Methods and apparatuses for handling energy use information in a mobile telecommunications network

Abstract

A method for handling energy use information is disclosed (100). An indication message (110) is sent from a second network entity (2) to a first network entity (1), wherein the indication message comprises (110) an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a user equipment, UE (10), in the network, wherein the first network entity (1) is configured to provide a session management function, SMF, instance in a network. The first network entity (1) is transmitting (22) a first message (112) to a third network entity (3) and / or a second message (114) to a fourth network entity (4), wherein the third network entity (3) is configured to provide a policy control function, PCF, and the fourth network entity (4) is configured to provide a charging function, CHF, wherein the transmitted first message (112) and / or second message (114) comprises the energy use information.

Description

[0001] METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR HANDLING ENERGY USE INFORMATION IN A MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORK

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The invention refers to a method for handling energy use information in a mobile telecommunications network.

[0004] Background

[0005] Modern telecommunications networks are designed in a way that network functions can be implemented and are provided to UEs. Different network functions can be provided on different servers and might be run by using different types of energy sources. It is known that it is advantageous that network functions are selected based under considerations of energy efficiency aspects. For example, a user might indicate that he or she is willing to accept an improved energy efficiency over network performance. In addition or in the alternative, the user might indicate that he or she is preferring specific types of energy sources, for example regenerative energy sources, thereby potentially accepting performance decreases. Based on the user indication or based on subscription data, a network function is selected that is run by using the indicated energy source.

[0006] Thus, energy efficiency-based network function discovery and selection is performed and tools are introduced to be able to select a network function (NF) based on an energy efficiency criterion. It is possible to select a NF based on the energy source e.g., Solar, and it is possible to connect subscription data to the NF selection, when using the energy efficiency criteria.

[0007] Summary

[0008] According to an aspect of the invention, a method for a first network entity is disclosed, wherein the first network entity is configured to provide a session management function (SMF) instance in a network. The method comprises receiving an indication message that was sent by a second network entity, wherein the indication message comprises an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a user equipment (UE) in the network, and transmitting a first message to a third network entity and / or a second message to a fourth network entity, wherein the third network entity is configured to provide a policy control function (PCF), and the fourth network entity is configured to provide a charging function (CHF), wherein the transmitted first message and / or second message comprises the energy use information. According to this aspect of the invention, a first network entity is disclosed, wherein the first network entity is configured to perform the method for the first network entity. In particular, the first network entity comprising a processing circuitry configured to provide a session management function, SMF, instance in a network and to receive an indication message that was sent by a second network entity, wherein the indication message comprises an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a user equipment (UE) in the network; and transmit a first message to a third network entity and / or a second message to a fourth network entity, wherein the third network entity is configured to provide a policy control function, PCF, and the fourth network entity is configured to provide a charging function, wherein the transmitted first message and / or second message comprises the energy use information.

[0009] The first network entity can be a physical or a virtual device. The first network entity can be a system of multiple network devices that are together acting as the first network entity.

[0010] In particular, the energy use information is an energy efficiency accepted indicator, wherein the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a configuration of an acceptance of measures for energy savings for the UE. That is, the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating whether it has been agreed that measures for energy savings for the UE are applied for the UE.

[0011] In particular, the first message and / or the second message further comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the SMF.

[0012] In particular, the second network entity is providing a Unified Data Management Function, UDM, and the indication message is received from the UDM. The UDM is a source at which the energy use information can be stored for different UEs in the Subscriber Data Management, SDM service. In particular, the indication can be retrieved by the Nudm_SDM_Get message.

[0013] In particular, the first message is transmitted to the third network entity, and the method further comprises receiving a third message from the PCF, wherein the third message comprises information concerning a network policy that is applicable for the UE.

[0014] In particular, the second message is transmitted to the fourth network entity, and the method further comprises receiving a fourth message from the CHF, wherein the fourth message is confirming a receipt of the second message. In particular, the method further comprises transmitting an update request message to the third network entity and / or the fourth network entity, wherein the update request message comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for a UPF.

[0015] According to an aspect of the invention, a method for a third network entity is disclosed, wherein the third network entity is configured to provide a policy control function (PCF) in a network, the method comprising receiving a first message from a first network entity, wherein the first network entity is configured to provide a session management function (SMF), instance, wherein the first message comprises an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a user equipment (UE) in the network; and determining a network policy that is applicable for the UE based on the energy use information that has been received in the first message.

[0016] According to this aspect of the invention, a third network entity is disclosed, wherein the third network entity is configured to perform the method for the third network entity. In particular, the third network entity comprises a processing circuitry configured to provide a policy control function (PCF) in a network, and to receive a first message from a first network entity, wherein the first network entity is configured to provide a session management function (SMF), instance, wherein the first message comprises an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a user equipment (UE) in the network; and determine a network policy that is applicable for the UE based on the energy use information that has been received in the firstmessage.

[0017] In particular, the energy use information is an energy efficiency accepted indicator, wherein the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a configuration of an acceptance of measures for energy savings for the UE.

[0018] In particular, the first message further comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the SMF.

