(Ecofin Agency) - 5G offers higher speeds than 4G and supports high-capacity applications like telemedicine, digital education, and smart agriculture. Improved connectivity will empower both government services and private businesses to deliver more efficient, real-time solutions, especially in health, education, and financial inclusion

Zoodlabs SL, a company that provides high-speed internet services through a wireless broadband network, in partnership with energy services provider CrossBoundary Energy, has launched Sierra Leone’s first 5G network powered by renewable energy. The announcement was made at the Sierra Leone Digital Government Summit on June 4, where the two companies unveiled plans to roll out the country’s inaugural 5G data infrastructure.

“5G is not just about faster phones—it’s a foundational technology for smart cities, autonomous vehicles, remote healthcare, and businesses that rely on IoT. CrossBoundary Energy’s specialized knowledge in solar energy solutions has enabled Zoodlabs to power this infrastructure sustainably,” said David Kapkima, CEO at Zoodlabs.

The project utilizes solar PV, battery storage, and generator hybrid systems to power the first 5G towers in Freetown, achieving an impressive 99.9% uptime while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This clean energy approach not only ensures high network reliability but also aligns with Sierra Leone’s broader sustainability goals.

In recent years, major telecom operators have faced a sharp rise in energy costs, with increases outpacing sales growth by more than 50%, according to McKinsey. This growing financial strain makes renewable energy solutions, such as solar power, an increasingly attractive option for telecom companies looking to optimize expenses and improve operational efficiency.

Telecom operators can achieve significant cost savings by switching to solar energy for powering their infrastructure. According to industry insights, Solar power reduces reliance on expensive diesel generators, cutting fuel costs substantially. Operators using solar energy for off-grid telecom towers can drastically lower electricity expenses, as solar provides a free and abundant energy source after installation.

The World Bank’s 2021 Digital Economy Diagnostic for Sierra Leone highlighted poor internet access, limited mobile penetration, and weak infrastructure as major barriers to progress. Zoodlabs SL and CrossBoundary Energy’s 5G rollout directly addresses these challenges by integrating renewable energy solutions to ensure consistent uptime and a more resilient digital infrastructure.

Hikmatu Bilali