UK-based Plug Charging has rolled out a pilot project in Cardiff to test a new model for on-street electric vehicle charging using existing lamp columns.
The project, developed in partnership with Cardiff Council, will see 80 charging points installed across the city, with operations expected to begin by the end of April, Transport Energy reported.
The company said the pilot has been designed as a scalable solution that can be expanded to other towns and cities across the UK. By using existing street lighting infrastructure, the model reduces installation costs, limits roadwork, and lowers the need for additional grid upgrades compared to conventional charging setups.
Plug Charging said the approach also allows faster deployment while keeping the physical footprint of infrastructure low.
Charging locations have been selected based on feasibility studies, focusing on accessibility, safety and minimal disruption. The chargers are positioned to avoid trailing cables and are aimed at supporting residential users, particularly for overnight charging.
A key feature of the model is its reinvestment approach, under which revenue generated will be used to fund further EV infrastructure and support community initiatives.
Company officials said the pilot is intended to address challenges faced by residents without access to private parking and could be replicated in other cities with similar conditions.
