The Solar-on-Tower solution integrates photovoltaic panels directly onto telecom towers, addressing the challenges of limited land and space in urban areas where traditional ground-based solar installations are not feasible. According to Ethio Telecom, the installation process was completed within two days, enabling the site to begin generating and using its own solar power immediately.
Initial results from the first batch of installations show that solar power can supply the sites for up to four hours, significantly reducing reliance on diesel generators. Average diesel use per site decreased from six hours to two hours, reflecting a 40% reduction in fuel consumption. This improvement highlights the solution’s potential to cut operational costs while supporting environmental sustainability.
In Addis Ababa, thousands of telecom sites face land and space limitations, making it difficult to adopt conventional solar technologies. The Solar-on-Tower initiative provides an efficient and practical option to address these challenges. By utilizing vertical infrastructure already in place, the solution expands opportunities for clean energy integration without requiring additional land resources.
The collaboration between Ethio Telecom and Huawei also sets a technological benchmark for the region’s telecommunications industry. It demonstrates how innovative energy solutions can strengthen network sustainability while contributing to broader clean energy goals. The deployment not only reduces emissions and operating expenses but also supports the resilience of telecom networks by ensuring a more stable and diversified energy supply.
Looking ahead, Ethio Telecom and Huawei plan to further deepen their cooperation in building high-quality ICT energy infrastructure. Their joint efforts will focus on advancing green energy applications, promoting the low-carbon transition of telecom networks, and enhancing the overall reliability of services.
The launch of the Solar-on-Tower solution in Ethiopia underscores the growing importance of renewable energy in digital infrastructure. By combining technological innovation with practical deployment, this initiative demonstrates how space-efficient clean energy solutions can be scaled in regions with urban constraints. It provides a roadmap for other African operators seeking to integrate renewable energy into their networks while maintaining service quality and efficiency.
Through this collaboration, Ethio Telecom and Huawei highlight the potential of partnerships in driving sustainable development. The initiative is expected to serve as a model for similar projects across Africa, offering a foundation for cleaner, more resilient telecommunications networks in the future.
