Vodafone UK and Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) have completed a successful trial of AI-driven software solutions, significantly reducing power consumption of 5G radio units by up to 33 percent at selected sites across London. This initiative is part of Vodafone’s broader effort to improve sustainability by optimizing energy usage in its mobile networks.
The trial utilized Ericsson’s Service Continuity AI solution, incorporating three main functionalities: 5G Deep Sleep mode, 4G Cell Sleep orchestration, and a Radio Power Efficiency Heatmap. These technologies dynamically manage power consumption by identifying low-traffic periods, automatically powering down equipment without impacting customer experience. During the trial, power consumption at test sites decreased by up to 33 percent, demonstrating substantial energy efficiency gains.
These results underscore the practical benefits of integrating artificial intelligence with mobile network infrastructure. Ericsson’s AI and ML software predicts and manages network demands, significantly cutting power usage without sacrificing network performance. The partnership between Vodafone UK and Ericsson highlights the potential for AI-driven sustainability solutions in telecommunications.
• Vodafone UK and Ericsson reduced 5G Radio Unit energy consumption by up to 33%.
• Ericsson’s Service Continuity AI solution includes 5G Deep Sleep, 4G Cell Sleep Mode orchestration, and Radio Power Efficiency Heatmap.
• 5G Deep Sleep mode enables network components to save energy during low-traffic periods.
• 4G Cell Sleep orchestrates efficient energy use by intelligently powering down underutilized cells.
• Radio Power Efficiency Heatmap visually identifies sites needing targeted energy-efficiency improvements.
• Trial sites located across Vodafone’s network in London demonstrated significant operational savings.
Andrea Donà, Chief Network Officer at Vodafone UK, said, “By working with Ericsson to successfully apply these innovative software solutions to our network, we’ve significantly improved energy efficiency while maintaining excellent performance. This collaboration demonstrates our continued commitment to sustainability in telecommunications.”
