Data traffic continues to grow strongly in the wake of the pandemic, while energy costs are also rising quickly in many parts of the world. 5G networks will be much more efficient than current technology, but this cannot offset entirely the large increase in traffic and subsequent rise in power requirements. A new report from GSMA Intelligence, supported by ZTE, looks at how mobile network management using AI as well as advances in lithium batteries and renewable energy can support the move to sustainable networks.
As Tim Hatt, head of Research and Consulting at GSMA Intelligence, explains in this video, the need to ‘go green’ no longer needs an explanation. Over 90 percent of operators surveyed for the report said energy efficiency and sustainability are a priority, making this just as important as network and end-user security.
At the same time, a majority expect their energy costs to rise in the next three years. What can the sector do to meet sustainability targets and also manage the costs? A holistic approach is needed.
A lot can be done already using AI to better manage the network, according to the report. AI can help optimise antenna signals, sleep modes, cooling schedules and server workloads, while AI predictive analysis can also help better choose rural and remote sites based on energy requirements.
Savings will also come from phasing out power-hungry 2G and 3G networks, and new vendor solutions for 5G are incorporating renewable energy sources. Meanwhile, advances in lithium batteries provide better options for energy storage and distribution. Have a look at the video and report to see how industry momentum is accelerating and the latest innovations can make true ‘green’ networks possible.
