BT's Innovative Approach to Electric Vehicle Charging

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【Summary】BT is conducting trials to convert its street cabinets into electric vehicle (EV) charging points, aiming to expand the charging footprint and repurpose existing infrastructure. The challenges include location, planning, and charging issues. This initiative addresses the lack of EV charging points in the UK and may be a viable solution, particularly for terraced housing with limited off-road parking.

FutureCar Staff Aug 15, 2023 9:29 AM PT

BT's Innovative Approach to Electric Vehicle Charging

BT has announced plans to convert its street cabinets into electric vehicle (EV) charging points as part of a technical and commercial pilot. The aim is to assess the feasibility of expanding the EV charging network while repurposing cabinets that are currently used for phone and internet services. The move comes as BT accelerates its transition from copper-based to full-fibre communications.

However, there are several challenges that need to be addressed. These include the location of the cabinets, planning issues, and both electric and financial charging concerns. The existing green boxes that people see on the streets will need to be upgraded to accommodate the charging infrastructure. There is also the issue of parking availability, as a charging point in front of a house may not be accessible if someone else has already taken the parking space. Furthermore, engineering works will be required to connect the cabinets to the road, which could cause further disruption during a time when people are already frustrated by ongoing fibre roll-out projects.

BT's initiative to repurpose street cabinets demonstrates its commitment to achieving its net zero goals. The company aims to achieve net zero emissions in its own operations by March 2031 and in its supply chain by March 2041. BT already sources 100% renewable electricity.

In addition to addressing the lack of EV charging points across the country, the pilot project may offer a viable solution for terraced housing areas that date back to the Victorian and Edwardian eras. These areas often lack off-road parking, making it challenging for residents to charge their EVs at home.

Rob Pritchard, a principal analyst at GlobalData, praised BT's innovative approach, stating that reusing existing street furniture can repurpose legacy infrastructure and expand charging availability. This is particularly important as the UK government aims to increase the number of charging points from 45,000 to 300,000 by 2030, in line with the ban on sales of new vehicles powered by internal combustion engines.

The trial not only addresses the lack of EV charging points but also helps alleviate range anxiety, a key concern for potential EV buyers.