InstallerSHOW and World Refrigeration Day are to host a series of national and international events at the NEC, Birmingham on 26^th June 2024. These events will include conference and networking sessions for both World Refrigeration Day and Women in Cooling, with more details to be announced in the coming months.

The 2024 InstallerSHOW takes place from 25th – 27th June, which will mean that World Refrigeration Day takes place during the show. This will allow events to be hosted throughout the day, marking the contribution of the cooling industry and its people.

At the same time, WRD has announced its 2024 theme as Temperature Matters, a theme that highlights perfectly the connection between the cooling, heat pump and heating sectors.

WRD founder Stephen Gill said of the partnership: “This is a great opportunity to bring cooling and heating people together, both to recognise the industry’s importance and to celebrate the people that make it happen.”

Andrew Gaved, Editor at Large for elemental and Installer, added: “The fact that 26th June is right in the middle of the 2024 show gives us an unprecedented opportunity to have a physical event in recognition of World Refrigeration Day and its people. Having worked closely with WRD from the beginning, it is especially exciting to be able to plan something new and significant.”

The BCIA will be returning to ExCeL, London, for this year’s Smart Buildings Show, the UK’s leading dedicated smart buildings event. 

Taking place on 18-19 October, Smart Buildings Show 2023 will connect visitors to the latest information and technology in the smart buildings industry, providing the information they need to arrive at an informed decision on how to make their buildings more economic for owners whilst more functional and comfortable for occupiers.

Smart Buildings Show 2023 will cover all key aspects of creating and managing an intelligent building, including, building automation systems, energy efficiency, lighting and controls, HVAC and BEMS.

BCIA is the go-to industry association for the building controls industry, now representing over 160 members from across the UK. If you are not already a member of the BCIA but would like to know more about what a membership has to offer, why not pop along to the BCIA stand to have a chat about some of the benefits, which include access to an online member community, networking and events, industry discounts, free membership of the Federation of Environmental Trade Associations (FETA) and regular Working Group meetings.

BCIA President Graeme Rees said: “We are looking forward to attending Smart Buildings Show 2023, an event that’s hugely important to the Building Controls industry. The BCIA exists to create healthy buildings, through Building Controls systems, and the event will enable visitors to get a close up view of many of the products that help to make this possible.”

Click here for free registration.

For further information about Smart Buildings Show 2023 click here.

Wendy Belfield has been appointed on to the Industry Competence Committee (ICC), which has been set up by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to monitor and help to improve industry competence. Wendy is a member of the recently established Training and Skills Group, set up by the Federation of Environmental Trade Associations (FETA), a T Levels ambassador, and apprenticeship standard Chair.

ICC members are appointed in order to help the Committee act as an industry leader in promoting and facilitating an improvement of competence across the built environment, by providing direction and influence. The ICC will also publish guidance and advise industry and the Building Safety Regulator on industry competence.

As Commercial Director of InTandem Systems, Wendy has developed the company into a thriving BEMS specialist in the building services sector. She has also spearheaded the introduction of the BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship for which she received the BCIA Outstanding Contribution of the Year Award in 2020.

As part of her voluntary work in the sector, Wendy has been promoting the key role of T Levels in starting the professional route to competence at 16. T Levels are occupation based qualifications for 16-19 year olds and include 45 days on industrial placement. Each T Level is equivalent in size to three A Levels and helps young people develop the knowledge, attitude and practical skills to thrive in the workplace. The FETA Training and Skills Group has been examining the way in which T Levels can help member companies work with colleges to recruit more young people into the industry in response to concern that attracting new talent into building services engineering remains a big challenge.

Equally, Wendy feels passionate about ensuring that experienced workers are able to verify their professional competence and is working with other trades within FETA to ensure experienced worker assessments (EWAs) are made available.

Wendy said: “I am very proud to be appointed on to the ICC which I believe can have a huge impact going forward as we look to close the skills gap within our industry whilst ensuring that professional competence is achieved. There is a massive skills shortage in a very competitive marketplace and it’s a massive challenge for our sector, particularly for SMEs.”

She added: “Building services engineering is not an obvious career path for many young people so we need to make it an attractive industry first and foremost and once we have got the new talent in we must make sure that the training is in place that will provide them with the skills needed to maintain and improve industry standards, as well as giving them a fulfilling long-term career that they can promote to other potential young engineers.”

FETA Chief Executive Chris Yates said: “I am delighted that Wendy has been appointed to the Industry Competence Committee. She has been instrumental within the Building Controls Industry Association and FETA in terms of developing the skills agenda and course development which has delivered huge benefits for the industry. I am sure she will make a solid contribution to the Committee with a strong industry and education background.”

21-08-2023

The UK's Net Zero ambitions are currently hindered by an acute skills shortage that hampers the design, development, supply, installation, inspection, and maintenance of legacy, current, new, and innovative systems. This was the conclusion of Energy Systems Catapult’s (ESC) new report commissioned by Actuate UK, the engineering services alliance.

ESC interviewed and surveyed professionals from across the built environment sector to examine perspectives on net zero skills, the context for those and the opportunities that addressing them might represent.

Surveying industry professionals over the last year, the report reveals a worrying picture of skills shortages, lack of awareness and the need for a cultural shift. The report also examines the context and opportunities related to net zero skills issues and has suggested a comprehensive three-part framework to address these challenges: Awareness, Action, and Advantage.

Awareness

• Awareness of the need to decarbonise buildings is inconsistent and abstract. Clear definitions of what net zero buildings are, encompassing the full lifecycle of the building, will be central to setting the course for upskilling the sector.
• Partnerships that educate clients about net zero buildings and how to commission them could play a key role in supporting increasing demand and investment in quality.
• There is widespread awareness of an existing skills shortage. Without urgent action, an increasing need to deliver net zero buildings will only exacerbate this.

