Comparative Analysis of Solar-Powered Base Stations for Green Mobile Networks

The rapid growth of mobile communication technology and the corresponding significant increase in the number of cellular base stations (BSs) have increased operational expenses (OPEX) for mobile operators, due to increased electricity prices and fossil fuel consumption. Thus, identifying alternative solutions to reduce OPEX has become a major priority of mobile operators. Solar energy is considered an economically attractive and eco-friendly option. This paper examines solar energy solutions for different generations of mobile communications by conducting a comparative analysis of solar-powered BSs based on three aspects: architecture, energy production, and optimal system cost. In addition, the economic feasibility of the solar energy solution compared with conventional sources is discussed. The simulation results suggest that solar-powered BSs would be a suitable long-term solution for the mobile cellular network industry.