Green 6 G: energy-efficient user association and power allocation with locally harvested renewable energy

Abstract

The rising energy demand in urban 6 G ultra-dense mmWave mobile networks will present economic and environmental concerns. Addressing these issues calls for efficient energy management frameworks that enhance the reliance of 6 G networks on renewable energy sources while minimizing dependence on grid-based power. This is particularly important as base stations (BSs) are the most energy-intensive components in these networks. This paper focuses on the problem of User Association with Green Power Maximization. We propose intelligent load-based on–off switching mechanisms for grid-powered microbase stations (muBSs) and integrate renewable energy through energy harvesting techniques. The aim is to reduce the grid-power consumption and promote sustainable 6 G network operations. We formulate the problem as an integer linear pGUASrogram to find the optimal solution. Moreover, we propose three heuristic solutions: greedy green user allocation strategy, random user allocation strategy, and sequential user allocation strategy. We considered two dynamic muBS power models: a stepwise and a load-based linear model. We evaluated our proposed solutions via simulations with both power models. Finally, we provide insights into how these solutions can significantly reduce emissions and carbon tax costs at the European level, highlighting their potential to drive the future of “Green Networks”.