September 9th is World EV Day

World EV Day, now in its fourth year, brings together businesses, individuals, policymakers, and thought leaders to further the global e-mobility cause.

The transition to sustainable transport is the day’s focus, which is devoted to sustainable e-mobility. This year's messaging asks organisations, decision-makers, and people worldwide how they will #DriveChange to help the transition to a decarbonised society this year.

What is ECA doing? 

ECA is driving home the message to policy makers and education providers that core electrical skills are vital to the safe installation of EV Charging Points. Without competent people to install new technology there is a danger of grid outages or electrical fires. These have potential for huge disruption and, at worst, could cost lives. 

Andrew Eldred, Director of Workforce and Public Affairs commented:

“Completing an electrical apprenticeship, or equivalent qualifying route such as NVQ or experienced worker assessment, is a necessary precondition for competence in the installation of EV charge points but is not on its own sufficient.

"CPD and upskilling training for qualified electricians has always been important. With increased regulatory demand, it is even more so. Together with the new business opportunities, in particular the move to net zero, upskilling is vital”.

Luke Osborne, Energy & Emerging Technologies Solutions Advisor added:

“The race is on to achieve the Government’s target of 300,000 charge points by 2030, when the sale of new petrol and diesel cars will be banned. But there is a shortage of appropriately upskilled electricians to install the necessary infrastructure.

"Unscrupulous firms are taking advantage of the skills shortage.  Low-cost installations that seem too good to be true, probably are. By ignoring vital safety standards, some contractors are cutting corners, putting everyone in danger. To prevent a future tragedy, safety must be front and centre of every EV charge point installation”.