Coldwell Banker Richard Ellis, the largest commercial real estate services firm in the world, revealed in a recent Data Center Trends Report that 2023 saw an unprecedented 2,287.6 megawatts of data center construction across key global markets. It predicted continued rapid growth well into the future. With each new data center, our broadband industry must ensure that the networks we operate are available to provide seamless data exchange. A major challenge is the ability to ensure uninterrupted power to critical network elements, particularly during times of peak demand. Intelligent load shedding (ILS) offers a promising step forward.
What is intelligent load shedding?
ILS is a dynamic process where power loads are strategically reduced in order to prioritize an operator’s most essential operations. Critical components in communications networks may include core network switches, routers, fiber optic systems and more. ILS can help to assure that these remain operational when power is limited.
ILS systems have been successfully used in a variety of settings, including large industrial facilities, power distribution networks, and now, broadband networks.
ILS-capable systems will help preserve a high level of network operation by:
•Responding quickly to power supply disturbances
•Reacting to lost communication between equipment by auto-pinging to drive a reset
•Alerting providers when operating conditions become marginal
•Analyzing required minimum power along with selected loads on the network
•Automatically trigger load shedding based on provider-defined priorities
•Continue to validate load shedding logic schemes before, during and after an event
An ILS system continuously monitors and predicts system operation in real time to guarantee a reliable response while striking the critical balance between safety, network uptime, and operational cost.
How does it work?
ILS combines advanced technologies that allow providers to set up the power supplies in their networks to anticipate and respond to reduced power availability almost instantaneously. Real-time monitoring is combined with predictive analytics, and automated controls to create a highly responsive power ecosystem. Key elements include:
1.Real-Time Monitoring: Sensors and monitoring tools collect data on items such as power consumption, environmental conditions, and system performance. The data is then analyzed to identify patterns or anomalies which may help to predict potential problems. Further, if contact with any piece of equipment is lost, the power panel can automatically “ping” the equipment to drive an automatic reset, saving the expense of a truck roll.
2.Load Prioritization: Service providers set priorities, which the system uses to identify the components that are critical for the network to continue to operate. Simultaneously non-critical equipment may be shifted to a temporarily diminished or a complete downtime state.
3.Automated Control: AI control utilizes algorithms along with intelligent controllers to implement needed load shedding decisions automatically, implementing a rapid response to any changed conditions without the need to wait for human intervention.
Benefits for broadband networks
1.Enhanced Reliability: By ensuring power availability for critical components, ILS minimizes the risk of network disruptions.
2.Cost Efficiency: Reducing power consumption during peak demand can lower operational costs by defraying or eliminating the need for expensive infrastructure upgrades.
3.Improved Resilience: ILS-equipped networks will adapt to power shortages more effectively, reducing downtime, particularly during unforeseen emergencies.
4.Sustainability: Optimized energy use, perhaps coupled with integrated renewable sources, will more closely align with sustainability goals, reducing the network’s carbon footprint.
Conclusion
Intelligent load shedding will transform how broadband providers manage their power challenges. Its combination of real-time analytics along with AI ensures operational continuity and efficiency. As data-dependency continues exponential growth and the demand for uninterrupted service increases, use of ILS will be a strategic key to achieving broadband network resilience and sustainability.
Tim Cooke, Product Manager, Amphenol
Timothy Cooke is Product Manager for Amphenol Broadband Solutions. In this role, he supports all facets of engineering and product development through collaborative work with customers as well as industry standards organizations.
Experienced Electrical Engineer with over 20 years of expertise in electronics and RF communications. Skilled in driving innovation, managing product development, and delivering cutting-edge solutions in the power and networking industry.
Learn more about Amphenol’s nrgSMART Intelligent Load Shedding here.
Read more from the Broadband Library Spring 2025 issue here.