Action

• A framework of targeted activities, regulations, standards and processes will be needed to deliver net zero buildings. Industry needs to play a central role in defining, driving and delivering this, partnering with government where necessary to build a landscape which facilitates this.
• Trade organisations have a vital role in articulating the skills needs and tailoring these activities to specific sectors as well as government to help educate and drive the industry to deliver.
• Action should focus on easily accessible training that consistently delivers high-quality outcomes and on bringing new, diverse talent into the sector. Promoting upskilling, the integration of new skills and mobility of skills within and beyond the sector could help refresh and reset the culture within the industry.

Advantage

• Competing on the basis of quality will drive diversification - offering clients a far greater range of options that they currently have - and investment in skills and innovation.
• Businesses, organisations and individuals who demonstrate a lifelong appetite for learning and development will be in highest demand, driving a sector and culture that strives for continuous improvement and high quality.

Delivering net zero buildings is a technical challenge. But creating a sector which – at every level – understands that challenge, embraces it and takes ownership and responsibility for addressing it requires a profound culture shift. A shared understanding of the vision – at task, project and sector level – and productive, collaborative behaviours will be crucial to building and embedding the right technical skills in the most effective way.

Helen Yeulet, Director of Training and Skills of Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), who also leads the Actuate UK Skills Group, commented: “The report shows that we are at a tipping point for the industry’s skills capacity. There is a clear consensus that the industry needs to drive cultural change with Government providing supportive incentives. 

We want to work with our partners in Actuate UK and beyond to define the industry’s skills needs and training solutions which will be ensure the industry can achieve readiness for delivering on our net zero targets.”

You can access the full report here and on the Energy Systems Catapult website: https://es.catapult.org.uk/report/equipping-building-engineers-to-deliver-net-zero/

The recently established FETA Training & Skills Group has been examining T-Levels as a route to bring more young people into the industry and on Monday 19^th June 2023 held a webinar to explain how member companies can work with colleges to access this talent pool.

Member companies of FETA have for many years commented on the lack of younger people joining the industry and there have been several initiatives designed to widen the appeal of the sector. The fact remains, however, that there is a real problem attracting new talent to engineering.

T-Levels have replaced BTECs for 16-19 year olds and involve around 45 days on industrial placement. Each T Level is equivalent in size to three A levels and helps young people develop the knowledge, attitude and practical skills to thrive in the workplace. 

Hosted by FETA CEO Chris Yates, the inaugural T-Levels webinar was well attended and involved contributions from guest speakers Steven Watterson, Manager of T Level Provider Readiness for the Association of Colleges and Wendy Belfield, Commercial Director at InTandem Systems and T-Levels ambassador.

Chris Yates commented: “We all recognise there is a skills shortage that is impacting the future success of our Industry. T-Level courses can deliver the skills your organisation needs and industry placements offer a unique opportunity to help develop new talent and get young people work-ready. There are specific courses for our industry and more could be added if we work with colleges and training bodies – this is an opportunity to further career prospects and make a real difference in the battle to close the skills gap.”

A recording of the FETA T-Levels webinar can accessed here

Speaking at The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) President’s Dinner, FETA CEO Chris Yates recently offered an update on Net Zero and provided insight on how to take the next steps to achieving the ambitious emissions goal by 2050.

The 'net zero target' refers to a government commitment to ensure the UK reduces its greenhouse gas emissions by 100% from 1990 levels by 2050. If met, this would mean the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced by the UK would be equal to or less than the emissions removed by the UK from the environment.

With just 9,692 days to achieve the target, immediate action is required and in his recent speech Chris Yates recognised the work that is now underway whilst outlining the new technologies that will get us to the next stage of the journey. He commented: “The good news is that we are already decarbonising our electricity grid in the UK. We are fortunate to be a series of islands with plenty of wind and a fair amount of sun that has enabled us to develop a tremendously successful offshore wind capacity as well as one of the most effective deployments worldwide in solar.”

Different technologies are going to help us achieve Net Zero. We need to create, as far as possible, a level playing field to encourage a diversity of technologies and one such example would be to reform the demand side by reducing the burden on electricity costs and make it comparable with gas.”

Chris went on to reiterate the need to get consumers on board by encouraging them to take a long-term view: “Consumers need to be convinced that the move to new technologies is the right thing to do. If we think about the current situation we have of high energy prices and interest rates, consumers may not be in a position to spend money on their properties but if we frame it as a 10 year programme, one which will benefit their current heating and cooling capabilities, as well as future technologies, then they may consider taking action. 

“9692 days to Net Zero represents our greatest challenge but also our biggest opportunity.”

The Public Accounts Committee has published a report warning that the Government has no overarching delivery plan to decarbonise the power sector by 2035.

The report found that while the Government has many separate ongoing power decarbonisation plans, its ambitions are jeopardised by the lack of an integrated and coherent delivery plan. 

The Government’s delivery plan must also set out when and how the costs of decarbonising the power sector will be likely to have an impact on energy bill payers and taxpayers. The costs to build, maintain and operate the power system are typically passed onto consumer bills, but the Government has not yet assessed what the costs of the clean energy transition ultimately mean for the general public. The Government’s plans to improve energy efficiency and change consumer behaviour, both key to meeting net zero, are not clear.

The PAC is sceptical that the Government’s plans for expanding nuclear, solar and wind power are credible and has called for annual progress updates to Parliament. The UK’s current operating capacity is a quarter of the goals set for nuclear, solar and offshore wind power, with expansion plans relying in part on technology still at an early stage.

The Government estimates that up to £400 billion of public and private investment in new generating capacity will be needed by 2037, but the PAC is unconvinced that the private sector has been given enough clarity to confidently invest. 

