Work

Toward Energy Efficiency in O-RAN: A Digital Twin for Carbon-Aware 6G Networks

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This article provides a comprehensive analysis of energy efficiency and carbon awareness in emerging sixth generation of cellular networks (6G) open radio access network (O-RAN) systems. Guided by the proposed 6S lifecycle model (sense, shrink, sleep, shift, steer, and show), the article identifies key energy efficiency drivers such as artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled control, computational optimization, digital twin, and carbon- aware integration. A central contribution is the in-depth examination of metering methodologies and the standardization gaps stemming from O-RAN's disaggregated, virtualized design, along with a reassessment of its main energy consumption sources. This article also consolidates industrial and standardization efforts by presenting essential key performance indicators and measurement approaches for transparent, accurate, and trustworthy energy and carbon accounting.

Source: IEEE Communications Magazine

DOI: 10.1109/mcom.001.2500687

Authors: Elif Ak, Berk Canberk, Hyundong Shin, Trung Q. Duong

Institutions: Memorial University of Newfoundland, Edinburgh Napier University, Kyung Hee University

Language: English

Topic: Green IT and Sustainability

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Climate action, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Research Foundation of Korea