Telecom providers have been trying to solve for decades the age-old problem of providing coverage to customers in sensitive public spaces.

Today Bigbelly Solar, Cellular Asset Management Services, and Smartsensor Technologies, Bigbelly distributor in Australia, announce they have deployed a number of Telebelly Wireless cabinets, a hybrid telecom and waste management cabinet to benefit the community providing waste services and wireless coverage.

Bigbelly Solar says this is a global first, with Blackman Park in the municipality of Lane Cove being the first one in the world to go live.

The Lane Cove council commented: “Lane Cove has been using Bigbelly compacting waste bins successfully in the community to help provide more capacity and a cleaner environment compared to conventional litter bins. The integration of this solution with mobile connectivity allows us to additionally provide much needed mobile service in currently underserved locations.”

Bigbelly Solar says the benefit of these units is that they blend in with the surrounding environment and matches the recognisable form of an adjacent big belly waste bin.

Not only does the community benefit from the increased mobile coverage footprint, each new Telebelly station now features a Bigbelly high capacity solar-powered waste compactor, complete with hands-free capabilities.

In addition to providing 4G voice and data services, the Telebelly could also be configured to provide Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity and Wi-Fi. A strong and reliable wireless connectivity not only provides a telecom advantage; such a service improves safety and security around public spaces.

Telecommunications have played an integral part during the recent Covid-19 crisis, allowing Australians to continue to work from home and stay connected with friends and family.

For those living in areas with limited coverage due to topography, small infrastructure solutions allow mobile operators to utilise public spaces such as parks and community ovals with coverage while also providing waste solution for the community’s benefit. Bigbelly Solar says these smaller solutions will reduce congestion on the network thus allowing mobile operators to provide mobile coverage in homes and businesses.

Brian Phillips, Bigbelly president and CEO, stated: “Bigbelly is thrilled to enable robust wireless connectivity for the community of Lane Cove, and the wireless operators. Improving connectivity not only supports information and communication technology applications; the platform also empowers smart cities to optimise daily operations and enhance the quality of life.”

Tom Hammerton, Cellular Asset Management Services project manager, enthuses: "We are excited about this Telebelly deployment as it will ensure that Bigbelly’s innovative multi-purpose platform becomes a key part of city infrastructure across Australia, benefiting our clients, our councils and our communities."

Leon Hayes, founder and CEO, Smartsensor Technologies, concludes: “We are pleased to team up with Lane Cove and Cellular Asset Management, to improve the lives of area residents, visitors, and businesses. By bringing Bigbelly’s long-term solutions to Australia, we are continuing our tradition of innovation and customer service.”