Energy-Efficient Routing Protocols for IOT in Renewable Energy Powered Wireless Sensor Networks

Abstract

This study examined the role of energy-efficient routing protocols in enhancing the performance of Internet of Things (IoT)-based wireless sensor networks (WSNs) powered by renewable energy under Nigeria’s diverse and fluctuating environmental conditions. Drawing from a broad review of literature and field-based studies, the research explored three interconnected themes: environmental factors affecting energy harvesting and communication reliability, existing routing protocols and their adaptability to dynamic energy inputs, and the contextual performance of WSNs under varying atmospheric and energy scenarios. Findings revealed that environmental variables such as temperature, humidity, pressure, and radio refractivity significantly impact both energy harvesting efficiency and signal propagation, with super-refractive conditions and high humidity levels contributing to reduced signal strength and data reliability. Traditional routing protocols like LEACH and PEGASIS were found to be inadequate for use in such conditions due to their static energy assumptions, while advanced protocols like REBORN and DERP demonstrated enhanced network lifetime and delivery performance by adapting to environmental and energy fluctuations. The study concluded that for WSNs to operate efficiently in Nigeria’s climate-sensitive settings, routing strategies must integrate localised meteorological models and energy profiles. The use of adaptive, energyaware routing not only improves communication efficiency but also supports the long-term sustainability of IoT systems deployed in critical sectors such as agriculture, environmental monitoring, and smart infrastructure. The study recommends targeted deployment of dynamic routing protocols, regional field validations, and policy support to promote resilient, energyefficient WSN solutions across Nigeria’s diverse regions.