BT Group has embarked on an innovative project to transform old green street cabinets into electric vehicle (EV) charging points. These metal cabinets, historically used for broadband and phone cabling, are nearing the end of their useful life. In a pioneering initiative, BT plans to repurpose them to help address the growing need for EV charging infrastructure.

A pilot program set to begin in Scotland will mark the launch of this ambitious project. BT aims to convert up to 60,000 cabinets across the UK. This move is in response to the significant demand for more EV charging points, as the current concentration is primarily in London, leaving other areas underserved.

This initiative is seen as a strategic response to the challenges faced by electric car users, particularly the shortage of charging ports and reliability issues. The project is designed to be scalable and could significantly impact the UK’s transition to electric vehicles.

Both active and decommissioned cabinets are suitable for conversion. The existing technology in these cabinets, soon to be obsolete due to the rollout of full-fibre broadband, will be replaced with devices allowing the sharing of renewable energy to the charging points. The cabinets are already connected to power sources, facilitating this transition.

Each cabinet will be fitted with a charging point offering two charging sockets. Importantly, these installations will include a battery backup to ensure no disruption to existing broadband services.

The first of these charging points will be established in East Lothian, with further expansions planned across the UK in the coming months.

Tom Guy, CEO of Etc., the start-up and digital incubation arm of BT Group, described the initiative as a critical step in overcoming barriers faced by EV users. The project aligns with BT’s broader commitment to connecting communities and addressing practical customer issues.

Industry experts, including Stuart Masson from The Car Expert, have lauded the initiative for its efficient use of existing infrastructure and potential to extend charging facilities to residential areas, including smaller towns and villages.

The Department for Transport has expressed support for such private sector initiatives, highlighting the significant growth in public charging points across the country.

The announcement, made at an international tech trade show in Las Vegas, has already garnered attention, with BT receiving an innovation award for outstanding design and engineering at the Consumer Electronics Show. This project marks a significant step towards expanding EV charging infrastructure and supporting the UK’s shift towards sustainable transportation.