Dame Meg Hillier MP, Chair of the Committee, said: “What is the plan? It has now long been understood and accepted that greening our economy is an existential priority, with the Government setting itself the target of securing an entirely low-carbon power supply by 2035. But without a coherent delivery plan to get there, the Government will find it harder to know what decisions it must take, and when, to ensure that it can realistically reach its ambitions.”

Barry Trewhitt has been named as the new HEVAC Vice President.

Barry is Product Development Manager at Advanced Air (UK) Ltd and has been involved with ventilation for most of his career. His practical experience has allowed him to excel at product design and development, sound attenuation, fire, acoustic and laboratory testing. 

Whilst at Advanced Air (UK) Limited, he has been instrumental in expanding the variable air volume and fan coil product ranges and has also led the development of a range of underfloor fan boxes.

Barry has been Chairman of the FETA Fan Coil Group from June 2017. During this time, the group has been involved in implementing the following reports and content:

• Producing BS 8850 (Fan Coil Unit Performance Determination of Specific Fan Power)
• CIBSE BIM Product data template
• Revised and revitalised FETA webpage content along with updating documents and guidance

Barry takes over the Vice Presidency from Alan Macklin who becomes HEVAC President.

FETA’s flagship networking event – the renowned Annual Luncheon – recently brought together industry peers from across the heating, ventilation, building controls, refrigeration and air conditioning industries, with over 600 manufacturers, suppliers, installers and contractors joining guests from Government departments, otherindustry associations, related institutes and members of the press.

Now in its 32^nd year, the luncheon took place on Thursday 20^th April at The Brewery on London’s Chiswell Street. Celebrating the hard work and effort that makes the industry tick, assembled guests were treated to a three-course lunch, followed by speeches from FETA Chairman Mark Hughes and special guest speaker Martin Sixsmith – a respected journalist, presenter and author.

As well as thanking those who offer up their time and expertise to further the causes of the various FETA trade associations, Mark Hughes used his speech to highlight some of the changes witnessed since the last FETA luncheon, in particular the introduction of legislation that will impact upon the UK’s Net Zero targets and the establishment of the Building Safety Regulator. Mr Hughes then addressed concerns surrounding the ongoing revision of the F-Gas regulations and commented: “The EU is deep in the process of detailed negotiations around the revision of the F-Gas regulations which relates to refrigerant used in heat pumps, air conditioning and refrigerated products. The process is not yet over, but it is fair to say that currently we have significant concerns that the EU may be focusing on legislation which, while reducing the Global Warming Potential, GWP, for refrigerants, does so at the expense of the much bigger prize of energy efficiency.”

FETA CEO Chris Yates was delighted with the success of the event and commented: “I would like to thank everyone who attended this year’s event, as well as our sponsors and organisers - your support is hugely appreciated. Our members continue to bring about positive change in the face of uncertain economic conditions and I’m pleased that so many colleagues have been able to attend the Annual Luncheon and celebrate the collective efforts of the industry during a challenging 12 month period.”

The government has published Paul Morrell’s Independent Review of the Construction Product Testing Regime.

Following the Grenfell Tower disaster, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) appointed former government chief construction adviser Paul Morrell and barrister Anneliese Day to examine how the UK’s system for testing the safety of construction products could be improved.

The 174 page review recommends a series of sweeping reforms which would change the way approved bodies regulate products to ensure their safety following installation in buildings.

The Secretary of State has stated the government will consider the recommendations and legislative regime changes proposed.

The review is available to view here

Dr Guy Hundy, a leading technical expert within the refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump sector for over 50 years, passed away recently.

A fellow and former president of the Institute of Refrigeration, Guy was instrumental in the development of scroll compressor technology and heat pump efficiency.

Guy was a member of the FETA Technical Committee from 1992 to 1996, during its transition from a HEVAC only technical committee to a FETA-wide one. Guy chaired the committee from 1994 to 1996.

After studying at Leeds University, he started his career in the refrigeration industry with J & E Hall in Dartford in 1975. Ten years later he joined Copeland in Theale as chief engineer and in 1998 was appointed director, application engineering for Copeland Europe.

He wrote many articles on compressors, applications and refrigerant changeover topics and in the latter part of his career edited the 5th edition of the comprehensive and highly respected Refrigeration and Air Conditioning textbook.

Guy was President of the Institute of Refrigeration from 2004-07. Within the Institute, he also played a key role in technical papers and publications and conference committees. He was awarded the IOR Lightfoot Medal for best paper no less than five times. 

The Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) has announced changes to its Management Committee, with the addition of new members Jen Vickers, Ron Purcell and Jason Harper, while thanking Richard Meacham and Simon Ward who have both left the Committee after serving their three year tenure. The BCIA has also welcomed back Rob Wood as Chair of the Skills Working Group and would like to thank Wendy Belfield for covering the role on an interim basis for the past few months.

The BCIA is run by its members for its members and appointment to the Management Committee is by election. Members are however encouraged to participate in the Marketing, Technical and Skills Working Groups which enable the BCIA to tackle particular issues and projects in a focused way.

Jen Vickers is Document Engineer for Crown House Technologies, part of Laing O’Rourke, and works within Enterprise Solutions which delivers specialist systems including BEMS. More recently Jen has started to project manage the BEMS package on a number of projects. Jen also oversaw the launch of the BCIA Young Engineers Network in April 2022.

Ron Purcell is an experienced controls and BMS engineer and advocate for smart buildings and controls with 40 years’ industry experience. He is an active member of CIBSE and holds an HNC in Electrical and Electronics Engineering. Previously Ron has worked in several roles including working on site servicing and commissioning controls and BMS systems and in more desk based positions running technical support, business development and sales.

Jason Harper has been involved in the BMS industry since leaving school. He started as an apprentice for Energy Saving Systems and went on to work for a number of companies before becoming Managing Director of Integrated BMS Ltd in 1997. 

