How to cut diesel dependency and emissions and make money at the same time

​Mission critical sites, hospitals, health clinics, and telecom towers in this region are currently heavily reliant on diesel generated power that is expensive, unreliable, and polluting. Most telecom towers are either off-grid or have poor grid connection. 

The demand for mobile services is constantly increasing in the developing world of SSA, especially the demand for data services (4G/LTE). This increased demand for more towers translates to increased demand for energy. Although densely populated areas normally have few issues using grid power, rural and remote areas face significant problems when there is poor or no grid power. 

Mobile operators face huge challenges to power their existing networks and future towers. The average OPEX for a site for grid power can range between $150 to $300 per month while the average OPEX for diesel can range between $1200 to $3000 per month. Because of the high cost of diesel fuel, towers without access to grid power face soaring OPEX with 60% due to fuel expenditures. The high cost of energy directly translates to a higher cost of mobile service for subscribers. This decrease in affordability of crucial mobile phone service significantly impacts people who live in some of the poorest regions in the world. 

The solution is cost effective, efficient and brings huge returns for investors of properly implemented.

Equiping telecom towers with a hybrid energy solution consisting of renewable energy generation, and storage and software intelligence significantly reduces energy costs and pollutants. Wherever possible, this technology is able create a microgrid to provide electricity to neighboring hospitals, schools, and villages. Rather than completely replace the telecom tower, an upgrade of the current infrastructure based on each tower’s needs can be made. Combining both hardware and software to provides a unique solution to customers.



The hybrid comprises of photovoltaic cells and batteries as the main components, and includes security equipment and the site’s original diesel genset as well. The solution is based on each tower’s individual needs and requirements. 

A solar photovoltaic system directly supplies power to the site and excess energy generated is stored in batteries. Once the batteries are fully charged, the site is powered by discharging the batteries. The diesel genset is only used in cases where renewable energy is not supplying enough power (such as during night time) or in emergency/maintenance situations. During these times, energy stored in the batteries is used to power the site. Once the batteries have discharged, the diesel genset is turned on to power the site and charge the batteries simultaneously. 

The system is controlled in which the solar photovoltaic system and batteries can fully operate in parallel while the power from the solar photovoltaic system is given highest priority in usage. Overall the system reduces fuel consumption, extends battery life, reduces generator maintenance, and reduces emissions.

For more information contact Volkmar Kunerth at kunerth@towerpower.co