Reports have shown that almost all developing countries experience challenges in accessing efficient information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructures in their localities, with the main reason being inadequate power supply needed to power the facilities. In this research, we will look into the different sources of non-conventional/renewable energy supply that can be used to power up ICT infrastructures, promoting sustainability, and we will base our findings on three developing countries (Nigeria, Kenya, and India).

While making use of a mixed methodology for the review process, as it gives us a complete understanding of the different aspects, involving the case studies, technical papers on both the technicalities, financial implications, social and environmental effects of using non-conventional sources of energy to power ICT infrastructures. Studies also show that deploying alternative sources of energy will considerably lower service providers’ overhead costs over time, improve equipment running time online at different base stations, and reduce the environmental effects that the use of diesel-generating plants can cause. Deployment of renewable energy can boost digital literacy and the usage of digital communications services in rural areas, as it opens up access to education, gender equality, financial sector growth, and goes as far as bridging the rural-to-urban digital divide. Though there are several benefits in using renewable energy, there are also challenges that hamper its operations. This paper encourages the use of sustainable energy to power up ICT infrastructures globally and especially in developing countries, which can bring about digital inclusion.