging and developing water-based paints with lower VOC content, Dulux is dedicated to helping professionals create beautiful, sustainable environments.

 

 

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Oscar Acoustics reaches ‘Green Plaque’ status

Oscar Acoustics HQ_Hufton + Crow  

 Leader in acoustic finishes strengthens its eco-commitment

Rochester, Kent, 9 September 2024: Driven by a commitment to sustainability, Oscar Acoustics, Britain’s leading provider of architectural acoustic finishes, has surpassed landmark milestones in its green initiatives.

Following the recent opening of its new HQ, the ‘Oscar Innovation Centre’, has been awarded the prestigious ‘Green Plaque’ status, a third-party newbuild assessment that is independently peer-reviewed and administered by Lifecycle Design. This award is given to buildings that meet only the highest sustainability and environmental standards in the UK.

This follows the company’s achievement of an A+ EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating, placing the project in the top 0.35% of the most energy-efficient schemes in England, which independent assessors flagged as a ‘Net Zero emissions’ building.

Andrew Pook, Environmental Consultant from Green Plaque, said:

“Sometimes a project comes along that just ticks all the boxes. Though the Green Plaque assessment is not simply about describing exemplary developments, this one is really quite exciting and just shows what can be achieved when the commitment, enthusiasm, and expertise is there.”

This success builds on previous certifications, including achieving Carbon Neutral status through gold-standard assessor, Positive Planet, in 2023. This required a rigorous evaluation and highlights the company’s ongoing commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Additionally, it reflects their investment in world-leading carbon-capture programmes to mitigate the impact of unavoidable emissions.

 

The certification required establishing science-based targets (SBTs) as well as gas emission measurements for Scope One, Two, and Three within the globally-recognised, sustainability assessment framework.

Ben Hancock, Managing Director of Oscar Acoustics, said:

“Our new A+ EPC-rated, Net Zero emissions HQ isn’t just a building; it’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to environmental excellence. We’ve built on our sustainability goals year-on-year so we’re extremely proud to be recognised at this level.

“This achievement underscores businesses’ vital role in going beyond standard practices to actively reduce their environmental footprint. It’s time for all companies to step up, take meaningful action, and lead the way in sustainable innovation.”

 

This milestone marks the latest step in the company’s ongoing sustainability journey, with goal-oriented objectives to achieve Net Zero by 2050.

Its market-leading acoustic products have also been used on some of the UK’s leading green construction projects, including 20 Water Street and the iconic 22 Bishopsgate, the first building in the UK to apply for the WELL Building Standard.

Made from fire-treated recycled paper, its SonaSpray range of acoustic decorative sprays help building designers to achieve acoustic excellence as well as a string of sustainable design and health certification systems. These include WELL, BREEAM, SKA, Living Building Challenge, and can add up to 17 points towards the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating of a project. SonaSpray also boasts GREENGUARD Gold certification – for optimal Indoor Air Quality.

 

 

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