Empowering Europe’s digital future

How Cellnex is leading the charge with neutral host infrastructure

As Europe strides toward the Digital Decade’s 2030 goals, one thing has become abundantly clear: robust, shared wireless infrastructure is no longer a “nice to have” –it’s an economic and social imperative. At the heart of this transformation is a quiet powerhouse: the neutral host tower companies (TowerCos). And among them, Cellnex stands out as a driving force for innovation, efficiency and sustainable growth across the continent.

Over the last decade, Cellnex has helped redefine how mobile networks are built and maintained in Europe. Once a behind-the-scenes player, neutral host infrastructure is now recognized as a critical enabler of mobile connectivity, powering everything from 5G rollouts and IoT expansion to smart cities and rural inclusion.

Unlocking capital, accelerating rollout

By acquiring and managing passive infrastructure, towers, rooftops, small cells and distributed antenna systems, Cellnex enables mobile network operators (MNOs) to focus on what they do best: delivering advanced services to consumers. This shift isn’t just operationally efficient, it’s economically transformative.

According to the latest EY-Parthenon and EWIA (European Wireless Infrastructure Association) report, neutral host TowerCos like Cellnex have released an astonishing €53 billion in capital back to MNOs since 2019. This capital recycling allows telcos to reinvest in technology, spectrum and service expansion –fueling the very digital transformation Europe needs to stay competitive globally.

Driving efficiency through shared infrastructure

One tower. Multiple operators. This simple model brings profound benefits. The co-location ratio (number of Points of Presense –PoPs– per tower) speak for themselves: neutral host TowerCos achieve an average of 2.1 col-location ratio per site compared to just 1.3 for towers managed by MNOs. More tenants per tower means fewer towers overall –and that’s good for both the environment and the economy.

For Cellnex, this model is core to their DNA. With presence in 10 European countries and a proven track record of infrastructure sharing, the company provides a compelling solution for operators aiming to expand quickly without duplicating infrastructure investment. The result? Faster rollout, lower costs and better connectivity for end users.

Bridging the digital divide

Connectivity should not be a postcode lottery. That’s why Cellnex, through its investments in towers has been instrumental in expanding high-quality mobile access in rural and hard-to-reach areas.

Companies like Cellnex play a vital role in improving connectivity in rural and less economically attractive areas for mobile network operators. In these areas, where rollout costs are high and revenue opportunities limited, our ability to reduce costs and optimise infrastructure is crucial, as we are able to facilitate greater coverage and connectivity, ensuring that rural areas are not left behind in the digital revolution.

Better connectivity empowers rural economies, supports digital education, and fosters inclusion in an increasingly connected world.

Ready for the next wave: 5G, edge and beyond

Looking forward, Cellnex is well-positioned to support the next phase of network evolution. From fiber backhaul to edge computing facilities and cloud-based RAN (Radio Access Networks), the infrastructure of tomorrow is already being built today.

The EWIA and EY-Parthenon report emphasises that neutral host TowerCos will play a key role in supporting advanced connectivity needs across sectors –enabling innovations in AI, autonomous transport, smart grids, and more. Cellnex’s infrastructure is already adapting to host these advanced solutions, helping Europe stay competitive as digital demand continues to surge.

A trusted partner in Europe’s digital journey

As regulations like the Gigabit Infrastructure Act (GIA) and the forthcoming Digital Networks Act (DNA) reshape the policy landscape, neutral host TowerCos are becoming essential partners in public-private efforts to meet digital inclusion targets. With its extensive portfolio, strong market presence, and proven industrial independence, Cellnex is ready to help mobilise the investment Europe needs to close its connectivity gaps –efficiently, sustainably and at scale.

Europe’s digital future isn’t just about technology, it’s about infrastructure. And when that infrastructure is shared, smart and sustainable, everyone benefits. Cellnex is not just keeping pace with this future, it’s helping to build it.