Reducing energy consumption, environmental impact, and infrastructure duplication is essential for building sustainable telecommunications networks. CETIN Slovakia’ network sharing agreement reflects its commitment to infrastructure efficiency, environmental responsibility, and long-term cost optimization. 

In July 2023, CETIN Slovakia signed a network sharing agreement with Slovak Telekom. The agreement divides Slovakia into two operating areas with approximately equal numbers of base stations, managed separately by each operator. The Bratislava and Košice regions are excluded. Network consolidation began in 2023 and was completed in october 2025. The shared network has grown from 1,500 to almost 2,400 common base stations. 

The initiative improves coverage and capacity, particularly in dense urban areas and remote rural zones, while delivering tangible business and environmental benefits. For CETIN Slovakia, it results in lower capital and operational expenditures, reduced electricity consumption, and fewer active sites. By end of 2025, the programme had already delivered energy savings of 3,37 GWh and avoided 1 182 tCO₂e in emissions in 2025. Since the beginning of sharing from 2024 delivered energy savings was 8,8 GWh and avoided 3 086 tCO₂e in emissions ; once fully implemented, annual savings are projected to reach 7.8 GWh and 2,736 tCO₂e.  The project also reduces visual impact by enabling the decommissioning of redundant sites. 

The agreement is jointly managed by CETIN Slovakia and Slovak Telekom. Regulatory considerations and competition safeguards were addressed early in the process. The project underscores the benefits of regional collaboration and coordinated network development to support sustainable outcomes. 

This agreement marks an important step forward in building a more sustainable and efficient network. By reducing duplicate infrastructure and optimising energy use, we’re not only cutting costs and emissions – we’re also improving coverage for customers. It’s a clear example of how smart engineering can deliver both environmental and operational benefits. 

Peter Poliak - Chief Technology Officer