Post-Peak ICT: Graceful Degradation for Communication Networks in an Energy Constrained Future

作者：Lambert Sofie^*; Deruyck Margot; Van Heddeghem Ward; Lannoo Bart; Joseph Wout; Colle Didier; Pickavet Mario; Demeester Piet

来源：IEEE Communications Magazine, 2015, 53(11): 166-174.

DOI：10.1109/mcom.2015.7321987

In recent years, rising energy prices and increasing environmental concerns have boosted research in the so called green ICT and green networking research tracks, aimed at improving the energy efficiency of communications while still offering maximal functionality. In this article we explore a future scenario in which low power networking is no longer optional, but instead becomes a necessity due to fluctuating energy availability. The contribution of this work is twofold. First, we argue why a so called post-peak future scenario, in which we can no longer rely on fossil fuels as our main resource for electricity production, is not unlikely, and what it might entail. Second, we explore the consequences of such a scenario for ICT: How well can current and future infrastructures cope with temporary energy limitations? As an illustration, we present a case study showing the impact of reduced energy availability on a wireless access network.

• 出版日期2015-11