[0019] In particular, the method further comprises transmitting a third message to the SMF, wherein the third message comprises information that describes the network policy that has been determined to be applicable to the UE. In particular, the method further comprises receiving an update request message that was sent by the SMF, wherein the update request message comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for a UPF, and determining a network policy that is applicable for the UE based on the energy source indicator that has been received in the update request message.

[0020] According to an aspect of the invention, a method for a fourth network entity is disclosed, wherein the fourth network entity is configured to provide a charging function (CHF) in a network. The method comprises receiving a second message from a first network entity, wherein the first network entity is configured to provide a session management function (SMF), instance, wherein the second message comprises an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a user equipment (UE) in the network; and setting a charging parameter for the UE based on the energy use information that has been received in the second message.

[0021] According to this aspect of the invention, a fourth network entity is disclosed, wherein the fourth network entity is configured to perform the method for the fourth network entity. In particular, the fourth network entity comprises a processing circuitry configured to provide a charging function (CHF) in a network, and to receive a second message from a first network entity, wherein the first network entity is configured to provide a session management function (SMF), instance, wherein the second message comprises an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a user equipment (UE) in the network; and set a charging parameter for the UE based on the energy use information that has been received in the second message.

[0022] In particular, the energy use information is an energy efficiency accepted indicator, wherein the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a configuration of an acceptance of measures for energy savings for the UE.

[0023] In particular, the second message further comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the SMF.

[0024] In particular, the method further comprises transmitting a fourth message to the SMF, wherein the fourth message is confirming a receipt of the second message. In particular, the method further comprises receiving an update request message that was sent by the SMF, wherein the update request message comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for a UPF; and setting a charging parameter for the UE based on the energy source indicator that has been received in the update request message.

[0025] The methods and network nodes according to the invention are capable to provide additional functionalities in a mobile telecommunications network, in particular in a core network of the mobile telecommunications network. In particular, the described methods allow to communicate energy use information that relates to a UE to the PCF, for example as a policy trigger, or to the CHF, for example to add the energy use information to a billing information or as sponsoring data information.

[0026] The energy efficiency accepted indicator is a possible energy use information that is related to the UE. The energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a configuration of an acceptance of measures for energy savings for the UE. Accordingly, with the receiving of the energy efficiency accepted indicator, the SMF instance gains knowledge in respect to the application of energy saving measures for a specific UE. That is, the SMF has a basis to decide on whether energy saving measures should be applied for the UE in a further session management and / or whether energy saving measures are already applied for the UE, for example by the selection of the SMF instance that is performing the method. This information is forwarded to the PCF and / or CHF, which allows a network operator to implement functionalities based on the energy efficiency accepted indicator. For example, using the PCF, the network operator can implement network policies that lead to energy savings. For example, using the CHF, the network operator can implement a charging model that encourages the acceptance of energy saving measures. The network operator is preferably a communication Service Provider (CSP).

[0027] The energy efficiency accepted indicator can be a binary indicator that is indicating that energy efficiency measures are accepted or that energy efficiency measures are not accepted. Optionally, the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a value on a scale with multiple possible values, wherein a degree of an acceptance for energy efficiency measures is indicated from low to high. The energy efficiency accepted indicator can be linked to a user of the UE or directly to the UE.

[0028] In particular, the first message is a SM Policy Association Create Request. In particular, the first message comprises the energy efficiency accepted indicator in a SmPolicyContextData IE. In particular, the second message is a Charging Data Request. By transmitting the energy use information to the PCF or CHF, it possible for CSPs to create an environmental offering to their customers. Further than that, it is possible for the CSPs to sell this opportunity to e.g. Application Service Providers (ASPs), that will optionally sponsor the connectivity. Also, it is possible to visualize environmentally friendly information on the bill and to trigger environmentally friendly policies in the PCF (e.g., new PCC rules with lower bandwidth).

[0029] The communication between the first network entity and the third network entity is preferably performed over a N7 communication. The communication between the first network entity and the fourth network entity is preferably performed over a N40 communication.

[0030] According to the invention, techniques inside SMF with regards Energy Efficiency and Energy Source over N7 (PCF) and N40 (CHF) are provided to facilitate dedicated policy triggering, new CSP, Connectivity Service Provider, business opportunities and increase the transparency on the actual bill towards the end user (to increase “feeling good”). The described steps are to convey the Energy related information to PCF and / or CHF. This information could then be used to trigger energy related policies; communicate to the end user.

[0031] Brief description of the drawings

[0032] Fig. 1a shows a diagram that is illustrating a first part of a method for handling energy efficiency information in a mobile telecommunications network, fig. 1b shows a diagram that is illustrating a second part of the method for handling energy efficiency information in a mobile telecommunications network, fig. 2 shows a flowchart for a method for a first network entity, fig. 3 shows a flowchart for a method for a third network entity, fig. 4 shows a flowchart for a method for a fourth network entity, and fig. 5 shows an exemplary network entity.

[0033] Detailed description

[0034] According to aspects of the invention, a method 100 for handling energy use information in a mobile telecommunications network is disclosed.

