Police team up with experts to fight cable thefts.

A groundbreaking initiative has been launched to tackle the issue of charging cable vandalism, setting a new standard for security measures in the UK. The National charging network, Be.EV, has joined forces with Derbyshire Police and EV charging space specialist, Formula Space, to combat charger vandalism in Chesterfield and ensure the safety and availability of charging locations.

The innovative ‘Charging Hub Intelligent Protection’ (CHIP) initiative has been introduced in response to a recent surge in cable thefts in the town. This initiative includes a range of security updates at the 85 Saltergate charging hub, setting the stage for future Be.EV ultra-rapid charging locations. The aim is to encourage the wider industry to adopt similar security features to safeguard the UK’s charging network from criminal damage.

Charging cable theft poses a significant problem for charge point operators nationwide, costing the industry over £500,000 in replacement, repair, and lost income. The CHIP scheme is a proactive response to this issue, incorporating a mobile CCTV system that is monitored 24/7, along with a tannoy system to deter criminal activity.

One of the key security features of the CHIP scheme is the implementation of SelectaDNA protected cables, each coated with a unique DNA marker. This innovative technology allows the police to trace the origin of stolen cables, link them to a perpetrator, and hold vandals accountable for their actions.

These enhanced security measures introduced at the Chesterfield hub will become standard practice at all future Be.EV locations, serving as a model for the industry to follow. Adrian Fielden-Gray, the COO of Be.EV, emphasised the importance of combating cable theft to maintain a positive charging experience for drivers:

“Cable theft is a significant concern for everyone, particularly drivers. Discovering a cut charging cable is frustrating and disruptive. It serves no purpose other than to inconvenience users. Our priority is to ensure that criminals think twice before targeting charging sites, ultimately safeguarding the EV charging infrastructure and enhancing the overall customer experience.”

PCSO Emma Shimwell from Derbyshire Police echoed the sentiment, stressing the need for collaboration between charge point operators and law enforcement to implement robust security measures. By deploying systems such as CCTV surveillance, cable DNA tracking, and continuous security monitoring, opportunistic thieves are deterred and the likelihood of criminal prosecution is increased.

The launch of the CHIP initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing the security and resilience of EV charging infrastructure across the UK. By combining technological innovation with strategic partnerships, Be.EV, Derbyshire Police, and Formula Space are paving the way for a more secure and efficient charging network. It is imperative for the industry to unite in the fight against vandalism and theft, ensuring that charging sites remain safe and accessible for all drivers.