Benefits of Fiber Optics in Energy and Power

Fiber optic cables do not transfer power — they transfer data. Even so, utilities can use fiber optics to improve energy systems and make them more modern, efficient and safe. One of the most innovative ways is by updating to smart grids that use electrical energy more efficiently and that rely more on renewal energy to help power the grid. 

However, upgrading to smart grids generates a lot of data traffic. If utilities rely on various sources — including electrical, wind, solar, hydro and photovoltaic energy — to deliver electricity to consumers, they will need a way to monitor how each of these sources powers the grid. Utility companies would need to measure both the flow and consumption of power from all these different sources in order to regulate the grid and keep supply stable. 

Fiber optic networks provide a secure and efficient way of streamlining data traffic and transmitting or communicating data between the various essential components that make up a smart grid — sensors, IT systems, controllers, measuring devices and more. 

For utilities, implementing fiber optics means operational improvements, a way to address safety concerns, enhanced customer service, and new ways to generate revenue, innovation and sustainability.

The infrastructure required for power grids is significant, spanning over vast areas. These large distances between structures and systems can be challenging when vital data experiences delays or interruptions in transmission. When using copper wires, utility companies need to invest in signal repeaters to minimize these challenges.

Since fiber optic cables use light signals to transmit data, optical fiber transmission is faster and more reliable, even over wide distances. 

Fiber optic cables carry light through plastic or glass tubes, so they are not conductive. As a result of not conducting electricity, they are much safer to handle than copper wires.

That being said, installing fiber optics still comes with some risks to be aware of. Anyone handling fiber optic cables should comply with all safety regulations. For example, personnel should wear full personal protective equipment (PPE) and work carefully around electrical cables. Companies must enforce any applicable safety mandates to ensure they are followed at all times.

As more power and fiber optics companies work together to upgrade energy systems into smart grids, sustainability becomes more viable, which benefits corporations and consumers alike. Fiber optics is more sustainable for several reasons: 

• Energy-efficient: Fiber optic cables do not require as much energy as copper cables to transmit data, meaning they are more efficient and have a smaller carbon footprint. 
• Fewer resources: Using fiber optics requires far fewer resources than alternatives. Fiber optic cables are durable and weather-resistant, and because they offer greater longevity, utility companies use fewer resources trying to maintain or replace them. 
• Less need for infrastructure to minimize signal loss: Signals transmitted over other cables like copper are susceptible to degradation over long distances, and additional infrastructure like signal repeaters becomes necessary. Optical fiber will not lose signal strength over long distances, and there is less impact on the environment since less infrastructure is needed.
• Less electronic waste: Technological advancements have reshaped the world, but there is a downside to upgrades and replacements. Electronic waste or e-waste is a growing concern as it impacts the environment and human health. Fiber optic cables minimize e-waste because of their longevity and versatility. Where providers used to employ separate cables for different services, fiber optic cables can consolidate services and reduce electronic waste. 

Many of the sustainability advantages of fiber optics make it a viable financial solution for energy companies. While fiber optic cables do cost more to produce, power companies can save more in the long run on these fronts:

• Utilities spend less on infrastructure for transmission speeds and long-distance data transmission. 
• Companies spend less on continued upgrades in an attempt for greater efficiency. 
• Fiber optic cables are durable and have a longer life span. The cables are designed to last up to 25 years, saving companies on repairs or replacements.   
• Fiber optic networks generally require less maintenance than traditional cables.