IFC Backs IPT Powertech With $45 Million To Green Telecom Infrastructure Across Africa

IPT PowerTech Group has secured a major financing package of US$45 million from the International Finance Corporation to support clean energy deployment across telecom infrastructure in Africa. The investment will be used to modernize and maintain 2,235 telecom tower sites spread across Ethiopia, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. The initiative is seen as a strong step toward making digital infrastructure more sustainable in regions where reliable electricity remains a challenge.

A large portion of these telecom sites, more than 90%, are located in remote areas where grid connectivity is either weak or completely unavailable. At present, many of these locations depend heavily on diesel generators, which are not only costly but also contribute significantly to carbon emissions. Through this project, solar power systems and advanced battery storage solutions will be introduced to replace or reduce the use of diesel-based energy. This transition is expected to ensure a more stable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly power supply for telecom networks.

The CEO of IPT PowerTech, Nabil Haddad, stated that the partnership reflects a broader global push toward greener telecom operations. He explained that integrating renewable energy into telecom infrastructure will help lower the environmental footprint while also improving operational performance. Reliable energy supply at telecom sites also has a direct impact on local communities, as it reduces network outages and improves access to digital services. Schools, healthcare centers, and small businesses in these regions are likely to benefit from more consistent connectivity.

The financial benefits of the project are also significant. By shifting to a hybrid energy model that combines solar and battery storage, mobile operators are expected to reduce their power costs considerably. Estimates suggest savings of up to 52% in Ethiopia, 30% in Liberia, and 26% in Sierra Leone. These cost reductions could allow telecom companies to expand their services further or offer more affordable connectivity to users.

The funding package from IFC includes a direct loan of US$27 million along with an additional US$18 million sourced from climate and development finance programs. This investment is particularly important for Liberia and Sierra Leone, where IFC has had limited infrastructure involvement in recent years. According to Nathalie Kouassi-Akon, access to reliable power is essential for digital growth. She noted that supporting private sector initiatives like this helps close the digital gap while promoting sustainable development.