Analyzing Human-Centric Wireless Energy Harvesting for Sustainable and Resilient Energy Systems

Abstract

Discussions around wireless communications and energy harvesting in the literature are elitist and techno-centric. There is a need for more studies on a human-centric approach that simplifies the concept and links energy harvesting with human empowerment and well-being. Also, studies so far on the implementation of wireless energy harvesting in rural settlements have been scanty despite the important role wireless communication plays in social interactions and financial transactions within rural communities. The challenge of little awareness of the human sustainability impact of WEH is impeding stakeholders’ advocacy and advancement of wireless energy harvesting (WEH) despite its real and perceived benefits. So far, research efforts as reported in the literature are less than proportionate to the potential of WEH. Apart from providing sustainable energy for wireless devices and networks, its generation of nonelectric renewable energy is a huge plus for ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all as contained in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7). Given the astronomical growth in the use of wireless devices globally, more research studies are needed to create more awareness for massive WEH advocacy. This study uses a model-driven approach to simplify and highlight critical aspects of WEH such as wireless body area network, sources of non-electric renewable energy sources, green energy (environmental protection), intermittent nature of renewable wireless energy sources, and research directions. Also, the application of WEH for the sustenance of lives and livelihood in rural economies is examined using the rural community of Adum-Aiona in Nigeria as a case study. It is expected that the information provided will create more awareness and foster further discussions around the human-centric angle of WEH even as advances in technology continue to be made.