Challenges in Energy-Efficient Communications as Enablers for Green Solutions on the 5G Heterogeneous Networks

One of the most representative challenges of multi-tier heterogeneous network architectures is the interference management among different Radio Access Technologies. In this sense, in order to achieve the potential increase on network capacity forecasted for 5G, the issue of interference must be addressed. Intelligent energy management, as proposed in the growing area of Green Communications could serve as an appealing solution to the interference issue. However developing an optimal energy management plan requires the understanding of the characteristics of 5G cellular networks that could be exploited to improve energy and resources efficiency. In this work we present a study about challenges in energy-efficient communications and technologies as enablers for green solutions and how this challenges can be extended to meet those of the 5G heterogeneous networks, in order to identify possible solutions to address the energy efficiency and interference mitigation issues.