U MOBILE and ZTE have successfully completed a proof-of-concept (POC) for a portable off-grid 5G network site powered entirely by solar energy, demonstrating a faster and more sustainable way to connect remote and underserved communities.
The solution combines solar power, battery storage and satellite backhaul, allowing it to operate independently of the national electricity grid and terrestrial transmission infrastructure such as fibre.
This enables rapid deployment in locations where conventional network infrastructure may be difficult or time-consuming to build.
The companies said the site was installed and fully activated within three days, compared with conventional rural tower deployments that can take close to a year due to site acquisition, tower construction, transmission infrastructure and grid power requirements.
The pilot was conducted at two rural locations in East Malaysia: SK Mentu in Sebuyau, Sarawak, and Balai Kebudayaan Iburu, a community hall in Sipitang, Sabah.
Instead of a conventional telecommunications tower, each site used a lightweight 12-metre pole equipped with high-efficiency solar panels and a battery backup system capable of operating for up to 52 hours without sunlight, depending on the configuration.
The sites supported both 4G and 5G services, achieving peak download speeds of up to 134Mbps during live testing.
“As Malaysia’s newest 5G network provider, we have the opportunity to explore more agile ways of expanding our network, particularly in areas where conventional deployment can be challenging,” said U Mobile chief technology officer Woon Ooi Yuen.
“This proof-of-concept demonstrates how a 100% green-energy, off-grid site can be deployed rapidly while still delivering reliable 4G and 5G connectivity.
“Together with technology partners such as ZTE, we will continue exploring practical innovations that can accelerate the expansion of our ULTRA5G network, help close the digital divide and extend the benefits of connectivity to more Malaysians.”
ZTE Malaysia chief marketing officer Tey Khang Lian said the collaboration combined solar power, battery storage and satellite backhaul to address infrastructure challenges in remote areas.
“This rural pilot reflects our shared commitment to making 4G and 5G connectivity more accessible while supporting Malaysia’s digital inclusion aspirations,” he said.
Beyond rural connectivity, the companies said the portable solution could also be deployed during emergencies and natural disasters, where its ability to operate independently of grid power and terrestrial transmission infrastructure could help restore communications more quickly.
The POC marks another step in U Mobile’s and ZTE’s efforts to explore more agile and sustainable network deployment models aimed at narrowing Malaysia’s digital divide and expanding access to the digital economy. ‒ Sept 22, 2026
