Looking beyond green cellular networks

Abstract

This paper introduces a new network architecture for green cellular networks. The basic concept is to separate signaling and data in the wireless access network. Transmitting the signaling information separately maintains coverage even when the whole data network is adapted to the current load situation. Such network-wide adaptation can power-down base stations when no data transmission is needed and, thus, promises a tremendous increase in energy efficiency. On top of that, the signaling network keeps users connected while consuming only a fraction of the overall energy