BCIA President Graeme Rees commented: “It gives me great pleasure to welcome Jen, Ron and Jason on to the BCIA Management Committee. The experience and knowledge gained from their respective careers will make each of them a valuable addition to the team and I look forward to working with them.”

16-01-2023

Chris Skidmore publishes his Net Zero Review, setting out the ‘historic opportunity’ offered by net zero

The UK’s leadership on tackling climate change has delivered real change at home and led to a global transformation – but more should be done to reap the economic benefits that presents, Chris Skidmore says today.

Mission Zero, his Net Zero Review, makes 129 recommendations covering areas including the greater role that business can be supported to play, making better use of infrastructure and delivering more energy efficient homes. Every one is designed to maximise economic investment, opportunities and jobs – all while working towards achieving legally binding targets to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

He urges ministers to grasp the ‘historic opportunity’, highlighting how the government’s Net Zero Strategy offers the right direction, and the right policies to do so.

Chair of the Net Zero Review, Chris Skidmore MP, said:

We should be proud of the lead the UK has taken in tackling climate change, having exceeded expectations so far in our race to net zero emissions by 2050. As essential as that is environmentally, it also puts us at an economic advantage globally.

We lead in areas including clean technologies, science, manufacturing and green finance – areas that, if managed right, can lead to new jobs and strong economic growth.

In developing this report, we have engaged with communities, economists and climate experts from across the country through more than 50 roundtables and 1800 submissions – all of which have led to the Mission Zero findings.

My recommendations are designed to make the most of this historic opportunity, covering the length and breadth of our economy, so that people in every part of the country can reap the benefits of this both in their communities, and in their pockets.

Business and Energy Secretary Grant Shapps said:

With a wealth of talent and expertise, and a track record to be proud of, the UK is well placed to ensure that tackling climate change also brings new jobs and investment for businesses and communities.

I am grateful to Chris Skidmore – the man who signed our climate commitments into law – for his detailed report today, which offers a range of ideas and innovations for us to consider as we work to grasp the opportunities from green growth.

Chris Skidmore’s proposals include:

• backing business – these include reviewing incentives for investment in decarbonisation, including via the tax system, and launching a Help to Grow Green campaign offering information and advice to small businesses so they can plan ahead
• backing local action – these include reforming the planning system to put net zero at its heart nationally and locally, and backing at least one Trailblazer Net Zero City, local authority and community that can work towards reaching net zero by 2030
• delivering energy efficient homes – including legislating for the Future Homes Standard so that no new homes will be built with a gas boiler from 2025, adopting a 10-year mission to make heat pumps a widespread technology in the UK
• using infrastructure to unlock net zero – including developing a cross-sectoral infrastructure strategy by 2025 to support the building and adaptation for new green energy sources such as hydrogen to support the green economy

Official statistics show there are already around 400,000 jobs in low carbon businesses and their supply chains across the UK, with turnover estimated at £41.2 billion in 2020. Both the British Energy Security Strategy and Net Zero Strategy aim to leverage an additional and unprecedented £100 billion of private investment, while supporting an additional 480,000 British jobs by 2030.

The full report is here

13-01-2023

The government has published updated details about Standard Assessment Procedure SAP10.2 and the timeline for the Reduced data SAP (RdSAP).  

The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) is the methodology used by the government to assess and compare the energy and environmental performance of dwellings. Its purpose is to provide accurate and reliable assessments of dwellings that are needed to underpin energy and environmental policy initiatives. The Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM) is the methodology used by the government to assess and compare the energy and environmental performance of non-domestic properties.

The most recent version of SAP 10 (10.2) came into force with the updated Part L building regulations in June 2022, and incorporated various changes to the methodology, including updated fuel prices, CO2 emissions and primary energy factors.

Further details can be viewed here

New technology groups, sub-technologies and updates to multiple sets of technology criteria are now live on the Energy Technology List (ETL).

Amid the news of soaring energy costs, the need for energy efficient equipment has grown. The Energy Technology List wants to help procurers lower their running costs, while helping manufacturers obtain the independent energy performance verification they need for their products.

As such, new technology groups have been introduced for Professional Foodservice Equipment, new sub-technologies for Building Energy Management Systems and Commercial Fans, plus updates have been made to Energy Efficient White Lighting Units technology, as well as revisions to 12 other sets of technology criteria including boilers and refrigeration.

The new sub-technology in Commercial Fans comes after extensive collaboration with manufacturers and the Fan Manufacturers Association (FMA) over an 18-month period. It’s a much-needed sub-technology, with applications for a range of sectors, such as retail, hospitality and office buildings.

Building Energy Management Systems play a key role in helping organisations make big savings on their energy bills, as they provide measurements on system energy consumption. This equipment is essential in helping organisations make accurate plans to achieve Net Zero goals, as with any plan or decarbonisation initiative, measuring consumption is a vital first step - goals can’t be reached without measuring progress.

A BEIS spokesperson commented: “ETL accreditation not only helps manufacturers to stay up to date with recommended best practice but promoting the need for validated and rigorous testing helps to raise the standard of energy efficient equipment across the board – we're excited to see where this update takes us.”

FETA has announced a new partnership with Kerry London to offer members a range of insurance products.

Kerry London has been chosen as FETA’s exclusive insurance partner as the company has been working with construction and manufacturing-related professions and the allied trades sector for over 35 years and has expert knowledge of the risks faced by businesses in these industries. FETA has seen first-hand that Kerry London takes a collaborative approach with clients to understand exactly which risks your business may face and to ensure you’re then appropriately covered. 

On top of this, Kerry London is:

• An Insurance Age Top 100 Broker.
• Independent which means its works with the entire insurance market, including both leading and exclusive niche insurers.
• A Lloyd’s of London accredited broker, allowing it to place business directly into the Lloyd’s market with its numerous specialty syndicates.

Additionally, Kerry London has its own in-house claims team. This means that should the worst happen; you’ll get a claims service that consistently gets things right for customers the first time. 

