Communication & Renewable Energy Infrastructure (CREI) has secured $20 million in funding to solarize telecommunications towers in South Sudan. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity while promoting sustainable energy solutions in one of Africa's least connected countries.

Funding Secured for Sustainable Connectivity

Communication & Renewable Energy Infrastructure (CREI) has successfully obtained $20 million in financing to solarize telecommunications infrastructure in South Sudan, marking a significant step towards sustainable connectivity in the region.

Breakdown of the Financial Package

The funding package comprises a $15 million bridge loan from the African Development Bank's Energy Inclusion Facility (EIF) and a $5 million mezzanine loan from the Finnish Industrial Cooperation Fund (Finnfund). This financial boost will enable CREI to develop, construct, and operate renewable energy plants for a key player in South Sudan's telecommunications sector.

CREI's Vision for Sustainable Infrastructure

Kadri El Hakim, CEO of CREI, emphasized that this partnership aligns with the organization's goals to lead the transition towards sustainable telecom and energy infrastructure across Africa and Asia. "Our collective efforts will facilitate expansion and contribute to the development of the telecom sector in South Sudan," El Hakim stated.

Project Scope and Impact

The project aims to install at least 413 hybrid energy solutions at telecom sites across the country, significantly increasing solar energy production and reducing diesel consumption at network sites. This initiative is expected to benefit approximately 2 million South Sudanese, improving mobile connectivity in a nation where infrastructure is limited and mobile phone penetration is low.

Finnfund's Perspective on the Investment

Valtter Louhivuori, Head of Finnfund's Nairobi office, highlighted the investment's alignment with their objectives in digitalization and climate action. "We see that improving mobile connectivity promotes economic growth, improved living standards, and an inclusive society," Louhivuori said. He also noted that this investment marks a promising start for Finnfund's Africa Connected program, which aims to accelerate investments in impactful digital infrastructure and solutions across the continent. The project is particularly significant for South Sudan, a country of 11 million people with one of the world's lowest rates of mobile access and connectivity.

Bridging the Digital Divide

This initiative by CREI, supported by EIF and Finnfund, represents a crucial step towards bridging the digital divide in South Sudan while promoting sustainable energy solutions in the telecommunications sector. By reducing reliance on diesel generators, the project not only aims to improve network reliability but also contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of telecom operations in the region.

As the project unfolds, it is expected to play a vital role in enhancing South Sudan's digital infrastructure, potentially paving the way for further investments and innovations in the country's telecommunications and renewable energy sectors.