The Indian government is considering introducing a mandatory regulation that would require mobile network operators to use solar power as a back-up power supply system. Most remote base stations in areas away from the power grid use diesel generators, but there is an overwhelming initiative to replace these generators with more environment friendly solar solutions.

The proposal is being finalized by the renewable energy ministry, and will sent to the cabinet soon. The strategy to switch to renewable energy as a power source for base stations has its risks – mostly due to the fact that upfront costs of this kind of power supply technology put more financial pressure on mobile network operators. This could negativelly impact the expansion of networks in rural areas, where back-up power supply is more important for network operations reliability.

The government is not thinking about offering subsidies, but will most probably offer some kind of soft loan program to come from the Indian Renewable Energy Developmet Agency.

Some Indian developers, such as Vihaan Networks, have come up with ready-to-use solutions for powering remote base stations with solar power.

[via: Cellular News, image: VNL]