Founded by the award-winning British inventor and entrepreneur, Alex Hearn, Lightstate's solar-powered, rapid EV charging energy hubs, known as "Lightstations", address the challenges of vehicle electrification in the UK – a vital move in combating climate change and achieving net zero.

Traditionally, electric vehicles have been charged via the national grid, but the increasing number of EVs is expected to place substantial strain on the country's energy infrastructure. The innovatively designed Lightstations integrate aesthetics and functionality, harnessing solar energy on-site with a futuristic structure, enabling fast charging for EVs even in areas with limited grid access.

Hearn, who is a staunch advocate for the role of design in driving progress, envisions the Lightstations' comprehensive industrial design and architectural significance as a catalyst for a new trajectory in the UK energy sector. This vision combines sustainability with striking aesthetics and a smooth user experience, aiming to spark a more emotional and aspirational outlook for the future.

Hearn said: “By 2030 there will be millions of EV on British road, and we’ll need to have the electricity infrastructure in place to give drivers a great experience. This requires a massive transition from the traditional refuelling proposition.”

“But why can’t sustainable solutions also be visionary, exciting and beautiful?” he added. “Smart technologies are already transforming the way the country is run, but looking around, you wouldn’t be able to tell. We want to disrupt design norms for utility infrastructure, by combining beauty and functionality with our Lightstations.”

Oxford-educated Hearn has 23 years of experience championing entrepreneurship for a carbon and combustion-free future. He reiterates that, contrary to popular belief, the UK has an excellent climate for solar power, which presents a major opportunity for EV infrastructure in the UK. “Given solar panels work optimally in temperatures around 25 degrees Celsius, our small island is well positioned to benefit from this inventive approach to energy husbandry and charging,” he concluded.

Lightstate is using AI and machine learning to identify key infrastructure gaps for development, at optimal locations, with three initial sites confirmed for 2024 and more to follow. These upcoming Lightstation will mark the first step in its mission to transform the EV charging landscape. With a commitment to sustainability and in inventive approach to grid management, Lightstate aims to play a vital role in facilitating the transition to clean energy solutions.