Detailed Report: Employment of Renewable Energy
Sources in Telecommunication Power Supply Systems
May 25, 2025
1 Introduction
The telecommunication sector is increasingly adopting renewable energy sources, partic-
ularly solar PV, to power its infrastructure. This report explores the integration of solar
PV in 48V DC telecommunication systems, focusing on hybrid power supply systems (so-
lar + diesel + battery + grid) and grid-tied solar power plants. It includes case studies,
advantages, challenges, and a comparison of the two approaches.
2 Integration of Solar PV in 48V Telecommunication
Systems
Telecommunication systems traditionally rely on diesel generators and grid power, which
are costly and environmentally harmful. Integrating solar PV into hybrid systems offers
a sustainable alternative, especially for off-grid or remote sites.
2.1 System Architecture
A typical hybrid system includes:
• Solar PV array
• Charge controller
• Battery bank (lead-acid or lithium-ion)
• Inverter/charger
• 48V DC power system
• Grid connection
• Diesel generator (backup)
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2.2 Case Studies
Several countries have implemented solar PV in telecommunication systems:
• India: Bharti Airtel (www.airtel.in)
• Kenya: Safaricom (www.safaricom.co.ke)
• South Africa: MTN (www.mtn.co.za)
• Germany: Deutsche Telekom (www.telekom.com)
• Australia: Telstra (www.telstra.com.au)
3 Comparison: Hybrid Solar PV Systems vs. Grid-
Tied Solar Power Plants
3.1 Hybrid Solar PV System
• Purpose: Direct power supply to telecom sites with backup.
• Architecture: Solar PV + Diesel Generator + Battery Storage + Grid Connec-
tion.
• Advantages: High reliability, reduced diesel consumption, suitable for remote
areas.
• Challenges: High upfront costs, maintenance complexity.
3.2 Grid-Tied Solar Power Plant
• Purpose: Generate electricity for the grid; telecom company draws power from
the grid.
• Architecture: Solar PV + Grid Connection.
• Advantages: Lower upfront costs, scalable, potential revenue from feed-in tariffs.
• Challenges: Dependent on grid stability, no on-site backup.
3.3 Comparison Table
4 Future Trends
• Increased adoption of hybrid systems in remote areas.
• Integration of advanced energy storage (e.g., lithium-ion batteries).
• AI and IoT for smart energy management.
• Policy support and incentives for renewable energy.
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Aspect Hybrid Solar PV System Grid-Tied Solar Power Plant
Primary Purpose Direct power supply with backup Grid-fed power; draw from grid
Architecture Solar + Diesel + Battery + Grid Solar + Grid
Reliability High (on-site backup) Dependent on grid
Cost Structure Higher upfront costs Lower upfront costs
Operational Costs Reduced diesel costs Minimal maintenance
Environmental Impact Significant diesel reduction Zero emissions from solar plant
Scalability Modular for individual sites Highly scalable for large plants
Grid Dependency Low to moderate High
Use Case Remote/off-grid areas Urban/grid-stable areas
Revenue Generation No direct revenue Feed-in tariffs, net metering
Maintenance Complex (multiple components) Simple (solar panels only)
Resilience Highly resilient Vulnerable to grid outages
Table 1: Comparison of Hybrid Solar PV Systems and Grid-Tied Solar Power Plants
5 Relevant Papers and Documents
• ”Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems for Telecom Towers: A Review” (IEEE, 2020).
• GSMA Report: ”Green Networks: Reducing Energy Costs in Mobile Networks”
(2022).
• IRENA Report: ”Renewable Energy in the Telecommunications Sector” (2021).
6 Conclusion
Both hybrid solar PV systems and grid-tied solar power plants offer viable pathways for
telecommunication companies to adopt renewable energy. The choice depends on factors
such as location, grid stability, and strategic goals. Hybrid systems are ideal for remote
areas, while grid-tied systems suit urban regions with stable grids.
