Indian telecommunications giant Airtel has joined forces with Nokia under the “Green 5G” initiative. This partnership aims to integrate energy-efficient technologies into Airtel’s mobile network. The objective is to enhance the energy efficiency of Airtel’s 4G and 5G radio access network (RAN).
At the core of this initiative are advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning, designed to optimize energy usage. The collaboration aims to cut 143,413 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually from Airtel’s network. This aligns with both companies’ environmental targets.
Randeep Sekhon, CTO of Airtel, explained that the partnership will help address the rising demand for data by employing innovative energy-saving solutions. As a result, Airtel will significantly reduce its carbon footprint.
Nokia, on its part, has committed to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. They would deploy advanced technologies that improve the energy efficiency of communication networks, supporting global objectives.
The initiative includes components like zero-traffic, zero-watt operations. This feature reduces power consumption during traffic downtimes, managing energy efficiently. AI-enhanced software will also automate and optimize the energy processes in Airtel’s networks. Digital design tools aim to minimize transmitted power, thus lowering energy costs without affecting performance. Additionally, the ReefShark System-on-Chip (SoC) will adjust resources based on traffic, cutting consumption by 15%.
