A wireless power transfer system is described that includes features that allow the system to be deployed in public spaces such as airports or in commercial establishments such as restaurants or hotels to allow a user to recharge one or more portable electronic devices while away from home. In one embodiment, the system provides a secure and efficient means for obtaining required payment information from the user prior to the wireless power transfer, thereby facilitating fee-based recharging. In a further embodiment, to accommodate wireless recharging of a variety of device types and states, the system receives parameters and/or state information associated with a portable electronic device to be recharged and controls the wireless power transfer in accordance with such parameters and/or state information.