Globe Telecom equips cell sites with fuel cell power solutions

Philippines based Globe Telecom is rolling out fuel cell systems that can provide back-up power solution in cell cites identified as most critical to ensure delivery of telecommunication services during crisis situations such as when a natural calamity strikes.

This move comes in line with company efforts to fortify the network following the onslaught of powerful typhoons such as Haiyan that caused massive devastation in central Philippines in November of last year. The severity of the destruction caused by Typhoon Haiyan underscored the need for reliable, extended duration backup power capability to maintain continuity of communications between emergency services personnel as well as the general public during crisis situations.

"The installation of fuel cell systems in our cell sites is in line with the company's network resiliency and preparedness plan to ensure our customers have access to our voice, SMS and data network during times of emergencies when availability of communication lines is most critical," said Robert Tan, Globe Chief Technical Advisor.

Fuel cell systems provide a cost-effective and reliable alternative to batteries and generators. The fuel cell systems enable up to 100 hours of run time. The methanol-fuelled back-up power systems ensures delivery of network services during extreme weather events or when electric grid is unavailable or during power outages.

Providing back-up power solutions for Globe cell sites forms part of the company's business continuity program, aimed at adequately equipping the company to respond and address disruptive incidents such as natural calamities. Following such efforts, Globe Telecom recently became the first telecommunications provider in the country to secure an enterprise-wide business continuity ISO certification, attesting to the company's readiness in ensuring delivery of vital telecommunication services to its customers during crisis situations.

Globe Telecom obtained an enterprise-wide certification of compliance for ISO 22301:2012 for the delivery of voice, SMS, data products, internet and data center related activities, through its mobile and fixed line networks to its domestic and international customers. The certificate was issued by the British Standards Institute and approved by the United Kingdom Accreditation Services.