Energy consumption of subscriber devices in broadband network

Abstract

The paper provides estimates how deployment of fast fixed broadband may affect consumption of energy by subscriber's electronic devices. New subscribers are expected to buy additional equipment: PCs, laptops, TV sets, game consoles, etc. and more intensively use all devices connected to the net. The effects are independent of access technology, as long as certain key services are supported.

Resulting increase of electricity consumption by households will likely require costly investment in new power plants. In case of fossil fuel power generation, negative environmental consequences will be noticeable. However, progress in reducing device power consumption and replacement of desktop PCs with laptops and other portable devices shall considerably mitigate these effects.