Clean Networking

As an ever increasing number of people around the world become connected by fixed and mobile telecommunications networks, the challenges related to providing electricity to these expanding networks are becoming greater. Energy costs are among the largest expenses for network operators, and energy consumption from telecom networks is an increasing contributor to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Faced with these economic and environmental realities, network operators and their equipment vendors have embarked on a series of new initiatives to improve the energy efficiency of telecom networks and reduce their associated carbon emissions. These efforts include dramatic reductions in the electricity required to power network elements, the integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, more energy efficient practices for data centre operations, and a greater focus on recycling and reuse of network equipment. A detailed analysis from Pike Research indicates that these initiatives are likely to result in a significant reduction in energy-related operating expenses in addition to a dramatic decrease in GHG emissions related to telecom network operations. Solar Market Despite extreme shifts in pricing, demand and governmental subsidies, the global photovoltaic market in 2011 will experience robust growth, with installations rising by 42.3% for the year, according to iSuppli. The company forecasts that worldwide solar installations will reach 20.2 Gigawatts (GW) next year, up from 14.2GW at the end of 2010. Germany, the world's leading Photovoltaic (PV) market, will continue to play a key role and account for half of the total installations, at 9.5GW. While an impressive growth total for the year, the expansion will be down significantly from the 97.9 percent increase in 2009. Speculation is also rife about the possibility of a PV installation cap being imposed in Germany for 2011. However, it is believed that the German government will not dare to cut down PV subsidies, especially in the wake of a recent decision to extend the operation of nuclear power plants. With the nuclear extension passing despite popular opposition, the government is not likely to risk further alienating public opinion by implementing limits on photovoltaic solar energy. In the near term, the nuclear reprieve in Germany will have no effect on the PV markets, even if passage might have sent the wrong signal to PV global markets for the time being. And with German polls suggesting overwhelming support - 80% by one count - among voters in favour of renewable energy generation, the forecasts for a strong German PV market in 2011 continue to hold and remain unchanged. www.powersystemsdesign.com