ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 1 To subscribe to this magazine, please contact us at info@electric.ie | website: www.electric.ie the magazine & website for the Irish Electrical Industry electric ie FREE Rittal Ireland RILineX - The Power Platform Rexel Energy Solutions Celebrate 10th Anniversary Solar and EV Show Full Report Inside To subscribe to this magazine, please contact us at info@electric.ie | website: www.electric.ie Issue 74 | March / April 2025 A Comprehensive Range of High-Quality Fire and CO Alarms Introducing from
2 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • with Hager Get on board It’s back… register now for launch! Want to know more? We’re launching something really special later this year for electrical contractors! If you want to be first to hear about it, make sure to register using the QR code. hager.ie
ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 3 Solar and EV Show 2025 Report - Page 46 15 STIEBEL ELTRON - How do we fit heat pumps in apartment blocks?- Page 45 A great start to 2025 for Precision Cables - Page 33 6 5 Editorial. 6 ESPi set to ignite the fire and CO alarm market. 10 IEBA Gol Event, Killeen castle on 10th April. 11 What to expect at Ireland’s AECI electrical trade event in 2025 on May 28th. 13 Powering a decade of growth: Rexel Energy Solutions Turns 10. 17 Ledburn Cables announces management buyout. 21 STIEBEL ELTRON: Electric panel heaters for where the Landlord pays the bill 25 Phoenix Contact: High power in a compact housing for panel mounting. 25 Phoenix Contact - Push-in contact inserts for heavyduty connectorsfor power transmission. 27 Leadership transition at Ei Electronics: Mick Guinee hands over the reins. 31 Grant Aerona R290 Heat Pumps praised for ease of installation. 33 A great start to 2025 for Precision Cables. 37 Schneider Electric: New gas and particle sensing technology detects cables overheating in LV equipment. 41 Rittal: A new lightning fast platform for power distribution. 42 Time to rise and shine as B.E.G. light up buildings with motion. 45 How do we fit heat pumps in apartment blocks? 46 Solar and EV Show 2025: A power-packed day for Ireland’s installers. 49 LEDVANCE Celebrates Sustainability Milestone with EcoVadis Silver Medal. 51 Aerogen to create 725 new jobs in Galway and Shannon 51 Midland Steel opens fully automated SMART steel fabrication facility. 55 Demesne Electrical elevating safety with RCT Cable Solutions. 57 Steinel Launch a new powerful sensor LED spotlight with panoramic illumination. 59 Schneider Electric named The World’s most Sustainable Corporation for a second time. 60 LightingEurope backs pragmatic approach to Green Claims Directive. 61 Siemens celebrates 100 years in Ireland. 64 Appointments. 67 Buyers' Guide. 17 Contents 50
4 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry •
ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 5 Editorial electric.ie Electric Bureau Ireland Ltd., Bluebell House Business Centre, Bluebell Avenue, Dublin 12 Tel: (087) 6698028 Info@electric.ie Reg. Dublin: 512293 Colin Sherlock General Manager Layout/Design colin.sherlock@electric.ie DISCLAIMER Electric Bureau Ireland Ltd. accept no responsiblity for the accuracy of contributed articles or statements appearing in this publication. Electric.ie is published by Electric Bureau Ireland Ltd. The magazine is circulated throughout Ireland and is available on wholesale trade counters and from representatives of electrical distributors who are members of EMDA The editor welcomes: contributions of technical papers, information on new products, details of installation projects and all editorial input of interest to our readers. Printed by W&G Baird Friday 17th, November 2023 Intercontinental Hotel, Dublin As we move into March 2025, the electrical trade landscape presents a mixed picture. While some suppliers are operating at full capacity, others are experiencing a quieter period. Political uncertainty continues to cast a shadow over the broader economic outlook. However, Ireland remains a bright spot, with projected growth of 3% to 3.5% for the year—outpacing many other European economies. Despite it being early in the year, the industry has already seen significant activity on the trade show circuit. Flaherty Markets recently hosted a highly successful event, while the Solar and EV Show 2025 at Naas Racecourse drew an impressive crowd. A full report on the latter event is featured in this issue. Looking ahead, we encourage readers to mark their calendars for the AECI Electrical Trade Show on May 28th—an event not to be missed. In business news, we extend our congratulations to Keith Hendrick of Ledburn Cables on successfully completing a management buyout. Keith now owns 100% of the shares, marking a new era for the company. We also take this opportunity to express our gratitude to Jack Ledwidge, who is retiring after more than 40 years in the industry. Jack’s contributions, particularly his expertise in cables and his support of EMDA, have been invaluable. Celebrations are in order for Rexel Energy Solutions as they mark their 10th year in Ireland. In this issue, we sit down with Country Manager Damien Philips to discuss the company’s journey and future plans. Innovation continues to drive the sector forward, with several notable product launches. ESPi has introduced the Espire range—a highperformance line of fire and CO alarm products built on quality, reliability, and innovation. Meanwhile, Rittal’s new RiLineX power distribution platform is set to revolutionise planning and installation processes by eliminating time-consuming design constraints and redundant space usage. Full details on these exciting developments can be found inside. Finally, a major leadership change is on the horizon. After more than four decades at the helm, Ei Electronics founder and long-serving CEO Mick Guinee will step down on March 31, 2025. His tenure has left an indelible mark on the industry, and we reflect on his impact in this issue. With a dynamic start to the year, 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal period for the electrical trade. As always, we remain committed to bringing you the latest industry news, insights, and innovations. Enjoy the Read! Jack Ledwidge. Damien Philips, 10 years of Rexel Energy Solutions. Ei Electronics founder and long-serving CEO Mick Guinee steps down on 31st March.
