RAN architecture options for telecoms operators: implications for energy consumption

30 September 2024 | Research

Strategy report | PPTX and PDF (16 slides) | Sustainable Networks

"A holistic approach to energy efficiency combining many levers across the RAN’s radio, baseband and sites, could create energy savings of up to 50–60%."

This report focuses on the implications of new radio access network (RAN) designs for energy efficiency and provides a matrix of options for how to tackle energy use. The report also provides recommendations for operators, vendors, towercos, neutral hosts and policy makers.

Questions answered

What are the current and long-term trends in energy use in the RAN as architecture and technologies evolve?
What technological and commercial levers can be pulled to reduce RAN energy use?
What are policy makers and the wider telecoms industry doing to support RAN/vRAN energy reductions?
What should policy makers and standards organisations consider when defining and standardising methods and measurements for RAN energy consumption?