Sierra Leone is set to revolutionise its digital infrastructure by launching its first 5G network powered entirely by renewable energy.
Announced on June 5, at the Digital Government Summit in Freetown, this bold initiative combines cutting-edge telecommunications with sustainable energy solutions, promising faster connectivity while reducing environmental impact.
Renewable energy drives Sierra Leone’s 5G rollout
Zoodlabs, a local telecommunications company, is leading the 5G network implementation in collaboration with CrossBoundary Energy, an African renewable energy provider.
CrossBoundary Energy supplies a hybrid power system that integrates solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, battery storage, and backup generators to ensure 99.9 percent uptime without heavy reliance on fossil fuels.
Oliver Benham, Director of Operations for Telecom Solutions at CrossBoundary Energy, explained, “Our solution is designed to maximise uptime whilst increasing renewable energy penetration and minimising diesel generator usage. The effect is that telecom operators like Zoodlabs have a reliable, affordable, and cleaner way of powering their network that does not rely on utility energy supply or fossil fuels”.
CrossBoundary Energy is also financing five initial 5G towers to accelerate deployment. This renewable-powered infrastructure will meet approximately 83 percent of the network’s electricity needs, setting a new standard for sustainable telecom operations in the region.
Transforming connectivity and digital access in Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone faces substantial obstacles to digital inclusion, as broadband penetration is a mere 20.7 percent. The new 5G network will deliver dramatically faster data speeds, lower latency, and greater device connectivity, enabling a leap forward in internet access for individuals and businesses, especially in the capital, Freetown.
David Kapkima, CEO of Zoodlabs, emphasised the broader impact: “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 specialised knowledge in solar energy solutions has enabled Zoodlabs to power this infrastructure sustainably”.
The first 5G towers are already operational in Freetown, and coverage will be extended nationwide in subsequent phases. This initiative advances Sierra Leone’s digital capabilities and demonstrates how renewable energy can power critical infrastructure in emerging markets.
This pioneering project positions Sierra Leone as a leader in sustainable digital transformation in Africa. It combines the power of 5G technology with clean energy to bridge the digital divide and foster economic growth.