[0035] Multiple network entities are participating in the method 100 for handling energy use information. A first network entity 1 is a second instance of a Session Management Function (SMF #2). A second network entity 2 is a Unified Data Management (UDM). A third network entity 3 is a policy control function (PCF). A fourth network entity 4 is a charging function (CHF). A fifth network entity 5 is a first instance of a Session Management Function (SMF #1). A sixth network entity 6 is a network repository function (NRF). A seventh network entity 7 is an access and Mobility Management Function (AMF). An eighth network entity 8 is a first User Plane Function (UPF #1). A ninth network entity 9 is a second User Plane Function (UPF #2).

[0036] The first to tenth network entity 1 - 10 are part of a core network of the mobile telecommunications network. A user equipment (UE) 10 is configured to interact with the core network over a Radio Access Network (RAN). Each one of the first to eighth network entity 1 - 8 can be a physical or virtual entity. Also, some or all of the first to eighth network entity 1 - 8 can be implemented in a single device or in a system that comprises a number of devices. The core network is configured to handle energy information. The energy information is any information that describes characteristics of an energy usage of any device in the mobile telecommunications network.

[0037] In the following example, the core network is handling energy information that allows to define whether the UE 10 is preferably utilizing network functions that are suitable to reduce an amount of energy that is consumed for handling the UE 10 and / or to define a type of energy, for example energy from renewable energy sources, that is preferably used to handle the UE 10. In the described example, it can be defined that it is accepted that the UE 10 is handled in a way that a reduced amount of energy or at least a reduced amount of non-green energy is used for operating the UE 10, which can imply that less performance is provided for the operation of the UE 10 for the price of saving energy or resources. For such a network functionality, it is necessary that it is known in the mobile telecommunications network whether it is accepted that measures for energy savings are applied for the UE. This information is conveyed by using an energy efficiency accepted indicator, wherein the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a configuration of an acceptance of measures for energy savings for the UE 10. The energy efficiency accepted indicator can be stored in a unified data repository (UDR) and is for example linked to a subscriber, which allows to identify the UE 10 for which the energy efficiency accepted is applicable. The energy efficiency accepted indicator describes an information that is related to the energy usage caused by the UE 10 in the network, the energy efficiency accepted indicator is an energy use information. The information is related to the energy usage caused by the UE 10 in the network, as the amount of an energy consumption for handling the UE by the network is changing with the setting of the energy efficiency accepted indicator.

[0038] Further than that, it is preferable that it is known in the mobile telecommunications network which energy type is used by network functions. This information is conveyed by using an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the network function. The energy source is configured such that it indicates the type of energy, for example solar energy, wind energy or coal energy, that is used to operate the network function.

[0039] Further than that, it is preferable that it is known in the mobile telecommunications network how much energy is used by network functions. This information is conveyed by using an energy efficiency indicator, wherein the energy efficiency indicator is a factor that describes how energy efficient a network functionality is operated. The factor is increasing with a decreasing energy consumption of a specific operation and decreases with an increasing energy consumption for the specific operation. The energy efficiency indicator is defined such that an energy efficiency of different network functions is comparable. For example, the energy efficiency indicator is an indicator in a range in between 0 and 100.

[0040] In a Network Function, NF, registration phase 11 , network functions are registering at the NRF 6.

[0041] In the example of figs. 1a and 1b, the first SMF instance SMF#1 is transmitting a first NF_regis- tration message 101 to the NRF. The first NF_registration message 101 comprises an energy efficiency indicator that is indicating the energy efficiency of the first SMF instance SMF#1 and an energy source indicator that is indicating the energy source that is used for operating the first SMF instance SMF#1. For example, the energy source indicator is indicating the energy type “Nuclear” and the energy efficiency indicator is set to the value “90”.

[0042] In the example of figs. 1a and 1b, the second SMF instance SMF#2 is transmitting a second NF_registration message 102 to the NRF. The second NF_regi strati on message 102 comprises an energy efficiency indicator that is indicating the energy efficiency of the second SMF instance SMF#2 and an energy source indicator that is indicating the energy source that is used for operating the second SMF instance SMF#2. For example, the energy source indicator is indicating the energy type “Solar” and the energy efficiency indicator is set to the value “80”.

[0043] In the example of figs. 1a and 1b, the first UPF instance UPF #1 is transmitting a third NF_regis- tration message 103 to the NRF. The third NF_registration message 103 comprises an energy efficiency indicator that is indicating the energy efficiency of the first UPF instance UPF #1 and an energy source indicator that is indicating the energy source that is used for operating the first UPF instance UPF#1. For example, the energy source indicator is indicating the energy type “Water” and the energy efficiency indicator is set to the value “60”.

[0044] In the example of figs. 1a and 1b, the second UPF instance UPF #2 is transmitting a fourth NF_registration message 104 to the NRF. The fourth NF_regi strati on message 104 comprises an energy efficiency indicator that is indicating the energy efficiency of the second UPF instance UPF #2 and an energy source indicator that is indicating the energy source that is used for operating the second UPF instance UPF#2. For example, the energy source indicator is indicating the energy type “Coal” and the energy efficiency indicator is set to the value “50”.

