Investment is needed to create climate resilient EV infrastructure

Bad weather poses challenges to EV drivers and chargepoint operators, says Schneider Electric’s David Pownall

Snow days create significant pressure on the UK’s electricity infrastructure. Cold weather drives up energy demand and increases the risk of faults, exposing potential weaknesses across the network. 

For drivers, this pressure is often felt most clearly at the charging point. In these conditions, driver confidence is critical. Drivers are less concerned with who operators a charger but whether it is working, accessible, and accurately reported on - without clear, real-time information, uncertainty over charger reliability can quickly undermine trust in EV travel.  

This places a stronger spotlight on chargepoint operators and local authorities, as they collectively shape the public charging experience. Recent FOI data suggests many councils lack full, real-time data visibility over the operational status of chargepoints in their areas – highlighting the need for better connectivity and data sharing across the charging ecosystem. During severe weather, gaps in visibility can leave drivers uncertain about where they can charge. 

At the same time, charging point operators, who own and operate the majority of public chargers, face their own challenges in maintaining availability during cold conditions. Remote monitoring, smart charging, and predictive maintenance are essential to identifying issues early and minimising disruption, particularly on high-traffic and long-distance routes.

Charging infrastructure also depends on the wider energy system. System operators face increased pressure as cold weather drives up electricity demand while networks are more exposed to disruption. Maintaining grid stability while supporting EV charging requires accurate demand forecasting, automation, and coordinated investment across the grid.

Without ongoing investment into grid resilience and digitalisation, extreme weather will continue to put pressure on the UK’s EV infrastructure.

David Pownall is vice president, power systems at Schneider Electric