Increasing lifetime in wireless sensor networks is a major challenge because the nodes are equipped with low power battery. For increasing the lifetime of the sensor nodes energy efficient routing is one solution which minimizes maintenance cost and maximizes the overall performance of the nodes. In this paper, different energy efficient routing techniques are discussed. Here, photovoltaic cell for efficient power management in wireless sensor networks is also discussed which are developed to increase the lifetime of the nodes. Efficient battery usage techniques and discharge characteristics are then described which enhance the operational battery lifetime.