Towards Green: Doing more with less
In today’s world, the energy efficiency of network services has become of paramount importance, driven by both economic and environmental concerns. The rapid proliferation of 5G networks has ushered in a new era of energy-efficient data transmission, quantified by kilowatt hours per gigabit (KWh/Gbt). However, the escalating volume of data and the necessary network densification to support it could paradoxically lead to increased energy costs and associated carbon emissions.
China Mobile
Etisalat
Huawei
Smart Axiata
Zain Kuwait
Many operators are actively contributing to greener networks through various strategies. They are working together to create a more energy-efficient future while ensuring a seamless end-user experience. For instance, China Mobile has outlined clear carbon reduction targets in its double-carbon white paper for 2021 to 2025.
Approximately 25% of operator costs, or equivalently 10% of operator revenue, are attributed to Network Operational Expenditure (OpEx). An astonishing 90% of these network costs, constituting approximately 23% of the overall cost structure, are directed towards energy consumption, mainly encompassing fuel and electricity usage. The majority of this expenditure powers the Radio Access Network (RAN), while data centers and fiber transport contribute to a smaller proportion. Hence, the pursuit of effective strategies to enhance the energy efficiency of networks and network services holds significant importance.
Many mobile operators are actively promoting greener networks through strategies such as:
- Deploying all-optical network architectures.
- Increasing outdoor equipment deployment to reduce air conditioning reliance.
- Implementing ‘deep dormancy’ for network elements to achieve ‘Zero Bit, Zero Watt.’
- Adjusting frequencies dynamically to optimize energy use.
- Using highly integrated radio frequency equipment modules.
- Optimizing antenna positioning and employing passive antenna techniques.
- Integrating AI for data-driven energy efficiency policies.
- Developing network carbon intensity indicators.
The demonstration of the effectiveness of these solutions, approaches and the combined contributions of multiple mobile operators will serve as compelling evidence to foster broader and more rapid adoption.
Project Resources
Measuring the Impact of Energy Efficiency Efforts
Monday 27 Nov 2023 | Case Study | Towards Green |
China Mobile has built a three-layer framework encompassing governance, platforms and solutions to support carbon reduction ...
Making Networks More Energy Efficient
Monday 27 Nov 2023 | Case Study | Towards Green |
Zain is using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the energy efficiency of its 5G network in Kuwait. To meet its pledge to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2060, Kuwait is aiming to cut its direct gas emissions in the oil and ...
Building Greener Radio Networks
Monday 27 Nov 2023 | Case Study | Towards Green |
e& establishes climate innovation hub and pilots solutions to lower emissions and energy usage. Since 2020, the cost of ...