[0045] With the registration of the corresponding energy source indicators and energy efficiency indicators, the necessary information for operating the UE 10 based on energy information is provided. In a runtime phase 12, network functions are assigned to the UE 10 based on the energy information. It is noted that the registration phase 11 and the runtime phase 12 are not necessary subsequent phases, as new network functions can register at the NRF at any time. Also, any previously registered parameters can be updated at any time.

[0046] The AMF is contacted by the UE 10 for the assignment of a SMF instance. In particular, the UE 10 is sending a PDU Session Establishment Request 105 to the AMF. It is noted that prior to the sending a PDU Session Establishment Request 105 to the AMF, a Registration procedure, for example as described by 3GPP TS 23.502 chapter 4.2.2.2.2., is performed. During this procedure the subscription data is fetched from the UDM so if the UDR has any energy source information stored it will be sent to the AMF. The AMF may use this information to select an SMF according to the energy information inside the subscription data. During the procedure, the AMF can include the energy source information to the PCF which makes it possible for the PCF to influence via Access and Mobility policies.

[0047] In response to receiving the PDU Session Establishment Request 105, the AMF is sending a NF_Discovery Request 106 for the NF_Type SMF to the NRF. The NRF is indicating the registered SMF instances SMF#1 and SMF#2 to the AMF in a NF_Discovery Result message 107. The AMF has already fetched the subscription data from the UDM during the Registration Procedure and AMF may use the energy source information information inside the subscription data to select an SMF according to the energy information. After receiving the registered SMF instances, the AMF assigns one of the SMF instances SMF#1 , SMF#2 for handing the operation of the UE. For this, a SMF selection is done, which makes us of the UE subscription data details and the current NFProfile values, wherein the second SMF instance SMF#2 is selected in the shown example. Therefore, a Nsmf_PDUSession_CreateSMContext Request 108 is sent from the AMF to the selected second SMF instance SMF#2. Upon receiving the Nsfm_PDUS- ession_CreateSMContext Request 108, the second SMF instance SMF#2 is sending a Nudm_SDM_Get message 109 to the UDM.

[0048] The UDM fetches subscription data from the UDR that contains the energy efficiency accepted indicator that is applicable for the UE 10 and optionally a wanted energy indicator that indicates a preferable energy type that should be used for the UE 10 when performing actions in the core network on a session level. In this example, the energy efficiency accepted indicator is set to “true”, which indicates that measures for energy savings for the UE 10 are accepted. The wanted energy indicator is indicating that “water” is the preferred energy source. The energy efficiency accepted indicator and the wanted energy indicator is sent from the UDM to the second SMF instance SMF#2 in a Nudm_SDM_get reply message 110. Upon receiving the Nudm_SDM_get reply message 110, the second SMF instance SMF#2 transmits a Nsmf_PDUSessionSMContext Response 111 in reply to the Nsfm_PDUS- ession_CreateSMContext Request 108. The Nsmf_PDUSessionSMContext Response 111 is to confirm the assignment of the second SMF instance SMF#2 for handling the current session of the UE 10, which has been requested by the UE 10 by sending the PDU Session Establishment Request 105 to the AMF.

[0049] At this stage of the method 100, the second SMF instance SMF#2 that is handling the current session of the UE 10 is informed whether measures for energy savings for the UE 10 are accepted or not, as this has been communicated via the energy efficiency accepted indicator. Also, the second SMF instance SMF#2 is informed on which energy source should be preferably used for services that are provided to the UE 10, wherein this information has been received via the wanted energy indicator. In this example, the Nudm_SDM_get reply message 110 is an indication message that was sent by a second network entity 2, in this example by the UDM, wherein the indication message comprises an energy use information. The energy efficiency accepted indicator and the wanted energy indicator are different types of energy use information, as these indicators both describe an information that is related to an energy usage of the UE 10.

[0050] After transmitting the Nsmf_PDUSessionSMContext Response 111 , the second SMF instance SMF#2 is communicating some or all of the energy use information to the PCF and to the CHF. This allows a network operator to perform specific actions for the UE, depending on the energy use information. For example, specific policies can be applied for the UE 10 if the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating that energy saving measures are accepted and if this energy efficiency accepted indicator is transmitted to the PCF. In another example, information about energy saving measures can be considered in a billing information. For example, it can be indicated in the charging information of a user of the UE 10 that energy saving measures have been accepted if the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating that energy saving measures are accepted and if this energy efficiency accepted indicator is transmitted to the CHF.

[0051] For communicating the energy use information to the PCF, the second SMF instance SMF#2 is transmitting a first message 112 to the third network entity, wherein the third network entity is configured to provide the PCF. The first message 112 is a SM Policy Association Create Request. The transmitted first message 112 comprises the energy use information. In this example, the energy use information is the energy efficiency accepted indicator. The energy efficiency accepted indicator is preferably sent as an attribute in a SmPolicyContextData data type, wherein the energy efficiency accepted indicator is preferably linked to the UE via a Subscription Permanent Identifier that is sent in the SmPolicyContextData data type. In reply to receiving the first message 112, the PCF determines a network policy that is applicable for the UE based on the energy use information that has been received in the firstmessage. Optionally, actions for processing the determined network policy are executed by the PCF in reply to receiving the first message 112. In reply to receiving the first message 112, the PCF transmits a third message

[0052] 113, wherein the third message is a SM Policy Association Create Response. Thus, the second SMF instance SMF#2 is receiving the third message from the PCF. Optionally, the third message 113 comprises information concerning a network policy that is applicable for the UE 10.

