Energy efficient wireless communication for IoT enabled Greenhouses

Internet of Things (IoT) technology is shaping different aspects of agriculture management strategies. Precision Agriculture (PA) can be improved by the provision of adequate nutrients and effective control of pests and diseases. Effective analysis and utilization of IoT technologies can help in PA. IoT stipulates connectivity technology between multiple devices but limited battery energy remains as a foremost concern. This battery constraint needs a combined approach of energy-efficient and energy harvesting mechanisms for long term monitoring and data collection. This paper outlines research questions for energy efficient wireless communication on the basis of literature evaluation. Potential research design and approach for power reduction are explored using our pilot LoRa based IoT deployment in a greenhouse. This pilot study helps in identifying challenges and limitations of IoT connectivity in greenhouse. We also discuss the possible research outlook to increase the opportunities in saving energy and efficient wireless data communication.