📋 Tender Overview
The mobile network operator o2 Telefónica has put Bavaria's first energy-autonomous cell tower into operation in Upper Palatinate. In the Berger district of Sindlbach (Neumarkt in Oberpfalz district), a PV system and a biomethanol fuel cell supply a radio tower with renewable electricity. It is only the second system of this kind nationwide. Bavaria's Minister of Economic Affairs Hubert Aiwanger commented: "Mobile network expansion must also continue to progress in rural and remote areas. Innovative solutions such as energy-autonomous radio towers are therefore a very good addition, especially in areas with poor infrastructure. The combination of photovoltaics, batteries and fuel cells is a model for many other locations. I am very pleased that Bavaria is at the forefront of this development nationwide. As the Ministry of Economic Affairs, we are working with the network operators to ensure a high level of expansion in the Free State. In 2023 alone, almost 500 new radio sites will be built."
Mobile phone coverage in Bavaria
4G coverage 5G coverage Gray spots* White spots**
Supply in the area 96.13% 90.83% 16.94% 3.48%
Supply of households 99.82% 99.04% 3.30% 0.14%
Mobile phone coverage in the district of Neumarkt in Oberpfalz
4G coverage 5G coverage Gray spots* White spots**
Supply in the area 99.11% 96.36% 13.90% 1.48%
Supply of households 99.28% 98.15% 7.64% 0.45%
Status: April 2024
*Gray spots: only one network operator provides at least 4G
**White spots: no network operator provides at least 4G
In addition, the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs supports municipalities throughout the Free State in the construction of cell phone masts with its own funding program. With 35 funding applications and 17 active funding decisions, Upper Palatinate takes first place in Bavaria. Six of these masts have already been erected. Two more are to follow in the next few days. A total of five Bavarian funding masts are to be erected in Upper Palatinate this year. Upper Palatinate is followed by Lower Bavaria (31 funding applications and 10 active funding decisions) and Upper Bavaria (25 funding applications and 10 active funding decisions).
