Dutch-based EV charging provider Milence has joined the European Network for Cyber Security (ENCS). It is the first EV charge point operator that joines the network.

Comprised of Daimler Trucks, the TRATON GROUP, and the Volvo Group, Milence has pledged to establish and manage 1,700 high-capacity public EV charging points for heavy-duty electric vehicles across Europe by 2027. However, the substantial demands these charging points place on the grid and associated risks necessitate a robust EV charging cybersecurity framework.

Milence’s decision to join ENCS stems from the imperative to identify cybersecurity needs, conduct thorough risk analyses, asset testing, and devise practical solutions to ensure maximum cyber protection. Peter Westerveld, Chief Information Security Officer at Milence, emphasised the significance of the partnership: “Cybersecurity is a particularly demanding field that requires constant questioning of its practices and knowledge. ENCS has a clear track record in supporting CPOs with their cybersecurity needs, which will help us to further strengthen our practices. I am delighted that Milence is joining the ENCS community and sharing our industry skills and knowledge with the wider network.”

Since 2015, ENCS has actively supported the European Charge Point Operator (CPO) market, offering tailored cybersecurity solutions. In 2016, the network developed Electric Vehicle Charging (EVC) cybersecurity requirements aimed at standardising practices across Europe and illustrating potential compromise risks to European authorities and policymakers.

Subsequently, in 2019, these requirements underwent comprehensive updates, integrating a robust security architecture and a thorough test plan. Moreover, ENCS continues its commitment by assisting CPOs with security requirements during tender processes and testing phases. Additionally, the organisation extends crucial guidance to charge point manufacturers on implementing security protocols within their systems and conducting rigorous security testing.

Anjos Nijk, Managing Director, ENCS, commented: “It’s fantastic to welcome Milence, a key player of European CPO infrastructure and the first to join our network. Milence’s membership is a testament to our track record in supporting European CPO cybersecurity and its connected infrastructures with the practical solutions they need. With the accelerated rollout of EVC infrastructure across Europe, Milence joins at a critical period, and we look forward to the industry expertise and knowledge it will contribute to our network.”

The European Network for Cyber security (ENCS) is a non-profit organisation owned by grid operators (DSOs and TSOs) that want to improve cyber security in the EU.