Finnfund, the Finnish development financier and impact investor, has announced a follow-on investment in Communication & Renewable Energy Infrastructure (CREI) to expand sustainable energy solutions for telecom infrastructure in South Sudan.
CREI manages telecom tower and renewable power assets across Africa and Asia, specialising in hybrid energy solutions for mobile network operators.
The financing supports the modernisation and expansion of solar-hybrid energy systems across 499 MTN South Sudan telecom sites under a ten-year energy-as-a-service (ESCO) contract. According to Finnfund, 490 sites have already been modernised, providing reliable power to telecom stations serving over four million customers.
As a result, national network coverage has increased from 69% to 80% of the population over the past three years, highlighting the broader impact of infrastructure upgrades.
The $5 million investment is backed by the European Fund for Sustainable Development Plus under the Africa Connected programme, which focuses on digital inclusion and climate resilience. Finnfund’s total investment in CREI now stands at $10 million.
The transition from diesel generators to solar-hybrid systems has reduced carbon emissions by 43%, while lowering noise and local air pollution. The renewable energy ratio across sites has increased from 11% to 42%, with further sustainability improvements expected as modernisation continues.
Beyond telecom infrastructure, CREI supports community development initiatives, including the solarisation of maternity wards that previously lacked reliable electricity, strengthening maternal and neonatal healthcare services.
The company has also implemented a gender action plan to increase female participation in technical and engineering roles, enhance workplace benefits, and ensure equitable access to training and leadership opportunities.
