The required backup time for mobile base stations varies from 15 minutes to 12 hours, depending on the criticality classification of communication networks and services. Photo: DNA
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A widespread blackout in Spain and Portugal this week has renewed public attention on the resilience of telecommunications networks during electricity outages. Finland’s mobile operator DNA says it is well prepared for such scenarios.
On Monday, Spain experienced what media described as the worst power outage in its history, with some areas losing power for nearly 20 hours.
Disruptions affected household appliances, transport, lighting, payment terminals, and communications networks.
According to DNA’s network operations head Visa Urpelainen, Finland’s preparedness for network disruptions caused by power outages is exceptionally high by international standards.
DNA says that in the event of a blackout lasting up to three hours, basic mobile services, such as calls and text messages, would continue to operate normally. However, mobile data services would likely deteriorate significantly. In affected areas, fixed network connections might cease functioning altogether.
Mobile base stations in Finland have backup power that ensures service for between 15 minutes and 12 hours, depending on the network’s critical classification. For highly critical sites, power is secured for several days using generators.
Urpelainen explained that while normal outages are brief, typically under 15 minutes, longer blackouts would require network operators to take active measures, such as shutting down parts of the mobile network to preserve emergency call functionality.
“In the past, operators would individually dispatch backup power to sites, often resulting in congestion. Today, we work together through the Häty cooperation group to coordinate backup deployment efficiently,” Urpelainen said.
During a major disruption, operators collaborate with each other as well as emergency services, the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom, rescue departments, and subcontractors. Urpelainen emphasised that even in serious incidents, DNA’s control room operates continuously to monitor and restore services.
Private customers are advised to keep their mobile phones and backup batteries charged. During a short power outage, phone calls and SMS services would remain available, although internet speeds could slow. Devices reliant on electricity, such as Wi-Fi routers and desktop computers, would be offline.
For businesses, DNA advises planning for the lack of backup power in most office and production facilities. Companies should consider decentralising operations and ensure they have contingency plans for extended outages.
Urpelainen said that DNA regularly tests its crisis management models and uses real-world disruptions as opportunities to fine-tune procedures.
“Our starting point is that customers are supported even during outages. The tougher the situation, the better the control room performs,” Urpelainen said.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
