5G Networks Supported by UAVs, RESs, and RISs

This paper presents the examination of the 5G cellular network aware of Renewable Energy Sources (RESs) and supported by Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RISs) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles working as mobile access nodes. The investigations have been focused on the energy side of the Radio Access Network (RAN) placed within the area of the city of Poznan (Poland). The gain related to enabling RES generators, i.e., photovoltaic (PV) panels, for base stations (BSs) was presented in the form of two factors – the average number of UAV replacements (ANUR) with a fully charged one to ensure continuous access to mobile services for currently served user equipment (UE) terminals, and the average reduction in energy consumption (AREC) within the whole network.