Feasibility Analysis of VLC in High-Altitude Urban Environments: Channel Simulation, Energy Efficiency, and Comparison with Wi-Fi in La Paz, Bolivia

Abstract

This paper examines the feasibility of implementing Visible Light Communication (VLC) systems in high-altitude urban environments, using the city of La Paz, Bolivia (elevation of 3600 meters above sea level) as a case study. The analysis is based on MATLAB simulations that model VLC channels while accounting for atmospheric attenuation, solar noise, and altitude-dependent variations in the refractive index. System performance is evaluated using standard metrics such as Bit Error Rate (BER), received optical power distribution, and energy efficiency. Then, the results are compared with conventional Wi-Fi links deployed under similar environmental and operational conditions. Findings indicate that VLC can serve as a viable alternative in scenarios where radio frequency (RF) communication is constrained due to electromagnetic congestion or regulatory limitations, and that are found at high altitude. This study provides a geographically contextualized assessment of VLC performance and offers practical design insights for the deployment of optical wireless communication systems in challenging terrains.