The role of green 5G in the energy transition​

The significance of sustainability in both the network infrastructure and the applications enabled by the network is growing, particularly for telecommunications companies. This article delves into the distinction between network sustainability and the sustainability applications that leverage the network.

5G and its impact on environment

5G networks demonstrate greater energy efficiency compared to their 4G predecessors. This means that they consume less power while delivering faster and more reliable performance. For instance, a 5G cell site requires only 15% of the energy consumed by a 4G cell site to transmit the same amount of data. This energy efficiency improvement presents an opportunity for significant carbon emissions reduction, with a projected potential to save 0.5 billion tonnes of CO₂ by 2030 if there is a swift global transition to 5G.

However, it is important to note that the increasing number of connected devices and data-intensive use cases enabled by 5G is expected to lead to a significant rise in network energy consumption. Therefore, operators deploying 5G should be mindful of minimizing energy costs and carbon emissions associated with data growth. This article explores various initiatives that address these concerns.

Additionally, 5G plays a crucial role in facilitating more sustainable outcomes across various industries by enabling new use cases. This report highlights some of these use cases, but for more comprehensive information on telecoms sustainability use cases, please refer to our net-zero use case enablement directory.

5G cell site requires only 15% of the energy consumed by a 4G cell site to transmit the same amount of data

5G networks and sustainability

5G networks offer advanced features surpassing previous generations of networks. They have the capability to handle large volumes of data with minimal delay (ultra low latency) and support a high density of connected devices (massive machine type communication). This enhanced connectivity has unlocked a range of new sustainability services enabled by 5G, which individuals, businesses, and governments can utilize to reduce their carbon emissions and achieve sustainability objectives. However, it is important to acknowledge that increased connectivity will also lead to a higher number of devices connected to the network, resulting in increased network energy consumption. To mitigate the environmental impact, both telecommunications companies (telcos) and service users must take proactive measures.

The environmental impact of 5G encompasses two key aspects. Firstly, it involves the adoption of more energy-efficient network technology, allowing telcos to minimize their own environmental footprint. Secondly, it encompasses the enabling technology that telcos can deploy to assist businesses, governments, and consumers in reducing their own environmental impact. By recognizing these dual aspects and taking appropriate actions, stakeholders can work towards limiting the environmental consequences associated with the growth of 5G networks.

5G-enabled sustainability solutions

The versatility of 5G technologies allows them to be applied to various sustainability objectives, presenting a valuable opportunity for telecommunications companies (telcos) to differentiate themselves, generate new revenue streams, and contribute to global sustainability goals.

One notable example is the implementation of smart city solutions, such as smart street lighting, which has already gained traction. Additionally, 5G is being utilized to address a diverse range of environmental concerns, including reducing pesticide use on farms, minimizing food waste in schools, and improving fuel efficiency in freight transportation routes.

Currently, many of the 5G-enabled solutions offered by telcos are positioned primarily as tools for cost reduction or efficiency improvement, although they also have the inherent benefit of reducing emissions. As businesses increasingly move towards achieving net-zero emissions, it will be crucial for telcos to identify and quantify the emission reduction benefits of their existing 5G-enabled solutions, showcasing their ability to assist customers in meeting their climate objectives. This shift will be instrumental in establishing telcos as key partners in helping customers reach their sustainability targets.

Establishing telcos as key partners in helping customers reach their sustainability targets