Section: 6.15a.6.1 Description
Content: This clause addresses requirements to the 5G system that leverage energy-related information (e.g., energy consumption, energy efficiency), amongst others (e.g., network load), as criteria for network internal optimization actions targeting energy savings, within and across operators in a localized (i.e., geographically bound) and/or temporal (i.e., time bound) manner. One of the strategies to save energy within mobile networks is to shut down some RAN nodes at times of low usage. Eventually only one communication service could be used on a local basis among operators at times of low usage, as further energy saving gain to be exploited. Agreements could be put in place between operators so that in the low load periods (e.g., nighttime) only one of multiple mobile networks may be active in an area and will provide communication service to the subscribers of all networks, whereas the other networks can apply cell shutdown of their own infrastructure to obtain network energy savings. Alternatively, based on risks of power outage nation-wide/region-wide, regulators could ask operators to “optimize” their coverage e.g., shutdown some nodes in overlapping coverage areas during energy peak hours and/or in specific geographical areas, whilst still guaranteeing minimum coverage/service (in particular emergency calls). This can also apply between NPN operators and/or with PLMN operators.