Ericsson promises to reduce carbon footprint with new energy-smart 5G site in Texas
Ericsson has unveiled a new 5G site in Plano, Texas, that showcases its complete energy-smart network solution, with the potential to be fully powered by solar energy and lithium-ion batteries for up to 24 hours.
“Operators can now utilize untapped assets, thanks to this technology, creating new energy cost savings opportunities,” says Kevin Zvokel, the senior vice president and head of networks Ericsson North America.
The company says this intelligent, cost-effective 5G solution showcases its dedication to reducing the industry’s carbon footprint while providing uninterrupted connectivity.
Mobile carriers need to find ways to reduce their base stations’ energy expenditure and carbon footprints while ensuring network coverage and user experience remain uncompromised, explains Ed Gubbins, a principal analyst at Global Data.
“Ericsson’s smart site solutions for hybrid energy sources are designed to help operators control costs and increase profitability — especially in rural or remote areas or private networks, where traffic volumes are lower and power consumption needs to be especially efficient,” Gubbins continues.
The site combines solar and energy storage systems to provide more reliable, clean power, the company says. Advanced capabilities such as load shifting, peak shaving and demand response help optimize cost efficiency by taking advantage of fluctuating electricity prices.
Ericsson says this proof-of-concept demonstrates the potential to reduce operational costs and support net zero energy goals by combining renewable energy sources such as solar power and lithium-ion batteries with an intelligent management system. It provides a more sustainable alternative to traditional off-grid sites powered by fossil fuel generators.
The project’s second phase will focus on alternative green energy sources to diesel, such as hydrogen-based generators, and explore interoperability with power grid vendors. It will also use policy-based battery-saver features to switch off specified radio frequencies to reduce energy consumption and increase network resiliency.
Ericsson says the site offers an opportunity to test radio hardware and software that can improve energy efficiency. Additionally, it facilitates partnerships with utility companies to explore grid frequency, voltage regulation and demand response.
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Article Topics
5G | cellular | energy storage | Ericsson | ESG | power management | tower | wireless
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