6 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • ESPi set to ignite the fire and CO alarm market Espire is a comprehensive range of high performance fire and CO alarm products that has at its core quality, reliability and innovation. Sitting as a separate brand under ESPi’s growing product portfolio, Espire will benefit from the expertise that the team at ESPi has garnered over more than 25 years’ operating in the fire protection and security sector. The new brand will also benefit from a unique position as part of the wider industryleading Scolmore Group. Espire is supported by Scolmore Group, distributed by ESPi. Safety a priority With a product category that plays a crucial role in safety, it is imperative that the products are of the highest quality, have undergone rigorous testing procedures and comply with all the relevant standards. As expected with a project of this scale and importance, ESPi has invested significantly to create a range of products to meet the company’s exacting requirements. The full Espire collection has been developed from scratch. The project underwent a thorough design process, involving extensive research, prototyping, and detailed refinement to ensure optimal functionality and user satisfaction. To maintain strict quality control measures and product consistency, the factory is subject to rigorous internal audits and measures. It utilises state of the art testing and manufacturing equipment alongside a highly experienced team. Compliance and sustainability The range has been designed to assist installers to meet the recommendations of I.S. 3218, the Irish Standard specification for fire detection and alarm systems for buildings – system design, installation, commissioning, servicing and maintenance. The range also complies with the relevant UK standards. All Espire products have undergone a meticulous design, development and manufacturing process at its dedicated factory. To ensure compliance with all relevant standards rigorous testing is conducted at various stages in the production process. Each alarm is tested a minimum of four times on the production line including the sensor, sounder, interface and functional tests, concluding with a final assembly test to ensure all alarms have been thoroughly checked and tested prior to installation All alarms have been tested by third party test houses and certified by LPCB (Loss Prevention Certification Board) and TUV, to meet the relevant product standards – BS EN 14604 for smoke alarms: BS 5446-2 for heat alarms and BS EN 50291-1 for CO alarms. All products in the Espire range come with a five year warranty. In line with the sustainability targets of its parent company, Scolmore Group, ESPi has taken a proactive stance on sustainability by integrating, where possible, eco-friendly materials and energyefficient designs across its product line-up. The company has used recyclable packaging material across the entire range, opting for eco-friendly, brown card packaging that is fully recyclable and 100% biodegradable. A Comprehensive offer Boasting an array of innovative and cutting edge features, the extensive Espire offer can be broken down into five alarm types: • Optical smoke alarms. • Heat alarms. • Smoke and heat alarms. • Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms. • CO and heat alarms. Plus, there’s a range of accessories on offer. Already an established and highly respected player in the fire protection and security industry, ESPi is continually looking at ways to improve and develop its existing product offer, and to explore new areas for expansion. The result of its most significant new product development programme to date sees the company enter the fire and safety alarm market and introduce a new name to the sector, with the launch of Espire. ESPi
ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 7 Innovative and cutting edge features Through its new Espire brand, ESPi is committed to equipping homes with trusted and reliable alarms to provide early detection and rapid response to potential threats. The range offers a number of innovative features, some of which are unique in the market: Auto-Dimming Power LED (patent pending) This cutting edge feature combines convenience, visibility and energy efficiency to provide a smarter and more intuitive user experience. With mains powered alarms, the power LED is required to remain on at all times; the LED will automatically dim during low light levels to reduce distraction and to not cause sleep disturbance. Stainless Steel Insect Mesh Barrier (patent pending) This acts as a physical barrier, preventing insects and other small particles from entering the sensitive components of the smoke alarm, helping to reduce false alarm signals. Dust Compensation All alarms with smoke sensors include an additional feature to reduce false alarms by recalibrating the chamber as increments of dust are collected. If the chamber re-calibrates 4 times or more, the alarm will provide an indication status that prompts action to clean the alarm. RF Link Adding additional life safety protection and installation flexibility, the alarms with the RF-Link function can be coded together wirelessly to create a system that sounds all alarms if one is activated. Mains powered alarms also include the function of hardwired interconnect. Lock-in base Provides a secure and fixed point of installation for the alarm head to slide onto. Once the alarm head is installed onto the locking base, a lever engages to provide tamper protection. This activates the battery circuit. Responsive thermistor This offers enhanced sensitivity, accuracy and responsiveness, ensuring the earliest possible detection of rising temperatures and potential fire hazards. 24-hour memory function (patent pending) For 24 hours after an alarm is triggered, the red LED will flash twice every 40 seconds to help identify the activation. To clear the indication, the Test/Hush button on the alarm is simply pressed. In the event that the memory function has been activated and an occupant has removed the head alarm from the base, the memory will be stored in the alarm for up to 10 days. The Espire range The Espire fire and safety alarms are suitable for Grade D1, Grade D2 and Grade F1 installations. ESPi
8 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • Optical smoke alarms Optical sensors employ an infrared beam to detect the presence of smoke, effectively responding to slow, smouldering fires. The range incorporates the following alarm options: • Powered by mains with a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery. • Powered by mains with 9V replaceable battery. • Powered by a sealed tamperproof 10-year lithium battery. Heat alarms These alarms utilise a thermistor, which acts as a heat sensor, capable of detecting temperature fluctuations. The alarm is activated when the temperature reaches 58°C. • Powered by mains with a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery. • Powered by mains with 9V replaceable battery. • Powered by a sealed tamperproof 10-year lithium battery. Smoke and heat alarms Equipped with optical and heat sensors, these alarms are capable of responding to a broad range of fires, from fast flaming to slow smouldering incidents. Intelligent software continuously monitors both sensors at all times. • Powered by mains with a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery. • Powered by a sealed tamperproof 10-year lithium battery. Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms These alarms identify the presence of Carbon Monoxide gas emitted by the combustion of carbon-based fuels such as gas, wood, oil, and coal. They provide an early visual alert of rising concentration levels of carbon monoxide prior to full alarm activation for extra safety. The magnitude of the electric current generated is directly proportional to the level of CO present. • Powered by mains with a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery. • Powered by a sealed tamperproof 10-year lithium battery. CO and heat alarms These alarms utilise two distinct sensors to monitor both fire and carbon monoxide (CO) independently and are suitable for kitchen areas equipped with fuel burning appliances like gas boilers or cookers. • Powered by mains with a sealed tamper-proof 10-year lithium battery. • Powered by a sealed tamperproof 10-year lithium battery. The alarms in all five categories above boast a number of key features: • Compact design, with lock-in base. • Auto sensor test – the alarm selfchecks the sensor. • 24 hour memory function. • Hush function, which silences the alarm activation for 10 minutes. Accessories ESPi has also brought together a collection of valuable accessories to enhance the Espire range. These include RF modules; relay bases; red IP65 strobe with selectable sounder; remote control switches; multi-tool – RF pairing and lockin base release tool; and flameretardant alarm masking plate. Supporting the Trade Understanding the needs of installers and wholesalers/ distributors alike is crucial for the success of the Espire range and ESPi has developed a robust trade support programme that is designed to help installers and wholesale customers to get the very best from the Espire range of products. As well as a free training and advice facility with product overview training days available, electrical contractors and wholesalers will also have access to a dedicated technical support resource, with a team of experts ready to assist with any technical queries, ensuring smooth installations and customer satisfaction. Looking Ahead With a strong focus on reliability, compliance, innovation and sustainability, ESPi believes it is poised to make a significant impact on the fire and CO alarm sector with its Espire range. As safety standards and technology continue to evolve, this new name is set to lead the way in protecting lives and properties. www.espireuk.com www.espi.ie ESPi
ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 9
10 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • IEBA Golf Event, Killeen Castle 10th April 2025. This year’s event will be held in the Jack Nicklaus designed Killeen Castle, Dunsany, Co Meath. The format is Stableford, a 4-person team event, with 2 to score, shot gun start at 11.00 am. Playing off the green tee for the gents and red tee for the ladies. Registration from 9.30am in the dressing room area, enter from pro shop side of clubhouse. Breakfast will be available, pay on the day. Dinner will be an informal 3 course buffet, available directly after golf as you arrive, no delay. Those wishing to stay and catch up with industry friends can do so. A team of 4 costs €850, includes golf, beat the Pro and dinner. Prizes for: Nearest the Pin on the 8th, Beat the Pro on the 14th and Longest Drive on the 15th. If you cannot enter a team, please consider sponsoring a tee box for only €150. To book your place contact by email or phone: Trevor: trevor.whyte@irisheba.ie 087 8381687 Pat: pat.tully@irisheba.ie 086 6060678 Cel: cel.oreilly@irisheba.ie 087 2570770 Dan: dan.fisher@irisheba.ie 087 9880598 Paul: paul@switch.ie 087 2632226 Golf carts, electric caddie cars and pull along carts are available to hire directly from the club. Phone the golf shop on 01-6893009.
ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 11 Industry News Powering the Future: What to Expect at Ireland’s AECI Electrical Trade Event in 2025 on May 28th AECI As the Irish electrical industry continues to evolve, professionals from across the sector will gather in Dublin on May 28, 2025, for Ireland’s electrical trade event. This much-anticipated gathering will provide a unique opportunity for electricians, contractors, suppliers, and industry experts to explore the latest trends, technologies, and innovations shaping the future of electrical work in Ireland. Innovative Exhibits & Product Demonstrations One of the key highlights of the event will be the extensive exhibitor showcase, featuring top manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers from across Ireland and beyond. Attendees can expect hands-on demonstrations of cutting-edge electrical products, tools, and technologies designed to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the sector. From smart home automation to the latest advancements in energyefficient lighting and renewable power solutions, there will be something for everyone looking to stay ahead of the curve. Expert-Led Seminars & Training Sessions Education and professional development will be at the forefront of the 2025 event, with a packed schedule of expert-led seminars and training sessions. Industry leaders will share insights on key topics such as: • The Future of Electrical Work – Emerging trends and innovations shaping the industry. • Renewable Energy & Sustainability – How electricians can adapt to Ireland’s growing green energy sector. • Regulations & Compliance – Updates on electrical safety standards and best practices. • Smart Technology & Automation – Exploring the latest in home and commercial automation solutions. These sessions will provide valuable knowledge and practical advice, ensuring attendees leave with actionable insights to enhance their careers and businesses. Networking & Business Opportunities Beyond the technical aspects, the event will serve as a vital networking hub for professionals in the Irish electrical industry. Whether you’re looking to connect with potential clients, collaborate with suppliers, or simply exchange ideas with peers, the event will foster an environment where meaningful business relationships can thrive. Who Should Attend? This event is a must-attend for electricians, contractors, engineers, apprentices, wholesalers, manufacturers, and anyone working in the electrical sector. Whether you’re looking to upskill, source new products, or gain insights into the future of the industry, this event promises to deliver unparalleled value. Join the Conversation With a growing focus on innovation, sustainability, and industry collaboration, the Dublin electrical trade event on May 28, 2025, will be a key date in the calendar for professionals across Ireland. Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed, connected, and ahead of the competition. No Registration required, free car parking Limited Exhibitor Spaces Still Available For companies looking to showcase their products and services to a highly engaged audience, there are still a few exhibitor spaces available. This is a prime opportunity to get your brand in front of key decisionmakers and industry professionals. If you’re interested in securing a stand the contact information is below. Association of Electrical Contractors of Ireland, Tel: +353 (01) 6102715 or 087 7460324 Email: info@aeci.ie Photographs of last years seminar. Chris Lundy, Mark Keogh and Gerry Geoghegan.
