Abstract: A power distribution system for distributing electrical power to battery-powered electrical devices, in particular mobile telephones, comprises at least one power connector for connection to an electrical device of a user whereby to replenish the battery of that device in response to a requirement from the user for battery charging and a locking mechanism configured selectively to connect the power connector to a source of electrical power only in response to receipt of an authorisation signal. The locking mechanism comprises a receiver configured to receive the authorisation signal from a remote server via a telecommunications network.