Telcos should prioritize sustainability in 5G deployments: research

This is amidst the rising challenges on 5G energy management.

Telecom operators should address the challenges of 5G energy management by adopting the best energy efficiency practices across networks and encouraging customers to adopt 5G-enabled services, according to a report from telecom consultancy STL partners and continuity solutions provider Vertiv.

The report said that whilst estimates suggest 5G networks can be up to 90% more efficient per traffic unit than their 4G predecessors, they still require far more energy due to increased network density, heavy reliance on IT systems and infrastructure, and increased network use and accelerated traffic growth.

“Because of the reliance on IT to enable 5G applications, a high degree of collaboration will be required across operators, OEMs and infrastructure providers, and customers to ensure deployments are optimized and every possible efficiency is pursued,” Vertiv vice president for global DC power Scott Armul said.

According to the research, efforts on improving network efficiency must be paired with a more holistic, societal approach to curbing energy use and emissions that leverages 5G capabilities in ways far beyond the control of the telecom operators.

“Operators are deploying 5G networks to grow new revenues. This growth will come from new connectivity and applications enabling operators’ customers’ own transformation journeys,” STL Partners director Phil Laidler said. “To be credible, informed partners for their customers, operators must lead by example. Energy strategy is a great place to start.”