Prague will forge ahead with its public lighting modernization initiative this year, investing 139 million crowns in new light poles and EV-ready (EVR) lamps. Working alongside Prague City Technologies (THMP), the capital plans to replace hundreds of light fixtures while expanding its network of smart street lamps capable of supporting electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
City Infrastructure Councilor Michal Hroza (TOP 09) praised the modernization as “an excellent opportunity to combine safety, savings, and preparation for the future.” Last year’s efforts resulted in the repair of 447 light poles, over a thousand light fixtures, and the installation of 142 EVR lamps.
The investment supports Prague’s vision of becoming a modern, sustainable city prepared for the projected 180,000 electric vehicles expected on its streets by 2030. A charging infrastructure development plan, approved by the city council in February 2021, calls for at least 4,500 charging stations to be built by that time.
According to Finance Councilor Zdeněk Kovářík, the renewal project represents “an almost infinite process” with equipment having a 20-year lifespan. While significant progress has already been made, complete modernization could take another 10-12 years, though Hroza assures the project will maintain its current pace.
The new LED lights feature a chromaticity temperature of 3,000 Kelvin, compared to the 2,000 Kelvin of previous sodium lamps. This represents a carefully selected compromise between improved safety through more accurate color rendering, energy efficiency, and resident comfort, as cooler light is less conducive to sleep and more difficult for people to tolerate at night.