June 2013 www.eca.co.uk Features


24 HOTTING UP The government’s Renewable Heat Initiative scheme off ers electrical contractors new opportunities for business – so what do you need to know to get involved?


27 BURNING ISSUES Following the inquest into tragic fi re deaths at Lakanal House in London in 2009, we examine the new BAFE SP205 scheme and how it might have prevented such a tragedy.


29 LEADING THE WAY How three long-standing members of the ECA are growing their businesses in a variety of sectors – making the most of the association’s services and expertise.


COVER STORY


37 COUNTDOWN TO THE ELECTRIC EVENT The ECA’s exciting, all-new industry event opens its doors later this month, promising an unmissable experience. Find out what’s happening, to help you plan your visit.


44 DON’T MIX AND MATCH We highlight the potential dangers of mixing devices or components of one manufacturer with the system infrastructure of another.


46 SHEDDING LIGHT With energy bills rising and the need to reduce carbon emissions growing, LED lighting is becoming increasingly popular – and ECA members are in a strong position to benefi t.


54 AFTER THE GOLD RUSH With the heady days of the FITs-fuelled solar photovoltaic boom fast receding, is the current market buoyant enough for electrical contractors to build a sustainable business?


58 MODEL ANSWERS As BIM becomes increasingly important for the design and construction process, we explore the latest on what electrical contractors should know – and do – to prepare for it.


ECA membership is much more than simply getting a badge – it says to our customers that we operate to the highest possible standards


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June 2013 ECA Today 5


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