Get in touch with Kerry London for advice on a range of covers, including professional indemnity insurance, public and products liability insurance, cyber insurance, motor fleet insurance, and more.

Neon Mavromatis, Managing Director of Construction at Kerry London, commented:

“We’re delighted to have been chosen as FETA’s exclusive insurance partner to help provide competitively priced, comprehensive insurance cover to members of ADCAS, BCIA, BFCMA, BRA, HEVAC and HPA. It’s plain to see the integral part that FETA and their associations’ members play across the industry, especially their long history of representing diverse commercial interests and forming new specialist groups to match advances in products and technology.

Kerry London’s approach is centred on honesty, integrity, and professionalism, and our size strikes the perfect balance with the scale to provide market-leading insurance solutions whilst ensuring the quality of service you expect. We are available to answer your insurance questions and discuss the insurance requirements for your business at any point during your renewal cycle. My team and I look forward to talking with you soon.”

Chris Yates, Chief Executive at FETA, added:

“We’re very pleased to partner with Kerry London, insurance providers who specialise in serving the construction industry. Feedback from FETA members suggests that many are re-evaluating insurance cover in the face of soaring costs and changing requirements – particularly when it comes to PI insurance. We hope that members will find this new partnership beneficial, adding further value to the FETA membership.”

The Climate Change Committee (CCC) has published its assessment of COP27, taking stock of global progress and identifing key actions for the UK in response, both at home and internationally, including:

• To define the UK’s leadership role in international climate action through the Government’s vision for the UK’s long-term international role known as the 2030 Strategic Framework.
• To decide the UK’s priorities for COP negotiations and build on successes from last year’s COP26 to deliver them.
• To mobilise finance through the UK’s role as a major finance centre.
• To act domestically on reducing emissions and adapting to climate change to deliver on the Paris Agreement.

Read the full report here.
 

The Eurovent Product Group ‘Air Curtains’ (PG-CUR) has elected FETA member Michael Hims (Carver) as its new Vice-Chairman. The election took place during the Product Group meeting at the 2022 Eurovent Summit in Antalya, Türkiye. Carsten Dittmar, Commercial Product Area Director at Systemair, was elected as the new Chairman. 

As European NPD Manager at Carver Climate Systems, Michael has obtained experience in developing standards at international and national level for fans and air curtains development. 

Speaking in his new role as Vice-Chairman, Michael stated: “Air curtains are a great simple product that building owners can use to save energy, reduce costs and improve IAQ. As with most HVAC products however, the wrong selection can to suboptimal performance. I thank the Eurovent members for giving me the opportunity to working with Carsten and the wider Eurovent community on standardising how we test the products in the design stage, help promote their correct selection and application, and on a broader level, raise their profile and the benefits they bring within the industry.”

The Eurovent Product Group ‘Air Curtains’ (PG-CUR) is the only dedicated committee on air curtain technologies within the EMEA region and it covers air curtain units for commercial, industrial and cold storage purposes (over-door heaters are out of the scope). It is the largest group of air curtain unit manufacturers worldwide and is supported by Eurovent Member Associations on a national level.

The recent FETA poll questioning the difference COP 27 will make in the race to decarbonise the UK economy has returned a mixed response from members, with the majority - 60 per cent - believing the climate change conference will make a negligible difference in helping the UK meet net zero targets. 

Though many FETA members are sceptical that COP 27 will lead to meaningful change, 40 per cent of respondents take an opposing view, believing that the Sharm el-Sheikh based summit will make a significant difference in the UK’s battle to decarbonise.

The conference closed on 20^th November after reaching a late agreement to provide loss and damage funding for vulnerable countries hit hard by climate disasters but also faced criticism for a lack of progress on cutting worldwide emissions.

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is backing a new Private Sector Construction Playbook, published by the Construction Productivity Taskforce, which aims to drive change in the way projects across the private sector are commissioned, procured, delivered and operated. 

The publication is aimed at combatting low productivity in the industry with the goal of promoting trust and collaboration. 

Building on the principles of the Government’s Construction Playbook, the Private Sector Playbook sets out 10 ‘drivers for success’ that should underpin any project, including early supply chain involvement, fair allocation of risk, and an outcome‐based approach. By adopting the Playbook’s principles, it is anticipated that companies will boost productivity, reduce carbon emissions, and improve the health, safety and wellbeing of the workforce.

Simon Gorski, Executive Sponsor of the Private Sector Construction Playbook Working Group, said: “This landmark publication sets out a more productive and sustainable way forward for our industry. Productivity in the UK private construction sector has long been an issue, and while progress has been made in trying to address this, our industry is still blighted by a lack of openness and transparency. I’d like to thank my colleagues across the industry whose leadership has been essential in developing this document. Alongside the Government’s Construction Playbook, I am pleased that the whole industry now has the opportunity to deliver better project and programme outcomes for clients across the private and public sector.”

Government has announced its intention to introduce legislation to continue recognition of the CE marking and reversed epsilon marking until 31 December 2024 for most goods being placed on the market or put into service in Great Britain as part of new ministers’ commitment to reduce burdens for industry. 

Government will also continue with the measures on retesting and labelling announced in June. The timescales will be amended to reflect the extension:

1. Reducing labelling costs by continuing to allow businesses to affix the UKCA marking, and to include importer information for products from EEA countries (and in some cases, Switzerland) on an accompanying document or a label until 31 December 2027.  

2. Reducing re-testing costs for UKCA certification by allowing conformity assessment activities for CE marking undertaken by 31 December 2024 to be used by manufacturers as the basis for UKCA marking, until the expiry of the certificate or until 31 December 2027, whichever is sooner.  

