Prague is moving ahead with plans to modernize its street lighting while preparing for a rise in electric vehicles. The city has extended its timeline for the project by two years, now targeting completion by the end of 2028 instead of 2026.
Streetlights as future charging hubs
The project involves upgrading selected lamp posts to support EV charging points. Instead of installing chargers right away, Prague is focusing on creating infrastructure ready for future use. This means ensuring power connections are in place to avoid redundant construction on roads and sidewalks by combining lighting upgrades with grid improvements.
By sharing cable routes, the city reduces disruption while laying the foundation for a broader charging network. The plan supports Prague’s goal of accommodating up to 180,000 electric vehicles by 2030, which would need about 4,500 charging stations.
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In 2026, the city intends to prepare around 150 streetlights for potential EV use, backed by an investment of roughly 100 million Czech koruna (about 4.1 million euros). The funding was announced earlier this year as part of the infrastructure effort.
Delays and contract extensions
The original deadline was delayed after initial work took longer than expected. The first phase of joint measures faced setbacks, and the budget hasn’t been fully spent. The extension covers three existing contracts, now set to run until December 31, 2028.
These agreements involve Prague’s municipal government, grid operator PREdistribuce, and the city-owned company Technologie hlavního města Prahy. Together, they are coordinating the modernization of public lighting, joint tenders, and infrastructure upgrades.
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Prague Deputy Mayor for Infrastructure Michal Hroza stated that the city is continuing to modernize public lighting and connect it with e-mobility development. The approach ensures each lighting upgrade also advances the charging network.
Prague’s method—using existing street fixtures and shared cable routes—may provide a cost-effective model for cities with tight budgets or limited space. The plan’s success will depend on how quickly public charging demand grows and whether the city can expand the infrastructure without more delays.
The city hasn’t specified which neighborhoods will receive the first EV-ready streetlights. The 2026 target suggests a gradual rollout, giving officials flexibility to adjust based on early results and funding.