They say this was achieved at selected sites while improving the network’s performance, reducing sites’ footprints and lowering CO2 emissions
Three UK says it has reached a milestone in network sustainability through the deployment of “AI-powered hardware and software solutions” from Ericsson. This is part of ongoing network modernisation that started in late 2023 when Three UK became one of the first UK operators to deploy Ericsson’s dual-band Radio 4490.
The radio consumes less power and is 25% lighter than previous models, making it easier to install and speeding up site upgrades. Three UK also implemented software features that consume less power per radio during off peak hours.
The combination of machine learning, passive cooling and power-saving features, radio components switch off autonomously across 4G and 5G networks when inactive. They ‘wake up’ within microseconds for the next service request.
Three UK and Ericsson say their collaboration has improved the RAN’s energy efficiency by up to 70% at selected sites. This was achieved while improving the network’s performance, reducing sites’ footprints and lowering CO2 emissions.
According to a GSMA report, telecoms is responsible for 2-3% of all electricity consumed by humans, and about 70% of the amount used by networks is in the RAN. Energy costs represent between 20% and 40% of a telcos’ OpEx. Furthermore, a typical 5G site requires up to 70% more power to operate versus a base station deploying a mix of 2G, 3G and 4G radios.
Iain Milligan, Chief Network Officer, Three UK, said, “We’ve achieved excellent improvements in energy efficiency while expanding network capabilities for our customers. We plan to take these learnings on board for future projects, ensuring that we continue to improve the environmental impact of our network.”
Evangelia Tzifa, Chief Technology Officer, Networks & Managed Services, Ericsson UK and Ireland, said, “To increase network availability and performance while reducing network energy consumption is a testament to the technology and expertise of our two great teams. I am both excited and proud to know that we are building a modern digital infrastructure together that brings not only superior performance for Three customers, but also helps to make the future more promising and sustainable.”