- Vodafone and Ericsson roll out Portugal’s first private 5G network at Cimpor’s Alhandra cement plant to enhance operational efficiency.
- Cimpor aims to reduce emissions by 37% by 2030, using 5G for smart technologies, machine monitoring, and worker safety.
What happened: Cimpor enhances efficiency with Ericsson’s private 5G
Vodafone and Ericsson have partnered to deploy Portugal’s first standalone private 5G network at Cimpor’s Alhandra cement plant. The network is a key component of Cimpor’s decarbonisation strategy, which includes a goal of reducing emissions by 37% by 2030. The €150 million initiative focuses on modernising industrial assets and integrating cutting-edge technologies like remote machine health monitoring, drones for inspections, and smart glasses for workers. Ericsson’s Private 5G network delivers high-speed, secure connectivity tailored to the industrial environment, with zero-downtime upgrades and cloud-based management. This innovative infrastructure is set to improve operational reliability, reduce environmental impact, and optimize costs. Cimpor plans to expand the network to two additional plants in Portugal and could potentially roll it out globally, marking a significant step in digital transformation for the cement industry.
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Why it is important
This partnership marks a significant step in the evolution of industrial connectivity. It demonstrates the power of private 5G networks in transforming traditional industries. As Cimpor continues its decarbonisation and modernisation efforts, integrating Ericsson’s Private 5G infrastructure will enable real-time monitoring, automation, and improved operational efficiency. The network supports emerging technologies like drones, smart glasses, and HD cameras. These technologies enhance safety, reduce downtime, and increase productivity—key factors for industries aiming to remain competitive in a digital world.
Moreover, the environmental impact of this rollout is significant. Although Cimpor aims for a modest emissions reduction target, 5G-driven technologies will cut CO2 emissions by 140,000 tons annually. This reduction equals the carbon absorption of 6.5 million trees. This integration of technology not only drives efficiency but also aligns with Cimpor’s broader sustainability goals, making it a model for other industries looking to integrate 5G for decarbonisation and smart manufacturing.
