System and method for remotely performing a power cycle operation for a storage shelf of a storage server using a control path independent of a data path used for processing I/O requests is provided. The storage server maintains a data structure for storing information regarding a state of a plurality of power latches that are used to control power for the storage shelf having an alternate control path module for receiving control commands via the control path. Depending on the state of the plurality of power latches, the storage server sends one or more commands to the alternate control path module to turn off power to the storage shelf during a power cycle operation. When the power shelf is powered off, the storage server waits for a certain duration and then sends one or more power on commands to the alternate control path module to power on the storage shelf.