MTN has launched a major solar energy initiative at its Johannesburg headquarters, with over 5,400 solar panels currently operational as the company moves to reduce reliance on South Africa’s strained power grid.
With this solar energy initiative, MTN is set to make its head office 40% less dependent on the municipal grid by the end of February.
This undertaking follows a phased approach by MTN, intending to inject a total of 1,800kW into the office’s microgrid. The telco’s primary objective is to greatly lessen the impact of frequent power blackouts, locally known as “load shedding,” which have plagued South Africa for years. With battery storage facilities planned for completion by March, MTN is leading the charge in ensuring uninterrupted operations amidst the country’s energy crisis.
This initiative aligns closely with MTN’s commitment to transitioning its base stations entirely off-grid, and investing over $84 million to limit the effects of blackouts. In 2023, load shedding cost the telco $38 million in losses. By harnessing solar power, MTN is taking proactive measures to safeguard connectivity for millions of subscribers and prevent further losses in 2024.
In addition to its headquarters project, MTN is actively pursuing renewable energy solutions on a broader scale. The Johannesburg Solar Park, boasting 4.9MW of solar PV capacity, is expected to save 9.3 million kWh per year and reduce CO2 emissions by 9,672 tons annually. These efforts support MTN’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.
Looking ahead, MTN is gearing up for its Island Mode Project, scheduled for completion in April. This initiative will integrate solar, battery storage, gas, and diesel technologies into a microgrid capable of disconnecting from the main grid during outages.
Beyond its headquarters, MTN has embarked on a nationwide program to safeguard its network infrastructure against blackouts and theft. From installing solar panels at base stations to implementing anti-tampering solutions, MTN is future-proofing its network while empowering communities through uninterrupted connectivity.
With resilience and sustainability at the forefront of its agenda, MTN’s investments highlight its dedication to leading South Africa’s clean energy transition. As an emerging Independent Power Producer (IPP), MTN is setting a high standard for companies seeking energy self-sufficiency in the face of adversity.
