Safaricom 2018 Sustainable Business Report

40 INTRODUCTION OUR BUSINESS OUR MATERIAL TOPICS STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT 2018 SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS REPORT Network Energy Mix (Number of sites) KP* and Genset 2,763 3,080 3,623 3,755 705 688 555 323 41 129 191 78 91 56 98 133 155 53 47 46 KP* (No Generator) 24/7 Diesel Generator PowerCube (Energy Efficient Generator) Solar or Wind & Hybrid Solution S D G 7 S D G 1 2 ENERGY MIX As reported last year, we have adjusted our approach to the mix of energy sources used throughout our network in response to the SDG strategy. Our current focus is on using sustainable energy sources and consumption patterns to achieve network availability and energy efficiency goals. In practical terms, this means avoiding, and phasing out, the use of diesel generators wherever possible, either by ensuring that Kenya Power (national grid) energy is available at a site or by employing alternative energy solutions. As the following table shows, we significantly reduced the number of sites powered 24/7 by diesel generators. This was achieved by bringing national grid energy to larger sites (that provide critical coverage) and prioritising the use of solar-based energy solutions at smaller sites (that provide additional capacity). The number of sites connected to the national grid increased by 149 and an additional 22 sites were converted to solar or wind and hybrid power solutions. While it is satisfactory progress, delays with the provisioning of commercial power smart meters and the shipping of solar equipment prevented us from achieving more. Network energy sources by site (total at year-end) FY18 FY17 FY16 FY15 KP* and Genset 3,755 3,623 3,080 2,763 KP* (No generator) 705 688 555 323 24/7 Diesel Generator 78 191 129 41 PowerCube (energy efficient generator) 46 47 53 91 Solar or Wind and Hybrid solution 155 133 98 56 * Kenya Power (national grid supply) FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18