Abstract: A pay-per-use battery charging system for charging portable electronic devices, such as cellular telephones, tablet computers, etc. The charging system may be implemented as a central hub that dispense charging devices, as a standalone device, or may be incorporated into commonly available devices, such as customer order entry stations, ATMs, vending machines, etc., which now also provide the function of charging stations for the convenience of users. The system provides power to portable electronic devices via common USB cables, such that no additional equipment is required by the individual to charge their portable electronic device. The system provides for payment by the user prior to charging their portable electronic device.