A method is provided for allocating and providing power to network devices. The method includes (i) receiving an electronic request to power a network device with a requested amount of power, (ii) establishing a worst-case current draw of the device in the event of a pre-defined maximum voltage slew rate, and (iii) selectively (a) allocating and providing power to the device when a remaining power capacity is greater than or equal to a provision voltage multiplied by the worst-case current draw of the device in the event of the maximum voltage slew rate, and (b) denying power to the device when the remaining power capacity is less than the provision voltage multiplied by the worst-case current draw of the device in the event of the maximum voltage slew rate. Apparatus are also provided for performing the method.