iColo has implemented over 650 kW of solar installations across its data centre campuses in Nairobi and Mombasa, enhancing sustainability. The Nairobi campus has over 450 kW of this solar installation, supporting its expansion and growing energy demands.
Solar Installation: Supporting Global Network
Carrier-neutral data centre provider iColo has taken a significant step towards sustainability. The company announced the addition and commissioning of over 650 kilowatts (kW) of new solar installations across its data centre campuses in Nairobi and Mombasa.
iColo enhances sustainability with 650 kW of new solar installations at its Nairobi and Mombasa data centres.
Over 450 kW of this new solar installation is located at iColo’s Nairobi campus. This campus which is known as NBO is a critical hub where more than 60 national and global networks converge. The addition of solar power will support the campus’s continued expansion and help in meeting the growing energy demands.
The remaining nearly 200 kW of solar capacity has been allocated to iColo’s Miritini Mombasa campus. This campus is a growing interconnection hub with over 85 network providers. The new solar installation will support the campus as it continues to expand, providing a sustainable energy source for its operations.
Ranjith Cherickel, Founder and CEO of iColo expressed his enthusiasm for the project. “Our solar investments are driven not only by our sustainability goals as a company but also by our commitment to support our customers’ renewable energy targets,” Cherickel said.
Kenya's Renewable Energy Landscape
Kenya is a leader in renewable energy, with 82% of its energy generation mix coming from renewable sources. According to the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), the country's grid heavily relies on geothermal, hydro, and wind power.
iColo's new solar installations are a reflection of this commitment to sustainability. The company is actively looking to secure additional space for further solar installations, including greenfields, car parks, and rooftops at all its campuses.
iColo has set a long-term goal to have 25% of its facilities' power needs met by solar installations. This ambitious plan is part of the company's broader strategy to ensure that its campuses' growth is aligned with adding more solar capacity. As the company continues to expand, it plans to integrate more renewable energy solutions to meet the growing demand for power in the future.
Future Plans
iColo's plans for future growth are impressive. The company currently has three data centres in its master plan, including a captive substation. These facilities are expected to consume over 20 megawatts (MW) at full capacity. The second data center in Nairobi which is known as NBO2 is anticipated to come online in the third quarter of 2025 with an IT load of 6.5 MW.
These developments align with the sustainability goals of iColo's parent company, Digital Realty. In 2020, Digital Realty joined the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi). This initiative reduces its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 68% and Scope 3 emissions by 24% by 2030. Digital Realty has also made significant progress in renewable energy procurement, securing contracts for over 1.4 gigawatts of renewable power.
iColo’s recent solar installation projects in Nairobi and Mombasa are a testament to the company's commitment to sustainability. By aligning with Kenya's renewable energy landscape and Digital Realty’s global sustainability goals, iColo is not just adopting renewable energy; it is driving the industry forward. As the company continues to expand, its focus on sustainable energy solutions will remain at the forefront.