Ukrainian mobile operators faced a number of problems related to the planned strengthening of energy stability of networks. Some points are particularly difficult to implement.
We remind you that at the end of July, the State Service of Special Communications and Information of Ukraine obliged mobile operators to ensure 10 hours of network operation without light and to fulfill other requirements.
In connection with thereby the largest Ukrainian communication operators — Kyivstar, Vodafone and lifecell — issued a joint statement, which drew attention to several important nuances.
First of all, the fulfillment of obligations directly depends on the situation in the energy sector. Blackout schedules make it impossible for telecommunications equipment to operate during blackouts for 10 hours.
«In order to meet these requirements, it is important to supply electricity during the time required to fully charge the backup power equipment», — operators specify.
This requires the granting of permits by Oblenergo to increase the power of the electric current feeding the base stations, since the increase in the number of batteries creates a double load on the power system. In order to power the operators' base stations for 10 hours, the capacity of one NPP power unit is actually required.
However, the NCRECP has already approved changes aimed at implementing the optimal procedure for consideration by the regional energy authority of communications operators' applications to increase the power supply capacity for base stations. The first steps under the simplified rules have already been started.
Other challenges for operators
A number of other factors also affect compliance with the new requirements. In particular, this is a lack of personnel and contractors sufficient to maintain backup equipment, as well as finding opportunities to reserve technical workers.
Another nuance is that it is impossible to install or maintain generators on the roofs of buildings where most base stations are located. , as it is prohibited by the relevant building and sanitary regulations.
In addition, there is not enough storage batteries and stationary generators on the Ukrainian market. They need to be purchased abroad, which takes more time and complicates logistics.
Also, currently the speed (up to six months) and the balance of legislative procedures regarding the change of lease contracts of state and communal property to expand the area occupied by additional cabinets with batteries are insufficient. etc.
The final factor is the critically unstable situation in the energy sector and long-term power outages, which leads to the deterioration of mobile coverage and the quality of services. During power outages, it is impossible to ensure the quality indicators mentioned in the order.
«Even with the maximum efforts, which we certainly make every day on our part, to ensure 100% autonomy of mobile communication’ communication and the Internet for 10 hours during power outages is extremely difficult», — operators summarize in a joint statement.