Airtel Partners With Nokia To Unveil 'Green 5G' Initiative, Aiming To Cut Carbon Emissions

Bharti Airtel has teamed up with Nokia to advance its "Green 5G" initiative, focusing on making its 4G and 5G mobile networks more energy efficient. This collaboration aims to bring AI and machine learning (ML) technologies, along with advanced software features, to improve energy usage across Airtel’s Radio Access Network (RAN). The project is expected to reduce Airtel's annual carbon emissions by 143,413 metric tons of CO2.

“In response to the growing data demand and rapid 5G expansion, we are committed to sustainability. Partnering with Nokia helps us adopt innovative solutions that reduce our carbon footprint while enhancing energy efficiency,” said Randeep Sekhon, CTO, Bharti Airtel.

Airtel has set significant targets for cutting emissions and is taking various steps to reach these goals, including promoting renewable energy and enhancing energy efficiency across its network. The company has already deployed solar-powered systems at 25,000 sites and increased its renewable energy use at data centres. In FY2024, Airtel sourced 220,541 MWh through green power agreements and solar rooftop systems.

Nokia, which has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, is excited to support Airtel in driving sustainable network practices. "Our technologies will not only improve network performance but also help reduce energy consumption," said Tarun Chhabra, Head of Mobile Networks, Nokia India.

The partnership will utilise Nokia’s solutions to minimise power consumption during low traffic periods and optimise energy management using AI/ML. Airtel and Nokia have already tried digital design tools to optimise network efficiency and cut down on energy bills without compromising user experience. The latest system-on-chip (SoC) technology also enhances energy efficiency by adjusting power usage based on traffic needs, leading to an additional 15 per cent energy saving.