The ESXi host running the free edition of VMware is not shutting down when commanded to by PowerChute Network Shutdown.

Issue:
VMware ESXi host, which is running the free edition of VMware, is not shutting down when commanded to by PowerChute Network Shutdown.

Product Line:
PowerChute Network Shutdown (PCNS) version 2.2.3, 2.2.4, 3.0, 3.0.1, 3.1, 4.X

Environment:
VMware ESXi versions 3.5, 4.x, 5.x, 6.x

Cause:
The free edition of VMware ESXi provides read-only access to the API functions. Without write access to the API functions, PowerChute cannot issue a command to shut down an ESXi host.

Resolution:
To make PowerChute Network Shutdown work properly you will need to purchase a license for ESXi. 

"VMware ESXi host is not shutting down when commanded to by PowerChute Network Shutdown running on 4.1 & 5.x."

You can also find more information in Kbase FA159768 "Shutdown VMWare ESXi 4.1 unlicensed server with PowerChute Network Shutdown"