12 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • AP Haslam
ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 13 Powering a Decade of Growth: Rexel Energy Solutions Turns 10 Industry News What inspired you to join the business 10 years ago, and how has that vision evolved? I was working in a renewable energy company in Armagh, selling and project managing installations of heat pumps, biomass boilers, solar thermal systems, and solar photovoltaics (PV). We were a longstanding customer of Rexel in the UK, so the job role and the company were familiar to me, and Ireland being the small place that it is, I knew the previous Kellihers Electrical Branch Manager in Dundalk through my local GAA club. The initial job scope was to establish a Solar PV distribution arm of Kellihers Electrical from scratch and that both excited and daunted me! The Irish market was tiny and had little or no government support back in 2015. I had great mentorship from Jerry Hamilton, the head of Energy Solutions for Rexel in Northern Europe. Jerry taught me the importance of selecting the right suppliers and products, with a view to long term partnerships. From day one I have opted to work with manufacturers that wanted to grow the market in Ireland and were committed to the Irish market for the long haul. Can you share a memorable moment from the early days of RES that stands out to you? Solar PV in the early days, for a distributor, was mainly new build installations. Roofers and joiners would not have been familiar with PV mounting components, so most days were spent driving around building sites and teaching tradesmen in portacabins or up on scaffolding. Thankfully, Solar PV is mainstream now, and we get great training support from our manufacturers, particularly Van der Valk. Country Manager, Damien Phillips at Rexel Energy Solutions. Country Manager Damien Phillips reflects on the journey, challenges, and future of renewable energy in Ireland. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in the first few years, and how did you overcome them? Almost every call with a new contact was an educational session. The knowledge on Solar PV was extremely limited, so photovoltaics had to be explained before it could be sold. This involved spending a lot of time with consultants, engineers, and architects, plus roofers and electricians. I suppose what I have always tried to do, is to demystify Solar PV. When it is stripped back to its fundamentals Solar PV is not that complicated, and we always encourage electrical contractors to get PV on their own house and live with it as it is one of the best ways to learn. The same goes for Electric Vehicle charging. How has the business changed over the 10 years, and what do you attribute that growth to? There is a lot more of everything! More installers, more homes and businesses with PV and EV chargers, more distributors, and more manufacturers. Ireland was very late in European terms, to the Solar
14 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • HEPA Filter 0203 564 9164 – sales@atc.ie – atcelec.co.uk ATC Tiger ECO High Speed Hand Dryer Ultra Modern Design Ecosun Low Temp Ceiling Heaters ATC Pacific Unvented Water Heaters For Wash Stations ATC Dahlia Hand Santiser Station Wash—Dry—Sanitise • Automatic No Touch Operation • Hygienic • 36,000 Operation Battery Life • Battery Powered: 6 x AA batteries • Wall mounted in Minutes • Free Standing Station • No Power Required • Sturdy yet Portable • Adjustable Heights • For use with Dahlia Hand Sanitiser Dispenser • Hygienic No Touch Operation • Dries hands in 15 Seconds • Low Energy (550/1200W) • Super Silent—70dB @ 1m • Optional HEPA Filter – removes 99.97% of bacteria particles • Two panel sizes 600mm x 600mm and 1200mm x 600mm • Energy efficient low energy costs • Draught and Noise free • Ceiling mounting allows flexible use of floor and wall space • Designed for quick and easy installation to suspended ceilings • 3 Sizes: 5, 10, 14 Litres • ERP Rated B • New Safety Valve • Glass lined tank • External adjustable • Thermostat control • Quick recovery element • Wall & Floor Mounted ATC Dahlia Hand Santiser Dispenser Wash—Dry—Sanitise Wash – Dry – Sanitise Restaurants Schools Sports Facilities Universities Stadia Hotels Experience Unique • Soap Dispenser • Automation Water Tap • High Speed Hand Dryer ATC Eco Tap Wash Room System PV party, but has benefitted from cheaper established technology. The huge growth in Ireland can be attributed to the cost of technology dropping, at the same time electricity prices and government support was rising. People like to see a payback, even though a ten-year payback is way better than what you’d get in a bank, that drop to a 4-to-6-year payback has really brought PV on in leaps and bounds. What are you most proud of achieving in the past decade? Rexel Ireland has 24 branches; in the very early days Solar PV and EV Charging was concentrated on our branches in Cork, Ballymount and Dundalk. We now have comprehensive stock in all our main locations and a high level of knowledge in those branches. Rexel has invested in its people, and supported by manufacturers such as Huawei, Astronergy and Van der Valk, we continue to grow the level of knowledge in our network. It goes back to ‘demystifying’ PV and EV charging, to make these technologies mainstream amongst Rexel Ireland installer customers, we first needed to make it mainstream in our own business. I am proud, that from a standing start, our Energy Solutions division now accounts for over 20% of Rexel Ireland’s business. How have your relationships with customers changed over the years, and what do you value most about those relationships? Our installer customers seem to have a lot more pressures on their time now than back in 2015, so a lot less of our interactions are face-to-face, but I am sure this is partly down to covid related societal changes and improvements in technology. More than ever, it is vital that we carry the right stock, in the right quantities in all our key locations, as our customers rely on us to back them up. Our new distribution centre and forthcoming e-commerce platform will undoubtedly bring us to the next level in terms of customer service. I have plenty of installer customers that have been with me since day one in 2015, and it has been fantastic to watch some of them grow from one or two men in a van, to massive multi-location companies, and nationwide installers. I would like to think we have helped them along the way, and we have plenty of in-house experience to help today’s small installer reach that next level (whatever that may be). Our customer relationships are key to what we do, they place a lot of trust in us to get things right, not just on a once-off basis, but again and again. Every installation business operates slightly differently, and has different demands on our time and services. It is our job to take the time to understand those needs and adapt the best we can. How has the industry changed in the last decade, and how has your company adapted to those changes? Solar PV systems had a relatively small number of components back in the last decade, and EV Chargers were glorified outdoor sockets. We have moved on from that on residential systems. Hybrid ‘battery-ready’ inverters far outsell basic string inverters. Optimisers, smart meters, energy diverters, load balancing systems, and smart EV chargers are now supplied almost as standard. We have seen a huge growth in energy storage systems, Huawei batteries are very popular, and we have had to build a dedicated storage area in our national distribution centre just for batteries. What innovations or new services/ products are you most excited about for the future? The advent of recent storms has resulted in a big increase in requests for grid backup systems, or inverters with off-grid backup built in. Unfortunately, climate change may mean these storms become a more regular occurrence, Solar PV and Energy Storage Systems will have a part to play in mitigating these impacts. In the future I hope to see Ireland’s smart meter roll out lead to meaningful changes for homes and businesses. Dynamic pricing and agile tariffs would allow electricity consumers to shift their consumption to cheaper and greener time slots, Rexel already has the technology to help users do this. We need the government policy, grid operators, and utility companies to catch up with their European counterparts. Premises with batteries, heat pumps and electric vehicles would greatly benefit from such tariffs, and at the end of the day – it just makes sense. Rexel has been at the forefront of ‘electrification’ across Europe, North America, and Australia, and they look forward to being a big part of it in Ireland for many more years. Industry News
ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 15 Lite Panel Pro More than an HMI for your switchboard low voltage devices. ABB Lite Panel Pro is the state-of-the-art in monitoring, offering a versatile switchboard HMI with a large touchscreen display and an intuitive interface. Whether you are in an industrial plant, a commercial building or an infrastructure facility, Lite Panel Pro allows you to monitor connected Low Voltage devices on-premise, and in the cloud when connected to ABB Ability™ Energy Manager, ensuring energy efficiency and enhanced safety.
