Technology giant Ericsson and Bahrain-based Beyon have renewed their collaboration to further their shared sustainability goals and enhance circular economy practices for creating energy-efficient networks in Bahrain.
The two companies also announced the successful outcomes of their initial sustainability partnership, signed earlier in 2024, which focused on accelerating the transition to a net-zero future and managing waste from electronic and electrical equipment (WEEE or e-waste).
The memorandum of understanding (MoU), signed with Bahrain operator Batelco, part of the Beyon Group, aimed at reducing Beyon’s environmental impact by addressing energy consumption and carbon emissions on Batelco’s live networks, utilizing Ericsson’s sustainable solutions.
According to the partner companies, the MoU’s implementation has resulted in a 30% energy reduction on Batelco’s network, achieved by deploying Ericsson’s 5G Radio Access Network product, Radio 6646, a triple-band, tri-sector radio that replaces the work of nine individual radios.
Energy-saving software features, including cell sleep mode and AI-powered MIMO sleep mode, were also implemented at pilot sites, leading to a 22% average reduction in energy consumption where these features were activated.
Moreover, an additional 18% energy reduction was realized through the deployment of the single-antenna footprint interleaved antenna integrated radio (AIR) 3218, replacing the AIR 3227, to enable 5G massive MIMO while addressing space constraints on rooftops and towers.
The collaboration also focused on circular economy practices, particularly through the launch of an e-waste recycling initiative under Ericsson’s Product Take-Back Programme. This allows Beyon to responsibly recycle end-of-life electronic and electrical equipment, supporting their e-waste management initiatives.
Additionally, the partnership has fostered knowledge sharing, with monthly sessions featuring global experts discussing climate action, circularity, and the collective efforts required to reach net-zero objectives.
