Ericsson and Beyon Renew Partnership to Boost Sustainability in Bahrain

Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) and Beyon have renewed their partnership to accelerate joint sustainability initiatives and circular economy practices, focusing on building energy-efficient networks in Bahrain. The collaboration, which began in early 2024, aims to support both companies’ journey to a Net Zero future and improve Waste from Electronic and Electrical Equipment (WEEE) management.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) targets reducing Beyon’s environmental footprint by addressing energy consumption and carbon emissions on live networks operated by Batelco, part of the Beyon Group, with the help of Ericsson’s sustainable solutions.

Key outcomes from this collaboration include a 30% energy reduction on Batelco’s network through the deployment of Ericsson’s 5G Radio Access Network product, Radio 6646. This triple-band, tri-sector radio replaces nine radios, enhancing energy efficiency. Additionally, energy-saving software features such as Cell Sleep Mode and AI-powered MIMO Sleep Mode have been activated on pilot sites, resulting in a 22% reduction in energy consumption. Another 18% energy saving was achieved by deploying the Interleaved AIR 3218, which provides 5G Massive MIMO while optimizing space on rooftops and towers.

The partnership also highlights circular economy practices, with an e-waste recycling initiative launched under Ericsson’s Product Take-Back Program. This initiative helps Beyon responsibly recycle end-of-life electronic and electrical equipment, supporting their broader e-waste management strategy.

Furthermore, the collaboration emphasizes knowledge sharing, with monthly sessions involving global experts discussing climate action, circularity, and collective efforts to achieve Net Zero goals.

Shaikh Bader bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Beyon Chief Communications & Sustainability Officer, commented, “Our partnership with Ericsson demonstrates the substantial progress that can be made through focused sustainability initiatives. The results reflect our commitment to energy efficiency and our goal to reduce our environmental footprint through innovative technologies and circular economy practices. These efforts align with Bahrain’s 2030 sustainable development goals.”

Nicolas Blixell, Vice President and Head of Gulf Council Countries at Ericsson Middle East and Africa, added, “The results of our collaboration with Beyon highlight the role of technologies in achieving sustainability goals. By leveraging our expertise and technologies, we’ve delivered measurable energy savings and supported Beyon in their Net Zero journey.”

This collaboration marks another significant milestone in the long-standing relationship between Ericsson and Beyon, through Batelco, as they work together to improve network efficiency and environmental performance across Beyon’s operations.