Turkiye has developed a cutting-edge “Smart Street Lighting” system that offers free electric vehicle and device charging, wireless internet access, and environmental monitoring—all in one high-tech pole.
The initiative is led by Turkiye Electromechanical Industry Inc. (TEMSAN), an affiliate of the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources. In a written statement on Tuesday, the ministry announced that a prototype of the system has already been produced and is currently undergoing field testing.
Unlike conventional streetlights, these smart poles feature LED lighting, electric vehicle and powered wheelchair charging stations, USB charging ports for phones and tablets, a high-speed Wi-Fi access point, and built-in security cameras. They also include a digital information screen that displays real-time news, traffic updates, and weather forecasts.
Once testing is complete and mass production begins, citizens will be able to charge their devices directly from these streetlights at no cost.
The system is also equipped with an air quality sensor to monitor environmental conditions such as pollution levels. An integrated emergency alert system can issue both audio and visual warnings in the event of a disaster or crisis, further enhancing urban resilience.
To reduce reliance on the national power grid, each unit is connected to solar panels, allowing the poles to generate clean energy and operate more sustainably.
TEMSAN Chief Engineer İpek Acay emphasized the project's focus on accessibility and energy efficiency. “With the smart pole, we want to make energy more accessible to our citizens,” Acay said.
Project engineer Tuğba Aydın Kart highlighted the broader goal of creating smarter, greener cities. “Our device includes a weather station that measures wind direction and speed, air and noise pollution, temperature, humidity, and solar radiation,” she explained.
Kart added that the poles provide lighting for both streets and pedestrian pathways, while also serving as charging hubs for electric vehicles and powered wheelchairs. “With the security cameras, we aim to enhance city safety,” she said.
Thanks to built-in photosensors, the system optimizes its use of solar energy, ensuring efficient operation throughout the day and night.
Turkiye’s smart streetlight project marks a significant step forward in the country’s efforts to combine urban innovation, public service, and environmental sustainability.
Source: Daily Sabah
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
