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During the Digital Transformation Summit (DTW 25), Huawei, in collaboration with industry organizations, hosted the fourth Green Development Forum to address the imperative of achieving green and low-carbon development in communication networks amid climate change. Attendees engaged in comprehensive discussions on the standardization of the Green Network Index (GNI), AI-driven energy efficiency, and practices for zero-carbon architecture, mapping out trends toward a sustainable, zero-carbon network.
Industry Consensus: Immediate Action Required for Green Telecommunications
Mr. Richard Webb, Senior Analyst at the TM Forum, presented a keynote titled “Green Networks – A Zero-carbon Network Architecture Blueprint for 2030”. He emphasized that global climate initiatives are propelling communication networks towards higher energy efficiency, yet the industry faces significant challenges, including a lack of AI tools for sustainability assessment, insufficient visualization of energy efficiency, and the need for standardization.
Mr. Peter Jarich, Head of GSMA Intelligence, elaborated on the Green Network Index (GNI), which offers a comprehensive measurement methodology and indicator system for green network evolution. Currently implemented by six major operators, this index provides a clear framework for sustainable development, playing a crucial role in the green transition for telecom operators.
Operator Practices: Carbon Reduction and Business Win-Win
Dr. Lee Hui Mien, Head of Environmental Sustainability at Singapore Telecommunications (Singtel) Group, shared the strategic path for achieving net-zero goals by 2045 through the GNI. The practices of Singtel demonstrate that the GNI tool has value in establishing standardized assessment systems, identifying energy efficiency improvement hotspots, and achieving global benchmarking. Through network modernization and renewable energy procurement agreements, Singtel is translating sustainability into quantifiable operational practices.
Mr. Shaharul Niza Mohamad, Chief Financial Officer of Celcom Timur Sabah (CTS), Malaysia, showcased the effective application of Network Energy Efficiency (NEE) metrics through strategic initiatives. A key achievement was the modernization of Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH) infrastructure, which led to a significant reduction in the number of cabinets at single sites. This initiative not only improved overall NEE but also resulted in notable reductions in electricity consumption. In addition, CTS achieved its objective of reducing carbon emissions per terabyte (TB) of traffic by leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as all-optical network simplification, intelligent energy-saving solutions, and optimized network architecture, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable operations.
Mr. Rashad Hasanli, Senior Director of Network Technologies at Azerconnect Group Azerbaijan, shared the company’s strategic framework and practical results in green network development. He introduced the plan on future green optimization, up to GSMA Intelligence standards, covering infrastructure transformation such as base station, machine room, and power station. Through a three-phase approach of ” Simplified sites + AI-driven + Digitalization”, Azerconnect Group has streamlined its network architecture, resulting in significant energy efficiency, operational, and cost benefits.
Technological Innovation: AI Empowerment Accelerates Green Development
Mr. David Yu, General Manager of Green Network Domain at Huawei, appreciated industry organizations like the TM Forum and GSMA Intelligence for actively promoting green industry development and emphasized the important role of technological innovation in enabling sustainable development across vertical industries. In the face of resource challenges brought by the explosive growth of AI, Huawei advocates a series of solutions, including green sites, green central office, green supply, and green power station, to unlock the significant energy-saving and space potential of current communication networks, supporting the development of new business models. Through digital modeling and surveying, AI-based comprehensive planning, and end-to-end digital delivery capabilities, Huawei ensures that networks are modernized accurately, quickly, and securely. Green is the foundation of high-quality development, and green innovation provides continuous momentum for operators to save on operational costs, develop their businesses, and maintain a competitive edge. The ICT industry is accelerating its journey toward Net-zero goals.
Looking Ahead: Unleash Value in Industry Green Transformation
From the TM Forum’s zero-carbon network architecture blueprint to the Green Network Index (GNI), as well as the practical cases from operators like Singtel, CTS, and Azerconnect Group, and Huawei’s achievements in technological innovation and collaborative development, all highlight the telecommunications industry’s determination and action in promoting sustainable development. Through standardization, technological innovation, and industry collaboration, the industry not only contributes to global efforts against climate change but also creates broader commercial value and more sustainable growth opportunities for itself. A green network is not just a responsibility, it is an opportunity that will empower various industries to jointly stride toward a more prosperous and sustainable future.