Cellcom Goes Green

Cellcom Goes Green Green Bay, Wis. – April 21, 2008- -On Earth Day, April 22, Cellcom will activate the first alternative energy cell site in the upper Midwest. The new “green” tower is located in the northwoods of Wisconsin near Antigo. Prior to the solar and wind-powered tower, some rural areas in northeastern Wisconsin were in a dead zone for wireless phones. In addition to vastly improving the network for cellular service, towers utilizing alternative energy are environmentally friendly. The green tower physically resembles other cell sites, but incorporates new technologies. The primary source of energy for the tower will be collected from sunlight using a 6.3 kilowatt solar panel array. The energy gathered from the sun is converted into electricity and stored in batteries. The cell site draws energy for operation from these batteries. Cellcom engineers worked with Nortel, a recognized global leader in delivering communications capabilities, and their next-generation technologies in the development of the cellular facility. Equipment for the green cell site underwent rigorous testing prior to installation, and features multiple backups to ensure continuity of service. On dark or cloudy days, energy generated by a wind mill supplements the solar power to maintain operation. A hydrogen fuel cell serves as a backup for both of these energy producers. The final back up is a diesel generator that can be hooked up to maintain service if all other power sources fail. Delivering wireless phone coverage to this geographic area required an innovative approach. “Without electricity in the area, our team of engineers had to come up with a creative solution,” said Bob Sobieck, Cellcom’s director of engineering. “It was the perfect opportunity to work with emerging technologies that incorporate renewable energy.” Sobieck believes the green tower is a prime example of Cellcom’s commitment to providing all customers with the service they deserve. The new cell site is added to the already 385 digital cell sites in northeast and central Wisconsin. Cellcom’s renowned network is customized to our rural markets and customers. Cellcom is a sister company of Nsight Telservices and a subsidiary of Nsight, a provider of communications services throughout Wisconsin and Michigan, with more than 60 retail and agent locations.

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Contact: Nadia Farr Sr. Public Affairs Specialist Nsight & Cellcom 920.617.7073 nadia.farr@cellcom.com

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