Why festivals are investing in onsite charging and why how it’s powered matters

Over the past few years, onsite phone charging has shifted from a “nice-to-have” to essential festival infrastructure. As events become more digital — from ticketing and cashless payments to apps, safety messaging, and social sharing — reliable access to power directly affects both attendee experience and event operations.

It’s not surprising that organisers are now treating charging in the same category as lighting, welfare, and connectivity. Done well, it improves dwell time, reduces friction, supports safety teams, and creates valuable sponsorship touchpoints.

A recent article by The Festivals clearly sets out why more organisers are investing in onsite charging infrastructure, covering the commercial, operational, and engagement benefits that are driving this change. It’s a solid overview of where the sector is heading and why charging is now considered core infrastructure rather than an add-on.

Read the full article here:
https://thefestivals.uk/why-more-festivals-are-investing-in-onsite-charging-infrastructure/

At Hardcore Harry, we agree with the direction of travel, but we also believe the next step is looking not just at whether charging is provided, but how it’s powered and what impact it has. That’s where genuinely solar-powered systems, backed by measured data rather than assumptions, start to matter.