Shropshire, UK – In a significant step towards sustainable connectivity, Ryse Energy has partnered with BT Group to deliver and install a hybrid renewable energy system at BT’s first self-powered mobile site, located in the Shropshire Hills. Utilising Ryse Energy’s solar panels, wind turbine, battery back-up and a sustainable, multi-fuel generator manufactured by Bladon, the site generates approximately 70% of its energy on-site, reducing the reliance on external power sources.

In the event of there being insufficient renewable energy source available and the battery power being fully discharged, Bladon’s sustainable multi-fuel generator powered by Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel acts to simultaneously provide back-up power to the mast and charge to the batteries, ensuring the site continues to deliver connectivity to customers. HVO is itself classed as a green fuel, meaning 100% of the site’s power requirements will be delivered by renewable energy sources.

Ryse Energy, the global leader in off-grid renewable solutions, designed the installation to meet BT Group’s unique energy needs, combining robust wind turbines and solar panels with a cutting-edge battery storage system. This integration allows the site to deliver reliable 4G and 5G connectivity to EE customers, while aligning with BT Group’s 2031 net-zero target.

This deployment in Shropshire will serve as a pioneering model for additional remote sites, with BT Group identifying hundreds of potential locations for similar installations across the UK. The renewable energy generated by Ryse Energy’s system is expected to supply approximately 17,000 kWh per year, resulting in energy cost savings and carbon footprint reductions for BT Group.

“Delivering ubiquitous coverage is critically important in an age where connectivity has never been so central to everyday life, but it absolutely must be done in a responsible and sustainable manner. It’s paramount that we increase the energy-efficiency of our networks, and so we’re really excited about the potential of self-powering sites in enabling us to meet both our sustainability and connectivity ambitions,” said Greg McCall, Chief Networks Officer and BT Group.

Ryse Energy’s CEO of Europe and Americas, Richard Caldow, said “Ryse Energy’s technology enabled BT Group to establish a self-sustaining site in a rural setting. Our partnership marks a critical advancement in sustainable energy solutions within the telecom sector, showcasing the viability of off-grid hybrid systems in challenging environments.”