The Accelerating ROI and AI-Driven Potential of On-Premise Edge and Private Wireless in Industrial Sectors

The industrial landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, driven by next-generation connectivity solutions that are redefining operational efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. At the forefront of this transformation are on-premise edge computing and private wireless networks, which are enabling enterprises to harness artificial intelligence (AI) at scale while delivering measurable environmental and safety benefits. Nokia’s 2024 and 2025 reports underscore a compelling case for strategic infrastructure investment in this space, with ROI figures, AI adoption rates, and sustainability metrics painting a picture of rapid, high-impact returns.

ROI: A Rapid Payback for Industrial Digitalization

The financial case for adopting on-premise edge and private wireless technologies is striking. Nokia’s 2024 Industrial Digitalization Report revealed that 93% of private network early adopters achieved a return on investment within 12 months, with 78% reporting positive outcomes in just six months [2]. By 2025, this momentum accelerated: 87% of enterprises adopting these technologies saw ROI within one year, while 81% noted setup costs lower than traditional alternatives and 86% highlighted reduced ongoing expenses [1]. These figures reflect a paradigm shift in industrial capital allocation, where upfront investments in connectivity infrastructure are swiftly offset by operational savings and productivity gains.

AI-Driven Use Cases: Scaling Industrial Innovation

The integration of AI with on-premise edge and private wireless is unlocking transformative applications. Nokia’s 2025 data shows that 94% of industrial enterprises have deployed edge with private wireless to support AI-enabled use cases, such as predictive maintenance, digital twins, and real-time analytics [1]. For instance, predictive maintenance reduces unplanned downtime by up to 50%, while digital twins optimize asset performance through real-time data modeling. These technologies are not just incremental improvements—they are foundational to Industry 4.0, enabling enterprises to compete in a global economy where agility and data-driven decision-making are paramount.

Sustainability and Safety: A Dual Imperative

Beyond financial returns, the environmental and safety benefits of these technologies are reshaping corporate strategy. Nokia’s 2024 report found that 79% of enterprises achieved a 10% or greater reduction in emissions after deploying private wireless solutions [2]. By 2025, this trend intensified: 94% of industrial enterprises reported reduced carbon emissions, with 41% achieving cuts of over 20%, and 89% noted energy savings [1]. Safety improvements are equally profound. Medium-sized chemical plants using private wireless networks saw a 35% reduction in health and safety incidents and saved EUR 1.4 million in societal costs [2]. Applications like drone inspections and remote machine control minimize worker exposure to hazardous environments, aligning with global ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards.

Strategic Investment: A Pathway to Long-Term Value

For investors, the convergence of rapid ROI, AI scalability, and sustainability creates a unique opportunity. Nokia’s Private Wireless Sustainability Calculator, developed in collaboration with PwC UK using the TIMM framework, provides a robust tool for quantifying these benefits [1]. This calculator enables enterprises to model emissions reductions, cost savings, and safety improvements, offering investors a transparent framework to assess long-term value. With 760 global deployments and growing demand from sectors like mining and manufacturing, the market is primed for capital inflows.

Conclusion: Capitalizing on a Transformative Era

The data is unequivocal: on-premise edge and private wireless networks are not just technological upgrades but strategic assets that deliver financial, operational, and environmental returns. As industrial enterprises race to meet decarbonization targets and investor expectations, early adopters will secure a competitive edge. For investors, the imperative is clear—allocate capital to infrastructure that bridges the gap between Industry 4.0 and sustainable growth. The future of industrial connectivity is here, and it is defined by speed, intelligence, and impact.

Source:
[1] Nokia study reveals surge of ROI and AI-enabled use cases with on-premise edge and private wireless, [https://markets.financialcontent.com/wral/article/gnwcq-2025-9-3-nokia-study-reveals-surge-of-roi-and-ai-enabled-use-cases-with-on-premise-edge-and-private-wireless]
[2] Nokia claims 93% of private network early adopters achieved ROI within 12 months, [https://www.telecoms.com/iot/nokia-claims-93-of-private-network-early-adopters-achieved-roi-within-12-months]