Networks unwrapped: green network transformation is no longer just talk

Energy consumption has always been a significant factor for mobile network operators as it is one of the largest operating costs, second only to labour. Energy consumption is responsible for 20-40% of opex for mobile operators, and networks are expected to use more energy going forward: global mobile data traffic will grow almost fourfold by 2025 and new 5G use cases will require more dense and complex networks. Although MWC Barcelona 2020 was cancelled, we reflect below on recent announcements from across the mobile industry that suggest momentum for sustainable networks is building, with operators devising green transformation plans and vendors addressing the opportunity ahead.