NCC, REA Partner to Power Rural Telecom Sites with Renewable Energy

In a bold move to improve digital connectivity in rural Nigeria, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) have inaugurated a joint committee to drive the adoption of renewable energy in powering telecom infrastructure across underserved communities.

Although specific modalities for engaging telecom operators are yet to be disclosed, the NCC confirmed that the collaboration targets rural telecom infrastructure, aligning with national goals of energy inclusion and broadband expansion.

A Strategic Shift Toward Inclusion

Speaking during the committee’s inauguration, Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of NCC, described the partnership as a “timely and strategic alignment of national priorities.”

“Whether it is powering a base station or enabling a child to access digital learning, this partnership has the potential to transform realities and bring opportunity closer to the people,” he said.

Dr. Maida added that the initiative is more than infrastructure — it is a driver of inclusion, equality, and shared prosperity. He affirmed that it supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and charged the committee to work with innovation, purpose, and a focus on measurable results.

Combining Energy with Connectivity

Managing Director of REA, Abba Aliyu, also emphasized the transformative power of merging renewable energy with digital connectivity. He noted that the collaboration presents a practical solution for extending sustainable development to millions of Nigerians beyond the grid.

The NCC–REA Collaboration Committee will focus on:

• Powering telecom base stations with renewable energy.

• Sharing geospatial data for efficient infrastructure planning.

• Aligning funding mechanisms to drive joint initiatives.

• Tracking social and economic impact through clear performance indicators.

This inter-agency effort is expected to serve as a national model, boosting the National Broadband Plan and contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Background: A Push for Greener Telecoms

The NCC has long expressed concern over the industry’s heavy reliance on diesel-powered generators. In 2023, the commission announced plans to promote policies encouraging the transition to cleaner, sustainable energy sources.

Some telecom operators have already begun making the shift. MTN Nigeria recently revealed it had saved over ₦570 million by switching to gas-powered generators. Airtel Nigeria also announced last September that it is deploying alternative energy solutions to power its base stations in a bid to curb rising diesel expenses.