Networks unwrapped: green network transformation is no longer just talk
This report is available to those subscribed to the Mobile Operators and Networks module.
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.
Related research
5G in Context, Q2 2025
This quarterly review of global 5G developments provides a concise, tracker-style deliverable, presenting key metrics and forecasts in an easy-to-access and engaging way. GSMA Intelligence has aggregated the latest data on 5G connections and adoption, as well as information on network trials/launches and spectrum assignments.
Mobile Data Deck, Q2 2025
The GSMA Intelligence Mobile Data Deck offers a fast track to all the essential data you need to know, with key mobile metrics in one easy-to-use deck of charts. The forecasts to 2030 include connections by region and technology generation, smartphone connections and adoption, and mobile operator revenue.
Region in Focus: Middle East and North Africa, Q2 2025
The Region in Focus series provides an essential quarterly briefing on industry developments, market insights and country KPIs for mobile markets around the world. This Q2 2025 edition focuses on analysis of the latest developments for Q2 2025, while providing country KPIs for the year to March 2025.
Authors
How to access this report
Annual subscription: Subscribe to our research modules for comprehensive access to more than 200 reports per year.
Enquire about subscriptionContact our research team
Get in touch with us to find out more about our research topics and analysis.
Contact our research teamMedia
To cite our research, please see our citation policy in our Terms of Use, or contact our Media team for more information.
Learn moreRelated research
5G in Context, Q2 2025
This quarterly review of global 5G developments provides a concise, tracker-style deliverable, presenting key metrics and forecasts in an easy-to-access and engaging way. GSMA Intelligence has aggregated the latest data on 5G connections and adoption, as well as information on network trials/launches and spectrum assignments.
Mobile Data Deck, Q2 2025
The GSMA Intelligence Mobile Data Deck offers a fast track to all the essential data you need to know, with key mobile metrics in one easy-to-use deck of charts. The forecasts to 2030 include connections by region and technology generation, smartphone connections and adoption, and mobile operator revenue.
Region in Focus: Middle East and North Africa, Q2 2025
The Region in Focus series provides an essential quarterly briefing on industry developments, market insights and country KPIs for mobile markets around the world. This Q2 2025 edition focuses on analysis of the latest developments for Q2 2025, while providing country KPIs for the year to March 2025.
- 200 reports a year
- 50 million data points
- Over 350 metrics