How to roll out 5G without increasing energy consumption

Ericsson estimates the annual global energy cost for running mobile networks to be about USD 25billion. From both cost and carbon footprint perspectives, energy is one of the industry’s biggest challenges. If 5G is deployed in the same way as previous generations in order to meet increasing traffic demands, then consumption in mobile networks will increase dramatically.

Erisson’s latest report, ‘Breaking the energy curve’, highlights a unique network-level approach that enables an exponential growth of data traffic without increasing energy consumption.

In the report, Ericsson highlights the savings that can be achieved by preparing the network with latest technology solutions, activating energy-saving software, building 5G with precision, and operating site infrastructure intelligently. The 12-page report also shares real customer cases, that are currently live and are positively impacting consumption and reducing carbon footprints.

Solutions for breaking the curve are available in the four different areas and are ready to be implemented either to prepare for or support 5G deployment. Ericsson has looked at some of the most ambitious 5G deployments in the world and can see that if all the four areas are addressed, then it will be possible to break the curve.

Modernize with future-proof hardware for superior performance

Preparing for and introducing 5G creates an opportunity to modernize and improve existing networks. Considering the limited capacity of current networks, growing traffic demand creates performance challenges. There are large energy and physical footprint savings to be realized in network modernization. This can significantly reduce total mobile network energy consumption and make room for a 5G rollout within the same budget.

Service providers have different starting points and deployment priorities for their network evolution. We recommend that network modernization encompasses all aspects of site equipment as well as the core, transport and radio access equipment. For example, upgrading from air-conditioned shelter sites to modern site cabinets and convection-cooled, multi-standard remote radio units in the radio tower will substantially reduce consumption.