Survey on blockchain for future smart grids: technical aspects, applications, integration challenges and future research

Charithri Yapa
,
Chamitha De Alwis
,
Madhusanka Liyanage
,
Janaka Ekanayake

University of Sri Jayewardenepura
,
University College Dublin
,
University of Oulu
,
Cardiff University
,
University of Peradeniya

Research Output:

Contribution to journal

Review article

Peer-review

Open access

Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy

Abstract

Smart Grid 2.0 is envisaged to automate the operations of the intelligent electricity grid. Blockchain and smart contracts are integrated to facilitate the transformation from DSO-centric operations to consumer-oriented, distributed electricity grid management. The envisaged smart grids, integrated with blockchain would provoke challenges, which would hinder the maximum utilization of Distribute Energy Resources (DERs). This comprehensive review aims at analyzing the applicability of blockchain technology in Smart Grid 2.0, which would facilitate a seamless decentralization process. Further, the paper elaborates the blockchain-based applications of future smart grid operations and the role of blockchain in each scenario. The paper further provides a concise analysis on the blockchain integration challenges, thereby ensure secure and scalable, decentralized operations of future, autonomous electricity networks.