EV Charging Stations on Power Poles: A New Solution for Urban Drivers

EV Charging Stations on Power Poles: A New Solution for Urban Drivers

In city neighborhoods where off-street parking is scarce, access to reliable EV charging can make—or break—the decision to switch to electric. That’s why the idea of using existing power poles to host kerbside EV chargers is gaining traction. This concept could be the game changer many drivers are waiting for.

Why Power Poles?

Power poles are everywhere. They’re already connected to the electricity grid—and that makes them a natural fit for placing EV chargers in public spaces. Imagine parking outside a friend’s house, dropping by a café, or visiting local shops—and plugging in your car right there without having to detour to a charging station.

These kerbside chargers aren’t super-fast, but they’re more than just “slow trickle.” They fill the gap between charging at home and using fast public stations. For many people, especially those without a driveway or private garage, having a charger nearby—even if it takes a bit longer—can make a big difference.

Real-Life Impacts

Take the example of Dani Alexander, who lives in Sydney’s Inner West on a street with no off-street parking. When a kerbside charger was installed just outside her terrace, it changed the game. Previously, she had doubts about owning an EV. Once she knew a charger would be available right outside, she felt confident making the switch.

In parts of Inner West, about 67% of homes lack off-street parking. For people in this situation, kerbside charging removes a major barrier.

Who’s Rolling It Out

Small innovators and big players alike are getting involved.

● EVX, a Sydney-based startup, has already deployed nearly 200 chargers on power poles all over metropolitan Sydney and NSW’s mid-north coast.

● The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has given EVX a grant to install 250 kerbside chargers across Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia.

● Local state governments are also pitching in with funding to speed deployment.

Meanwhile, power pole and utility operators like Ausgrid want regulatory changes so they can build and maintain this infrastructure themselves. There are pilot programs underway—Ausgrid is planning for 1,000 kerbside chargers—but some say the progress is too slow given the urgency.

Challenges & What Needs Tweaking

Rolling out chargers on poles sounds simple, but there are several pieces to get right:

● Who runs them? Policymakers must decide who owns and maintains pole-based chargers—utilities, startups, local governments or a combination.

● Who pays? The cost of installing and maintaining the chargers needs fair distribution. Potential models include user fees, government subsidies, or spreading costs via electricity bills.

● Parking rules matter. Some spots are now marked “EV-only,” but where that isn’t enforced, traditional vehicles can block charging access. This reduces usage and frustrates EV owners.

● Regulation and fairness. Experts warn that if the rollout is dominated by a few big players, inefficiencies, high prices and limited access could follow. It’s essential that competition is maintained and that infrastructure serves all neighborhoods equally.

Bigger Benefits: To Drivers and the Community

Power-pole chargers offer more than convenience—they could help stabilize electricity grids, particularly in areas with rooftop solar panels. On sunny days, solar excess could power not just homes, but public chargers too—particularly useful for people out and about during the day.

Also, if chargers are available where people park during errands, work or appointments, EV owners may need to recharge only once a week. For many, that’s plenty when paired with a home or workplace charger.

What This Means for You

If you’re considering an EV, these developments are good news:

● More chances to charge near your home, even if you don’t have a driveway.

● Less dependency on fast-charger stations that require travel or detours.

● More flexibility: you can top up your battery while you go about your day.

If you're a business owner, property manager, or local council, this rollout also creates opportunities: installing or maintaining kerbside chargers can increase property attractiveness, support sustainability goals, and serve communities better.

Looking Ahead

The success of this model will depend on updating regulations, clear ownership models, accessible and fair pricing, and ensuring designated and enforceable EV parking.

If those elements are managed well, kerbside chargers on power poles could become a standard part of urban infrastructure—helping EV ownership become easier, more practical, and more widespread.