This package of measures is intended to provide businesses with more flexibility and reduce regulatory burdens for businesses. Government states it will use the UK’s regulatory autonomy to help businesses navigate the current global economic and supply chain challenges whilst prioritising growth. In parallel, it will also consider how it can reduce costs and burdens associated with the UK regulatory framework in the longer-term, including opportunities under the Product Safety Review. 

There rules remain different for medical devices, construction products, cableways, transportable pressure equipment, unmanned aircraft systems, rail products, and marine equipment. Departments responsible for these sectors are making sector specific arrangements.   

SPEAKERS TO ADDRESS KEY ISSUES FOR THE NET-ZERO FUTURE OF THE RACHP SECTOR AT THE IOR ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Key topics focusing on how the RACHP sector can help end-users achieve their net zero ambitions will be central to the IOR Annual Conference taking place on 1 December in Birmingham. Delegates at the conference will gather insights from experts on the following topics:

• Supporting Sustainable Cooling solutions: hear from the Carbon’s Trust recently appointed Head of Sustainable Cooling Steve Gill on how the Carbon Trust is providing acceleration support for cooling innovators to ensure that new technologies and sustainable solutions progress from development to deployment. Steve will also give some insights into cooling investment models and the scaling up of sustainable cooling solutions.
• Refrigerants – a key part of the sustainability solution for net zero: Ken Logan from A-Gas will explain how practical Lifecyle Refrigerant Management strategies being implemented by leading businesses are helping to make our industry more sustainable and how these can assist businesses in the preparation for dealing with their legal obligations related to refrigerants.
• How can we convince our customers to take service and maintenance seriously? Gavin Redmore, Head of Energy at City FM will outline how best practice can improve the performance of Air Source Heat Pumps in installation through a critical analysis of each phase of these processes and a series of topical examples.
• Want to go carbon neutral? Find out how Danfoss are changing how they do business: in this talk, Nanna Aage, Senior Director for DSC ESG and Product Compliance at Danfoss will explain how the company is also influencing the decarbonisation of their supply chain and by extension influencing their customers.
• A new benchmark to aim for your cold store? Andy Pearson of Star Refrigeration shows owners, operators and maintenance contractors how they can build a meaningful picture of their performance in terms of how they compare with similar facilities in other parts of the country or other parts of the world. Using real data from live sites he will explain the advantages of benchmarking your system performance.
• Skills shortages are just the tip of the iceberg in the RACHP sector: James Bailey will share insights and lead on the topic of “Leadership Redefined” during a session where we will look at how we, as an industry, can promote and instil entrepreneurial, management and leadership qualities to ensure that we can meet the realities of the coming challenges of climate change. 
• How to achieve carbon reductions and energy efficiency in existing industrial refrigeration systems: Rob Lamb of Star Refrigeration will walk us through a project carried out at a 40+ years old temperature-controlled facility that has achieved improvements in energy, reliability and safety for the customer.

See the full programme of speakers and delegate networking and book to attend at  www.ior.org.uk/netzeroconference  

07-11-2022  

The programme for the IOR Annual Conference “Beyond Refrigeration – next steps for the future of low carbon RACHP”  taking place in Birmingham on 1 December 2022 is now available at https://ior.org.uk/NetZeroConference.

The programme features two keynote addresses that explore policy issues:

• Net zero cooling climate action plan: policy, investment, innovation, opportunities and the international outlook from The Carbon Trust
• Understanding emissions and decarbonisation in transport, industrial and commercial refrigeration in the UK (TICR) from BEIS

A series of case studies will showcase innovative and effective solutions that are enabling end-users to achieve their net zero ambitions. These will be given by A-Gas, K2 Engineering (Cooling) featuring Aldi, City FM, Danfoss and Star Refrigeration.  To make the most of the opportunity to meet face to face at the conference to discuss overarching issues there will also be two debate sessions. The first focuses on skills and leadership and the second on the issues around prioritising safety, mitigating risk and complying with standards.

Tickets for the conference start at £99+VAT for IOR members and include:

• A full day of in-person presentations at the conference centre in Birmingham
• Peer-reviewed written papers by the authors including case studies
• Opportunities to ask your questions to speakers with live interactive Q&A debates
• Structured networking lunch and refreshments

Visit www.ior.org.uk/NetZeroConference to see more.

06-10-2022

Mark Hughes has been named as the new Chair of FETA – the Federation of Environmental Trade Associations.

Mark is business development manager with Chemours Thermal and Specialized Solutions where his responsibilities include working with UK trade associations and regulators to ensure that the F-Gas regulations work in the UK following the country’s withdrawal from the European Union.

Mark holds a PhD in Chemistry from Sussex University and has been with Chemours for more than 35 years, with the last 15 years spent in the refrigeration business. He is also a member of the Institute of Refrigeration (IoR) and is President of the British Refrigeration Association (BRA).

Mark replaces Paul White who was appointed FETA Chair in 2021.

Commenting on his appointment, Mark said: “I’m incredibly proud to be appointed Chair of FETA and look forward to drawing on my many years of industry experience to represent the varied interests of FETA members and drive positive change within the building services sector.”

FETA Chief Executive Chris Yates added: “I’m delighted that Mark has taken up the position of FETA Chair and look forward to working with him on the issues that matter most to FETA members. I would also like to extend my thanks to outgoing Chair Paul White for his hard work and professionalism.”

The UK's biggest Festival of Construction will return to Olympia London this November 16th & 17th with more content, networking and entertainment than ever before.

