Grid Crux Energy Solutions, a Lagos-based clean energy developer, has partnered with Dolphin Telecoms to provide a solar power system for the Lagos Cable Landing Station. The 10-year Energy-as-a-Service agreement was signed at a Power Agreement Ceremony themed ‘Powering Connectivity, Enabling Growth.’ This deal marks the first renewable Energy-as-a-Service deployment at an ACE cable landing station in Anglophone Africa.
The solar power system is expected to generate over 144 MWh of clean energy annually and more than 1,500 MWh throughout the agreement term. By operating alongside existing power sources, the system will reduce dependence on diesel generation, lower energy costs, and cut carbon emissions and noise. The system will also provide real-time remote monitoring for tighter operational control and proactive maintenance.
The Lagos Cable Landing Station is a critical facility where international submarine capacity comes ashore and is handed over to Nigeria’s telecom operators, internet service providers, enterprises, and government agencies. Grid Crux Energy Solutions’ CEO, Mojola Ola, emphasized the importance of reliable power at the landing station while reducing costs and carbon emissions. Ola stated that the company is focused on delivering quality service and supporting Dolphin Telecoms on this journey.
The partnership is part of Dolphin Telecoms’ long-term strategy to diversify its energy mix and build greater sustainability and resilience into its infrastructure. Managing Director of Dolphin Telecoms, Abdelrahman Bashar Khalifa, noted that this commitment represents an investment in future generations, as power remains essential in modern times. The ACE cable, which runs along Africa’s Atlantic coast, serves around 17 African countries and is a critical component of the region's telecommunications network.
The project has been three years in development, according to Atinuke Adeniran, Project Lead, Strategy and Performance, at Grid Crux. Adeniran described the partnership as a long-term commitment to integrating renewable energy into critical infrastructure. Dolphin Telecoms has invested over $60 million in the ACE cable system and holds full rights of landing in Dakar, Accra, and Lagos, markets representing 80 percent of West Africa’s population.
The 17,000-kilometer ACE cable connects Europe to South Africa, providing vital connectivity to the region. With this partnership, Dolphin Telecoms is taking a significant step towards reducing its carbon footprint and reliance on diesel generation. The solar power system will play a crucial role in powering the Lagos Cable Landing Station, ensuring reliable and efficient energy supply.
The collaboration between Grid Crux Energy Solutions and Dolphin Telecoms sets a precedent for sustainable energy solutions in the telecommunications sector. By leveraging renewable energy sources, the companies aim to reduce costs, minimize environmental impact, and ensure reliable power supply to critical infrastructure. This partnership demonstrates the potential for private sector companies to drive sustainable development in Africa.
Key points
- The solar power system is expected to generate over 144 MWh of clean energy annually.
- The partnership marks the first renewable Energy-as-a-Service deployment at an ACE cable landing station in Anglophone Africa.
- Dolphin Telecoms has invested over $60 million in the ACE cable system.
