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“Though by definition 5G<\/a> is more efficient than probably the earlier generation (4G), but nevertheless I think taking into account the need for a greater contribution towards net-zero emissions, it may also be a great idea to promote research and development by all the device and equipment manufacturers in enabling the development of more energy-efficient equipment,” Rajaraman said at an industry event.
Various industry reports, according to the official, suggest that energy costs in a telecom company can be as high as 25-30%. “This means that it is a very important cost that needs to be effectively handled until you break it down.”
According to a GSMA-Nokia survey in 2021, 83% of telecom companies see energy efficiency being a major transformation driver that will grow in importance with 5G<\/a>, while 67% companies expect their energy costs to rise over the next three years based on current trends.
Nearly 50% of respondents said they expect to achieve energy savings of 10% to 20% over the next two years using Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions.
“I believe that it makes eminent sense to choose the efficient equipment be it radio access network or server, or any other kind of equipment that is deployed,” he added.
Further, Rajaraman said that the Telecommunication Engineering Centre<\/a> (TEC) should develop and bring in ratings for critical network components, which could be on the lines of the energy star ratings for user devices.
Notably, TEC, the technical wing of DoT, has set up a “Green Passport Lab” for the certification of telecom equipment for energy efficiency. The lab is conceptualized as a testbed created for a host of devices and test equipment offered.
“I hope that over the next several years, taking into account the great importance of greening the telecom industry, ITU and 3GPP and other standards-making bodies work on developing energy star ratings for devices,” he said.
Rajaraman also noted that telecom services providers as well as projects under Universal Service Obligation Fund<\/a> (USOF) are using local power generation, such as solar, as a means to meet the power requirements of telecom towers and base stations.