< PreviousMany organisations operate with a more traditional IT infrastructure, representing a significant investment, making it more challenging to catch up to modern technologies. Indeed, according to a survey conducted by IBM on 380 CIOs and CTOs of medium to large organisations in the US and UK, 24% of companies have just begun their IT transformation journey and are not yet ready for future IT needs. 33% of the surveyed IT leaders reported that they are in the middle of the IT transformation journey. Defining sustainability What does it mean when the concept of sustainability is applied to the enterprise computer network? One definition could be creating an infrastructure that is flexible enough to tackle unknown future changes. Simply put, sustainable networking is networking at its most sensible and pragmatic in the opportunities it affords to enterprises. As cloud computing rapidly transforms the way companies operate, sustainability can be best defined through the essential appeal of an orchestrator solution in which businesses can use a networking tool without ripping out their own hardware or old processes. After all, there can be valid needs to upgrade – for example, company hardware simply gives out, or security lapses require updates to tech. Sometimes the benefit of investing in the new justifies the cost. However, sometimes, it's just an arbitrary cycle set by a technology vendor, such as in the case of decommissioning perfectly serviceable pieces of hardware because the appliance vendor said so. Sustainability, at its essence, is the practice of avoiding this arbitrary cycle through the use of employing an overlay solution. To be an overlay solution means that the technology is layered on top of the network, which forestalls the need for an expensive rip and replace process when it comes to embarking on digital transformation. Why it matters Networking technology that isn’t made to be sustainable, at best becomes wasted resources. At worst, it becomes a liability, vulnerability, or actively damaging impact. sustainable network management www.networkseuropemagazine.com 60Sustainable technology and sustainable networking create a value that compounds with time. Almost as if sustainability was following Newton’s first law, staying in motion while the effort needed to counter the unbalanced forces of shifting business priorities is lower than reinventing the proverbial wheel every time a company change vendors. This being the case, network sustainability ensures ROI going forward, as the network is future-proofed, and enterprises can avoid vendor lock-in. To achieve sustainable networks, it is vital enterprises make use of highly scalable and programmable solutions that can be automated to eliminate human error and scale to the rates of digital transformation. Future-proof networks must increasingly rely on agile software-defined or virtualised network elements managed through a decoupled solution, so data and service layer can be freely moved, replaced, adjusted, and expanded to dynamically re-engineer the architecture without lengthy network outages. Sustainable networks utilise self-provisioning and intelligently self-healing services. In short, future-proof networks require a comprehensive, unified tool that provides visibility and proactive monitoring for the entire infrastructure, regardless of its scale, location, or components. Sustainability needs clear insights into network operations to be able to optimise resources as needed. Choosing the right solution At the end of the day, creating a sustainable network relies on choosing a network management solution that operates inside this future-proofed framework. This is best achieved for enterprises through a management solution for large-scale, highly heterogeneous core network services. Crucially, it should bring automation to the IP address management space, and be transformation-ready and flexible to support on-premise, cloud, or edge services on a wide range of platforms. As companies embark on their digital transformations – and look to employ the latest technologies and cloud strategies – making the right decision towards sustainability now will prevent untold costs down the line. n sustainable network management www.networkseuropemagazine.com 61Anthony Ainsworth COO npower Business Solutions (nBS) As an energy-intensive sector, it has always been a challenge to find the most effective ways for data centres to decarbonise. Over recent years, technological developments have provided increasingly smart ways for data centres to reduce their energy consumption and lower carbon emissions. However, recent volatility in wholesale energy prices across the UK and Europe has raised the additional concern of how to manage the inevitable rise in costs without disrupting supply. For mission-critical sectors such as data centres - where any downtime can be hugely costly - the need to look for solutions that are sustainable, reliable and increase resiliency are becoming even more urgent. One solution is installing sustainable on-site generation. Firstly, it is important to dispel one of the most common myths - that the intermittency of renewables means that on-site generation isn’t suitable for industries, such as data centres, that require uninterrupted, 24/7 supply. The technology has evolved considerably, meaning that on-site generation, particularly when paired with storage or other power sources, is now a reliable option that comes with many advantages. As well as helping data centres decarbonise, it also provides greater resiliency, protecting operators from the hugely volatile wholesale energy market we have seen in recent months. In short, it puts them in control of their own energy generation while also reducing carbon. However, at a time when competition for capital expenditure is high, making the case for larger investments, such as renewable on- site generation, can prove to be difficult. With this in mind, we have developed a guide on the important role sustainable on-site generation can play in helping organisations plot their path to net-zero to help operators make the business case for the investment. This report - ‘Plot Your Path to Net Zero: A Focus on Sustainable On-Site Generation’ - includes information on the different kinds of generation available, from solar photovoltaic (PV) to combined heat and power (CHP), as well as the views of over 60 organisations of their on-site generation plans and the kind of support they would welcome. Net-zero: Resiliency net-zero: resiliency and reliability www.networkseuropemagazine.com 62ero: cy and Reliability Why sustainable on-site generation is a must for data