Transitioning Telecommunications Networks to Renewable Energy: A Techno-Economic Analysis for Solar-Powered 5G Base Stations in European Countries

Driven by the rapid rollout and densification of 5G networks, alongside mounting operational costs and carbon-reduction commitments, telecommunications operators and policymakers face a critical need for sustainable energy strategies. This paper presents a European-wide techno-economic and environmental assessment of retrofitting 5G macro-cell base stations with grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Using a techno-economic bottom-up model driven by real irradiance and load profiles, a 20-year discounted cash-flow (DCF) analysis is performed. Country-specific area/land characteristics, as well as capital, operating and land-lease costs are considered to determine net present value (NPV), whereas life-cycle assessment (LCA) is employed to quantify emission savings. Results show that rural sites are almost universally NPV-positive, however urban installations yield strong returns only in high-irradiance and high electricity price markets, while remaining marginal elsewhere. Sensitivity testing highlights electricity prices and land-lease costs as primary drivers. Modest electricity price trend close or above inflation and/or reuse of 30–70% of existing site area if available can render borderline markets profitable. Under profit-maximizing deployment, PV reduces national emissions by