Abstract: In wireless sensor networks, energy conservation achieved by sensor nodes becomes essential for prolonging the lifetime of the network. Taking this aspect into account, a Poisson-Exponential Energy Factor based Cluster Head Selection Strategy (PEFCHSS) has been proposed for enhancing the performance of the network. Further, selection of efficient cluster heads during data dissemination aggregation is essential for enhancing the lifetime of the network. In this proposed strategy, cluster heads are selected based on Poisson Exponential Energy Factor (PEF) and then cluster formation is initiated. A local clustering mechanism based on Kappa Unification Factor (KUF) is also adopted within a cluster for minimizing communication cost through the trust based cluster formation. The performance analysis of PEFCHSS is carried out based on ns-2 simulator and the proposed approach shows an improvement on an average by 29% over Genetic algorithm inspired Routing Protocol (GROUP) and 22.3% from Fuzzy Ant Colony Optimization Routing (FACOR) in terms of packet delivery ratio, throughput, energy consumption and packet drop rate.