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By Nana Theresa Timothy
Hotspot Network Limited, a leading last-mile connectivity and telecom tower operator in Nigeria, and Solarkiosk Solutions GmbH, a Pan-African leader in off-grid solar energy, have formed a groundbreaking joint venture to deliver innovative energy and connectivity solutions to rural communities in Nigeria.
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The joint venture (JV), known as Hotspot-Solarkiosk, will function as both an Energy Service Company (ESCO) and an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor. It aims to deploy cutting-edge technology solutions and services to enhance connectivity and solar energy access across Nigeria. The primary mission of this partnership is to economically empower rural off-grid communities through sustainable energy and improved connectivity.
Initially, the focus will be on powering Hotspot’s telecom tower network with solar energy to improve internet access and connectivity in remote Nigerian villages. Additionally, the joint venture plans to roll out Solarkiosk’s proprietary E-HUBB technology, which uses solar power to provide essential goods and services to underserved communities.
The partnership will utilize advanced remote monitoring and control systems and state-of-the-art IT technologies to ensure smooth operations and enhanced service delivery. Furthermore, Solarkiosk’s E-HUBBs will serve as platforms for introducing telecommunications and solar products and services to rural markets.
New JV to address Nigeria’s energy poverty
The new JV will be addressing energy situation in Nigeria’s rural areas which is particularly dire. Only 41.1% of the population in rural Nigeria have access to the grid, most of whom receive less than 12 hours of electricity per day. A GSMA survey found that telecom operators in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, often face power outages, lack of grid access, high energy costs, and challenges in adopting renewable energy. Nigeria’s energy poverty index is 0.38, indicating that more than half of the households are energy poor, driven by surging energy demand, insufficient supply, and low income.
The Hotspot-Solarkiosk joint venture also aims to offer innovative energy solutions to private sector and government clients in Nigeria, addressing the growing demand for renewable energy amid rising energy prices. The partnership is positioned to play a significant role in transitioning the telecom sector toward sustainable energy solutions that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aim for net-zero emissions.
Collaboration will drive economic empowerment in off-grid communities
Thomas Rieger, CEO of Solarkiosk Solutions GmbH, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “we’re thrilled about this joint venture with Hotspot, uniting two mission-aligned companies with proven track records. This collaboration will combine connectivity and essential services, transforming rural Nigeria and driving economic empowerment in off-grid communities.”
Morenikeji Aniye, CEO of Hotspot Network Limited, added, “this joint venture realizes years of work on sustainable rural ecosystems, integrating ICT and energy access. It aims to enhance income, gender participation, and skills, marking a significant step in improving rural Nigeria’s socio-economic conditions.”
Hotspot Network Limited is also a foundational sponsor of Unconnected, Nigeria’s premier conference and expo on telecom connectivity and renewable energy, focusing on rural and underserved areas.