16 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • The FARHO® ECO GREEN ULTRA has been modified to make it one of the most sophisticated heaters on the market. Eco Green models now have built-in Wi-Fi, for greater control over your heating system without the need for routers. The new larger screen makes programming easier and the heater has six independent operating periods for each day of the week. ELECTRIC RADIATORS ULTRA SCAN FOR MORE INFO BUILT IN ELECTRICS BODY FLEXIBLE PROGRAMMING LARGER SCREEN NEW NEW CONTROL REMOTELY BOOST FUNCTION 1, 2 or 3 HOURS LOCK MODE
ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 17 I n dIunsdt ruys tNr ye wN es w s Ledburn Cables Announces Management Buyout Ledburn Cables, a trusted name in the electrical industry since its founding in 2005 by David Blagburn and Jack Ledwidge, has announced a significant change in ownership. On Thursday, February 13th, General Manager Keith Hendrick successfully completed a management buyout, acquiring 100% of the shares from Dave Blagburn, Caroline Blagburn, Pauline Ledwidge and Jack Ledwidge. This marks a new chapter in the company’s history, ensuring its continued development while maintaining the core values and service excellence that have defined Ledburn Cables for nearly two decades. A Legacy of Leadership and Growth Under the stewardship of Jack Ledwidge and David Blagburn, Ledburn Cables has grown into a leading supplier in the electrical industry, renowned for its best-inclass service and strong supplier relationships. Jack Ledwidge, who is now stepping into retirement, has had a distinguished career spanning over 40 years. Beginning in the 1970s with cable manufacturer BICC, he went on to hold key leadership positions at Eastern Electrical, ultimately serving as Director of Sales for the Eastern group in Ireland. His expertise and dedication have been instrumental in shaping Ledburn Cables into the business it is today. David Blagburn, meanwhile, has played a pivotal role in the company’s purchasing and financial operations, drawing on decades of experience in the electrical supply sector. His career has taken him through notable roles in both the UK and Ireland, including key management positions with Eastern Electrical, OBF Distribution, and Edmundson Electrical. He will continue in his current role, ensuring continuity in supplier relationships and financial management as Ledburn Cables transitions to new ownership. A New Chapter Under Keith Hendrick Keith Hendrick, who joined Ledburn Cables in 2022 as General Manager, brings a wealth of experience to his new role as owner. Having started his career as a Graduate Management Trainee in the electrical wholesale sector, Keith has successfully managed multiple locations and developed expertise in the commercial side of the industry. His leadership and vision will drive Ledburn Cables forward, building on the strong foundations laid by its founders. Reflecting on this transition, Keith expressed gratitude to those who have shaped Ledburn Cables over the years. “We wish Jack Ledwidge a long and restful retirement and remain incredibly grateful for the dedication he has shown in building such a strong and secure business. We also extend our thanks to our customers and suppliers for their unwavering support over the last 20 years. We look forward to strengthening these relationships and continuing our commitment to excellence in the years ahead.” The management buyout signals a stable and promising future for Ledburn Cables, ensuring that the company remains a key player in the industry while upholding its long-standing values of quality service and reliability. David Blagburn, Keith Hendrick and Jack Ledwidge P: 01 459 7088 E: sales@ledburncables.com Ledburn Cables Ltd. Eurohaul Business Park, Greenhills Road, Dublin 24.
