The move is intended to eliminate the use of fuel-based backup generators and will see Orange deploy solar solutions in several of its subsidiaries – to the extent that in the countries where it does this, the operator will become the biggest deployer of solar panels in that market.
Alioune Ndiaye, CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa, said: “We are proud to be the first company by number of solar panels in five countries in Africa and the Middle East. As a stakeholder in the energy transition, Orange has included in its Engage 2025 strategic plan the objective of meeting 50% of the Group’s electricity needs from renewable sources by 2025. We are aiming for net zero carbon by 2040."
These solar panel solutions have also been – or will soon be – deployed in other African and Middle Eastern countries where Orange is present, like Liberia, for instance, where 75% of Orange's telecom sites are equipped with solar panels.
In total, Orange has installed solar panels at 5,400 of its telecom sites (some 100% solar, others hybrid) saving 55 million litres of fuel each year.
Furthermore, in Jordan, Orange has launched three solar farms to switch to clean and renewable energy helping to reduce its carbon footprint. In 2020, these solar farm projects covered over 65% of Orange Jordan’s energy needs.
That said, solar is already paying off for Orange. Since 2018, the company has reduced its CO2 emissions by 45 kilotons thanks to this solar infrastructure.
