In a world increasingly conscious of its environmental footprint, the energy sector is under pressure to innovate and adopt sustainable practices. A recent survey published in the journal *Sensors* (translated from Hungarian as “Sensors”) sheds light on how next-generation wireless communication technologies, specifically beyond-5G and 6G, could revolutionize the energy sector by making Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) systems and smart grids greener and more efficient.
The study, led by Pal Varga from the Department of Telecommunications and Artificial Intelligence at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics, explores the convergence of advanced wireless communication technologies with modern energy infrastructure. This convergence, according to Varga, presents a promising path toward sustainable and intelligent systems.
The research highlights several critical challenges in achieving energy efficiency, interoperability, and real-time responsiveness across different domains. “The key enablers for green IoT include LPWAN, wake-up radios, mobile edge computing, and energy harvesting techniques,” Varga explains. These technologies, combined with optimization strategies for 5G/6G networks and data center operations, could significantly enhance the performance and sustainability of smart grids.
One of the most compelling aspects of the study is its examination of the role of 5G in enabling reliable, ultra-low-latency data communication for advanced smart grid applications. This includes distributed generation, precise load control, and intelligent feeder automation. “5G technology can support the greening of IIoT systems and smart grids by providing the necessary infrastructure for real-time data exchange and decision-making,” Varga notes.
The survey also identifies essential directions for future research and development, emphasizing the need for energy-efficient, resilient, and scalable smart infrastructures powered by intelligent wireless networks. This research could shape future developments in the energy sector by providing a roadmap for integrating advanced communication technologies into existing and new energy systems.
For the energy sector, the implications are profound. The adoption of beyond-5G and 6G technologies could lead to more efficient energy distribution, reduced operational costs, and a smaller carbon footprint. As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, the insights from this study could be instrumental in driving innovation and shaping the next generation of smart grids and IIoT systems.
In summary, the research by Pal Varga and his team offers a glimpse into a future where advanced wireless communication technologies play a pivotal role in creating greener and more efficient energy infrastructures. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the findings from this study could provide valuable guidance for stakeholders looking to harness the power of next-generation technologies to build a more sustainable world.