Vodacom pushes renewable power as Africa's telecom sector faces energy and regulatory hurdles

Rapid growth of data‑driven services such as fintech, e‑health and online education across Africa is driving up electricity demand for mobile networks. Vodacom’s chief technology officer warned that unstable grid supplies force operators to rely on costly diesel generators, increasing expenses and carbon emissions. The company proposes renewable options—including mini‑grids, solar home systems, run‑of‑river hydropower, advanced battery storage and hybrid diesel‑renewable setups—to improve reliability and cut costs, and calls for supportive policies such as power‑purchase agreements and green tariffs.

In South Africa, the Independent Communications Authority (ICASA) has clarified that satellite internet providers like Starlink must obtain full communications and spectrum licences before operating, ending months of uncertainty but leaving the launch pending. The regulator’s notice also touches on broader political debate over ownership‑empowerment rules. Meanwhile, Kenya’s Court of Appeal cleared Vodacom’s $1.6 billion purchase of an additional 15 % stake in Safaricom, raising its ownership to about 55 % pending a constitutional case, marking a major shift in East Africa’s telecom landscape.