Maximizing α-Lifetime of wireless sensor networks with solar energy sources

In this paper, using linear programming, we formulate the problem of maximizing the α-lifetime of wireless sensor networks with solar energy sources. The α-lifetime of a sensor network is defined as the duration in which α percentage of sensor data can be collected by the base station. Our formulation takes account of varying solar energy recovery rate at different sensors and jointly optimizes the transmission power of the sensors and data routing for maximizing α-lifetime. We study the break point, which marks the level of solar energy supply above which the sensor network can operate perpetually. We also study the changes in α-lifetime with the solar energy supply rate, distribution of solar energy, and the values of α. Our study provides useful guidance in practical deployment of sensor networks with renewable energy sources.