18 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • www.glamox.ie CIBSE Accredited CPD Presentations Learn with Glamox and earn CPD points. We have a variety of CIBSE accredited CPD presentations available, such as ‘WELL Building Standard V2 and lighting explained’, and ‘An introduction to Dark Sky lighting’. Contact George.payas@glamox.com to register your interest. Glamox Ireland Ltd, Unit C12 The Exchange, Calmount Park, Ballymount, Dublin 12, Ireland
ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 19 IF YOUR MARKETING WAS A FUSE, IT’D BE BLOWN BY NOW. From SEO that gets you seen to ad campaigns that spark sales, we’ll ensure your digital marketing is built to handle high demand. The electrical industry is evolving – is your marketing? www.lambourndigital.com E: hi@lambourndigital.com P : +353 1 697 2237 VERSATILE & INTELLIGENT DC 24 V PROTECTION Your Benefits: Greater DC Power Protection With selective load capability and allowing greater choice for power discrimination Save up to 65% Space Due to 12.5mm slim modules Remote Access & Troubleshooting Providing real-time load status, data analysis, remote control, fault diagnosis and customisable settings +353 (0) 42 9359393 www.kempstoncontrols.ie sales@kempstoncontrols.ie
20 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • Install right or left-handed with simple onsite adjustment Detachable control panel – install up to 20m from unit Enthalpy models available for active humidity management WiFi connectivity & app control (one app for both heat pumps & ventilation) Easy-to-clean & replace filters, no tools required Very quiet & efficient operation with balanced air volume flow Enthalpy models available for active humidity management Summer bypass mode for cooling effect Enjoy package deals, extended warranty & have one service point of contact when installed with our heat pumps MVHR for easy installation sales@stiebel-eltron.ie/ventilation | 01 5143696 An ideal partner to our heat pumps, helping to maximise operating efficiency whilst providing all the benefits of clean, fresh air
ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 21 STIEBEL ELTRON Electric Panel Heaters for where the Landlord pays the Bill They are ideal for hotels, offices, bed & breakfast, student accommodation and communal areas of multioccupancy buildings. Programmed via a separate landlord control unit, users can use onboard controls to boost heat for a set limited period if the heater is currently at its setback temperature. Features Available in a range from 0.5-2kW, the heaters feature advanced controls such as open window detection to help to minimize energy wastage and reduce the need for maintenance. With an illuminated display and easy programming they ensure even distribution of heat in the room. A weekly timer offers 3 time programs and the unit can automatically calculate the required pre-heat time to reach comfort temperatures in timer mode. 10 hour buffering during power outages minimises CNS Trend NC are designed for where the user is not the bill payer. Tamper proof and Lot 20 compliant, onboard time and temperature controls can only be set by the landlord, providing the best of both worlds in terms of flexible zone control and bill management. the likelihood of reprogramming being required after power cuts. The heaters are compact and slimline to fit into any space and you can expect STIEBEL ELTRON’s usual high quality build standards including a longlasting tubular stainless steel element with steel fins. Managing director McManus explained, “These units are an established favourite with customers managing multioccupancy buildings. We regularly install thousands in new build student blocks and care homes; but they are equally useful for the communal areas of hotels and offices. If you have an area where the residents or users are not responsible for the bills, this is the convector heater of choice because it combines a robust casing and a minimal profile design with advanced energy saving controls. With a wide range of sizes it is ideal for new build and retrofit applications.” STIEBEL ELTRON offer a free design and specification service to size the heaters correctly for landlords and developers. For more information or to request a design and quote email sales@stiebel-eltron.ie, call 01 5143696. The team are also happy to welcome you to their Blanchardstown brand new head office and showroom to demonstrate products in person by prior appointment. I n dIunsdt ruys tNr ye wN es w s
22 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • www.rfe.ie NEW PRODUCTS MARCH/APRIL LAUNCH Available from RFE RFE, Unit 19 Oak Road Business Park, Dublin 12, D12 XW50 - Telephone: 014659010 - Email: sales@rfe.ie
ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 23 www.rfe.ie INTRODUCING AIR CIRCUIT BREAKERS AND AIR SWITCH DISCONNECTORS Ex9A NOW AVAILABLE FROM Ex9A series of air circuit breakers, which are designed for the protection of power distribution in high consumption environments, including industrial and commercial environments. Rated current up to 4000 A Breaking capacity up to 100 kA Fixed and withdrawable versions 3P and 4P devices Wide range of accessories Digital tripping units, all variants equipped with LCD display Variability of protection, measurement and other functions Available from RFE RFE, Unit 19 Oak Road Business Park, Dublin 12, D12 XW50 - Telephone: 014659010 - Email: sales@rfe.ie
24 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • Power Reliability – endless possibilities Solutions for high system availability For reliable and efficient operation, you need solutions consisting of surge protection, power supply, device protection, and energy monitoring. Choose Phoenix Contact, a partner who provides you with everything you need to ensure very high system availability and the efficient operation of your system. 3011418183 For additional information, visit phoenixcontact.com/power-reliability First type 2 Push-in surge protection Easy handling during installation The VAL-MS PT is the first type 2 surge protective device in the world with Push-in connection technology. Benefit from the advantages of this proven connection method for tool-free installation. Testing the recommended tightening torque is a thing of the past. For additional information, visit phoenixcontact.ie or call +353 (0) 1 2051300 INT01-21.000.L1
ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 25 LPEhDoVeAniNxCEontact Push-in contact inserts for Heavycon modular heavy-duty connectors from Phoenix Contact allow easy and tool-free conductor connections. The new contact inserts for highcurrent applications reliably transmit currents up to 100 A. With the combination option in a housing with other contact insert modules, such as for signal and data transmission, this creates an individual, space-saving plug-in connection. The demand for connectors with high nominal currents from 40 A for transmitting and storing renewable energy and supplying large data High power in a compact housing for panel mounting The Trio Power power supply for panel mounting from Phoenix Contact provides high power of up to 2.5 kW in a compact housing. With their flexible panel mounting and comprehensive functions, the robust devices can be used in a wide range of applications, such as machine building, robotics, or battery storage systems. The power supplies up to 2.5 kW are characterized by their flexible mounting on the control cabinet panel. Various mounting versions enable customized use of the devices. Both lateral attachment and mounting on the rear panel of the housing are possible. With their integrated protective functions against unexpected and harmful voltages and currents, the devices are particularly robust and reliable. Direct parallel connection with the integrated O-ring diode, allows a redundant system to be created that contributes to the security of supply for the application. In addition, a power increase of up to 10 kW is possible. Furthermore, both the static boost with 120 percent and the dynamic boost with 140 percent for 5 seconds make it easy to increase power. Series connection also makes it possible to increase the output voltage. Comprehensive monitoring enables intervention before a system fails: LED signaling, CAN bus interface, and EOL (End Of Life) reminder indicate the status of the power supply. Push-in contact inserts for heavy-duty connectors for power transmission centers is growing. Heavyduty industrial connectors are increasingly replacing conventional CEE plug-in devices. Due to the significantly lower contact resistance, the power dissipation compared to the CEE plug can be reduced, resulting in significantly lower electricity costs. In addition, HEAVYCON modular enables the combination of a wide range of transmission media in a single housing, which creates a highly compact interface. Push-in contact inserts provide a secure, toolfree power connection up to 100 A. Flexible conductors with ferrules or rigid conductors up to 16 mm² can be directly and easily inserted. The particularly compact clamping chambers of the Push-in contact inserts offer a high packing density, which was previously only possible using traditional crimp connections. The Push-in Technology ensures maximum contact and conductor pull-out forces with a vibration-resistant and gastight connection. The extensive product range features the perfect contact insert for every application.
