Sustainable 6G Non-Terrestrial Networks: Enabling Net-Zero Operation via Renewable Energy Integration and Intelligent Control

초록

Achieving net-zero operation in sixth-generation non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) is a primary design objective rather than a distant goal. This article focuses on satellite, high altitude platform station (HAPS), and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) segments integrated with terrestrial networks. We first provide a lifecycle taxonomy that quantifies energy use and emissions, showing that satellites are dominated by embodied impacts from manufacturing and launch, ground segments often drive operational energy, and UAVs are constrained by propulsion. We then systematize enabling technologies along three pillars: renewable energy integration and power replenishment, energy-information co-design for radios and backhaul, and artificial intelligence (AI)-based orchestration that uses energy and carbon telemetry for multi-objective control. Case studies on integrated sensing and communications, disaster-aware operation with aerial platforms, and carbon-aware networking illustrate practical levers for measurable reductions. We also map the standardization trajectory from IMT-2030 framing to equipment methods and management key performance indicators (KPIs), with an outlook to analytics-driven orchestration. Open challenges include scalable AI with guarantees, lifecycle accounting and KPI alignment across NTN segments, and policy mechanisms for carbon-intensity data. The article distills design principles and a roadmap for verifiable emission reduction while preserving reliability, coverage, and service quality.

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