How Could AI Be Used To Conserve Telco Energy Consumption?
RCR Wireless, Friday, January 16th, 2026
Telcos are known for their heavy energy use, but so is AI. Could one, ironically, help the other?
Telecom operators rank among the most power-hungry companies on the planet, consuming roughly 1-2% of global electricity demand. As 5G networks expand and mobile data traffic continues its upward trajectory, that consumption keeps climbing. The GSMA has pushed telecom operators toward Net Zero commitments by 2050 - a deadline that's approaching fast while the industry's appetite for electricity shows no signs of slowing down.