- U Mobile and ZTE have successfully completed a proof-of-concept (POC) of a portable, full off-grid 5G network site powered entirely by 100% green energy
- The portable solution demonstrated a faster and more sustainable approach to extending connectivity to remote and underserved communities
- Beyond rural connectivity, the portable solution also has potential applications in emergency and disaster response
U Mobile and ZTE demonstrate a portable network solution at SK Mentu in Sebuyau, Sarawak, designed to extend 4G and 5G connectivity to rural and underserved communities
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, September 24, 2026 - ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of integrated information and communication technology solutions, together with U Mobile, Malaysia's best 5G network provider, has successfully completed a proof-of-concept (POC) of a portable, full off-grid 5G network site powered entirely by 100% green energy, demonstrating a faster and more sustainable approach to extending connectivity to remote and underserved communities.
Powered entirely by solar energy and connected directly to U Mobile's core network via satellite backhaul, the solution can operate independently of both the national electricity grid and terrestrial transmission infrastructure such as fibre. This enables deployment in locations where conventional network infrastructure may be difficult or time-consuming to build.
The POC demonstrated that the site can be installed and fully activated within just three days. In comparison, conventional tower deployments in challenging rural locations can take close to a year to reach activation due to requirements including site acquisition, tower construction, transmission infrastructure and grid power readiness.
The solution was piloted at two rural locations in East Malaysia: SK Mentu, a primary school in Sebuyau, Sarawak, and Balai Kebudayaan Iburu, a community hall in Sipitang, Sabah.
U Mobile and ZTE's Portable Solar Tower at SK Mentu, Sebuyau, Sarawak
U Mobile and ZTE's Portable Solar Tower at Balai Kebudayaan Iburu, Sabah
At each location, a lightweight 12-metre pole structure was installed in place of conventional, telecommunications tower. Supported by high-efficiency solar panels and a battery backup system capable of operating for up to 52 hours without sunlight, depending on configuration, the sites supported both 4G and 5G services and achieved peak download speeds of up to 134 Mbps during live testing.
Woon Ooi Yuen, Chief Technology Officer of U Mobile, said: "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. 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 to explore 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."
Tey Khang Lian, Chief Marketing Officer of ZTE Malaysia, said: "ZTE is committed to driving technological innovation that enables a more connected and sustainable future. Through our collaboration with U Mobile, we are combining solar power, battery storage and satellite backhaul in a portable rural network solution that addresses key infrastructure challenges in remote areas. This rural pilot proof-of-concept reflects our shared commitment to making 4G and 5G connectivity more accessible and supporting Malaysia's digital inclusion aspirations."
Beyond rural connectivity, the portable solution also has potential applications in emergency and disaster response. Its rapid deployment and ability to operate independently of grid power and terrestrial transmission infrastructure could help restore connectivity in areas where existing infrastructure has been disrupted.
The POC reflects U Mobile and ZTE's shared commitment to exploring more sustainable and agile network deployment models that can help close Malaysia's digital divide and enable more communities to participate in the digital economy.
