Maximizing 5G Energy Efficiency: Challenges, Solutions, and AI’s Role
The progression to 5G technology has brought unprecedented data speeds and connectivity to modern telecommunications infrastructure. As per prior pilots, 5G has demonstrated up to 90% more efficiency than 4G in terms of energy consumption per traffic unit. However, a critical concern regarding 5G’s energy efficiency has been brought to light.
With 5G networks experiencing a rise in data traffic and proliferation of connected devices, an increase in overall energy consumption is paralleling these trends. A study estimated that 5G systems could see a 160% increase in power requirements by 2030.
Addressing their energy consumption has become imperative to ensure sustainability and operational cost-effectiveness.
Challenges in Achieving Energy Efficiency
The primary challenge of 5G energy efficiency lies in balancing the enhanced capabilities of 5G with sustainable energy use. Although 5G enables an increased number of connected devices and data throughput, it demands more energy. Concurrently, 5G is around 20 times faster and delivers significantly more bandwidth than 4G and its predecessors. Up to this point, the advancement of this network has been a give and take: the more power and speed, the lower the efficiency.
Strategies for Enhancing 5G Energy Efficiency
Leading telecommunications companies are exploring advanced technologies to address these challenges. One recent example is the collaboration between Vodafone UK and Ericsson, which has successfully reduced the daily power consumption of 5G radio units by up to 33 % in trial sites across London.
These trials aim to optimize network performance while reducing energy consumption, utilizing Ericsson’s AI and ML powered software solutions via Ericsson’s Service Continuity AI App Suite with Intelligent Energy Efficiency. The software enables dynamic management of the network’s energy needs to reduce operating expenditure (OPEX) and carbon emissions without compromising performance.
Vodafone implemented three key features as part of the trial: 5G Deep Sleep, 4G Cell Sleep Mode Orchestration, and Radio Power Efficiency Heatmap. 5G Deep Sleep enables radios to enter an ultra-low energy hibernation state to save energy during low traffic areas, while 4G Cell Sleep Mode Orchestration optimizes sleep parameters to balance energy savings and performance. Vodafone’s Radio Power Efficiency Map creates a visual map of all networks to identify underperforming sites for ease in targeting where improvements need to be made. Together, these features measure, predict, and optimize energy consumption within the network.
Implementation of AI Increases
AI and ML are playing a vital role in enhancing 5G energy efficiency. Like Vodafone’s sleep mode, AI-powered RANs are being tasked within 5G, data centers, and other technologies to switch off certain cells during low traffic hours. AI is also being integrated to offer predictive maintenance and efficient resource allocation. The ability to do these assists in the conservation of power, leading to considerable cost savings, as well as contribute to more sustainable network operations.
Prioritizing 5G Advancement
Prioritizing 5G energy efficiency is crucial for sustainable development, as seen through collaborations like the Ericsson and Vodafone UK trial. Other strategies being adopted include advanced network management systems, renewable energy integration, and AI-driven optimization. Such developments aim to integrate innovative solutions for improved energy performance that will lead to a more sustainable and connected future.
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