[0053] For communicating the energy use information to the CHF, the second SMF instance SMF#2 is transmitting a second message 114 to the fourth network entity, wherein the fourth network entity is configured to provide the CHF. The transmitted second message 114 comprises the energy use information. In this example, the energy use information is the energy efficiency accepted indicator. In addition, the second message 114 further comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating the energy source that is configured as the primary energy source for the SMF, here for the second SMF instance SMF#2. Even though the energy source indicator has not been provided from the UDM to the second SMF instance SMF#2, it can also been read as an energy use information, as it describes the energy source that is used to power the second SMF instance SMF#2, which is managing the session of the UE 10. Therefore, the energy source indicator describes an information that is related to an energy usage of the UE 10. In this example, the second message 114 is a Charging Data Request. In reply to receiving the second message 114, the CHF set a charging parameter for the UE 10 based on the energy use information that has been received in the second message 114. For example, the CHF sets a value that is presented to a user in a cost information to indicate that energy saving measures have been accepted. In reply to receiving the second message

[0054] 114, the CHF transmits a fourth message 115, wherein the fourth message 115 is a Charging Data Response. Thus, the second SMF instance SMF#2 is receiving the fourth message 115 from the CHF, wherein the fourth message is confirming a receipt of the second message 114.

[0055] The second SMF instance SMF#2 is performing session management for the UE 10 and is therefore configured to select a UPF instance for the UE 10. For this selection, the second SMF instance SMF#2 is transmitting a NF Discovery Request 116 for the NFType = UPF to the NRF and is in reply receiving a NF Discovery Result 117 with a list of available UPF instances, for example the first UPF instance UPF#1 and the second UPF instance UPF#2. The second SMF instance SMF#2 is performing a selection from the list of available UPF instances and initiates a session establishment 118 with the selected UPF instance, in this example with the first UPF instance UPF#1. The selection is made based on available session subscription details and correct NF Profile values. For example, the selection is made based on the indication that has been provided with the wanted energy indicator, which was indicating the energy type “Water” that has been received for the UE 10 in the Nudm_SDM_get reply message 110. As the first UPF instance UPF#1 registered at the NRF by sending the NF_regi strati on message 103 with the energy source indicator indicating the energy type “Water”, the first UPF instance UPF#1 is selected, as the energy type that is used by the first UPF instance UPF#1 matches the energy type that was indicated in the wanted energy indicator that was sent for the UE 1 in the a Nudm_SDM_get reply message 110.

[0056] After the first UPF instance UPF#1 has been selected to provide a service for the UE 10, it is known to the second SMF instance SMF#2 that the energy information that applies for this first UPF instance UPF#1 is relevant for the operation of the UE 10. In this example, it is known that the first UPF instance UPF#1 is powered by using the energy type “water”, which implies that the services that are provided by the first UPF instance UPF#1 for the UE 10 are powered by using this energy type. This information can be provided as energy use information from the second SMF instance SMF#2 to the PCF and / or the CHF.

[0057] The second SMF instance SMF#2 is transmitting an PCF update request message 119 to the third network entity 3, that is the PCF, wherein the PCF update request message 119 comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the first UPF instance UPF#1 . The PCF update request message 119 is a Npcf_SMPolicyControl_Update Request, wherein the Npcf_SMPolicyControl_Update Request comprises an extended SmPolicyUpdateContextData data type that comprises the energy source indicator. The SmPolicyUpdateContextData data type further preferably comprises the SUPI, which is suitable to link the energy source indicator to the UE 10. Therefore, the PCF is receiving an PCF update request message 119 that was sent by an SMF, here the second SMF instance SMF#2, wherein the PCF update request message 119 comprises the energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for a UPF, here the first UPF instance UPF#1. In response to receiving the PCF update request message 119, the PCF determines a network policy that is applicable for the UE based on the energy source indicator that has been received in the PCF update request message 119. Further than that, the PCF triggers a processing of the network policy. The PCF is sending a Npcf_SMPolicyControl_Up- date Response 120 in reply to the Npcf_SMPolicyControl_Update Request that has been sent as the PCF update request message 119. The second SMF instance SMF#2 is transmitting an CHF update request message 121 to the fourth network entity 4, that is the CHF, wherein the CHF update request message 121 comprises the energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating the energy source that is configured as the primary energy source for the first UPF instance UPF#1. The CHF update request message 121 is a Charging Data Request, wherein the Charging Data Request comprises the energy source indicator. The Charging Data Request further preferably comprises the SlIPI, which is suitable to link the energy source indicator to the UE 10. Therefore, the CHF is receiving an update request message that was sent by an SMF, here the second SMF instance SMF#2, wherein the update request message comprises the energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for a UPF, here the first UPF instance UPF#1. In response to receiving the CHF update request message 121, the CHF sets a charging parameter for the UE 10 based on the energy source indicator that has been received in the CHF update request message 121. The CHF is sending a Charging Data Response 122 in reply to the CHF update request message 121.

