Distributed Q-Learning for energy harvesting heterogeneous networks

Abstract

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We consider a two-tier urban Heterogeneous Net- work where small cells powered with renewable energy are deployed in order to provide capacity extension and to offloa d macro base stations. We use reinforcement learning techniq ues to concoct an algorithm that autonomously learns energy inflow and traffic demand patterns. This algorithm is based on a decentr al- ized multi-agent Q-learning technique that, by interactin g with the environment, obtains optimal policies aimed at improvi ng the system performance in terms of drop rate, throughput and ene rgy efficiency. Simulation results show that our solution effec tively adapts to changing environmental conditions and meets most of our performance objectives. At the end of the paper we identi fy areas for improvement.

Peer Reviewed

Postprint (author’s final draft)