Energy efficiency is a strategic priority for mobile network operators globally. As mobile use expands, so does the demand for energy, particularly by the network infrastructure. The GSMA’s Mobile Energy Efficiency (MEE) Benchmarking service is a management tool that helps MNOs measure and monitor the relative efficiency of their radio access networks, identifying underperforming networks and quantifying the potential efficiency gains available, typically around 10% to 25% across a MNO’s portfolio.
The benefits for operators include:
- Detailed analysis of the relative performance of their networks benchmarked against a large dataset (anonymised to ensure confidentiality);
- Unique “normalisation” analysis that enables like-for-like comparison of networks;
- Suggested high level insights to improve energy efficiency;
- Annual participation to map improvements over time and quantify the impact of cost reduction initiatives;
- Demonstration of positive action on energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction to stakeholders;
- Confidentiality: external comparisons are made anonymously.
The MEE Benchmarking methodology enables the consistent evaluation and comparison of network energy efficiency across a range of variables. It “normalises” for variables outside the energy managers’ control, for example country, market and technology factors and thus enables like-for-like comparison. Energy consumption can be converted into greenhouse gas emissions using country grid electricity and diesel conversion factors to help the mobile industry to lower its greenhouse gas emissions per connection in accordance with Mobile’s Green Manifesto 2009.
The GSMA’s MEE service is contributing to the Global eSustainability Initiative Energy Efficiency Inter-Operator Collaboration Group (GeSI EE-IOCG) which is working to develop common ICT industry standards for energy efficiency. In addition, the GSMA is collaborating with the European Commission, the International Telecommunication Union and the European Telecommunications Standards Institute on standardisation, including methodologies to assess environmental impact. The GSMA’s MEE Benchmarking methodology has been included in a global standard by the ITU, namely Recommendation ITU-T L.1410 ‘Methodology for Environmental Impact Assessment of ICT Goods, Networks and Services’.
MEE Benchmarking was launched in November 2010 and it now has 35 MNOs participating, accounting for more than 200 networks and over half of global mobile subscribers.
More information on MEE Benchmarking is available in resources.
We are recruiting more mobile network operators to join MEE Benchmarking. To become involved, please contact mee@gsma.com.
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