[0058] Figure 2 shows a method for a first network entity 1, wherein the first network entity 1 is configured to provide a session management function, SMF, instance in a network. In an example, the first network entity 1 is the first network entity 1 that is described with reference to Figs. 1a and 1b.

[0059] In a first step 21, the first network entity 1 is receiving an indication message 110 that was sent by a second network entity 2, wherein the indication message comprises 110 an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a UE 10 in the network.

[0060] In a second step 22, the first network entity 1 is transmitting a first message 112 to a third network entity 3 and / or a second message 114 to a fourth network entity 4, wherein the third network entity 3 is configured to provide a policy control function, PCF, and the fourth network entity 4 is configured to provide a charging function, CHF, wherein the transmitted first message 112 and / or second message 114 comprises the energy use information.

[0061] The energy use information can be an energy efficiency accepted indicator, wherein the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a configuration of an acceptance of measures for energy savings for the UE 10. The first message 112 and / or the second message 114 optionally comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the SMF. The second network entity 2 is providing a Unified Data Management Function, UDM, and the indication message is received from the UDM.

[0062] Under the prerequisite that the first message 112 was transmitted to the third network entity 3, the method further comprises an optional third step 23 in which the first network entity 1 is receiving a third message 113 from the PCF, wherein the third message 113 optionally comprises information concerning a network policy that is applicable for the UE.

[0063] Under the prerequisite that the second message 114 was transmitted to the fourth network entity 4, the method further comprises an optional fourth step 24 in which the first network entity 1 is receiving a fourth message 115 from the CHF, wherein the fourth message is confirming a receipt of the second message 114.

[0064] In a fifth step 25, the first network entity 1 is transmitting an update request message to the third network entity 3 and / or the fourth network 4 entity, wherein the update request message comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for a UPF.

[0065] Figure 3 shows a method for a third network entity 3, wherein the third network entity 3 is configured to provide a policy control function, PCF, in a network. In an example, the third network entity 3 is the third network entity 3 that is described with reference to Figs. 1a and 1b.

[0066] In a first step 31 , the third network entity 3 is receiving a first message 112 from a first network entity 1 , wherein the first network entity 1 is configured to provide a session management function, SMF, instance. The first message 112 comprises an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a UE 10 in the network.

[0067] In a second step 32, the third network entity 3 is determining a network policy that is applicable for the UE 10 based on the energy use information that has been received in the first message 112.

[0068] The energy use information can be an energy efficiency accepted indicator, wherein the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a configuration of an acceptance of measures for en- ergy savings for the UE 10. The first message 112 optionally comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the SMF.

[0069] In a third step 33, the third network entity 3 is transmitting a third message 113 to the SMF, wherein the third message 113 comprises information that optionally describes the network policy that has been determined to be applicable to the UE.

[0070] In a fourth step 34, the third network entity 3 is receiving an update request message 119 that was sent by the SMF, wherein the update request message 119 comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for a UPF.

[0071] In a fifth step 35, the third network entity 3 is determining a network policy that is applicable for the UE based on the energy source indicator that has been received in the update request message.

[0072] Figure 4 shows a method for a fourth network entity 4, wherein the fourth network entity 4 is configured to provide a charging function, CHF, in a network. In an example, the fourth network entity 4 is the fourth network entity 4 that is described with reference to Figs. 1a and 1b.

[0073] In a first step 41 , the fourth network entity 4 is receiving a second message 114 from a first network entity 1 , wherein the first network 1 entity is configured to provide a session management function, SMF, instance. The second message 114 comprises an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a UE 10 in the network.

[0074] In a second step 42, the fourth network entity 4 is setting a charging parameter for the UE 10 based on the energy use information that has been received in the second message 114.

[0075] The energy use information can be an energy efficiency accepted indicator, wherein the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a configuration of an acceptance of measures for energy savings for the UE 10. The second message 114 optionally comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the SMF. In a third step 43, the fourth network entity 4 is transmitting a fourth message 115 to the SMF, wherein the fourth message 115 is confirming a receipt of the second message 114.

[0076] In a fourth step 44, the fourth network entity 4 is receiving an update request message 121 that was sent by the SMF, wherein the update request message 121 comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for a UPF.

[0077] In a fifth step 44, the fourth network entity 4 is setting a charging parameter for the UE 10 based on the energy source indicator that has been received in the update request message 121 .

