Globe deploys Huawei green tech for remote areas

MANILA, Philippines — Network provider Globe Telecom Inc. is deploying green technology developed by Huawei to activate cellular coverage in some of the farthest areas in the country.

Globe yesterday announced it is bringing in RuralLink to provide mobile coverage in at least 20 areas in the countryside as part of efforts to bridge the digital gap in the Philippines.

RuralLink, designed by tech giant Huawei, combines the capabilities of multiple antennas into a single, compact unit, allowing telcos to expand their network at minimal cost.

Initially, Globe will deploy RuralLink in 20 locations, but the telco is open to bringing it to other towns as needed. Globe plans to maximize the efficiency of RuralLink in providing connectivity services in underserved markets.

Globe head of service planning and engineering Joel Agustin said RuralLink eliminates the need to make large-scale investments just to reach remote areas. For so long, telcos have lamented the cost of putting up reliable service in sparsely-populated areas.

Further, RuralLink weighs less than 101 kilos and occupies 48 liters less volume compared to the standard macro site.

As such, Agustin said RuralLink reduces material usage and structural load, making installations easier and quicker to minimize cost.

Given the light build, RuralLink also consumes 65 percent less power as opposed to the typical macro site, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 4,800 kilos yearly.

Huawei introduced RuralLink to the telco industry at the Global Mobile Broadband Forum 2022, packaging it as a cost-efficient solution to build mobile networks in rural areas. Huawei markets RuralLink as an alternative to fiber cables, which are difficult to lay down in far-flung towns.

Globe has committed to provide mobile assets in 100 geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas this year. If accomplished, this would bring the number of GIDAs where Globe is present to at least 700.

“Through our strategic partnerships, we are pushing the boundaries of network technology, [and] RuralLink enables us to reduce our carbon footprint and power consumption while ensuring that no community is left behind in the digital age,” Agustin said.

Globe is winding down its capital expenditures to below $1 billion in 2025 aligned with its fiscal plan, but aims to spend the bulk of the amount on network expansion and service upgrades.