Smart City Connectivity: Integrating LEO Satellites with 5G/6G for IoT and PV Monitoring

As urban environments evolve, the integration of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations with 5G and 6G terrestrial networks emerges as a transformative solution to the connectivity challenges inherent in smart city development. This paper discusses the synergy between LEO satellite systems and next-generation cellular networks to improve the infrastructure of smart cities, focusing on enhanced IoT applications and photovoltaic (PV) system performance monitoring. By leveraging advancements from global satellite initiatives like Starlink and OneWeb along with 5G and 6G technologies, we propose a novel framework for robust, efficient, and sustainable urban connectivity. This approach addresses critical technological challenges including bandwidth saturation, network resilience, and low-latency communications, which are essential for effective remote monitoring and management of city-wide IoT systems and renewable energy resources. A detailed case study on PV system monitoring demonstrates how satellite-enhanced networks can significantly advance fault detection capabilities and system reliability in urban settings, contributing to energy sustainability and smarter urban planning. This paper underscores the potential of integrated satellite and terrestrial networks in laying the groundwork for future smart cities, where digital and physical infrastructures converge to foster more sustainable, efficient, and connected urban environments.