[0078] Figure 5 shows an exemplary network entity, wherein the exemplary network entity can be the first network entity 1 , the third network entity 3 or the fourth network entity 4. The exemplary network entity comprises a processing circuitry 50 that is configured to perform the method that is to be performed by the network entity. The processing circuitry 50 comprises a CPU 51 , a memory 52 and a Transceiver 53. In one example, the exemplary network entity is the first network entity 1 , wherein the memory 52 comprises instructions, which when executed by the CPU 51 instruct the first network entity 1 to perform the method that is described with Fig. 3. Any sending and receiving of messages is performed via the Transceiver 53. In one example, the exemplary network entity is the third network entity 3, wherein the memory 52 comprises instructions, which when executed by the CPU 51 instruct the third network entity 3 to perform the method that is described with Fig. 4. Any sending and receiving of messages is performed via the Transceiver 53. In one example, the exemplary network entity is the fourth network entity 4, wherein the memory 52 comprises instructions, which when executed by the CPU 51 instruct the fourth network entity 4 to perform the method that is described with Fig. 5. Any sending and receiving of messages is performed via the Transceiver 53.

[0079] It is pointed out that the exemplary network entity can be configured to be any combination of the first network entity 1 , the third network entity 3 and the fourth network entity 4. For example, the memory 52 can comprise instructions, which when executed by the CPU 51 , instruct the network entity to perform any combination of the methods that are described with Figs. 2, 3 and 4.

[0080] Exemplary Information Elements (IE) that might be part of the type SmPolicyContextData according to any of the previously described examples are shown in the following. The SmPolicy- ContextData can be sent in the first message 112, wherein the attribute “energyEfficiencyAc- ceptedindication” is the energy efficiency accepted indicator and the attribute “SMF Ener- gySource” is the energy source indicator:

[0081] Exemplary IE that might be added to the type SmPolicyUpdateContextData according to any of the previously described examples are shown in the following. The SmPolicyUpdateContextData can be sent in the PCF update request message 119, wherein the attribute “UPF EnergySource” is the energy source indicator that is indicating the energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the UPF:

[0082] The type EnergySource might be defined as follows:

[0083] Exemplary Information Elements (IE) that might be added to the Charging Data Request message according to any of the previously described examples are shown in the following. The Charging Data Request message can be sent in the CHF update request message 121, wherein the attribute “UPF EnergySource” is the energy source indicator that is indicating the energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the UPF:

[0084] [Retransmission Indicator | Oc | Oc [Described in TS 32.290

[0057]

Claims

Claims1. A method (100; 20) for a first network entity (1), wherein the first network entity (1) is configured to provide a session management function, SMF, instance in a network, the method comprising: receiving (21) an indication message (110) that was sent by a second network entity (2), wherein the indication message comprises (110) an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a user equipment, UE (10), in the network; and transmitting (22) a first message (112) to a third network entity (3) and / or a second message (114) to a fourth network entity (4), wherein the third network entity (3) is configured to provide a policy control function, PCF, and the fourth network entity (4) is configured to provide a charging function, CHF, wherein the transmitted first message (112) and / or second message (114) comprises the energy use information.

2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the energy use information is an energy efficiency accepted indicator, wherein the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a configuration of an acceptance of measures for energy savings for the UE (10); and / or wherein the first message (112) and / or the second message (114) further comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the SMF.

3. The method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the second network entity (2) is providing a Unified Data Management Function, UDM, and the indication message is received from the UDM.

4. The method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the first message (112) is transmitted to the third network entity (3), the method further comprising: receiving (23) a third message (113) from the PCF, wherein the third message (113) comprises information concerning a network policy that is applicable for the UE (10).

5. The method according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the second message (114) is transmitted to the fourth network entity (4), the method further comprising: receiving (24) a fourth message (115) from the CHF, wherein the fourth message is confirming a receipt of the second message (114).

6. The method according to any one of the previous claims, the method further comprising: transmitting (25) an update request message to the third network entity (3) and / or the fourth network entity (4), wherein the update request message comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for a UPF.

7. A first network entity (1), the first network entity comprising a processing circuitry (50) configured to provide a session management function, SMF, instance in a network and to: receive an indication message (110) that was sent by a second network entity (2), wherein the indication message comprises an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a user equipment, UE (10), in the network; and transmit a first message (112) to a third network entity (3) and / or a second message (114) to a fourth network entity (4), wherein the third network entity (3) is configured to provide a policy control function, PCF, and the fourth network entity (4) is configured to provide a charging function, wherein the transmitted first message (112) and / or second message (114) comprises the energy use information.

8. The first network entity (1) according to claim 7, wherein the energy use information is an energy efficiency accepted indicator, wherein the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a configuration of an acceptance of measures for energy savings for the UE (10); and / or wherein the first message (112) and / or the second message (114) further comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for a UPF.

9. The first network entity (1) according to any one of the previous claims 7 or 8, wherein the second network (2) entity is providing a Unified Data Management Function, UDM, and the indication message is received from the UDM.

10. The first network entity (1) according to any one of the previous claims 7 to 9, wherein the processing circuitry (50) is configured to transmit the first message (112) to the third network entity (3), and to: receive a third message (113) from the PCF, wherein the third message (113) comprises information concerning a network policy that is applicable for the UE (10).

11. The first network entity (1) according to any one of the previous claims 7 to 10, wherein the processing circuitry (50) is configured to transmit the second message (114) to the fourth network entity (4), and to: receive a fourth message (115) from the CHF, wherein the fourth message (115) is confirming a receipt of the second message (114).

