Comprehensive Evaluation of Multi-Generation (3G-5G) Power Saving Features in a Live Commercial Network

Abstract

The exponential growth in mobile data traffic has driven a corresponding increase in Radio Access Network (RAN) energy consumption, making energy efficiency a critical priority for mobile operators. This paper presents a large-scale empirical evaluation of multi-generation (3G-5G) power-saving features deployed in a live commercial network. Using a controlled sample of 45 sites equipped with remote power meters, we quantify the individual and cumulative energy savings of four commercially available features. Through baseline measurements, sequential activation, and controlled rollback experiments, we isolate the contribution of each feature and assess its impact on key performance indicators and user experience. The combined activation offsets the power increase from network modernization, achieving a net saving of 15.78% in regional lower-load areas without measurable degradation in accessibility, retainability, or throughput. The micro-DTX feature emerges as the dominant contributor, delivering load-dependent savings of 7-12.5%. Comparative analysis between lower-load regional and higher-load urban environments reveals a strong dependency of achievable savings on traffic load and activation window configuration. These findings provide a replicable, data-driven framework for operators implementing energy-efficient RAN strategies while maintaining quality of service, and highlight critical trade-offs between aggressive power reduction and user experience.