FEI, Norfund Back Solar Rollout at 4,000 Telecom Sites Across Africa
Africa’s transition toward cleaner and more resilient digital infrastructure received a major boost after the Facility for Energy Inclusion (FEI) and Norwegian development finance institution Norfund announced a combined $90 million financing package to support renewable energy deployment at telecom sites across the continent.
The funding will enable Communication & Renewable Energy Infrastructure (CREI) to expand solar-powered energy systems for telecommunications infrastructure in several African markets, including Mali, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic.
FEI and Norfund Provide $90 Million for Telecom Energy Projects
The financing package consists of a long-term debt facility valued at $90 million. According to the institutions, the funding refinances $55 million in bridge facilities provided in 2024 while introducing an additional $35 million in fresh capital to accelerate project deployment.
The investment will support CREI’s efforts to expand renewable energy assets that power telecommunications infrastructure across Africa. As telecom operators continue to extend connectivity into underserved regions, reliable and sustainable energy solutions are becoming increasingly critical to network performance and operational efficiency.
FEI, which is managed by Cygnum Capital, served as the lead arranger for the transaction.
Solar-Powered Telecom Infrastructure Gains Momentum
In a separate announcement, Norfund confirmed a $30 million investment specifically targeted at deploying solar-powered energy systems across approximately 4,000 telecom tower sites in Mali, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic.
The initiative aims to replace traditional diesel-dependent power generation with hybrid energy infrastructure that combines solar technology and battery storage solutions. As a result, telecom operators can reduce fuel costs, improve energy reliability, and lower carbon emissions.
The rollout aligns with broader efforts across Africa to modernize critical digital infrastructure while improving energy sustainability in regions where grid access remains limited.
CREI Expands Its Energy-as-a-Service Model
CREI plans to use the funding to scale its energy-as-a-service model for mobile network operators. Under this approach, the company develops, owns, and manages energy infrastructure while telecom operators focus on delivering connectivity services.
The company said the investment will accelerate the deployment of renewable energy systems at telecom sites and strengthen network resilience across challenging operating environments.
Furthermore, CREI is working alongside two33 Group’s ieng unit to increase renewable energy’s contribution to power generation at the targeted sites. The initiative is expected to raise the share of renewable energy in overall electricity production to nearly 50%.
Supporting Connectivity in Underserved African Markets
The investment focuses on some of Africa’s most infrastructure-constrained markets. Mali, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic are classified as Least Developed Countries and continue to face challenges related to energy access, infrastructure development, and security.
Despite these obstacles, telecommunications networks remain essential for financial inclusion, digital services, and economic participation. Consequently, investments that improve energy reliability at telecom sites can play a significant role in expanding digital access and supporting broader development goals.
Renewable Energy and Digital Infrastructure Converge
As demand for mobile connectivity, digital services, and data consumption continues to grow across Africa, operators are increasingly seeking sustainable energy alternatives to power network infrastructure.
The FEI and Norfund financing demonstrates the growing convergence between renewable energy investment and digital infrastructure development. By reducing reliance on diesel generators and expanding the use of solar-powered systems, the initiative supports both environmental sustainability and the long-term resilience of Africa’s telecommunications sector.
The project also highlights how development finance institutions are playing an increasingly important role in funding infrastructure that supports both digital transformation and energy transition objectives across the continent.
