The Technology of the Capital City of Prague (THMP) is spearheading an ambitious project to significantly expand the city’s network of charging stations for electric vehicles. By 2026, the aim is to have over 1,000 stations fully operational, a substantial leap forward in supporting the growing demand for sustainable transport options.
Currently, drivers in Prague face challenges when considering a switch to electric cars due to limited charging infrastructure. At the close of last year, only around 2,400 charging stations were available across the entire country, serving approximately 22,000 fully electric vehicles—a modest fraction of the total number of cars on Czech roads. In fact, in 2023, Czechia had the highest share of diesel engine car sales in the European Union, and ranked second to last in electric vehicle sales, with just one in four cars sold being electric. Clearly, Czechs remain hesitant to embrace electric mobility.
Nonetheless, THMP, the entity responsible for Prague’s public lighting, is actively working to enhance the electric vehicle landscape in the city. A pilot program in the Vinohrady district has already proven successful, with the installation of thirteen ‘charging lamps’—streetlights equipped with charging stations. These innovative lamps each come with a dedicated parking space for electric vehicles, which can charge for up to eight hours. Tomáš Jílek, CEO of THMP, discussed the initiative and the city’s broader vision for eco-friendly energy with Czech Radio.
“Electro-mobility is, figuratively speaking, driving the world forward, and Prague is determined not to lag behind. Two years ago, we identified the city’s extensive network of public lighting as an ideal platform for deploying electric vehicle chargers.”
However, visible changes on the streets will take some time. The initial phase of the project focuses primarily on laying the groundwork—literally. As Jílek explains, “The real work is happening underground right now. With 5,500 kilometers of roads in Prague, it’s essential to install appropriately powerful electric cables to support the future charging points, and that’s where the current efforts are concentrated.”
THMP is also exploring other forward-thinking initiatives, such as the installation of a ‘solar shelter’ in the Palmovka district. This pioneering carport, the first of its kind in Czechia, provides covered parking for twelve vehicles and generates its own electricity via solar panels on the roof, making it both a power producer and a supplier for local electric vehicles.
Despite these advancements, not all news is favorable for electric car owners. As of January 1st, 2025, electric vehicles will lose the privilege of free parking across the city, a benefit they have enjoyed since 2019. Starting next year, free parking in paid zones will only apply if the vehicle is actively charging. However, electric cars will still qualify for discounted permits in the city’s purple zones and will be allowed short-term free parking in blue zones for up to 30 minutes.
Prague’s push towards sustainable mobility is picking up pace, positioning the city to play a leading role in the country’s electric vehicle revolution, even as challenges remain in transforming public perception and infrastructure.