26 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry •
ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 27 Industry News After more than four decades at the helm of Ei Electronics, Mick Guinee, the company’s founder and long-serving CEO, will step down from his role on March 31, 2025. While Mr Guinee is relinquishing his position as Chief Executive Officer, he will continue to play a key role in the company’s strategic direction as Chairman of the Board. Guinee’s leadership has been instrumental in transforming Ei Electronics from a fledgling venture into a world-class manufacturer of fire and home safety products. Under his guidance, the company, headquartered in Shannon, has expanded its global footprint, achieving over €420 million in worldwide sales and employing 1,250 people—1,000 of whom are based in Ireland. A Legacy of Excellence Continues with Incoming CEO Leo Clancy. Reflecting on his tenure, Guinee emphasised his pride in building an internationally recognised company while staying true to its Irish roots. “At the heart of our success has been our commitment to our core values of Quality, Integrity, and Respect. Above all, it is very rewarding to be manufacturing lifesafety products that have safeguarded lives in millions of homes worldwide,” he said. As Ei Electronics looks to its future, the company has announced that Leo Clancy will step in as its new CEO, effective April 1, 2025. Clancy, an experienced leader in technology and business development, previously served as CEO of Enterprise Ireland, where he played a key role in fostering innovation and international growth for Irish companies. His prior experience includes leadership positions at IDA Ireland, Ericsson, and e-net. Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Clancy stated, “I am honoured to succeed Mick Guinee as CEO of Ei Electronics. Mick’s legacy is extraordinary, and Ei is an incredible Irish success story. I look forward to working with Mick and the talented team at Ei Electronics to drive the company’s next phase of growth and innovation.” Guinee’s continued involvement as Chairman ensures a seamless transition, while Clancy’s leadership signals a new era for Ei Electronics—one that is poised to build on its legacy of excellence and global expansion. Leadership Transition at Ei Electronics: Mick Guinee Hands Over the Reins Leo Clancy, Incoming CEO Ei Electronics. Mick Guinee, Founder and Long Serving CEO of Ei Electronics.
28 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 3 High Quality Products 3 Competitive Price 3 Quick Install Design 3 Specials Available 3 BIM Drawings Available 3 Made in Ireland Manufactured to I.S. EN 61537:2007 Manufactured to I.S. EN 50085-1:2005 34 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • TRUNKING Specify & Install LSN’s Safe Edge IP4X Lid Part ID Integral Coupler rtyuiExcel Works, Bluebell Avenue Dublin 12 Phone: 01 4500600 Fax: 01 4602178 sales@excelelectric.ie www.excelelectric.ie Certified to ISO 9001:2008 and EMDA Quality Charter MADE IN IRELAND Features • Returned Safe-Edge Bodies • Integral Couplers & Fish Plate • Only 2 Fastenings needed for Quick Coupling • IP4X Interlock Lid • Possibility to Torque Guarantees Electrical Continuity • Part Number ID Specifications • Manufactured to I.S. EN 50085-1:2005 • Material Hot Dip Galvanised to EN 10346:2009 • High LEED Certification Rating Benefits • Competive Price, High Quality Ex-Factory Service • Quick Install Design • Specials Available • BIM Drawings Available • Made and Stocked in Ireland 34 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • Specify & Install LSN’s Safe Edge IP4X Lid Part ID Integral Coupler Excel Works, Bluebell Avenue Dublin 12 Phone: 01 4500600 Fax: 01 4602178 sales@excelelectric.ie www.excelelectric.ie Certified to ISO 9001:2008 and EMDA Quality Charter MADE IN IRELAND Features • Returned Safe-Edge Bodies • Integral Couplers & Fish Plate • Only 2 Fastenings needed for Quick Coupling • IP4X Interlock Lid • Possibility to Torque Guarantees Electrical Continuity • Part Number ID Specifications • Manufactured to I.S. EN 50085-1:2005 • Material Hot Dip Galvanised to EN 10346:2009 • High LEED Certification Rating Benefits • Competive Price, High Quality Ex-Factory Service • Quick Install Design • Specials Available • BIM Drawings Available • Made and Stocked in Ireland 34 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • TRUNKING Specify & Install LSN’s Safe Edge IP4X Lid Part ID Integral Coupler rtyuiExcel Works, Bluebell Avenue Dublin 12 Phone: 01 4500600 Fax: 01 4602178 sales@excelelectric.ie www.excelelectric.ie Certified to ISO 9001:2008 and EMDA Quality Charter MADE IN IRELAND Features • Returned Safe-Edge Bodies • Integral Couplers & Fish Plate • Only 2 Fastenings needed for Quick Coupling • IP4X Interlock Lid • Possibility to Torque Guarantees Electrical Continuity • Part Number ID Specifications • Manufactured to I.S. EN 50085-1:2005 • Material Hot Dip Galvanised to EN 10346:2009 • High LEED Certification Rating Benefits • Competive Price, High Quality Ex-Factory Service • Quick Install Design • Specials Available • BIM Drawings Available • Made and Stocked in Ireland TRUNKI Specify & Install LSN’s Safe Edge IP4X Lid Part ID Int Co MADE IN IRE TRUNKING LSN’s Integral Coupler rtyui MADE IN IRELAND Excel W Phone: 01 4500600 Fax: 01 Certified to ISO Features • Returned Safe-Edge Bodies • Integral Couplers & Fish Plate • Only 2 Fastenings needed for Quick Coupling • Possibility to Torque Guarantees Electrical Continuity • Part Number ID Specify & Install a ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 35 TRUNKING CABLE TRAY MADE IN IRELAND Safe Edge Part ID LSN’s Integral Coupler i MADE IN IRELAND Excel Works, Bluebell Avenue Dublin 12 Phone: 01 4500600 Fax: 01 4602178 sales@excelelectric.ie www.excelelectric.ie Certified to ISO 9001:2008 and EMDA Quality Charter Features • Returned Safe-Edge Bodies • Integral Couplers & Fish Plate • Only 2 Fastenings needed for Quick Coupling • Possibility to Torque Guarantees Electrical Continuity • Part Number ID Specify & Install Specifications • Manufactured to I.S. EN 61537:2007 • Material Hot Dip Galvanised to EN 10346:2009 • High LEED Certification Rating Benefits • Competive Price, High Quality Ex-Factory Service • Quick Install Design • Specials Available • BIM Drawings Available • Made and Stocked in Ireland Excel Works, Bluebell Avenue, Dublin 12, D12 YK10 Phone: 01 4500600 E-Mail: sales@excelelectric.ie Web: www.excelelectric.ie a EN 10346:2015 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 35 CABLE TRAY MADE IN IRELAND Safe Edge Part ID LSN’s Integral Coupler Excel Works, Bluebell Avenue Dublin 12 Phone: 01 4500600 Fax: 01 4602178 sales@excelelectric.ie www.excelelectric.ie Certified to ISO 9001:2008 and EMDA Quality Charter Features • Returned Safe-Edge Bodies • Integral Couplers & Fish Plate • Only 2 Fastenings needed for Quick Coupling • Possibility to Torque Guarantees Electrical Continuity • Part Number ID Specify & Install Specifications • Manufactured to I.S. EN 61537:2007 • Material Hot Dip Galvanised to EN 10346:2009 • High LEED Certification Rating Benefits • Competive Price, High Quality Ex-Factory Service • Quick Install Design • Specials Available • BIM Drawings Available • Made and Stocked in Ireland Excel Works, Bluebell Avenue, Dublin 12, D12 YK10 Phone: 01 4500600 E-Mail: sales@excelelectric.ie Web: www.excelelectric.ie a EN 10346:2015 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 35 CABLE TRAY MADE IN IRELAND Safe Edge Part ID LSN’s Integral Coupler Excel Works, Bluebell Avenue Dublin 12 Phone: 01 4500600 Fax: 01 4602178 sales@excelelectric.ie www.excelelectric.ie Certified to ISO 9001:2008 and EMDA Quality Charter Features • Returned Safe-Edge Bodies • Integral Couplers & Fish Plate • Only 2 Fastenings needed for Quick Coupling • Possibility to Torque Guarantees Electrical Continuity • Part Number ID Specify & Install Specifications • Manufactured to I.S. EN 61537:2007 • Material Hot Dip Galvanised to EN 10346:2009 • High LEED Certification Rating Benefits • Competive Price, High Quality Ex-Factory Service • Quick Install Design • Specials Available • BIM Drawings Available • Made and Stocked in Ireland Excel Works, Bluebell Avenue, Dublin 12, D12 YK10 Phone: 01 4500600 E-Mail: sales@excelelectric.ie Web: www.excelelectric.ie EN 10346:2015 ELECTRIC.IE • The Magazine & Website for the Irish Electrical Industry • 35 CABLE TRAY MADE IN IRELAND Safe Edge Part ID N’s ral er Excel Works, Bluebell Avenue Dublin 12 1 4500600 Fax: 01 4602178 sales@excelelectric.ie www.excelelectric.ie Certified to ISO 9001:2008 and EMDA Quality Charter es fe-Edge Bodies plers & Fish Plate nings needed for ng Torque Guarantees ntinuity ID Specifications • Manufactured to I.S. EN 61537:2007 • Material Hot Dip Galvanised to EN 10346:2009 • High LEED Certification Rating Benefits • Competive Price, High Quality Ex-Factory Service • Quick Install Design • Specials Available • BIM Drawings Available • Made and Stocked in Ireland Excel Works, Bluebell Avenue, Dublin 12, D12 YK10 Phone: 01 4500600 E-Mail: sales@excelelectric.ie Web: www.excelelectric.ie a EN 10346:2015 Material Hot Dip Galvanised to EN 10346:2015 TRUNKING C M Safe Edge Integral Coupler MADE IN IRELAND Specify & Install • Returned Safe-Edge Bodies • Integral Couplers & Fish Plate • Only 2 Fastenings needed for Quick Coupling • Possibility to Torque Guarantees Electrical Continuity • Part Number ID • Returned Safe-Edge Bodies • Integral Couplers & Fish Plate • IP4X Interlock Lid • Only 2 Fastenings needed for Quick Coupling • Possibility to Torque Guarantees Electrical Continuity • Part Number ID Specify & Install TRUNKING & CABLE TRAY kewtechcorp.com KT66DL Now with a FREE KEWEVA testing adapter. ● Includes KT66DL & KEWEVA adapter ● RCD Type B, EV & 6mA ● Low current 3 & 2 wire loop tests ● High current 25A 0.001 ohm range KT65DL ● High performance loop testing ● Selectable Max Zs tables for MCBs & fuses ● Earth Electrode testing ● PAT testing facility with download Offers end 31st October 2024. For faster, simpler and safer testing. The market's comprehensive MFT with EV testing. Industrial MFT complete with Earth Electrode testing facility. REQUEST A QUOTE REQUEST A QUOTE SCAN TO SCAN TO Excel Works, Bluebell Avenue, Dublin 12, D12 YK10 Phone: 01 4500600 E-Mail: sales@excelelctric.ie Web: www.excelelectric.ie kewtechcorp.com KT66DL Now with a FREE KEWEVA testing adapter. ● Includes KT66DL & KEWEVA adapter ● RCD Type B, EV & 6mA ● Low current 3 & 2 wire loop tests ● High current 25A 0.001 ohm range KT65DL ● High performance loop testing ● Selectable Max Zs tables for MCBs & fuses ● Earth Electrode testing ● PAT testing facility with download Offers end 31st October 2024. or faster, simpler and safer testing. e market's comprehensive MFT with EV testing. dustrial MFT complete with Earth Electrode testing facility. REQUEST A QUOTE REQUEST A QUOTE SCAN TO SCAN TO Excel Works, Bluebell Avenue, Dublin 12, D12 YK10 Phone: 01 4500600 E-Mail: sales@excelelctric.ie Web: www.excelelectric.ie MADE IN IRELAND
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mzk5MjA=