Power Up Your Ride: Street Lights Become EV Chargers in a World-First Trial

Imagine this: you're cruising down the scenic streets of Sydney's Northern Beaches, and your electric car (EV) starts to get low on battery. But instead of panicking about finding a charging station, you simply pull up under a familiar streetlight. Lo and behold, it's not just a light source anymore – it's transformed into a charging station for your EV!

This isn't science fiction; it's a groundbreaking Australian-first trial happening right now on the Northern Beaches. Here's why it's so exciting:

This project is a game-changer for apartment dwellers, townhouses, or anyone without access to dedicated EV charging at home.  Seven ordinary power poles have been cleverly converted into charging stations, making it easier than ever to top up your EV battery. This removes a significant barrier for people considering the switch to cleaner electric vehicles.

The community played a vital role in selecting the locations for these trial charging stations, with over 429 residents providing valuable input. Each station boasts a 22kW capacity, which means a typical two-hour charge can provide over 200km of driving range – perfect for topping up while you grab a coffee or explore the vibrant Manly Beach scene.

Here's the cherry on top: the energy used for charging comes entirely from 100% accredited GreenPower. So, you can power up your EV with peace of mind, knowing you're contributing to a cleaner future.

This innovative project has far-reaching benefits:

• Boosts EV Adoption: By making EV charging more accessible, the trial is expected to encourage more people to make the switch from gas-guzzlers to eco-friendly electric vehicles.

• Reduces Emissions:  Wider EV adoption translates to cleaner air and a healthier environment for everyone on the Northern Beaches.

• A Brighter Future for All: The success of this trial could pave the way for a nationwide rollout of streetlight charging stations, accelerating the clean energy transition in Australia.

The Road Ahead:

The trial is expected to run for 12 months, with results presented to the Local Traffic Committee in early 2025. If all goes well, expect to see more power poles across Australia morph into convenient charging points, making electric vehicles a more accessible and attractive option for everyone.