The rollout of 5G networks is expected to dramatically increase traffic, making it crucial that energy consumption does not increase at the same rate. The findings highlight both companies' commitment to addressing climate change.

The comprehensive tests examined eleven different predefined traffic load scenarios, measuring energy consumption per Mbps based on traffic load distribution. The results highlighted that 5G RAN technology is significantly more efficient than legacy technologies in terms of energy consumption per data traffic capacity, with several hardware and software features that help save energy. The study, which utilized Nokia's AirScale portfolio, including AirScale base station solutions and the AirScale Massive Active MIMO Antenna, combined actual on-site base station energy consumption readings under different traffic load scenarios, ranging from 0 to 100 percent, with remote monitoring of actual energy consumption through network management systems.

5G is a greener technology, delivering more data bits per kilowatt of energy than any previous generation of wireless technology. However, 5G networks require further action to improve energy efficiency and minimize the CO2 emissions that will accompany the exponential increase in data traffic. Several energy-saving features at the radio base station and network levels, such as 5G's power-saving features, small cell deployments, and the new 5G architecture and protocols, can be combined to significantly improve the energy efficiency of wireless networks.

Both companies are aligned with the ambition to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. In 2019, Nokia delivered zero-emission products to more than 150 customers worldwide and has committed to reducing emissions from its operations by 41 percent by 2030. On average, 46 percent less energy was used at customer base station sites that Nokia retrofitted in 2019, compared to those where customers did not upgrade.

Nokia and Telefónica are also developing a smart energy grid infrastructure and energy-saving features based on machine learning and artificial intelligence. They are also collaborating to build green 5G networks.

Juan Manuel Caro, Director of Operational Transformation at CTIO Global, Telefónica, said: “We are committed to supporting action on climate change and fostering a sustainable culture throughout our company. We are proud to work in partnership with Nokia on this project and others to address a range of initiatives, including promoting energy efficiency in the 5G era.”

Tommi Uitto, President of Nokia Mobile Networks, said: “Our greatest contribution to overcoming the world’s sustainability challenges is through the solutions and technology we develop and deliver. We place enormous importance on this. Nokia technology is designed to be energy efficient in use, but it also requires less energy to manufacture. This important study highlights how mobile operators can offset energy gains during their deployments, helping them to be more environmentally responsible while also achieving significant cost savings.”