Ayomide OtitojuAirtel Nigeria, one of the country’s leading telecommunications companies, is turning to solar energy to power its infrastructure as a cost-saving measure, following a surge in diesel prices that has pushed its fuel expenses to ₦28 billion.
The telecom giant’s pivot to renewable energy is part of a broader strategy aimed at reducing operational costs and boosting sustainability in the face of Nigeria’s ongoing energy challenges. The company, like many others, has been grappling with the high cost of maintaining diesel generators due to the country’s unreliable power supply.
During a media roundtable in Lagos on Tuesday, Airtel’s Director of Corporate Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility revealed the figures based on the company’s records as of May. Harmanpreet Dhillon, Airtel Nigeria’s Chief Technical Officer, also shared insights into the company’s exploration of alternative energy sources, with solar power emerging as a viable option.
The move toward solar energy aligns with Airtel Nigeria’s efforts to address the persistent energy supply issues that have long affected telecom operators across the nation, forcing reliance on costly diesel generators to maintain network operations.
