Backup power steps forward: Fuel cells as a safety net in the OSP

Abstract

Traditional battery backup remains the most common choice in most Outside Plant (OSP) environments, but industry changes and challenges are driving telecom providers to find appealing alternatives. As the OSP evolves to keep up with these changing demands, the limitations of batteries become more apparent and more of an issue for providers and customers. This paper will discuss the driving factors, advantages and possible disadvantages of fuel cell deployment in the Outside Plant arena as well as how they compare to other traditional and alternative backup power solutions.