Design of a Blockchain-Based P2P Energy Marketplace within a Single Energy Retailer Framework

Abstract: In the era of rapid technological innovation, the convergence of blockchain technology and energy management has garnered significant attention. The escalating numbers of prosumers—individuals both producing and consuming energy—indicate a shift in the energy paradigm, demanding new frameworks for energy exchange. Traditional energy marketplaces have struggled to keep pace with these changes, necessitating a solution that is transparent, decentralized, and tailored to all stakeholders involved. There's a clear opportunity for a platform that not only seamlessly facilitates energy transactions but also addresses wider stakeholder implications. This thesis aims to develop and critically assess a blockchain-based energy marketplace, targeting diverse stakeholders: prosumers, consumers, energy retailers, and the broader environment. The research approach begins with a presentation of a blockchain-driven energy trading model, especially tailored to the Spanish electricity market's specifics. Employing "Grid Singularity" as an open-source tool, the study simulates the virtual interactions between prosumers and consumers, ensuring a practical understanding of the model amidst the complex web of energy utility participants. The implementation of this decentralized platform showcases tangible benefits across the board: prosumers see a notable uptick in revenue, consumers benefit from almost 30% savings on energy expenses, and energy retailers discover new revenue streams, all while promoting an eco-friendly energy landscape. The intersection of blockchain technology with the energy sector, as explored in this study, is not a mere academic exercise but a critical exploration into the future of energy management and trading. By introducing a transparent and equitable trading avenue, the platform empowers prosumers to harness the true economic potential of their energy surplus, further incentivizing the proliferation of renewable energy generation. In essence, this thesis introduces more than just a technological solution; it presents a vision for the future of the energy sector.