Three has heralded a “milestone” collaboration with Ericsson, saying it had reached up to 70% energy efficiency improvements by leveraging Ericsson’s AI, tech and expertise.
The mobile network operator began working with Ericsson on a network modernisation initiative last year, as it looked to boost energy performance. It leveraged Ericsson’s energy-efficient radios with AI and data analytics.
Combined with the deployment of more energy-efficient radios, Three UK said it had also implemented a series of software features that consume less power per radio during low traffic hours.
By using machine learning, passive cooling and power-saving features, the new generation of radio works autonomously across 4G and 5G networks to switch off radio components when not active, while having the capability to switch on again in microseconds for the next service request.
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To date, the partnership between Three UK and Ericsson has resulted in an improvement of network energy efficiency of up to 70% at selected sites, all completed while improving network performance but reducing site footprint and lowering CO2 emissions.
Three UK chief network officer Iain Milligan said the collaboration “marks a milestone in our commitment to sustainability.
“We’ve achieved excellent improvements in energy efficiency while expanding network capabilities for our customers. We plan to take these learnings on board for future projects, ensuring that we continue to improve the environmental impact of our network.”
Ericsson UK and Ireland chief technology officer Evangelia Tzifa, said: “Together with Three UK, we are redefining the network of the future and making it both smarter and more energy efficient.
“To increase network availability and performance while reducing network energy consumption is a testament to the technology and expertise of our two great teams.”
Industry figures last year show at least 45% of young people have never recycled a phone.
