Voltimum Plus launch partner Schneider Electric’s vision for the Sustainable Home of the Future is one that connects the lifeline of homes – electricity – with digital. Here, Tom Gillam, Electrician Channel Manager, UK & Ireland, Home & Distribution Division, discusses smart technology and the importance of training and development to utilise this technology to its full potential.
What trends have you witnessed in the electrical industry over the last year in terms of the work contractors are doing and the products they’re seeking?
One of the most significant changes over the last year has been the rise of connected technology, especially in the residential sector. In the UK today, over 29 million households use some form of smart technology. With more of us at home than ever, smart heating solutions such as Wiser have been in high demand.
The other key trend impacting contractors has been in the interest of sustainability. Our research highlighted how 9 in 10 Brits regard energy efficiency and energy savings as the most important factor when carrying out home improvements.
While electricians play a key role in installing the smart products, they now must also be able to showcase and explain the benefits they bring. These include providing increased control and flexibility, as well as cutting bills and meeting aesthetic requirements.
As a business that champions sustainability, what evolution of technology in the electrical sector do you expect to see over the next 1/5/10 years? What role will the industry play in reaching Net Zero targets and what do contractors need to be clued up on to play their part?
To meet 2050 targets, net-zero homes must become a reality soon. With EV charging, the electrification of heat, and increased domestic occupancy ongoing trends, electrical consumption is set to dramatically increase. Smart efficient energy management will be more important than ever to ensure homes are sustainably powered and intelligent enough to optimise their own energy needs, without compromising on comfort.
Schneider Electric’s vision for the Sustainable Home of the Future is one that connects the lifeline of homes – electricity – with digital. By connecting all the elements under one system, you can create a truly efficient home.
Electrical contractors must use the rise of smart homes to their advantage. The opportunities to sell, install and maintain the products are going nowhere. Education and training is vital to ensure that products are installed correctly and homeowners can reap the benefits now and into the future.
Training and development plays an important role for all those in the industry, but the landscape has shifted somewhat from traditional face-to-face classroom-based training to more digital options. What importance do you place on the likes of webinars, e-learning and virtual events?
Installing new technology requires specific skills. Training programmes are needed to help electrical contractors understand the new components and future potential of home automation. The positive news is that these courses exist and are being created to cause minimal disruption to a normal working schedule.
Schneider Electric’s Wiser Approved Installer training programme is one such solution. Electricians will learn about the features and benefits of the Wiser smart heating system, as well as how to install and configure it. By completing this type of training, electrical contractors will be able to achieve efficient installations, effectively demonstrate value to customers, and give customers confidence in their ‘approved’ abilities.
You are a founding partner of the Voltimum Plus rewards programme. Why did you spearhead this initiative and what benefits does it offer contactors? What makes it stand out from other loyalty schemes?
We’re excited to be a part of the Voltimum Plus rewards programme, alongside other key electrical wholesalers and manufacturers in the industry. The new programme is a great incentive for electricians to try new products and training initiatives, while reaping countless rewards.
Together, we are supporting electricians of the future and providing them with reliable products and expertise that are critical building blocks to their career.
Voltimum Plus
For more information about the Voltimum Plus rewards programme, as well as details of eligible products, rewards and learning opportunities, please visit the website.