- Wales is embracing lamppost EV charging, a fast-growing, cost-effective solution for expanding public charging networks.
- It uses existing streetlights and poles, reducing the need for new infrastructure.
- Cities in the UK and US, including London, Birmingham, and parts of the US like Connecticut, are adopting this method to meet rising EV demand.
Urban Fox helps Newport become a lamppost charging leader in Wales with 120 public chargers
Newport City Council is collaborating with Urban Fox to introduce one of Wales’ first lamp post EV charging networks. This initiative aims to make EV charging more accessible while preserving the character of residential streets.
A total of 120 chargers will be installed across Newport, many mounted directly onto existing streetlamps. This approach maximises pavement space and maintains the aesthetic of local neighbourhoods.
Urban Fox’s services encompass planning, funding, installation, and maintenance. Notably, their award-winning UEone retractable chargepoint remains flush with the pavement when not in use, reducing street clutter.
Urban Fox CEO, Oli Freeling-Wilkinson, commented:
“This is a hugely exciting moment for Urban Fox. Delivering one of Wales’ first lamp post EV chargers is a major milestone in our mission to revolutionise on-street charging.
By seamlessly integrating chargers into existing infrastructure, we’re not only cutting costs and reducing street clutter but also making EV charging more accessible than ever. This is about unlocking the full potential of our streets and helping even more people transition to cleaner, greener transport. We’re proud to be playing our part in the charge towards a net zero future, and this is just the beginning.”
In addition to the Newport project, Urban Fox has secured a contract with Balfour Beatty to enhance EV charging infrastructure across the company’s UK sites. This includes upgrading 106 dual chargers at 31 locations and installing new chargers where needed. The partnership aims to provide reliable, convenient, and sustainable charging solutions for Balfour Beatty employees.
Councillor Yvonne Forsey, Newport’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change, added:
“We are continuing to look for innovative ways to expand the coverage of our charging network. These new chargers are perfect for streets where there is limited pavement space to install a more traditional charging unit. We’ve already been shown to be providing the best coverage in Wales for houses with no access to off-street parking, and these installations will only improve that level of coverage.”
This rollout signifies a major advancement in Newport’s commitment to sustainable transport and sets a precedent for similar initiatives across the UK.
Lamppost EV charging is gaining popularity as a practical solution for urban areas. By utilising existing streetlights and utility poles, cities can expand their charging infrastructure cost-effectively and efficiently. The UK has been at the forefront of this movement, with successful implementations in London and Birmingham boosting EV adoption. Now, US cities like Connecticut and Michigan are adopting lamppost EV charging to meet the growing demand for public stations.
