Why cold snaps throw snowball effect of problems at EV drivers

Extreme weather has become an annual enemy of energy infrastructure, with the associated risks well known.

However, there is a warning that as extreme cold and snow hits with increasing regularity, it is putting particular strain on electric vehicle infrastructure, and indeed confidence among EV drivers.

As Storm Goretti currently batters parts of Europe, leaving thousands of people without power, David Pownall, Vice-President of Power Systems at Schneider Electric, says: “Snow days create significant pressure on 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.”

Pownall says that in extreme cold weather conditions, “driver confidence is critical. Drivers are less concerned with who operates 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, he says, places a stronger spotlight on charge point operators and local authorities, as they collectively shape the public charging experience.

Performance and reliability

Data published in 2025 by Schneider covering the UK found that despite the fact that councils across the country are increasing investment in EV infrastructure by as much as 42% year on year, the same focus is not placed on monitoring charger performance and reliability.

This, said Schneider at the time, potentially leave EV owners “in a situation where they are met with chargers that are out of service. As essential infrastructure for a successful shift to more EVs, building a resilient and reliable network of chargers is essential.” 

Pownall says “many councils lack full, real-time data visibility over the operational status of charge points 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.” 

He added that 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”. 

Minimising disruption

“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."

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