Users of the parliamentary premises at the Houses of Parliament have been informed that from 2nd May 2025 they will not be able to charge their electric vehicles in New Palace Yard’s underground car park.

It has been reported that the charging points are due to be removed on health and safety grounds following a review by the Safety and Fire teams, and in consultation with the Chair of the Administration Committee.

Estimates indicate that around 15% of EV fires occur while the vehicle is plugged in and charging, with some reports suggesting the percentage could be as high as 30% if including fires that happen within an hour after disconnecting from a charger. These figures are based on verified incidents and include cases of thermal runaway that occur shortly after charging.

According to RSA Insurance, locations for vehicle chargers in order of preference:

1. External charging points away from buildings and equipment, such as within secure, outdoor, open, areas.

2. Detached, low value, buildings.

3. Unenclosed roof levels of multi-story car parks (within hose stream reach or accessible to fire tenders).

Very few of us will have an area for charging which meets any of the above criteria.

So MPs, who are in favour of us charging EVs at home overnight in spite of the safety risks, are not willing to put their own workplace at risk.

Further Information Links:

https://static.rsagroup.com/rsa/commercial-insurance-products/motor-fleet/electric-vehicle-charging-and-enclosed-car-parks-v1.pdf

https://www.evfiresafe.com/research-ev-fire-charging