Sustainable technology in mobile networks reduces energy consumption and boosts international interest

In the innovation project ECO-RAN, the software company 2operate, together with Aalborg University and the TT network, has developed a software technology that can save power in mobile towers without compromising the quality of coverage.

Challenge

An increasing number of towers in mobile networks has led to greater focus on energy consumption, creating the need for smarter management of towers to reduce energy usage.

Solution

With this growing focus, the goal was to develop an automated AI system to optimize and streamline mobile networks. By automatically reducing or turning off signals and power on towers when demand decreases—and automatically restoring them when demand rises—the system would ensure efficient energy management. The aim was to create a marketable software package featuring a complete AI management system that could be integrated into various mobile network operator towers and antenna systems.

Result

The ECO-RAN project has resulted in the development of an AI-based software solution that optimizes mobile network energy consumption by automatically adjusting tower signals and power based on demand. The solution has delivered significant savings for customers, with up to 4-5 million DKK annually during peak energy prices and continued annual savings of several million. The project has strengthened 2operate's position as both a mobile and energy company, attracted global interest from major operators, and paved the way for partnerships such as its collaboration with Palantir in North America.