Airtel Nigeria claims it spends N28bn monthly on diesel
Airtel Nigeria has disclosed that it spends a staggering ₦28 billion monthly on diesel to power its telecommunications infrastructure.
This expenditure is primarily due to the company’s reliance on diesel generators, which have been the backbone of energy supply for their operations across the country.
The high costs are attributed to the persistent energy challenges in Nigeria, where the electricity supply is often unreliable, forcing telecom operators like Airtel to depend heavily on diesel-powered generators.
Femi Adeniran, Director of Corporate Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility at Airtel Nigeria said the rising prices of diesel fuel have significantly impacted Airtel’s operational expenses.
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He said this financial burden has prompted the company to seek alternative energy solutions. The monthly consumption of diesel amounts to approximately 22 million liters, leading to substantial environmental consequences as well.
In response to these challenges and costs, Airtel Nigeria is embarking on a sustainability initiative aimed at reducing its carbon footprint.
The company plans to transition from diesel generators to renewable energy sources such as solar power. This strategic shift not only aims to cut down on operational expenses but also aligns with broader climate change mitigation goals set forth by Nigeria.
To further enhance its sustainability efforts, Airtel Nigeria is investing in lithium-ion batteries instead of traditional batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are more efficient and have a slower discharge rate compared to conventional options, contributing positively towards reducing carbon emissions.
Additionally, the company is adopting outdoor-operable electronics that can withstand extreme environmental conditions without requiring air conditioning, thereby lowering overall energy consumption.
To further enhance its sustainability efforts, Airtel Nigeria is investing in lithium-ion batteries instead of traditional batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are more efficient and have a slower discharge rate compared to conventional options, contributing positively towards reducing carbon emissions.