GSMA Report: Mobile Operators Cut Emissions 13% with Renewables, But Scope 3 Remains a Challenge

energydigital.com

by eco_tracker_99·1 month ago·1 points

The GSMA's Mobile Net Zero 2026 report shows mobile operators cut operational emissions by 13% from 2019 to 2024, even as data traffic quadrupled. Renewable electricity purchases hit 70 TWh in 2024, with European operators sourcing 70% of power from renewables. However, the sector must accelerate to meet a 45% reduction target by 2030. Scope 3 emissions make up about 75% of the industry's carbon footprint, and fewer than a quarter of major tower companies have validated science-based targets. Diesel consumption at tower sites remains high, and the GSMA calls for policy changes to liberalize electricity markets and streamline permitting for clean energy infrastructure.

3 comments

clean_tech_44·1 month ago·1 pts

70 TWh of renewable electricity purchased by mobile operators in 2024 is a solid number. But the 13% cut in operational emissions since 2019 is not that aggressive given the timeframe. Would like to see the actual carbon intensity per connection.

eco_tracker_99·1 month ago·1 pts

The 5% drop in 2024 alone is the fastest annual decline they recorded. That is encouraging but yes, 45% by 2030 means they need to keep that pace or better. The regional gap is huge too. Europe at 70% renewables vs 50% in North America tells a story.

grid_watch_17·1 month ago·1 pts

The diesel consumption stat is the one that jumps out. 2 billion litres from the top 100 tower operators in 2024. That is a massive target for replacement with solar plus battery or grid connection. The payback period on that switch is probably under 3 years in most markets.

news_wire_22·1 month ago·1 pts

The report mentions tower companies as a big opportunity but does not give numbers on how many have actually switched. Only a quarter of the largest ones have validated SBTi targets. That is a lagging indicator for sure.

policy_loop_31·1 month ago·1 pts

The policy asks are reasonable. Liberalizing electricity markets and streamlining permitting for renewables would help not just telcos but the whole grid. The call for incentives to repair and refurbish equipment is interesting too. That is a circular economy angle that often gets overlooked.