CREI, Orange Mali Partner on Solar Telecoms

Quick Take: From diesel to digital — Mali’s telecom towers just went solar, powering both networks and new opportunities.

Key Figures & Findings: Communication & Renewable Energy Infrastructure (CREI) and Sonatel Orange Mali have implemented a major Telecom ESCO project to solarise power systems for Orange Mali's network. This initiative is designed to deliver reliable, sustainable energy and enhance network availability across the country.

 Statistics & Insights:

  • Scale: The project initially covers 2,625 telecom sites in Mali, with plans for future expansion.

  • Renewable Energy Target: The project aims to achieve a Renewable Energy Ratio (RER) of at least 50% at these sites.

  • Investment (Contextual): The development, construction, and maintenance of the clean energy infrastructure is part of a larger $59 million investment package secured by CREI.

Future Implications: If scaled as planned, the CREI–Orange Mali partnership could redefine telecom electrification standards in West Africa, offering a replicable model for other mobile network operators across the region.