London Build offers a totally unique experience over the two days, featuring:

• 35,000+ registered visitors from contractors, architects, civil engineers, developers, local councils, house builders/associations and construction professionals
• 500+ inspiring speakers across 8 conference stages including Future of Construction, BIM & Digital, Fire Safety, Sustainability, Diversity & Inclusion and more
• 200+ hours of CPD training and education
• The UK’s biggest Festival of Construction with DJs, musicians, live performances, celebrity guests, entertainment and competitions
• Meet the Buyers with Procurement Teams exhibiting from Balfour Beatty, Skanska, Mace Dragados, BAM UK, Costain, SMP Alliance and more
• Architect’s Hub with project displays and 3D models of upcoming projects from leading architects across the UK
• The latest insights and updates on major upcoming construction projects and opportunities across the UK
• Exclusive networking events co-hosted with Urbano Build, London Constructing Excellence Club, Forum for the Built Environment, BIM Open Mic, The CIOB, Building People, Let’s Build, Building Equality and many more
• The UK’s largest networking events for Women in Construction and Diversity in Construction
• An inclusive Ambassador Programme supporting Women in Construction, Diversity in Construction and Mental Health in Construction
• 350+ exhibitors showcasing the latest services, products and innovations transforming the industry

Conference agenda: www.londonbuildexpo.com/conference-agenda

Confirmed speakers: www.londonbuildexpo.com/speakers

Networking events: www.londonbuildexpo.com/networking-events

27-09-2022

FETA is deeply saddened by the death of Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II. On behalf of our organisation and our members, our thoughts and sympathies are with the King and Royal Family during this difficult time.

The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has issued the following guidance:

The Royal Household will be the primary source of information on mourning arrangements, and they will announce details on www.gov.uk.

The Government is currently working with the Royal Household on how to commemorate the life of Her Majesty and you can expect further guidance in coming days.

Business across the UK will continue to operate normally but there are some considerations you may wish to make, including:

• Providing an opportunity for your staff to offer their condolences, either by providing your own book of condolence or by directing them to the online book of condolence at the Royal website;
• Identifying arrangements made by Local Authorities to lay floral or memorial tributes;
• Signposting staff on how to donate to one of The Queen’s patronages, with information available on the Royal website;
• Identifying whether your business location is likely to be impacted by arrangements made by Local Authorities, or events planned in central London, and planning your response;
• Considering any changes you might wish to make to your website and social media activities; and
• Where you have flags, lowering them to half mast.

The best source of information is www.gov.uk  Your Local Authority will also be updating their own websites on local arrangements, including any events they may organise which might impact on the locality of your business or local travel.

The Royal Household will set out arrangements on Lying-in-State and the State Funeral.  Businesses are encouraged to follow updates on www.gov.uk and the  Royal Website.

The UK’s leading association for building energy management systems (BEMS), the Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA), has announced the appointment of Catherine Walker as Executive Officer on the retirement of George Lee at the end of September.

Catherine’s career has spanned the public and private sectors with many years working in senior roles that bring together sector development, stakeholder engagement, policy, government relations and communications. Having worked for almost 20 years in member focused organisations, Catherine is experienced in delivering organisational growth through member relations and service development.

On her appointment Catherine said: “I feel really privileged and excited to be joining the BCIA at such a pivotal time for the industry. With an increased focus on energy efficiency and requirements for more resilient safety and security in the built environment, the BCIA is strategically placed to position our members as the leaders of industry development, innovation and standards. I am looking forward to using my experience to take the Association to greater levels of growth by delivering tangible value for our members, driving up industry standards, positioning the BCIA at the heart of policy and legislation so that by working together we can achieve greater levels of collective influence.”    

The BCIA has seen significant growth over the past three years, representing 150 businesses nationally as a single voice representing a growing and dynamic building controls and BEMS sector in the UK.

Graeme Rees, BCIA President thanked George Lee for his service and welcomed Catherine’s appointment: “Although with us for a relatively short period of time George has been instrumental in helping the Association grow, not only in membership numbers, but also in areas of influence and consultation - with government and other trade bodies and organisations yet further enhancing the BCIA’s professionalism and status in the sector.”

On Catherine’s appointment he added: “Catherine joins the BCIA at a perfect time to help us on our development journey, capitalising on the foundation George has set as well as bringing new, fresh ideas from the wealth of experience she brings. We wish George well in his retirement and thank him for all the hard work as well as extend a very warm welcome to Catherine.”

www.bcia.co.uk

The latest poll of FETA members suggests that the labour market is currently the number one area of concern for firms operating in the built environment.

Industry uncertainty and a shortage of skilled labour has pushed labour costs higher and left businesses struggling to recruit the experienced personnel they need. What’s more, with the labour market stretched, many firms also face concerns over retaining existing workers.

With 43% of respondents to the poll citing the labour market as the biggest issue facing their business, it’s clear that recruitment become a significant problem for FETA members, however this is by no means the only area of concern. Availability of raw materials (21%) and rising energy costs (14%) were also high on the list of issues being faced by respondents – problems that could well get worse before they get better.

Chris Yates, FETA Chief Executive, commented on the findings: “The results of this poll reflect the challenging labour market and ongoing skills shortage in the industry. At FETA we are committed to supporting members struggling to fill vacancies by assisting our associations in the development of training pathways and encouraging employers to explore recruitment schemes such as the Government’s Way to Work programme.”

The Way to Work campaign is a national push to fill vacancies and help individuals back into the world of work. Those looking to fill a vacancy are allocated a named employer adviser in a local Jobcentre and granted access to a range of recruitment services.

For advice on business recruitment call the Employer Services Line on

0800 169 0178 or email employer.services@dwp.gov.uk.

30-08-2022

In early August we heard the sad news that FETA’s retired Commercial Manager, Bob Wilkinson, passed away suddenly and peacefully at his home on the Isle of Wight on Sunday 31 July 2022 at the age of 83.  He leaves behind his partner of over 30 years, Eileen Rann, and our sympathy is with her at this difficult time.

Many members will have known Bob Wilkinson from his 18 years as Commercial Manager of FETA in the 80s and 90s.  During that time Bob was the secretary of many HEVAC, BRA and BFCMA committees and most will remember him for his light-hearted and cheery disposition.  He was particularly keen to welcome new delegates into the Association committees and made newcomers feel at ease immediately.

