Telecom operators are expected to install nearly 121.9 GW of cumulative new distributed generation (DG) and distributed energy storage (DES) capacity between 2021 and 2030, according to a report from Guidehouse Insights.
Market drivers include a low revenue-growth environment, rising global electricity prices, and LTE and 5G upgrades in emerging and developed markets, which are anticipated to more than triple electricity consumption.

“Telecom operators account for 2 percent-3 percent of total global energy demand, making them some of the most energy-intensive companies in their geographic markets,” says Ricardo F. Rodriguez, research analyst with Guidehouse Insights.

“With more than 90 percent of network cost spent on energy, consisting mostly of fuel and electricity, the demand for energy-saving measures from telecom operators is growing,” Ricardo F. Rodriguez said.