Fuel Cells: A Critical Element for Telecom Site Power Optimization

Operators of telecom sites now have a clean, low cost approach to site power thanks to advanced cooling solutions, outdoor-rated telecom gear, efficient rectifiers and fuel cell backup power solutions featuring low life cycle costs. Both greenfield and upgrade projects can take advantage of these solutions and benefit from lower power consumption, lower fuel costs, higher reliability and lower maintenance costs, as well as improved community relationships due to the quiet, low emission operation of the fuel cell systems. Estimated savings of 25% percent or more over five years are achievable by optimizing the site cooling system and power generating solution. This is highly significant considering the cost of base station energy for telecom operators can be as high as 40% of total network operating costs. Additionally, improved reliability of site power contributes directly to higher operator revenue and improved customer satisfaction and retention.