Bob was involved in the HVAC&R industry for 47 years.  He started his career with a firm of M&E consulting engineers before working for contractors and manufacturers both in the UK and abroad including Trane, Luwa, Searle, and Temperature.  Bob joined FETA in August 1983 as the Commercial Manager at their Maidenhead office and two years later moved with FETA to their Bourne End office.

Bob retired from FETA in 2001 in his early 60s to pursue his other interests and in particular his singing.  An accomplished baritone, as well as singing for his various charities, he put his skill to good use singing at many industry gatherings throughout the 80s and 90s and was still doing singing engagements this year.  Bob was well thought of at EUROVENT where he was Secretary of the Marketing Commission and, shortly after retirement, was invited to attend their AGM in Stockholm in 2001, where he was invited to sing at the event and received an ovation.

FETA is pleased to be supporting London Build 2022, the UK’s leading construction show when it returns to Olympia London’s Grand Hall on November 16th & 17th.

Secure your FREE TICKET:

https://www.londonbuildexpo.com/feta

London Build offers a totally unique experience over the two days, featuring:

• 35,000+ registered visitors from contractors, architects, civil engineers, developers, local councils, house builders/associations and construction professionals
• 500+ inspiring speakers across 8 conference stages including Future of Construction, BIM & Digital, Fire Safety, Sustainability, Diversity & Inclusion and more
• 200+ hours of CPD training and education
• The UK’s biggest Festival of Construction with DJs, musicians, live performances, celebrity guests, entertainment and competitions
• Meet the Buyers with Procurement Teams exhibiting from Balfour Beatty, Skanska, Mace Dragados, BAM UK, Costain, SMP Alliance and more
• Architect’s Hub with project displays and 3D models of upcoming projects from leading architects across the UK
• The latest insights and updates on major upcoming construction projects and opportunities across the UK
• Exclusive networking events co-hosted with Urbano Build, London Constructing Excellence Club, Forum for the Built Environment, The CIOB, Building People, Let’s Build, Building Equality and many more
• The UK’s largest networking events for Women in Construction and Diversity in Construction
• An inclusive Ambassador Programme supporting Women in Construction, Diversity in Construction and Mental Health in Construction
• 350+ exhibitors showcasing the latest services, products and innovations transforming the industry

www.londonbuildexpo.com

28-07-2022

World Refrigeration Day 2022 will take place on 26^th June and this year the theme is ‘Cooling Matters’.

Now in its fourth year, the day serves as a platform to educate the public about cooling’s benefits. Past campaigns targeted refrigerant choices that protect the ozone layer, using the cold chain to distribute food, medicines and vaccines, and promoting “cool” careers.

“Our objective is to make the public aware of cooling’s essential benefits, how cooling impacts daily life, and how technology choices foster environmental well-being of future generations”, said Steve Gill, founder of World Refrigeration Day. “Cooling is at the very heart of modern life. It enables people to live and work comfortably, it saves lives, it enables people to achieve. The need for cooling is everywhere, it touches lives in fantastic, though often unnoticed ways. However, we look at it, cooling matters.”

Despite policies, standards and codes related to the refrigeration and air-conditioning industry, there is still significant lack of public understanding of cooling’s importance even though issues like refrigerant transition, emissions reduction, and maximizing energy efficiency have been addressed for decades by governments due to global policies and binding international frameworks.

Buildings generate nearly 40% of annual global CO2 emissions. Of those total emissions, building operations are responsible for 28% annually, while building materials and construction are responsible for an additional 11% annually. According to the International Energy Agency, the average efficiency of air conditioners sold today is less than half of what is typically available on the shelves – and one third of best available technology.

Steve Gill added, “Cooling Matters will tell the story of how our wellbeing depends upon cooling and how cooling technology choices can safeguard the well-being of future generations. We encourage the whole the refrigeration and air-conditioning industry to join us in celebrating World Refrigeration Day 2022. Join the global community conversation using the hashtags #coolingmatters and WREFD22.”

24-06-2022

The 2022 IOR Annual Conference which will be held in Birmingham on 1 December 2022 will be focusing on the UK’s net-zero ambitions and what the RACHP industry is putting in place to meet these targets.

The IOR is now launching a call for abstracts outlining practical low-carbon solutions that are achieving results. The themes of the conference are as follows:

• Rethinking Design:  How we are designing differently to achieve low carbon or net-zero aims. Heat recovery, system integration, optimising efficiency, energy demand reduction, integration with renewable energy, innovative cycles, systems or products
• What is Sustainable Heating and cooling? Successfully addressing financial and environmental sustainability issues, achieving improved recycling and recovery, whole system efficiency models.
• Collaboration: Examples of how businesses are working across traditional business boundaries in consortium or collaborative approaches, sector or industry-based initiatives, policy success stories and international projects.

Further details on submitting an abstract are available on the IOR website at https://ior.org.uk/events/IOR_Net_Zero_Conference. The deadline for applications is 5^th August 2022.

It is also possible to reserve a place to attend. Prices start at £99 + VAT for IOR members – visit https://ior.org.uk/events/IOR_Net_Zero_Conference to book.

20-06-2022

Join the IOR on 8 June for an online Cool Talk event on Pressure Equipment Safety Regulations with experts David Paget Chair of the IOR Technical Committee and Bob Wright Chair of the IOR RACHPEngTech Section.

The event begins at 10 am and the programme is as follows:

• PESR (UK) - What you need to know. David Paget, Lloyds Register Quality Assurance   

• PESR (UK) - Working within the regulations. Bob Wright, Adcock Refrigeration and Air Conditioning  

Participants will get the opportunity to ask questions and Certificates of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for attending are available on request.

The event is free and can be booked online www.ior.org.uk/events/cooltalk-June22  

30-05-2022