12. The first network entity (1) according to any one of the previous claims 7 to 11 , wherein the processing circuitry (50) is configured to: transmit an update request message (119; 121) to the third network entity (3) and / or the fourth network entity (4), wherein the update request message (119; 121) comprises the energy efficiency accepted indicator and / or an energy source indicator.

13. A method (100; 30) for a third network entity (3), wherein the third network entity (3) is configured to provide a policy control function, PCF, in a network the method comprising: receiving (31) a first message (112) from a first network entity (1), wherein the first network entity (1) is configured to provide a session management function, SMF, instance, wherein the first message (112) comprises an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a user equipment, UE (10), in the network; and determining (32) a network policy that is applicable for the UE (10) based on the energy use information that has been received in the first message (112).

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the energy use information is an energy efficiency accepted indicator, wherein the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a configuration of an acceptance of measures for energy savings for the UE (10); and / or wherein the first message (112) further comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the SMF.

15. The method according to any one of the previous claims 13 or 14, the method further comprising: transmitting (33) a third message (113) to the SMF, wherein the third message (113) comprises information that describes the network policy that has been determined to be applicable to the UE (11).

16. The method according to any one of the previous claims 13 to 15, the method further comprising: receiving (34) an update request message (119) that was sent by the SMF, wherein the update request message (119) comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for a UPF, and determining (35) a network policy that is applicable for the UE (10) based on the energy source indicator that has been received in the update request message (119).

17. A third network entity (3), the third network entity comprising a processing circuitry configured to provide a policy control function, PCF, in a network and to: receive a first message (112) from a first network entity (1), wherein the first network entity (1) is configured to provide a session management function, SMF, instance, wherein the second message (112) comprises an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a user equipment, UE (10), in the network; and determine a network policy that is applicable for the UE (10) based on the energy use information that has been received in the first message (112).

18. The third network entity (3) according to claims 17, wherein the energy use information is an energy efficiency accepted indicator, wherein the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a configuration of an acceptance of measures for energy savings for the UE; and / or wherein the first message (112) further comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the SMF.

19. The third network entity (3) according to any one of the previous claims 17 or 18, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to transmit a third message (113) to the SMF, wherein the third message (113) comprises information that describes the network policy that has been determined to be applicable to the UE (10).

20. The third network entity (3) according to any one of the previous claims 18 to 19, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to: receive an update request message (119) that was sent by the SMF, wherein the update request message (119) comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy sourceindicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for a UPF, and determine a network policy that is applicable for the UE (10) based on the energy source indicator that has been received in the update request message (119).21 . A method (100; 40) for a fourth network entity (4), wherein the fourth network entity (4) is configured to provide a charging function, CHF, in a network, the method comprising: receiving (41) a second message (114) from a first network entity (1), wherein the first network entity is configured to provide a session management function, SMF, instance, wherein the second message (114) comprises an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a user equipment, UE (10), in the network; and setting (42) a charging parameter for the UE (10) based on the energy use information that has been received in the second message (114).

22. The method according to claim 21 , wherein the energy use information is an energy efficiency accepted indicator, wherein the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a configuration of an acceptance of measures for energy savings for the UE; and / or wherein the second message (114) further comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the SMF.

23. The method according to any one of claims 21 or 22, the method further comprising: transmitting (43) a fourth message (115) from the CHF, wherein the fourth message (115) is confirming a receipt of the second message (114).

24. The method according to any one of the previous claims 21 to 23, the method further comprising: receiving (44) an update request message (121) that was sent by the SMF, wherein the update request message (121) comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for a UPF; and setting (45) a charging parameter for the UE (10) based on the energy source indicator that has been received in the update request message (121).

25. A fourth network entity (4), the fourth network entity comprising a processing circuitry (50) configured to provide a charging function, CHF, in a network and to:receive a second message (114) from a first network entity (1), wherein the first network entity (1) is configured to provide a session management function, SMF, instance, wherein the second message (114) comprises an energy use information, wherein the energy use information describes an information that is related to an energy usage caused by a user equipment, UE (10), in the network; and set a charging parameter for the UE (10) based on the energy use information that has been received in the second message (114).

26. The fourth network entity (4) according to claims 25, wherein the energy use information is an energy efficiency accepted indicator, wherein the energy efficiency accepted indicator is indicating a configuration of an acceptance of measures for energy savings for the UE (10); and / or wherein the second message (114) further comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for the SMF.

27. The fourth network entity (4) according to any one of claims 25 or 26, wherein the processing circuitry (50) is configured to: transmit a fourth message (115) to the SMF, wherein the fourth message (115) is confirming a receipt of the second message (114).

28. The fourth network entity (4) according to any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the processing circuitry (50) is configured to: receive an update request message (121) that was sent by the SMF, wherein the update request message (121) comprises an energy source indicator, wherein the energy source indicator is indicating an energy source that is configured as a primary energy source for a UPF; and set a charging parameter for the UE (10) based on the energy source indicator that has been received in the update request message (121).

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