COP28 concluded with a resounding call to phase out fossil fuels. In response, numerous Taiwanese companies are taking proactive measures to cut carbon emissions, with many ramping up efforts to embrace renewable energy. For local telecom giants like Taiwan Mobile, the challenge lies in reducing their carbon footprint while ensuring top-notch service quality – a pivotal issue that demands attention.
Taiwan Mobile leverages the prowess of AI and big data analytics to scrutinize energy-consuming equipment. The company has rolled out a diverse array of energy-saving solutions, smartly optimizing base stations and cloud data centers. A whopping carbon reduction of 42,133 metric tons from 2016 to 2022. Noteworthy partnerships, such as the collaboration with Nokia on liquid-cooled base stations, underscore Taiwan Mobile's commitment to ushering in an era of low-carbon operations.
Yet, the law of diminishing returns in energy efficiency prompts Taiwan Mobile to venture beyond the traditional playbook. Recognizing that a staggering 96% of electricity-related emissions remain untouched by energy-saving measures, the company is diving headfirst into green energy usage and robust research on renewable sources. As of now, Taiwan Mobile is on track, having met its green energy usage targets, with an ambitious aim to hit a 35% usage rate by 2030.
In the dynamic landscape of green energy deployment, the early focus is on solar power, transitioning strategically to wind power in the medium term. Collaborative efforts with Fubon Financial Holding, backing the Academia Sinica's "Net-Zero Technology Research and Development Program (NZTRDP)," reveal a forward-looking approach. This initiative explores cutting-edge technologies like geothermal energy, ocean energy, and the game-changing decarbonized hydrogen technology. The latter breakthrough not only transforms natural gas power generation into bona fide zero-carbon electricity but also opens doors to high-value solid carbon revenue, striking a balance between sustainability and economic gains.
In the green energy supply arena, offshore wind power, particularly in round 3.2, emerges as the linchpin. To meet the burgeoning demand for green energy, Taiwan Mobile recognizes the imperative of continually expanding and diversifying its green energy portfolio.
Beyond mere corporate carbon-cutting exercises, Taiwan Mobile weaves sustainability into its very fabric. Pioneering the "certified used phone project" and crafting the MyCharge platform for shared mobility, the telecom giant addresses the dark side of tech consumption. In a world where over 1.165 billion phones were sold in 2022, with a pitiful sub-15% recycling rate, Taiwan Mobile's move to quadruple its phone recycling numbers in 2023 speaks volumes. The imminent launch of the "certified used phone project" in online stores in Q1 2024, featuring contract-based sales of iPhone 12-14 series models, aims to elongate the lifespan of smartphones.
Taking a step further, Taiwan Mobile unveils its grand vision encapsulated in the "Taiwan Mobility" strategy. Extending carbon reduction initiatives into the shared mobility market, strategic investments in UDRIVE electric car sharing and partnerships with Tesla supercharging stations and Ucharging services are set to transform idle parking spaces, kindle consumer interest in electric vehicles, and champion eco-friendly choices.
In the grand scheme of things, the merger of Taiwan Mobile and Taiwan Star, the shuttering of a 3G network, and the streamlined 4G and 5G networks translate to substantial energy savings – a projected 100-200 million kWh annually. Coupled with a steadfast commitment to green energy adoption and research, Taiwan Mobile positions itself at the forefront of sustainable business practices.
