AI use cuts Globe’s power usage by 8%

MANILA, Philippines — Mobile giant Globe Telecom Inc. has introduced artificial intelligence (AI) into its energy-saving program, allowing it to cut power consumption by up to eight percent in base stations.

Globe is deploying an energy management system powered by AI across its wireless networks to increase its energy savings and minimize carbon emissions.

Based on initial results, the AI solution can trim power consumption by as much as eight percent in base stations, the infrastructure that connects wireless devices of consumers and enterprises.

Globe used AI for its wireless infrastructure in Visayas and Mindanao in 2023, and expanded its use to Luzon this year. The telco decided to bring the solution to Luzon as it is proven to reduce energy usage and operational costs.

AI can forecast the network usage of a base station using algorithms. As such, Globe is able to apply energy conservation measures beyond the traditional non-peak periods of 12 to six in the morning for round-the-clock efficiency.

In 2023, Globe recorded energy savings of 187,774 kilowatts per hour using the solution, leading to the avoidance of 139 metric tons of carbon waste.

Globe senior vice president and head of network planning and engineering Joel Agustin said the company wants to show that AI can be employed as well in environment preservation.

Further, Globe seeks to lead the telco industry in complying with the global commitment to reach net zero by 2050 as mandated by the Paris Agreement.

“In the face of rising energy costs and the urgent need for climate action, Globe is proud to lead by example in the telco industry. Globe’s real-time and adaptive AI-driven energy management finely balances energy use with network efficiency, embodying our commitment to technological innovation for sustainable outcomes,” Agustin said.

As of 2023, Globe has transitioned 25 of its offices to renewable power, the latest to shift is a facility in Nasugbu, Batangas. Globe is working with the Department of Energy in purchasing renewables to complete the greening of its sites.

In 2019, Globe began decarbonizing its network by procuring renewables bundled with emission reduction certificates through power purchase agreements.

The telco is investing in renewables to promote additional spending on clean energy, as it targets to lessen its carbon emissions by 75 percent by 2030.