Scientists turn streetlights into EV charging stations in bold move

Researchers at Penn State have developed an innovative framework to convert existing streetlights into electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, addressing a critical challenge in urban EV adoption—lack of convenient charging infrastructure. They installed 23 streetlight charging units in Kansas City and Missouri, collecting data over a year to evaluate their effectiveness. Streetlights offer a cost-effective, accessible, and time-saving alternative to traditional charging stations, especially benefiting residents of apartments and multi-unit dwellings who often lack home charging options. The project leveraged existing municipal power lines and infrastructure, making installation cheaper and enabling faster charging without the congestion typical of commercial stations. The research team collaborated with local governments, utility providers, and the National Renewable Energy Lab to retrofit streetlights and developed a three-part framework focused on demand, feasibility, and benefits that other communities can adopt. Scalability and equitable distribution were key considerations, with AI models incorporating land use, traffic, and community engagement to ensure fair access across diverse neighborhoods. The streetlight chargers also contribute to environmental