Interview 9 February 2023
More than just Light: RZB Bollard Lights with Integrated Charging Technology für E-Vehicles

Light and charging technology: Can these work together? When the team from RZB was confronted with this question, they answered with a clear “Yes”. They developed an intelligent bollard light with integrated charging technology for e-vehicles, which will be available on the market in the coming months. Sebastian Zajonz, Group Manager for Development/Design at RZB, explains the background in an interview with WAGO.

How did you think of combining charging technology for e-vehicles with outdoor lights?

Sebastian Zajonz: The initial thought came from our company owner, Dr. Zimmermann. He wanted to install a concealed charging station in one of our lights on the company grounds. We were then confronted with the problem of whether it was possible to integrate charging technology into one of our lights. These lights were initially only for internal use at RZB; however, they functioned so well that we decided to market them.

What benefits do charging stations in bollard lights offer?

Sebastian Zajonz: One benefit, primarily related to parking lots, is that it appears neater. The double burden of charging columns and parking space lighting is eliminated. Due to this combination, the parking space can be configured in a tidier fashion, and fewer cable connections need to be installed.

Where can the bollard lights be set up? Are they conceived for public spaces or for private owners also?

Sebastian Zajonz: Both. They were conceived for spaces that are purely public. Considering that, we also designed calibration-compliant variants that are for private residences or company parking lots.

Many electricians are familiar with WAGO products and know how the system works. That was one reason behind the decision.

Sebastian Zajonz | Group Manager for Development/Design at RZB

Can this type of intelligent bollard light with charging technology accelerate the expansion of e-charging stations? If yes, then how?

Sebastian Zajonz: Our lights can have an influence, for example if someone were deciding between a wall mount or a bollard light with a charging station, and didn't know exactly where to fasten the wall-mounted charging station. I think, though, that our lights can promote some progress, because the installation is easier, for example. Many people are confronted with the challenge of positioning and fixing a wall-mounted charging station so that it is easily accessible, but is also protected from vandalism.

What is special about your lights?

Sebastian Zajonz: All components in our products are replaceable. This makes maintenance particularly easy. Due to the assembly on a DIN-rail, everything can be switched out without difficulty. This is primarily important for the calibration-compliant variants, because the energy meter has to be changed at specific intervals. Our light is thus sustainable, and not a disposable product.

What were your reasons behind your decisions to use WAGO products?

Sebastian Zajonz: Many electricians are familiar with WAGO products and know how the system works. That was one reason behind the decision. It was the lever on the MID Energy Meters from WAGO that tipped the balance. By using them, the conductors can be easily connected without screw contacts or tools. We also really like the Bluetooth® interface. In addition, the products are high quality and flexible. The support by the sales representatives was also quite good.