centres net-zero: resiliency and reliability www.networkseuropemagazine.com 63net-zero: resiliency and reliability www.networkseuropemagazine.com 64 Installing on-site generation is a clear signal that your operation is serious about sustainability, particularly in the eyes of stakeholders and throughout your supply chain.Encouragingly, the research showed that, despite the challenges posed throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, over 50% of our respondents said they had already invested - or were planning to invest - in ways to generate their own supply. That said, despite the positivity around plans to invest in on-site generation, businesses also raised some of the issues they face when it comes to building a case for the investment. The primary barrier is proving the return on investment (ROI) of an on-site asset, closely followed by access to funding. Nearly a quarter (24%) also questioned the suitability of on-site generation for their organisation. So, how can data centre operators make the business case for an on-site generation asset? There are five reasons why on-site generation should be a key part of an operator’s carbon reduction strategy: 1. It reduces carbon emissions As we are all aware, the UK government has set some very ambitious targets for the reduction of carbon emissions. As well as committing to net zero emissions by 2050, it also announced a mid-point commitment of a Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions reduction of 78% by 2035 compared to 1990 levels. The most effective way to reduce emissions is by switching to a zero-carbon supply. On-site generation options that use 100% renewable sources - such as solar PV or wind - will help a data centre significantly reduce its carbon footprint. 2. It lowers energy costs Installing on-site generation technology can make a real impact on the bottom line through a reduction in energy costs. As a site will only generate the energy it needs to use, it will naturally operate in a more efficient way. There is also the opportunity to avoid non-commodity costs, such as the third-party costs required to maintain and balance the grid, if a data centre is generating its own electricity. 3. It protects against price fluctuations Linked to a reduction in energy costs, on-site generation helps to mitigate against price fluctuations in the market, which has been a huge issue in recent months, where wholesale energy prices have reached record highs. Having an on-site supply helps to protect data centres against this price volatility and increase resiliency, meaning operators can plan ahead with greater certainty. 4. It provides increased stability of supply Any loss of energy - no matter how brief - can be costly, particularly to those mission-critical industries like data centres that rely on 24/7 supply. Hitting net zero emissions by 2050 relies heavily on mass- electrification, putting increased pressure on the central grid. This means that we will see a move to a more decentralised system, with multiple energy sources contributing to the overall stability of the grid. Installing on-site generation - particularly if combined with battery storage - helps to protect data centres from any downtime by increasing self-sufficiency and minimising the reliance on the grid. It can also provide additional revenue opportunities, allowing operators to sell any excess energy they produce to the grid. 5. It improves reputation and sustainability credibility The recent COP26 climate conference saw several announcements that focus on ensuring businesses adhere to stricter standards when it comes to publishing sustainability pledges. There has also been an increase in exposing instances of so-called ‘greenwashing’ - where a company’s zero-carbon commitments do not stand up to scrutiny - particularly as the public become more climate aware. Installing on-site generation is a clear signal that your operation is serious about sustainability, particularly in the eyes of stakeholders and throughout your supply chain. Plotting your path to a more sustainable and resilient future When it comes to making ambitious, yet robust, carbon reduction plans, on-site generation needs to be a key consideration for data centre operators. However, where cost barriers are an issue, one route to consider is a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). These can be arranged via a third party funder, who can install and manage the on-site asset - the organisation then buys the energy from the funder over the course of the agreement, negating the need for up-front investment. Encouragingly, this was a route that the majority of our respondents (73%) were either already taking, or were considering. From solar PV to wind power, there is now a great deal of choice for data centres, with more innovative technologies on the horizon. The time to act is now - as well as reducing emissions, it reduces reliance on the grid, mitigates against price volatility, enables greater control of energy consumption, and provides future revenue opportunities by becoming a flexible asset. That is why investing in on-site generation really does make financial, environmental and reputational sense. n net-zero: resiliency and reliability www.networkseuropemagazine.com 65Why IoT and smart city technology will make it possible to sustain growth smart city technology www.networkseuropemagazine.com 66Xavier Dupont Senior Director Product Line Lantronix Providing data to inform solutions According to the United Nations, the world’s urban population is expected to double by 2050, reaching nearly 6.7 million people. Cities will face unprecedented challenges to manage issues with sanitation, traffic congestion, urban crime and environmental pollution. IoT has the potential to address many of the challenges of urban growth with smart city solutions. For all its potential, building and maintaining smart cities is not without its own challenges. IoT in Smart Cities Large populations consume a lot of resources. Growing urban concentrations will need access to water, environmentally friendly and efficient transportation, practical sanitation and clean air, all of which are a challenge as population density increases. With the use of IoT technology and smart city practices, cities can meet the increasing demands of residents without disrupting processes. Connected devices can create smart, data-driven solutions that can solve problems and improve quality of life for residents, such as smart lighting, smart traffic and smart sanitation. Why IoT and smart city technology will make it possible to sustain growth IoT has the potential to address many of the