BT powers mobile phone mast with renewable energy
A site in the Shropshire Hills will serve as the testbed for green-powered mobile connectivity in Britain.
BT Group has now activated the first of its revolutionary self-powering mobile masts, which run on solar and wind energy.
70% of all electrical needs at the Shropshire location will be generated on site, renewably, with power then used to charge batteries which run the mast itself. Should there be insufficient energy generated, and a depleted battery, a backup source is also included, which runs on hydrotreated vegetable oil – considered ‘green fuel’.
If successful, the technology could be deployed across Britain in a bid to ensure the ongoing rollout of improved connectivity – particularly in rural areas – does not add unnecessary strain to the grid, or increase emissions.
The test location is expected to generate around 17,000 kWh of wind and solar energy each year, saving at least £10,000 in the process. According to a spokesperson for the telecoms giant, hundreds of sites have already been identified nationally, which are considered to be suitable for similar infrastructure to be installed.
‘Delivering ubiquitous coverage is critically important in an age where connectivity has never been so central to everyday life, but it absolutely must be done in a responsible and sustainable manner,” said Greg McCall, chief networks officer, BT Group,’ said Greg McCall, Chief Networks Office at BT Group. ‘It’s paramount that we increase the energy-efficiency of our networks, and so we’re really excited about the potential of self-powering sites in enabling us to meet both our sustainability and connectivity ambitions.’
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Image: BT Group