What electrical contractors are seeing more of — and how to prepare
As electrification, energy management, and connected systems continue to shape the electrical industry, contractors are seeing real changes on jobsites — not just in product demand, but in scope, planning, and expectations.
Rather than predicting trends, many contractors look to industry research, trade organizations, and job demand to understand where the work is heading next. Based on that research — and what’s already showing up in bids and inspections — here are five product categories shaping jobsites in 2026, and why they’re worth paying attention to.
1. EV chargers & EV-rated protection devices
Electric vehicle infrastructure continues to expand beyond specialty installs. According to global energy and transportation research, EV adoption has surpassed 20 million vehicles worldwide, driving consistent demand for charging infrastructure across residential, multifamily, and commercial projects.
Industry outlooks heading into 2026 point to smarter charging and energy management, which means EV installs increasingly involve more than just the charger. Contractors are factoring in compatible breakers, disconnects, protection devices, and load management as part of the full scope.
Why contractors are seeing more of this
- EV chargers are becoming standard line items, not optional upgrades
- Load planning and protection are critical to passing inspections
- Charging infrastructure often leads to panel or service upgrades
Available at City Electric Supply (CES)
CES carries Level 2 EV charging stations, smart chargers, accessories, and EV-rated protection devices, including hardwired and plug-in options from manufacturers such as Wallbox and ChargePoint.
2. Load centers & advanced circuit protection
(AFCIs, GFCIs, and Plug-On Neutrals)
As buildings require more electrical demand, contractors are encountering situations where older panels and standard protection no longer meet job requirements. According to grid modernization and distributed energy research (DER), modern electrical systems require more advanced load management and protection — especially as EVs, renewables, and retrofits become more common.
That shift is driving demand for updated load centers and advanced breakers designed to support today’s codes and install expectations.
Why contractors are seeing more of this
- Faster installs with modern panel designs
- Greater focus on safety and compliance
- Increased retrofit and service upgrade work
Available at City Electric Supply (CES)
CES stocks load centers, panelboards, AFCI and GFCI breakers, and plug-on neutral breakers from leading manufacturers, supporting both new construction and service upgrade projects.
3. Smart lighting & wireless control systems
Lighting systems continue to evolve beyond fixtures alone. Industry research around smart commercial buildings and energy efficiency shows that connected lighting and wireless controls are increasingly expected — particularly in new construction and retrofit environments.
Wireless systems can reduce conduit runs, operation disruptions, and simplify future changes, making them a practical option on many jobsites rather than a specialty request.
Why contractors are seeing more of this
- Faster installs on retrofit projects
- Lighting controls tied to energy performance goals
- Increased customer interest in smart building features
Available at City Electric Supply (CES)
CES offers a broad selection of LED lighting fixtures, sensors, dimmers, and wireless lighting control systems that contractors can specify or need to restock for everyday jobs.
4. Solar-ready & renewable energy components
(Inverters, Racking, & Storage)
According to clean energy market research, renewable energy and storage are becoming part of broader electrification and resilience conversations — even when contractors aren’t performing full solar installs.
Electricians are often involved in the supporting infrastructure with disconnects, combiners, inverters, racking, PV cable, and storage preparation. These components increasingly intersect with the traditional electrical scope.
Why contractors are seeing more of this
- Customers asking about backup power and future-ready systems
- Sustainability requirements showing up in specs
- Renewable systems driving service and panel upgrades
Available at City Electric Supply (CES)
CES carries solar inverters, PV cable, battery storage components, and racking hardware that integrate into larger electrical projects.
5. Pro-grade tools & advanced testers
As electrical systems become more integrated, industry best-practice guidance continues to emphasize accurate diagnostics, verification, and documentation. Advanced meters, testers, and diagnostic tools support safer installs and faster troubleshooting — especially on jobs involving EVs, renewables, and smart controls.
Why contractors are seeing more of this
- Reduced callbacks through better diagnostics
- Increased documentation requirements on commercial jobs
- Tools that support accuracy across complex systems
Available at City Electric Supply (CES)
CES stocks professional-grade tools, meters, and testers from trusted brands, including Milwaukee, Klein, and Southwire.
