Energy efficiency enhancements in radio access networks

In recent years, the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry has actively participated in public discussions about energy consumption in terms of the industry’s role as a large consumer, and solutions for reducing impact on the environment from transports and other energyconsuming activities. Rising usage and new product and service launches have undoubtedly increased energy consumption, while new technologies have improved energy efficiency (Figures 1 and 2). In 2001, commercial office and telecommunications equipment represented less than 3% of all electricity consumption in the US. Telecommunications represented about 7% of this figure or 0.21% of total electricity consumption. Compared to the first generation of mobile systems, the energy efficiency of today’s sophisticated multimedia systems has increased significantly (Figure 3). Given the growing number of ubiquitous services and applications, opportunities abound for participants in the telecommunications market to function as enablers of a more resourceefficient society. When used properly, the positive effects of ICT applications have the potential to greatly outpace increases in energy consumption. Therefore, Ericsson is continuously striving to make its radio access networks more energy-efficient. Likewise, Ericsson recognizes and supports its customers’ efforts to improve the energy efficiency of their systems.