Wireless networks evolution and digital sustainability: what is Arcep’s approach?

In this podcast, Gilles Monniaux, Principal at Analysys Mason, speaks with Ahmed Haddad, Technical Advisor at Arcep, about the French regulator’s approach to the evolution of wireless networks and digital sustainability. They begin by discussing a study conducted by Analysys Mason on behalf of Arcep on the evolution of the uses of wireless telecoms networks and on the dimensioning of those networks. They also explore digital sustainability and how Arcep incorporates it into its work. Topics include:

• the potential evolution of wireless network use cases (evolution of demand)
• the ability of wireless networks to increase their capacity through developments such as refarming, increased network sharing, the use of new spectrum bands, etc. (evolution of networks)
• how the study uses scenarios to assess the impact of the uncertainty associated with the evolution of both demand and networks
• the environmental impact hotspots in the ICT sector, including devices, networks and data centres
• how a regulator like Arcep integrates sustainability into its regulatory policy and the role national/international collaboration plays into that.

This episode offers practical insights for policy makers, operators and stakeholders on balancing network innovation with environmental responsibility.

Read the related report: https://en.arcep.fr/fileadmin/reprise/dossiers/frequences/etude-usages-et-reseaux_sept2025/study-executive-summary_evolution-uses-telecoms-networks_ENG_sept2025.pdf 

Read more work on Arcep’s work on digital sustainability: https://en.arcep.fr/arcep/arcep-europe-international/digital-sustainability.html 

Learn more about Analysys Mason's regulation and policy services: Regulation and policy for telecoms, media and technology (TMT)