Cloud-Enabled Smart Energy Management for Sustainable Urban Development: A Review

Abstract

Cloud computing enables remote resource use, data analysis, and efficient data management. Its energy consumption in the US has increased from 1.8% to 4%, with data centres using nearly 73 billion kWh by 2020. Smart cities, relying on non-renewable energy, face obstacles in energy management. Thus, switching to cloud solutions is crucial for sustainability. This paper explores transitioning from traditional energy consumption to sustainable cloud-based systems in cities. Previously, cities relied on physical resources like data centres and servers, which consumed significant dirty energy. The cloud now plays a vital role in developing smart cities by optimizing cost, energy, climate impact, transport, and storage. The paper analyses algorithms and Virtual Machine (VM) scheduling to reduce data transmission time. It also highlights challenges in using middleware for smart city applications, including security, reliability, quality of service, and reviews existing literature. The focus is on the current state, requirements, and potential transformation for smart cities.