Abstract: A circuit arrangement for remotely powering a plurality of local systems, such as network termination units used, for example, with ISDN, from a central unit which itself is remotely powered and a corresponding method for remotely powering the local systems are described. The circuit arrangement includes a power converter receiving remote power from a central exchange, with a processing circuit connected downstream. The power converter provides a supply voltage to the local systems via a first current path and an energy storage unit provides the startup energy the local systems. Switches arranged between the energy storage unit and the local systems individually connect different local systems to the energy storage unit via a second current path. Only a single small energy storage unit is required to supply the startup power.