• Shower
  • Kitchen
  • External house Lights
  • St Faiths Church Maidstone Lighting

ETE Electrical Contractors Attend ECA South East Business Day 2025

ETE Electrical Contractors Attend ECA South East Business Day 2025

ETE Electrical Contractors were pleased to attend the ECA South East Business Day, held this November — an event bringing together electrical and electrotechnical professionals from across the region to discuss innovation, standards and the future of the industry.

Driving Forward Clean Energy & Net Zero

The day featured presentations from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, highlighting the UK government’s Clean Energy Jobs Plan and Solar Roadmap. With the clean-energy transition forecast to more than double the number of electricians required by 2030, the message was clear: the electrical industry will play a central role in delivering the UK’s net-zero goals. Over 8,000 additional jobs are expected through these initiatives.

Technical Updates – BS 5839 Fire Detection and Alarm Systems, BS 5266  Emergency Lighting

The ECA Technical Team provided valuable insights into key standard updates:

  • Updates to BS 5839‑1:2025 (fire detection & alarm systems) — including new labelling requirements for ARC-connected systems.

  • Important forthcoming changes to BS 5266-1:2025 (emergency lighting) — a major refresh of the code of practice for emergency lighting in premises.

What You Need to Know About BS 5266-1:2025

  • The standard was publish in October 2025. 

  • It provides updated guidance on the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of emergency lighting systems in commercial/non-domestic premises. 

  • Changes reflect advances in technology and building use — for example:

    • A greater emphasis on energy-efficient emergency lighting systems and sustainable solutions. 

    • Updated guidance for “mixed-use” buildings, complex escape routes and dynamic lighting scenarios (e.g., where occupants may remain in the building during an event). 

  • The continuing requirement for rigorous testing and maintenance remains. Monthly functional tests, annual full-duration tests, and thorough logbook record-keeping are reiterated. 

For ETE Electrical Contractors and our clients, this means:

  • Reviewing existing emergency lighting systems now to plan any upgrade work ahead of publication of the new standard.

  • Ensuring that the specification of new installations takes into account future-proof features (LED, auto-test capabilities, energy-efficient controllers).

  • Updating maintenance schedules, inspector training and documentation to align with the forthcoming standard.

  • During risk assessments, paying particular attention to high-risk escape routes, areas of high occupancy, or complex building uses — all of which are emphasised in the revised BS 5266-1.

Supporting Professional Growth

The event also showcased the benefits of ECA membership — from technical support to training and business-development opportunities. It was an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow contractors, manufacturers and industry experts — sharing knowledge and exploring the future of clean energy, safety and sustainable installations.

Looking Ahead

As ETE Electrical Contractors continue to expand our expertise in fire-alarm, energy-efficiency and renewable installations, attending events like the ECA South East Business Day helps us stay at the forefront of industry developments and maintain the high standards our clients expect. With standards like BS 5839-1:2025 and BS 5266-1:2025 on the horizon, contractors who act early will be best-placed to deliver compliant, future-proof solutions.