In an innovative move towards sustainability, Telia Estonia has partnered with renewable energy solutions developer Sunly City to construct solar installations adjacent to its mobile masts. Over the past year, 43 solar installations have been completed, paving the way for tens of thousands of Telia’s customers to utilize mobile services fueled by solar energy, under favorable conditions.
This collaboration, initiated last spring, outlines an extensive agreement between Sunly City and Telia Estonia. The objective is to erect solar installations near approximately 100 of Telia’s mobile masts across the country by the close of 2024.
CEO of Telia Estonia, Holger Haljand, emphasizes the significance of these solar installations, labeling them as the company’s most significant renewable energy endeavor thus far. He underscores Telia’s broader commitment to environmental responsibility, highlighting the group’s pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040 and attain 100% waste reuse and recycling by 2030.
Network manager Mihkel Kõiv provides insights into the project’s progress, noting that 40 solar installations were completed alongside Telia mobile masts in 2023, with an additional 3 added at the outset of this year. Looking ahead, plans are underway to expedite construction, aiming to activate nearly all of the planned 100 solar installations by year-end.
Upon completion, the solar installations developed through the collaboration between Sunly City and Telia are projected to generate a combined production capacity of 1,200 kW.
Telia’s Commitment to Climate Action and Circular Economy
Telia’s endeavor aligns with its broader strategy to combat climate change and promote circularity. The company has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, adhering to the new SBTi Net-Zero Standard. This entails a comprehensive approach, including a 90% reduction in emissions compared to the 2018 baseline, with the remainder to be neutralized. By 2030, Telia aims to halve absolute GHG emissions compared to 2018 levels, offsetting the remainder as it continues its journey towards net-zero.
