In an effort to provide affordable communications solutions for people in the remote areas of Cambodia, Ericsson has enabled Cambodian mobile operator Star-Cell to expand its network coverage by combining a GSM base station and satellite transmission in a solar-powered site. The provides affordable mobile coverage in areas where other modes of transmission solutions are unavailable, according to Ericsson.

In Cambodia, 80% of the population lives outside of the urban areas where there is more likelihood of a hotspot or signal. The GSM solution has a lower environmental impact than standard base stations, consuming up to 50% less energy. Star-Cell selected Ericsson in an effort to expand network coverage and introduce EDGE-based apps to enable mobile health and educational services in outlaying communities.

“Ericsson’s solar-powered site with satellite transmission will make a significant difference,” says Denis Ryabtsev, chief marketing officer at Star-Cell. “It enables us to expand cost-effectively into rural areas; connect people for the first time; and offer affordable services that improve quality of life.”

Hans Karlsson, president of Ericsson, Thailand and Indochina says, “This marks an important milestone and we are proud to implement the first solar-powered solution in Cambodia.” Continuing, Karlsson says, “This move highlights our technical leadership, our commitment to sustainable development, and our vision of providing communication for all.”

• Ericsson

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