challenges of urban growth with smart city solutions. But for all its potential, building and maintaining smart cities is not without its own challenges. Xavier Dupont, Senior Director Product Line, at Lantronix, highlights these challenges and discusses the solutions in overcoming them. smart city technology www.networkseuropemagazine.com 67Components of a smart city Infrastructure Smart infrastructure is the foundation of a smart city. Optimised for performance, a smart infrastructure reduces waste and saves on energy consumption. The result is an energy-efficient city that’s environmentally friendly. An example of this in practice is a motion- activated streetlight, which reduces energy consumption when the streets are empty. Smart lighting can also improve traffic, increase public safety and reduce energy costs. Air management Air pollution is a growing concern for cities, especially as they become more crowded. In fact, air pollution accounts for roughly $900 billion annually, according to the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. A smart city has the ability to analyse air pollution data and make emission forecasts. For example, a city can use air quality sensing and geofencing to switch the fleet of hybrid vehicles to electric-only mode temporarily when the air quality is poor. These insights can also be used to redirect pedestrians and drivers to alternate routes. Traffic management Perhaps one of the most valuable components of a smart city is optimised traffic management. A smart city can put technological parameters in place for a traffic control solution. For example, integrated sensors can be programmed to provide updates on real-time traffic flow. Once analysed, the program can adjust the traffic lights to mitigate heavy traffic conditions. Parking Parking can be challenging, especially in large cities. Smart cities can use sensors in parking lots to record when drivers come and go, and to alert drivers of free parking areas. All of this can be done via smartphone, allowing drivers to choose the most practical parking options. Waste management Inefficient waste management is rising in costs and challenges. According to the World Bank, the amount of waste is expected to rise from 1.4 billion tons today to 2.4 billion tons by 2025. The costs associated are expected to hit $375 billion. This isn’t even considering the environmental toll. Smart cities can improve the efficiency of waste collection and reduce operational costs, with sensors on waste containers that relay messages when the waste reaches a certain level, so it can be emptied as needed. Video surveillance Smart video surveillance has already been in use, especially on busy roads and highways. Law enforcement uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) cameras for traffic control, auto theft, tolls and crime prevention. As surveillance cameras become more advanced, they may be able to be used to predict crimes before they happen and identify pedestrians. The public remains wary of the privacy and personal data on surveillance cameras, which is one of the more concerning security challenges with IoT. Implementing efficient and scalable IoT architecture for a smart city No matter how a city uses smart technology, it’s vital to have a strong foundation. If the city wants to expand the services or implement smart technology in more areas, the existing architecture can be upgraded easily without a full rebuild. smart city technology www.networkseuropemagazine.com 68IoT-based smart city platform Smart city implementation begins with basic architecture, which includes: • Network of smart things: Smart things have sensors to collect data and transfer it to a cloud management platform, and actuators to make changes based on data, like restricting water flow or adjusting lighting. • Gateways: Field gateways allow data gathering and compression by processing and filtering data before it moves to the cloud. Cloud gateways ensure secure data transmission between field gateways and the cloud. • Data lakes and warehouses: Data lakes and warehouses are used to store data. Data lakes preserve data in its raw state, then pass it to the warehouse, which is a repository for structured data. The warehouse also contains contextual information about connected things. Monitoring and analytics Data analytics allow monitoring of a device environment and establish rules for applications to carry out commands. Cities can govern the sensors and actuators across devices, implementing conditions that must be met for when the actuator does or does not perform an action. Deep analytics IoT-generated data yields greater insights than conventional monitoring and analytics. Deep analytics provides advanced insights, such as patterns and hidden correlations with machine learning. In practice, this can be a traffic light that can adapt to real-time traffic scenarios and improve congestion and vehicle speed over time. Smart control Smart city control is possible when applications send commands to actuators to solve a problem or complete a task. Applications can be rule-based or machine-learning-based – the former is based on manual definitions, while the latter is based on machine-learning algorithms, providing better control and automation. User applications Users have significant value in the smart city. User applications allow citizens to connect to the platform to control IoT devices or receive alerts and notifications. For example, this can apply to traffic alerts via smartphones, which notify drivers of traffic jams and suggest alternate routes. Users can also send traffic alerts to the traffic control centre via smartphone. Integrating solutions Smart cities aren’t just built and left alone. Refining, updating and scaling the technology is an ongoing process. By implementing smart city solutions now, cities can consider what IoT technologies they may wish to implement in the future. Applications can be linked together to form whole city solutions, such as a traffic management platform that works with automated smart lighting and air quality sensors to direct traffic to the safest and least congested areas. Building toward a connected and sustainable future Automated streetlights, self-altered traffic patterns and continuous air quality monitoring would have been unimaginable just a few decades ago but they are now a vital component of a successful smart city of the future. As the world population grows, IoT solutions in cities can mitigate the effects of high energy costs, diminishing natural resources, and increased waste, crime and air pollution. n smart city technology www.networkseuropemagazine.com 69Next >