In a significant stride toward clean and reliable energy in Nigeria, WATT Renewable Corporation (WATT) has sealed a transformative deal with Airtel, one of the country’s leading telecommunications giants. This collaboration aims to bring renewable energy to the forefront, with WATT deploying over 32MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) and lithium-ion battery storage capacity at 600 sites across Nigeria.
Enhancing Connectivity and Sustainability in Nigeria
Under the contract, these hybrid solar installations will follow an innovative Energy-as-a-Service model, providing Airtel with enhanced power supply reliability and uptime. This development comes at a pivotal moment as Airtel pushes forward with expanding its network coverage and introducing advanced 4G and 5G technologies in the region.
The partnership between WATT and Airtel underscores WATT’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development. Not only will these renewable solutions aid Airtel in achieving its sustainability, reliability, and cost objectives, but they will also create lasting value for the local communities. By replacing traditional diesel generators with WATT’s hybrid solar solution, the project will bring about improved air quality, reducing Airtel’s scope 1 emissions and fostering environmental consciousness.
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Innovative Technology for Operational Excellence
In addition to the deployment of solar and storage facilities, this project will introduce innovative enclosure technology for the balancing systems at the installation sites. This technology promises to significantly enhance operational efficiencies, ensuring that Airtel’s network remains robust and dependable, even in challenging environments.
Long-Term Commitment to Clean Energy
WATT’s role in this collaboration extends beyond installation; the company will continue to operate and maintain the energy generation sites, ensuring a consistent supply of reliable, renewable energy. This commitment to long-term partnership and sustainable energy solutions reflects the shared vision of both WATT and Airtel.
Driving Nigeria’s Sustainable Growth
Commenting on the partnership, Oluwole Eweje, Chief Executive Officer of WATT, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Collaborating with Airtel presents an excellent opportunity to provide renewable energy to Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, essential for its sustainable growth. This initiative not only supports Airtel’s sustainability goals and enhances air quality for neighbouring communities but also strengthens connectivity for millions of users. We’re excited to expand our presence in the telecommunications sector, where we plan to remain active in the coming months and years.”
This collaboration between WATT and Airtel marks a significant milestone in the transition toward clean and reliable energy in Nigeria. As the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure expands, powered by renewable energy, it not only promises enhanced connectivity but also a brighter, more sustainable future for communities and the environment.
About WATT
WATT Renewable Corporation, a private independent clean energy technology producer, has solidified its reputation as a pioneer in sustainable energy solutions. The company leverages a combination of cutting-edge photovoltaics (PV), advanced energy storage technology, and genset to offer turnkey engineering, procurement, construction (EPC), and operations and maintenance (O&M) services. WATT’s impact is not limited to Nigeria; it extends across Africa, the United States, and Canada.
About Airtel Network
Airtel Networks Limited is a prominent provider of telecommunications services with headquarters in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub. As of December 2019, the telecommunications company ranks among the top three mobile service providers in terms of subscriber base, with more than 50 million customers. It provides 2G, 3G, and 4G wireless services, mobile commerce, Home Broadband, and enterprise services.
Airtel Networks Limited is a subsidiary of Airtel Africa Plc, a Pan-African telecommunications corporation with operations in 14 nations across Africa.
Through its Corporate Social Investment initiatives in Nigeria, Airtel Networks Limited is fervently interested and dedicated to supporting worthy causes. Utilising its award-winning Touching Lives programme, Adopt-a-School initiative, and Employee Volunteer Scheme, it has invested both monetary and material resources to aid and elevate disadvantaged communities and individuals throughout Nigeria. Its various CSR initiatives have had direct and indirect effects on Nigerians in its various operating communities.