Globe converts more than 1,000 cell sites to renewable energy

Details: Manny Pham; Category: Energy & Sustainability; 26 October 2026; 306 views

Philippine operator Globe Telecom has switched more than 1,000 cell sites to renewable energy as of August 2026, as it seeks to reduce emissions and improve network resilience during power outages and severe weather.

The sites were converted through the government's Retail Aggregation Program (RAP), which Globe adopted in 2025. The operator said it was the first telecoms provider in the Philippines to reach the milestone under the programme.

Globe is also replacing diesel generators at remote sites with hybrid solar photovoltaic systems and battery energy storage systems. The batteries use lithium-ion and sodium-nickel technologies, while automated load management systems at sites that still require generators help reduce fuel consumption and engine running times.

The changes are intended to keep mobile sites operating during prolonged power cuts and extreme weather, helping maintain connectivity for communities and emergency responders.

Joel Agustin, Globe's senior vice-president for engineering and network planning, said the renewable energy rollout supported the operator's Net Zero Strategy, operational efficiency and disaster preparedness.

The initiative also forms part of Globe's wider efforts to improve energy efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of its network operations.