Fuel shortages disrupt telecom services

The telecommunications sector in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is facing major disruptions due to fuel supply issues, according to the Regulatory Authority for Posts and Electronic Communications (ARPCE). These disruptions are impacting networks nationwide, causing partial or complete outages in voice, internet, and mobile money services, as well as slower connection speeds and dropped calls.

Power grid limitations worsen the crisis

Telecom operators are struggling with the limited availability of the electrical grid, relying heavily on backup generators. However, these generators are not sufficient due to a shortage of diesel. On average, electrical outages last nine hours a day, and backup batteries only provide six hours of power, which is often not enough when outages extend longer than expected.

High fuel costs strain operations

Helios Towers, which operates 550 relay antennas across the country, needs about 100,000 liters of diesel per week to power its generators. The Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) estimates that fuel costs can account for 30 to 60% of operators’ total expenses in many African countries. Additionally, generating electricity from diesel is three to four times more expensive than using the grid in the region.

Authorities seek to improve fuel supply

The ARPCE has informed the Prime Ministry about the situation and is collaborating with the National Petroleum Company of the Congo (SNPC) to optimize fuel distribution. However, these efforts do not address the fundamental reliance of telecommunications infrastructure on diesel.

Renewable energy solutions are explored

The GSMA and the World Bank have suggested renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and hybrid systems, to reduce reliance on diesel for telecom infrastructure. The World Bank’s guide Green Telecommunications: Policies and Practices for More Sustainable Networks highlights solar power as a way to cut energy costs and improve service reliability.

Hybrid systems may still need diesel

The International Finance Corporation, part of the World Bank Group, notes that some companies specialize in providing energy solutions for telecom operators. These companies install and maintain hybrid systems that combine solar panels, batteries, and generators. However, diesel may still be needed in some cases, depending on site conditions and maintenance capabilities.