• Operator explores renewable energy partnership with Italy’s Ascot Energy
• Move aims to stabilize power for 4G, 5G rollout and data centers
• Focus on energy security to support Telebirr and nationwide coverage

Ethio Telecom is placing energy security at the center of its expansion strategy as it seeks to support rapid network growth and strengthen service reliability across Ethiopia.

On March 26 in Addis Ababa, CEO Frehiwot Tamru met with a delegation from Italian firm Ascot Energy, led by Chief Technical Officer Gaetano Fasciana, to explore a strategic partnership focused on integrating green energy solutions into the country’s largest telecom network.

Talks focused on the operator’s growing energy needs, driven by the accelerated rollout of 4G and 5G networks and the expansion of data centers. Both sides discussed ways to ensure reliable power supply, particularly in remote areas where the national grid can be unstable. The goal is to secure uninterrupted service for critical platforms such as Telebirr, whose rapid user growth requires a more resilient infrastructure.

Beyond energy supply, discussions also covered the optimization of Ethio Telecom’s infrastructure. The two parties explored the use of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions to manage sites remotely, lower operating costs, and improve resilience to climate-related disruptions. This approach is emerging as a strategic priority for an operator that manages one of the largest telecom infrastructure networks in Africa.

At the end of the meeting, both sides agreed to set up a joint technical working group to further define areas of cooperation and outline deployment plans for Ascot Energy’s solutions.

The potential partnership aligns with Ethio Telecom’s three-year strategy, “Next Horizon: Digital & Beyond,” which includes expanding 4G coverage, rolling out 5G, scaling Telebirr, and modernizing the national network. If implemented, the initiative could improve infrastructure sustainability and support broader digital inclusion by stabilizing network coverage across the country.

Samira Njoya