Orange Mali adopts Caterpillar hybrid microgrid solution

Caterpillar Inc. has announced that Orange Mali, the largest telecommunications operator in West Africa, has successfully demonstrated a hybrid microgrid power system at a mobile tower site in Kéniéba, Mali

This innovative solution significantly lowers the total cost of ownership while cutting greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80%.

Engineers from Neemba, the local Cat dealer, installed and commissioned the system designed by Caterpillar. It integrates a Cat C2.2 diesel generator set, solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, and lithium-ion energy storage to supply up to 6 kW of power. Previously, the site relied solely on a diesel generator.

The system’s modular design allows for future expansion, enabling additional components to be integrated as network demand grows.

“Orange is dedicated to building a more responsible digital world by achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2040,” said Mahamadou Keita, project manager for Orange Mali. “The hybrid microgrid system developed by Neemba and Caterpillar exemplifies our collaborations with innovative companies that share our drive for decarbonisation.”

Hybrid power solutions for remote telecom sites

Caterpillar’s hybrid power solution for telecom towers combines solar PV panels with a diesel generator to ensure reliable energy supply. During daylight hours, solar energy powers the site while charging the battery storage system. At night or in overcast conditions, the stored energy provides power, reducing diesel usage and emissions.

The system is managed automatically using an on-site control system, which also enables remote monitoring. This allows real-time access to performance data, facilitates early issue detection, and speeds up troubleshooting. By optimising available renewable resources and ensuring the generator operates at peak efficiency, the hybrid system helps lower operating costs and maximise reliability, making it ideal for off-grid locations.

Over the past decade, Neemba has supplied Orange Mali with more than a thousand Cat generator sets ranging in size from 15 kVA to 1 MVA. The company also maintains power solutions at hundreds of telecom towers through extended service contracts.

“Neemba has supported the transformation of enterprises in West Africa for nearly a century, and this hybrid microgrid demonstration for Orange Mali shows how we can leverage advanced Cat power solutions and our industry expertise to support our customers through the energy transition,” said Sanou Baba Nestor, energy sales manager for Neemba.

Caterpillar’s commitment to energy transition

Caterpillar continues to support customers’ climate-related goals by offering products, technologies, and services designed to enhance energy flexibility, improve efficiency, and lower emissions.

“The energy transition requires resilient solutions that maintain superior power availability and reliability while reducing associated costs for the customer,” said Neil Smith, growth strategy manager for Caterpillar Electric Power. “One size doesn’t fit all, and our collaboration with Neemba and Orange Mali proves how we can combine our deep portfolio with our knowledge of the telecommunications sector to help customers excel in every aspect of performance.”

Caterpillar remains committed to developing innovative power solutions that deliver long-term value, reliability, and sustainability. The company also offers global product support through the Cat dealer network, providing maintenance services and customer value agreements to help optimise the total cost of ownership for its equipment.

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