Energy consumption trends in the next generation access network — a telco perspective

The paper will provide an analysis on the trend of energy consumption for the next generation access network, taking into account VDSL2 deployment in FTTx architectures. It points out the related issues and needs for a Telco as Telecom Italia, which aims to manage the energy consumption evolution in a sustainable way. The analysis will give evidence of the growing energy consumption trend that can only be faced by a strong and coordinated action between regulators, operators and industries, aiming to the optimization (reduction) of energy consumption (e.g. through standardization activities). The parallel constantly growing cost of electrical energy could lead to unacceptable energy budgets for Telcos, together with a strong negative impact on eco sustainability. The initiative of "code of conduct on energy consumption reduction of BB equipment" issued by the European Commission will be quoted and details will be provided. The paper will also focus on further aspects for a sustainable deployment of active equipment in the access network for FTTx architecture, such as need of new standardized environmental classes for active equipment to be hosted in outdoor cabinets, need of action on the mechanical aspects to have a reduction of the needed space, possible back-up sources for availability of service (life-line service). These issues, together with the energy consumption minimization, are the key factors for a successful and sustainable deployment of FTTx architecture. The paper will, in its final section, propose a focus on possible alternative and renewable energy sources for Telecommunications application: Telecom Italia is analyzing possible alternative energy sources to be adopted in the power feeding in its network, matching a national energy policy scenario leading to deeper attention to energy savings and usage of alternative energy sources.