How to lower DIMETRA base station OpEx and meet sustainability mandates

For operators of TETRA networks, resource efficiency has never been more crucial.  Today’s solutions must do more than maintain reliable communication, they must meet the dual demands of cost reduction and environmental sustainability. Enter Eco mode, an innovative feature in the latest release of the DIMETRA X Core (D10) system, which optimises MTS base station power consumption. By intelligently scaling energy use to meet capacity demand, Eco mode not only saves costs but also advances sustainability targets.

This post examines the function, benefits, and real-world impact of Eco mode, demonstrating its ability to make TETRA networks both operationally efficient and environmentally responsible.

How does Eco mode work?

Eco mode is a software feature designed for MTS base stations. Here’s how it works:

• Continuous capacity demand monitoring: Eco mode monitors a base station’s capacity demand in real-time. 
• Intelligent Base Radio Control: Base radios not required to meet current capacity demand enter a low-power standby mode after a configurable idle period. Note that at least one base radio must remain active.
• Seamless re-activation: When demand spikes or an incoming call requires additional capacity, idle base radios return to full operation instantaneously to ensure high service reliability.

This approach ensures that only the necessary resources are active at any moment, reducing energy use during periods of low demand while maintaining the system’s mission-critical reliability.

Quantifiable benefits

The operational efficiencies of Eco mode translate into tangible savings. Here are the metrics that matter:

Energy savings

• A base radio operating in Eco mode can save up to 2,102 kWh of electricity per year compared to running at full power.
• For a fully equipped MTS4 base station with four base radios, energy savings can reach 60%¹ during low-demand periods.

Cost reductions

• Reducing energy consumption offers network operators a valuable opportunity to significantly lower annual electricity expenses. In fact, implementation of Eco mode across all base station sites could deliver estimated annual savings of up to $1.4 million for a regional² TETRA network operator, based on representative usage patterns.

CO₂ reductions

• Deploying Eco mode also reduces the operational carbon footprint. Using the above example of 2,102 kWh savings per base radio, European operators can prevent up to 590kg of CO₂ emissions per year per base radio.

These metrics highlight how Eco mode yields financial and environmental dividends for all DIMETRA TETRA networks.

¹ Savings measured under lab conditions on an MTS4 base station comparing three Eco mode-enabled Base Radios and one Base Radio running at full power against four Base Radios running at full power (25 W output per carrier on the antenna).
² A regional operator with over 3000 sites.

Environmental impact and operational benefits

Reducing power consumption directly supports sustainability goals, making Eco mode an important tool for public safety and critical communications networks striving to reduce their ecological footprint.

Alignment with EU energy targets

• The European Union is targeting an 11.7% reduction in energy consumption across member states by 2030. Eco mode helps operators achieve compliance with these mandates.
• Networks deploying Eco mode also demonstrate leadership in sustainable technology adoption, strengthening their position in regulatory conversations.

Broader operational benefits

• Eco mode promotes better resource utilisation across DIMETRA TETRA systems, preventing electricity waste.
• Extended backup power capabilities from reduced energy consumption enhance resilience during outages and emergencies. 
• Lower power demands enable up to 2.5 times longer operation on existing backup systems and make renewable energy integration more practical. 
• Smaller solar panel arrays can now sustain extended operations, strengthening reliability in remote locations while providing a more sustainable, cost-effective approach to powering networks under challenging conditions.

Supporting your sustainability agenda

Eco mode isn’t just a feature; it’s an essential step towards meeting long-term cost-efficiency and sustainability goals. By reducing operational emissions and aligning with government energy initiatives, DIMETRA TETRA network operators can demonstrate environmental responsibility while optimising their bottom line.

Operating greener networks sends a powerful message to stakeholders, showcasing innovation and a commitment to economic and ecological sustainability.

What to look for in an energy saving solution

As you evaluate options, consider these critical factors:

• Software-Based Implementation: Does the solution require a costly and complex hardware overhaul? Eco mode is a software feature for existing DIMETRA X Core systems, ensuring a rapid and cost-effective deployment.

• Proven Reliability: How does the solution maintain mission-critical performance? Eco mode is designed for seamless, instantaneous re-activation, ensuring zero interruption to service. 

• Longer battery backup operational time: Does the solution strengthen your network’s operational resilience through extended battery backup operation? Eco mode extends battery backup time through reduced power consumption.

Take the next step 

Eco mode is not just a cost-cutting measure; it’s a strategic tool for a sustainable, future-proof communications network. Ready to see the exact savings Eco mode can deliver for your network?