NEWS & APPOINTMENTS


HIU Test Standard update drives higher performance and support heat network regulation


The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has announced an important update to its UK Heat Interface Unit (HIU) Test Standard, further strengthening performance benchmarks and supporting the sector’s readiness for incoming heat network regulation. Version 3.1 of the BESA HIU Test Standard builds on the success of


previous editions, which have made a positive contribution to the consumer experience, improving the services of residential heat networks, and reducing carbon emission. The V3.1 standard represents another step forward for HIU performance across the sector. The changes are aligned with BESA’s core mission to improve the performance of


residential HIUs and come at a critical time as the industry prepares for the introduction of the Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS), which is expected to require HIUs to meet the BESA HIU Test Regime or an equivalent standard. HIUs are a key component in heat networks, directly influencing system efficiency,


energy use, and the experience of building occupants and consumers. The latest update to the BESA standard introduces new pass-fail criteria for indirect space heating performance, including average temperature and mix down temperature stability. In addition, updates to pass thresholds and best practice values will drive improvements


in product design and specification, helping to ensure better outcomes for consumers and more efficient heat network operation.


A detailed changelog will accompany the update, providing full transparency and enabling manufacturers and specifiers to clearly understand the enhancements introduced in Version 3.1. The timing of the update reflects the growing importance of heat networks within the UK’s decarbonisation strategy and the need for consistent, reliable performance standards. With HNTAS set to introduce stricter requirements across the sector, the BESA HIU Test Standard provides a proven, independently verified framework that supports compliance while helping the industry adapt to a more regulated environment. BESA is also supporting industry readiness through its dedicated HNTAS training


programme, designed to help stakeholders understand and prepare for the new requirements, with further training and guidance set to be rolled out over the summer. Kevin Morrissey, director of technical at BESA and chair of the HIU Steering Committee


(Pictured) said: “Version 3.1 represents a significant step forward for the HIU market. Whilst it retains many of the major changes and updates that were including in the V3 standard published in 2023, the revised performance thresholds and introduction of best practice values contained in V3.1 focusses on the needs of network consumers and operators, whilst recognising the steps manufacturers are taking through product development.”


Appointments


Ferroli UK appoints managing director


Ferroli UK has announced the appointment of Tony Rossetti as its new managing director, signalling a strong focus on commercial growth and market expansion. Tony joins the business following almost 10 years as country manager for Scotland and Northern Ireland at Ideal Boilers, where he held full regional P&L responsibility and delivered sustained growth. During his tenure, he increased regional turnover from under £20 million to over £30 million and secured major long-term agreements, including the Scottish Government’s Fuel Poverty contract. With extensive experience across social housing, local authorities, housing developers,


merchants and installer networks, Tony brings a strong track record of driving structured growth strategies, building senior stakeholder relationships and delivering disciplined financial performance. In his new role, Tony will lead Ferroli UK’s next phase of development, with a focus


on strengthening distribution partnerships, supporting installers, enhancing service performance and driving sustainable market share growth. Commenting on his appointment, Tony said: “Ferroli has a proud heritage and clear potential in the UK heating market. My focus will be on building strong commercial partnerships, supporting our customers and ensuring we deliver consistent performance across every part of the business.”


BCIA announces new President and Vice President


Government to make ‘plug-in solar’ available within months


More households will be helped to save money on bills through plug-in solar panels as the government late last month vowed to go further and faster on clean energy in response to conflict in the Middle East. The rollout of “plug-in” solar panels (low-cost panels that families can put on their balconies or outdoor space) expects to see them available in shops within months.


Retailers like Lidl and Iceland, alongside manufacturers such as EcoFlow, are working with government to enable them to be brought to the UK market. Plug-in solar is already widely used by households across Europe, with Germany seeing


around half a million new devices plugged in per year. The free solar power can be used directly through a mains socket like any other device, without an installation cost, thereby reducing the amount of electricity taken from the grid and cutting energy bills.


The easy-to-install technology could save many households significant amounts on their


energy bills and help make the UK less reliant on global fossil fuel markets. This is alongside new rules now coming into force implementing the Future Homes Standard, which includes common-sense measures to ensure the majority of new homes are built cheaper to run, with solar panels and clean heating as standard. The government believes these measures on new homes could save families up to £830 a year on their energy bills, compared to a standard home with an EPC rating of C. This will ensure they are more comfortable and affordable – and create at least 75% less carbon emissions than those built to the 2013 standards. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband (Pictured) said: “The government is determined to fight people’s corner in this crisis, which is why we have acted to prevent unfair practices like price gouging and provided immediate help for the most vulnerable facing spiralling heating oil prices. “The Iran War has once again shown our drive for clean power is essential for our energy security so we can escape the grip of fossil fuel markets we don’t control. “Whether through solar panels fitted as standard on new homes or making it possible for people to purchase plug-in solar in shops, we are determined to roll out clean power so we can give our country energy sovereignty.”


The Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) has announced that Jen Vickers has been appointed as its new President, with Ron Purcell taking on the role of Vice President. Jen succeeds Stacey Lucas, who has served as BCIA President for the past two years, helping to strengthen the association’s voice within the building services and wider built environment sector. Jen Vickers has worked for Crown House Technologies, part of Laing O’Rourke, since 2015 and brings significant industry experience to the role. She has served as BCIA Vice President for the past two years and has been actively involved in a number of key initiatives aimed at strengthening the future of the sector. These include helping to launch the BCIA Young Engineers Network (YEN) and establishing it as a formal working group within the Association, as well as supporting the development of the Building Controls apprenticeship programme, which is helping to build a pipeline of new talent entering the industry. Taking on the role, Jen said: “I would like to recognise the outstanding contribution Stacey has made during her presidency. Thanks to her leadership and the work of the wider BCIA community, the Association is in a strong position as we look to the future. Building controls sits at the centre of how modern buildings perform, and over the coming years my focus will be on raising awareness of our industry, strengthening skills and training pathways, and ensuring BCIA membership continues to deliver real value for our members.”


Jen will work closely with new BCIA Vice President Ron Purcell as the Association continues to champion the role of building controls across the built environment. Ron said: “I’m delighted to be stepping into the role of Vice President and supporting Jen and the Association. The building controls sector has a critical role to play in improving building performance and delivering more sustainable, energy-efficient buildings, and I look forward to working with the BCIA team and our members to help drive the industry forward.”


New chief executive at Swegon


Eva Karlsson has been appointed as chief executive of Swegon Group as of March 2026. She has served as interim chief since February 1, 2026. “With Eva’s long industrial experience and leadership skills, we


are pleased that she has accepted the role of CEO of Swegon Group. With a deep understanding of Swegon’s culture and values, Eva brings stability and clarity as she navigates Swegon into the future”, says Heléne Mellquist, incoming chairwoman of the Swegon Board. “I am honoured and excited to take on this role and lead Swegon into its next chapter.


We are on an exciting journey grounded in innovation, sustainability and a unique systems approach. With a skilled and dedicated team across Swegon, we will continue to accelerate what is already in motion to create long-term, sustainable growth”, says Eva Karlsson, CEO of Swegon Group.


Eva has extensive experience in leading international industrial firms and has successfully developed the Business Area Air Handling, Cooling & Heating at Swegon. Before joining Swegon in 2022, she worked as CEO at Armatec, spent 25 years at SKF in executive roles within manufacturing, product and business development, among others, and she has also served as a Board member at Assa Abloy, part of Investment AB Latour’s investment portfolio. Eva will remain vice president of business area air handling, cooling & heating until a successor is appointed.


4 BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER APRIL 2026


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